On August 19th 2016, Mercedes-Benz presented its much anticipated concept iteration of the Maybach brand at Pebble Beach Concourse d’Elegance in California —  the exquisite Vision Mercedes-Maybach 6.

The 2+2 coupe totaled nearly 20ft in length, and boasted everything from gull wing doors reminiscent of the iconic 1954 300 SL, to a claimed 738-horsepower electric monstrosity under the massive hood. Swooping yet minimal lines run the length of the body draw inspiration from nautical design language, incorporating classic Mercedes-Benz profiles of old to create an absolutely stunning form.

“With its intelligent appeal and reduced, technoid look, it perfectly embodies our design philosophy of sensual purity and our pursuit of aerodynamic efficiency,” said Gorden Wagener, head of design for Daimler AG in a press release.

The vehicle looked slick and slippery, and this desire for aerodynamic efficiency was likely both an aesthetic and functional choice, as a reduction in wind-resistance correlates with improved travel range of the electric power-train. Interestingly, although the interior extensively utilized screens, both for vehicle information and to augment up to 50% of the windshield with geographic and misc. data read outs, there has been no mention of the vehicle featuring autonomous functionality.

Although Mercedes-Benz has been quite secretive regarding possible production of the vehicle, and currently maintains the vehicle is just a concept, we firmly believe it would sure give the Rolls-Royce Wraith a run for its money – let’s see what unfolds when the Mercedes-Maybach makes its debut, if ever.

The post Never Forget the Vision Mercedes-Maybach 6 Concept appeared first on FactoryTwoFour.

Flirc: The familiarity of a remote control is a game changer.  Using a remote control allows even the most basic users to easily navigate interfaces without a keyboard or mouse.  This USB dongle allows you to do just that by transforming any IR code into a keyboard stroke.  Flirc makes it possible to use any of your existing IR remotes to control any device that supports a USB keyboard.

Kodi:  It isn’t very often that an open-source software product rules the roost.  Kodi (formerly XBMC or Xbox Media Center) has deep set roots in helping users take control of their own media.  These roots first found purchase during the original Xbox “mod” rage.  Users created Xbox “mods” to function as an Atari or Nintendo emulator, content pirating machine, or media center.  Kodi left the Xbox branding behind as it has branched out to almost every platform.  This powerful and stable center is used by most cord-cutting devices to organize or stream media.  Almost every review in this series will include the functionality and performance of Kodi.

Input Devices:  Even if you have a Flirc, keep a keyboard and mouse handy.  Initial configuration and testing will require some typing.  Most devices do provide an on-screen keyboard.  If you liked the 2003 style of texting (multiple button pushes per letter) skip the keyboard.  Just prepare yourself for a maddening configuration.

Cables, Cables, Cables:  Most of the devices are going to come with an HDMI cable.  Not one of the devices has arrived with an HDMI cable that supports CEC.  A $10 cable may bring your TV’s native CEC control to life.  I will also discuss the following cables:  USB extension, Optical / Coaxial audio, and micro-usb hub / OTG devices.

Router: When streaming media, your router can make all the difference.  Every review will compare the connectivity between a two year-old N router and a high-end AC model.  If your router doesn’t support at least N, plan on using wired connections only.

Now the introductions are made and the stage is set – all we have to do is review each device and its optimal configuration.  Do you have a device that FactoryTwoFour should review?  If so, please contact me here.

The post Make your own smart tv – Part 2 appeared first on FactoryTwoFour.

The post Cut The Cord: No Smart-TV Required appeared first on FactoryTwoFour.