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patriotsnet · 3 years ago

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Are There Any Republicans Running For President

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Are There Any Republicans Running For President

The ’70s Were A Crazy Time For Everyone

Republican Lawmakers Are Terrified Of Trump Running For President Again

Jimmy Carter

After the 1968 fiasco, the Democratic National Committee created a commission charged with proposing reforms to the nominating process.

Its report brought state delegate allocations into line with the distribution of population and required state parties to adopt open procedures for selecting delegates rather than allowing state party leaders to pick them in secret.

In practice, states mostly implemented this by adopting presidential primaries which generally induced Republicans to make the same change.

The new system kicked off a chaotic era in which mavericks and factional leaders could win over the objections of party leaders.

In 1972, McGovern took advantage of his own reforms to win the Democratic nomination, even with an ideology so unacceptable to major party factions that the AFL-CIO didn’t support him over Richard Nixon.

Then in 1976, Jimmy Carter won the Democratic nomination despite a total lack of ties to the party establishment in Washington, and proceeded to win the White House and then not pursue the party’s agenda.

Also in 1976, incumbent President Gerald Ford faced an extremely strong primary challenge from conservative leader Ronald Reagan and was forced to drop the incumbent vice president from the ticket in order to appease conservatives.

Four years later, incumbent President Carter was challenged from the left by Ted Kennedy, his renomination secured only by the rally-round-the-flag effect induced by the Iranian hostage crisis.

Trump As A Stalking Horse

Of course, there was plenty of speculation during the race for the 2016 Republican presidential nomination that Trump was trying to sabotage the GOP candidates by saying outrageous things and making a mockery of the process in a bid to help Hillary Clinton win the election.

Ã¢Donald Trump is trolling the GOP,Ã¢ political reporter Jonathan Allen wrote. Trump also threatened to run for president as an independent, a move many believed would siphon votes from the Republican nominee as other, similar candidates have done in the past.

Sen Ted Cruz Of Texas

Cruz, 50, could start out a 2024 election campaign in a much stronger position than his first run in 2016, when he came in second. Its not uncommon for Republicans to select the recent runner up to later be their nominee which is what happened to Mitt Romney, John McCain, Bob Dole and Ronald Reagan.

A lot has happened to Cruz since 2016. For one, he became an ardent Trump supporter and grew a beard. But Cruz has also learned lessons from his first presidential run. Should he run again in the 2024 election, hed be a much more experienced campaigner with a more finely tuned message, higher name ID, and a carefully maintained donor base, one Republican strategist said.

Cruz has also faced backlash for objecting to President Joe Bidens Electoral College win. Following the deadly Jan. 6 attack on the Capitol, seven Democrats asked the Senate Ethics Committee to investigate Cruz and Sen. Josh Hawley, R-Mo., for amplifying claims of election fraud that led to violence. In Texas, the Republican Accountability Project paid for 100 billboards calling on Cruz to resign. Cruz also angered some close to him, like a longtime friend and former campaign chair who denounced him, and his chief spokesperson, who resigned, according to the Dallas Morning News.

Don’t Miss: How Many Republicans Are In The House

I Made A Decision To Live My Life In Service

Brock Pierce is a former child actor who appeared in the Mighty Ducks franchise and starred as the presidents son in the 1996 comedy First Kid. But thanks to his second career as a tech entrepreneur, hes also probably a crypto currency billionaire.

Why is he running for president? Partly because he is deeply concerned by the state of the country.

I think that we lack a real vision for the future I mean, what kind of world do we want to live in, in the year 2030? What is the plan? Where are we trying to get to, you know? You have to aim for something. And I see mostly just a lot of mud being thrown around, not a lot of people putting forth game-changing ideas. Its getting scary. And I have a view of what to do.

For the last four years, Mr Pierce has focused on philanthropic work in Puerto Rico, where his foundation recently raised a million dollars for PPE to give to first responders.

Asked what Americas priorities should be for the next four years, he suggests the country stops pursuing growth for growths sake, and measures its success by how well life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness are upheld.

I have many liberal tendencies, just like I have conservative tendencies, Mr Pierce says. And I think its time we take a collective breath and a brave step into the future, because all of these ideologies have something to teach us.

And if he doesnt pull it off? Mr Pierce says he has offers.

How Are Primary Elections Conducted In California

All candidates for voter-nominated offices are listed on one ballot and only the top two vote-getters in the primary election regardless of party preference – move on to the general election. Write-in candidates for voter-nominated offices can only run in the primary election. A write-in candidate will only move on to the general election if the candidate is one of the top two vote-getters in the primary election.

Prior to the Top Two Candidates Open Primary Act, the top vote-getter from each qualified political party, as well as any write-in candidate who received a certain percentage of votes, moved on to the general election.

The Top Two Candidates Open Primary Act does not apply to candidates running for U.S. President, county central committee, or local office.

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Whos Running For President In 2020

Former Vice President Joseph R. Biden Jr. is the presumptive Democratic nominee to challenge President Trump in the 2020 race.

The field of Democratic presidential candidates was historically large, but all others have dropped out. Mr. Trump had also picked up a few Republican challengers, but they have also ended their campaigns.

Running

Has run for president twice before.

Is known for his down-to-earth personality and his ability to connect with working-class voters.

His eight years as Barack Obamas vice president are a major selling point for many Democrats.

Signature issues: Restoring Americas standing on the global stage; adding a public option to the Affordable Care Act; strengthening economic protections for low-income workers in industries like manufacturing and fast food.

Main legislative accomplishment as president: a sweeping tax cut that chiefly benefited corporations and wealthy investors.

Has focused on undoing the policies of the Obama administration, including on health care, environmental regulation and immigration.

Was impeached by the House of Representatives for seeking to pressure Ukraine to smear his political rivals, but was acquitted by the Senate.

Signature issues: Restricting immigration and building a wall at the Mexican border; renegotiating or canceling international deals on trade, arms control and climate change; withdrawing American troops from overseas.

Ended her campaign in March 2020 and said she would back Mr. Biden.

Republican Presidential Hopefuls Move Forward As Trump Considers 2024 Run

Less than three months after former President Trump left the White House, the race to succeed him is already beginning.

Trumps former secretary of State, Michael R. Pompeo, has launched an aggressive schedule visiting states that will play a pivotal role in the 2024 Republican primaries and has signed a contract with Fox News Channel. Mike Pence, Trumps former vice president, has started a political advocacy group, finalized a book deal and later this month will give a speech in South Carolina, his first since leaving office. And Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis has been courting donors, including in Trumps backyard, with a prominent speaking slot before the former president at a GOP fundraising retreat dinner this month at Mar-a-Lago, the Florida resort where Trump now lives.

Trump ended his presidency with such a firm grip on Republican voters that party leaders fretted he would freeze the field of potential 2024 candidates, delaying preparations as he teased another run. Instead, many Republicans with national ambitions are openly laying the groundwork for campaigns as Trump continues to mull his own plans.

Theyre raising money, making hires and working to bolster their name recognition. The moves reflect both the fervor in the party to reclaim the White House and the reality that mounting a modern presidential campaign is a years-long endeavor.

Recommended Reading: Do Republicans Want To Impeach Trump

Elites Still Matter Enormously In Primaries

George H.W. Bush

Just when journalists and political scientists were ready to proclaim the death of parties in favor of candidate-centered politics, the pendulum started to swing back.

Over the past 35 years, incumbent presidents have had zero problems obtaining renomination even presidents like George H.W. Bush and Bill Clinton who alienated substantial segments of the party base with ideological heterodoxy during their first term. Reagan and Clinton both passed the baton to their vice presidents without much trouble.

Insurgent candidates who caught fire with campaigns explicitly promising to shake up the party establishment Gary Hart in 1984, Pat Robertson in 1988, Jerry Brown in 1992, Pat Buchanan in 1996, John McCain and Bill Bradley in 2000, Howard Dean in 2004, Mike Huckabee in 2008, and Rick Santorum in 2012 repeatedly gained headlines and even won state primaries.

But while 1970s insurgents were able to use early wins to build momentum, post-Reagan insurgents were ground down by the sheer duration and expansiveness of primary campaigns.

Tactics that worked in relatively low-population, cheap states like Iowa and New Hampshire simply couldn’t scale without access to the broad networks of donors, campaign staff, and policy experts that establishment-backed candidates enjoyed.

It’s this “invisible primary” among party elites that truly matters.

Endorsements were better at predicting the outcome than polls, fundraising numbers, or media coverage.

List Of Registered 2024 Presidential Candidates

Republican Support for Convicting Trump GROWS in the Senate

The following table lists candidates who filed with the FEC to run for president. Some applicants used pseudonyms; candidate names and party affiliations are written as they appeared on the FEC website on the date that they initially filed with the FEC.

Candidates who have filed for the 2024 presidential election Candidate

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Republican Presidential Nomination 2020

Presidential election changes in response to the coronavirus pandemic

The Republican Party selected President Donald Trump as its presidential nominee at the 2020 Republican National Convention, which was held from August 24-27, 2020.

Prior to the national convention, individual state caucuses and primaries were held to allocate convention delegates. These delegates vote at the convention to select the nominee. Trump crossed the delegate threshold necessary to win the nomination1,276 delegateson .

George H.W. Bush was the last incumbent to face a serious primary challenge, defeating political commentator Pat Buchanan in 1992. He was also the last president to lose his re-election campaign. Franklin Pierce was the first and only elected president to lose his party’s nomination in 1856.

Sixteen U.S. presidentsapproximately one-thirdhave won two consecutive elections.

Wheres Kamala Last Person In Room Harris Silent 6 Days Amid Afghan Pullout Chaos

Democrats are increasingly fearful Vice President Kamala Harris missteps will open the door for Republicans to regain the White House, a new report said Friday.

Dems, including senior White House officials, fear that Harris will lose to any Republican she faces including former President Donald Trump if President Biden does not seek reelection in 2024, Axios reported.

At 56, Harris is more than two decades Bidens junior and has been considered the heir apparent to the 46th president since he selected her to be his running mate last year.

While Harris will still be the presumptive nominee if Biden becomes the first president since Lyndon Johnson to not seek a second full term, Axios reports that a series of blunders have left officials and operatives concerned.

Right now, one operative told Axios, the feeling among Democrats isnt Oh, no, our heir apparent is fing up, what are we gonna do? Its more that people think, Oh, shes fing up, maybe she shouldnt be the heir apparent.

Harris has repeatedly been criticized for her handling of the illegal immigration crisis along the US-Mexico border, a problem Biden dumped in her lap in March by tasking her to deal with the root causes of the issue.

According to Axios, several White House officials have also described Harris office as a shtshow, poorly managed, and staffed with people who dont know the vice president well.

Don’t Miss: Are There Any Republicans Running Against Trump

Georgia And Arizona Senators Show Progressive

Walker, the 1982 Heisman Trophy winner and a Wrightsville, Ga., native, has long lived in Texas after a professional football career that ended in Dallas, but he changed his voter registration last week to an Atlanta house owned by his wife, Julie Blanchard. Blanchard is under investigation by the Georgia secretary of states office over potential illegal voting after The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reported she voted in Georgia despite living in Texas.

Walker has also repeated false claims of voter fraud in the 2020 election despite elections officials finding no evidence of widespread fraud that affected the outcome.

Its unclear when Walker will make a formal Senate announcement. The campaign paperwork filed Tuesday ends months of speculation about his political plans, including a prediction in June from Trump that the former football star would soon suit up for the Republican primary.

He told me hes going to, and I think he will, Trump said on the conservative talk radio Clay Travis and Buck Sexton Show. Hes a great guy. Hes a patriot. And hes a very loyal person, hes a very strong person. They love him in Georgia, Ill tell you.

Some national Republicans have been wary of Walkers candidacy, though. The first-time candidate comes with potential baggage that could harm his chances in both the primary and general elections, including his Texas residency.

