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EQS with unique MBUX Hyperscreen: the big in-car cinema: An assistant for the driver and front passenger who is constantly learning, thanks to artificial intelligence

EQS with unique MBUX Hyperscreen: the big in-car cinema: An assistant for the driver and front passenger who is constantly learning, thanks to artificial intelligence

intelligencintelligence

Stuttgart, January 07, 2021

Visually impressive, radically easy to operate and extremely eager to learn: the MBUX Hyperscreen is one of the highlights in the EQS.  It represents the emotional intelligence of the all-electric upper-class model: The large, curved screen unit stretches almost the entire width from the left to the right A-pillar. In addition to its sheer size, the high-quality, detail-loving design also provides a “wow” effect. This aesthetic high-tech look is the emotional dimension of the MBUX hyperscreen. Added to this is artificial intelligence (AI): With software capable of learning, the display and operating concept adapts completely to its user and makes personalised suggestions for numerous infotainment, comfort and vehicle functions. Thanks to the so-called zero layer, the user does not have to scroll through submenus or give voice commands. The most important applications are always offered in a situational and contextual way at the top level in view. In this way, numerous operating steps are taken away from the EQS driver. And not only him: The MBUX Hyperscreen is also an attentive assistant for the passenger. It receives its own display and operating area.

MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) has radically simplified the operation of a Mercedes-Benz. Unveiled in 2018 in the current A-Class, there are now more than 1.8 million Mercedes-Benz passenger cars equipped with it on the roads worldwide. The Van division is also relying on MBUX. A few months ago the second generation of this learn-capable system debuted in the new S-Class. The next big step now follows in the form of the new EQS and the optionally available MBUX Hyperscreen.

“With our MBUX Hyperscreen, a design vision becomes reality” says Gorden Wagener, Chief Design Officer Daimler Group. “We merge technology with design in a fascinating way that offers the customer unprecedented ease of use. We love simplicity, we have reached a new level of MBUX.”

“The MBUX Hyperscreen is both the brain and nervous system of the car”, says Sajjad Khan, Member of the Board of Management of Mercedes-Benz AG and CTO. “The MBUX Hyperscreen continually gets to know the customer better and delivers a tailored, personalised infotainment and operating offering before the occupant even has to click or scroll anywhere.”

Electrifying appearance with emotional visualization

The MBUX Hyperscreen is an example of digital/analogue design fusion: several displays appear to blend seamlessly, resulting in an impressive, curved screen band. Analogue air vents are integrated into this large digital surface to connect the digital and physical world.

The MBUX Hyperscreen is surrounded by a continuous plastic front frame. Its visible part is painted in an elaborate three-layer process in “Silver Shadow”. This coating system achieves a particularly high-quality surface impression due to extremely thin intermediate layers. The integrated ambient lighting installed in the lower part of the MBUX Hyperscreen makes the display unit appear to float on the instrument panel.

The passenger also has its own display and operating area, which makes travel more pleasant and entertaining. With up to seven profiles, it is possible to customize the content. However, the entertainment functions of the passenger display are only available during the journey within the framework of the country-specific legal regulations. If the passenger seat is not occupied, the screen becomes a digital decorative part. In this case, animated stars, i.e. the Mercedes-Benz Pattern, are displayed.

For a particularly brilliant image, OLED technology is used in central and passenger displays. This is where the individual image points are self-luminous; non-controlled image pixels remain switched off, which means that they appear deep black. The active OLED pixels, on the other hand, radiate with high color brilliance, resulting in high contrast values, regardless of the angle of view and the lighting conditions.

This electrifying display appearance goes hand in hand with emotionally appealing visualisation. All the graphics are styled in a new blue/orange colour scheme throughout. The classic cockpit display with two circular instruments has been reinterpreted with a digital laser sword in a glass lens.

Thanks to its clear screen design with anchor points, the MBUX Hyperscreen is intuitive and easy to operate. An example of this is the display style EV mode. Important functions of the electric drive such as boost or recuperation are visualized in a new way, with a spatially moving clasp, and thus made tangible. A lens-shaped object moves between these clamps. It follows gravity and thus depicts the G-Force forces impressively and emotionally.

Personalised suggestions with the aid of artificial intelligence

Infotainment systems offer numerous and comprehensive functions. Several operating steps are often required to control them. In order to further reduce these interaction steps, Mercedes-Benz has developed a user interface with context-sensitive awareness with the help of artificial intelligence.

The MBUX system proactively displays the right functions at the right time for the user, supported by artificial intelligence (see below for examples). The context-sensitive awareness is constantly optimised by changes in the surroundings and user behaviour. The so-called zero-layer provides the user at the top level of the MBUX information architecture with dynamic, aggregated content from the entire MBUX system and related services.

Mercedes-Benz has investigated the usage behaviour of the first MBUX generation. Most of the use cases fall in the Navigation, Radio/Media and Telephony categories the navigation application is therefore always at the center of the screen unit with full functionality.

Over 20 further functions – from the active massage programme through the birthday reminder, to the suggestion for the to-do list – are automatically offered with the aid of artificial intelligence when they are relevant to the customer. “Magic Modules” is the in-house name the developers have given to these suggestion modules, which are shown on the zero-layer.

Here are four use cases. The user can accept or reject the respective suggestion with just one click:

  • If you always call a certain friend on the way home on Tuesday evenings, you will be asked to make a corresponding call on that day of the week and at this time of day. A business card with its contact information appears, and – if stored – its image appears. All MBUX suggestions are linked to the user’s profile. If someone else drives the EQS on a Tuesday night, this recommendation is not made – or there is another, depending on the preferences of the other user.
  • If the EQS driver regularly uses the massage function according to the hot stone principle in winter, the system learns and automatically suggests the comfort function in wintry temperatures.
  • If the user regularly switches on the heating of the steering wheel and other surfaces for seat heating, for example, this is suggested to him as soon as he presses the seat heating.
  • The chassis of the EQS can be lifted to provide more ground clearance. A useful function for steep garage entrances or sleep policemen. MBUX remembers the GPS position at which the user made use of the “Vehicle Lift-Up” function. If the vehicle approaches the GPS position again, MBUX independently proposes to lift the EQS.

Interesting facts & figures

With the MBUX Hyperscreen, several displays appear to merge seamlessly, resulting in an impressive 141-centimetre wide and curved screen band. The area that passengers can experience is 2,432.11 cm2.

The large glass cover display is curved three-dimensionally in the moulding process at temperatures of approx. 650°C. This process allows a distortion-free view of the display unit across the entire width of the vehicle, irrespective of the display cover radius.

To get to the most important applications, the user must scroll through 0 menu levels. That’s why Mercedes-Benz calls this zero layer.

