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5 Surprising Facts About Chappell Roan’s “The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess”

Eric Alper
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5 Surprising Facts About Chappell Roan’s “The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess”

Chappell Roan’s debut album, The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess, is already carving out its place as one of 2023’s most celebrated records. With its infectious pop hooks, raw emotional storytelling, and unapologetic embrace of queerness, it’s no surprise that critics and fans alike are hailing it as a triumph. But while Roan’s songs have captured the hearts of listeners worldwide, there’s still plenty about this album’s creation and backstory that remains under the radar. Let’s dive into five lesser-known facts about The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess that prove Chappell Roan is an artist like no other.

1. Dan Nigro’s Role Goes Beyond Production
While Dan Nigro has become synonymous with producing pop anthems (see: Olivia Rodrigo’s Sour), his relationship with Roan is more than just producer-artist. He co-wrote multiple tracks, including the breakout single “Hot to Go!” and helped her launch Amusement Records, an imprint under Island Records. Roan is currently the label’s only signed artist, making their collaboration a deeply personal and singular venture.

2. “Pink Pony Club” Almost Didn’t Happen
One of the album’s standout tracks, “Pink Pony Club,” almost never saw the light of day. Roan’s former label, Atlantic Records, delayed its release for over a year, worried that its queer themes and shift in sound would alienate her audience. The song, inspired by a visit to The Abbey in West Hollywood, eventually became a sleeper hit, vindicating Roan’s vision and paving the way for her debut album’s success.

3. A Queer Cheer Song Went Viral
“Hot to Go!” wasn’t just another single—it became a cultural moment. The track, inspired by Roan’s childhood dream of being a cheerleader, features an arm-spelling dance that caught fire on social media. Festival crowds and TikTok creators alike embraced the choreography, turning the song into a norm-defying anthem that celebrated queer joy in the most exuberant way possible.

4. Missouri’s Influence Runs Deep
Although the album explores Roan’s journey of self-discovery in Los Angeles, her Missouri roots are ever-present. Songs like “Pink Pony Club” and “California” reflect her small-town upbringing and the culture shock of transitioning to a city known for its creative freedom. Even the titular “Midwest Princess” moniker serves as a tongue-in-cheek nod to her home state’s identity and the complexities of leaving it behind.

5. A Grammy Nod Cemented Its Legacy
By earning nominations at the 67th Grammy Awards, including Album of the Year, The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess has solidified Roan’s place in pop music history. For an artist who faced rejection and self-doubt early in her career, the recognition is a testament to her resilience, talent, and ability to resonate with a wide range of listeners.

From near-misses and viral moments to heartfelt tributes to her roots, The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess is as layered and compelling as its creator. Chappell Roan didn’t just make an album—she built a world that’s equal parts confessional and celebratory. As she continues to tour and break new ground, it’s clear that her reign is only just beginning. Keep this one on repeat, because there’s no telling what Roan will dazzle us with next.

AeroBand x Rokid: Redefining Music Experiences with Augmented Reality at CES 2025

Eric Alper
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AeroBand x Rokid: Redefining Music Experiences with Augmented Reality at CES 2025

AeroBand, a leader in interactive music technology, and Rokid, a pioneer of augmented reality, are set to showcase a groundbreaking collaboration at CES 2025. By combining AeroBand’s smart guitar and PocketDrum with Rokid’s state-of-the-art AR glasses, namely Rokid AR Spatial. The two brands are transforming how users learn, practice, and perform music to the next level.

Rokid has been a trailblazer in AR innovation since 2014, specializing in human interaction with augmented reality and a self-developed YodaOS-Master operation system. Known for their high-performance AR glasses, Rokid provides immersive, user-friendly solutions across industries, from entertainment to education. With this collaboration, Rokid AR Spatial brings a new scenario to AeroBand’s musical products by projecting real-time chord diagrams, drum patterns, and visual effects, creating an engaging and efficient learning experience for users.

At CES 2025, attendees have the chance to witness and experience this groundbreaking innovation. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced musician, this immersive integration transforms how you learn, practice, and perform music.

Discover the Groundbreaking AeroBand Guitar

The AeroBand Guitar is designed to redefine smart guitars with its innovative features, offering an exceptional experience for beginners and seasoned players alike:

  • Silicone Strings: Soft and easy-to-press strings with zero string height make chord learning effortless, especially for beginners.
  • All-in-One Design: Integrates a drum loops, microphone, speaker, amplifier, and sound card for versatile music creation and performance.
  • Nine Tone: From acoustic to electric guitar, users can explore nine distinct tones to suit any musical mood or genre.
  • Portable and Lightweight: The detachable design makes the guitar easy to carry and play anywhere.

