Podcast #1219: Best of CEDIA 2025

On this week's show we look at the CDEDIA Best of show winners for this years event. We also read your emails and take a look at the week's news.

News:

• Google's Home app just got a huge upgrade that makes automations even smarter
• Paramount to launch new Sports Entertainment division
• The first Roku-powered smart projector is here

Other:

• The Streaming War Is Over. Piracy Won.

TWICE Best of Show Awards Winners for CEDIA 2025

AiSPIRE/WAC Group VENTRIX Lighting, Power and Control System - is an innovative, modular linear lighting solution designed for high-end architectural applications in both commercial and residential spaces. VENTRIX provides a scalable, customizable framework for illumination challenges, such as recessed grid ceiling installations or linear layouts in retail, restaurants, offices, or upscale homes. No pricing available.

BZBGEAR BG-AIR4KAST-MKX | 4K@60Hz Wireless HDMI Extender with Multi-Receiver Support - Is a professional-grade wireless HDMI extender kit designed for transmitting uncompressed 4K video signals over the air without the need for long cables. The system uses BZBGEAR's proprietary ipcolor STREAM technology to ensure high-definition video with low latency, operating on the 5GHz wireless frequency band for stable, interference-resistant transmission. Up to 164 feet (50 meters) line-of-sight for 4K@60Hz; extends to about 230 feet for 1080p@60Hz. Available for Pre-order $450

Crestron Home OS - Since 1972, Crestron has been the leader in creating innovative technologies that remove barriers to connection, collaboration, communication, comfort, and control in just about every meaningful aspect of our professional and personal lives. Engineered to be simple, reliable, secure, and easy to use, Crestron sets the standard for intelligent video conferencing, digital content distribution, smart home systems, as well as control and management technology. Solutions that empower people around the world to do more, learn more, enjoy more, and achieve more.

Furrion Aurora Partial-Sun 2 4K LED Outdoor Smart TV - is a weatherproof outdoor television designed specifically for partially sunny environments, such as patios, decks, or yards where sunlight is present but not direct or prolonged on the screen. It is part of Furrion's Aurora series, engineered for backyard entertainment with rugged construction to withstand rain, humidity, dust, and temperature fluctuations while delivering high-quality 4K viewing. 55" is going for $1700

HangSmart TV DIY TV wall mount system -  designed for easy installation without the need for wall studs, making it ideal for renters, homeowners, or anyone avoiding complex drilling or hiring professionals. It supports TVs from 19 to 100 inches and holds up to 150 pounds, compatible with most flat-screen LED, LCD, or curved models (including brands like Samsung, LG, and Sony) via standard VESA patterns.

Kaleidescape Strato M Movie Player - an entry-level movie player it serves as a standalone device or part of a larger Kaleidescape ecosystem, designed for residential, marine, and commercial theater setups. Priced at around $1,995–$2,000, it offers about half the cost of Kaleidescape's previous lowest-entry system (the Strato V at $4,000) while delivering premium audio and video quality without relying on streaming services.

madVR Envy Core MK2 - is a high-end video processor developed by madVR Labs, designed specifically for premium home theaters and media rooms. It represents an upgraded iteration in the company's Envy lineup, building on the original Envy Core (introduced in 2024) by incorporating 48 Gbps HDMI 2.1 support for 8K input and output, enhanced gaming capabilities, and improved overall performance. A