There are a total of 12 actuators beneath the touchscreen for haptic feedback during operation. If the finger touches certain points there, they trigger a tangible vibration in the cover plate.

Two coatings of the cover plate reduce reflections and make cleaning easier. The curved glass itself consists of particularly scratch-resistant aluminium silicate.

The safety measures include predetermined breaking points alongside the side outlet openings as well as five holders which can yield in a targeted manner in a crash thanks to their honeycomb structure.

8 CPU cores, 24-gigabyte RAM and 46.4 GB per second RAM memory bandwidth are some of the MBUX technical specifications.

With the measurement data of a 1 multifunction camera and also 1 light sensor the brightness of the screen is adapted to the ambient conditions.

With up to seven profiles, the display section can be individualised for the front passenger.

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SONY – BRAVIA XR MASTER Series Z9J – 8K

BRAVIA XR MASTER Series Z9J

See the world with extraordinary 8K clarity

Traditionally new TV sets focus on resolution, or backlighting, or some other tangible feature. Sony’s 2021 lineup focuses on something else entirely: processing. Dubbed the Cognitive Processor XR, the chip inside these new sets divides the screen into numerous zones and detects where the “focal point” is in the picture  mimicking how the human brain works  adjusting elements like color, contrast, and detail to deliver the best picture possible.

 

XR Picture

Enjoy 8K pictures that feel deep, natural, and real. Our revolutionary processor uses human perspective analysis to cross-analyze and optimize hundreds of thousands of elements in the blink of an eye. Combined with the precision of a Full Array LED panel, pictures pop from the screen with deep blacks and ultra-bright light.

XR Color

See colors that are natural and beautiful to the human eye. The Cognitive Processor XR enables our unique display to access a wider palette and reproduce each color with the subtle differences seen in the real world. With extended hue and saturation, vivid shades, and realistic texture can be seen in the flowers. Even pale colors look realistic.

XR Triluminos Pro™

Powered by our Cognitive Processor XR, this TV reproduces color it in a way that humans find beautiful. See a wider palette of colors with an enhanced range of hue and saturation, allowing natural shades and precise details to be seen, even in dark scenes.

Dubbed the Cognitive Processor XR, the chip inside these new sets divides the screen into numerous zones and detects where the “focal point” is in the picture  mimicking how the human brain works  adjusting elements like color, contrast, and detail to deliver the best picture possible.  The new chip will be available across a wide range of Sony’s 2021 sets, from the flagship 8K LED Master Series Z9J to the 4K X92.

XR Contrast

Feel breathtaking contrast, just as in real life. Our Cognitive Processor XR cross-analyzes data, enhancing picture quality in the same way that the human eye focuses for real life color and depth. With XR Contrast Booster, bright areas are brighter and dark areas darker—no more details overwhelmed by shadow or lost in blown-out highlights.

XR Contrast Booster 15

By precisely balancing light output across the screen, dimming some areas and boosting others, XR Contrast Booster adjusts brightness for higher peaks in glare and deeper blacks in shadow. As bright areas are brighter and dark areas darker, scenes look more real with extra depth and detail.

XR HDR Remaster

With XR HDR Remaster, this TV can detect each object on screen, analyze its color and adjust contrast for even more realistic pictures. Object-based processing powered by BRAVIA XR™ takes precision to a whole new level by adding adjustment of hue, saturation, brightness, motion vector, bandwidth and more. The result is exceptionally real scenes with greater depth, lifelike textures, and natural colors.

XR Clarity

Whatever the content or source, you’ll enjoy entertainment close to 8K resolution with XR 8K Upscaling. Our Cognitive Processor XR accesses a vast amount of data, intelligently recreating lost textures and detail for real-world pictures. See details such as naturally defined feathers and sharply outlined claws

XR 8K Upscaling

Powered by our Cognitive Processor XR, this TV takes 2K or 4K signals close to true 8K quality for incredibly real and immersive viewing. XR 8K Upscaling accesses and utilizes a vast amount of data, analyzing patterns in scenes and recreating subtle details

8K XR Super Resolution

XR Super Resolution detects individual objects in a picture and reproduces virtually real-world textures on screen. Our BRAVIA XR processor precisely analyzes and processes data to power 8K pictures with four times the resolution of 4K for scenes rich in depth, texture and detail

8K XR Smoothing

XR Smoothing creates smooth, natural 8K pictures as you watch, without the “banding” that can occur on other TVs. Scenes are reproduced with thousands of tones, shades, and gradations, making them look incredibly real.

XR Motion

Watching sports and fast-moving movies just got a whole lot better. Our Cognitive Processor XR with XR Motion Clarity™ cross-analyzes data to ensure action stays smooth, bright, and clear with no blur.

XR Motion Clarity

On some screens, sports, and fast-action scenes can seem to go by in a blur. Our latest LED XR X-Motion Clarity™ technology keeps everything smooth, bright, and clear. Each ‘blink’ is individually controlled and its duration optimized, while brightness is boosted when needed, so you won’t miss a thing.

X-Anti Reflection

It’s sometimes difficult to watch dark movies in a bright room due to screen reflection. X-Anti Reflection reduces glare caused by sun- or lamplight so you can see pure blacks in brightness and enjoy clear pictures without distraction.

X-Wide Angle™

Watching TV from the sides is now as satisfying as from the center. Sony’s original optical design to control light from the backlight, the X-Wide Angle panel ensures colors stay true from wherever you’re watching.

4K/120fps

Get the edge on the competition with BRAVIA. With HDMI2.1 you can get a 120fps frame rate on compatible games, so you’ll have the advantage in shooting, sports, and high-performance games with instant on-screen action. You’ll also enjoy ultra-smooth gaming with reduced input lag less than 8.5 ms with 4K/120fps and dedicated Game Mode

XR Sound Position

For an audio experience that matches how we sense the world, XR Sound Position brings you the reality of sound behind the picture. With a vibrating frame tweeter on this BRAVIA XR 8K TV, sound follows action for a truly immersive experience.

Acoustic Multi-Audio™

Our Acoustic Multi-Audio technology includes frame tweeters to ensure high-frequency sounds come from the right place in the scene, exactly where the action is happening. With front-facing subwoofers, you’ll enjoy powerful bass, no matter where you place your TV.

XR Surround

With BRAVIA XR, everything you watch gets the true surround-sound treatment. XR Surround creates surround sound from the sides and vertically so you can experience 3D audio without the need for in-ceiling or up-firing speakers.

3D Surround Upscaling

Our BRAVIA XR signal processing technology enables this TV to reproduce multi-dimensional sound for a truly immersive experience. Feel the sound surround you, not only from left and right but also from a vertical dimension. With 3D Surround Upscaling, you can experience the cinematic thrills of latest audio formats such as Dolby Atmos® at home, as well as enjoying vertical surround with content not compatible with Dolby Atmos.

