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Category: Electronics

Retail News Asia is committed to providing both local and global retailers with the latest Electronics news throughout the Asian market. This on a daily base.

  • Pandora support now available on Apple’s HomePod

    Pandora support now available on Apple’s HomePod

    It’s no surprise that Pandora integration is now available on the HomePod, as Apple announced last month it will bring support for the music streaming service to both its smart speakers. However, at that time, the Cupertino giant didn’t mention when exactly Pandora integration for HomePod will arrive, so the fact that it’s now available is what’s really important.

    Although we’re still a few weeks away from the HomePod Mini’s market launch, Apple decided to make Pandora integration available to HomePod users before Mini’s release. When HomePod Mini launches later this month, it will be fully compatible with Pandora integration. Until then, HomePod users can start taking advantage of the new features by following the steps described below:

    • Download the latest version of Pandora’s iOS app
    • Open the Pandora app on your iOS device
    • Select Profile > Settings (gear icon) > “Connect with HomePod” > “Use in Home”

    Once the steps above are completed, you’ll be able to use your voice to control Pandora on your Apple HomePod. You can start asking Siri to play your favorite tunes and customize your listening experience without having to use your hands.

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  • Asian smartphone sales still lead world

    Asian smartphone sales still lead world

    Asian smartphone sales still lead the world market, with Asia Pacific tipped to remain the fastest-growing region this year.

    Handsets are the main consumer electronic product bought both online and in stores across the region, according to a new study by market research company GFK.

    The study shows 85 per cent of consumers polled across Asia Pacific have bought a consumer electronic item in the past 12 months, half of these purchases made over the internet. Across the 10 markets surveyed, a smartphone was the leading purchase.

    India, Vietnam and Indonesia had the highest incidence of smartphone purchases during the period.

    GFK head of retail, APAC, Jake Shepherd, says developing countries in the region have been strong drivers of consumer electronic sales.

    “The huge, yet largely untapped, potential of the eCommerce industry in these markets is growing rapidly with deepening internet penetration and adoption of connected technology.”

    While all product categories report online sales, offline sales still tend to dominate, says the report. For instance, while 69 per cent of Vietnamese consumers bought a consumer electronic product in the past 12 months, only 20 made the purchase online.

    Shepherd says the consumer purchase journey generally involves seeking information to help with making decisions. In APAC, 44 per cent of consumers do online research before buying a smartphone, with most people checking customer review sites and the manufacturer or brand’s website. Talking to family, friends or colleagues ranks next on the list as an influential information source, especially in Hong Kong and Taiwan where one in four consumers say this helps them make their decision.

    Only 19 per cent of consumers make their decisions based on in-store experiences, and Shepherd says it is important for businesses have a good understanding of the entire path to purchase to effectively formulate shopper strategies.

    For the online survey, during February and March, GFK questioned nearly 6500 regular internet users between 18 and 55 years across 10 Asia Pacific countries – Australia, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand and Vietnam.

    GFK has more than 13,000 researchers and market intelligence from more than 100 countries.

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  • Apple to open (mini) India stores

    Apple to open (mini) India stores

    Apple is about to open its first retail stores in India.

    But unlike in other international markets, the Apple India stores will be a joint venture with local electronics chain, Croma. And they’ll be considerably smaller than elsewhere.

    India has strict laws regulating single brand foreign retailing, which would require Apple to source a percentage of its products’ components within India.

    Media sources in India say the new stores – the first of which will open around the time of next month’s Diwali Festival – will feature the same signature wooden tables and counters of full scale Apple stores elsewhere in the world and staff will be trained in the US.

    Croma, a subsidiary of Infiniti Retail, in turn owned by industrial giant Tata, will open six stores in an initial trial, all in greater Mumbai.

    Infiniti Retail CEO Avijit Mitra said in a statement: “We are proud to partner [with] Apple to launch the Apple Store in India and extremely bullish about it.

    “These stores will be modelled on the global design and will offer the best experience to consumers, showcasing the entire range of Apple products,” he said.

    The first stores will comprise a mere 46 sqm, a fraction of the size of the tech giant’s global flagships, in reality resembling little more than a concession. But it marks a significant strategic step from Apple’s previous india strategy of selling through authorised resellers or mobile phone networks.

    Apple’s iPhone 6s model goes on sale in India this week, with the 16GB version priced at 62,000 rupees, about US$960).

