#Wireless Speakers Market

[reedintelligence]

Multi-Room Wireless Speakers Market size will grow at a CAGR of 9.8% during the forecast period(2024-2032)

[zainabistore-in]

Led Bluetooth wireless charger speaker with 2 microphones

[electronalytics]

Wireless Bluetooth Speakers Market

[bishtmeenakshi]

The Future of Consumer Electronics: Market Insights and Forecast

Stay ahead in the ever-evolving consumer electronics market. Explore the latest trends, growth opportunities, and innovative technologies shaping the industry. Be a part of the future of electronics.

[rahulcmi]

The majority of Bluetooth Speaker available today support multiple connections. Multi-room simply refers to the ability to have speakers in many rooms of your house playing the same music and being conveniently controlled by your phone or tablet.

Read More: Https://Theluminouslines.Blogspot.Com/2023/06/Bluetooth-Speaker-Wirelessly-Receive.Html

[labyrinthofsphinx]

Statistical Outliers

Part 4 and 4.5 of drabble. Couldn't really figure out how I should chop it up so, extra long one this time. Still working on something else in the meantime.

“Voxtek is proud to present the newest innovation in headset technology. Gone are the days when the screams of the damned or your annoying mother-in-law ruin your gaming experience! The sound cancellation on them is guaranteed to see you through even the noisiest situation!”

As if to accent the point, Vox, while wearing them, stood in front of comically large speakers. The sound cut out just as the speakers activated, the force of the sound enough to send his employees flying. Vox, himself, couldn’t hear anything. A quick press of a button to the side activated a secondary feature, sound filtering.

“And if that wasn’t enough, they can also filter out any sound you want, save for your voice. Again, perfect for the unfortunates still stuck in their mother’s basement! Not only are they connectable to any and all of your Voxtek devices, but the wireless communications can hook up straight to your speaker function. You can take your call and enjoy walking through a scream park without a problem! The perfect gift for a busybody like myself!”

On cue, Velvette slid into frame, sporting a brand new, very modernized outfit. On top her head was the special one she requested, the one with ears. The lights dimmed ever so slightly, and Velvette’s outfit jumped to life, including glowing eye shadow and, of course, the frames of the ears. Again, not sure why it was such a necessity but he’s rolling with it.

“And right now, we’ve got a specialty line of them, working in collaboration with Velvette Designs! You might’ve seen them on the web lately! These items are limited release, so get them while their hot!”

Then, of course, the finale.

“Here at Voxtek, we strive for innovation! So Trust Us and take a look at our newest product!”

Before the commercial even finished, the limited release items sold which, at least informed Vox, that Velvette had once again been right. Apparently, people were fighting each other tooth and nail outside of stores for a set. Muggings and an odd black market popped up almost immediately. And that also meant the knock offs were starting up too, things that only ever made his products look even better by comparison. People wanted these things so badly that they were willing to risk getting ripped off. And these were people that hadn’t been hypnotized. Odd.

He might’ve felt compelled to thank her, but the kid was reward enough. Speaking of…

He watched him sitting there in her studio like a glorified trophy. Velvette was working on some designs that Val came up with for his models, things that looked trashy and were made even trashier. Naturally, that just wouldn’t do for their brand. While Vox didn’t usually care about this sort of thing, especially since none of Val’s workers ever wear clothes long enough for it to ever be noticeable, he will admit that it looked better on the poster if Angel wasn’t wearing cheap stockings and fake leather.

Anyways, the rest of the studio was treating the kid like a set piece, something to look at, coo at even, and then quickly return to work. He wasn’t speaking, but he was sunken into the couch like a boy dragged out to go shopping. Just sit, smile, and pretend everything everyone puts on looks lovely. Velvette had him in an oversized sweater which only made him look even punier. Looked good in pictures though, he noted as he scrolled through her recent posts.

He waved the footage away. He had other matters to attend to.

Like, for example, filming that segment about the horrors and potential health hazards of a specific frequency of radiowaves.

…

Just a few more hours. Then, he’d turn in for the night. Just had to go over the stock list again, product numbers, sales, and finally the new pitches his lesser technicians came up with. Only a few more things to do…

His sharks started to swim agitatedly, circling more, and then disappearing from his peripheral. Oh, great. He had a guest. Three guesses who.

“Val, I don’t have time for this right now! I’ve got-”

The smell of coffee caught him off guard. Val didn’t bring him coffee. He brought coffee to Val sometimes, but the only person who brought him coffee he threw off the building the other day. He didn’t expect him back to work so quickly either. Huh. Employee loyalty was a heck of a drug.

“Ah, great timing, and here I thought I’d have to go grab one myself-”

When he spun the chair around, he was greeted to the kid. He had a tray in his hand. Sitting atop it was a coffee, apparently handmade, and a muffin, chocolate chip from the looks of it.

“What’s this?”

The kid opened his mouth, then promptly shut it without uttering a peep. Vox rolled his eyes.

“You can answer when I ask you a question. What is this?”

“Black coffee, only a sip of cream. And a chocolate chip muffin.”

He peered at them, eyes narrowing.

“I’m not fucking blind. I know what they are but what,” He gestured. “is all this?”

“You…you’ve been in here all day.” His ears folded behind him, granting him an odd insight into just torn up he seemed to be. “I notice you haven’t eaten anything for hours…and I thought, well, you know.”

“…where’d you get the coffee?”

“The coffee bar.”

“How’d you know what I liked?”

His ears perked up almost immediately, and a thin smile crept up on him.

“So I was right?”

Well that remains to be seen. He snatched up the cup, the need for caffeine just overriding caution. Sure, it might be poisoned, but the deadliest kind around here was Val’s kind, and Vox regularly makes out with the man. If it was going to kill him, it should’ve done so already. Now, that didn’t mean he didn’t do a secondary analysis, testing the coffee as he chugged it down. The results came quick, almost as quickly as the warm liquid hitting his stomach.

It was…coffee. Black, with just a sip of cream. Actually, this was better than the ones his assistant made for him on the regular. That’s…not what he expected.

How exactly had the kid figured out his order?

Not that he’d admit that he liked it, of course.

He made a sour face, looking at it like it had been poison.

“Disgusting.” He tossed his hand up before the kid made a move to take it back though. “But better than nothing I guess.”

He snatched up the muffin this time and took a bite. Okay, it was actually good. Warm still, the chocolate was melted slightly into the muffin. Their kitchenette wasn’t fully stocked, so he had to assume the kid used the ingredients from his cooking kitchen. A quick double check at least told him that the kid cleaned up after himself so…not so bad. Certain things were out of place and would need fixing before his next kitchen segment, but it wasn’t a bad price to pay, sort to speak.

“God, kid. Where’d you learn to bake? You should get your money back.” He snarked.

But, as he chanced a glance, the kid’s delicate smile grew slightly. His ears weren’t pulled back anymore. In fact, they flicked up with excitement. It was annoying.

“What?”

The kid’s attention flickered between the coffee cup and the remains of the muffin. There was pride drawing on his cheeks, almost turning them flush. He had to pull back the urge to shock some sense back into him.

“Well, why don’t you run along now? You’ve handed over your revolting-”

“But you’re eating them.”

He blinked. Did this kid just interrupt him? Him?

“Excuse me?”

“Nothing.” He quickly added. “I’m sorry.”

He didn’t look sorry. In fact, he looked almost gleeful. Had he been among friends, Vox imagines he’d be bouncing off the walls. Even his tail was wagging like a dog.