Google TV

Browse 700,000+ movies and TV episodes, plus live TV, from across your streaming services, all in one place and organized into topics and genres based on what interests you.

Voice Search

Find your favorite content faster than ever using the power of your voice. With Voice Search, there’s no more complicated navigation or tiresome typing — you just have to ask.

Google Assistant

Your TV is more helpful than ever. Use your voice to find movies, stream apps, play music, and control the TV. Ask Google to find a specific title, search by genre, or get personalized recommendations by saying, “what should I watch?” Even get answers like sports scores, control smart-home devices, and more. Talk to Google to get started.

Works with Hey Google

Connect to a Google Assistant-enabled device for hands-free control of your Sony TV. You can find and cast your favorite videos to your Sony TV, all with just your voice. Just start with, “Hey Google.”

Works with Apple AirPlay / Apple HomeKit

With Apple AirPlay, you can stream video and audio to your television right from your iPhone, iPad, or Mac. Watch movies and shows from Apple TV app, your favourite apps, or even Safari. Share your photos with everyone in the room.

Chromecast built-in

Chromecast lets you cast your favorite videos, games, and apps from your mobile device, in full quality, to your Chromecast built in TV. Just one tap of the Cast button on your Android or iOS screen is all you need to supersize the things you love. Cast your content then continue browsing on your phone or tablet.

Smart remote

All your connected devices can be controlled with our smart commander. One button access to video on-demand services brings shows and movies into your room in seconds.

Backlit remote

Premium-design remote in brushed aluminum with hairline finish feels good in the hand and harmonizes with your living room. See keys in the dark with an integrated backlight—ideal for changing volume or settings while watching movies at night

Three-way multi-position stand

A 3-way multi-position stand gives you the choice of a standard setting that focuses you on the picture, narrow setting for smaller shelves and soundbar setting for ideal positioning of your sound system.

Metal Flush Surface

The premium look metal bezel is extremely narrow so your eyes naturally focus on the picture, not what’s around it.

Cable management

A concealed cable track keeps wires neatly hidden so your television stays free of clutter and looks good from the front, the sides, and the back.

Living Decor

Our Living Decor turns your TV into an essential part of your living space with on-screen artwork, personal photos, screensaver themes, and clock functions.

Light and Color Sensor

When the hue of a light source in a room changes, for example between cool and warm, colors of the TV picture change accordingly and can become unnatural. This TV includes an RGB light sensor that optimizes color and brightness of the picture to the light source and room environment.

Acoustic Auto Calibration

No matter where you’re sitting, this TV detects your position and optimizes sound so you’ll enjoy the same sound quality as if you’re sitting right in front of the TV. Sound can change depending on your room environment. Curtains, for example, absorb sound while objects in front of the TV can disturb the passage of sound, compromising the quality of what you hear. This TV detects objects and reproduces sound that’s enhanced and optimized to your room.

Netflix Calibrated Mode

This mode was specially developed to enjoy Netflix originals and reproduce the same picture quality on a TV as on a studio evaluation master. With Netflix Calibrated Mode, the creator’s vision and intent is faithfully preserved.

IMAX Enhanced

This Sony 8K smart TV is an IMAX Enhanced product, ready to meet high-quality color, contrast, clarity and sound. Take comfort in knowing you’ll be enjoying a fully immersive at-home entertainment experience on this TV that takes full advantage of IMAX Enhanced content.

Dolby Vision® and Dolby Atmos®

Enjoy cinematic thrills at home. Dolby Vision® brings scenes vividly to life for authentic viewing, while Dolby Atmos® fills the room with immersive surround sound.

BRAVIA CORE™

A huge number of movies are included and waiting for you. With BRAVIA XR technology, Pure Stream, and IMAX Enhanced, everything you watch is delivered with stunning visuals and expressive sound quality

Pricing and availability info will be announced in spring 2021.

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Apple Fitness+: The next era of fitness is here, and everyone’s invited

Apple Fitness+: The next era of fitness is here, and everyone’s invited

Work out any time, anywhere, with the first fitness experience built around Apple Watch

Apple Fitness+,built around Apple Watch, is available today.
Apple Fitness+, the first fitness experience built around Apple Watch, is available today, bringing inclusive and welcoming studio-style workouts to iPhone, iPad, and Apple TV so users can work out anytime, anywhere. Fitness+ intelligently and seamlessly incorporates key workout metrics users love from Apple Watch directly to iPhone, iPad, and Apple TV alongside inspiring workout content for an unparalleled, highly personalized, immersive experience, set to motivating music from the world’s top artists. Whether users are looking for a daily routine, want to try something new, know what they like to do, or are just getting started, Fitness+ offers workouts for everyone from a team of celebrated, charismatic, and passionate trainers who are specialists in their fields, and are inspired to coach all levels, from beginners to fitness enthusiasts. All of the workouts also include a trainer demonstrating modifications, so there’s always someone to follow, no matter a user’s ability.
The Fitness+ trainers are a diverse, inclusive, and approachable team made up of people with their own unique and inspiring story.
Apple Fitness+ offers 10 different workouts types across a range of durations, including: High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT), Strength, Yoga, Dance, Core, Cycling, Treadmill (for running and walking), Rowing, and Mindful Cooldown — along with inspiring music from today’s top artists, thoughtfully chosen for each workout to keep users moving and motivated. For those not sure what to do on any given day, Fitness+ recommends workouts based on what they already enjoy doing so they can jump right in with something familiar, try something new, discover a new trainer, or find a workout to complement their current routine. They can also use the intuitive filter to choose the trainer, time, workout, and music to fit their mood, and in seconds, they’ll be on their way to their next great workout.
For people who are just starting out, trying a new workout type, or getting back into exercise, Absolute Beginner workouts provide expert guidance through the basics of HIIT, Strength, Core, and Yoga as an option to prepare for the weekly studio workouts.
Integration with Apple Watch, combined with the ease of discovering great workouts for all ability levels, the welcoming trainer team, motivating music, and the convenience to workout anywhere on Apple devices truly makes Fitness+, fitness for all.
Apple Fitness+ intelligently incorporates workout metrics from Apple Watch for a first-of-its-kind personalized and immersive workout experience.

