realme has formalized the launch of the version Pro of the Watch S released early last month. Along with the Watch S Pro, realme also announced the Watch S Master Edition and the Buds Air Pro Master Edition
of Lorenzo Tirotta published on 23 December 2020 , at 16: 11 in the Wearables channel Realme
realme today announced three new devices which will arrive early next year. The products are Watch S Pro , Watch S Master Edition and Buds Air Pro Master Edition . The first smartwatch of the Chinese brand dates back to last May with realme Watch, while in November realme Watch S was launched, now also available in India. The novelty is represented by Watch S Pro, let’s see how it looks.
realme Watch S Pro
The design looks similar to the younger sibling Watch S, but the differences under the dial between the two devices are there. Watch S Pro features a display AMOLED from 1, 39 inches , one processor ARM Cortex-M4 and is powered by a battery of 420 mAh which guarantees two weeks of autonomy.
The smartwatch offers the possibility to choose between 100 different dials , and if necessary load one photo from your smartphone and use it as a watch face. Watch S Pro is water resistant up to 5ATM and is equipped with the GPS . Through the smartwatch you can check notifications , incoming calls , music and camera .
The weight of the smartwatch is 63, 5 grams data from the case built in stainless steel. The straps are available in silicone or leather in black, blue, brown and green. realme Watch S Pro supports 15 sports modes and is equipped with the sensor SpO2 to measure oxygenation in the blood and heart rate monitor , in addition to the possibility of monitor sleep .
Watch S Pro is sold at a price of INR 9. 999, about 110 EUR, available from 29 December on Flipkart and realme official website.
Watch S Master Edition and Buds Air Pro Master Edition
realme announced a new version Watch S Mast er Edition designed by the Korean artist Grafflex . What we find under the dial does not change from the standard version, instead changes the design with innovative straps and dial and a package that includes stickers specially designed for the smartwatch.
The launch price is d i 5. 999 INR , approx. 65 EUR. The release date to the general public has not yet been announced, but will soon be available in India.
realme is also ready to launch the Buds Air Pro Master Edition , a new version of realme’s wireless headphones designed by Jose Levy . As with the Watch S Master Edition, the technical specifications are the same as the standard version. The novelty is enclosed in the mirror design , available in the new color New Wave Silver .
The new realme earphones will be available in India on the realme or Flipkart website starting from 8 January at a sale price of INR 4. 999 , about 55 EUR.
Short Tests: Student Tutorial, USB Management Tool, Note Scanner Learning program: Medienwerkstatt Mühlacker learning workshop 10 USB management tool: USBDeview Note scanner: Capella-scan 9 Students in grades 1 to 6 practice with the learning workshop 10 independent math and German. The large pool of learning material also includes the first English and French vocabulary.
The freeware USBDeview from Nirsoft shows all USB devices that are or have been connected to a Windows PC. This enables monitoring of the USB ports. This is supplemented by command line commands and a speed test.
Capella-scan 9 digitizes sheet music very easily and has received a tidier user interface. Compared to the previous version, however, there are also steps backwards.
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Realme announced its first smartwatch called Realme Watch back in May and followed it up with the Watch S earlier last month. Today the company announced the Watch S Pro alongside the Watch S Master Edition and Buds Air Pro Master Edition. The event also marks the debut of the vanilla Watch S in the Indian market. It’s priced at INR4,999 and will go on sale from Monday, December 28 through Flipkart, Realme.com and later in some offline stores.
Realme Watch S Pro
The Realme Watch S Pro is powered by an ARM Cortex-M4 processor and runs an unnamed custom platform. It looks similar to the non-Pro model but sports a 1.39″ always-on AMOLED touchscreen of 454×454 pixel resolution with auto-brightness. The smartwatch supports 100+ watch faces, and if you don’t like any of them, you have the option to upload your favorite picture from the smartphone to use it as a watch face.
Realme Watch S Pro packs an AMOLED screen
The case of the Watch S Pro is made of SUS316L stainless steel and it weighs 63.5 grams with the straps, which come in silicone and vegan leather options in a total of four colors – Green, Brown, Blue, and Black. The last one is bundled with the watch and is made of silicone, with the rest sold separately.
Watch S Pro has a stainless steel case and the straps are offered in four colors
The Realme Watch S Pro comes with a heart rate monitor and also has an SpO2 sensor onboard for blood oxygen level measurement. The smartwatch can track your sleep, count steps, and comes with 15 Sports Modes, including a new swimming mode.
Watch S Pro supports 15 sports modes and comes with camera and music controls
The rest of the features of the Watch S Pro include dual-satellite GPS, 5ATM water resistance, Idle Alerts, and Drink Reminder. It also comes with Smart Notifications, Incoming Call Alerts, and Camera and Music Control.
The Realme Watch S Pro packs a 420 mAh battery which is claimed to provide two weeks of endurance. The wearable is priced at INR9,999 ($135/€110), with the first sale scheduled for Tuesday, December 29 on Flipkart and Realme.com.
Realme Watch S Master Edition
The Realme Watch S Master Edition is designed by Korean artist Grafflex. It shares the internals with the regular Watch S that we’ve already reviewed, but comes with specially designed straps, watch faces, and a retail box that includes matching stickers.
Realme Watch S Master Edition
The Realme Watch S Master Edition is priced at INR5,999 ($80/€65) and will go on sale in India soon – the company execs did not reveal an exact date or retailer.
All three Realme Watch variants have interchangeable straps, with silicone variants in Orange, Blue, and Green arriving for sale on January 5, 2021, for INR499 (that’s less than $8/€7). There are also vegan leather options in Brown, Black, Blue, and Green – they will cost double but their arrival date is yet unknown.
Realme Buds Air Pro Master Edition
The Buds Air Pro Master Edition are designed by Jose Levy – the same person who designed the Buds Q.
The Buds Air Pro Master Edition TWS earphones share the specs with the regular model, but have a full mirror design and come in a new color called New Wave Silver, with the ear tips in black.
Realme Buds Air Pro Master Edition
These TWS earphones are priced at INR4,999 ($67/€55) and will go on sale in India from January 8, 2021, through Flipkart and Realme’s own online store.
Since the Master Edition performs identically with the regular model, you can read our review to learn more.
HUAWEI presented the his first over-ear headphones: the FreeBuds Studio. The American ban weighs on the head of the company which therefore wants to change its approach to the public. Hence the creation of an increasingly sophisticated ecosystem where the world of audio also fits. Let’s see how they were created from design to hardware trying to understand why they are so unique.
by Editorial team published 23 December 2020 , at 14: 01 in the Audio Video channel Huawei
The headphone market remains today a segment of technology in which many brands have entered but where those historians continue to make inroads among users. A world a little? particular in which perhaps it is important to bring the user to ” trust ” the brand more than the true technical value of the product. HUAWEI has decided to enter this particular market with a straight leg alongside that of smartphones, tablets and PCs and thus expanding its range of action by experimenting on other fields including that of audio and headphones.
time to propose to HUAWEI users also an over ear version has arrived and for this reason the new ones have been released FreeBuds Studio with a completely different design from true wireless but which gives them they have taken the technical sector as dynamic noise cancellation. Actually they take what they did with the earphones and they remark it in a pair of headphones with pavilion.
In this case, however the design studio of the HUAWEI FreeBuds Studio was important as well as long and painstaking. Over the past few years, HUAWEI has created a fundamental research and development division in Shenzhen capable of developing new generation products that are not only in step with the times but that, in fact, can also anticipate them in some way. And the FreeBuds Studio are just one of these products.
HUAWEI: audio innovation
To date, in the world of sound, we are faced with to a paradox: it is easier to access a wide range of music through robust sound quality technologies. But it is difficult to ” encapsulate ” the purity of this sound while preserving all the details in order to be listened to by users. This is precisely why HUAWEI created its Audio division , trying to devote itself more effectively to the mission of delivering purer sound, without background distortion and distractions, for the best immersive experience possible.
To put all this into action, HUAWEI integrates chipsets, operating systems and digital devices capable of providing users an all-encompassing audio experience. Currently, there are three key series that relate to headphones : le True Wireless Stereo (TWS) , which have seen a progression of this type of headset from semi-open active noise cancellation to intelligent dynamic active noise cancellation. So the FreeLace series that earned recently the Pro version reaching an excellent reputation in the field of Bluetooth neckband headphones. And then the innovative smart glasses have created a new generation audio device capable of perfectly combining fashion and technology.
Now, HUAWEI has taken another big step in technological innovation and design experience by officially launching his first wireless over-ear headphones, the HUAWEI FreeBuds Studio . Headphones that boast HiFi-grade wireless audio performance, a revolutionary noise-canceling experience and intelligent interactive features. This is not just a pair of over-ear headphones, but also an audio companion that allows consumers to discover the world of digital audio.
First of all the design
Human beings first observed the beauty of the world, then extracted and explored patterns and proportions of such beauty . Exploring the origins of beauty has accompanied the development of human civilization over the centuries. With the development of technology, aesthetics have been incorporated into the relentless pursuit of beauty by countless thinkers. From the arts and humanities to everyday life, from grand architecture to technological products, the beauty of the product has become an integral part of every aspect of our life.
HAUWEI FreeBuds Studio precisely embodies the concept of geometric aesthetics with comfort. The new design was designed with comfort in mind. Strip away unnecessary decorations and let the ingenuity of the essential design appear, which means these noise canceling headphones are comfortable but also beautiful to look at.
Detail find out how the design by HUAWEI FreeBuds Studio is inspired by the gramophone. Just like the arm and turntable work together to play great music, HUAWEI FreeBuds Studio do exactly the same. The entire design of the ear cups is made of simple lines and circles, ready to eliminate complex shapes and structures, making the design very minimalist but capable of contemplating a complete look. Unique and particular then the outer shell of the ear cups which is coated with a matte metallic finish capable of giving an even more refined look. As mentioned in HUAWEI 7mm diameter stainless steel cylindrical arms are round and harmonious, ready to overturn the wide and flat design that instead we can find in competition headphones . The tonearm is connected and leveled with the ear cups, capturing the elegance of the classic gramophone. The design of the earcup and headband of HUAWEI FreeBuds Studio is undoubtedly premium and are above all distinguishable compared to other headphones on the market.
Comfort with the ergonomic pavilion
To further improve the comfort of the headphones, HUAWEI FreeBuds Studio adopt an ergonomic design that not only guarantees the comfort in using the headphones , but it also allows you to cover a much wider range as regards the different shapes of the users’ head. This clearly allows for relieved ear pressure even if you wear headphones for long periods of time.
Comfort in use is more important for over-ear headphones than in-ear headphones but it is also more difficult to design. Not only do we need to ensure that an important number of varieties of head shapes are taken into account, we also need to allow for the comfort of the ears and the top of the head.
