Category: All News

  • Aqara Launches Hub M100: Affordable Matter Controller at CES 2025

    Aqara Launches Hub M100: Affordable Matter Controller at CES 2025

    The Aqara Hub M100 was officially introduced at CES 2025. This new smart home device had previously been noted on the Connectivity Standards Alliance (CSA) website, although it did not provide much information in that listing.

    Compact and Versatile

    Aqara has announced that the Hub M100 is designed as a basic smart home hub. The Matter controller seems to be quite small, but specific dimensions have not been shared. It operates through USB-A and supports Wi-Fi, Thread, and Zigbee connections. Therefore, it can function as a Thread Border Router or a Matter bridge, enabling connections with various smart home devices from Aqara and other manufacturers.

    Availability Still Unclear

    It is still unclear when Aqara will release the Hub M100 to the market. It’s interesting to mention that some items showcased by the company at IFA 2024 in September, like the Camera G5, are still not available for purchase. However, other smart home products, including the Smart Valve Controller T1 (currently priced at $69.99), can already be found on Amazon. Additionally, at CES 2025, Aqara is displaying the Aqara Panel Hub S1 Plus, the Touchscreen Dial V1, and the Touchscreen Switch S100 US.

    With these new offerings, Aqara aims to enhance the smart home experience for users, making it more accessible and integrated.

    Source: Link


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  • Lockly Vision Prestige: AI Video Doorbell & Smart Lock at CES 2025

    Lockly Vision Prestige: AI Video Doorbell & Smart Lock at CES 2025

    Last year, we saw a smart lock that opens your door just by looking at it. This time around, Lockly is introducing the Vision Prestige Duet Series, which updates the old deadbolt and peephole with more advanced versions. The new smart deadbolt keeps the face unlock function from last year’s model, the Visage, but adds a 190° camera that streams 2K video to a display on the opposite side of the lock.

    Power and Features

    The Lockly Vision Prestige is powered by a rechargeable 10,000mAh battery, which the manufacturer says can last up to eight months. It also has built-in support for 2.4GHz WiFi, so you don’t need a separate bridge. Besides facial recognition, the Vision Prestige offers fingerprint unlocking, keycode access, and even NFC options through Apple Home Key.

    Compatibility Concerns

    However, if you are already deeply invested in another smart home setup, you might find these features lacking. The Vision Prestige does not support Matter, but it does work well with Alexa and Google Home. Interestingly, these integrations do not apply to the doorbell feature.

    Yet, maybe this is just part of what it means to innovate. Lockly plans to launch its most advanced smart lock in the fourth quarter of 2025, pricing it at $499—$150 more than the Visage model.

    New Hands-Free Technology

    Also launching this fall is the Lockly Secure Pro, which uses Ultra Wideband (UWB) technology for hands-free unlocking. While the Vision Prestige opens with facial recognition, the Secure Pro senses your intention to enter by interacting with a connected device, like your smartphone or smartwatch. As you get closer, the door unlocks automatically without any physical interaction.

    Lockly mentions that the UWB feature will first be available on select Android flagship phones, including the Google Pixel 9. Meanwhile, iOS users will have to use NFC with their iPhones or Apple Watches via Home Key.

    Additional Unlocking Methods

    There are more ways to unlock the Secure Pro: a fingerprint reader and a touchscreen keypad are included. For those who prefer traditional methods, a physical key is also provided. The Lockly Secure Pro will retail for $379.99 at launch.Lockly Secure Pro will retail for $379

    Security Camera Options

    Lockly’s security cameras are designed for both indoor and outdoor use. The Sightline and Sightline Pro are weather-resistant, solar-powered cameras with built-in batteries. Both models can record footage to a microSD card and send AI notifications through the Lockly app. When set up indoors, users can create a virtual floor plan in the app for easier monitoring.

    The Sightline Pro is the more expensive option, with a retail price of $149.99. It offers full 360° rotation, motion tracking, and can record in 4K video. In contrast, the fixed Sightline camera features spotlights for shooting 2K HD video even in low light, priced at $69.99.

    Neither of these cameras will be available until summer 2024, but you can currently get Blink outdoor cameras at a 33% discount on Amazon.