The Fitness+ trainers are a diverse, inclusive, and approachable team made up of people with their own unique and inspiring story. They are specialists in their field, and are passionate about helping people achieve their fitness goals. Here’s what they are most excited about:

Jessica Skye (Yoga, Mindful Cooldown)
“We’re here to support everyone on their fitness journey. There’s no prerequisite with Fitness+, everyone’s going to be coming from a different place, and everyone is welcome here.”
Sam Sanchez (Strength, Core, Treadmill)
“Users will have a really personal experience with Fitness+. The user’s Apple Watch metrics come to life on their screen during pivotal moments in their workout, so they’re a really powerful tool for motivation and we love incorporating them into our workout design.”
Betina Gozo (Strength, Core)
“We have Absolute Beginner workouts that are focused on getting everyone moving, even if you have never worked out or are coming back from a long break. Just get your Apple Watch and the device screen that suits you best, and we will help you get started!”
Josh Crosby (Rowing)
“We bring the energy we have as a team to every workout. You will feel it when you use Fitness+: The trainer team has your back, and we want you to be successful on your health and fitness journey.”
Apple Fitness+ features a team of celebrated, charismatic, and passionate trainers who are specialists in their fields, working together to create outstanding fitness content for everyone. From left to right: Gregg Cook (Cycling, Strength, Core, Mindful Cooldown); Ben Allen (Dance); Anja Garcia (Rowing); Molly Fox (Yoga, Strength); Kim Ngo (HIIT); Tyrell Désean (Cycling); Jessica Skye (Yoga, Mindful Cooldown); Jamie-Ray Hartshorne (HIIT, Treadmill); Emily Fayette (Cycling, Treadmill); Betina Gozo (Strength, Core); Sam Sanchez (Strength, Core, Treadmill); Kym Perfetto (Cycling); Dustin Brown (Yoga, Mindful Cooldown); Jhon Gonzalez (Dance); Sherica Holmon (Cycling); Bakari Williams (Cycling, HIIT, Core); Kyle Ardill (Strength, Core); Scott Carvin (Treadmill); Josh Crosby (Rowing); LaShawn Jones (Dance); and Amir Ekbatani (Strength, Core).
Molly Fox (Yoga, Strength)
“I love the diversity of the Fitness+ trainer team. We all come from a wide variety of backgrounds and a range of ages, so it’s my hope that everyone feels seen in the team, and that we inspire them to move with us on their path to getting healthier.”
Jamie-Ray Hartshorne (HIIT, Treadmill)
“Having your Apple Watch metrics on the screen in front of you is a game changer. As a trainer, being able to bring attention to a user’s heart rate during a tough interval, have a timer come to life for a final push, or call attention to their Activity rings in the moment provides amazing motivation from start to finish.”
Sherica Holmon (Cycling)
“With Fitness+, everyone is welcome to the party. That includes you. That is what I love about the trainer team — each one of us cares about inclusivity and ensuring everyone feels invited.”
Tyrell Désean (Cycling)
“Our diverse team weaves in all kinds of music to the workouts to inspire and motivate people to work harder and last longer than they ever thought they could. When you hear the beat drop, you can just feel the energy come off the screen. Music, combined with the metrics from Apple Watch that display onscreen, is a really unique way to help get you through the workout!”

Get Moving with Fitness+

  • Fitness+ is available as a subscription service for $9.99 (US) per month or $79.99 (US) per year,1 and Apple Watch customers will find Fitness+ in the Fitness app on iPhone, iPad, and Apple TV.
  • Fitness+ can be shared among up to six family members for the same price, making it easy for other Apple Watch users in the household to enjoy the service.
  • Three months of Apple Fitness+ are included for customers who purchase Apple Watch Series 3 or later, and one month of Fitness+ is included for existing Apple Watch users.2
  • Apple Fitness+ is included in the Apple One Premier plan, which, where available, also gives customers access to Apple Music,3 Apple TV+, Apple Arcade, Apple News+, and 2TB of iCloud storage for $29.95 per month, and can be shared among up to six family members.
  • Customers who have purchased an Apple Watch Series 3 or later from Best Buy since September 15, 2020, will get an additional three months of Fitness+ for a total of six months free. Best Buy customers who already owned an Apple Watch Series 3 or later before September 15, 2020, and are My Best Buy members will get an additional month of Fitness+ for a total of two months free. For more information, visit corporate.bestbuy.com.
  • As part of its overall membership offering, both digitally and at its athletic resorts nationwide, premier health and wellness brand Life Time will be the first health and fitness club company in the US to offer Apple Fitness+. For more information, please visit lifetime.life.
  • Starting January 1, 2021, UnitedHealthcare will offer five additional months of Fitness+ at no additional cost for UnitedHealthcare Motion enrollees with Apple Watch, to help empower eligible program participants on their path to a healthier lifestyle. Following the extended trial, UnitedHealthcare Motion enrollees may be able to apply program incentives to cover the Fitness+ monthly subscription cost. For more information, visit: unitedhealthcaremotion.com.
  • While most Apple Fitness+ workouts don’t require special equipment, customers can now find a curated selection of fitness accessories on apple.com/apple-fitness-plus/equipment and in select stores, as well as links to some of the equipment used in the Apple Fitness+ Studio.
Regardless of where users begin a Fitness+ workout, personalized recommendations are synced across devices.

What’s Needed for Fitness+

  • Fitness+ requires Apple Watch Series 3 or later paired with iPhone 6s or later, or iPhone SE with watchOS 7.2 and iOS 14.3.
  • For usage with iPad, Fitness+ requires iPad Pro, iPad (5th generation or later), iPad mini 4 or later, iPad Air 2, or iPad Air (3rd generation or later), running iOS 14.3.
  • Fitness+ is supported on Apple TV 4K and Apple TV HD, with tvOS 14.3.

Where to Find Fitness+

  • For Apple Watch users, Fitness+ is a new tab in the Fitness app on iPhone.
  • The Fitness app for iPad is available to download from the App Store.
  • The Fitness app on Apple TV automatically appears once users upgrade to tvOS 14.3.
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LG WATER heater delivers ultra efficient eco friendly performance with award Winning Design

LG WATER HEATER DELIVERS ULTRA EFFICIENT, ECO-FRIENDLY PERFORMANCE WITH AWARD-WINNING DESIGN

Inverter Compressor Boosts Heating Performance and Lowers Energy Consumption While Smart Features Deliver Enhanced Convenience

SEOUL, Dec, 2020 — LG Electronics (LG) will be presenting its advanced, energy-saving Inverter Heat Pump Water Heater at CES® 2021. A CES Innovation Award-winner, the new model is powered by LG’s renowned DUAL Inverter Compressor, which promotes fast and effective water heating, all the while delivering lower electricity consumption and running costs. What’s more, the highly efficient and durable smart appliance is compatible with the LG ThinQ™ app for convenient control from inside or outside the home.

LG’s DUAL Inverter Compressor heats water using condensation heat generated in the process of compressing and circulating refrigerant. The result is a water heater that uses up to 74 percent less energy to operate annually than a conventional electric water heater.1 The new product will be available in 200-liter and 270-liter capacity versions, featuring impressive energy efficiency ratings of A+ and A++, respectively.2 What’s more, the highly durable compressor and water tank are covered by a 10-year warranty. LG’s efficient system utilizes heat from the air to further reduce electricity usage, while its two internal heat sources – heat pump and heater – ensure that users will never have to go without hot water even in times of heavy use.