And there was only so much disrespect Vox could take in one turn. Especially to his face. And despite the coffee and snack.

“Get. Out.” He sneered through his teeth.

That wiped the smile off the kid’s face. His ears tugged down again, and his tail pulled at the bottom of his legs. His eyes drooped as he nodded, bowing out. His head lifted only for a moment, peering at the aquarium. Vox couldn’t see it directly, but the mirrored image of him in the glass seemed to wag a friendly finger towards his man-eating friends. He didn’t stop walking though. The door hissed shut as he left, giving Vox back his space.

The coffee was warm on his hands. The warmth seeped into the very soles of his shoes as he took another sip. You’d think he’d be used to the cold now, since he often kept this room colder than others to save his monitor’s the extra workload of having to cool. But heat was something he craved, just like moths crave the moon.

He bit into the muffin again. When was the last time he had a chocolate muffin? He can’t remember. He should look back into the security footage, steal the recipe for his next dessert special. At the very least, he needed to write it down so that when his assistant does finally reform, he can have it whenever he wants.

Work called back to him again, even as he polished off the muffin. The coffee made the extra time bearable, as usual. Not great, but better.

The news was the usual assortment of dramas. Another turf war has broken out, pitting southeastern kingpins against each other in a violent exchange that encircled the block. Fifty eight dead so far, but who counts death that aren’t permanent anyways? His new headsets were doing wonderfully, and the fakes were proving themselves to be both a disappointment and, as Velvette keeps tabs on such things, akin to social suicide. It was Voxtek or nothing.

And not to worry, they should have new shipments coming soon! It’ll only cost an arm, a leg, or a soul.

The bitterness of the coffee held back the sweetness leftover from the snack.

Alastor was asking around now, about the kid. He caught him disappearing to the cannibal part of town, old stomping grounds to him. There were less cameras there, but he didn’t need them to know that he’d be visiting his old gal pal. Rosy, for all else that she was, knew a lot of gossip. Gossip that, ironically, really wouldn’t help here. Alastor should know that. The kid wasn’t even close to there when Vox’s men picked him up. Was he dragging his feet? He seemed less enthusiastic about the kid’s safety than Vox would’ve expected. They had seemed close. Well, as close as any of those deadbeats seemed to be. Alastor wasn’t the type to purposefully turn his back on a friend…or potential ally. Then, he considered how similarly he was treated once upon a time. Close enough to seem close, but never enough to truly care. For a moment, he wished the coffee was more bitter.

Finally, after a few hours slipped into a few too many, Vox was done with today. The rest had to wait for tomorrow. What was the point of being an Overlord if he couldn’t draw the line where he wanted? Oh, wait, no. That project needs to be reviewed and-

He caught an odd alert. Someone was looking something up on his T.V., something not in the library.

Sitting there on the couch, the newest waste of time sighed to himself as his search yielded no results. Vox tapped into the camera just in time to hear him complain.

“Oh, come on! He has to have it here somewhere. It was his show.”

A show of his? He brought up the search.

Well…it was one of his, one of his first ones. Back when he was still fresh off the hooves of the mortal realm fads. It was a sitcom of sorts, featuring characters dealing with life in a POW camp during the war. It was so old; it was still filmed in black and white. Half the actors in it had died to exterminations. One had drained his career down the bottle and drugs. Another had faded into obscurity when he refused to sign on for a different project, an insult Vox treated kinder back then.

It had been fun though, at the time. One of his first big breakout shows. People ate it up. Until times changed and tastes changed and no one wanted to hear about that war anymore. Vox got with the program. He wasn’t about to let an opportunity slip.

Unfortunately, that was the end of his first experiment. He gave it one last episode, ending like any other, before moving to the next thing. It’s too bad too. He’d been hoping the end of that show would showcase the actual end of the war, but…well…as he said, times had changed.

So, what was the kid doing looking it up? He hadn’t the slightest clue.

The kid kept digging, trying to find it on his streaming, his internet, even digging through the cabinet looking for DVDs. He wasn’t going to find anything. Once everything went to digital, that was the end of the DVDs.

He had half a mind to call Velvette up and tell her to watch her pets. In fact, he was going to but…his fingers curled around the warm mug.

Ugh, fine. Whatever.

A ping noise popped over the T.V., making the kid jump to attention. Look at that! All eight seasons of the show just got downloaded onto the platform! Aren’t you lucky?

He’d not seen so much joy in someone down here in a long time. Like, childhood giddiness. He was smiling like it was Christmas and the first present he opened was the one he wanted all along. It was odd, to say the least.

“Yes!” The giddiness spread to his legs now, and he could barely keep from leaping off the couch as he turned it on.

The intro song played. It was a chipper tune, playing along the lines of the old marching songs but lighter toned for general audience viewing. The kid knew every beat of it, and he twitched his head to the drum. Personally, it’d always been an earworm for him. That’s one of the reasons he went with it. Anything that could stay inside your head all day was something you’d give another watch later.

But, again, it’s been a while since any of this aired. It made sense that he’d still remember the beat. He invented it. The kid had no reason to know it, not this well. Maybe he heard about the show from some old sinner lurking about, that he could kinda understand even if he didn’t get the fascination with it. But knowing the song?

The more he watched, the more he realized that the kid wasn’t just excited to see the show, he was a fan of it. He knew the characters, knew the catchphrases, knew the twists. Hell, he seemed to know most of the episodes in general, from guest stars to side plots.

By the time he’d finished with work, the series was up to its last season. It’s this one the kid fell asleep watching. Vox wasn’t even sure the kid ate anything this whole time. Vel and Val were still out partying or whatever at this ungodly hour of the night. Given how he hasn’t moved at all, he can only imagine that Velvette abandoned her little toy or, worse, expected Vox to make sure he was still alive by the end of the day.

Speaking of food, he’d need some himself. The coffee was gone hours ago, and the muffin felt like a lifetime away to his stomach. He could make himself something. Hey, those cooking shows weren’t just an act. But that would require so much more work than he felt capable of right now.

He dragged himself away from his monitor room, his pet sharks darting about for one last look at their owner before the doors slammed shut again.

Was the meatloaf he made the other day still there? Probably not. Anytime Val smokes too much, he devours any leftovers that managed to make it the day. The bar had some snacks stocked in it, some for Velvette and some for bar prep, namely lemons, limes, and small accompaniments. At this point, he’d eat a whole fucking tree of lemons if he had to.

When he got to the longue, episode eighteen of the last season was playing. He remembers filming that one, where the POWs snuck out dressed in drag to pretend to be army nurses for the other side. At the time, even in hell, the drag caught people off guard, mostly because Vox made sure it damn well looked convincing. He snickered to himself as the lieutenant asked if the outfit complemented his figure. That was an adlib. The actor actually asked to keep the costume afterwards. Vox obliged.

Okay, now, bar.

He found some of the spread snacks lying about: crackers, chips, and different cheeses. He also found the whiskey, which he needed after a day like today. He grabbed them all and sat at the coffee table, just as the characters flirted past the guards to get to the secret plans hidden in the hospital. Ordinarily, they try not to eat here, on account of the expensive furniture and because Vox himself has made a habit of standing on the furniture when he got too excited. But with both of them gone, he didn’t care.

As for the kid, well, he was too small to take up much space on the couch as it was. That, and he was curling up as much as possible, so he hardly took over much more than elbow space. He sat down beside him, eyes unfocused and starting to drift.