    Lockly, CES 2025

    Source: Link


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  • CES 2025: MSI Raider 18 HX AI Laptop with Nvidia RTX 5000 GPU

    CES 2025: MSI Raider 18 HX AI Laptop with Nvidia RTX 5000 GPU

    Along with new models in the Titan, Stealth, Vector, and Raider lines, MSI has rolled out AI versions of its gaming laptops this year. The AI-enhanced laptops presented by the company feature the Titan 18 HX AI, Raider 18 HX AI, Stealth 18 HX AI, Stealth A18 AI+, Vector 17 HX AI, Vector 16 HX AI, and Stealth A16 AI+.

    Display Features

    The Raider 18 HX AI boasts an 18-inch Mini-LED screen with a UHD+ resolution of 3840 x 2400 pixels. This display also provides a rapid 120Hz refresh rate, making it ideal for gaming. Plus, with VESA DisplayHDR 1000 certification and almost perfect (~100%) DCI-P3 color accuracy, users can anticipate breathtaking visuals.

    Performance Options

    Inside, customers can choose between the Nvidia GeForce RTX 5090 GPU with 24GB GDDR7 or the RTX 5080 GPU with 16GB GDDR7, each offering AI-powered features and improved graphics performance. Additionally, users can select either an Intel Core Ultra 285HX or AMD Ryzen 9955HX3D processor, based on what they prefer.

    Specifications Overview

    As noted, the Raider 18 HX AI is equipped with AI capabilities and comes with a variety of AI functionalities, including the AI Robot app. This AI assistant was developed in collaboration with Nvidia and utilizes a local small language model (SLM). Users can interact with their laptops using text commands and access various AI tools such as AI Noise Cancellation Pro and the AI Engine.

    Currently, MSI has not revealed the pricing for the Raider 18 HX AI. However, considering it contains top-tier components, we don’t expect it to be very budget-friendly.

  • Razer Project Arielle: Gaming Chair with Heating and Cooling

    Razer Project Arielle: Gaming Chair with Heating and Cooling

    Razer has a history of adding unique features to their gaming chairs. The Razer Freyja introduced haptic feedback sensors, while Project Carol took it further with a 7.1 audio sound system. Now, inspired by a concept seen in a Linus Tech Tips video, Razer presents Project Arielle, which boasts the world’s first gaming chair with active cooling.

    Innovative Cooling Technology

    Project Arielle incorporates a bladeless fan that can either heat or cool your gaming chair. It essentially embeds a heat exchanger into a Razer Fujin Pro model, allowing users to manage their seating temperature through a touch panel located on the armrest. Depending on your climate, this chair can be adjusted to either warm or cool your seating area. For those living in chillier regions, the chair can heat up to a maximum temperature of 30°C.

    Future Prospects

    According to the visuals released by Razer, this chair will need its own power source to function. While additional information remains undisclosed, it’s expected that more details will surface as development progresses. It’s important to note that this project is still in its early stages and may not reach the final production phase. Currently, only attendees of CES 2025 will have the chance to try it out at Razer’s exhibit.


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  • Razer Handheld Dock Chroma for Portable Consoles at CES 2025

    Razer Handheld Dock Chroma for Portable Consoles at CES 2025

    The Razer Handheld Dock Chroma has been officially announced for handheld devices. This dock not only serves its basic function but also features a shape that allows it to easily attach to a console or tablet, offering a bigger screen experience. At the bottom, there’s an RGB strip that syncs with the Razer Chroma ecosystem, making things visually appealing.

    Connectivity Options

    In terms of connectivity, the Razer Handheld Dock Chroma is equipped with one HDMI port, a USB-C port (which is probably for a power adapter), one RJ45 Ethernet port, three USB Type-A ports, and a specific rectangular USB-C cable that connects to the host device. It can deliver up to 100 Watts of power to charge any connected gadgets. There’s also a power button, but it’s not certain if it can manage the host device.

    Design and Availability

    The design is understated, featuring a Razer logo on the front. You can currently pre-order the Razer Handheld Dock Chroma directly from Razer‘s website. Retailers will have it available starting January 30. The price is set at $79, and it is offered in just one color option.

    Razer’s new accessory is aimed at enhancing the gaming experience for handheld users.


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  • Razer Unveils Affordable Gaming Chair with Lumbar Support at CES 2025

    Razer Unveils Affordable Gaming Chair with Lumbar Support at CES 2025

    At CES 2025, Razer introduced the Iskur V2 X, an affordable gaming chair that incorporates many features from the premium Razer Iskur V2, making it more accessible for gamers on a budget.

