Geek Appeal: New gadgets & apps on the block

The Tech Panda takes a look at recently launched gadgets & apps in the market.

Audiotech: Pebble Wavebuds & Euphoria

Audio technology brand Pebble has expanded its earbuds lineup with the launch of Wavebuds and Euphoria, two cutting-edge TWS buds. They provide users with advanced noise cancellation, exceptional comfort and a long battery life. Pebble Wavebuds, priced at Rs 2499, is up for grabs across all offline and retail stores while Pebble Euphoria is available at offline retails as well as pebblecart.com at an introductory price of Rs 5499.

Mensa Brands Founder & CEO Ananth Narayanan said, “The TWS segment has witnessed some remarkable advancement in the recent past, whether it’s in terms of noise cancellation, low latency, sound quality, improved sync or battery management. We are elated to take it a notch further with our latest TWS entrants, crafted impeccably to suffice the needs and aspirations of the Indian consumers while tapping on the global trends. Pebble Wavebuds and Euphoria bring the best of TWS technology in the most pocket-friendly price points.”

Features

Pebble Euphoria:

• Toeing its predecessor BlissBuds, Euphoria from Pebble comes loaded with the best noise cancellation tech with integrated quad microphones and enhanced deep bass feature.
• While the superior Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) and Environmental Noise Cancellation (ENC) allow one to immerse in tranquility, its powerful 13mm dynamic drivers ensure the most powerful audio and an absolutely hassle-free, uninterrupted calling experience.
• Along with the latest Bluetooth v5.3 technology, Pebble Euphoria allows one to toggle between normal & low latency mode.
• Ergonomically designed with a secure & snug fit, the buds let the Euphoria remain longer with a whopping 30 hours playtime, post a 1-2 hour charging duration.
• Packed in elegant white & black/grey cases, Pebble Euphoria further offers Auto Pairing & Voice Assistant for seamless control. And it is IPX4 water resistant.

Pebble Wavebuds:

• Pebble Wavebuds is powered with dynamic 10mm sound drivers
• They features an advanced Passive Noise Cancellation technology to enhance the audio quality.
• With an eye-catching curvy ergonomic look, Pebble Wavebuds embodies an ultra-premium design, crafted in three soothing colour options – white, black and blue.
• Offering a playtime of at least 20 hours, Pebble Wavebuds boasts a Voice Assistant and Fast Pairing feature.

Robot: Dreame L10s Pro Ultra Heat

Dreame Technology, a brand in smart home cleaning appliances, launched its latest innovation – the Dreame L10s Pro Ultra Heat. Designed to provide a worry-free life, this flagship robot vacuum and mop features powerful cleaning capabilities, one for all auto maintenance, intelligent recognition and convenient control.

The product claims to be India’s first robot vacuum cleaner equipped with MopExtend technology. Dreame is offering up to 62% off on its advanced cleaning robots during the Dreame Prime Day sale. For added convenience, Dreame is also offering equal monthly installments with No Cost EMI options.

A Dreame spokesperson stated, “We understand and cater to the evolving needs of busy customers who rely on technology to simplify their lives. People seek technology for convenience and comfort, and we offer solutions that meet these demands. We delve into the heart of tech to revolutionize the home life for our customers. The Dreame L10s Pro Ultra Heat exemplifies Dreame’s commitment to delivering home products that are smart, efficient, and user-friendly. This stylish robot vacuum and mop, with extensive automation, empowers customers to manage their homes effortlessly while enjoying more leisure time.”

