Alexandre Beaudoin Bonotto Blog's: June 2017

Friday, 30 June 2017

Thursday, 29 June 2017

Samsung really wants your kitchen appliances to be smart - CNET

All of the products in the manufacturer's new Chef Collection line of products will include Wi-Fi connectivity.

from
https://www.cnet.com/news/samsung-really-wants-your-kitchen-appliances-to-be-smart/#ftag=CADa08b18a

August just made its smart lock and doorbell easier to use - CNET

August's app updates make it simpler to keep an eye on your front door.

from
https://www.cnet.com/news/august-just-made-its-smart-lock-and-doorbell-easier-to-use/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Flashback 2007: Hello, iPhone

from
https://www.soundandvision.com/content/flashback-2007-hello-iphone

Monoprice TripleXXX In-Ear Headphones

from
https://www.soundandvision.com/content/monoprice-triplexxx-ear-headphones

LG's Stunning “Wallpaper” OLED Arrives in Stores

from
https://www.soundandvision.com/content/lg-flagship-%E2%80%9Cwallpaper%E2%80%9D-oled-arrives-stores

AudioControl Celebrates 40th Anniversary

from
https://www.soundandvision.com/content/audiocontrol-celebrates-40th-year-anniversary

A Roomba for Your Garden: Solar-Powered Robot “Pulls” Weeds

Yanking weeds from a garden is a chore that keeps me busy all summer long. I love how the flower beds look when I’m done rooting around in the soil extracting the weeds. Unfortunately, it doesn’t last long. The weeds are usually back within a few days.

This is why I was so excited to learn about a robot that can do some of the backbreaking weeding for me. Created by roboticist Joe Jones – inventor of the Roomba – the Tertill from Franklin Robotics is designed to live in your garden and take care of the weeding, come rain or shine.

In a similar fashion to how a Roomba vacuums a floor, the Tertill uses design elements and a variety of sensors to patrols the garden daily, avoiding plants and obstacles while looking for weeds to eliminate.

Tertill has a very simple method: weeds are short, plants are tall. A plant tall enough to touch the front of Tertill’s shell activates a sensor that makes the robot turn away. A plant short enough to pass under Tertill’s shell, though, activates a different sensor that turns on the weed cutter.

Because Tertill’s approach is height-based, put one of the provided plant collars around short plants until they are tall enough for Tertill to recognize. When Tertill approaches the collar, it will recognize it and turn away.

Tertill gets its power from the sun. When there is sunlight—even on cloudy days—Tertill’s solar cell converts the light into electricity. The robot stores the energy in a battery. You don’t need to charge or replace Tertill’s battery. Tertill uses its stored power intelligently—during cloudy stretches, when less power is available, it patrols for weeds less often. Tertill is more aggressive during periods with more sun.

And here’s another reason to check it out: Because Tertill cuts weeds daily, you won’t need to douse your garden with chemical herbicides to keep the weeds under control. It’s a safer more effective method, not to mention better for your back.

Unfortunately, you may have to wait until next year to get your hands on this robotic weed cutter. Tertill is currently raising funds on Kickstarter and is expected to be available May 2018.

The post A Roomba for Your Garden: Solar-Powered Robot “Pulls” Weeds appeared first on Electronic House.

from
https://www.electronichouse.com/home-energy-management/a-roomba-for-your-garden-solar-powered-robot-pulls-weeds/

New Projector Screen from Severtson Screens Works Well in Bright Rooms

Creating the ideal home theater environment can be challenging. One of the biggest issues is often the amount of light in the room. If there are windows or lots of lights that your family likes to keep on, the room may lack the darkness often required for a projector and projector screen to create clear, vivid images. Thankfully, manufacturers like Severtson Screens have solved the lighting problem by offering Ambient Light Rejection (ALR) options. Severtson Screens rolls out ALR for its Impression Series residential and commercial projector screens. The new ALR option will also soon be available for additional Severtson screens.

“Our customers asked for it, and we have delivered with the industry’s most advanced ALR screen,” says Toby Severtson, president and CEO of Severtson Corp. “Made in the USA right here in Arizona, our new screen is both affordable and has an industry leading viewing angle versus other ALRs currently on the market today.”

Severton’s ALR has a 170 degree viewing angle and is available up to 120 inches (diagonal at 16:9 Aspect Ratio), with additional options to be available soon. With 0.8 gain, the ALR is designed specifically for situations with high ambient light.

Custom and standard ALR sizes are available. Severtson asks that customers contact them directly for individual pricing for their specific needs and for production and delivery timing.

When to use an ALR screen:

If your home theater also functions as a family room, den or some other space
If you like to watch video with the lights on, like during televised ballgames
If your home theater room has many windows
If you like to use the home theater for gaming
If you feel more comfortable having a few lights on while watching video
If you want to ensure that the images on screen are as bright and vivid as possible

The post New Projector Screen from Severtson Screens Works Well in Bright Rooms appeared first on Electronic House.

from
https://www.electronichouse.com/smart-tv/new-projector-screen-from-severtson-screens-works-well-in-bright-rooms/

Old English Pub Packed with Smart Home Surprises

Apple HomePod vs Sonos: Which Music System is Better?