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  • Major smartphone chipmaker says new Huawei OS could impact its sales

    Major smartphone chipmaker says new Huawei OS could impact its sales

    The company that manufacturers many of the chips used in smartphones, Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) is going to be impacted in the short term by the ban that prevents Huawei from sourcing parts and software in the U.S. The company previously had stated that Huawei’s placement on the Commerce Department’s Entity List would not affect it; the company has already announced that it would continue to manufacture chips for Huawei and its HiSilicon unit.

    It appears that TSMC has reevaluated the situation. TSMC Chairman Mark Liu, speaking to reporters today, said that sales of Huawei phones will slow down as consumers decide whether they can live with the phone manufacturer’s Android replacement. As a result, Huawei might need fewer chips to be assembled, which would affect TSMC’s revenue in the short term.

    “It certainly will have some impact in the short term. When there’s no Android system in a smartphone, many people might have doubts on whether the market will accept it.”-Mark Liu, chairman, TSMC

    Liu did add that demand for both 5G smartphones and newer handsets coming to market in the second half of this year will help TSMC stay on track for 2019. The executive says that his company’s outlook remains unchanged for the calendar year. Back in January, Liu said that TSMC’s 2019 revenue would grow 1% to 3% over last year’s figure of $1.03 trillion NT ($32.8 billion USD). Last year, the firm earned net profits of $351.13 billion NT ($11.4 billion USD).

    While Huawei’s in-house HiSilicon unit designs the chips used in Huawei’s high-end phones, the company has lost the support of U.K. chip designer ARM Holdings. This is a big blow to the company as it will need to search for an alternative architecture for its SoCs. Meanwhile, Huawei says that it has stockpiled a year’s worth of chip parts and components.

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  • Nokia Philippines launches new concept stores

    Nokia Philippines launches new concept stores

    Nokia Philippines has launched a new concept store in Iloilo City.

    HMD Global, the home of the smartphone brand, says the move aims to further boost Filipinos’ awareness of Nokia’s return to the local market.

    At SM Iloilo’s Cyberzone area, the new outlet adds to the 14 Nokia stores and kiosks in SM malls across the nation.

    “We are dedicated to making Nokia phones more accessible to the market,” says HMD Global Philippines country manager Shannon Mead.

    While last year marked Nokia’s comeback in the Philippine market, HMD Global teamed up earlier with e-commerce firms Argomall and Lazada Philippines. And last week, HMD Global secured $100 million in new investment to boost Nokia’s brand reach and portfolio.

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  • Hanwha gets smart about solar cell production

    Hanwha gets smart about solar cell production

    Hanwha Group has been striving to make the solar business its future growth engine since it first entered the industry in 2010, and that hard work is starting to pay off. Hanwha Q Cells, the group’s solar cell producer, is now one of the largest manufacturers in the industry, but competition is getting much tougher. Even some of the more established companies in Europe and the United States are struggling due to fast-growing Chinese manufacturers, according to Hanwha. As a result, the United States imposed tariffs on solar cell and module imports earlier this year.

    In a bid to tackle fierce competition and fortify its leadership, the group invested in making its new solar cell plant smarter using wearable gadgets, big data and robots.

    The Jincheon 2 plant, which started mass production of solar cells and modules in January, is an addition to the original complex built in 2016. With the first and second plant combined, the Jincheon facility is the largest single solar cell production site in the world, according to Hanwha, with 3.7 gigawatt production capacity.

    When we visited the solar cell production line on the third and fourth floor of the newly-built plant on Tuesday, some workers were moving busily from machine to machine wearing what looked like a smart watch.

    “It looks like a smart watch because we took the hardware from electronics companies like Samsung,” a spokesperson from Hanwha said. “But we applied our own software so that workers receive alarms when there are problems with the machines.”

    According to the solar cell maker, the watch does not provide a detailed cause or explanation of the problems, but it makes workers respond immediately to issues by alarming them with notices categorized into four stages – S, A, B and C – depending on the severity and complexity of the problem.

    The system means that just 40 workers are required to manage 220 machines lined-up horizontally in five production lines in the 330-meter-long (1082 feet) solar cell production room, according to Hanwha.

    Another unusual scene inside the plant was a huge stack of 200 solar cells moving around over workers’ heads.

