Category Archives: CES 2017

Straight Out of the Future: Replace Your PC with Android

CES 2017, Computers

RemixOSWe do just about everything nowadays on our cell phones. We love our apps, from games and social media to email and shopping. It seems like everything that we need or want to do, we can take care of with an app on our phones. But there are those times when we need to move to our PC’s to get certain things accomplished, even when there is an app for it on our phones, because it’s easier to type on an actual keyboard and so much easier to see on our computer monitor. If only there was a way to use the apps on your phone with your computer monitor and keyboard. Well, now there is.

Jide has created Remix OS, the perfect device that allows you to use everything you love on your Android phone with your full size keyboard, monitor or even television. It’s basically a merger between your mobile phone and your desktop. You are able to open up multiple apps at once on your large screen and also use many of the keyboard shortcuts that you are already use to using. This creates a really great user experience because even though you are using your Android, it feels familiar in a desktop mode with multiple window multitasking, screen capture and even a task bar.

You won’t need to worry about your phone being able to keep with everything that you are doing. Mobile components are almost as powerful as PC components. Also, the Remix OS uses 90-95% less power than the traditional desktop PC. It’s not only energy efficient but also very affordable at just $69.99.

For more information on the Remix OS and their upcoming units, Remix IO and Mini, check out their website. You can also still pre order the new Remix IO from Kickstarter.

Interview by Scott Ertz of F5 Live: Refreshing Technology for the Tech Podcast Network.

Sponsored by:
Declare war on crappy earbuds and treat yourself to a better headphone experience with new Monster headphones.
Blast to the future with the Monster Blaster: the boombox reimagined.
Meet the Microsoft Surface family, the most productive devices on the planet.
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Vivitar’s Line of Smart Home Products are Creative and Fun

CES 2017, Gadgets, Home

VivitarWhen we think Vivitar, the first thing that comes to mind are the point and shoot cameras that we all know and love. Like many other successful tech companies, they have evolved. And in a really great way.

This year at CES they have unveiled fun new additions to their line of smart home products. First up is their hero product, the Vivi Voice Assistant which works in conjunction with all of their other smart home products. This speaker has a sleek, metallic design that will fit into virtually any décor. It features Amazon Alexa technology and offers 360 degree sound with a rich bass. And it’s priced to compete with the Echo at $99.

They have also added smart home security cameras to the mix. And we have to say, they are quite clever. All offer Wi-Fi and are controllable from both iOS and Android. There is a ceiling/wall mounted 360 degree camera that is uniquely designed to look like a smoke detector that will retail for approx. $149.99. Also doorbell cameras that offers night vision and the ability to speak directly through the unit that will also retail for approx. $149.99. A less conspicuous model is the new IP Camera that come in a fun rain drop shape and cool colors that offer live video streaming so you can monitor any room of the house anytime. These will retail for approx. $99.

Last but not least, there’s our personal favorite here at PLuGHiTz Live: The RoboCams. There are two models that again are controlled via iOS and Android devices which act as rover cams. The higher end model offers a telescoping camera with an articulating eye. Pricing is expected to start at $200.

We love how this new camera line intertwines practicality and just plain fun. These products are expected to be available in Q2 and you’ll be able to check them all out on their website.

Interview by Scott Ertz of F5 Live: Refreshing Technology for the Tech Podcast Network.

Sponsored by:
Declare war on crappy earbuds and treat yourself to a better headphone experience with new Monster headphones.
Blast to the future with the Monster Blaster: the boombox reimagined.
Meet the Microsoft Surface family, the most productive devices on the planet.
Follow TPN on Twitter: Techpodcasts; Facebook: TPNTV; Google+: TPNTV

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

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Truly Wireless Earbuds That are Fun and Affordable

CES 2017, Entertainment

Altec LansingMusic is such an important aspect of our lives. We listen to our favorite tunes everywhere we go. And now it’s easier than ever with Altec Lansing’s truly wireless earbuds.

These new earbuds differentiate themselves from the competition by being extremely lightweight and comfortable enough to easily wear for hours. And rest assured, they also remain firmly in place during all of your activities. They have an impressive 6 hour battery life and come with a case that not only can charge them but also holds the equivalence of 2 additional charges so you’ll actually have three full charges when you set out for the day. You can also charge them independently and charge time is about 4 hours. They come in the same great colors as the rest of the headphone line, so you’ll also be able to express yourself with your favorite color.