4-Pack SUNTHIN 6 Watt E26 Dimmable LED PAR20 Spotlight, Par20 LED Light Bulbs Warm White – 450 Lumens 110 Volts AC (Dimmable) - CNET

4-Pack SUNTHIN 6 Watt E26 Dimmable LED PAR20 Spotlight, Par20 LED Light Bulbs Warm White – 450 Lumens 110 Volts AC (Dimmable)

from
https://www.cnet.com/deals/4-pack-sunthin-6-watt-e26-dimmable-led-par20-spotlight-par20-led-light-bulbs-warm-white-450-lumens-110-volts-ac-dimmable-3ccb2357/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Nest's 4K security camera auto-zooms to see faces up close - CNET

The Nest Cam IQ's 4K image sensor improves image clarity and allows for 12x digital zoom.

from
https://www.cnet.com/pictures/nests-4k-security-camera-auto-zooms-to-see-faces-up-close/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Wednesday, 28 June 2017

ImogenStudio +Cam HD Security Camera for $60 + free shipping - CNET

ImogenStudio +Cam HD Security Camera for $60 + free shipping

from
https://www.cnet.com/deals/imogenstudio-cam-hd-security-camera-for-60-free-shipping-2021183/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Cable Operators Decry Bundling

from
https://www.soundandvision.com/content/cable-ops-decry-bundling

Dirac Live Room Correction Coming to NAD Gear

from
https://www.soundandvision.com/content/dirac-live-room-correction-coming-nad-gear

Rain, shine or smoke, the Halo+ wants to keep you safe video - CNET

The Halo+ adds weather alerts to a smart smoke detector, and believe it or not, they're more helpful than annoying.

from
https://www.cnet.com/videos/rain-shine-or-smoke-the-halo-wants-to-keep-you-safe/#ftag=CADa08b18a

New Tablo App & Adapter Enable Off-Air TV Recording

from
https://www.soundandvision.com/content/new-nuvyyo-app-adapter-enable-air-tv-recording

720p Pan and Tilt WiFi Security Camera for $20 + free shipping - CNET

720p Pan and Tilt WiFi Security Camera for $20 + free shipping

from
https://www.cnet.com/deals/720p-pan-and-tilt-wifi-security-camera-for-20-free-shipping-2020772/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Amazon Echo Show review: Alexa's new touchscreen needs more time video - CNET

Amazon's new Alexa gadget lets the voice assistant place video calls -- but more needs to be done to put that screen to good use.

from
https://www.cnet.com/videos/amazon-echo-show-review-alexas-new-touchscreen-needs-more-time/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Riva Audio Ships Wand Wireless Audio System

from
https://www.soundandvision.com/content/riva-audio-ships-wand-wireless-audio-system

Nest Cam IQ review - CNET

The Nest Cam IQ's 4K sensor improves image quality, but most DIYers won't want to pay.

from
https://www.cnet.com/products/nest-cam-iq-indoor-security-camera/#ftag=CADa08b18a

How to use Drop In with your Amazon Echo speakers - CNET

Amazon released a new update to Echo devices and the Alexa app that allows users to drop in on one another or use the speakers as a household intercom.

from
https://www.cnet.com/how-to/how-to-use-drop-in-with-your-amazon-echo-speakers/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Tuesday, 27 June 2017

43 games you can play with Google Home - CNET

Google Home isn't only for streaming music and controlling your smart home. It has tons of games you can enjoy solo or with a group of friends.

from
https://www.cnet.com/how-to/games-you-can-play-with-google-home/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Famili FM272BT Digital Bathroom Body Weight Scale 400lbs 180kg Golden - CNET

Famili FM272BT Digital Bathroom Body Weight Scale 400lbs 180kg Golden

from
https://www.cnet.com/deals/famili-fm272bt-digital-bathroom-body-weight-scale-400lbs-180kg-golden-147f3cb1/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Zmodo 4-Camera 2TB NVR Surveillance System for $180 + free shipping - CNET

Zmodo 4-Camera 2TB NVR Surveillance System for $180 + free shipping

from
https://www.cnet.com/deals/zmodo-4-camera-2tb-nvr-surveillance-system-for-180-free-shipping-2019872/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Facebook Eyes Original TV Production

from
https://www.soundandvision.com/content/facebook-eyes-original-tv-production

The Halo+ guards you from inclement weather as well as smoke - CNET

Fully customizable weather alerts help the Halo+ stand out as a smart smoke detector.

from
https://www.cnet.com/pictures/the-halo-guards-you-from-inclement-weather-as-well-as-smoke/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Bug your family with Amazon Echo's new intercom feature - CNET

Amazon will roll out the new feature for its Echo, Echo Dot and Echo Show smart speakers in the next few days.

from
https://www.cnet.com/news/bug-your-family-with-amazon-echos-new-intercom-feature/#ftag=CADa08b18a

June 2017 New Gear

from
https://www.soundandvision.com/content/june-2017-new-gear

CES at 50: From Humble Origins to Global Showcase

from
https://www.soundandvision.com/content/ces-50-humble-origins-global-showcase

Showtime for Amazon's new Alexa touchscreen speaker - CNET

Amazon shows off its new take on FaceTime.

from
https://www.cnet.com/pictures/show-time-for-amazons-new-alexa-touchscreen-speaker/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Bluetooth 5.0: New and Improved!

from
https://www.soundandvision.com/content/bluetooth-50-new-and-improved

World Champion Golfer Lee Westwood Shows Off his Smart Home

Lee Westwood is one of the only golfers in the world to have won tournaments in five different continents. He’s a PGA Tour icon and a Ryder Cup mainstay. But when he’s off the course and in relaxation mode, he enjoys kicking back, putting a movie on and listening to music. When designing his new smart home with that in mind, Westwood hired local technology integrator Graeme Henderson from Hidden Home Cinema to integrate a modern, no-fuss entertainment system into his home.

