Smart Home World -January 2023 | Magazine

Multichannel with Loewe klang mr

CONTENTS

Cover Story

An overview of CES 2023 and the latest products launched in the smart home technology segment and more…

In Conversation With

Linus Lopez, Partner Lirio Lopez Lighting Design Consultants discussed experimenting with new lighting techniques and innovations in the lighting industry.

Koen Dekyvere, Export Manager, Basalte discusses the growth and expansion strategies of Basalte.

Muskan Salgia, VP-Residential, DigiValet, delves into offering insight into the future of automation within India’s residential, commercial, and hospitality sectors.

Features

Smart Home World provides a holistic view of the benefits of Multi-Room Audio, popular reliable options, and installation tips.

Case Study

Audio & Beyond launches the largest Home Automation & Audio - Video experience center in Hyderabad that provide visitors with an unparalleled brand experience and showcases an innovative range of smart products.

Product In Spotlight

All you need to know about Plexilent’s all-in-one solution for controlling home lighting.

Hogar IR Controller For Smart Homes

News

The latest updates on new products, launches, and events.

Basalte design for your intelligent home

At the slightest touch the room dims to the right scene. Your favourite music starts playing, the temperature rises and the curtains open. The ultimate home feeling. Control everything with your app, design keypads or intelligent remote. Basalte Home, the future of the modern home.

Smart

FROM THE EDITOR

CES 2023 has set a new benchmark for itself and has initiated a new thought process in the industry to be more sustainable, energy-efficient, and secure. Additionally, with Wi-Fi 7 becoming mainstream and Matter-certified home products being rolled out, we can expect to see a significant uptick in demand for smart home products. In our cover story, we give you an overview of the exhibition.

In this issue, we feature three experts from diverse segments who share their experiences. We have Linus Lopez, Partner Lirio Lopez Lighting Design Consultants discussing experimenting with new lighting techniques and innovations in the lighting industry; while Koen Dekyvere, Export Manager, Basalte discusses the growth and expansion strategies of the brand. We also have Muskan Salgia, VP-Residential, DigiValet, offering insight into the future of automation in residential, commercial, and hospitality sectors.

Our feature section will provide our readers with an overview of Multi-Room Audio and offers the latest updates and popular reliable options and installation tips.

Audio & Beyond launches the largest smart home Automation experience center in Hyderabad that provide visitors with an unparalleled brand experience and showcases an innovative range of smart products.

Enjoy reading and lets us know your feedback.

Inviting Brands, Store Owners and System Integrators to showcase their projects in Smart Home World. Send us your videos and images at: sandeep@ smarthomeworld.in

Chief Editor: Swati Balgi

swati@smarthomeworld.in

Tech Journalist: Sunny Sawant sunny@smarthomeworld.in

Marketing Head: Sandeep Singh

sandeep@smarthomeworld.in

Assistant Manager - Sales: Monika Agnihotri

monika@smarthomeworld.in

SWATI BALGI

Home World thanks the various companies that have submitted information. For any editorial submissions, please contact Ms. Swati Balgi, Editor, at swati@smarthomeworld.in. The information published in News, Ongoing Trends and Product Gallery is as per the details furnished by the respective manufacturer/distributor. It does not reflect the views of Smart Home World or of the management of WORLD MEDIA & EXPO LLP.

CES 2023 Showcased High-Tech Trendsetting Products

Smart Home World gives you an overview of CES 2023 and the latest products launched in the smart home technology segment and more…

The recently concluded CES 2023 had over two million square feet of exhibit space and had around 1,000 global brands from around the globe in Las Vegas. The conference hosted a broad spectrum of esteemed industry speakers and the most creative thinkers of the decade who discussed the latest development in their respective fields. There were 730 keynote speakers like Dr. Lisa Su, AMD, John May, John Deere, Oliver Zipse,

BMW, Ed Bastian, Delta, Adena T. Friedman, Nasdaq’s and Carlos Tavares, Stellantis to name a few.

At CES 2023 the Consumer Technology Association (CTA) partnered with the World Academy of Art and Science (WAAS) to showcase the critical role of technology in support of the United Nations’ efforts to Advance Human Security for All.

Adding his insight on the partnership and their vision for innovation in Human Security for All, Gary Shapiro, President, and CEO of the Consumer Technology Association said, “Tech innovation gives us the tools to work toward a better world and has always been the catalyst for historic change. We are proud to partner with the World Academy of Art and Science in support of the United Nations. Now more than ever, people are looking to the tech industry for leadership as we develop creative solutions to the world’s greatest challenges.”

We zoom in on one of the happening segments at the CES the Smart Home Technology segment, where numerous brands showcased their products that are compatible with the new smart home standard Matter, this protocol assures to bind all of the smart home techs together.

The latest Smart Home Technology and Products that were launched and were well-received include smart light automation from Nanoleaf, an AI Oven from Samsung, and an LG Artcool air conditioning system that’s disguised as a piece of wall art. Plus, security cameras, robot vacuums, a new ‘shower pod’ system from Kohler… We have compiled some of the most trendsetting products and appliances from various segments:

Smart Products & Appliances

Schneider launched a new home energy management solution for homeowners seeking savings, comfort, and energy independence. The new Schneider Home energy management solution includes a home battery for clean energy storage, a high-power solar inverter, a smart electrical panel, an electric vehicle charger, and connected electric sockets and light switches – all controlled by the easy-to-use Schneider Home App. The Schneider Home solution orchestrates home energy by bringing together utility power, solar, backup battery, and EV charging.

Samsung’s SmartThings Station is easy to set up. When a user powers the device on for the first time, pop-up messages will appear on a user’s Samsung Galaxy smartphone to help guide users through the connection process smoothly. A smart home hub helps multiple devices, including thermostats, lighting and power outlets, seamlessly interconnect with other devices connected to the smart home server so they all work together to create a harmonized environment. SmartThings Station makes it easy to automate preset routines created via the SmartThings mobile App without requiring users to control individual devices manually. When leaving home, the SmartThings Station can turn Off power outlets and unused appliances to save energy and activate a security system. Users might also want a gaming routine, which could activate specific TV and lighting settings and turn on Do not Disturb mode.

Samsung’s new Bespoke AI Oven is promising to be that virtual chef. The oven’s smart camera is capable of food recognition and burn detection, which means it can recognize up to 80 different dishes and recommend cooking settings for each of them. With the SmartThings App, this new smart oven also promises to recommend meals based on your workout stats, diet goals and the ingredients you have at home.

Eve MotionBlinds Upgrade Kit connects your smart home setup without the need for new voice-controlled window covers. The kit includes an all-important USB-C rechargeable motor. The blinds can be controlled using Eve’s App or the Apple Home App. It’ll also connect to your smart home setup via Thread and will soon get Matter support.

Roborock’s S8 series offers the top two models – the S8 Plus and S8 Pro Ultra –that have auto-emptying powers that see the vacuums empty their collected debris into the docks. It has powerful suction and dual roller brushes, which helps them pick up more dirt and avoid pet hair tangles.

French startup Neoplants launched a tiny plant that effectively cleans in-home air pollution. The palm-sized baby houseplant, dubbed Neo P1, is bioengineered to capture and contain the most dangerous indoor air pollutants in homes. The Neo P1 is a single bioengineered plant shown to clean ambient in-home air pollution more effectively than up to thirty standard houseplants.

Samsung Bespoke 4-Door Flex Refrigerator with Family Hub + features a 32-inch vertical touchscreen, which is twice as large as previous models. You can use this screen to view or share photographs from Google Photos library, control your SmartThings devices and make digital shopping lists for Amazon deliveries. You can also use it to watch TV.

LG’s ArtCool Gallery Air Conditioner has a 27-inch LCD screen, which can display any photos you pick in the accompanying LG ThinQ App. That certainly makes it a bit more attractive than your average metallic rectangle. The AC has a dual inverter compressor, which apparently uses up to 70 percent less power than standard AC products. It also operates at noise levels as low as 20 decibels.

The new Masonite M-Pwr Smart Door is the first residential exterior doors to integrate power, LED welcome lights, a smart lock and a Ring Video Doorbell into the door system. The technology connects residential front doors to a home’s electrical system and wireless internet network. Whether at home or away, the Masonite M-Pwr smartphone App enables users to program and control motion-activated LED welcome lighting as well as to confirm whether the door is open or closed.

The OmO Smart Can is a new and first-of-its-kind self-sealing and touchless trash can. A built-in motion sensor and compatible features with voice assistants like Alexa and Google Assistant give you a hand-free approach to tidying up. When it’s time to take out the trash, an internal thermal sealing mechanism seals trash in and opens the inner bin for a ready-to-throw bag. A replacement bag automatically deploys once the bin closes back up and is ready for the next dispensation.

Trova Safes debuted an updated version of TROVA HOME, its biometric smart home safe. The safe leverages an App and a wireless connection via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi to allow only paired users to unlock it with their fingerprint or face ID verification. An update on the original design also now allows consumers to simply tap their phone instead of the biometric verification on the TROVA app.

Smart Lighting

TP-Link launched Tapo. The brand features a wide array of products, including indoor and outdoor cameras, motion sensors, window/door contact sensors, and an IoT hub to tie it all together. The Tapo C220 Pan and Tilt Camera is designed to provide privacy when required by hiding the lens in a physical chassis. Users can remote control the process through the associated app. In standard mode, it works as a fully featured 2K QHD pan/ tilt camera with up to 110 degree per-second pan and tilt for stronger motion-tracking. It also features built-in AI for a person, pet, or vehicle detection and more.

Nanoleaf Sense+ Control and Skylight comprise three products – the Sense+Smart Light Switch, Sense+ Wireless Light Switch, and Nala Learning Bridge – which can learn your routines and adjust the brightness and colour of the lights. Nala, which is built into the bridge and can act as your smart home hub.

GE Lighting Cync Dynamic Effects launches four new smart lighting products including Smart Hexagon panels, and Smart Neon-Shape Lights that can be bent or shaped any way you like. GE Lighting has also launched new Dynamic Effects Smart Bulbs that come in Aline versions or for its indoor floodlights. You also don’t need a bridge or hub to use them, as they’re controlled over Wi-Fi using the Cync App.

Smart Security

Lockly’s Flex Touch Pro is shaping up to be a better option for renters or Airbnb owners – it helpfully brings a fingerprint reader to your existing lock. At the door, you get a pretty elegant fingerprint reader, which can apparently store up to 99 prints. It comes with a Wi-Fi hub, you’ll also be able to remotely grant or deny people access to the door, or also check up on it using the likes of Amazon Alexa or Google Home.

Sedimentum AG showcased Smart Home Emergency Detector. This contactless emergency detector device offers a solution, called SAFE-Living, which is an intelligent emergency detection service that will increase safety and autonomy in households. The emergency detectors from Sedimentum are installed on the ceiling and work contactless and autonomously.

grid, solar power, wind, and gas). The full ecosystem has enough power— on just one charge—to meet an average family’s emergency power usage for about one week. The Delta Pro boasts a base capacity of 3.6kWh that increases to 10.8kWh with two extra batteries, and up to 25kWh with ecosystem products like a smart home panel and smart generators.

Health and Wellness

Bosch Global Software Technologies’ AIShield is an AI-security solution designed to protect AI-based medical devices in the face of emerging security threats. AI systems are at the epicenter of security, safety, and privacy concerns in the healthcare industry. AIShield provides vulnerability analysis and end-point protection against novel AI threats. It ensures patients’ safety by protecting AI-based medical devices (including cloud) against critical breaches and attacks targeted for manipulation and misbehavior.

The EcoFlow Delta Pro portable home battery and ecosystem have an expandable capacity of up to 25kWh, the Delta Pro can fully recharge in under two hours and harness multiple power sources (the

Kohler Sprig system brings aromatherapy to your existing shower. The Sprig connects you to the showerhead and infuses the water with scents, oils, and other skin-boosting ingredients via Kohler’s Sprig Shower Pods. The Kohler’s pods will initially be available in six different scents lavender, chamomile, or eucalyptus to name a few. The shower Pods will be available in the first few months of 2023.

The Withings U-Scan is a puck-like sensor that attaches to your toilet and can analyze your pee for its nutritional balance, to read PH, carbohydrate, and vitamin C levels. It can also be used for female cycle-tracking, too. If you share a home with someone, fear not – thanks to a thermal sensor, it can appear automatically detect when someone is using and even identify ‘stream signatures’ using a low-energy radar sensor.

LG, forged a partnership with sleep tech startup Asleep that will allow LG’s smart home appliances to detect when a user is sleeping and adjust appliance settings accordingly. Asleep’s Sleeptrack API, measures sleep and can relay that data to products and services from other companies.

DozzyCozy Technology specializes in using technology and humanized design to solve all sleep disorders and problems with a smart pillow born of humanized design with AI technology. The AirCozy Interactive Smart Pillow comes in three different models: Air-Cozy Classic, AirCozy Premium and AirCozy Anti-snoring. The AirCozy Interactive Smart Pillow is covered by many international patents and does not only detect your sleeping position in real-time and automatically adjust the height of the pillow to accommodate to the sleeping position, but also offers music streaming and five builtin different white noises.

CardieX Unveils CONNECT Pulse Dual Health Monitor. This dual blood pressure and arterial health monitor. The company says Pulse will also be the world’s first arterial health monitor to incorporate a full suite of patented and trademarked heart and vascular health parameters beyond traditional blood pressure, enabling clinicians, patients and consumers alike to gain more advanced insights into cardiovascular health.

Nuvilab an AI healthcare startup, is an AI food scanner that allows a user to scan their food and receive nutrition information about what’s on their plate, a version of which the company is planning to offer as an API.

NoWatch is a health-tracking watch that uses a current to monitor metrics like blood pressure, stress, thinking level, and mood, as well as notify the user about their

controlled easily via the Focal & Naim App, the smart Zigbee remote-control handset or via the unit itself.

dbx-tv’s Total Cal in-home audio measurement and tuning system is now available for adoption by consumer electronics manufacturers. Total Cal was selected as a 2023 CES Innovation Award Honoree for its ability to improve the sound of televisions, soundbars, and portable/home speakers.

