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  • This Behavior-Altering Parasite Affects 2 Billion People Worldwide

    This Behavior-Altering Parasite Affects 2 Billion People Worldwide

    Key Takeaways

    1. Prevalence of Toxoplasma gondii: Affects about one-third of the global population, primarily spreading through cats and contaminated sources.

    2. Behavioral Changes in Hosts: Infected mice lose fear of cats and are attracted to their scent. Similar behavioral changes have been observed in humans.

    3. Connection to Mental Health: Research links Toxoplasma gondii to neuropsychiatric disorders, with potential impacts on mood and decision-making.

    4. Ability to Cross Blood-Brain Barrier: The parasite can create cysts in the brain, affecting regions related to fear and emotions.

    5. Health Risks: While most infected individuals are asymptomatic, pregnant women and those with weakened immune systems face significant health risks.


    Billions of parasites exist in our surroundings, and they can be dangerous in certain circumstances. Indeed, over two billion individuals worldwide are infected with a parasite that can change their behavior.

    The Toxoplasma gondii Threat

    This parasite, known as Toxoplasma gondii, reportedly affects about one-third of the global population, as per the WHO. Traditionally thought to be harmless to humans, recent research indicates it might have significant effects after all.

    This single-celled protozoan primarily infects cats, its final host, and spreads through close contact. To infect cats, however, it first needs to go through an intermediate host, usually a rat or some other rodent.

    Research Findings on Mice

    To investigate this parasite’s effects, experiments have been conducted on mice, revealing alarming findings. Infected mice showed no fear of cats, their primary predators, and interestingly, they were drawn to the scent of cat urine.

    Humans can also act as intermediate hosts by coming into contact with contaminated cat feces, eating undercooked meat or tainted food, or, though less often, through blood transfusions or organ donations. Initial observations were made in the early 2000s when Czech scientist Jaroslav Flegr from Charles University in Prague noted that humans infected with this parasite exhibited slight behavioral changes. Men tended to become more irritable and took more risks, while women were more likely to follow social norms.

    Connections to Mental Health

    Further studies, including one published in 2012 in the Schizophrenia Bulletin, underscored the connection between this parasite and mental health issues. A 2016 analysis in Acta Psychiatrica Scandinavica revealed a link between neuropsychiatric disorders and the parasite. It’s crucial to point out that correlation doesn’t mean causation, but it might significantly influence behavior or mood.

    Toxoplasma gondii has a fascinating trait; it can cross the blood-brain barrier and create cysts in the brain. These cysts tend to form in regions tied to fear, decision-making, and emotional responses. A study in PLOS ONE mentioned that this parasite possesses two genes that can produce an enzyme resembling dopamine, which is known as the happiness hormone.

    Implications for Health

    Most infected individuals show no symptoms, yet this parasite can pose risks for pregnant women due to potential harm to the fetus and for individuals with weakened immune systems.

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  • Bluetti Elite 100 V2 Portable Power Station 50% Off Sale

    Bluetti Elite 100 V2 Portable Power Station 50% Off Sale

    Key Takeaways

    1. Launch and Pricing: The Bluetti Elite 100 V2 portable power station was launched on June 18, retailing for $799, but available for $399 during a limited-time early bird promotion until July 11, 2025.

    2. Improved Design: The Elite 100 V2 is more compact and lightweight than the previous AC180 model, measuring 320 x 215 x 250 mm and weighing 11.5 kg.

    3. Battery and Power Output: It features a 1,024 Wh LiFePO4 battery with a maximum output of 2,700 W and a surge capacity of 3,600 W, along with a lifespan of 4,000 discharge cycles.

    4. Port Availability: The power station has 11 ports, including four AC outlets and various USB ports, allowing users to power multiple devices simultaneously.

    5. Fast Charging Options: Equipped with TurboBoost technology, it can recharge from 0 to 80% in 45 minutes, and can be fully charged via solar input in about 70 minutes.


    Bluetti has launched its new Elite 100 V2 portable power station as of June 18. The company has now announced the pricing and availability for this model. The Bluetti Elite 100 V2 typically retails for $799. However, during an early bird promotion, customers can snag it at a whopping 50% discount, bringing the price down to just $399. It’s important to highlight that this deal is time-sensitive and will only be available until July 11, 2025. You can buy the power station through Bluetti’s official website or on Amazon.

    Specifications and Dimensions

    The Bluetti Elite 100 V2 improves upon the AC180 model, offering enhanced output power along with a more compact and lightweight design. To elaborate, the power station measures 320 x 215 x 250 mm (12.5 x 8.4 x 9.8 inches) and weighs approximately 11.5 kg (25.3 lbs). In comparison, the AC180 has dimensions of 340 x 247 x 317 mm (13.3 x 9.7 x 12.4 inches) and weighs 17 kg (37 lbs).