“The initial specification of the project was to simply install a television and some speakers into the cinema room, but over a period of a few months, we began adding in other audio and video solutions to heighten the experience,” says Henderson. “As the scope grew, I knew that a control system would help to seamlessly integrate all of the technology into one easy app.”

Henderson chose an Elan home control and entertainment system and, with technical assistance from Indigo Distribution, found the process intuitive and straightforward.

Entertainment and Control Is Hole-in-One

Henderson installed an Elan gSC2 System Controller, which is accessible through eight Elan HR200 Remotes and the Elan Mobile app on Westwood’s personal Apple iPad. This way, he is able to use the app to access the system from anywhere in the world.

“There are two zones of audio, one in the kitchen and the other in the cinema room, which is outfitted with a surround sound 7.1 system,” says Henderson. “Lee was looking for a simple yet sophisticated audio system that would integrate with popular streaming services like Spotify and Pandora. That’s precisely what we were able to deliver. Now, he can play any song from any streaming service instantly.”

The home’s video system is controlled by an 8×8 matrix with 4K functionality, which enabled the addition of a 4K satellite receiver, a 4K Blu-ray Disc player, and an XBOX.

“We installed five satellite receivers to distribute 4K content to eight new televisions throughout the residence,” Henderson says. “Lee can change the channels on any television from a single remote or the smartphone in his pocket. It’s as easy as can be.”

Since Westwood travels frequently, Henderson integrated a sophisticated, remotely-accessible CCTV security system, with eight IP cameras that have a 4TB NAS drive for recording. The security system is integrated with the Elan system so that Westwood can check footage from anywhere in the world via the Elan app.

Inside the Design and Installation Process

Throughout the integration process, the integration team worked diligently with Dickinsons Commercial interior design firm to seamlessly blend the technology with the residence’s contemporary interior.

“Sometimes working to accommodate technology elements in the space could be intimidating, but we were put at ease once Graeme showed us how sleek the Elan system is and how it helps to consolidate all of Lee’s media into one means of control,” says Rachel McCluskey, senior interior designer at Dickinsons Commercial.

Henderson was commissioned to install a “future-proofed wiring infrastructure,” and as the scope of the job changed throughout the build process, the wiring then became relevant for the backbone of the Elan system.

According to Indigo distribution managing director Matthew Booth, Westwood is very pleased with the system, and has been surprised by how easy-to-use the Elan interface really is.

“Lee is really satisfied with the entertainment system in his new home,” he says, “The great thing about this system is that it’s always expandable. If he ever wants to add climate, irrigation or security control, he can do so easily.”

The post World Champion Golfer Lee Westwood Shows Off his Smart Home appeared first on Electronic House.

from
https://www.electronichouse.com/smart-home/world-champion-golfer-lee-westwood-shows-off-his-smart-home/

Dish Network DVRs Can Now Stream Music

Dish Network has launched Dish Music, a mobile app powered by DTS Play-Fi technology that gives customers the ability to sync music throughout their home using one central control.

The app uses TV audio systems connected to Hopper 2 or Hopper 3 DVRs, as well as DTS Play-Fi-enabled speakers, to play music from personal libraries on mobile devices and popular streaming services, like Amazon Music, iHeartRadio, Pandora and TIDAL.

“It can be both difficult and expensive to achieve synchronized and high-quality whole-home audio,” says Niraj Desai, Dish vice president of product management. “Dish Music is a great whole-home sound solution designed to meet the needs of our customers, as it works with existing audio equipment and is available at no additional cost.”

Dish Music turns Dish’s Hopper DVRs and connected Joeys into music streaming zones controllable from Android or iOS smartphones and tablets. Using the app, customers can choose to sync the same music across rooms, or play different content in each zone. Televisions will display the metadata for the music being played, such as the artists, song name and music service.

Additionally, Dish Music can wirelessly pair with DTS Play-Fi-enabled speakers connected to the same wireless network. DTS Play-Fi boasts the largest ecosystem of whole-home wireless partners, including Aerix, Anthem, Arcam, Definitive Technology, Klipsch, MartinLogan, McIntosh, Paradigm, Phorus, Polk Audio, Rotel, Sonus Faber, Thiel Audio and Wren, with products from Elite, Integra, Pioneer, Onkyo, Soundcast, SVS Sound and more forthcoming.

Music services available with Dish Music currently include Amazon Music, Deezer, iHeartRadio, Napster, Pandora, SiriusXM and Tidal. Users must have accounts to access content from these services, when required. Dish Music will also play from personal libraries on mobile devices and is compatible with DLNA media servers.

The Dish Music app is available for download today in the Apple App Store, Google Play Store and Amazon app marketplace.

