End clap for the 99th consumer electronics show Berlin IFA. From September 1 to 5, 180,000 visitors and nearly 5,000 journalists and influencers roamed the aisles of the “high mass” in search of new products.
2,050 exhibitors spread over 130,000 square meters awaited them there. Between ever-larger televisions and less energy-consuming household appliances, 20 minutes unearthed a few nuggets which, although not part of a fundamental movement, have something to challenge, even seduce…
The smartphone handbag: V Purse, from Honor
Honor wants to occupy the land left free in Europe by Huawei (which has practically disappeared from the radar screens in telephony), Oppo and OnePlus (which have just stopped their activities there).
For this, the Chinese brand is creating a buzz. At IFA, the manufacturer unveiled its V Purse. This luxurious concept phone takes the shape of a handbag. Wanting to be glamorous as hell, this folding smartphone features, in addition to its interior screen, an exterior screen intended to be constantly lit and to display colors or animated patterns according to the movements of the terminal, in harmony with its owner’s outfit. It can be accessorized with chains, straps, etc.
Our opinion : Eye-catching, this 9 mm thick “handbag phone” can be amusing. Honor does not communicate further on its technical specificities, or possible price. What autonomy, for example, with a screen constantly on? What resistance to shocks? Not sure, if it ends up seeing the light of day, that this V Purse will become a “must-have”, otherwise after certain influencers-promo-codes…
A suitcase TV: StandbyME Go, from LG
Engineer’s delirium or show of force? LG took advantage of the IFA in Berlin to present its StandbyME Go, a portable television to carry everywhere!
In its reinforced case, the device with a 27” Full HD screen contains four speakers for a total power of 20 watts, with Dolby Atmos sound. We can already imagine the projectors in the back of the van at the campsite… But not only that: the screen, which is touchscreen, can also act as a super digital tablet, like playing chess on a giant board. It can also be oriented in height (about 18 cm) or placed in Portrait mode. An HDMI input and a USB socket will accommodate peripherals. 1,000 euros, availability: end of 2023.
Our opinion : Without a tuner, but customizable with applications (Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+ and Apple TV+ are on board), this television is an attractive idea. He still needs to have a source, such as a smartphone or computer, allowing him to cast content. Although it can be plugged into the mains, we regret that its battery only gives it a battery life of 3 hours.
A completely autonomous robot vacuum cleaner: S10, from SwitchBot
On paper, robot vacuum cleaners are exciting. But they require a little time to fill/empty their water tank. With his S10, SwitchBot found the solution.
Not content with having a classic emptying station for vacuumed dust, the new robot offers the option of a smaller station, to be connected (like a washing machine or dishwasher) to a water inlet/ house drain system. Depending on its needs, the robot will connect either to its main station (to recharge and empty its dust), or to its water station (to recharge with liquid and get rid of its dirty water). From 1,199 euros (available in October 2023).
Our opinion : Anyone who has ever used a robot mop knows that, as practical as it is, this type of device is not without its constraints. The SwitchBot solution, which is a first, is interesting. But it will require a somewhat restrictive installation, even if all the accessories are provided. Only the main station dust bin will need to be emptied every two months. The presence of a second station at home can also put off.
An XXL portable games console: Legion Go, from Lenovo
Play on the big screen on the move? Lenovo’s promise with its Legion Go is likely to be kept. Under Windows 11 and compatible with the Steam and Xbox Game Pass video game stores, this game console is the first that is this large.
In 16:10 format, its 8.8” screen (22.35 cm diagonal) is QHD + and clocked at 144 Hz, a good refresh rate for gaming, which ensures smooth images.
Distinctive feature: the Legion Go has detachable sticks (like the Nintendo Switch), which allows you to play with the console by placing it on a table or desk using its tripod, or to use it as a tablet… 799 euros (available in November 2023).
Our opinion : After the Steam Deck and the Rog Ally from Asus, Lenovo is venturing into the promising market of portable game consoles, popularized by Nintendo’s Switch. The size of the Legion Go’s screen and the image quality offered could attract die-hard gamers, even if, in fact, the console is very heavy (854 g). Waiting for the arrival on November 15 of the device Playstation Portalwhich allows you to play remotely with the games installed on your PS5.