MacRumors

Griffin today debuted its latest line of products at the 2017 Consumer Electronics Show, introducing a new set of smart home products that include a Connected Toaster, Connected Coffee Maker, Connected Mirror, PowerBlock Beacon, and PowerJolt Beacon.

The Connected Coffeemaker, priced at $99.99, is the first product in the new Griffin Home collection. It is a Bluetooth-enabled smart coffee maker that works with a companion smartphone app to create a brewed-to-order cup of coffee on demand. Available during Q2 2017, the Connected Coffee Maker makes up to 12 cups and has a timer and other smart features.

The Coffee Maker will be accompanied by the Connected Toaster, also priced at $99.99 and set to launch during the second quarter of 2017. The Connected Toaster is a two-slot toaster with digital temperature adjustment settings for bread type and darkness, with an app that remembers individual user preferences.

Griffin's most ambitious product in the Home collection appears to be the Connected Mirror, which will be available in late 2017 for $999.99. The Connected Mirror includes time, weather, and status messages from other Griffin Home products. Information is displayed at the sides of the mirror and can be customized with the companion app.

The PowerBlock Beacon and the PowerJolt Beacon, the final two products in the collection, are smart chargers designed to remind users to plug in and charge before they run out of power. Each charger features Bluetooth that connects to a smartphone or tablet and keeps track of power level. When a certain user-defined power threshold is reached, the charger will remind customers to plug in and charge their devices.

The PowerBlock Beacon, priced at $39.99, and the PowerJolt Beacon, priced at $29.99, will be available during the second quarter of 2017.

Griffin is also introducing a few new products for iOS devices, including a new Survivor Extreme for iPad mini 4 ($69.99), Survivor Journey Folios for the iPad ($39.99 for mini, $49.99 for Pro), and a Survivor Glass screen protector for the iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus ($39.99).

All of Griffin's new iPhone and iPad products will be available during the first quarter of 2017, with the exception of the Journey Folio, which is available now from the Griffin website.

Following a request from Chinese authorities, Apple in late December removed all apps from The New York Times from the App Store in China, The New York Times shared today.

According to Apple, the company was forced to remove both the English-language and Chinese-language news apps after being informed they were in "violation of local regulations."

"We have been informed that the app is in violation of local regulations," Fred Sainz, an Apple spokesman, said of the Times apps. "As a result, the app must be taken down off the China App Store. When this situation changes, the App Store will once again offer the New York Times app for download in China."

News apps from other publications such as The Financial Times and The Wall Street Journal remain in the Chinese App Store. The New York Times app was likely removed due to a long-standing ban in China - the site has been blocked since 2012.

Apple has not provided specific information on the local regulations the apps violated, and The New York Times has asked Apple to reconsider its decision.

"The request by the Chinese authorities to remove our apps is part of their wider attempt to prevent readers in China from accessing independent news coverage by The New York Times of that country, coverage which is no different from the journalism we do about every other country in the world," Ms. Murphy said in a statement.

The New York Times believes the request may have been made under Provisions on the Administration of Internet Application Informations Services regulations introduced in June of 2016. Those regulations prevent apps from publishing prohibited information and "endangering national security, disrupting social order and violating the legitimate rights and interests of others."

Apple has faced censoring in China multiple times in the past, most notably being forced to shut down iTunes Movies and the iBooks Store following the release of controversial independent movie Ten Years.

Note: Due to the political nature of the discussion regarding this topic, the discussion thread is located in our Politics, Religion, Social Issues forum. All forum members and site visitors are welcome to read and follow the thread, but posting is limited to forum members with at least 100 posts.

At this year's Consumer Electronics Show, Nanoleaf is showing off its latest product, the Nanoleaf Aurora. The Nanoleaf Aurora is a HomeKit-enabled accent lighting setup that consists of a number of different triangle-shaped panels that can be lit up in different shades to provide ambient mood lighting.

While the Nanoleaf Aurora has been available for purchase for a few months, Nanoleaf is introducing a new Aurora product at CES, the Aurora Rhythm, an audio visualizer module that connects to the Aurora and allows the lights to fluctuate in time with music beats.

The Aurora Rhythm is a plug-in module that attaches to an existing Aurora display. Its built-in audio sensors pick up on music and transform beats and melodies into color displays. Nanoleaf says it will pair well with all kinds of music and audio, from party tunes to soft romantic music to video games.

