PLUGHITZ Live Presents (Audio)

PLUGHITZ Live

If you are looking for special events coverage of the International Consumer Electronics Show (CES), Anime Weekend Atlanta (AWA), or any other major convention around the country, look no further. The staff of PLUGHITZ Live travels all over the country to bring you news, reviews, and previews. Special shows air throughout the week of the events and can be found in this feed, as well as exclusive interviews and sneak, peeks right from the show floors. PLUGHITZ Live is a proud member of the Tech Podcasts Network and is part of the PLUGHITZ Live Family of content.

  1. VOR 20 STD.

    AIWA Brings Retro Audio Back to Life with Modern Bluetooth Speakers

    AIWA returns to CES with a product line that blends classic design with contemporary functionality. The company's latest audio systems draw heavily from the iconic look and feel of the 1980s and 1990s, an era when AIWA boomboxes and mini systems were staples in bedrooms, dorm rooms, and living spaces. This retro‑inspired lineup reflects a renewed cultural interest in physical media and vintage aesthetics, driven in part by the resurgence of cassette tapes, CDs, and analog radio among younger listeners. The design direction embraces authenticity rather than imitation. The products feature the same tactile controls, analog tuners, and visual cues that defined the original AIWA experience. At the same time, modern conveniences such as Bluetooth streaming ensure that the systems remain compatible with today's listening habits. This combination of nostalgia and practicality positions the lineup as both a tribute to the past and a functional audio solution for the present. Compact Retro Units with Cassette PlaybackThe smaller models in the lineup focus on cassette playback, AM/FM radio, and Bluetooth connectivity. These units recreate the aesthetic of classic portable stereos, complete with physical buttons, traditional antennas, and battery operation using C or D cells. The design supports the growing interest in analog listening while maintaining the flexibility of wireless streaming. The compact size and accessible price point make these models appealing to both nostalgic adults and younger users exploring physical media for the first time. The cassette mechanism is engineered to deliver reliable performance, reflecting AIWA's long history with tape‑based audio. The inclusion of Bluetooth ensures that users can switch seamlessly between analog and digital sources, supporting a wide range of listening preferences. Full‑Size Retro System with CD, Cassette, and VU MetersThe flagship model in the retro lineup expands the feature set with CD playback, cassette functionality, AM/FM radio, and Bluetooth streaming. The system incorporates analog VU meters that respond dynamically to audio levels, reinforcing the vintage aesthetic and providing a visual element reminiscent of classic home stereos. The analog tuner allows precise manual adjustment, supporting listeners who prefer the tactile experience of fine‑tuning radio stations. The system's design emphasizes authenticity, from the physical controls to the overall form factor. It is engineered to deliver a familiar user experience while integrating modern components that enhance reliability and audio performance. The unit is available now, with pricing positioned to make it accessible to a broad audience. Availability and Market PositionThe compact cassette‑focused models are scheduled for release in early Q3, with pricing targeted below fifty dollars. The full‑size retro system is already available at a price point of two hundred seventy‑nine dollars. Additional information and product updates are provided through AIWA's website, with select models also available through major online retailers. AIWA's approach reflects a broader trend toward blending retro design with modern functionality. By reintroducing classic audio formats alongside contemporary features, the company supports both nostalgic consumers and younger listeners discovering physical media for the first time. The lineup demonstrates how legacy brands can evolve while honoring the characteristics that made them memorable. ConclusionAIWA's retro‑inspired audio systems bring the look and feel of classic 80s and 90s devices into the modern era. With cassette and CD playback, analog radio, Bluetooth streaming, and authentic design elements, the lineup offers a compelling mix of nostalgia and practicality. As interest in physical media continues to grow, AIWA's products provide a familiar yet refreshed listening experience that resonates across generations. Interview by Scott Ertz of F5 Live: Refreshing Technology. Sponsored by: Get $5 to protect your credit card information online with Privacy. Amazon Prime gives you more than just free shipping. Get free music, TV shows, movies, videogames and more. Secure your connection and unlock a faster, safer internet by signing up for PureVPN today.

