New data from DisplaySearch* suggests that networking has become the key feature TV manufacturers are focusing on in the development of next generation HD displays, but not for the reasons you might think. In a previous blog post, written when connected TVs were just gaining mainstream availability, (Easy Internet Connectivity of 3D Frills), we showed consumers prefer a networked TV solution over 3D. With consumers making their demands known, TV makers are now responding.


Source: DisplaySearch Quarterly TV Design and Features Report

What we found particularly interesting about the findings was that people weren’t most interested in directly accessing web content on their TVs, but rather using TVs as “companion screens” to directly communicate with smartphones and tablets. The small screens of these devices are the biggest inherent drawback, so making it easier to access on a bigger screen makes a lot of sense.

Fortunately for smartphone users, IOGEAR already makes an HD AV Cable with Charge and Sync for Droid users and a Composite AV Cable with Charge and Sync for iPhone/iPod users, which provides basic hard-wired connectivity between smartphones and TVs. On the horizon though, new networked TVs will take this technology a step further.

According to Paul Gray, DisplaySearch Director of TV Electronics Research:

“Consumer wishes are very clear – no new wires. The incorporation of wireless allows more than just networking, with powerful ad-hoc functions such as transfer of photos and video from a smart phone to a TV using Wireless Direct, or a program guide to be navigated without interrupting viewing.”

Since it will likely be awhile until networked TVs become the de facto display device in every living room, it’s important to understand that there are still solutions available to bring wireless connectivity to an HD display.


Provided it has an Ethernet port, the Universal Wi-Fi N Adapter allows you to connect an HDTV (or Blu-ray player, game console, etc) to any Wireless-N network in a home or office. This low-cost alternative is an ideal accessory for someone who’s just invested in a non-WiFi enabled display, giving them the flexibility to install a home entertainment center anywhere, while remaining connected to the Internet.

It’s easy to see why manufacturers are so committed to networked TVs, but we’d like to how you would take advantage of an Internet-connected TV? Let us know in the comments, on Facebook, or via Twitter.

*The DisplaySearch Quarterly TV Design and Features Report is a quarterly update of the issues and rapid shifts in TV feature developments. The 250+ page report examines and forecasts video processor and signal processing IC market development, including 120/100 and 200/240 Hz frame rates as well as market shares for major IC vendors. In addition, the report also features forecasting for MPEG-4 decoding and the digital broadcast environment around the world, including a forecast for DVB-T2; TV connectivity, such as wired and wireless networked TVs; LED backlighting; 3D-capability and implementation; remote controls and chassis design; and power consumption.

Gender issues aren’t generally a focus of discussion on our blog, but after reading a recent Sound and Vision post, it seems there are some mixed feelings about how some products, especially gadgets or tech gear, are marketed to females. It’s odd because, there are as many women (if not more) who make buying decisions involving smartphones, HD TVs, computer peripherals, portable audio and more, yet when a product goes overboard to market to women, it can backfire.


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Our Susan G. Komen for the Cure® campaign involving pink SD/Micro-SD Card Readers/Writers has a specific message and goal of increasing awareness about early detection and supporting the search for a cure to breast cancer. Naturally, it makes sense to go pink, since it is such a widespread show of support, everywhere we looked in October. From NFL players to airlines, sporting pink is an easy way to share an important message.

But what about pink products that choose the color only for its potential to attract women. Especially with gadgets, is this really a significant factor in choosing a pair of headphones, a keyboard ,or (gasp!) an HD TV?

In the Sound and Vision post, Pink is Not the New Black – Unless it Is, Geoff Morrison gathered feedback from three women, which provided a mixed bag of commentary. Some excerpts:

Negative – “Hell yeah, I’ve noticed and it’s annoying. There are a lot of colors in the spectrum women enjoy, and I don’t see everything targeted at men in shades of baby-ass blue…”

Middle of the Road – “These things wouldn’t get made if there weren’t a market for it. I know one girl specifically that gets super excited for pink KitchenAid products … what bothers me is when manufacturers feel the need to alter the product to dumb it down and slap a “lady” label on it. And then charge us more for the privilege.”

