TCL will probably want CES 2020 in Las Vegas to be remembered for its new Mini-LED technology for TVs, but the more likely talking point could well be its new Movetrack Pet Tracker, a smart GPS-based device that allows lost pets to be located on a phone.
TCL yesterday unveiled a next-generation display technology called Vidrian Mini-LED, described as “the world’s first TV backlight with the driving semi-conductor circuitry and tens of thousands of micro-meter class mini-LEDs directly infused in a crystal-clear glass substrate”.
It is claimed to be the next stage in pushing LCD LED TV picture quality to “unrivaled levels of sharp contrast, brilliant luminance and highly stable long-life performance”.
“Mini-LED backlight technology is critical for delivering powerful contrast performance,” said Chris Larson, senior vice president of TCL North America. “TCL is proud to have launched the world’s first TV with mini-LED backlight, featuring over 25,000 micro-meter class backlights in the high-performance 2019 8-Series TV here in the US, and different models in other regions, to deliver extraordinary contrast and brilliant clarity.
“Last year’s launch of mini-LED backlight technology in TCL TVs disrupted the industry but we certainly aren’t stopping there. TCL continues to drive even better performance with this powerful mini-LED innovation and will make mini-LED technology more widely available throughout this year’s TCL lineup.”
Meanwhile, TCL also launched a Wi-Fi Mesh system, a Wi-Fi solution that allows 4K/8K video streaming, gaming and working throughout the home with an ultra-fast and stable Wi-Fi connection, eliminating Wi-Fi dead zones. Called Linkhub, it works with existing routers to extend Wi-Fi coverage via additional Mesh routers in different areas or rooms . A set of three Mesh routers can provide Wi-Fi Coverage of up to 5,300 square feet and support more than 90 devices with a strong Wi-Fi connection. With a maximum of nine Mesh routers, the Wi-Fi system covers up to 15,000 square feet, making it suitable for small businesses or hotels.
It is similar to Huawei’s WiFi Q2 extendable router system, which is ideal for smaller homes, but the TCL option allows for a broader area to be covered.
Unlike a Wi-Fi extender, the Linkhub Wi-Fi Mesh only requires one username and password for the whole pack – as with the Huawei alternative. Users can choose from any unit of the Mesh router system based on home size and layout. Automatic synchronisation and Alexa-compatibility allows voice control to adjust the Wi-Fi settings.
Linkhub Wi-Fi Mesh AC1200 will be available in Europe, Latin America, the Middle East, Africa, the United States and China in Q2 2020, starting at $199.
And that brings us to the TCL Movetrack NB-IoT/CAT M Pet tracker. Users set up a geo-fence on an app, and when a pet strays away from the safe zone, the pet tracker detect it and instantly notifies the owner. The tracker itself, attached to a pet’s collar, includes a laser-engraved QR code with the owner’s info, which allows the finder to connect with the owner quickly.
An LED light on the tracker can be turned on through the app, which make it easier for a pet to be spotted or noticed at night. The Tracker can monitor a pet’s play, walk and rest status – and one can even set up activity goals for pets.
It gets better: “Users can download a free application in which they will join a pet owners’ community, enhancing their social life with their pets by sharing interesting pet stories, finding dates for their pets and even connecting with pet owners nearby. The app also includes services such as Pet’s Acknowledge that provides tips and tricks to help make being a pet parent easier.”
The device does operate in the real world, though. It lasts, on average, 14 days between charges. It is compact, lightweight and IP67 water and dust proof.
It will launch in Europe, China and the United States in Q2 2020, starting at $99.