The CEDIA Foundation, in partnership with CEDIA, has announced the launch of its inaugural workforce development campaign: 100 Techs in 100 Days. This global initiative runs from May 12 through Aug. 20, 2025, and aims to open doors to careers in the smart home industry by funding technical training for aspiring technicians. The CEDIA Foundation invites CEDIA members, educators, and industry partners to help expand the reach of this campaign. Whether referring a candidate or making a donation, every action helps build a stronger, more robust workforce for the future.

U.S. consumers have advanced their retail spending, even in the face of rising uncertainty of tariffs, Neil Saunders, managing director of GlobalData, said in emailed comments.

The TWICE Powerful Women in Consumer Electronics program is a tribute to the women who are not just succeeding, but shaping, leading, and transforming the consumer technology industry. These are the trailblazers and mentors, the quiet powerhouses and bold changemakers who lead with purpose, lift others as they climb, and leave the industry better than they found it. Nominations are open now through May 31, 2025. We invite peers, colleagues, and industry partners to help us spotlight the incredible women who are driving real change in consumer tech.

Savant has announced the addition of Crown Shade Company as a Recommended Partner, enabling Savant integrators to now offer the most versatile options for challenging installations inside and outside the home.

Bang & Olufsen has released a new, redesigned version of its Beosound A1 portable Bluetooth speaker. Created in collaboration with Danish designer Cecile Manz, the 3rd-gen Beosound AI features a new circular design and advanced acoustics.

Kardome, a voice AI market leader, recently announced a strategic collaboration with LG Electronics to integrate Kardome's Spatial Hearing AI into LG's next-generation smart devices. The technology will first be integrated into LG's line of smart TVs, with expansion planned across additional categories including smart appliances, audio products, and vehicles. "Kardome's technology is a game-changer for smart devices," said Jungho Kwak, head of MS Service Platform Development Division at LG Electronics. "By integrating this next-generation Spatial Hearing AI technology, we're delivering a more intelligent and responsive user experience that redefines what's possible in voice-enabled products."

As a TWICE brief subscriber you're qualified to receive a complimentary digital subscription to TWICE magazine. Get your free copy here.