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Smart Speakers

RealSAM hub for visually impaired people launches on smart speakers

Just launched, the new RealSAM Smart Speaker solution is a dedicated hub for blind and visually impaired people, offering subscribers access to thousands of books, newspapers, podcasts, radio stations and information from a range of UK sight loss charities.

What is the RealSAM Smart Speaker?

The RealSAM Smart Speaker is a fully voice-controlled media player tool that, once subscribed to, is available to use on an existing Google Home or Alexa product.

Utilizing the latest in AI technology, the RealSAM Smart Speaker is designed to improve the independence of those with vision impairments and sight loss. Hosting content from UK sight loss charities such as Henshaws, Galloways and Torch Trust, the platform is the world’s first smart speaker information hub for people with sight loss. read more

Google Assistant is Now Available for Sonos One and Beam Smart Speakers

Now you can pick between Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant

Making good on a promise to do so last week, Sonos is today rolling out Google Assistant as a second choice for a voice assistant on its Sonos One and Sonos Beam smart speakers.

After installing the latest app and firmware updates, you can switch over to Google Assistant on either of those devices.

As is the case with Alexa, so long as you have the Sonos One or Beam, your Assistant voice commands will control your entire Sonos multi-room audio system — even if it includes older speaker models. If you don’t have one of the newer Sonos speakers, all it takes is a Google Home Mini to gain the same capabilities, as Google’s lineup of Home speakers can now be linked to your Sonos setup. read more

Facebook Unveils New Portal and Portal+ Smart Speakers

Facebook has unveiled Portal and Portal+, new smart speakers that feature video calling and Alexa built-in.

With a 10-inch 1280 x 800 display, Portal from Facebook improves video calling and lets you enjoy quality time with family and friends — hands and distraction free. Looking for a larger screen for more flexibility? You can also opt for a 15-inch 1920 x 1080 pivoting display with Portal+. Both models are designed to help you feel closer to the important people in your life and make video chats feel less like a call, and more like you’re actually in the same room. read more

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