Samsung SmartThings is expanding its efforts related to Matter by announcing a Partner Early Access Program to test their first-ever Matter-compatible products. Matter is expected to launch this fall, and it will enable devices across brands to connect quickly and easily. The platform will support a variety of voice assistants and networking protocols, including Alexa, Google Assistant, Siri as well as Wi-Fi, Thread and Bluetooth LE. Companies included in the test are Aeotec, Aqara, Eve Systems, Leedarson, Nanoleaf, Netatmo, Sengled, Wemo, WiZ, and Yale, which covers a large range of products from lighting to locks. Integrating SmartThings hub functionality into these devices will make it easier for users to experience connected living without the need for a separate smart home hub.
In other news, VR headsets might soon be able to stimulate a user’s mouth via ultrasound. Carnegie Mellon University’s Future Interfaces Group have designed a VR immersion tool that uses ultrasonic transducers to send acoustic energy to the mouth. This creates haptic feedback, which can be sent to simulate a single tap, pulses, swipes and vibrations on the teeth, tongue and lips, according to the research first was spotted by Gizmodo. The best part is that users don’t have to put anything over their mouth to feel these stimulations.
Finally, Sonos has just announced a new entry-level soundbar called the Ray, which comes at a more accessible price point of $279. This price comes from letting go of some features found on the Sonos Beam, including a microphone, side speakers and top speakers. This will prevent the Ray from producing Dolby Atmos. However, it can produce stereo PCM and unlicensed Dolby Digital and DTS Digital Surround.
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