    Battery Capacity and Features

    This portable power station is designed for camping trips and short power outages, featuring a 1,024 Wh LiFePO4 battery. The maximum power output is 2,700 W, with a surge capacity of 3,600 W. Additionally, the LiFePO₄ battery is rated for 4,000 discharge cycles, which is an improvement over the previous model’s 3,500 cycles.

    The device includes a total of 11 ports, which is quite generous. These consist of four AC outlets, a 100 W USB-C port, two USB-A ports, a car socket, and new additions like 140 W USB-C and dual DC5521 ports. This allows you to power up to 11 devices at the same time, such as laptops, microwaves, fans, coffee makers, portable projectors, smartphones, and even drones. The Elite 100 V2 also features companion app support, enabling users to adjust settings and monitor performance easily.

    Charging Capabilities

    The gadget is equipped with Bluetti’s TurboBoost charging technology. According to the brand, this fast-charging capability can recharge the power station from 0 to 80% in a mere 45 minutes. Alternatively, if you prefer solar charging, using a 1000 W solar input can fully charge the device in about 70 minutes.

    To wrap it up, Bluetti has kicked off its early Prime Day deals, offering discounts of up to 50% on select power stations. You can browse these offers on Amazon.

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  • NASA Confirms Galaxy Formation Model Through New Research

    NASA Confirms Galaxy Formation Model Through New Research

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Milky Way has a dual structure: a thick disk of older stars and a thinner disk of younger stars.
    2. A study led by Takafumi Tsukui used the Webb Space Telescope to reveal the disk structures of galaxies from the early universe for the first time.
    3. Larger galaxies formed their thin disks around 8 billion years ago, while smaller galaxies did so approximately 4 billion years ago.
    4. The research supports the “turbulent gas disk” theory, where chaotic gas clouds led to the formation of a thick disk followed by a thin disk.
    5. The findings help contextualize the Milky Way’s history within a broader cosmic timeline.


    Astronomers have been curious about the reasons behind the dual structure of galaxies such as our Milky Way. It has a thick disk of older stars that rises 3,000 light-years high and a thinner disk of younger stars that is 1,000 light-years high. A research team, led by Takafumi Tsukui from the Australian National University (ANU), studied a group of 111 galaxies and discovered a distinct pattern in how these structures formed.

    Groundbreaking Research

    The study, which appeared in the Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society, utilized the Webb Space Telescope’s remarkable capability to penetrate cosmic dust and reveal the faint light emitted by ancient stars. This breakthrough enabled the team to identify the disk structures of galaxies from the early universe for the very first time. Their research indicates that galaxies typically create a thick disk initially, followed by the formation of a thin disk.

    Mass Matters

    The timing of this formation process is influenced by the mass of the galaxy. Larger galaxies formed their thin disks approximately 8 billion years ago, while smaller galaxies took a longer time to do so, creating their thin disks around 4 billion years ago.

    These findings lend support to the “turbulent gas disk” theory. In this model, the early universe was characterized by chaos, where turbulent gas clouds ignited rapid and widespread star formation, resulting in the initial, fluffy thick disk. As these stars formed, their gravitational force helped stabilize the gas cloud, leading it to transition into the flatter, more organized thin disk where star formation persisted. More massive galaxies were better at converting gas into stars, allowing them to establish their thin disks sooner.

    Contextualizing the Milky Way

    This fresh perspective aids in placing the history of the Milky Way in a broader cosmic timeline, as the timeline observed in the study corresponds with the expected formation period of our galaxy’s thin disk. Researchers from ANU, including Tsukui and Wisnioski, played a key role in analyzing the data from NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope. For those interested in stargazing, the 130EQ Newtonian Reflector Telescope (curr. $299.99 on Amazon) presents a budget-friendly option to delve into the night sky.

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  • DJI Romo: First Look at DJI’s High-End Robot Vacuum Cleaner

    DJI Romo: First Look at DJI’s High-End Robot Vacuum Cleaner

    Key Takeaways

    1. DJI has officially revealed its first robot vacuum called the Romo, following multiple leaks.
    2. The Romo’s base station can empty, clean, and refill the vacuum, similar to competitors like Roborock.
    3. DJI plans to use front-facing cameras instead of LiDAR for the Romo’s navigation.
    4. The impact of this camera change on mapping abilities is still uncertain.
    5. There is no confirmed launch date for the Romo, but DJI is preparing to unveil other products like the Osmo Action 5 Pro and Mic 2.


    DJI has finally revealed its first robot vacuum, thanks to a new leak by Igor Bogdanov. While an initial image appeared last year, there were hints that the so-called DJI Romo had been in the works for quite a while. Recently, the same device was seen in two additional leaks last month. Now, Bogdanov has shared a clearer picture of this robot vacuum, which we have included below.

