Exertis Future Gaming

The Best Hardware and Software of E3 2017

We look at the wider uses for VR to enhance people’s lives

SUMMER issue 9.

HOW VR IS CHANGING THE WORLD

GAMING AND ENTERTAINMENT

THE BEST OF E3 2017

FUTURE

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Copyright ©Exertis (UK) Ltd 2017

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OUTDOOR ACCESSORIES FOR THE SUMMER

HOW TO: CREATE GREAT CONTENT SROUND YOUR BUSINESS

PROFESSIONAL DRONE RACING COMES TO THE UK

CONTENTS 29 GAMESAID GOLF & SPA DAY 2017 ROUND-UP

05 EXERTIS COMMENT Alex Croft introduces the Summer edition of Future Gaming

Celebrating 10 years of fun and raising money for good causes

06 MARKET STATS UPDATE We look at the current technology trends you should be aware of

31 WIRELESS SECURITY How customers can protect themselves from the dangers of public WiFi

16 HOW VR IS CHANGING THE WORLD

A look at the wider uses for VR that are improving people’s lives

20 OUTDOOR ACCESSORIES FOR THE SUMMER 07 RETAIL TRENDS

We look at the most notable trends in the retail space at the moment

08 NEWS IN BRIEF

A quick look at what’s happening in the technology market

12 THE BEST OF E3 2017 We roundup the highlights from the biggest consumer electronics show of the year

TV deals and mainstream streaming are set to bolster eSports audiences

22 HOT PICKS A range of best-selling products designed to make you more margin

27 HOW TO: GENERATE LEADS FOR YOUR BUSINESS Simple ways to build your independent brand online and instore

33 PROFESSIONAL DRONE RACING COMES TO THE UK The next big thing in sports entertainment comes to London.

34 TOP 10 ATTACH

See our top 10 recommended range of attach products here from Exertis

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ROG STRIX GL702ZC IS THE WORLD'S FIRST GAMING LAPTOP FEATURING THE AMD RYZENâ„¢ 7 PROCESSOR. COMBINING THE SHEER POWER OF AMD'S REVOLUTIONARY RYZEN PLATFORM WITH ROG'S GAMING DESIGN LEGACY, ROG STRIX GL702ZC IS DESIGNED TO DELIVER AMAZING PERFORMANCE TO SATISFY THE NEEDS OF HARD-CORE GAMERS AND USERS WITH DEMANDING, MULTIMEDIA-HEAVY WORKLOADS.

TALK TO YOUR ACCOUNT MANAGER TODAY

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Publisher Exertis Editor Nerissa Tong Design Sophie Hammond

Basingstoke Sales: 01256 707 070 Address: Ashwood Chineham Business Park Chineham Basingstoke Hampshire RG24 8EH

WELCOME FROM EXERTIS

To place an order please call 01256 707 070 between 9am – 6pm Monday to Friday

As usual our team has been hard at work rounding up all the stories and products that you need to know about as the summer season approaches. Of course, there’s no better way to start than with the largest consumer electronics show in the world – E3. We bring you the highlights, which this year saw Microsoft formally unveil the Xbox One X, Nintendo & Ubisoft release a brand-new collaboration, plus the announcements of many exciting AAA titles that will be in huge demand in the run-up to Christmas.

To buy online visit store.exertis.co.uk

With people soon heading off for their holidays, we’ve put together a guide to the best outdoor accessories that should be finding their way into suitcases. There are also some helpful tips on how customers can protect themselves while on public WiFi as they travel, thus avoiding returning home to find their bank accounts emptied by hackers.

businesses can create great promotional content, plus a report on the fund-raising efforts of the annual GamesAid Golf & Spa day.

Interest in VR continues to grow, so we investigate how the technology is spreading out into other areas of society and how this will be beneficial for retail. We cover the professional drone racing league that’s being snapped up by ESPN and SKY, show how independent

Enjoy the sunshine,

Add to all this the latest news from around the industry, and you’ve everything you need to be prepared for the busy months ahead.

Harlow Reception: 01279 822 822 Address: St George House Parkway Harlow Business Park Harlow Essex CM19 5QF To place an order please call 01279 822 822 between 9am – 5.30pm Monday to Friday

Alex Croft Commercial Director

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CONSUMER TRENDS DRIVING DEMANDS

AR/VR HEADSETS ARE

FORECAST TO REACH

2SHIPMENTS MILLION BY 2021

(Gartner)

THE GLOBAL VR CONTENT CREATION MARKET IS ESTIMATED TO REACH $41.01BN BY 2023

(FutureSouce Consulting)

MOBILE GAMING SALES

DRIVE GLOBAL MARKET PAST $100 BILLION

(FutureSouce Consulting)

UP FROM $147.5 MILLION IN 2015 (Ukie)

BY 2019

CONTACTLESS RETAIL PAYMENTS TO EXCEED

$1 TRILLION IN TRANSACTION VALUE (Juniper Research)

Harlow: 01279 822 822 | Basingstoke: 01256 707 070 | store.exertis.co.uk

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WHAT’S IN-STORE FOR

RETAIL CHALLENGES FOR RETAILERS

Predicting the future is never easy. But the continued trend towards e-commerce sales seems to be a safe bet. Unquestionably, there has been a move to “clicks” in the way that consumers buy their products.

Sales across these channels have been eating into the traditional bricks and mortar for the last few years. Indeed, while store sales are suffering, on-line grew at an amazing 15% last year according to ONS. They now account for 18% of total sales compared to just 2.8% a decade ago. The UK seems to lead the way in this changing habit and analysts expect e-commerce sales to be almost 21% by 2021. It’s a relentless growth that is seeing those that can offer a more omnichannel approach seemingly in the best position and those that rely just on footfall to be seriously at risk.

A recent report from Credit Suisse predicted over 8,600 stores are estimated to close in the US in 2017. Whilst, there is over capacity there, it’s a worrying trend.

ROPO? Of course, consumers are becoming more used to purchasing on-line and so the old ROPO adage of research online and purchase offline doesn’t necessarily prevail. Naturally, much depends on the type of purchase. If you don’t need to touch, feel or experience the product, it’s far more convenient for it to arrive next day or possibly same day if you want to click and collect, rather than have to go to a store.

Certain retailers face the dilemma of having to invest in e-commerce and logistics or engage with a third party, such as a distributor, that can fulfil both those needs at a time when sales are struggling and /or create an in-store experience that makes it irresistible for the consumer not to visit. However, there are possibly even greater challenges ahead for retail that make predictions even more difficult.

Firstly, Brexit has resulted in currency fluctuations that are either going to be passed on to the customer, making goods more expensive, or absorbed by the retailer thereby reducing their profitably. Since the EU referendum, the pound has fallen around 15% against the dollar and 10% against the euro. Not a great picture if you are sourcing product from Asia and paying for it in dollars. Retail experts believe that Forex could account for a £3bn profitability loss for the sector. Secondly, the rises in business rates are going to impact the retail sector with London and areas like Reading and Milton Keynes worst affected. Business rates are calculated on property value and according to government estimates some 510,000 businesses will see an increase, 420,000 will pay the same and 920,000 will pay less. Reading and Milton Keynes face a 70% and 60% increase respectively yet 30% of businesses turnover less than £50k a year.