Eyesafe DTX blue has Light mitigating display technology, which utilizes and recycles high-energy blue light directly in the display stack to reduce toxicity, while improving colour gamut and luminance. This breakthrough technology enables manufacturers to meet rigorous standards for health with advanced blue light protection and improved display performance. 2

XGIMI Rolls Out Magic Lamp

stress and emotion levels. Its mission is to push back against overstimulation, anxiety, and stress that can come from a deluge of notifications.

Sleep Number, a leader in sleep health, innovation, science and research, introduces smart furniture designed to complement the 360® smart bed platform. Innovated using sleep science and insights from Sleep Number’s highly accurate, longitudinal data, the smart furniture creates an ideal environment to support sleep health. Advanced sleep and wake routines, ambient circadian lighting, noise reduction and mobility aids help individuals fall asleep and stay asleep. The smart furniture provides an integrated sleep experience that is designed to be a modifiable form factor for aging and recovery, offering expanded consumer benefits and delivering confidence for individuals aging in their homes.

Entertainment Segment:

Naim launched NSC 222: a streaming pre-amplifier that lets you keep things simple without compromising on sound. NSC 222 features Naim’s latest headphone technology (as featured in the excellent NaimUniti Atom Headphone Edition), for a leveled-up solo sonic experience and a 5.5-inch full-colour screen. It can be

XGIMI, the global manufacturer of premium home, portable, and laser TV projectors, is showcasing its Magic Lamp projector; this three-in-one product integrates a ceiling lamp, smart projection, and home audio. XGIMI’s powerful portable projectors, the Halo and Halo+ feature a powerful built-in battery, 1080p FHD imagery, and intelligent screen adaption technology, that delivers a premier visual experience

Hisense ULED X

With a 110-inch screen, 8K resolution, the Hisense ULED X creates a completely immersive viewing experience. Regardless of a change in ambiance, content, or scenario, the viewer receives the best display experience through active intelligent backlight control and a new proprietary 8K chipset. The 110 ULED X is equipped with the highest quality viewing technologies, including a Mini LED backlight, peak brightness up to 2500 nits, and unmatched HDR image quality performance.

CES 2023 has set a new benchmark for itself and has initiated a new thought process in the industry to be more sustainable, energy-efficient, and secure. Additionally, with Wi-Fi 7 becoming mainstream and Matter-certified home products being rolled out, we can expect to see a significant uptick in demand for smart home products. With more innovation, the possibilities are endless and we are excited to see how the industry will continue to grow in the coming year.

Convenient Security with Smart Solutions from Yale

Yale Smart Door Locks bring you keyless convenience to unlock your door. Choose from the latest in smart door-locking technology –fingerprint, smart card or keypad – to open your door. Each offers an immediate door-opening solution and adds simplicity to your lifestyle. With the Yale Smart lock range, you can control your door from anywhere with your phone and enjoy freedom while knowing that your home is safely secured. It is made by combining cutting-edge technology, classic design, and unbeatable performance.

Enter your home with a simple push action with Yale YMI70 Smart Push Digital main door lock. Featuring the new ONE TOUCH™ biometric scan for an even easier access. Yale YMI 70 gives the user all the access capabilities and works with Yale Bridge, which enables the user to open the lock remotely from any location

Unlock the door lock easily

Yale App is an integrated security solution that controls the opening and closing of your Yale smart door locks through your smartphone application and provides real-time status monitoring of your home.

Personalize your lock settings

User-friendly interface to personalize your lock settings. Register RFID cards, user pin codes, card keys & Bluetooth keys, as you want. Add a one-time user code for visitors like your parents whenever you are not at home to welcome them!

Yale Access App Features empower you to control your front door from anywhere with your phone

• Control From Anywhere – Experience the powerful benefits of a key that works everywhere. With the Yale Access app, remotely let Mom in when she arrives early or secure your door if the kids forgot to lock it when leaving.

• Unlocks Automatically - Forget fumbling with keys, the lock automatically unlocks as you approach with your smartphone, via Bluetooth. You can also set it to lock as you leave so you never have to worry about whether you locked the door.

• Guest Keys - Manage access to your home from anywhere. Send secure keys to friends, family, or people you trust instantly, all from the August app. Never hide keys again or worry about who has a copy.

• 24/7 History – See who comes and goes with smartphone notifications and a 24/7 access history in the app.

• Share Access – Grant access to your home to the people you trust. Give permanent access, or temporary access or set a unique access schedule.

Other Operational Features

One-touch Fingerprint Verification Method

Easy Scan technology has been applied to Conveniently read a fingerprint in one touch to enter conveniently.

Pin Code Access

With YMI 70, you do not have to worry about carrying anything with you. Even if you have forgotten everything, just type your PIN codes into the keypad and the door is unlocked.

RFID Card Access

YMI 70 can be operated with a simple card – just like your bank cards. Easy and reliable, it perfectly fits your purse or wallet.

Mechanical key

For emergencies, it can also be unlocked with a mechanical key.

Smart Keypad

The keypad displays functional operation with various patterns of light.

Auto Lock

If you are sometimes forgetful, you can set your smart lock to automatically activate 5 seconds after you close the door - so you never have to worry whether you remembered to lock it again.

One Time Password

Issue single-use temporary passwords for convenient visitor access.

Code Scrambling

If when you come to use your PIN code you are concerned someone is watching the numbers you type, you can scramble your code to make it much harder to follow. Just type in some random numbers before or after your code and the lock will still operate - but the number will be much harder to remember!

Low Battery Alert

Low battery alert gives you a simple audible and visual alert to let you know when the batteries are getting low - giving you plenty of time to change the batteries.

Cancel a Lost Card

What happens if you lose one of your access cards? Cancelling lost cards is simple - and there is no need to change the lock!

Smart Etiquette

If you have a little child or often enter/exit your home late at night, you can adjust the volume or mute the key tone of the door-opening melody for your family or neighbourhood.

Alarms

Your Yale lock will keep out most burglars, but what if they try to break it with a hammer? Our built-in loud alarm will sound as soon as it is attacked, letting everyone know and scaring the burglar away.

You can get excellent performance, a nice look, and quality that lasts without breaking the bank. Great for homes that have a modern, minimalist look! Voice assistants like Google Home and Amazon Alexa let you open and close doors and check on their status without using your hands. It looks great with your modern home and way of life. The unique Panel from cutting-edge technology uses a fingerprint scanner to ensure that only the people you choose can get in.

Linus Lopez Provides Insights on Intelligent Lighting Solutions

In an interview with Smart Home World Linus Lopez, Partner Lirio Lopez Lighting Design Consultants discussed experimenting with new lighting techniques, innovations in the lighting industry, and the expertise their consultancy firms provide to projects.

Lirio Lopez Lighting Design Consultants is one of the most reputed companies in the industry. Can you take our readers through your journey so far…

The firm was founded in 1960 by Mr. Lirio Lopez as an electrical consultancy practice, one of the first private independent consultancy firms at that time. Thanks to the encouragement and patronage of Architect A.P. Kanvinde, the practice grew over time. The firm was involved with many of the key postmodern institutional buildings of India in the 60s and 70s. There were many experiences that lead to the development and learning on both the technical and administrative fronts. In the 80s the firm was bolstered when Lyle joined as a partner after his engineering and 10 odd years of experience executing electrical contracts. I joined in ’91 after completing my engineering in Electronics and Communication and extended the consultancy services to other “wired” services in the burgeoning digital and electronic security realms.

India in the 90s had a lot of projects in which the services of foreign architectural lighting designers were contracted, and we had to integrate their designs into our services scope of design. It was a wonderful experience working alongside lighting designers Tino Kwan and Bo Steiber and some amazing interior designers and architects from Europe and South East Asia. We were then fortunate to get awarded the project of lighting Pablo Picasso’s paintings that were to be displayed in Delhi and Mumbai. That interaction of light and art was the

trigger to explore lighting design as a profession. Our first Lighting Design project was Geoffrey’s Pub in Ansal Plaza in 2000 and there has been no going back since then! I chose to do a Masters in Architectural Lighting Design from Wismar, Germany, to learn more globally to apply locally and since 2000 we have successfully completed over 250 lighting design projects in almost every state in India and a few countries abroad across a variety of building typologies.

Can you mention some of the landmark projects you worked on, which have been a turning point in your career in terms of experimenting with new lighting techniques/designs or introducing innovative concepts?

There have been many projects that yielded rich learning curves and that’s what has driven our interest in pursuing lighting design despite the odds! In early 2001 we implemented a “dynamic rainbow” across the ceiling of a fine dining restaurant in Delhi using Colour Kinetics RGB LED and an addressable control system from Leax. We convinced a popular jewellery chain to use multi-point, high CRI LEDs to light their silver and gold ornaments in 2004 (they still follow our specifications to light their stores today!). Lighting the largest free-standing bamboo structure for the India Pavilion at the Shanghai Expo in 2010 was both challenging and rewarding. However, increasingly over the recent years, we have looked beyond technology into aspects of human

Anji Reddy Memorial Hyderabad

perception and sustainability delving into the role that context plays in design and how to work more with shadow and darkness.

Sir, you are a member of IALD and you have also presented many case papers at international summits. What are your views on the importance of Lighting Design in a project?

It is important. Extremely important! But one has to be careful to debunk a lot of marketing “research” to get to the core of understanding the role of natural or artificial light in the built environment. To begin with, we must acknowledge that good design is centered around humans but as part of a larger eco-system involving all the other inhabitants of this beautiful planet. We must then understand that as humans we have been ”designed” to work with the Sun as our primary source of light and energy and as we move indoors for longer spans of time in a normal working day, our artificially lit interior places need to be carefully planned to minimize the detrimental effects of the differences in energy spectrum and colour rendering while also ensuring that we use products with low embodied energy and properties that support a circular economy. At night the strategies to light our cities and habitations should focus on

Delhi Clubhouse Gurgaon

AMAZON BLINK - Studio

allowing a proper period of rest for all the planet’s inhabitants while still allowing people to congregate, communicate and celebrate life. As lighting designers, we are responsible for understanding all these requirements and then balancing the science of light sources, their control, and understanding how they affect us while creating spaces that are still attractive, memorable and safe. We have to work closely with other design stakeholders – architects, interior designers, landscape architects, engineers and clients – to integrate these critical aspects of lighting design seamlessly into the built form.

What is the biggest innovation in the lighting sector? How has it revolutionized the entire industry?

LED as a source of light has definitely caused the biggest change. Starting with their performance efficiencies which have led to significantly lower energy requirements for lighting, their small form factor and very fast switching have changed the way we design spaces, while their integrated electronics allow easier use of colour. These properties have ensured that LEDs have rapidly replaced the traditional light sources – incandescent, fluorescent, and halides – in almost all sectors. However, there are still technical and functional issues that must be addressed and improved in the future e.g. colour consistency, thermal management, and delivering a full spectrum of light.

India Pavillion Shanghai

India Pavilion Shanghai

As a Lighting Designer, which lighting control brands do you prefer?

The selection of lighting controls depends on a lot of things today. The keypads, with their choices of material and variety of aesthetic or ergonomic designs, and choices of wired and wireless controls all play a significant role in selection. Technical compatibility across a range of drivers and control protocols is another key decider. Sometimes it is essential to integrate products with good retrofit solutions. Budget is always a key decider and very often the clients themselves have their preferences based on past experiences.

So, depending on the importance given to these various factors, we have used a variety of lighting control brands for different projects – Lutron, Dynalite (Signify), Rako and Zen Control being the most common selection.

What are your views on the Smart lighting industry? According to you, in which sector (hospitality, commercial, residential), is traditional lighting getting rapidly replaced by smart lighting? How do you foresee the Smart Lighting Industry 5 years down the line?

Well for one, it needs a better definition! “Smart” has come to mean a lot of things, but unfortunately, we end up doing a lot of dumb things initially thinking that they are smart! Good quality products that can be sensibly controlled are a definite need. However, the first aspect that needs addressing would be the user interface and we must first clearly understand the types of users and the desired user experience and design interfaces to meet these requirements in the simplest possible way. Typically, people want

Krisumi Office

Delhivery Office Mumbai

less complicated gadgets, simple to set up as well as to use. Secondly, we need to have product lines that can be smoothly integrated from the point of control right up to the light source. This necessitates “smart” coordination between the various manufacturers of individual components – the luminaire, the driver, the controller, and the user interface. Thirdly, with rapid technology changes, the system should be such that it is easily upgradable without having to change hardware components or wiring.

I think all sectors benefit from sensibly designed automation systems for a variety of reasons. The benefits for hospitality and residential sectors are flexibility in operation, and modulation of the space with different pre-set light scenes that create unique, memorable user experiences. In commercial spaces, the benefits of energy conservation and feedback for maintenance are key benefits.

I believe constant innovation and user focussed product developments augur well for the future of sensible lighting automation.

Human Centric Lighting (HCL) is a futuristic trend in the lighting industry with health and mental wellness being the top benefits. What are your views on the same?

For a species that depends so much on light, we have compromised our physiological needs a lot in our bid to be more “productive”. We need to spread awareness and integrate ideas from properly

researched studies that allow us to improve our health and wellness. We have only recently begun to understand the impact of various spectra of light on the functioning of our bodies. These findings coupled with other equally important parameters, for example, the selection of foods we consume or exercise regimens we follow, have proven benefits in healthier bodies and minds.

When designing our buildings, the integration of daylight and views into the external environments is critical. For spaces that require to be artificially lit we should involve our clients in design decisions about dynamic control of light while also ensuring a proper spectrum of light, good colour rendering, and sensible controls that allow flexibility without being too complicated. More than anything else, a clear understanding of the people that use the spaces we design and their requirements and designing holistically with the other design stakeholders to meet those requirements would be the best trend to adopt.