The pavilions of the HUAWEI FreeBuds Studio have an internal diameter of 65 x 42 mm , a large space that allows more people with different ear sizes to wear them without feeling discomfort. The outer layer of the ear cushions has been made of protein skin and this guarantees them to be soft and therefore very suitable for human skin. Furthermore, the inner layer is made of nylon fabric and therefore very breathable and able to isolate noise well. Particularly know that the internal cushioning foam of the bearings earphones have undergone multiple density adjustments to evenly distribute pressure and provide an even wider support area, minimizing pressure on the ear and maintaining a greater degree of comfort even during very long sessions.
Detail then l Upper headband of the headphones which can maintain a high degree of flexibility and durability . This can be folded to the maximum for 150 degrees and may extend to 40 mm to fit multiple head shapes allowing more people to wear it safely. After thousands of pressure tests, experimenting with various ratios of materials that make up the ear cups, headband and head cushion, a final result was developed to provide a comfortable fit. HUAWEI FreeBuds Studio headband arms are made of stainless steel and angled with meticulous workmanship. The surface is treated with a high quality PVD process to achieve a subtle and delicate feel while maintaining high strength.
Quality audio with a high frequency response to 48 kHz
A higher frequency response means richer details and higher audio quality. Using professional acoustic components, HUAWEI FreeBuds Studio supports a response to very high frequency i.e. 4Hz – 48 kHz thus allowing the possibility of guaranteeing high resolution music with more details.
The headphones come with a custom unit. To achieve a higher frequency response, the diaphragm must be light but strong enough to accurately produce higher frequency sounds. HUAWEI for this decided to use a 4-layer polymer diaphragm from 40 mm on its FreeBuds Studio. This can provide wider frequency response and higher sensitivity so as to accurately present the original sound quality even at high frequency.
And not just because the decoder chip is essential for a digital audio system , responsible for converting digital signals to analog signals that people can hear. HUAWEI FreeBuds Studio are powered by a aud decoder chip advanced io commonly used in HD players . With higher dynamic range, the chip can effectively reduce audio signal distortion and background noise to provide pure and detailed sound.
However, what worries many users is the possibility that listening with wireless headphones does not allow to reach the maximum quality due to the audio signal that inevitably weakens and is also damaged during the non wired transmission . This is precisely why many music lovers prefer to transmit audio signals through a cable.
In order to fix the damage on the sound quality in the audio signal transmission process, HAUWEI FreeBuds Studio adopts specially created L2HC wireless audio coding and decoding technology in the laboratories of the Chinese company. This provides a speed of audio transmission up to 960 kbps and can really produce the fullness and rich detail of the sounds high quality originals at 96 kHz / 24 bit o 48 kHz / 24 bit, reducing signal damage effectively occurs in wireless transmission. Traditional wireless audio uses AAC technology, SBC encoding and decoding, and allows you to stream music to 44, 1 kHz / 16 Cd level quality bit. However, for higher quality music of 96 kHz / 24 bits, these technologies would cause damage to the audio source when encoding, decoding and transmitting music, which would lead to a noticeable loss of detail.
In order to solve these sound problems in the audio signal transmission process, HAUWEI FreeBuds Studio adopts the technology L2HC wireless audio encoding and decoding made just in Shenzhen by HUAWEI, and providing audio transmission speed up to 960 kbps, which is three times higher than the ACC. This technology can really produce the fullness and rich detail of the original sounds high quality a 96 kHz / 24 bit or 48 kHz / 24 bit, effectively reducing the signal damage that may occur in wireless transmission.
Dynamic noise cancellation: how it works
The noise canceling of the earbuds begins to meet user demands for a crystal clear music or communication experience in a complex environment. In this case, true wireless headphones have integrated into users’ daily lives even though consumers have gradually discovered that traditional active noise cancellation may not be perfect as the experience may differ from different scenarios. This is because the characteristics of each ambient sound are never the same and the noise canceling headphones generally use only the same set of noise canceling solutions to adapt to all noises. This leads to inaccurate cancellation in some relatively quiet or perhaps medium-high frequency environments, such as with the human voice and percussion sounds.
HUAWEI was not satisfied with the passive noise cancellation method using the physical earphone isolation or the active noise cancellation it generates an inverse sound wave using an algorithm. Over the years he has decided to explore new technologies for active noise cancellation by bringing the first dynamic earphones, the FreeBuds Pro together then at FreeBuds Studio.
We technically know that due to the physical characteristics, a headphone can achieve excellent noise cancellation in any scenario only through the physical sound isolation that allows it to block low penetration mid and high frequency noise and Active noise cancellation to eliminate strong low-frequency penetration noise. In this case HUAWEI FreeBuds Studio are equipped with a powerful noise cancellation system that allows you to reach a capacity up to 23 dB . In terms of physical sound insulation, they are based on the innovative structure of double layer sound insulation “TAT” and on the sound-absorbing ear cushions also double-layered, which at the same time guarantee sound quality and comfort, achieves a physical sound insulation effect up to 40 dB in the mid and high frequencies .
Here it is the outer layer of HUAWEI FreeBuds Studio is made of protein skin , soft and suitable for human skin, and capable of increasing comfort of the ear piece. The inner layer of nylon fabric guarantees breathability by blocking external noise. This includes a soft, sound absorbing sponge with an amount of cotton, density and hardness that is finely adjusted in the scientific process to form a comfortable ear cushion.
Both of them the pavilions of HUAWEI FreeBuds Studio are equipped with two microphones for noise cancellation. Among these, the external microphone collects the external noise and the internal microphone is instead positioned inside the earmuff near the headphone speaker hole, and allows you to collect the residual noise inside the ear canal in a more realistic way. The more noise detail is captured in the external environment and within the ear canal, the more accurately HUAWEI FreeBuds Studio generates an inverted frequency based on the actual noise environment to achieve precise and comfortable noise reduction.
For active noise cancellation, HUAWEI FreeBuds Studio adopts hybrid noise canceling technology. When Active Noise Canceling is enabled, it will utilize the capabilities of two high-sensitivity, high-signal microphones to noise inside and outside the headphones to cope with outside noise.
Another innovation that came with HUAWEI FreeBuds Pro concerns the new intelligent dynamic active noise cancellation technology , which combines the maximum cancellation performance of the noise and comfortable use. Here are several audio innovations to create a major intelligent dynamic noise cancellation system. We have a dynamic perception system and an acoustic data system . The former accurately recognizes the external environment of the sound field and the latter provides three noise canceling modes based on acoustic data and allows the headphones to automatically adjust the noise canceling mode according to the environment to achieve an experience reduction in different scenarios.
HUAWEI FreeBuds Studio has an integrated environmental sensor and a microphone system capable of forming a multi-scene perception system, capable of perceiving the state of ” activities and environmental positions for approximately 100 times per second . It can sense and learn the usage status of the user’s headphones, help the headphones to more accurately determine the scene the user is in, and guide the operation of the acoustic perception system to improve the accuracy of recognition of the sound environment, thus bringing a more intelligent dynamic noise cancellation experience.
In order to optimize the noise recognition algorithm , the Acoustic engineers in HUAWEI have selected a number of common locations for noise sampling based on data from users’ daily life experience: airplanes, subways, high-speed trains, taxis, buses, downtown, street noise, cafes and restaurants. In the laboratory, these sound data were analyzed and studied through artificial intelligence deep learning algorithms and finally an acoustic data system was developed to optimize the noise cancellation algorithms.
Thanks to the new technology, HUAWEI FreeBuds Studio is able to quickly identify the type of noise and automatically switch between noise canceling modes. Whether it’s a quiet office, a noisy cafeteria or an airplane with a roaring engine, the three noise canceling modes can adapt to the environment to achieve precise results.
Double antenna for one coverage 360 degrees and low latency Bluetooth
Each pavilion comes with two Bluetooth antennas to provide signal coverage to 160 degrees. The antennas can intelligently detect if a signal range is blocked and automatically switch to the other antenna ensuring a connection stable even in complicated conditions. In this case even if the smartphone is inside the bag or trouser pocket or still under strong signal interference such as in a station or airport, HUAWEI FreeBuds Studio will ensure complete signal coverage for a crystal clear experience. call or even uninterrupted music playback.
HUAWEI FreeBuds Studio is also equipped with four-channel connection and this allows users to connect the headphones to two devices at the same time without having to disconnect and reconnect them to make the classic switch. For example, the headphones can be connected with two smartphones. When the user listens to music or watches videos on one phone, they do not miss any calls received on another phone. It can answer the call directly with the headphones, while the music is automatically paused.
Finally HUAWEI FreeBuds Studio comes with a proprietary Bluetooth chip which has obtained Bluetooth 5.2 certification and has a low latency algorithm, providing a smooth experience for calls, but especially for games, online learning, meetings and audiovisual entertainment. On the game mode after entering in game, low latency mode will automatically turn on to lower latency to a minimum of 150 ms. As for the Cinema mode this works with traditional video apps to create system-wide latency optimization.
Facebook and Instagram were yesterday. Tiktok is the app of the hour. Especially in the so-called Generation Z – i.e. those who were born between 1997 and 2012 – the app is extremely popular. But what actually happens on Tiktok?
Influence over consumption and reactions Tiktok is a video platform on which users can watch short videos or upload them themselves for up to 60 seconds. As soon as you open the app, you are on the “For you page” and the Tiktok algorithm suggests the first video.
“The only way to influence the proposed videos is through the way they consume the video and how long I watch the video, like, comment on or share the video,” explains Adil Sbai, who is the manager works for some well-known tiktokers such as Younes Zarou. Together they wrote the “Tiktok Bible” to explain the app and its functions step by step.
Algorithm success factor The algorithm’s suggestions are very good, Sbai explains a success factor of the app. This can be seen from the fact that people spend a comparatively long time with the app: “The average length of stay on Tiktok is longer than on Instagram, with Generation Z even longer than on Youtube, even though the videos are so short. ”
Tiktok naturally also offers classic functions of a social network, such as writing messages,” liking “and commenting on content. Above all, however, the app is a very creative, universal video production app, says Sbai. Record and cut videos, add effects or integrate other videos and sounds. No problem at all: “Without expensive video equipment, you can tell a lot of stories and stage them with the app.”
Many Tiktok videos revolve around music, comedy or dance. This also has to do with the origin of the app. It emerged 2017 from the karaoke app Musical.ly. Even if videos on more serious topics can be found more and more: Tiktok is primarily an entertainment app, says Sbai. “But that doesn’t mean that the users are apolitical. Fridays for Future and the hashtags that correlate with them are even more popular on Tiktok than on Instagram.”
Private or public All videos are uploaded to Tiktok servers. Users can determine for each individual video whether it is only visible to themselves (private) or potentially for all users (public).
Miriam Ruhenstroth from the consumer protection portal “Mobilicher”. de “criticizes, however, that Tiktok sets user accounts to public by default. “This means that the content produced can be found by all users.” Although you can delete videos that have already been posted, Ruhenstroth said, that does not mean that they are out of the world. Any user could have saved and shared the videos before they were deleted.
