05/13, 8:02am
Sony adds new SBH20 stereo Bluetooth earphones to range
In tandem with the launch of the Sony Xperia ZR, Sony has rolled out a iPod shuffle inspired pair of stereo Bluetooth earphones. The new SBH20 uses a small shuffle-like case to enclose a Bluetooth 3.0 receiver and rechargeable battery, while also function as a remote control for a connected smartphone or other Bluetooth-enabled device. The SBH20 incorporates a clip that users can use to pin to their clothing, minimizing the amount of cabling while allowing the connected device to remain stored in a backpack or handbag.
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05/08, 7:44am
Bose AE2w Bluetooth headphones retailing for $250
Bose has revealed its new AE2w Bluetooth headphones featuring the company’s well-regarded TriPort audio technology. Interestingly although compatible with a wide range of Bluetooth devices, the Bose website seems to be targeting the headphones at Apple users, and iPad users in particular. The design of the AE2w is also notable for a control module that protrudes from the left side ear cup that incorporates the remote control functions, as well as a microphone for making and receiving phone calls.
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05/06, 12:53pm
Wrist-based tracker forgoes full display for five LEDs, no buttons
Fitbit has started shipping its first wrist-based activity tracker. The Fitbit Flex follows the Jawbone Up and the Nike FuelBand in providing tracking of activities and sleep patterns from the wrist, and like other Fitbit trackers in the entire range, is able to sync over Bluetooth 4.0 through iOS and Android devices, as well as using the provided Bluetooth dongle with a PC.
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04/19, 12:58am
Other features include ambient lighting, foot warmer, backup battery
Plumbing equipment manufacturer Kohler has announced an upgrade to the Numi Comfort Height toilet. Added to the receptacle are a Bluetooth 4.0 receiver, a SD card slot for accessing personalized playlists and ambient light customization. Kohler's most advanced toilet now includes an interactive LCD touch-screen interface, built-in personalized bidet functionality and deodorizer, dual-flush technology with 0.6 or 1.28 gallons per flush, proximity based auto-open and -close lid, and a heated seat and foot warmer.
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04/15, 7:07pm
Win a bem wireless Bluetooth speaker.
Through modern history, portable audio devices have gone through many evolutionary phases -- from boom boxes and Walkman cassette tape players to CD and MP3 players. Now listening to music on the go consists of carrying around a smartphone and headphones, or a Bluetooth speaker. However, some Bluetooth speakers are too large to easily fit in a bag with other items. The Bēm Wireless mobile speaker was designed to fit where others wouldn't, and MacNN has one to give away to our readers.
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04/12, 8:27am
Creative set to roll out T3150 Bluetooth speakers, due May
Creative has announced the T3150 Bluetooth speakers. The new speakers work over wired connections, but will pair with any Bluetooth-enabled device including smartphones, tablets and PCs over a range of up to 10 meters. Using a 2.1 arrangement, the speakers include two satellite speakers and a subwoofer.
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03/27, 9:04pm
Unit boasts detachable Bluetooth receiver, suction cup for any surface
Accessory manufacturer Digital Treasures has revealed the two-in-one Lyrix Duo Bluetooth speaker with removable receiver. The wireless receiver attaches to the Lyrix Duo speaker through a mini USB port, and the device pairs with a Bluetooth-enabled device for playback with up to 33 feet of working wireless range.
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03/26, 9:32pm
Innovative 'controller' motion, temperature, touch sensitive
European company Game Technologies today announced that it is officially launching its site for game designers wanting to develop products using its Bluetooth-enabled Dice+. The company is inviting game developers to create digital board games for tablets, and is making the developer's kit available for the iOS and Android platforms with a special-edition Dice+ unit with a clear housing.
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03/25, 7:39pm
Bluetooth device uses short range protocol to preserve battery life
Smartphone accessory and sensor maker Runware has launched the Runalyzer Blue chest strap for the iPhone. The Bluetooth-based Runalyzer Blue works with more than 100 applications such as 321Run, iSmoothrun, Endomodo, RunKeeper and Runtastic, amongst others. The device is optimized for walking, running, cycling, mountain biking, roller-skating, as well as alpine and Nordic skiing.
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03/19, 2:49pm
HiddenRadio now available in limited Red edition
HiddenRadio has launched a special Metallic Red edition of its minimalistic Bluetooth speaker. Originally funded as a Kickstarter project, the HiddenRadio Bluetooth Speaker integrates an amplifier, FM radio, and 360 degree sound projection into a single compact unit. The Metallic Red version will be limited to 500 units and is currently available for pre-order online. Units will beginning shipping in April and are sold for $150, the same price as the existing Metallic Silver, Graphite Black, and Pure White editions.
