A conversation with Anker Innovations’ General Manager, Faraz Mehdi

What are some of the products Anker is showcasing this year at GITEX and beyond?

At GITEX 2023 and beyond, Anker Innovations is excited to introduce a diverse and innovative lineup of products that cater to a wide range of consumer needs. Our strategic focus revolves around the brands under the Anker umbrella, with an emphasis on eufy Security, Soundcore Audio, Anker Charging, and more.

In the realm of home security, our showcase star is the eufy Cam E330. This cutting-edge home security camera is equipped with revolutionary BionicMind™️ technology, setting new standards for home surveillance. With features like 4K HD day and night vision, ultra-sensitive sensors, facial recognition, and extensive storage options, the eufy Cam E330 offers unparalleled protection for homes and properties. This product is a testament to our commitment to providing advanced and comprehensive home security solutions.

Furthermore, we present the SoloCam S340, another remarkable eufy Security product. What sets this camera apart is its solar-powered functionality and dual-camera system. The solar-powered feature ensures continuous, eco-friendly monitoring, eliminating the need for frequent battery replacements. With 360-degree coverage, it provides all-encompassing surveillance, addressing sustainability and the need for precise monitoring in one package.

In the audio domain, we are unveiling the Soundcore Space One headphones. These headphones are engineered to deliver immersive sound experiences. With advanced noise-cancelling technology, users can enjoy their favorite music and movies in a way that completely immerses them, while a comfortable design ensures extended use without discomfort.

For those who want exceptional audio on the go, the Soundcore Motion X600, our high-fidelity portable speaker, promises to please. With its compact design and powerful sound performance, it caters to users who appreciate quality audio no matter where they are – whether it’s at the beach, during picnics, or just relaxing in the park.

The Anker Charging brand is not to be left behind, presenting innovations such as the Anker 3-in-1 Cube with MagSafe. This particular device is designed to provide efficient charging solutions tailored to Apple iPhone users. Additionally, the Anker Prime 20,000mAh Power Bank is a powerhouse of a device, offering rapid charging capabilities even for power-hungry laptops. It ensures that you stay connected and powered up on the move.

Our Anker PowerHouse lineup is enriched by the Anker SOLIX F1500 Portable Power Station. Powered by HyperFlash Technology and integrated with smart app control, it becomes a reliable source of power wherever and whenever you need it, contributing to users’ convenience.

In 2024, we are set to introduce the AnkerMake M5C 3D Printer to the UAE. This is a technological marvel, empowering creators with high-speed printing and remarkable accuracy. It opens up a world of possibilities for prototyping, design, and innovation.

And for those who crave a cinematic experience at home or on the go, our Nebula Mars 3 portable projector is the answer. This projector elevates outdoor and camping experiences with its advanced features. Lastly, for a convenient, intelligent, and effortless cleaning solution, we offer the eufy Clean X9 Pro robotic vacuum. This innovative device simplifies home maintenance while you sit back and enjoy your time.

Can you share an overview of Anker’s current strategic priorities and the key drivers of growth?

At Anker Innovations, we’re committed to a strategy that revolves around innovation, sustainability, and customer-centricity. These are the guiding lights that shape our business priorities.

• Innovation: Our strategy places a strong emphasis on innovation. We believe in developing cutting-edge, user-friendly products that cater to the ever-evolving demands of our consumers. To achieve this, we invest significantly in research and development, ensuring our products are at the forefront of technological advancement. We consider innovation to be a key driver of our growth and a way to stay ahead in the fast-paced tech industry.
• Sustainability is an integral component of our corporate strategy. We understand the pressing need for eco-friendly practices and the reduction of electronic waste. We are taking proactive steps to reduce our environmental footprint by focusing on energy efficiency, using recyclable materials in our product designs, and adhering to responsible manufacturing processes. Our partnership with R3 Factory represents a significant step in this direction, as it aims to reduce electronic waste by offering repaired and upgraded devices to consumers.
• Customer-Centricity: Our customers are at the heart of everything we do. Meeting their diverse needs and preferences is a top priority. We design our products to address market trends and offer tailored solutions, whether it’s in the realm of home security, audio experiences, power solutions, or creative endeavors. We are dedicated to building long-term relationships with our customers by providing exceptional user experiences and after-sales services.
• Growth Drivers: Our growth is fueled by several factors. Firstly, our commitment to sustainable practices resonates with consumers who are increasingly concerned about the environment. Second, our strategies are localized to cater to regional preferences, ensuring that our products are not just technologically advanced but also culturally relevant. Finally, we are expanding our market reach through strategic partnerships and collaborations, thus ensuring that our products are easily accessible to consumers around the world.

What are the main trends you are seeing in the tech industry today and how is Anker embracing these?

The tech industry is currently experiencing several key trends, and we are proud to be at the forefront of embracing these shifts.

