Wireless music specialist Sonos has today announced a number of new updates to its platform and application offerings, boosting Spotify integration in its HiFi systems and debuting new Android apps that now include tablet support.
With its new Sonos System Software 3.6, the company adds more control and music features to its wireless HiFi products and introduces a new project; Sonos Labs. The Labs feature is a Beta environment that allows customers to test music services by the company and its partners before it launches them on its systems.
In effect, Sonos is looking to test the water with a number of new music features but wants to ensure that its customers will interact and enjoy them before committing fully. Of course, this also means that media and music developers can apply to become a Sonos Labs music partner, providing them with access to over 1 million Sonos-enabled homes.
Sonos also debuts a new version of its Sonos Controller for Android application which now supports Android tablets as well as smartphone devices. Downloading the app allows customers to control their music wirelessly in every room – and it even supports the Kindle Fire.
The company has also included alarm support, music library management and Twitter support within its application.
The announcement of deeper Spotify integration likely precedes the Swedish music streaming giant’s announcement today which is may see the company debut third-party application support for its service.
We will of course bring you the news as it happens.
Europe pushes ahead with plans to make all phone chargers the same
The European Parliament has today decided to go ahead with a plan to introduce common charger rules for smartphones and other portable devices that would see the end of proprietary charger designs.
The thinking is that by having a common charger for mobile phones (particularly), we can collectively cut down on some of the waste and costs associated with the device cycle.
“The current incompatibility of chargers is a nightmare and a real inconvenience for consumers. This new directive ends this nightmare and is also good news for the environment as it will result in a reduction of electronic waste,” said European parliament negotiator Barbara Weiler in a statement, according to PCWorld .
The process started back in 2012 when the suggestion of having a common charger was added-on to proposals for changing the rules around radio equipment – primarily designed to ensure that new devices and services didn’t interfere with each other. More recently, today’s decision follows a provisional ruling back in December last year to push for a common charger.
In most cases, the rule about chargers won’t affect a lot of manufacturers operating in Europe, but Apple is one notable device maker that plays by its own charging rules. However, it looks likely that this will now have to change, within Europe at least.
We’ve asked Apple for comment and will update accordingly if we hear back.
➤ Europa [Press release] via PCWorld
Featured Image Credit – Shutterstock
A cool handsfree iPad setup expands its uses in any direction
Hanfree (think handsfree) is a Kickstarter project started by Seth Quest to create a handsfree gadget that secures your iPad on a bendable arm, enabling the iPad to “float” a few feet off the ground.
Hanfree has a flexible stainless steel pipe that fits into an acrylic base and connects to the iPad via a transparent case. The way it attaches to the iPad is pretty great because the integrated ball and socket joint connection brings 360 degree rotation– no matter where you decide to use it.
This Handsfree gadget eliminates the need to find a flat surface to prop up the iPad using a kickstand case. As it’s depicted in the images below, this stand can be set on the floor, counter tops or the base can be positioned under the pillows while you’re in bed. The white base is also sturdy enough to throw it on the couch.
So far Quest has gained 10 backers that have pledged a total of $685 towards his goal of $15,000. When the product launches, it will be priced at $79.95, but for Kickstarter backers, Quest is offering pre-orders for $50 not including shipping and states that it will be available for both the iPad and iPad2.
The design of this handsfree stand is unique and it appears as though it would be a must-have stand for consuming media in bed. Please share your thoughts on the design. Is it worth $80 bucks?