As we all continue to spend more time indoors, tech companies are responding with increasingly savvy solutions to ensure that our homes are as comfortable – and connected – as possible.
Here are four pieces of standout tech that we're coveting for our homes this year, and one item that will make those forays outdoors slightly less stressful.
Project Hazel
Razer unveiled a prototype of “the most intelligent mask ever created” during CES 2021 in January. Dubbed the Hazel Project, the design of Razer’s mask focuses on five key areas: safety, sociability, sustainability, comfort and personalisation. It includes a surgical N95 respirator and, in addition to having a high bacterial filtration efficiency (BFE), has a high fluid resistance, which protects against large droplets.
The mask’s detachable ventilator regulates airflow and promises to filter out at least 95 per cent of airborne particles. The device comes with a charging case lined with UV light, which will kill bacteria and viruses as the mask is charging.
Project Hazel’s sustainability credentials stem from the fact that its filters are replaceable and its ventilators are rechargeable, while a waterproof, scratch-proof construction made from recyclable plastic ensures it is durable and long-lasting.
In terms of comfort, an active ventilation system releases heat produced from breathing and brings in cool air, and also prevents the build-up of CO2 in the mask. Thick ear loops place less pressure on the ears than traditional masks, and Project Hazel can be custom-created to fit your face shape.
Project Hazel, launch date yet to be revealed
Instaview Door-in-Door fridge
LG Electronics has launched its latest InstaView Door-in-Door refrigerators. Highlights include a larger glass panel, a built-in water dispenser featuring UV nano technology for enhanced hygiene, and improved voice recognition capabilities.
The contents of the fridge are illuminated with two knocks on the transparent glass section of the door, while a door-in-door feature helps reduce the loss of interior cold air by ensuring frequently needed items can be accessed easily, without having to open the entire fridge. This model is also 23 per cent bigger than previous versions, but retains its sleek design. You can ask the fridge door to open, or to check the status of its water and ice dispensers.
“The popularity of LG appliances during this difficult year came as quite a surprise to us,” says Lyu Jae-cheol, president of LG Electronics Home Appliance & Air Solution Company. “We have leveraged the increase in consumer interest and pushed the boundaries of appliance innovation to deliver exciting products in 2021.”
InstaView Door-in-Door refrigerators, launching this year
JetBot 90 AI+
Samsung’s new smart robotic vacuum cleaner uses Intel AI to navigate your home without bumping into furniture, pets or cables. The first smart vacuum to be powered by AI, the JetBot 90 AI+ uses sensors and enhanced object recognition as it moves through your space. It can sense distances of up to six metres, rotate 360 degrees and access hard-to-reach spots. It is capable of classifying objects in its line of vision, and deciding which to avoid and which to clean close to.
An associated app allows you to see where the vacuum is cleaning in real time, schedule cleanings and even specify “no-go zones” on a map of your home.
Once done, the JetBot returns to its Clean Station, which automatically empties the vacuum’s dustbin. The Clean Station’s bin only requires a bag change once every two to three months, and will alert you when the bag is full.
JetBot 90 AI+, launching 2021
SRS-RA5000 speaker
For a speaker that looks distinctive and delivers all-encompassing sound, look no further than Sony’s new SRS-RA5000. Fitted with Sony’s unique spatial sound technologies, the wireless speaker is designed to deliver a premium two-channel audio experience.
The design includes a trio of up-firing speakers that spread music vertically, while three additional speakers in the middle of the device spread sound horizontally. These are complemented by a subwoofer that creates a rich, deep bass.
Consisting of a black body with contrasting copper highlights, the RA5000 also offers a sound calibration feature, which will adjust the sound for optimum audio performance in any room it is placed in. An auto volume feature also means that sound will be adjusted for consistency, track by track.
The device is compatible with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa, so you can manage your music using your voice, and the speaker can be controlled from anywhere in your home using the Sony Music Centre app on your smartphone. Best of all, it is humidity resistant.
SRS-RA5000 speaker, Dh2,500 ($680), sony.com
Panasonic JZ2000
Panasonic unveiled its latest OLED TV during CES 2021. Available in 55-inch and 65-inch versions, the new JZ2000 promises to satisfy both avid gamers and movie buffs with its high frame rate and variable refresh rate.
The TV features a new AI-driven processor that will automatically identify and optimise the content being played for ideal picture and sound, so the person watching doesn’t need to make any manual adjustments.
The inclusion of both side-firing and upward-firing speakers delivers optimum surround sound, while Panasonic’s custom-modified OLED panel offers better peak and average brightness levels.
Additional features include My Scenery, which allows viewers to choose from a selection of restful images and videos, or set their own – perfect for mindfulness sessions or preparing for bed; and Dual Bluetooth Connection, which allows sound transmission to two separate Bluetooth devices simultaneously, meaning two people can listen to a film late at night via headphones without disturbing others.
JZ2000, launch date yet to be revealed