Features

• MopExtend Technology: The MopExtend technology allows for automatic mop extension and retraction, enabling seamless adjustments to various cleaning scenarios. Users no longer need to worry about their vacuum bumping into kitchen chairs or getting stuck under the sofa. The L10s Pro Ultra Heat utilizes this unique technology to reach not only table and chair legs, door cracks, and steps but also to deep clean right angles of walls, irregular corners, and skirting boards.
• Enhanced Suction Power: Equipped with a suction power that touches 7,000 Pa and an upgraded Vormax system, the L10s Pro Ultra Heat rapidly picks up food crumbs, litter, or pet hair from hardwood floors and thick carpets, without making heavy vacuuming noises.
• Auto-Care with One for All: The upkeep of the L10s Pro Ultra Heat needs no human intervention because of auto maintenance features like auto-empty, auto mop self-cleaning, auto mop drying, auto water refilling, and auto solution refilling. There are also hot water mop washing, smart mop rewashing, and hot air mop drying features in it, which are certified by TÜV Rheinland as effective self-cleaning in smart home appliances. Cleaning the mops with 58°C hot water loosens even stubborn stains, effectively removes odours and enhances the effect of the cleaning solution.
• CleanGenius Functionality: The CleanGenius feature in the L10s Pro Ultra Heat learns the user’s home layout, including floor type and furniture placement, and recommends strategies to make cleanup easy. It adapts its cleaning strategy to the level of dirt on the floors, automatically deciding whether deeper cleaning is required.
• Pathfinder Technology: The smart Pathfinder technology enables L10s Pro Ultra Heat to scan the home environment and create accurate maps to traverse through the house by  flexibly avoiding up to 55+ types of objects like shoes, cables, and more.
• DuoScrub Mopping System: The DuoScrub Mopping System utilizes rotary and pressurized scrubbing to remove dirt from sticky floors. A built-in 80 ml water tank ensures easy automatic water refills for easier cleaning without any added effort.
• Smart Carpet Cleaning Technology: The smart carpet cleaning technology, controlled through the Dreame app, avoids carpets while cleaning floors, lifts the mops up to 10.5mm to suit low pile carpets and vacuums carpets twice at a reduced speed for thorough carpet clean-up. The intelligent cleaning carpet mode can be switched on to increase vacuum suction for better cleaning.
• Quiet Mode: Users do not even need to worry about noisy home cleaning because the Quiet Mode offers a blissfully quiet cleaning experience, offering up to 220 minutes of vacuuming. A robust 5200mAh battery charges fast and vacuums effortlessly to clean up to 205m² (2206ft²) on a single charge without noise.
• Users can also avail the brush roller tricut and water connection kit along with the bot vacuum and mop. The roller cuts hair to prevent them from getting entangled and hindering proper functioning of the robot. The water kit allows automatic refilling and emptying of the water tanks.
• It will be available at Rs 79,999/-.

Robots: AI-powered Robots for a wide range of defence requirements

Zen Technologies, an Indian anti-drone technology and defence training solutions provider, in collaboration with its subsidiary AI Turing Technologies based in Pune, launched four new products today. These IP-owned innovations – Hawkeye, Barbarik-URCWS (Ultralight Remote Control Weapon Station), Prahasta, and Sthir Stab 640 – cater to a wide range of defence requirements, empowering forces with unmatched tactical superiority and enhanced operational efficiency.

Zen Technologies Chairman and Managing Director Ashok Atluri commented, “These innovations represent a significant advancement in autonomous defense operations. We believe the launch of these products will raise awareness around the need to integrate advanced robotics into combat and reconnaissance missions. Our self-funded products will further enable Zen to offer an expanded range of cutting-edge technologies to both current and prospective clients.”

Hawkeye (zen.in/hawkeye) epitomizes a state-of-the-art anti-drone system camera, featuring multiple sensor detection modules for all-weather drone tracking up to 15 km. It ensures continuous threat detection and enhanced security.

Barbarik – URCWS (zen.in/urcws) is the world's lightest remote-controlled weapon station, offering precise targeting capabilities (5.56mm to 7.62mm calibers) for ground vehicles and naval vessels, maximizing battlefield effectiveness while minimizing personnel risk. The URCWS has undergone recent firing trials at Infantry School Mhow and Armoured School Ahmednagar and performed well.

Prahasta (zen.in/prahasta) is a revolutionary automated quadruped that uses LIDAR and reinforcement learning to understand and create real-time 3D terrain mapping for unparalleled mission planning, navigation, and threat assessment. The quadruped can be armed with various caliber weapons such as 9mm, 5.56mm, and 7.62mm. The quadruped can be used as the first line of defence for commandos during CI operations like 26/11, thereby saving lives.