When paired with Rokid AR Spatial, the AeroBand Guitar becomes even more powerful. Users can view real-time chord positions, receive instant feedback on finger placement, and enjoy enhanced visual effects that make playing more fun and interactive.

PocketDrum: A Compact and Dynamic Drumming Experience

AeroBand’s PocketDrum offers a unique virtual drumming experience. With Rokid AR technology, users can visualize drum patterns in real-time, making practice more intuitive and engaging through dynamic visual guidance.

A Leap Forward for Music and Technology

This partnership represents a bold step for the music education and entertainment industries. By combining AeroBand’s innovative instruments with Rokid’s advanced AR technology, this experience offers:

  • Faster Learning: Real-time chord and drum pattern visualizations make practice easier and more effective.
  • Immersive Performance: Dynamic AR effects elevate the music-playing experience to a new level.
  • Seamless Interaction: Real-time feedback and augmented visuals create a captivating and enjoyable user experience.

AeroBand and Rokid share a vision to combine creativity and technology, delivering innovative experiences that set a new benchmark for immersive music. They aim to inspire and engage global audiences by bridging the gap between music and augmented reality.

AI in Media Market worth $51.08 billion by 2030

Eric Alper
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AI in Media Market worth $51.08 billion by 2030

The AI in Media Market is expected to reach USD 51.08 billion by 2030 from USD 8.21 billion in 2024, at a CAGR of 35.6% during 2024–2030, according to a new report by MarketsandMarkets.

The integration of artificial intelligence is significantly reshaping the media landscape. AI-powered tools are revolutionizing animation and visual effects by automating complex processes such as rendering and motion tracking, allowing creators to produce high-quality visuals with enhanced efficiency. In addition, AI is enabling hyper-personalized media experiences by analyzing user preferences to deliver customized recommendations, fostering deeper audience engagement and loyalty. Generative AI is further driving innovation by providing creators with the ability to conceptualize and generate unique content, including music, artwork, and immersive virtual environments, unlocking new creative possibilities. With creativity, AI is streamlining production workflows by optimizing editing, scene management, and resource allocation, leading to reduced costs and faster delivery timelines. These advancements are collectively ushering in a new era of enriched storytelling, innovative content creation, and unparalleled audience interaction.

The AI in Media Market is projected to grow from USD 8.21 billion in 2024 to USD 51.08 billion by 2030, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 35.6% during the forecast period. Hyper-personalized media experiences use AI to create tailored content that aligns with individual preferences. By analyzing user data such as viewing history, demographics, and behavior, AI systems generate unique recommendations and real-time experiences Streaming platforms like Netflix exemplify this approach by utilizing AI algorithms to curate personalized playlists, which significantly enhance user engagement and satisfaction. These tailored interactions not only foster stronger customer loyalty but also drive repeat purchases, as personalized experiences are a key factor influencing consumer decisions. As businesses increasingly adopt hyper-personalization strategies, AI plays a crucial role in refining these interactions, ensuring they feel uniquely crafted for each user, thereby transforming the landscape of media.

Cloud deployment is at the forefront of the AI in the media market due to several key advantages. Scalability and Flexibility are paramount, as cloud solutions allow organizations to adjust resources based on fluctuating viewer engagement and content consumption demands. This adaptability is crucial in a rapidly evolving industry. Additionally, cost efficiency plays a significant role; companies can reduce capital expenditures associated with maintaining on-premises hardware, enabling them to invest more in innovation and content creation. Cloud platforms also provide access to advanced AI tools and services without substantial upfront investments, facilitating the integration of sophisticated capabilities like machine learning and data analytics. Furthermore, cloud environments enhance Collaboration among geographically dispersed teams, streamlining workflows in content production and distribution. Lastly, effective Data Management in the cloud allows for the analysis of vast amounts of unstructured data, enabling personalized content delivery that significantly enhances user experiences. Collectively, these factors underscore the dominance of cloud deployment in advancing AI within the media sector.

The dominance of the other AI segment in the AI in Media Market can be attributed to its broad applicability and effectiveness in enhancing user engagement and operational efficiency. Technologies such as Machine Learning (ML) and Natural Language Processing (NLP) play critical roles in analyzing unstructured data, enabling personalized content recommendations and improving customer interactions. These technologies facilitate predictive analytics, audience segmentation, and sentiment analysis, which are essential for tailoring experiences to individual preferences. Additionally, Cloud Computing supports scalable solutions that allow for seamless content delivery and collaboration across production teams. The integration of Real-time Video Analysis enhances content creation by automating processes like highlight generation, further engaging viewers. As media companies increasingly adopt these technologies to meet evolving consumer demands and stay competitive, the other AI segment is positioned to maintain its significant market share within the AI in media landscape.