Ryan Sit U.S.Donald TrumpMike PenceBen SasseBob Corker

Here are 10 Republicans who may challenge Trump:

None Of Them Can Win But They Could Play Spoiler

Remember when half of American white males over the age of 40 declared themselves for the Republican presidential nomination in 2016? There were so many candidates that they couldnt fit them all on two packed debate stages. One guy stayed in after receiving a grand total of 12 votes in the Iowa caucuses; in New Hampshire, Jim Gilmores showing improved to , an unprecedented 1,000 percent increase. Reader: He didnt withdraw for another six days.

Since Donald Trump is our incumbent president, and will thus almost surely be the GOP nominee in 2020, we should be spared a repeat, and really ought to be able to give our undivided attention to the approximately 437 mostly Social Security-eligible senators, governors, congressmen, mayors, and billionaire activists looking to run on the Democratic ticket in 2020. Unfortunately, Trump will almost certainly be challenged, either in the ostensibly meaningless Republican primaries or by one or more independent right-of-center candidates.

Stephen Bannon thinks 2020 will be a proper three-way race. #NeverTrumpers are already ferreting around for someone to challenge the president for the GOP nomination. I just finished reading a book about the French resistance. It reminds me of that. People are meeting over their garages their ateliers trying to figure out whos going to do it, one of them toldNew York recently.

Here are five people who might just fit the bill.

1. John Kasich

Chance of running: 80 percent

2. Jeff Flake

Also Check: Are Republicans Or Democrats More Educated

Us Election : The Other 1214 Candidates Running For President

The US has had presidents for more than 230 years, but only the first George Washington has ever been elected as an independent candidate.

The twin peaks of US politics, the Republican and Democratic parties, dominate media coverage and campaign donations so completely that the chances of an outsider winning are virtually nil.

What kind of person looks at those near-insurmountable odds and thinks Im running anyway?

Quite a range as it turns out: As of 9 October, some 1,216 candidates have filed with the Federal Election Commission to run for president.

The BBC asked three of them a concert pianist and motivational speaker, a Native American IT technician, and a crypto billionaire what they stand for, and why they deserve the votes of Americans.

President Trump Your Legacy Is Secure Stop The Stolen Election Rhetoric

As many on the left have pointed out, the 2020 election was less a repudiation of Trump than a narrow loss for a man who proved just unpalatable enough for a critical sliver of his coalition.

Sean Spicer, a former Trump press secretary, told The Post his ex-boss would be an instant front-runner in a 2024 primary. He has a rock-solid base, I just dont think that there is anyone else who even comes close.

Teasing a potential run in 2024 would at the very least ensure Trump stays relevant and in the press for years to come.

If Trump himself passes on the opportunity, his two very political children Don Jr. and Ivanka Trump could also potentially pick up the mantle. Trump Jr. has long acted as an outside surrogate for his father online and in the press and connects strongly with his base. Ivanka, meanwhile, has years of administration experience under her belt as a White House adviser to her father.

Also Check: Who Supported The Republicans In The Spanish Civil War

Votes By State For Biden And Trump

The following table shows the number of votes Joe Biden and Donald Trump received in each state.

Votes by state for Joe Biden and Donald Trump in the 2020 presidential eleection State

There were 21 candidates on the ballot each in Vermont and Colorado. The next largest presidential ballots were Arkansas and Louisiana with 13 candidates each. Twelve states had only three candidates on the ballot.

The following map shows the number of presidential candidates on the ballot in each state.

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maivalentine · 7 years ago

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Why do “problematic” ships and characters appeal to us?

I really wanted to write up a long post on this subject, seeing the ever growing hate and even IRL bullying that occurs because someone likes a character or ship that is deemed “bad”. A lot of these people say they are abuse survivors and invalidate the feelings of OTHER abuse survivors and it’s really starting to get on my last nerve. A lot of people in fandoms commonly say things like “That doesn’t make sense to me” or “I dont understand it” or “they hate each other (as if we didnt know that already in canon)” .

Another popular thing to do is to claim we crave unhealthy relationships and glorify them to the point where mock posts and comments have been made about those of us that hate/rival ship characters. Or, if we like an individual character that is a “bad person”.

Coming from the stance of a physically and emotionally abused person - and from what I have seen in my own fandoms and other people who support characters and ships for the same reasons I do, this is an explanation as to WHY we like these characters and their dynamics. I only speak from my own POV and am in no way trying to paint a picture of everyone who can speak for themselves.

1) Rival ships :

Why do people LIKE rivals together? Typically they are seen consistently competing and trying to show each other up. Sometimes it’s questioned if they even “like” each other, or if the rivalry ends the relationship ends. There’s several things people like about rivalry. There’s something really attracting about two people getting passionate about each other. At some point it becomes a routine - their routine. Often times the bickering starts out as legit teasing, that turns into friendly banter. There are a lot of people that love the idea of friendly bickering, teasing, and the dramatics of being someones rival.

Sometimes this doesnt happen in canon. Sometimes we decide on a ship based on their character personalities and how we *think* they would act in a fanon reality. Others can perceive this TOTALLY different which is where the “not understanding” comes from. It’s kinda wilde but different chemistry appeals to different people. Unlike hateships however, rival ships tend to be really friendly. Not always, but usually. Rivals that turn to friends BUT STILL keep their antics is one of the most appealing things about their relationship(s).

2) Hateshipping:

Unlike rivalry (which can exist in hateshipping as well) these characters have made it clear in canon they DO NOT like each other, or have blatantly stated that they hate each other or even that they want to kill each other. The terrible misconception about those of us that ship these (personally, one of my favorite dynamics) is that we support abuse and we “get off” to bruised and beat up characters and we’re twisted. Now while I don’t think there’s anything WRONG with being attracted to that dynamic, for myself and many others I’ve seen in different fandoms, Hateships are NOT about abuse - and they are hardly ever based on canon events unless grabbed to use in fanon + AUs. Hateships tend to branch off from canon and form into fanon AUs where we see this chemistry working if x thing happened, or if x thing developed this way instead, etc.

Hateships aren’t all the same - sometimes we get clue-ins that the two characters are able to respect one another to a certain degree, sometimes characters start out hating each other and that changes, or sometimes they save the other’s life unprompted. Little things like that create more initiative for us to think “huh... this could work if circumstances were different”

A lot of time with hate ships, we see how the two characters personalities mesh together SO WELL even though sometimes they appear as total opposites. Like rivalshipping (which it grabs some similarities from) they have grown into a routine of needing each other in some strange way. And we LOVE to explore that.

Another big thing about ships involving hate, is that they are often written and drawn by fans as a couple that HEALS not a couple that ABUSES one another. It’s usually about healing and forgiveness - confused feelings, and really digging into how these characters really dont actually hate each other at all. The fun part is exploring their complicated relationship.

3) Problematic Characters:

*Characters that experience abuse, but have done unforgiveable things:

People tend to assume that liking a character like this means we glorify them, support what they have done (ex: murder, emotionally damaged others, acted out, caused physical harm to others) and fully support them to the point where we want them to be forgiven for the bad things that they’ve done. It varies for every character, but in most instances that is NOT the case. In fact it’s only a handful that call these types of characters “precious characters that did no wrong” and MEAN it. ( a lot of us joke abt it but arent serious )

Like I said at the start of this, as someone who’s been abused in both ways I feel like these characters deserve BETTER. Sometimes abused characters are unfairly treated in canon - they arent given help, their help is taken away from them, their abuse turns them into the awful person they are. We want them to have redemption - we want them to have a fair development. We want abused characters to have some understanding, some respect. We are not saying it’s OK that they physically or emotionally hurt others. We are saying we understand them -- sometimes their actions can reflect an abused persons *impulses* that arent acted on. Abuse pain and the inner turmoil goes deep. Abused characters usually end up with a terrible hand, shitty development, and usually die or never get a chance to be understood.

*Characters that are mentally ill:

Similar to an abused character (sometimes characters fit BOTH) people think we are saying “theyre mentally ill so we should forgive them and support what theyve done” no . no . no. much like the abused character, we SEE how their illness has effected them and again -- how theyve received no help in canon. Thats why ships involving these characters often revolve around rehab, redemption, healing. Typically with both these types of characters we see glimpses of how they were a good person before their trauma effected them. And we want to see more of that person. We want that person to come to life. Because we almost NEVER see abused or mentally ill characters come out alive or with understanding.

*Villains:

I know a lot of people don’t grasp this still, but you can like an evil character just because they are just so GOOD at being bad. It doesn’t make YOU a bad person for liking them. It’s fictional and their actions effect no one in real life. Yes, bad content can cause a trigger or a bad feeling - it can hurt. But liking a bad character does NOT MEAN we support bad feelings // things that happen to REAL people.

Villains tap into dark fiction and it’s PERFECTLY okay to love horror and twisted things in fiction. Not all villains are 100 percent terrible either. Some start as a villain and become a hero. Sometimes, the other way around (a favorite of mine). Nothing about liking a bad character means that you are a bad person.

What’s relateable about a villain? They aren’t perfect. They have interesting character development and back stories. Usually very dark things have happened in their lives. Sometimes, villains can draw out sympathy whether you see it personally or not.

People need to respect the fact that not all minds think the same. Abused and mentally ill people, do not exist in some bubble where you personally get to decide what content is right and wrong for them to consume.

People joke about “coping” but it’s true - we DO use fiction to cope sometimes and there’s nothing wrong abt it. We DO enjoy the darker side of things sometimes and want to explore it in fiction. There’s nothing wrong with it, and it hurts NO ONE at all.

If anyone tells you that you are hurting them for liking a fictional character or ship, they’re full of shit, plain and simple. You CAN NOT hurt someone by liking fictional pairings and characters.

It is not your fault if content you like triggers someone. It is not your fault if someone doesnt agree with your personal taste. It’s not THEIR fault either. It’s no one’s fault for triggers (unless we intentionally are trying to hurt someone which is shitty dont do that) and uncomfortable feelings arising for simply enjoying something.

It’s an unfortunate thing - we all handle these things differently. But what we have to realize is that all content is consumed differently and we need to respect that. We need to kindly deal with what makes us hurt (and what makes us not hurt) in a respectful manner.

It does no good to claim people are “rapists” “pedophiles” or “support murderers” for simply liking a character or a ship. You can be disgusted. You can rant. You can vent. You can express yourself no one’s stopping you.

But lines are totally CROSSED when you personally attack a person (who probably experienced some abuse of their own - its ,more likely than you think) or even physically attack a REAL LIFE person over content that they like.

People have been bullied at cons for liking characters like Goro Akechi or Nathan Prescott . People have been called horrible things for liking characters that are deemed “bad” by others.

I’m not saying pedophilic or legit horrible content doesnt EXIST nor do I condone it (lines to be crossed here too tbh), but it takes a bit of common sense... a common sense a lot of attackers against “problematic” content do not have.

To end this I want to say the most mind-blowing thing to me is a person claiming to be an abuse survivor and then emotionally or physically attacking ANOTHER ABUSE SURVIVOR (or any other type of person really) over what characters they happen to like. That IS abuse. That IS harassment. And you ARE a part of the problem.

You are not protecting us by hurting us (ABUSE SURVIVORS AND THE MENTALLY ILL) & others .

#long post #abuse #fandom #idk what else to tag this as #hateships #rivalships #problematic characters #idk???? lol

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mllemaenad · 8 years ago

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Personally... I feel that WEaWH tries to remove itself from TME because it realizes that TME is fucking irredeemable garbage, and tries to make its WLW representation less appalling. So I'm entirely willing to overlook continuity errors for the sake of one relationship between women in the entire series that can go well.

I’m sorry, but I don’t believe that. I’m not going to argue with you on the merits of The Masked Empire, as you’re entitled to like or dislike any media you choose, but I don’t think Bioware is trying to distance itself from the novel. I also don’t think their motive is positive representation, or that they’re seriously suggesting a happy ending. However, even if they were I would call the choice to reunite Celene and Briala without any serious examination of the issues that drove them apart … disquieting.

1) On distancing themselves from the novel.

To begin with the obvious, several of the Dragon Age novels provide not only context for the quests in Inquisition, but also promotional material maintaining audience interest between games.

