Happy Holidays! I have found some interesting gadgets that may creatively distract us during the pandemic lockdown.
As 2020 heads toward the finish line, it’s time to think about winter holiday gadgets that will help distract us from the rougher edges of what is proving to be a painfully pivotal year.
For the moment, I am spotlighting some interesting items that I became aware of because of the Pepcom Holiday Spectacular, a now-online event for media that features the latest in digital and cutting-edge consumer gadgetry.
Roku OS 9.4 Embraces Apple AirPlay 2, HomeKit & HBO Max
As more people have had to work from home, I suspect that they have begun to figure out how to master Roku’s digital media players for streaming online content to their digital TVs.
About a month ago, the San Jose, Calif.-based Roku, Inc. announced that with the release of Roku OS 9.4, Apple AirPlay 2 and HomeKit support became available for some 4K Roku devices.
The new support is now accessible via the Roku Ultra, Roku Streambar, Roku Smart Soundbar, Roku Streaming Stick+, and Roku Premiere devices, officials say.
The Apple AirPlay 2 and HomeKit support was slated to roll out to the 4K Roku TV models during November.
“With AirPlay 2, Roku customers can stream, control, and share their favorite content directly from their iPhone, iPad, or Mac to their supported Roku device, bringing the experience to the big screen,” according to a Roku statement. “HomeKit allows customers to easily and securely control their Roku device with their voice using the Home app and Siri on iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple Watch, or HomePod.”
In September, Roku began rolling out Roku OS 9.4 to Roku devices, and launched the free Roku Channel mobile app for iOS and Android smartphones. More details can be found here: https://bit.ly/3ggh8ym
(Editor’s Note: In mid-December, Roku and WarnerMedia reported that they finally have an agreement “to bring HBO Max to the Roku platform. Starting tomorrow, Dec. 17, Roku users will be able to download HBO Max from the Roku channel store and subscribe directly on their Roku device to access all of HBO Max,” according to a press release. “For users who have already subscribed to HBO through their Roku devices, the HBO app will automatically update to become the HBO Max app, and they will be able to log in using their existing HBO credentials.” More details can be found here: https://bit.ly/3r9oXej .)
Making the Case for Smartphone Protection
For those who want a practical gift, Grip2ü offers smartphone cases that offer customers a way to stop them from damaging their phones if they are dropped or otherwise physically threatened.
“Our drop-tested cases also provide superior protection in the event of a drop, with three protection levels designed for every individual. Grip2ü cases are available for Apple and Samsung devices,” officials say.
“Today’s smartphones are bigger and more beautiful than ever, and, in turn, more difficult to use and brutally expensive. We believe in a proactive approach to phone protection. Prevent the Drop before it happens and be able to enjoy all the functionality your device offers worry-free,” officials add.
The cases are based upon polycarbonate and TPU for shock resistance, officials say.
“Each model goes through extensive drop testing to guarantee the best. We drop our phones 1,000+ times to ensure we’ve got you covered. … Whether you’re running to the grocery store or running late to a meeting, our grip case can enhance your active lifestyle and prevent costly phone drops,” according to the vendor.
More information can be found here: https://bit.ly/3qBYcyy
Old School Meets Bluetooth via Hybrid Turntable
In an unusual mix of Old School and New School technology, Victrola, the well-known maker of turntables, and Audio Technica, a designer, distributor and manufacturer of audio equipment have debuted the Eastwood Hybrid Turntable that embraces the Bluetooth standard for wireless technology.
The Bluetooth standard facilitates data exchanges over short distances between mobile and non-mobile devices via UHF radio waves. The technology is used for audio streaming, data transfer, location services, and large-scale device networks.
The Victrola hybrid turntable is a three-speed record player with Dual-Bluetooth connectivity that “allows you to stream music from your smart device, or play your records through any external Bluetooth speaker,” officials say. The Audio-Technica AT-3600LA cartridge works with “the custom-tuned stereo speakers.”
“The Audio Technica cartridge … translates information within record grooves into an electrical signal,” officials add.
More sound information can be found here: https://bit.ly/36OPJjS
Happy Holidays!
Need a Reprint?