IFA16 Highlights
Bang and Olufsen
Futuristic minimalism in the shape of a cone from Bang and Olufsen, always known for superior sound quality, the brand played to its strength by introducing two wireless 360 degree speaker designs, the small BeoSound 1 and larger BeoSound 2. Both are rechargeable with a battery life of 16 hours. The shining models stuck out but I liked the softer toned ones.
Sphero
Star Wars Fans will have hours of fun with the motion controlled BB8 droid. The wrist band enables the user to push and pull the droid with arm gestures. The app describes in details how to full use the small robot. I saw a demonstration. It could get addictive, connective toys are the future.
Aedle
Designed and made in Paris, Aedle headphones are for those looking for a subtler but higher style quality with headphone gear. Constructed with fine leather and other materials there are two choices to choose, over ear or in-ear, both are elegant. When I travel to Paris I will interview the team behind the brand.
Philips
The consumer brand giant had two products we liked. The new Innergizer blender can mix anything in a moment. The second appliance we played with was the Air Cooker, no grease, or oil is needed, all is done by recycled hot air even French Fries.
ZTE
Affordable high end smartphone from the ZTE with Axom 7 mini, a smaller version of the company’s flagship phone but still packing a punch using Android 6.0 OS featuring a 5.2 inch screen, all metal body and curved designed. it delivers a number of good features without breaking the bank including Dolby Speakers and a 16 megapixel camera.
Huawei
I handled the phone, it is smooth and stylish but what attracted me the most were the colors blue and red. It is slim and light with a Leica camera. I have not tested the device yet but soon.
Honorable Mentions
SkullCandy
Skullcandy’s New Crusher Wireless headphones looked nice. A good accessory for the street wear looks. Check back here for a review.
AfterShockz
I am testing their new sportswear wireless headsets, so far so good. Check back for the full review.
Xtorm
A better source of mobile recharging, the company improved the capacity of this year’s power bank models while retaining an attractive design. (See our upcoming video)
Samsonite
Added new class to their collection with a slim wireless power bank fitted for a 15 inch laptop integrated into a travel backpack.
Dbramante1928
Affordable leather carrying cases designed in Denmark for every tech device. The material is sourced from India.
Fossil
A company introduced a number of wearables this year to track and monitor all activity. We are using one now. See the upcoming review.
Keep checking back for more reviews and interviews on tech.