All posts by PLUGHITZ Live

Peel & Play: A new sensory toy for kids with special needs @ CES 2024

February 21, 2024CES 2024, Entertainment, Health, Toys & Gamingautism, ces2024, education, gadgets, toysPLUGHITZ Live

Peel & Play sensory toy The Peel & Play interactive toy, designed for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and other related disabilities, aims to provide a fun and creative way for these children to relieve stress and engage in interactive activities. This innovative toy is designed to address the stimming behaviors commonly seen in children with ASD. Stimming, which refers to repetitive behaviors such as hand flapping or repeating words, is a way for individuals with ASD to regulate their emotions and stress levels.

Interactive toy for children with special needs

While stimming behaviors provide comfort and joy for these children, they can also prevent them from attending to daily activities. The goal of the Peel & Play toy is to provide a replacement behavior that is both enjoyable and engaging. Developed by a team called Solive Ventures, the toy incorporates puzzles and interactive features.

Resembling an orange that can be peeled off, the toy provides tactile feedback and vibrations for sensory stimulation. It also includes lights, songs, and different gaming modes. The toy uses haptic device techniques to provide vibrating feedback when pieces are inserted, while the LEDs and songs provide auditory and visual feedback, making the toy engaging and interactive.

The pieces of the toy can be put together to form different shapes, such as animals and numbers, allowing children to be creative and play with the puzzles in various ways. The toy also includes different gaming modes, such as “Catch Me If You Can” and “Simon Says,” which promote cognitive development and memory skills.

Initially targeted at three to four-year-olds, the toy has been observed to be popular among children of different ages. The vibrating mode is popular among younger children, while the puzzle and gaming modes are more suitable for elementary school-aged children.

Tracking actions for engagement

One of the key features of the Peel & Play toy is its ability to track individual usage and provide metrics on children’s engagement. This functionality could prove invaluable in educational settings, enabling teachers to monitor and support children’s progress. By identifying when and how children are using the toy, educators can devise interventions and activities to improve classroom association and reduce reliance on stimming activities.

Future applications of the toy include the development of an app to monitor the developmental milestones of children using the toy. This app will allow parents and therapists to track the child’s progress and customize the activities based on their developmental age.

Conclusion: A toy to ease stimming activities

The Peel & Play toy is set to launch in South Korea in April, with the team behind the toy currently in discussions with clinics and kindergartens in the country. They also have plans to expand to the international market in the future. The toy is expected to be priced between 100 to 200 in Korea, a relatively affordable range considering the potential psychological benefits it can offer. This is particularly significant for children with autism who heavily rely on stimming activities for self-soothing.

In conclusion, the Peel & Play interactive toy, currently in its prototype phase, is a valuable tool for children with disabilities, particularly those with ASD and sensory needs. The toy provides a fun and engaging way for these children to relieve stress, regulate their emotions, and develop cognitive skills. By incorporating tactile, auditory, and visual feedback, the toy promotes sensory stimulation and interactive play. The future development of an app to monitor developmental milestones further enhances the toy’s potential impact on children’s growth and development.

Interview by Christopher Jordan of The Talking Sound.

Sponsored by:
Get $5 to protect your credit card information online with Privacy.
Amazon Prime gives you more than just free shipping. Get free music, TV shows, movies, videogames and more.
The most flexible tools for podcasting. Get a 30 day free trial of storage and statistics.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | RSS | More

Neakasa S1 Pro: Improving home pet grooming and cleaning @ CES 2024

February 21, 2024CES 2024, Gadgets, Homeces2024, gadgets, grooming, petPLUGHITZ Live

Neakasa S1 Pro pet grooming kit The Neakasa S1 Pro grooming system, a popular product in the pet care industry, offers pet owners the ability to achieve professional-level grooming results at home. This premium home grooming system was developed by Minming Gu, co-founder of Neakasa.

Premium home grooming system

Neakasa, a name derived from the words “neat” and “casa” (home in Spanish), is designed to make home cleaning more efficient, particularly in dealing with pet hair. The system aims to help families maintain clean and tidy homes, a common challenge for many pet owners.