• Sustainability: The tech industry is undergoing a transformation with a strong focus on sustainability. This trend aligns perfectly with our core values and strategic priorities. We prioritize energy efficiency in our products to minimize power consumption and reduce the environmental impact. Our commitment to using recyclable materials in product designs is another step in this direction, contributing to reduced waste and more eco-friendly practices.
• Smart Living: In a rapidly digitizing world, consumers are increasingly adopting smart living solutions. Our products, particularly in the eufy Security and Soundcore Audio brands, cater to this trend. They offer convenience, energy efficiency, and seamless integration into everyday life. The advanced features in our eufy Cam E330, SoloCam S340, Soundcore Space One headphones, and eufy Clean X9 Pro robotic vacuum contribute to a more intelligent and connected lifestyle.
• Advanced Audio Experiences: The demand for high-quality audio experiences is on the rise. We are embracing this trend by focusing on innovations in our Soundcore Audio brand. With products like the Soundcore Space One headphones and the Soundcore Motion X600, we are delivering immersive audio quality and portability. Advanced noise-cancelling technology in the Soundcore Space One headphones ensures that users can enjoy their favorite music and movies without disruptions, providing a truly captivating audio experience.
• Mobile Device Reliance: The increasing reliance on mobile devices has made efficient charging solutions a necessity. Our Anker Charging brand is dedicated to addressing this trend. The Anker 3-in-1 Cube with MagSafe, designed for efficient charging for Apple iPhone users, ensures that users stay connected on the go. Additionally, the Anker Prime 20,000mAh Power Bank offers rapid charging capabilities even for power-hungry laptops.

What are the recent innovations or technological advancements that Anker is investing in to enhance its products?

At Anker Innovations, we are continuously investing in technological advancements to enhance our products. We are committed to pushing the boundaries of innovation and delivering cutting-edge solutions to customers. Here are some recent innovations we have been focusing on:

• AI Functionality: Anker Innovations understands the importance of artificial intelligence in today’s smart world. We have been integrating AI functionality into their products, such as the eufy Security system. This enables smart detection capabilities and enhances the overall user experience.
• Advanced Noise-Cancelling and High-Fidelity Audio: To provide our customers with an immersive audio experience, Anker Innovations has been incorporating advanced noise-cancelling technology into our Soundcore headphones. This ensures that users can enjoy their favorite music without any disturbances from the outside world.
• Intelligent Power Management: Anker Innovations recognizes the need for efficient power management in today’s fast-paced lifestyle. That’s why we have been focusing on developing intelligent power management systems in their charging solutions. These systems optimize energy usage and ensure efficient charging for various devices, making life easier for their customers.
• Precision and Versatility: Anker Innovations believes in empowering their customers to bring their ideas to life. That’s why they have invested in precision and versatility in their 3D printers. Users can now create intricate designs with remarkable accuracy and flexibility, opening up a world of possibilities.
• Smart App Control: Anker Innovations understands the importance of convenience and control. They have incorporated smart app control features into their products, such as the portable power station. With this feature, users can easily monitor and control their devices, giving them peace of mind and a seamless user experience.

What role does sustainability play in Anker’s overall corporate strategy?

Sustainability is an integral and guiding pillar of Anker’s corporate strategy. It permeates every facet of our business, from product development and manufacturing to customer engagement and partnerships.

1. Energy Efficiency: We place a strong emphasis on energy-efficient product design. This priority is evident in our products, where we incorporate features such as intelligent power management and low-power consumption. These elements ensure that our products meet the highest standards of energy efficiency, a critical aspect for creating a more sustainable future.
2. Recyclable Materials: We are resolute in our dedication to using recyclable materials in our product designs. This commitment significantly reduces our environmental footprint. This aligns with our corporate responsibility to create products that are not only innovative and reliable but also environmentally friendly.
3. Responsible Manufacturing: Our responsibility to sustainability extends to responsible manufacturing processes. We emphasize responsible sourcing and manufacturing practices that focus on reducing waste and minimizing carbon emissions. These practices are critical in maintaining our environmental stewardship.
4. R3 Factory Partnership: One of the most significant strides in our sustainability journey is our partnership with R3 Factory, a prominent player in the re-commerce sector. This partnership underscores our unwavering commitment to reducing electronic waste and promoting a circular economy. Through this collaboration, we aim to provide consumers with access to more sustainable options by offering repaired and upgraded devices, thus reducing electronic waste and extending the lifespan of our products.
5. Eco-Friendly Tech: Sustainability remains a driving force behind our commitment to integrating eco-friendly technology solutions into our products. We firmly believe that technology can be a positive force for environmental sustainability, and our product lineup reflects this dedication.
6. Support for Circular Economy: Our dedication to sustainable tech practices is further reinforced by our efforts to promote the circular economy. By focusing on device repair and re-commerce, we actively contribute to a more sustainable tech ecosystem. Our partnership with R3 Factory plays a pivotal role in realizing this goal.

In conclusion, sustainability is deeply ingrained in our corporate DNA. It is the driving force that shapes our approach to product development, manufacturing processes, and how we engage with our customers and partners. Our commitment to sustainability reflects our environmental responsibility, and we are dedicated to paving the way toward a more sustainable and eco-friendly future.