The Z-Wave Alliance has released the 2024A Z-Wave Specification Package, which includes new User Credential Command Class features, as well as new User Credential Control Specifications. The Alliance has also published a new Z-Wave Reference Application Design (ZRAD), a publicly available repository of data including detailed schematics and reference designs to help developers create Z-Wave products with enhanced range capabilities using Z-Wave Long Range.

The 2024A Z-Wave Specification Package includes several documents that have undergone an Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) review as well as clarifications and fixes to the User Credential Command Class (CC) and the User Credential Control Specification. It also includes minor clarifications in the Association v4 and MAC v5 Command Classes.

The Z-Wave User Credential Command Class (CC) is a specification within the Z-Wave protocol that defines how user credentials, such as passwords or PIN codes, are managed and communicated between devices in a Z-Wave network. Exclusive to Z-Wave, this Command Class update provides a standardized way for smart locks to handle user authentication in access control, ensuring secure and reliable operation within a Z-Wave smart home network. Key aspects include:

Credential Management: It allows devices such as smart locks to create, modify, and delete user credentials. This includes defining the type of credential (e.g., PIN code, password), its validity period, and any associated permissions.

Security: The Command Class ensures that user credentials are transmitted and stored securely within the network. This is crucial for maintaining the integrity and confidentiality of the smart home environment.

Interoperability: By following the specifications of the User Credential Command Class, different Z-Wave devices can work together seamlessly to manage user access. For instance, a smart lock from one manufacturer can understand and use the credentials provided by a smart home controller from another manufacturer.

User Control: It allows users to control who can access their Z-Wave network and devices. For example, homeowners can add or remove users and set different access levels for family members, guests, or service personnel.

Automation Integration: The Command Class can be used in conjunction with other Z-Wave Command Classes to create sophisticated automation scenarios. For instance, unlocking a door could trigger a series of events, such as turning on lights, adjusting the thermostat, or disarming a security system.

The Z-Wave User Credential Control Specification outlines the standards and protocols for managing user credentials within a Z-Wave network. It defines how devices should handle, store, and communicate user credentials such as PIN codes, passwords, or biometric data to ensure secure access control and authentication. The key components are:

Credential Types: Defines the different types of user credentials that can be used, such as numeric PIN codes, alphanumeric passwords, and biometric data.

Credential Management: Specifies how to create, update, and delete user credentials. It includes procedures for adding new users, changing existing credentials, and removing users from the system.

Access Control: Establishes how user credentials control access to devices and services within the Z-Wave network. This involves setting permissions and access levels for different users.

Security Protocols: Outlines the security measures required to protect user credentials. This includes encryption standards for transmitting credentials, secure storage practices, and methods for verifying the authenticity of credentials.

Interoperability: This standardization ensures that different Z-Wave devices can work together seamlessly when managing user credentials. It allows devices from various manufacturers to understand and use credentials consistently.

Event Logging: Describes how to log events related to credential use, such as successful and failed authentication attempts. This is important for auditing and monitoring the security of the network.

User Interface: Provides guidelines for user interfaces that manage credentials, ensuring they are user-friendly and secure.

Error Handling: Defines how devices should handle errors related to credential management, such as incorrect PIN entries or expired passwords.

By adhering to the Z-Wave User Credential Command Class and User Credential Control Specification, Z-Wave devices can offer robust, secure, and interoperable user authentication and access control, enhancing the overall security and user experience of the smart home network.

Z-Wave Reference Application Design (ZRAD) Now Publicly Available

The Z-Wave Alliance has announced the public release of the ZRAD (Z-Wave Reference Application Design). Created by Z-Wave wireless IoT expert Eric Ryherd (AKA Dr. Z-Wave), ZRAD is an open-source reference design of a best-in-class RF range device. ZRAD aims to accelerate time-to-market for Z-Wave products by providing a simple-to-follow application design example complete with detailed step-by-step instructions for implementing Z-Wave technology and the latest available features, such as Z-Wave Long Range (ZWLR).