It’s hardly an accident that Asunder is a prequel to In Hushed Whispers/Champions of the Just, The Masked Empire is a prequel to Wicked Eyes and Wicked Hearts (as well as giving you a roundabout introduction to Solas) and Last Flight provides you with some context on why Weisshaupt is just no help at all during Here Lies the Abyss.

They do kind of want you to buy all their stuff. And if you started with Inquisition and liked what you saw, they want you to run back and buy all the earlier stuff for context. Video game tie-in novels aren’t generally considered high art, so they’d need serious reasons to want to reject the novel as part of their canon. Just in case, I checked The Masked Empire’s Amazon page, and it’s currently got 4.4 stars – so it doesn’t look like something they’d be particularly desperate to ignore. They’d rather you bought it and gave them money.

To move more to the specific, the game references the novel constantly. In addition to devoting a whole main quest to resolving its plot, it also includes cameos from Mihris, Michel and Imshael, which really serve no other purpose than to provide a bit of closure to the people who read the novel and wondered what became of them. This is actually more than it provides for, say, the characters of Asunder: Rhys and Evangeline appear only in a war table mission, Adrian doesn’t appear at all – and who knows where Shale has wandered off to.

It also references the murder of Briala’s parents directly:

Cole: She’s still behind the curtains in the reading room, watching the blood pool on the floor.

Briala pulled the red velvet curtain aside. Her hands shook as she did. There was a pool of red on the floor of the reading room, staining the rich Nevarran carpet. It had spread almost to the curtain.

At the other end of the pool were Briala’s parents.

– The Masked Empire

If they really wanted to distance themselves from The Masked Empire, they wouldn’t put that in there. If they wanted to say that that this didn’t happen, they’d have retconned the story – or at the very least not mentioned it.

In fact, the choice of words is particularly distressing. Cole senses pain. When he says Briala is ‘still behind the curtains’ he’s emphasising that the trauma and anguish are still very much with her, making a reconciliation, particularly a reconciliation that utterly fails to address a thing that they have confirmed happened, even stranger.

I would say that one motive for their choice to reconcile the two characters is simplicity. I like parts of Inquisition, but honestly it’s over ambitious. They set up a series of continent-wide catastrophes, each one intensely political: the mage rebellion, the Orlesian civil war, the collapse of the Chantry.

Each one probably requires its own game for a satisfactory solution. I realise they were probably going for something similar to the galaxy-wide political collapse in Mass Effect 3, but the Dragon Age games are at a serious disadvantage because they lack continuity of characters.

Mass Effect 3 had its own problems, of course, but for example – I think most people have fun curing the genophage for the krogan. But what they remember is Mordin Solus and ‘There’s a reaper in my way, Wrex!’ When it worked it was able to build on characters who were present across the series.

Inquisition is faced with trying to find resolutions for groups of people that have no direct connection to each other, and whom the protagonist has never seen before (even if they player has). This is hardly the only time their attempt to fix everything in a single quest ends up making no sense.

2) On positive representation

I’m afraid I don’t think what we get in Wicked Eyes and Wicked Hearts is especially positive. I think it’s … kind of infantilising, really, and has a whiff of sexism about it. I mean – again, I’m not asking you to like The Masked Empire. But this:

“It would have been a locked suite in the palace for a few years, nothing more!” Celene kept her voice low, aware that Michel and Felassan had stopped planning and were looking their way. “It would have changed nothing for us.”

“Your hair still stinks of the smoke from the people you burned,” Briala said. “That is a change.”

The dead leaves crackled under Celene’s feet as she stepped forward. “How many wars can our empire survive in such a short time? I wanted my legacy to be the university, the beauty and culture that made us the envy of the world. Instead I may be known as the empress under whom Orlais fell. You have the luxury of mourning Halamshiral’s elves and holding my heart hostage. Sitting on my throne, I see every city in the empire. If I must burn one to save the rest, I will weep, but I will light the torch.”

Briala swallowed. “You’re not weeping, as far as I can tell. Nor are you sitting on your throne. She stepped away, her movements fast and jerky. “With your permission, Your Radiance, I shall go indulge myself in my luxury.”

– The Masked Empire

… is at least an argument between adults, with the details of what they believe laid out. Celene honestly believes that the empire and her legacy are worth 'a few thousand elven lives’: she believes that maintaining the strength of Orlais is worth thousands of lives in sacrifice, as is the vision she has for the country’s future. Briala is facing up to the fact that this is the bargain she’s made: stay with Celene and she might see an elven scholar graduate from the university – but she’ll likely also see elves burn every time there’s a crisis, because elves are the most expendable people in the empire.

Briala wavers throughout the novel, obviously, because there is genuine feeling between herself and Celene. But the discovery that this has all happened before, that this is not the first time Celene has shed elven blood to impress her rivals and gain power, and that her own parents were among the victims, brings her to a decision.

You don’t have to like it, but these women are serious about what they want and believe.

But in Wicked Eyes and Wicked Hearts we get stuff like this:

Sera: Elves-elves-elves, but it’s really a pissing match with an old lover. Don’t know the rest but that explains a lot.

It’s hardly coincidental that they chose Sera to say this. Sera the commoner, who despises the nobility. Sera the Red Jenny, with contacts in every corner of Thedas. True, Sera’s background has led her to reject a lot of elven culture, but her biggest objection is usually to ‘moping’ about the past. This:

Briala thought for a moment. “Celene and Gaspard saw an army, but that would be fighting their fight. With the paths, I could get food to alienages where elves would otherwise starve. They would let me move ahead of an oncoming army and warn the target, or move behind them and attack their supply lines.”

– The Masked Empire

… sounds more like the practical stuff she favours: she’s said getting revenge would be a preferable option, and this is getting food to the poor, terrorising the nobility and giving little people a shot at being part of something bigger. But now we can’t take it seriously, because Sera has reduced it to a lovers’ tiff.

That isn’t meant as a criticism of Sera, to be clear. They do this when they want a mouthpiece. This is the equivalent of having Cole approve of Cullen.

And as for it going well, this is their epilogue slide:

Where once war raged, there is now a shaky peace. Orlais is resurgent, the empress a patron of arts and culture.

Many attribute this recovery to her lady love, though others wonder how long their reunion will truly last.

– Epilogue (Inquisition)

I mean – maybe they’ll forget about this. They have been known to forget their epilogue slides. But it doesn’t read as though the intent was to write a strong and loving partnership. Rather it looks as though they are selling the relationship as tempestuous.

That’s one place where I am very uncomfortable. This is the revolt of an oppressed people, and the politics an empire. And there’s a sense that they’re saying ‘Oh, those women and their emotions! Today they love each other; tomorrow they’ll hate each other; the day after they’ll probably love each other again. You never know, with women.’

I appreciate that Bioware is fairly progressive, for a game company: the character choices, the romance options, the NPCs – they are trying to represent a variety of races, genders and sexualities. But it doesn’t mean they never fuck up. I mean, there’s a bit in Mark of the Assassin where Isabela tells Hawke that Gamlen has been sexually harassing her and two responses blame her (You find something inappropriate?/Break him. And wear pants.).

Given that they are already struggling to resolve a massive plotline in a ridiculous amount of time, I’m not surprised they fell back on this. It’s narrative shorthand, and that can be handy for desperate situations. But it’s still sexist shorthand, and I very much wish they hadn’t done it.

3) Removing The Masked Empire from the equation doesn’t solve the problem

I mean, it makes some of the bigger issues like Briala’s dead parents a little easier to miss, sure, but it doesn’t make the problems go away.

I appreciate that representation is important. I do. But romantic relationships between women are not the only representation issue at stake, here. There’s no single source for the elven people, of course, but it’s easy enough to see that Bioware has borrowed from the experiences of Jewish, Romani and aboriginal peoples living under empires and/or colonialism.

And have we ever established that it is shit to be an elf. The city elf origin story in Origins is an abduction/rape/murder combo. The Dalish clans in Origins and DA2 can be slaughtered. It’s terrifyingly easy to kill off clan Lavellan in war table missions, and even though this is the protagonist’s family the game doesn’t make a thing of it. There’s a whole side quest in DA2 about a serial killer who targets elves, and who keeps getting away with it because no one gives a shit. We are up to our eyeballs in codex entries on the treatment of elves.

And here we have Briala, the leader of a rebellion in Orlais – one of the nations best known for oppressing the fuck out of the elves and trying to destroy their culture.

Even without The Masked Empire this is:

a) providing only the most minimal description of the nature of her rebellion and what she hopes to achieve.

b)allowing her to be dismissed as primarily involved in a lovers’ tiff.

c) pairing her with a woman the game actually says massacred the Halamshiral elves.

d) using the massacre as evidence against her because she was sleeping with Celene, rather than as evidence against the woman who actually committed it.

That’s … all pretty shitty, even at the simplest level. The game doesn’t address any of this. It doesn’t even force the characters to discuss what happened before throwing them back together. It spends as much time tsking at Briala for destabilising Orlais as it does Celene and Gaspard. It loves the idea that they’re all as bad as each other – which allows the player to justify just about any ending.

And this is a thing they do repeatedly: they tsk at the mage rebellion as well. They seem to be very good at describing the sufferings of the elves, the mages, the casteless dwarves … but don’t approve of them actually doing anything about their oppression. At least not anything more forceful than writing a stern letter of complaint (for those lucky literate characters!) to the local lord or revered mother.

And so minimising the problems of Celene and Briala’s relationship, and waving a locket around (which, even out of context, does not seem like a forceful enough declaration of love to startle Briala) does … not strike me as very respectful of peoples who have suffered under empires, and who have had to fight tooth and nail for every sliver of justice.

It’s not that I want to exclude a healthy, positive romance between two women in order to have Awesome Revolutionary Briala. I just don’t understand why we couldn’t have both.

Couldn’t Briala show up with a new girlfriend? Do it properly: give her a codex entry and make her active and important in the quest. Show the two of them both being affectionate and working together for the cause. Make sure that at least some of the possible quest endings leave them alive, together and continuing to better the lot of the elves.

I can understand that you may not like The Masked Empire and may want to exclude it from your personal headcanon. That’s absolutely fine, obviously. But I do not believe that was Bioware’s intent in writing the the Briala-and-Celene reconciliation, and I still have serious issues with it.

#Anonymous #dragon age #dai #briala #empress celene #celene critical

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arplis · 5 years ago

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Arplis - News: TWICE Picks Awards Winners For CES 2020

CES 2020 has come and gone, and as we reflect on the products seen and lessons learned, the staff at TWICE has named their Picks Awards winners for CES 2020. Only products that were submitted into the awards program were eligible to win, and were judged based on their potential impact to the consumer electronic industry.

Here are the TWICE Picks Award winners for CES 2020:

1MORE React True Wireless In-Ear Headphones The React True Wireless by 1MORE offers exceptional performance and capabilities for those looking for a pair of headphones that can handle any outdoor activity with the convenience of a truly wireless design. The React TWS, a 2020 CES Innovation Honoree award winner, features a two-chip system that enables lower power consumption and enhanced efficiency while also including an independent DSP for keyword spotting (microphone always on).

This allows users to trigger voice commands without having to touch any buttons, which is especially useful if you are engaged in physical activity. Lower power consumption allows the earbuds to last 5 hours on a single charge, with the portable charging case bringing total battery life to 24 hours. When you are working out, you want your music to drive you.

1MORE includes a large 14.2 mm dynamic driver to boost your beats and performance which delivers present mids and powerful, punchy bass. The React TWS come with the latest Bluetooth 5 technology and are compatible with AAC codec found in all iOS devices, as well as IPX6 water and sweat resistance. Users can utilize local commands like play/pause, skip, or volume without having to touch your headphones or device. These headphones also feature an IR sensor, heart rate sensor, and G-sensor, as well as the ability to use the left or right earbud individually. 1MOREs React True Wireless Headphones deliver serious performance and functionality, perfect for those looking for a workout companion that can handle any tough condition or exercise.