If you want to prevent this, you can set your account to “private”. According to Tiktok, only confirmed followers can then see and comment on their own videos.
Users have a range of visual and acoustic effects available to create videos. Videos can be individualized with overlay effects such as color filters or masks, says Iren Schulz, media coach at the “Look out” initiative.
(Pocket-lint) – If you’re looking for an intelligent smart home speaker, then one powered by Google is a great alternative to the Amazon Echo range.
Like the Amazon Echo smart speakers, Google Home devices – most of which are now Nest branded – are available in a range of sizes. They all have Google Assistant built-in – meaning they can carry out the same tasks – but they have very different designs and specifications which will determine where you put them around your home and what you use them for.
Here’s everything you need to know about the Google Home and Nest devices to help you work out which is right for you.
Which is the best Google Nest speaker for you?
The Nest Mini – which replaces the original Google Home Mini – is small and cheap enough to go into any home. It has the same features of Google Assistant as its larger siblings, but in a much more manageable size.
The Nest Audio is the latest speaker in the family, a great performer at a great price and a replacement for the original Google Home.
The Google Home is the original speaker, but has now been replaced and bettered by the Nest Audio.
The Google Home Max is a powerful speaker, which when combined with Google Assistant could make it the only one you need in your home for entertainment.
The Google Nest Hub is a great choice for those with compatible smart home devices, offering excellent control, whilst also delivering a good enough sound and all the features that come with Google Assistant.
The Google Nest Hub Max adds a larger display and a camera, making it a full Nest device, as well as a smart display. It too offers all the features that come with Google Assistant, as well as bigger sound compared to the Nest Hub.
Pocket-lint
Google Nest Mini
squirrel_widget_168546
Dimensions: 42 x 98mm, 181g
Connectivity: 802.11b/g/n/ac (2.4GHz/5GHz), Bluetooth 5.0, Chromecast and Chromecast Audio
Google Assistant: Yes (Always-on/always-listening/voice-activated)
The Google Nest Mini is the second generation of the Google Home Mini, and it remains the smallest of Google’s smart home speaker range. Like the Amazon Echo Dot, it’s a small puck-like device that is available in four colours – all of which have fabric covers that aren’t interchangeable. The fabric is made from recycled bottles in the Nest Mini though, making it more sustainable than the original Google Home Mini.
Thanks to its diminutive size, the Nest Mini can be placed virtually anywhere, including wall-mounted thanks to its built-in wall-mount, and even kept out of sight if you wish. It can load up content on any Chromecast device, giving you voice-controlled access to movies and TV shows from supported services.
The Nest Mini gives you access to all those Assistant-powered features, so it’s a smart home control device, it’s an entertainer and a plaything, it’s a quiz master, a reference tool and so much more. It’s everything the big Google Home is without the larger speaker.
The Google Nest Mini is compatible with numerous smart home devices, the list of which is constantly growing. It also works with Spotify, Google Play Music, as well as a multitude of other audio services.
Google Nest Mini review: Mini update, max impact
Pocket-lint
Google Nest Audio
squirrel_widget_2709293
Dimensions: 175 x 124 x 78mm, 1.1kg
Connectivity: 802.11b/g/n/ac (2.4GHz/5GHz), Bluetooth 5.0, Chromecast and Chromecast Audio
Google Assistant: Yes (Always-on/always-listening/voice-activated)
Nest Audio refreshes Google’s standard speaker, boosting eco credentials with more recycled material, while bringing in a fresh new design too.
Rather than 360-degree sound, the sound is now directional, but with a good size of speaker driver and a tweeter in this compact unit, the sound quality is really good for the price.
All the same Google Assistant functions are supported, and the Nest Audio can be stereo paired to make a bigger sound delivery.
One thing is clear – there’s no reason to consider the Google Home – the Nest Audio is better in every way.
Google Assistant: Yes (Always-on/always-listening/voice-activated)
The Google Home is the regular-sized smart speaker from Google. It’s the original member and the one that will likely be most popular because of the way it blends style and function. It’s pricier than the Google Nest Mini, but delivers way more punch.
The Google Home sports a design that’s reminiscent of an air freshener, with a slightly bulbous bottom that tapers in towards the top. On the angled top of the Home there is a touch-sensitive surface that can be used to control a variety of functions. You can also change the colour of the base to suit your style.
Its sound quality is good, but it probably isn’t fit to be your main party speaker, even if it is a step-up from the Nest Mini. It offers all the connected functions of Google Assistant, so it’s a natural smart home hub, letting you control all your devices, as well as accessing a wide range of Google services, information and giving you control of your Chromecast.
The Google Home has all the same smarts as the Google Nest Mini, only with more power under the hood. You can also purchase different bases to change the style of your Google Home speaker, too, which you can’t do on the Mini.
Google Home review: A better voice assistant than Amazon Echo?
Google
Google Home Max
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Dimensions: 336.6 x 190 x 154.4mm, 5.3kg
Connectivity: Wi-Fi 802.11b/g/n/ac (2.4GHz/5Ghz), Bluetooth 4.2, Chromecast and Chromecast Audio, USB-C, 3.5mm auxiliary
Audio: 2 x 4.5-inch dual voice coil woofers, 2 x 0.7-inch tweeters, six microphones with far-field voice recognition
Audio formats: HE-AAC, LC-AAC+, MP3, WAV, FLAC, Vorbis, Opus
Processor: 1.5GHz Quad-core ARM
Google Assistant: Yes (Always-on/always-listening/voice-activated)
Google Home Max is max by name and max by nature. It’s large in size and it delivers high-quality sound that can fill a room. A large price tag puts the Google Home Max in the premium smart home speaker bracket – competing with the Sonos range and the Apple HomePod.
Packing four drivers and six Class-D amplifiers, the Google Home Max makes the sound performance of most other smart home speakers pale in comparison. We certainly found it to be capable in terms of sound, but many may recoil at the price tag.
It’s on the large size too, as far as wireless speakers go, so finding a home for the Home Max could be tricky.
We imagine most people will put one in their living room or bedroom. It’s not for wall-mounting but can be positioned either vertically or horizontally making it pretty versatile. It offers all the same features as the smaller Nest Mini and Home though, just with better sound capabilities.
Google Home Max review: Cranking smart speaker audio to the max
Pocket-lint
Google Nest Hub
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Dimensions: 178 x 118 x 67.3mm, 480g
Connectivity: Wi-Fi 802.11b/g/n/ac (2.4GHz/5Ghz), Bluetooth 5.0, Chromecast and Chromecast Audio, 15 W adapter, DC power jack
Audio: Full range speaker, two microphones with far-field voice recognition
Display: 7-inch
Processor: 1.5GHz Quad-core ARM
Google Assistant: Yes (Always-on/always-listening/voice-activated)
Google Nest Hub (formerly Home Hub) is a speaker like the other Home devices but it adds a 7-inch touchscreen to its list of attributes – yes, it’s a smart display. The sound quality isn’t as good as the Max or the original Home but the display is an excellent feature for watching quick YouTube videos, reading news snippets and controlling smart home devices.
It offers all the same features as the other Home products, along with a great design, YouTube integration (which Amazon’s Echo Show does not) and it is fantastic for smart home control, with the list of compatible devices growing constantly.
There’s no camera as there is on the larger Nest Hub Max but it makes for a great smart home hub.
Google Nest Hub review: The new hub of your smart home?
Pocket-lint
Google Nest Hub Max
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Dimensions: 250.1 x 182.55 x 101.23mm, 1.32kg
Connectivity: Wi-Fi 802.11b/g/n/ac (2.4GHz/5GHz), Bluetooth 5.0, Chromecast and Chromecast Audio, 30W adapter, DC power jack
Audio: Stereo speakers (2x 18mm 10W tweeters, 1x 75mm 30W woofer), far-field mic and voice match technology
Display: 10-inch, 1280 x 800 pixels
Camera: 6.5MP Nest camera, 127 FoV, face match technology
Google Assistant: Yes (Always-on/always-listening/voice-activated)
The Google Nest Hub Max is the biggest Home device with a display and ushered in the name change to Nest. That’s because it incorporates a camera which can not only be used for Duo calling, but offers full Nest Cam functions too, so it also acts as a security device. It will also work with Nest’s face recognition, so it can change the display details to suit different users, though it doesn’t deliver familiar face alerts like the Nest Hello or Nest Cam IQ.
Elsewhere, the Nest Hub Max boosts the experience of the smaller display device, expanding to 10-inches and offering stereo speakers backed with a woofer for better sound delivery.
Otherwise the Nest Hub Max supports Google Assistant offering all the experiences you’d come to expect from Google’s AI system.
Google Nest Hub Max review: Putting the Echo Show on notice
Writing by Adrian Willings. Editing by Britta O’Boyle.
(Pocket-lint) – There are multiple games you can play through Google Home speakers or Google Assistant-powered speakers, as well as Amazon Echo or Alexa-powered speakers – and now’s the perfect time to explore them, given how much time we’re all spending at home.
Say “Play a Game” to Google Assistant and you’ll get several options from Riddle of the Day to Song Quiz, while Alexa has numerous game skills you can add to ask Alexa to play.
Playing games through Home or Echo speakers aren’t your only option though, there are also a few board games that are powered by Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa. At the moment, there are only a few that turn the helpful assistants into games hosts, but if you love a board game and you’re looking for a way to spice up the fun, here are the options available.
Ravensburger
Ravensburger kNOW!
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Ravensburger might be best known for its great puzzles, but its kNOW! game is the first board game to be powered by the almighty Google Assistant, allowing it to lay claim to being an “always up-to-date quiz game”. Better than playing the original Trivial Pursuit from the 1980s right?
There are over 1500 questions and the idea is that you ask Google Assistant for the most up to date answers to see who wins. You can ask questions like “Hey Google, how many days until Christmas”, “How old is Philip Schofield” or ask Google for a question. There are various game types and there are are two modes of play – Online and Offline. Offline mode doesn’t require Google Assistant.
Inside the box, you’ll find 220 quiz cards, a buzzer, a game board, a sorting strip and six playing pieces. Ravensburger says the game is suitable for between two and six players in online mode and three to six players in offline mode. In terms of age, it is recommended users are aged 10 and above.
Google Assistant is available on iOS and Android devices, as well as Google Home speakers and several third party speakers.
X2 Games
X2 Games St Noire
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X2 Games’ St Noire is an AI-hosted cinematic board game and the first voice-controlled murder mystery board game. You have to solve a murder that took place in the small town of St Noire by questioning the 12 suspects, finding clues and trusting no one.
You have until the end of night seven to solve the crime and on each go, you can either examine a location, question a town member or accuse a suspect by using Alexa, saying things like “Alexa, question Mayor Alves”. To win, you have to accuse the right person, but you’ll lose if you make two wrong accusations.
Each game of St Noire takes around 15 to 30 minutes, but no two games are the same with multiple storylines and endings. The only clue you’ll have to start with is the cause of death. You can play in a group or solo and it is said to be suitable for ages 12 and above.