Indifferent – “I wouldn’t say it annoys me, but I do find it amusing, mostly because I’d never buy a pink CE (consumer electronics) device. I think the ‘pink push’ is more prevalent in the realm of gadgets and handhelds, probably because the designers don’t have the funds or the freedom to do much beyond changing a product’s color.”

Obviously there’s nothing inherently wrong with a product that is colored pink, but we’re interested to hear from ladies in our community about whether or not they’d buy something just because it’s pink, or if they get annoyed that someone would even think that?

Of course, we welcome feedback from anyone on whether color really matters when it comes to purchasing gadgets. Let us know in the comments, on Facebook or via Twitter.

Just like “thinking outside the box”, “breaking down silos” and “low hanging fruit” were business buzzwords of the past, convergence is one of those new terms that every company seems to want a piece of.



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Popular jargon aside, IOGEAR has used the term to describe its place in the consumer technology space for several years now. The concept of convergence is a pillar of our engineering and product development, but there’s still some confusion about what it actually means. From a technology standpoint, convergence is primarily about improving communication, mobility and access to entertainment by getting computer and audio/video to work more seamlessly together. It also means extending the functionality of existing devices by allowing them to do more, or to do what they’re designed for, better.

Whether its streaming iPod content to a TV, sharing computer peripherals wirelessly, or extending Wi-Fi to an Ethernet enabled device, we’re always searching for ways to get more out of the devices we own, or to extend their lives just a little bit longer.

We’ve blogged about AV streaming devices, KVM switches and other devices at the heart of computer/AV convergence, but we’ve never looked at how the topic applies outside the world of technology. Convergence is not only about maximizing technology by enhancing mobility and connectivity. Far from it actually. A diverse set of industries that includes everything from condiments to liquor to convenience stores and outerwear are all undergoing a convergence renaissance of sorts, accelerating down the road of smart innovation to get there.

Recently, Inc.com explored some of the industries where convergence is being utilized most effectively, and had this to say in an article titled, Innovative Product Mashups:

“Convergence is affecting nearly all industries…Another great example is drug store retailing in 
New York City. Duane Reade, a leading chain, now has a physician on call and offers inoculations at some of its stores, putting them in competition with traditional physician’s offices. In some, they carry fresh produce, salads, and sandwiches, putting them in competition with small grocery and convenience stores. In the Wall Street location in New York City, Duane Reade even has a hair and nail salon, putting it in competition with beauty parlors.”

Much like a neighborhood-focused drug store evolving to meet the expanding needs of time-strapped New York City folk, so too is IOGEAR constantly digging deeper into things like USB 3.0, Wi-Fi technology, HDMI, Bluetooth and countless other connectivity options that make the convergence of other compatible devices possible. And even when they’re not compatible, we have things like the USB Bluetooth adapter which provides the necessary connectivity options for whatever the device may be. 

Convergence may be a one of the new marketing buzzwords that all companies want a piece of, but few are as committed to the principle as we are.

What does convergence mean to you? Let us know on Facebook, Twitter or in the comments.

Getting media onto your PC is taking more time as the size of our media files continue to increase. In this post we look at the latest and greatest in wired PC connectivity technology and the promise of faster transfer times.

The current choices are USB 3.0 and Thunderbolt. If you are a Mac user, your choice is easy, since current Macs only support USB 2.0 and Thunderbolt out of the box, with no current plans to support USB 3.0 natively. However, if you are willing to purchase an expansion card, there are some options. As a PC user, USB 3.0 is your current option with Thunderbolt support coming in 2012.


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Both technologies have their pros and cons, but one thing is crystal clear — both technologies offer a better experience than the previous leading technology, USB 2.0. Thunderbolt boasts significantly faster speeds and device power as shown in the table here. Perhaps the biggest advantage USB 3.0 has over Thunderbolt is it’s backwards compatibility with USB 2.0 and 1.1.