1MORE True Wireless ANC In-Ear Headphones Meet 1MOREs newest flagship headphone, the True Wireless ANC, the first multi-driver + active noise cancelling true wireless headphone on the market and a 2020 CES Innovation Honoree award winner. 1MORE combines revolutionary technology with best in class features to produce an all-in-one true wireless headphone that everyone can enjoy. The True Wireless ANC Headphones feature a hybrid dual driver design, meaning one dynamic driver and one balanced armature, to produce stunning detail and full sound in a compact design.

Hybrid active noise cancellation with one feedforward mic and one feedback mic allows the end user to have much more comprehensive noise cancellation through a broader range of frequencies. By using the latest Qualcomm chipset, these true wireless headphones have extremely low power consumption with Bluetooth 5 and aptX + AAC compatibility. Users can enjoy 6 hours of battery (5 with ANC on) on a full charge, and 22 hours of total battery with the included portable charging case that provides three additional full-length charges.

In the case that you do happen to run out of battery, 1MORE includes a 3C battery to allow for fast charge, where users can charge for only 15 minutes to get an additional 3 hours of use. 1MORE includes both a multi-functional button at the end of each earbud along with G-Sensor (touch control) to turn ANC on/off as well as control volume, song selection, phone calls, and voice assistance. The True Wireless ANC In-Ear Headphones by 1MORE are every audiophile and tech lovers dream come true, revolutionary features and impressive sound with the convenience of being truly wireless.

24 in. 1.2 cu. ft. 950W Sharp Stainless Steel IoT Easy Wave Open Microwave Drawer Oven SMD2489ES The Sharp SMD2489ES is the first, built-in Microwave Drawer with wifi connectivity for seamless integration with your modern, smart home. Download the Sharp Kitchen app to enable the smart features.

The SMD2489ES Sharp Microwave Drawer features Built-In Airflow venting. Now you can choose the traditional proud mount installation or flush mounting for a streamlined finish without additional trim-kits or vent deflectors.

With our Easy Wave Open feature for touchless operation, simply wave up-and-down near the motion sensor and the Microwave Drawer will glide open. With the touch of a button or a gentle nudge, our patented Easy Touch Automatic Drawer System smoothly closes the oven to avoid messy spills. The SMD2489ES Sharp Microwave Drawer stays closed when you walk by, so children and pets wont accidentally open it.

The concealed, glass, Touch Control panel is easy-to-see and operates at a convenient 45 angle, keeping all of the controls at your fingertips when you need them, and completely out of sight when you dont. The modern, edge-to-edge, black glass and stainless steel design with bright, LED interior lighting and stylish floor pattern compliments your kitchen and pairs beautifully with other stainless steel appliances.

AB Turn 360 AB Turn 360 is the worlds first standing, 360-degree core exercise machine. Inspired by the motion of a hula-hoop, but with spring-powered resistance for a more controlled form and consistent intensity. You can use your hands and body to push and pull on the cradle to generate resistance. You can also use direct body contact with the cradle for a relaxing massage for your lower back or abs.

With AB Turn 360, you will finally be able to work your crucial core muscles from a comfortable, standing position that keeps your spine within its natural range of motion. Different movements can be used to target different muscle groups. The most common motion targets the core abdominal muscles and the obliques. Tone, tighten and strengthen your abs while burning calories at the same time.

Aeon CLR More and more, projector screens are being pressed into service in the new role of business and household television set because of their size being greater than the +70 flat screen TVs. However, the abundance of ambient light in media room/living room applications created greater demand for a specialty screen. Also, the projectors throw distance limited the projection screens functionality as a suitable replacement.

Enter the Aeon CLR Ceiling Light Rejecting projector screen. It uses a multi-layer surface design that scatters off axis light to prevent it from washing out the image. Unlike other ALR designs, it is made for Ultra Short Throw (UST) projectors. The use of a CLR screen with a UST projector not only rivals the visual performance of a 100 flat screen TV, it does so at a fraction of retail price for a 100 flat screen TV and is available in up to 120 sizes.

The Aeon CLR is an EDGE FREE fixed frame screen that uses a serriform micro-structure that negates 95% of the washout effects of ambient lighting from overhead sources while negating other forms of off-axis lighting as well. This highly specialized design enables the material to provide contrast levels that are 100 times greater than that of standard matte white projection screens. Its low-profile ability to work with ultra short throw projectors makes it not only a cost-effective option to a large flat panel, but a superior performance choice as well.

The lightweight screen ships compact and is easy to install. It comes with a full installation kit that includes sliding wall brackets and an LED back-lighting kit.

Airthings Wave Plus Airthings Wave Plus is the worlds only battery-operated smart indoor air monitor with Radon detection. The device offers users short-and long-term visibility into six critical indoor air quality factors, including sensors for three different air pollutants: radon, total volatile organic compounds (TVOCs), and carbon dioxide (CO2), as well as temperature, humidity and air pressure. Each sensor is equipped with a built-in threshold that provides instant, color-coded readings that alert users when a level is too high or low.

The Wave Plus is the perfect solution for monitoring indoor air quality (IAQ) in all populated indoor spaces, which is necessary to minimize potentially detrimental health effects and illnesses caused by harmful pollutants, including Radon the leading cause of lung cancer for non-smokers, claiming 21,000 lives each year in the US alone. With the versatility to measure air quality levels in any office, school, multi-unit dwelling, public space or home, the Wave Plus can play an instrumental role in increasing productivity, energy and good health.

The Airthings Wave Plus shares data with the Airthings Dashboard, a free online platform that provides quick access to view, customize and analyze sensor data from multiple Airthings devices. It also can be paired via Bluetooth with the Airthings app, which offers users advanced analytics of their readings over days, weeks, months and years, along with detailed, personalized interpretation into the air theyre breathing. The Airthings Wave Plus is integrated with Amazon Alexa and IFTTT, and its simplistic interface, easy installation and long battery life (2-3 years) make setup and maintenance a virtual non-factor.

Alarm.com Smart Water Valve + Meter The new Smart Water Valve + Meter from Alarm.com redefines water management in the smart home or business with a combined Z-Wave water meter and automated shutoff valve. A must-have solution to help prevent costly water damage, property owners and service providers get alerts about leaks within seconds of detection.

Precise Leak Detection: As part of the Building36-designed complete Water Management solution, the Alarm.com Smart Water Valve + Meter offers best-in-class water metering that can detect a wide range of flow rates to help identify and prevent damage from leaks large and small.

Best-In-Class Hardware: This device is engineered with the highest quality hardware from industry leaders like Grundfos, BRM and Belimo to ensure reliability and durability. The new Smart Water Valve + Meter has an installed width under 4, about half the size of the average unit. With a slim actuator and widely compatible design, service providers can install this product in most homes, where space around plumbing is at a premium. Unlike most water valves or meters, the Smart Water Valve + Meter can notify service providers as well as homeowners of issues such as major pipe bursts, dripping faucets or pinhole leaks.

Connectivity: As a cloud-based smart home solution powered by Alarm.com, the Smart Water Valve + Meter will use Z-wave Plus technology to communicate and connect with other devices within the smart home. This device will be fully integrated into our ecosystem so users can manage the entire system remotely through one mobile app. Homeowners will have the ability to open and close the water valve, monitor water consumption, gauge water temperature and view leak notifications all through the app. The Alarm.com app also gives users the power to create scenes and set rules for their water management system to accommodate water usage habits and maximize control of their home plumbing system.

Anker PowerConf The PowerConf is Ankers first entry into the portable conference speaker market. It uses Uses 6 microphones to pick up voice in 360 within an 8m range, and uses digital signal processing to reduce ambient noise. A USB port on the PowerConf helps keep your phone charged while on a call.

The PowerConf also features Smart voice enhancement technology. It optimizes voice pick up based on who is speaking. A section of the light ring illuminates to indicate whose voice is being enhanced. It retails for $129.99 and is available on January 20, 2019.

Audio-Technica ATH-CK3TW Wireless Headphones The Audio-Technica ATH-CK3TW truly wireless in-ear headphones (SRP: US$119.00) eliminate all connecting wires for the ultimate in comfort and on-the-go listening convenience.

The ATH-CK3TW features an Auto Power On/Off function that automatically turns the headphones on and connects to a paired smartphone, portable digital audio player or other compatible device when the headphones are removed from their case. The headphones will also turn off automatically when placed back in their case. The ATH-CK3TW headphones are charged via an included USB-C connection and the case features a handy LED battery status indicator.

The ATH-CK3TW delivers enhanced audio quality during phone calls thanks to Qualcomm cVc Clear Voice Capture that improves clarity during phone conversations. The ATH-CK3TW incorporates Bluetooth 5.0 wireless technology for reliable long-range connectivity and multi-pairing capability. The headphones are also perfect for fitness-oriented wearers thanks to its drip-proof IPX2 water resistance rating.

The ATH-CK3TW offers up to six hours of battery life per charge, and the charging case provides an additional 24 hours. The headphones feature Qualcomm TrueWireless Stereo Plus, a special low-latency function that ensures that users can stream audio with no disruption and a stable connection. The ATH-CK3TW comes with XS, S, M and L sized eartips and is available in black, white and blue.

Brilliant Smart Dimmer Switch The Brilliant Smart Dimmer Switch takes all of the design and manufacturing attributes that made the original Brilliant Smart Home Control a critical and commercial success and marries them together with a fashion-forward aesthetic at a remarkably affordable price point to create the worlds first integrated smart lighting and home control system.

This enables smart lighting to be deployed throughout the entire home, with control capabilities built into the walls and accessible by touch, by voice, and remotely via app. The Brilliant Smart Dimmer Switch instantly enables you to turn regular lights into smart lights and make smart bulbs even smarter.

Unique Features:

Dimming Control: Use the touch slider to control any dimmable light.

Voice Control: Works with Alexa, HomeKit, and Google Assistant

Motion Control: Automatically turns lights on and off when you enter and leave a room.

Smart Bulb Control: Convenient in-wall control of Hue, LIFX, and more.

Automation & Scene Control: Double-tap to set the mood with a scene that includes lighting, climate, music, and more.

App Control: Control Everything while youre home or away

Sonos Control: Control the volume of your Sonos music directly from the wall.

Timer Control: Randomize your lights with timers while you are away

A Brilliant Smart Dimmer Switch can be added to any room easily, replacing any standard light switch, and no new wiring required. This reduces installation complexity and makes it perfect for renovations, remodels, renters or buyers, late decision upgrades, or whole home installations. All of this is accomplished at an unprecedented price point. For less than the price of a typical non-dimming, on/off switch with flimsy construction, Brilliant provides high-end dimming capabilities with high-end manufacturing and feel.

Bronco LP 4-in-1 Classic-Truck-Styled Music Center

People like the rugged lifestyle and they like their music the same waythats why the Bronco LP music center is perfect. Here is a retro-styled 4-in-1 music center that harkens back to the days when people went their own way and didnt follow the crowd. Bronco LP is a complete music system: It has a 3-speed belt-drive turntable that plays every record in your collection, an AM/FM radio that tunes in all your favorite stations and an AUX input so you can hook up any other gear youd like. Plus, with its built-in amplifier and speakers, you dont have to fuss with wiring up anything extragreat sound is standard equipment! You can also connect a USB flash drive to record your albums and then take that flash drive to play them back through another device.

The Bronco LP has that vintage Bronco styling with the classic grille look and illuminated headlights. In terms of performance, features and individual character, this system is one of a kind. While it seems like everyone else these days is looking for the soft and convenient path, Bronco LP is looking for people who like the unexplored trails, the adventurous route.

[Bronco LP is an official Ford-licensed product.]

Carta Carta is the first digital measuring wheel to virtually map any outdoor space. Utilizing the revolutionary LetsPlott platform, winner of the Best of Innovation AR/VR in the CES 2019 Innovation Awards, Carta makes custom digital mapping easy with real-time visual references and accurate dimensional data to create an interactive canvas that can be read, manipulated and shared with collaborators. This ensures accurate measurements for virtually any outdoor project, including landscaping, construction, road building, accident recreation and more.