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03/15, 8:03pm
Win a Favi Entertainment Mini Bluetooth Keyboard
Since the era of the touchscreen began, there has been much debate about software keyboards vs. physical keyboards, and there are many instances where both can be very handy. For the times when a software keyboard just isn't enough, Favi Entertainment has created a mini Bluetooth keyboard that makes life a little bit easier. Electronista has one to give away, read on for more information about this Bluetooth keyboard by Favi Entertainment, and how you can enter to win.
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03/12, 6:36pm
Bric Connect pairs aux-in with Bluetooth 2.0 support
Audio system manufacturer Edifier has announced the availability of the iF335BT, Bric Connect. Edifier’s Bric Connect is aimed at the home, office or mobile use by providing Bluetooth capabilities as well as sound reproduction that the manufacturer claims is more commonly found in systems with a larger form factor.
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03/06, 10:20pm
42 key keypad with backlit keys highlight features of case
Mobile accessory manufacturer LinktextNuu has unveiled the MiniKey for iPhone 5, a slide-out Bluetooth keyboard case. The MiniKey for iPhone 5 is based on the previous iPhone 4 model, adopting similar features such as a backlit keyboard, 42-key keypad, slightly raised frame to protect the iPhone 5 screen from scratches, and function keys to facilitate text editing.
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02/25, 3:30pm
Armband uses minute electrical charge in muscle activity for detection
Startup Thalmic Labs has announced the launch of Myo, a new gesture control system. The device is housed in an armband worn on the forearm that senses electrical activity in the muscles, allowing users to interact with digital technologies using fingers and hands without relying on camera-based capture. The armband can connect wirelessly to computers, mobile devices, and other electronics over a Bluetooth 4.0 connection.
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02/22, 6:24am
Logitech delivers wireless backlit keyboard for Mac, iOS
The Logitech Bluetooth Easy-Switch Keyboard for the Mac and iOS users, first revealed late last year, is now shipping. From a distance, the Logitech keyboard looked as though it was the Bluetooth keyboard that Mac users have been looking for with the addition of keybaord backlighting. While the Apple Wireless Keyboard is popular choice for Mac users, it does not have backlighting like its MacBook lineup. Not one to miss an opportunity in the world of peripherals, Logitech has finally developed a keyboard that fits that bill.
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02/13, 9:28pm
Device relays information to and from the iPhone
Wahoo Fitness, an iPhone-powered fitness vendor for running and cycling enthusiasts, announced the RFLKT iPhone bike computer. Using Bluetooth Smart, Wahoo’s product allows cyclists to transmit cycling data from a carried iPhone 4S or iPhone 5 wirelessly to the handlebar-mounted RFLKT.
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02/12, 6:52pm
Streamer provides USB power outlet for mobile device charging
Consumer electronics and wireless solutions provider Bem Wireless has developed the 'outlet speaker,' a Bluetooth device that plugs directly into a wall-mounted electrical outlet with no cable or power brick. A pass-through USB port allows users to charge portable devices off of the speaker.
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02/08, 8:13pm
No proof that it exists, but Nano users may have given Apple ideas
The watch-like shape of the previous-generation iPod nano inspired a cottage wristband industry of its own, turning the music player -- which also had a clock-face app and a few limited other uses -- into a form of "smart watch" that caught the fancy of millions. With advancements since 2010 in connectivity, Bluetooth and miniaturization, Apple could -- according to former Apple Human Interface Group founder Bruce "Tog" Tognazzini -- create its own smartwatch that could do even more.
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01/17, 2:50pm
iOS app allows for weight recording, other data collection
Accessory manufacturer and designer Withings has announced the availability of its Internet-enabled baby and toddler scale, the Withings Smart Kid Scale. The Smart Kid Scale has built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, which allows for the instant transfer of data measured by the scale to be sent directly to the Withings Baby Companion application. The scale and app combo provides parents a simple and accurate way to monitor, understand and share a child’s growth using the Internet.
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01/10, 9:17pm
App free to purchasers of the hardware, allows for remote recording
The Ear Phone Connection, developer of two-way radio audio accessories, announced that its new Nighthawk Bluetooth Microphone Combo System will feature a universal recording app that will allow Apple and Android users to wirelessly record high-quality audio at distances to 120 feet with full remote control capabilities.
