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Customizable Ensembl concept speaker features hot-swappable modules

The concept smart speaker, which works with a camera, projector and more, allows users to add and swap components as they see fit.

Lynn La
Lynn La covers mobile reviews and news. She previously wrote for The Sacramento Bee, Macworld and The Global Post.
Lynn La
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1 of 8 Tyler Lizenby/CNET

Ashley Chloe Ensembl

At CES 2018, San Francisco-based startup Ashley Chloe showed off its Ensembl smart speaker, which allows users to swap out and add key components similar to a Rock-A-Stack toy from Fisher-Price

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2 of 8 Tyler Lizenby/CNET

Ashley Chloe Ensembl

Currently, there are seven modules in development (from bottom to top): a Qi wireless charging base, a battery, a speaker, a control module that turns said speaker into a smart-home speaker, a lantern light, a projector and a 360-degree camera.  

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3 of 8 Tyler Lizenby/CNET

Ashley Chloe Ensembl

The control module (second from bottom), will let you program your assistant of choice, like Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant. The lantern light (third from bottom) is programmable for different colors.

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4 of 8 Tyler Lizenby/CNET

Ashley Chloe Ensembl

The 360-degree camera module.

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5 of 8 Tyler Lizenby/CNET

Ashley Chloe Ensembl

Another look at the lantern component.

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6 of 8 Tyler Lizenby/CNET

Ashley Chloe Ensembl

A closeup shot of the projector module.

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7 of 8 Tyler Lizenby/CNET

Ashley Chloe Ensembl

Because it's modular, you can pick and choose only the parts you want and need at any given time.

For example, if you just want to chill and listen to music on your own, you can start with the just the smart home speaker. But if you have friends come over later, you can add the projector for an impromptu movie night or add the 360-degree camera to take pictures of your get-together.

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8 of 8 Tyler Lizenby/CNET

Rowkin Ascent by Ashley Chloe

In addition, Ashley Chloe's sub-brand, Rowkin, showed off its latest pair of wireless in-ear earbuds, called Ascent. Expected to launch later this summer, the sweat-resistant earbuds work with iOS and Android phones.   

CES 2018CNET's complete coverage of tech's biggest show.  

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