The digital measuring wheel captures the path a user walks, including a full perimeter and sections within a specific area, then imports the data into the LetsPlott app where instant calculations are made. Users can take their own photos of a space, or use overhead satellite images for larger projects, to accompany the data they have captured. From there, text or video notes can be added for reference to ensure no detail is forgotten. The LetsPlott app, an integrated design center, can also calculate accurate material estimation, such as the amount of mulch for a flower bed or asphalt for a driveway. Once the design and planning are complete, Carta will help bring it to life with guidance to real world points.

From idea, to virtual design, then back to reality, Plotts latest hardware provides the ideal technology for anyone from the beginner DIY landscaper to professional construction worker.

ConceptD 7 Ezel The ConceptD 7 Ezel is ideal for all kinds of working scenarios collaborating with a team, sketching with a Wacom pen, or presenting work to clients. With five ways to use the notebook, designers can leverage the one that best fits the situation sharing, floating, stand, pad or display mode. A desktop replacement that can be taken on the road, it is ideal for creators who want to sketch, finalize and present on one device. Creators work will come to life in brilliant detail and clarity on the notebooks 4K IPS display. The display also includes integrated color correction technologies and has been tested and calibrated to deliver superior fidelity in reproducing the PANTONE Matching System (PMS) Colors. This ensures true-to-life color reproduction with a 100% Adobe RGB color gamut and a color accuracy of Delta E.

Crescent Crescent Smart Speaker from Cleer Audio Combines Statement-Making Design with Unparalleled Sound performance that compliments and blends into your home interior design, serving as an accent piece as well as a sound system. The sleek and considerate shape is an interior designers dream and makes this speaker something worth hearing and seeing. With a linear array of eight custom 40mm full-range drivers and two 3.3 subwoofers, the Crescent is emblematic of the premiere audio experience that Cleer is making their name on. Its use of Dysonics SoundShaping software marries exceptional industrial design and engineering with the latest technology for a customizable listening experience.

Equipped with a Voice Assistant, the Crescent incorporates an optimized mic array with noise-rejection technology for superior far-field voice recognition. The Crescent also supports Hi-Res digital audio formats and streaming from Spotify Connect, Apple AirPlay 2, AAC, FLAC, WMA and Apple Lossless, and Chromecast . With Wifi, a 3.5mm Aux, RJ25 and optical inputs, it also easily supports additional audio sources.

Dell XPS 13 The all new Dell XPS 13 laptop is carefully crafted with premium materials to achieve a flawless finish in durable, lightweight design. Crafted with a combination of CNC machined aluminum and insert molded carbon fiber or woven glass fiber to create the best mobile computing experience with a light weight and stiff characteristics. The new Dell XPS 13 is the smallest 13-inch laptop enabled by the first 4-sided InfinityEdge display, putting the largest possible screen in the smallest possible size. Not only is it incredibly powerful, but also 16% thinner than before, fitted with a full-sized edge to edge keyboard and has a 7% larger 16:10 display in a smaller footprint than the predecessor. Users can also experience fast and secure access with Windows Hello facial recognition or with a touch with built in fingerprint reader in the power button.

Forum Finally, presentation screen-sharing made simple! Why is it that that are great solutions for video conferencing when people are in remote locations, but nothing nearly so elegant for in-person meetings? When you are in your office, and want to share your screen with a handful of people, how can you do this? How about in an open office environment, or the Starbucks down the street? Face it, without a TV meetings are just talk until now. With Forum, your laptop is turned into a presentation server broadcasting whatever is on your screen to everybodys screen around you. Laptops, tablets, or phones any browser-enabled device! So, everybody just uses the device they already have, no cables, dongles or even the internet needed.

FreeFlow Universal Vent Mount with Fresche Scent Cartridge For safety reasons, the drivers seat in any vehicle should be as uncluttered, clean and comfortable as possible. Fewer distractions inside the vehicle allow the driver to focus on the road. Scosche Industries new Fresche range of mounts make the most of that finite space that is a vehicles dashboard by fulfilling two purposes with one thoughtfully-designed product.

Most drivers like to have their phone in plain view while they drive, especially if theyre using a GPS app, so a stable and reliable phone mount is a necessity. Many drivers also enjoy having a clean fresh-smelling vehicle. We designed a 2-in-1 mount that not only securely holds your phone and a car freshener cartridge, but also utilizes the airflow from your vehicles vent to release and disperse that fragrance around your vehicle.

The Fresche Universal Mount began with our patent pending FreeFlow vent mount design that has an open circular design and an articulated swing-arm. This arm lets you move your phone away from the vent in any direction, while the base remains securely anchored there.

Fresche mounts incorporate all of the features of the award-winning, tried and trusted Scosche mounts, including:

Adjustable arms that securely hold smartphones up to 3.5 wide.

A 360 adjustable head that lets you view your device in portrait, landscape, or any position in between.

Quick and easy one-handed placement and removal of your phone.

All Fresche mount models use the same replaceable air freshener cartridges that are available in a variety of scents.The Fresche Universal Vent Mount will be available in February 2020 at an MSRP of $24.99.

Galaxy Chromebook Samsung Galaxy Chromebook is a premium, powerful and productive device with an ultra-sleek design that takes the Chrome OS experience to new heights.

As the worlds first AMOLED Chromebook, with 4K UHD and 400 HDR, it offers a stunning visual experience. Its a convertible laptop with extraordinary flexibility and with its ultra-slim bezel, screen-space is maximized.

The PCs dual cameras allow you to take high-quality photos and videos that can be turned into your next big project with photo and video editing software pre-installed on every device. Combine that with its powerful 10th Generation Intel processor, and users get a device that can handle professional-level editing without having to lug around a heavy CPU. Additionally, Galaxy Chromebooks built-in pen is as intuitive as an ink pen on paper that supports inspiration whenever it takes place.

Samsung Galaxy Chromebook is in a category of its own, leading the way for Chromebooks by giving consumers everything needed to turn ideas into reality and with its lightweight, ultra-thin design wherever your idea takes you, you can take the Galaxy Chromebook.

GO:LIVECAST Live Streaming Studio for Smartphones The Roland GO:LIVECAST Live Streaming Studio for Smartphones allows streamers to enhance and manage live content on platforms like Facebook Live, YouTube Live, Twitch, Weibo, TwitCasting and more while remaining engaged with their audience. GO:LIVECAST functions like an instantly-accessible, mini broadcast studio to make online live video production for programs from music, to beauty, to cooking, easier, more accessible, and more fun for everyone. Roland continues its mission to provide innovative tools for modern creative outlets and uses, like livestreaming, so inspiration can take shape in the form of music or media.

The Roland GO:LIVECAST is quick and easy to use with plug-and-play setup. Simply connect a smartphone and headphones for sound monitoring and start streaming. GO:LIVECAST improves average built-in microphone smartphone audio by giving content creators the ability to connect to other sound sourcesfrom microphones to electronic instruments. Effortlessly insert pre-recorded audio and video clips into livestreams with the push of a button via six customizable controls. Quickly adjust the volume of your microphone or media clip through knobs and mute buttons to keep audio at a comfortable level and omit unwanted sounds.

Through the companion app, users can access a variety of video features. Even content-creators without production experience can introduce new and exciting elements to their broadcasts to elevate content. The GO:LIVECAST app allows streamers to log-in and connect to their preferred platforms and start broadcasting directly, eliminating the need for other third-party streaming software. Streamers can also simultaneously monitor comments from their viewers directly in the app while managing their stream.

The Roland GO:LIVECAST Live Streaming Studio for Smartphones is available January 2020 for $249.99.

HP Elite Dragonfly G2 The worlds first business convertible with 5G, the HP Elite Dragonfly G2 with built-in Tile helps you find your device near or far even when your PC is turned off. The unbelievably light premium convertible weighs less than 1kg, and its light, sturdy magnesium chassis comes in Dragonfly Blue or Natural Silver. Narrow borders ensure a high screen-to-body ratio for maximum screen real estate, making it a great choice for watching your favorite movie or giving an important presentation.

Visuals pop with the HP Elite Dragonfly G2 UHD HDR 400 panel option and up to 1,000-nit display, and users control what they share with the world with the HP Privacy Camera, HP Sure View Gen3 integrated privacy screen and HP Sure Start, a self-healing BiOS that protects against malware, corruption and rootkits.

With up to 24 hours of battery power and an Intel Core I U-Series six-core processor, this powerful laptop is ideal for collaboration, virtual or face-to-face interactions. Plus, with a speaker enclosure component made with 50 percent post-consumer recycled plastic, including five percent ocean-bound plastics, users can feel good about their environmental impact.

Jabra Elite Active 75t The Jabra Elite Active 75t is enhanced for durability and optimized for workout and fitness use. The Elite Active 75t is the latest in Jabras award-winning portfolio of true wireless earbuds and brings the same great calls and music expected from Jabra.

The Jabra Elite Active 75t is 22 percent smaller than its predecessor, the award-winning Elite Active 65t, and features an 89 percent increase in battery life (up to 28 hours with the charging case). The earbuds are built with a durable coating for dust and sweat resistance and feature an increased IP rating from IP56 (of the Elite Active 65t) to IP57, making them waterproof, including a warranty of two years.

Key features and specifications:

Compact earbuds, tested for a secure active fit with optimal noise isolation

Jabra MyControls to define button settings and Jabra MySound for personalized sound (early Q2, 2020)

Up to 7.5 hours battery life, and 28 hours with the charging case

Four-microphone technology for crystal clear calls in every environment

Charging with USB-C

Reliable true wireless connectivity with no audio dropout

IP57-rated durability and two-year warranty against dust and sweat*

Pricing and availability Jabra Elite Active 75t will be available late February 2020 at Amazon, Best Buy and Jabra.com, MSRP $199 USD. The earbuds will be available in six colors: Navy (February), Copper Black (Amazon exclusive, February), Titanium Black (Best Buy exclusive, February), Grey (March), Sienna (April) and Mint (April).

JumpSmart 10-In-1 Jump Starter, Flashlight, Power Bank, & Tactical Tool The JumpSmart 10-In-1 is the most robust tactical multi-tool in the world! This unit combines a 8000mAh 4-Cell Battery jump starter, 5-mode flashlight, 2-port USB power bank, audible safety alarm, mini compass, and thermometer all in one device! The JumpSmart 10-In-1 is powerful enough to jump start most cars, trucks, SUVs, boats, motorcycles, lawn mowers, ATVs, and more, up to 7.0L gasoline engines, or up to 4.0L diesel engines.

The Smart Jumper Cables have 10 built-in safety checks with audible alarms and visual safety indicator lights to warn of any improper connection and also includes a patent-pending mini flashlight for easy viewing when connecting to a battery in the dark. With the all new JumpSmart Genie, a dead car battery can be charged from inside the vehicle through the 12V DC outlet! The flashlight has a 495ft reach and features 5-modes: high, low, S.O.S., strobe, and red flashing, perfect for any walk, camping trip, or power outage.

The power bank charges your USB devices, including phones and tablets using our patented SmartSpeed Technology boasting a powerful 2.4A output per port. The JumpSmart 10-In-1 is there when you need it in an emergency.

LOralPerso LOrals Perso is an AI-powered, at-home device that stands only 6.5 inches high and weighsabout one pound, featuring a streamlined, four-step process to deliver on-the-spot, personalized skincare and cosmetic formulas for increasing levels of customization over time. Persos 3-in-1 technology uses a uniquely designed motor system located at the top of the device with the capability to compress formulas from the cartridges at the base of the machine in an upward motion to dispense on demandskincare,makeup andlipstickformulas in a way that has never been done before allowing customers to change their preferences and productsdailyfrom the comfort of their home.

Persouses an AI-powered system to make custom formulations forskincarebased on overall skin condition and localenvironmentalconditions and data.

Using its customShadeFindertool,Perso produces customizedmakeupto perfectly match skin tonedependingon a variety of skin care concerns such as lack of glowandpigmentation.