As the smart lighting market is fragmented into various segments –such as type, applications, end-users, and distribution channel, how does Lirio Lopez Lighting Design Consultants provide the best lighting solutions which suit consumer needs?

As described above, we believe the first step in a good design practice is understanding one’s clients

Max Office Okhla

and their needs. Those requirements then need to feature in the design dialogue with the architects or other designers. Being aware of the technology and being familiar with the products that are available to meet those needs must be part of the daily process of research. We believe technology should not be the primary driver in design solutions but the base layer from which we pick according to need. We encourage design debates in our design process and constantly invite manufacturers to present new products to the team. Site progress reviews and trouble-shooting experiences are shared so that the learning is accelerated. We firmly believe that our profession needs constant learning and each project is a treasure trove of learning and deploying knowledge.

How important is collaboration with a system integrator while doing a lighting project?

Extremely important! In the construction world of today working seamlessly together as a team across design and execution is key to delivering a good project. Working with professional, knowledgeable system integrators that run their practices with integrity cannot be underestimated.

What is your future vision for your Company?

To be thinking solution providers.

Weftscapes Serendipity Art Festival Goa S Residence

Basalte’s Plan to Explore New Markets

In Conversation with Smart Home World, Koen Dekyvere, Export Manager, Basalte discusses the growth and expansion strategies of Basalte, their focus on creating an intuitive user experience, expanding their product line to include a wide range of smart home solutions and it’s plans to expand its presence in different markets around the world, specifically, in the Indian market.

Can you tell us about your role at Basalte and the company’s emphasis on design and innovation in the home automation and control space?

As the export manager at Basalte, I am thrilled to be a part of a company that is at the forefront of design and innovation in the home automation and control segment. I have been with Basalte since 2008 and it has been an exciting journey to be a part of the growth and success of the company. In my role as Export Manager, I am responsible for managing the company’s operations and strategy in all the countries where we do not have our own sales team.

We have our own sales teams in countries like Germany, Belgium, Holland, Spain, and China. We provide local technical support and conduct training and visits with designers and consultants. For all the other countries, we work together with local partners depending on the country or territory. For example, in India, we have a distribution partnership with Smato Technologies who take care of all commercial actions and technical support.

How are Basalte’s products designed to be scalable and adaptable for different types of homes and buildings?

At Basalte, we are dedicated to creating products that not only function perfectly but also exude luxury and refinement. Our focus on the high-end luxury market enables us to develop products that cater to the most exclusive and demanding interior designs and architectural masterpieces. Our products are designed to be highly adaptable and can be used in a variety of settings including commercial, industrial, schools, airports, and hospitals.

We have made sure that our products are compatible with the major standards, systems and protocols worldwide such as Matter, KNX, Crestron on the CresNet Bus and Lutron. These are some of the most widely used light control systems in the market and we believe in offering our customers the flexibility to choose the system that best suits their needs. Additionally, we have expanded our product line to include a comprehensive solution, including a server with user interface, Basalte Home App, design speakers, and sound system integration to third-party audio-video products. Our aim is to bring the complete user interface for the Intelligence home and develop all products that serve that purpose.

We have a team of professional and senior engineers who are continuously researching upcoming trends in the home automation market and developing drivers and two-way automation drivers specifically for those needs. They ensure that the quality of our products is at the highest level, with a focus on making them easy to install, program and maintain so that once they are installed, customers do not have to worry about aftereffects or maintenance of the product. The idea is that the products are “fit and forget” and will last forever.

Can you discuss the role that user experience plays in the design of Basalte’s products, and how the company approaches this aspect of its product development?

At Basalte, user experience is a key aspect in the design and development of our products. We understand the importance of creating solutions that are intuitive and easy to use for the end customer, which is why we put a lot of emphasis on this aspect of our product development. Our focus on the highend luxury market allows us to create products that are tailored to the needs of the most demanding customers, and we strive to make them as simple and user-friendly as possible.

We approach user experience from a holistic perspective, considering not just one product but the entire product line. We believe that all our products should work seamlessly together and that the user interface should be consistent across the entire range. This allows us to create a complete and cohesive solution that is easy to use and understand for the end customer.

We also consider feedback from our system integrators and dealers, but always keep the end customer in mind. We believe that technology

should be simple and easy to use, and avoid making products too complex. For example, our motion sensors are small and flat, and fit perfectly in a highend residential setting, while also being easy to use. We also keep the number of buttons on our keypads to a minimum and rely on other devices such as remote controls and touch screens to control other functions.

In short, user experience is a key aspect of our product development at Basalte and we approach it from a holistic perspective, keeping the end customer in mind and striving to create simple and easy-to-use solutions.

Can you discuss the role that research and development play in the evolution of Basalte’s product line and the company’s overall direction?

At Basalte, we believe in staying at the forefront of innovation and technology. That’s why we invest heavily in research and development to constantly improve and evolve our product line. We understand that the smart home market is constantly changing and evolving and we strive to keep up with the latest trends and advancements in the industry.

One of our major achievements is the development of a complete front-end solution for the intelligent home. This includes not just controlling lights, blinds, and temperature, but also music and AV integration. We have also introduced a multi-room audio solution, design speakers, the Miro universal remote, and third-party AV integration. This is all in line with our mission to create a seamless and intuitive user experience for our customers.

Our R&D team is constantly working on new and exciting products, and we are proud to announce that in 2023, we will be launching the Adelante Luxury Door Phone. This product was first introduced at the Light & Building trade fair, and later at ISE Barcelona. This new product is a perfect example of how we are always pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the smart home market.

How does Basalte approach the Indian market and what strategies does the company use to increase its sales and expand its presence in this market?

At Basalte, we understand the importance of having a targeted approach when entering new markets. In order to increase our sales and expand our presence in the Indian market, we will be implementing a threefold strategy. Our first steps in India were taken over 10 years ago through different partners, which allowed us to learn about the market and any difficulties that come with it, such as project followup, local sales and technical support, import and shipping issues, etc.

Now, we feel that the time is right to take things in India to the next level. We have recently appointed Smato Technologies as our new national distribution partner in India. This partnership allows us to have better control over the market, and our dealers will benefit from local support and supply, as well as local marketing and sales activities. We believe that this will largely contribute to more project leads for our dealers and increase awareness of Basalte among architects, designers, and decision-makers.

We also believe that by working with a local distribution partner, we can develop the market in a better way and accelerate growth in the Indian market. Smato will handle the coordination of the price structure, coordination of projects, and communication with architects, designers, consultants, and project developers. In the past, we have handled the Indian market in a retroactive way, but now, with Smato as our main actor in India, we can do it in a more proactive way, by approaching projects and proposing our solutions to customers. Furthermore, we want to make sure that Basalte is not just seen as a keypad brand, but as a luxury home automation ecosystem. The main role of our partnership with Smato is to enhance education in the market about Basalte’s products. This will be done through a threefold strategy which includes visiting top-tier interiors and architects with physical demo kits, working with limited but good quality system integrators that can maintain after-sales service, which is an integral part of the Basalte solution and the third is to continue to educate the market about our products.

How does Basalte plan to continue expanding and growing as a company in the future, both in terms of its product line and its presence in different markets around the world?

As a company, we at Basalte are constantly striving to improve and evolve our product line, as well as expand our presence in different markets around the world. In terms of our product line, we are always looking to increase our share in smart home projects, and even increase the total smart home budget by offering an intuitive and luxurious experience to the customer. We are developing further on some products based on KNX and Bluetooth technology, and have recently launched our door phone system, Adelante. In addition, we see huge potential for

growth in AV Solutions, speakers, audio integration, and access systems.

In terms of expanding our presence in different markets, we have recently invested in expanding our North American team, and have just closed a deal to set up an office, showroom and training center in Salt Lake City. We are also investing in other parts of the world such as Germany, Holland and Spain, by setting up showrooms and training centers in these locations. This will bring the Basalte concept closer to the end customer, and ultimately create more projects with a small number of dealers, but a larger growth in the number of projects.

In India, we are thrilled to be working with Smato Technologies as our exclusive distribution partner. We believe that with their knowledge and expertise in the Indian market, we will be able to increase our sales and expand our presence in this market in a meaningful way.

Our goal is to provide our customers with a sophisticated and performant Basalte ecosystem that offers an intuitive and luxurious experience. By expanding our product line and building strong partnerships, we believe that we will be able to achieve this goal and continue to grow as a company.

In Conversation with Muskan Salgia, VP, Residential, DigiValet

In an in-depth interview with Smart Home World, Muskan Salgia, VP-Residential, DigiValet, delves into the intricacies of designing the ultimate guest experience solution, offers insight into the future of automation within India’s residential, commercial, and hospitality sectors, and shares some of the company’s most luxurious and successful projects to date. Plus, she discusses DigiValet and Casadigi’s expansion plans for the Indian market.

Can you provide a brief introduction to the companies Digivalet and Casadigi for our professional readers?

Established in 2008, DigiValet has been widely recognized for our ability to enhance the experiences of occupants in luxury hotels, senior living and serviced residences, cruise-liners, and state-of-theart hospitals through the use of our innovative suite of products and platforms. With over 40,000 satisfied users, we have a reputation for our commitment to empowering and elevating digital experiences at exceptional addresses. Our sister brand, Casadigi, serves the residential market by providing a smarthome solution for private residences and multidwelling apartment developments.

Our roster of global clients across geographies includes Armani Hotel & Residences, Bulgari Hotels, Aman Hotel & Residences, Bumrungrad Hospital, Wynn, Raffles Hotel & Residences, The Oberoi and private residences. With the innovation centre in India, the organisation has a presence across USA, UK, Saudi Arabia, UAE, China, Singapore & Australia.

What is the future of automation in India’s residential, commercial, and hospitality sectors?

The real estate industry is currently undergoing a shift towards mixed-use assets, such as hotelattached residences, residential buildings with colocated social and sports clubs, and developments that include commercial, residential, retail, and recreational spaces. Additionally, there is an increased focus on healthcare, wellness, and spa centres.

As customers live, stay, work, or visit these types of spaces, the need for technology extends beyond traditional automation solutions, which focus solely on controlling lights, temperature, and displays.

At DigiValet and Casadigi, we believe that the future of automation lies in the incorporation of lifestyle services across all sectors. We strive to provide a seamless and convenient experience for our clients and customers. This entails giving guests the convenience of managing various services through a single, integrated application, including registering expected visitors, summoning valet services, ordering food from a co-located restaurant, and accessing the elevator in the building. It’s no more about automation, it’s about lifestyle.

What goes into designing the perfect guest experience solution?

At DigiValet and Casadigi, we understand the importance of designing solutions with the end-user at the centre. While it may seem simple, it is often overlooked in favour of meeting operational needs.

We approach the design process by considering user journeys, rather than focusing on individual screens. Our design discussions begin by identifying the user’s intent and then determining the necessary information and inputs required to fulfil that intent. This approach ensures that the user’s needs are always prioritised and that the final solution is intuitive and user-friendly.

For example, when designing our newest feature in Casadigi, which allows our customers to place food

and beverage orders with their in-house chef, we established that the user’s intent was to easily order their everyday tea, coffee, and snacks with just a tap. The user should be able to access their favourites on the first tap, and place the order with another tap. Because this is a frequently occurring interaction, we designed a user interface that allows the user to accomplish everything from a single screen, making the process as simple as possible.

On the other hand, the user experience of our inroom dining feature for hotel guests is more detailed and elaborate, as guests are in an exploratory state of mind and would like to review the menu before making a decision. Our digital experience guides the guests through the menu items carefully before they place an order. Our goal is to ensure that the user

experience is intuitive, user-friendly and tailored to the specific needs of the user, in this case, the hotel guests.

We understand that digital solution should satisfy the user, it must not have any broken journeys. When Apps redirect users to external links or ask them to contact the front desk for more information, it leaves the user feeling frustrated and their needs unfulfilled. This diminishes the effectiveness of the solution. Our approach is to consciously design journeys that feel complete to the end-user, ensuring a seamless and satisfactory experience.

Furthermore, we believe in utilising clean and simple designs that incorporate soothing colours, legible fonts, and the appropriate use of images and icons. Our aim is to create an intuitive, user-friendly interface that is easy to navigate and pleasant to use.

What are the customised luxury solutions offered by you?

We offer a standard set of features to all of our customers, however, it is our ability to provide customised solutions that sets us apart. We understand that each customer has unique needs and requirements and we strive to tailor our solutions to align with their brand ethos and technology strategy. This approach allows us to create a seamless integration of technology into the larger brand story of our customers, providing a unique and personalised experience.

For example, when working with the W Hotel, we integrated their W Music Service and mood lighting

system with DigiValet to provide personalised welcome scenes for guests based on their moods as determined by the front desk. Additionally, guests were able to use an interactive mood pad during their stay to choose different music genres and RGB lighting with a slide of their finger.

For tenants of the world-first global Class A building, Winthrop Center in Boston, we helped create an all-encompassing App that allowed access to and payment for all services and amenities. This included opening doors, booking fitness sessions, scheduling pet walking services, and more, all within one payment system.

In our first healthcare project in Dubai, we were tasked with rethinking patient meal ordering in a hospital. We designed an iPad-based solution that enhanced the dining experience for patients while ensuring adherence to dietary restrictions and patient safety protocols. Our goal is to provide solutions that are tailored to the specific needs of each customer, delivering a unique and seamless experience.

At DigiValet, we do not believe in one-size-fits-all solutions. We like to bring brand promises to life by infusing cutting-edge technology with our creativity.

Give us an overview of the various verticals in which Digivalet is used.

At DigiValet, we have a long history of providing innovative digital solutions to the hospitality industry. In 2008, we powered the world’s first responsive hotel room using an iPod touch, which could control

lights, curtains, temperature, and entertainment systems. Since then, we have expanded our offerings to include our flagship iPad-based guest room experience, butler call solution, contactless check-in solution, and more.

In 2012, we launched our first residential product, a smart home solution for phones and iPads, now known as Casadigi. Our residential portfolio expanded in 2020 with the launch of DigiValet for Living, our first cloud-based platform aimed at serviced residences, branded residences, aparthotels, and mixed-use developments.

