ASUSTOR Inc., a leading innovator and provider of network storage solutions, has announced the launch of the modern diamond plate finished 31 series NAS devices for multimedia prosumers. The 31 series consists of the 2-bay AS3102T and the 4-bay AS3104T. With its compact size and elegant looks, these models seamlessly complement any space while adding a touch of style. Toolless installation via hand-screws along with the sliding cover design, allow users to easily install or swap out hard disks. 31 series devices are powered by the latest generation Intel Braswell N3050 dual-core processors which feature automatic overclocking for increased system performance and outstanding multitasking capabilities. Also worth mentioning is that the 31 series devices support AES-NI hardware encryption, providing a secure and high performance storage solution for the new cloud generation.

“ASUSTOR’s 31 series devices provide smoother multimedia playback via their enterprise-class core hardware and dual-channel memory,” said Johnny Chen, Product Manager at ASUSTOR. “The 31 series lowers the barriers for home users and prosumers who require 4K multimedia playback and secure cloud storage.”

CDRLabs has taken an in depth look at QNAP's new vertical NAS, the TS-453mini. Designed for smaller offices and home environments, the TS-453mini features a tool-less, vertical design that takes up less desktop space than most other 4-bay NAS devices. In addition to its stylish, good looks, the NAS is powered by a quad-core Intel Celeron 2.0GHz processor and comes equipped with either 2GB or 8GB of DDR3L RAM and a pair of Gigabit Ethernet ports to deliver up to 220 MB/s read and write speeds. The TS-453mini is also packed full of cutting-edge features including HD video transcoding, SSD caching. private cloud capabilities and the ability to run multiple virtual machines with the Virtualization Station. In addition, users can plug a keyboard, mouse and HDMI display into the device and use it like a PC to access stored data, surf the web, watch videos and monitor live feeds on Surveillance Station.

Synology Inc. today announced the release of DiskStation DS416 and DS216play, NAS servers designed for optimized task processing. While DS416 is equipped with a powerful hardware encryption engine, DS216play can transcode 4K video on-the-fly. 

"Synology aims to provide high-value storage solution to home and business users. DS416 has been designed to provide an all-in-one NAS server optimized for encryption, making it an affordable server for sensitive data transmission. DS216play, thanks to its powerful 4K transcoding capabilities, is a high-value NAS server for home users," said Jonathan Wang, Product Manager at Synology Inc.  

Roku Inc. today announced the highly anticipated Roku 4 streaming player. Designed for entertainment-loving streamers, the Roku 4 features superior streaming performance and brilliant picture quality for both 4K Ultra HD (UHD) and HD TVs. With access to one of the biggest streaming channel lineups including 300,000 movies and TV episodes and the industry’s most comprehensive and only unbiased universal voice search, finding what to stream is simple with the new Roku 4. Plus, now consumers will no longer need to look for their remote control with the new Remote Finder feature.

The Roku 4 runs the new Roku OS 7 that the company also announced today. Roku OS 7 is filled with new discovery features that give consumers more access to entertainment choices. With a major update to the Roku Feed consumers can now follow movies, TV shows, actors and directors to receive automatic entertainment updates about pricing and availability. Those at college or who travel and want to stream will now be able to use the new Hotel and Dorm Connect feature for quick wireless connectivity in locations that require log-in credentials to access the network. In addition, the redesigned Roku mobile app brings more control to the Roku experience from a mobile device, and soon will feature an on-the-go mode that allows for access to features such as the Roku Feed while away from home.