You’ll need Amazon Alexa to play so you’ll need an Amazon Echo device, or third party Alexa speaker. You’ll also have to download the St Noire skill on your smartphone. To start, say “Alexa, Open St Noire”. Inside the box, there’s a game board, 12 suspect cards, 12 weapon tokens and a pencil.
Sensible Object
When in Rome
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When in Rome is one in a series of Voice Originals board games from Sensible Object. Like St Noire, it is powered by Amazon’s Alexa and therefore requires an Alexa device, like the Echo or Echo Dot, for example. You’ll also need to enable the When in Rome skill on your smartphone.
Alexa will then teach you the rules, keep score, fly you to 20 cities on the When In Rome game board map and introduce you to locals from each city. The locals will then ask you questions from seven categories comprising slang and language, food and drink, art and culture, sport and games, buildings and history, myths and legends and random and strange.
Alexa will always remember what questions you’ve been asked to ensure you always get given a fresh one. You’ll need to split up into two teams and you’ll be competing to make friends in the cities you ask Alexa to fly you to, earn upgrade cards and collect souvenirs in each new city you visit.
To start, you’ll need to say “Alexa, play When in Rome”. In the box, there are two player tokens, five souvenirs, 30 friend tokens, 14 upgrade cards and one game board.
Amazon
Escape Room in a Box
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If you’ve ever done an Escape Room – room challenges where you and anyone else you’re with has to find clues, solve puzzles and crack codes in under an hour to escape – then you’ll likely love Escape Room in a Box.
Unlike St Noire and When in Rome, while Escape Room in a Box is enhanced by Amazon Alexa, the assistant is not required to play this game. The idea of this board game is to solve 19 physical and paper puzzles in an hour to make sure a mad scientist doesn’t turn you and your friends into werewolves.
Up to eight players can play and if you want to use Alexa, you’ll not only need an Alexa-enabled device but you’ll need to download the Escape Room in a Box skill too. To start, you’ll need to say “Alexa, open Escape Room in a Box”. It’s recommended to be suitable for ages 13 and above.
Amazon
Ticket to Ride
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Ticket to Ride has been around since 2004, but it’s now possible to play with Alexa as your guide or have her join in as a player if there are less than five of you.
The idea is to create the most valuable railway network by collecting train cards that allow you to lay claim to colour-coded railway routes across the map.
The longer the route, the more points you earn, but the more cards you’ll need to save up to claim it. Alexa will not only teach you how to play if you’re new to the game, once you download the skill, but she will also keep track of your scores and calculate the longest route, all while adding sound effects and music to your game.
Ticket to Ride is recommended for players aged 8 and over.
(Pocket-lint) – Fitbit has been around for years, sitting at the top of its activity tracking class, smugly watching as its competitors hope to raise the same sort of brand awareness. For many, a fitness band is simply called “a Fitbit” – such has been the impact of this company – and it’s now being bought by Google, to add to its power.
We’ve broken down each of the Fitbit trackers, looking at how much each costs, what features it offers and why you might consider buying each one. This list is all about helping you work out which Fitbit will suit you and your lifestyle best.
Quick summary
The Fitbit Inspire is the cheapest fitness tracker in Fitbit’s offering, replacing the Zip, Flex and Alta. It offers all-day sleep and activity tracking, smartphone notifications, clock faces and interchangeable straps. It has a touchscreen display, is swim proof and it offers automatic exercise recognition too.
The Fitbit Inspire HR has a very similar design to the standard Inspire but it adds heart rate monitoring, more advanced sleep data, VO2 Max, Goal-Based exercise modes and Connected GPS. Other functions are the same as the Inspire, but it is a little more expensive due to the extra features.
The Fitbit Inspire 2 has a slightly more refined design compared to the Inspire and Inspire HR, offering many of the same features but doubling the battery life and adding Active Zone Minutes and Quick Replies for Android users.
The Fitbit Charge 3 offers everything the Inspire HR does, including swim tracking and Goal-Based exercise, but it adds more advanced smartphone notifications and it has an altimeter. There is also a Special Edition model with NFC for Fitbit Pay.
The Fitbit Charge 4 updates the Fitbit Charge 3, adds NFC as standard, offers Spotify controls and built-in GPS, so it’s better at accurately tracking workouts as a standalone device.
The Fitbit Versa Lite Edition moves into smartwatch territory, offering a middle ground between the Charge 3 and the standard Versa 2 smartwatch in terms of features and price. The Versa Lite Edition has the same features as the Charge 3, including swim proofing, but it adds apps. It loses Fitbit Pay however, as well as an altimeter.
The Fitbit Versa 2 is the next step up in the Fitbit smartwatch sector. It offers everything the Versa Lite Edition has, but it adds the altimeter back in, along with Fitbit Pay and built-in Alexa. Still no built-in GPS, but the Versa 2 has phone-free music, which the Charge 3 and Versa Lite Edition do not.
The Fitbit Versa 3 is an upgrade to the Versa 2, adding Google Assistant as an option on top of Alexa, a built-in speaker for taking calls, Pure Pulse 2.0 heart rate technology and most importantly, built-in GPS.
The Fitbit Ionic is more sportswatch in its design than smartwatch. It offers built-in GPS, water resistance up to 50-metres, mobile payments and smartphone notifications, as well as all the features found on other Fitbit devices. No voice assistants though.
The Fitbit Sense is the all-singing, all-dancing Fitbit smartwatch with a number of sensors on board. It has everything the Versa 3 offers, along with an EDA sensor for monitoring stress, the ability to take an ECG and a skin temperature sensor.
The very best Fitbit trackers available right now
Fitbit
Fitbit Inspire 2
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The Inspire 2 succeeds the Inspire HR and Inspire – below – offering a more refined design with softer, curvier edges and an inductive button over a physical button.
It delivers all the same features as the Inspire HR, including all day activity tracking, advanced sleep tracking with sleep score, exercise modes, female health tracking and smartphone notifications.
It doubles the battery life of the Inspire HR to 10 days however, whilst also adding Active Zone Minutes and Quick Replies for Android users.
The Inspire 2 comes in Black, Lunar White, Desert Poppy.
Fitbit
Fitbit Inspire
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The Fitbit Inspire is the entry level fitness tracker from Fitbit and it offers basic activity monitoring, including steps and calories burned, along with basic sleep tracking.
There’s a display for smartphone notifications and an on-screen dashboard, showing similar metrics to what you would find in the Fitbit app. The Inspire also offers waterproofing up to 50-metres but not swim tracking, and it doesn’t have elevation or heart rate monitoring either.
The Inspire is slim, slender and smaller than the Charge 3. It also offers interchangeable straps, allowing for a different look, as well as the ability to clip it to clothing with a specific accessory, and it is claimed to have a five-day battery life. As with all Fitbit devices, the Inspire connects to the Fitbit app via Bluetooth, offering a range of more detailed stats and data.
The Fitbit Inspire comes in two colours comprising Black and Sangria.
Fitbit Inspire review: Is this pretty pedometer worth the money?
Fitbit
Fitbit Inspire HR
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The Fitbit Inspire HR features a very similar design to the Inspire, meaning a slim and sleek waterproof device with a display for smartphone notifications and progress.
It adds heart rate tracking and swim tracking though, along with a colour-matched buckle for a more secure fastening and it also offers connected GPS, Guided Breathing Sessions, Goal-Based Exercise Modes and VO2 Max.
The Inspire HR also offers more advanced sleep tracking data than the Inspire, though it still lacks elevation data and it doesn’t offer Active Zone Minutes like the newer Inspire 2, or as good a battery life.
The Inspire HR comes in three colours comprising Black, Lilac and Black with White.
Fitbit Inspire HR review: The new fitness tracking king?
Fitbit
Fitbit Charge 4
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The Fitbit Charge 4 is an update to the Fitbit Charge 3, adding in a couple of new features, the biggest of which is the inclusion of GPS. Previously you had to use the GPS on your phone, but on the Charge 4 you can now get that direct from the device, giving location tracking, speed and distance, as well as elevation change from the altimeter.
That makes it a better exercise tracker overall as a standalone device, better than the Inspire models or the Charge 3. It also adds in NFC to support Fitbit Pay, something that was previously only available on special edition Charge 3 models, so it’s extra convenience. Adding to the convenience is Spotify control although you can’t download music to this device.
The battery is rated at 7 days, but this without the GPS – which does have a big impact on the life. It will track GPS activities up to 5 hours, so will cover a lot of events like 5 or 10km runs, but won’t cover anything longer – and that will use up a lot of the battery life.
All the other metrics from the Charge 3 are included – sleep tracking, steps and so on – but the Charge 4 also introduced active zone minutes, which is designed to focus on boosting heart health through your activities, regardless of steps. It’s better positioned to reward varied activities rather than depending on steps as a metric.
Fitbit Charge 4 review: The most accomplished fitness band?
Fitbit
Fitbit Charge 3
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The Fitbit Charge 3 is the successor to the Charge 2, refining and streamlining its design, whilst also adding waterproofing up to 50-metres and swim tracking, like the Inspire HR. There is a 40 per cent larger and brighter OLED display compared to the Charge 2 and it is touch-enabled, rather than just tap-enabled, allowing users to swipe through all the metrics they’d find in the Fitbit app, including hydration.
All of the Inspire HR’s features are on board, including Connected GPS and continuous heart rate monitoring, but you’ll also get a few extras with the Charge 3, including elevation data and the option of an NFC-enabled model.
The Charge 3 also has Run Detect with auto stop, meaning runners can stop at lights without manually hitting pause on their workout. Smartphone notifications are also a little more advanced than the Inspire HR with Quick Replies for Android users.
The Charge 3 is available in two standard options of Graphite with a Black strap or Rose Gold with a Blue Grey strap. There are also two Special Edition models that are NFC-enabled, offering Fitbit Pay. The Special Edition models have the same case options but the graphite has a white perforated sports strap, while the rose gold has a purple fabric strap.
Fitbit Charge 3 review: A stand-out smart fitness tracker
Fitbit
Fitbit Versa Lite Edition
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The Fitbit Versa Lite Edition is the first step from fitness tracker to smartwatch in Fitbit’s portfolio. It offers many of the same features as the Charge 3, including waterproofing, heart rate tracking, sleep stages, swim tracking and Connected GPS, though it misses out on elevation data and Fitbit Pay capabilities.
It does have the ability to install some third party apps however, something that sets it apart from the Charge, and it also looks more like a watch than an activity tracker. Additionally, the Versa Lite Edition comes with interchangeable straps like other Fitbit devices and it has the option of designer accessories too.
The Versa Lite Edition comes in four colours, including Silver Aluminium with White, Silver Aluminium with Purple, Marina Blue Aluminium with Marina Blue strap and Mulberry Aluminium with Mulberry strap.
Fitbit Versa Lite Edition review: Lower price with little compromise
Fitbit
Fitbit Versa 3
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The Fitbit Versa 3 succeeds the Versa 2 – below – but it adds some of the main features missing from the 2019 device.