USB 3.0 is gaining traction as the technology is being integrated in current PC motherboards. In addition, Microsoft announced “robust” support of USB 3.0 in Windows 8. Of course, as a leading peripheral innovator, IOGEAR is taking advantage of this new technology for your benefit. We have launched a family of USB 3.0 products for you to enjoy.

Introducing …

SuperSpeed USB 3.0 SD/Micro SD Card Reader / Writer

If you are tired of the wait time when transferring your photos and videos from your various memory cards, here is your solution. This device allows you to achieve 10 times the speed but still allows for backwards compatibility with USB 2.0 and 1.1.

SuperSpeed 3.0 Multi-Card Reader / Writer



This device ups the ante with support for 59 memory card formats!

SuperSpeed USB 3.0 4-Port Hub



Why limit yourself to only one USB 3.0 device? You can now get USB 3.0 speeds for up to 4 USB devices while also maintaining backwards compatibility. All without the need for an external power source.

How would a 10 times increase in speed change your computing experience? Let us know in the comments below, on Twitter or Facebook.

For many Americans, Sunday is not just a time to spend with family and friends — it’s Football Time! All of a sudden, space becomes a premium as family and friends appear out of the woodworks.

If you have more than one HDTV, we have the solution to a crowded living room! Our brand new Wireless 3D HD Digital Kit allows you to view the game in two rooms simultaneously, and without wires!

Learn More

What games are you planning to watch? Who are you rooting for? We would love to know how you think this device would make game day reach a whole new level of awesome. Let us know here in the comments, on Facebook or on Twitter.

The Wireless 3D HD Digital Kit is now available at Costco.com!

*Distances may vary depending on environment; solid objects such as steel, concrete and brick may view shorter distances

We talked about how it appears that Black Friday is happening every day. Even so, that will not stop millions of Americans from flocking to the stores on November 25 in celebration of Black Friday. Then, millions will return to their computers to take advantage of Cyber Monday.

In this post … drum roll … not only will we take the cat out of the bag on our very own offerings, we will highlight some amazing resources that will help you gain the most advantage of Black Friday and Cyber Monday.

Are you sitting down?

From Black Friday Thursday until Sunday November 27, we will be giving away a limited amount of coupons that will vary between 30 and 50% off! In addition, we will be offering free ground shipping* on all orders! Check here for all the details.

On Cyber Monday (from midnight to midnight PST) we will be offering 40% off our entire store + free shipping*! You can use coupon code 2011CMFP40 at ShopIOGEAR.com on Cyber Monday to take advantage.

The following resources should help you plan for an awesome Black Friday (Enjoy!):

Ad Scans

Instead of scrambling to collect tons of Sunday newspapers, use the above link to view the ad scans right now on your computer. As a bonus, each scan includes a text list of all the deals below the ad.

Check Ins

Take full advantage of your smart phones and use services such as Foursquare to find specialized deals while you are out and about. Many retailers are offering special deals for checking into their stores on Black Friday.

There is an App for That

Black Friday apps are starting to mature and eWeek.com has a good round up of some of the more interesting options. Do you have any favorites? Or will you stick to good ol’ pen and paper?

Beyond Black Friday

Many retailers are taking the concept of Black Friday and extending their deals throughout the entire week. Amazon.com touts new deals every day of the week on their Black Friday Deals Week web page.

Leverage Social Media

Also, make sure to head on over to our previous Black Friday guide and check out the Black Friday focused Twitter and Facebook accounts mentioned there if you prefer to do your Black Friday tracking via Social Media.

Have you already started your Black Friday planning? What items have you most excited? Let us know here on the comments or on Facebook or Twitter. Thanks!

*Free shipping excludes Alaska and Hawaii. This promotion is only available in the U.S. and Canada.

Come Friday, November 25th, 2011, millions will dutifully line up at retail stores all across the USA. Then, on the following Monday, millions will visit the websites of their favorite stores, all looking for the best deals of the year.