ZRAD is a game-changer for the Z-Wave community, dramatically lowering the barrier to entry for development and providing a clear path from concept to product. ZRAD offers the tools required to leverage the full power of Z-Wave technology and ZWLR. It is a publicly available repository of data, including detailed schematics and reference designs, to help developers create Z-Wave products with enhanced range capabilities. This free offering offers a streamlined alternative to complex, all-encompassing developer kits, focusing on simplicity and practicality for the developer.

The ZRAD design features a USB controller with a best-in-class RF range. It achieved over 2 miles of successful transmission in line of sight (LoS) testing and yielded exceptional performance in noisy urban environments with over 1 mile of successful transmission. The design can be implemented as both a controller connected to a computer or as an end device with battery power, enabling the development of versatile applications.

For More Information: http://z-wavealliance.org

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Addressing increased bandwidth due to new standards, Blustream has announced two new USB3 devices to enable AV integrators to distribute and switch USB-C data signals with ease.

The first solution being introduced is the UEX3C-KIT, a USB extender kit utilising HDBaseT technology to extend USB 3.2 Gen1 signals up to 100m over a single CAT cable.

It allows up to two USB devices to be connected to a single USB host with support for a transmission data bandwidth up to 5Gbps.

The UEX3C-KIT is backward compatible with USB 2.0 and 1.1 devices and provides bi-directional Power over Cable (PoC).

The SW12USB is the second device to be unveiled. It is a USB 3.2 Gen2 10Gb switcher, supporting four USB devices that can be switched to two USB-C host connections.

It also supports auto switching between host devices using signal sense, or manually controlled via the front-panel push buttons, Web-GUI, TCP/IP.

For More information: www.blustream.co.uk

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Samsung Electronics announced SmartThings Pro and Next-Generation Display Technologies for its award-winning digital signage lineup at InfoComm 2024. Samsung showcased SmartThings Pro, an evolution of SmartThings with business-focused capabilities; Samsung Color E-Paper, an ultra-low power, lightweight and slim digital paper display; exclusive new generative AI functions for the Interactive Whiteboard (WAD series); and the new Samsung Business TV BED series, a UHD TV with flexible functionality for businesses across different sectors.

“We are pleased to introduce a variety of new solutions, services and products at this year’s InfoComm,” said Hoon Chung, Executive Vice President of Visual Display Business at Samsung Electronics.

SmartThings Pro extends Samsung’s hyper-connected smart home technology to busie overall business experience. To better support business-to-business (B2B) customers, SmartThings Pro offers customizable application environments, enhancing sustainability, automating operations and improving Programming Interfaces (APIs) for seamless integration. It also features AI Energy Mode, an intelligent power-saving technology that reduces energy consumption based on ambient brightness, content analysis and motion detection. This energy-saving algorithm is available for Samsung products connected to the SmartThings Pro ecosystem.

Additionally, SmartThings Pro enables users to check the connection status of various IoT devices through a user-friendly dashboard. This dashboard provides AI to analyze connected devices, helping users use their devices more efficiently and adopt energy-saving practices.

Beyond individual users, SmartThings Pro will also improve the general operations of connected devices in corporate environments, including SMART Signage, hospitality displays, air conditioning systems, digital appliances and much more. It also helps corporate clients manage various environmental factors such as temperature, humidity, and lighting more effectively by linking various IoT products. It also integrates sensors like cameras to enhance monitoring and control capabilities. These features help users automate daily configurations and setups, resulting in more efficient and sustainable operations while reducing overall business costs.

“We will further enhance Samsung’s IoT solutions for the B2B market through SmartThings Pro,” said Chanwoo Park, Executive Vice President at Samsung Electronics. “Our customized solutions strengthen display performance in apartment buildings, residential spaces, public facilities like schools and commercial spaces like retail, hotels and offices. SmartThings will not only improve performance for these operators, but it will reduce cost.”

 The new product offers a more eco-conscious alternative to traditional promotional methods while delivering the high-visibility signage businesses need. The Samsung Color E-Paper operates at 0.00W1 when displaying static images and consumes significantly less power than traditional digital signage when changing images. Additionally, managers can remotely control the Color E-Paper, setting schedules to save energy with automatic wake-up and sleep times.

