Samsung has new soundbars and updates to an existing model to show off at CES 2025. First, the HW-QS700F is an all-new speaker that's designed to sit on a shelf or TV stand, but it can also be mounted at 90 degrees flat on a wall under a TV. The QS700F can optimize the sound based on how you've situated it for the best performance. It will come with a wireless subwoofer, but it's unclear if rear satellite speakers are part of the package.The company's flagship soundbar returns for 2025 with a significant tweak. The HW-Q990F will remain an all-in-one package with wireless subwoofer and rear satellite speakers included and retains the same angular look. But, the company says it reduced the size of the sub to less than half of the previous version. What's more, Samsung explains that it did so while providing even more powerful audio performance from the unit. As someone who reviewed both the Q990D and Q990C, I can tell you the previous subwoofer was enormous, so this is a great update.The Q990F remains an 11.1.4-channel speaker with "clearer, richer and more effortless sound" and Dolby Atmos support. The included rear surround speakers also pack in up-firing drivers, which enhances the overall effect of the immersive audio. And as I've noted before, having everything in one package is convenient and saves you from having to make extra purchases on top of a pricey soundbar.Samsung Q990FSamsungSamsung will use AI to boost sound quality on its soundbars in 2025. Two features, Active Voice Amplifier Pro and Q-Symphony Pro, use artificial intelligence to enhance dialog over background noise and analyze sound with a Samsung TV's processor respectively. The company says Q-Symphony Pro will also be available on two new B-series soundbars, the HW-B750F and HW-B650F, which will arrive in 2025.Another item Samsung is keen to discuss at CES is its Eclipsa Audio platform it's developing in collaboration with Google. Details are scarce on the new 3D audio standard for now, but Samsung has already said its 2025 TVs and soundbars will support it. According to the press release, Eclipsa Audio enables content creators to adjust sound data and location for spatial audio. It sounds like Samsung and Google are developing their own take on Dolby Atmos. What's more, Samsung says creators will be able to upload videos with Eclipsa Audio to YouTube later this year, but there's no word on support for other platforms yet.Samsung first announced plans to develop 3D spatial audio in 2023 when it collaborated with Google on Immersive Audio Model and Formats (IAMF). IAMF was adopted by the Alliance for Open Media (AOM), which lists Amazon, Apple and Netflix among its members. This also isn't the first time Samsung has shunned Dolby as it has opted for HDR10+ over Dolby Vision for its TVs.There's no word on pricing and availability on any of the new soundbar models just yet. That info is likely to arrive closer to launch. For reference, the Q990D is $2,000, but once again, it includes a subwoofer and rear speakers. Sony's Bar 9 is $1,400 just for the soundbar itself.This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/audio/speakers/samsung-debuts-the-qs700f-soundbar-and-updates-the-q990-at-ces-2025-030042257.html?src=rss