There’s a built-in speaker for taking calls, along with built-in GPS and there’s also Google Assistant on top of Amazon Alexa.
You’ll also find fast charging on the Versa 3, along with all the other features you’d expect from a Fitbit smartwatch including all day activity tracking, sleep tracking and smartphone notifications. There’s also Fitbit Pay as standard and Pure Pulse 2.0 heart rate technology like the Sense (below).
The Fitbit Versa 3 comes in three colours: Pink Clay and Soft Gold Aluminium, Black and Black Aluminium, Midnight and Soft Gold Aluminium.
Fitbit
Fitbit Versa 2
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The Fitbit Versa 2 is a step up from the Versa Lite Edition, though part of the same family, offering a smartwatch that’s more lifestyle and less obviously sporty than the Ionic (below). Like the Versa Lite Edition, the Versa 2, offers a metal body waterproofed to 50m with rounded corners and a domed back, and it comes with interchangeable straps.
All the same features as the Versa Lite Edition are on board, but as you would expect, the Fitbit Versa 2 offers a couple more compared to the Lite model. These include elevation data like the Charge 3, built-in Alexa, music storage, an Always On display mode, Sleep Mode and support for Spotify.
As with the Lite model though, the Versa still only offers Connected GPS – you’ll need the Charge 4, Versa 3, Sense or Ionic if you want built-in GPS from Fitbit. Support for smartphone notifications, with quick reply support for Android is on board though, and there is also Fitbit Pay support.
The Fitbit Versa comes in five colours including Carbon Aluminium with a Black strap, Mist Grey Aluminium with a Stone strap, or Copper Rose Aluminium with either a Petal strap, Bordeaux strap or Emerald strap. There are also two Special Edition models that come with both a woven strap and classic strap.
Fitbit Versa 2 review: Alexa, what’s the new Fitbit smartwatch like?
Fitbit
Fitbit Sense
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The Fitbit Sense is the company’s most accomplished smartwatch, taking on a similar design to the Versa family but offering more features.
It has all the features from the Versa 3, along with a EDA sensor for stress monitoring, the ability to take an ECG (pending approval) and a skin temperature sensor.
Along with these additional sensors, the Sense smartwatch has built-in GPS, both Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa voice assistants and it still promises a six day battery life.
There’s also a built-in speaker, allowing for Bluetooth calls and responses from the voice assistants and there’s the Pure Pulse 2.0 heart rate technology too, which can detect high and low heart rate and notify you when you go above or below your normal thresholds.
The Fitbit Sense comes in two colours of Carbon and Graphite Stainless Steel or Lunar White and Gold Stainless Steel.
Fitbit
Fitbit Ionic
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The Fitbit Ionic is more sportswatch looking in design and offers all the features available on both the Charge 3 and Versa 2 (except Alexa), while adding a few of extras like built-in GPS. It misses out on some of the features offered by the latest Sense smartwatch though.
It comes with partner apps like Strava and it offers on-screen workouts like the Versa and Sense devices. The Ionic also has interchangeable straps and a unibody made from aerospace aluminium for a premium look.
The Fitbit Ionic is said to have a 4-day battery life and it offers extended smartphone notifications to include apps like Facebook, WhatsApp and Gmail, like the Versa family, Inspire family and Charge 3 and 4 also do. The Ionic is available in three colours, each of which are compatible with the two leather straps and three sports bands available separately.
Fitbit Ionic review: Bridging the gap between fitness tracker and smartwatch
(Pocket-lint) – One of the many benefits to setting up a smart home can be a serious bump in your security – whether you want sensors to let you know when people are around, or to tell you if you’ve left a window open or any other number of things.
A key part of that can be played by smart cameras, not only to keep an eye on your house while you aren’t home, but to let you use a smartphone to check in on things, as well as get notifications when something isn’t quite how it should be.
You might also want to pick up all manner of other smart gadgets, from app-controlled lighting and heating to robotic vacuum cleaners, to flesh out your smart home, but choosing a smart camera can be hard enough in the first place.
Whether you are after a nice and simple model to watch the cat or dog while you are at work, or you want something a little more substantial, such as one with a siren or one that can sing a lullaby, here are the best indoor smart cameras available.
We also have a separate feature for the best outdoor smart home cameras.
Pocket-lint
Nest Cam IQ
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The Nest Cam IQ is the smarter of the two indoor cameras offered by Nest, with the other cheaper model being the Nest Cam Indoor. Featuring a similar design to the Nest Cam Outdoor with a white polycarbonate body, the Nest Cam IQ has a main body on a hinge that connects it to a stem hiding the cables and a base with a USB Type-C connector.
It is one of the more expensive cameras on this list but thanks to its 4K HDR sensor, it will offer a close up tracking view of a person or persons and it is able to distinguish between a person and a thing. It also has Google Assistant built in so you can ask it to turn up your Nest Thermostat or find out how old George Clooney is.
Users will also be able to have a two-way conversation through the camera, night vision has been improved over the Nest Cam Indoor and those who sign up to the Nest Aware subscription will also benefit from facial recognition features and customisable activity zones. For a cheaper option, Nest still offers its Nest Cam Indoor.
Nest Cam IQ review: Great home security lacks an intelligent asking price
Netgear
Netgear Arlo Essential Spotlight
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Netgear offers numerous smart home camera options, including this Arlo Essential Spotlight, which is a completely wire-free camera and weatherproof, meaning you can use it outside too.
The Arlo offers night vision and motion alerts like the rest of the cameras on this list and it has 1080p Full HD resolution. The Arlo Ultra offers video 4K recording and a 180-degree FoV so there are other options in the range to suit various needs.
One of the great things about the Arlo is it provides seven days of viewing, downloading and sharing without a subscription. Most other smart home cameras, aside from the Netatmo Welcome require a monthly subscription to access video recordings over 24-hours old, whereas with Arlo it’s only a requirement for videos over seven days old or if you want a couple of extra features.
Ring
Ring Stick Up Cam
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Ring, best known for its video doorbells, has a couple of different security cameras but the Ring Stick Up Cam is the one recommended for indoor use. It comes in a wired option, battery option and solar-powered option so there are a couple of models to suit different requirements.
The Ring Stick Up Cam has night vision and two-way talk like other cameras on this list and it also comes with a siren. There are no fancy features like facial recognition but the Stick Up Cam is waterproof so it could be used outside too. It is also compatible with Amazon Alexa so if you have an Echo Show or Echo Spot, or a Fire tablet, you will be able to ask Alexa to show the view of your Stick Up Cam.
Unlike some others on this list, you’ll need the Ring Protect plan to see any video history with only live recording viable without a subscription. For those with more than one Ring camera, you might want to consider the Ring Protect Plus subscription, which covers all Ring devices a monthly fee.
Hive
Hive View
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British Gas-owned Hive offers two smart home camera options, including the latest model – the Hive View. It offers 24-hours rolling camera history on the cloud, and it comes in two colour options comprising a black and brushed copper model and a champagne gold and white model.
Although it doesn’t offer as many of the fancy features of some of the others on this list, such as facial recognition, it does have two-way audio, as well as zooming and it offers person detection too, along with sound and motion.
One of the best things about the Hive camera is that it joins the company’s other smart home products, which includes heating, lighting, motion detectors and smart plugs, making creating a smart home far simpler.
Hive View review: Great looks, great performance
Netatmo
Netatmo Welcome
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The Netatmo Welcome camera features facial recognition technology and it is one of the only smart home cameras to do so, aside from the Nest Cam IQ, though that requires a subscription for the privilege. Welcome will capture images of people and allow you to create profiles, after which the camera will send the names of the people it recognises, whilst also notifying you when it detects an unknown face.
It’s possible to customise profiles so if you don’t want it to record your partner at any time for example, you can set it to make sure it doesn’t and you can stop notifications coming through when you are at home too.
Unlike some smart home cameras, Welcome doesn’t offer a speaker for two-way talk, or a siren, night-light or music capabilities, but there are no subscription charges so the price you pay for the camera is all you pay to access your videos. The included 8GB SD card will store up to 100 videos and once storage runs out, the oldest videos will be replaced.
Netatmo Welcome review: Big Brother is watching and knows who you are
Swann
Swann Wire-Free Security Camera
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This Full HD camera boasts an IP65 weatherproof rating so it can withstand everything the weather can throw at it including driving rain, snow and summer heatwaves.
A magnetic mounting stand means you can point it any way you want and the kit includes mounting plugs and screws as well as an adhesive strip.
As with many other cameras, there’s also a microphone and speaker so you can have a two-way conversation with a delivery driver or intruder near to the camera if it’s placed outside.
Unlike several others, Swann’s camera has free local and cloud storage so the footage is saved (seven days) and locally backed-up (two days). You can add extra storage via a subscription should you wish. Video and data is encrypted, while two-factor authentication is in place, too.
TP-Link
TP-Link Kasa Cam KC120
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The TP-Link Kasa Cam KC120 has an easy-to-use app interface, coupled with good quality 1080p video footage. It offers decent night vision, two-way talk functionality and it is compatible with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa, meaning you’ll be able to stream the Kasa Cam’s feed on an Amazon Echo Show or Google Home Hub if you have one.
You get two days of video history without a subscription and there are plenty of customisation options, while this camera also offers a strong and stable connection. It does have its downsides though, with recordings sometimes limited, the push to talk function featuring some lag and notifications a little overwhelming at times.
Niggles aside however, the 48 hours of free footage storage is certainly a reason to consider this indoor smart camera – especially as top tier competitor Nest only offers clip storage in the cloud for up to three hours unless you pay more.
TP-Link Kasa Cam KC120 review: Smart home camera is affordable yet imperfect
Logitech
Logitech Circle 2
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The Logitech Circle 2 replaces the Circle smart home camera, bringing the choice of wired or wire-free, weatherproofing and a wider field of view over its predecessor.
It is compatible with Amazon’s Alexa, Google Assistant and Apple’s HomeKit and there are a range of mounts and accessories available for it, allowing you to mount it where you want. The Circle 2 has a 180-degree field of view, it records video in 1080p and it offers night vision up to five-metres.
Additionally, the Circle 2 has a two-way talk and listen function and for those that opt for the Circle Safe Premium subscription, you’ll have access to person detection, motion zones and advanced event and alert filter options.
Logitech Circle 2 review: The best home security camera?
Canary
Canary View
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The Canary View all-in-one security camera can be set up in a matter of minutes and it will learn over time to deliver you smarter notifications. It is capable of Full HD video recording, HD audio recording and you will get instant alerts when activity is detected, along with the ability to view the recorded video. It also offers person detection without subscription, and two-way talk and desktop streaming with a subscription.
There is a 90-decibel siren on board to scare off any unwanted visitors, which can be controlled remotely, and Canary also monitors air quality, temperature and humidity to give you a better idea of your home.