According to reports in the Daily Telegraph, the retail sector alone is forecast to face a £2.3bn increase in rates. Certainly, the business rates place an unfair burden on the retailer compared to an on-line business but this isn’t likely to be addressed until the next rates bill in 2022. Thirdly, whilst the increase in living wage should be applauded, the retail sector employs around 3m people in shops and warehouses. This will either hit profitability or reduce the numbers employed. According to experts at Deloitte, the National Living Wage is equivalent to a 2% to 4% increase in the total wage bill for the retail sector. Lastly, credit card borrowing has hit a peak. Analysts believe that the average household debt in the UK could amount to almost £14,000 per household. The likely outcome is that consumers will focus on the essentials rather than the luxury items and this will have an effect on certian retail categories.

Faced with this uncertainty, retailers will still need to look at ways of enhancing the store experience for the consumer with some of the new technology that is available such as personalised promotions based on data analytics or use of virtual and augmented reality. Online, the importance of ensuring a good web experience irrespective of the device is also critical. Certainly, an omnichannel approach seems to be the way forward with even on-line giants like Amazon looking at pop-up stores in an effort to ensure they reach customers by a variety of access routes.

Sources & acknowledgements: Retail Gazette, Daily Telegraph, Deloitte

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NEWS IN BRIEF

GAMING AND ENTERTAINMENT

LARGE YEAR - ON YEAR GROWTH FOR VR DEVICES IN EUROPE

According to market analysts GfK, sales of VR products across Europe saw a sharp rise during Q1 2017, increasing by 236% when compared to the same period in 2016. This continued growth means that VR remains one of the most promising emerging tech categories, bringing in around £88m in the first three months of the year.

50% of the total revenue was generated by premium VR headsets intended to work with PCs and consoles – such as the Oculus Rift, HTC Vive, and PlayStation BR – but these devices still only account for 20% of the overall products sold.

PROJECT SCORPIO BECOMES THE XBOX ONE X At the recent E3 show in Los Angeles, Microsoft finally unveiled the next iteration of its Xbox range of consoles. Previously known under the working title of Project Scorpio, the new Xbox One X is according to its creators - ‘the world’s most powerful console’.

Many of the technical specifications were already confirmed, as Microsoft released the information earlier this year, but the three missing blanks – its name, release date, and price - were all made clear in the presentation. The Xbox One X will cost £449.99 when it arrives in the UK on the 7th November 2017, placing it squarely between the Xbox One S and higher end gaming PCs. To complement the console’s 4K graphical capabilities, Microsoft also announced a range of games that will be the first in the new ‘Enhanced for Xbox One X’ line-up. These included Forza Motorsport 7, Assassin’s Creed: Origins, Crackdown 3, FIFA 18, Star Wars Battlefront 2, and many others.

The Xbox One X will also be able to upscale standard 1080p graphics to make them look even better on new 4K TV displays.

Pre-orders will be available from Exertis towards the end of the year.

The vast majority of sales are focussed on the cheaper VR headsets, like the Samsung Gear VR and Google Cardboard that use smartphones to create virtual environments. This could increase towards the end of 2017 as Google’s new Daydream platform is being adopted by a number of manufacturers keen to establish themselves in the VR marketplace. With Daydream now compatible with an increasing number of handsets, this could see a surge in interest as Christmas approaches, with VR being high on the wish list of many younger people.

To find out Exertis’s full VR line-up please speak to your Exertis account manager today.

EXERTIS ADDS EXPERIENCE TO ITS GAMING TEAM Exertis has announced a new appointment to its Consumer division, with Matt Finn joining the team as an Account Director. Finn brings with him considerable experience, having spent twelve years with Amazon where he rose to the position of Senior Vendor Manager for software and games.

His new role at Exertis will see him responsible for the management of key accounts focussed on gaming, reporting to Exertis Sales and Commercial Director Alex Croft.

‘I am delighted to add Matt to our successful gaming team, where his experience will further strengthen our relationships with our major customers’ said Croft. ‘We have the best gaming proposition in the industry, whether that’s for console or PC gamers, with a great range of vendors and exciting opportunities for increased sales in both hardware, accessories and software titles as VR fuels the market. Matt will be instrumental in ensuring that we capitalise on this and other opportunities with our key accounts.’

As he takes up his new position, Finn will no doubt be encouraged by the latest statistics released by Ukie, which show that the UK video game market grew by 1.2% last year, making it worth a total of £4.3bn.

Harlow: 01279 822 822 | Basingstoke: 01256 707 070 | store.exertis.co.uk

ARK: SURVIVAL EVOLVED EXCLUSIVELY IN STOCK AT EXERTIS The hugely anticipated Ark: Survival Evolved is now available to pre-order from Exertis with exclusive distribution.

‘During the past two years,’ said Jeremy Stieglitz, Co-Founder and Co-Creative Director of Studio Wildcard, ‘millions of ARK players have built gigantic bases, captured and trained armies of dinosaurs, crafted armouries full of weapons and eaten billions of pounds of Jurassic creature-kabobs. With their help, we’re about to reach the completion of core re d content for ARK: Survival Evolved and release the full game to the world! Thiss is just the beginning of the next phase off our journey’.

With such an established and passionate user base, interest is going to be very high for the title when it arrives on the Xbox One, Playstation 4, and PC. ‘Ark: Survival Evolved builds on our objective of providing the best-selling titles for our retailers’ said Gareth Phillips ps – Exertis’ Head of Commercial. ‘We expect the final version to create a huge consumer demand, which will be great for our customers.’

Pre-orders are available now so please speak to your Exertis account manager today.

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NEW MINECRAFT 4K GRAPHICS

Minecraft has sold over 121m copies across all platforms since its release in 2011, making its blocky, low-res graphics a regular fixture on PCs and consoles around the world. Now, a newly updated version of the game is set to debut on the Xbox and PC platforms, featuring 4K resolutions - albeit while retaining the classic Minecraft style.

In Autumn Microsoft will release the Super Duper Graphics Pack which will add enhanced lighting effects, liquid textures to water, and transform pixelated blobs of grass into individual blades. The DLC will work with the Minecraft for Xbox One version of the game, alongside Windows 10 editions.

This will also be joined by the Better Together Update that will bring console, mobile, and PC versions onto one edition, thus enabling cross-platform compatibility for gamers. It’s sure to be a huge move forward for the franchise, garnering much interest from both consumers and media alike.

The 4K initiative follows other announcements for Ultra-HD titles that are due to appear when the Xbox One X launches in November.

These include the new Assassin’s Creed: Origins game, as well as Forza Motorsport 7 which will be available on October 3rd.

VR RACING COMES TO THE PS4

EXERTIS EXTENDS DISTRIBUTION RELATIONSHIP WITH KINGSTON Kingston Technology and Exertis have announced an expansion of their distribution relationship, which will now include SSD, Flash, and DRAM products. This follows on from a successful partnership forged since the outset of 2017, where Exertis has been responsible for distributing Kingston’s HyperX range of gaming accessories.

‘We are very pleased to be expanding our partnership with Kingston Technology to now include all Kingston and HyperX branded products’ stated Stuart Hatch, Components General Manager for Exertis. ‘The HyperX peripheral range has already been very well-received by our customers since the initial distribution deal at the turn of the year.’