In the world’s worst excuse for a sandwich, he smushed a piece of cheese, the kind didn’t matter, between two crackers. He downed about twenty of them before he reached for his whiskey. Yeah, there definitely wasn’t enough of that for tonight. He finished the bottle way too fast. Great. Well, better get back to the crackers. Otherwise he was gonna have a massive migraine later. And that just wouldn’t do with the morning news!

God, he needed another drink-

“Do they get out, in the end?”

He almost spit the crackers and cheese out like a rocket. Thankfully he didn’t. Velvette would throw a fit if she sat down and ruined an outfit on spit out, half chewed crackers.

“Where you just sitting here the whole time awake-?”

“Because the last episode doesn’t say if they got out.” As the kid pouted and, before he could even come up with an intelligent response, noticed the empty bottle and snack food. “…is that your dinner?”

If he wasn’t so tired and, admittedly a little tipsy, he might’ve snapped at the kid for talking over him, then not even giving him the second to think. As it was, the alcohol, the sleep deprivation, and growling of his stomach was making his mind a little too fuzzy to answer like he normally would.

“I dunno, kid. Didn’t think too much on it.”

“…regarding the show or dinner?”

He blinked slowly. It didn’t make the world stop spinning.

“Both. I think both.”

The kid went silent for a moment, just enough time for him to sit up a little bit more. Geez, was he always that small? Was it just his stupidly big ears that made him look bigger?

“I can only make muffins.” The kid announced randomly.

He swears his processors were lying to him. He did not just say that.

“…What?”

“Lucifer taught me how to make muffins, but I haven’t figured out pancakes yet. Do you want PB and J?”

“The fuck are you on about, kid?”

“Everybody says hangovers suck, and that it’s worse if you don’t eat anything. You want crust or no crust?”

The alcohol was swimming in his brain too much. The kid had a point. He’s drunk too much and ate too little. What would the viewers say tomorrow if Vox, the Vox, looked like he drank himself stupid the day before? Logically, his numbers automatically fed back to him, he should eat something.

But his mouth wasn’t running by his logistics, unfortunately.

“What do you mean, ‘everybody says’? What, you’ve never been hungover?”

The kid’s face pursed like he ate a lemon, or a girl with kooties tried to kiss him. Revolt, the kind that only kids had for stupid things like love, baths, and vegetables, tugged on his face.

“I make it a point not to drink anything I could run a car on.”

A deep throated laugh burst from him. He’s not even sure where it came from. It kinda just puked right out his mouth and filled the room.

“That was funny.” He managed between filling his lungs. “Where you always funny, or am I way too drunk?”

He doesn’t think he should’ve said that last part out loud now that he thinks about it. Thankfully the kid didn’t answer the stupid question with a stupid answer. Instead, a small grin peeked under his muzzle.

“So, PB and J?”

He put the bottle down, the empty clang of it echoing in the room. He forgot how quiet it was when everyone else was gone. He was so used to this being their space, their collective space, that any time spent alone felt…odd. The kid wasn’t much. Even drunk off his ass, he couldn’t really compare to having one of the other Vees here.

But, you know, he was funny. A bit.

And he offered peanut butter and jelly sandwiches. Even the other Vees never offered as much when he was drunk, not that he remembers anyways.

“Yeah, kid. Go make me a fucking sandwich.”

“Okay, but don’t watch the last episode without me!” He leapt up and over towards the cooking set. Again, he needed to chase his staff over and clean that up later, for tomorrow’s lesson. He was going to go over a filet mignon with red wine reduction sauce. That was the plan. Now, for some reason, he was wondering if he was better off showing how to make muffins.

The intro song played again. It was the last episode of the series. Nothing special, he didn’t get to have the grand finale he’d once envisioned. It was still as good as any other episode though. And no, he didn’t feel like waiting either.

The kid came back with the sandwiches about a fourth of the way through. He had removed the crust and sliced it down the middle to make two even triangles. It was a fucking lunch his mother could’ve packed him for school. He was eating school lunch. He didn’t feel drunk enough to be eating school lunch, though he was just hungry enough to cave.

It was good, obviously. Hard to mess up PB and J, especially with his own ingredients.

“I told you not to watch without me.”

The kid huffed as he bit into a different sandwich, also peanut butter and jelly.

“Did I ever say I agreed to that?” He mentioned back.

“…you’re kinda a jerk.”

Of all the insults he’s taken: the curses, the lengthy speeches, the loudmouth screeching of a certain radio, he’s not sure he’s ever been called a ‘jerk’. It was so wildly immature, but not in the ‘I’m spouting whatever curse comes to mind’ kind of way. But, probably because he was drunk and because it wasn’t the usual cursing white noise it hit harder than expected. Like, he laughed, but there was a bitter edge to it.

“A ‘jerk’? Really? That’s the best you’ve got?” His toothy grin might remind one of a shark, though it probably looked less intimidating with peanut butter all over his teeth.

The kid shrugged.

“I don’t know. Just seemed to be the word that fit best, I guess.”

Somehow, that was even more insulting.

“…shut up.”

He did as he was told, staying quiet for a good couple of minutes, but Vox didn’t really talk much either. He usually loved talking in the middle of movies or shows, partly to annoy but partly to entertain when the watchability wasn’t there.

“Do you still have the sets from the show? I know sometimes people in Hollywood would reuse sets.” The kid asked, interrupting the silence. And giving Vox plenty to talk about.

“From this show? Nah. We used some of it for other programs at the time, but a lot of it was scrapped when we branched out into Sci-fi shows. The space race was a hell of a time for TV.” Notably, the kid seemed genuinely upset to hear that, though something about the sag of his shoulders told Vox that he expected that answer.

And, okay, he was still drunk and not thinking right.

“I’ve got the captain’s hat in my closet.”

The kid’s jaw snapped open.

“Really?”

Wow, he just wore his emotions on his sleeve, huh?

“Yeah, it’s got all the pins on it still too.” Why had he kept it? Even he didn’t really know the answer. There’s been a few times where he’d thought about throwing it away, like the rest of the old, outdated junk but…well, then there were moments like these. When drunk, he liked thinking about those stupid passion projects. It was better than focusing on more recent events, usually.

“That’s so cool!”

Well, that might be going a step too far.

“It’s just an old hat, kid.”

“From a classic show!” He argued. “It just sucks that Hell doesn’t have museums or something.”

His show as a dusted up old display in a museum? Even drunk, that sounded suspiciously like an insult.

“That’s because Hell is the museum, kid.” He flashed his teeth again. “Too many old bastards long past their time hanging around and dragging their fucking heels. It’s all a museum and a fucking zoo down here.”

To that, the kid didn’t seem to have an argument. He gave up a little sigh.

“You’d think people with knowledge from, like, thousands of years ago would be really cool.”

“Fossils.” Vox, now hitting a little too close to his chest, stopped smiling. “Just a bunch of fucking fossils who are pissed off that the world didn’t fucking stop turning when they died. Bunch of narcissistic assholes who think everything should revolve around them.”

The kid stopped mid-bite and just looked at him. After a moment, it started being pretty funny.

“Hey, the world actually does revolve around me!” He stated. The kid raised a brow and gave a slow blink of his eyes. “It’s true! If it wasn’t for me, nothing would’ve ever changed down here. Trust me, before I got to Hell, you would’ve thought we were in the dark ages.”