The smart Inverter Heat Pump Water Heater is Wi-Fi-enabled, allowing it to work seamlessly with LG’s mobile ThinQ app, available on both Android and iOS devices.3 With the app, home

owners can manage and monitor the system remotely, receive regular maintenance reminders and diagnose certain issues without having to call customer service. Users can also check the water temperature in real-time and use the scheduling function to set the time and duration of operation.

“The new LG Inverter Heat Pump Water Heater reflects our commitment to offering high- performance products that have less impact on household energy expenses and on the planet,” said Lyu Jae-cheol, president of LG Electronics Home Appliance & Air Solution Company. “LG will continue to develop environmentally-responsible solutions that make daily life more comfortable for consumers worldwide.”

A winner of every major product design award – iF Design, Red Dot, IDEA – this product has a sleek, modern style in line with LG’s latest premium home appliances and is easy to install as well. The LG Inverter Heat Pump Water Heater will be available in markets throughout Europe and North America beginning in the first quarter of 2021 and will be on display in LG’s CES 2021 virtual exhibition booth starting January 11.

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1 Based on internal simulation data of daily electricity consumption under EU-average climate conditions, annual electricity consumption was 74 percent lower with the 270-liter LG Inverter Heat Pump Water Heater when compared to a C-class general electric water heater.

2 Energy efficiency was tested in a non-heated space at 15 degrees Celsius according to EN16147 with load profile L.

3 LG ThinQ app compatibility not available in all markets.

 

www.lg.com

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Samsung MicroLED Opens a New Era of Breathtaking Picture Quality and Design

Samsung MicroLED Opens a New Era of Breathtaking Picture Quality and Design

The next generation of television display technology is ready for the home out of the box with the unveil of Samsung’s 110’’ MicroLED in Korea

Samsung Electronics announced the launch and pre-sale of the groundbreaking 110” Samsung MicroLED beginning today in Korea. Unlike any other displays currently available on the market, Samsung MicroLED delivers astonishing color vibrancy and brightness with self-emissive LED display technology.

In 2018, Samsung’s first MicroLED display was introduced in the form of “The Wall”— a system of configurable modules that could be installed professionally. With the new 110” MicroLED, Samsung is delivering the MicroLED experience in a traditional TV form for the first time. Unlike its modular counterpart, installation and calibration is streamlined since the new 110” MicroLED model is prefabricated — offering stunning video, audio, and smart capabilities out of the box.

In the past year, consumer interest and demand for large screen TVs has continued to grow rapidly. With the launch of the 110’’ MicroLED, Samsung offers a breathtaking visual experience on an ultra-large next-generation TV display.

“As consumers rely on their televisions for more functions than ever, we are incredibly excited to bring the 110” MicroLED to the commercial market,” said Jonghee Han, President of Visual Display Business at Samsung Electronics. “Samsung MicroLED is going to redefine what premium at-home experiences mean for consumers around the world.

Innovative Engineering Delivers Next-Level Picture Quality

Ultra-large screen enthusiasts want excellent picture quality with vibrant colors and stunning resolution. With Samsung’s latest engineering innovations, the 110’’ MicroLED uses micrometer-sized LED lights to eliminate the backlight and color filters utilized in conventional displays. Instead, it is self-illuminating—producing light and color from its own pixel structures. It expresses 100% of the DCI and Adobe RGB color gamut, and accurately delivers wide color gamut images taken with high-end DSLR cameras. This results in stunning, lifelike colors and accurate brightness from the display’s 4K resolution and 8 million pixels.

The 110’’ MicroLED also has a processor powerful enough to live up to its display capabilities. Its all-new Micro AI Processor delivers stunning 4K HDR content — resulting in bright, vivid, realistic picture quality that is optimized to each scene.

What’s more, the 110” MicroLED makes that stunning picture quality last for the long term. MicroLEDs are made of inorganic materials which are long-lasting and durable — allowing a lifespan of up to 100,000 hours, or over a decade.

Previously, mass-producing a MicroLED screen as small as 110’’ for simple home installation wasn’t possible. But Samsung innovated to make it a reality by developing cutting-edge surface mount technology — along with a new production process derived from its semiconductor business — making MicroLED technology easier to manufacture, deliver, and install. These same innovations will allow Samsung to produce even smaller MicroLED models in the future, so even more consumers can enjoy the breathtaking MicroLED experience.

Immersive Design and Premium Audio

When you turn on the 110’’ MicroLED, you are treated to a spectacularly immersive experience thanks to its 99.99% screen-to-body ratio. The black matrix and bezel have been completely removed from the display — leaving only the screen, delivering consumers the most immersive content experience.

Samsung has innovated and optimized its Smart TV features to take advantage of the 110” MicroLED’s massive screen. For example, consumers can use the Multi View feature to comfortably watch up to four sources of content simultaneously on up to 55’’ sized split screens. When using this feature, the viewers can connect multiple external devices and enjoy watching news, movies, and other apps simultaneously on one screen — so they can keep up with multiple sports at once, or stream a walkthrough while playing a video game, all in stunning quality and size.

Plus, the 110’’ MicroLED’s dynamic audio experience is just as immersive as its visuals. It includes an embedded Majestic Sound System that delivers breathtaking 5.1 channel sound with no external speaker—transforming any room into a luxurious home theater. And its Object Tracking Sound Pro feature identifies objects moving on screen, and projects the sound to follow the action — so when you are watching an action movie and an airplane flies overhead, it will feel like its engines are roaring above you.

The 110’’ MicroLED will be available globally in the first quarter of next year following today’s unveiling in Korea. For more information about the 110’’ MicroLED, please visit: www.samsung.com.

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HIKVISION One-Stop Solution for Professional Installers – Platforms tailored for security business management

HIKVISION One-Stop Solution for Professional Installers

Platforms tailored for security business management

As professional installers, your constant challenge is selecting suitable products for your customers – including finding useful design references and getting the best prices. Are you looking to save time and money while enhancing your efficiency?

Now with Hik-ePartner and Hik-ProConnect apps, installers like you are enhancing their security business easily throughout the whole business cycle. What’s more, these two accounts easily integrate with each other, multiplying the benefits.

Partner Apps
A smoother work flow

Before, during, and after making the sale, you will find everything you need: product and solution information, installation and maintenance tools, value-added services, and much more.

