Some Amazing New Gadgets to Have on Your Radar This Week
Apple’s major hardware spring event is set for next week, on April 20th, but that doesn’t mean the previous week wasn’t important — it was. There was a slew of new gadgets revealed. From DJI’s newest drone to posh new bookshelf speakers, solar-powered headphones, and a slew of new webcams, there’s something for everyone. Here’s what you need to hear about it.
JBL 4309 Bookshelf Speakers
The JBL 4309 studio monitors are basically smaller and less expensive versions of the company’s $7,500 high-end 4349 studio monitors. Each 4309 loudspeaker features a 1-inch tweeter, 6.5-inch mid-bass motor, and twin-firing reflex ports, making it sound as dynamic as its larger sibling. Each speaker is also visually beautiful, with a blue baffle, walnut or black walnut veneer, and a cloth grille — they’ve already won a Red Dot Design Award for 2021. This June, the JBL 4309 studio monitors will be available for purchase.
Canon EOS R3
Canon has released the EOS R3, the company’s most high-end mirrorless camera to date, which is clearly aimed at competing with the Nikon z9. It’ll be the first camera in the EOS series to feature Canon’s latest 35mm full-frame, back-illuminated, stacked CMOS sensor. It will also feature a DIGIC X image processor “for high-speed image processing that allows for continuous shooting at up to 30 frames per second.” It will also have a fairly sturdy body with a built-in vertical hand grip, according to the released picture (above). There is no word on a price or a release date.
Roku Voice Remote Pro
This week, Roku introduced three new(ish) items. The Express 4K Plus, which replaces the Roku Premiere, is the company’s latest entry-level 4K player. There’s also the Streambar Pro, which is essentially a rebranded Smart Soundbar (now defunct). The Roku Voice Remote Pro, in particular, is noteworthy. It’s the first Roku remote with a rechargeable battery and hands-free voice commands, “Hey Roku.” It also has a headphone jack and an Apple TV+ dedicated button. The Roku Voice Remote Pro will operate with any Roku TV or streaming system and will set you back $30.
Spotify Car Thing
Spotify has finally revealed its first-ever unit. Car Thing is simply a glorified Spotify remote for people who have cars that don’t have built-in Bluetooth. It also responds to “Hey Spotify” voice commands to play sounds or playlists, as well as play/pause and skip songs, making it superior to just using your mobile to access your Spotify music in your car. You can monitor Car Thing with its navigation keys, big knob, and touchscreen in addition to voice commands.
Microsoft Modern Webcam
The newest webcam from Microsoft is a fairly simple device. It connects to your device via USB-A and supports HD video (not 4K) (not USB-C). It has a privacy shutter and a built-in LED light that turns on when it’s turned on. This appears to be a solid choice if you’re looking for a reasonably priced update for your laptop or desktop setup. It will be released in June.