For me, this IFA has been about connecting and reconnecting. I have not seen any major tech leaps but stay tuned, the fair has just started.

IFA Berlin 2022 starts Sept 2nd.
The IFA Innovations Media Brief 2022 took place July 13th and 14th. The annual technology preview event happened seven weeks before the launch Berlin consumer electronic show after a two year absence due to Covid.
While a smaller than past IMB’s gathering, the atmosphere was enthusiastic if not intimate. Pinpointing a micro trend, staying comfortable in the house, as the world has gone through lock downs, appliance producers showed off gadgets for nesting indoors.
Being a sucker for an invitation, Tineco sent me an invite to check out their new dry-wet mop. No more back bends or hands in dirty water, sounds promising. The Chinese brand introduced the Floor One S5 cleaning device with screen, a very high tech mop. Would I buy it? Yes.
German home ware maker Karcher showed off a new white minimalistic air purifier design with a trace of the brand’s yellow trademark. The shocking part of the new device, no app. The user has to physically operate the new gadget. Would I buy it? Maybe
Swiss luxury coffee machine maker showed off their newest counter top cafe product with an LCD display along with more features for coffee lovers. Would the Jura? Pricey.
Berlin start up Mitte Home unveiled a mineral water purifying home appliance using cartridges. Would I buy it? I have to think it.
The other Swiss brand, Bru served up a hassle free way of making tea without mess. Would I buy it? Maybe.
Honorable mention presentations at IFA IMB.
Bosch introduced a new graphite washer machine. The white good appliance had a startling look.
Miele’s high end smooth kitchen aesthetic deserve a look featuring smooth edges and clean surfaces.
A Repair not Throwaway conference was interesting. As the world becomes more concerned about the planet, tech garbage filling up landfills is big concern.
IFA 2022 takes place in Berlin from September 2nd to September 6th. Looking forward to it.
Technology news is back in the Black and Paper. After two years the IFA IMB is back. A nice size preview consumer electronics trends. July 13th and 14th at the City Cube the biggest technology brands offer a small size sampling of the upcoming IFA fair in September.
I need a Garmin now. I tested the device during a lock down and at the gym. Today, after spending Christmas in South Germany, I am on lean workout program to drop 4 kilos for an end goal of 79 kilos.
Too bad Santa did not leave this tech wearable under the tree after feasting for me after feasting for ten days. The need to burn some calories is real.
I will keep you updated on my progress.
The Jabra Elite Earplugs, I got a pair in the mail from the public relations agency. I already use the brand’s Evolve 2 on hear device.
My recommendation: Get a pair. The bluetooth earbuds are a solid superior piece of music gear with voice prompts and noise cancellation features. For daily use at the gym for my 90 minute routine, there have never been problems with the fitting during workouts. Tap features make for easy use and connectivity with with my music playlist.
Thankfully the Elites are waterproof. One dropped from my back on the side walk in front of my flat. It rained the same night. I went looking the next day, found it, placed the bud in the recharger case, worked as if nothing happened.
After using a cheaper brands headphone, The Elite 75 pro has a superior sound quality. I have used the microphone because normally, I do not take so many calls on my smartphone.
Battery life is good, I normally recharge the two after days usage.
Spring time in Berlin means bike riding. The cycling lanes have been widened to encourage more cycle ridership. I tried an electric Van Moof last year. The Dutch brand has made a name for itself in the mobile tech field with it’s uniquely designed durable city bikes. When you see the bike, you know it.
This is not the 70’s Chopper bike, just jump on and ride. In 2021 there is no fun without connecting to a smartphone. Download the Van Moof application for the easy set up.
The most recognizable Van Moof feature is the integrated design with technology.
For some reason while Peddling around Mitte, it felt as if I were piloting Wonder Woman’s Invisible Jet, a smooth ride. The store employee told me to press a button for speed. I had a clear path, I tapped the Boost Button, suddenly, VROOM!
There is no need for lock. HUH! With the high anti thief system; the stealth lock and alarm discourages event the most determined bike napper. All bikes can be tracked. If your 2.000 euro investment happens to get stolen, Van Moof track it down, then return it. If return is not possible, the company will give you a new one. I had a look of disbelief when the store attended told me about this feature.
What I did not like about the model I used was the recharging feature. Living on the 5thfloor, a 100 stir climb with a bike for recharging, not in my book! But there is a portable recharging unit.
Van Moof is trendy and practical and fun in a time of peddle power. But, the price could put many off. Secondly, there is a lot of tech in the bike. A Van Moof can only be repaired at on the company’s centers.
My conclusion, I really liked the Van Moof. Would I buy one? Tempting. Technology combined the simple pleasure of bike riding on the city streets.
If in Berlin head over to the Van Moff store in Mitte at 42 Torstrasse for a test ride. The staff is friendly, knowledgeable and admire their product.
More highlights from IFA 20.
Stay Tuned for the videos. We produced a few.
Chinese brand Xiaomi has been called the “Apple of China”. Founded in 2010, the brand ranks as the one of the world’s top smartphone makers.
The Xiaomi Mi 10 5G launched in Feburary 2020. I tested the device in Berlin at Fonschmiede Centre, Friedrichshain. My first impressions, a polished statement for those looking for an Android alternative to Samsung.
Tech Associates Radu Muncelean, Sven Birkhahn, and I went over the specs. The sharp display and cameras standout. The smooth body finish gives the Mi 10 a premium look.
At around $600, the bang for buck mobile gadget is worth it.
How did it fare with battery life? I cannot comment on this because I used the Mi 10 for a few hours. But I was assured by Radu and Sven the battery holds up well. Also, I checked the other tech review sights, the 4500 mAh pack got good marks. Additionally, the battery charges from 0 to 40% quickly.
Thanks to Fonschmiede and Vodafone Ring Centre Berlin.
IFA 2018 coverage sponsored by Canon Camera/Werbung