    “We call it a cassette,” said Yang Byung-ki, a manager of cell production at Hanwha Q Cells Korea, the company in charge of cell production in Korea. “This automated overhead logistics system delivers solar cells quickly and safely to the next destination.”

    The automated delivery system moves cells through the 10 stages of production.

     

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  • Revox Reimagines Tomorrow: The Triumphant Return of the Swiss Audio Legend

    Revox Reimagines Tomorrow: The Triumphant Return of the Swiss Audio Legend

    With roots firmly planted in high-quality audio engineering, Revox is shaking off a subdued past to reclaim its prominence on the global stage. Based in Dietikon, the Swiss brand is transforming its rich legacy into a vibrant future, aiming for a bold resurgence in the audio world.

    Much like Patek Philippe represents excellence in timepieces, Revox stands as a bastion of quality in audio. Founded in 1948 near Zurich by the visionary Willi Studer (1906–1996), the names Revox and Studer quickly ascended to international renown, with Revox known for its iconic tape recorders and Studer becoming the industry benchmark for professional recording studios worldwide.

    Harmony in Design

    Revox has long been a favored choice among music-savvy interior designers and custom installation experts, with its devices gracing high-end venues like The Chedi in Andermatt. Yet, in recent decades, the brand seemed to fade into the background, leaving many aficionados longing for its revival.

    A Symphony of Sound

    Enter Beat Frischknecht, the current owner of Revox, who is orchestrating a comeback like none other. On a balmy summer evening, he welcomed guests to the opening of the new Revox World location. The expansive atrium buzzed with energy as the reels of a legendary tape machine whirred to life, filling the 600-square-meter space with the captivating sound that defined a generation.

    History Comes Alive

    Among more than 400 exhibits, visitors can find a Studer mixing console that served in Switzerland’s own federal parliament, courtesy of passionate collector Walti Stutz, who has lovingly restored it to its former glory. This blending of nostalgia with modernity is exactly what Frischknecht hopes to achieve with Revox.

    Charting a New Course

    Just a stone’s throw away, Revox is unveiling its future. Proudly presenting his vision, Frischknecht shared, “With the opening of our center, we’re demonstrating what Revox stands for: Swiss quality, technical innovation, and a passion for music.” This commitment to reinvention is part of a unique strategy to engage a younger demographic.

    From Shareholder to Visionary

    Frischknecht’s journey to ownership was anything but ordinary. Initially a real estate entrepreneur, he became captivated by Revox 25 years ago when the brand sought investors. “The quality and design fascinated me,” he recalled. Now, he holds 99.9 percent of the company, confidently declaring himself “an owner, investor, and a fan of Revox.”

    Innovative Product Lines

    The brand is now embarking on a transformative journey, structuring itself around three primary product categories: multiroom systems, compact streaming speakers, and a groundbreaking return of analog tape recorders. For the tech-savvy crowd, the Studiomaster A200—a portable speaker with Bluetooth capabilities and app control—has been introduced. And for the nostalgic at heart, the revamped B77 MK III promises a fresh experience for traditional tape enthusiasts, integrating seamlessly with modern systems.

    The Sound of Analog

    With an eye on filling the shelves with quality music, Revox has acquired Vienna’s Horch House, a master tape specialist, and begun collaborations with labels like Ear Music and Warner to produce new master tapes from original recordings. Already offering around 130 tapes—classics and contemporary music alike—Revox is set to expand its selections monthly. “Even young people want to own something again. A tape provides the ultimate-quality experience,” Frischknecht noted, highlighting the allure of analog in a digital age.

    Back on Track

    Frischknecht is optimistic and driven, declaring, “Back to the top—that’s our mantra.” With a robust development focus and a commitment to premium quality, Revox is ready to reignite its legacy. Production has been rooted in Villingen, Germany, since the 1960s, yet the essence of the brand thrives in Switzerland—a blend of Swiss ingenuity and German engineering poised to restore Revox to its rightful place on the world stage.

    Questions & Answers

    What types of products is Revox focusing on for its future?
    Revox is promoting three main product categories: multiroom systems, compact speakers aimed at streaming users, and a revival of analog tape recorders.

    What notable partnership has Revox recently entered into?
    Revox has acquired the Vienna-based master tape specialist Horch House and teamed up with music labels like Ear Music and Warner to create new master tapes derived from original studio recordings.