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NETGEAR®, Inc. (NASDAQ: NTGR), the leading provider of innovative and secure solutions for people to connect and manage their digital lives, recently expanded its Wi-Fi 7 mesh and standalone router lines with the new Orbi 770 Tri-band Mesh System and Nighthawk RS300 Router. NETGEAR’s most affordable Wi-Fi 7 products are built on the company’s promise to provide powerful Wi-Fi performance and secure connectivity.

Wi-Fi 7 unlocks 2.4 times faster speeds than Wi-Fi 6, delivers low latency, and better handles Wi-Fi interference for families to seamlessly enjoy next-gen 4K/8K streaming, video conferencing, gaming, and more. Since the launch of NETGEAR’s first Wi-Fi 7 offerings – Nighthawk RS700 and Orbi 970 – multi-gig internet speeds have become more affordable, work from home demands have remained steady, and more devices such as AR/VR headsets or AI-focused platforms like CoPilot+ have been introduced that require extreme low latency and higher throughput.

While Wi-Fi 7 adoption is growing and new generations of smartphones, laptops, and other devices are hitting the market at a rapid pace, IoT threats are increasing and router security at the device level is critical to keep digital lives and homes protected.

“NETGEAR’s singular focus has always been to create and provide industry-leading solutions with powerful performance and secure Wi-Fi connectivity,” said David Henry, President and GM of Connected Home Products and Services at NETGEAR. “Our newest Wi-Fi 7 additions, Orbi 770 and Nighthawk RS300, deliver these connectivity benefits to a wider audience, helping them experience unprecedented speed and performance on their devices and applications with the strongest possible security available today.”

The Mesh System – Orbi 770 Series

Orbi Wi-Fi 7 Tri-band mesh system provides exceptional performance and lightning-fast speeds up to 11Gbps[1] for up to 100 devices across homes of up to 8,000 square feet with a 3 pack. It improves connection speeds by combining the 5Hz and 6GHz bands using Multi-Link Operation for both fronthaul to connect to devices and backhaul to connect the router and the satellites. Its 2.5 Gig internet port unlocks the ability to fully experience the multi-gig internet speeds available today, making it future proof for a new era of entertainment, hybrid work, and next generation devices and applications. The ample 2.5Gig LAN ports on the router and satellite can be used for multi-gig wired connections between the two or to connect a shared storage or a gaming PC/console.

The slim, cylindrical bodies of the Orbi router and satellites are purposefully designed for optimal performance and make them a subtle addition to any desk, shelf, or entertainment unit. Each unit features four high-performance internal antennas with high-powered amplifiers for 360-degree coverage, regardless of the home layout, from the front door to the backyard. Orbi 770 offers a robust Wi-Fi connection using preamble puncturing which selectively blocks interference for a stable connection, keeping the home network functioning flawlessly.

The Standalone Router – Nighthawk RS300

The Nighthawk RS300 Tri-band router introduces blazing-fast Wi-Fi 7 for speeds up to 9.3Gbps to budget-conscious but high-tech and gadget users. Its sleek new body and patented omni-directional internal antenna design improves coverage and pushes signals to the farthest range, providing up to 2,500 square feet of Wi-Fi coverage across a max of 100 devices.

Everyone in the household can access the latest multi-gig internet speeds with the 2.5 Gig internet port, and the additional 2.5Gig and two 1Gig LAN ports can be used for fast wired connections for latency intolerant, devices such as a gaming PC or console.

Peace of Mind with Cutting-Edge Security

Home network devices see an average of 10 attacks on home networks every 24 hours[2], making it critical to safeguard your digital life starting at the router. Powered by state-of-the-art encryption protocols and advanced threat detection mechanisms, NETGEAR routers stand as the first line of defense against evolving cyber threats and include security features such as automatic firmware updates, VPN support, cutting-edge WPA3 security, access control, and guest WiFi network options.

The Orbi 770 series will be the first product to have an additional layer of security with the new Advanced Router Protection feature, only available from NETGEAR. This feature protects the router from not only known threats but also from most unknown threats using a combination of AI heuristics and advanced exploit prevention to recognize and block exploitation attempts. Additionally, it enables the capability to quickly release live patches for threats without needing to wait for a new firmware release. This significantly improves response times compared to the traditional method of releasing firmware updates for each specific router model and further strengthens our commitment to provide industry leading security protection for our router/mesh products from cyberattacks. Advanced Router Protection which has been developed in partnership with Bitdefender will be rolled out to the rest of the WiFi 7 lineup later this year.

