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I thought screens on earbuds cases were a bit meh – but JBL just proved me wrong

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One thing we never put in the reviews that make up our best earbuds or best noise cancelling earbuds guides is a mark specific to the case. Usually, we like said charging nest to be pocketable, for the magnets in the lid to keep their precious music-giving cargo safe and if there’s a nice powerful onboard battery for extra stamina, so much the better. But when JBL put a smartwatch-style screen on an earbuds case in December 2022, it initially felt like the game was about to change. This was something we never thought possible! 

Although that inaugural screen was pretty, it made the case it was attached to rather big – and our JBL Tour 2 Pro review was something of a mixed bag because it made the earbuds a pricey proposition within a crowded market. Also, the promised message notifications, call history and any social media access via the Tour Pro 2 case never arrived. 

JBL Live Beam 3's JBL Headphones app, three screen-grabs showing smart charging case settings

The Smart Charging Case settings within the app – neat!  (Image credit: JBL)

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This gadget promises to increase productivity inside your vehicle by converting ICE screens into displays — and even includes Samsung DeX compatibility for free

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Mayton Motion has developed a wireless adapter that transforms a car’s navigation screen into a functional laptop-like display. Users can access a range of new features by connecting the device via the car’s USB port.

AutoPro X is powered by Android Auto/Samsung DeX (it only works with Samsung Galaxy models that support DeX) and offers Bluetooth pairing, so users can connect game controllers, keyboards and other devices to the screen. This isn’t necessarily the greatest of ideas, since it could end up being a distraction for the driver, but we’d hope for some common sense to be used here.

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Samsung’s not coming out with a smart display any time soon, but still wants “screens everywhere” in your home

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With screen fatigue at an all-time high, the prospect of a smart home with even more screens might sound counterintuitive – but I think Samsung is onto something with its new ‘screens everywhere’ approach to smart appliances. 

During its global launch event on 3 April, Samsung demonstrated a host of new smart appliances, including some featuring a new seven-inch LCD AI screen to “realize the idea of screens everywhere”.

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Entertainment

How to clean all the screens in your home

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Whether you’re talking about your aging laptop’s screen or that brand new OLED TV you just bought, all of them will get dusty and dirty over time. You may be hesitant to give the screens in your home a thorough cleaning, and the fact that there are so many products out there that claim to do it best doesn’t help. But we’ve found that the best route is actually the simplest. If you want to refresh all of the screens in your home, we’ll outline the best methods that will help you do so properly without damaging any of your gear.

How not to clean your screens

Igor's desktopIgor's desktop

Photo by Igor Bonifacic / Engadget

Before we get to how to clean a screen, there are a few ways you don’t want to go about the process. The first, and most important, is that you don’t want to clean a display using substances like isopropyl alcohol or Windex. Alcohol- and ammonia-based cleaners can damage your screen’s anti-reflective coating. Using those substances repeatedly can lead to clouding and the coating becoming uneven.

Companies like Whoosh make cleaning agents that won’t damage your screen, but in my experience, you’re best off using distilled water. It’s more affordable than a dedicated cleaning agent and more versatile too since you can use it on a variety of surfaces. It also won’t leave behind any residue on your display, which is something I’ve seen products like Whoosh do occasionally. You can buy distilled water at a grocery store or make it yourself with some simple cookware.

In a pinch, you can use tap water, but we recommend against it. Depending on the hardness of the water in your area and how your municipality treats it, there may be minerals and chemicals that will again either leave behind residue or, worse yet, damage your display’s coating.

Once you have some distilled water, you’ll want a separate spray bottle. One option is to reuse one you already have at home, but if you don’t have a spare, Muji makes these handy travel bottles in 100ml, 50ml and 30ml sizes that are perfect for the task, and you can find similar bottles on Amazon.

Next, be mindful of what you use to wipe your screen. You want to avoid using paper towel, dish rags and anything else that may have an abrasive surface that will damage the coating on your screen. You can use the sleeve of an old but clean t-shirt. That said, you’ll get the best results using microfiber cloths. That’s because the fabric they’re made from is extremely soft and good at attracting dust. We suggest buying a pack of them so that you always have a clean one on hand. The last thing you want to do is use a dirty one and transfer any dirt and grime onto your display.

Lastly, avoid spraying any liquid directly on a display. You’ll have a lot more control if you deposit it on your microfiber cloth and it’s much easier to avoid any of it making its way into the more sensitive parts of the display.

How to clean your screens

Igor's monitorIgor's monitor

Photo by Igor Bonifacic / Engadget

With all that out of the way, the actual process of cleaning a display is straightforward. If you’re only dealing with some dust, use a can of compressed air or an air blower to dislodge it. You can also turn to a dry microfiber cloth.

For anything more than that, dampen your microfiber cloth with a small amount of distilled water and then gently wipe the display. Once you’ve gone over the entire surface, turn over the cloth and use the dry side to remove any excess water. At this stage, avoid buffing the screen or using excessive pressure. You don’t want to work any particles into the surface of the screen.