Sthir Stab 640 (zen.in/sthirstab640) is a rugged stabilized sight designed mainly for armoured vehicles, ICVs, and boats. The sight encompasses an intelligent fiber optic gyro-stabilized system and delivers exceptional situational awareness with automatic search and tracking capabilities. The sight can be used in different weapon mounts such as 7.62mm, 12.7mm, 20mm, and 30mm.

Smartwatch: Pebble Dome & Pebble Ultra Rapid

Pebble, the smartwatch and audio brand introduced two groundbreaking timepieces – Pebble Dome with India’s first 3D spherical AMOLED display and Pebble Ultra Rapid with the fastest ever Rapid Charge technology.

“An innovative confluence of style and specs has what made Pebble stand out of the crowd since its inception. While there are no qualms over the prospects of India’s extensive smartwatch market, the differentiator lies in fostering need-based innovation with the help of cutting-edge technology and a foresighted approach. It is this undeterred focus that makes us a leader in the segment and our latest offerings further solidify our position as a leader in the smartwatch segment,” said Mensa Brands Founder & CEO Ananth Narayanan.

Features

Pebble Dome

• Pebble Dome is India’s first Bluetooth Calling smartwatch with a 3D Spherical AMOLED display.
• The timepiece sports a 1.52” spherical screen to offer the most unique and crystal clear display ever, encased in a metal frame, with a crown on the side, adding to the appearance as well as durability.
• The elegance is elevated a notch higher with a premium leather strap.
• A wireless charging feature that keeps that timepiece functional for up to 4 days.
• Always-On Display, a Voice Assistant, and a complete health suite to monitor heart rate, stress, sleep as well as female health.
• Promising a new look for each day are its more than 200 watch faces, while aiding utility are advanced calling specs like Quick Dial Pad, Loudspeaker, Call logs and Contacts.
• multiple sports mode
• Launched at an introductory price of Rs 2,999, Pebble Dome is available in Onyx black and Whisky Brown strap colour variants.

Pebble Ultra Rapid

• Pebble Ultra Rapid is smartness and coolness personified in a Bluetooth calling smartwatch with the fastest-ever rapid charge technology.
• With an impressive & cool premium metal square-shaped curvy dial, the unisex smartwatch comes with an industry-leading 1.83” True HD Display with a premium functioning crowning on the side.
• The most enticing feature is its Rapid Charging tech that ensures complete charging in just 30 minutes, i.e. it accumulates a day’s power in just 10 minutes while offering improved battery efficiency.
• In three soothing strap colours – Light Blue, Black and Royal Blue – Pebble Ultra Rapid is up for grabs at a steal price of Rs 1,699.
• With cutting-edge calling features like Quick Dial Pad, Loudspeaker, Call Logs and Contacts, the smartwatch further eases the access through Google and Siri Voice Assistants.
• Along with a NEXGEN Health Suite, the timepiece equips with Smart Alarm, Find Phone, Weather and Calendar-like essentials. And customizable watch faces to suit everyone’s persona.

Smart TVs: Hisense Q7N, U7N, U6N Pro, and E68N models

Hisense, a consumer electronics and appliances brand, unveiled its new lineup of Smart TVs for 2024. This collection includes the Q7N, U7N, U6N Pro, and E68N models, which feature state-of-the-art technologies such as Mini LED, Full Array Local Dimming, Quantum Dot color and Dolby Vision and Atmos to deliver stunning visuals, seamless action, and high-quality audio.

“At Hisense, we’re driven by innovation that empowers every user,” said Mr. Pankaj Rana, CEO of Hisense India. “Our new 2024 TV range goes beyond traditional benchmarks, integrating user-centric features and AI for a truly immersive experience. This lineup signifies our commitment to democratizing premium technology and transforming home entertainment.”