    Key Features of the Iskur V2 X

    The Iskur V2 X gaming chair keeps the integrated lumbar support seen in the original V2 but lacks the rotary dials for adjusting height, depth, and swivel. Razer claims that the built-in lumbar arch along with high-density foam cushions offers excellent lower back support and even pressure distribution, which can help you game for hours without discomfort. To enhance comfort, the V2 X uses breathable, multi-layered fibers designed to keep you cool during extended gaming sessions.

    Design and Adjustability

    This chair features a widened seat base measuring 545mm, making it suitable for different seating positions. It also comes with adjustable 2D armrests that can move up, down, inwards, and outwards. Even though the V2 X is available in just one size, you can easily adjust the chair’s height with the lever-activated gas cylinder. If you enjoy taking naps between intense gaming marathons, the Iskur V2 X reclines up to 152 degrees. Overall, it appears to be a solid choice for a gaming chair, covering most needs gamers typically look for.

    The Razer Iskur V2 X will be available for purchase starting January 7 in both the US and Europe, priced at $299/€299.99. You can find it at Razer.com, RazerStores, and select authorized retailers.


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  • Razer Unveils Aether Light Bars with Chroma RGB at CES 2025

    Razer Unveils Aether Light Bars with Chroma RGB at CES 2025

    Razer has introduced new Aether Standing Light Bars at CES 2025, expanding its Aether lighting series. These lights are made to enhance the ‘gaming’ vibe in any setup. They offer a mix of versatility, vibrant colors, and compatibility with smart home systems all in one package.

    Dual Lighting Features

    The Aether Standing Light Bars come with dual lighting options – they provide both front-facing and rear-projection light. This makes them perfect for creating a fully immersive gaming space or serving as effective lighting for daily tasks. With Razer’s Chroma RGB technology, each light bar includes 30 LEDs and can showcase over 16.8 million colors. They offer various dynamic lighting effects and integrate smoothly into the Razer ecosystem. Plus, their reactive lighting function is quite impressive.

    Smart Home Syncing

    Another standout feature is the smart home integration, as these light bars are compatible with Matter, allowing them to sync easily with other devices. Using the Razer Gamer Room app, users can tweak settings, set up automated routines, and coordinate lighting across their smart home network.

    Easy Setup

    The Aether Standing Light Bars are powered by a single USB-C cable, making them easy to set up with a plug-and-play solution. Their reversible design is convenient for switching between direct light and ambient mood lighting.

    With a price tag of $99.99/€119.99, the Razer Aether Standing Light Bars will be available for pre-order starting January 7, 2025, on Razer.com. They are expected to hit Razer stores and authorized retailers in Q1 2025.


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  • Razer Monitor Stand Chroma Launches at CES 2025 for RGB Setups

    Razer Monitor Stand Chroma Launches at CES 2025 for RGB Setups

    Razer has arrived at CES 2025 to showcase its ongoing commitment to enhancing products with RGB lighting. Following the release of items like the Strider Chroma Hybrid Gaming Mouse Mat, which is currently priced at $129.99 on Amazon, the company has unveiled a new Monitor Stand that joins its illuminated product family.

    Ergonomic Design Features

    According to Razer, the Monitor Stand isn’t just about looks; it aims to solve real-world problems too. It provides what the company calls the “most ergonomic” viewing angles for monitors placed on it. With dimensions measuring 19.7 inches in length, 8.27 inches in width, and capable of holding up to 20 kilograms (44lb), it should fit a wide range of monitors.

    Connectivity and Setup

    Additionally, the Monitor Stand Chroma offers users extra connectivity options, featuring 1 USB-C port, 1 HDMI 2.0 port, and dual USB 3.2 Type-A ports, all conveniently integrated into its anodized aluminum frame. This design aims to create a more organized and efficient workspace.

    To ensure stability, the Monitor Stand Chroma is equipped with non-slip rubber feet, making sure that everything on your desk stays put. Razer is currently accepting pre-orders for the Monitor Stand Chroma on razer.com at a suggested retail price of $199.99 or €179.99.suggested retail price of $199

    Razer Press Release Highlights

    Razer is pushing the boundaries of gaming at CES 2025 with innovative technologies and cutting-edge products.


