Tag: Smart Speaker

  • WiiM Sound Smart Speaker: Multi-Room Audio & Voice Control

    WiiM Sound Smart Speaker: Multi-Room Audio & Voice Control

    Key Takeaways

    1. WiiM has introduced the new smart speaker, WiiM Sound, available in black and soon in white, priced at €349.
    2. The speaker features high-fidelity audio with a 4-inch woofer, two tweeters, and a total output of 100 watts, supporting high-resolution audio at 24-bit 192 kHz.
    3. It includes AI RoomFit for automatic room correction, enhancing sound quality throughout the space.
    4. Users can control the speaker via the WiiM Home app, which integrates streaming services like Spotify, Tidal, and Alexa Cast, and offers connectivity options like WiFi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3.
    5. The device has a 1.8-inch touchscreen for playback management and comes with the WiiM Voice Remote 2 Lite for voice commands using Alexa or Google Assistant.

    WiiM is broadening its range of audio streaming devices by introducing a new smart speaker. Recently, the company unveiled the WiiM Sound, which is soon to be available for purchase. The black variant is already listed on the official site of the manufacturer in select areas, and a white version, along with availability on Amazon, is expected to come shortly. The recommended retail price is set at €349.

    Features and Specifications

    The WiiM Sound is promoted as delivering high-fidelity audio quality, smart connectivity, and multi-room management. The dimensions of the speaker are approximately 6 x 6 x 8 inches, and it features a 4-inch woofer plus two tweeters that provide a total output of 100 watts and support high-resolution audio at 24-bit 192 kHz. Thanks to its automatic room correction, named AI RoomFit, the compact WiiM Sound aims to create immersive sound throughout the room.

    Control and Connectivity

    Users can manage the smart speaker through the dedicated WiiM Home app. This application enables control over all speakers, streamers, and amplifiers from the brand in one convenient location, while also offering direct access to well-known streaming services like Chromecast, Spotify Connect, Qobuz Connect, Tidal Connect, DLNA, and Alexa Cast. In terms of connectivity, it boasts WiFi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3 with LE Audio, Ethernet, and a 3.5mm jack.

    Additional Features

    At the front of the device, there’s a 1.8-inch touchscreen for managing playback, equalizer adjustments, and input selections. The package also includes the WiiM Voice Remote 2 Lite. In addition to its standard buttons, the remote allows for push-to-talk voice commands that can be interpreted by either Alexa or Google Assistant.

    Source:
    Link

    WiiM Sound Smart Speaker: Multi-Room Audio & Voice Control

     

    Tags: , ,
  • Ubo Pod: Raspberry Pi Smart Speaker with Display, Camera, AI Assistant

    Ubo Pod: Raspberry Pi Smart Speaker with Display, Camera, AI Assistant

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Ubo Pod is a smart speaker built around a Raspberry Pi 4 or 5, designed for modularity and repairability.
    2. It features a 1.54-inch IPS screen, two microphones, two speakers, a 5 MP camera, and a seven-button keypad.
    3. Users can disable microphones at a hardware level and the camera includes a “physical privacy curtain.”
    4. The device is customizable, allowing users to create personalized applications.
    5. The Ubo Pod is being funded through a Kickstarter campaign, with a starting price of $109 (excluding Raspberry Pi and shipping).

    The Ubo Pod is a unique kind of smart speaker that stands out from traditional options like those from Amazon. This model is built around a Raspberry Pi 4 or Raspberry Pi 5, all housed in a modular case that enhances both its extendability and repairability. Included in the package is a small IPS screen, measuring just 1.54 inches with a resolution of 240 x 240.

    Features and Components

    Equipped with two microphones and two speakers, each capable of producing two watts, the Ubo Pod enables users to interact acoustically. It also includes a 5 MP camera. For user input, there is a keypad with seven buttons. Notably, users can turn off the microphones at a hardware level using a specific button, and the camera features a “physical privacy curtain.” The dimensions of the device are 130 x 99 x 52 millimeters, and it also contains a temperature sensor, an IR receiver, and an IR transmitter.

    Customization Options

    One of the key advantages of the Ubo Pod is its flexibility, allowing users to customize it in various ways to create personalized applications. As part of a crowdfunding campaign that carries considerable financial risk for backers, the starting price is $109 (excluding shipping), however, this price does not include a Raspberry Pi.