    How is Revox appealing to younger audiences?
    The brand has launched products like the Studiomaster A200, a portable speaker designed for modern convenience with Bluetooth and app control features, aiming to attract a younger customer base.

  • Switch 2 Debuts as Nintendo Takes Strong Stance Against Scalpers to Protect Fans

    Switch 2 Debuts as Nintendo Takes Strong Stance Against Scalpers to Protect Fans

    The long-awaited Switch 2 made its debut on Thursday, capturing the attention of gamers and tech enthusiasts alike. Unable to keep up with the surge in demand, Nintendo has devised clever strategies to ensure that only genuine players can snag this coveted console.

    In the weeks leading up to the launch, Nintendo, alongside retailers throughout Japan, implemented measures to fend off scalpers who typically flood the market, snatching up units only to resell them at inflated prices. By securing a fair distribution, they’re ensuring the joy of gaming remains in the hands of true fans rather than opportunistic resellers.

    With this proactive approach, Nintendo aims not just to protect its customers, but also to maintain the excitement surrounding the Switch 2. It’s a bold move in an era where gaming gear has become the new gold standard for scalping. Who would have thought gaming consoles could be treated like rare collectibles?

    As the Switch 2 makes its way into the hands of avid players, the anticipation is palpable. Will this innovative gaming system meet the hype? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: the battle against unscrupulous resellers has sparked a new level of excitement in the gaming community.

    Questions & Answers

    What measures did Nintendo take to prevent scalping?
    Nintendo implemented strategies alongside retail partners in Japan to ensure that only genuine gamers could purchase the Switch 2, aiming to curb scalping practices.

    Is the Switch 2 expected to be in high demand?
    Yes, demand is extremely high, and given the limited supply, it is likely that the Switch 2 will be sought after for quite some time.

    How has the gaming community reacted to the launch?
    The excitement is palpable, with many gamers eager to experience the new features of the Switch 2 while expressing appreciation for Nintendo’s efforts to limit scalper activity.

  • Schneider Electric Expands Home Electrical Portfolio to Meet Homeowners’ Aspirations for Smarter Living

    Schneider Electric Expands Home Electrical Portfolio to Meet Homeowners’ Aspirations for Smarter Living

    Schneider Electric, the global leader in digital transformation of energy management and automation, has reaffirmed its commitment to the home electricals market with a wide range of innovative new products to communicate the differentiated value proposition to homeowners, retailers, electricians, home builders, architects and more.

    With a sharp focus on innovation, localization, and category leadership, the company has identified homes as an important growth engine for its overall business. India’s residential market is projected to grow at a CAGR of over 10%[1], driven by rising incomes and greater demand for smarter living. Schneider Electric is leveraging this growth by expanding its consumer-focused portfolio and enhancing brand visibility, positioning itself to lead the smart home revolution in India.

    The company has unveiled its new integrated marketing campaign “Bring Home the Smart.” to communicate with the homeowners. The high-octane marketing campaign forges a deeper emotional connection with homeowners and other key stakeholders like retailers, builders, architects, and electricians. Rooted in the cultural shift where homes have become sanctuaries of peace, convenience, and care, the campaign redefines smart living as a source of ease, intelligence, and reliability. The campaign, thus, moves beyond the functional messaging to highlight Schneider Electric’s global strengths in technology and innovation to create meaningful offers for the Indian market.

    Schneider Electric’s direct engagement strategy is built on three core pillars: strengthening channel partnerships, launching differentiated products, and investing in consumer awareness and brand-building. At the heart of this strategy is a new campaign that highlights the company’s innovative home automation range. Key offerings include the Miluz Zeta switches with an industry-first Air Quality Indicator (AQI)—a unique feature that monitors indoor air quality in real time; Miluz Zeta motion-sensing LED foot lamps, designed to enhance safety and convenience throughout the home, lighting the way to safer nights where every step is guided; and the Wiser Smart Home Automation solution, which seamlessly adapts to diverse lifestyles. Wiser offers advanced features such as GPS-enabled appliance control and an energy management system, enabling smarter, more efficient living. These innovations exemplify Schneider Electric’s commitment to blending intuitive technology with everyday usability and elegant design.