The Asia-Pacific region is witnessing the highest CAGR in the AI in Media Market, driven by several key factors. Rapid internet penetration across emerging economies such as India and Vietnam are significantly expanding online media consumption, fueling the demand for AI-driven solutions. The rising popularity of over-the-top (OTT) streaming platforms is reshaping viewing habits, with an increasing emphasis on delivering personalized content powered by AI technologies. Leading players, including Alibaba and Netflix, are making substantial investments in AI to enhance content creation, management, and distribution, fostering continuous innovation. Furthermore, the region’s cultural diversity supports a broad range of entertainment offerings, appealing to varied demographics and expanding audience reach. These factors collectively position the APAC region as a dynamic and rapidly evolving hub within the AI in Media Market.

 

Ad Revenue for Non-Gaming App Publishers Doubles Year-on-Year on the Vungle Exchange, Reveals Liftoff’s New Report

Eric Alper
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Ad Revenue for Non-Gaming App Publishers Doubles Year-on-Year on the Vungle Exchange, Reveals Liftoff’s New Report

Liftoff‘s 2025 Non-Gaming Ad Monetization Trends Report, published today, reveals ad revenue for non-gaming apps has doubled year-on-year, growing by 116%. For entertainment apps specifically, revenue growth has nearly tripled as entertainment publishers embrace ad monetization alongside paid subscriptions.

Liftoff’s 2025 Non-Gaming Ad Monetization Trends Report is based on data from the Vungle Exchange, from 159 billion ad impressions and 20 billion clicks from September 2023 to October 2024. The report delves into ad revenue trends for non-gaming publishers across different categories, traces trends in emerging markets, and spotlights effective ad placement strategies powering ad revenue growth.

Ad revenue for non-gaming apps grows by 116% and over 200% in the entertainment category
The growth of non-gaming ad monetization demonstrates a notable shift in the app publisher landscape. Time spent in entertainment apps continues to increase, and more video-streaming and video-sharing app publishers are monetizing the attention they command through ad-supported tiers. As regional markets become more saturated for video and audio streaming apps, ad monetization also offers a reliable source of revenue as subscription revenue levels off.

YoY growth for ad revenue in emerging markets is growing significantly: more than 200% in Mexico and The Philippines
On the Vungle Exchange, we’ve seen steady growth in non-gaming publisher ad revenue from emerging markets in the past year. Ad revenue from Mexico and the Philippines grew more than 200% YoY, and Brazil grew 160%. Many apps growing in emerging markets offer lower subscription rates to grow their user base. In these cases, ad revenue can supplement slower subscription revenue growth.

Ad spend from retailers has tripled in the last year
Apac giants like Shein and Shopee are disrupting the global retail landscape. This is impacting ad revenue outside walled gardens. We’ve seen explosive growth in retail advertiser spend on the Vungle Exchange in 2024. Retail advertiser spend has increased ~200% YoY. Ad placements also matter—interstitial and rewarded ads make up 95% of ad spend from retail advertisers.

“Ad monetization is rapidly becoming an indispensable revenue stream for more and more app publishers,” said Tanya Lee, SVP of Monetize at Liftoff. “We’ve seen healthy ad revenue growth for non-gaming publishers on the Vungle Exchange, especially in the entertainment, music, and utilities categories, throughout 2024, and we expect the trend to continue. Publishers who invest the time and resources into developing a robust ad monetization strategy as an integral part of their UX are paving the way for years of sustainable growth.”

One Melody, One JETOUR: JETOUR Announces Partnership with EDM Superstar Alan Walker

Eric Alper
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One Melody, One JETOUR: JETOUR Announces Partnership with EDM Superstar Alan Walker

JETOUR has announced a groundbreaking partnership with global EDM icon Alan Walker. As part of this collaboration, Walker will create a brand theme song for JETOUR, blending the brand’s “Travel+” philosophy with his unique musical style. Scheduled for worldwide release in January 2025, the song aims to transcend cultural and geographical boundaries, inspiring audiences globally to embrace travel and pursue a better life.

Since his 2014 breakthrough with “Fade,” Alan Walker has captivated millions with his signature electronic sound and ethereal vocals. His global hit “Faded” amassed over 1.2 billion views on YouTube and topped charts worldwide. With a strong presence on social media and platforms like Spotify, Walker has become a leading figure in electronic music.

This collaboration reflects JETOUR and Walker’s shared passion for travel, freedom, and dreams. Walker’s music, known for evoking a sense of exploration and aspiration, aligns seamlessly with JETOUR’s strategic “Travel+” positioning. The partnership will infuse “Travel+ Music” with youthful, fashionable, and vibrant energy, enhancing JETOUR’s global influence.