Perso blends different liquidlipstickshades to match desires, including ongoing changes in color preferences and trends, and includes a compact take-away to allow retouching at any time.

Lenovo Smart Frame Lenovo Smart Frame is a smart digital photo frame that allows users to relive memories, rediscover photos and share favorite moments. Designed for the home, the Smart Frame is a FHD 21.5-inch frame with a matte screen finish and anti-glare layer. With its color tone sensor, Smart Frame will adjust its brightness according to ambient light in the room, creating a natural viewing experience. Users can also choose from hundreds of artwork from the free app to make a statement in the home and share memories with Google Photos and more cloud platforms all for $399.

Lenovo Yoga 5G The Yoga 5G is the worlds first laptop with 5G, featuring premium style and smart features like an IR camera that senses your presence and enables faster, more intuitive interactions. This sleek 2-in-1 features precious aluminum alloy, undergoing a unibody-like forging process on the upper half of the chassis. On the lower half (encompassing the keyboard and bottom cover), die-cast magnesium is shaped through a co-molding injection process to achieve the highest quality build supporting multiple antenna modules.

The Yoga 8 5G is designed for people on the go, who want performance and connectivity with no compromise. Thanks to a convertible build combining aluminum and magnesium, this 2-in-1 offers premium style and weighs in at an ultra-portable 1.25kg. Lastly, Lenovo streamlined the edges for a comfortable hand-holding experience in all modes, as you transition from laptop to tablet and back. With 5G connectivity via Qualcomm Snapdragon 8cx supported by modern standby and provides up to 24 hours of battery life. For portable entertainment 14 FHD IPS touch display & user facing speakers on either side of the keyboard for louder audio optimized with Dolby Atmos.

LG 86-inch LCD 4K TV (model 86NANO85) The 86NANO85 delivers an outstanding performance optimized for gaming, as well as a convenient overall entertainment experience.

Leveraging the inherent characteristics of NanoCell and FALD technology, the TV brings all forms of content to life via accurate color expression, an impressive contrast ratio and a wide viewing angle.

With support for major HDR formats (Dolby Vision, HDR 10, and HLG), the TV lets users take full advantage of the growing range of HDR content on the market. By supporting multiple HDR formats, LG is demonstrating the importance it places on meeting the needs of the worlds gaming community and ensuring the best possible picture quality for the widest selection of game titles.

Support for the HDMI 2.1 standard means the 86NANO85 can display HDR content from external sources at 120fps. With images displayed at a much faster rate, motion is rendered far more naturally making all on-screen content appear far more realistic. Supporting variable refresh rate (VRR), the TV also ensures a seamless sync between game input and images rendered on screen, providing smoother visuals and giving users more responsive, immediate control of their favorite games.

The TVs Cinema Screen design features barely-there bezels that cause minimal visual distraction, thereby helping to increase the sense of immersion. With AI features such as built-in Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa, users enjoy an expansive home entertainment experience with conversational voice recognition, simple control of the TV and connected devices, and access to content from numerous providers.

LG G8X ThinQ with Dual Screen Designed for ultimate multitasking, unrivaled mobile gaming, sports buffs, streaming bingers and everyone in-between, LGs latest smartphone doubles your screen real estate, so you can freely do two things at once without toggling between apps. Featuring two immersive OLED displays, a long-lasting battery, probably the best selfie camera youve ever used, and two cameras on the back this phone does it all.

LG gram 17 (model 17Z90N) The latest LG gram 17 is an outstanding ultra-slim laptop that defies all logic with its large 17-inch screen and incredibly lightweight 2.98 lbs form.

The latest gram 17 sports slim bezels across its four elegant sides for an even more impressive 17-inch screen. Its WQXGA resolution and premium IPS technology offer vivid images with top-of-the-line resolution, wide viewing angles and an immersion effect like no other. Its aspect ratio of 16:10 also assures amazing user experiences.

The high-capacity 80Wh battery built into the LG gram 17 is the stunning result of LG Electronics joint venture with LG Chem, guaranteeing exceptional and stable battery performance that lasts. LG Chems cutting-edge technology allows this unique laptop to maintain its ultra-slim size while increasing density, resulting in battery life of up to 21 hours (tested with Mobile Mark 2014 standards).

Equipped with the latest 10th generation Intel core processors based on a 10nm process, the new gram delivers an enhanced performance to users. Courtesy of Intel Iris Plus graphics, performance is boosted by 70 percent compared to 8th Gen CPUs, whilst its DRR4 Dual channel memory can be expanded to 24GB. Supporting Wi-Fi 6, this industry-leading laptop provides an even more convenient internet service. Whats more, this latest gram 17 features Thunder-bolt 3 to enhance the high-resolution display and transmit high-capacity data much faster.

Certified by U.S. Military Standard 810G, the new gram 17s full-metal body is made with magnesium alloy which permits an incredibly lightweight body totaling 2.98lbs.

LG InstaView Refrigerator with Craft Ice LG InstaView Door-in-Door Refrigerators with Craft Ice bring one of the biggest beverage trends into the home, automatically making slow-melting round ice (measuring 2 inches in diameter) without the hassle of old-fashioned ice molds. With the ability to store up to 25 ice spheres in the freezer drawer bin and auto-replenishment, LG InstaView Door-in-Door Refrigerators with Craft Ice represent a game-changer for home entertaining.

The refrigerator also features an automatic water dispenser that measures the exact amount (4, 8, 16, or 32 ounces) of fresh filtered water and automatically turns off when done, leaving the guesswork out of measuring for drink mixes and recipes. Another innovative feature is the InstaView tinted glass panel in the door, which allows users to knock twice to illuminate the interior and see inside to choose their favorite grab and go foods and ingredients before opening the door.

The InstaView Door-in-Door Refrigerator with Craft Ice also boasts smart technology features for everyday use with the LG ThinQ mobile app, which allows users to manage their LG smart appliances remotely; ensuring each user will know if the door is left open, as well as allow them to start making extra ice in the event of unexpected guests. The app also sets fresh food and freezer temperatures or turns IcePlus on and off. For added convenience, LG smart refrigerators respond to voice commands via Amazon Alexa and the Google Assistant.

LG PuriCare Mini LG PuriCare Mini is a portable air purifier that works to provide clean air for every moment. Weighing only 18.7oz., LG PuriCare Mini is light enough to carry in one hand and can be used almost anywhere thanks to its built-in battery. Once the personal device has detected the presence of airborne contaminants, LGs powerful DUAL Inverter motor draws in allergens and ultra-fine dust while the Twin Tornado Dual Fan sends fresh air far and wide for fast, effective coverage. Whisper quiet, operating at 30dB, LGs purifier wont disturb anyone, making it ideal for the office, the library, or any area where silence is preferred.

Having earned various certifications for its air-cleansing capabilities, including Clean Performance from Intertek and Allergen Removal Performance from British Allergy Foundation (BAF), users can trust this device will keep the air in their environment clean. Additionally, the LG PuriCare Mini is compatible with the Bluetooth App for convenient smart control offering automatic notifications, remote control of purifier operation (airflow intensity), filter information, real-time air quality status updates, usage history, and battery level.

LG SIGNATURE OLED TV RX (model 65RX) LG 65RX SIGNATURE OLED TV is based on LGs revolutionary rollable screen technology. Its premium design allows the TV to fit seamlessly in any interior, whilst the flexibility offered by its rollable screen provides new spatial possibilities outside of wall-mounting and the traditional TV stand/shelf. This cutting-edge product showcases how incredible the UHD resolution looks when paired with an LG OLED display.

The screen automatically adjusts its size depending on the content and usage scenario, creating a truly dynamic product that represents new value and an entirely new user experience. This state-of-the-art device is intuitive to use and can raise the comfort of users through functions that prioritize relaxation. It also boasts multiple AI platforms and an advanced voice recognition service that elevates convenience and interactivity.

Because its screen disappears when not in use, the TV affords users the freedom to redesign their space without having to work around an imposingly large black screen. The freedom it offers extends to where the TV is placed in front of a window, for example and its ability to blend into its environment when appropriate. Exceptional design, sound and image quality mark LGs 65RX as far more than a technological achievement; it is a complete product that offers exceptional value and a user experience offered by no other TV in the history of television.

LG TurboWash 360 Washer and Dryer pair w/ ThinQ AI LGs TurboWash 360 Front-Load Washer/Dryer Pair is a game changing laundry system featuring an Ultra Large-Capacity washer powered by artificial intelligence (AI), which automatically detects fabric types and sets the optimal washing cycle for the best cleaning performance. This first-of-its-kind washer/dryer ensures faster cycles and improved cleaning spraying the drum with 5 jet nozzles: 2 more than previous iterations.

Using AI, this first-of-its-kind washer optimizes washing through intuitive features; It assesses fabric weight and softness and then implements the most appropriate washing motions and pattern. To minimize vibrations, noise, and spin time, the washer uses an advanced spinning algorithm based on load size. The washers Auto Detergent Dispenser system detects a loads weight and level of soiling and automatically dispenses the proper amount of detergent.

With Smart Pairing, your LG washer automatically sends the optimal dryer setting for each specific load of laundry directly to your LG dryer for optimal results every time. The washer and dryer are Wi-Fi connected allowing the user to switch units on/off remotely as well as monitor cycle times via their smartphone or voice commands through the Google Assistant or Amazon Alexa.

LG UltraGear Gaming Monitor (model 27GN950) Video game graphics are becoming more detailed and realistic every year, and recently the boundary between gamers and online content creators has blurred with gamers expanding their portfolios beyond simply gaming by creating large followings through online videos (YouTube) and streaming (Twitch) and vice versa. Additionally, AMD and NVIDIA have both announced plans to build new GPUs with 7nm processes next year which will promote the 4K gaming and the need for significantly high frame rates that can cope with these new, demanding video games.

LG UltraGear 27GN950 is the latest 4K gaming monitor designed to address these new trends. The application of Oxide TFT technology permitted the thinnest bezels on the market and an extremely fast and smooth frame rate of up to 160Hz in the UHD 4K monitor market. Its DSC technology supports a UHD 4K resolution at high refresh rates of up to 160Hz from a single DisplayPort connection, without the need for chroma subsampling. Nano IPS with 1ms support not only generates premium picture quality, it also enables an almost instantaneous response time. The outstanding gaming performance and picture quality of this monitor more than meets the needs of both gamers and professionals, for a monitor that excels across all kinds of genres and applications.

LG V50 ThinQ 5G The LG V50ThinQ 5G, LGs first 5G smartphone, boasts top-of-the-line multimedia capabilities in a razor-thin, lightweight device for the new 5G era. By incorporating LGs renowned mobile capabilities into the LG V50ThinQ 5G, LG brings this groundbreaking 5G phone to the forefront of consumer tech, applying practical innovations to key elements smartphone users both need and want most.

MagicGrip Extendo Every vehicle and every driver is different, and the MagicGrip Extendo mount adjusts to suit each one, while offering cutting edge wireless fast charging technology.

The Extendo mount has a telescoping arm that extends and contracts from 5.34 to 8.87 so you determine the best length for your situation/environment. The arm also offers a 220-degree angle adjustment providing even more customization. When the perfect length and angle are reached, you simply tighten the lock-nuts to hold it securely in position.The charging head rotates 360-degree, so you can view your phone in either portrait or landscape, or any angle in between.

The base of the Extendo attaches to any flat surface using an adhesive mounting pad and suction-cup base. The use of the mounting pad not only ensures a secure hold, but also reduces bounce when used in a vehicle.

An advanced wireless charging mount for vehicle and home use, MagicGrip senses when a Qi-enabled phone is aligned over its charging coil and automatically closes its arms to securely grip your phone as it charges. This Qi alignment not only triggers the auto-gripping action of the arms, but also ensures optimum placement of your phone for wireless charging.

While the MagicGrip charges your phone wirelessly, the mount itself needs to be powered, so each one comes with a 12V vehicle power adapter and charging cable. For home use, we recommend an 18W USB-C Power Delivery home charger. The MagicGrip Extendo Wireless Charging Mount will be available June 2020 at an MSRP: of $69.99.