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  • HP OmniStudio X with Intel Lunar Lake and 4K Display at CES 2025

    HP OmniStudio X with Intel Lunar Lake and 4K Display at CES 2025

    HP has updated the OmniStudio X, which it started selling last year featuring Intel Meteor Lake processors like the Core Ultra 7 155H (currently priced at $1,399.99 on Amazon). The lineup includes 27-inch and 32-inch sizes once again, but now the Meteor Lake platform has transitioned to Lunar Lake processors.

    New Processor Options

    HP will provide both of its latest all-in-one desktops with Core Ultra 5 226V, Core Ultra 7 256V, or Core Ultra 7 258V processors. Consequently, the OmniStudio X will come with either 16 GB or 32 GB of LPDDR5X-8533 MT/s RAM. Additionally, HP will offer storage options of 256 GB, 512 GB, 1 TB, or 2 TB of PCIe Gen 4, although we think the M.2 drives are not user-replaceable. Regardless, both sizes will include the following ports:

    • Side
    • Rear

    Design and Display Features

    Furthermore, the two models will be available only in Meteor silver finishes and feature height-adjustable stands along with cable management clips. However, the display options vary between the two sizes. HP states that the OmniStudio X 32 will only come with a 4K non-touch IPS panel, which achieves 550 nits brightness and covers 95% of the DCI-P3 color space, plus holds VESA DisplayHDR 600 certification. In contrast, customers can select from three display options for the OmniStudio X 27.

    Release and Pricing Information

    HP aims to start selling these new OmniStudio X all-in-one desktops in the US later this month. Currently, the company has announced that the series will start at $1,149.99, likely for the 27-inch model equipped with a Core Ultra 5 226V, 16 GB of RAM, a 256 GB SSD, and a 1080p display. Other details have not yet been disclosed at this moment, however.

    Source: Link


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  • Acer Predator Helios 18 & 16 AI Unveiled at CES 2025 with Thunderbolt 5

    Acer Predator Helios 18 & 16 AI Unveiled at CES 2025 with Thunderbolt 5

    Acer has updated its top-tier Predator Helios laptop series, now featuring robust Arrow Lake-HX processors from Intel alongside Nvidia GeForce RTX 50 series graphics cards. Like many products released recently, these laptops have been branded with an AI label, resulting in the names Acer Predator Helios 16 AI and Acer Predator Helios 18 AI.

    Specs and Features

    Inside, users can opt for configurations that include up to an Intel Core Ultra 9 275 HX and the Nvidia GeForce RTX 5090 laptop GPU. The limits for memory and storage can vary depending on the specific model chosen. For the keyboard, Acer incorporates its MagKey 4.0 mechanical switches, which allow for a travel distance of 0.3 mm.

    Connectivity and Cooling

    three-month trial for Xbox Game Pass/EA Play

    Display and Options

    The Acer Predator Helios 16 AI features a WQXGA (2,560 x 1,600) OLED screen boasting a 240 Hz refresh rate and Nvidia G-Sync with a peak brightness of 400 nits. The maximum configurations include 64 GB of DDR5-6400 memory and 4 TB of PCIe Gen 5 storage. Acer has even printed ’16’ on the edges, so you can easily remember your screen size while traveling.

    If the GeForce RTX 5090 seems too pricey, there’s also an option for the Predator Helios 16 with a GeForce RTX 5070 Ti. Other specifications consist of a 1080p webcam and a 90 Wh battery.

    Larger Model

    The Acer Predator Helios 18 AI serves more as a desktop replacement, featuring a massive 18-inch 4K mini-LED display that refreshes at 120 Hz, with a peak HDR brightness of 1,000 nits (600 nits SDR) and full DCI-P3 color coverage.

    Acer has not announced whether alternative screen types will be available for this model, but you can exchange the 4K 120 Hz panel for a 1600p 240 Hz option if you prefer greater refresh rates.

    For memory and storage, you can max out at 128 GB and 6 TB, respectively. The only other GPU option seems to be the Nvidia GeForce RTX 5080. Additionally, the Predator Helios 18 AI comes with a 99 Wh battery and a 1080p webcam.

    Sadly, Acer has not revealed any pricing details for these laptops and mentioned they will be available in the market sometime in Q2, 2025.


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