When Apple throws a big event like its annual Worldwide Developers Conference, it dominates the week’s tech news cycle and this year was no exception. But, Tim Cook and crew weren’t the only thing happening in the land of circuits and silicone last week. Here’s a look at what you might have missed.
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WWD-see ya later!
The HomePod was the big star of Apple’s 2017 WWDC keynote, finally bringing Siri to a smart hub speaker. Interestingly Apple focused primarily on the speaker’s sound quality more than its smarts, presumably to hook more customers into the Apple Music infrastructure. Other WWDC announcements included revamped iMacs, an upgraded iPad Pro, and a the $5,000 iMac Pro, which might be the best looking computer the company has ever made.
Headeset it off
Logitech announced its new G433 PC Gaming Headset designed for e-sports athletes and anyone else who might work up a sweat playing Overwatch. The whole package weighs just 9 oz. and the ear cups use wicking material to make them more comfortable during marathon sessions.
Keymaster
The new Roli Seaboard Block is a touch-based, modular music machine. It is setup like small keyboard, but can be expanded for more range, other instruments, and a robust selection of beats. It costs $299 and will be available later this month. Musical talent not included.
Swift return
You might be surprised to find the Taylor Swift music catalog is once again available on popular streaming services like Spotify for the first time since 2014. The official reason offered is a celebration of her 1989 album, which has sold 10 million copies and 100 million songs. Even if you’re not a Taylor fan, it will be interesting to see what this means for other artists who have been holding out from the streaming model. (Sorry if “Shake it Off” is stuck in your head again now.)
Wide and seek
Samsung announced a new 49-inch CHG90 QLED Gaming Monitor with a 32:9 aspect ratio and a total resolution of 3840 x 1080. It’s functionally similar to a pair of 24-inch monitors sitting side by side. You can finally show that guy at your office with three monitors who the real work space champion is.
Sweet kicks
Apple-related memorabilia will always have collector’s appeal and this super-rare pair of kicks are expected to fetch up to $30,000 in an online auction. They’re size 11 in case you’re a super rich guy who wants to buy and wear them in the rain to get commenters fired up on a YouTube video.
Fisky business
Fisker showed off a few teaser images (PDF link) of its upcoming all-electric luxury car, the EMotion. It has a range of 400 miles and a price tag of $129,900. It’s all very exciting if you like swoopy hoods.