    6 Min.
  2. VOR 20 STD.

    Edifier Elevates Home and Studio Sound with New Speaker Lineup

    Edifier continues to refine its position in the consumer audio market by introducing products that blend high‑fidelity performance with modern connectivity. At CES 2026, the company presented new bookshelf speakers and a flagship studio monitor designed to elevate both entertainment and creative workflows. These additions reflect Edifier's ongoing commitment to delivering accessible, high‑quality sound for home theaters, gaming setups, and professional audio environments. The company's approach emphasizes versatility, allowing users to integrate premium audio into a variety of spaces without requiring complex equipment. By combining traditional acoustic engineering with contemporary digital features, Edifier supports listeners who want reliable performance across music, movies, and gaming. M90 Bookshelf Speakers with HDMI‑ARCOne of the key introductions is the M90, a bookshelf speaker system designed for both desktop and large‑screen use. Traditionally positioned as a computer‑focused speaker, the M90 now incorporates HDMI‑ARC connectivity, enabling direct integration with televisions. This addition allows the speakers to process audio from streaming platforms, gaming consoles, and media players while passing video through to the display. The HDMI‑ARC interface also supports volume synchronization, allowing users to control the speaker system through the television's remote. The M90 is engineered to deliver high‑resolution audio and supports advanced codecs such as LDAC. A subwoofer output is included for users who want to expand low‑frequency performance. The system is expected to be available in the first quarter of the year, with pricing anticipated in the mid‑three‑hundreds for the pair. XR6 Three‑Way Studio MonitorEdifier also previewed the XR6, a flagship studio monitor designed for creators and audio professionals. The monitor features a three‑way configuration with dedicated drivers for high, mid, and low frequencies. This structure supports improved clarity, detail, and separation across the full audio spectrum. The woofer is housed within a fully enclosed aluminum cabinet engineered to minimize errant vibration and resonance, contributing to a more accurate listening experience. The XR6 includes support for high‑resolution audio and Bluetooth 6 connectivity, offering flexibility for both wired and wireless workflows. A notable feature is the integrated automatic acoustic tuning system, which adjusts the monitor's output based on room size and acoustic characteristics. This capability allows users to achieve balanced sound without manual calibration. The XR6 is sold individually and is expected to launch in the first half of the year, with pricing targeted between four and five hundred dollars. Designed for Modern Listening EnvironmentsBoth the M90 and XR6 reflect Edifier's focus on delivering audio solutions that adapt to contemporary listening habits. The M90 supports home entertainment systems that rely on compact, high‑quality speakers rather than traditional soundbars. The XR6 addresses the needs of creators who require accurate monitoring for mixing, editing, and content production. Each product demonstrates a balance between aesthetic design, acoustic engineering, and user‑friendly functionality. Edifier's continued expansion into both consumer and professional audio categories highlights the company's commitment to innovation. By integrating advanced features such as HDMI‑ARC, high‑resolution codecs, and automated tuning, the brand supports users who want elevated sound without sacrificing simplicity. ConclusionEdifier's latest audio products showcase a thoughtful blend of performance, design, and modern connectivity. The M90 bookshelf speakers introduce HDMI‑ARC functionality for seamless integration with home entertainment systems, while the XR6 studio monitor offers precision audio supported by automatic room tuning. Together, these products reflect Edifier's dedication to delivering high‑quality sound experiences for both everyday listeners and creative professionals. Interview by Scott Ertz of F5 Live: Refreshing Technology. Sponsored by: Get $5 to protect your credit card information online with Privacy. Amazon Prime gives you more than just free shipping. Get free music, TV shows, movies, videogames and more. Secure your connection and unlock a faster, safer internet by signing up for PureVPN today.