Music, a universal language, serves as a bridge connecting humanity. Through this collaboration, JETOUR and Alan Walker embody the vision of “One World, One JETOUR, One Travel+,” combining music and travel to create a richer, more memorable experience. The tailor-made theme song promises to awaken an inner yearning for freedom and adventure, bringing art and travel together in a new way.

Looking ahead, JETOUR will continue its commitment to the “Travel+” strategy, offering diverse experiences and encouraging global consumers to explore the infinite charm of travel. This collaboration marks another step in ensuring every journey becomes a beautiful and unforgettable adventure.

Yamaha Announces Jon Batiste and CeCe Winans at The 2025 NAMM Show

Eric Alper
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Yamaha Announces Jon Batiste and CeCe Winans at The 2025 NAMM Show

Yamaha, the world-leading manufacturer of musical instruments, has unveiled an extraordinary lineup of renowned artists set to captivate audiences at The NAMM Show. Kicking off January 23, Yamaha will host a two-night concert series featuring exclusive performances from Jon Batiste and CeCe Winans that promise to light up the Yamaha Grand Plaza Stage.

Adding to the excitement, Yamaha will showcase the custom Yamaha pianos created for Alicia Keys’ 2023 “Keys to the Summer Tour.” Designed and rendered by Justin Elliott, these iconic instruments once played by Alicia Keys include a dazzling plexiglass grand with silver sparkle and a sleek plexiglass upright. Attendees can also visit the Yamaha booth to experience additional live performances from a diverse roster of talented artists.

“This year at NAMM, we are thrilled to present two brilliant, can’t-miss performances on our Yamaha Grand Plaza Stage. On Thursday, the annual Night of Worship will feature the soul-stirring magic of gospel legend CeCe Winans! Friday will feature the infectious musical joy and uplifting energy of the wildly talented Jon Batiste,” says Chris Gero, vice president and chief artist relations executive at Yamaha Artist Relations Group, who continues to say, “These amazing concerts promise unforgettable nights for all.”

This year’s featured performances include:

  • Legendary gospel singer CeCe Winans will headline the Night of Worship on Thursday, January 23.
    • CeCe Winans: The best-selling and most-awarded female gospel artist of all time, Winans has long since cemented her status as one of the most accomplished and celebrated women in music history.
  • An Evening With Jon Batiste on the Yamaha Grand Plaza Stage will feature a performance by award-winning performer and instrumentalist Jon Batiste on Friday, January 24.
    • Jon Batiste: The Grammy and Academy Award-winning instrumentalist, composer, bandleader and singer, Batiste is taking over the music world with his unique voice on piano and his many hit collaborations with notable artists. Batiste recently released his eighth studio album, Beethoven Blues (Batiste Piano Series, Vol. 1), earning his first No. 1 on Billboard’s Classical Albums Chart.

Pollstar Unveils Refreshed Brand, Digital Transformation & Enhanced Data Capabilities

Eric Alper
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Pollstar Unveils Refreshed Brand, Digital Transformation & Enhanced Data Capabilities

Pollstar, the trusted voice and leading resource for the live entertainment industry, is proud to announce a bold new chapter in its storied history. The new Pollstar will feature a refreshed brand reinvention, digital platform and data resources, while remaining the premier publication for the global live industry.

As part of this transformation, and aligning with its sustainability commitment, beginning mid-February 2025 Pollstar will shift to a monthly print schedule and introduce a new weekly digital edition exclusively for subscribers to deliver timely reporting and personalized features. These leading-edge services will include predictive analytics and query-based global insights derived from Pollstar’s industry-leading database spanning the last 43 years of live entertainment. Rounding out the new offerings is a redesigned and streamlined website that will deliver faster access to breaking news, data, and analytics while also creating a seamless user journey for subscribers and casual visitors alike. These updates reflect Pollstar’s unwavering commitment to delivering unparalleled insights, analysis, and industry-leading reporting.

“Pollstar has been the most trusted resource for the live entertainment industry for decades, and this evolution marks an exciting new chapter,” said Andy Gensler, Editor-in-Chief, Pollstar. “Digital adoption has soared over the past decade fundamentally changing the way our subscribers and the larger consumer market engage with our content and data. With this new digital overhaul, we’re adapting to these shifts by leaning heavily into digital technology, data-driven personalization and a new enhanced website. These new features will allow us to deliver first-class editorial, reporting, and experiences that meet the needs of today’s industry professionals and live entertainment enthusiasts ensuring that Pollstar remains the Voice of Live for decades to come.”

