The consumer electronics (CE) industry has never stood still. As I retire after a 41-year career--37 dedicated exclusively to CE at global titans like Sony, Samsung, Panasonic, HP, and Sharp--I've witnessed the velocity of transformation firsthand. I've had the privilege of helping navigate tectonic shifts: from analog to digital, CRT to flat panel, and the isolated kitchen to the IoT-enabled "Connected Home." Along the way, I learned that progress is rarely linear. My most valuable insights weren't easy wins; they were forged in format wars, "failing firsts," and bold bets that shaped what came next.

WAC Group has named industry veteran Greg Barrett as its new director of commercial lighting systems. Barrett will play a key role in shaping product strategy, education, and marketing, helping to drive innovation and bridge the gap between complex technologies and design-driven applications.

Consumers spending is being fueled by today's challenges, according to recent research by Circana. The market research company reports that total U.S. retail sales revenue, across discretionary general merchandise, retail food and beverage, and non-edible consumer packaged goods (CPG), for the first 10 weeks of 2026 is up 2% from the same time last year, with equivalent demand levels overall.

The Eureka J15 Max Ultra vacuums and mops thoroughly, has impressive features and excellent app. The only downside is that it takes a fair bit of time to perform tasks well, and can miss some spots, but the wait is worthwhile.

If you have $1,000 to spend on a soundbar, there are compelling options to choose from. Since its late 2024 release, the Sonos Arc Ultra has been at the top of the heap in this price range, but there are new competitors that give Sonos a run for its money. The Marshall Heston 120, for example, offers a unique design, cool features, and comes at the exact same price as the Sonos Arc Ultra.