    Ms. Sumati Sahgal, Vice President – Home & Distribution, Schneider Electric India, added: “This is a defining moment in our journey to build stronger brand affinity with Indian consumers. Our switches and home automation range are thoughtfully designed to meet the evolving needs of today’s households—where design, convenience, safety, and sustainability go hand in hand. With ‘Bring Home the Smart’ campaign we aim to make smart living more accessible, intuitive, and delightful for every Indian home.”

    Mr. Rajat Abbi, Vice President – Marketing, Greater India, Schneider Electric, said “With our new ‘Bring Home the Smart Campaign’, we’re redefining smart living by shifting the narrative from complexity to intuitive comfort — where intelligent technology seamlessly integrates into everyday life, empowering consumers to focus on what truly matters. Through this integrated marketing campaign, our aim is to creatively communicate the differentiated value proposition of our innovative offers to our customers.”

  • Hanoi Authorities Seize Thousands of Counterfeit Marshall Speakers and Smartwatches in Facebook Scam Bust

    Hanoi Authorities Seize Thousands of Counterfeit Marshall Speakers and Smartwatches in Facebook Scam Bust

    The streets of Hanoi have witnessed a significant crackdown on counterfeit products as local authorities recently dismantled a network that expertly peddled fake goods via Facebook. Among the impressive haul are 25,500 fraudulent items, including well-known products such as counterfeit Marshall speakers, smartwatches, and vacuum cleaners, all of which have led to a staggering seizure valued at around VND22 billion (approximately US$844,000).

    Operating under the leadership of 30-year-old Le Huu Minh, the group ingeniously set up a social media presence to promote their goods, mostly highlighting audio equipment falsely attributed to the renowned U.K. brand Marshall. Their marketing tactics included elaborate fake promotional campaigns celebrating the fictitious “10 years of establishment” of the Marshall brand, with eye-catching discounts reaching a jaw-dropping 70% on speakers, headphones, and amplifiers.

    To further deceive unsuspecting customers, the group launched a counterfeit website, marshall-store.com, designed to mirror the official Marshall site closely. Once the orders were placed, buyers received their goods through various delivery services, a strategy that morphologically shifted as the sellers often changed logistics companies to evade authorities.

    The prices of these knock-off items were irresistibly low, generally under VND1 million (around $38), making them an enticing option compared to their authentic counterparts. In addition to the impressive volume of fake technology, the police discovered a treasure trove of fashion products and accessories lacking valid proof of authenticity, inclusion in the grand sweep of the counterfeit operation.

    As this crackdown brings to light the extent of brand infringement, it also leaves us to wonder: just how savvy can counterfeiters get? Will online shoppers become more vigilant in their purchasing behaviors? And could this be the beginning of a larger wave of actions against online fraud in the retail sector?

    Questions & Answers

    What prompted the police raid on this counterfeit operation?
    The police acted on reports of a network selling counterfeit products on Facebook, leading to the discovery of a massive inventory of fake goods in Hanoi.

    Who was leading the counterfeiting group?
    The group was led by 30-year-old Le Huu Minh, who is currently under investigation alongside four other members.

    What types of products were seized during the operation?
    The police confiscated a wide array of items, including 12,200 smartwatches, 6,000 fake Marshall earbuds, 1,700 Marshall Emberton speakers, and 2,550 Fujisu vacuum cleaners, among other counterfeit fashion products.

  • Private Banks Surge as Client Assets Shatter Milestone Barrier

    Private Banks Surge as Client Assets Shatter Milestone Barrier

    Last year proved to be a remarkable period for Swiss private banks, as they reveled in impressive results bolstered by favorable financial markets and substantial net new money inflows. This surge in assets under management (AuM) occurred amid a backdrop of shrinking institutions.

    Double-Digit Gains Across the Board

    A recent study by consultancy PwC reveals that in 2024, all segments of Swiss and Liechtenstein private banks enjoyed double-digit growth in their assets under management. PwC’s analysis covered 74 banks, categorizing them into small (AuM 50 billion francs).

    Market Optimism Fuels Growth

    So what fueled this growth? It was a combination of robust markets and an uptick in investor confidence, particularly in the United States. All banks reaped the benefits of favorable market shifts, with several even hitting record highs in client assets. This wave of market confidence also spurred strong net new money inflows.

    Large Private Banks Struggle to Keep Up

    In a notable twist, while large private banks collectively surpassed the 3 trillion francs mark with a total of 3,025 billion francs, their contribution to overall net new money growth was relatively tepid at just 2.2 percent. In contrast, their smaller and mid-sized counterparts showcased impressive inflow rates of 4.5 percent and 4.9 percent, respectively.