As part of this transition, VenuesNow will merge into Pollstar, further strengthening Pollstar‘s editorial excellence and expanding the VenuesNow brand reach through cutting-edge digital platforms. Pollstar subscribers will now enjoy VenuesNow content enabling readers to stay current on the ever-evolving venue side of the live industry ecosystem as venues continue to look to ways to enhance the artist and fan experience. Pollstar is upgrading its leading-edge live industry data with more streamlined reporting, integration of AI and in-depth industry analysis that will also include greater global market coverage. Additionally, Pollstar will remain committed to publish its special issues, including Impact 50, Women of Live, VN All-Stars and NextGen, as well as our industry-leading directories.

Pollstar will continue to host its highly anticipated annual panels and conferences, which have long been a cornerstone of thought leadership and innovation in the live entertainment industry, including the upcoming Production Live!, Pollstar Live!, and VenuesNow Conference. As part of the rebrand, these events will be enhanced to deliver even greater value, including expanded opportunities for networking and collaboration, with upgraded programming and experiences. These enhancements reinforce Pollstar‘s commitment to being the trusted industry leader and innovator in creating spaces where live professionals can come together to share insights, address challenges and shape the future of live entertainment.

Pollstar’s rebrand recognizes the rapidly evolving motivations and expectations of its subscribers and the increasing interest of live event enthusiasts to continue delivering exceptional reporting and multidimensional data insights. Pollstar remains committed to its pillars of data and innovation, leveraging enhanced capabilities to foster deeper connections with its audiences and stronger industry partnerships. These efforts will ensure Pollstar remains the go-to source for live entertainment while expanding its reach through digital channels and ensure it continues to lead the conversation in live entertainment for years to come.

Altec Lansing Debuts New Party Speaker Series at CES 2025, Combining the Best of Video and Audio Entertainment

Eric Alper
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Altec Lansing Debuts New Party Speaker Series at CES 2025, Combining the Best of Video and Audio Entertainment

Altec Lansing, the leading global audio electronics company, announces the introduction of seven new party speakers at CES 2025. Building on its legacy of sound innovation, Altec Lansing continues to push boundaries with a diverse lineup of bass-pumping party speakers that will appeal to casual music lovers, sports fans and audiophiles alike.

The new lineup debuting at CES takes rugged technology, party features and dynamic sound to the next level. Key products include the SoundRover View, perfect for watching the big game and hosting watch parties, the ToughBox, built for ultimate durability and the ability to pair with two other tailgate speakers for even more powerful sound and the Mix 3.0, designed for both casual listeners and audiophiles seeking a Hi-Fi quality experience.

Building on the success of its predecessors, the reinvented SoundRover View takes outdoor entertainment to new heights. Featuring a 14.1″ 1080p display and 150W sound output, it brings sports, movies and shows to life — whether you’re tailgating, hosting a backyard BBQ or having a casual get-together. Easily transported with a built-in trolley handle and wheels, it’s perfect for any location, from your porch to the truck bed. Stream live events from your phone, charge devices via USB or plug in a Roku or Fire TV Stick for endless entertainment.

With an IP66 waterproof rating, the ToughBox lives up to its name, ready to withstand rain, snow and any outdoor elements. Whether you’re tailgating at a snowy playoff game or caught in an unexpected drizzle, this speaker is built to endure. Beyond its rugged design, the ToughBox delivers a booming 100W peak power output and features a fun and intricate design that the whole family will enjoy.

The Mix 3.0 is designed with portability and convenience in mind, featuring a built-in dry box large enough to store and charge your smartphone via USB-A and USB-C connections. For times when streaming isn’t an option, it also includes a Micro SD card slot to download playlists. While most traditional party speakers are not waterproof and should be kept away from areas like the beach or pool, the Mix 3.0 has an IP66 waterproof rating, allowing music lovers to take it anywhere without worrying about water damage — and it even floats for added peace of mind. It also features both front and rear LED lights modes for the ultimate party experience. For those more in tune with performance, the speaker has a sound output of 150W at peak power.

“At Altec Lansing, we’re driven by our mission to create exceptional, life-like audio experiences for music lovers everywhere,” said Ike Franco, Founder and CEO of Infinity Global, the parent company of Altec Lansing. “Building on decades of sound innovation, including iconic events like Woodstock and the 1984 Olympics, our new speaker lineup debuting at CES takes that legacy further. These refined party speakers are designed to deliver incredible sound, unmatched convenience and unforgettable experiences, no matter where the music takes you.”