The post Dish Network DVRs Can Now Stream Music appeared first on Electronic House.

from
https://www.electronichouse.com/home-audio/dish-network-dvrs-can-now-stream-music/

Smart LED Light Bulb Shines Even During a Power Outage

What’s the first thing you do when there’s a power outage at your house – besides swear? Probably grab a flashlight and pray that its batteries still work.

According to studies by insideenergy.org, you might be searching for candles, matches, and flashlights during the summertime than another other time of the year. June is the most common month for severe weather outages, followed by August and July.

Sengled has developed a solution that promises to illuminate your house during power outages, no candles, flashlight, or expensive generator required.

When the Sengled Everbright light bulb detects a power outage, its internal, rechargeable Lithium-Ion battery jumps to provide backup power at 60% brightness. The bulb only takes 6 hours to recharge from a fully depleted state, and is damp-rated for any and every room of the house.

During a power outage, Everbright can run off its internal backup battery for 3.5 hours. The $20 light bulb installs just like a normal light bulb–simply twist the Everbright in to any existing light socket and it will automatically charge the Lithium-Ion battery inside. When there is electricity, Everbright functions just like a normal bulb. When it’s on it consumes 9 watts of electricity while lit.

It’s rated for 25,000 hours of use and produces 500 lumens of light, which is equivalent to that of a 40 watt light bulb.

The post Smart LED Light Bulb Shines Even During a Power Outage appeared first on Electronic House.

from
https://www.electronichouse.com/home-lighting/smart-led-light-bulb-shines-even-power-outage/

Monday, 26 June 2017

What the light ring colors on Amazon Echo speakers mean - CNET

The light ring on your Alexa device might be showing some new colors. Here's what they all mean.

from
https://www.cnet.com/how-to/what-the-light-ring-colors-on-the-amazon-echo-alexa-mean/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Halo+ Smart Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Alarm review - CNET

The Halo+ actually manages to make weather alerts on a smoke detector feel worthwhile.

from
https://www.cnet.com/products/halo-smart-labs-halo-plus-smart-smoke-co-alarm-with-weather-alerts/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Be Careful What You Wish For

from
https://www.soundandvision.com/content/be-careful-what-you-wish

Airpulse Debuts with Hi-Res Speaker System

from
https://www.soundandvision.com/content/airpulse-debuts-hi-res-speaker-system

Smart Speakers Spark Increased Music and Radio Listening

from
https://www.soundandvision.com/content/smart-speakers-spark-increased-music-and-radio-listening

Original Amazon Echo gets $50 price cut for the day - CNET

With the pending arrival of the Echo Show, Amazon has the original Echo on sale for $130.

from
https://www.cnet.com/news/amazon-echo-gets-50-price-cut-for-the-day/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Review: Amazon Echo Show

Every morning, as I survey the landscape of jeans and blue gingham shirts in my dresser, I ask Alexa about the weather. One day last week, as my virtual assistant chirped out of Amazon's new Echo Show smart speaker, I noticed the voice sounded muffled. I walked into the kitchen and found the Show's 7-inch screen […] The post Review: Amazon Echo Show appeared first on WIRED.

from
https://www.wired.com/2017/06/review-amazon-echo-show/

Amazon Echo Show review - CNET

At $230, the Echo Show is Amazon's fanciest Alexa gadget yet, with voice-activated video calling on a 7-inch touchscreen. Can Alexa hit another home run?

from
https://www.cnet.com/products/amazon-echo-show/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Show-time for Amazon's new Alexa touchscreen speaker - CNET

dek

from
https://www.cnet.com/pictures/show-time-for-amazons-new-alexa-touchscreen-speaker/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Epson Unveils $2,200 Projector with HDR and 4K Enhancement

from
https://www.soundandvision.com/content/epson-unveils-2200-projector-hdr-and-4k-enhancement

Swann All-in-One 2-Camera SwannSecure System for $140 + free shipping - CNET

Swann All-in-One 2-Camera SwannSecure System for $140 + free shipping

from
https://www.cnet.com/deals/swann-all-in-one-2-camera-swannsecure-system-for-140-free-shipping-2018465/#ftag=CADa08b18a

2nd-Gen August Bluetooth Keyless Smart Lock for $165 + free shipping - CNET

2nd-Gen August Bluetooth Keyless Smart Lock for $165 + free shipping

from
https://www.cnet.com/deals/2nd-gen-august-bluetooth-keyless-smart-lock-for-165-free-shipping-2018120/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Friday, 23 June 2017

OUYIDE 200 Watt Equivalent A19 LED Bulbs 23W Daylight 6000K LED Corn Light Bulbs 2530LM E26 Base - CNET

OUYIDE 200 Watt Equivalent A19 LED Bulbs 23W Daylight 6000K LED Corn Light Bulbs 2530LM E26 Base

from
https://www.cnet.com/deals/ouyide-200-watt-equivalent-a19-led-bulbs-23w-daylight-6000k-led-corn-light-bulbs-2530lm-e26-base-03cfd4ad/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Ezviz Husky 720p WiFi Security Camera for $60 + free shipping - CNET

Ezviz Husky 720p WiFi Security Camera for $60 + free shipping

from
https://www.cnet.com/deals/ezviz-husky-720p-wifi-security-camera-for-60-free-shipping-2017367/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Amazon Echo Show and Alexa Ready to Display Images from Security Cameras

