IFA 2025: Smart Homes, $35 ANC Earbuds, and Retro Tech Returns

Discover the latest from IFA 2025 in Berlin, as Steven Scott and Shaun Preece explore Apple Shortcuts, automation tools, affordable smart home lighting, and Belkin’s surprising $35 earbuds with ANC.

In this episode of Double Tap, Steven and Shaun dive into a packed lineup of tech news from IFA 2025. Also, from the joy of reinstalling Windows to discovering the power of Apple Shortcuts and new on-device transcription, the conversation explores how automation is becoming more accessible for blind users.

The hosts discuss Philips Hue’s upcoming Bridge Pro and Essentials range, offering smarter lighting and affordable bulbs, plus energy-saving LEDs. Belkin surprised the market with a new line of wireless and wired earbuds — all priced at just $35 — including models with active noise cancellation.

Also, the duo chat about retro cassette players making a comeback, Technics’ new Bluetooth turntable, gaming handhelds, AI-powered smart glasses, and the rising trend of AI companionship devices.

Chapters
0:00 – PC refresh and Windows reinstall
4:20 – Discovering Apple Shortcuts and on-device transcription
15:45 – Beyond the Gallery and shortcut-sharing for blind users
27:30 – Philips Hue Bridge Pro and Essentials range explained
41:00 – Belkin’s $35 earbuds and wired ANC options
58:10 – Retro tech: cassette players and Bluetooth turntables
1:08:05 – Lenovo Legion Go and the boom in handheld PCs
1:18:00 – AI-powered smart glasses and the future of wearables

Relevant Links
Double Tap: https://doubletaponair.com
Be My Eyes: https://www.bemyeyes.com
Philips Hue: https://www.philips-hue.com

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About Double Tap

Hosted by the insightful duo, Steven Scott and Shaun Preece, Double Tap is a treasure trove of information for anyone who's blind or partially sighted and has a passion for tech. Steven and Shaun not only demystify tech, but they also regularly feature interviews and welcome guests from the community, fostering an interactive and engaging environment. Tune in every day of the week, and you'll discover how technology can seamlessly integrate into your life, enhancing daily tasks and experiences, even if your sight is limited.

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