The Neakasa grooming system represents the fourth generation of pet grooming systems from the company. The first version launched approximately two and a half years ago, quickly gained popularity. It introduced a new category in the pet grooming industry and became a top seller on Amazon within six months.

The latest iteration, known as the Nikasa S1 Pro or “Donut,” is the most premium and professional home grooming system currently available. It includes eight different accessories: a clipper, brush, nozzle, daily brush, de-shatter, nail grinder, and a smaller clipper. These accessories provide pet owners with the versatility and precision needed for comprehensive pet grooming. For instance, the nail grinder is used for trimming and shaping a pet’s nails, while the smaller clipper is perfect for grooming hard-to-reach areas such as between the paws or around the ears and mouth.

The Neakasa grooming system also introduces two new accessories: the Rake and the D-Shader. The Rake is designed for double-coated dogs with heavy fur, while the D-Shader is more suitable for single-coated or less heavy fur. These practical accessories cater to different grooming needs.

It’s also great for cats

Also designed with feline needs in mind, the Neakasa S1 Pro is gentle and non-invasive, ensuring cats remain comfortable during grooming sessions. This cat-friendly design is a significant benefit for cat owners, as cats are known for their independent nature and can often resist grooming. However, the Neakasa S1 Pro allows owners to have a more positive and successful grooming experience, grooming their pets effectively and efficiently without causing unnecessary stress or discomfort.

Neakasa S1 Pro is quiet and pet-friendly

The Neakasa S1 Pro is renowned for its quiet operation, which offers a significant advantage to pet owners. Its near-silent operation is particularly beneficial for pets sensitive to loud noises, such as cats, which can often become anxious or stressed during grooming sessions. The Neakasa S1 Pro ensures a calm and comfortable grooming experience, making it easier for owners to groom their pets effectively without causing them distress.

Conclusion: Neakasa is a great pair for pet owners

Priced at $199, the Neakasa S1 Pro grooming system is a relatively affordable option compared to the average cost of professional pet grooming services. Moreover, grooming pets at home can be less stressful for the pets as they are in a familiar environment, and it can also foster trust between pets and their owners.

In summary, the Neakasa grooming system is a valuable investment for any pet owner. It offers a range of accessories and a user-friendly design that allows for easy and precise home grooming. Its affordability and stress-reducing benefits for both pets and owners underscore its value.

Interview by Christopher Jordan of The Talking Sound.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | RSS | More

CarePredict: Empowering families with elder care solutions @ CES 2024

February 21, 2024CES 2024, Gadgets, Healthaging, ces2024, family, gadgets, Health, MedicalPLUGHITZ Live

CarePredict elder care technology CarePredict, an eldercare device designed to detect health issues in seniors, is making waves in the healthcare industry. The device was created to meet the needs of families living away from their elderly loved ones. The founder, inspired by personal experiences with elderly parents and frequent emergency room visits, envisioned a device that could help detect health problems before they become severe.

Eldercare device detects health issues

CarePredict is a wrist-worn wearable device that captures motion data. It can track various patterns such as bathroom usage, sleep patterns, eating patterns, overall activity levels, and walking patterns. The device establishes an individual’s normal patterns and uses artificial intelligence to detect significant deviations. For example, if a senior typically goes to the bathroom five times a day but suddenly starts going ten times a day, it could be an indicator of a urinary tract infection.

The device’s ability to predict health issues is particularly important, especially in relation to conditions like osteoporosis and arthritis. CarePredict can detect changes in walking patterns and activity levels, which could indicate pain or discomfort. This early detection allows caregivers to check on their loved ones and provide assistance if needed. This can be particularly valuable for caregivers who may not be physically present to monitor their loved ones’ health.

Regarding interactivity, CarePredict has a simple interface with a button. Seniors can press the button to get information like the time, date, and battery level. If they need help, the button can also alert their caregiver through the app. The caregiver can then communicate with the senior through the app, providing real-time assistance and support. The ability to have real-time communication and assistance through the wearable device is a crucial feature for long-distance caregivers.

The system works by creating a CareCircle of reliable friends, relatives, and neighbors who can be contacted in case of an emergency. This ensures that help can be quickly dispatched when needed. The device also allows for real-time communication through audio reminders, which can be set up to remind seniors to take their medication or perform other important tasks.

