Topic
consumer electronics
Technology Best Apple Watch Models for Enterprise Buyers: Series 11, SE 3, and Ultra 3 Compared
Apple's latest Apple Watch lineup includes the Series 11, SE 3, and Ultra 3, each with distinct features and price points. For enterprise buyers considering wearable deployment for employee wellness or field operations, the choice hinges on battery life, durability, and health sensors.
Manufacturing Dyson Launches V16 Piston Animal Vacuum with 315 AW Power and New Cleaner Head Technology
Dyson has launched the V16 Piston Animal, now its most powerful stick vacuum with 315 air-watts, unseating the Gen5Detect. The new model features an All Floor Cones Sense cleaner head that adapts to flooring in one second. A Submarine variant adds wet mopping capability. The Gen5Detect remains a cheaper alternative.
Top Smart Rings Reviewed: Oura Ring 4, RingConn Gen 2 Air, and Samsung Galaxy Ring Compared
WIRED's review of the best smart rings highlights the Oura Ring 4 as the top pick, with competition from RingConn Gen 2 Air and Samsung Galaxy Ring. Prices range from $199 to $499. The article also mentions the Leep Ring as an honorable mention.
Manufacturing Soundcore Nebula P1i Projector Offers Pop-Out Speakers and Google TV for Affordable Home Cinema
WIRED's Chris Haslam reviewed the Soundcore Nebula P1i projector, highlighting its pop-out surround sound speakers, 1080p resolution, 380 ANSI lumens brightness, and Google TV integration. The budget-friendly device offers solid picture quality and punchy audio, ideal for impromptu movie nights.
Manufacturing Motorola Growth and Smartphone Features: What Manufacturing Buyers Should Know
Motorola is among the fastest-growing mobile companies, with Razr foldables leading US sales. Its phones offer 256GB standard storage, microSD expansion, headphone jacks on Moto G models, and compatibility with major US carriers. Software update policies vary by model, and prices frequently drop after launch.
Manufacturing GoPro Launches New Mission 1 Cameras and Accessories: A Guide for Industrial Applications
WIRED's updated GoPro guide introduces the new Mission 1 series cameras and key accessories, with pricing and compatibility details. The guide also offers recommendations on microSD cards and video editing software, providing a comprehensive overview for professionals considering GoPro for industrial use.
Technology The Best Smart Cutting Machine for You Depends on What You’re Making—and How Many
A detailed comparison of Cricut Explore 5 and Siser Romeo smart cutting machines, evaluating their features, ecosystem, and cost for different user needs. Cricut's Explore 5 is ideal for casual crafters, while Siser's Romeo targets high-volume production. The review helps decide when to upgrade from a hobby machine.
Manufacturing GoPro's Mission 1 Pro Delivers Cinema-Grade 8K Video in a Rugged Action Camera Body
GoPro's latest Mission 1 Pro action camera delivers cinema-quality 8K video with class-leading color accuracy, great dynamic range, and improved low-light performance. Priced at $699, it is the most expensive action camera available, but offers the largest sensor and best overall video quality in the category. While aimed at professionals, it retains the ruggedness and durability expected from GoPro.
Manufacturing BenQ TK705STi Short-Throw Projector Targets Gamers with Low Latency, 4K Resolution
BenQ's TK705STi short-throw 4K projector delivers low-latency performance ideal for gamers, enabling large screen sizes up to 12.5 feet. However, its auto-keystoning feature proved finicky and overall picture quality for movies is average compared to pricier models. The projector is recommended primarily for gaming enthusiasts rather than home cinema purists.
Manufacturing 46% of Indian smartphone buyers willing to stretch budgets despite price hikes: Counterpoint
A Counterpoint Research survey of 2,095 prospective buyers reveals that 46% of Indian consumers planning a smartphone purchase in the next six months are willing to stretch their budgets despite rising prices. The report highlights that rising manufacturing and component costs are driving price increases, with consumer behaviour varying by age and city tier.