    Crowdfunding Initiatives

    The Ubo Pod is currently being promoted on Kickstarter, aiming to gather support from individuals interested in innovative technology solutions.

    Source:
    Link

     

    Tags: ,
  • Google Home Speaker Launches with Gemini: Subscription Needed for Full Features

    Google Home Speaker Launches with Gemini: Subscription Needed for Full Features

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Google Home Speaker features a new design with a nearly spherical shape, 39% recycled materials, and comes in multiple colors.
    2. It provides 360° audio and can be paired with other speakers for enhanced sound experiences; compatibility with older Home and Nest speakers is also included.
    3. The new AI assistant, Gemini, allows for more natural conversations, enabling users to interrupt the speaker and ask follow-up questions without repeating the wake word.
    4. Subscription plans for advanced features include a standard plan at $10/month and an advanced plan at $40/month, offering various home automation and sound detection capabilities.
    5. The Google Home Speaker is set to launch next spring at $99.99, with a complimentary six-month subscription to Google Home Standard included.

    After a series of leaks, Google has officially unveiled its latest smart speaker, named the Google Home Speaker. This speaker is the first to come equipped with Gemini for Home, the new AI assistant that takes over from the Google Assistant.

    Design and Features

    The design of the Google Home Speaker is a major departure from Google’s earlier smart speakers. It features a nearly spherical shape with a flat top and bottom. The wired speaker includes a ring light at the base that lights up when it is listening or speaking. Additionally, there’s a microphone mute button located at the bottom.

    Google states that the speaker is constructed from 39% recycled materials and is covered in a specially designed yarn. This yarn is made through a unique 3D knitting technique that greatly minimizes fabric waste. The Google Home Speaker comes in colors like Jade, Berry, Porcelain, and Hazel.

    Audio and Compatibility

    Thanks to its shape, the speaker provides 360° audio, and Google mentions that users can connect two speakers for a stereo sound experience. Furthermore, it can be paired with the Google Home Streamer for a cinema-like experience featuring spatial surround-sound audio. It’s also compatible with older Home and Nest speakers.

    Similar to past Google smart speakers, the Google Home Speaker can answer questions, stream audiobooks, playlists, and podcasts, along with broadcasting messages throughout the home. However, to access more advanced features like Gemini Live, a Google Home Premium subscription (either standard or advanced) is required.

    Subscription Plans

    Gemini Live allows users to engage in conversations with the Google Home Speaker as if chatting with a friend. Like previous models, the wake word is ‘Hey Google’, but users don’t need to repeat it for every command or inquiry. It’s even possible to interrupt the speaker while it’s talking, change the subject, and ask follow-up questions.

    The standard subscription costs $10 a month or $100 yearly and includes home automation and sound detection features, such as alerts for smoke/carbon monoxide or glass breaking, along with Gemini Live. Meanwhile, the advanced subscription priced at $40 a month or $200 annually, adds the functionality for daily summaries of activity when not at home and the ability to search camera history just by asking the speaker.

    The Google Home Speaker is set to launch next spring with a price tag of $99.99 and will be available in various regions including the US, Canada, the UK, Ireland, France, Germany, Austria, Japan, Australia, and New Zealand. It will also include a complimentary six-month subscription to Google Home Standard.

    Source:
    Link

     

    Tags: , ,
  • Xiaomi Unveils New Smart Speaker with Buttons and Lighting Features

    Xiaomi Unveils New Smart Speaker with Buttons and Lighting Features

    Key Takeaways

    1. Xiaomi is launching the Smart Speaker Pro, initially available only in China.
    2. The speaker features a fabric design that enhances aesthetics and audio quality.
    3. A light strip on the device may indicate features like sound level and battery status.
    4. Top buttons are present for controlling music playback and volume, though their exact functions are unclear.
    5. Pricing details are not yet available, and various alternatives exist in the market.

    Xiaomi is preparing to introduce a new smart speaker called the Xiaomi Smart Speaker Pro, which will first be available only in China. It’s quite possible that the speaker might be obtainable through direct import soon, yet a worldwide launch could also happen.

    Design Features

    The precise technical details have not been disclosed by the company as of now. From the product image, we can observe that the speaker showcases a design that is typical for smart speakers. The device seems to be covered in fabric, which enhances its visual appeal without compromising the audio playback quality. Additionally, there seems to be a light strip where the side meets the top, which could be used to indicate various features like sound level, battery status, or even create lighting effects that sync with the music.