In 2019, we expanded our expertise to the healthcare sector, with a suite of solutions designed around patient-centric healthcare, including responsive systems, triaging, diet management tools, and call for care.

Our latest addition is DigiValet for Destinations. As the distinction between serviced apartments and build-to-rent developments begins to blur, and innovative mixed-use developments emerge, we have combined our expertise across all existing verticals to provide a super-App for destinations. This product is designed for developments that seek an integrated digital experience across multiple asset classes, such as hotels, residences, museums, retail, commercial spaces, and health and wellness centres. Our goal is to provide a seamless and integrated digital experience to our clients and their customers.

Take us

through the UI of Casadigi and Digivalet.

2023 is a significant year for DigiValet and Casadigi as we are set to launch new versions of both our products, Casadigi 4.0 and DigiValet 6.0, that feature completely redesigned user interfaces.

Our goal was to create modern and easy-to-use interfaces that are both subtle and luxurious. To achieve this, we have employed a new design style known as ‘glassmorphism’, which utilises the properties of glass to enhance the overall look and feel of the interface. Elements such as tab bars, buttons, and cards are designed to resemble frosted glass.

We believe that our Apps should not be perceived as mere technology, and therefore have incorporated a moving gradient in the background that changes colours, giving it a sense of movement and vibrancy, while still being subtle and not intrusive. We strive to provide exceptional user experiences through the design and functionality of our products.

At DigiValet and Casadigi, we understand the importance of providing a personalised experience to our users. As such, the home dashboard in both of our Apps is designed to be dynamic based on user preferences. For example, in Casadigi, it provides quick controls for the user’s favourite rooms across their home, and displays the live status of music being played across the home. Additionally, it prompts actions that the user frequently takes based on the time of day, such as opening curtains in the morning or launching Netflix on a Smart TV in the evening.

In DigiValet, the home dashboard takes the form of small chips that recommend actions to the guest based on certain criteria. For example, if the guest called for dinner an hour ago, the “clear tray” button

will appear, or if the guest is checking out the next day, the late checkout option will be suggested.

We have also enhanced the user interface of the panoramic view, which is a favourite among our existing customers. The tactile nature of the panoramic view has made it popular and the enhanced user interface in this version takes it to the next level. Our goal is to provide an intuitive experience that incorporates the habits of the new generation and make it easy for our users to navigate our Apps.

Could you share with us some of the most popular and luxurious projects that DigiValet and Casadigi have worked on, or provide some client stories?

We have had the opportunity to collaborate with some of the most iconic names in the hospitality industry, such as Armani, Oberoi, Wynn, and St. Regis. Among the many projects we have undertaken, there are a few that stand out for their unique challenges. I would like to share with you three of these projects and the innovative solutions we were able to provide to our clients.

a. Retro-Fitting Digital Transformations for Aman Amanpuri, located on a secluded peninsula with one of Phuket’s finest white sand beaches, offers a luxurious and idyllic Thailand escape reminiscent of days gone by. The resort features 40 villas nestled within the natural landscape, world-class restaurants, and a medical-grade Holistic Wellness Centre.

In an effort to appeal to a younger generation of

travellers while maintaining its current demographic, the property decided to enhance the entertainment offerings for their guests, who had previously been without televisions or other forms of technology in their guest rooms.

In 2017, DigiValet was brought in as the specialists to design and implement an iPad-based guest room experience for Aman’s flagship property. Since the installation, the property has seen an overall usage rate of 87% for the DigiValet iPad App, property-wide.

The adoption of the DigiValet solution in the newly renovated guest rooms has allowed Amanpuri to successfully increase not only the tech profile of their rooms but also the overall guest experience. Guests have expressed appreciation for the new technology enhancements across the pavilions, as evidenced by usage statistics.

We are proud to be a partner in Aman’s digital transformation journey and are excited to bring our platforms to Aman New York in the near future, with the roll-out of both DigiValet for Hospitality and Living.

b. Old World Charm Meets New World Technology at Raffles

Raffles Singapore is a 115-room luxury hotel located in Singapore. In 2016, the property underwent an extensive renovation and restoration to charm the modern traveller.

During this renovation, Raffles saw an opportunity to enhance its old-school heritage with sleek and discreet 21st century technology. The challenge was

to retain the aura of the hotel’s colonial architecture while also providing modern travellers with the technology and comforts they have come to expect in a luxury stay.

To meet this challenge, DigiValet designed the full guest room automation system with a true juxtaposition of innovative technology and colonial architecture. This system includes lighting, thermostat control, and curtains that meet the demanding needs of the ultra-modern luxury traveller, while holding true to the core design element representative of the Bronze Period. This was achieved through the use of brass-clad Porcelain rocker-type switches, which are a true marriage between old-world charm and modern guest technology.

The Raffles Butler service serves as the main interaction between the hotel and the guest. The Raffles Butler feature is integrated into the DigiValet solution in a manner that it is always visible and easily accessible for the guest.

Since the installation of the DigiValet system on property, Raffles Singapore has shown an 86% usage rate in Butler requests coming directly from the iPad.

Following the success in Singapore, we are now rolling out our hospitality and residential solutions at the upcoming Raffles in London at the Old War Office, as we speak.

c Creating a Multi-Sensory Experience for Honeymooners at Paris J’Adore

Paris j’Adore is a boutique hotel in the heart of the City of Love. Staying staunch to the hotel’s ethos for

hedonism, the hotel reached out to DigiValet.

The owner, a passionate hotelier, considered every pain point in the hotel stay and worked to eliminate it with either technology or the ultimate in luxury, which required complex integrations with multiple systems installed in the room.

Transforming the hotel into an ultra-romantic hideaway began with a first-class welcome experience, with a pre-filled bathtub and soothing aromas in the room. Guests control the bathtub temperature on their in-room iPad, along with a wider choice of fragrances throughout their stay. And with fully loaded entertainment on the TV, plus interactive food and drinks menus, there’s no reason to leave.

What are your plans for expansion and growth?

As an organisation, we at DigiValet and Casadigi are committed to expanding our presence globally. We have specific strategies in place for each of our verticals in order to capitalise on the vast opportunities that exist in different markets.

In particular, we see a great potential for our DigiValet for Living product in North America, where there is a significant number of Class A and Class A+ buildings. We also anticipate that markets such as Saudi Arabia and India will follow suit in the near future.

The Middle East, specifically Saudi Arabia, is an exciting region for both our healthcare and smart destination

products. Additionally, we are actively expanding Casadigi’s presence in the Indian market, focusing on high-end residential apartment developments and stand-alone homes. We are excited about the possibilities that arise from combining Casadigi’s automation expertise with DigiValet for Living’s services-focused platform for developers in India. Our ultimate goal as an organisation is to continue to push the boundaries of how technology can elevate people’s lifestyles through creativity and cuttingedge innovations.

From One Room to Many: Understanding Multi-Room Audio

Multi-Room Audio solutions range from wired systems to wireless speakers, smart speaker systems, and multi-room audio Apps. Smart Home World provides a holistic view of the benefits of multi-room audio, popular reliable options, and installation tips.

Multi-room audio refers to the ability to play music in multiple rooms in a house or building, all controlled from a central location or device. With the advancement of technology, the traditional stereo system has evolved into more sophisticated solutions that provide better audio quality, increased convenience, and greater control over the audio experience.

“Imagine starting your day with an energizing alarm tone in your bedroom while your parents are enjoying some devotional tracks in their room during their morning puja. Or, picture yourself working out in the gym with an extra boost of bass from the subwoofer, while your spouse is jamming to their favorite internet radio station in the kitchen. That’s the power of a Multi-Room Audio system,” says Tanmay Mehta, Home Cinema Consultant, Touchwood Automations. “It’s a trend that’s taking the world by storm, and it’s no different in India. Having multiple people in a household being able to enjoy their own choice of music in different rooms of the house, all at the same time is becoming increasingly popular. It’s the new normal and I am all for it!”

“One of the best things about multi-room audio solutions is the ability to cater to the diverse music preferences of every family member. No more fighting over what to listen to, each member can now have their own personalized audio experience in any room of the house. This makes it a great source of entertainment for the entire family”, says Manoj Soni, Technology Consultant, AV4U.

There are several types of multi-room audio solutions available on the market, each with its own set of features and capabilities. Wired systems typically involve running cables between the speakers and the source device, while wireless solutions use Wi-Fi or Bluetooth to connect the speakers to the source. Smart speaker systems, such as the Amazon Echo or Google Home, allow for voice control and integration with other smart home devices. Multi-room audio Apps, allow for the control and syncing of multiple speakers through a smartphone or tablet.

Tanmay Mehta, Home Cinema Consultant, Touchwood Automations

Manoj Soni, Technology Consultant, AV4U.

“The primary benefit of a multi-room audio system is control,” says Akshay Kohli, Director at Focal Audio Systems Pvt. Ltd. “No matter how you choose to listen to music – through in-ceiling speakers, in a dedicated listening room, or outside in your backyard – you can experience total control over what music you are playing in which area from your smartphone or tablet.”

Wired Solutions

Wired multi-room audio solutions are a popular option for homes and commercial spaces with highquality sound. These systems have wires connecting the central source, such as a computer or audio server, to speakers located in different rooms.

One of the main advantages of wired multi-room audio solutions is their reliability. Because the audio signal is sent directly from the source to the speakers via wires, there is less chance of interference or signal loss. This results in a clearer, more consistent sound quality.

Another advantage of wired multi-room audio solutions is their ability to handle high-resolution audio formats. Because the signal is sent directly

to the speakers, there is less risk of data loss or compression, which can negatively impact the sound quality. This makes wired multi-room audio solutions ideal for audiophiles who demand the best possible sound quality.

Wired multi-room audio solutions often use CAT6 cables, which are a type of Ethernet cable commonly used for networking and audio/video applications. These cables are made up of four pairs of twisted wires and are designed to transmit data at high speeds.

One of the main advantages of using CAT6 cables for multi-room audio solutions is their ability to handle high-bandwidth signals. These cables are rated to support data transfer speeds of up to 10 Gbps, which is more than enough for high-resolution audio formats.

Additionally, CAT6 cables are also designed to be more resistant to interference than other types of cables. They have thicker shielding and stricter specifications for crosstalk, which helps to maintain the integrity of the audio signal as it travels through the cable.

Wireless Solution

Wireless multi-room audio solutions allow users to stream audio throughout their homes without the need for physical cables. These systems typically use Wi-Fi or Bluetooth technology to transmit audio signals from a central hub or source device to multiple speakers or audio zones throughout the home.

One of the main advantages of wireless multiroom audio solutions is their flexibility and ease of installation. Without the need for physical cables, users can place speakers in any location they choose and can easily expand the system by adding more speakers as needed.

“One of the key benefits of a multi-room Audio System is the ability to easily expand the system as your needs change. With the ability to add additional speakers and amplifiers, the system can grow with you. This means you can start with a basic system and expand it as your needs change, without having to replace the entire system”, elaborates Mehta.

Another advantage is that wireless multi-room audio solutions are often more affordable than wired systems, as they do not require the cost and effort of running physical cables throughout the home.

Mehta further clarifies, “A multi-room audio system is not just limited to wired connections, with the advancements in wireless technology, the multiroom audio system can now be easily set up through wireless connections. This means that you don’t have to worry about running wires through your walls and ceilings, making the installation process quick and easy.”

Wireless multi-room audio solutions also often offer a wide range of connectivity options, including Wi-

Akshay Kohli, Director at Focal Audio Systems Pvt. Ltd.

Fi, Bluetooth, AirPlay 2, and Spotify Connect, which allows users to stream music from various sources such as streaming services, smartphones, and laptops.

Hybrid Solutions

Hybrid multi-room audio solutions are a combination of wired and wireless audio systems, providing users with the best of both worlds. These systems allow for the installation of wired speakers in certain areas of the home while also providing the flexibility of wireless speakers in other areas.

One of the key benefits of a hybrid system is that it allows for more flexibility in terms of system expansion. The wired connection ensures that the main hub is always connected to the network, and additional speakers can be easily added to the system through wireless connections. This means that the system can grow with you, as your needs change, without having to replace the entire system. Additionally, these hybrid systems also offer the convenience of being controlled through a single application, rather than multiple applications for wired and wireless speakers. This allows for easy control and syncing of audio throughout the entire home.

Hybrid systems also offer better audio quality, as the wired connection ensures that the main hub is always

connected to the network and that the speakers are always receiving a strong signal. This means that the audio quality is consistent and reliable, regardless of where the speakers are located in the room.

“Hybrid multi-room audio solutions, which combine the best of both worlds, provide convenience and ease of installation of wireless systems while also offering the audio quality and reliability of wired systems. They offer flexibility in terms of system expansion, easy installation, and a perfect balance of convenience and performance, making them a great choice for those who want the best of both worlds”, adds Mehta.

Talking about how to install a hybrid system, Manoj Soni from AV4U discusses the option of DIY vs Professional Installation. “As a homeowner, it’s important to consider your own level of technical expertise and the state of your existing network infrastructure”, he elaborates. “Personally, I believe that if you are tech-savvy and have a great network in place, then a DIY approach can be a great option. It’s not only cost-effective but also, you’ll have the satisfaction of setting up the system yourself. But, if you’re not as confident in your technical abilities or if your network infrastructure is not up to par, then it’s best to go with a professional system integrator. They will ensure that your multi-room audio system is set up correctly and that you have the best connectivity for all your devices.”

Popular Multi-Room Audio Solutions

Loewe Klang Bar5 MR in set with Loewe Klang Sub5

The Loewe Klang Bar5 MR and Loewe Klang sub5 subwoofer set offers a state-of-the-art home cinema experience with its 5.1.2 Dolby Atmos multiroom soundbar. The set boasts a total music output of 800 watts, ensuring crystal-clear, powerful Dolby Atmos sound. The sophisticated system delivers the best possible audio experience for a wide range of content, from dialogue-heavy chamber plays to action-packed thrillers, HD music streams, and multi-channel gaming.

