Dutch social enterprise Fairphone is proud to announce the launch of its latest device, Fairbuds XL, once again pioneering more sustainable ways to make electronics. Fairbuds XL are the company's first modular audio device. The headphones are the next step in Fairphone's journey to develop fair and long-lasting audio
devices, after launching its first generation earbuds in 2021.

By introducing Fairbuds XL, Fairphone is applying its market-leading experience in making sustainable, repairable smartphones. The headphones are produced with the same values used to make all Fairphone devices - focus on people and planet. Like all Fairphone devices, the headphones are designed to last. The modular construction and spare parts make them easy to repair, which lets users enjoy and keep their device for longer. Fairbuds XL allow for the replacement of parts that can wear over time, such as the ear cushions. The long-term use of electronics isn't only great for the user experience, it also helps reduce their environmental footprint.

Leading digital lifestyle accessories brand, Trust Electronics Ltd, is pleased today to announce the launch of its brand-new Lyra keyboard and mouse. With increased desire in the consumer technology industry for smaller size, multi-connective devices, the Lyra addresses consumer preferences by offering a compact, wireless product with plenty of additional features. The Trust Lyra is available to buy from Amazon for £29.99 and the Lyra Wireless Keyboard & Mouse Set for RRP £44.99.

With the ability to wirelessly connect up to three devices at once via a single USB receiver or Bluetooth, users can easily switch between working on their desktop, laptop and tablet by using the dedicated buttons. The ability to work productively and without constraints has also been taken into account, with multi-OS support providing compatibility with Windows, iOS, iPadOS, MacOS, Android and Chrome OS. In addition, a built-in rechargeable battery offers up to 6 months of battery life and the possibility of recharging whilst working.

CHERRY, the specialist for computer, office and gaming accessories and market leader in mechanical key switches, has launched the KW X ULP, a dynamic ultra-slim mechanical keyboard featuring the award-winning CHERRY MX ULTRA LOW PROFILE (ULP) mechanical switches for an unrivaled typing experience. At the heart of the remarkably slim KW X ULP are CHERRY MX Ultra Low Profile switches. This specially developed switch type has a height of just 3.5 millimetres, which is 70 percent less than standard MX switches, and thus facilitates keyboards that offer the full mechanical typing feel despite their ultra-slim form factor. Additionally, the discreet cupping of the polycarbonate keycaps offers optimal grip.

ULTRA stylish
The keyboard sports a timelessly elegant case with a noble black finish, an anodized and milled aluminium plate on top and edges in silver. Paired with the stylish monochrome backlight, the KW X ULP becomes an eye-catcher on any desk. At the same time, it delivers the precision and durability previously reserved for much thicker mechanical keyboards.

Panasonic is pleased to announce two new pairs of Digital Wireless Stereo Earphones that are perfect for people on the go. Each pair caters to a different listener priority: noise cancelling or longer battery life. For those who value Active Noise Cancelling, the new RZ-B310W are an inner-ear model with Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling capabilities. Meanwhile, the RZ-B110W offer an incredible 26 hours of playback time for those who want to listen to music longer without worrying about maintaining a charge. The earphones themselves can hold a six-hour charge and are provided with an extra 20 hours-worth of playback from a fully charged carrying case.

Both pairs of new earphones are comfortable to wear for extended periods of time thanks to Panasonic's 'Ergofit' design. Both headphone pairs are outfitted with XBS tech to energize the listener's tunes with powerful bass that is streamed wirelessly via Bluetooth 5.3. The RZ-B310W and RZ-B110W offer incredible value for the money at $99.99 and $59.99, respectively. They are available now in a black color on Amazon.com.

Apple announced a joint partnership with Google in submitting a new industry specification to curtail unwanted tracking via Bluetooth location-tracking devices currently on the market. The new standard would provide tracker detection across both iOS and Android, regardless of the brand of the tracker being used. The proposal addresses the concerns surrounding the ease in which a person can be tracked by a sneaky location-tracker stuck to their person, possession, or vehicle by bad-faith actors using the technology to stalk individuals. Apple has previous released updates to their Find My service which will alert the victim if they are being tracked by an unknown AirTag, but this tech relies on the person having an iPhone. Third party detection apps exist on Android, but they're far from perfect and aren't currently officially supported by any of the parent companies making Bluetooth location trackers.

