Every year, hundreds, if not thousands, of brands gather at IFA 2023 Berlin to showcase the latest developments in technology. Unlike some other platforms, IFA 2023 highlights a wide range of technology, including smart phones Laptops, audio equipment, white goods, and much more. Understandably, with launches happening left, right, and center, it can be difficult to keep up with all the latest events at IFA 2023. Here's our IFA 2023 recap: The Best of IFA 2023.
If you want to take a look at the best the show has to offer, read on. We've selected 16 standout devices worthy of your attention.
1. HONOR MAGIC V2
By now, Samsung has known the formula for designing a foldable phone like the back of its hand. But that hasn't stopped newer entities from entering the sector with exotic foldable phones. Take, for example, the Honor Magic V2, which, in our books, addresses the biggest problem with foldable smartphones: size.
Despite their innovation, foldable devices aren't the most comfortable devices to slip into your jeans pocket. Well, the Magic V2 changes that, thanks to its incredibly slim frame, measuring just 9.9mm when folded and 4.7mm when unfolded. Despite this, the foldable device features a large 6.43-inch cover display and a 7.92-inch internal display.
Furthermore, the smartphone boasts other features, including Qualcomm's latest Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor and a triple camera array headlined by a 50MP sensor with OIS. Needless to say, the Magic V2 boasts unprecedented hardware processing, and we can't wait to get our hands on the smartphone and test it out.
2. HONOR V PURSE
Foldable devices have, for years, pushed the boundaries of smartphone technology, and the company continues to Honor Innovating with the V Purse smartphone. As its name suggests, the smartphone is designed to mimic a wallet. And while the concept is still in its infancy, the Honor V Purse truly stands out, unlike any other smartphone on the market. So, what does it give?
Well, the Honor V Purse also benefits from a foldable display. Although, unlike the Honor Magic V2's display, the wallet's display wraps around the outside. As such, when the device is folded, the V Purse's outer display displays a stylish AOD to mimic the design of a handbag. The smartphone offers a variety of AOD styles, so buyers can mix and match the V Purse's aesthetic with their outfits. Additionally, the prototype phone can be paired with a stylish strap, which buyers can then wear on their shoulders.
Despite the strange concept, the Honor V Purse was designed with sustainability in mind. In fact, the company hopes to provide a cover for fast-fashion accessories with the V Purse. Currently, Honor hasn't shared any specifications for the device, and we only know that it measures just 9mm when folded. Regardless, the Honor V Purse is quite possibly the most premium smartphone we've seen in a while.
3. LENOVO LEGION GO
Lately, we've been seeing an influx of mobile gaming devices. Whether it's Steam deckWhether it's a Logitech G Cloud, or an ASUS ROG Ally, buyers looking to game on the go are spoiled for choice. It's no surprise that Lenovo wants a slice of the action, too. To that end, the company is showcasing the Legion Go at IFA 2023, which it hopes will address one of the biggest pain points of portable gaming consoles.
Mobile gaming controllers work wonders for playing games across a variety of genres. For example, you can pick up a great platformer like Hollow Knight and use your mobile phone's D-pad for precise inputs. Or you can impress your opponents by performing cool tricks in FIFA, thanks to the included joysticks. However, getting precise inputs for FPS games is almost impossible. Well, the Lenovo Legion Go hopes to change that with its ergonomic controllers.
To do this, the company allows buyers to remove the controller from each side—think of it like removing the JoyCons from a Nintendo Switch. Additionally, the device comes with a circular stand that can be attached to the bottom of the right controller. Once this is done, the right controller acts as a mouse, while the left controller allows buyers to move their characters. While the device may look unusable, it also works surprisingly well!
Notably, the laptop features an 8.8-inch display with a resolution of 2560 x 1600 pixels. The panel can refresh at up to 144 Hz and also offers touch input. In terms of performance, the laptop is powered by AMD's Ryzen Z1 Extreme platform, which coincidentally also powers the ROG Ally.