The native App and extensive wireless capabilities of the set provide access to all streaming services, as well as technologies such as Google Chromecast™ and Apple AirPlay 2®. With three HDMI connections, 4K upscaling, and 4K pass-through, the set is fully equipped to connect to UHD players, set-top boxes, and game consoles. Additionally, Loewe’s new multi-room platform allows for easy expansion of the system by adding additional Loewe Klang MR speakers within seconds.

The Loewe Klang Bar5 MR and Loewe Klang Sub5 also impress with their sleek design, which features a clear design language and high-quality materials. The set is an aesthetic complement to any interior and perfectly matches the Loewe TV lines.

Technical Information

• 800 watts total music power

• Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, DTS Virtual:X

• 3 HDMI ports (1 x eARC/CEC), 4K upscaling and 4K pass-through

Native app and extensive wireless features for Apple AirPlay2, Google Chromecast and DTS Play-Fi

• Expandable to multichannel (7.1.2 system) through WDAL 2.0

Loewe Klang MR Loudspeakers

The Loewe Klang MR5, Loewe Klang MR3, and Loewe Klang MR1 Multiroom Speakers offer a range of sound art products that distribute audio content and music throughout the home. These speakers are designed with a conical look and are covered with elegant acoustic fabric, which lends a superior and elegant visual appearance.

Acoustically, these speakers also set the tone. The Loewe Klang MR5 and the Loewe Klang MR3 support the high-resolution Flac standard (192 kHz) and provide the highest level of enjoyment for demanding audiophiles. The Loewe Klang MR5 has a total music output of 180 watts, making it ideal for filling larger rooms with sound. The Loewe Klang MR3 offers 120 watts and is suitable for mediumsized rooms, while the compact Loewe Klang MR1 with 30 watts of total music output is ideal for smaller rooms.

The Loewe Klang MR speakers are designed for audiophile enjoyment in any room. They are based on the Loewe multi-room platform and can be combined in any way to enjoy music in any room. They can be conveniently operated via Apple Airplay

2® or Google Chromecast™ and offer access to numerous popular streaming services. Additionally, a touch display on the top of the speakers provides additional options and information about the current playback.

Technical Information

• Power:

o klang mr1: 60 watts music power

o klang mr3: 120 watts music power

o klang mr5: 180 watts music power

• Apple AirPlay2, Google Cast, DTS Play-Fi

All streaming services via native App

• Touch interface on top

• Multichannel functionality – WDAL 2.0

• Bluetooth

• Infrared sensor to go with Loewe remote Lan and Wlan connection

Genelec Smart IP

The Smart IP range of networked active loudspeaker systems presents a revolutionary solution for professionals in the audio-visual industry. Designed for those who demand premium loudspeaker performance that can integrate seamlessly into any AV application, no matter how complex the project may be. The Smart IP family offers three compact loudspeaker models, accompanied by sophisticated system management software and a user-friendly controller App.

This range of loudspeakers delivers exceptional audio, power, and sophisticated loudspeaker management via a single CAT cable. This unique feature makes it an ideal solution for installers as it eliminates the need for multiple cables, reducing installation time and costs.

According to Aki Mäkivirta, Genelec Director of R&D, “With everything you need to be delivered over a single, standard network cable - including enough power to drive medium SPL applications - integrators have a complete solution at their fingertips: the highest quality loudspeakers with onboard signal processing and integrated power amplifiers, all underpinned by Genelec’s renowned audio and build quality.”

It offers a cost-effective, high-quality, and efficient solution for projects of any complexity.

What makes Smart IP unique?

• Single-cable connectivity using PoE+ without performance sacrifice.

• High maximum SPL on PoE+ power.

• Renowned Genelec audio and build quality.

• Support for open audio and IP standards.

• Uncompromising uncompressed lowlatency audio streaming directly into each loudspeaker.

• Loudspeaker synchronisation to submicrosecond level for solid acoustic imaging.

• Full set of acoustic room compensation and alignment tools built into each loudspeaker.

Extensive accessory support.

• Complete public API command set. Designed and manufactured in Finland for high reliability, long lifetime, and respecting environmental sustainability.

Genelec Smart IP Installation Speakers

Genelec Smart IP Installation Speakers offer a powerful and convenient audio solution for any installation, whether it is a compact space or a larger room. The 4410A, 4420A, and 4430A are all part of the Smart IP family and utilize Power over Ethernet (PoE) to deliver uncompromised SPL and acoustic performance.

The 4410A is the newest and most compact member of the Smart IP family, offering extraordinary coverage, clarity, and intelligibility. The 4420A packs the power and flexibility of Smart IP technology into an ultra-compact enclosure, bringing clarity, intelligibility, and uniform room coverage to the tightest of spaces. The 4430A offers power, audio, and loudspeaker management via a single standard CAT cable, delivering unrivaled flexibility, cost-effectiveness, and simplicity of installation.

All three speakers are fully compatible with Dante and open streaming standards such as AES67 and ST2110-30 and integrate tightly with the Smart IP Manager software. This software allows installers to configure an almost unlimited number of rooms, zones, loudspeakers and audio channels, and includes device discovery, a versatile room EQ tool set, system organization, and status monitoring. Additionally, a public API command set allows for integration into house automation systems for day-to-day use.

Manufactured in Finland using certified sustainable methods, Genelec Smart IP Installation Speakers will provide decades of reliable service, ensuring exceptional sound quality for any installation.

Genelec Smart IP

Genelec Smart IP Software

Smart IP Manager software is specifically designed to be used by installers during system set-up and allows the configuration of almost unlimited numbers of rooms, zones, loudspeakers, and audio channels. After which, a public API command set allows Smart IP speakers to then be integrated into house automation systems – enabling end-user control of simple parameters including volume, power On/Off, loudspeaker activity, and a selection of pre-programmed audio settings.

To address the specific needs of installers, Smart IP Manager offers an array of software tools focused on solving specific installation audio problems – including device discovery, room equalisation, system organisation and status monitoring. This saves installers a substantial amount of working time and ensures that Smart IP loudspeaker systems perform with outstanding clarity and speech intelligibility – even in acoustically challenging environments.

To help cope with challenging acoustic environments, Smart IP Manager integrates with the loudspeaker’s internal DSP to allow analysis and corrective equalisation of any detrimental room acoustics, along with control of delay and level alignment. Internal memory within the speaker then allows instant recall of settings, allowing fast and accurate deployment in any environment.

Genelec Smart IP Controller

The Smart IP Controller App provides end users with simple control of key loudspeaker functions via their smartphone or tablet. Perfect for less complex installations, Smart IP Controller is both fast and intuitive.

Designed to be used after the system has been configured and optimised by the installer using Smart IP Manager software, the free Smart IP Controller App can then be downloaded onto the end user’s smartphone or tablet (iOS or Android), for day-to-day access to key loudspeaker functions including mute, volume and power On/Off.

The Controller App automatically discovers the loudspeakers on the network and offers a clean and logical user interface. Access to some or all of the zones created during configuration can then be assigned to the App, giving each individual user the appropriate levels of control. The Controller App is ideal for smaller installations and offers a simple, low-cost alternative to third party house automation systems.

Lithe Audio Wi-Fi Ceiling Speaker

The Lithe Audio Wi-Fi Ceiling Speaker is an all-inone solution for high-quality, multi-room audio streaming. With a powerful 60W RMS Class D amplifier built-in and compatibility with both AirPlay 2 and Google Chromecast, this speaker allows for seamless streaming from any App on your iOS or Android device. The standout feature of this speaker is its all-in-one design. The amplifier and wireless connectivity are built-in, making for a truly cablefree listening experience and easy installation.

Connectivity options include Apple AirPlay 2, Google Chromecast, Spotify Connect, Bluetooth, DLNA/ UPnP connections, and a line-in (RCA input) for hardwiring other devices. Users can even access digital music storage using a NAS drive (Networked Hard Drive). In terms of audio performance, the Lithe Audio Wi-Fi Ceiling Speaker boasts a 6.5” woven glass fiber cone woofer and a 0.75” titanium cone tweeter, providing clear and powerful sound. The speaker also features a digital equalizer control, allowing users to adjust bass, mid, treble loudness, and night mode. Additionally, the speaker offers exceptional audio quality with a THD+N of 0.009% and a frequency response of 65Hz-20kHz, as well as a high sensitivity of 90dB.

Additionally, the speakers offer a unique feature of direct control from the user’s preferred music App, eliminating the need for a third-party App or the Lithe Audio App.

The Lithe Audio Wi-Fi Ceiling Speaker also offers the flexibility of playing music in a group or individual rooms. With the ability to connect up to 30 master speakers (30 zones), users can easily group and mix and match multi-branded speakers with AirPlay 2 or Chromecast for a personalized listening experience. This allows for ultimate control over the audio in your home, giving you the ability to create custom audio zones that cater to your specific needs.

In terms of design, the Lithe Audio Wi-Fi Ceiling

Speaker boasts a 210mm cut-out diameter and sleek design, making it the perfect addition to any home. The speaker also has a weight of 3.7kg and a power supply of DC24V/2.5A, with dimensions of (W x D) 230 x 95 mm. The speaker also comes with a limited 2-year warranty, providing added peace of mind for the user.

Lithe Audio has developed new drivers for its multiroom Wi-Fi Ceiling Speakers that will allow for integration with popular smart home systems such as Control4, Fibaro, and Loxone. This allows for easy control and integration of the speakers into a smart home system, making it a convenient and seamless experience for users. The drivers allow custom installers to add wireless ceiling speakers to their smart home system for easy audio control.

Technical Information

• All-in-one design for easy installation

• Multi-room audio capabilities

• AirPlay 2 and Chromecast compatible

• Built-in amplifier and wireless connectivity

Digital equalizer control

• Support for popular music streaming services

Easy control via iOS and Android app

• Connect up to 30 speakers for ultimate multiroom audio

Group and mix-match with other multi-branded speakers

• Smart home integration through Control4, Fibaro and Loxone drivers.

AtlasIED Atmosphere Digital Audio Processors

AtlasIED offers multiple powerful and innovative audio control solutions, including the Atmosphere’s 4 and 8-zone audio processors. These processors are the heart of the audio control system and offer powerful DSP combined with innovative algorithms.

The AZM4 and AZM8 are perfect for multi-room audio solutions, as they allow you to play music in different rooms of your home, all controlled from a single onboard web interface. The interface is optimized around common use cases, making it easy to use and navigate. Additionally, it is built around Progressive Web App technology, making it device agnostic and responsive, ensuring an ideal user experience without sacrificing design freedom.

One of the key features of the Atmosphere’s 4 and 8-zone audio processors is their ability to connect to a wide range of accessories for control, remote audio input, and ambient noise sensing. With up to 16 of these plug-and-play accessories can be connected across 2 or 4 accessory ports, respectively, on the AZM4 and AZM8, with each port designed to work reliably up to 1000ft. This allows you to customize your audio system to your specific needs and preferences.

Another important feature of the processors is their virtual wall controllers. These controllers allow you to adjust the volume and other settings of the audio system remotely, without the need for additional hardware. This feature is especially useful for large spaces such as concert venues or auditoriums where it may be difficult to access the main control panel.

The Atmosphere’s 4 and 8 zone audio processors also come with learning ambient noise sensing. This feature allows the processors to automatically adjust the audio levels based on the ambient noise in the room. This ensures that the audio is always at the optimal level for the space and provides a better listening experience for the users.

Additionally, the processors come with a built-in message player, auto-gain, GPIO, bell scheduler, room combine and many more features that

make them powerful processing powerhouses for automated audio system control. Furthermore, the processors are compatible with a variety of control modules, including RTI, Crestron, Extron, and AMX, which makes integration with your existing system even more seamless

Needless to say, AtlasIED Atmosphere Digital Audio Processors are powerful, versatile and easy to use, with a wide range of features that make them perfect for any space.

Technical Information

• Room combine function

• Virtual wall controllers

• Learning ambient noise sensing

Auto-gain feature

• On-board WiFi

Third-party control compatibility

• 2 or 4 accessory ports for up to 16 controllers and sensors

App-less virtual wall controller access via QR code or distributed URL

Sonos Multi Room Audio Ecosystem

Sonos is a brand known for its easy-to-use and customizable multi-room audio systems. Its ecosystem connects to a home’s Wi-Fi network, providing a more stable connection than Bluetooth and eliminating interruptions from phone calls while streaming music. The system can be controlled with the Sonos App, allowing users to play music from various sources, including the internet, computer, tablet, or smartphone, on speakers placed throughout their homes. The app also allows users to play different music in different rooms, group rooms together for parties, and control up to 32 speakers at a time.

One of the key benefits of the Sonos system is its ability to easily integrate with other smart devices from various brands, without the need for an additional hub. This means that users can control their Sonos speakers alongside other smart devices such as Lutron, Schneider Electric, and IKEA home smart.

The Sonos ecosystem offers a wide range of streaming services, including Spotify, Google Play, Deezer, and more. Users can also play their own music by connecting a Network Attached Storage (NAS) device to their Sonos system. With thousands of streaming radio stations available through the Sonos app, the possibilities for music listening are endless.

Sonos continues to innovate and develop new features for its audio systems. These include the ability to aggregate music libraries from home computers and devices on the network, collaborative playlists and DJ modes, and seamless Spotify integration. Users can also use their Sonos speaker as an alarm clock or sleep timer and control it from their Apple Watch.

In terms of technical capabilities, Sonos uses wireless

network technology to allow all of its speakers to communicate with one another and the controller. Connectivity options include Airplay and the Sonos App, and the system supports MP3, WMA, AAC, and hi-res audio streaming from Amazon Music Unlimited up to 24-bit, 192 KHz.

Sonos prioritizes innovation and customer satisfaction in the development of its products, regularly releasing updates and enhancements to optimize the user experience. For example, users can switch their Sonos surround speakers from ambient to full, tune their speakers to the room they’re in with true play, and turn on speech enhancement or night mode.