Additional features

One of the key features of the CarePredict device is its ability to pair with FDA-approved devices such as blood pressure monitors and glucose meters. This allows caregivers to track important health metrics and provides a more comprehensive view of a senior’s health. By monitoring these metrics, caregivers can detect any abnormalities and take appropriate action.

Another feature of the device is its ability to track indoor location. For instance, if a senior spends significantly more time in their bedroom than usual, it could signal an issue that requires attention.

Conclusion: CarePredict offers simple safety for aging in place

The CarePredict device is currently available for private purchase at a price of $450 for the kit and a subscription fee of $69.99. While it is not currently reimbursable through Medicare or other insurance programs, the device offers a promising solution for improving elder care and enhancing the well-being of seniors.

In conclusion, CarePredict is a promising solution for improving eldercare and enhancing the well-being of seniors. The device, designed to detect health issues in seniors through motion tracking and artificial intelligence, provides early warning signs for conditions like urinary tract infections and allows caregivers to provide timely assistance. The ability to communicate in real-time through the device is particularly valuable for long-distance caregivers who may not be physically present to help their loved ones.

Interview by Christopher Jordan of The Talking Sound.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | RSS | More

AGIGA is tackling electronic component shortages and excess @ CES 2024

February 21, 2024CES 2024, Computers, Gadgetsces2024, component, gadgets, internet, marketplacePLUGHITZ Live

AGIGA electronic component marketplace AGIGA is a unique marketplace designed to address the issue of excess electronic inventories. The platform serves as a conduit between industrial electronic companies, enabling them to sell their surplus inventories and purchase necessary electronic components.

AGIGA is a marketplace for excess electronic inventories

The concept of AGIGA was conceived from the founder’s extensive experience of 25 to 30 years in the electronic industry. He identified the significant challenges faced by electronic companies, particularly the substantial size of their excess inventories. These surplus inventories often lead to a revenue loss of 1%, which directly translates to a 1% decrease in profit.

The operation of the AGIGA platform is straightforward. Companies with surplus electronic components send their inventory files to the marketplace. The platform then handles the pricing, considering the fluctuating value of electronic components. The proposed pricing is shared with the companies, and upon agreement, the inventory is listed online. Other electronic companies can then search for and purchase the required components through the platform. Once an order is completed, AGIGA coordinates the shipping of the parts from the seller to their warehouse, thoroughly inspecting the parts to ensure their quality before shipping them to the buyer.

Hard to find becomes easier

The marketplace is significant for individuals and companies seeking hard-to-find electronic components. With the rapid pace of technological advancements, certain parts often become obsolete or difficult to obtain. AGIGA serves as an alternative and additional channel, providing access to a wide range of components from various distributors, saving time and effort.

For designers and purchasers, AGIGA offers a centralized location to find specific electronic parts. This simplifies the process of sourcing components, especially when dealing with hard-to-find parts. Instead of searching through multiple suppliers or spending time and resources on finding the right components, designers can turn to the platform for a wide selection of options.

Connecting companies to reduce costs and waste

AGIGA stands out for its ability to connect vendors and buyers in a challenging market. The platform has established a network of independent distributors, referred to as brokers, to facilitate this process. However, they differentiate themselves from standard brokers by aiming to sell all types of electronic components, not just those in high demand or shortage.

They also provide transparent pricing, allowing customers to see the prices for different quantities of the components they are interested in. AGIGA operates on a margin model, with a relatively smaller 15 point margin compared to traditional markups, ensuring competitive prices while covering their costs.

Beyond profit, AGIGA recognizes the environmental impact of excess stock being discarded after a certain period, typically around five to six years. By facilitating the sale of these surplus components, AGIGA aims to reduce waste and minimize the negative environmental consequences, aligning with the growing importance of sustainability and responsible consumption.

AGIGA is reducing waste and helping users buy components

In conclusion, AGIGA’s marketplace for excess electronic inventories addresses the challenges faced by industrial electronic companies with surplus stock. The platform connects vendors and buyers, allowing them to sell and purchase electronic components. Their transparent pricing, margin model, and commitment to reducing waste make it a unique and valuable resource in the electronic industry. By providing a centralized location for hard-to-find components, AGIGA simplifies the process for designers, product testers, and other professionals in need of specific electronic parts.