For those after a weatherproof option, Canary also offers the Canary Flex, which can be installed wire-free or plugged in, inside or outside of your home. It’s a smaller device than the standard Canary and it doesn’t have a siren, but it does have a built-in speaker. Bear in mind that the 24 hours of free recording access is shared between all the Canary devices you have.
Pocket-lint
Somfy One
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The Somfy One offers some impressive features including a capable camera that works well in all lighting conditions, a physical privacy shutter and motion-based siren alarm system.
It’s compatible with Nest thermostats, Alexa, Google Home and IFTTT too, making it highly flexible and adaptable to your smart home needs.
Its free plan isn’t quite as good as others – it will only notify and capture footage when the alarm is set, but the subscription costs are cheaper than some others too. There is also a Somfy One+ that comes with a badge key fob and a door or window sensor, as well as a built in battery pack.
Somfy One review: Sound the alarm, smart home security gets serious
Pocket-lint
Withings Nokia Home
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Withings, which was sold to Nokia and then bought back, offers the Home camera. The camera records what is happening in your house, monitors air quality and it will also play a lullaby when the night light is turned on.
The bottom of the stylish-looking camera doubles up as the night light, while the top features environmental sensors to measure temperature, humidity and levels of volatile organic compound (VOC). There is a 5-megapixel CMOS sensor, two digital microphones, a HQ speaker, 135-degree wide angle zoom and night vision on the Home camera.
Any note-worthy thing that happens will be recorded to a cloud-stored video and sent to your smartphone in notification form, while any of the images and videos will then be put into an interactive timeline that turns into a home diary. You get 48-hours free access to your timeline, while anything beyond that requires a subscription.
Withings Home review: More than just a smart camera
Writing by Britta O’Boyle. Editing by Dan Grabham.
During its typically slick, but untypically pre-recorded, WWDC 2020 keynote briefing in June, Apple announced something that really piqued our interest: spatial audio.
Basically Apple’s take on Dolby Atmos for Headphones and Sony’s upcoming PS5 3D Audio, spatial audio is designed to deliver surround sound and 3D audio via your headphones – specifically your Apple AirPods Pro and AirPods Max headphones. The feature arrived as part of iOS 14 in September.
So how do you get Apple spatial audio? What devices do you need? And what other upgrades are included in the latest iOS 14 update? Answers to those questions and more are just a short scroll away.
Apple AirPods Max review
What is Apple spatial audio?
(Image credit: Apple)
Apple spatial audio takes 5.1, 7.1 and Dolby Atmos signals and applies directional audio filters, adjusting the frequencies that each ear hears so that sounds can be placed virtually anywhere in 3D space. Sounds will appear to be coming from in front of you, from the sides, the rear and even above. The idea is to recreate the audio experience of a cinema.
This is not the first technology of its type. Dolby Atmos for Headphones has been around for some time now, while Sony has its 360 Reality Audio format for music, delivers 3D audio in some PS4 games via its Platinum Wireless Headset, and has gone big on 3D audio for the PS5.
Apple’s spatial audio has a unique feature, though: it not only tracks your head movement using accelerometers and gyroscopes in the AirPods Pro and AirPods Max in order to position the sound accurately, it also tracks the position of the iPhone or iPad that you’re watching on, so that sound is also placed relative to the screen. This means that even if you turn your head or reposition your device, dialogue will still be anchored to the actor on the screen.
Apple has apparently been working on spatial audio for years and it was always part of the plan for the AirPods Pro earbuds – that’s why they’ve got gyroscopes (which were never previously mentioned, by the way).
Apple AirPods 3: price, design, release date, leaks and news
How do you get Apple spatial audio?
Apple AirPods Pro (Image credit: Future)
Apple spatial audio comes as part of the newly released firmware update for the AirPods Pro. You’ll also need the new iOS 14 or iPadOS 14, which is now available. All of these updates are free of charge.
The next-gen Apple operating system is available to all iPhones from the iPhone 6S onwards, and iPadOS 14 works on every iPad since, and including, the iPad Air 2. Does this mean that all of these devices will also support spatial audio? Unfortunately not. Here’s the full list of devices that can handle spatial audio:
iPhone 7 or later
iPad Pro 12.9‑inch (3rd generation) and later
iPad Pro 11‑inch
iPad Air (3rd generation)
iPad (6th generation) and later
iPad mini (5th generation)
It’s also worth noting that Dolby Atmos is only available on Apple devices launched since 2018. While you don’t need Atmos for spatial audio, the two working together will likely produce the best results.
On the software side of things, as long as an app supports 5.1, 7.1 and/or Atmos, it will work with spatial audio. That already includes apps such as Vudu, HBO Go, Hulu and Amazon Prime Video. Netflix does not currently support surround content via iOS devices, but stereo content can also be converted to spatial audio. All a developer needs to do is allow stereo spatialisation via an Apple plug-in.
Once you’ve updated your device and the AirPods Pros/AirPods Max, spatial audio will be automatically enabled. To check, open Settings on your iOS device, tap on Bluetooth, and then tap on the ‘i’ icon next to your AirPods Pros in the list of Bluetooth devices. If the icon next to Spatial Audio is green, it’s enabled. There’s also a neat little demo of the tech included just below this.
(Image credit: Future)
To test it out, fire up a supported video (See on Apple TV+ is a good example), open up your device’s Command Centre by swiping down from the top-right corner of the screen, then press and hold the AirPods Pro volume icon. On the page that opens you will see a Spatial Audio icon. A bright blue icon indicates that Spatial Audio is enabled, but if the sound waves are static it’s not supported by the content you’re watching. If the waves are pulsing, Spatial Audio is enabled and working. You can tap the icon to turn it off and experience the difference it makes.
Apple unveils new iPad, iPad Air, plus Apple Watch SE and Series 6
Apple AirPods Max (Image credit: Apple)
Is Apple spatial audio any good?
Having given spatial audio an initial whirl with the AirPods Pro and a more thorough one since during our AirPods Max testing, we’re certainly impressed.
The way the audio is tied to the screen is incredibly effective and the extra openness and spaciousness to the sound makes for a much more cinematic and engaging experience. There appears to be a slight drop off in terms of directness and punch, but it’s not huge and, broadly speaking, spatial audio so far appears to be a very worthwhile upgrade.
To quote our AirPods Max review, “All told, the effect is superb. The whole presentation is very open, spacious and convincing, and the tracking is amazingly smooth and accurate as you move your head.
“The opening of Gravity is recreated brilliantly by the AirPods Max. The placement of the various voices coming through the radio is brilliantly precise and convincing, there’s excellent weight to the dull thumps against the satellite and the heavy bass notes of the soundtrack, superb all-round clarity, and excellent dynamics as the peaceful scene turns threatening and then catastrophic. It’s easy to forget that you’re listening using headphones, such is the spaciousness of the delivery. It’s terrifically cinematic.
“Simply put, combining an iPad with a pair of AirPods Max headphones gets you the most convincing portable cinema experience that we can think of.”
Will music be available in spatial audio?
(Image credit: Apple)
There’s no reason that this stereo spatialisation can’t be added to the many music apps available on iPhone and iPad, but there have been no announcements on that front yet.
One suspects that now Apple has the technology, it may well look to add music with full-fat spatial audio to its own Apple Music service but, again, that’s not been officially announced.
Apple One bundles Apple TV+, Apple Music and more into single subscription
What about spatial audio gaming?
There’s no reason that other apps can’t also benefit from spatial audio, and we’d be amazed if it’s not picked up very quickly by game developers. Again, there’s nothing official on that yet.
We do know, though, that the movement data provided by the AirPods Pros will be made available to app developers, and that could open up some interesting opportunities such as head-tracking in games and more accurate sensing of movement for fitness apps.
What about spatial audio on Apple TV 4K?
(Image credit: Apple)
Here’s something of a surprise: despite having also had a software update (to tvOS 14), the Apple TV 4K does not currently support spatial audio. That seems odd to us. True, AirPods are more often connected to a portable device than an Apple TV, but spatial audio seems a perfect way for those people without a surround sound system to get a taste of cinema-style sound while watching on their lounge TV.
Apple’s not explained why the Apple TV 4K isn’t getting spatial audio. We had wondered if it was a power issue, but the A10X chip in the Apple TV 4K has more grunt than the standard A10 chip in the iPhone 7, which does support spatial audio, so that can’t be it. Perhaps it needs to be implemented in a different way for Apple TV 4K and will come later, or perhaps Apple has decided to save this feature for the next Apple TV. After all, it’s rumoured that the next-gen Apple TV, expected to arrive in 2021, will be more gaming-focused. Only time will tell.
What other new features are in the AirPods update?
(Image credit: Apple)
Spatial audio isn’t the only new feature included in the AirPods autumn update.
Automatic switching between Apple devices is also part of the package, so you no longer need to manually connect your headphones when turning your attention to a second device. Let’s say you’ve just stopped listening to a podcast on your iPhone and you open Netflix on your iPad – the audio coming from the AirPods is going to automatically switch to what’s coming out of the iPad. Switch to your MacBook for a FaceTime call and it will automatically switch again. An incoming phone call will always take precedence.
Low battery notifications are here now too, with a pop-up notification appearing on your iPhone, iPad or iPod Touch to tell you when it’s time to charge.
Audio sharing, which already allows two people to connect their headphones to a single iPhone or iPad, has been expanded to work with Apple TV 4K. Each listener gets independent volume control, which is rather cool.
Finally, there’s something called ‘Headphone Accommodations’, which allows audio to be adjusted to account for hearing differences. This involves going through a guided listening experience that will help select an audio profile that’s tailored to your specific needs. Interestingly, this profile also works in Transparency mode, so can boost the sounds around you as well as those coming from your device.
Best of all, these other new features are available on more headphones than just the AirPods Pros. Automatic switching is available on the 2nd Gen AirPods and the Beats Powerbeats, Powerbeats Pro and Solo Pro. Headphone Accommodations work with all of those models and the standard EarPods that come bundled with new iPhones. Sharing audio, meanwhile, works with all versions of the AirPods and all Beats headphones that have the Apple W1 or H1 chip inside.
The yearly Spotify Wrapped is a rather upbeat affair, which doesn’t doesn’t quite match everyone’s mood this year. For the more sullen among us, there’s another option: a bot from The Pudding that will judge us for our crimes of listening to terrible music.
If you want to be judged, you open a page titled “How Bad is Your Spotify” and you log in with your Spotify account. (It might take a couple refreshes on the “Loading your music library” page.) This absolute jerk of an AI then drags you mercilessly while it pulls your playlists and top tracks. It asks you questions before it shows any results, in phrasing that gives the plain text the same aura as the girls who bullied me in middle school. Did you really listen to Clementine by Sarah Jaffe? (Yes) Like ironically? (No…)
The final judgement comes in the form of a multi-hyphenated phrase, followed by a page of loose statistics (I am apparently 24 percent basic). This stupid little computer program deemed my Spotify listens mason-jar-candle-from-target-craft-beer-snob-wet-ass bad. And you know what? It’s right. I listened to a frankly unholy amount of Hozier this year. Spotify Wrapped wanted me to be proud of that, but I’ve spent the year hating the fact that I was too bummed out and busy to actually seek out new and exciting artists.