These sentiments were echoed by Anne Keefe, Regional Director of UK & Ireland for Kingston and HyperX. ‘Exertis is one of Europe’s fastest growing technology distribution and specialist service providers,’ said Keefe, ‘and is an ideal addition to our list of distribution partners. With their dedicated components team, they are well placed to supply a wide variety of customers and we are very excited to be providing Exertis with our full range. As one of the leading components and PC gaming distributors, they are ideally positioned to drive growth in both the B2C and B2B markets as we expand our range throughout 2017.’

For more information on the latest Kingston products please speak to your Exertis account manager today.

Radial-G: Racing Evolved is a new racing game for the PS4 that’s been specifically designed to work with VR. Players hurtle down futuristic, ultra-colourful tracks, which allow full 360-degree rotation for the ultimate virtual racing experience.

The game was developed by Tammeka Games and originally launched on early access for the Oculus Rift back in 2016, but now the title has received a full release for the PS4 with full support for PlayStation VR. Radial G: Racing Evolved has already proven itself very popular with PC users on Steam, boasting a rating of ‘Very Positive’. The option for single or multiplayer races has helped drive the popularity of the game, and this is sure to transfer to the PS4 where titles in this genre are in short supply. Now gamers on the PlayStation Plus network can face off in frenetic, neon-lit sprints for the line, with the addition of weapons making every VR race a real battle. For more information on Radial-G please speak to your Exertis account manager today.

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THE BEST OF

E3 2017 E3, the largest consumer electronics show in the world, opened its doors once more this June, and media outlets from all corners of the globe descended on the Los Angeles Convention Centre to see what products and games will be taking centre stage in the year ahead. Announcements were made, devices revealed, and The Future was there to report all the must-have lines for 2017 and beyond.

The Xbox One X is due to be released in the UK on November 7th 2017, and will retail at £449.99. A number of 4K optimised titles are expected to be released at the same time. These will be part of the new ‘Xbox One X Enhanced’ games range.

FORZA 7 DRIVES THE FANS WILD Forza Motorsport 7 stole the show at E3, thanks to its exquisite Ultra-HD graphics and smooth as silk gameplay. The game was built from the ground up with 4K gaming in mind, and it shows. Players can choose from more than 700 different cars, including the largest ever collection of Ferraris, Lamborghinis, and Porsches.

MICROSOFT UNVEILS THE XBOX ONE X There’s no doubting the star of this year’s show was Microsoft’s Xbox One X. Throughout its development the console was mysteriously known as Project Scorpio. Phil Spencer took to the stage and the world was introduced to the Xbox One X. At the heart of the new machine is a 2.3GHz custom AMD 8-core CPU, 12GB of GDDR5 graphical memory, 8GB of Flash memory, and a 1TB HDD. All of which, makes the device ‘40% more powerful than any other console’.

This much power will generate some serious heat, but the Xbox One X handles this thanks to an innovative vapour chamber heat sink and custom fan. These ensure that the console runs cool even when the action on screen starts to get fiery.

This impressive new generation is set to usher in the next age of 4K 60fps gaming, giving a boost to sales of televisions that can display the new ‘Xbox One X Enhanced’ titles in all their glory. The Xbox One X would feature ‘super-sampling’ to make standard 1080p graphics look even more detailed and spectacular.

Existing Xbox One owners now have a smooth upgrade path, which is good news for retail this Christmas. All current Xbox One games and accessories play on Xbox One X, as well as the Xbox 360 backwards compatibility program.

For the first time ever, Forza 7 is the first video game to launch a new production car. The new Porsche 911 GT2 RS, on sale in 2018 cements Forza’s 6 year multi-project partnership with Porsche, which first began in Season 3 of the Forza Racing Championship.

Expect high levels of demand for this Xbox exclusive when it hits the shelves on October 3rd 2017.

CRACKDOWN 3 DROPS THIS NOVEMBER Another big Microsoft announcement was the impending release of Crackdown 3, the long awaited third instalment of its crime fighting shooter. This time around players will be able to battle gangs in New Providence’s open world, armed with powerful weapons, and new skills that include the ability to throw trucks at their enemies.

Four player squads can fight online against the criminal empires, and there’s also a 10-player mode which features a fully destructible environment for classic Crackdown mayhem. The title will be available for all Xbox platforms, and is set for a November 7th release to coincide with the Xbox One X.

Harlow: 01279 822 822 | Basingstoke: 01256 707 070 | store.exertis.co.uk

ARK SURVIVAL EVOLVED Ark Survival Evolved is set on the shores of a mysterious island called Ark where players must hunt, harvest resources, craft items, grow crops and build shelters to withstand the elements. Gamers who start stranded naked, freezing and starving need to use their skill and the resources to kill or tame the dinosaurs and other creatures roaming the land either alone or by teaming up with other players who may be friend or foe in order to survive and finally escape.

ASSASSIN’S CREED ORIGINS MARKS A RETURN TO THE FRANCHISE’S ROOTS The Assassin’s Creed franchise has sold over 100m copies, so it was quite a surprise when Ubisoft announced in 2016 that the historical adventures of Ezio and co were to be put on hold for a year. It looks like time well spent though, as the new Assassin’s Creed: Origins revealed at E3 feels fresh and takes the story to ancient Egypt rather than Renaissance Europe.

Players have the new abilities to see through the eyes of birds to scout areas, and even control the flight of arrows once they’ve been fired. Assassin’s Creed is definitely back, and the game is due to arrive on October 27th for Xbox One, PC, and PS4.

STALWART SEQUELS No E3 would be complete without the annual update of key franchises. FIFA 18 is destined to be one of the biggest sellers this year, as it is every year, although Call of Duty WW2 will no doubt be a hefty challenger for the crown.

Destiny 2 will arrive in September on Xbox One and PS4, Middle Earth Shadow of War should continue the success started by 2014’s Shadow of Mordor, and Far Cry 5 looked excellent, and will give gamers something to look forward to when it debuts in Feb 2018.

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BIOWARE HAS A NEW ANTHEM Mass Effect & Dragon Age have been huge sellers for Bioware, but this year marks the introduction of a brand-new IP, with teambased shooter Anthem. The action takes place on a futuristic world where 4-player squads battle it out with the creatures they encounter.

Any Bioware release is big news for retail, but the multiplayer aspect of Anthem could take things to a whole new level.

UBISOFT AND NINTENDO GET MARIO’D Perhaps the biggest surprise of the whole show came when Ubisoft and Nintendo announced that they’d partnered on a new AAA title for the Switch console. Mario + Rabbids Kingdom Battle is a puzzle and exploration game featuring tactical and collecting elements. It includes many favourite characters from the Mario Universe, in a colourful, charming, funny adventure that has the potential to be a system seller for Nintendo’s newest console.

There were also further details of the upcoming Super Mario Odyssey, which had reviewers heaping praise on the highly anticipated title after playing through the initial levels. All Mario titles draw huge interest from gamers, but with two set to appear before Christmas 2017 - not to mention the announcement of DLC for Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild - the Nintendo Switch could well become the hottest property in-stores as the year ends.

To find out more about stocking these key lines in the run up to Black Friday and the Christmas period, talk to your Exertis account manager.

It’s going to be a big year, so getting orders in early looks to be a very good idea.