Leonard Cohen: I'm Your Man

from
https://www.soundandvision.com/content/leonard-cohen-im-your-man

Billy Lynn's Long Halftime Walk

from
https://www.soundandvision.com/content/billy-lynns-long-halftime-walk

Steinway Lyngdorf Adds Dolby Vision to P200 Processor

from
https://www.soundandvision.com/content/steinway-lyngdorf-adds-dolby-vision-p200-processor

All Access Bingeing on CBS

from
https://www.soundandvision.com/content/all-access-bingeing-cbs

Dish Launches Multiroom Music App for Hopper DVR

from
https://www.soundandvision.com/content/dish-launches-multiroom-music-app-hopper-dvr

How to use your Amazon Echo as a personal fitness trainer - CNET

Amazon's Alexa speakers can help you get a good workout. Here's how.

from
https://www.cnet.com/news/how-to-use-your-amazon-echo-as-a-personal-fitness-trainer/#ftag=CADa08b18a

How to use the Google Home as your personal exercise coach - CNET

No time? No sweat! Let Google's Home speaker guide you through a quick workout.

from
https://www.cnet.com/news/how-to-use-the-google-home-as-your-personal-exercise-coach/#ftag=CADa08b18a

How to use the Google Home as your personal trainer video - CNET

No time for the gym? Let Google's smart speaker guide you through a quick home workout.

from
https://www.cnet.com/videos/how-to-use-the-google-home-as-your-personal-trainer/#ftag=CADa08b18a

How to use Amazon's Echo for fast home workouts video - CNET

Looking for a quick and easy workout? Amazon's Alexa speakers can help.

from
https://www.cnet.com/videos/how-to-use-amazons-echo-for-fast-home-workouts/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Thursday, 22 June 2017

Samsung SmartThings Smart Outlet for $36 + free shipping - CNET

Samsung SmartThings Smart Outlet for $36 + free shipping

from
https://www.cnet.com/deals/samsung-smartthings-smart-outlet-for-36-free-shipping-2016425/#ftag=CADa08b18a

How to install the Nest Cam - CNET

Installing a smart cam can seriously up your security. Here's how to set up the Nest Cam.

from
https://www.cnet.com/how-to/how-to-install-the-nest-cam/#ftag=CADa08b18a

How to install a Nest Cam video - CNET

Here's how to get your new security camera up and running in under 5 minutes.

from
https://www.cnet.com/videos/how-to-install-a-nest-cam/#ftag=CADa08b18a

IFTTT's Data Access Project brings government data to you - CNET

The digital automation service now connects users to info from agencies and institutions like the Library of Congress, the Environmental Protection Agency and the Department of Defense.

from
https://www.cnet.com/news/ifttts-new-project-brings-public-information-straight-to-you/#ftag=CADa08b18a

OLED Turns 30

from
https://www.soundandvision.com/content/oled-turns-30

Which smart speaker will give you the best workout? - CNET

We take a look at the current state of smart voice control speakers as personal trainers.

from
https://www.cnet.com/news/which-smart-speaker-will-give-you-the-best-workout/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Amazon's Echo Show now displays security camera feeds - CNET

View your camera's live video feed on the Echo Show's screen with a quick Alexa command.

from
https://www.cnet.com/news/amazons-echo-show-now-displays-security-camera-feeds/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Flashback 2009: Analog TV Goes Dark

from
https://www.soundandvision.com/content/flashback-2009-analog-tv-goes-dark

Spectacular Lutron Lighting System Combines with Elan Control System to Automate Country Home

Media Room Magic: Conceal Your TV and Speakers with Custom Artwork

You’ve probably experienced it yourself; an inactive large flat-panel display looming darkly on a wall flanked by unsightly speaker boxes in your thoughtfully designed media room, distracting eyes from the selected room finishes, furniture, and accouterments – a veritable definition of the term “wall acne”.

Bottom line: Dark displays and bulky speaker boxes mounted to the walls do nothing to add value to a home until they are used. Yet, mounting them to the wall is the most effective way to conserve valuable floor space. Stealth Acoustics has created a unique solution that lets you keep your TV and speakers on the wall without compromising the room aesthetic.

Stealth Acoustics’ CoverArt and Image III products hide flat-panel screens behind motorized and beautifully framed printed custom images and wrap ugly wall speakers with matching printed fabric.

CoverArt can be customized to fit any size of TV, with prices ranging from $1,950 to just under $4,000. Stealth Acoustics offers artwork that you can choose or you can supply a high-resolution image to be printed on the motorized synthetic canvas. When your entertainment system is activated, CoverArt retracts the artwork to reveal the screen. When the system is turned off, the artwork automatically lowers turning the display once again into framed art, a product picture, or a family portrait.

And what about the speakers? Most on-wall speakers have exposed grills, limiting customization to painting the devices while carefully avoiding damaging delicate components exposed behind the grill. In contrast, Stealth’s Image III speakers utilize a highly-durable and patented FidelityGlass solid flat-front radiating surface allowing for speaker finish options that can be safely painted, imprinted with custom images or covered with wood veneers to perfectly match a room. Even better, one entire image can be stretched across the entire three products, from the left speaker to CoverArt on the TV and then continuing to the right speaker. The Image III solution retails for around $1,500 a pair.

