Consumer Technology Association SmartBrief
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July 17, 2025
Consumer Technology Association SmartBrief
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Today's Digital Pulse
CANADA - 2025/07/08: In this photo illustration, the Roblox logo is seen displayed on a smartphone screen. (Photo Illustration by Thomas Fuller/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images)
(SOPA Images/Getty Images)
Roblox is introducing an age estimation feature for users 13 and older, requiring a video selfie to access certain chat features. The feature, powered by Persona, aims to create safer digital spaces amid increasing calls for age verification on social media.
Full Story: Engadget (7/17) 
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Smart Home
Xiaomi Wi-Fi Range Extender AX1500 installed on a grey wall in a living room.
(Xiaomi)
Xiaomi has launched its Wi-Fi Range Extender AX1500 that is designed to boost wireless coverage in large homes. The device, which can be integrated into mesh networks and includes an access point mode, offers data rates of up to 1,500 Mbps over 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands as well as a Gigabit Ethernet port for wired connections.
Full Story: Notebookcheck (Austria) (7/16) 
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What tech do consumers own and what do they plan to buy? Explore 89 products and emerging trends in CTA's 2025 U.S. Consumer Technology Ownership & Market Potential Study. Access now — complimentary for CTA members.
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From Blue Chips to Startups
Coinbase has introduced the Base App, an "everything app" that combines wallet, trading, payments, social media and mini apps. The app, which runs on Coinbase's Base blockchain, aims to attract users who are not interested in cryptocurrency trading. The app also features Base Pay, a one-click checkout system for USD Coin payments developed with Shopify.
Full Story: CNBC (7/16) 
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Tech News
Social media remains central to how Generation Z discovers news, with 55% of publishers reporting that this group often finds breaking news first on these platforms, according to Digiday+ Research. Publishers are responding by increasing their activity on TikTok, a move driven by Gen Z's media habits. Additionally, Gen Z readers are active in comment sections and tend to verify social media information through traditional news outlets.
Full Story: Digiday (tiered subscription model) (7/17) 
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Retail Trends
kailey_chs/Instagram
Snow cone makers help bring joy to consumers as they spend more time at home.
US consumers bought slightly more electric kettles, single-serve blenders, single-serve brewing systems and frothers in the first five months of 2025 year over year, and rice cookers, slow cookers, air fryers, cookware, dinnerware, snow cone makers, fondue sets and more also are seeing an uptick in sales, according to Circana research. The focus on home products comes at a time of hunkering down in a time of economic uncertainty and "because life at home encompasses so many essentials while also being a platform for joy,” Circana Vice President Joe Derochowski says, recommending that home goods companies home in on that feeling of joy when marketing.
Full Story: Circana (7/10) 
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