1. Use Hik-ePartner for product information

Get Hikvision’s latest updates for products and solutions at your fingertips

Experience easier installation with extensive how-to documents and videos

 

2. Use Hik-ePartner for solution design

Get access to comprehensive solution-by-scenario info and related product bundles

Get help from powerful bandwidth and storage calculation tools

Get online support when needed, both staff and automated service available

3. Use Hik-ProConnect for remote configuration and maintenance

Manage multiple sites with power and efficiency

Remotely configure parameters in batches

Connect web device interfaces remotely via P2P technology

Enjoy open and easy integration with an Alarm Receiving Center

4. Use Hik-ePartner to redeem gifts

Redeem gifts with points via *Rewards Program(*Please note policies differ in countries/regions)

 

     Use Hik-ProConnect for value-added services 

Save time and money with remote health monitoring and maintenance

Save more with cloud storage that reduces the costs for local servers

More value-added services will be added in the future including cloud access control, attendance, and more

App download
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BUGATTI ANNOUNCES EXCLUSIVE PARTNERSHIP WITH TIDAL AUDIO FOR PERFECTION WITHOUT LIMITS IN HOME AUDIO

BUGATTI ANNOUNCES EXCLUSIVE PARTNERSHIP WITH TIDAL AUDIO FOR PERFECTION WITHOUT LIMITS IN HOME AUDIO

INTRODUCING THE BUGATTI OF HOME AUDIO

BUGATTI and TIDAL Audio are united in a shared philosophy: to strive for perfection without limits in order to perform with exceptional design, effort and uncompromising spirit. The two companies, leading in their respective fields of exclusive luxury automotive design and premium audio systems, will set a new standard for home music systems – introducing ‘the BUGATTI of home audio’. The two companies will work to establish a new category of sound systems, underpinned by unrivalled exclusivity and high quality like no other.

The partnership between BUGATTI and TIDAL Audio begins with the “Royale” range of speakers that lead the way for luxury in the home audio sector. Technical avant-garde meets a passion for design, the perfect finish and outstanding results – with the visual promise of the breathtaking performance that follows. Just as the engine of a Bugatti hyper sports car releases power and emotions, this unrivaled sound impresses with its finest definition and incredible power.

The superlative quality becomes its own metaphor and redefines the parameters of audio equipment design. Just as the BUGATTI models on four wheels give an almost infinite number of possibilities for customization, the options list for this new standard of home audio is equally as unique. As for the design there are two main themes: Monocoque and Duotone. One can select between piano finishes or avant-garde color and material combinations. Each “Royale” loudspeaker pair can be customized with carbon fiber, fabrics, leather, polished stainless steel, dark aluminum or precious metal surfaces.

The front of the speakers show the BUGATTI logo plaque, finished in polished stainless steel and curved to accommodate the shape of the unit up to the brand’s qualities for personalization and performance – every set of speakers by TIDAL for BUGATTI is subject to a very personal bespoke ordering process, allowing the customer to share their precise vision of the best audio system in the world. And the plaque at the backside, branded ‘TIDAL for BUGATTI’, underlines the exclusive cooperation.

The “Royale” is deploying four subwoofer drivers per speaker and a 3-way front unit with a midrange-driver and tweeter with diamond diaphragms. The diamond diaphragm tweeter can be also found in our cars. The Royale is an active speaker with housing extremely powerful amplifier channels inside. The matching music controller allows to connect to all kinds of sources, including music streaming services and TV and can be controlled with smart devices.

The start of the partnership manifests itself in the ‘Edition Noir’ and ‘Edition Blanc’, each limited to only 15 pairs.

About TIDAL Audio:
TIDAL Audio was founded in Germany 1999 by entrepreneur and music enthusiast Jörn Janczak with a clear vision of building the finest audio systems in the world. From the beginning TIDAL Audio pursued single-mindedly the ambition to redefine quality in the sphere of sound systems. TIDAL Audio systems are a combination of passion and professionalism never sparing any efforts to reach new heights in audio quality and design aspirations. TIDAL Audio serves prestigious clients around the world and has received multiple awards from leading reviewers and magazines.

Contact:
TIDAL Audio GmbH
Immendorfer Str.1
50354 Hürth
Germany
www.tidal-audio.com
+49 2233 9669225
contact@tidal-audio.com

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Apple introduces AirPods Max, the magic of AirPods

 

Apple introduces AirPods Max, the magic of AirPods in a stunning over-ear design

AirPods Max feature incredible high-fidelity audio, Adaptive EQ, Active Noise Cancellation, and spatial audio

AirPods Max bring the magic of AirPods to an all-new wireless over-ear design with high-fidelity audio, Active Noise Cancellation, spatial audio, and more.
Cupertino, California — Apple today announced AirPods Max, innovative wireless headphones that bring the magic of AirPods to an over-ear design with high-fidelity sound. AirPods Max combine a custom acoustic design, H1 chips, and advanced software to power computational audio for a breakthrough listening experience with Adaptive EQ, Active Noise Cancellation, Transparency mode, and spatial audio. AirPods Max come in five gorgeous colors, including space gray, silver, sky blue, green, and pink, and are available to order starting today, with availability beginning Tuesday, December 15.
“AirPods are the most popular headphones in the world, beloved for their effortless setup, incredible sound quality, and iconic design. With AirPods Max, we are bringing that magical AirPods experience to a stunning over-ear design with high-fidelity audio,” said Greg Joswiak, Apple’s senior vice president of Worldwide Marketing. “The custom acoustic design, combined with powerful H1 chips, and advanced software enable AirPods Max to use computational audio to wirelessly deliver the ultimate personal listening experience.”

Custom Acoustic Design

From the canopy to the ear cushions, every part of AirPods Max is carefully crafted to provide exceptional acoustic performance for each user. The breathable knit mesh canopy, spanning the headband, is made to distribute weight and reduce on-head pressure. The stainless steel headband frame provides strength, flexibility, and comfort for a wide variety of head shapes and sizes. Telescoping headband arms smoothly extend and stay in place to maintain the desired fit.
Each ear cup attaches to the headband through a revolutionary mechanism that balances and distributes ear cup pressure, and allows it to independently pivot and rotate to fit the unique contours of a user’s head. Each ear cushion uses acoustically engineered memory foam to create an effective seal — a critical factor in delivering immersive sound. The Digital Crown, inspired by Apple Watch, offers precise volume control and the ability to play or pause audio, skip tracks, answer or end phone calls, and activate Siri.

