Voice Heralds Next Generation Features in Wireless Speakers and Smart Home Applications
While IFA 2016 was in full swing in Berlin, Germany, technology market research specialists Futuresource Consulting highlighted the importance that voice will play in next generation CE products. Following earlier announcements from Amazon, Google and Harman, the Berlin consumer electronics show was rich in product previews and demonstrations about the future of personal assistants and voice recognition applications.
Bragi Introduces New Wireless Earbuds Targeting Headphone-Jack Free iPhone 7
German company Bragi anticipated the announcement of Apple’s headphone-jack free iPhone 7 with an announcement of its own. While some audio companies are targeting Lightning connectivity and the benefits of direct digital connection, Bragi decided to make the best use of its technology already developed for The Dash true wireless earbuds to create a new simpler model - The Headphone - focusing on compatibility with any Bluetooth device… including the iPhone.
StreamUnlimited Debuts Stream805 and Stream810 Development Modules at IFA Global Markets and CEDIA 2016
StreamUnlimited announced its new Stream805 module, developed in collaboration with Broadcom and Wistron, combining StreamSDK software and Google Cast to create faster turnaround time for audio manufacturers. StreamUnlimited also introduced the new Stream810 module, developed in collaboration with NXP Semiconductors as a high-end streaming device for flagship audio products, including low power portable units. This module is designed to meet THX performance standards.
Libratone Introduces Q Adapt Lightning Powered In-Ear and Wireless On-Ear Headphones
Danish audio design brand Libratone presented another great example of how audio companies are responding to the opportunities created by the iPhone 7 launch and the replacement of the traditional 3.5mm headphone jack. Libratone launched its new Q Adapt series of In-Ear earbuds using Apple’s Lightning connector in combination with active noise-cancellation, powered directly by the phone. The company also introduced the new Q Adapt Bluetooth headphone series featuring adjustable active noise cancellation.
DTS Play-Fi Wireless Audio Ecosystem Expands with Pioneer And Onkyo and Support for Wireless Surround
Wireless audio technologies for whole-home and home theater applications are reaching a turning point with major industry players announcing key partnerships and key brand wins. Pioneer and Onkyo are the latest names to confirm an agreement to extend DTS Play-Fi technology across product lines worldwide. DTS also announced that its Play-Fi ecosystem will now support wireless surround functionality and integration with European music service Qobuz.
Audeze Announces iSINE Series In-Ear Planar Magnetic Headphones
Audeze launched its first in-ear headphones with planar magnetic technology, leveraging all the technology of its LCD series, including patented Fluxor magnets and Fazor waveguides. The new iSINE Series models range in price from only $399 to $599, including Audeze’s Lightning cable. For the new in-ear headphones, Audeze worked closely with BMW’s DesignworksUSA, designing housings that minimize reflections and diffractions and to ensure a comfortable, secure fit, in a smaller, lighter package. At 20 grams, these are the lightest planar headphones so far.
Better Stereo Sound for iPad with OIO Amp Wireless Speaker Case
OIO, an innovator in portable products and audio solutions, designed and developed its first product the Amp, a premium iPad theater experience speaker case with built-in amplifier and Bluetooth 4.0. Amp’s great quality and design is combined in high-tech flat audio speakers with thin resin acoustic panels to create nearly flat panel audio that expands iPads into a portable theater experience system. Amp features 7-hour battery life and is now available for pre-order on Indiegogo.
Strong Showing for RAVENNA Audio-Over-IP Solutions at IBC 2016
At IBC 2016 (8-13 September) there be will one of the strongest showings ever for audio-over-IP network technologies and IP interoperability efforts, now extending also into broadcast and video production infrastructures. Multiple companies involved in the RAVENNA/AES67 efforts are promoting demonstrations and introducing new products at their own booths, as well as participating in the Media Networking Alliance (MNA) and Alliance of IP Media Solutions (AIMS) IP Interoperability Zone.
Jabra Unveils Elite Sport Advanced True Wireless Sports Earbuds
True wireless earbuds or hearables seem to be the focus for most of the audio brands in the consumer electronics industry. Given the technology convergence with audiology and communication solutions in this area, we shouldn’t be surprised to see announcements from company leaders in those segments as well. Now, at IFA 2016, Jabra launched its first true wireless earbuds under its new Elite franchise with the promise of superior sound, strong battery life, and advanced personalized fitness analysis.
Harman Announces JBL Playlist, First Google Cast Wireless Speaker
Harman is already the world’s #1 provider of wireless home audio devices achieving an 11% share of global home audio sales in 2015. Now, at IFA 2016, Harman announced its first Google Cast-enabled wireless home speaker, the JBL Playlist, allowing users to stream cloud-based music services and radio from smartphones, tablets or laptops. Frontier Silicon confirms its audio speaker development toolkit has been chosen by Harman to power the new JBL Playlist.