Logitech introduces a Combo Touch keyboard for the fourth-gen iPad Air

Logitech has just announced a new version of its Combo Touch keyboard case for the fourth-generation iPad Air. It still has that Microsoft Surface-like kickstand and detachable keyboard with trackpad. The iPad's Smart Connector powers it, so you don't have to worry about charging the keyboard on its own. Plus, it has backlit keys and iPadOS shortcut keys, too. You can even store the second-gen Apple Pencil in an open slot at the top of the case.

If its looks seem familiar, that's because it has an almost identical design to the Combo Touch cases for the 2021 iPad Pros. This new accessory for the iPad Air 4th-gen will be available in Oxford Grey for USD 199.99 (around CAD 245) at logitech.com, apple.com and additional retailers.

Source: Logitech | Via: The Verge

Logitech Harmony remotes get discontinued

Source: Logitech

After 20 years, Logitech has decided to discontinue its Harmony universal remotes. Those remotes already available through retailers will still be sold, but the company will no longer make new ones. Logitech also promises to support existing products while offering software updates where needed. Harmony remotes were used for different devices like home theatre systems, videos, and others that used infrared.

According to a blog post from the company: “We expect no impact to our customers by this announcement. We plan to support our Harmony community and new Harmony customers, which includes access to our software and apps to set up and manage your remotes. We also plan to continue to update the platform and add devices to our database. Customer and warranty support will continue to be offered.”

You need to update your Logitech wireless dongle now

If you own a wireless Logitech device, we’d suggest you update those wireless dongles now. A few years ago, hackers discovered that they can exploit a vulnerability in these dongles, allowing them to remotely control a PC. And according to The Verge, some products Logitech are still shipping today could still be vulnerable to the same remote access hack called MouseJack. Some of the products include Logitech’s Unifying Receiver and G900 wireless gaming mouse. The company did roll out patches that fixed the remote access vulnerability back in 2016. But we don’t know when (or if) these changes were applied to devices that were in the factory. You might have purchased an unpatched model. In a statement issued to The Verge, Logitech said, “Logitech evaluated the risk to businesses and to consumers, and did not initiate a recall of products or components already in the market and supply chain. We made the firmware update available to any customers that were particularly concerned, and implemented changes in products produced later.”

Just to be sure, we highly recommend you install the patch. If you have any of Logitech’s Unifying receivers, you can download the patch for Windows here and the one for Mac here. If you have the G900 gaming mouse, you can download the patch for Windows here. Once downloaded, simply follow the on-screen instructions to apply the patches. Logitech intends to push an additional update that fixes a related vulnerability next month. Make sure you have the necessary Logitech software installed and that you install updates as they arrive.

Report claims Logitech wants to purchase Plantronics for over US $2 billion

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Logitech still seems to be keen on purchasing other accessories makers. This time around, the company has reportedly set its sights on Plantronics. Logitech has reportedly offered as much as US $2.2 billion to purchase the headset maker. And if the deal pushes through, we should hear about it in the coming week. This acquisition will be Logitech’s most expensive purchase to date. But it would also boost the company’s lineup of PC and mobile accessories. According to Reuters, both companies are trying to reduce manufacturing costs and hope to lessen the impact of the Trump administration’s tariffs on Chinese imports into the US. Working together is one way to do just that.

Plantronics main business focuses on Bluetooth headphones and earbuds, unified communications systems, wireless headsets, conferencing systems, and some software, which it sells to businesses and consumers. It also has fitness-focused accessories. The company claims the headphones worn by Neil Armstrong during his first moonwalk was made by Plantronics.