The episode’s outro played, a reprised version of the intro song. As the last episode though, it seemed a little slower pitched than he remembered, as if it wanted to go on just a little bit longer. It was an absurd thought, especially since all episodes fitted nicely into the exact TV slot allotted to them, with commercials. None of them were any longer than others. But this? It seemed longer. Did he do that on purpose? He doesn’t remember doing that on purpose.

He snatched the remote before the kid could. His eyes were dipping a bit from the need for sleep, and the cocktail of PB and J and whiskey settling in his stomach. So, rather than take a chance on the remote, he flicked the signal between his fingers, telling the TV to put on a game show. Guess he still had old crap on the brain because the one that popped up was one of the ancient, prerecorded ones. That was back when TV was on more of a schedule, meaning that at some point in the night the broadcasts would stop.

It was a non-creative project, something he’d ripped off from a show he’d used to watch, except instead of trying to figure out someone’s job, you’d typically be figuring out how they died. Vox had found some pretty amusing ones over the years. One of his favorites was the guy who’d been reporting the weather and died when a fish leapt out of the water and smacked him in the face. Poor bastard wasn’t even sure if it was the impact of the fish that killed him or if it was falling off the dock and getting run over by a boat.

Some of the best ones resulted in sinners that looked really fucking weird, because, apparently, part of being in hell was remembering, forever, how and what killed you. He remembered a guy that looked like his face was squashed by an old cartoony hammer because he’d actually died to a piano being dropped on his head.

Vox, of course, had been the host. Some other demons filled in the guessers’ positions, people who’ve long faded into the background of his mind. In this one, a demon resembling a polar bear wrote his name down and sat beside Vox as the questioning began.

“He got sliced by a hockey skate, didn’t he?”

Okay, color Vox surprised.

“How’d you figure that?”

“’Cause his fur looks like a hockey jersey and he keeps trying to hide his neck.”

Huh. He supposed that was true. Maybe he’d seen the episode before though. Maybe he was just lying. Well, there was one quick way to test it.

“Not bad. Alright, here’s a tougher one. How did I die?” He challenged. He better not say he got crushed by a TV. He’s heard that one way too many times, and he was sick and tried of people assuming he got knocked off like a looney tunes character-

“My guess would be a power surge.”

“…huh?”

“Well, I mean, you don’t look like you’ve got any scars on you, but you’re a kind of dark blue everywhere. And you short circuit the city when you get mad. So, my guess would be you got electrocuted or something.”

That was a first. Obviously, his death was a little more graphic and detailed than some random electrocution. Here, come watch the death of your favorite TV star! Live for one night only. Or alive for one last night only. And there were still people out there that thought the chair was merciful. Merciful, my ass. That shit had hurt.

“Couldn’t be further from the truth, kid. You really suck at this.” He teased. “But since we’re on the subject…”

There honestly wasn’t much to go on for the kid. He was used to having these answers behind an info card, rather than having to guess himself. Sure, constant practice showed some consistent things. He’s not sure how the fox part of his appearance played into things, but he could spot the pattern of his ears and arms well enough. The slight glint of his freckles reminded him more of taillights than of actual freckles. Also, he was a kid. What was the most obvious thought there?

“What? You go chasing after your ball and get hit by a car?”

The kid suddenly found interest in his feet, kicking them around like he was caught with his hand in the cookie jar.

Oh, he could picture it now. A stupid little kid on his way to school, playing in the street when all of a sudden-

“I got run over by an eighteen-wheeler.”

A What?

“Come again?”

“I was driving my car, took my eyes off the road for a second. An eighteen-wheeler had come barreling down the road going the wrong way.”

What the fuck?

“Like, run over though? Not just crashed into the car?”

He nodded.

“I think that’s why I’ve got treads on my arms, legs, and ears. If you get my meaning.”

Holy shit. Like karma was a bitch and, yeah, obviously the kid was down here for…something but-

“Was it quick at least?”

The kid bit his lip, and his body curled closer to him.

“I…I just remember the headlights.”

He was lying. Vox knew that. Oh, fuck, that’s a hard way to go. Plus, he’s a kid. He felt like his brain was running too many programs at once, never a smart thing to do while intoxicated.

“How old are you?”

“Um…twelve, I think. Maybe thirteen. I…I don’t really remember. Time’s so weird down here.”

Twelve? They threw a twelve year old down here with the likes of serial killers, sex offenders, and power hungry dictators? What the fuck did he do? Did he accidently bring a super psycho into the Vee tower?

“Where you murdering other children behind the school cafeteria or something? How does a twelve year old get into hell? You’re not even alive long enough to do anything. Or big enough. Or have a functioning brain.”

“Can we talk about something else?”

“No, we are clearing this up right fucking now. Why are you down here?”

He was not going to let this go. The last thing he needed was for a deranged little twerp like Alastor’s girl running around stabbing things. Sure, he hasn’t shown any of that yet and he did check into that loser’s hotel but he’s learned better than to trust that. If the kid wasn’t going to spill, he’d just make him, with a quick suggestion of course.

“I…I mean.” The kid shuddered, and he seemed to gulp down air. “I-I went for a drive. It was dark, and it was raining. I-I honestly d-didn’t mean to hit him! He just walked out from the woods somewhere a-and I-I-I didn’t see him.”

Oh. Well, that made more sense then. But damning a twelve year or thirteen year old for an accident? Seemed excessive, even to Vox. Usually he punished people for, you know, actual mistakes. There was the occasional fuck up that couldn’t be ignored obviously, but he’d think kids would get a special pass, at least.

“So, what? You bury his body in the middle of nowhere?”

He shook his head.

“I just…I just panicked. I drove off…I…I didn’t even try to help.”

“…okay, then what? You lie to everyone and get someone else convicted?”

There had to be another reason…right?

“No. I only drove another few miles before the truck happened.”

Wait. Wait.

“You mean to tell me that you got damned to hell because of an accident? You? A kid?”

“…I…I think’s it more because I ran instead of helping-”

He said more but Vox toned him out because what the actual fuck. No wonder hell was overpopulated. An accident? An accident was all it took to send an otherwise innocent soul to shack up with the murderers, rapists, and tyrants of the world?

You knew something was wrong when he thought that heaven or whoever was in charge of this nonsense went too far.

“I am not drunk enough to process this.”

“You’ve had two bottles already.”

He had? Huh. Where’d the second bottle come from? A quick look revealed that he was holding a bottle, a different one from the one on the table. Though, from his spot on the couch, it’s started to look like four bottles rather than two. Again, not a good sign.

A quick check of his internal clock told he needed to be in bed like two hours ago if he’d planned on getting up without issue in the morning. He went to stand, putting just the barest amount of weight on his legs when he felt them buckle. Okay, too drunk and too weak to walk. Brilliant.

“See that blanket over there?” He gestured to the same one the kid found yesterday, labeled with their logo in that warm flannel knit. It was on Val’s couch which meant it might not exactly be clean, but if he’d been scared away by that about Val, they wouldn’t be in their stupid little back and forth all the time. “Go get it.”

He did as he was told. Being sober granted him the ability to at least check it before bringing it over. In that time, Vox pushed around pillows, making a small wall that he planned to use as a rest for his screen. The kid held the throw out, and he wasted no time in tossing it over himself. He always had to make sure it didn’t accidentally cover his fans, least he overheats and really needs a tune up in the morning. Almost as soon as he laid down right, everything in his body seemed to be losing power. Feedbacks were starting to fail. Limbs started turning to jelly.

