TCL's NXTFrame joins the art TV competition

Photo: TCL

Samsung's Frame TV pioneered the art-inspired television market several years ago, and now the trend is gaining momentum. TCL's newly unveiled 4K QLED NXTFrame TV is the latest entrant, offering familiar features like a magnetic wooden frame, flush-mount design, anti-glare display, and extensive art mode options.

Joining the fray are other contenders such as Hisense's CanvasTV and LG's Posé and Easel models, all aiming to blend television with home decor seamlessly. While third-party accessories like the Leon Studio Frame have emerged for existing TVs, integrated solutions remained scarce until recently.

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Apple's design leadership in flux

The original iPhone (Photo: Apple)

Apple's iconic design aesthetic, once synonymous with the visionary leadership of Jony Ive, has undergone significant upheaval in recent years. Since Ive's departure in 2019, the company has struggled to maintain a steady design helm. His handpicked successor, Evans Hankey, left in 2022, triggering a mass exodus of key design talent.

The departure of Hankey and her team left Apple with a substantial leadership void. To address this, the company initially placed the entire design team under the purview of Chief Operating Officer Jeff Williams, an unusual move given his extensive responsibilities.

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Google pulls the plug on Chromecast

Photo: Google

After over a decade of streaming success, Google has announced the end of production for its Chromecast devices. The company cited significant technological advancements since the original Chromecast's 2013 launch as the primary reason for the decision. While existing Chromecast models will remain available for purchase while supplies last, Google promises continued software and security updates for its newer devices. But it hasn't said which ones.

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Google unveils Google TV Streamer: A Chromecast successor with substance

Photo: Google

Google has introduced the Google TV Streamer, a US$99.99 (around CA$138) set-top box designed to supersede the Chromecast with Google TV. This sleek device packs a performance punch with a 22% faster processor, double the RAM, and integrated Thread and Matter support.

Beyond raw power, the Streamer introduces a redesigned remote with dedicated volume controls, a customizable button, plus a handy remote finder feature. Google's Gemini AI also makes an appearance, offering content summaries and reviews.

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