For added protection, both Orbi 770 and Nighthawk RS300 include a 30-day trial for NETGEAR Armor Powered by Bitdefender, providing an automatic shield of security for connected devices and added privacy with VPN. Unlike traditional endpoint antivirus products, Armor is built into the router as an all-in-one security solution, protecting computers, security cameras, baby monitors and other IoT devices on the network and eliminating the need for multiple security subscriptions or software.

Both also come with NETGEAR Smart Parental Controls to easily manage kids’ time online across their connected devices and promote good online habits for the family. Basic features are available free of charge. A subscription fee applies for a Premium Plan after a 30-day trial.

Orbi 770 Technical Specifications:

·         Ultra-Fast Wi-Fi 7 Tri-Band Speeds up to 11Gbps – Experience combined Multi-Gigabit speeds up to 11Gbps with 2.4GHz, 5GHz, and 6GHz bands.

·         Higher Capacity & Robust Wi-Fi – Supports Wi-Fi 7 technology enhancements like 320 MHz, 4K QAM and preamble puncturing.

·         Multi-link Operation – Combines two Wi-Fi bands at once, for both backhaul (shared 5GHz & 6GHz) and fronthaul (5GHz & 6 GHz) to improve network reliability, reduce latency, and ensure data is delivered with maximum speed.

·         Multi-Gig Speeds with 2.5 Gig Internet Port – Use the 2.5 Gig internet port for multi-gig cable and fiber plans. Compatible with any internet service provider.

·         More Multi-gig Wired ports on Router and Satellites – Plug in wired devices to improve performance or set up a multi-gig wired connection between the router and satellites via three 2.5Gbps Ethernet ports on the router, and two 2.5Gbps Ethernet ports on the satellites.

·         Do It All with the Orbi® App –Easily manage your network from anywhere, including pausing the Internet, running Internet speed tests, tracking Internet data usage, setting up separate guest networks, and more.

Nighthawk RS300 Technical Specifications:

·         Blazing-Fast Wi-Fi 7 Tri-Band Speeds up to 9.3Gbps – Experience combined Multi-Gigabit speeds up to 9.3Gbps with the ultra-fast 6GHz Wi-Fi band for smoother Wi-Fi experiences and less interference from neighboring networks.

·         4x Faster Speeds – Wi-Fi 7 delivers 2.4x faster speeds than Wi-Fi 6 with ultra-wide 320MHz high-capacity channels and 4K QAM to maximize performance across your connected devices.

·         Multi-Gig Speeds with 2.5Gig Internet Port – Use the 2.5Gbps internet port for today’s faster cable and fiber plans. Or link one LAN port and the internet port together for speeds up to 2Gbps for a modem that does not have a multi-gig port but supports link aggregation. Compatible with any internet service provider.

·         Improved Performance with 2.5Gig Wired Ports – Enjoy an improved performance on your gaming and entertainment devices by plugging them into the two 2.5Gbps ports for faster-wired connections. And link the two 1Gbps LAN ports together for speeds up to 2Gbps for a NAS device.

·         Easy file sharing – Plug a thumb drive into the router’s USB port to easily share files.

·         Do It All with the Nighthawk® App – Configure your Wi-Fi for peak performance on priority devices. Easily manage your network from anywhere, including pausing the Internet, running Internet speed tests, tracking Internet data usage, setting up separate guest networks, and more.

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Samsung Electronics announced that its SMART Signage QxC has been honored in the prestigious “Green Signage – Hall of Fame” by invidis, a German digital signage consultancy.

The “Green Signage – Hall of Fame” recognizes sustainable digital signage products from display manufacturers around the world. This year, Samsung’s SMART Signage QxC series — specifically the QH55C model — has been recognized for reducing 168 listed carbon footprint metrics.

Samsung remains committed to eco-conscious initiatives across the product lifecycle, exemplifying its sustainability efforts with the latest SMART Signage Q series (QHC, QMC and QBC).