The proposal has received industry wide support from other manufacturers such as Samsung, Tile, Chipolo, eufy Security, and Pebblebee. Advocacy groups such as The National Network to End Domestic Violence and the Center for Democracy & Technology have also contributed to the specification draft. The draft has been submitted via the Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF) with a three month review and comment period open to interested parties that would like to weigh in on the proposed specification. After this period Apple and Google will work to address concerns and feedback before putting the specification into production by the end of 2023, unifying a tracking alerts system on all future versions of iOS and Android.

Razer, the leading global lifestyle brand for gamers, today proudly unveiled the 2023 update to their most popular esports headset, the Razer BlackShark V2 Pro. This ultimate wireless headset is optimized for performance with cutting-edge audio, durable comfort, and ultra-fast connectivity. Boasting a new innovative Razer HyperClear Super Wideband Mic, built-in Pro-Tuned FPS Profiles, 70-hour battery life, Type C charging capabilities, Bluetooth connectivity, and more, the enhanced 2023 BlackShark V2 Pro has been designed in collaboration with some of the world's top esports players, including Hakis (Alliance), Shotzzy (OpTic Gaming), Dexter (MOUZ), Refsgaard (Ninjas in Pyjamas), & Stax (DRX).

"The iconic BlackShark headset is a longtime staple among esports pros and gamers for a reason," said Barrie Ooi, Head of Razer's PC Gaming Division. "And for this new version, we worked closely with pro gamers and embraced our 'For Gamers. By Gamers' philosophy to further refine the fundamentals of an esports class headset while introducing upgrades that we know gamers are looking for."

ASUS Republic of Gamers (ROG) today announced the all-new ROG Phone 7 series of gaming smartphones at its For Those Who Dare virtual launch event. The ROG Phone 7 series includes the ROG Phone 7 and ROG Phone 7 Ultimate models and is the latest step in the high-performance evolution of the world's greatest gaming phone. This futuristically-styled phone—which sports a new two-tone design—combines the game-winning power of the flagship Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 Mobile Platform with the advanced GameCool 7 thermal system and special ROG tuning to deliver a truly breathtaking mobile gaming experience—and impressively low power consumption. The key to this power efficiency is the revolutionary new rapid-cycle vapor chamber design, which increases heat dissipation efficiency by up to 168%, allowing the ROG Phone 7 series to run games at full speed while maintaining low temperatures.

To make ROG Phone 7 a powerful and portable theater, we've increased the effective volume of the ROG Phone 7 series' speakers by 50% and tuned the system in cooperation with audio specialists Dirac. ROG Phone 7 series now delivers amazing 2.1-channel sound when the new AeroActive Cooler 7 accessory—which houses a powerful subwoofer—is attached.

Armed with 9 programmable controls, dual-mode wireless connectivity, and customizable Razer Chroma RGB. Featuring numerous easy-access buttons and an added multi-function trigger, enjoy an endless combination of commands and macros right at your fingertips. Enjoy reliable responsiveness with an advanced 18K optical sensor and gold-plated contact points for a longer lifespan. Experience the new Basilisk V3 X HyperSpeed that has an iconic ergonomic form, suitable for multiple grip types and built with 9 programmable buttons. Enhance your gaming world with customizable RGB lighting and dual-mode connectivity.

ADVANCED CUSTOMIZABILITY. UNLEASHED - with the Razer Basilisk V3 X HyperSpeed, there are no limits on how you choose to play. Armed with 9 programmable controls, dual-mode wireless connectivity, and customizable Razer Chroma RGB, it is made to answer to only one master-you.

MOONDROP's Blessing2 (and Blessing2:Dusk) IEMs get credited for being a benchmark in the world of in-ear monitors at the $300 price point, having re-defined expectations and besting far more expensive products when it comes to technical and tuning performances. A successor has been hotly anticipated thus and now we have the all-new Blessing 3 coming in at the same $320 price point. It uses a 2 DD/4 BA hybrid driver configuration paired with a see-through resin shell that has greatly improved comfort owing to a smaller shell and nozzle—thus addressing the biggest issue with the Blessing2—and a polished stainless steel nozzle on top. The Blessing 3 uses MOONDROP's VDSF tuning to put forth a neutral/bright tuning that we'll examine in more detail in an upcoming review, but those who can't wait can purchase the product from retailers such as HiFiGo right now.

Releasing alongside is a Bluetooth neckband accessory called LittleWhite. It uses a Cirrus Logic CS4131 DAC and has digital signal processing support integrated with a first-party app to allow for specific MOONDROP wired IEMs to have EQ profiles generated so they all get tuned similarly to hit the desired target easier. This can help significantly as seen in our recent coverage of the MOONDROP Quarks DSP, and MOONDROP promises high quality Bluetooth audio with a long battery life (~12 hours). The LittleWhite supports Bluetooth 5.2 with codecs including aptX and LHDC courtesy the Qualcomm QCC5144 SoC, has integrated microphones for calls, and the app provides parametric EQ support for other IEMs you wish to use wirelessly too. It sells for $89.99 from retailers including HiFiGo for those interested.