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HOW VR IS CHANGING THE WORLD Virtual reality became one of the breakout consumer technologies of 2016, with the release of headsets such as the Oculus Rift, HTC Vive, Samsung Gear VR, and PlayStation VR. Since then players have been exploring distant planets, battling alien hordes, and losing themselves in the immersive environments that VR provides like no other form of entertainment.

But these brave new frontiers are no longer the sole preserve of games, as the possibilities of virtual reality are being realised by a number of other industries. We take a look at how VR is spreading its wings, and why this could be a good thing for us all.

VR IN EDUCATION

Space Station. Students each wear their own headset, and can share the experience, and their observations, in real-time with classmates.

These trips, that would have been prohibitively costly for schools and parents, could soon become commonplace up and down the country.

Using a simple visor like the inexpensive Google Cardboard, and powered by mobile phones that many students already own, the VR solutions are easy to use and can also be duplicated at home for extended learning. Obviously, this is good news for retail as it creates opportunities to sell VR-related technology as part of back-to-school promotions, as well as throughout the year.

In the USA, it’s estimated that the number of children in primary and secondary education with access to VR in schools is around 2.1m, but this number is set to rise sharply to 82.7m by 2021. If the UK follows suit then expect VR to become an established part of consumer technology, and everyday life, very quickly indeed.

The basic format of education found in classrooms hasn’t changed all that much in the last 100 years.

A teacher stands at the front and explains the ideas to children, all of whom are sitting in rows or around desks. But that could soon change, as VR brings lessons to life with animated, interactive, demonstrations that transport students to settings of ancient history or to the limits of current technology.

VR IN HEALTHCARE

Samsung, Google, Microsoft, and Oculus have all seen the potential for educational advancement offered by VR, which explains the various investments and developments for schools that these companies are currently involved in. Google has produced its ‘Expeditions’ platform, which allows teachers to take classes on ‘immersive virtual journeys’ through places such as coral reefs, Antarctica, and the International

It seems that when exposed to idyllic locations around the world, ones they can interact with, suffers are afforded a break from their conditions. The reason for this respite is simple – distraction. ‘When [your mind] is immersed in this peaceful, positive environment,’ explains Dr Brennan M. Spiegel in a recent interview with Bloomberg ‘it’s almost like the rest of your experiences are unable to be noticed.’

One of the most beneficial uses of VR in the world today might come as a surprise. It doesn’t involve the entertainment industries, or high-level gaming, but instead employs VR to help alleviate pain and distress for patients with dementia, mental health problems, and chronic pain.

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Dr Spiegel has been part of medical trials in the USA where patients in hospitals such as Cedars Sinai in LA are given VR sessions to see if they can alleviate their chronic pain. They don a headset, then spend time in places like Iceland, where 360-degree video footage allows them to explore their new surroundings.

hours after,’ wrote a patient’s mother to ImmersiCare, ‘we could not believe the changes in her physical being. Her respiratory rate was halved and she was still, even when asleep. She usually jumps and moves a lot in her sleep. No peace for her poor body…Thank you so much.’

The findings so far have been very encouraging, with patients reporting a lessening of their discomfort while using the headsets.

This has led to hopes that VR could be used as a substitute, or at least a supplement, to drugs when it comes to pain management. The best part is that this could be quite cost effective for both hospitals and patients, as the equipment needed boils down to not much more than a Samsung Gear VR headset and a compatible Samsung smartphone.

CUSTOMER AWARENESS

Similar methods are being used in the UK, where dementia sufferers are finding solace in VR. ImmersiCare is a service that gives the elderly a chance to visit a virtual beach, forest, or a number of other places that their conditions or frailty would make impossible. It has proven to have a tremendous effect on the mental state of those involved, lifting the torment of depression and anxiety that often accompany dementia itself.

It’s estimated that there are 850,000 people afflicted by the condition in the UK, and as there is currently no cure the benefits that ImmersiCare offers could be without measure when it comes to quality of life for victims and their families.

ImmersiCare has also been used to help those with severe physical disabilities experience the simple pleasure of running down a beach and swimming with dolphins. It might sound like a pleasant jaunt, but the impact can be profound, ‘During the experience and for 24

With VR now offering so many benefits to consumers, wise retailers will work hard to highlight these possibilities in-store. From adventuring in AAA games, to being ringside at a Las Vegas prize fight, opening children’s minds to the world around them, or helping those with illnesses deal with their situations, it looks like VR could become not only an entertaining part of the future, but a hugely significant one.

Exertis has a VR team ready to answer your questions, so be sure to contact your account manager to see how you can position VR products effectively in your business.

New 7th Gen Intel® Core™ i7 processors deliver everything you need for a revolutionary gaming experience. Whether you want to boost performance, experience the latest in overclocking, or upgrade with room to add on later, you won’t be disappointed.

POWERFUL Built for those who want to experience gaming, VR and 4K content as intended, Intel® Core™ i7 processors ­Þ£° ²¦£ ª ²£±² ²£¡¦¬­ª­¥§£± ²­ ¢£ª§´£° ·­³° ¬£¶² gamer-grade upgrade.

CUSTOMISABLE ­´£ ²­ «­°£ ¡³±²­«§± ª£ ±£²³® µ§²¦ ³¬ª­¡©£¢ Intel® Core™ § ®°­¡£±±­°± ¬¢ ¥ §¬ ³® ²­ / £²²£° ®£°¤­°« ¬¡£ ´£°±³± [·£ °[­ª¢ ¢£±©²­® ± °£±³ª² ¦ ¬©± ²­ ¬£µ £¶® ¬¢£¢ ­´£°¡ª­¡©§¬¥ «­¢§ß£°± ·­³ ¡ ¬ ¢§ ª ³® ·­³° ¡ª­¡© ±®££¢ µ§²¦ unprecedented precision and control.

EXTREME It’s hard to compete with an Intel® Core™ i7 processor Extreme Edition in terms of raw power, speed and £¶® ¬¢ §ª§²· §²¦ ³® ²­ ¢£¢§¡ ²£¢ ¡­°£± ²¦°£ ¢± ¬¢ ®ª£¬²· ­¤ ¦£ ¢°­­« ¤­° ®£°§®¦£° ª± ²¦£ Intel® Core™ i7 processor Extreme Edition is an elite ¢¢§²§­¬ ²­ ·­³° °±£¬ ª

½ ¬²£ª ­°®­° ²§­¬ ªª °§¥¦²± °£±£°´£¢ ¬²£ª ²¦£ ¬²£ª ª­¥­ ¬²£ª ­°£ ¬²£ª ¶®£°§£¬¡£ ¦ ²Ì± ¬±§¢£ ¬¢ ²¦£ ¬²£ª ¶®£°§£¬¡£ ¦ ²Ì± ¬±§¢£ ª­¥­ °£ ²° ¢£« °©± ­¤ ¬²£ª ­°®­° ²§­¬ §¬ ²¦£ U.S. and/or other countries.

THE

20

FUTURE

GAMING AND ENTERTAINMENT

ESSENTIAL OUTDOOR ACCESSORIES FOR

THE SUMMER The UK has already seen the hottest day in June for over forty years, and summer has only just begun.

So, as customers now prepare for their two weeks of escape to the beach, the open road, or other adventures, we’ve put together a guide to the musthave accessories this season.

