On CE - For Dealers, Distributors and OEMs of Consumer Electronics throughout EMEA

The Razr Returns for 2019

November 18, 2019 | Marco Attard | Mobile (Phones)

One has to admit it was inevitable-- advances in foldable displays have lead Motorola to bring back the Razr flip-phone, if in the shape of a 2019 Android smartphone featuring 2004 stylings.

Motorola Razr

The flip-phone format of the 2019 Razr means the device neatly sidesteps the UI issues associated with foldable phones such as the Samsung Galaxy Fold. Essentially, the 2019 Razr is a 6.2-inch smartphone (if with a taller-than-usual OLED display) users can fold into something half the size. The display even folds flat, making it superior to the Galaxy Fold in that aspect. It also includes a small display on the front cover, allowing one to easily check notifications and the like, and yes, holding up on calls is as easy as snapping the device shut.

Logitech Buttons for Xbox Adaptive Controller

November 18, 2019 | Alice Marshall | Gaming

The Logitech G division of Logitech announces the Adaptive Gaming Kit-- a collection of buttons and triggers designed for use with the Microsoft Xbox Adaptive Gaming Controller.

Logitech adaptive gaming

Developed in conjunction with the Microsoft Inclusive Tech Lab and accessibility groups, the Logitech G Adaptive Gaming Kit consists of three small buttons and three large buttons, all featuring mechanical switches, four light touch buttons, two variable triggers, configurable game mats with a hook and loop system, and customisable labels and ties velcro ties. Microsoft already offers a similar selection of buttons to add to the Xbox Adaptive Gaming Controller, but the Logitech option is more affordable, allowing it to reach a wider audience.

A More Powerful Charger from Hyper

November 18, 2019 | Alice Marshall | Accessories

HyperJuice

Accessory maker Hyper takes to Kickstarter to launch the HyperJuice-- a 100W GaN charger able to deliver the maximum amount of power the USB-C standard can handle from a package the size of a pack of cards.

According to the company, the HyperJuice uses "industry-leading" Navitas GaNFast NV6117 Power IC technology to shrink down the components making traditional chargers. Use of the Gallium Nitride semiconductor allows it to power devices at higher voltages, as well as switch frequencies for smaller and more efficient chargers.

Canalys: 44.9% Y-o-Y Growth for Smart Speakers in Q3

November 18, 2019 | Alice Marshall | Audio

According to Canalys, global smart speaker shipments total 28.6 million units in Q3 2019-- a 44.9% Y-o-Y increase with Amazon in the lead, followed by online retail giant Alibaba reigning supreme in China.

Canalys smart speakers

The open retail channel makes it increasingly challenging for smart speaker vendors to stimulate sales, even as it regularly offers promotions and discounts. The Amazon "Echo Upgrade Program" helps entice users to trade-in old Echo or non-Echo Bluetooth speakers to further increase Echo device penetration, while Google is looking into partnerships with the likes of Spotify to drive sales through different channels. Alibaba is also running collaborations with local and international companies in order to boost the consumer appeal of Tmall Genie devices.

TwelveSouth AirFly Goes Pro

November 18, 2019 | Marco Attard | Accessories

Airfly Pro TwelveSouth announces a Pro version of the AirFly wireless headphone adapter-- a means customers to use wireless headphones or earbuds in places with only a headphone jack featuring audio in capability as well as out.

Audio in functionality allows users to connect a wireless device with an audio system featuring auxiliary audio in, such as a car stereo or legacy hifi equipment, but no Bluetooth streaming connection. Audio out capability remains as standard, of course, allowing one to pair wireless headphones or earbuds with gym treadmills, in-flight entertainment systems and the like.

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