Sony Electronics Inc. today announced the addition of the WF-C700N truly wireless earbuds, WF-C700N, which are small and lightweight for all day comfort, perfect for those looking for their first pair of truly wireless noise canceling earbuds. In addition, Sony is also announcing the WH-1000XM5 in Midnight Blue, with all of the great noise canceling features of the critically acclaimed WH-1000XM5 in a stylish blue color.

A comfortable fit for on the go
The WF-C700N have been designed with comfort and stability in mind, for an inclusive fit. Sony has designed the WF-C700N by looking at extensive ear shape data collated since it introduced world's first in-ear headphones in 1982, as well as evaluation of the sensitivity of various types of ears. The WF-C700N earbuds combine a shape to perfectly match the human ear with an ergonomic surface design for a more stable fit, so users can wear them longer without needing a break.

Jabra, world's leading professional audio brand, expands its best-selling line of professional headsets, the Jabra Evolve series, with new Evolve2 mid-range headsets. The revolutionary Jabra Evolve2 65 Flex, the Jabra Evolve2 55 and Jabra Evolve2 50 are engineered for ultra-flexible hybrid working.

Jabra's 2022 research found that 80% of all meetings globally are either fully virtual or hybrid, and hybrid natives like Gen Zs consider their "office" to be their laptop or wherever they have a strong internet connection, including "third spaces" such as co-working spaces, cafés, or libraries. The new Evolve2 headsets empower users with the most useful and professional features to protect their focus zone and enable them to take calls and meetings no matter their environment. Additionally, they boast optimized sound for professional use and music, so there is no need to switch headsets when it is time for a break.

Amazon is today expanding its Luna cloud gaming service into three new territories - Canada, Germany and the United Kingdom. This is the first sign of the online retail giant's goal to broaden the service beyond the initial launch base in the USA. The company is clearly excited to offer their cloud games library to a larger customer base: "Gamers in the U.S. have been enjoying Luna for the past year and we're thrilled to expand the service, giving more customers the opportunity to play high-quality, immersive games without expensive gaming hardware or lengthy downloads."

These new territories have been granted access to Luna's full package which now consists of Ubisoft+, Jackbox Games, and Luna+ subscription services. The Luna app can be launched on 'select devices', which means a wide range of modern bits of kit can run it: Fire TV, Fire Tablets, Windows PCs, Chromebooks, Macs, iPhones, iPads, Android phones and tablets. Amazon confirmed that its Official Luna Wireless Controller is also being made available to customers in Canada, Germany and the United Kingdom - which is an exclusive item to the Amazon Store. It should be noted that you can run other compatible control devices via Bluetooth, including a wireless keyboard and mouse, as well as the Xbox One and PlayStation DualShock 4 gamepads.

Jabra, leader in personal sound and hybrid work solutions, today launched the Elite 4, the latest addition to its flagship Elite lineup. Following in the footsteps of the entry-level Elite 3, the new true wireless earbuds offer an elevated experience from its predecessor, ideal for the modern earbud user seeking advanced features at an affordable price.

The Elite 4 has been tailored to provide comfort, optimal sound and convenience. For users that need to connect to two different devices simultaneously, the Jabra Elite 4 offers Bluetooth Multipoint, facilitating smooth and stress-free switching, without skipping a beat. The initial pairing of earbuds to a device is simple, with Fast Pair connecting instantly to a mobile device and Swift Pair linking straight to a laptop or computer.

Samsung Electronics, a world leader in advanced semiconductor technology, today announced its first ultra-wideband (UWB) chipset, the Exynos Connect U100. With single-digit centimeter accuracy, the new UWB solution is optimized for use in mobile, automotive and Internet of Things (IoT) devices, offering precise distance and location information. Samsung also unveiled 'Exynos Connect', a new brand that consolidates its short-range wireless communication solutions, such as UWB, Bluetooth and Wi-Fi that are essential in facilitating an increasingly hyper-connected world.

"Our Exynos Connect U100 combines sophisticated ranging and positioning capabilities with strong security to enable hyper-connectivity between people and everyday objects, fueling a range of new applications in positioning and location tracking," said Joonsuk Kim, Executive Vice President of the Connectivity Development Team at Samsung Electronics. "Building on our technology leadership in communications technologies, we are committed to driving innovation in short-range communication solutions to transform the way we connect and relate to the world around us."