The bot is not actually that personalized. It will ask everyone the same boilerplate questions in a snarky tone. But it still gave me the validation I didn’t know I craved. My music taste kinda sucks, but whose doesn’t? Who among us doesn’t love to listen to the same old tried-and-true songs that hit just right, even if they earn the scorn of our more pretentious friends? Please join me in this journey of shameless shamefulness, and find some joy in a well-earned roast.
RESUME In a crowded market, LG HBS-FN7 earphones stand out with a some positive things. Such as good wearing comfort and a balanced sound, if you choose the right EQ mode at least. The noise canceling is also effective, which makes these LG earphones useful in noisy environments.
LG has been working with Meridian for several years, including for the design of sound bars. However, the latest fruit of that marriage nestles into a completely different category, that of wireless earphones with noise canceling .
LG has previously released a number of wireless earphones under the name Tone Free. The HBS-FN7 that we are looking at here is the top model, equipped with active noise cancellation. So they are in-ears without a cable and suitable for use in noisy environments. In the past we would write: for on the train or in an open office, in today’s circumstances, earphones like these prove their use when working from home when the neighbor shoots in DIY mode.
Wireless earphones are very popular right now and as a result, the market is flooded with new products. LG uses two unique cards to stand out: a sound tuned by Meridian and the UVnano function. The latter is a function in the case that irradiates the ears with UV light so that “99, 9 percent ”of bacteria are killed.
Keeps well to sit These are totally wireless earphones, consisting of two devices that connect wirelessly to the source device via Bluetooth. In most cases that will be a smartphone, but you can also use the HBS-FN7 with a tablet or laptop. They are very small, light devices, weighing less than 8 grams each, which are secured in your ear canal thanks to caps. LG calls these caps ‘gels’ and states that they invented their own design that provides a better seal for sound around you.
The health card is drawn again here, because for the material of the caps there is gone for non-toxic and hypoallergenic silicone. LG calls them medically responsible. As usual you will find three sets in different sizes in the packaging. We liked the caps, even when we walked around or took a dip in the sofa. You’ll soon forget you’re wearing the earbuds – just what you want.
Wireless charging can The HBS-FN7s come with their own case. Which doubles as a charger. The battery in the earbuds lasts about seven hours (without noise canceling), after which you can charge them two more times by putting the devices back in their case. After all, it has its own battery that acts as a power bank. You charge the case in turn via a USB-C cable or wirelessly, which is handy. Even more useful is the quick charge function. If you put the ears in the box for five minutes, you can listen for another hour longer. Those extras compensate for the rather mediocre autonomy.
The Tone Free earphones come with a great app (iOS and Android) to personalize the sound via an equalizer. You choose from four presets that are tuned by Meridian or two that you can set yourself. In the app you switch between normal listening, with noise canceling or the Ambient Sound mode where the microphones on the outside of the HBS-FN7 just let sound through. This way you can have a conversation with someone without taking the ears off. This works, but you are allowed to process a lot of noise and sharp sounds. The noise cancellation is good for wireless earphones, although the HBS-FN7 does not approach the efficiency of the best over-ear headphones with NC.
Fascinating to listen to Once you choose the appropriate EQ setting, you will not often be in the Tone Free- app diving. Switching between noise canceling and ambient sound is done faster via the touch controls on the side of the earbuds. Taking them out will automatically pause your music or video. We find this especially useful when we tried to work out our backlog in the Netflix watch list one afternoon with interruptions. You can call the standard sound mode (relatively) natural. We add ‘relative’, because mobile use and functions such as noise canceling do have an influence on the sound experience. However, the HBS-FN7 does not serve up too fat basses, which many wireless earphones do. If you still feel like it, there is a Bass Boost function that nicely enhances the Roman Flügel remix of Pantha Du Prince’s ‘The Crown Territory’ without dulling the other synth sounds. In Natural mode you can easily listen to guitar music or even classical music for a long time. The LGs are true all-rounders, more universal than most wireless earphones.
Conclusion In a crowded market, LG HBS-FN7 earphones stand out for a number of positive Affairs. Such as good wearing comfort and a balanced sound, if you choose the right EQ mode at least. The noise canceling is also effective, which makes these LG earphones useful in noisy environments. They give you a way to enjoy your music or a Netflix movie in peace and quiet and without wearing large headphones.
LG Tone Free HBS-FN7
199 euro | www.lgelectronics.com
Rating 4.5 out of 5
Ask any hi-fi enthusiast which speaker brand appeals to the imagination and chances are that the name Bowers & Wilkins will be mentioned. Until 2015, the reproducers of this manufacturer were notable for the use of a yellow Kevlar woven mid-toner. The latter has since made way for the less prominent gray-colored Continuum display. But of course the news and improvements don’t stop there. B&W continues to develop happily with every release and â ???? lends â ???? each time technology from the top models. And we heard that in 603 S2 Anniversary Edition.
Modest appearance But first more about the appearance, because the eye is of course also something. With the understated-looking top model of the 600 – we received matte black test samples – the front following series of visible components: a 28 mm decoupled double aluminum dome tweeter, the aforementioned 150 mm Continuum midrange and 2 pcs paper / kevlar mix 165 mm woofers. At the rear, the 603 can ‘breathe’ through the well-known â ???? golf ballsâ ???? flowport. The crossover filter for this 3-way system that has been upgraded specifically for this series can be found in the cabinet itself. Well-considered choices by B&W with the goal of the 603 S2 Anniversary Edition to be the most advanced yet affordable floor standing speaker.
A closer look
The slightly more than a meter high 603 SE AE is provided with a stable base, which can be equipped with the supplied rotatable spikes or dampers. Tweeter, midrange and woofers are all mounted with a ring, so that no screws are visible. This not only looks good, but also improves the radiation. Of course there are also front grills (or fronts as you want) included, which are held in place by means of magnets that are concealed in the cabinet. A very small point of criticism; they could have been a little more powerful. The speaker grills will remain neatly in place under normal circumstances, but little is needed to tap them off.
For those who have the black speakers are too boring, the possibility exists to to deviate to white copies, or opt for oak wood look. Optionally, the cherry wood look variant is also available to order. Anyway; the end result in appearance and finish may be there. Here are speakers that should be seen, without being too obvious.
Seven more days
After the traditional warm-up period, some sliding, fitting and measuring we arrive at the discovery that the 603 sound best when turned slightly at least 2 meters apart stand. Because there is enough space to the back wall, we do not have the need to use the included foam rubber bass port plugs for a moment. One 40 to 50 cm is enough. The layer produced is wonderfully tight and the center extremely transparent. The treble sometimes seems a bit fresh, but that turned out to be recording or source dependent on the one hand and amplifier related on the other, more about that later.
The 603 â ???? s turn out to be musical omnivores. Whatever we serve them â ???? pop, classical, jazz, blues â ???? each genre is presented equally honestly and precisely. With Tin Pan Alley by Stevie Ray Vaughn, for example, the hum and rustle of the guitar and bass amplification can be heard nicely in the background, while the actual music rolls into the living room in an extremely realistic way. So the volume knob will automatically go a step further clockwise. Such a perception also comes to us when listening to Pink Floyd’s – The Wall. This tastes like more.
Because we mainly used the Arcam CD player as a source, albums like Live in Joe Bonamassa’s Royal Albert Hall (great that double drum kit ), The Best Of by George Michael, Tango In The Night by Fleetwood Mac and Reverence by Faithless. But the highlight in terms of experience has to be the song from Seven More Days by Terence Trent Darby. Just that goosebumps moment and moreover; wonderful to once again â ???? old-fashionedâ ???? CDs.
Can it be a little more? With a specified return of 88, 5 dB B&W recommends a stable amplifier from 30 Watts at 8 Ohms. Experience shows that in practice such a task is rather difficult to translate into the ready-made answer whether your amplifier is sufficient or not. After all; it is just a cold number. As a HiFi enthusiast, you are always looking for the maximum performance of your speakers. Because during the time that we had the 603 at our disposal, we noticed that they very easy to lift to a higher level based on a heavier amplifier. For example, in addition to a Rotel RA – 1572, a Rotel Michi X3 and a NAD M3 were also used. In our case it sometimes disappeared a bit fresh looking high. So check and listen to whether there is a match between (existing) equipment and these speakers.
Conclusion If you are currently looking for a set of new speakers, or perhaps considering an upgrade, please add the 603 Definitely add S2 to the wish list. Bowers & Wilkins offers an attractive price (â ?? ¬ 1. 799, – per pair) in a beautifully modest packaging produced a versatile and transparent sounding floorstander. A well thought out loudspeaker packed with technology from the more expensive lines of the leading and now legendary brand. As a result, as a listener you can very well distinguish what this transducer is being offered via the source with corresponding amplification. And that can be considered a great compliment.
In short; a loudspeaker that is right and rightly named â ???? Anniversary Editionâ ???? may wear. A small side note and at the same time sincere advice is in order here; provide a powerful amplifier that can drive these beautiful reproducers.
B&W 603 S2 Anniversary Edition
â ?? ¬ 1. 799, – per pair | Â www.bowerswilkins.com/en-en
Rating 4.5 / 5
—- ————————————————– ————————–
Specifications
Available color combinations
– black with black front
– white with gray front
– oak wood look with gray front
– cherry wood look with gray front (on order)
Speaker type
– Floor Upright
– 3-way open system / bass reflex
Composition
– 1x 28 mm o nd coupled aluminum double dome tweeter
– 1x 150 mm Continuum Cone FST Midrange
– 2x 165 mm paper / kevlar woofers
– flowport
Frequency range
28 Hz – 33 kHz (-6 dB)
Frequency response
48 Hz – 28 kHz (± 3 dB)
Sensitivity
88, 5 dB spl (2, 83 V, 1m)
Recommended amplifier power
30 W – 200 W at 8 ohms on signal without clipping
Dimensions
– Height 985 mm housing / 1055 mm incl. foot
– width 190 mm housing / 320 mm incl. foot
– depth 340 mm housing / 370 mm incl. foot
Net Weight
24, 1 kg each
– ————————————————– —————————–
Test equipment used
Sources
– Arcam FMJ CD 33
– Linn Majik DS
– Bluetooth ACC / aptX
– PC-USB
RESUME The Tiglon TPL – 2000 A, the application of a patented magnesium-containing tape reduces the entry and emission of electromagnetic fields. Because power cables are close to audio components and other cables, EMI is often a serious source of interference. The application of magnesium in a cable can be called innovative. This cable does not change the sound. Because apparently less interference signals mix with the audio signal, the noise floor becomes lower and there is mainly an experience of more detail, silence, space and depth. Those changes are subtle and just noticeable. They contribute to an even more natural sound experience.
