D5 Wireless Speaker from 0W1 Audio Wants to Offer Smart HiFi Experiences

Among the many new speaker designs that deserve a close look at CES 2019 (January 8-11) there is one that is the first product ever from a startup company, 0W1 Audio, and was already awarded a CES 2019 Innovation Awards nomination on the Wireless Devices, Accessories and Services category. The 0W1 Smart HiFi Audio Speaker is described as "the first truly High-End Connected Portable Audio system," and is said to offer "much more than just another wireless speaker," focusing on the emotional side of the hi-fidelity experience.

French professional audio manufacturer L-Acoustics, a market leader in large scale sound reinforcement systems and premium audio installations, announced the acquisition of HGP, a manufacturer of precision sheet metal, based in Amboise, France, and its sister entity API, which specializes in powder coating. According to L-Acoustics, both companies were already regular suppliers and the acquisition will enable better R&D support, faster prototyping, and tighter production schedules.

Amazon announced that Alexa and Echo are now available in France and speaking French. Additionally, developers around the world have created skills and Alexa-enabled devices for French users, including leading brands like Marmiton, franceinfo, Netatmo, Legrand, La Fourchette, Philips Hue, Uber, Domino’s Pizza, TP-Link and more. Device makers like Boulanger, Sowee, Harman Kardon, Sonos, Ultimate Ears, Netgem, Archos and more are also introducing Alexa-enabled devices for French-speaking users.

French speaker manufacturer Amadeus installed a 3D Sound system within Paris’ Chaillot National Theater, one of the most historical and prestigious performing arts venue in the French capital. Along with Solid State Logic (SSL), Lab.gruppen and Sonic Emotion, the four companies joined forces to design a one-of-a-kind electro-acoustic sound reinforcement system for the theater, beyond the limits of traditional technologies.

Acclaimed French audio manufacturer Devialet, announced a fundraise of $106 million in capital through a co-investment led by Ginko Ventures with participation from international industrial and institutional investors including Foxconn, Groupe Renault, Sharp Corporation, Playground Global, Naver, Roc Nation, Future French Champions, CM-CIC Investissement and Bpifrance. Devialet has raised $160 million to-date.

French music software and hardware company Arturia is celebrating its 15th anniversary milestone with an all-new contemporary company logo and a 50% off campaign on 15 software instruments, including its great classic synthesizer emulations and iPad apps. The “celebrations” last between July 31 and September 8, inclusive...