In conclusion, the Sonos multi-room Audio Ecosystem offers a seamless and easy-to-use audio experience for the whole home. With its wide range of streaming services, smart home integrations, and innovative features, Sonos is leading the way in the future of home audio.

Technical Information

• Can control up to 32 speakers with the Sonos app

• Easily integrates with other smart devices from different brands

• Offers seamless Spotify integration

• Can be used as an alarm clock or sleep timer

• Can be controlled from an Apple Watch

• Has connectivity options including Airplay and the Sonos app

• Supports MP3, WMA, AAC audio formats

• Supports h-res audio streaming from Amazon Music Unlimited up to 24-bit, 192 KHz

Devialet Phantom

The Devialet Phantom product line is a collection of cutting-edge and high-performance speakers that offer unparalleled sound quality and power. The product line includes the Phantom I 103 dB, Phantom I 108 dB, Phantom II 95 dB, and Phantom II 98 dB, each available in both mono and stereo versions. These speakers are engineered to deliver the purest and most essential form of sound, making them a perfect choice for music enthusiasts and audiophiles.

All the Devialet Phantom products feature advanced technologies and high-performance features that deliver rich and clear sound. They are designed to move you, even at low volume, and the touch controls give you total command of the speaker with a single stroke.

One of the most notable technologies behind Phantom I 103 dB and Phantom I 108 dB is the Heart Bass Implosion (HBI) system. This system uses two lateral woofers that dance in sync to create opposing forces that cancel out even the slightest vibrations and generate ultra-dense sound. The result is a physical impact that is unlike anything you’ve ever felt. The Phantom I 108 dB has a maximum sound level of 108 dB SPL and a frequency response of 14Hz – 27kHz, with 1100 Watts RMS total amplification power and a grade 1 Titanium tweeter driver. While, the Phantom I 103 dB has a maximum sound level of 103 dB SPL and a frequency response of 16Hz - 25kHz, with 500 watts RMS total amplification power. Both of these models include connectivity options such as Airplay 2, Spotify Connect, Bluetooth, and Toslink optical input.

The Phantom II 95 dB and Phantom II 98 dB both feature an Aluminum Full-Range driver and 2 Aluminum Bass drivers which deliver precise and accurate sound. The Devialet DAC embedded in Devialet Intelligence Processor in these models has a 24bits/96kHz resolution and THD: -112dB. The Phantom II 98 dB has a maximum sound level of 98 dB SPL, while the Phantom II 95 dB has a maximum sound level of 95 dB SPL. Both have similar connectivity options, including Airplay 2, Spotify Connect, Bluetooth, Roon ready, UPnP renderer, and Analog/Optical jack input, as well as dual-band Wi-Fi and Ethernet RJ-45 10/100/1000 Mbps (Gigabit) for

easy network connection.

When combined, the Devialet Phantom products can create the ultimate multi-room audio solution. With the ability to connect multiple speakers together, you can enjoy high-fidelity and immersive sound throughout your entire home. This can be done via the Devialet app which allows you to control and synchronize your speakers, as well as access a wide range of streaming services like Spotify, Tidal, and more.

Additionally, the Devialet Phantom systems are also designed to integrate seamlessly with home automation systems, making it easy for users to control their speakers using their automation app of choice. The company also offers a dedicated team for customer support, available around the clock to help with any queries or issues that may arise during the setup or usage of the product.

In terms of audio processing technologies, the Devialet Phantom speakers feature the Analog Digital Hybrid (ADH) amplification system, which is considered to be one of the most important audio amplification innovations of the last 40 years. The speakers also feature the Speaker Active Matching (SAM) system, which allows the ADH intelligence to adapt to the specifications of the speaker it is connected to, resulting in a more customized and personalized listening experience.

Technical Information

• All Phantom models have ADH and SAM technology

All Phantom models have connectivity options like Airplay 2, Bluetooth, etc.

• Devialet app allows multi-room audio and streaming service access

• All Phantom models are home automation compatible

All Phantom models are compatible with Roon and UPnP renderer

• All Phantom models feature Dual-band Wi-Fi and Ethernet connectivity

VSSL A.1x Audio Streaming Amplifier

The VSSL A.1x is a versatile and powerful audio streaming amplifier that allows you to stream your music to your home audio system with ease. With its ability to connect and control directly from the music Apps you love, such as Airplay2, Spotify Connect, Chromecast built-in, or Alexa Cast, the A.1x eliminates the need for any third-party Apps.

One of the most exciting features of the VSSL A.1x is its voice control capability. Using simple voice commands, you can easily play your music in any room with the help of Alexa, Siri, and Google Assistant. This feature makes it easy to control your home audio system without ever having to leave the comfort of your couch.

The A.1x is also designed to deliver incredible sound quality. It connects your home speakers to all your favorite music, giving you the ability to power inceiling speakers or high-end bookshelf speakers to elevate your sound. The A.1x is also simplistic in design, making it easy to use and set up.

The A.1x is perfect for those looking to add audio to a single room or create a whole-home audio experience. With the ability to connect one zone, or room, the A.1x gives you the freedom to use any music streaming app to play audio to that room. Additionally, you can add multiple A.1x’s to your system, such as the A.3x or A.6x, for an extra zone of audio.

In terms of technical specifications, the VSSL A.1x has a Class D amplifier with 35 watts @ 8 Ω RMS and 50 watts @ 4 Ω RMS. It also has a variety of inputs and outputs, including analog, optical, digital coax, IR, and network inputs, as well as analog, optical, digital coax, subwoofer, and network outputs. The A.1x also has a 7-band adjustable EQ and a signal-tonoise ratio of >98 dB A-weighted.

Overall, the VSSL A.1x is an excellent choice for anyone looking to elevate their home audio experience. With its versatile features and powerful sound, the A.1x is sure to impress.

Technical Information

Connect and control music apps directly, no 3rd party Apps needed

• Voice control with Alexa, Siri, and Google Assistant

Incredibly powerful sound quality

• Connects one zone, or room or add multiple for whole-home audio

Airplay2, Chromecast built-in, Spotify Connect, and Alexa Cast supported

• Can be added to another system like A.3x or A.6x for an extra zone

With the ability to cater to the diverse music preferences of every family member, it’s no wonder why multi-room audio is becoming increasingly popular. It’s time to upgrade your home sound system and enjoy the best of multi-room audio.

Offering Smart Technology to Transform Your Spaces

Audio & Beyond launches the largest Home Automation & AudioVideo experience center in Hyderabad that provide visitors with an unparalleled brand experience and showcases an innovative range of smart products.

In the retail design segment, professionals tend to go beyond the surface to tap the intangible. In this competitive retail zone, it is important that professionals understand the prominence of retail branding and how their design can influence and enhance the marketability of a product through their design perception. One such store, which is gaining prominence in Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad is Audio & Beyond – which retails in Smart Automation Solutions.

Audio & Beyond owned by Rishabh Jain under the umbrella of Electronics Mart India Limited (EMIL) also houses products from Bajaj Electronics is designed by Aamir and Hamida Sharma, Principal Architect, and Interiors Designer, AANDH. They have already worked with esteemed clients like Raichandani Constructions, Shree Ram builders, Vamshiram Builder, Jain Construction and MPM group.

Rishabh Jain brings his audio technology experience from his successful DJ career to this store.

This spacious 8,000 sq ft one-of-its-kind experience center showcases top-of-the-line products for Audio, Video, Automation, and Security solutions. They have globally renowned brands that include brands like Bowers & Wilkins, Monitor Audio, Gallo Acoustic, K-array, Triad, Sonos, Devialet, Bang & Olufsen, Sonora Marshall, Wisdom, Marantz, Denon, KNX, Savant, Control4, Basalte, Ekinex, Ubiquity, Peplink, Araknis, Honeywell, Yale and One Touch.

Design Concept and Product Display

The entire experience centre is constructed to resemble a mock-up home in order to give visitors a hands-on understanding of how Smart Home Automation functions. “Our goal is to envision and educate users on how the full range of our smart home automation solutions operate. With real-time walkthroughs, we make smart home automation accessible to customers, experts, and system integrators. Visitors can experience smart home automation and see how your home might operate without assistance from humans or manual labour. They can also learn first hand how to operate all lights, appliances, and other gadgets with a single remote control. To name a few, we provide technology suitable for villas and flats. Rishabh Jain explains. The entire store is segregated into a living room, drawing room, bedroom, dining room, bar space, conference room, three home theaters (each

Rishabh Jain

dedicated to single brands), and one recreational media room. Plus, there are sleek niches that also display individual products.

Visitors can get a hands-on feel of how these high-end products operate in the expertly organised space, where each area showcases a particular range or a combination of brands. Customers are given a variety of options in terms of brand choices or pricing, their working, and also receive a sense of how these high-tech ranges might be implemented in their private areas. Additionally, we provide walk-in consumers a real-time demonstration of how modern technology will change the way your house feels and looks, says Rishabh Jain.

The store is broadly segregated into four segments, Audio, Video, Automation, and Network & Security.

In the Audio Segment, there are sleek soundbars, on-wall speakers, and floor-standing speakers on display. “The entire store has ceiling speakers, which give an idea of how multi-room audio works and also experience it, how a customer can connect the entire home with the same music or music in a different zone that can also be experienced,” informs Rishabh Jain.

For the Video Segment, there are dedicated Home Theater Rooms with different home theaters like laser projectors, the latest 4K projectors, ultrasound projectors, and 100 displays of TV for customers who are not interested in the projector and experience a big large TV screen.

The entire store is automated and wholly connected for AC to curtains, audio, and video. Everything can be operated via phone or automation keypads. Everything can be experienced in the store.

For those looking for multifunctional TV lifts, there are various options on display. Firstly, there are sleek, hidden and concealed TV Lift option and the second category are the TVs concealed behind the wall using picture frames and cabinets. For the Network & Security entire store is equipped with the latest networking solutions with racks and different components necessary. The store is designed according to what works for the particular customer’s home. Solution based on customers’ requirements as per aesthetics and home interior. Suggestions based on clients’ budgets and what is best for their interiors.

Plexilent: The All-In-One Solution for Controlling Home Lighting

Smart home technologies have advanced to unimaginable boundaries, and as a consumer, people now have too many options making it hard to select one. The only drawback of using multiple smart home devices like lightning, or electronics, is using different remote controllers and Apps for each device.

Plexilent aims to solve this challenge by providing consumers with its smart BLE modules and smart application. Plexilent is an IoT platform oriented towards providing solutions to brands of different industries tailored to accord solutions with the latest technologies. The Plexilent Smart App gives users complete control over their smart devices.

The Plexilent Smart ecosystem is a sophisticated mobile application that allows users to operate smoothly and effectively with the intelligent BLE modules creating a mesh network. It allows users to create large-scale device connections by using mesh networking that allows many-to-many (m:m) connections between

multiple Bluetooth devices. In layman’s terminology, each device operates as a master and slave, eliminating point-to-point failure.

Highlighting Features of Plexilent Smart App

• Smart Home Control: The App allows users to control and adjust the lighting in their homes or commercial spaces. This includes turning lights On and Off, adjusting brightness, and setting schedules.

• Energy-Saving Capabilities: Plexilent has features designed to help users save energy. This includes monitoring and tracking energy usage and set schedules to automatically turn lights Off when they are not needed.

• Easy-to-use Interface: Their solution is focused on a human-centric ecosystem, so the App has an intuitive and user-friendly interface.

Brand Profile:

For those few, who are not familiar with the brand Plexilent is an IoT platform that aims to offer a complete embedded solution to brands, supporting different sectors like Lighting, Smart Wearables, Wireless Audio, Human Interface Devices (HID) and many more. Plexilent strives to build a global IoT platform that is easy to use and adaptable, allowing the linked world to benefit from creative solutions.

Plexilent is a cutting-edge embedded system for lighting applications, equipped with a range of functionalities including the ability to adjust light intensity, modify the colours, and temperature, and choose from a vast array of RGB colours.

They offer extensive assistance across all industries, with a diverse range of products, a convenient one-stop-shop approach, and highly dependable solutions that meet the power consumption, RF link budget, and processing needs of the ever-changing industries.

What’s Unique about Plexilent?

The Plexilent Smart App is compatible with Android and iOS devices running above Android 8 and iOS 12, respectively. The application has been designed to eliminate the need for gateway or network extenders

by providing direct access. Plexilent Smart App acts as a gateway hub that is configured to provide remote access with a serverless ecosystem, which can be used to control lights and devices. Plexilent understands the concern for security and data breach, hence is empowered with PSA level 3 certification ensuring a completely secure ecosystem.

The Advantages of Plexilent Over Other Competitors: Quick Setup

The pairing and setup of smart devices with Plexilent modules to a system is a quick and straightforward process that can be completed in under 5 minutes. It requires nothing more than plugging in the device and experiencing smooth integration with the system.

App Customization

Our Plexilent application allows for extensive customization options, tailored to the features and capabilities of the app and the devices it controls. We take pride in providing easy-to-use, no-code customization solutions to our customers and assist in making them available on various app stores.

Complete-in-house Integration

Provide your customers with access to a diverse range of Plexilent smart devices. We provide end-to-end solutions in designs and software SDKs to customers for easy onboarding to the platform.

Simple and Adaptable

The Plexilent platform is designed with simplicity in mind, featuring easy-to-use elements and applications that make controlling and adapting the ecosystem effortless for any user.

Technical Assistance

Technical support is the assistance given to consumers or users of a service or product, usually in the form of troubleshooting and problem-solving.

For More Details:

Website: https://plexilent.com

Email: connect@plexilent.com or Tel: +91 7710092933.

Address: #809/810, 8th Floor, Tower -B, Lodha Supremus, Kolshet Road, Thane West- 400607.

Hogar IR Controller For Smart Homes

Hogar Controls, India’s leading IoT and Smart Home Automation company uses a design-first approach in providing smart home solutions to millions of people globally. IR controller cum Humidity and temperature sensor is Hogar’s new product with an aesthetic finish and superior functionality. With the expeditious change in the smart home automation industry, Hogar devised a product that can control home devices with either a single application or through voice commands, those who are looking to change their traditional remotes to control home appliances can opt for this alluring product that controls a variety of your home devices.