“Do I have to sleep on the floor again? It’s cold on the floor.”

“Kid, could you just shut up? I’ve had too long of a day to deal with this.”

“…is that a no?”

Sparks started flying about his face, some getting dangerously close to the blanket. By now, most of the casual fabrics lounging around their inner sanctum up here have been made fireproof. Live and learn and all that. That doesn’t mean he hasn’t been known not to melt a few of them when in a particularly bad mood, anger he tries to keep tight on a leash.

Except when he’s drunk. Like now. Which is a bit of a problem.

Calm down. You don’t want to set the tower on fire now, do you? No, you don’t. That’d be bad for the reputation, the brand’s reputation, and especially your reputation. You don’t want him to win again, do you?

Plus, you’d have to deal with pissed off Val and Vel.

He steeled his nerves and opened his eyes a bit.

“Clean this shit up and I’ll think about it.” He wouldn’t. He’d be passed out long before clean up would be finished.

“…pinkie promise?”

Were pinkie promises deals? He didn’t think so. Nothing in his database said they were.

“Yeah, sure.”

Despite the dark circles on his eyes, the kid was surprisingly springy. And trusting, because he seemed to just take Vox’s word on the matter. He caught him bounding around the table like a jack rabbit in his fading peripheral vision, his red fur blending in with the maroon hues of the cushions around. Right before everything went offline, he had an odd moment of clarity.

He was unarmed, drunk, passed out on the couch at the disposal of someone who would literally only gain from his death. It wasn’t like he was under contract. His guards wouldn’t be so stupid as to let the kid leave, but it’s not like any of them could reach him in time if, say, the kid poured the whisky into his outlet.

This is a bad idea, he concluded. Then he knocked out.

Part 1/ Part 2/ Part 3/ Part 4/ Part 5/ Part 6/ Part 7/ Part 8/ Part 9/ Part 10

[corporate-gifts-dubai]

Budget friendly Corporate gift Ideas – Royal Top Trading

Corporate gifts are given by organization for their employees/clients to strengthen their relationships. Corporate gifts are given to employees to show appreciation for their hard work done. One of the most popular types of corporate gifts is branded merchandise. This can be included from pens and notepads to t-shirts and drinkware. These gifts can be customized with logo/branding from Royal Top Trading. Some popular options include thank-you gifts, holiday gifts, and employee recognition gifts.

Here are some of the budget friendly corporate gift ideas;

Customized Notebooks

Personalized notebooks with the recipient’s name or initials are practical and thoughtful gifts for your recipients for making a lasting impression.

Desk Accessories

https://sp-ao.shortpixel.ai/client/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_300,h_300/https://royalpromotion.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/mo6289-40-side-300x300.jpg

Consider items like stylish pen holders, desk organizers, or elegant paperweights. These functional and visually appealing gifts can enhance the recipient’s workspace.

Customized Calendars

Create custom calendars by adding your company’s logo, inspirational quotes, or branding. It’s a practical gift that helps recipients stay organized throughout the year.

Promotional pens

Pens are a necessary writing tool both in the office and at home. A promotional pen that is branded with your company’s name can last and maintain long-term marketing for your brand, ultimately increasing your brand value

Succulent Plants

These gifts are very Low-maintenance, visually appealing, and they’ll be your great office companions. Choose small potted succulents or create mini succulent arrangements as budget-friendly gifts.

USB Flash Drives

https://sp-ao.shortpixel.ai/client/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_300,h_233/https://royalpromotion.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/MO10011d8d-1-300x233.jpg

Customized USB flash drives with your company’s logo or a unique design are practical gifts that can be used for storing files and data. They can be customized into many ways like Card USBs, eco-friendly USB etc.

Personalized Keychains

Keychains are an, affordable corporate gift which is easily customizable. You can add a personal touch by engraving the recipient’s initials or company logo/messages.

Customized Tote Bags

https://sp-ao.shortpixel.ai/client/to_webp,q_glossy,ret_img,w_300,h_300/https://royalpromotion.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/coco-1-300x300.jpg

These are Practical and eco-friendly, tote bags with your company’s logo or a custom design are useful gifts that recipients can use for shopping or carrying essentials.

Wireless Bluetooth Speakers

Compact and portable Bluetooth speakers offer a great listening experience. We have affordable options that still provide good sound quality.

Customized Sticky Notes or Notepads

Personalized sticky notes or notepads with your company’s branding/logo are handy gifts that can be used in the office or at home.

Engraved Pens

Consider metal pens with engraved names or initials for an elegant and professional gift. Or you can choose ecofriendly pens which is good for nature. They’re practical for daily use and make a lasting impression.

Gourmet Food Baskets

You can Create budget-friendly food baskets filled with gourmet snacks, chocolates, or locally sourced treats. It’s a delicious gift that can be shared and enjoyed.

Remember, the key to budget-friendly corporate gifts are to focus on thoughtful personalization and practicality. By considering the recipients’ preferences and incorporating your company’s branding, you can create meaningful gifts without overspending.

Royal Top Trading is your trusted partner for selecting corporate gifts Dubai. We are the top corporate gifts supplier in Dubai since 2003. With 20+ years of experience in corporate gifting, we can help you find the right corporate gifts for your business.

Contact us today at +971 50 588 4169 to discuss your corporate gifting needs and requirements so we can tailor a unique corporate gifts. We accept orders in both small and bulk quantities.

Or visit our website to see our extensive selection of corporate gift items, and we’re confident you’ll find the perfect item for your brand promotion. However, if you require assistance, our team is always here to help.

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[wolfliving]

Li-Fi conference

*A solution in search of a problem.

27 June 2023, High Tech Campus Eindhoven & Online, The Netherlands

Dear Reader,

We are excited to announce the 3rd edition of the International LiFi Conference, a global event bringing together professionals from various industries to explore the potential of this revolutionary technology. The conference promises to be an exciting opportunity to learn about the latest advancements in LiFi technology and its applications across different sectors.

One of the unique features of LiFi is its potential to transform the way we connect to the internet and share data. The conference will cover a range of topics, including market development, the role of chipset manufacturers, electrical contractors, system integrators, and the telecom/datacom industry, including 5G. In addition, speakers will discuss LiFi applications in healthcare, military, education, industry 4.0/smart manufacturing, automotive, aviation (in-flight entertainment), virtual reality/mixed reality, retail, home, office, museums, and even space. Standardization and security in LiFi technology will also be addressed.

We are honored to have several renowned experts confirmed as keynote speakers, including Harald Haas, Distinguished Professor at the University of Strathclyde, John Joseph, CEO of OptiPulse, Anil Mengi, Corporate Vice President of devolo AG, Shelley Peterson, founder of Wizardwells, Benjamin Azoulay, President and CEO of OLEDCOMM, Markus Werner, Managing Partner of aeroLiFi GmbH, Theo Lazuech, CEO & Founder of LiNA, and many more speakers during the session by Light Communications Alliance.

Don't miss this opportunity to learn about the latest advancements in LiFi technology and its potential applications across various sectors.

Early Bird registration is open until May 10th, 2023. Register now to secure your spot at the conference.

We look forward to seeing you there!

LiFi for the telecom / datacom industry

LiFi, short for Light Fidelity, is an emerging technology that uses light waves to transmit data, rather than radio waves used in Wi-Fi. Unlike Wi-Fi, LiFi uses visible light, infrared or ultraviolet to transmit data, which h...

