Author: Amanda Giasson

Unified Computer Intelligence Corporation (UCIC) has released its new gadget

Last week, UCIC, a two-year old Canadian company based out of Toronto launched its new device called the Ubi, a small gadget about the size of a smoke detector that has been designed to control a variety of connected home devices via voice command.

Thermostats, lightbulbs and door locks can be managed with a simple voice command.

The purpose of the Ubi is to provide people with a simple way to control the many different connected devices within their home. Many home appliances and other devices can now be controlled over the internet. Some of these include lightbulbs, door locks and thermostats. However, the majority of these devices need to be coUBi ntrolled using its own specific web service or mobile app. The new gadget from UCIC aims to allow users to control everything with one device.

According to the official website, “Ubi is a WiFi connected, voice operated computer that allows for handsfree voice interaction in your home.” Using Android, more specifically Google’s speech-to-text software, the device takes a person’s commands and transforms them into action. It utilizes the most up-to-date voice recognition technology, as well as natural language understanding, speech triggering and speech synthesis to provide users with a way to interact with the world around them.

When it is turned on and linked to a WiFi network, the device continually listens for the phrase “Okay, Ubi”. Upon hearing this, it attempts to understand the commands it has been given. For instance, “What is the capital of Australia?” is answered using Google’s internet search.

It can also create calendar appointments, play music, as well as control a Nest thermostat and turn the heat up or down in a home or even open automated bedroom blinds. In addition, the device is equipped with humidity, temperature and light sensor and allows users to set automated alerts. For instance, it can be programmed to send a text message to a user when the lights are turned on in their home while they are away.

Ubi is not without its flaws.

As is the problem that is faced by most speech recognition devices, the Ubi will not work flawlessly all of the time. Although it works well when a person is close to the device, if they are giving a command from across the room and there is background noise (ex. TV) this makes it difficult for the device to sort out what has been said. According to UCIC CEO Leor Grebler, this “ends up really messing around with speech recognition.”

In the support and development of its technology, Unified Computer Intelligence Corporation has raised nearly $1 million ($230,000 via crowdfunding site Kickstarter) and has shipped over 2,500 early versions of the Ubi. Currently, the device costs $299.

A new trendy watchphone has been developed by Ukrainian startup.

Smartwatches are quickly becoming a trend, but one of the problems with this unique style of device is that if a wearer wants to make a phone call, often they need to take out their phone to make a call, but .klatz is aiming to solve that issue with its watchphone device.

Some may find this wearable technology to be more convenient than current watches on the market.

The .klatz is not actually a watch in the traditional sense. Rather, it is stiff aluminum bracelet. It does not have a standard watch face and flexible strap. The main reason is when the cuff is unfastened it can be held to the ear and become a phone.

Due to the fact that the wearable is a stiff bracelet, this may be off putting for some people, particularly those who were not happy with other devices with stiff shapes like Nike+ Fuelband, for instance. However, the one aspect that is in the .klatz’s favor is that it is available in four sizes. Therefore, consumers should have an easier time finding the right device to fit their wrist.

The gadget is available in two colors: black and red.

Like other smartwatch designs the .klatz can be paired with a mobile phone.

Currently, the device can be paired with an Android smartphone or iPhone. The company also has future plans for it to be paired with Windows Phone.

In order to activate the watch, a user merely has to glance at the screen and the time will be shown on the 384 LEDs that form the display. Other than telling the time and being able to flip it open so it can be held to the ear to talk, the device can also receive message notifications, track the wearer’s activity and gives them the power to control their music.

While the device is not waterproof, only splash and dust proof, its battery is larger than many smartwatches. The company claims that its 600mAh power pack can last for up to 10 days of standby time when compared to other smartwatches, like Samsungs Gear 2’s 300mAH battery or Motorola Moto 360’s 320mAh battery. While it charges on a little stand designed for it, the .klatz turns into a desk or bedside clock.

Currently, the company is seeking $140,000 in crowdfunding for its smartwatch device on Indiegogo. The first of the .klatz gadgets are expected to be delivered in March 2015.