    PwC attributes the standout performance of specific banks to their consistent strategic execution, successful client transitions from major competitors, sharp business positioning, and targeted geographical strategies. However, PwC cautions that early market turbulence in 2025 may cloud these promising figures.

    Net New Money Inflows Projected to Slow

    Looking ahead, while private banks are likely to continue attracting net new money, PwC anticipates a moderation in inflow rates due to intensifying competition. 2024 marked a pivotal moment as interest income, which surged in 2023 due to rising interest rates, began to decline by March 2024, putting pressure on margins.

    The traditionally strong revenue driver for private banks—fee- and commission-based income (Net Fee and Commission Income, NFCI)—has returned to the forefront. NFCI margins on assets held steady, and overall NFCI saw an increase of 7-9 percent across all peer groups, helping to compensate for lower interest income.

    Small Banks Feel Interest Rate Pinch

    An average look over three years reveals that client deposits constituted about 16 percent of AuM at small banks, 11 percent at mid-sized banks, and 10 percent at large ones. This dependency on interest income is underscored by loan exposure, with loans typically representing 8 percent of volumes at small and mid-sized banks and 5 percent at large institutions.

    Facing Margin Pressures

    Since 2022, NFCI margins have flattened, reflecting heightened price sensitivity among clients and fierce competition. The industry also faces structural challenges: increased IT expenditures, shifting client expectations, ongoing digitalization, and new regulatory demands are putting traditional business models to the test and driving up operational costs.

    Embracing Consolidation

    The landscape of wealth management banks has shrunk dramatically, dropping from over 150 to fewer than 90 in recent years, with expectations that it may soon dip below 60. Yet, this consolidation isn’t all doom and gloom. PwC suggests that “fewer but stronger banks will shape the market,” as those that remain are proving their adaptability in this ever-evolving environment.

    Questions & Answers

    Which sectors of Swiss private banks saw the most growth in assets last year? All customer segments, including small, mid-sized, and large banks, recorded double-digit growth in assets under management.

    What was a key factor driving net new money inflows in 2024? Investor optimism, particularly in the U.S., alongside positive market developments, greatly contributed to net new money inflows.

    What challenges do private banks face heading into 2025? Intensifying competition and declining interest margins pose significant challenges, with higher operational costs further complicating traditional business models.

  • JD Super Boosts Meat Imports with Dynamic New Global Partnerships

    JD Super Boosts Meat Imports with Dynamic New Global Partnerships

    Bringing Premier International Meat Brands to Chinese Consumers

    JD Super, the supermarket arm of JD.com, is stepping up its game by forming strategic alliances with Argentina’s Beef Promotion Institute (IPCVA) and the influential frozen meat importer, Linking Fresh. This initiative aims to broaden the supply of high-quality imported meat throughout China.

    The partnership with IPCVA will enhance the distribution of Argentine grass-fed beef on JD’s platform, capitalizing on its expansive logistics network and a loyal customer base of over 600 million.

    In addition, JD Super’s collaboration with Linking Fresh, which boasts ties to over 300 global meat suppliers and annual imports surpassing RMB15 billion, will usher in a selection of notable international brands, including Brazil’s BRF and Marfrig, Australia’s Kilcoy, Argentina’s Arre Beef, and Chile’s Agrosuper.

    To raise awareness and stimulate sales, JD Super and Linking Fresh will launch vibrant marketing campaigns, featuring special events like “Argentine Beef Week.” After all, who could resist a week dedicated to delectable beef?

    Questions & Answers

    What is JD Super’s recent initiative focused on?
    JD Super’s initiative is aimed at expanding the supply of high-quality imported meat into China through partnerships with the Argentine Beef Promotion Institute and Linking Fresh.

    What international brands will be introduced to the Chinese market?
    The partnership will bring prominent brands such as BRF and Marfrig from Brazil, Kilcoy from Australia, Arre Beef from Argentina, and Agrosuper from Chile.

    How does JD Super plan to promote these products?
    JD Super will employ targeted marketing campaigns, including themed events like “Argentine Beef Week,” to enhance consumer awareness and drive sales.