-NTT sonority, Inc. (President: Hiroshi Sakai), a member of the NTT Group, one of the world's largest technology and business solutions companies, has entered the consumer electronics market via the development of an entirely new type of earphone using a unique technology called the "Personalized Sound Zone" (PSZ). The company has announced plans to commercially release the world's first open-ear PSZ technology developed by NTT Corporation (NTT) that locks audio into a small, individualized space. Crowdfunding for the wireless model nwm MBE001 on-ear speakers equipped with PSZ technology will begin on March 27, 2023, through Indiegogo. NTT sonority's audio brand nwm will continue to enhance its products with PSZ at their core, maximizing consumer safety and allowing users to experience the comfort of being connected through sound without having to worry about sound leakage.

NTT sonority's New Wave Maker (nwm) audio brand was created in November 2022 with the goal of creating an optimal audio experience. The company aims to expand its audio solutions to address future ways of working and living by creating not just a sense of immersion, but the comfort of being connected.

MediaTek, a fabless semiconductor company powering two billion devices a year, and Kontron, a leading global provider of IoT and Embedded Computer Technology (ECT), today announced that Kontron is integrating MediaTek's Genio 1200 and Genio 700 chipsets into its new modules for IoT applications.

MediaTek Genio is a complete platform stack for IoT, offering brands powerful and efficient chipsets, open platform software development kits (SDK), and a developer portal with comprehensive resources and tools. Genio chipsets are ideal for a wide variety of commercial, industrial, and retail applications that require highly responsive processing, advanced multimedia support, and multi-tasking.

Edifier, the forward-thinking audio-technology brand, have announced the release of the QD35 - a tabletop, Bluetooth speaker expertly designed combining high spec audio features with 'Lumia Art' effects for the best acoustic/visual effect. The term Lumia was coined by a twentieth-century artist, Thomas Wilfred, when artists began to promote colors and light together in their works as a form of art that uses light. 'Lumia Art' was originally associated with music then latterly paintings. The QD35 is a perfect example of how Edifier have created an aesthetically pleasing speaker incorporating a brilliant, kaleidoscopic display of colored lights. Various preset light effects are available but users can also customize their own light effects using the Edifier Connect app.

The QD35 is an all-in-one music system. It is certified to both "Hi-Res Audio" and "Hi-Res Audio Wireless" standards. The USB-A port and the AUX jack on the rear panel support high-resolution audio signals. With the enhancement of LDAC technology, users can also stream high-quality music with a 96 kHz sampling rate to this speaker via Bluetooth.

MSI, a leading global computer brand for gamers, has launched its most advanced gaming mice to date - the CLUTCH GM51 Series which includes a wired and wireless variant. As the successor of the CLUTCH GM41/GM31, the CLUTCH GM51 LIGHTWEIGHT Series gaming mice shares the same exterior design concept and succeeds the well-known GM50 series hand shape with further improvements.

The flagship CLUTCH GM51 Lightweight Series utilizes a lightweight structure that reduces up to 25% extra plastic. It also features an ergonomic hand-shape that offers agile performance while reducing fatigue and enhancing gaming experience. The side grips are designed with the patented MSI Diamond LightGrips featuring a double-injection diamond-patterned anti-slip surface that allows gamers to hold the mouse firmly in hand, while showcasing unique RGB illumination. Both the wired and wireless version are all packed with cutting-edge technology delivering unrivaled gaming performance.

ASUS IoT, the global AIoT solution provider, today announced that it is delighted to be attending the Embedded World 2023 from March 14-16 in Nuremburg, Germany. On show will be the comprehensive ASUS IoT lineup of edge AI computers, industrial motherboards, COM Express (COMe) modules, Tinker-series single-board computers (SBCs), Mini PCs, market-ready solutions and AI solutions. This impressive portfolio of embedded and IoT offerings delivers ASUS IoT's leading hardware and software computing capabilities and services across diverse vertical markets.

ZALMAN today introduced the ZM-K610, a 65% format (68-key) wireless mechanical gaming keyboard. It offers hot-swappable key switches, letting end-users not just replace broken switches on-the-fly, but also mix and match switch types, giving specific keys a certain kind of switch. The keyboard uses Gateron-sourced G-Pro series switches, with hot-swappable sockets. You can mix between Blue, Red, Brown, and Yellow switch types. The ZM-K5610 comes in two trims—blue+white, and white+gray. Both offer PBT resin keycaps, with individual RGB LED illumination. The keyboard offers wired and 2.4 GHz RF wireless connectivity with fast 1000 Hz polling-rate; and Bluetooth 5.1 connectivity with 125 Hz rate. A 3,000 mAh rechargeable battery provides up to 73 hours of use (measured with the lighting turned off). Measuring 311 mm x 103 mm x 40 mm, the ZM-K610 weighs 764 g (without cable). The company didn't reveal pricing.