These SMART Signage Q series models feature an Eco Sensor feature that adjusts screen brightness based on the surrounding environment, allowing users to manage power consumption more efficiently. Additionally, the rear covers on these models contain 10% post-consumer materials (PCM) to reduce the use of regular plastic during manufacturing.

Apart from this “Hall of Fame” honor, the Q series has achieved several other notable certifications including:

·        Carbon Footprint certification from TÜV Rheinland – Making the Q series the first signage model to receive this award

·        ENERGY STAR 8.0 certification from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) – Recognizing the series’ energy efficiency

·        Electronic Product Environmental Assessment Tool (EPEAT) certification from the Global Electronics Council – Acknowledging the series’ eco-conscious design and manufacturing processes

 For More Information: https://news.samsung.com

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TENSE has officially joined the MDT Group, marking a significant milestone in its journey to provide users with the highest quality design for smart home automation. MDT will strengthen the growth opportunities of TENSE worldwide. Their premium, handmade switches, and control products will reach new heights in this partnership. MDT Technologies GmbH CEO Roger Karner and TENSE founder Joen Adriaen are very positive about this move and are welcoming a new era of KNX premium design switches.

The German manufacturer MDT Technologies develops and produces KNX products in Engelskirchen (near Cologne) in Germany. Thousands of products leave the plant every day, and 93% of all MDT products are immediately available from stock. With MDT, there is no long wait for your KNX products, not even for bulk orders. 

This is made possible thanks to the flexibly organised production, which is geared towards demand. More than 100 employees at the site manufacture the KNX components at various production levels. Obviously, product quality is the top priority for the employees. Each individual product is put through several different quality tests during the production process. By doing this, MDT ensures that the customer gets the best possible result. The three-year extended warranty that applies to all MDT products shows how confident MDT is in its own product.

MDT’s development department in Engelskirchen is constantly working on further innovative products and smart new functions. A good example is the popular MDT Glass Push-button II Smart: With the new series, the product has received an extensive update. The KNXperts have once again focused on the greatest possible added value for customers. 

For More Information: www.mdt-group.com

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Jamie McKay, Sales & Marketing Director, Armour Home brings more than 25 years of experience in global commercial, sales and marketing roles within audio and technology industries. Jamie has successfully overseen multi-million-dollar sales and marketing campaigns across multiple international territories. In an exclusive interview with Smart Home World, he discusses marketing initiatives to grow Armour Home brands’ global presence and the new range soon to be launched. 

Could you provide insights into Q Acoustics’ journey, highlighting the milestones achieved as it redefined various market segments, from affordable to high-end, and introduced innovations like the Q Active wireless audio system?

The ethos of Q Acoustics from the very beginning has been all about delivering fabulous acoustic performance for a fair price and is also available at various price points. I believe that we are out-performing with this objective given the vast number of awards Q Acoustics has received across the world since its launch in 2006. There are many highlights in our journey, but the launch of the Q5000 series in 2023 marked the completion of our passive speakers range from entry-level to high-end range. Plus the Product of the Year Award from What Hi-Fi in 2023 for the Q5040 is the “icing on the cake” cementing Q Acoustics’ position as one of the leading speaker brands in the world.  When developing speakers, we are always looking to innovate be it in the use of Gelcore, BMR drivers point-to-point bracing, isolation plates in the Concept Series and more recently the C³ Continuous Curved Cone.  The development of Q Active follows this passion for innovation both in industrial design, the use of BMR drivers and the wireless technology to drive the Q Active audio system, which we believe is one of the most flexible, high-performing audio systems in the market with the added benefit that it has been designed for lifestyle living.

With your extensive industry experience, what potential opportunities do you envision for Q Acoustics in the Indian market?

While we’re witnessing a growing demand for our full range of passive speakers in India, Q Acoustic is currently focusing on two major areas: installation products and powered/streaming systems. Our new M40 Bluetooth micro tower exemplifies the latter, showcasing our dedication to innovation in this field.

While much attention rightly goes to our consumer-using Q Acoustic products, we also boast a robust range of installation products with wireless capabilities. This lineup will be further enriched with the launch of a unique wireless product in late summer. I’m excited to collaborate with MZ to further develop the installation product segment in the upcoming year.

