Smart Home

MediaTek unveils the Pentonic 700 for your next smart TV

Launching in Q4 2022

Published

on

The evolution of smart TVs is still continuously growing. As technology grows, our favorite living room devices find new ways to put out stellar images. Today, marking that next step, MediaTek has once again expanded its Pentonic series by unveiling the new Pentonic 700 platform for smart TVs.

Announced earlier this year, the Pentonic series showcased what MediaTek was capable of in the display industry. The series celebrated its debut, releasing the first television processor to support Dolby Vision IQ with Precision Detail. Much like that previous chipset, the Pentonic 700 will support the same capability but will pack in quite a bit more.

Meant for 120Hz 4K TVs, the Pentonic 700 sports a flurry of AI features. The chipset’s APU supports AI-Super Resolution, AI-Picture Quality Scene Recognition, and Object Recognition. These features merge hardware with software for a truly crystal-clear picture.

Outside of pure AI, the processor can also support Picture-by-Picture and Picture-in-Picture. These will allow users to multitask different contents including watching a show while on an on-screen video call.

It will also support up to 144Hz, optimizing sets for gaming applications. It also comes with Auto Low Latency Mode and Dolby Atmos.

Though the brand has not confirmed any manufacturers with the chip on board yet, MediaTek promises that the chipset’s lithe frame will allow for more power and space efficiency, making way for cheaper costs amid the tech upgrades.

The Pentonic 700 is expected to launch in 4K smart TVs sometime in the fourth quarter this year.

SEE ALSO: MediaTek launches its first mmWave 5G chip, the Dimensity 1050

News

Apple introduces new Home Collection

in collaboration with LG Electronics, Schneider Electric

Published

on

Apple has announced the new Apple Home Collection, a new lineup of smart home accessories in collaboration with LG Electronics and Schneider Electric.

The collection includes indoor and outdoor cameras, thermostats, temperature sensors, and a video doorbell and door lock.

They are simple to set up starting with one tap with iPhone, and everything is managed through the Apple Home app. Each product features a clean, minimal aesthetic and premium materials.

Works with Apple Home and Matter certification have allowed a wide array of third-party accessories to connect with Apple’s smart home ecosystem for years.

The Apple Home Collection takes this even further. Working closely with the two parties, Apple has created an integrated Apple Home experience across the new product lineup.

Moreover, like all Apple Home accessories, the new collection is designed for privacy. Home app data is encrypted end-to-end.

Home monitoring

LG’s lineup of four cameras gives users a private and intelligent way to monitor their homes. Every camera captures up to 2.5K resolution, and recognizes people, familiar faces, pets, vehicles, and packages.
Video history, meanwhile, is securely stored in users’ supported iCloud+ plan, so there’s no separate camera subscription.
The lineup includes the following devices:
  • LG Video Doorbell: dual cameras to capture separate views of visitors, packages; users can switch between front and bottom cameras
  • LG Floodlight Cam: powerful perimeter monitoring with adaptive dual floodlights that activate automatically when motion is detected
  • LG Outdoor Cam: offers low-light color night vision and can be easily angled
  • LG Indoor Cam: automatically tilts upward and downward to adjust view when users check in on the home

Home Access

Meanwhile, LG’s Smart Deadbolt Lock brings a new level of convenience to home access.

Using Ultra Wideband technology, the lock can tell how close a user is and when they’re approaching the door.

As a user with a home key on a compatible iPhone or Apple Watch walks up, the door unlocks automatically, with no tapping required.

For flexibility, users can also tap to unlock with an iPhone or Apple Watch, use an integrated PIN pad, or rely on a hidden backup key slot.

The lock can sense if the door has been opened, closed, or tampered with, alerting users if it’s open even while locked.

Guest access can also be shared directly through the Home app, making it simple to grant a dog walker, house sitter, or visiting family member their own way in.

Home Climate

Furthermore, two new Smart Thermostats are available — one from LG Electronics and one from Schneider Electric. Users can choose the product that best fits their home’s broader energy ecosystem.

Using on-device intelligence from iPhone, Adaptive Temperature in the Home app automatically adjusts the thermostats based on whether someone is at home, winding down at night, or away, ensuring the home is always at the right temperature without any manual scheduling.

Pricing, availability

The Apple Home Collection will be available starting in December at apple.com/store, in the Apple Store app, and at Apple Store locations, with select accessories available starting early 2027.