The wireless earbuds will be available in the 2nd quarter at big box stores, just in time for spring break and summer activities and will retail for $149.99. For more information, check out their website at www.alteclansing.com.

Interview by Scott Ertz of F5 Live: Refreshing Technology for the Tech Podcast Network.

Sponsored by:
Declare war on crappy earbuds and treat yourself to a better headphone experience with new Monster headphones.
Blast to the future with the Monster Blaster: the boombox reimagined.
Meet the Microsoft Surface family, the most productive devices on the planet.
Follow TPN on Twitter: Techpodcasts; Facebook: TPNTV; Google+: TPNTV

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

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Fantastic Waterproof Speaker Can Pair Up to 50 Devices

CES 2017, Entertainment

Altec LansingIn a world of ever-advancing technology, everyone is looking for the next best thing. Some crave the newest and best video capture devices while others want the most innovative smartphone tech. If you’re one who desires top of the line audio speakers, look no further than Altec Lansing’s new Bluetooth speaker. With this waterproof lightweight device one is able to keep the party going for up to fifty hours at a time.

If you like your tech to be multi-functional, you’re in luck with this speaker. It boasts two A/C outlets as well as three smartphone chargers, so it will definitely be the center of attention. Due to the hundred foot range, feel free to pair your device and mingle as you please. If you really feel like turning it up a notch, this speaker is able to connect with up to fifty other speakers with little to no latency between them.

With a reasonable price point of $249.99 this innovative product will be coming soon. Look for it in all of the big box retailers this spring break. For other products, questions or information, visit www.alteclansing.com.

Interview by Scott Ertz of F5 Live: Refreshing Technology for the Tech Podcast Network.

Sponsored by:
Declare war on crappy earbuds and treat yourself to a better headphone experience with new Monster headphones.
Blast to the future with the Monster Blaster: the boombox reimagined.
Meet the Microsoft Surface family, the most productive devices on the planet.
Follow TPN on Twitter: Techpodcasts; Facebook: TPNTV; Google+: TPNTV

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | RSS | More

Blast Your Way to Fantastic New Sound with DJ Clue?

CES 2017, Entertainment

MonsterThis year Monster Products has outdone themselves with their new ambassadors. DJ Clue?, a mixtape DJ and founder of Desert Storm Records, has stepped up, and has joined forces with Monster Products to create the new Clue Radio Blasters. These Blasters are based on the existing Monster Blaster and come in a brilliant gold color that will add energy and excitement to any party to turn up the fun and music. The new Blasters have linking abilities so that you can link two or more together, creating a Monster party with quality sound.

That is not the only thing that DJ Clue? has to tell. He is launching his own app: Clue Radio. This app allows people to live-stream songs and station, with exclusive curated content by DJ Clue? himself, Monster Products, Rick Ross, Future and others. Another perk to this app is that songs can be downloaded to phones, and then played without using up any service or data. This app comes with its own videos, chat forums and media platforms. This makes it easy for customers to enjoy and talk with other music enthusiasts.

The Clue Radio Blaster is coming soon. Clue Radio is free to download but additional features are in-app purchases. This app is currently available for iOS and will be coming to Android in the future.

Interview by Scott Ertz of F5 Live: Refreshing Technology for the Tech Podcast Network.

Sponsored by:
Declare war on crappy earbuds and treat yourself to a better headphone experience with new Monster headphones.
Blast to the future with the Monster Blaster: the boombox reimagined.
Meet the Microsoft Surface family, the most productive devices on the planet.
Follow TPN on Twitter: Techpodcasts; Facebook: TPNTV; Google+: TPNTV

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | RSS | More

A Better Way to Store, Access and Utilize Your Digital Photos

CES 2017, Photography

Ricoh KeenaiPictures not only capture our memories and the things that we find beautiful in the world, but they have become an intrinsic part of our daily lives. From the casual selfie taker who uses their pics to paint a story on social media and capture fun and important moments with friends and family, to the avid photographer who makes a living with their camera.