    8 Min.
  3. VOR 20 STD.

    Smart Home Convenience Expanded with Energizer Connect Solutions

    Smart home technology continues to evolve as consumers seek devices that are easy to install, simple to manage, and capable of integrating seamlessly into daily routines. Energizer Connect focuses on delivering accessible smart home products that combine practical functionality with straightforward setup. The company's portfolio includes security cameras, smart locks, thermostats, and lighting solutions, all designed to operate through a single app‑based ecosystem. This approach supports homeowners who want to enhance convenience and security without complex wiring or professional installation. The brand's emphasis on DIY installation reflects a broader shift in the smart home market. Many consumers want the benefits of connected devices but prefer systems that can be installed quickly and managed without subscriptions or proprietary hubs. Energizer Connect addresses this need by offering products that pair directly with home Wi‑Fi networks and operate through a unified mobile application. Light‑Socket Cameras with Enhanced DetectionOne of the company's most distinctive offerings is its light‑socket security camera, designed to screw directly into a standard light fixture. This configuration eliminates the need for mounting hardware or electrical modifications, allowing users to install the device in minutes. The latest version features a 2K resolution camera, RGB LED lighting, and a 1,000‑lumen output that supports both illumination and visibility. The camera incorporates smart detection capabilities that distinguish between people, vehicles, and packages. This reduces unnecessary notifications triggered by pets, shifting shadows, or environmental movement. Infrared night vision supports visibility in low‑light conditions, enabling continuous monitoring throughout the day and night. The device connects to 5 GHz Wi‑Fi networks, offering improved performance and compatibility with modern routers. Smart Deadbolt with Multiple Access MethodsEnergizer Connect also introduces a smart deadbolt designed to enhance home entry without requiring structural changes to the door. The lock supports multiple access methods, including fingerprint recognition, keypad entry, mobile app control, key fobs, and traditional keys. Up to fifty fingerprints can be stored, allowing households to customize access for family members, guests, or service providers. The lock is engineered for standard deadbolt installations, enabling homeowners to replace existing hardware with minimal effort. Its integration with the Energizer Connect app allows users to monitor lock status, manage access credentials, and control entry remotely. This flexibility supports both everyday convenience and enhanced security for homeowners who want greater visibility into who enters their home. Smart Thermostat for Centralized Climate ControlThe company's smart thermostat expands the Energizer Connect ecosystem into home climate management. The device supports dual‑band Wi‑Fi connectivity and is designed to replace standard thermostats through familiar wiring configurations. Its touchscreen interface provides direct control over heating, cooling, and fan settings, while the mobile app enables remote adjustments from anywhere. The thermostat supports energy‑efficient scheduling and allows users to modify temperature settings before arriving home. This capability enhances comfort while reducing unnecessary energy consumption. By integrating climate control into the same app used for security and access devices, the system offers a cohesive smart home experience that reduces the need for multiple platforms. ConclusionEnergizer Connect advances smart home accessibility through devices designed for simple installation, reliable performance, and unified app control. The light‑socket camera, smart deadbolt, and smart thermostat reflect a commitment to practical innovation that supports everyday convenience and home security. As consumers continue to adopt connected technologies, solutions that emphasize ease of use and cohesive integration will play an increasingly important role in shaping the modern smart home. Interview by Scott Ertz of F5 Live: Refreshing Technology. Sponsored by: Get $5 to protect your credit card information online with Privacy. Amazon Prime gives you more than just free shipping. Get free music, TV shows, movies, videogames and more. Secure your connection and unlock a faster, safer internet by signing up for PureVPN today.