Interview by Christopher Jordan of The Talking Sound.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | RSS | More

Blacklyte: From home decor to smart gaming accessories @ CES 2024

February 21, 2024CES 2024, Gadgets, Toys & Gamingces2024, chair, desk, gadgets, gaming, led, lightPLUGHITZ Live

Blacklyte gaming chairs and desks Blacklyte, a brand that initially started as a home decor company, has broadened its product line to include gaming peripherals such as gaming desks, gaming chairs, and lighting. The company stands out from traditional furniture companies by developing its own software and algorithms to interpret in-game data, synchronize it, and convert it into light signals displayed on the desk.

Smart gaming desk with customizable lighting

The Blacklyte Atlas Desk is versatile, catering to various uses including gaming competitions, education, streaming, music, and other forms of entertainment. The company’s experience in the home decor industry inspired the creation of this product. To cater to their specific needs, Blacklyte designed their table from scratch. After a year and a half of testing, they developed a patented layered sandwich design that maximizes strength, lightweight, and magnetic capabilities. The table is magnetizable, allowing for easy attachment of accessories, extendables, cable management, and corner lights.

As they developed their products, they encountered challenges with synchronizing games and music with traditional LED lights. This led them to devise algorithms that go beyond merely reacting to voice commands. They analyzed games and created a graphic algorithm to read and interpret game data, which is then translated into lighting effects on the desk.

A unique aspect of Blacklyte’s Atlas Desk is its software, which reads the game being played and interacts with the lights accordingly. While the company keeps the details of their algorithms confidential, they have collaborated with pro gamers and universities to test and refine their product. Feedback and customization suggestions from these testers have helped Blacklyte optimize the lighting effects. They have also worked with psychology majors from the University of Toronto to design lighting that enhances performance and improves daily use. For instance, the desk can be set to a morning mode with energizing blue hues to wake up the user or a rest mode with warmer tones to facilitate sleep.

Light therapy for various applications

Ambient lighting in airplanes changes to help passengers sleep or wake up. This concept is similar to how the Atlas Desk by Blacklyte uses light therapy to create different moods and enhance the gaming experience. The company is working with psychologists to extend their system of light therapy for to increase a player’s abilities, both in-game and in the real world.

The importance of light and color in our everyday lives, affecting our mood and energy levels, is a key focus of Blacklyte’s Atlas Desk. It takes the concept of sunrise alarm clocks a step further by integrating light cues into the workspace. This customizable lighting can serve as a gentle reminder to adjust one’s activities and help maintain a healthy sleep schedule.

In conclusion, Blacklyte’s Atlas Desk offers a unique and customizable lighting experience for gamers and other entertainment enthusiasts. By developing their own software and algorithms, the company has created a desk that syncs with games, music, and other forms of entertainment. The desk’s design, including its layered sandwich construction and magnetic capabilities, adds functionality and customization options.

With the collaboration of pro gamers and psychology experts, Blacklyte has optimized the lighting effects to enhance performance and daily use. This innovative product demonstrates the potential of integrating technology and design to create a more immersive and personalized gaming experience.

The Blacklyte Atlas Desk is not yet available, but is coming soon. The desk will retail for $1,099 and will be available from the company’s website, as well as their retail partners. To learn more about the Blacklyte Atlas Desk or any of their other products, check out their website.

Interview by Christopher Jordan of The Talking Sound.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | RSS | More

Budizzz: A new approach to children’s bedtime routines @ CES 2024

February 21, 2024Audio, CES 2024, Healthces2024, crowdfunding, gadgets, mindfulness, sleep, SpeakerPLUGHITZ Live

Budizzz bedtime routine Budizzz, a company specializing in sleep technology, has developed a distraction-free device designed to improve sleep quality and promote mental wellness. The device provides a routine free from distractions and harmful blue lights, offering a healthier alternative to using tablets or smartphones before bed.