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Scandinavian product design is celebrated for its functionality, minimalist aesthetics, and natural beauty. At its core, this design philosophy emphasizes simplicity and the harmonious integration of form and function. The use of clean lines, uncluttered spaces, and neutral color palettes reflects a cultural appreciation for minimalism and practicality.Scandinavian design often incorporates elements of nature, using materials like wood, leather, wool, and stone to bring warmth and texture to products. This approach not only enhances the visual appeal of products but also ensures they are functional and user-friendly, making Scandinavian design a timeless and enduring choice.1. Natural MaterialsNatural materials play a significant role in Scandinavian design, reflecting the regions rich landscapes of forests, lakes, and mountains. Designers favor wood, leather, wool, and stone, which add warmth and texture to their creations.The Diag Desk by Marek Baucki exemplifies this approach, using wood to create a sleek, functional workspace with integrated storage. Removable leather compartments and a wooden tabletop with raised edges provide organization without sacrificing aesthetics. This desk highlights the timeless appeal of natural materials, making it an ideal choice for modern workspaces seeking to balance functionality with elegance.2. Sustainable DesignSustainability is a core principle of Scandinavian design, rooted in the geography and landscapes of Nordic countries. Designers emphasize the use of sustainable and renewable resources to minimize environmental impact, fostering a deep commitment to eco-friendly practices. The Stokke PlayPad is a prime example of sustainable Scandinavian design.Crafted with recycled polyester and EVA foam, it offers comfort and durability while reflecting a commitment to environmental responsibility. This play mat blends quality craftsmanship with minimalist aesthetics, demonstrating how thoughtful design can enhance childhood development while respecting the planet, a hallmark of Scandinavian design philosophy.3. MinimalismMinimalism is a defining feature of Scandinavian design, focusing on simplicity and functionality. By eliminating unnecessary elements, designers create products that are both aesthetically pleasing and highly practical. Joo Teixeiras Cloth coffee table exemplifies this minimalist approach, blending Scandinavian and Japanese design principles in a style known as Japandi.The table features a striking curved bookstand and undulating edges, balancing boldness with elegance. Concealed hardware ensures durability, while the subdued color palette adds warmth and groundedness. This fusion of minimalist principles from both cultures results in a dynamic yet balanced aesthetic that embodies Scandinavian design.4. Neutral ColorsNeutral colors are a hallmark of Scandinavian-inspired products, often featuring shades like white, gray, beige, and brown. These colors create a serene and calming atmosphere, enhancing the visual appeal of designs. The Airberg sofa collection by Swedish brand Offecct is a testament to this aesthetic, blending comfort and avant-garde design with its gray upholstery.Crafted from flexible padding materials, these sofas integrate a metal base and seat frame, offering enhanced comfort through a special suspension system. The use of gray underscores the modern, environmentally conscious design ethos, making these sofas a staple in Scandinavian-inspired interiors.5. Ergonomic DesignErgonomic design is central to Scandinavian product design, enhancing human comfort while maintaining sleek aesthetics. This approach ensures that everyday products are both visually appealing and pleasurable to use. The 4 PM chaise longue chair by Massproductions exemplifies this philosophy with its minimalist aesthetics and functional elegance.Crafted from sustainable materials like Douglas fir or cherry wood, the chair embodies simplicity, durability, and ergonomic comfort. It enhances modern interiors while reflecting Massproductions dedication to quality craftsmanship and sustainable practices. This focus on ergonomic design aligns perfectly with Scandinavian values, ensuring products look good and feel good.6. User-Centric DesignUser-centric design is a key aspect of Scandinavian products, ensuring they are intuitive and enjoyable to use. Designers prioritize the end user, creating products that seamlessly integrate into daily life. Joo Teixeiras Bars desk exemplifies this approach, featuring minimalist aesthetics and practical organizational features.Overlapping wooden beams provide intuitive storage solutions for essentials like writing utensils and smartphones. Sunken storage bins and a dedicated slot for smartphones enhance functionality while maintaining a clean, clutter-free workspace. This commitment to user-centric design is characteristic of Scandinavian design, ensuring products are both functional and aesthetically pleasing.7. Form Follows FunctionThe principle of form follows function is integral to Scandinavian design, where every element serves a purpose. This design clarity results in products that are devoid of ornamentation, emphasizing practicality and user-centric design. The Atlas modular power tool system reflects this principle, prioritizing practicality and adaptability.Its modular structure allows each component to serve specific functions, ensuring the tool system adapts seamlessly to diverse user needs and tasks. This approach enhances usability and emphasizes functionality in every aspect of its design. Scandinavian products showcase design clarity, ensuring that form follows function in a purposeful and practical manner.8. Exquisite CraftsmanshipExquisite craftsmanship is a cornerstone of Scandinavian design, prioritizing durability and meticulous attention to detail. This focus ensures that every facet of a product is carefully executed, resulting in durable and often higher-cost items due to their intricate details. The Dag daybed, designed by Teresa Lundmark and Gustav Winsth, showcases this commitment to craftsmanship.With a solid beech wood frame and Zeppelin-inspired cushions, the daybed balances simplicity with expressive design. This blend of meticulous craftsmanship and sustainable practices underscores the commitment to eco-friendly furniture, emphasizing form and functionality in Scandinavian design.9. Timeless Design TrendScandinavian product design transcends fleeting trends, maintaining relevance across eras while integrating with various design styles. Its enduring appeal and longevity make it a timeless choice in the world of design. The Plico Chair by Carl Hansen & Sn exemplifies this timeless design trend.This handcrafted wooden lounge chair is designed to fold neatly for easy storage, combining Scandinavian minimalism with practicality. Its solid oak frame and linen canvas upholstery reflect a commitment to quality and durability. The chairs reclining design, leather strap armrest, and elegant brass fittings make it versatile and stylish for any setting.10. HyggeThe Danish concept of hygge emphasizes comfort and coziness, central to Scandinavian product design. This aesthetic is shaped by the regions long, dark winters, influencing designs characterized by light colors and simple forms that prioritize warmth and relaxation. SeungHyun Lees HYGGE electric kettle and beverage jar hybrid embodies this concept.Named after the Danish idea of hygge, it combines coziness and well-being with a sleek design that integrates nature-inspired curves and minimalist lines. This balanced aesthetic elevates the simple act of boiling water into a delightful ritual, enhancing the pleasure of brewing and enjoying tea daily.Hobbys new Maxia caravan combines Scandinavian design with mobile living to create a luxurious, city-apartment-on-wheels experience. Inspired by hygge-style comfort, the Maxia features a sleek exterior with rounded windows and a panoramic front window for expansive views.Available in two lengths, the Maxia 660 WQM accommodates up to four adults with a full kitchen, bathroom, and a versatile living area that converts into a sleeping and dining space. The interior includes smart appliances, ample storage, and a modern, open floor plan designed for comfort and convenience on the road.Scandinavian product design integrates simplicity, practicality, and aesthetic appeal, emphasizing both functionality and natural beauty. As a result, Scandinavian-inspired products achieve a balance between form, function, and timeless style, making it a popular design trend thats here to stay.The post Sustainable Chic: Exploring the 10 Timeless Principles of Scandinavian Product Design first appeared on Yanko Design.