    8 Min.
  4. VOR 20 STD.

    Celebrating Innovation: Tech Podcasts Network Best of CES 2026 Awards

    Each year, the Tech Podcasts Network honors the most compelling innovations showcased at CES. The Best of CES Awards highlight companies whose technologies demonstrate exceptional creativity, real‑world impact, and forward‑looking vision. The 2026 awards span energy, health, wellness, wearables, and artificial intelligence, reflecting the diversity and ambition of this year's show. Five winners were selected by the hosts, production team, and the full TPN staff, each representing a different facet of technological progress. Commonwealth Fusion Systems - Scott Ertz's AwardScott Ertz of PLUGHITZ Live selected Commonwealth Fusion Systems for its work in advancing fusion energy. The company develops fusion power plants designed to deliver clean, carbon‑free energy through a fundamentally different process than traditional nuclear fission. Its approach uses compact, high‑field tokamak systems engineered to achieve net energy gain, a milestone long considered out of reach. The company's SPARC demonstration device, currently under assembly in Massachusetts, is expected to validate this capability. The award recognizes the significance of bringing fusion energy from theoretical ambition to practical engineering, marking a potential turning point in global energy development. Coroflo - Production Team AwardThe TPN production team selected Coroflo for its innovation in maternal and infant health. The company developed a smart nipple shield capable of measuring milk transfer during breastfeeding, addressing a long‑standing challenge for new parents and healthcare providers. The device offers real‑time insight into feeding volume, helping families understand whether infants are receiving adequate nutrition. This technology supports breastfeeding success during the critical early months of development and provides data that has historically been unavailable outside clinical environments. The award acknowledges the company's commitment to solving a deeply personal and widely experienced problem through thoughtful engineering. Hydrawav3 - Serge Velazquez's AwardSerge Velazquez of PLUGHITZ Live selected Hydrawav3 for its compact wellness device designed to support hydration and recovery. The system uses a portable form factor and user‑friendly interface to deliver wellness‑focused functionality intended for everyday use. The company's development process, which began as a small‑scale effort in Sedona, reflects a commitment to accessible health technology. The award recognizes the team's dedication to creating a device that blends practicality, portability, and wellness‑driven design, as well as the strong reception it received from attendees and potential partners during the show. Rokid - Don Baine's AwardDon Baine, The Gadget Professor, selected Rokid for its advanced smart glasses platform. The glasses integrate long‑battery‑life performance, real‑time translation, high‑quality audio, and extended video capture capabilities. A micro‑projector embedded in the frame enables heads‑up display functionality, including navigation overlays and contextual information. The glasses also support prescription lens integration, expanding accessibility for everyday use. The award highlights the company's achievement in delivering a wearable device that performs reliably across multiple use cases, demonstrating maturity in a category that has often struggled with durability, battery limitations, and inconsistent functionality. Algorized - TPN Best of CES 2026 Team AwardThe Tech Podcasts Network's collective Best of CES 2026 Award was presented to Algorized for its life‑detection artificial intelligence platform. The company develops models capable of identifying human presence through environmental sensing, enabling applications in rescue operations, autonomous systems, and safety‑critical environments. The technology supports scenarios where visibility is limited or obstructed, allowing machines to recognize human life even when traditional sensors cannot. The award reflects the team's belief that this capability represents a foundational advancement for physical AI, human‑machine interaction, and real‑world safety. The selection acknowledges both the technical achievement and the potential societal impact of deploying life‑sensing AI across industries. Conclusion The Tech Podcasts Network Best of CES 2026 Awards celebrate companies that push boundaries and address meaningful challenges through innovation. From clean energy and maternal health to wellness, wearables, and AI‑driven safety, this year's winners represent the breadth of creativity shaping the future of technology. Each award honors a distinct contribution to progress, reflecting the diverse and transformative spirit of CES.

    24 Min.
  5. VOR 20 STD.

    Outdoor Entertainment Elevated with Sylvox's New Frameless TV Series

    Outdoor entertainment has grown rapidly as homeowners and businesses look for ways to extend living and social spaces beyond traditional interiors. Sylvox focuses on creating televisions engineered specifically for outdoor environments, offering durability, brightness, and weather resistance that standard indoor displays cannot match. The company has become a leading online brand in the outdoor TV category, supported by a broad product lineup that includes bathroom TVs, kitchen displays, RV televisions, and portable models designed for flexible placement. The latest addition to the portfolio is the frameless outdoor TV series, which introduces a minimal‑bezel design intended to blend seamlessly into outdoor settings. The one‑millimeter bezel creates an immersive viewing experience by reducing visual distractions and allowing the screen to integrate naturally into patios, backyards, pool areas, and commercial outdoor spaces. This design reflects a growing trend toward sleek, modern aesthetics in outdoor living environments. Durability and Performance for All Weather ConditionsOutdoor televisions must withstand conditions that indoor displays are never exposed to. Sylvox designs its products to operate reliably across a wide temperature range, from extreme cold to intense heat. The units are engineered to remain structurally sound even when temperatures exceed the recommended operating range, ensuring long‑term durability in harsh climates. Weather resistance is built into every model, allowing the displays to remain outdoors year‑round without the need for protective enclosures or makeshift coverings. Brightness is another critical factor for outdoor viewing. Sylvox offers displays that reach up to 5,000 nits, significantly brighter than standard indoor televisions. This level of brightness ensures visibility in direct sunlight and reduces glare, making the screens suitable for daytime sports, movies, and outdoor gatherings. The combination of high brightness and weather‑resistant construction supports consistent performance regardless of environmental conditions. A Range of Series for Different Outdoor ExperiencesThe frameless series is part of a broader lineup designed to meet diverse outdoor entertainment needs. The cinema series supports backyard movie nights and outdoor home theaters, offering large‑format displays that recreate the experience of watching films under the stars. The gaming series features high refresh rates, including 120‑hertz models, enabling smooth gameplay in outdoor settings. These displays allow users to enjoy console gaming, live sports, and fast‑moving content without motion blur. Sylvox also offers portable outdoor televisions with integrated stands and wheels, allowing users to move the display easily between locations. This flexibility supports a variety of use cases, from backyard gatherings to poolside viewing. Commercial environments such as restaurants, bars, and event venues also benefit from the durability and brightness of Sylvox displays, which can withstand continuous outdoor exposure while maintaining visual clarity. Accessible Pricing Through Vertical IntegrationOutdoor televisions have historically been associated with high price points, limiting their adoption among everyday consumers. Sylvox addresses this challenge through vertical integration, managing its own supply chain and manufacturing processes. This approach allows the company to offer high‑performance outdoor displays at prices significantly lower than traditional competitors. The frameless series begins around three thousand dollars, positioning it at roughly half the cost of comparable models in the market. By focusing on affordability without compromising quality, Sylvox aims to make outdoor entertainment accessible to a wider audience. The company's presence across major online retailers and its strong performance in search rankings reflect growing consumer interest in outdoor living solutions. ConclusionSylvox continues to expand the outdoor entertainment landscape through innovative designs, durable construction, and accessible pricing. The frameless series introduces a modern aesthetic that enhances outdoor spaces, while high‑brightness displays and weather‑resistant engineering ensure reliable performance in any environment. With a diverse lineup that includes cinema, gaming, portable, and specialty televisions, Sylvox supports a wide range of outdoor and lifestyle applications. As outdoor living becomes an increasingly important part of home design, Sylvox remains a leading provider of technology that brings entertainment beyond the walls of the home. Sylvox televisions are available on Amazon. Interview by Scott Ertz of F5 Live: Refreshing Technology. Sponsored by: Get $5 to protect your credit card information online with Privacy. Amazon Prime gives you more than just free shipping. Get free music, TV shows, movies, videogames and more. Secure your connection and unlock a faster, safer internet by signing up for PureVPN today.