As much as we love taking and sharing pictures, storing them can be a real pain. We run out of space on our mobile devices and computers. And a lot of the cloud storage services can get costly without any real benefits, plus they tend to modify or compress the photos so you can’t get them back in the original format in which they were taken. If you are looking for a better smart photo management service, look no further than Keenai.

Keenai elegantly and effortlessly keeps your memories safe and organized. You can automatically backup unlimited original resolution photos, including RAW, and have them automatically sync on all of your devices for you. There is also automatic image recognition and smart tagging for easy and fast photo searches. And if sharing is your thing, you can transform your pictures, videos and 360 degree images into gorgeous albums to share.

The service is just $5 per month or $50 per year for unlimited storage. Get more information and try it for free at Keenai.com.

Interview by Scott Ertz of F5 Live: Refreshing Technology for the Tech Podcast Network.

Sponsored by:
Declare war on crappy earbuds and treat yourself to a better headphone experience with new Monster headphones.
Blast to the future with the Monster Blaster: the boombox reimagined.
Meet the Microsoft Surface family, the most productive devices on the planet.
Follow TPN on Twitter: Techpodcasts; Facebook: TPNTV; Google+: TPNTV

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | RSS | More

Superior Wow Factor in the Look of These Headphones

CES 2017, Entertainment

KlipschJust when we thought that we had seen every possible cool set of headphones, we stumbled across the new Heritage Headphone series while we were at the Klipsch booth checking out the inspiring speaker line by the same name. Once again, we couldn’t help but fall in love.

Just like the speakers, these headphones were designed with a lot of character. For this line, Klipsch took on the specific challenge of making sure that none of the surfaces were plastic. Each pair is finely designed with a craft made look. They took the time to focus on the individual materials: the leather, the real wood, metal, copper and steel.

And, just like the speakers, don’t think that these headphones are just a pretty package alone, because that couldn’t be further from the truth. They are definitely engineered for function as well as style. They boast superior sound quality with new leading edge driver technology. They offer an open, airy sound that is very natural. There is no added bass or effects because they truly believe that music is art and their goal is to recreate the musical experience as the artist intended.

There is a large assortment in both style and aesthetic in the Heritage series. You can choose from open and closed ear models accompanied by either oak, ebony or walnut finishes. There are options in the closed ear models that also include features like Bluetooth and ambient noise cancellation technology.

Series pricing goes from $399 to $999 and you can get more information from their website at Klipsch.com.

Interview by Scott Ertz of F5 Live: Refreshing Technology for the Tech Podcast Network.

Sponsored by:
Declare war on crappy earbuds and treat yourself to a better headphone experience with new Monster headphones.
Blast to the future with the Monster Blaster: the boombox reimagined.
Meet the Microsoft Surface family, the most productive devices on the planet.
Follow TPN on Twitter: Techpodcasts; Facebook: TPNTV; Google+: TPNTV

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | RSS | More

Speakers with Wonderful Retro Feel and Cool New Tech

CES 2017, Entertainment, Home

KlipschIf there’s one thing we love here at PLuGHiTz Live, it’s great audio. It was so refreshing to visit the Klipsch booth this year at CES 2017. Having been in business for 71 years, they know how to rely upon tried and true sound technology while mixing in our favorite modern features.

We also love sleek, shiny new tech, however there’s something to be said for old school craftsmanship, especially when it comes to speakers. Klipsch agrees: that’s why their new Heritage line of speakers are a throwback to the 30’s, 40’s and 50’s with nice wood grain cases, legs with modern and retro stylings combined with copper spun knobs and switches. They are a real nod to history with the feel, look and touch that can blend into your home design. But they don’t just look good. You’re getting pure Klipsch sound in every speaker from a company that is famous for engineering their own drivers and horns.

Even though these speakers are a great throwback to many years of listening to stereo and hi-fi systems, you don’t have to worry about missing out on hip new amenities. You’re also getting great modern features like Bluetooth, various inputs and wireless capabilities for semi portable use around the house.

The Heritage line has multiple speakers in varying size and capabilities. From the newly launched Demi which is a basic, entry level model that is the perfect size to sit on a desk or table for streaming music wirelessly, to the Heritage Wireless 1, 2 and 3 that each have better sound and features than the last. Then to the more traditional looking speakers, the Heritage Wireless 6’s which are a pair of wireless speakers that are amplified with superior sound quality. Last but not least, the big boys that will debut later this year… the Heritage Wireless 15’s. They are the ultimate throwback speakers that are truly reminiscent of our old stereo system speakers, but with even more impressive specs and sound.