Manufacturing Apple Entry, New Launches, Financing May Boost Foldable Phone Market in India
Apple is preparing to enter the foldable smartphone market in India, challenging Samsung's dominance. Counterpoint Research projects foldable shipments in India to exceed 650,000 units in 2026, an 8% increase, even as the overall market shrinks. New launches and financing options are expected to further boost the segment.
Technology Jibo's Successor: A Wearable AI Device That Turns Your Life Into Slop
Lingverse (formerly Ling AI) announced the iKairos, a wearable AI device that can be worn as a pendant or mounted at home. It aims to capture everyday moments and turn them into AI-generated images, continuing the legacy of the defunct Jibo robot. The company raised $29 million and plans to sell the device for $199-$249 with a subscription. Details on capabilities remain scant.
Manufacturing Dyson V10 Konical Outperforms Pricier Models in Head-to-Head Vacuum Testing
In a week-long test of Dyson's newest vacuums, the V10 Konical emerged as the top performer for its price. Offering 150 air watts and the new All Floor Cones cleaner head, it surpassed the V8 Cyclone and even outperformed more expensive models on sand pick-up on rugs.
Technology How Enterprise Buyers Should Evaluate Fitbit’s Latest Wearables for Corporate Wellness Programs
Google's Fitbit acquisition has yielded the Google Fitbit Air and Charge 6, offering affordable, user-friendly health tracking for corporate wellness. The Air, at $100, is the lightest Fitbit with a week-long battery, while the Charge 6 adds ECG and gym equipment connectivity.
Technology Top 8 Smartwatches for 2026: WIRED's Expert Picks After a Decade of Testing
WIRED's expert reviewers have tested smartwatches for a decade and narrowed down the top 8 models as of July 2026. The guide covers Apple, Google, Samsung, Garmin, and more, with detailed specs, prices, and compatibility notes. Rising component costs and supply chain pressures have driven up prices, but options range from $79 to $799.
Smart Home Gadgets That Boost Curb Appeal Without Sacrificing Style
WIRED's Nena Farrell reviews outdoor smart home gadgets that blend functionality with design. Products include the discreet Level Lock Pro, sleek Nest Doorbell, Birdfy Nest Duo birdhouse with solar cameras, and Govee smart string lights.
Technology Privacy-First Sensor Technology: Enterprise Alternatives to Security Cameras
WIRED tested privacy-first alternatives to home security cameras, including a radar system and the Kini motion sensor. These technologies offer reliable detection without video feeds, suitable for enterprise facilities concerned about privacy and data security.
Manufacturing Balmuda's $429 NatureWind Studio Fan: A Case Study in Premium Home Appliance Manufacturing
Tokyo-based Balmuda has launched the NatureWind Studio pedestal fan in the US at $429. The fan, available in Japan since 2010, features patented dual-blade technology, metal construction, and silent operation at 9 dB. For manufacturing executives, the product illustrates how premium home appliances balance minimalist design with precision manufacturing.
Manufacturing India Smartphone Shipments Decline 10% in June Quarter, Sharpest Drop in 3 Years
India's smartphone shipments declined 10% year-on-year in the June quarter, the steepest drop in three years, driven by record-high memory prices and weak demand in the mass-market segment. Chinese brands suffered most, while Samsung posted growth. Premium devices held steady.
Business Apple Reclaims World's Most Valuable Company Title, Overtaking Nvidia After Chipmaker's Shares Drop
Apple Inc has regained the title of world's most valuable company, surpassing Nvidia after the chipmaker's shares declined 3.7% on Friday. Apple's market capitalization rose to approximately $4.9 trillion, while Nvidia's fell to about $4.8 trillion. The shift reflects investor rotation from AI beneficiaries to firms with long-term growth potential, supported by Apple's China AI approval and an HSBC upgrade.
Technology WIRED's Best Smart Speakers for 2026: Google Home Speaker Leads the Pack
WIRED's Nena Farrell tested nearly every smart speaker from Amazon, Google, and Apple. The 2026 Google Home Speaker (8/10, WIRED Recommends) leads with its Gemini AI assistant, but many advanced features require a subscription. Amazon and Apple remain strong ecosystem contenders.
