Residential Systems SmartBrief
Also: Industry Mourns the Loss of Simply Reliable Founder Tom Coffin
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January 21, 2026
 
 
Residential Systems SmartBrief
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It’s a Mad, madVR, World
It’s a Mad, madVR, World
By Anthony Savona In 2019, Richard Litofsky, co-founder and CEO of madVR Labs, made his debut at CEDIA Expo with a modest 10 x 10 booth and a mostly finished prototype of what would become the company’s launch product: the madVR Envy video processor. From those slight custom industry beginnings — and through global pandemic and supply-chain issues — the Envy would soon develop into the video processor for luxury home theaters and eventually find itself featured in nearly 20 exhibits and displays at the 2025 CEDIA Expo.
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Introducing the new Google Nest Cams and the Nest Doorbell
Meet the most pro-friendly lineup we've ever launched: the Nest Cam Outdoor, Nest Cam Indoor, and Nest Doorbell, with crisp 2K HDR video, day and night, plus a wider, taller, field of view. The new devices are also engineered to work seamlessly with Gemini for an upgraded smart home experience.
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Today's News
 
Industry Mourns the Loss of Simply Reliable Founder Tom Coffin
 
Industry Mourns the Loss of Simply Reliable Founder Tom Coffin
Tom Coffin, the former CEO and president of CI SaaS provider Simply Reliable, passed away on January 15, 2026, from cancer. Coffin was a custom installation lifer, starting his CE career in 1980 as a regional manager at Audio Craft. Throughout the 1990s and 2000s, for integration firms IntelliNet, New Image Electronics, Digital Convergence Systems, and EnviroTech Integration.
Full Story: Residential Systems (1/20)
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Hunter Douglas Launches Pinnacle Program
New program introduces transparent pricing, simplified rewards, and performance-based growth.
Full Story: Residential Systems (1/20)
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Sony and TCL Consider Strategic Partnership for Home Entertainment Business
The intention is to establish a joint venture that will assume Sony's home entertainment business, with TCL holding 51% and Sony holding 49% of its shares.
Full Story: Residential Systems (1/20)
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AI Only Recommends What It Understands
AI is reshaping how shoppers search, compare, and decide. Based on insights from 2,082 U.S. consumers, this report explains what modern discovery looks like and what retailers need in place to stay visible. Access report.
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Technology Update
 
Crestron Unveils 80 Series Touch Screens
 
Crestron Unveils 80 Series Touch Screens
Available in 8- and 10-inch wall mount and tabletop models in black and white finishes, the 80 Series is designed to blend seamlessly into luxury residences, MDUs, hospitality suites, and marine environments while providing fast, reliable access to lighting, climate, AV, shading, security, and more.
Full Story: Residential Systems (1/20)
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Procella Audio Introduces Integrated AV Platform for LED Home Cinema
IMMERSIO integrates cinema-grade sound with LED visuals.
Full Story: Residential Systems (1/20)
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Coastal Source to Debut New Finishes and Fixtures for EVO at Lightapalooza 2026
EVO’s flexibility is being expanded with the introduction of an array of refined finishes that include Vintage Brass, Black, White, and Nickel.
Full Story: Residential Systems (1/20)
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URC Introduces Translucent User Interface Theme
Programmer-adjustable transparency allows interface layers to soften or sharpen based on context, task, and user preference.
Full Story: Residential Systems (1/20)
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2026 Survey: The AI Shift in Multilingual Translation
Unveil how AI redefines multilingual translation as a vital skill for global businesses, ensuring impactful communication. Yet, human touch remains crucial to maintain brand integrity and cultural nuances. Secure your copy today: Download Now.
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