  • Hexnode Enhances Support for Purpose-Built Devices with ChromeOS Kiosk Lockdown and Windows Digital Signage

    Hexnode Enhances Support for Purpose-Built Devices with ChromeOS Kiosk Lockdown and Windows Digital Signage

    Hexnode, the leading Unified Endpoint Management (UEM) platform from Mitsogo Inc., has announced the extension of Kiosk Lockdown support to ChromeOS and the addition of digital signage capabilities to its Windows kiosk management offering.

    These enhancements empower businesses to take better control of their single-purpose and customer-facing endpoints. By restricting access to unnecessary applications and streamlining content management, organizations can strengthen security and ensure displays remain relevant and up to date.

    “As businesses rely more on purpose-built devices for customer engagement, even brief downtime can disrupt operations and the customer experience,” said Sahad M, Chief Technology Officer at Hexnode. “Recognizing this, we are committed to providing reliable kiosk and digital signage tools that help businesses transform everyday devices into secure, easily manageable interaction hubs.”

    Transform ChromeOS devices into Interactive Kiosks

    ChromeOS is gaining ground as a preferred platform for kiosk deployments by offering an affordable, compact, and cloud-first design solution. Businesses using ChromeOS-powered kiosks have reported an increase in sales and efficiency, making it ideal for applications ranging from self-service kiosks to exam-ready student devices.

    Hexnode now offers several essential features for managing ChromeOS kiosks:

      • Single-App Kiosk Mode: Lock devices into a single app for a focused experience, ideal for self-ordering, check-ins, or wayfinding. Enhance security by disabling plugins and function keys, blocking browser extensions and shortcuts to prevent malicious actors from exploiting loopholes and exiting kiosk mode.

    Multi-App Kiosk Mode: Grant access to a curated set of apps while blocking distractions, ideal for environments that require flexibility without compromising security. This mode is particularly valuable in digital classrooms or healthcare environments, where users may have limited tech expertise, ensuring they can switch between essential apps easily.

    Power and Accessibility Settings: Configure power and battery settings to align with usage patterns, optimizing uptime and extending device longevity. Manage accessibility features like virtual keyboard and dictation, ensuring a user-friendly experience on shared or public devices.

    Remote Management: Quickly lock or wipe kiosk devices in the event of compromise or loss, and reboot devices when they freeze or malfunction, all without the need for on-site technician intervention.

    Turn Windows Devices into Engaging Digital Signage

    Windows remains a widely adopted choice for digital signage after Android, thanks to its long hardware lifespan, robust performance, and broad compatibility with signage software and peripherals. From retail chains to corporate campuses, Windows-powered signage is used to broadcast promotions, display dynamic menus, and relay internal communications. With digital signage shown to boost customer visits by 80%, delivering the right message at the right time has never been more crucial.

    Hexnode equips businesses to display content effectively through:

      • Content Deployment: Easily push promotional images, videos, or URLs to remote displays, making it perfect for keeping retail storefronts updated or synchronizing digital menus across multiple locations.

    Loop Video Mode: Auto-play content in a continuous loop, keeping customer engaged with uninterrupted video playback in high-traffic areas like malls or transport hubs.

    Full-Screen Display: Automatically adjust content to fill the screen, ensuring consistency and visual impact in environments like corporate lobbies or product showcases.

    With the latest addition of digital signage capabilities to Windows kiosk lockdown and newly expanded kiosk support for ChromeOS, Hexnode’s kiosk solutions now cover major platforms like macOS, iOS, Apple TV, Windows, Android, and ChromeOS. This unified approach empowers IT teams to seamlessly secure and manage interactive kiosks and digital signage displays across a diverse fleet of devices.

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  • Judge says Apple and one of its executives lied during Epic Games trial in 2021

    Judge says Apple and one of its executives lied during Epic Games trial in 2021

    Remember Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers? She was the judge who made the ruling in Apple’s 2021 legal battle against Epic Games that resulted from Apple’s decision to boot Epic and its popular Fortnite game from the App Store. Apple said that Epic included a link inside the App Store version of Fortnite that would allow users to buy in-app items for the game directly from Epic. This prevented Apple from taking the 30% cut it would usually take from the cost of paid apps and in-app purchases.