Breakthrough Listening Experience

AirPods Max feature a 40-mm Apple-designed dynamic driver that provides rich, deep bass, accurate mid-ranges, and crisp, clean high-frequency extension so every note can be heard. A unique dual neodymium ring magnet motor allows AirPods Max to maintain total harmonic distortion of less than 1 percent across the entire audible range, even at maximum volume.1 Equipped with an Apple-designed H1 chip in each ear cup, a custom acoustic design, and advanced software, AirPods Max use computational audio to deliver the highest quality listening experience possible. Utilizing each of the chips’ 10 audio cores — capable of 9 billion operations per second — computational audio powers a breakthrough listening experience that includes Adaptive EQ, Active Noise Cancellation, Transparency mode, and spatial audio.
AirPods Max custom acoustic design features a 40-mm dynamic driver and a unique dual neodymium ring magnet motor.
  • Adaptive EQ: AirPods Max use Adaptive EQ to adjust the sound to the fit and seal of the ear cushions by measuring the sound signal delivered to a user and adjusting the low and mid-frequencies in real time — bringing rich audio that captures every detail.
  • Active Noise Cancellation: AirPods Max deliver immersive sound through Active Noise Cancellation so users can focus on what they are listening to. Each ear cup features three outward-facing microphones to detect environmental noise, while one microphone inside the ear cup monitors the sound reaching the listener’s ear. Using computational audio, noise cancellation continuously adapts to the headphone fit and movement in real time.
  • Transparency Mode: With AirPods Max, users can switch to Transparency mode to simultaneously listen to music while hearing the environment around them — ensuring everything, including a user’s own voice, sounds natural while audio plays perfectly. Switching between Active Noise Cancellation and Transparency mode can be done with a single press using the noise control button.
  • Spatial Audio: AirPods Max use spatial audio with dynamic head tracking to place sounds virtually anywhere in a space — delivering an immersive, theaterlike experience for content recorded in 5.1, 7.1, and Dolby Atmos. Using the gyroscope and accelerometer in AirPods Max and iPhone or iPad, spatial audio tracks the motion of a user’s head as well as the device, compares the motion data, then remaps the sound field so it stays anchored to the device, even as the user’s head moves.

The Magic of AirPods

AirPods Max join the existing AirPods family in delivering unparalleled wireless audio, whether a customer is listening to music, making phone calls, enjoying TV shows and movies, playing games, or interacting with Siri. The magical setup experience customers love with today’s AirPods and AirPods Pro extends to AirPods Max with one-tap setup, followed by automatic pairing with all the devices signed in to a user’s iCloud account, including iPhone, iPad, iPod touch, Mac, Apple Watch, and Apple TV.
AirPods Max automatically detect when they are on a user’s head using the optical and position sensors. Once in place, AirPods Max play audio and can pause once removed or when the user simply lifts one ear cup. With AirPods Max, voice calls and Siri commands are crisp and clear due to beam-forming microphones that block out ambient noise and focus on the user’s voice.
AirPods Max feature the magical one-tap setup experience that customers love with AirPods.

Battery and Performance

AirPods Max feature great battery life with up to 20 hours of high-fidelity audio, talk time, or movie playback with Active Noise Cancellation and spatial audio enabled.2
AirPods Max come with a soft, slim Smart Case that puts AirPods Max in an ultralow power state that helps to preserve battery charge when not in use.
When stored in the soft, slim Smart Case, AirPods Max enter an ultralow power state that preserves charge.

Additional Features

  • Automatic switching allows users to seamlessly move sound between iPhone, iPad, and Mac. When playing music on Mac, users can easily take a call on iPhone and AirPods Max will automatically switch over.
  • Audio Sharing makes it possible to easily share an audio stream between two sets of AirPods on iPhone, iPad, iPod touch, or Apple TV 4K. Simply bring AirPods Max near the device and connect with a single tap.3
  • Siri capabilities include the ability to play music, make phone calls, control the volume, get directions, and more. Siri can also read incoming messages as they arrive with Announce Messages with Siri.
Pricing and Availability
  • AirPods Max are available to order starting today for $549 (US) from apple.com and in the Apple Store app in the US and more than 25 other countries and regions. AirPods Max will begin shipping on Tuesday, December 15.
  • AirPods Max require Apple devices running iOS 14.3 or later, iPadOS 14.3 or later, macOS Big Sur 11.1 or later, watchOS 7.2 or later, or tvOS 14.3 or later.
  • AirPods start at $159 (US) and AirPods Pro are available for $249 (US).
  • Customers can add personal engraving to AirPods Max, AirPods Pro, and AirPods for free on apple.com and in the Apple Store app.
  • Customers are able to find the same great shopping and support services at apple.com/shop, in the Apple Store app, and at Apple Store locations. Customers can get shopping help from Apple Specialists, choose monthly financing options, get special carrier offers for iPhone, trade in eligible devices, and get Support services and no-contact delivery or Apple Store pickup options. Customers are encouraged to check apple.com/retail for more information on the health and safety measures in place, and the services available, at their local store.
  • Pickup options include in-store, curbside, or Express storefront, and vary by store. Same-day delivery may also be available. Customers can check apple.com/retail for services available at their local store.
  • With Apple Card, customers in the US get 3 percent Daily Cash back when they buy directly from Apple and have the option to choose Apple Card Monthly Installments so they can pay over time, interest-free.
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Extech IR200: Non-Contact Forehead InfraRed Thermometer

Extech IR200: Non-Contact Forehead InfraRed Thermometer

Ideal for Quickly Detecting Elevated Skin Temperature

The IR200 is ideal for quickly screening individuals for elevated skin temperature. This infrared thermometer has a non-contact design that eliminates the need for replacement probe covers and other supplies. The IR200 is accurate to 0.5°F (0.3°C) with 0.1°F/°C resolution when measuring skin temperatures between 89.6°F to 108.5°F (32.0°C to 42.5°C). Adjustable alarm alerts user visually and audibly when temperature exceeds programmed limit. Optimum measurement distance of 1.9 in. to 5.9 in. (5 to 15 cm). Move the Body/Surface function switch to the Surface position for non-contact surface temperature measurements from 32°F to 140°F (0.0°C to 60.0°C). With a fast response of just 0.5 seconds, users can simply press the trigger and read temperature on the large backlit LCD display. Memory stores up to 32 readings for easy recall. Comes complete with 2 AA (1.5V) batteries and pouch.

Note: This thermometer is intended for screening individuals or monitoring an individual for potential elevated skin temperatures. It is not a substitute for a clinical thermometer. Always use a clinical thermometer when high accuracy body temperature measurements are required.

See product
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Ricardo Márquez, director of Alimentaria FoodTech: “Alimentaria FoodTech is the only transversal food equipment trade fair in Spain, which allows us to multiply our business opportunities”

Ricardo Márquez, director of Alimentaria FoodTech: “Alimentaria FoodTech is the only transversal food equipment trade fair in Spain, which allows us to multiply our business opportunities”

In October, Ricardo Márquez will lead Alimentaria FoodTech for the second consecutive year, with the aim of consolidating the exhibition as a benchmark meeting point for business in the sector. To this end, the show is growing this year by strengthening its transversality, thus expanding the synergies between different actors in the sector. On the other hand, the change of dates in the celebration of the show allows an optimal situation in the fair calendar. In addition to these objectives, the international profile of Ricardo Márquez invites to think about a growth in the internationalization of the fair. With an MBA from ESADE and a BA in Business from Oakland (USA), Márquez has previously held the position of Area Manager for Qatar in Fira Barcelona’s International Business Department, and is currently also director of Alimentaria México.