The growth in the availability of music-on-demand services worldwide is shaping a new breed of music enthusiasts, prioritising convenience in their listening experience. India with its vast population and tech-savvy younger demographic, presents an immense market opportunity for audio brands.

In India, as in many parts of the world, the enjoyment of music holds significant importance in daily life. As we envision the next wave of products, it’s crucial to uphold Q Acoustics’ design ethos: delivering outstanding acoustic performance at an accessible price point while staying attuned to the evolving needs of diverse markets globally.

 How do you intend to utilize your partnership with MZ to introduce and establish Q Acoustics in India?

In any territory, having a seasoned partner is very important. With no office of our own in India, MZ serves as our vital link to the local market. They provide invaluable insights into consumer trends, guiding our brands and ensuring optimal market coverage. Collaborating closely with MZ, we tailor our marketing strategies to resonate with the core Indian customer base. Together, we aim to educate them about the diverse offerings of Q Acoustics, catering to both consumer and installation segments. As the importance of the install market grows, this partnership becomes increasingly crucial for all brands.

With a longstanding relationship spanning over 15 years, MZ is not just a trading partner but an integral part of our global business network, contributing significantly to our success worldwide.

Can you provide details on the range of audio products Q Acoustics intends to launch in India through its collaboration with MZ?

We have an exciting lineup of new introductions scheduled over the next few months, but at this stage, not all of the details are available to share so it will be a case of “watch this space” and look out for good news coming with a glimpse of what is coming on show at the High-End Show in Munich in May. We have just introduced the M40 which is our micro tower Bluetooth-powered system to go alongside our award-winning M20 unit. We have some exciting additions to our install range planned both with speakers and electronics, and we will be releasing more information on this as we head into summer. We also have some exciting news planned within our passive speaker range with more news to become available in the coming couple of months. Sorry I can’t be more specific, but we don’t want to ruin the surprise!

Could you elaborate on Q Acoustics’ line-up of wireless and powered speakers?

We launched the Q Active range back in 2020 and it was our first involvement with an active, streaming speaker and it was designed to be a completely networked-enabled home audio entertainment system. We followed this with the M20 which is an award-winning powered bookshelf model with Bluetooth connectivity that has achieved remarkable success since launch. We have recently launched the M20’s “big brother” the M40, in a micro tower format but with the notable inclusion of the C³ drivers that were introduced as part of our 5000 series range.  The market response and reviews for M40 have “blown us away” to the extent that we sold everything we had within days of the first products arriving in our warehouse.  88

According to industry experts, the powered speaker market is poised for significant growth shortly. As the younger generation transitions from `smartphones and headphones’ to more premium audio experiences, there’s a natural inclination towards consolidated systems offering convenience and sleek form factors.

For Q Acoustics, it’s crucial to offer solutions that are both user-friendly and cost-effective, ensuring a strong foothold in the market among future customers. In our ongoing discussions regarding future product development, considerable attention is given to providing comprehensive audio solutions that cater to all customer needs.

A key focus of our roadmap is the development of a powered wireless speaker solution, which aligns with the evolving preferences of consumers. Our next wireless product launch, slated for the last quarter of 2024, will be tailored specifically for the installation market, further solidifying our commitment to innovation and meeting the demands of our customers

In what ways does the 5000 series cater to apartments of various sizes and budget categories in the Indian market?

The 5000 series is our latest range and provides the bridge between our entry-level 3000i range and our premium Concept Series. The range offers 4 product finishes (Satin Black, Satin White, Santos Rosewood & Holme Oak) and 4 size options of product with 2 bookshelf and 2 floor standing models, with the award-winning Q5040 designed specifically for the smaller room/apartment with no compromise on acoustic performance.

Can you shed light on Q Acoustics’ offerings in Bookshelf and Floor-Standing speakers?

We have tried to curate our product portfolio so there is a relevant option for any customer looking for the best-performing speaker for their budget and home environment and I believe that the awards that we have received around the world would support that we have been successful at delivering an excellent choice bookshelf and floor standing options for our customers.  

For home theatre setups, what combinations and permutations do you recommend for Indian households using Q Acoustics’ products?