    11 Min.
  6. VOR 20 STD.

    Immersive Anime Character Experiences Through Gakugeki's VR Platform

    Anime fans have traditionally engaged with their favorite characters through screens, merchandise, and events, but direct interaction has remained out of reach. Gakugeki introduces a virtual reality platform designed to change that dynamic by allowing users to meet, speak with, and experience moments alongside licensed anime characters in immersive digital environments. The platform creates a new category of entertainment where characters are not simply viewed but encountered in a shared virtual space. The experience is built around VR headsets, beginning with support for Meta Quest devices. Users launch the Gakugeki application, select a character, and enter a virtual environment where real‑time interaction becomes possible. The platform is designed to support natural conversation, character‑driven responses, and shared activities such as taking photos or participating in themed events. This approach transforms passive fandom into an interactive encounter that feels personal and memorable. Licensed Characters and Authentic ExperiencesA defining aspect of Gakugeki's platform is its focus on licensed intellectual property. Rather than offering generic avatars, the company collaborates with Japanese entertainment partners to bring genuine characters into the virtual world. This includes well‑known titles such as Afro Samurai, with additional characters expected as partnerships expand. Each appearance is shaped by the guidelines of the IP holder, ensuring that interactions remain true to the character's personality, tone, and narrative boundaries. The platform is designed to support a wide range of conversational and experiential scenarios. While the technology enables open‑ended interaction, the specific nature of each encounter is determined by the rights holders. This ensures that the experience remains authentic while respecting the creative integrity of the original works. The result is a system that balances technological freedom with responsible stewardship of beloved characters. Event‑Based Access and MonetizationGakugeki's business model is structured around event‑based access rather than character ownership. The application itself is free to download, and users can explore the platform before choosing to participate in specific experiences. When a user wishes to meet a particular character, they purchase access to that encounter, similar to buying a ticket for a live event. This model emphasizes the value of the experience rather than the acquisition of digital assets. Events may include one‑on‑one meetings, photo sessions, or live 3D performances, each designed to create a sense of presence and connection. This approach mirrors real‑world fan interactions such as meet‑and‑greets or convention appearances, but with the added flexibility and immersion of virtual reality. By focusing on experiential moments, the platform offers something distinct from traditional digital goods or avatar‑based systems. Launch Timeline and Platform AvailabilityGakugeki is preparing for a public release scheduled for May 2026. The initial launch will support Meta Quest headsets, including Quest 2, Quest 3, and Quest Pro. Future expansion to additional VR platforms may follow based on user adoption and market response. The company views this release as the beginning of a broader entertainment ecosystem where fans can engage with characters in ways that were previously impossible. The platform's introduction at CES highlights the growing intersection of virtual reality, entertainment, and fan culture. As VR adoption increases and content libraries expand, immersive character interaction is positioned to become a new form of digital engagement for global audiences. ConclusionGakugeki offers a new approach to anime fandom by enabling immersive, interactive encounters with licensed characters in virtual reality. Through authentic partnerships, event‑based experiences, and a focus on meaningful interaction, the platform transforms how fans connect with the stories and personalities they love. As it prepares for launch, Gakugeki represents a significant step toward the future of character‑driven entertainment. Interview by Scott Ertz of F5 Live: Refreshing Technology. Sponsored by: Get $5 to protect your credit card information online with Privacy. Amazon Prime gives you more than just free shipping. Get free music, TV shows, movies, videogames and more. Secure your connection and unlock a faster, safer internet by signing up for PureVPN today.