Features

Hisense Q7N and U7N

• These models deliver a lifelike viewing experience with an ultra-slim bezel-less design.
• The Q7N features QLED technology and IMAX certification*, bringing cinema-quality pictures and sound to the home.
• It also uses the easy, fast, and secure VIDAA operating system.
• The Q7N is available in 55, 65, 85, and 100* inches, ideal for those seeking a larger-than-life viewing experience.
• The U7N utilizes Mini LED technology for precise lighting control.
• It includes Quantum Dot color technology, full array local dimming, and 1200+ nits brightness. Available in 55 and 65 inches.
• Both models come with the VIDAA operating system, featuring enhanced AI, a convenient interface, and universal search functionality.
• The premium voice remote and subwoofers enhance every scene with impactful sound.

Hisense U6N Pro

• Available in 55 and 65 inches, the U6N Pro uses Mini LED technology, Full Array Local Dimming, Dolby Vision, Dolby Atmos, Game Mode Plus (ALLM and VRR), and AI Sports Mode, ensuring vivid visuals, clear audio, smooth gameplay, and optimized sports settings.

Hisense E68N

• A 4K Google TVs designed to elevate daily viewing experiences.
• Offers Dolby Vision, Game Mode Plus (ALLM and VRR), and Far Field Voice Control for effortless navigation.
• Available in 43 and 55 inches, it integrates with Google Assistant, allowing users to find and access content easily.

Audiotech: Arc Buds & Clip M01

Crossbeats, a consumer tech brand launched two new audiotech products, specially designed for video editors, content creators and more. Crossbeats recent launch includes Arc Buds, India’s 1st ever open-ear wearable stereo earbuds with Spatial Audio and Head Tracking along with Clip M01, a Lapel Mic specially designed for all types of content creators that gives studio quality recording.

Archit Agarwal, Co-Founder, Crossbeats, said, “We are thrilled to introduce the Arc Buds and Clip M01 Lapel Mic as part of our ongoing mission to push the boundaries of audio technology. The Arc Buds redefine the way consumers experience sound with their advanced spatial audio and head-tracking capabilities, while the Clip M01 is set to transform content creation with its studio-quality recording and cutting-edge ProVocal™ technology. Our focus remains on delivering consumer-centric products that not only meet but exceed the expectations of our users, empowering them to experience audio in ways they never have before. With these feature-packed products, Crossbeats is empowering creators to focus on creating captivating content.”

Features

OWS Arc Buds

• With Spatial Audio and Head Tracking offers an immersive 360-degree sound experience and ensures dynamic audio adjustments based on head movements.
• Its Situational Awareness enhances safety by allowing users to remain aware of their surroundings.
• Its massive 100+ Hours of Battery Backup provides extended usage without frequent recharges AI ENC calling for crystal clear voice calls ensures impeccable call quality with noise cancellation.
• The Dolphin Hook on the Arc Buds is designed for ultimate comfort and stability during intense activities
• The 14.2mm Titanium Drivers deliver rich, detailed sound with incredible bass.
• For those who prefer open-ear listening, the Arc Buds redefines the experience, with its latest Bluetooth 5.4 technology
• The integration of low latency gaming mode and a lightweight design (8 grams per bud) makes them perfect for both entertainment and active lifestyles.

Clip M01 Lapel Mic

• Its ProVocal™ Quad Microphones incorporate four microphones for superior vocal capture and noise isolation.
• With its 360° Omnidirectional recording, the mic captures audio from all angles, ensuring comprehensive sound pickup.
• Uninterrupted Recording with 40+ Hours of battery backup ensures long-lasting performance for extended sessions.
• It captures precise audio at 24-bit with zero delay providing accurate and immediate audio recording.
• Mic’s Distortion-Free Audio with enhanced next-gen DSP ensures pristine sound with minimal distortion.
• The Dual Dongle Connectivity (iOS + Android) seamlessly connects to both iOS and Android devices.
• Its built-in ENC (Environmental Noise Cancellation) filtration ensures that every recording is clear and professional.
• Up to 120-meter transmission range (LOS) allows for extensive mobility during recordings.

Laptops: A diverse range of laptops on Flipkart

Thomson, a consumer electronics company launched a diverse range of laptops on Flipkart. Starting at just INR14,990/- onwards, these laptops are designed to meet various needs without breaking the bank.

