Logitech to launch heat shield for laptops

Logitech will launch a new accessory next year that will act as a heat shield and audio device for laptops.

‘Toasted-skin’ syndrome has been a hot topic this week and the new Speaker Lapdesk N550 is aimed at this market. It is made of a soft, air-mesh fabric that offers a four-layer heat shield to protect people from the heat some laptops can emit.

Already on the market is the Speaker Lapdesk N700 designed for laptops up to 16in. The integrated stereo speakers on the N550 and foldable bumpers on the angled base help keep laptops and netbooks 14.1in in or smaller in place.

The user doesn’t have to install software to use the speaker; they simply plug a cable into the computer’s USB port to power the speakers.

Denis Pavillard, Logitech vice-president of product marketing for laptop accessories, said: “It solves the two complaints people most often report about their laptops and netbooks; poor audio quality and laptop heat.

"Using this one product can dramatically improve the experience people have with their laptops.”

The Speaker Lapdesk N550 goes on sale in January priced £50.