Additional new party speakers and features include:

  • SoundRover Cyclone: The ideal speaker to amp up the party, this powerhouse features 400 watts of peak power via its dual 8″ woofers and dual tweeters. It also has smoke and laser lighting effects to set the mood, along with a top panel with easy-to-operate speaker controls and an LED display. With multiple input functions including AUX, USB, Bluetooth and TF card, listeners have endless options for music. Plus, the included remote control lets users take full command of the sound and lighting, creating an unforgettable atmosphere for any celebration.
  • SoundRover Quake: This formidable Bluetooth speaker delivers 800W peak of sound output, dual 10″ woofers and dual tweeters and boasts many of the standout features of the SoundRover Cyclone, including smoke and laser lighting effects, user-friendly controls and a microphone jack for an optional wireless mic.
  • SoundRover 210: Versatile PA/party speaker that features FM radio, a vibrant LED display and party-sync capabilities with multi-color LED light modes. It offers up to 6 hours of playtime and delivers robust sound with a 15-inch woofer. It is also easily portable with its built-in trolley and wheels.
  • Explode: With 450W peak power and dual 8″ woofers, this Bluetooth speaker delivers massive sound for up to 24 hours. Designed for the outdoors, its IP66 waterproof rating and floating capabilities ensure music lovers can take the speaker anywhere without worry. The front and rear LED lights and Party Sync mode, which allows it to pair with 100+ speakers, will also make it a hit at any event.

The new Altec Lansing speakers will be available in Q2.

New Technics EAH-AZ100 Earbuds Bring the Most Authentic Sound Yet

Eric Alper
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New Technics EAH-AZ100 Earbuds Bring the Most Authentic Sound Yet

Technics announces the EAH-AZ100, its latest true wireless earbuds, adding to the family of award-winning audio products backed by 60 years of sound engineering and product development. The EAH-AZ100 levels up users’ sound experience with a newly developed, proprietary “Magnetic Fluid Driver” that creates clean, high-resolution, low-vibration and low-distortion sounds for the most authentic, balanced audio that’s true to the original source.

For stress-free communication, the EAH-AZ100 introduces “Voice Focus AI”– an innovative feature that combines an AI noise reduction chip and three microphones in each earbud. This advanced technology delivers precise tuning, ensuring the ultimate call quality for both the speaker and the listener. “Voice Focus AI” goes beyond eliminating common call distractions, such as busy street traffic wind or other background noise. It actively analyses incoming sound, enhancing the sound of the caller.

Adaptive Noise Cancelling also brings another performance update to the EAH-AZ100. This technology works with the surrounding environment, background noise levels and the individual shape of the ear, adjusting the level of noise cancelling for the best experience at any time and in any situation. No matter the environment, these earbuds effectively eliminate low to mid-range noises, including human voices, allowing users to stay focused and immersed.

Experiencing music as the artist intended
The launch of the EAH-AZ100 True Wireless earbuds celebrates Technic’s 60th anniversary in style, combining six decades of experience to create its own unique proprietary “Magnetic Fluid Driver” technology, which recreates an artist’s energy and atmosphere without adding any sound enhancement. The quality has been confirmed by the sensitive ears of professional music producers and sets the EAH-AZ100 apart to be the next item on any high-tech audio gadget shopping list.

The “Magnetic Fluid Driver” technology has been miniaturized from the renowned Technics EAH-TZ700 wired, in-ear monitors to enable a new level of low-distortion sound for the EAH-AZ100 earbuds. The ultra-thin free edge ensures an ultra-low frequency of 3Hz for a rich bass, while its aluminum diaphragm produces natural high resolution sound separation and details.

The “Magnetic Fluid” is an oil-type liquid filled with magnetic particles that is injected into the space between the driver magnet and voice coil that enables low-distortion playback. All this creates a dynamic, rhythmic, detailed listening experience so users can hear their favorite music recordings as originally intended by the artist.

Taking performance even further, for that feeling of “live music-concert sound”, the EAH-AZ100 also newly integrates with spatial audio optimized for Dolby Atmos®1. With Dolby Audio™, podcasts, movies, music and games have enhanced clarity of voice content. Dolby Head Tracking responds to head movements, creating a more realistic, shifting sound field that continuously recalibrates to keep the listener at the center of the action and delivering a 360-degree immersive audio experience.

Premium design and connectivity for convenience
Designed to suit any lifestyle, the EAH-AZ100 also includes award-winning features from previous Technics models, including 3-device multipoint connectivity, which enables hooking up to the likes of laptops, tablets and smartphones in minutes. In addition, the EAH-AZ100 simplifies seamless switching between devices and can provide announcements of nearby connected devices.

The concha-fit and shape has also been improved, reducing the size and weight of the earbud for all-day comfort whether the user is on work calls or streaming content. Additionally, a new fifth ‘ML’ size ear tip has been introduced, giving users more options to achieve the best seal, sound quality and noise cancelling performance.