4. WITHINGS SCANWATCH 2
Withings has a reputation for creating stylish timepieces that straddle the line between analog and wearable smartwatches. The brand's ScanWatch 2 is no different. From a distance, the ScanWatch 2 looks regal. So much so, that the unit's stainless steel case and premium bands could pass for a custom watch—a conversation starter among those passionate about automatic wristwatches.
However, look closely, and you'll notice that the company has equipped the device with a grayscale OLED display. The display can provide useful insights into your steps, sleep score, and other health-related metrics. Speaking of which, the watch comes with a handful of sensors and can track your heart rate and SpO2 levels. You can also set up your electrocardiogram (ECG) using the device, and it also features a TempTech24/7 module, which can provide insight into your body temperature fluctuations.
The aforementioned metric can give you an alert if you're about to get sick. Additionally, the sensor can also help you understand how effective your workouts are. To do this, the watch divides your body temperature into three zones: the warm-up zone, the performance zone, and the overheat zone. Needless to say, you should be careful when your body temperature drops into the overheat zone, as this can lead to cramps, dizziness, and headaches.
5. XGIMI HORIZON ULTRA
We saw a few projectors at IFA 2023, though Xgimi's Horizon Ultra stands out, in part because it's the world's first 4K long-throw projector with technology. Dolby VisionFor those who don't know, Dolby Vision is an HDR codec that offers a wider range, more accurate color reproduction, improved brightness, and stunning contrast.
The Horizon Ultra can leverage the format to immerse viewers in a movie or TV show. Additionally, the device offers a peak brightness of up to 2300 ISO lumens and is calibrated to deliver a Delta E≈1. This allows the projector to produce an image without any color fringing. The projector comes with features like keystone correction and autofocus and is powered by a set of 12W Harman Kardon speakers.
It runs Android TV out of the box, so you'll be able to watch your favorite TV shows and movies seamlessly. Taken together, the Horizon Ultra, while expensive, looks very promising.
6. YABER U12 AND K300 PROJECTORS
The Yaber U12 and K300 projectors are also worth mentioning. For those who don't know, Yaber makes a large truckload of projectors designed for home entertainment. The company launched two attractive devices at IFA 2023, the U12, which is rated at 600 ANSI lumens. Needless to say, the projector should be able to produce impressively bright images. Additionally, the device comes with a handle, allowing you to carry it from room to room seamlessly.
It also supports Keystone projection, so it should be able to correct distortions that occur if the projector isn't aligned perpendicular to the surface. On the other hand, the K300 is an ultra-short-throw projector. Conversely, it can capture a wide image even if placed frighteningly close to a wall or screen. Additionally, the projector offers 1080p resolution output and has a 950 ANSI lumens rating. According to the numbers, you should be able to use the projector in well-lit rooms as well.
7. TECNO MEGABOOK T1 LAPTOP AND TRUE 1 TWS EARBUDS
Let's face it—we could all benefit from laptops with a powerful battery backup. And that's exactly what Tecno showcased at IFA 2023 this year. The company's Megabook T1, in particular, sports a 14-inch display. Despite this, the laptop offers a massive 75Wh battery that can last 18.5 hours on a single charge. Additionally, the device comes with a fast 65W GaN adapter.
The company also removed the covers from its flagship True 1 TWS earbuds. Just like the Megabook T1, the True 1 TWS earbuds also feature a healthy battery life and can last up to 45 hours. Furthermore, the earbuds can cancel out up to 42dB of noise, which is excellent. Rest assured, we can't wait to take Tecno's latest flagships for a spin.
8. AIPER SURFER S1
Robotic vacuums are smart tools that can mop floors and keep your home in good condition. Well, the folks at Aiper have thought of extending their functionality to include your pool! Enter the Surfer S1, a cordless robotic skimmer for the masses.
For a long time, we had to use a leaf scoop to remove the mess from our pools. The process could take hours, depending on the size of the pool. Well, now you can sit poolside, sip a delicious cocktail, and let the Surfer S1 do your bidding. To that end, the device is perfectly suited for all types of pools, whether they're regular or saltwater.