Technology Xgimi Titan Noir Max Projector Offers Premium Home Theater at Sub-$6,000 Price
The Xgimi Titan Noir Max is a $5,999 home theater projector that supports IMAX Enhanced mode, features a 10,000:1 native contrast ratio, 7,000 lumens brightness, and a dual intelligent iris system. It raised $19 million on Kickstarter and beats competitors like the Epson Pro Cinema LS9000 and Leica Cine Play 1 in benchmarks.
Manufacturing Hisense XR10 Projector Brings RGB Backlighting to Home Cinema
The Hisense XR10 projector brings RGB backlighting technology to home projection, offering 6,000 lumens of brightness and a 6,000:1 native contrast ratio. Weighing 23.4 pounds, it features an adjustable iris and micro-adjustable feet for precision setup. The article reviews its design and performance for movie nights.
Manufacturing TSMC pledges another $100bn to expand US production in Arizona
Taiwanese chipmaker TSMC will invest another $100bn in Arizona, raising its total US commitment to $265bn. The Commerce Department says the move will create tens of thousands of jobs. The company also reported a 77% jump in second-quarter net profit to $22bn.
Manufacturing Union Cabinet Approves Rs 1.9 Lakh Crore Schemes to Boost India's Chip and Mobile Phone Manufacturing
The Union Cabinet approved two schemes totaling Rs 1.9 lakh crore: Semicon 2.0 (Rs 1,27,500 crore) for semiconductor fabrication, advanced packaging, materials, equipment, and design; and the Mobile Phone Manufacturing Scheme (Rs 62,500 crore) with sales-linked incentives and additional domestic sourcing benefits. The government targets a $500 billion electronics manufacturing industry by 2030-31.
Technology Skylight Touchscreen Calendar’s AI Sidekick Offers Lessons for Enterprise Schedule Management
A WIRED review of the Skylight touchscreen calendar reveals AI-driven schedule extraction from photos and emails, multi-platform calendar sync, and shared task lists. While consumer-focused, these features parallel enterprise needs for digitizing paper-based workflows and coordinating cross-department schedules.
Technology I Test and Take Apart Keyboards for a Living. These Are the Very Best for Work and Play
A WIRED expert who tests and takes apart keyboards for a living shares the very best keyboards for work and play, focusing on comfort, efficiency, and build quality. The curated list includes models from Logitech, Keychron, Wooting, and Happy Hacking Keyboard, with prices ranging from $55 to $300.
Technology The Eight Sleep Pod 5 Smart Mattress Cover Blends AI, IoT, and Sleep Optimization — But at What Cost?
Eight Sleep's Pod 5 smart mattress cover combines temperature regulation, sleep tracking, and AI automation via Autopilot. While offering refined sleep optimization, it raises concerns over subscription costs, data privacy, and a history of security issues. The product has been adopted by DOGE engineers in the Office of Personnel Management, signaling enterprise interest.
Surface Laptop Discounted by 38% for Prime Day: A Standout Deal in 2026
According to WIRED, the Surface Laptop is discounted by 38% for Prime Day, now priced at $835. The 2024 model offers 16GB RAM, 256GB storage, a 3:2 aspect ratio display with 120Hz refresh rate, and long battery life. This deal is highlighted as the best value laptop in 2026, despite limited configuration options.
Manufacturing India Smartphone Shipments to Fall Over 10% in Q2 as Memory Costs Squeeze Margins
India's smartphone market shipments are set to decline more than 10% year-on-year in Q2 2026, the sharpest drop since Covid, according to IDC. Soaring memory costs have pushed handset prices up 15-18%, squeezing OEM margins and deterring entry-level buyers. Analysts warn of further price increases ahead of the festive season.