Distraction-free device for better sleep

The Budizzz device works by synchronizing with a crowdsourced library of content. Users can customize their preferred content, such as breathing techniques, bedtime stories, and calming sounds, to create a routine that promotes relaxation and better sleep. The device is designed for both adults and children.

The device emphasizes the importance of mental health and the need for mindfulness practices, such as breathing techniques, to improve focus and reduce distractions. It also highlights the importance of quality sleep for both children and adults.

The technology behind the device is app-driven, but the creators wanted to disconnect the device from the app. Users can use the app independently, which offers a crowdsourced library of content from around the world. It allows users to set up a routine that includes various sounds and activities, such as breathing techniques, bedtime stories, and gratitude practices. In the morning, the device wakes users up with a body scan and guides them through gratitude practices, ensuring a positive start to the day.

The device offers crowdsource content focused on sleep and mindfulness, contributed by professionals. The revenue generated from the device is shared with these professionals, creating a collaborative and socially responsible project. The device also plans to incorporate AI sleep tracking to provide users with insights into their sleep quality and offer personalized routines for better sleep.

The story behind the device

Sylwia Regulska Guney is the founder of Budizzz, and her inspiration for creating the device came from her own experience as a parent. She noticed that her son often played games on his tablet instead of engaging in activities that promote mindfulness. After her son participated in a mindfulness course, Sylwia recognized the positive impact it had on him and decided to create a device that combines mindfulness practices with better sleep routines.

Sylwia has seen positive changes in her own children after using the device. Her son has become more mindful and aware of his emotions, using breathing techniques to calm himself down. She also mentions the impact of sleep on children’s behavior and emphasizes the importance of bedtime routines for a better day ahead.

Conclusion: A screen-free way to sleep easier

Budizzz was in prototype phase during CES 2024, but has since hit the market. It is available from the company’s website. It is important to note that all prices are in Turkish Lira, but a United States shopping experience is an option (though the pricing and language stay the same)unknown. The price as of current exchange rates is about $65 with shipping costing around $21.

In conclusion, the distraction-free device for better sleep aims to promote mental wellness and improve sleep quality. By providing a routine free from distractions and harmful blue lights, the device offers a healthier alternative to using tablets or smartphones before bed. With its crowdsource library of content and AI sleep tracking, the device aims to provide users with a personalized and effective solution for better sleep and overall well-being.

Interview by Christopher Jordan of The Talking Sound.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | RSS | More

Snyper: Empowering communities through social shopping @ CES 2024

February 11, 2024CES 2024, Computers, Mobileaffiliate, ces2024, gadgets, internet, mobile, shopping, social, social mediaPLUGHITZ Live

A groundbreaking social shopping application is transforming the landscape of affiliate marketing by establishing an equitable and inclusive platform for individuals to monetize product endorsements. The creators of this application, known as Snyper, identified the prevailing influence of major influencers in the existing market and sought to extend opportunities to all, encompassing friends, family, and community members, to engage in affiliate marketing.

Social shopping app revolutionizes affiliate marketing

The application showcases a feed where users can peruse and observe products that their connections have purchased. This engenders a sense of trust and familiarity, as users can depend on the endorsements of individuals they know and trust. For instance, a user is more likely to trust a five-star review from a well-known acquaintance who frequently travels and stays at resorts, and consider booking the same resort.

In addition to this, the application furnishes supplementary information about the product, such as product specifics, related products, and amenities. This empowers users to make informed decisions before making a purchase. Upon deciding to book a product, users have the option to pay using a variety of payment methods, including credit cards and cryptocurrency. The application monitors the user’s journey and the sources that influenced them to make the purchase.

Affiliate marketing for all

A key innovation of Snyper is the affiliate fee system. Vendors can designate a percentage as an affiliate fee for each product they offer. When a user makes a purchase through the application, this fee is divided between the individual who directly influenced the purchase and others who indirectly contributed to the user’s decision. For example, if a user clicked on a link shared by a friend and made a purchase, the friend would receive a larger portion of the affiliate fee, while others who also shared the product would receive smaller portions.