Once you're in your pool, the Surfer S1's path can be customized via the companion app. The unit is also supported by ultrasonic detectors that can intelligently guide it toward the edge.
9. JLAB JBUDS MINI
You must be familiar with the old saying—good things come in small packages. Well, JLabs took that phrase literally, showcasing at IFA 2023 the smallest TWS earbuds from any major headphone brand. Dubbed the JLabs JBuds Mini, the earbuds are lighter and more compact than popular TWS alternatives like AirPods.
Despite this, the JBuds Mini are packed with attractive features, and the earbuds support Bluetooth Multipoint connectivity. As such, you can connect the JBuds Mini to two devices simultaneously. Notably, the earbuds offer an IP55 rating, so you can use the pair at the gym or when you're out running, too.
Now, we were a bit skeptical about the unit's battery life. However, the earbuds can last for over five hours on a single charge. Furthermore, with the included case, the JBuds Mini's battery life is expected to last at least 20 hours! Some other notable features include Google Fast Pair support, as well as a "Be-Aware" mode, which can let in some ambient noise to keep you in tune with your surroundings.
On the flip side, we would have liked the earbuds to benefit from ANC technology as well. Additionally, the earbuds can only transmit audio via the SBC codec. As such, the JBuds Mini won't work with iPhones and aren't compatible with lossless media either.
10. CLEANR VORTEX FILTER
Did you know that washing machine wastewater is the largest source of microplastic pollution in the world? Well, CLEANR's Vortex filter—a microplastic filter for washers and dryers—hopes to be the voice for change. As you can see, CLEANR's proprietary technology creates a vortex of sorts, collecting plastics and discharging them into a capture unit.
Interestingly, the methodology is derived from manta rays and sharks, which use a similar technique to filter their food to avoid clogging their gills. According to the brand, the Vortex Filter is 300 percent more effective than traditional crossflow filters. Additionally, the CLEANR Vortex Filter outperformed competitors in nearly every performance test. Needless to say, consumers looking for eco-friendly alternatives will find a lot to like about the Vortex Filter.
11. ROBOROCK ZEO ONE WASHER DRYER
The Roborock Zeo One is a washer and dryer combined into one. While this isn't uncommon, the Roborock offering uses Zeo-cycle Drying technology, which captures moisture from wet clothes without exposing them to extreme heat. The same technology can be achieved by using zeolites, which have a strong adsorption capacity.
In contrast, the Roborock Zeo One uses a unique dual-air circulation method where humid air in the drum is passed through the zeolite. Once this is complete, dry air is blown back into the drum to remove moisture from clothes. Additionally, the zeolite is also subjected to a moisture-removal treatment, thus restoring its absorbency for another cycle. Unlike extreme heat treatments, which can weaken fiber strength, clothes that pass through the Zeo cycle will not show any signs of shrinkage or discoloration.
The Zeo One has a few aces up its sleeve. For example, the washer and dryer feature the company's LintClear self-cleaning system. As the name suggests, the machine automatically removes excess lint from your clothes by passing them through a separate water line. It also supports automatic dosing, and the machine can dispense detergent based on the weight of your clothes. You can also use the companion app to schedule cleaning or customize wash temperature, rinse times, and more from the comfort of your couch.
12. BELKIN BOOSTCHARGE PRO
Belkin announced a range of wireless charging accessories at IFA 2023 this year. Standing out from the lineup was the company's upgraded BoostCharge Pro, which utilizes Qi2 charging technology. For those unfamiliar, Qi2 was recently formalized by the WPC, or Wireless Power Consortium, as the successor to the Qi charging standard. The newer protocol addresses the biggest issue its predecessor had.
As you can see, Qi2-enabled wireless chargers will come with magnets. This way, you won't have to worry about aligning your phone perfectly on a Qi charging pad to enable the feature. Instead, the chargers should be seamlessly attached to the back of your smartphone. As you may have guessed by now, Belkin's BoostCharge Pro also comes with a magnetic base.