Manufacturing RGB TV Technology: How Mini and Micro RGB Backlights Are Reshaping TV Panel Manufacturing in 2026
WIRED tested five RGB TVs from Hisense, Samsung, LG, TCL, and Sony. The technology uses red, green, and blue backlight modules instead of white or blue LEDs, producing vivid colors and high contrast. While costs are currently higher than OLED, manufacturers can continue using LCD panels, and prices are expected to drop. The article explores implications for TV panel manufacturing.
Technology Oura Ring 5: Smart Ring Upgrade Targets Health Tracking and Privacy for Corporate Wellness Programs
Oura's fifth-generation smart ring introduces GLP-1 medication tracking, enhanced privacy controls with time-based data deletion, and support for multiple rings on one account. WIRED's review finds it an easy recommendation for first-time buyers or those upgrading from older models, but Ring 4 owners may not see dramatic gains. The subscription remains at $6 per month for full functionality.
Technology Back Up Your Whole Life With the Best External Hard Drives
The rising cost of SSDs, driven by AI data center demand, has made traditional spinning hard drives a compelling choice for backups. WIRED's guide recommends the Western Digital Elements and My Passport series, as well as Seagate Expansion drives, highlighting their affordability and reliability.
Technology WIRED Tests Best Pet Cameras: AI, 360° Views, and Treat Dispensing for Remote Pet Monitoring
WIRED tested multiple pet cameras, including the Furbo Mini 360° and Petcube Cam 360, evaluating features like AI tracking, 360-degree pan-tilt, treat dispensing, and cloud storage. The article compares resolution, angle view, storage options, and audio capabilities across models.
Technology Beatbot AquaSense X Robot Cleans Pool and Then Cleans Itself, Ending Dirty Filter Burden
The Beatbot AquaSense X pool-cleaning robot, paired with the AstroRinse self-cleaning station, eliminates the chore of manually cleaning the robot's filter. The system uses a separate station that also charges the robot. Setup involves multiple steps and hose connections.
Technology Samsung's New R95H Micro RGB TV Falls Short Against LG's Superior Picture Quality
Samsung's Micro RGB R95H television delivers good performance but cannot match the picture quality and controls of LG's Micro RGB Evo. Priced at $3,200 for the 65-inch model, the R95H suffers from anti-glare tech that dulls images, while LG offers superior size and features at a comparable price point.
Manufacturing Vivo-Dixon JV: Government Approval Sets Template for Chinese Smartphone Makers in India
India has approved a manufacturing joint venture between China's Vivo and Dixon Technologies, first announced in December 2024. Dixon will hold 51% and Vivo 49%, acquiring certain manufacturing assets. The venture could add 20-22 million smartphones annually to Dixon's volumes, serving as a template for Chinese phone makers navigating India's foreign investment framework.
Manufacturing GoPro and Insta360 Deals Highlight Prime Day Action Camera Discounts for Industrial Procurement Teams
Prime Day brings significant discounts on action cameras including the GoPro Max 2 at 40% off and the Insta360 Ace Pro 2. This roundup details key specifications and deals for industrial buyers evaluating consumer electronics components.
Manufacturing Dixon Technologies and Vivo Receive Approval for Smartphone Manufacturing Joint Venture in India
The Indian government has approved a joint venture between Dixon Technologies (51%) and Vivo Mobile India (49%) to manufacture smartphones and other electronic devices in India. The venture will operate as an OEM, initially handling Vivo's production orders but also manufacturing for other brands. This approval comes under tightened scrutiny of Chinese investments in India.
Manufacturing Dell 14S Review: Aluminum Design, OLED Option, but Budget Pricing Eludes at $1,270
WIRED's review of the Dell 14S highlights its premium aluminum design, thin 0.61-inch profile, and optional OLED display. However, at $1,270 starting price, it challenges budget expectations. For manufacturing executives, the components and material choices signal cost trade-offs in midrange laptop production.