Thomson Computing’s Global General Manager, Pierre Krasnovsky, stated, “The launch in India underscores our commitment to provide our customers the best products at unbeatable prices. We are confident that Thomson’s new range of laptops will be well-received by our customers in India.” He further added, “Our new laptops are designed to cater to the diverse needs of Indian consumers, from students to professionals.”

Features

• Wide Selection: The range includes laptops with Intel Celeron processors for basic computing needs, and more powerful models with Intel Core i3, i5, and i7 12^th generation processors for demanding tasks and professional use.
• Affordable Innovation: Thomson continues its tradition of delivering high-quality technology at affordable prices. This range ensures that cutting-edge computing power is within reach for all consumers.
• Intel’s 12th-generation processors bring significant improvements in speed, multitasking capabilities, and energy efficiency.

Audio tech: New range of AI-powered wireless earbuds and neckbands

Leaf Studios launched six new wireless audio products, comprising four true wireless earbuds and two neckbands. With neckbands starting at INR 599 and earbuds starting at INR 899. All Leaf products are powered by the Leaf AI Sound App, available on the Play Store. This app connects with Leaf products and conducts a hearing test to personalize the sound through an AI sound equalizer. The target audience for these new offerings includes Gen Z and Millennials who are avid subscribers to OTT platforms such as Netflix, Hotstar, Prime Video, and JioCinema, ensuring that they have the best audio experience while enjoying their favourite content.

Paras Batra, Founder of Leaf Studios, stated, “We are thrilled to announce this exclusive launch with Amazon for our latest lineup of AI-powered earbuds and neckbands. This partnership marks a significant milestone for us as we bring cutting-edge audio technology to our customers. Our new products are designed to deliver an unparalleled listening experience, with advanced AI sound that adapts to one’s environment and personal preferences. We believe that this launch will redefine the way people experience audio and we are excited to share it with the world”.

The Launch is Amazon Exclusive and to mark this occasion, Leaf Studios is offering special launch prices on Amazon.

The true wireless earbuds range includes Leaf Buds x121 (available in 2 colours), Leaf Buds x342 (available in 3 colours), Leaf Buds x268, and Leaf Buds x614 (ANC) (available in 2 colours).

Features

The Leaf Buds x121, priced at INR 899, features Bluetooth v5.4 technology, offering up to 30 hours of music playback. The 10 mm driver unit with deep bass ensures a rich sound experience, and the earbuds come with a Type C charging port. With full touch control, ENC with quad mic, and IPX5 water resistance, these earbuds are super comfortable. They also feature 2 EQ modes (game and music), a low latency of 50 ms, and a frequency response of 20Hz-20kHz.

The Leaf Buds x342, available for INR 999, are equipped with Bluetooth v5.3 and provide up to 32 hours of music playback. The 10 mm driver unit delivers deep bass, while the Type C charging port with OVP ensures safe and quick charging. These earbuds include full touch control, ENC with quad mic, and IPX5 water resistance. They feature 2 EQ modes (game and music), a low latency of 50 ms, a Bluetooth range of 10 meters, and a frequency response of 20Hz-20kHz.

The Leaf Buds x268, priced at INR 999, offers Bluetooth v5.3 connectivity and up to 24 hours of music playback. The powerful 13 mm speakers provide impressive sound quality. With IPX4 water resistance, these earbuds are built to withstand sweat and light rain.

The Leaf Buds x614 (ANC), available for INR 1299, features advanced Bluetooth v5.3 technology and up to 30 hours of music playback. The 13 mm driver unit with deep bass, combined with active noise cancellation (ANC) up to -30db, ensures an immersive audio experience. These earbuds come with a Type C charging port with OVP, full touch control, and ENC with a quad mic. They feature 2 EQ modes (game and music), a low latency of 40 ms, a Bluetooth range of 10 meters, and a stylish matt finish oil painting housing. The neckbands in this new lineup include Leaf Rush x168 and Leaf Rush x342.

The Leaf Rush x168, priced at INR 599, offers Bluetooth v5.3 technology and up to 26 hours of music playback. The 10 mm driver unit with stereo sound provides a great audio experience, while the metal ear shell and sweatproof design ensure durability and comfort. These neckbands have low power consumption, a standby time of 150 hours, and a frequency response of 20Hz-20kHz. They also feature a hands-free mic for calls.