"Adding the audio visualizer to the Aurora was the natural next step for Nanoleaf," states Gimmy Chu, CEO and Co-Founder of Nanoleaf. "The most overwhelming piece of feedback we've received since the Aurora launch has been 'does this sync with music?'" Visuals play an incredible part in our experiences, but our senses extend so much further than that. Sound, along with sight, is one of the most interactive senses we have. With the Aurora Rhythm, these two sensory experiences can now come together, harmonizing creativity and inspiring self-expression."

The Nanoleaf app, which works with the Aurora lighting system, is also being updated with "Rhythm Scenes" that will add the ability to better customize lighting scenes.

Nanoleaf plans to debut the Aurora Rhythm in the summer of 2017, and the Rhythm Scenes will be available soon. Pricing for the Aurora Rhythm has not been announced, but the original Aurora Smarter Kit can be purchased from the Nanoleaf website for $199.99.

At this week's Consumer Electronics Show, Withings introduced the next-generation version of its "Home" smart security camera and baby monitor, which adds HomeKit compatibility.

The new "Home Plus" is one of the first security cameras on the market to integrate with HomeKit, allowing it to interface with other HomeKit-enabled products and be accessed through Apple's own Home app.

Like many security cameras on the market, the Home Plus streams HD video to a smartphone or tablet, allowing users to keep an eye on their homes when away, or on their children when in a different room. The Home Plus sends notifications out when there's unusual noise and movement, and it's able to monitor indoor pollution.

Design wise, the Withings Home Plus looks similar to the original Withings Home, introduced in 2015, with a wood enclosure and white accents that house a wide-angle camera. It has the same HD camera with night vision support and the ability to store video for up to 48 hours with no subscription plan needed.

Withings plans to make the Home Plus available for purchase during the first quarter of 2017. It will be priced at $199.

Withings has also begun selling its new Withings Steel HR, an analog fitness tracking watch with a built-in heart rate monitor. First introduced in September, the Withings Steel HR looks like a traditional watch, but features heart rate and activity tracking. The Steel HR is available for $179.95 to $199.95 from the Withings website.

Ring, best known for its popular video doorbells, has added an outdoor Floodlight Cam to its security camera product lineup.

The Floodlight Cam is a motion-activated security camera with built-in 3K lumen LED floodlights, a 270-degree field-of-view, facial recognition, a 110-decibel siren alarm, two-way audio, and infrared for night vision. The hardwired, self-install camera is controlled via Wi-Fi with an iPhone or Android-based smartphone.

When the Floodlight Cam detects movement, homeowners will receive a push notification on their iPhone, while the HD video camera will also begin recording so users can see and speak to whoever is on their property through the free Ring app for iPhone and iPad, Mac, Android, and Windows 10 devices.

If a suspicious person is detected, homeowners can scare them off by turning on the device’s siren, yelling over the loudspeaker and pulsing the light rapidly. Not only will this likely scare off a potential intruder, but it will also get neighbors’ attention so they can assist in calling the authorities. Video recordings can be accessed during and after an event and shared with neighbors and local law enforcement.

With the Ring app, homeowners can manually flash the floodlights, sound the alarm, and zoom in and pan to focus. Users can set customizable motion zones and a schedule for the lights to turn on and off automatically if desired. The camera is weatherproof and designed for temperatures between -5°F (-20°C) and 120°F (48°C).

Ring is accepting pre-orders for the Floodlight Cam for $249 on its website beginning today; orders will begin shipping in early April. Cloud video recording, allowing users to view and download up to six months of previous events, is available for $3 per month or $30 per year if desired.

Update: Ring has since confirmed on Twitter that its Floodlight Cam will support HomeKit. A media representative for the company confirmed HomeKit will be enabled in a future software update, but no timeline was specified.

Twelve South today unveiled its latest accessory, the ActionSleeve Armband for Apple Watch. The ActionSleeve is designed to move the Apple Watch from the wrist to the upper arm, keeping it out of the way during intense workouts while leaving all of its functionality intact.

Specifically designed for sports that require wrist gear like weightlifting, rock climbing, boxing, Kettlebell training, and CrossFit, the ActionSleeve protects the Apple Watch, keeps it out of the way, and securely holds it in place even during vigorous workouts.

The Apple Watch slips into the padded frame of the ActionSleeve, and then the ActionSleeve itself is strapped to the upper arm. The screen, Digital Crown, and side button remain accessible, and the heart rate monitor continues to work. According to Twelve South, the heart rate monitor may even perform better on the upper arm because of its tight fit.