Technology Why Enterprise IT Should Consider Older Microsoft Surface Devices Over New Models
The 2024 Surface Laptop (7th Edition) remains the best value for enterprise buyers facing the newly announced 2026 models. With lower pricing, proven performance, and sufficient capabilities for standard office workloads, it outperforms the new Snapdragon X2-equipped devices on cost efficiency. Enterprise procurement teams should prioritize the older model while monitoring the upcoming Surface Laptop Ultra for future needs.
Manufacturing India's Consumer Durables Sector Targets Over 20% Growth as Summer Demand Surges
India's consumer durables sector is on track for over 20% revenue growth in Q1 FY27, driven by scorching summer demand. Air conditioners lead with sales growth exceeding 30%, while other seasonal categories post double-digit gains. However, rising input costs and currency weakness are squeezing margins despite price increases of 5-8%.
Technology Many of My Favorite Dyson Products Are On Sale for Prime Day
Dyson products, including premium vacuums and hair styling tools, are heavily discounted during Prime Day 2026. Key deals include the Dyson Gen5Detect cordless vacuum at $660 and the Spot+Scrub AI robot vacuum/mop at $850. WIRED highlights the best purchases for vacuum and beauty categories.
This Pool Cleaning Robot Reinvents the Skimmer With a Tiny Tornado
The Bublue BuVortex V5 is a novel pool skimmer that creates a tiny whirlpool to suck in debris, unlike traditional catamaran-style skimmers. The device weighs 11.5 pounds and features a central cylinder for vortex generation. In a week-long test, it handled organic and synthetic leaves.
How Much Would You Pay to Have the Most Vivid TV Display on the Block?
The LG Micro RGB Evo TV offers superior picture quality with micro RGB LED technology, but at a premium price. Tested against Samsung, TCL, Hisense, and Sony models, the LG and Samsung lead in performance, though mini RGB alternatives provide cost savings. Enterprise buyers evaluating high-end displays for commercial settings should consider size, price, and technology trade-offs.
Manufacturing The biggest hurdle in India's chip race isn't the plan—it's execution
India's semiconductor strategy, while ambitious, faces significant execution challenges including over 90% import reliance for manufacturing equipment and specialty chemicals, a shortage of manufacturing-specific talent, and gaps in the domestic supply chain, according to a report by Equirus Securities.
Manufacturing Sony's New Mini RGB LED TV Bravia 7 Mark II Enters Market with Novel Display Technology
The Sony Bravia 7 Mark II is one of the first mini RGB LED televisions available, featuring tiny red, green, and blue LEDs behind an LCD panel. Priced at $2,300 for the 65-inch model, the TV offers a size range from 50 to 98 inches. The technology, also adopted by Hisense and TCL, represents a new manufacturing approach for color reproduction in consumer displays.
Best Wi-Fi Routers for Enterprise Home Offices: Asus, Netgear, TP-Link Lead Wi-Fi 7 Picks
WIRED has tested over 40 Wi-Fi routers and recommends the Asus RT-BE96U as top pick, with alternatives for budget, gaming, travel, and large homes. The article also covers the FCC's ban on foreign-made routers and provides a comparison table of seven top models.
Technology TCL RM9L RGB-Mini LED TV: Four HDMI 2.1 Ports and 144Hz, but Picture Requires Tweaks
TCL's RM9L RGB-Mini LED TV delivers four HDMI 2.1 ports supporting 144Hz, Wi-Fi 6, and a well-designed remote, but real-world testing reveals mixed picture quality, requiring Vivid mode for dim scenes and lacking skin-tone accuracy compared to LG and Sony models.
Manufacturing India becomes world's second-largest phone maker, PM Modi unveils electronics roadmap
Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that India has become the world's second-largest mobile phone manufacturer and exporter, highlighting the country's progress in building a complete electronics value chain from products to semiconductors. The announcement came after the inauguration of the CG Semi Outsourced Semiconductor Assembly and Test (OSAT) facility, whose first chips will be exported to Japan.
E-Commerce & Marketplaces Samsung Leads India Smartphone Sales via EMI Financing, Counterpoint Report Finds
Samsung is India's leading smartphone brand for EMI purchases, followed by Vivo and Apple, according to Counterpoint Research. Financing will account for 42% of smartphone sales in 2026, up from 35% in 2025, as rising component costs push prices higher. NBFCs support 67% of financed sales, especially in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities.