Cooler Master introduced the MasterMouse MM712 Wireless, a gaming mouse suitable for all grip and genre types. The mouse offers three kinds of connectivity—wired USB, wireless RF 2.4 GHz, and Bluetooth 5.1. It uses an internal 500 mAh rechargeable battery that soaks charge when using the mouse in the USB mode (or when plugged in to any USB power source). On a full charge, this battery provides up to 180 hours of use in the Bluetooth 5.1 mode, and up to 80 hours in the 2.4 GHz RF mode (probably due to the latter having a higher 1000 Hz polling rate, while BT only offers 125 Hz).

Under the hood, the MM712 packs a PixArt Optical sensor with 19,000 dpi resolution, 400 IPS instruction-rate, and 50 G acceleration. The main two buttons use optical switches rated for 70 million clicks. The mouse measures 116.5 mm x 62.4 mm x 38.3 mm, and weighs 59 g without cable or dongle (but including its internal battery). It comes in two color-based variants—all black, and white+gray. The mice come with Teflon glide surfaces underneath. The MM712 is expected to begin selling from March 16. The company didn't reveal pricing.

With the KW 9200 MINI, CHERRY is introducing a top-class product that leaves nothing to be desired in terms of technical features, quality and design. The extra-slim keyboard in compact format is perfectly suited for various areas of application and a lifestyle on the move. If you want a compact keyboard that's as comfortable to use as a full size one, the KW 9200 MINI is the ideal choice. With four different transmission channels, the wireless multi-device keyboard is ready for flexible work in any application environment - whether private or professional. The KW 9200 MINI fits into any bag, no matter how small, when being taken from one place to another. At the same time, this little gem comes with a protective carrying case made of recycled plastic.

Wyze, better known for their smart home security cameras and accessories, has taken another step into the audio realm with the release of their new Wyze Wireless Gaming Headset. The new addition features 20 hours battery life with USB-C, quick charge that provides up to 2 hours of charge in 10 minutes, a detachable boom microphone extension, and multi-source connection capabilities with both Bluetooth 5.2 and 2.4 GHz wireless supported. With the included 2.4 GHz USB dongle Wyze is advertising as low as 20 ms wireless latency.

Endorfy (formerly SPC Gear), launched the Thock TKL wireless gaming keyboard. The keyboard offers three means of connectivity—direct USB HID (least latency), 2.4 GHz RF (low latency wireless), and Bluetooth 5.0 (dongle-free). The keyboard measures 361.5 (L) x 140 (W) x 42.5 (H) mm, and its body combines an aluminium alloy frame with ABS bits, and PBT keycaps. Its electronics allow N-key rollover in wired and 2.4 GHz RF mode, and 6-key rollover in Bluetooth. Under the hood, you get Kailh Box Red or Kailh Black switches. You get individual key RGB lighting. Besides the Thock TKL Wireless, the Endorfy Thock series consists of the full spectrum of form-factors, including the standard-size with the numpad, a 75% size, and a "Compact" size. Available now, the Thock TKL Wireless is priced at €80.

Be sure to catch the TechPowerUp Review of the Endorfy Thock TKL Wireless.

Sonos today debuted Sonos Era 300 and Sonos Era 100, the industry leader's next generation of smart speakers ushering in a whole new chapter in sound and design innovation. Era 300 is a bold, revolutionary new speaker built to deliver the best experience for out loud spatial audio with Dolby Atmos, while Era 100 is a remastering of the best-selling Sonos One. Tuned by award-winning artists and engineers, the Era family powers new levels of immersive listening with expanded connectivity and Trueplay technology. Era 300 and Era 100 are also the first speakers built to Sonos' new responsible design standards, which span long-term serviceability, energy-efficient technologies and use of post-consumer recycled (PCR) materials. Both Era 300 ($449 USD) and Era 100 ($249 USD) will be available globally on 28 March 2023.

"In an age of constant background noise, quality listening matters more than ever. Our vision is to make listening an experience that is charged with feeling, and help our customers feel joy and vitality through their favourite music and audio content", said Patrick Spence, CEO of Sonos. "The Era family is the next generation of smart speakers, epitomising our commitment to sound innovation, responsible design and a deep connection to the creator community."