    Today, Judge Gonzales Rogers said in a court document that Apple “willfully” violated an injunction that she imposed on the company in 2021. She also wrote that Alex Roman, Apple’s Vice President of Finance “outright lied to the court” about the timing related to a decision made by Apple to place a 27% fee on some App Store purchases. The judge turned over the matter to U.S. attorneys who will now investigate whether Roman and Apple will be charged with criminal contempt.

    In a short but sweet response, Apple said, “We strongly disagree with the decision. We will comply with the court’s order and we will appeal.”

    Wednesday, Rogers ruled that Apple was in contempt and accused the tech giant of trying to violate the rulings she made in the 2021 case. The judge explained that after her decision in 2021, purchases made off-app by iPhone users would be expected not to have any commission or cut for Apple. But all Apple did in 2024 was reduce the cut it would receive from 30% to 27%.

    “In stark contrast to Apple’s initial in-court testimony, contemporaneous business documents reveal that Apple knew exactly what it was doing and at every turn chose the most anti-competitive option. To hide the truth, Vice-President of Finance, Alex Roman, outright lied under oath.”

    The judge also said that Apple never presented documentation about a meeting held in June 2023 that Apple CEO Tim Cook attended. Apple never told the court about this meeting until this year by hiding it from the court, according to Judge Gonzales Rogers. The judge ordered Apple to immediately stop charging commissions on purchases made for iPhone apps obtained through web links inside an app. As previously noted, that’s exactly what Epic did with its Fortnite app that kicked off all of this drama.

    “It’s a huge victory for developers, and it means all developers can offer their own payment service side-by-side with Apple’s payment service. This forces Apple to compete. This is what we wanted all along.”

    Additionally, Apple will be responsible for Epic’s attorney fees related to this issue. Judge Gonzalez Rogers had no sympathy for the company. “This is an injunction, not a negotiation. There are no do-overs once a party willfully disregards a court order,” the judge wrote.

  • Apple CEO Tim Cook reveals what Apple needs to build iPhone in the US

    Apple CEO Tim Cook reveals what Apple needs to build iPhone in the US

    While the tariff fiasco has brought red ink to the markets and chaos to the global economy, the ultimate goal according to President Donald Trump and his supporters, is to have manufacturing brought back to the United States. According to Trump’s Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, who was appearing on CNBC, Apple CEO Tim Cook told him that there is a “key catalyst” that would be necessary for Apple to consider building the iPhone in the US.

    Lutnick says that he asked Cook when he was going to bring iPhone manufacturing to the States. Cook responded by saying, “I need to have the robotic arms to do it at a scale and precision that would allow me to bring it here.” Cook seems to be one of the few tech industry leaders who might not be a Trump supporter but who still commands respect from the president and vice versa.

    This relationship has helped Apple protect its most important product, the iPhone, from tariffs during both Trump terms. Recently, Trump temporarily exempted some consumer electronics including smartphones from the reciprocal tariffs that Trump imposed on US trading partners. This includes a whopping 145% tariff on products imported to the US from China which is where the majority of iPhone units are assembled.

    By using robots to do the tedious low-paying assembly jobs such as building an iPhone, Apple wouldn’t have to worry about finding Americans willing to work for the $3 to $3.70 per hour that iPhone assemblers reportedly make in Shenzhen, China. Without a robotic labor force, at the federal minimum wage of $7.25 per hour, Apple would be paying twice that amount to build the iPhone forcing it to raise the price of the device.

    By using robots to build the iPhone in the US, Apple would be able to reduce the cost to assemble the product and might even be able to cut prices for the iPhone. But Apple is still a long way from having a team of robots unplug themselves in the morning and head over to the assembly line where they silently build iPhone units. Yet, if you ask the Commerce Secretary, he’ll try to get you to believe that this technology is coming sooner than you’d think.

    Talking about the iPhone, Lutnick says about Tim Cook, “He wants to build it here, he’s going to build it here. The Commerce Secretary does agree with our position that Americans won’t work for the low wages Foxconn pays iPhone assemblers in China. He says that Americans will be running the iPhone factories in the States. “They’re not going to be the ones screwing components in.” Unfortunately, Lutnick doesn’t explain who will be.

    Cook is right and robotics can be the answer, but this is going to take time even with AI. Let me make a statement that many of you will find surprising. If the Trump administration is patient and allows time for the technology to catch up with the goal, the current administration might end up being known for helping change the world of manufacturing for the better. However, patience is not the strong suit of our president and his team.

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