A very difficult question to answer in a short sentence. Sound is such a subjective thing so what works for one customer may not suit another and budget plays a big part in any purchasing decision. In each of our range offerings we have several home theatre bundles that will provide an initial 5.1 channel set up which can then be expanded on should the customer desire and we now have a solution from the entry-level budget at Q3000i to the high-end budget with Concept series.  For those not wanting a complete 5.1 system, our ranges can be implemented in 2.1 format and there is also M20 and M40, which can further be enhanced with a sub-woofer and offer an excellent alternative solution for those not wanting to invest in an AV receiver.  I believe Q Acoustics offers a solution for every budget and format to enhance a theatre/TV viewing experience.

Which receiver or amplifier pairs best with Q Acoustics loudspeakers?

Again, a very difficult question to answer as everyone’s tastes are different. We work a lot in combination with Cambridge Audio and will be using their electronics at the upcoming High End Show in Munich. Our products have a reputation for offering a “neutral’ listing experience, as there is no discernible effect in bass or treble from the speakers themselves, so that is something that needs bearing in mind when selecting an electronics partner. From a multichannel perspective, I spent many years working with Denon and Marantz so have a fondness for those products and believe that they pair well with Q Acoustics.

Which streaming protocols is Q Acoustics compatible with, and how does it enhance the user experience in Indian homes?

Q Acoustics is always evaluating the popular music streaming services and protocols that could be used with our products worldwide, to ensure a great user experience. The specific supported protocols and services will differ slightly from product to product, as they service different market sectors with varying customer expectations. We have products certified for Airplay 2, Google CAST, Bluetooth A2DP with AVRCP 1.5, Bluetooth aptX HD and Low Latency, Spotify Connect, Roon Ready and UPnP, and will be expanding this list of new products shortly. Popular music streaming services in India such as Spotify, Amazon Music and JioSaavn are all compatible with the supported protocols mentioned. Q Acoustics will always strive to support the best possible audio quality streaming to complement the award-winning products that we make, giving consumers in India peace of mind that they will be getting the very best out of our products. 

How does Q Acoustics ensure seamless connectivity and integration with India’s diverse smart home ecosystems?

 Q Acoustics has taken care to employ people with a wealth of experience in smart home and integrated systems automation spanning several decades. This in-house knowledge ensures that our current and future products can be engineered and supported to integrate with popular smart home products throughout the world. Part of the process is working closely with our international partners such as MZ to identify smart home products specific to a particular region, investigating how these can work with our products, and then working with the third-party manufacturer if required to prove the integration and publish a simple guide on how consumers or installation professionals can achieve the very best results. 

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Sonos has introduced the second generation of its smallest portable speaker, the Sonos Roam 2 with several significant enhancements in design and functionality.

A key upgrade in the Roam 2 is the streamlined Bluetooth pairing process. Unlike the original model, which required initial setup on a home Wi-Fi network using the Sonos app, the Roam 2 allows direct Bluetooth pairing straight out of the box. This change enables users to start listening to their music immediately, eliminating additional steps. A new dedicated Bluetooth pairing button on the back of the speaker replaces the previous multi-functional power button, making the process more intuitive and user-friendly.

In terms of design, the Roam 2 retains its compact form factor but features aesthetic improvements. The Sonos logo is now monochromatic, blending seamlessly with the speaker’s color for a more understated look. It is available in five colors: Olive, Sunset, Wave, Black, and White, offering more variety compared to the original Roam, which had only two color options.

The Roam 2 continues to offer an IP67 rating for dust and water resistance, ensuring it can withstand harsh environments. Its construction includes shock-absorbent materials, providing added durability for outdoor use. Despite its rugged build, the speaker maintains a sleek and modern appearance suitable for both indoor and outdoor settings.

Sonos has optimized the battery life of the Roam 2, providing up to 10 hours of continuous playback on a single charge, consistent with the original model. This makes it a reliable companion for extended listening sessions, whether at home or on the go.

The internal driver layout remains the same, featuring one tweeter and one midwoofer, delivering the high-quality sound Sonos is known for. The speaker supports Trueplay, which automatically adjusts the audio to suit the surrounding environment, ensuring optimal sound performance. Additionally, the Roam 2 includes the Sound Swap feature, allowing users to seamlessly transfer audio between any Sonos speakers within their system.