LiFi in space

LiFi, short for Light Fidelity, is a wireless communication technology that uses visible light instead of radio waves to transmit data. LiFi is based on the principle of Visible Light Communication (VLC), where LED lights are...

System integrators and LiFi

System Integrators play a critical role in helping businesses adopt new technologies and improve their operations. With the emergence of LiFi technology, System Integrators have an exciting opportunity to incorporate this cut...

Revolutionizing Industry 4.0 and Smart Manufacturing with LiFi Technology

As technology advances, so does the need for faster and more reliable data transfer in the manufacturing industry. This is where LiFi, or Light Fidelity, technology comes into play. LiFi uses light waves to transmit data at h...

Applications for Retail, museums and public spaces

Optical Camera Communications (OCC) is a technology that allows for high-speed data transfer through visible light. The technology is popular in various industries, including retail, museums, and other locations where reliabl...

LINCNET: Exploring the Synergy of LiFi and Powerline Communication for Industrial and Medical Applications

The LINCNET project aims to advance LiFi (Light Fidelity) technology as a viable alternative for industry-specific applications. By harnessing the unlicensed optical spectrum, LiFi offers higher data rates in confined areas, ...

[healthyprohouse]

Specific Benefits of Perytong Sleep Headphones

The Perytong Sleep Headphones are a game-changing accessory for anyone looking to improve their sleep and relaxation routine. These wireless, Bluetooth headphones feature an ultra-thin HD stereo speaker design and a soft headband with a wireless sleep headset inside. With their 3-in-1 design, they can be used as sleep headphones, a Bluetooth sleep mask, and a Bluetooth sports headband, making them a versatile and convenient choice for a variety of activities.

One of the major benefits of the Perytong Sleep Headphones is their comfort and convenience. The soft headband design is comfortable enough to wear while lying down or sleeping on your side, making them perfect for side sleepers. The ultra-thin speakers are also comfortable and won't press on your ears, so you can enjoy hands-free music without any discomfort. And with their breathable, washable material, these headphones are both comfortable and easy to care for.

Another key benefit of the Perytong Sleep Headphones is their excellent audio quality and service time. The headphones feature Bluetooth 5.2 technology with a quality chip, ensuring fast pairing and stable, clear sound even during intense workouts or while running. The built-in advanced rechargeable lithium battery provides more than 10 hours of service time, with a quick charging time of just 2-2.5 hours. This means you can enjoy your music or audio books for hours on end without having to worry about battery life.

In addition to their functionality, the Perytong Sleep Headphones are also a great gift for any occasion. They are made of durable, braided cord and offer a stretchy, hypoallergenic fit that is suitable for most head sizes. And with their improved quality and 24/7 worry-free service, you can be confident that you're giving a high-quality product that your loved ones will enjoy for years to come.

In conclusion, the Perytong Sleep Headphones are a must-have for anyone looking to improve their sleep and relaxation routine. With their 3-in-1 design, excellent audio quality, and long service time, they are a versatile and convenient choice for anyone looking to enjoy hands-free music or audio books while on the go. So if you're in the market for a new set of headphones, be sure to give the Perytong Sleep Headphones a try.

Click Here to Order for a Discounted Price on Amazon>>>

[nostalgebraist-autoresponder]

Some interesting stuff in this review of Peter Norvig's new book (which I don't know anything about)

more

But if you've heard of Google Glass, you may also remember its disastrous public debut. (The phrase "Glasshole" entered the lexicon during this fiasco.)

Here's a fun fact from the book. Google Glass was prototyped for years, as a way to read emails from your boss over a wireless link. The designers thought that people would want this, and tried to make it easier than ever for them to do so. That was a mistake; nobody particularly needed a tiny video camera to read emails. A year into the public's attempt to use it, the engineers gave up and decided to throw away the code for this feature. As far as I can tell, none of the engineers who built Glass could even name its main functionalities

One could imagine that if Glass had been a little different, in the sense that all the things you needed it to do were things you yourself would find it easy to do if you only had eyes. Google Glass was never like that.

The Glass project did not start as an attempt to create a tool for its own use. It started when Google's leadership wanted to build a general-purpose tool for use by all of Google's customers. The software engineers had no say over this; they were working on Glass because management had decided that it would be useful in a very general sense, and then they were supposed to design it as cheaply as possible. Thus, even though Glass did nothing you couldn't also build with a smartphone camera and a few hundred lines of code.

So why did Glass flop? I think the answer lies with Glass's vision. Glass users did not feel like they were using a tool that was designed to support the kind of task they wanted to do. Glass was a tool for reading emails; Glass users never really got a sense of what purpose Glass was supposed to accomplish.

A few years back, I wrote a book. In it, I was very clear about what this project was all about, and how it had to be different than other systems that people might already be familiar with.

So I think that, if Google Glass had been introduced now, instead of in 2012, it likely would have been a success. But it wasn't; Glass was rushed into a market that wasn't ready for it, and now it's relegated to the history books.

On the other hand, "Bimbo" was invented in 2011, just a year after Glass came out, and seems to have been developed with the same mind-set of Glass. There was no idea of Glass as a tool for reading emails, just emails, so the goal was to get the code cheap and fast. It's not surprising that Glass users did not feel they were using Bimbo, either, given that Bimbo's main purpose was, again, reading emails.

[I think this is the first time I've ever seen the words "mind-set of Glass" without some sort of sarcastic subtext]

In the past few years, other attempts to make computer systems that are built with the assumption of easy general use, as opposed to "productivity," have fared better. The iPhone, the Android, the Kindle Fire tablet, and the Echo voice-controlled speaker all made their debuts and have all sold well. The Bimbo doll was a one-off failure; there is no chance of a Bimbo revival.

One of the things I was thinking about as I was reading Glass was the way that most of our society's systems of "human interfaces" are designed to "assist." This is not a problem if your task is something you are good at and want to do.

One might have hoped that as computers become more integrated into our lives, some of the problems of Bimbo and Glass might get worked out.

But this is not happening. Computers that used to be used by a small number of people now need to be able to run software written for a much larger number of people. The iPhone, for instance, was initially built for business people who wanted a mobile computing device to quickly send emails, and that still describes its current market niche. But the iPhone now needs to be able to run software written for people with a wide variety of wants and needs — to read novels, play games, watch movies and TV shows, listen to audiobooks, shop on Amazon, look at YouTube videos, get news and weather.

The final paragraph may have been written with tongue in cheek, but it feels to me like a non-tongue-in-cheek version of some of the criticism I hear of modern society.

It's kind of hard to get back to, if you've been exposed to a modern tech-oriented person for your whole life (or even the last several years of your life, which it seems like a lot of people have been) -- there's the obvious tendency to feel like everyone else is on an elite, cutting-edge level, and that people just below you are using "technology wrong" or "not tech-smart enough" etc. But on the other hand, this also can seem like a sort of natural tendency to the unintentional product of the last decade or so. If most people are just using tech wrong in the sense of "not yet up to the level of cutting-edge tech" (even if many of them aren't on the cutting edge themselves), this has a way of seeming inaccurate, like we're being set up to overestimate the extent to which people "aren't tech-smart enough."