Halliday's AI-equipped smart glasses offer a way to view information discreetly, by hiding a tiny screen that only the wearer can see.Halliday's smart glasses - Image credit: HallidayOne of the common issues with smart glasses is that they are fairly obvious, using a lens or a protruding element that gives the game away to onlookers. Halliday, meanwhile, are doing the same thing with its smart glasses at CES that makes it as discreet as possible.Referred to as a DigiWindow, a small dot in the top right part of the frame projects information inside the user's natural field of vision. The effect is a perceived 3.5-inch screen in the user's upper right corner of their vision, without obstructing their main view. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums

SwitchBot's new Multitasking Household Robot K20+ Pro, revealed at CES 2025, is a multi-tasking robot that cleans, secures, purifies, and delivers for smarter living.SwitchBot Robot Vacuum K20+ ProSwitchBot's Multitasking Household Robot K20+ Pro, revealed at CES 2025, is designed for anyone looking to elevate their home's efficiency and convenience. This advanced robot combines multiple functions cleaning, air purification, security, and delivery into a single device, catering to busy homeowners, tech enthusiasts, and families.Equipped with cutting-edge features like TwinFlow vacuuming, a mobile air purifier, and customizable capabilities through the FusionPlatform, the K20+ Pro makes light work of any number of tasks. Whether it's cleaning floors, monitoring your home, or transporting items, this robot is built for smarter, hassle-free living. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums

Lutron has announced its new Caseta smart shades at CES 2025, bringing its window covering technology to more with a lower price tag and continued support for Apple Home.Lutron's new Caseta smart shades have an affordable price tag and high reliabilityLutron is well known not only in the smart home space, but in the window shade market as well for custom shades that just work. We reviewed Lutron's Serena Shades and found them to look great and work flawlessly.They weren't inexpensive though, which is why Lutron set out to bring the price down with its mass-market Caseta shades. They re-engineered the internals, streamlined the manufacturing, and dropped the cost substantially. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums

This is how smart your smartphone is getting. Now it will be able to analyze your saliva and do a real-time hormone test.Read More

Halliday has come up with eyewear we didn't know we needed: smart glasses with no lenses. Welcome to the age of AI smart glasses.Read More