In this new edition of Alimentaria FoodTech all the links in the food processing chain will be able to be seen again. What do you expect from this edition and which are these sectors that can be seen in the show?

We are confident that Alimentaria FoodTech will consolidate its position as the Iberian Peninsula’s leading cross-sector trade show for innovation in food processing and preservation; this will be achieved through a representative range of technology, machinery and ingredients which is attractive to all sectors of the food industry. At the fair you will find processing equipment, packaging, labelling, industry 4.0, food safety, refrigeration, handling, storage and logistics, as well as intermediate food products (ingredients) and industrial and auxiliary services.

What is the fastest growing area of food technology?

At the show we are proud to provide a transversal offer that allows for diversified growth, which responds to the multi-sectoriality of the show’s exhibitors. Beyond this, we can say that in 2020 we will see a wider and more representative offer of packaging and ingredients. The offer of industry 4.0 will also grow as machinery and industrial processes are automated and digitized.

How has the show’s approach evolved and what stage is it at now?

Alimentaria FoodTech is a trade show designed to specifically serve the food and beverage processing and preservation industry in a cross-disciplinary manner. Conceptually, it is now easier to identify and understand the show based on what you will find at the exhibition: machinery, technology and ingredients for the food and beverage industry. We have also found a better positioning in a saturated calendar of fairs in different parts of the world, through which both the exhibitor and the visitor will be able to have a better experience preparing and taking advantage of the fair as a platform for innovation and business. With these new dates we have also achieved a great location in Hall 2 of Fira Barcelona’s Gran Vía venue, something that will benefit the experience of all participants.

How does the exhibitor take on the separate celebration of thematically related events such as Hispack and Alimentaria FoodTech?

The exhibitor understands perfectly the separation between these two fairs because he knows that this occurs because of the great specialization of the sector and the mentioned calendar. Packaging (and labelling) is a vertical industry in food processing and conservation. As such, it is an integral part of the product value chain and therefore an integral part of Alimentaria FoodTech. This is clearly understood by exhibitors at both shows. Therefore, the majority of packaging exhibitors who have a significant presence in the food sector have accepted the new specialisation proposal.

How is the recruitment of exhibitors at the show progressing?

It is progressing at a very good pace. Now, 8 months before the fair, more than 70% of the space has been contracted, considering, moreover, that in 2020 this space will grow by 15% with respect to 2018. Most of the sector leaders have already confirmed their participation.

Does the show still stand out for its high levels of exhibitor loyalty?

Yes, this will be the 16th edition of Alimentaria FoodTech and we will have exhibitors who have found business opportunities at the show since the first editions. The show responds to the needs of the sector, so exhibitors continue to be committed to participating. The triennial nature of the exhibition synchronises perfectly with the equipment and machinery renewal cycles, so the show represents the ideal forum for doing business.

What is the management’s level of satisfaction with the results of the show so far?

The degree of satisfaction is high, since in addition to the contracting rate, at this time we value highly the intangible results; for example, responding to the needs of the industry through the evolution of the offer and logistics of the show, something that we can only measure in the acceptance by the industry, which continues to bet on Alimentaria FoodTech as the reference show.

How is the international presence at the show promoted?

Mainly by working on two fronts. On the one hand, the show’s offer will maintain a significant percentage of internationalization: almost 20% of exhibitors are international, mainly from Europe; this complements the offer, which is attractive for national visitors who sometimes look for answers that they cannot find in the local market. On the other hand, the demand of the fair: in response to the business or international needs of many exhibitors, we work the international demand in an organic way through promotion in different markets by partners with international presence (i.e. amec and ICEX) and half local partners and in an inorganic way through a reinforced program of international buyers; in 2020 we will double the amount of Hosted Buyers of 2018 to have more than 100 buyers mainly from Latin America and Southeast Asia.

With such a varied offer, how are Alimentaria FoodTech’s spaces divided?

The exhibition area will be as transversal as the offer of the fair. Taking into account the diversity of exhibitors’ business, the exhibition space will have little segmentation; mainly ingredients exhibitors will have their particular location on the floor plan. There will also be 4 areas which will complement the exhibition area: the Ingrenova area where the most innovative intermediate food products will be presented; the exhibition area, within the Innovation Meeting Point, for research institutions and technology centres which will present the most innovative projects developed internally or in conjunction with sector leaders; also at the Innovation Meeting Point is the area for start-ups and technology-based companies; and finally the conference room specialising in relevant industry issues, also at the Innovation Meeting Point.

The conferences are an important element in the celebration of the show in order to define the future trends of the sector. What topics can be found in the panel of papers?

Alimentaria FoodTech has two types of knowledge transfer programmes. On the one hand, all those attending the show can visit the Innovation Meeting Point’s Speakers’ Corner, where research and innovation institutions or associations, technology centres and start-ups will give presentations and lectures on products, services and success stories in innovation at the service of the food and beverage industry. On the other hand, Alimentaria FoodTech presents three professional conferences specialising in subjects which set the industry’s present and future course: sustainability, the circular economy, industry 4.0 and food safety.

Will the Innova FoodTech and Emprende FoodTech awards still be held?

Yes, the Innova FoodTech and Emprende FoodTech Awards are a direct channel of the fair to recognize, from the hand of a Scientific Committee and Technical Jury, the most relevant innovation and advances for the food and beverage processing and conservation industry. The Scientific Committee of Alimentaria FoodTech has done a great job in updating the participation rules and evaluation criteria of the projects presented, thus guaranteeing that the winners will once again be leaders or future leaders of the industry with projects in line with the current needs of the industry. The Innova FoodTech Award will, as always, be exclusively for exhibitors at the fair, while the Emprende Award will be convened and promoted by the fair and the Scientific Committee throughout the country through its action networks at both the private and academic levels.

What would you say to the professionals of the sector who ask you why they should come to this fair?

I would tell them that Alimentaria FoodTech is the national reference fair for innovation and technology for all food sectors because it is the only one that integrates the entire value chain of product transformation and preservation. Industry professionals will find the most transversal and representative offer at the show thanks to the diversity of exhibitors: from large multinationals to companies with products and services which are totally adaptable to the needs of large, medium and small food and beverage companies. By bringing together national and international demand, including all participants in the Alimentaria Barcelona exhibition, Alimentaria FoodTech provides business opportunities at a national level while allowing exhibitors to expand their borders and visitors to find, in an integrated manner, solutions to all their production and business needs. The 35,000 m2 of exhibition space will undoubtedly be the ideal meeting point for the entire industry.

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