Manufacturing Daisy Sound Launches $399 Daisy One Headphones Targeting Premium Market with Aluminum Design
Daisy Sound, a new California-based audio brand founded by Jack Mulroe, launched its first product, the Daisy One headphones, at $399. The premium noise-canceling headphones feature an aluminum and TR90 construction, 35-hour battery life, and a sound system from Utah-based ((nxc)) systems. Mulroe aims to shake up a market dominated by Apple, Sony, and Bose.
Manufacturing Ninja Quietly Improves Its Slushie Machines Amid Surging Demand and Rising Competition
A WIRED review of the Ninja Slushi slushie machine reveals product improvements and strong demand, with the $349 machine frequently selling out. The review also tests competitors Chivalz ($260) and Inoviva, highlighting performance differences. For manufacturing executives, the product's viral success and supply constraints signal a rapidly growing market.
Technology Which MacBook to Buy for Your Enterprise in 2026: A CTO's Guide to Apple's Lineup
Apple's 2026 MacBook lineup includes the MacBook Air, MacBook Pro, and new MacBook Neo, all refreshed in March 2026. WIRED's Luke Larsen breaks down the options with a decade of testing, noting price increases due to component costs and a memory shortage from AI data center demand. The guide covers M5-series chips, macOS 27 Golden Gate compatibility, and accessories for enterprise buyers.
Technology How 3D Printers for Kids Became Surprisingly User-Friendly: A Review of Elegoo Centauri Carbon, Snapmaker U1, and Toybox
A WIRED journalist and a colleague tested three consumer 3D printers—Elegoo Centauri Carbon, Snapmaker U1, and Toybox—to see if preteens could use them independently. The findings: modern 3D printers are far simpler to set up and operate than many parents fear, with the Toybox being the most intuitive for kids, though space and noise remain considerations.
Manufacturing Apple MacBook Price Hikes Signal Component Shortages Hitting Consumer Electronics Supply Chain
Apple has implemented price increases across its MacBook and iPad lineup, with the MacBook Pro rising nearly $400 (20%). The hikes follow Apple's warning that price increases were 'inevitable' and are attributed to a component shortage driven by memory manufacturers reallocating capacity to support AI data centers. The timing coincides with Amazon Prime Day, offering temporary discounts before further price adjustments are expected.
Kobo Libra Colour E-Reader Challenges Kindle with Color Screen and Page-Turn Buttons at Discount Price
The Kobo Libra Colour, a color e-reader with page-turn buttons and digital notebook capability, is currently discounted. The device features a 7-inch color screen, 32GB storage, and Kobo Plus membership access at $8/week. It competes directly with Amazon's Kindle Colorsoft, offering additional functionality at a similar price.
Technology Google's New Home Speaker: Six-Year Wait Yields a Gemini-Powered Smart Speaker
After a six-year hiatus, Google launched the Home Speaker, a decade after the original. It adopts a compact design reminiscent of the HomePod Mini, runs on Google Gemini for smarter voice interactions, and offers stereo pairing. Some advanced features require a subscription.
Manufacturing BenQ’s 4100i Projector Brings Cinematic Picture Quality to Your Living Room
BenQ's W4100i projector brings cinematic picture quality to home theaters with rich colors and excellent contrast. Priced at $2,999 (or $2,799 on sale), it features a filmmaker mode and 24P frame rate mode. The projector is easy to set up and competes with the Leica Cine Play 1 and Epson Lifestudio Grand Plus.
Manufacturing Anker 737 Power Bank, Former Top Pick at WIRED, Gets Prime Day Discount
The Anker 737 power bank, previously WIRED's top pick, is on sale during Amazon Prime Day 2026. With 24,000 mAh capacity, 140W power delivery, and under one-hour recharge, it is ideal for travel and field use. The sale price is near the best tracked since Black Friday.