Additionally, the charging pad features a traditional Qi pad, which can be used to charge your smartphone accessories. The BoostCharge Pro also features a Type-C output port, so you can charge up to three devices simultaneously. Speaking of which, the wireless charging pad offers a maximum output of 15W, which should charge your iPhone at the fastest possible wireless speeds.
13. DOLBY ATMOS FLEXCONNECT
For years, buyers looking to get the most out of advanced audio technologies like Dolby Atmos Choosing a multi-channel speaker setup. The primary challenge in creating such a setup was that the buyer was tasked with positioning the various speakers appropriately to achieve the best sound level. This process was often quite tedious, and sometimes required users to move their furniture to make room for a symmetrical speaker setup.
Well, at IFA, Dolby demonstrated a new technology called Dolby Atmos FlexConnect, which takes the guesswork out of the equation by automatically optimizing your wireless speaker setup. The icing on the cake is that the optimization takes into account the relative position of the speakers. As such, you don't have to worry about moving the soundbar, or the left or right stereo channels, to achieve immersive audio output. Instead, the technology automatically determines the position of the speakers, even if they're placed asymmetrically around your living room.
More importantly, the technology apparently allows buyers to mix and match different types of speakers as well. At IFA, the company demonstrated the new technology in conjunction with TCL's Chroal soundbar. The speakers sound different, though their design and specifications are subject to change. Regardless, Dolby Atmos FlexConnect could be a game-changer for those looking to get into home theater surround sound setups.
14. MOBILE PIXELS GEMINOS
If you've been considering getting multiple displays to streamline your workflow, you might want to postpone your purchase. We say this, as Mobile Pixels unveiled its Kickstarter project, The Geminos, at IFA. If specifications are anything to go by, the company's stacked display lineup could be the perfect solution for buyers looking for more screen real estate.
The Geminos uses a set of foldable displays that can be propped up and connected to your computer. The device comes with a built-in docking station, which not only allows users to project their laptop contents onto the Geminos display but also charges the laptop with support for 100W USB-C passthrough charging. Additionally, the Geminos dock comes with a range of connectors, including two HDMI ports, two USB Type-A ports, and even a full-size SD card slot.
As for the displays, the company equipped the Geminos with two 24-inch, 1080p displays. What caught our attention was that the displays had little to no gaps between them. As such, the Geminos display looks more polished than simply stacking two displays side by side, as there is no thick bezel separating the two displays.
Additionally, the monitors are also supposed to help reduce clutter on your desk, seeing as how the setup features a 10-in-1 docking station, along with a built-in webcam, speakers, and microphone for online meetings. For anyone wondering, the top display slides up and down, and the one at the bottom can swivel inward or outward. As such, you can orient the monitors however you see fit. Our only gripe with the Geminos is that the monitors offer a 60Hz refresh rate. And while you can fold the monitors, the design isn't designed to be mobile. If you're vying for a more portable alternative, check out the next option on the list.
15. MOBILE PIXELS DUEX MAX
We're all used to multi-monitor setups. But then again, there are times when we need to work remotely, for example, while commuting. If you find yourself in a similar boat, you'll appreciate the Pixels Duex Max Portable Monitor.
The screen can be attached to your laptop's lid. Additionally, it comes with a built-in kickstand if you want to prop it up on a flat surface. The unit features a premium design and uses ABS and aluminum in its construction. While we haven't taken it for a spin yet, the Deux Max feels sturdy enough and should withstand the usual wear and tear you'd experience carrying it with your laptop.
As for the display, the Deux Max features a 14.1-inch Full HD panel. The screen can get reasonably bright at 300 nits, although you'll have to make do with the unit's 60Hz refresh rate. Additionally, the Deux Max is available in four distinct colors, so you can color-match the device to your laptop as well. All told, if you're looking to maximize your productivity on the go, the Deux Max could be a great addition to your collection.
Gadgets in abundance at IFA 2023!
That concludes our picks for the best gadgets we spotted at IFA 2023 this year. Needless to say, this isn't an exhaustive list, and the tech show has much more to offer. In that regard, let us know your favorite gadgets from our list, and those showcased at IFA 2023, in the comments below.