    11 Min.
  7. VOR 3 TAGEN

    Value-Driven Mobile Design and Digital Simplicity from Unnecto

    The mobile phone market is dominated by a small group of global brands, yet there remains a growing demand for devices that prioritize practicality, affordability, and simplicity. Unnecto focuses on value‑oriented mobile phones designed to deliver essential features without the cost or complexity associated with flagship devices. The company operates across the Americas, with a presence in the United States, South America, and the Caribbean, and develops products informed by direct feedback from local markets. Unnecto's strategy centers on creating devices that serve real‑world needs rather than competing in the high‑end specification race. This includes offering 5G connectivity, eSIM support, NFC, large batteries, and generous storage in its Android smartphones. The emphasis is placed on usability and reliability, ensuring that customers receive meaningful functionality rather than features that inflate cost without improving everyday experience. Meeting the Needs of Diverse MarketsIn South America and the Caribbean, Unnecto focuses on delivering accessible smartphones that balance performance and affordability. These markets often require durable devices with long battery life, strong connectivity, and practical features suited to daily communication and media use. Unnecto's local presence allows the company to adapt quickly to regional preferences and tailor devices to specific market conditions. In the United States, the company targets a different set of users. The market is heavily influenced by premium brands, making it challenging for new entrants to compete directly. Instead, Unnecto appeals to customers seeking alternatives to high‑priced smartphones, individuals transitioning to Android for the first time, and users who want a simpler, less distracting mobile experience. This includes consumers who are intentionally stepping back from constant notifications and app‑driven engagement. The Snap: A Modern Feature Phone with a Physical KeyboardOne of Unnecto's most distinctive products is the Snap, a foldable feature phone equipped with a physical QWERTY keyboard. The device is designed for users who prefer tactile typing or who want a streamlined communication tool without the distractions of a modern smartphone. The keyboard offers satisfying travel and responsiveness, creating a familiar experience reminiscent of earlier mobile devices while maintaining a compact, pocket‑friendly form factor. The Snap appeals to two primary groups. The first includes users who appreciate the nostalgia and efficiency of a physical keyboard. The second consists of younger consumers seeking digital balance. Many in this demographic are adopting simpler phones as secondary devices for nights out, travel, or periods of intentional disconnection. The Snap supports calling, texting, a basic camera, dual SIM functionality, and a microSD slot, but it does not include an app store or social media applications. This design encourages communication without the constant pull of algorithm‑driven content. Practicality, Affordability, and Everyday UseThe Snap's affordability is a key part of its appeal. Priced at around seventy dollars, it offers a durable build, a textured exterior for comfortable grip, and a hinge designed for repeated use. The device is available unlocked and compatible with T‑Mobile and its subsidiary carriers, as well as major online retailers. Its simplicity makes it suitable as a primary phone for users seeking minimalism or as a secondary device for situations where a high‑value smartphone may be impractical. Unnecto's broader product line follows the same philosophy: devices built to be functional tools rather than status symbols. By focusing on essential features, long battery life, and accessible pricing, the company provides alternatives for consumers who want reliable communication without unnecessary complexity. ConclusionUnnecto brings a practical, user‑focused perspective to the mobile phone market through value‑driven smartphones and thoughtfully designed feature phones. The Snap exemplifies this approach by offering a modern take on the classic QWERTY device, supporting communication while reducing digital noise. As consumers increasingly seek balance between connectivity and simplicity, Unnecto's products provide meaningful options that align with evolving expectations around mobile technology. Interview by Scott Ertz of F5 Live: Refreshing Technology. Sponsored by: Get $5 to protect your credit card information online with Privacy. Amazon Prime gives you more than just free shipping. Get free music, TV shows, movies, videogames and more. Secure your connection and unlock a faster, safer internet by signing up for PureVPN today.