PLUS POINTS Actually built in accordance with the EMC Provides audible results Very beautifully built Superior Furutech Shielded Connectors MINUSES Higher price, but not unreasonable Not extremely smooth Tiglon is a relatively unknown Japanese high-end company in the Netherlands that produces ands, vibration dampers and audio cables. The brand introduced a new technology to provide cables with effective protection against EMI. As a total surprise, a mains cable from this manufacturer’s range was sent directly from Japan to the listening room. Japan is the audio country pur sang. An important reason to take these types of specialized products seriously.
The operation and influence of mains cables
Power cables (or power cables) appeal to the imagination. In an earlier article, the theory behind power cables was discussed. There is no form of voodoo or supernatural phenomena in cables. There is an immense amount of literature available on how cables work since the 1930s. Just physics and a bit of math. Not all cables in hi-fi island are built according to the theoretically optimal model. This means that cables can react very differently. What has in any case become very clear is that cables and other accessories must be able to convincingly show any added value or improvement immediately after connection. It doesn’t work by listening for weeks and then shouting that a little bit of change can be discerned with a lot of effort. At such a moment it makes no sense to spend money on it.
Issues
In my opinion, manufacturers of mains cables can hardly admit that they are innovating. In a nutshell (see also the earlier publication on power cables), many power cables are themselves an immense source of interference. These cables are very close to sensitive equipment and other analog cables. They cause measurable electromagnetic fields. Those fields radiate into all equipment and other cables in the area. In addition, power cables also absorb all kinds of disturbances from the environment. These are also piped to the connected equipment.
In general, almost all power cables without any forms of shielding or other measures to block and / or receive radiation are worthless. You can just as well use the well-known black and supplied power cords. Some of these are for technical reasons, not discussed further here, even better than a number of so-called ‘audiophile’ mains cables. So, get such cables for a demo, cut them, and look for technology that will help reduce the problematic effects described above.
Tiglon Here and there you see the application of techniques known for eighty years to to suppress those disturbances a little. In any case, Tiglon deserves the honor of offering an innovative solution for electromagnetic radiation. That is generally one of the bigger problems with mains cables. Tiglon is a Japanese company operating in 2010 started with a magnesium speaker mode (MGT series). Various studies are known in the literature on the mechanical damping capacity of metals and ceramic materials. For example, magnesium alloy type AZ 31 BF a value of 10? at 0.1? ys (%). Materials such as copper, aluminum and steel are all under 5. It is therefore not a bad idea to build vibration-damping speaker stands, racks and ‘damping’ insulators (vibration damping devices) for audio components based on magnesium alloys.
But, magnesium has another great property in the form of damping electromagnetic fields. An important product group of the company are all kinds of audio cables, which use magnesium shields to damp EMI. Tiglon has a patent for this application. In terms of content, it concerns a flexible ‘shield’ containing magnesium that is wrapped around the conductors in the cable. So it looks like a kind of tape, like you wrap around the handle of a tennis racket. The discovery that magnesium can dampen electromagnetic waves has been made earlier and several studies are available worldwide. A study is known here into, among other things, the effect of various alloys with magnesium on the damping effect, including the relationship between the damping and the direction of the electromagnetic field (2018 Shangyu Gao et al. College of Materials Science and Engineering , Chongqing University, Chongqing, 20201127140605, China. ).
An inquiry from 2010 also shows the relationship between the cable architecture and the angle of irradiation. It indicates that some architectures are better able to suppress EMI and therefore are more independent of the direction of the electromagnetic field. Tiglon’s patent does not contain the discovery that magnesium blocks electromagnetic radiation, but it concerns the magnesium-containing tape. This makes it possible to provide such a network cable with some flexibility, which would be less successful with a cable with a shield of mu-metal. The Tiglon cable is flexible, but again not an example of a flexible cable.
Tiglon TPL – 2000 A power cable
The TPL – 2000 A is according to Tiglon the best power cable the company can provide. Tiglon uses DF-OFC (oxygen-free copper), uses the previously mentioned magnesium shield and uses additional shielding to block RFI. By means of HSE (Hyper Saturated Energizer), the cable is ‘played in’ in advance and the sound quality also improves. The latter does a considerable drain on the imagination of the undersigned, because as far as is known no theoretical foundation can be found for the ‘anticipation’. The ‘anticipation’ is done by sending a varying current through the cable and by means of high frequencies.
The cable has a bead at both ends. These are windings of magnesium tape. They form a mechanical filter that dampens mechanical energy coming from the connectors. According to Tiglon, cables are very sensitive to mechanical resonances. They affect the sound. The performance of the Tiglon cables can therefore not only be explained by the damping of EMI, but also because of the damping of mechanical energy caused by the magnesium. The signal in a cable, according to Tiglon, is moved according to the impulse law. The transport of electrons then causes micromechanical impulses (ie collisions between electrons). Tiglon’s claim is that external vibrations affect the electrons, ie the nature of those micromechanical impulses (collisions) and then the sound. Pucks, spikes and everything that we place under hi-fi components affects the operation of the micro-mechanical impulses and thus the sound. It is a claim that requires an explanation of how free electrons move in a conductor and whether this transport is affected by external vibrations.
The Paul Drude model teaches that the transport takes the form of a sea of colliding electrons . The direction that electrons get after such a collision is, according to the theory, only dependent on the local temperature. It is interesting to investigate whether external vibrations also influence those collisions, whether this takes place by definition and whether there is an influence on the sound. Nice PhD research.
On the other hand, (poorly built) cables can be microphonic. If the cable moves, a kind of crackling sound can be heard. However, it is about interlinks and microphone cables through which a signal runs. No audio signals pass through power cords. The Tiglon cables are in any case beautiful and very solidly built and are supplied with the Furutech FI – 50 (R) NCF connectors, which are made of metal. Research here showed that a connector made of plastic simply throws the radiation, which, for example, a switched power supply in a device generates, through the IEC connector. Sealing such a connector with a mu-metal shield was discernible in the sound quality. The theory about ‘escaping’ and bringing in radiation through the connectors and chassis parts of audio equipment can be found in a publication by Jeffrey P. Mills (Electromagnetic Interference, Prentice Hall). A power cord with plastic connectors is therefore at odds with the theoretical model.
Tiglon TPL – 2000 A: Listen
Only a single cable was available. Then a choice has to be made which component will be connected. Experience shows that preamplifiers, streamers, music servers and converters can sometimes be sensitive to all kinds of disturbances. The Tiglon TPL – 2006 A was thus connected to an available DA converter. The influence of this mains cable was actually immediately visible. What most likely happened was that there were no failures a bit of space and depth was added to the soundstage, in which sounds became perceptible that would otherwise remain hidden. You hear sound that is not or less perceptible in many other listening situations. The great thing is that sounds die out for a very long time and that such a thing is clearly traceable, until such an often subtle sound disappears behind the distant auditory horizon. Psycho-acoustically speaking, it then seems as if the soundstage becomes much deeper, but also wider.
An additional psychoacoustic perception is that sounds appear to be more clearly defined. That makes sense. As the overall noise floor decreases, sounds stand out more clearly. A funny effect is that you tend to turn the system down. At low volumes there is already such a density of information that it is not necessary to want to hear more by turning the volume very high. What happens is a bit like fog. If there is fog, you will see less, while all hidden objects are indeed around you. When the fog clears, you will see more and more and your field of observation also becomes deeper and wider. In an audio system, interference that ends up in the audio path can hide softer sounds, while that information is actually present in the signal. The observations are in line with the theoretical model and also in line with the intention of this cable. Namely, offering the best possible protection against EMI. So it appears that this cable is keeping some amount of interference out of the DA converter. The noise floor then descends and hidden musical details become discernible.
Whoever reads it like this might not be impressed, because there is no mention of mega improvements, blasting eruptions of increased dynamics, instruments that suddenly come out spectacularly and an impressive increased sound quality. Apparently it is always others within hi-fi island who are allowed to experience all this. It really has never happened here. But, what this TPL – 2006 A does here is unmistakably discernible. But see it above all as one of the small steps that you can take with well-chosen cables and accessories and that together form a system that is neutral and sounds just a little closer to a real live music experience. So I wonder what will happen if multiple devices from such an audio system are equipped with these cables.
Tiglon TPL – 2000 A: epilogue The Tiglon TPL – 2006 A reduces the entry and emission of electromagnetic fields through the use of a patented magnesium-containing tape. Because power cables are close to audio components and other cables, EMI is often a serious source of interference. The application of magnesium in a cable can be called innovative. This cable does not change the sound. Because apparently less interference signals mix with the audio signal, the noise floor becomes lower and there is mainly an experience of more detail, silence, space and depth. Those changes are subtle and just noticeable. They contribute to an even more natural sound experience.
Price indication: 2. 400 euro
Black Forest Audio | www.blackforestaudio.com
From Phil Spencer come promising statements for what concerns the future of Xbox Game Pass, an on-demand service that offers access to hundreds of games for consoles and PCs, at the cost of a simple monthly subscription. Microsoft would also have considered a Family plan: what’s new?
by Pasquale Fusco published 22 December 2020 , at 12: 21 in the Videogames channel Xbox Microsoft
Offering dozens of games and benefits to its subscribers every month, Xbox Game Pass is undoubtedly one of Microsoft’s most successful products. The platform continues to grow, preparing to welcome the EA Play library – whose debut has just been postponed – and much of Bethesda productions, thanks to the recent acquisition of Zenimax Media.
The evolution of the service also passes through the subscription methods. According to the latest statements by Phil Spencer , Xbox boss, Game Pass may soon offer a plan dedicated to the family , which will allow more users to use the service on demand.
Xbox Game Pass: a family plan for multi-account access
Xbox Game Pass currently offers three different types of subscriptions: a Console plan and a PC, both offered at approximately 10 euro per month, and finally that Ultimate – considered by Microsoft to be the “best offer” – supplementing the Xbox Live Gold subscription, future access to EA Play titles and, most importantly, the ability to play in cloud mode.
Coming soon, a fourth option could join the current Game Pass proposals. Phil Spencer himself, head of the Xbox division, suggests it, answering a question from a user on Twitter: “Have you ever considered a Family per Game plan Pass? “.
We have. It’s something we’d like to do. There is Home console feature for one console household but for multiple family members with consoles a family plan would help. Really appreciate the feedback.
– Phil Spencer (@ XboxP3) December 9, 2020
Spencer confirms that his team has actually evaluated a similar option, which, we recall, is already offered by other on demand services – such as the aforementioned Spotify and Apple Music .
The Xbox boss also reminds us that a console user can share their Game Pass subscription with another family member, thanks to the Home feature. In this case, however, sharing is limited to two users: the solution can be a Family plan, which would extend this limit to four or more players belonging to the same household.
Of course, we are talking about a simple comment by Phil Spencer and we are still far from an official confirmation. Microsoft has however shown that it wants to invest in its on-demand service, so let’s expect new announcements in view of the 2021 – year which, among other things, will feature the new Xbox Series X and Series S , recently landed on market.
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