ActionSleeve can actually improve Apple Watch's heart rate tracking. How? When you flex your wrist or your watch band isn't tight enough, it can cause inconsistent readings or drop outs. ActionSleeve holds Apple Watch tightly and securely to your upper arm - delivering more consistent skin contact and more accurate heart rate tracking. If you're serious about training or you've had trouble with the Apple Watch heart rate monitor in the past, ActionSleeve might just be the ticker-counting ticket you're looking for.

Priced at $29.99 and available in either red or black, there are ActionSleeves for both 38 and 42mm Apple Watch models. The 38mm ActionSleeve fits arms up to 15 inches, while the 42mm ActionSleeve fits arms up to 17 inches. There's also a 42mm "Slim" variant for the larger Apple Watch that fits smaller arms.

The ActionSleeve is available for purchase starting today from the Twelve South website.

Incipio today expanded its line of CommandKit home automation products, introducing the CommandKit Wireless Smart Wall Switch and Wireless Smart Power Strip, both of which are compatible with HomeKit

The Wireless Smart Wall Switch is designed to offer a way to manually control HomeKit products like lightbulbs, giving users a way to quickly turn them on or dim them. The Smart Wall Switch includes motion sensor functionality that can be used in various HomeKit scenes to automate many smart home products.

Incipio's Smart Power Strip features four smart outlets that can be controlled using Siri commands, Apple's Home app, or the CommandKit app. Each outlet can be controlled individually, allowing users to turn standard electronics and appliances into smart ones that can be remotely turned on and off.

"The additions to our CommandKitTM product line offer users even further accessibility to smart solutions to achieve a connected home," says Carlos Del Toro, Director of Products, Incipio. "With Apple's HomeKit platform pioneering connected home utility through optimizing Siri and the Home App and the ascendancy of other simplified smart home devices, evolving our CommandKitTM solutions to support multi-system integration was top of mind during development as there are now multiple entry points for smart home attainability across many audiences."

Incipio's existing CommandKit line also includes the CommandKit Smart Outlet and the Smart Light Bulb Adapter.

The CommandKit Wireless smart Wall Switch and the Smart Power Strip will be available for purchase during the second quarter of 2017. Incipio plans to price the Wall Switch at $59.99, while the Smart Power Strip will be available for $99.99.

Incipio today announced the launch of an iPhone 7 and 7 Plus case that includes a headphone jack and enables iPhone users to charge their devices while listening to music.

The Incipio OX case fits over the Lightning port of the iPhone 7 or 7 Plus and adds an additional Lightning port for charging along with a 3.5mm headphone jack that can be used with traditional 3.5mm headphones.

Incipio's case adds a decent amount of bulk to the iPhone, but it allows for simultaneous charging and music listening without the need for an adapter or dongle. It snaps on to the back of the phone and features shock-absorbing features to protect the display and body of the device.

"We wanted to bring the headphone jack back to the latest iPhone so our customers could still enjoy their favorite pair of traditional headphones without worrying about low-battery and sacrificing device protection," said Carlos Del Toro, Director of Products, Incipio. "The protective OX(R) Case allows individuals to use existing headphones with a 3.5mm audio connector through the built-in headphone jack, while simultaneously allowing access to the LightningTM port for charging."

Incipio plans to make the OX case available during the first quarter of 2017. Available in Black, Forest, and Purple color options, the OX will be priced at $59.99.

Carrier has announced it will be launching a HomeKit-enabled version of its Côr smart thermostat, first introduced at CES 2015, in early 2017.

Apple HomeKit support will enable the thermostat to be controlled remotely with the Home app on iOS 10 or Siri voice commands on iPhone and iPad, while users can set up HomeKit-enabled products to work together based on triggers. The thermostat can also be controlled remotely with the free Carrier Côr Thermostat app.

Côr's main competitors include the Nest Learning Thermostat, ecobee3, and Honeywell Lyric Round and Lyric T5.

Pricing has yet to be announced.

Faucet brand Moen today announced that it will be "revolutionizing the shower experience" with the debut of "U by Moen," a cloud-based and Wi-Fi enabled shower system that brings mobile connectivity and personalized water preferences into the bathroom.