SOUNDS OF THE SUMMER With people heading to BBQs or beaches to revel in the heat, they’ll want to accompany the fine weather with some equally good tunes.

Thanks to the excellent choice of wireless/Bluetooth speakers now available, this is easy to achieve.

For those planning a pool party, or anything where copious volumes of liquid will be involved, the Braven Balance should be top of the list. This rugged Bluetooth speaker is wrapped in a waterproof casing that’s IPX7 certified, so it can survive an accidental dip and keep on playing.

The built-in microphone and speakerphone means that users won’t have to reach for their phones if they get a call, and the 18-hour playtime guarantees that the Braven will still be kicking out the sounds when the party really gets going.

Another easy to recommend option is the Wenu Multi-play M8 Bluetooth speaker, which boasts a splash-proof casing that can withstand the oils of suntan lotion – an essential feature in the sweltering days ahead.

Not only does the M8 deliver 32watts of Hi-Fi quality music from its diminutive frame, plus 8 hours of charge time, but it can also be paired with up to seven other Bluetooth speakers to create a multiroom system. Just press the Sync button and you’re good to go.

The M8 isn’t the only device that plays well with others. The Clint Freya Bluetooth is a modern, cylindrical speaker that offers eight hours of playback and can be paired with a second unit to create a wide stereo landscape. Perfect for balmy evenings in the garden.

Those who prefer vintage styling will no doubt immediately be drawn to the Marshall Kilburn portable Bluetooth speaker. This classic design emulates the legendary amplifiers that have graced every stage in the world, and continues the fine Marshall tradition of tones that roar.

Harlow: 01279 822 822 | Basingstoke: 01256 707 070 | store.exertis.co.uk

IN-EAR ENTERTAINMENT For a more private approach to music there’s a great selection of headphones currently available.

The i.am+ Buttons are Bluetooth earphones with a modern styling.

Two magnetic discs keep the Buttons secure around the neck when not in use, plus Siri integration makes these a hands-free option for iPhone users.

THE

To buy online: store.exertis.co.uk

FUTURE

designed backpack for the BeBop 2, FPV googles that use the pilot’s smartphone to display what the drone can see, and the Skycontroller 2 controller. All of which create a truly immersive flying experience.

For even higher resolution recording there’s the Yunees Typhoon H Hexacopter, which takes technology from professional grade drones and brings it to the premium consumer market.

Six rotors keep the unit in the air, where it can use its hugely impressive CGO3+ gimbal camera, that rotates through 360-degrees, to record 4K video. If anyone is planning a bit of filmmaking during the summer, this is an essential bit of equipment.

Wireless headphones prevent any unwanted entanglements when travelling, and the UrbanEars Plattan ADV fit the bill very nicely. A built-in touch interface makes it easy to answer calls or control the music that’s playing, and a 14-hour charge time means they can last a full day at the beach.

To get the best out of existing headphones, the Mojo is an ingenious device. This DAC/headphone amplifier turns any smartphone or tablet into a high-resolution music player. Just plug in and hear albums the way the artist intended. It can even power two headphones at once, friends or loved ones can share the sonic experience. Best of all, it’s designed and built in Britain!

CATCHING THE ACTION Summer can often be a time where people head off to exotic locations for trips they’ll never want to forget.

An easy way to preserve those special memories is with the Kaiser Baas X4 action camera.

This rugged unit captures 4K video at 30FPS, with built-in video stabilisation making sure that the footage is smooth and crystal clear. The X4 is also capable of recording in slow motion, so that spectacular moments can look even better in full HD and 120FPS. Place the X4 in the included case and it can be strapped to a bike, helmet, or even taken diving down to depths of 40 metres. It really is the perfect accompaniment for any adventure.

As so many people now use smartphones to take photographs, the Cygnett GoCapture Universal Wide Angle Lens is a great way to improve any shot. The simple device clips onto most smartphones to create a 140-degree angle that will make selfies or landscape shots take on an epic feel. It fits in any bag, can be quickly attached or removed, and costs less than a round of drinks at duty free.

For the most breathtaking views customers will need a camera equipped drone, as these can often go where feet would fear to tread.

Parrot is one of the most respected companies in this area and its BeBop 2 Adventurer Quadcopter Drone pack offers amazing value, as well as everything needed to capture incredible full HD video.

The sturdy unit can fly at speeds of up to 37mph, resist strong headwinds, and last for 25 minutes before needing recharging, all while delivering rock solid video and photographic recording. The pack also comes with a specially

21

Customers will also be wise to bring plenty of extra storage with them for all these photos and video footage. The 64GB SansDisk Extreme microSDHC cards are tough, reliable, and can even resist the x-ray machines at airports so users don’t lose their valuable data.

POWER PACKING Those heading off into the wild, or to the summer festivals, with their gadgets in tow, will want to avoid the frustration of flat batteries.

Therefore, a power pack should always be the first thing that goes into any rucksack.

The Morphie Powerstation Plus boasts a 6000mAh battery that can provide up to 24 hours of extra power for any smartphone, and plenty of juice for tablets or other USB devices. The Lightning and Micro USB tips also make this a hugely versatile unit.

Apple Watch users will love the new Griffin Travel Power Bank as it provides 2.5 full charges for the smartwatches, all in a package that can fit on a keyring.

If customers do chance upon a charging station, then the Griffin PowerBlock Universal 3 port charger is a godsend, as it means they can power up three devices simultaneously, saving time and packing space.

Of course, a comfortable and well-designed backpack will make life easier when out and about, so the Streets range by STM is a strong contender, offering four different sizes and styles to fit any adventurer’s needs. Throw a pair of National Geographic Pocket Binoculars in too, and they’ll be ready for anything.

There you have it, some of the hottest accessories that will make any summer sizzle. Be sure to talk to your Exertis contact for more details on stocking these and other great products over the holiday period.

THE

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FUTURE

GAMING AND ENTERTAINMENT

EXERTIS GAMING

HOT PICKS

TOP 5 SOFTWARE 1

MARIO + RABBIDS KINGDOM BATTLE

ARK: SURVIVAL EVOLVED Publisher Wildcard Format Xbox One, PS4 & PC

Publisher Ubisoft Format Nintendo Switch Released 29th August 2017

PRE-ORDER NOW

PRE-ORDER NOW

As a man or woman stranded naked, freezing and nd starving on the shores of a mysterious island called ed ARK, you must hunt, harvest resources, craft ft items, grow crops, research technologies and d build shelters to withstand the harsh elements. s.

Use your cunning and resources to kill or tame & breed the leviathan dinosaurs and other primevall creatures roaming the land, and team up with or prey on hundreds of other players to survive, dominate…and escape!

CRACKDOWN 3 Publisher Microsoft Format Xbox One Released 3rd October 2017

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ARE YOU STOCKING?

CREATIVE MUVO 2C BLUETOOTH SPEAKER

KAISER BAAS X4 ACTION CAM

Publisher Creative Format Universal

Publisher Kaiser Baas Format Universal

?

Designed for the thrill-seekers that need nothing short of the best, the X4 boasts exemplary 4K resolution to capture the clearest footage. Including features such as Video Stabilisation and Slow Mo at 120FPS that are normally reserved for the topperforming action cameras on the market, the X4 is a real contender for top spot amongst a market looking for the highest quality at the best value-for-money.