The post Media Room Magic: Conceal Your TV and Speakers with Custom Artwork appeared first on Electronic House.

from
https://www.electronichouse.com/home-audio/media-room-magic-conceal-your-tv-and-speakers-with-custom-artwork/

Amazon Alexa Provides Voice Control of Aera Home Fragrance System

Vivint Launches Smart Home Platform for Rental Properties

Vivint is making it possible for renters to enjoy the same smart home benefits as people who own their own homes. The Vivint Smart Properties is a new smart home platform designed for expressly for rental properties. Property developers and managers can select from a suite of professionally installed smart home products for their units, including smart locks, lights, doorbell cameras, indoor cameras, and thermostats.

It’s no secret demand for apartments is on the rise as individuals and even families are delaying a move into single-family homes. NAA and NMHC research shows that the U.S. will add 6.4 million apartment households by 2030.

“We anticipate smart home technology will rapidly become a staple for rental properties throughout the country,” says Tom Few, vice president of business development, Vivint. “With Vivint Smart Properties, property managers can enhance property value to attract residents, while residents get instant access to a smart home experience they can manage from a single app.”

Using a dashboard called Vivint Site Manager, property managers can manage tenant service requests and vacant units from anywhere. With remote control of unoccupied units, they can provide keyless entry for staff or contractors, as well as monitor energy use to save money.

Residents can use smart home technology such as the Vivint Doorbell Camera to see, hear and talk to anyone on their front porch, as well as simultaneously unlock the front door or arm/disarm their security system.

Additional features include always-on cellular connection and Vivint’s smart assistant, Sky, which learns the “rhythms and activities” of each unit to produce intelligent recommendations for each home.

The platform will be accessible to rental property developers and managers in the U.S. and Canada.

The post Vivint Launches Smart Home Platform for Rental Properties appeared first on Electronic House.

from
https://www.electronichouse.com/smart-home/44711/

Get fit with Google, Amazon smart speakers video - CNET

No time for the gym? No sweat! Google and Amazon smart speakers can help.

from
https://www.cnet.com/videos/get-fit-with-google-amazon-smart-speakers/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Tertill Release Date, Price and Specs - CNET

Roomba’s inventors have dreamed up another robot, the Tertill auto weed whacker.

from
https://www.cnet.com/products/tertill/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Epson Home Cinema 3700 LCD Projector Review

from
https://www.soundandvision.com/content/epson-home-cinema-3700-lcd-projector-review

Older people trust smart gadgets less than kids, survey says - CNET

It might seem obvious, but new data from Safehome offers a fascinating look at the different ways different generations balance privacy, security and convenience.

from
https://www.cnet.com/news/survey-shows-older-generations-trust-smart-gadgets-less-than-their-kids/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Why Do My Vinyl Records Sound Bad?

from
https://www.soundandvision.com/content/why-do-my-vinyl-records-sound-bad

Limited-Edition Black Sabbath Vinyl Set on the Way

from
https://www.soundandvision.com/content/limited-edition-black-sabbath-vinyl-box-set-way

PlayOn Cloud DVR Lets You Record Online Videos

from
https://www.soundandvision.com/content/add-your-video-library-playon-cloud-dvr

Wednesday, 21 June 2017

Samsung SmartThings Home Monitoring Kit for $161 + pickup at Walmart - CNET

Samsung SmartThings Home Monitoring Kit for $161 + pickup at Walmart

from
https://www.cnet.com/deals/samsung-smartthings-home-monitoring-kit-for-161-pickup-at-walmart-2015258/#ftag=CADa08b18a

MasterCraft Boats Get Klipsch Marine Audio Systems

from
https://www.soundandvision.com/content/mastercraft-boats-get-klipsch-marine-audio-systems

Trump Calls for Transformation of Government Tech

from
https://www.soundandvision.com/content/trump-calls-transformation-government-tech

Focal Unveils Mainstream Ear/Headphones

from
https://www.soundandvision.com/content/focal-unveils-mainstream-earheadphones

Just how many products have Alexa built in? - CNET

Check out and see just how many smart devices have the Amazon's Alexa AI built inside.

from
https://www.cnet.com/pictures/products-with-alexa-built-in-smart-home/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Alexa's got your groceries covered with Amazon's new barcode scanner video - CNET

Say it or scan it, and the Amazon Dash Wand will add it to your shopping cart. But can it move online grocery shopping to the mainstream?

from
https://www.cnet.com/videos/alexas-got-your-groceries-covered-with-amazons-new-barcode-scanner/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Tuesday, 20 June 2017

Alexa, play Howard Stern -- the Echo adds SiriusXM - CNET

Use your Amazon Echo to play your SiriusXM content.

from
https://www.cnet.com/news/alexa-play-howard-stern-the-echo-adds-siriusxm/#ftag=CADa08b18a

From Smart Home to…Smart Person?

from
https://www.soundandvision.com/content/smart-home-%E2%80%A6smart-person

720p Pan and Tilt WiFi Security Camera for $20 + free shipping - CNET

720p Pan and Tilt WiFi Security Camera for $20 + free shipping

from
https://www.cnet.com/deals/720p-pan-and-tilt-wifi-security-camera-for-20-free-shipping-2014286/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Bosch Launches Coffee Maker and Dishwasher Controlled Voice Through Amazon Alexa

Bosch home appliances, the “Invented for Life” brand, has launched two home appliance integrations with Amazon designed to simplify life at home for consumers. Through the Home Connect functionality and an Amazon Alexa skill, consumers can now control their Bosch Built-in Coffee Machine, with Home Connect, via voice control using the “Home Connect Coffee Machine” skill. Additionally, Bosch Dishwashers, with Home Connect, are now integrated with Amazon Dash Replenishment. Once enabled, Dash Replenishment will automatically reorder dishwasher detergent tabs when the dishwasher senses the supply is running low.