The Brand has done excessive research over the years and designed IR controller cum Humidity and temperature sensor to cater Global Market. These IR controllers have evolved over the years from simple IR controllers to Humidity and temperature sensor that provide comfort and convenience to users. Apart from the aesthetic finish and creative design, the IR controller cum Temperature and Humidity Sensor can control devices within an infrared range of less than 5m. This smart product can solve users’ most common problem of using multiple remotes for controlling Audio-video devices. Using the Hogar SE application or through voice commands, users can control devices like projectors, home theatres, setup boxes, and smart televisions. By providing voice commands like “Hey Alexa change to Star sports channel” or “Hey Google change to MTV channel”, users can enjoy a hassle-free experience in controlling Audio-video devices.

The Innovative concept is that the IR controller comes with a Humidity and Temperature sensor that detects the room temperature and humidity, this concept helps users not to worry about room temperature. The sensor provides data on room temperature and Humidity, Users can view this data in a graphical representation on their mobile phones. This product’s coruscating feature is that users can create SCENE in Hogar SE mobile application so that the selected home devices perform functions according to the created SCENE. For example, the User created a SCENE such as If the room temperature is 28°C, the Air conditioner should be turned ON, and when the room temperature is around 18 to 20°C the Air conditioner should be turned OFF. When the room temperature reaches 28 °C it will be measured by a temperature and humidity sensor and the user’s Air Conditioner will be turned ON, when it reaches 18 to 20°C air conditioner will be turned OFF. This feature provides users with a unique experience in controlling home devices.

IR controller cum Temperature and Humidity sensor can be configured using Hogar SE Mobile Application. Hogar controls developed a user-friendly mobile

application to control home devices. The stand-out feature of the application is Data Security, all the user’s data are secured safely in a cloud storage platform ensuring no chance of data breach. Hogar believes that “innovation has no boundaries”, the IR controller can be operated using Voice assistants like Google Assistant/ Amazon Alexa, this innovative feature reduces the user’s effort and time in controlling household devices.

Product Specifications:

Brand Name: Hogar Controls

Operating Voltage: DC 5V/1A (Micro Usb2.0)

Stand by Power: ≤0.5W

Infrared Distance: < 5m (Affected by Environment)

Size: 65*65*17mm

Infrared Frequency: 38KHZ

Key features:

• Temperature and Humidity sensor senses the room temperature and humidity, which helps users to adjust their device control settings.

• Wireless remote control using Hogar SE Mobile Application.

Supports Voice assistants like Google Assistant/ Amazon Alexa.

• Users can provide access to family members in controlling home devices.

Ajax Offers Co-Branded App Solutions to Security Companies

Ajax presents the co-branded App — a solution helping security companies increase brand awareness daily and customers receive better service. The security company can now place its logo on the main screen of the Ajax Security System Mobile App. And the client needs to tap on the logo to quickly view the account status and contact information. The solution is available only to authorized partners of Ajax Systems.

The logo of the security company can now be placed on the main screen of the App. Every time a user opens a co-branded App and uses it to interact with the system, they see the security company’s logo. This is how the brand unobtrusively reminds of itself on the client’s smartphone.

With one click on the company’s logo in the app, the client has access to contact data for prompt resolution of security issues and sees their account status (if the billing function is enabled). When it’s time to pay for services, the user can see it in the App — the account status turns red. Annoying phone calls and text messages with reminders become a thing of the past.

The client knows the status of security services without unnecessary communication and reminders from the company manager. This makes the interaction more relaxed and saves the client’s time and the company’s resources.

How to get co-branded app

Only authorized partners of Ajax Systems can receive the benefits of the co-branded App. Please contact the Ajax manager in your region for the details.

The billing function is optional and must be connected separately. It is not necessary to use it in the App.

The co-branded App is available to customers of security companies who have the following versions of the Ajax Security System app:

2.25.2 for Android

2.22.3 for iOS

CES 2023 Focused on Sustainability-Focused Tech

The recently concluded Consumer Electronics Show (CES) a three-day event that showcases new trends and the latest developments in the world of consumer technology this year also showcased SustainabilityFocused Tech such as robots that dive into pipes and search for leaks. “Globally about 30 billion cubic meters of clean water is lost due to leaks each year,” said Steve Koenig, Vice President of Research at the CTA, at a press event. Solutions like this may help find and fix leaks more quickly, according to Koenig. Enterprise technology or tech that aims to help businesses run more efficiently was also at the forefront this year. Most notable are innovations that enable humans to work alongside robots. An example

is what Koenig called the Cray X, a robotic wearable made by German Bionic. It is meant to replace the velcro backstrap that warehouse workers used to protect themselves while lifting heavy objects. The Cray X robotic exoskeleton is supposed to provide an extra boost to workers as they lift to help reduce fatigue and injury.

The metaverse is also receiving special attention this year. The term was most recently popularised by Meta (formerly Facebook) in 2021. While not yet a reality, it is imagined to be an immersive virtual world.

But this year the metaverse is “beyond virtual reality,” said Koenig. He highlighted wearable headsets that integrate scents that pair with visuals as an innovation in the

space. This, said Koenig, offers a heightened sense of immersion to the user. Visitors at CES this year were able to see and sample these devices on the showroom floor. Many companies like Dell, LG and Germany’s Volkswagen displayed their new products. Large companies like BMW, Samsung, and Google built large dedicated spaces for their newest wares at the CES.

This year marks 56 years since the first Consumer Technology Show. Over 3200 exhibitors from across 173 showcased traditional and nontraditional gadgets to attendees eager to experience the future of technology.

Crestron Announces Several Product Innovations for the Workplace and Home at ISE 2023

Crestron Electronics, a global leader in workplace and smart home technology, previews the company vision for the ISE® 2023 tradeshow and the new solutions that will be on display. Technology experiences are ingrained with familiar daily routines. Videoconferences have taken over the workday, automation installs have skyrocketed, and homeowners are spending more time in their residences than ever before. Crestron’s 16,000-square-foot booth will be brimming with handson, experiential demos that enable attendees to see how Crestron transforms the most mundane tasks and empowers everyone to come together in a way that sets them apart.

“ISE is a unique show that allows Crestron to exhibit the breadth of our product portfolio from all sides of our business in one booth,” said Brad Hintze, executive vice president, Global Marketing, at Crestron. “Our daily interactions with technology continue to impact the productivity of our workday and transform how we unwind at home. The immersive demonstrations in our booth will highlight technology’s influence on our lives at home, in the office, and even in hotels where we may stay.”

Workplace Solutions that Work for You

Crestron continues to evolve and pave the way for the industry by adding software innovations that complement and integrate within the Crestron ecosystem. Designed as a flexible, IT-friendly companion to its hardware counterpart, DM NVX® Software is the first of these platforms to set the stage for the future of Crestron solutions. It delivers seamless HD video streaming and content from any source to any display straight from an existing PC or server with the highest quality possible. Crestron has also expanded its AV-overIP offerings, adding a new strategic partnership with NETGEAR that will make select models of the M4250 line of switches available directly through Crestron.

The hybrid meeting experience is integral to every organization and will take precedence as the modern workplace continues to take shape. Meeting equity solutions like Crestron Sightline and the entire Crestron Flex Unified Communications lineup for rooms of any size will be on display to demonstrate the flexible applications that can take meetings to the next level from every space. The latest Automate VX update has made meeting equity in any large space even easier. This update includes the Intelligent Video Room Designer tool, which overlays cameras and microphones on a room’s floor plan to help visualize the interactions between the cameras and the microphones before the design is

deployed. The responsive Live Mode from Automate VX also enables easy adjustments to shot angles and widths once the solution is deployed. Crestron’s newest bundle, featuring the Crestron AirMedia® wireless collaboration and Jabra® PanaCast 50 video bar, will also be in action for the first time, showing the end-to-end BYOD solution that empowers organizations to reconfigure their workplace for hybrid-first meetings.

Take Your Home to New Heights

Crestron continues to innovate more ways for dealers to bring the Crestron Home® OS experience into their customers’ homes. The PC4-R is the latest addition to the Crestron Home Processor lineup. It provides a powerful Dell® microcomputer that comes pre-installed with the Crestron Home OS, secured and ready for operation right out of the box. This solution will be shipping in Q1, providing yet another option to deploy and configure with ease and speed.

The Crestron Home platform has become the go-to home automation platform for the smart home market. Strategic collaborations with key partners provide comfort and peace of mind with technology solutions that address human-centric lighting, thermal comfort, and air quality control. Entertainment remains another key pillar of the residential product suite, with the Crestron DM NVX® AV-over-IP and DM NAX™ Audioover-IP technology facilitating seamless transitions from room to room or powering a cohesive ambiance throughout the whole home. The latest addition to the lineup is the DM NAX AMP-X300, a two-zone amp

and Crestron’s most compact offering so far, which will make its debut on the show floor. This solution provides a flexible and scalable solution with a more granular system configuration, packing an extremely powerful solution into a space-saving size. Native to the entire Crestron AV-over-IP platform, this is the first Hi-Z (high impedance) DM NAX model, which provides an easy addition to landscape or surface mount speakers.

Following last year’s Crestron LED light fixture debut, Crestron has worked closely with several fixture manufacturers globally to allow even more design options with third-party partners. Savage Marine is known for their specialization in designing highquality lighting for the superyacht industry. They have developed standard, fixed, and directional spots using Crestron’s DMX-C solution, and a completely bespoke solution with many different luminaires, all working on the Crestron Home OS platform.

A Reinvigorated Approach to Hospitality

Crestron’s legacy in both the residential and commercial markets poises the company to deliver the only fully integrated control solution for the hospitality industry. Since the first installation at the iconic New York Palace Hotel in 1992, Crestron has been enhancing the hospitality experience across guest rooms, ballrooms, meeting rooms, spas, and everything in between for some of the world’s most prestigious hotels. For the first time, Crestron will demonstrate a renewed and targeted focus on the hospitality space, showing attendees how to transform the guest experience from check-in and throughout their stay.

To experience these solutions, and more, in action, visit Crestron in Barcelona, Spain, at stands 3H100 and 3H200.

Introducing the HDANYWHERE uControl Remote

HDANYWHERE (HDA) will launch the uControl Remote (at Stand 3Q200, Integrated Systems Europe, Fira Barcelona), a slender handheld, hard-button interface to control all the devices connected to an HDA system and more. This breakthrough product brings users a unified whole-home AV experience, with endless entertainment and scene-setting options, that’s more affordable than comparable solutions whilst still being an attractive proposition for installers.

The uControl Remote provides integrators with an easy-to-use, dedicated and customisable handheld remote that they can specify into any HDA installation. It features an instantly understandable, intuitively placed button layout, ergonomically designed to encourage muscle memory, with an attractive OLED screen giving all the necessary information. When picked up from the charging mat, the uControl Remote’s wireless charging and instant-on capabilities ensure that it is always ready to use.

“We’ve reviewed our customers and built the room remote they’ve been asking for in a high-quality design at a competitive price point,” said Chris Pinder, Founder of HDANYWHERE. “Our technologyneatening products are usually found behind the scenes but with the uControl Remote it’s now in the palm of your hand. We’ve spent four years developing it from scratch and have created a game-changing companion remote control that opens up mid-market business opportunities for installers and improves the user experience of every HDANYWHERE system.”

Combining Wi-Fi and infrared technology, the uControl Remote allows integrators to power on and control all the audio-visual technology in a room as well as third-party systems, including Rako, Hue, Lutron, GUDE, BluOS, and Shelly, amongst others. This new device features 44 buttons, including a number pad, navigation wheel, volume and channel up or down, and play/pause – all have an actual button, including guide and

information, plus the essential red, green, yellow and blue buttons. Dedicated uControl favourites (macro) buttons mean a single press can trigger a quick action, routine, sequence or scene.

Adding a uControl Remote to an HDA system is easy. Setup is a guided step-by-step process within the uControl App, powered by the

HDA Cloud. Once assigned to a zone, the uControl Remote can immediately locate and control the technology in that space. Further levels of customisation are possible for a more refined experience. For example, installers can quickly assign sequences to buttons, long press actions, secondary functions and more. The uControl Remote

is compatible with all HDA MHUB systems with uControl (2016 onwards).

ISE is the first public outing for the new remote control, where visitors to Barcelona can get hands-on and play with the uControl Remote at HDANYWHERE™ Stand 3Q200 in the Multi-Technology Hall.

Kordz To Launch A New Line Of Premium Cabling Options At ISE 2023

Kordz celebrates 20 years of manufacturing premium cabling exclusively for the System Integration Market. Kordz will showcase the technological progression and installation-friendliness of its extensive line of cabling at ISE 2023, Stand #2F450.

Their range of products features a combination of advanced design, engineering, and construction from premium materials. Kordz’s line of cabling provides system integrators with robust, reliable connectivity solutions for demanding AV applications.

Offering systems integrators yet another premium cabling option, Kordz debuts at ISE 2023 an innovative Category 6 networking system. This new range of products includes all the necessary components integrators need to deploy a complete networking backbone designed and engineered to support the connectivity speed and bandwidth requirements of today’s advanced technologies.

Kordz will feature its new line of Category 6 networking products and other innovative cabling solutions at Stand #2F450 where visitors can partake in the company’s 20th birthday celebration. Systems integrators are invited to take ‘The Terminator’ cable termination challenge for their chance to win a variety of prizes.