Pricing starts out at $199 and you can get more information by visiting their website at Klipsch.com.

Interview by Scott Ertz of F5 Live: Refreshing Technology for the Tech Podcast Network.

Sponsored by:
Declare war on crappy earbuds and treat yourself to a better headphone experience with new Monster headphones.
Blast to the future with the Monster Blaster: the boombox reimagined.
Meet the Microsoft Surface family, the most productive devices on the planet.
Follow TPN on Twitter: Techpodcasts; Facebook: TPNTV; Google+: TPNTV

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | RSS | More

Fantastic Technology Moving to the Forefront in Digital Security

CES 2017, Gadgets

EyeLockBiometric technology is increasingly becoming an accepted form of identity authentication. EyeLock is on the cutting edge of furthering this technology and is set to be an industry leader as advancements continue.

Most of us have now become accustom to using our fingerprints to unlock our phone or computer and to gain access to buildings. Fingerprint technology has proven useful, but this kind of identity verification can really only take us so far as we venture more and more into the digital world. We want to know that we are secure when using an ATM or our mobile banking apps. And on a larger scale, many businesses would benefit from a less cumbersome and much more secure way to allow employees entry than key cards.

That’s where EyeLock comes in. They have been working on biometric identity authentication, specifically with iris detection, for the last 10 years. Statistically, iris detection is the 2nd best way to confirm identity, with DNA being first. Their current product uses iris identity detection for projects like ATM’s. Announcements are also forthcoming in places like banking centers and stadiums and the possibilities go on from there. There is a real and necessary use for this type of technology in places like hospitals, for example, which will not only aid in overall security of patients, staff and facility but also in helping to reduce the spread of germs and bacteria. And just think of how the user experience would improve if this technology becomes available when you are going through customs.

The stage has definitely been set for the next level of biometrics. This technology will not only bring about better user experiences for the consumer but will also add new business and revenue models to the OEM’s. The way business is conducted all over the world will be changed and new streams of revenue will be created, all while increasing safety for consumers and businesses alike.

Interview by Scott Ertz of F5 Live: Refreshing Technology for the Tech Podcast Network.

Sponsored by:
Declare war on crappy earbuds and treat yourself to a better headphone experience with new Monster headphones.
Blast to the future with the Monster Blaster: the boombox reimagined.
Meet the Microsoft Surface family, the most productive devices on the planet.
Follow TPN on Twitter: Techpodcasts; Facebook: TPNTV; Google+: TPNTV

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | RSS | More

For Tech in the Home, Innovation is Energized to the Next Level

CES 2017, Home

digitalSTROMdigitalSTROM is the brains behind home innovation. They are an innovative force behind software that makes various pieces of smart home technology work together. The home is actually way behind when it comes to technology, as opposed to things like automobiles. Automation in the home started many years ago with something as simple as the coffee machine and until recently, really hasn’t advanced much further from there. And although we are seeing more an more in the way of products for the smart home, for the most part they are just individual components that assist with one or two functions in the home.

digitalSTROM envisions a digital transformation in the home where everything works together and with everyone in the home, no matter their age. They want to make every device smart so that they have access to cognitive services and can learn and adapt with the users. The modern day digital home started in the living room with audio and televisions and then moved to things like lighting and now refrigerators. The next step is moving into other rooms of the house but they need companies to create devices and everyday items to work for digital operation.

They are currently working on making the software work with the young and elderly and to work with what different people may want.

digitalSTROM started in Europe and Asia and are only now moving to North and South America. This company is encouraging tech companies to create and upgrade current and future devices and machines for the future.

Interview by Daniele Mendez of The New Product Launchpad for the Tech Podcast Network.

Sponsored by:
Declare war on crappy earbuds and treat yourself to a better headphone experience with new Monster headphones.
Blast to the future with the Monster Blaster: the boombox reimagined.
Meet the Microsoft Surface family, the most productive devices on the planet.
Follow TPN on Twitter: Techpodcasts; Facebook: TPNTV; Google+: TPNTV

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | RSS | More