This social shopping application is revolutionizing affiliate marketing by democratizing the process. It eradicates the necessity for individuals to own a website or a substantial following on major platforms to participate in affiliate marketing. Instead, it emphasizes the power of personal connections and word-of-mouth endorsements. By providing everyone the opportunity to earn money through product endorsements, Snyper is fostering a more inclusive and equitable affiliate marketing ecosystem.

Passive income through everyday activities

Snyper allows users to monetize their lifestyle by simply doing what they already do on a daily basis. Whether it’s ordering a burger, buying new shoes online, or shopping for everyday items, users can earn passive income by doing these activities on the Snyper platform. The app acts as a middleman, connecting users with businesses and brands that are looking for product recommendations and reviews.

The slogan of Snyper, “monetize your lifestyle, influence to earn,” encapsulates the essence of the platform. It emphasizes the idea that users can continue to live their lives as they normally would, but by using the Snyper app, they can turn their everyday activities into a source of passive income. The app taps into the power of personal influence and word-of-mouth recommendations, recognizing that everyone has the potential to inspire others through their actions.

When can I use Snyper?

In terms of release, Snyper plans to launch on both the App Store and Google Play. The initial focus will be on Argentina, with plans to expand throughout South America. The founders acknowledge that building a successful platform will require hard work, dedication, and effort. They are aware that they are not a large conglomerate with massive resources, but they are committed to making Snyper a success through growth hacking strategies.

Conclusion: A new approach to affiliate marketing

In conclusion, Snyper is a social shopping app that enables users to earn passive income through their everyday activities. By leveraging personal influence and word-of-mouth recommendations, users can monetize their lifestyle and become affiliate marketers without the need for a website. With its upcoming launch in South America, Snyper aims to empower individuals to earn passive income and create meaningful connections between users and businesses.

Interview by Christopher Jordan of The Talking Sound.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | RSS | More

How Zoog brings families together through storytelling @ CES 2024

February 11, 2024CES 2024, Entertainmentandroid, ces2024, gadgets, ios, media, readingPLUGHITZ Live

Zoog digital storytelling Zoog is a platform that aims to connect generations through technology. The idea for Zoog was born during the COVID-19 pandemic when the founders realized the difficulty grandparents and parents faced in communicating with their children and grandchildren over video. They wanted to create a way for them to engage with kids in a similar way to offline activities such as reading books, singing songs, and making them laugh, but in an immersive and fun way that could be done remotely.

Zoog is an innovative platform that leverages technology to bridge the gap between generations. By providing a simple and immersive way for grandparents to connect with their grandchildren through storytelling and interactive videos, Zoog enhances the bond between generations and creates lasting memories. It is a testament to the power of technology in bringing people together, even when physical distance separates them.

Zoog – Connecting generations through technology

The concept behind Zoog is simple. Users can choose children’s content, such as Winnie the Pooh, and use the app to record themselves reading the story. As they read, the app adds animations, face filters, background animations, sound effects, and music to create an engaging and interactive video. This video can then be shared with grandchildren, who can view it on any device at any time. They can react to the video with emojis and even request the next content they want their grandparents to read.

The primary users of Zoog are grandparents who use the platform to connect with their grandkids, especially if they don’t live in the same house. The platform is designed to be user-friendly for older adults, and the creators actively involve grandparents in the product development process to ensure it meets their needs and preferences. Many grandparents today are technologically savvy, having used iPhones and computers for years, making Zoog’s intuitive interface and simplicity appealing to them.

How to use Zoog

To use Zoog, users can download the app for free from the iOS App Store. The app offers some free content for users to try, but to access the full library, a subscription called Zoog+ is required. Creating a video is straightforward, and grandparents can share it with their grandchildren as a link, similar to sending a text message. The child does not need to have the app installed to view the video, making it convenient for both parties. The child can watch the video at their convenience.

The delivery of media through Zoog is done via text message links. When a grandparent shares a video, the link leads the recipient to a webpage where they can view the video and interact with it. The child can leave emojis and request specific content for future videos. The company has partnered with various content creators, such as DreamWorks, to offer a wide range of children’s content, including popular characters like Gabby from Gabby’s Dollhouse and soon-to-be-released Paw Patrol content.