That’s it. You should have a clean display now. Obviously, it will take longer to clean a bigger screen, but you can put to use the tips mentioned for all types of displays, including TVs, monitors and glass smartphone displays.

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The Power of Acoustic Screens: Enhancing Sound Quality in Any Space

In a world filled with noise, finding tranquility and focus can be a challenge. Whether you’re working in a bustling office, studying in a noisy classroom, or simply trying to enjoy a quiet dinner at a crowded restaurant, the solution to these auditory dilemmas often lies in the innovative technology of Écrans acoustiques.

Introduction

Acoustic screens have become essential tools in managing noise and creating a more peaceful and productive environment. These versatile pieces of equipment offer a plethora of benefits and can be customized to suit a wide range of spaces. In this article, we will delve into the world of acoustic screens, exploring what they are, how they work, and their various applications.

What Are Acoustic Screens?

Acoustic screens, also known as sound absorption panels or sound barriers, are specialized structures designed to reduce noise levels in a given space. They typically consist of a core material that absorbs sound, enclosed in a fabric or hard shell. The core material is often made of materials like foam, fiberglass, or even recycled textiles.

Benefits of Acoustic Screens

1. Noise Reduction

The primary benefit of acoustic screens is their ability to reduce noise levels significantly. Whether it’s the chatter of coworkers, the hum of HVAC systems, or the clatter of dishes in a restaurant, these screens provide a barrier that absorbs and dampens sound, creating a quieter environment.

2. Improved Privacy

Acoustic screens also enhance privacy by reducing sound transmission. In open office settings, for instance, employees can work with a sense of confidentiality, making it easier to focus and have private conversations without disturbing others.

3. Enhanced Productivity

In quieter, less distracting environments, individuals tend to be more productive. Acoustic screens help create a conducive workspace, improving concentration and overall work quality.

4. Aesthetically Pleasing

These screens are available in a wide range of designs and colors, making them a functional and aesthetic addition to any space. They can seamlessly blend with the existing decor or stand out as decorative elements themselves.

Types of Acoustic Screens

Acoustic screens come in various types, each catering to specific needs and settings.

4.1 Desk-Mounted Acoustic Screens

Desk-mounted screens are designed to be attached to the edges of desks and workstations. They create a personal sound barrier for individual users, reducing distractions and enhancing focus.

4.2 Floor-Mounted Acoustic Screens

Floor-mounted screens are larger and often used to divide larger spaces, such as open-plan offices or classrooms. These screens provide both sound absorption and visual separation.

4.3 Hanging Acoustic Screens

Hanging screens are suspended from the ceiling and are particularly useful in spaces with high ceilings. They can be used to create partitions, absorb sound, and add an artistic touch to the surroundings.

4.4 Acoustic Room Dividers

Acoustic room dividers are versatile and can be easily moved or reconfigured. They are ideal for creating temporary spaces within larger areas and serve as both sound absorbers and visual barriers.

How Do Acoustic Screens Work?

Acoustic screens work through sound absorption. When sound waves strike the screen, the core material within the screen absorbs the sound energy, preventing it from bouncing back into the room. This absorption effectively reduces noise levels, creating a quieter ambiance.

Choosing the Right Acoustic Screen

The choice of acoustic screen depends on several factors, including the space’s size, layout, and the specific noise-related challenges you’re facing. Consider the following when making your selection:

  • The type of screen (desk-mounted, floor-mounted, hanging, or room divider)
  • The material and design that complements your space
  • The level of noise reduction needed
  • Your budget and maintenance requirements

Installation and Maintenance

Installing acoustic screens is usually a straightforward process, but it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Maintenance typically involves regular cleaning and inspection to ensure optimal performance.

Acoustic Screens in Different Environments

Acoustic screens find applications in various settings, enhancing the quality of life in different ways.

8.1 Offices

In office spaces, acoustic screens help create quiet workstations, reducing the distractions caused by open-plan layouts.

8.2 Schools

Classrooms benefit from acoustic screens, creating quieter learning environments and aiding concentration.

8.3 Healthcare Facilities

In healthcare settings, acoustic screens contribute to patient privacy, reducing noise disturbances that can affect recovery.

8.4 Restaurants

Restaurants use acoustic screens to enhance the dining experience, allowing patrons to converse comfortably without the cacophony of background noise.

The Importance of Sound Quality

Sound quality is an often overlooked aspect of our surroundings. Acoustic screens play a vital role in improving the quality of sound in any space, making it more pleasant and comfortable for everyone.

DIY Acoustic Solutions

For those on a budget or looking for a more personalized approach, there are various DIY acoustic solutions that can be easily implemented.

Conclusion

Acoustic screens are a powerful tool in the battle against noise pollution, offering a quieter, more focused, and pleasant environment. Whether in offices, schools, healthcare facilities, or restaurants, these screens make a significant difference. So, if you’re looking to enhance the acoustic quality of your space, consider integrating acoustic screens to create a more peaceful and productive atmosphere.