Through the Home Connect Coffee Machine skill for Amazon Alexa, consumers can brew the perfect cup of coffee at home with only the sound of their voice. Using the Coffee Machine skill, the Bosch Built-in Coffee Machine, with Home Connect, will provide voice controlled coffee brewing capabilities with Amazon Alexa.

By combining the Bosch dishwasher tab counter function with Dash Replenishment, consumers will never again be faced with the “ran out of it” moment. Instead, they simply activate Dash Replenishment when setting up their dishwasher in the Home Connect App, then Amazon will automatically deliver the dishwasher tabs of choice the moment the dishwasher senses the supply is running low.

“We’re excited to be working with Bosch Home Appliances to make customers’ homes smarter and more convenient,” said Daniel Rausch, VP Smart Home at Amazon. “Now, connected Bosch dishwashers can reorder detergent tabs before they run out with Dash Replenishment, and brewing a frothy latte is as simple as asking Alexa ‘Ask Home Connect Coffee Machine to make me a latte’. Smart homes should make customers’ lives simpler, and these innovations do just that.”

The 2017 Bosch collection of smart appliances with Home Connect includes a built-in coffee machine, dishwasher, laundry pair, wall oven and refrigerator, and will expand further in the coming years. Additional Home Connect skills will soon allow consumers to operate a variety of appliance categories via voice control.

The post Bosch Launches Coffee Maker and Dishwasher Controlled Voice Through Amazon Alexa appeared first on Electronic House.

from
https://www.electronichouse.com/smart-home/bosch-launches-coffee-maker-dishwasher-controlled-voice-amazon-alexa/

First DTS Virtual:X Product to be Release in July: Yamaha soundbar

Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and other immersive surround-sound technologies have made movie-listening even more realistic by adding height channels to home theater audio. You not only hear a jet move across the room from left to right, but from above your head. In the past creating this experience required placing speakers in the ceiling or speakers designed to bounce the audio off the ceiling.

A new technology from DTS, a wholly owned subsidiary of Xperi Corporation, promises to create this same experience from a single soundbar—no additional speakers required. Called DTS Virtual:X,^, the technology delivers the perception of up to 7.1.4 content through traditional speakers in the horizontal such as a soundbar. In other words, with DTS Virtual:X, height speakers aren’t necessary to enjoy an immersive audio experience.

This summer Yamaha will be one of the first to launch a DTS Virtual:X-ready product, the YAS-207 soundbar.

“Our mission at DTS is to make the world sound better and deliver premium audio solutions to our partners and consumers,” says Joanna Skrdlant, general manager, home audio at Xperi. “With the introduction of DTS Virtual:X technology, listeners can enjoy height and surround sound with simply a sound bar, making it more accessible and affordable than ever to experience the benefits of immersive audio at home.”

DTS’ research shows that fewer than 30 percent of consumers that purchase multichannel A/V receivers actually connect the height speakers and fewer than 48 percent of consumers connect the rear surround speakers, for a variety of reasons. DTS Virtual:X technology in an A/V receiver will provide an immersive sound experience without the need for rear surround and height speakers while still allowing consumers to upgrade for an even better immersive sound experience when they’re able to add additional speakers to their system.

A/V receivers featuring DTS Virtual:X technology will be available this fall from a number of brands.

As televisions have become lighter and thinner, the demand for larger screen sizes has increased. In the U.S. market alone, 86 percent of US consumers now own a TV greater than 40 inches, and 18 percent now own a TV of over 60 inches, according to the Consumer Technology Association’s 19th Annual Consumer Technology Ownership and Market Potential Study, published April 2017. While larger screen sizes provide a more immersive viewing experience, the audio experience from a TV alone is compromised due to the market’s desire for a thin form factor, which limits speaker driver size and placement. DTS Virtual:X technology provides an immersive sound experience without the need for larger drivers or additional speakers added to the television.

Televisions with DTS Virtual:X technology are forecast to be available in early 2018.

The post First DTS Virtual:X Product to be Release in July: Yamaha soundbar appeared first on Electronic House.

from
https://www.electronichouse.com/home-theater/first-dts-virtualx-product-to-be-release-in-july-yamaha-soundbar/

Mirror TV and 6 Other Tricks to Hide Your TV

Monday, 19 June 2017

B&O Play’s “Sound Matters” Podcast is a Masterful Exploration of Sound

from
https://www.soundandvision.com/content/bo-play%E2%80%99s-%E2%80%9Csound-matters%E2%80%9D-podcast-masterful-exploration-sound

Klipsch Renews Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame Partnership

from
https://www.soundandvision.com/content/klipsch-renews-rock-roll-hall-fame-partnership