THRUSTMASTERR TS-PC RACING WHEEL

AVAILABLE NOW

Publisher Thrustmaster ster Format PC

Harlow: 01279 822 822 | Basingstoke: 01256 707 070 | store.exertis.co.uk

THE

To buy online: store.exertis.co.uk

FUTURE

23

TOP 5 GAMING ACCESSORIES 1 AROZZI VERONA PRO V2 GAMING CHAIR Publisher Arozzi Format Universal

The Verona Pro V2 gaming chair is the ultimate in sleek, ergonomic design. With adjustable armrests and a rocking function, users will be at the centre of control and comfort while maintaining the flexibility to move and react quickly. uickly.

TURTLE BEACH XO THREE GAMING HEADSET

NBA 2K18

Publisher Turtle Beach Format Xbox One

Publisher Take Two Format Xbox One & PS4 Released 19th September 2017

PLAYSEAT EVOLUTION RED BULL GRC RACING CHAIR

PRE-ORDER NOW

Publisher Playseat Format Universal

SUPER LUCKY’S TALE Publisher Microsoft Format Xbox One Released 7th November 2017

PRE-ORDER NOW

5

PLANTRONICS RIG 400LX 0LX GAMING HEADSET Publisher Plantronics Format Universal

PLAYSEAT CHALLENGE RACING CHAIR Publisher Playseat Format Universal

K-2 HYBRID GAMING KEYBOARD Publisher Arokh Format PC

SWISS POWER PACK 4000 Publisher Swiss Format Android, iOS, cameras and more

5

GAMING GEAR DESIGNED IN SWEDEN

For more information, please contact your Exertis account manager today.

ACEZ271BMIPHZX

ACENHQ17EK002

ACEDGB1PEK002

ACEZ650

Acer Predator 17 G9-793

Acer Predator G3-710

Acer Predator Z650

Acer Predator Z271

• 17.3” FHD IPS G-SYNC Display

• Intel® Core™ i5-6400 Processor

• 1920 x 1080 Resolution

• 27” FHD Curved LED Monitor

• Contrast Ratio: 20,000:1

• 1920 x 1080 Resolution

• 8GB RAM

• 2200 ANSI Lumens

• 16GB RAM

• 1TB HDD

• 3 x HDMI

• 100,000,000:1 Contrast Ratio

• 1TB HDD + 128GB SSD

• NVIDIA® GeForce® GTX 950M

• 3000 Hours

• 4ms Response Time

• NVIDIA® GeForce® GTX 1070M

• Windows 10 Home

• Max Range: 4.6m

• 1 x HDMI 1.4, 1 x USB 3.0 HUB

• Windows 10 Home

• 6 x USB 3.0, 1 x HDMI

• Bluetooth

• 300cd/m2 Brightness

Part Code: ACENHQ17EK002

Part Code: ACEDGB1PEK002

Part code: ACEZ650

Part code: ACEZ271BMIPHZX

®

• Intel Core™ i7-6700HQ Processor

For more information, please contact your Exertis account manager today

Xbox Play Anywhere.

Anywhere is a great place to play.

Buy once, play anywhere.

Progress goes with you.

Xbox Play Anywhere allows digital games to be played on both Xbox One and Windows 10 PC at no additional cost.1

Gamers can pick up where they left off on another Xbox One or Windows 10 PC, bringing all their saves, game add-ons and achievements with them.

1

Xbox Play Anywhere available only with digital games. Play on one device at a time.

PC hardware requirements may vary for games on Windows 10. For a full list of participating games go to www.xboxplayanywhere.com.

THE

To buy online: store.exertis.co.uk

FUTURE

27

HOW TO CREATE GREAT CONTENT

AROUND YOUR BUSINESS Enticing customers through the doors is an ageold challenge faced by retailers of all sizes. In these modern times, it has become even more complex due to online competition, social media, and other aspects of the omni-channel experience now expected by consumers.

So, how can smaller independent outlets navigate these tricky waters, all while maximising the returns from time and money spent on marketing? We outline five ways of creating great content that promotes the unique qualities of your business and builds relationships with customers.

TELL YOUR STORIES Blogging might seem like a daunting prospect, but it’s an excellent way to keep your website fresh, as well as informing customers of any promotions, events, or upcoming releases. Another advantage is that having regularly updated content on your home page means your site will rise up the rankings in Google search results, making it easier for customers to find you. Blogging doesn’t require the writing proficiency of Hemingway, just make it clear, concise, and interesting.

This will take a bit of practice, but it’s a worthwhile investment. You could even enlist the services of a local writer, in exchange for stock or pay, if you’re not confident in your communication skills.

BEING SOCIAL

YOU ARE YOUR OWN PR COMPANY It might seem like an obvious statement, but there’s more to it than first meets the eye. Larger chains are able to employ PR specialists or hire PR companies to handle all of their brand messaging.

Independents usually don’t have this luxury, and as such need to prioritise how they approach marketing. Try to allocate a time slot each day dedicated to promoting your business. This can be planning, creating content, working on eye-catching window displays, or even putting flyers through the houses in your local area. A little each day can be difficult at first, but in the long run it is sure to pay dividends.

CELEBRATE YOUR INDEPENDENCE Going toe-to-toe on price or range with national retail giants isn’t fighting on a level playing field, as the odds are firmly stacked against you. One thing definitely in your favour though is that you’re not a homogenous chain, and as such you should do everything you can to focus on your own identity. If you have specialised knowledge in certain areas then put this front and centre in your promotional material. A sense of humour can also be a powerful weapon, even if it’s as basic as an amusing notice on a chalkboard outside the shop.

Customers still like the idea of connecting with a business, so make the most of your personality.

There’s no escaping the fact that social media is now an important part of any retailer’s brand. That’s why it’s important not to neglect Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and Instagram, as they are very popular ways to interact with customers. Try creating short videos that highlight any in-store promotions or events, then share them online using the Facebook and Instagram Stories features, or uploading them directly to YouTube. Don’t worry too much about being perfect, just smile and deliver simple lines that let people know what’s on offer.

Photos are another quick way to produce content, and as customers tend to be drawn to social media posts that include images, it’s a strong way to get noticed. Plus, it’s more media for your website, which will help with Google visibility.

PUSHING THROUGH THE PANE While the digital side of things is very important, that doesn’t mean you should overlook the tremendous power of a well-designed window display. It’s still the most immediate way to draw customers into your premises, so take time putting together eye-catching, focussed displays. Avoid just piling stock up, instead select lines that you know are popular with your customers, and place them in tasteful, but colourful, settings. A quick trip down the high-street can glean some tips on how others do it, then those principles can be applied to your own designs. It might actually be fun too!

THE

To buy online: store.exertis.co.uk

FUTURE

GAMESAID GOLF & SPA DAY RAISES

£40K FOR CHARITY On JJuly 6th professionals from across the gaming and consumer electronics industries met together electro the Grove Golf course in at th Watford, for the annual GamesAid Watfo Golf & Spa day. 2017 marked 10th year of the event, which the 1 is spo sponsored and supported by Exerti Exertis, and offered attendees a relaxing and fun escape from work, al all while raising money for the GamesAid charity.