    15 Min.
  8. VOR 3 TAGEN

    Sustainable Material Innovation Advancing Automotive Design at Covestro

    As automotive design evolves, manufacturers increasingly rely on advanced materials to reduce weight, improve durability, and support sustainability goals. Covestro focuses on developing polycarbonate‑based solutions that replace heavier metals, enhance surface performance, and enable circular manufacturing practices. These innovations support automakers seeking to improve efficiency, reduce environmental impact, and deliver premium experiences to consumers. Material selection plays a critical role in modern vehicle engineering. Components must withstand demanding thermal, mechanical, and environmental conditions while meeting strict cost and performance requirements. Covestro's approach combines raw material expertise with process development, allowing the company to collaborate closely with OEMs and suppliers to create next‑generation components that are lighter, safer, and more sustainable. Lightweight Thermal‑Conductive PolycarbonateOne of Covestro's key developments is a thermally conductive polycarbonate designed to replace aluminum and magnesium heat sinks. While metals traditionally offer superior thermal conductivity, polycarbonate provides advantages in emissivity, enabling effective heat dissipation through alternative mechanisms. This balance allows the material to deliver comparable thermal performance while significantly reducing weight. The use of polycarbonate in heat‑management components supports improved energy efficiency in both automotive and electronic applications. Lighter parts contribute to reduced vehicle mass, which can enhance range and performance in electric vehicles. The material also supports cost reduction by simplifying manufacturing processes and lowering material expenses. These benefits demonstrate how material science can unlock new design possibilities without compromising functionality. Self‑Healing Coatings for Premium SurfacesCovestro has also developed a direct‑coating technology applied to polycarbonate lenses and exterior panels. This coating provides a high‑gloss, premium finish while offering self‑healing properties. When the surface is scratched, heat can be applied to restore its appearance, extending the lifespan of the component and maintaining a like‑new finish. This technology is already in production on vehicles such as the BMW i7, where it enhances both aesthetics and durability. The coating reduces the need for traditional painting or hard‑coating processes, lowering manufacturing costs and minimizing scrap caused by surface defects. By enabling repairability and long‑term visual quality, the solution supports both consumer satisfaction and sustainable manufacturing practices. Circular Materials Through Tire‑to‑Polycarbonate RecyclingA significant advancement in Covestro's sustainability portfolio is the chemical recycling of end‑of‑life tires. Through a specialized process, the rubber from used tires is broken down and converted into virgin‑quality polycarbonate. This material can then be used in applications requiring optical clarity, including headlamp lenses and other transparent components. The recycling process separates metal reinforcements, fabric layers, and contaminants, ensuring that only the usable rubber is transformed into new material. The high yield of this method makes it one of the most efficient recycling pathways for tires, addressing a long‑standing environmental challenge. By converting waste into high‑value polycarbonate, Covestro supports circularity and reduces reliance on fossil‑based raw materials. ConclusionCovestro advances automotive design through innovative polycarbonate materials, self‑healing coatings, and circular recycling technologies. By reducing weight, improving durability, and enabling sustainable manufacturing, the company provides solutions that align with the evolving needs of modern mobility. These developments demonstrate how material science can enhance performance while supporting environmental responsibility across the automotive value chain. Interview by Scott Ertz of F5 Live: Refreshing Technology. Sponsored by: Get $5 to protect your credit card information online with Privacy. Amazon Prime gives you more than just free shipping. Get free music, TV shows, movies, videogames and more. Secure your connection and unlock a faster, safer internet by signing up for PureVPN today.

    13 Min.

Info

If you are looking for special events coverage of the International Consumer Electronics Show (CES), Anime Weekend Atlanta (AWA), or any other major convention around the country, look no further. The staff of PLUGHITZ Live travels all over the country to bring you news, reviews, and previews. Special shows air throughout the week of the events and can be found in this feed, as well as exclusive interviews and sneak, peeks right from the show floors. PLUGHITZ Live is a proud member of the Tech Podcasts Network and is part of the PLUGHITZ Live Family of content.