CBSAtlanta.com says:

“Last year, the National Retail Federation (NRF) reported that 212 million individuals hit the shopping aisles on Black Friday. They spent an estimated $45 billion, or roughly $365 per person, which was up more than 6% from 2009.”



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But are Black Friday and Cyber Monday really the best days of the year to shop?

We think that for the savvy shopper, any day can be “Black Friday”. Just take a look at the TV Show Extreme Couponing where people share how they reduce hundreds of dollars worth of goods to several dollars in actual expense or the plethora of deal websites such as Groupon and Fatwallet.

In our case, we have a special IOGEAR deal feed at Twitter designed for the sole purpose of finding you extraordinary deals on a regular basis.

All that said, we definitely appreciate the national pastime of Black Friday and will provide those of you looking for extra special discounts (both Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals) that we think will bring a smile to your gadget loving heart

You’ll have to stay tuned to discover what they are though… so be sure to follow us on Twitter and Facebook for the latest updates.

According to the Washington Post, Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 set a new record with $400 million in sales in 24 hours. That’s 6.4 million games sold!

Judging by the impressive graphics quality displayed in the above trailer, it’s a given that you will be playing this game on your HDTV in the living room for the maximum effect. But what if you want to take the experience over to your bedroom? Until now, you would need to pack up your gaming device and move it to the bedroom — not quite ideal. Now, with our Wireless 3D Digital Kit all you need to move is your controller*!



To get your own Wireless 3D Digital Kit, all you need to do is head on over to Costco.com.

The Wireless 3D Digital Kit is capable of streaming Full HD 1080p with 3D support along with 5.1 digital surround sound audio up to 100 feet** away! What other ways do you envision using this product to achieve a new level of wireless freedom? Tell us here on the blog, on Facebook or Twitter. We look forward to your ideas!

*Note that you will be limited by the distance that your controller can support.

**Distances may vary depending on environment; solid objects such as steel, concrete and brick may view shorter distances

As we near the holiday shopping season, retailers will soon start rolling out the deals in an effort to entice shoppers to spend their hard-earned dollars. With the emergence of the Internet, and the 24-hour shopping cycle it provides, we have much greater shopping flexibility than we did 10 years ago, but the questions remains: Where are the better deals, online or in the store? And where do people prefer to buy their technology?


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Well, if you trust The NPD Group analyst firm, their research shows that when it comes to tech purchases:

“56 percent of people read up on new TVs at retail websites, but only 19 percent follow through with an online purchase – the lowest number for all included CE. Online smartphone shoppers weren’t too far off though, with 23 percent balking at the concept of purchasing a new phone online. Meanwhile, 52 percent of those buyers had looked up deals and other information on the web.”

So, based on this research, it looks like shoppers rely more heavily on the web for researching their prospective purchases than actually making them. Fair enough, but what if you want to compare prices and get the best deal on a wireless HTCP keyboard or computer to TV streaming kit? What’s the best way to determine the best value available?

For this task, the web has a clear advantage over brick and mortar stores since there are dedicated websites that can help you determine the best possible price for the exact product you need. Short of calling every Best Buy or Walmart in your area and asking for the best prices on a given product, the web is a far more efficient tool for determining value. One site that provides a robust price comparison platform is Pricewatch.com, which provides listings of the best online deals for many computer peripherals and products from tablets and printers to HDMI cables, adapters and motherboards.

Of course, you can always buy direct from the manufacturer by visiting sites like our own Shop.IOGEAR.com, but it’s really just a matter of convenience and how much research you’re willing to put into it.

The bottom line is, the holidays often bring out all sorts of deals. Cyber Monday, Black Thursday, free shipping, cash back on store credit cards and more are all used to motivate us as shoppers. And while these can sometimes motivate an impulse purchase, the best buy is always a well-researched one.

Don’t forget to check out our Twitter deals feed, which we update twice weekly with great IOGEAR deals.