This smaller and lighter design also brings more eco-efficient shipping. Alongside Panasonic’s commitment to reduce its environmental footprint, the latest earbuds come in revamped packaging that is 100% plastic-free that saves on space and weight.

The hassle and clutter have been taken out of charging the true wireless earbuds with compatible Qi Wireless Charging, and a strong battery life. With advanced noise cancelling on, the earbuds have up to 10 hours of playback time left out of the case and up to 28 hours with it.

The EAH-AZ100s also feature One-touch Conversation Mode, allowing users to instantly pause music and activate transparent mode, which focuses on the “voice” element for effortless conversations without having to remove the earbuds. When taken out, built-in wearing sensors automatically pause the music and disable touch sensors to prevent accidental inputs. Simply put the earbuds back in to seamlessly resume music and control.

For the ultimate connectivity, the EAH-AZ100 also supports the new Bluetooth® LE Audio standard and Auracast feature to pair and share an audio experience, as well as the LC3 codec for low-latency audio when gaming and viewing videos. Compatible with Google Fast Pair, Android users can also sync up chosen nearby devices and accessories automatically. The Technics Audio Connect App is available on iOS or Android devices for easy access to preferences and personalized sound tuning, and convenient features such as location tracking if the earbuds are misplaced.

Launching in sleek Silver and Black with its signature stylish ergonomic design, Technics EAH-AZ100 Earbuds will be available for purchase online at Technics.com and at trusted retailers starting today, January 7, with a suggested retail price of $299.99.

Panasonic Introduces 2025 Flagship W95B Series Mini LED TV with Improved Picture Performance and Fire TV Built In Enhancements

Eric Alper
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Panasonic Introduces 2025 Flagship W95B Series Mini LED TV with Improved Picture Performance and Fire TV Built In Enhancements

Panasonic today announced the launch of its flagship W95B series (55″, 65″, 75″, and 85″) Mini LED TV, introducing new standards in display and audio technology.

The W95B series delivers groundbreaking advancements in contrast, dynamic range, and color accuracy through refined double area control, real-time color tuning, and Hybrid Tone Mapping technology. These innovations ensure deeper blacks, dazzling highlights and vibrant, lifelike colors for a superb HDR viewing experience. In a further boon to picture performance, the W95B series features Prime Video Calibrated Mode and sees a return of Calman calibration and ISFccc support. It also boasts a 20W subwoofer for deep, immersive bass, perfect for movies, music, and games.

Thanks to the integration of Fire TV built in, these TVs revolutionize how you discover and enjoy content, offering a personalized home screen that brings together streaming services, apps, live channels, and tailored recommendations, as well as integration with compatible smart home devices.

For gamers, the W95B series supports AMD Freesync™ Premium, provides industry-leading low latency, and True Game Mode allowing you to experience games as the creators’ intended.

Elevating Picture Quality: Increased Backlight Zones, Real-Time Color Tuning, and Dynamic HDR Enhancements
The W95B series takes visual performance to new heights with an improved double area control, building on the backlight area control and signal-based contrast adjustments introduced in previous models. By independently powering each LED and increasing the number of backlight zones by over 2.5 times compared to last year (depending on inch size), the system now enables even more precise control, delivering a heightened sense of contrast and detail.

The 2025 W95B series Mini LED TV delivers a significant evolution in color stability, due to the integration of a high color gamut backlight system with a proprietary real-time color tuning system. Utilizing a high-color-gamut phosphor-based backlight, the system dynamically adjusts in real-time to ensure vibrant and precise color reproduction. Where panel performance, such as white balance, can be affected by environmental factors like temperature, this advanced system continuously compensates for color shifts caused by temperature and other factors. This innovation maximizes the potential of the high color gamut backlight system, delivering stunning, accurate colors in every scene.

Additionally, the introduction of Hybrid Tone Mapping technology elevates HDR content by analyzing the signal according to several factors and adapting tone mapping processes to each scene. This ensures vivid, lifelike visuals even in high-brightness areas, overcoming the color washout often seen with conventional tone mapping. Whether showcasing the brightest highlights or the most nuanced tones, this breakthrough maintains rich, vibrant colors across the entire luminance range, setting a new standard for HDR excellence.

The W95B series is powered by the HCX Pro AI Processor MK II processor supported by a 4K Remaster Engine that improves streaming picture clarity. By leveraging AI and mathematical models, it delivers for crisp, natural images, and superior streaming noise reduction. Gradation has also been improved to reduce banding.