In terms of pricing, the Zoog+ monthly subscription is available for $9.99. However, they also provide cheaper plans for those who opt for annual or quarterly subscriptions. This pricing structure allows users to choose the plan that best suits their needs and budget.

Conclusion: A simple way to read across the world

The Zoog app is currently available for iOS devices, with an Android option coming soon. This means that iPhone and iPad users can easily download the app from the iOS App Store and start using it to connect with their loved ones. The app is called Zoog: Magical Storytime and can be found in the App Store.

In conclusion, the Zoog app is a groundbreaking platform that enables grandparents and grandchildren to connect through storytelling and interactive videos. Overall, the app is a testament to the power of technology in bringing people together and creating lasting memories.

Interview by Christopher Jordan of The Talking Sound.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | RSS | More

Jedsy’s medical delivery solution: Saving lives with drones @ CES 2024

February 11, 2024AI, CES 2024, Healthces2024, delivery, drone, gadgets, MedicalPLUGHITZ Live

Jedsy medical delivery drone In recent years, drone technology has emerged as a game-changer across various industries, and the healthcare sector is no exception. Among the pioneers in this field are Mirko Cesena and his team at Jedsy, who have developed an ingenious drone platform with life-saving capabilities.

Jedsy’s innovative solution

Unlike traditional drones that touch down on the ground, Jedsy’s creation takes a different approach. Their drone is equipped with a remarkable feature known as “Mailbox 2.0.” This innovative mailbox can be seamlessly attached to a window or balcony, allowing medical professionals to load essential packages onto the drone without physical contact. Once the package is secured, the window is closed, and the drone initiates its mission.

Jedsy’s drone boasts impressive capabilities. It can cover distances of up to 100 kilometers (approximately 60 miles), making it ideal for reaching remote locations. With a payload capacity of 2.4 kilograms (5 pounds), it can transport critical supplies such as medicine, blood samples, and emergency medical equipment.

Saving lives in challenging environments

The genesis of this technology lies in the urgent need to save lives in regions with limited access to medical facilities, particularly parts of Africa. Mirko and his team recognized the gaps in existing transportation methods and set out to create a reliable solution.

The development journey began three years ago, with meticulous planning, design, and testing. The drone’s unique configuration, featuring both horizontal and vertical motors, was a breakthrough. This design not only ensures stability during flight but also allows for efficient takeoffs and landings.

Jedsy’s drone platform received a patent for its innovative design, validating its effectiveness in real-world scenarios. As the technology continues to evolve, it holds the promise of transforming healthcare delivery, bridging geographical gaps, and saving lives where it matters most. Jedsy’s drone technology represents a beacon of hope for remote communities, demonstrating that innovation knows no boundaries when it comes to improving healthcare outcomes.

Mirko’s impact: From helicopter pilot to drone innovator

Mirko’s journey from helicopter pilot to drone technology pioneer has been nothing short of remarkable. His background in aviation played a crucial role in shaping the development of a groundbreaking solution that could transform healthcare delivery.

During the initial testing phase, Mirko’s skills as a pilot were put to the test. The drone’s flight behavior was unpredictable, and crashes were a constant threat. Mirko’s aerobatic expertise allowed him to navigate and control the drone effectively, saving it from disaster time and again. His commitment ensured that every glider was retrieved, providing valuable data for continuous testing and improvement.

However, the turning point came with the integration of artificial intelligence (AI). As software advancements took center stage, the drone evolved beyond its human operator. Today, it operates autonomously, surpassing even Mirko’s capabilities. The drone can now fly beyond the pilot’s line of sight, reaching remote areas with ease. Its ability to control attitude, even in challenging weather conditions, is a testament to AI’s impact.

Leveraging AI algorithms, the drone identifies the fastest routes for transportation. It optimizes delivery paths, ensuring timely and safe transport of critical medical supplies. In addition, the AI-equipped drone detects potential trouble areas, such as adverse weather conditions or obstacles. This proactive approach enhances safety and reliability.

Healthcare revolutionized

The impact of Jedsy’s drone platform extends far beyond technology. In regions with limited access to medical facilities, this innovation becomes a lifeline. Imagine remote villages in Africa receiving urgent medicine, blood samples, or emergency supplies promptly-potentially saving countless lives.