Backed by 20 years of global manufacturing experience and deep knowledge of the systems integration industry, multi-award-winning professional-grade cabling from Kordz is expertly designed, engineered, and manufactured to help AV integrators push the boundaries of digital AV performance in a wide range of both residential and commercial applications. Kordz keeps pace with increasingly higher data rates and resolution, the sophistication of end-users, and the needs of systems integrators by continuing to evolve its products for today’s technologies and beyond

The brand’s innovative solutions help streamline installation and assure exceptional connectivity, reliability, and performance throughout the life of a home or building. Robust yet flexible, Kordz cables feature smaller connectors without hard edges to facilitate faster, easier installation in a wide range of commercial and residential settings. Each cable and

component are individually tested during production for quality assurance and meet stringent performance certifications and fire rating compliance. Thanks to the superior build quality, state-of-the-art features, and adherence to the latest standards, cabling from Kordz enables systems integrators to complete projects efficiently and confidently for optimal profitability.

“In a world of increasing convergence and technological complexity, ‘small things’ like the caliber of cabling make a big difference in the functionality of AV systems and the satisfaction of customers,” says James Chen, Kordz

Managing Director. “We have properly engineered everything whilst maximizing flexibility and robustness and employing the industry’s most sensibly compact connectors for a firm, stable fit. These achievements empower systems integrators with a solid foundation on which to deploy and connect the sophisticated systems of today and tomorrow. Our 20th anniversary demonstrates our longevity and commitment to driving the systems integration industry forward with products that support this quickly evolving market.”

MERIDIAN AT ISE 2023

Meridian will be showcasing a number of its audio solutions on the AV EMEA booth (2H150) at ISE 2023, including the flagship DSP8000 XE loudspeaker in Volcanic Red.

The DSP8000 XE is the first Meridian loudspeaker to emerge from the company’s Extreme Engineering Program which commenced more than six years ago. It is built on a brand-new audio architecture, using higher specification, more powerful components and leveraging Meridian’s expertise in psychoacoustics to achieve exceptional sound quality.

Also on display will be Meridian’s DSP750 loudspeaker, which combines high dynamic range,

incredibly low distortion, and outstanding signal-to-noise ratio combine to provide full-range audio with exceptional headroom and low listener-fatigue. It delivers a maximum output of 120dB and bass extension down to 30Hz.

Meridian will show its DSP3200 loudspeakers in a striking Volcanic Orange colour. These compact speakers provide a powerful performance and are designed for intimate listening spaces or as part of a larger installation. The speakers employ Meridian’s awardwinning DSP technologies with two integrated amplifiers, on-board digital signal processing, and two drivers.

The Meridian display will also include the 210 Streamer, the 218 Zone Controller, a 258 Power Amplifier, a 271 Digital Theatre Controller and the 251 Powered Zone Controller. Visitors will also be able to discuss Meridian’s complimentary Design and Specification Service, which supports project planning and presentation and makes it quicker and easier for integrators to specify the right products for the installation.

1st February on stand 2H150.

The Meridian team invites visitors to join them at a drinks reception at 5pm on Wednesday

Tuya and Partners Shared Insights on the Matter Ecosystem at CES 2023

Tuya Smart a global IoT development platform service provider, hosted Tuya Day with leading companies and associations at CES 2023 in the City of Las Vegas, Nevada.

Under the main theme “Be in It” of CES 2023, Tuya created its booth and hosted Tuya Day under the theme of “Be in Smart” to demonstrate its consistent effort in improving the production efficiency of global resources and enhancing the product value of global customers to support them with digital and smart transformation by leveraging Tuya’s IoT technologies.

The event featured leading brands and associations from around the world, including Arm, BARDI, Bluetooth SIG, CLEANLIFE, Connectivity Standard Alliance, Google Home, Hama, ioXt, JOIEEM, Lloyd’s, Silicon Labs, and Wi-Fi Alliance. The partner representatives spoke about connectivity protocols, and smart solutions and shared joint Tuya case studies.

Alex Yang, Co-Founder, and COO of Tuya Smart hosted the first-panel discussion on Matter’s ecosystem. The speakers shared how ecosystem players can promote Matter via partnership.

Chris Lapre, Head of Technology of the Connectivity Standards Alliance (the Alliance), said, “The continuous evolution and upgrading of Matter, the expansion of its application scenarios and new markets are contributed from the collaboration of the Alliance members including smart device manufacturers, security certification enterprises and others. Building and maintaining the Matter ecosystem is also key to the development of Matter. Alliance members like Tuya, play an active and crucial role in the promotion and application of Matter. They will attract more customers to join the Matter ecosystem and innovate Matter from customers’ feedback through a variety of real-world implementations.”

Rob Alexander, Principal Product Manager of Silicon Labs said, “The market for smart, connected devices holds unprecedented opportunity, but challenges remain. Open standards, like Matter, can help everyone in the industry adopt the same protocols without expensive licensing. Tuya’s role is important for global developers. Tuya chose Silicon Labs MG24 SoC as one of the chips, jointly enabling customers to quickly get mass production of Matter devices and support consumers to mix and match among ecosystems like some of the ones you’ll see today including Amazon, Apple, Google, Samsung, and the countless intelligent, connected devices from locks to lightbulbs and beyond.”

Kevin Po, Group Product Manager at Google, shared with audiences their recent product updates to support Matter. Now, consumers can use existing Nest devices like the Nest Mini and Nest Hub to control Matter

devices and use Android Fast Pair to set up Matter devices. Moreover, Google will Matter-enable more Nest devices in 2023 and release Google Home App iOS support too. Tuya has been an early access partner with Google Home and will continue working together to grow the Matter vision of interoperability, choice and openness in the home with users and Tuya’s partner ecosystem.

“If smart devices are to scale, it’s crucial that they are secure, reliable and seamless to use,” said Chloe Ma, VP of China GTM, IoT Line of Business at Arm. “Standardization will drive the advancement of IoT and we are working closely with the Alliance and partners such as Tuya, to ensure the Arm ecosystem is ready to support developers in building Matter-compliant devices.”

Later in the day, Tina Yu, General Manager of Eurasia and North America of Tuya Smart, hosted the second-panel discussion on the commercialization of Matter. Speakers shared their thoughts on the future application scenarios of Matter devices. They also talked about the future of intelligent interconnection of consumer electronics.

Jon Harros, Head of Certification and Testing Programs at the Connectivity Standard Alliance first described the blueprint of Matter in 2023, and said, “People can reach the Alliances’ official website, and see there are more than 500 products listed that are either being certified or have been certified by the Alliance. These include a range of products, software components, Apps, and more. They constitute our ‘universe’ of Matter applications. As an early participant in Matter, Tuya has been actively promoting the use and implementation of Matter. Its Tuya-enabled hardware ecosystem and development platform will enable more manufacturers to quickly penetrate the smart home and smart device markets, and attract consumers.”

Justin Miller, Founder, and CEO of CLEANLIFE, said: “Since our collaboration with Tuya in 2017, Tuya continuously supports us with

product development, and they always share with us new ideas and opportunities. This mutual partnership has been extremely beneficial in helping us become an industry leader in smart lighting. Now, Matter gives our brand and products more credibility to be able to work with the prominent brands that are a part of the Alliance through shared interoperability and also allow easier integration with mainstream smart device systems such as Apple Home, Samsung Smart Things, etc. And with Tuya’s help, we strongly believe that we can easily and quickly pivot our plans to Matter compatible. We expect Matter to help expedite the path to market and enhance the user experience for the whole industry and provide a platform for all 220+ brands in the Alliance to succeed together.”

Ryan Maurice, CEO of BARDI, said, “Thanks to our collaboration with Tuya, BARDI has grown very fast. We are at equal playing grounds with other Tuya-enabled brands in Indonesia thus being able to focus on competing in quality of product and service. While Matter joined in, it unlocks the pool of opportunity for BARDI as now the competition is not only on our quality of product and service but also competition on the platform supporting us. Compared with other local brands, our Tuya-enabled devices have a faster response time to voice commands than other platformenabled devices. Moreover, the accuracy and speed that Tuya’s engineering team delivered to us are praiseworthy. Thus, I believe that with Matter’s adoption, BARDI will gain much more opportunities to penetrate local families. “

Juergen Hirschbeck, Head of Smart Home Product Portfolio Management of Hama, said, “Happily our company will celebrate its 100th anniversary this year. As the No. 1 brand for accessories and becoming the leading brand of retrofit Smart Home in Europe, the adoption of Matter will play a central role in our future. We plan to expand more categories such as home security and climate control, improve the compatibility

of our product portfolio, and realize seamless smart scene connection for consumers. The significance of our collaboration with Tuya is that we can quickly realize our approximately 18,000 products to be Matter-capable to meet the expectations of consumers as soon as possible and to place Matter as the One Smart Home Standard of the future in the heads of consumers and trade-partners alike. “

Alessandro Kon, Head of R&D of Lloyd’s, said: “Lloyd’s has more than 20 years of experience in the electronics and smart house market. We offer our clients a wide range of solutions for their security, lighting, comfort, or energy through our website and our retail partners. Matter is bringing more opportunities to the smart home market, it allows customers to not have to think about compatibility when it comes to making a choice, they can focus on their demands as well as we can also just focus on developing products that cover our customers’ needs. Through the Tuya IoT development platform, we developed our App ‘Lloyd’s smart’. Now, Tuya’s latest achievements of Matter make us see the possibility of quickly integrating into the Matter ecosystem. We will continue to deepen our collaboration with Tuya and accelerate Matter application process in the market.”

So far, Tuya has launched more than six categories of Matter device solutions, including light bulbs, switches, gateways, sockets, and more. And Tuya has already helped its global customers such as Arlec, BARDI, CALEX, CLEANLIFE, Hama, Intcomex, Laser, LinkJapan, Lloyd’s, Mirabella, Positivo, Simon Electric, Tecnolite, and many other enterprises to integrate into Matter ecosystem rapidly.

In the future, Tuya will continue fulfilling its commitment to building an open and neutral IoT ecosystem to provide customized, convenient, and reliable Matter device solutions and all-in-one services for global partners, strengthen its cooperation with Connectivity Standard Alliance members and provide more operational smart scenes for consumers.

ViewSonic to Debut Brand New 105” 5K Interactive Display at ISE 2023

ViewSonic Corp., a leading global provider of visual solutions, will introduce its latest workplace solutions for better collaboration in modern workplaces at Integrated Systems Europe (ISE) 2023 in Spain (31 January to 3 February). The company will debut its largest interactive display - the 105” 5K resolution ViewBoard as well as showcase its new Presentation Display for video conferencing. Additionally, the exhibit will feature the company’s latest large format

displays, which include the Allin-One LED Displays and the Luminous Superior Series lampfree projectors, allowing visitors to experience possibilities for seamless hybrid meeting spaces.

“After the acceleration of digital collaboration over the years, ViewSonic is dedicated to offering innovative visual solutions for every type of workplace - from individual work to corporate workplaces,” said Bonny Cheng, COO of ViewSonic.

“At ISE 2023, we are thrilled to present the power of interactive and wireless presentations using our latest technologies. The goal is to boost greater team efficiency and productivity, whether they are gathered in a single working space or connected with other offices globally.”

ViewSonic offers comprehensive workplace solutions with integrated hardware and software to support day-to-day work. Its diverse

solutions include monitors for video conferencing, portable devices, and more intuitive functionalities for professionals, assisting individuals and corporate to set up efficient workstations to work from anywhere.

For discussions in huddle spaces or larger group meetings, ViewBoards and Presentation Displays are designed to improve collaboration with the assistance of the myViewBoard software suite, while for larger meeting spaces and public areas, the All-in-One LED displays and sustainable lampfree projectors offer more flexibility for installation, delivering largescale vivid images to impress the audiences through exceptional visual performances.

At ISE 2023, the solutions on display at ViewSonic’s exhibit will include:

Collaborative Display Solutions for Seamless Communication

To demonstrate the possibilities for productive modern workspaces, ViewSonic will be exhibiting the upcoming 105” ViewBoard with a 21:9 wide screen in 5K resolution as well as the 86” 4K ViewBoard. These ViewBoards feature a powerful multimedia soundbar that delivers engaging audiovisuals, making communication more effective. Attendees will also be able to experience the latest 75” 4K Presentation Display which features advanced video conferencing

capabilities. With an all-in-one conferencing camera, the real-tolife sound is captured through voice tracking, making the solution ideal for hybrid group meetings.

The ViewBoard comes with myViewBoard for comprehensive presentation tools and a responsive multi-touch screen, facilitating a highly collaborative environment. It offers users a natural writing experience that enables multiple participants to write or draw on the display at the same time. The display also enables quick and easy presentation set up with USB-C or ViewBoard Cast wireless connection. The myViewBoard Manager application also allows easy and centralized remote management by IT departments.

All-in-One LED Displays Deliver Engaging Audiovisuals in Large Venues

ViewSonic’s latest 216” All-in-One LED Display will also be showcased. Adopting advanced Chip-onBoard LED packaging technology, the display delivers detailed 4K UHD resolutions with a finer pixel pitch, suitable for places that need intricate visuals such as research institutions, engineering facilities, schools of architecture, or fine arts. It also brings enhanced durability as well as moisture-proof, dustproof, and anti-collision protection. In addition, the All-in-One design integrates all systems into one device, offering easy installation, operation, and maintenance.

ViewSonic’s exhibit will also

feature the industry-first 135” Allin-One LED Display Solution Kit with a foldable screen. The design significantly reduces the packaging size which makes transportation from one venue to another easier and more cost-effective. The preassembled design with a movable motorized floor stand makes the display ready for instant use and easy to move, which is perfect for events, exhibitions, or any other short-term usage

High Brightness, Sustainable Projector Solutions

Another highlight is the full lineup of the Luminous Superior Series - LED and laser projectors for business and education. With advanced projection technologies, the projectors deliver up to 6,000 ANSI Lumens brightness which allows consistently vibrant imagery even in rooms with strong ambient light. Moreover, the lamp-free series eliminates the cost and effort of frequent lamp replacement and is free from toxic mercury, further lowering the total cost of ownership and offering greater sustainability for the environment.

ViewSonic at ISE 2023

Where: Booth #2Q600, Hall 2, Fira Barcelona Gran Via, Spain

When: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m., 31st January – 2nd February 2023

10 a.m. – 4 p.m., 3rd February 2023

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