The W95B series also supports Dolby Vision IQ with Precision Detail, an innovative feature that unlocks more from Dolby Vision content, improving contrast in bright and dark areas. With added texture and depth, images take on a new dimension with astonishing crispness on the TV. This technology works in tandem with the TV’s embedded ambient light sensors to perceive how bright it is in the living room and then adjust the on-screen picture to ensure that every detail can be seen, even the darkest of scenes. The HCX Pro AI Processor MK II also enables Dolby Vision support up to 144Hz.

The W95B series is equipped with a powerful 20W subwoofer, delivering deep, immersive bass that enhances the impact of movies, music, and games. Designed for versatility, it also supports the connection of external subwoofers, allowing you to further amplify and customize low frequencies for a truly cinematic and tailored audio experience.

Panasonic with Fire TV Built In Now with Prime Video Calibrated Mode
The W95B series stands out by seamlessly integrating live and streaming content, powered by Fire TV. This setup offers streamlined content discovery and access to top streaming services in one place. They are also compatible with Alexa, enabling control via voice commands.

In addition, the W95B series is compatible with Apple AirPlay, allowing users to stream movies, music, photos and more to their television right from their iPhone, iPad, or Mac. With Apple Home compatibility, users can control their television using the Home App or Siri to control volume, switch inputs and more.

The W95B series includes Prime Video Calibrated Mode, a feature designed to enhance the viewing experience of Prime Video content by automatically optimizing picture settings based on the content type. Through this, users can adjust parameters like brightness, color temperature, and motion smoothing to suite various display types. It also leverages the W95B series’ light sensors to adjust the picture based on ambient lighting conditions and supports both standard and high dynamic range content.

For the first time in a Fire TV, the W95B series introduces Calman and ISFccc calibration, delivering professional-grade tools to fine-tune color accuracy and optimize display performance to industry standards. This feature ensures unmatched picture quality, elevating the viewing experience for movies, TV shows, and gaming. Designed for enthusiasts and professionals alike, it offers precise adjustments for true-to-life visuals.

Panasonic’s original MyApp button on the remote control provides one-touch access to favorite apps and also TV operations like selecting inputs. When idle, the W95B series models transform into dynamic displays through the Fire TV Ambient Experience, showing personal photos, calendars, and customizable Alexa widgets.

In the United States, the Z95B series will also support ATSC 3.0, NEXTGEN TV, which enables next-generation broadcast over-the-air services with enhanced picture quality, immersive audio, and interactive features for a more engaging viewing experience. In Europe the Z95B series’ Fire TV built in comes with Panasonic TV Premium, empowering how users enjoy entertainment with a smoother and easier experience. An included Penta Tuner supports satellite, terrestrial, cable, IPTV, and TV to IP, making it seamless to enjoy TV content in any room, while USB Recording and channel editing simplify the viewing experience.

Level Up Your Game
The W95B series supports AMD FreeSync Premium, providing seamless, tear-free gaming with ultra-smooth visuals. These features ensure reduced input lag and adaptive refresh rates, delivering a competitive edge and a more immersive experience for gamers.

Furthermore, the W95B series boasts an industry leading ultra-low input lag, a feature crucial for fast-paced games, as it ensures that every controller action is instantly reflected on the screen, giving players a competitive edge against their opponents.

The new True Game Mode ensures every game looks its best by bringing the same color accuracy features used for movies into the gaming experience and leveraging improved HDR Tone Mapping to deliver source-oriented expression from the gaming device. With HDR Picture Adjustment and Tone Mapping OFF, players can fine-tune brightness and detail directly from the source for uncompromised HDR performance. True Game Mode is also calibratable, displaying the Calman Calibrated logo after adjustment with Portrait Displays’ industry-standard Calman Color calibration software. This guarantees that games are presented exactly as their creators intended.

Designed to meet the demands of the latest consoles and PCs, the W95B series offers a 144Hz refresh rate, powered by the advanced HCX Pro AI Processor MK II. With Game Mode Extreme, HDMI 2.1 capabilities, and support for VRR at up to 144Hz, the W95B series ensures smooth, responsive gameplay with stunning visuals.

Gamers can further immerse themselves with specialized Game Sound Modes tailored for RPGs and other genres, creating a rich 3D audio experience with crystal-clear dialogue. An intuitive Game Control Board provides quick access to all gaming settings, now customizable via the My App button on the remote control for even greater convenience.

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That Eric Alper

Eric Alper is a 6-time nominee for Publicist of the Year during Canadian Music Week and has overseen the publicity campaigns for over 183 JUNO Award-nominated albums (and 16 in 2025), 45 Grammy-nominated albums, including 47 JUNO Award, 58 Canadian Folk Music Award, 126 Maple Blues Award-winning albums and is also truly honoured to work with some of the biggest and most important artists of our time.

Contact me: eric@thatericalper.com

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