The autonomous nature of the drone reduces reliance on human pilots, minimizing human error and maximizing efficiency. As technology advances, the possibilities for drone applications in healthcare are limitless. Jedsy’s success story serves as a beacon of hope, bridging geographical gaps and improving medical outcomes where it matters most.

Glider drone for medical deliveries

The concept of glider drones for medical deliveries has emerged as a transformative force. These bird-inspired drones, designed to land on windows, utilize thermals to extend their range while conserving battery power. Jedsy, a company with a laser focus on the medical sector, aims to outperform cars in terms of cost per kilometer and reduce CO2 emissions.

Jedsy’s glider drone isn’t merely a technological marvel; it’s a lifeline for medical deliveries. Its unique design, coupled with artificial intelligence integration, positions it as an attractive alternative to traditional transportation methods. As technology evolves, the possibilities for drone applications in healthcare are boundless. Jedsy’s success story offers hope-a bridge connecting remote regions to improved medical access and outcomes.

In conclusion, the glider drone developed by Jedsy presents a promising solution for medical deliveries. Its unique design and integration of artificial intelligence, along with its potential to be cheaper and more efficient than traditional transportation methods, make it an attractive option for the healthcare industry. As technology continues to advance, the possibilities for drone applications in healthcare are vast, offering hope for improved medical access and outcomes, particularly in remote areas.

Interview by Christopher Jordan of The Talking Sound.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | RSS | More

Veeo: Bringing back eye-to-eye communication online @ CES 2024

February 9, 2024Cameras, CES 2024, Computersces2024, gadgets, monitors, presentation, webcamPLUGHITZ Live

Veeo transparent screen for meetings Veeo, a display product company, has introduced a transparent OLED display designed to enhance the experience of remote online meetings. The company’s primary goal is to enable eye-to-eye contact during these meetings, replicating the trust-building experience of face-to-face interactions.

Transparent OLED display for online meetings

The product utilizes a camera positioned behind the transparent OLED display. This setup creates the effect of a clear glass, aligning all participants along the center axis and allowing them to view each other through the screen. The camera is strategically placed at eye level behind the display, ensuring participants do not have to look down. The height of the display can be adjusted, but the camera is located at the center point of the screen.

The camera can achieve 1080p resolution, with 4K also possible but not necessary. Its specialty lies in its ability to see through the transparent display and eliminate distortion, reflection, and interference. The monitor has a pixel density that limits the resolution. The 30-inch display is currently 720p, as some real estate needs to remain transparent. The transparency of the display is around 40%.

Veeo offers two screen sizes – 30-inch and 55-inch – which are currently only prototypes. The company showcased the product at a media event and plans to start shipping in the summer. The camera has a field of view of approximately 80 degrees, capturing a reasonable angle for meetings.

Software to improve the experience

The product includes software that works with various online video meeting platforms, including Zoom. Veeo also offers special software that allows participants to use a transparent shared whiteboard, where each person has their own section of the screen, but the text orientation is correct for each individual.

In addition, users can import content, such as videos and PowerPoint presentations, to the cloud server. This content can then be accessed and displayed dynamically during the presentation. This feature can be compared to a video switcher, where the next video or PowerPoint slide is queued up and can be easily accessed and displayed with a push of a button.

One notable feature of Veeo’s product is its versatility in sharing content. Users can choose whether to share the content with the audience or keep it for themselves, using it as a teleprompter. This flexibility allows presenters to tailor their presentations to their specific needs and preferences.

Conclusion: An easy way to maintain eye contact online

In terms of pricing, Veeo offers a fully enclosed version of the 30-inch display for $2,500, while the see-through version, suitable for open office environments, costs around $3,000. The 55-inch display is primarily targeted for conference rooms and comes with collaborative software to enable participants to work together and view shared digital content. The pricing for the 55-inch display is not mentioned.

In conclusion, Veeo’s transparent OLED display for online meetings aims to enhance the remote meeting experience by enabling eye-to-eye contact and providing collaborative features. While the pricing and availability of the product are mentioned, more details about its capabilities and potential impact on online meetings would be beneficial.

Interview by Don Baine, The Gadget Professor.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | RSS | More