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01/08, 7:46pm
New models boost high end offering; adds waterproof model
Braven has taken the wraps off of three models of Bluetooth speaker. Newly joining the family, the 850 is similar to the brand’s Six Series device, but is four times larger -- allowing for deeper bass and bigger sound. The BRV-1 is suited for outdoor adventures with its compact, waterproof, shock-resistant design weighing in at less than 400 grams (0.88 lbs). The Braven 570 delivers the same quality audio as its predecessors with a stylish, impact-resistant exterior and a lower price point.
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01/04, 4:10pm
Charge intended for home use; OnBeat Rumble Lightning dock
Two new JBL products are expected to launch at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas next week. Both the JBL Charge portable Bluetooth streaming speaker and the Lightning-equipped docking station JBL OnBeat Rumble will be on display at the JBL booth at the expo, which begins Monday.
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01/04, 1:53pm
Divoom unveils Bluetune-solo
Divoom has unveiled a new Bluetooth speaker designed for portability. The Bluetune-solo can connect to any Bluetooth enabled device and features an X-Bass Sound system that is said to provide improved bass response for the small form factor. A built-in microphone is also included, allowing the device to be used as a speakerphone for hans=free class. The built-in battery provides 8 hours of usage, and an auxiliary-in port allows the speaker to work with devices that don't support Bluetooth. Bluetune-solo will be available in five color options later this month at a cost of $50.
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01/03, 11:00pm
Lightning docks, Bluetooth options, USB charge-n-play, more
Ahead of their public debut at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas next week, audio accessory maker iHome has pre-announced its full 2013 product suite of iOS and other device charging docks, nightstand accessories, mini-speakers, boom boxes and headphones. The big changes in the new products is the introduction of some accessories with Lightning port connectors for Apple's latest iOS products, as well as more Bluetooth options.
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01/02, 10:35pm
App, Fob, Tag combination helps prevent device loss
Accessory manufacturer Kensington has produced peripherals for computing aficionados for years. A new gadget by the company is the Kensington Proximo security system, which leverages the Bluetooth 4 technology found in Apple's latest crop of devices and promises that the fob-and-app combo will help prevent expensive mobile device loss. Electronista was given the opportunity to evaluate the new technology, and put it through its paces over the last week.
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12/29, 5:10am
Sony delivers style and substance with the MDR-1RBT
Sony has a long and distinguished history when it comes to making quality headphones to suit the majority of listeners. In recent years, however, their headphone business has shown signs of becoming commoditized, targeting mainstream users at the expense of audiophiles. Over the past twelve months, though, this has started to change for the better. Sony has come to the party, first with its new line of XBA balanced armature in-ear headphones, and now with its MDR-1R range of over-the-ear premium headphones. Read on in our full review of the Sony MDR-1RBT Bluetooth headphones.
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12/26, 5:54am
Mobile connectivity main focus of LG AV systems
LG has announced a number of AV systems the company will be demonstrating at CES, alongside the recently-revealed Hecto Laser TV Projector. Of the five audio products that will be shown, two will use Near Field Communication (NFC) to connect to mobile devices, while Bluetooth connectivity is also prevalent among the remainder.
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12/12, 5:09am
Logitech rolls out new Apple-friendly peripherals
Logitech has revealed two accessories for Apple users. The new Bluetooth Easy-Switch Keyboard is designed to work with Macs, iPads and iPhones, while the new Rechargeable Trackpad is designed specifically for Mac users. Users will recognise the similarities between the new Bluetooth keyboard and the K810 Bluetooth Illuminated Keyboard Logitech launched last month, although the new version for Apple includes Mac and iOS-specific hot keys.
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12/11, 10:29am
Litigation follows recent LTE suits against Apple, HTC, Sierra
Research In Motion is being sued for infringing a patent relating to Bluetooth. Wi-LAN, owner of US Patent 6,260,168, has filed the lawsuit in the US District Court for the Southern District of Florida against RIM, and is seeking unspecified damages as well as preliminary and permanent injunctions on the sale of infringing RIM products.
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12/04, 11:50pm
Bluetooth streaming speaker set fills a room with sound
Early attempts at streaming music to a speaker set from a portable device were a bit clumsy. It's ten years later now, and Bluetooth speakers dot the landscape, replacing the rudimentary first efforts to cut the audio cord. Peripheral manufacturer Logitech purchased Ultimate Ears, or UE, in 2008 with the express purpose of rolling out its own line of wired and wireless streaming devices. The Logitech UE Boombox is the fruit of that purchase. Where does this $249 device fit on the ever-expanding line of Bluetooth streaming devices aimed at the music enthusiast? We aim to find out.