This time around saw representatives from Microsoft, Sony, Activision, Bethesda, Electronic Arts, John Lewis, Rockstar Games, Ubisoft, Netgear, and many others, all make the day a huge success and raise an impressive £40,000.

GETTING IN THE SWING OF THINGS

A DECADE OF DONATIONS The origins of the event date back to 2007, when it was put together

by Richard Stickler and Keeley Munden, who worked for Exertis (then Gem Distribution) at the time. Now Richard and Keeley have moved on to EA and Microsoft respectively, but still organise the event and work with Exertis’ own Sophie Hammond on all of the marketing.

Over the past decade the GamesAid Golf & Spa event has become a permanent fixture in the industry calendar, due to the great day out it gives guests and the fantastic work it does in raising money for worthy causes.

GamesAid itself is a UK based video games industry charity that works to raise funds for disadvantaged and disabled children. Each year the members of GamesAid vote on which charities it will support for the next twelve months, then the top organisations, as selected by the ballot, have equal amounts of money divided between them.

Activities included guests paying for the chance to try outscoring a professional female golfer on a par three hole (which nobody managed), outdriving another female professional (which Exertis’ own Alex Croft did!), and a standing prize of a free car for anyone who could manage a hole in one (on a long par 3). Sadly, the latter remains unclaimed, but should make a reappearance at next year’s event.

The number of charities vary based upon the amount of money raised, the more money the more charities.

‘The golf day has evolved over the years,’ said Gareth Phillips, Exertis’ Head of Commercial, ‘from a very formal dinner-suits and 3 course set menu event - where you were limited to speaking to the people on your table for most of the night - to a much more relaxed BBQ and industry mixer where you are able to network and catch up with old friends and new.’

In 2016 GamesAid was able to fund ten different UK children’s and youth charities, donating an incredible £95,400 to each one. This marked the most that the organisation had ever raised in a single calendar year.

Awards were also handed out at the end of proceedings for the best golfer, which went to Exertis’ John Sutherland, and the worst, whose name will remain secret for the preserving of modesty. Everyone reported having an excellent time, no doubt enhanced by the ‘beer buggy’ provided by Microsoft which roamed the course handing out beverages to the increasingly wobbly participants.

Fundraising takes the guise of events such as the Golf & Spa day, as well as individual and corporate donations, game compilations sold at retail, digital download bundles, and the sale of donated games memorabilia on eBay.

‘I’m very proud that the industry not only continues to support the work of GamesAid,’ said GamesAid Chair Ian Chambers, ‘but has managed to raise more money for UK charities than ever before. This takes our overall running total to over £2.7million!’

‘I’d like to take this chance to sincerely thank everyone who has done something amazing to raise money for GamesAid,’ he continued, ‘but there is always more we can do, so please join us and help continue our growth.’

To become a member of GamesAid, or find out more about the important work it does, visit www.gamesaid.org and be sure to sign up to next year’s Golf & Spa day by talking to your Exertis account manager.

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Don’t sacrifice your gaming experience!

Did you know?

Norton by Symantec’s Security products provide a Quiet and Silent Mode feature.

Whether you are a competitive gamer or a casual player, it’s important to protect yourself when you are gaming.

Hackers routinely target home networks and online accounts, but who wants to sacrifice performance?

That’s why more and more gamers prefer to protect themselves with Norton Security. In addition to best-inclass Internet security and Cyber Defense, Norton Security also offers the performance management tools which can be used to optimise your PC’s performance.

Designed with gamers in mind, Quiet and Silent Mode suspends alerts and background tasks so you can get on and play!

Configure the features today in ‘Administrative Settings’

Call your Exertis account manager today for more information

• Start your Norton product.

• In the Norton product window, click Settings.

• In the Settings window, under Detailed Settings, click Administrative Settings.

THE

To buy online: store.exertis.co.uk

FUTURE

31

WIRELESS SECURITY – KEEPING YOUR CUSTOMER SAFE ONLINE With so many of our personal and professional details now stored online, the need for security has dramatically increased. Recent attacks, such as the ransomware that crippled the NHS and other institutions around the world, show that hackers are stepping up their game, so users need to do likewise.

a vulnerable machine into a virtual fortress, allowing customers to shop, bank, and do whatever they want, without fear of their information being stolen. Norton offers the Wi-Fi Privacy suite in a number of configurations, including coverage for 1, 5, or 10 devices, and the single version can also be incorporated into a bundle with the standard Norton Security package.

To ensure that your customers remain safe and avoid becoming easy prey while using their devices on public Wi-Fi or unsecured networks, we’ve assembled some helpful tips and products that could be the difference between defence and disaster.

BEING SMARTER WITH PHONES

PUBLIC WI-FI DANGERS It’s true that public Wi-Fi is incredibly useful if you’re in a coffee shop, airport, or hotel, but there are also a number of significant dangers that could be lurking behind the connection. Some hackers use specialist equipment, which fits easily in a backpack, to create dummy networks that look official but actually intercept private data from any unwary user’s mobile or laptop. Others employ methods that fool users into sharing valuable login details, then wreak havoc on their accounts, or inject malware onto their devices.

The experts advise adopting a very cautious attitude when using public Wi-Fi: avoid doing your online banking or any financial transactions, don’t log into email or social media accounts, and generally question anything that seems out of the ordinary.

But recent studies have shown that over 50% of consumers believe they’re safe when using public connections, while the sad truth is that it only takes one slip to let the attackers in. Adding an extra layer of protection is now a necessity, and thankfully there are several solutions you can recommend to your customers.

VIRTUAL PRIVATE NETWORKS An excellent way to protect online activities is by using a Virtual Private Network or VPN. This clever technology creates an encrypted private network within a public network, which makes it much harder for attackers to dupe users or infect devices. One of the leaders in this area is Norton’s Wi-Fi Privacy, that boasts bank-grade encryption for Android, iOS, OS X, and Windows systems. A single click transforms

Smartphones have become the primary way that many people access the internet, so it makes sense to keep these devices as secure as possible. Kaspersky’s Internet Security for Android is an excellent app that not only keeps a constant vigil for malware and viruses, but also protects users against phishing sites and emails designed to trick them into giving out their passwords or financial details.

The company also offers its comprehensive Total Security 2017 suite, which extends similar protections to Mac, PC, and iOS devices, while also adding a dedicated feature that safeguards children online.

These are soon to be joined by the Kaspersky Security Cloud package, which claims to be the first security software to be adaptive, sensing new threats thanks to its cloud-based design.

Norton Mobile Security is also a very powerful tool specifically for Android users looking to keep both their data and devices safe.

PASSWORD PROTECTION A key area of interest to hackers is passwords. To shield customers from this area of attack you can recommend McAfee Internet Security, which contains a password manager that stores and securely syncs login details across multiple devices. The package also offers advanced parental controls, anti-spyware proctection, and a secure browser feature.

Kaspersky’s Password Manager is another fine recommendation, as it can create strong passwords automatically, requiring users to remember only a single, master password to access all of their accounts securely.

For more details on how to keep your customers safe online, be sure to talk to your Exertis account manager today.

ith rt w po g S in o 7 ch sm 1 un uri 0 La n T ll 2 a a Gr F

Thrustmaster presents T-GT, the ultimate racing

simulator for Gran Turismo Sport.

Push your skills to the limit and get ready for the competition.