The Leaf Rush x342, available for INR 699, features Bluetooth v5.3 and up to 30 hours of music playback. The 10 mm driver unit delivers stereo sound, and the pure silicone neckline with a metal ear shell ensures a comfortable fit. These neckbands include hall switch control (ON/OFF), low power consumption, OVP (6.3V), and a standby time of 170 hours. They offer 3 EQ modes (bass, music, vocal) and a frequency response of 20Hz-20kHz.

Projectors: Affordable wave series laser projectors for home entertainment

Optoma, a DLP projector brand and a designer of projection launched the Optoma Wave series, a mainstream home entertainment laser projector series featuring the Wave110R, Wave110S, and Wave120R models in India. Starting at Rs 3.6 lacs the new Wave series from Optoma’s portfolio aims to provide the finest home entertainment experience to Indian customers.

Vijay Sharma, India & SAARC Head – Optoma Corporation stated, “Providing customers with a display solution that offers long-term reliable performance with minimal environmental impact is crucial. We are pleased to introduce the Optoma Wave series to India, which not only provides stunning image quality and installation flexibility but also sets new standards for reducing power consumption and carbon footprint. We aim to lead the market with reasonably priced home laser projectors that meet the expectations of Indian consumers who prefer high specifications while considering the overall value.”

Features

• Eyeing the home segment, the Wave series projectors implement bright and sharp images with astonishing colour precision, ranging from 3,500 lumens to a maximum of 4,300 lumens brightness across models and a dynamic contrast ratio of 2,200,000:1, depending on the size and purpose of the space.
• These projectors are equipped with 360-degree installation and 4-corner correction features which make them a perfect choice for home theatres.
• They can be installed anywhere, whether on the ceiling, wall, or floor, and can achieve screens of up to 300 inches.
• The Wave110S can create a 100-inch screen with just about 1.1 meters of distance, enabling large screen projection in narrow living spaces without separate installation.
• They support 4K input and HDR (High Dynamic Range), enhancing brightness and contrast through dynamic black technology to deliver realistic and detailed screens. Thus, it can provide remarkable brightness, colour precision, reliable operation, and excellent image quality in various spaces, especially homes.
• The new range features a slimmer and more compact design, utilizing an external power supply to minimize dust ingress and provide excellent energy efficiency.
• The DuraCore laser light source, designed with environmental considerations, in the Wave series can be used for up to 30,000 hours.
• The optical engine is sealed to prevent even small dust particles from entering and has obtained an IP6X rating.
• Designed to reduce maintenance costs significantly, the Wave series is engineered to reduce power consumption by up to 45% compared to Optoma’s conventional lamp projectors and by up to 76% compared to a 100-inch TV.

Home gadgets: Ventimax 2.0 Mini, a filtered fresh air solution

Nirvana Being introduced the Ventimax 2.0 Mini, a filtered fresh air solution – it works like a mechanical window that allows only filtered fresh air from outdoors, after removing the pollution. Designed to reduce PM2.5 and CO2 levels, the Ventimax 2.0 Mini also enhances infection control, due to dilution, ensuring a healthier indoor environment.

Jai Dhar Gupta founder of Nirvana Being says, “If you enjoy sleeping or living with your windows open but are unable to due to ambient air quality or extreme weather conditions, the Ventimax 2.0 Mini is the right product for you. This smart, compact unit offers efficient and filtered ventilation for any room, ensuring a healthy and safe indoor environment for you and your family.”

Features

• Mitigates CO2 & PM2.5: Keeps the air clean and healthy.
• Enhances Infection Control: Utilizes dilution and positive pressurization to enhance infection control.
• High-Efficiency Filter: Equipped with HEPA H14 grade and Carbon Filter for superior air filtration.
• Odor and Gas Removal: Effectively removes unpleasant odors and gases.
• Automated Operation: Comes with a remote control for ease of use.
• Coverage Area: Ideal for spaces ranging from 200-400 sq ft with a capacity of 88 CFM.