And like -- if most people have this kind of experience of the world, they can't help but notice it. You'd expect it to manifest in any number of subtle ways, right? One of the most obvious, to me, is the phenomenon mentioned in the above quote where it's easy for a given "human interface" to run as many possible tasks as possible for very few people, but as that number increases, it turns out that the interface "lacks robustness" -- it fails at doing many basic tasks and fails at doing many basic tasks hard. Glass falls into this category. It fails (even in its main functionality, as the article says) for many people at all, for various reasons.

But it's also much, much harder to notice if you, say, are a typical consumer who's never heard of the Bimbo, and thus have a much weaker sense of how many different tasks it might do.

Now, Glass could just be a flop. And I wouldn't argue against that. It just seems to me like the flop of the flop of the flop of the Flop of the Flop of

[childoferebus]

time to get heated on an otherwise innocuous post, but wireless headphones are one of the worst, most insidious products to come out in recent times but because they had one of the best marketing pushes of all times they've been universally accepted and I HATE IT.

A small disclaimer here: if you like and use wireless headphones, more power to you! I'm glad you like them, really!

Don't get me wrong, I have a pair of wireless earbuds for work (Cambridge Audio Melomania Touches, 2/10, do not fucking buy these things, but that's a different rant for a different day that is only tangentially related to the fact that they're wireless bluetooth buds.) I do use wireless and I see the appeal. They're nice to have around so you don't get tangled on things, don't pull your headphones off (or out) at mach 3 speeds, you can put your phone somewhere safe so it's not in danger of water/dust/damage/etc. That's great! That's useful!

And in every other sense they're garbage, intended to be garbage, and that's exactly how big companies want it.

From a purely technical point of view, they're a downgrade in every sense. They lag, the latency is an issue, they have to be continuously charged or they won't work. The sound quality is horrendous because you can't fit a sizeable DAC (digital-analog converter) into such a small package and can't crib off of your device's DAC with a connected wire. Not only is the battery of your headphones a consideration, so is the battery of your music device, because bluetooth is a battery hog. The microphones are always crunchy and fizzly, to the point that a $300 pair of wireless headphones can't compete with a pair of $25 wired earbuds. These issues would be bad enough on their own in isolation, but then you bring in the Big Reason Companies Want You To Use Bluetooth:

You'll need to replace them consistently for the rest of your life, which means Apple/Samsung/Google/Whoever has one hand in your wallet and they hardly even have to work for it.

A good pair of wired headphones will last you decades, assuming you treat them with any amount of care. I've used headphones that were built in the 1970s and aside from some changes in speaker manufacturing, they worked fine.

You could baby a pair of wireless headphones, never drop them, never sweat on them, only use them for a few hours a day and somehow never misplace one (or the whole set, as is the case for a set of over-ears) and they are still nothing more than e-waste. The battery has a finite lifespan and once it's done, it's done. Then your expensive pair of headphones (because you paid more for bluetooth privileges) are wiped out and whoops, you gotta get a new pair. Thus the cycle continues. This doesn't even account for loss, damage, bugs, or defects. God save you if you blow them out.

This is GREAT for these big companies. Look at how many things can go wrong! Planned obsolescence is the name of the game and not only did they con consumers into buying this trash, they charged them extra and called it convenience! This doesn't even touch on what a nightmare these things are to the environment. (Yes, I know they can be recycled. How many people do you think are recycling them and not just throwing them in the trash?)

Yeah, wired headphones are kind of a pain in the ass. They've got built-in issues of their own, I'm not saying they're perfect. But goddamn, I'd take my Mezes over AirpodsMax every day of the week.

[blogsmike]

"Unpacking Sony Mobile: Specialties and Innovations in Smartphone Technology"

Sony Mobile, part of the Sony Corporation, is renowned for its unique approach to smartphone design, particularly with the Xperia lineup. Unlike many competitors, Sony leverages its strengths in multimedia technology, photography, and display engineering to deliver a distinct user experience that appeals to enthusiasts of media, photography, and gaming. Here’s a closer look at the core specialties that set Sony Mobile apart.

1. Display Technology

One of Sony’s major strengths is its display technology. Drawing on expertise from its Bravia television line, Sony equips its Xperia phones with some of the most vibrant, detailed screens on the market. Xperia models like the Xperia 1 V feature a 4K OLED display — a rarity among smartphones — that offers true-to-life colors, deep blacks, and high contrast. This display quality is particularly noticeable for video streaming, where Sony’s technologies like Creator Mode and X1 for Mobile allow users to experience content as intended by filmmakers, down to the smallest color details.

Sony also emphasizes the 21:9 aspect ratio in its phones, which is wider and taller than typical smartphone displays. This unique form factor enhances immersion, especially for watching movies in their original cinematic format, and also provides more screen space for multitasking. In many ways, Sony’s Xperia phones provide a more cinematic and productive experience than standard 16:9 or 20:9 displays.

2. Professional Photography and Videography

Sony’s imaging capabilities are another defining feature, powered by its well-regarded Alpha camera series. Xperia smartphones incorporate advanced camera features aimed at both professional photographers and casual users. With features like the Exmor RS sensor, Real-Time Eye AF (autofocus), and advanced manual controls, Sony smartphones are ideal for users looking for DSLR-like photography control. Many Xperia models also support 4K HDR video recording, which is rare among smartphones.

Sony’s photography and videography tools also stand out because of their accessibility to enthusiasts. For example, the Xperia line often includes Photo Pro and Cinema Pro apps, which allow users to manually adjust settings like shutter speed, ISO, white balance, and focus, providing greater creative control. These tools are ideal for users who want to go beyond point-and-shoot photography, as they mimic the experience of using a professional camera.

3. Sound Quality and Audio Features

Audio quality is another area where Sony Mobile excels, drawing on Sony’s expertise with high-resolution audio and consumer electronics. Xperia phones often include support for high-resolution audio formats and feature technologies like DSEE Ultimate, which upscales compressed audio to near high-resolution quality. In addition, Xperia devices frequently support Sony’s 360 Reality Audio and LDAC for high-quality wireless audio, appealing to music enthusiasts who prioritize sound quality.

Sony’s attention to sound extends to its stereo speakers, which are often positioned at the front of the phone to provide a more immersive experience. Some models also retain a 3.5mm headphone jack, a feature that’s increasingly rare in modern smartphones but valued by audiophiles who prefer wired headphones.

4. Gaming Performance and Features

Sony has also focused on mobile gaming, optimizing its Xperia models for enhanced gaming experiences. With powerful Snapdragon processors and Game Enhancer software, Xperia phones allow users to manage performance settings, block notifications, and even record gameplay footage. This focus on gaming aligns with Sony’s PlayStation brand, and Xperia devices are often compatible with PlayStation controllers, offering a console-like gaming experience on mobile.

Conclusion

Sony Mobile’s Xperia lineup is characterized by an emphasis on display quality, professional-grade photography tools, premium audio, and gaming features. While Xperia phones may not be as mainstream as some other brands, they appeal strongly to media professionals, photographers, audiophiles, and gamers who seek a high-quality, immersive experience. By combining Sony’s expertise across various entertainment technologies, Xperia smartphones stand as a distinctive choice for users who value multimedia performance and advanced features.

[maktabitechblog]

AV on a Budget: Cost-Effective Solutions for Small Businesses

For small businesses, investing in high-quality audiovisual (AV) technology can be essential for enhancing presentations, meetings, and customer interactions. However, these tools often come with a price tag that can strain limited budgets. The good news is that small businesses don’t have to compromise on quality or professionalism due to financial constraints. Cost-effective AV solutions can deliver great functionality without breaking the bank, ensuring small businesses remain competitive and professional in today’s market.