Key Features:

·         Simplified Bluetooth Pairing: Pair directly with a Bluetooth device without initial Wi-Fi setup.

·         Dedicated Bluetooth Button: New button on the back of the speaker for easy Bluetooth pairing.

·         Monochromatic Sonos Logo: Subtle design with the logo matching the device’s color.

·         Compact and Portable Design: Maintains a sleek form factor, ideal for both indoor and outdoor use.

·         Extended Battery Life: Up to 10 hours of continuous playback on a single charge.

·         IP67 Rating: Dustproof and fully waterproof, capable of withstanding harsh environments.

·         Shock-Absorbent Materials: Built to be durable and resistant to drops and impacts.

·         Trueplay Tuning: Automatically adjusts audio settings to suit the surrounding environment for optimal sound quality.

·         Sound Swap Feature: Allows seamless transfer of audio between any Sonos speakers.

·         Available Colours: Comes in five colors—Olive, Sunset, Wave, Black, and White.

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1 SOUND expands sales in India with a new distributor, Smato Technologies, a leading AV distribution company with full engineering and technology design services based in Kolkata, West Bengal. Smato is established with multiple offices throughout India and has a growing network.

Smato focuses on distributing design-led integrated technology, specifically targeting the premium interior design and custom install community. “We’re thrilled to bring 1 SOUND to India,” says Shreyans Chowdary, director and CEO. “This partnership goes beyond brand expansion; it’s about broadening horizons. It means offering our dealers and customers an exceptional experience, not just through outstanding professional audio products but also through superior pre-sales design and post-sales service support. With premium materials, customizable options, and cutting-edge technology, 1 SOUND offers a compelling package tailored for the Indian market. We’re eager to embark on this journey of lasting success together.”

Smato Technologies recently launched 1 SOUND at the Smart Home Expo Tradeshow in Mumbai, where Chowdhary was also a speaker. The company showcased and demonstrated many 1 SOUND loudspeaker systems at the Smart Home Expo 2024. 1 SOUND’s APAC sales executive, Leonardo Dani, attended the show representing the brand and offering support to the newest distributor.

http://www.1-sound.com/

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Savant Systems, Inc., a leader in smart home and smart power, has partnered with Kaleidescape, enabling integrators to deliver the ultimate home cinema experience to their clients. Kaleidescape’s movie platform, including Strato C movie players and Terra Prime movie servers, works within the Savant smart home ecosystem and is now available on the Savant Store.

The Kaleidescape platform is the only digital provider of movies with lossless audio and full reference video quality. The Kaleidescape movie store offers thousands of 4K and HD titles, including movies, TV series, and concerts. High-bitrate 4K movies are downloaded from the Kaleidescape movie store to Terra Prime movie servers where they are stored locally and played back on one or more Strato C movie players throughout the home.

Kaleidescape solutions now work in concert with the Savant smart home ecosystem. Users will enjoy intuitive navigation of Kaleidescape’s award-winning onscreen display from the Savant app and the Savant X2 Pro Remote, including effortless 1-button access to Kaleidescape with Savant Scenes—making it easy to set lighting, climate, and more for the most comfortable and enjoyable movie night experience.

“Kaleidescape’s movie platform delivers an unparalleled home theater experience that is a valuable resource and opportunity for Savant integrators,” explained George Katsiris, VP of the Recommended Partners Program. “The integration of Kaleidescape within the Savant ecosystem furthers our commitment to providing dealers with access to a carefully curated group of home theater partner brands that also includes JBL Synthesis, Sony Projectors, and Megapixel. With premium home entertainment being one of the most requested features by smart home consumers, these recommended products work in conjunction with Savant’s best-in-class video tiling, user experience, and lighting solutions to elevate the home cinema experience for our customers.”

“Kaleidescape and Savant’s smart home integration is an elegant solution that delivers an unmatched cinematic experience, taking home theater to a new level of luxury,” said Priscilla Morgan, COO, Kaleidescape. “When you combine Savant’s leading smart home capabilities with Kaleidescape’s ability to deliver lossless audio and full reference video on screen, movie night comes alive with a simple push of a button.”

Contact your local technical sales manager for more information about how Savant can help you design and sell the most astonishing, memorable home entertainment systems. 

For More Information: savant.com 

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