CES 2017: Lenovo has an Amazon Alexa-powered smart speaker

Las Vegas - Amazon’s Echo line and Google Home will be joined by another smart speaker and this one even has a closer relation with Amazon’s offerings. Aptly called the Smart Assistant, this voice-controlled speaker runs on the Amazon Alexa cloud-based voice services. So, you can ask it to do some quick web searches for you, play music, update your calendar, etc. Lenovo opted to use Alexa as it’s considered to be the fastest way to get an affordable smart speaker out to the market. Lenovo also has an ongoing partnership with Amazon that it wants to explore. That said, Lenovo reps have told us that they aren’t closing the door on using voice-based platforms of the likes of Google.

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CES 2017: Twelve South has an armband for the Apple Watch

This new accessory from Twelve South has us thinking about why this hasn’t existed before. The ActionSleeve is the world’s first armband for the Apple Watch. We know this accessory will be godsend for those who work out and don’t want to have something on their wrist while they do. This armband straps onto your upper arm or bicep and protects the Watch with rubber. The only exposed part of the wearable is the display and the Digital Crown so you can still tinker with it.

The heart rate monitor also works here and Twelve South thinks it tells even more accurate readings as the Watch is tightly secured to your arm. It’s available for both the 38mm and 42mm and comes in black or red. The ActionSleeve retails for US$29.99 and is available for order on Twelve South’s site.

Source: Cult of Mac

CES 2017: Lenovo has VR headset, too

Las Vegas - Virtual reality being a big thing at CES 2017 is an understatement. One of the new entrants into the segment is a big name in the industry—Lenovo. But Lenovo’s take on VR is still a prototype without a name. It’s expected to come to the market sometime this year and we won’t be surprised if it catches a lot of attention. First off, it’ll be competitively priced at around US$400 (approx. CA$530). Its design makes more sense. The bulk of its 350g weight rests on your forehead instead of your nose, lessening the strain you’ll feel when you use it. Plus, to peek out into the real world, its hinge design allows you to lift it by the headset portion. You don’t need to take out the entire headset.

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CES 2017: Blue introduces Satellite, its first pair of wireless headphones

Las Vegas - Blue may be recognized for its professional grade microphones, but the company has launched some outstanding headphones as well, including our current favourite, the Lola. Blue now has Satellite, which uses two drivers for each ear, an onboard analog amplifier plus a unique and stylish design that's sure to turn heads. Pricing and availability were not disclosed but it looks as if traditional wired headphone makers like Blue want to offer options as mobile devices begin to shed the headphone jack.