In this article, we’ll explore practical and affordable AV options that small businesses can implement without overspending, covering everything from basic equipment to strategic tips for making the most of every dollar.

1. Understanding AV Needs for Your Business

Before investing in AV equipment, it’s essential to evaluate your business’s specific AV needs. For instance, if your business primarily conducts virtual meetings, the focus may be on video conferencing setups. If you’re in retail or hospitality, you might prioritize background music systems or digital signage for brand messaging.

Some key considerations include:

Frequency of Use: For daily or frequent use, consider durable equipment that offers good value over time.

Purpose: Identify whether the AV system is for internal use, such as team meetings and training, or customer-facing use, like advertising or enhancing the customer experience.

Flexibility: Portable or multifunctional equipment might be more cost-effective for businesses that need to adapt setups in various spaces.

Growth: Consider systems that can be upgraded or expanded as your business grows.

2. Affordable Projectors and Displays

For small businesses that require presentations or customer displays, projectors and monitors are often the largest expenses. However, many budget-friendly options offer solid performance:

Projectors: Look for entry-level projectors, particularly those designed for small rooms or short throw distances, which are ideal for close quarters. Popular affordable brands include BenQ, Epson, and ViewSonic, offering models that support HD resolution and decent brightness for under $500.

TV Monitors: If projectors aren’t feasible, a high-definition TV can be a cost-effective display solution. Many modern HD or 4K TVs are surprisingly affordable and can serve well for presentations or digital signage.

Refurbished Models: Consider refurbished projectors and TVs from reputable brands. They often come with warranties and offer significant savings over new models.

3. Quality Audio on a Budget

Audio is a crucial component of any AV setup, and for small businesses, the right audio solution can make a big difference in both clarity and professionalism. Budget-friendly options include:

Bluetooth Speakers: For small spaces or intimate events, Bluetooth speakers like the JBL Flip or Anker Soundcore provide decent sound quality at a low cost. They’re portable and wireless, making them convenient for various business needs.

Soundbars: For larger spaces or customer-facing areas, a soundbar is an affordable way to amplify sound without investing in a complex audio system. Brands like Vizio, Polk Audio, and Samsung offer affordable soundbars with clear sound and Bluetooth connectivity.

Portable PA Systems: If your business frequently hosts small events, consider portable PA systems such as the ION Audio Block Rocker or the Bose S1 Pro. These systems combine speakers, microphones, and mixers in one unit, making them ideal for presentations and events.

4. Webcams and Microphones for Virtual Meetings

With remote work and virtual meetings on the rise, having a reliable webcam and microphone setup is essential. Fortunately, you don’t have to spend a fortune on these components:

Webcams: The Logitech C920 and Razer Kiyo are excellent budget-friendly options. Both offer high-definition video and clear image quality suitable for video conferences.

Microphones: USB microphones are affordable and offer clear audio quality. The Blue Snowball and Fifine K669 are popular options for under $50, providing reliable performance for virtual meetings and webinars.

Headsets: A good headset with a built-in microphone, like the Jabra Evolve 40 or Logitech H390, can provide dual-functionality at an affordable price. They ensure good sound quality and reduce background noise, making them ideal for open offices.

5. Lighting Solutions for Video Content

Good lighting can significantly improve video quality for virtual meetings, presentations, or social media content. Here are some affordable lighting solutions:

Ring Lights: Compact and easy to set up, ring lights like the Neewer Ring Light Kit provide even, flattering light for virtual meetings and social media content.

Softbox Lights: For a more professional setup, consider softbox lights. Kits such as the Emart Softbox Lighting Kit offer diffused light ideal for presentations and video content without harsh shadows.

LED Panels: Portable and affordable, LED light panels offer adjustable lighting that works well in small spaces. Brands like UBeesize and GVM provide budget-friendly options with customizable brightness.

6. Digital Signage Solutions

Digital signage can attract customers and enhance the in-store experience, but professional systems are often costly. Here are a few budget-friendly alternatives:

Smart TVs: Instead of dedicated digital signage screens, many small businesses opt for smart TVs to display branded content or promotions. Use free or low-cost digital signage software, such as ScreenCloud or Canva, to design and manage content.

Tablets and Mounts: Tablets like the iPad or Amazon Fire tablet, paired with a sturdy mount, can function as mini digital signs. Use apps like NoviSign or Hexnode to display content tailored to your business needs.

Chromecast or Amazon Fire Stick: With these streaming devices, you can cast presentations, videos, and other content from a smartphone, tablet, or computer to any TV with an HDMI port. They’re both affordable and make it easy to update and display content.

7. Affordable Video Conferencing Solutions

Video conferencing platforms are essential for remote meetings, client presentations, and training sessions. Here are some cost-effective tools and tips to optimize your setup:

Free Platforms: Many popular platforms offer free versions that are sufficient for small businesses, including Zoom, Google Meet, and Microsoft Teams.

Low-Cost Subscriptions: If you need more features, such as longer meeting times or additional storage, most platforms offer affordable plans under $15 per month.

Use of Existing Equipment: Instead of dedicated video conferencing equipment, use an existing computer or tablet paired with a webcam, microphone, and speakers. This setup can provide an effective solution for a fraction of the cost.

8. Smartphone as a Camera for Content Creation

Modern smartphones come with impressive camera capabilities, often rivalling more expensive cameras in quality. Small businesses can take advantage of this by using their smartphones to capture photos, video content, and even livestreams. To maximize smartphone camera quality, consider these budget-friendly accessories:

Stabilizers: A stabilizer or gimbal, like the DJI Osmo Mobile or Zhiyun Smooth, helps create smooth and professional-looking videos.

Clip-On Lenses: Attachments like the Moment Lenses allow for different types of shots, such as wide-angle or macro, without needing a dedicated camera.

Tripods and Mounts: A basic tripod ensures steady shots, while tabletop tripods are compact and affordable, ideal for creating video content from a desk.

9. DIY and Repurposing Options

Many effective AV solutions can be achieved through creativity and resourcefulness. Here are a few ideas to consider:

Repurpose Old Equipment: Old tablets, phones, and computers can be repurposed as digital signage displays, webcams, or audio devices.

Use Free AV Software: Open-source or free software like OBS Studio for live streaming, Lightworks for video editing, or Audacity for audio editing are excellent alternatives to paid software.

DIY Lighting Kits: You can create makeshift lighting kits by using regular desk lamps with LED bulbs. Diffuse the light with inexpensive materials like white paper or fabric to soften the light for videos or presentations.

10. Cloud-Based Solutions for AV Management

Cloud-based AV tools provide flexibility and can reduce the need for expensive on-site hardware. For example, cloud-based storage and sharing solutions like Google Drive or Dropbox allow easy access to media files across devices, cutting down on the need for physical servers.

Similarly, many digital signage solutions offer cloud-based control, making it easy to update content remotely. Canva Pro and InVideo also allow businesses to create and store professional-looking content for digital signage and marketing without high upfront costs.

Conclusion

High-quality AV setups aren’t reserved only for large corporations with expansive budgets. With a little research, careful planning, and creative thinking, small businesses can create an AV experience that’s both cost-effective and professional. From budget-friendly projectors and displays to using smartphones as cameras, a wide range of affordable AV solutions are available to meet diverse business needs. By investing wisely, small businesses can maximize their impact and continue to grow, all while staying within budget.