  • LG Video Doorbell Wired: starts at US$ 249.95
  • LG Floodlight Cam: starts at  US$ 399.95
  • LG Outdoor Cam Plug-In: starts at US$ 299.95
  • LG Indoor Cam Plug-In: starts at US$ 199.95
  • LG Smart Deadbolt Lock: starts at US$ 349.95
  • LG Smart Thermostat: starts at US$ 199.95
  • LG Temperature Sensor starts at US$ 39.95
  • Schneider Home Smart Thermostat: starts at US$ 199.95
  • Schneider Home Room Sensor: starts at US$ 39.95

Installation accessories for smart thermostats are available separately at apple.com/store and in the Apple Store app.LG C‑Wire Power Adapter starts at US$ 24.95, Schneider Home Trim Plate starts at US$ 14.95, and Schneider Home C‑Wire Power Adapter starts at US$ 24.95.

Apple HomeView is not available for sale in the European Union, as Siri AI is currently unavailable in iOS in the EU. Apple is working constructively with the EU in an attempt to find a path forward.
Continue Reading

Accessories

Spotlight: Marshall Heston 60

More than just your any typical soundbar!

Published

on

Living in New York means making every square foot count, so why own multiple gadgets when one can do the job?

In this video, THE Michael Josh takes a look at the Marshall Heston 60. It’s a premium TV soundbar that brings more to the living room than just better sound.

With its sophisticated design, powerful audio, and versatile features, it sits in his living room while doing much more than you might expect from a soundbar.

CHECK IT OUT HERE: https://bit.ly/MarshallHeston

Continue Reading

Convenient Smart Home

30 days with the LG AeroMini

The upgrade my new space ~badly~ needed

Published

on

By

Moving into a new space comes with a long list of things to figure out, and lately, I’ve been paying more attention to something that’s easy to overlook: air quality.

After using the LG AeroMini for about a month, it has become a subtle but welcome addition to my space. It helps make the room feel fresher, while its compact and stylish design fits naturally into my setup. Here are the things that stood out to me most after living with it for a month.

360° purification for a fresher space

One of the things I appreciate about the AeroMini is its 360° air purification, designed to bring purified air in every direction.

For me, this is particularly useful in a new space where I’m spending a lot of time working, relaxing, and just settling in.

Combined with its True HEPA filter, which is designed to remove 99.999% of 0.01μm fine dust and allergens, it gives me added peace of mind about the air I’m breathing every day.

After a month, I can genuinely say that the space feels fresher with it running.

Surprisingly quiet

This is probably my favorite feature.

The LG AeroMini operates at just 26dB, and after using it for a month, what stands out is how easy it is to forget that it’s even running.

I can have it running while I’m working or sleeping without the noise becoming a distraction. For an appliance that’s designed to continuously improve the air around you, I think that’s a big deal.

Sometimes, the best feature is the one you barely notice.

Design that fits my space

Since I recently moved, I’ve been pretty conscious about what I bring into the space. I want things to be functional, but I also don’t want appliances that feel like they’re taking over the room.

The AeroMini’s slim and compact design makes it easy to incorporate into my setup. It doesn’t feel bulky or industrial, and I like that I can leave it out without feeling like I need to hide it away.

For me, that balance between functionality and aesthetics makes it feel more like part of the space rather than just another appliance.

Air quality at a glance

Another feature I’ve found convenient is its Smart Control. Through the app, I can monitor and control the AeroMini while getting real-time updates on the indoor air quality.

It’s a small convenience, but being able to check the air quality without having to interact with the purifier directly makes it easier to keep track of what’s happening in the room.

Easy to maintain

I also appreciate that the AeroMini is designed with an all-in-one dust and deodorization filter that makes replacement and maintenance easier.

That matters to me because the best home gadgets are the ones that don’t create another complicated chore. I want something I can set up, use regularly, and maintain without too much fuss.

After a month, would I keep it?

Yes, and mainly because it quietly fits into my everyday routine.

The LG AeroMini has helped make my new space feel fresher and more comfortable, while its compact design means it doesn’t compromise the look of the room. But if I had to pick just one thing I appreciate most, it’s still how incredibly quiet it is.

It’s one of those upgrades that doesn’t demand your attention. It simply works in the background.

If you’re also looking to make your home a fresher and more comfortable space for yourself and your family, visit https://www.lg.com/ph/ to learn more about the LG AeroMini and how it can fit into your everyday life.

Continue Reading

Trending