• Exclusive T-DFB technology • With T-LIN (Linearity), the force technology • T-40VE motor provides powerful Force Feedback • Detachable wheel ensuring maximum comfort

Contact your Exertis account manager for more information

THE

To buy online: store.exertis.co.uk

FUTURE

33

DRONES RACE INTO THE UK Drones have already established themselves as one of the breakout consumer technology products of the past couple of years, but their popularity could be set to grow rapidly in the months ahead as a new eSport hits screens in the UK.

LEAGUE OF SOON-TO-BE LEGENDS Drone Racing League pits teams of professional drone pilots against one another, as they navigate high-speed courses running through abandoned factories, football stadiums, and even Alexandra Palace.

In fact, the latter was the setting for the finale of the first full season, which over its five races was reported to be watched by 75m people around the globe.

These figures were made possible through a mixture of online streaming and the adoption of the DRL by US sports broadcaster ESPN. Money is now beginning to pour into the sport, with SKY recently investing £760k in the franchise. For this sizable sum, it was able to televise the entire second season in the UK, bringing this fastemerging entertainment stream to British audiences.

Other notable investors include financial giant Allianz (which is now the named sponsor of the DRL), World Wrestling Entertainment, and the same Liberty Media that recently purchased Formula 1 racing. In total, the funds raised by the DRL add up to around £25m, which is impressive for an initiative that was only founded in 2015.

SPEED, SPECTACLE, AND SMASHES So, what are the reasons for this phenomenal success, and how can retailers take advantage of what many press outlets are beginning to call ‘the world’s next big sport’?

Much of the appeal of drone racing boils down to the breakneck speeds at which competitors navigate each course. Pilots fly identical Racer3 drones, differentiated only by team colours displayed on the 209 ultra-bright LEDS that adorn the craft. These drones can go from 0 to 80mph in just a single second, and reach top speeds of nearly 120mph. Add to this a number of inventively laid out, neon-lit courses that include tight passageways, hairpin mid-air turns, and the distinct possibility of heavy collisions. Plus, full HD footage streamed directly

from the cameras on the drones, which give the viewer a bird’s-eye view of the frenetic action, and you have a recipe for a thoroughly modern sport unlike anything else in the world.

DRL has been careful so far to create lots of additional content for its YouTube and broadcast partners, going behind the scenes with the pilots, discussing flying techniques and challenges, while carefully building up awareness of the potential heroes and villains that audiences will cheer for in each race.

The UK even has its own champion, in the form of teenager Luke Bannister, who recently won the inaugural Dubai World Drone Prix.

This event, the largest of its kind so far, drew 150 teams from around the world to compete for a week in Dubai, with a total purse of $1m on the line. Bannister, one of the youngest competitors, walked away with a cool $250k after displaying his piloting mastery, and set himself up to be the face of British drone racing for the foreseeable future.

RETAIL OPPORTUNITIES While the pilots of DRL may be flying the latest pro-level drones, fans of the sport can start out with less expensive equipment as they hone their skills. The new Kaiser Baas Alpha Drone is a perfect entry level model, featuring a 60-metre flying range, dedicated remote control, and a 720p camera for recording in-flight video.

Stepping up to the Kaiser Baas Gamma Drone brings with it live-FPV video streaming from the aircraft, to give pilots an ‘in the cockpit’ view. It also has an increased range of flight, and collision prevention attachments for more adventurous flyers.

Those looking at the premium end could then graduate to the Parrot BeBop 2, which is an ultra-light model with 3-axis stabilisation, rear flashing LEDs for increased visibility, and a bright lens for greater lowlight clarity.

With the DRL bringing the excitement of drone racing to the UK, plus Sky taking a stake in this rapidly growing sport, you won’t want to miss out on the potential that this brings to the UK market. So, be sure to talk to your Exertis account manager about how we can help ensure that your sales take off.

1

FUTURE PLAYSEAT GRAN TURISMO GAMING SEAT

2

GAMING AND ENTERTAINMENT

LUCID SOUND LS30 WIRELESS GAMING HEADSET

3

FIXMESTICK®

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RRP: £339.00 Get serious when playing Gran Turismo with the limited edition Playseat Gran Turismo racing seat. Fully upholstered in black alcantara, with the official Gran Turismo logo on the chair’s front and back.

RRP: £129.99 The LS30 is a design-forward headset that can rival any lifestyle headphones but stays true as hardcore gaming gear. The LS30 offers incredible comfort and precision-balanced sound in a wireless headset that’s groundbreaking in its simplicity.

RRP: £49.99 The FixMeStick plug-in virus removal device enables users to clean their own computer. This USB hardware device runs before the computer starts, removing viruses, spyware, trojans and malware that anti-virus programs often cannot. Available for Windows PC and MacOS.

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TRUST POWERBANK 4000T PORTABLE CHARGER

RRP: £6.60 Thin portable charger from Trust.

With built-in 4000 mAh battery to charge any smartphone or tablet anywhere. Pocket-size and ultrathin: only 11 mm.

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NORTON SECURITY STANDARD 1 DEVICE

RRP: £41.66 Norton Security provides Quiet & Silent modes to suspend alerts and background tasks while playing games. A finely tuned PC, high speed Internet and optimised home network are essential to make the most of gaming.

SWISS POWER PACK 2200

KAISER BAAS GAMMA DRONE

RRP: £149.99 Experience flying like never before with the feature-packed Gamma Drone. Get a taste for real-life flying with the Live FPV function and download footage direct to a smartphone!

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RAPOO V310 VPRO GAMING LASER MOUSE

RRP: £12.99 The 2200 is barely bigger than a lighter and is perfect for a quick full smartphone charge. All Swiss Mobility chargers come pre-charged; compatible with Android, iOS, cameras & more.

RRP: £59.99 Equipped with a cutting-edge 8200 DPI laser sensor, five programmable buttons, onboard memory, customisable LED multicolour light system and soft-grip surface.

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ELGATO GAME CAPTURE HD60S

RRP: £159.99 Streaming at the highest level. Combining USB 3.0 hardware and superior low-latency technology. HD60s is the most versatile broadcasting tool.

KASPERSKY TOTAL SECURITY 3 DEVICE

RRP: £49.99 Kaspersky Total Security not only protects but comes with Gamer Mode. This mode postpones resource-hungry security processes to free up processor power for smooth PC gaming.

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Harlow: 01279 822 822 | Basingstoke: 01256 707 070 | store.exertis.co.uk

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FUTURE

GAMING AND ENTERTAINMENT

Jump ahead with Xbox One. Play the biggest blockbuster games, and over 100 console exclusives.

Call your Exertis account manager today for more information

Harlow: 01279 822 822 | Basingstoke: 01256 707 070 | store.exertis.co.uk

Launching th 7 November The world’s most powerful console.

7KH PRVW SRZHUIXO FRQVROH HYHU IHDWXULQJ 7HUDĂ RSV RI graphical processing power, true 4K gaming, and compatibility with Xbox One games and accessories.

2.3

GHz Custom CPU

1TB

Gaming

7HUDĂ RS GPU

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326

HDR

4K

True

4K

GB GDDR5 Memory

GB/s Memory Bandwidth

Games & Entertainment

HDD Storage

UHD Blu-ray/DVD

Contact your Exertis account manager for more information