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12/03, 8:45pm
New portable device adds aptX bluetooth streaming protocol
Soundmatters announced today its entry-level aptX Bluetooth equipped model, the foxLv2 aptX. Based on the foxLv2, the new version uses CSR aptX’s advanced streamed Bluetooth technology for wireless CD-quality music and improved sound/picture sync for movies and gaming available with aptX-equipped devices like the latest Samsung smartphones/tablets and Apple computers. The foxLv2 aptX entry level model joins Soundmatters’ high-end aptX-equipped foxLv2 Platinum, named 2012 Best of CES Finalist by the International Bluetooth Consortium.
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10/19, 2:31pm
iPad cases, flash drives and hard drives
Deals from DealNN this week include price cuts on iPad cases, flash drives, hard drives and more. The Dyconn Pad Folio iPad keyboard case is available today at Newegg.com for the reduced price of $34.99, which is $65 off the list price of $99.99 and about $30 less than the lowest price we have seen on this case anywhere else. The Dyconn Pad Folio iPad case features a wireless Bluetooth 2.0 keyboard with detachable sleeve. A one year warranty on parts and labor is included from Dyconn.
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10/15, 10:38am
Keyboard can pair, switch between three Bluetooth devices
Logitech has revealed a new wireless keyboard that can switch between devices on the fly. The K810 Bluetooth Illuminated Keyboard can pair with up to three Bluetooth-enabled systems at the same time, and has three function keys for choosing what PC, Mac, or handheld device will work with it.
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10/12, 2:38am
Case and app combo allow for ride tracking, full app usage
Sports technology company Velocomphas updated its iBike line of cycling accessories for the iPhone 5. Two new products have been announced -- the iBike Dash CC 5 cycling computer and iBike Phone Booth 5 bike case and mount. Both products are designed specifically for the new iPhone 5. The Dash CC 5 computer features Bluetooth 4.0 bike sensor technology to track speed and cycling cadence, while the Phone Booth 5 case allows secure mounting of an iPhone 5 on either handlebars or the bike stem.
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09/19, 11:08am
UK retail leaks price and imminent release date
Sightings of a Beats-branded Bluetooth wireless speaker have been reported at both the FCC and a UK retailer. The Beats by Dr. Dre Pill has passed through the FCC, with mention of its Bluetooth capabilities, while the online store for HMV put up a listing for the speaker, before quickly removing it from existence.
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09/04, 8:58pm
Revamp includes renovated Jonny Ive-designed Soundsticks
At Berlin's 2012 IFA show, audio giant Harman announced seven new products from JBL and Harman Kardon. Streamers JBL Flip, JBL Cinema Soundbar SB200, Harmon Kardon Soundsticks Wireless, JBL Micro Wireless, and JBL Cinema Soundbar SB 400 emphasize Bluetooth connectivity. The JBL Micro II and the Cinema Soundbar SB 100 round out the announcements.
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09/03, 8:22am
Nokia and Monster team up again for Purity Pro wireless headphones
Nokia has continued its partnership with Monster to deliver the new Purity Pro lineup of Bluetooth and NFC equipped headphones. The advantage of including NFC means that users can quickly pair the device over Bluetooth with a simple one-touch connection. The choice of colors also happens to align with the yet-to-be-formally-announced Nokia Lumia 820 Windows 8 smartphone.
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08/31, 10:20am
Deals on iPads, iPhone accessories, and more
Today's deals from DealNN include price breaks on iPads, iPhone accessories, and more. Apple.com is now offering a limited time discount on the refurbished, first-generation 16GB iPad with Wi-Fi and 3G, which includes a 9.7-inch widescreen multi-touch display, Bluetooth 2.1 technology, TV/Video support, and a rechargeable battery that lasts up to 10 hours. Currently featured at DealNN, the iPad has now dropped $170 in price and can be purchased for only $359.
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08/23, 8:54am
JBL adds Jembe Wireless Bluetooth speakers to lineup
JBL has added a Bluetooth-ready version of its Jembe desktop speakers to its lineup. Although removing the need for a wire from the paired Bluetooth device, the new Jembe Wireless still requires a wired power supply that also powers an on-board power amplifier. To help ensure the best possible audio quality, the speakers incorporate Harman's TrueStream tech that ensures the speakers run the latest and most optimized software.
