Pat PilcherIn which PAT PILCHER compiles a handy lineup of bite-sized news about the latest gadgetry.
Sony’s New Earbuds – Sony announces the WF-SP800N sport headphones. They’re Bluetooth wireless beasties with noise-cancelling and IP55 rating (for water and dust resistance), and long battery life. RRP $499.95. Availability TBC.
Ring Launches New Smart Video Doorbell – Ring has announced their next Ring Video Doorbell. With 1080p HD video (up from 720p), improved night vision, and updated motion zones, their second-gen Doorbell will retail for $199.
Spark To Go 5G, Bundles All Xbox Access To Customers – Spark announces 5G spectrum and Xbox All Access. Both new and existing Spark customers can join the Xbox All Access programme as part of eligible Pay Monthly mobile or broadband plans. With Xbox All Access, customers can choose from Xbox One S or Xbox One X bundles to get 24 months of Xbox Game Pass Ultimate for only $32 or $39 per month for 24-months.
Gran Turismo Announce Results Of Top 16 Superstars’ Race – The Championships 2020 Online Series is underway, and the results for the Oceania region are in. Racing on the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya Grand Prix Layout, the Nations Cup saw Cody Nikola Latkovski from Australia take the top position. Cody was followed by Matthew McEwen from New Zealand and Matthew Simmons from Australia in second and third position.
Fitbit Launches Heart Study – Fitbit hopes it will help their wearables identify irregular heart rhythms such as atrial fibrillation (AFib). This study is part of Fitbit’s broader health strategy to make easy-to-use and accessible tools that can assist in the detection of medical conditions. Frustratingly, the study is only open to Yanks over the age of 22. It aims to enrol hundreds of thousands of participants.
Skinny Launches Unlimited Plans – Plans start at $36, the new plans provide an endless supply of data with Max Speeds reduced after a set amount. On the $36 Endless Data plan, max speeds reduce after 4.5GB. The $46 option sees speeds reduced after 12GB and the $70 option has max speeds reduced after 40GB. Each plan offers unlimited calls and texts to New Zealand and Australia and renews every four weeks.
Apple To Host WWDC Online – Apple announced it is to host the Worldwide Developers Conference virtually, beginning 22 June. Apple is to use the Apple Developer app and the Apple Developer website.
Dyson Launches New AirWrap Hair Styling Widget – Engineered for chest-length or longer hair, Dyson’s Airwrap Complete Long is now available from Dyson.co.nz for $849. For existing Airwrap owners, the short and long attachments will be available to purchase separately for $59.
Nokia Announces New Budget Smartphone – HMD Global the Nokia 1.3 with Android 10 (Go Edition), at $169 RRP. The Nokia 1.3 is amongst the first smartphones with Camera Go as well as Gallery Go apps. It is also ready for Android 11 (Go edition).
D-Link Launches Mesh Extender – The COVR-1102 is fast enough to support multiple devices performing data-intensive tasks like simultaneous HD streaming. It is also adaptable to different housing sizes and configurations, covering up to 325 square meters, with the option of using wired Ethernet backhaul. The COVR-1102 supports WPA3, which brings the latest standard for wireless encryption to individual users.
Logitech Launches The StreamCam – Designed with streamers and content creators in mind, the StreamCam features 1080p/60 fps video, USB-C connectivity, and comes with flexible mounting options. When used with Logitech’s Capture utility, users can automate exposure, framing, and stabilisation. The StreamCam also sports facial recognition, smart focus, and exposure. AI-enabled smart framing means you always remain in view.