MASTER Series Z9G Sony maximizes the super-large screen experience with the MASTER Series Z9G 8K HDR TV. Step into the world of 8K viewing with richer color and clarity than ever before thanks to Sonys built in X1 Ultimate processor. Coupled with new intelligent technologies like Backlight Master Drive with full-array local dimming, and 8K X-tended Dynamic Range PRO, the Z9Gs super-large picture is matched with exceptional detail and accuracy. Additionally, the Z9G series features Acoustic Multi-Audio for accurate and faithful sound positioning and X-Motion Clarity to minimize motion blur.

MobiLine MobiLine is an innovative video caller ID app with patent-protected technology. We leverage our technology to power human connections, redefining the traditional phone call. When you add Face Value to your most important calls, youre taking the next step in video communication. See and hear what every call is about before you answer with MobiLine!

Monster Prism Smart 3D LED Art Panels Illuminate your world with color! Monsters Prism Smart 3D LED Art Panels lets you create customizable art on your wall. Multiple color and white light options controlled via app and with Alexa or Google Assistant. Easily design your own glowing 3D wall art with customizable arrangements and stunning, multi-zone lighting effects. A design guide is included and options for additional Prisms in an expansion pack are available. Control all Prism lights at once or change each individually to create the perfect ambiance. Options to schedule and save custom mood scenes are available as well. Enhancing your living space has never been so easy.

Nikon Z 50 Mirrorless Camera The lightweight DX-format Nikon Z 50 mirrorless camera makes it easy to take creativity further. It is a versatile, yet compact tool designed for those new to mirrorless or smartphone users looking to step-up their content, while also providing storytellers a powerful and capable device to capture memorable moments. The new Nikon Z 50 packs a robust feature set complete with a 20.9-MP CMOS sensor, 209-point Hybrid AF system, flip-down LCD touchscreen for vlogging and selfies, and 4K UHD video packed into a lightweight and portable 14-oz camera body. Equipped with the revolutionary Z mount, the Z 50 delivers incredible sharpness, contrast, focusing speed, low light performance and image quality, whether capturing high-resolution still images or 4K UHD video.

The Nikon Z 50 delivers easy-to-use controls and new creative features, making it a must-have tool for savvy creators looking to improve the quality of their content. The Z 50 streamlines the content creation experience with new Scene Modes which automatically adjust settings to optimize performance for beginners. The Z 50 also boasts 120p slow-motion, time-lapse and interval timer capabilities, providing users even more creative freedom with their footage. Whats more, users can instantly share what they capture through a compatible smartphone using the cameras built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity via Nikons SnapBridge app. In addition to the new DX-format Z NIKKOR lenses announced alongside the camera, Z 50 users can utilize the full line of NIKKOR Z lenses or use compatible F-Mount NIKKOR lenses with the Mount Adapter FTZ to explore new perspectives.

Onda Onda is a CES 2020 Innovation Award winner in Robotics. A breakthrough for womens health, it is the first handheld, microrobotic massager to replicate the natural come hither motion of fingers to deliver a vaginal orgasm. Developed by women for women with a leading university lab, Onda has six patents pending in biomimicry, micro-robotics, mixed-compliant materials, mechatronic controls, and noise cancellation. It achieves human-like biomimetic motion in a miniaturized format by translating biological movement and anatomical data into mathematical models. Onda represents the smallest size to power ratio, ensuring 60+ minutes of run time, and comes programmed with the highest-rated, user-tested presets. Price: $TBD.

RoomMe Smart home devices are getting smarter, but only an intelligent home can identify when a user enters a room, who that user is, and then automatically adjust smart devices and settings based on a users personal preferences, all without a voice or touch command.

The personalized smart home experience of the future is possible with RoomMe, the first ever Personal Location Sensor (PLS) for the smart home. Rather than relying on basic motion events that todays motion and occupancy sensors do, RoomMe leverages the unique Bluetooth signature of a users smartphone to identify who that user is, what room they are in, and automatically adjust settings such as entertainment, lighting, temperature, and more to that specific users preferences. RoomMe is not a replacement for an existing smart home system but rather an enhancement to existing or future systems capable of adding all new levels of occupancy intelligence to the smart home.

RoomMes API can securely integrate with most smart home systems and drivers, both DIY and professionally installed. Currently, RoomMe works with many of the most popular DIY smart home systems, including Wink and HomeKit, as well as standalone devices, such as Philips Hue, LIFX, Sensibo, Bose, Sonos, and ecobee. RoomMe also works with the most popular professionally installed smart home systems, including Control4, RTI, URC, and Elan. Intellithings plans to continue to expand the list of systems RoomMe works with to give customers even more choice when it comes to enhancing their home.

RoomMe is safe and secure to use the system stores all automation rules directly on the smartphone app and does not accept external automation triggers or manual operation, so the product remains secure when integrated with these platforms. Each defined room can be controlled directly from the RoomMe app, and automations can be easily modified or deleted to fit the users needs. Because RoomMe relies on the unique Bluetooth signature of a smartphone to distinguish between users under the same roof, RoomMe does not collect or store any biometric data.

Samsung 8500 Front Load Washer Samsungs new WF8500V Front Load Washer delivers high performance, takes the guesswork out of laundry, makes the process less stressful and saves time. Its advanced Wi-Fi connectivity, smart voice control features via Galaxy mobile phones, large capacity and wide assortment of wash cycle options insures a laundry experience thats both personalized and powerful.

This washer is composed of three engineering enhancements BoostSpray, a larger drum size, and a Swirl+Drum pattern that shorten the wash cycle while spinning out clothes that are just as clean as a longer cycle. Smart Control monitors, controls and provides intelligent recommendations for the best possible wash depending on colors, fabric, and soil level. Voice control is available through a Galaxy mobile phone. And Samsungs SmartThings app can control the washer from anywhere.

The washer can accommodate big loads of laundry in its 5.0 cu ft. of capacity, one of the largest in the category. The machine is compliant with height requirements as specified by the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act), with a Samsung pedestal making it much easier to load/unload for users in a wheelchair. It also features audio assistance and braille, ideal for disabled or visually impaired users. The washer plays a different sound for each cycle, and a braille symbol affixed to the power and start/pause buttons helps those who are visually impaired more easily work the machine.

Samsung Air Purifier The Samsung Air Purifier AX9500 combats a prevalent but largely unseen problem in the home: impure air caused by the gases, dust, chemicals and odors inherent in everyday living. Its combination of noise-free airflow, a sophisticated filter, connected technology and flexible design make it a strong addition to any home concerned about the flow and quality of its air.

The Samsung Air Purifier offers the worlds first Wind-Free air purification system, dispersing airflow through a front-facing metal panel composed of 60,000 tiny holes. The purifier delivers an air current that is under 0.15 m/s defined as still air with no discernible draft by the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers. And unlike other purifiers, the Samsung model emits no cold air draft or noise.

In addition to emitting pure air, the Air Purifier captures dust particles through a multi-step HEPA purification system. A prefilter captures large particles like dander, pollen and dust mites. The Ultrafine Dust filter removes the finest air impurities that can damage the respiratory system at a 99.97% level of efficiency. A carbon deodorization filter reduces the number of harmful gases like formaldehyde. The Air Purifier can automatically sense the level of impurities in a room and adjust its power level accordingly.

The Samsung Air Purifier is also integrated with Samsung SmartThings, an eco-system and app that enables consumers to control and automate hundreds of compatible Samsung products and third party devices.

Samsung AirDresser Samsung Electronics, a leader in laundry innovation, drives new technology that not only meets the varied needs of todays homeowners but also makes mundane chores easier.

The Samsung AirDresser is a big step forward in laundry and a new way to care for clothes at home. Its exterior resembles a simple, attractive wardrobe unit with a full-length mirror on the front. But its interior includes advanced features which refresh and sanitize all types of garments. With its six clothes care cycles, AirDresser is not your typical steam closet. It isnt just for refreshing shirts and pants between trips to the dry cleaners. The AirDressers specialized cycles can handle a variety of fabrics and garments that are difficult to clean in a normal washer and dryer from leather jackets to down parkas and cashmere all with very little effort it even produces less noise and vibration than the average machine when in use.

The AirDresser is not just perfect for home use. It can easily be built into hotel closets and restaurants for travelers to take advantage of or can be installed in restaurant coat check rooms to prevent food odors from seeping into clothes, providing a value-add for patrons.

The Samsung AirDresser meets the on-the-go, ready-to-wear needs of todays homeowners with a new kind of laundry innovation that is versatile, smart and eco-friendly.

Samsung Family Hub for 2020 As the most used appliance in the homes most popular room (the kitchen), the refrigerator has long been the center of daily living. However, as life became more technologically advanced and connected, Samsung recognized the fridges potential to not just store food and beverages but take on a larger role in family life. The result was the Family Hub, which five years ago introduced new ways to manage food, connect with family, entertain and control your connected home.

This year, Family Hub takes another big step forward. With the Family Hub 5.0, advanced meal planning is more streamlined than ever, meaning less time preparing meals and more time enjoying them. Family connections have been expanded to include closer integration with your smartphone. Entertainment now includes not just TV, radio and the Internet, but smart phone content as well. And completely secure access to hundreds of Samsung SmartThings-compatible devices is now right at your fingertips.

The LED digital screen, a highly intuitive and personalized digital bulletin board, which tracks all aspects of family life. Embedded technologies like AI and Samsung Bixby voice activation make the experience easy and enjoyable. And software updates for all Family Hub devices from 2017 onward are now available.

Family Hub is the true hub of the modern home; it keeps the family connected, organized and entertained whether that is meal prep for Sunday dinner or organizing calendars for the week ahead.

Samsung Q950 The 85 8K Q950 boasts Samsungs QLED technology in addition to a brand new screen and audio features for unparalleled picture and sound that even rivals some soundbars.

The Q950 has bezels only .06 inches wide for a stunning all-screen display that lays flush against the wall. The black matrix that separates the on-screen image from the bezel is nearly invisible to further prevent distractions from the viewing experience. It also features Samsungs Ambient Mode including the new Wall Generation feature to make the screen blend almost transparently into the wall behind it or become a focal point of artwork, news headlines, and more.

Featuring the Next Generation Quantum Processor 8K, the Q950 improves upon last years Q900s AI upscaling capabilities that automatically upscale non-8K content to pristine 8K resolution. Whereas last years Quantum Processor used machine learning, this years model uses a hybrid of machine learning and deep learning to present even higher quality upscaling.

The Q950 also offers a local dimming technology Direct Full Array Elite to preserve the richness of black colors and guarantees anti-blooming by controlling dark areas of the screen with LEDs. Its 100% color volume and peak brightness of 4,000 nits promises pristine, lifelike images and unprecedented detail. A new Adaptive Picture feature also selectively lowers or heightens brightness in details, not the whole image, based on ambient lighting conditions.

With the Q950, Samsung is also changing the landscape of built-in TV audio by delivering virtual 5.1 channel surround sound that emanates from every part of the TV, including speakers in the back of the TV and along the bezel. Most stunning is the new Object Tracking Sound+ feature that creates a dynamic sound effect that immerses the viewer in high-quality sound from all directions. Additionally, the Q950 is compatible with 2020 Samsung Q soundbars to create the Samsung Symphony effect that utilizes the TVs built-in speakers as an additional channel for an extraordinary dynamic sound effect.

Samsung T7 Touch Portable SSD Consumers constantly on the go between work, play and passion projects want to be able to bring their content with them, securely. Samsungs Portable SSD T7 Touch, an external storage drive, delivers industry-leading transfer speeds and, for the first time, a built-in fingerprint sensor for improved security.

Security is paramount to consumers and is at the forefront of the T7 Touch. The drive introduces new fingerprint recognition technology that can recognize up to four fingerprints, so for those sharing the drive at work, the T7 Touch optimizes project collaboration while keeping files secure users can simply and quickly access data by holding their finger over the drives casing and an LED light indicates if the device is locked or unlocked. When the workday is over, users can easily download the newest season of a Netflix favorite without worrying about the need to delete other files or apps.