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08/22, 10:30pm
Boutique speakers provide 'enhanced' bass response, wirelessly
Los Angeles-based audio purveyor Audyssey has unveiled the Audyssey Wireless Speakers, the company's second foray into Bluetooth stereo audio. The seven-pound speaker set is capable of 106 dB SPL peak at one meter.
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08/08, 7:00pm
Portable device plays eight hours on one battery charge
Gadget-maker Scosche Industries has announced the availability of the BoomStream Bluetooth 2.1 wireless media speaker. A built-in microphone can be used for speakerphone capability with either Android or iOS devices.
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08/01, 12:01pm
8-pin connector claim would conflict with recent reports
Apple's new, smaller dock connector format may actually use 8 pins instead of 19, two iLounge sources claim. One of the people adds that the new format could have some other features, such as possibly connecting to docks and cables in either orientation, much like MagSafe connectors. The 8-pin claim would conflict, though, with most reports about the new format, which have held to Apple using at least 16 pins and more often 19.
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08/01, 11:37am
Win one of two pairs of Phiaton PS 20 earphones.
Attention audiophiles, Electronista currently has two different sets of high quality earphones from Phiaton to give away. Their tag line is "The ultimate listening experience", so to put that to the test we have a pair of Bluetooth equipped Phiaton PS 20 BT earphones and a pair of PS 20 NC earphones to give to two lucky winners who can decide if it is true for themselves. Read on to find out how you can win.
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07/31, 7:00pm
Handles Bluetooth 4.0, FM radio, more on 40nm chip
Broadcom over the weekend introduced its latest consolidated multi-wireless chips, a combination of Bluetooth 4.0 and the forthcoming 802.11ac, which offers more than twice the speed of existing 802.11n technology and yet is up to six times more power-efficient handling the same amount of data. The new chips can also handle FM and conventional 802.11 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands, and are expected to debut in early 2013 for use in smartphones and tablets.
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07/31, 5:48pm
Stylus works with iOS and Android
Adonit has begun shipping its Jot Touch, a stylus that is said to work with any touchscreen device. A dampening tip integrates a transparent disc with enough contact area to register touch input on capacitive screens, while enabling users to see where the mark will be made. When paired with a second- or third-generation iPad via Bluetooth, the stylus provides advanced features such as pressure sensitivity and shortcut buttons.
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07/11, 7:47am
Monster follows up Model One with ClarityHD Micro
Monster has revealed the latest model in its ClarityHD line. Joining the Model One is the new ClarityHD Micro Bluetooth speaker. The model is aimed at the higher-end of the segment and offers full support for AAC and apt-X encoding. In addition to streaming audio, the device will also double as a speakerphone allowing users to make and receive calls using its built-in microphone.
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07/06, 4:53pm
Win one of nine great prizes
This summer has been nothing short of sizzling, but it's about to get even hotter, because Electronista is giving away a mountain of prizes from Verbatim. We have three Easy Riser Wireless Notebook laser mice, three Ultra-Slim Bluetooth Keyboards, and three Mini Wireless Slim Keyboard and Mouse sets to give away. Plus three lucky winners will also receive a Verbatim 4GB USB flash drive.
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07/06, 2:39pm
Bluetooth Special Interest Group reveals more on Sony handset
A rumored "premium product line" Sony smartphone has surfaced in a Bluetooth Special Interest Group posting. A phone with the model number LT30p will have a 13-megapixel rear-facing camera, capable of recording at 1080p, joined by a front-facing camera supporting 720p. 13MP is well beyond the rear cameras on most phones; likewise, 720p is a higher resolution than most front cameras allow.
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06/15, 8:03am
Braven unveils multi-talented Bluetooth speaker line up
Braven has taken the wraps offits new SIX Series Bluetooth speaker range. Designed for smartphone users, the range comprises the Braven 650, 625S and the 600. In addition to being to be daisy-chained to create a larger sound stage, the speakers can also double as a mobile charger over a built-in USB port as the video embedded below demonstrates.
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06/06, 4:57pm
Gamepads geared for Tegra-powered devices
Most of the gear at E3 has focused on traditional game consoles, however Nyko brought along its PlayPad gamepads for Android tablets. Electronista stopped by the company's booth to try out the Bluetooth-connected PlayPad and its larger sibling, the PlayPad Pro.
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