Amazon Dash Wand review - CNET

The Amazon Dash Wand scans barcodes to add items to your shopping cart, pays for itself if you already shop on Amazon, and its tiny speaker is home to Alexa, too.

from
https://www.cnet.com/products/amazon-dash-wand-with-alexa-2017/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Xiaomi 1080p WiFi Smart IP Security Camera for $17 + free shipping - CNET

Xiaomi 1080p WiFi Smart IP Security Camera for $17 + free shipping

from
https://www.cnet.com/deals/xiaomi-1080p-wifi-smart-ip-security-camera-for-17-free-shipping-2013710/#ftag=CADa08b18a

9 things you should know before buying the Amazon Dash Wand - CNET

A free Alexa device it may be, but there are some things you should know about the Amazon Dash Wand before you order one.

from
https://www.cnet.com/how-to/things-you-should-know-before-buying-the-amazon-dash-wand/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Spy Alarm Clock w/ 1080p WiFi IP Camera for $41 + free s&h from China - CNET

Spy Alarm Clock w/ 1080p WiFi IP Camera for $41 + free s&h from China

from
https://www.cnet.com/deals/spy-alarm-clock-w-1080p-wifi-ip-camera-for-41-free-s-h-from-china-2013737/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Wi-Fi Certified Smart Home Designs Offered by Lennar Homes: Assurance of Strong, Reliable Home Wi-Fi

According to Parks Associates, more the 12 million households will have a smart water leak detector, more than 40 million will have a smart thermostat, nearly 50 million will have a smart light bulb, and nearly 14 million will have a smart home controller. Chances are, most of these devices will connect, communicate, and be controlled via a Wi-Fi network. With each new device that gets added to this network, the Wi-Fi network becomes increasingly strapped for bandwidth.

Lennar Homes Builds in Wi-Fi

There are many solutions available that can strengthen a home’s Wi-Fi network, but one of the nation’s leading homebuilders, Lennar, has chosen to take matters into its own hands. In partnership with the Wi-Fi Alliance, Lennar will construct Wi-Fi Certified Homes. This certification program was developed by the Wi-Fi Alliance to provide builders like Lennar with guidelines to ensure that buyers have an exceptional Wi-Fi experience from the day they movie in. Each home plan will be given a stamp of approval in the form of a Wi-Fi logo.

“Reliable whole-home Wi-Fi is as essential to the way people live today as central air conditioning,” says David J. Kaiserman, president of Lennar Ventures. “The inclusion of Wi-Fi will become the norm in homebuilding, and Lennar is leading the way.”

Lennar and Wi-Fi Alliance Lay Out Wi-Fi Guidelines

The guidelines define criteria for access point placement to eliminate dead spots and deliver strong-Wi-Fi coverage throughout the entire house, including outdoors. To accomplish this, Lennar plans to install an enterprise-grade Ruckus Wi-Fi system and utilize the expertise of Ruckus to design a system tailored to each specific model of Lennar home. “There is a lot of science that goes into integrating a strong, reliable Wi-Fi network into a home,” says Kaiserman. “You need to consider not only where the components of the system will be placed, but the construction materials and structure of the home.”

The Ruckus system is one of more than 30,000 products certified by the Wi-Fi Alliance, and according to Kaiserman offsets the need for structured wiring for connectivity and interoperability among smart home devices.

“Wi-Fi Home Design provides new home network installations with reliable Wi-Fi coverage and performance to give a great user experience throughout the entire home,” says Ruckus CTO Steve Martin. “Ruckus has been closely involved in the development of the certification program because we see tremendous value in leveraging our enterprise design experience and applying it to the connected home, providing a strong foundation to enable the Smart Home of the future.”

In addition to the Ruckus Wi-Fi system, Amazon Alexa is will be installed a standard component of Lennar’s Wi-Fi Certified homes. While other smart home technologies offered by Lennar in its “Everything’s Included” program might vary by home style and market, Ruckus and Amazon Alexa will be go into each and every Lennar home. “Engineering a home for the connected world is a natural for Lennar, but bringing it to life with Amazon Alexa is a real game changer,” says Kaiserman.

According to Lennar, the addition of an enterprise-grade Wi-Fi network and smart speaker will strengthen the capabilities of current and future “Everything’s Included” portfolio of smart home products. Homeowners will be able to use voice commands to control more aspects of their smart homes, like lights, door locks, and thermostats, as well as stream entertainment content at peak performance.

Lennar will begin offering Wi-Fi Certified home designs next month to an undisclosed location, and roll out the program to Lennar markets nationwide by the end of the year.

Wi-Fi Certified home designs will include these features:

Lennar Wi-Fi Certified Smart Home Features include:

Whole-home Wi-Fi – featuring Ruckus Wireless access points – that meets the demanding standards of the Wi-Fi Alliance’s recently announced Wi-Fi CERTIFIED Home Design, ensuring robust Wi-Fi in every room with no dead spots;
Smart home products including Ring (video doorbell), Baldwin (motorized, touch-based door lock), Honeywell (thermostat) , Lutron (lighting) and Sonos (music).;
Alexa-enabled products that connect customers via voice to smart products in their home, as well as to shopping and entertainment opportunities;
Samsung SmartThings home-control platform giving iOS and Android users the ability to control and monitor their home from anywhere;
White-glove activation and service from Amazon Home Services to ensure that everything works smoothly.