Only weighing about the same as two AA batteries, the T7 Touch can hold up to two terabytes of data, so content creators and professionals with a lot of data can count on the drives high capacity to store and access 4K video, photographs, video games and music files.

Growing storage demands means devices quickly lose space. The T7 Touch lets consumers free up other devices while still accessing files effortlessly, keeping them moving throughout their busy day. The T7 Touch is designed for different hardware with USB ports and operating systems, so users can enjoy the drives benefits across iOS, Windows and Android devices, such as mobile phones, tablets, laptops, video game consoles and more. The T7 Touch will be available at Samsung.com and select retailers in Q1 of 2020.

Samsung The Frame TV

Samsung is continuing to evolve The Frame TV, which has redefined the expectations surrounding TV by creating a groundbreaking platform for art and design in the home. The 2020 edition of The Frame adds new enhancements to picture quality and new customization options to further transform the look and feel of your home. Even better, The Frame will be available as small as 35 inches and as big as 75 inches resulting in a total of six different sizes for the perfect fit in the home.

The Frames 4K UHD resolution and Dual LED back panel ensure that it delivers some of the sharpest images on the market today. Meanwhile, the improved sensors on the bottom of the device help to optimize the image based on ambient light conditions.

Equally stunning is the design of The Frame itself which can blend into the space and offers enough color and bezel options to make it your own. New in 2020 are the beige and burgundy bezels, and with accessories like the No-Gap Wall Mount and One Invisible Connection, all eyes will be on The Frame rather than any cables.

At the same time, Art Mode 3.0 offers new features to get the most out of your Frame. With auto curation, you can get personalized recommendations based on your specific tastes from the more than 1,200 artwork options available.

Satisfyer Connect Satisfyer Connect is a brand-new high touch app that features haptic programming, motion sensing, multi-device integration and an interactive platform where distance has no bounds. Satisfyer Connect gives users the ability to create new vibration rhythms and patterns on top of pre-existing ones.

Shure AONIC 215 True Wireless Sound Isolating Earphone Shures new AONIC line includes the AONIC 215 True Wireless Sound Isolating Earphones, featuring tremendous sound quality in a small package with exceptional comfort and a secure fit for an uninterrupted, first-class experience. Engineered from decades of studio experience, the AONIC 215 boasts the long-term value and professional performance that the most discerning listeners demand. Shures AONIC earphones ensure that music lovers, audiophiles, and musicians will have the most premium listening experience on the train, in the gym, or at home.

All AONIC 215 True Wireless Sound Isolating Earphones come packaged with the True Wireless Secure Fit Adapter. This adapter also easily transforms any Shure SE Sound Isolating Earphones into true wireless. Equipped with Environment Mode, users can personalize how much they interact with and hear immediate surroundings via Shure iOS and Android apps, free apps that enables users to customize their own sound settings.

To stay true to Shures signature sound, the Companys team of acoustical engineers intentionally balanced the ambient sounds and acoustics found in the AONIC line to align with the latest Bluetooth codecs, which now accurately deliver Shures legendary audio quality in a wireless format. Additionally, Shure has decades of experience creating studio headphones and in-ear monitors for musicians on stage, understanding the significant role of long-term wearability in a consumers decision-making process and focusing heavily on a comfortable, secure fit that also lives up to the rigorous durability standards every Shure product must meet. Shure developed AONIC to exceed the industrys quality standards in every way.

Smart Mortise 2+ The igloohome Smart Mortise 2+ is a premium smart lock that provides the convenience of keyless access with the comfort of security. An all-in-one solution, it grants access via high-security fingerprint sensors, PIN codes, Bluetooth keys, and RFID credentials. It works in conjunction with the igloohome app, which allows for seamless property management from anywhere in the world. The smart lock also works offline thanks to our unique AlgoPIN technology, making it easy for users to generate time-sensitive PIN codes and Bluetooth keys for guests anytime, anywhere. Theres no need for the user to be near the lock to do this for it to understand that the access created is valid.

Our technology allows for the granting of access remotely (eg. when the property owner is away from their property), even though our products work offline. This is done via synchronisation and cryptography, similar to the banking tokens OTP.

Family members will not be locked out of the house again should they forget to bring their keys out. Busy professionals can give one-time PIN codes to cleaners so that they can tidy up the home even when the professionals are at work. Those who are travelling can allow a friend into their homes when they are away, to feed the pet, water the plants etc.

Because our products work offline, there is increased reliability against wifi disruption or hacking. Also, this reduces the costs involved, as they do not need to spend extra on external hub to connect to wifi, which could cost another USD $70 or more.

Using our unique AlgoPIN technology, guests do not need to download an app to unlock our devices, unlike most other Bluetooth locks. They can choose to use a PIN code, which can be sent to them via SMS, Whatsapp, email, or more, depending on the hosts choice of communication. Also, there is no need for the homeowner to sync the PIN codes with the lock within Bluetooth range for it to work. The added biometric mode of access also lets the homeowner in at the touch of a fingertip were making things smart with the human touch. The sensor used is anti-grease and suitable for all ages, it is also smart enough to adapt to your changing fingerprint pattern learning each ridge, whirl and valley pattern to ensure access is granted to the right person at the right time always.

The Smart Mortise 2+ uses durable and anti-rust materials to ensure the longevity of the product. It is built to withstand a life test of 500K cycles with IP65 certification for the lock to be resistant against light dust and rain exposure. Product features include a variety of hardware, software and firmware qualities with a stringent yet agile approach to bring the greatest value to the user.

Sony MASTER Series A9G Sonys flagship MASTER Series A9G BRAVIA OLED 4K HDR TV delivers unbelievable picture quality in a very slim form factor. With the built in X1 Ultimate, the A9G provides 4K HDR clarity and color approaching that of a professional-grade monitor. Along with a super wide viewing angle, precise contrast, absolute blacks, the Pixel Contrast Booster providing more color and contrast in bright areas, Netflix Calibrated Made and IMAX Enhanced, the A9G shows images and colors as they truly are, and as the creator intended. Additionally, Sonys Acoustic Surface Audio+ technology creates sound from the entire screen, providing pictures and sound in perfect harmony.

Soundcore Flare 2 The Soundcore Flare 2 is a Bluetooth speaker featuring Dual 10W 1.75-inch drivers and dual passive radiators. It runs for 12-Hours via a 5,200mAh battery, and feature two beat-driven light rings on either side of the speaker. Up to 10 Flare 2 speakers can be linked together via wireless for a synchronized light show and a louder performance.

The Soundcore Flare 2 will be available mid-late January, 2020 for $79.99.

Swann Security Tracker Camera The Swann Security Tracker Camera is the worlds first compact, non-mechanical pan-tilt security camera that includes Direction Detection. This technology uses Swanns innovative Light Flow Detection to automatically track moving objects without physically having to pan or tilt. The camera outputs a split-screen view with an image on the top thats 180 degrees wide, while a second zoomed-in image on the bottom follows the motion happening in the image on the top. The camera can be used indoors and comes standard with free recording to a 32GB MicroSD card.

All of Swanns wireless cameras are part of a complete security ecosystem built around the Swann Security app. This gives you a unique ability to control wired and wireless devices from multiple sites, stream live video, receive notifications and know whats happening at all times. With the Tracker Camera and the Swann Security app, you will enjoy complete security made smarter.

The Atms The Atms is a direct response to air pollution, a global problem that kills over 7m people annuallymore than cigarette smoking! The problem worsens each day and a better solution is desperately needed. A Air believes that clean air is a basic human right and we plan to be a part of the bigger solution. Personal protection masks in the market today are flawed. These masks rely upon a seal; something that is difficult to achieve and more difficult to maintain. In a recent study, 84% of users faced at least one issue with masks. A Airs patented no seal solution has been independently validated to provide up to 50x better protection from air pollution than leading products on the market today. The PostivAir systems provide clean, cool air for every breath. A Air is the first filtration product to inform users when they need protection, when they are protected, and what is in the air around them. A Airs revolutionary design was recognized by Fast Companys 2019 Innovation by Design awards.

Unagi E500 Scooter The Unagi Model One E500 Dual Motor Scooter, being unveiled at CES 2020, defies personal transportation expectations by delivering the lightest, most powerful premium scooter available today. Its innovative design and materials give riders the best looking and highest performing personal scooter with a unique blend of style, performance and function will get people where theyre going easily. At only 26 lbs with a one-of-a-kind patented stainless steel hinge system, its performance-plus-portability is unmatched. The pricing for the E5000, despite the battery and motor upgrades, will remain the same as the E450, to pass economies of scale back to the consumer.

The Unagi design team left no stone unturned in the engineering, design and materials leveraged to bring this one-of-a-kind scooter to market. With a Japanese carbon fiber frame available in four abrasion-resistant paint schemes, a single-piece machined aluminum deck with embedded silicon, magnesium alloy handlebars, and hollow-void structure tires, beauty has never delivered so well alongside such strong function and performance.

Powerful dual motors (250-watt at front and rear) deliver a top speed of 17 mph, and with 32 newton meters of torque to easily tackle hills with 15-degree inclines. Three drive modes (Beginner: first gear 9-11 mph; Advanced: second gear 13-15 mph; Professional: third gear, 15-17 mph) make it appealing to beginners and scooter-commuter-pros alike.

Unagis 26 lb. weight and patented stainless steel hinge system makes it ultra-portable. In addition, the brakes are completely electronic with a rear spoiler brake for SF-style hills and precision breaking, unlike some other scooters that also include manual hand brakes or disc brakes.

Venus Smart Makeup Mirror with Alexa Built-in Venus is a brand new innovative Device as Multi-Functional Smart Makeup Mirror with 7 Touchscreen LCD with Alexa built-in(Smart Display Speaker),Camera with Built-in shutter, equipped with 360 degree omni-directional Sound Speakers, Bluetooth/Wi-fi, two microphones and Table Mood Lamp, LED Ring Lights for Makeup, High definition Mirror,Anti-Finger print & Tempered Mirror, integrated Skin Diagnostic, AR Makeup, etc.

Zenbeats App Rolands Zenbeats App is an intuitive and inspiring music creation app that runs cross-platform and is free to access on Android, ChromeOS, iOS, Windows, and macOS devices, allowing anyone to be creativeanytime, anywhere. The acquisition of Open Labs award-winning Stagelight app serves as the foundation for Roland Zenbeats, highlighting Rolands ongoing investment in empowering artists, bringing the joy of creative experiences to everyone. With the latest update Zenbeats 1.1 adds multi-timbral subtrack support as well as support for the Roland A-88MKII MIDI 2.0 Keyboard Controller.

Roland has already received praise and awards for its intuitive and inspiring music creation app as a CES 2020 Innovation Award Honoree and Music & Sound Retailers 34th Annual Music & Sound Awards winner of Best Website/App.

Everyone from beginners to beatmakers and electronic musicians can create, share, and collaborate on songs with their friends using Roland Zenbeats, and the app is designed for all screen types, from mobile devices to notebooks and desktops. Kids, teens, and adults can easily begin making beats and entire songs with Zenbeats interactive and fun built-in lessons, while more experienced creators will enjoy exploring the apps expansive composition, collaboration, and production features.

Roland welcomes existing Stagelight users to download Zenbeats and continue their music-making journeys. Zenbeats also includes expressive onscreen instruments, 3rd party plugin integration including drag and drop support, collaborative jamming via Ableton Link, streamlined cloud support, and enhanced exporting options. Pricing options for Zenbeats include Free, Unlock, and Ultimate.

Zenbeats is available on most devices* including Chrome OS systems supporting Android apps, Android 4.4+, iOS 11+, macOS 10.7+ and Windows PCs running Windows 7 or higher with dual-core CPU or better, 2GB of RAM and 400MB of available storage and in English, Japanese, Spanish, French, and German.

Arplis - News source https://arplis.com/blogs/news/twice-picks-awards-winners-for-ces-2020

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