    Controls and Alternatives

    On top of the speaker, there are buttons visible, although their functions aren’t very apparent. Usually, these buttons on smart speakers are meant for controlling music playback, adjusting volume, or muting the device. The pricing details for this new smart speaker are yet to be announced, but there are many other options available on the market right now.

    Source:
    Link

    Tags: , ,
  • Amazon Echo Pop Sale: Get it Now for Just $23!

    Amazon Echo Pop Sale: Get it Now for Just $23!

    It’s pouring discounts during the Amazon Spring sale period. Among the price cuts on various tech items like the Amazon Fire TV Stick, Google Pixel Buds Pro, Pixel Phones, Galaxy Buds 2, Logitech Webcams, and AirPods Pro, there's a significant deal on the Amazon Echo Pop smart speaker. This device, usually priced at $40, is now available for just $23, offering you substantial savings.

    Amazon Echo Pop: A Compact Smart Speaker

    The Amazon Spring Sale features attractive discounts on Amazon’s range of home devices. Amazon's compact electronic gadgets are renowned for their seamless connectivity, budget-friendly prices, ease of use, and integration with Alexa voice assistants. The Amazon Echo Pop stands out as the smallest variant in Amazon's extensive electronic product lineup, and it's currently on sale for a considerable discount of $23.

    Features of the Amazon Echo Pop

    The Amazon Echo Pop, priced at $23, is a versatile and compact smart speaker suitable for various settings, such as bedside tables or cabinets. This speaker comes equipped with an LED indicator, microphones, and support for a 3.5mm audio jack, making it a practical choice for everyday use. While it lacks USB connectivity, it can function as an extender for Eero's mesh WiFi network, enhancing your home network coverage.

    This smart speaker can also serve as an intercom for other connected speakers, streamlining your tasks with voice commands. At just $23, the Amazon Echo Pop proves to be a valuable purchase, offering functionality and convenience without breaking the bank.

    Tags: ,
  • Edifier QR65 Wireless Speakers: Hi-Res Connections & Cool Lighting System in U.S.

    Edifier QR65 Wireless Speakers: Hi-Res Connections & Cool Lighting System in U.S.

    Chinese audio product manufacturer Edifier has recently introduced a cutting-edge smart speaker known as the QR65 wireless speakers. These speakers transcend the conventional audio experience by doubling up as a charging station for your mobile device while also adding an illuminating touch to your home or office environment. This innovative product has just hit the US market and is currently accessible through various retail channels.

    Advanced Features of the Edifier QR65

    The Edifier QR65 is engineered with integrated amplification technology, ensuring a remarkable sound performance. Offering multiple input alternatives, this wireless speaker stands out with its 70W RMS total audio output capacity, capable of providing up to 65W power through its dual USB-C ports and a USB-A interface. These three USB connectors are linked to a TurboGaN fast charger integrated into the speaker.

    Unmatched Sound Quality and Customizable Lighting

    Equipped with customizable lighting options, the Edifier QR65 caters to the needs of gamers and individuals looking to enhance their workspace ambiance. This speaker guarantees top-notch acoustic output and supports LDAC, Hi-Res Audio, and Hi-Res Audio Wireless technologies. Each unit boasts a 15W 1.25-inch silk dome tweeter paired with a 20W mid-low 2.75-inch long-throw aluminum diaphragm driver. Moreover, the subwoofer adds an extra dimension to the audio output with features like a two-way active crossover and digital signal processing. Connectivity choices include Bluetooth 5.3, USB, and RCA line-in options.

    Power Delivery and Lighting Effects

    When multiple devices are connected to the Edifier QR65 wireless speakers, the power distribution adjusts to 20W from one USB-C port and 40W from the other. In the absence of additional connections, the USB-C interface provides 65W fast charging, while the USB-A port offers 60W output, making it possible to rapidly charge large devices such as laptops. The QR65 also boasts the TempoAbyss system, which produces a dazzling light show. With 11 preset lighting configurations and the ability to craft custom colors and lighting effects through the ConneX app, users can personalize their audiovisual experience.

    Pricing & Availability

    In the US market, the Edifier QR65 wireless speakers are priced at $369.99. In the UK, these speakers are available for £385, while in the EU, retailers offer them for €369.99. For more information on the Edifier QR65 speakers, interested individuals can visit the brand’s official website.

    Edifier QR65 Wireless Speakers: Hi-Res Connections & Cool Lighting System in U.S.
    Tags: ,