The U by Moen shower is a valve system that needs to be installed professionally and will let users control water pressure through a "digital valve," which offers temperature control and the ability to connect up to four shower devices like showerheads, handshowers, body sprays, and more. The digital shower controller has a five-inch LCD screen that isn't touch-sensitive but provides feedback on the current status of a user's shower thanks to on-screen message notifications.

Moen said that the use of its new connected shower system can be found in everyday cases, like starting a shower from your bed to sleep in a bit longer, and setting a timer to shut the shower off for a family member that uses too much water.

At Moen, we thought – why not connected water? How can we improve the overall experience with water by adding the benefit of smart technology?” asks Andy Conroy, senior director, wholesale marketing, Moen. “This idea led Moen to create U by Moen shower. The integration of a personal device allows users to control their shower preferences, customizing everything from time to temperature.

Need extra snooze time? Power on your shower from bed, and it will alert you when it’s ready. Have a teenager who lingers too long in the shower? The timer function will help keep them on schedule. This digital system addresses real-life quandaries and elevates users’ everyday experiences with water.”

A connected smartphone app lets users set up to 12 customized settings for a shower, and begin the spray of water before they enter so that the temperature can adjust to their liking. The screen of the digital controller adjusts with color-based visuals as the water gets colder or hotter, and a tone will sound when the desired temperature is ready. For safety reasons, only temperatures between 60 and 120 degrees can be chosen.

Not only can users create their personalized shower experience from within the app, but they also can fully control the shower from their smartphones. They can turn on the shower, change temperature and turn outlets on and off with the push of a button.

The app also allows users to customize system-wide settings, such as the outlet icons, which Wi-Fi network the system is connected to, language and time zone. Security is an important aspect of any connected device, and Moen has thoughtfully designed the U by Moen shower to give consumers peace of mind that their connection is secure.

The finish of U by Moen is Terra Beige, and the company said that it is compatible with both two- and four-outlet systems. Users will have to provide their own fixtures and showerhead to go with the system. Moen didn't specify a launch date but mentioned that the device will be available to buy both online and in retail stores that sell plumbing supplies.

Kanex today introduced the GoPlay SideKick, a pocket-sized wireless game controller for iPhone, iPad, and Apple TV. The MFi-certified controller connects to Apple devices over Bluetooth 4.0 and offers up to 20 hours of gameplay on a single charge with almost any controller-supported game on the App Store.

The console-inspired game controller features pressure-sensitive buttons, dual analog joysticks, trigger buttons, a directional pad, and a Lightning connector, while one of its more interesting features is its patent pending protective clamshell case with an integrated stand that props up an iPhone during gameplay.

Kanex said the GoPlay SideKick will be available in February for $59.95. For reference, Apple sells the SteelSeries Nimbus Wireless Gaming Controller and HORIPAD ULTIMATE Wireless Game Controller for $49.95 each. Other options include, among others, the MOGA Rebel and Mad Catz CTRL i.

Chamberlain, a connected smart home company that specializes in garage door openers, today announced that it will be introducing Apple HomeKit compatibility to a range of its connected smart home devices. For users already using the company's products in the "MyQ" ecosystem, they will be able to gain HomeKit support through the addition of a new MyQ Home Bridge.

For new users, Chamberlain will launch the all-new Smart Garage Hub, a device that can add smartphone controls to "virtually any brand of garage door opener" that users already own.

Thanks to HomeKit compatibility, users will be able to control their garage door -- and any MyQ connected lighting accessories -- through their iPhone, iPad, iPod touch, or Apple Watch, and even use Siri.

“The value of MyQ technology extends far beyond the garage, but into the daily fabric of families and their lifestyles in the home,” said Cory Sorice, Vice President of Marketing for Connected Products and eCommerce at Chamberlain. “Through our growing product line, new features that add convenience and control, and expanding partnerships with tech leaders, Chamberlain has established itself as the industry’s preeminent smart home innovator.”

Additionally, Chamberlain announced new Smart Light Switches and lamp controls, as well as new features within the MyQ mobile app, including guest accounts and scheduling abilities. On iOS, users will be able to add Touch ID onto the app's startup to ensure an additional layer of security is protecting access to their garage door and lighting controls.

The company said that the MyQ Home Bridge should arrive by April 2017, and the Smart Garage Hub will launch around July 2017. The MyQ Home Bridge will run at a special introductory price of $49.99 (regular $69.99), but there was no mention of how much the Smart Garage Hub will cost.