    Details of the Robot Vacuum

    Renowned for his accurate DJI leaks, Bogdanov asserts that this image shows the much-anticipated robot vacuum from DJI. The name Romo is visible on the vacuum’s base station, which lacks a cover. Similar to competitors like Roborock, the DJI Romo will feature a base station that can empty, clean, and refill the vacuum as needed. Presently, DJI is likely to replace LiDAR with front-facing cameras.

    Performance Insights

    While this change might enhance the robot’s maneuverability, it’s uncertain how it will affect the vacuum’s mapping abilities. Sadly, there is still no confirmation on when DJI plans to launch the Romo. Meanwhile, the company is reportedly close to unveiling the Osmo Action 5 Pro and the Mic 2, and they are also looking to compete with the Insta360 X5 by developing their own 360-degree action camera.

    Igor Bogdanov seems to be a key source for DJI updates, keeping fans engaged with the latest news about the Romo and other products.

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  • Xiaomi 90W HyperCharge 3-Port Charger Expands to More Countries

    Xiaomi 90W HyperCharge 3-Port Charger Expands to More Countries

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Xiaomi 90W HyperCharge Power Adapter (3-Port) supports charging three devices simultaneously with one USB-A and two USB-C ports.
    2. Each USB-C port can output up to 90W individually, while the USB-A port offers a maximum of 27W.
    3. The adapter is compatible with fast charging protocols like PD, PPS, and QC, and includes safety features for temperature management and protection against overvoltage, overcurrent, and short circuits.
    4. The product dimensions are 55.5 x 74.8 x 30 mm (~2.2 x 2.9 x 1.2 inches) and it is available in a white casing, but it does not come with a cable.
    5. The price in China is CNY 199 (~$28), but the release date and pricing for other regions are yet to be announced.


    The Xiaomi 90W HyperCharge Power Adapter (3-Port) has been listed on the brand’s worldwide site. This accessory made its debut in China towards the end of 2024.

    Charging Capabilities

    As the name implies, it permits charging three devices at once via one USB-A and two USB-C ports. Each USB-C port of the Xiaomi HyperCharge Power Adapter can output up to 90W when used alone, whereas the USB-A can provide a maximum of 27W. If all three ports are utilized simultaneously, one USB-C port delivers 67W, while the other two share a total of 15W.

    Fast Charging Support

    Xiaomi states that this accessory is compatible with several fast charging protocols, such as PD, PPS, and QC. It features smart temperature management and safeguards against overvoltage, overcurrent, and short circuits. The dimensions of the charging plug are 55.5 x 74.8 x 30 mm (~2.2 x 2.9 x 1.2 inches) and it comes in a white casing. Notably, the charger does not include a cable.

    Release and Pricing Information

    Xiaomi has not yet disclosed the release date of the 90W HyperCharge Power Adapter (3-Port) for other regions or its price. In China, this accessory is available for CNY 199 (~$28). The product is displayed with type C pins, indicating a potential launch in Europe.

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  • Govee Launches Uplighter Floor Lamp and Two More Smart Lights

    Govee Launches Uplighter Floor Lamp and Two More Smart Lights

    Key Takeaways

    1. Govee has introduced three new freestanding smart floor lamps: the Uplighter, Torchiere, and Tree models, each with unique designs and features.
    2. The Uplighter Floor Lamp ($179.99) has three zones that create wavy light effects on ceilings and includes the Govee Auto-Run feature, working with voice assistants like Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa.
    3. The Torchiere Floor Lamp ($149.99) focuses on ambient lighting with adjustable zones and offers 77 pre-set scenes and six music-reactive modes.
    4. The Tree Floor Lamp ($169.99) features three movable heads for flexible lighting and has the highest brightness at 1500 lumens.
    5. All lamps are compatible with the Matter standard, enhancing their integration with smart home systems.


    Govee has a range of freestanding smart lights featuring multi-zone RGB effects, like the Floor Lamp Pro. Now, the company is introducing three fresh models, each with its own unique style and purpose.

    New Models Available

    You can now find the Uplighter Floor Lamp, the first in this lineup, at Amazon and Govee’s website. It has three zones that create a wavy light effect on ceilings. The Torchiere Floor Lamp features an adjustable curved top that can emit warm whites or colorful shades. Lastly, the Tree Floor Lamp stands out with its three movable heads, adding even more versatility.

    Pricing and Features

    The Uplighter Floor Lamp is priced at $179.99 and is seen by Govee as the star of their new smart lighting collection. Its design resembles a flying saucer, and it consists of three sections that create unique effects. The top part projects wavy patterns on the walls, while the middle and bottom zones mix soft white light and RGBIC tech, offering a total brightness of 1,000 lumens.

    This lamp also includes the Govee Auto-Run feature, which mimics outdoor lighting states. Like the other two smart lamp models, it works with Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa, and complies with the Matter standard.

    Additional Options

    The Torchiere Floor Lamp comes in at $149.99 and features a distinctive design focusing on ambient lighting. It has curved lenses that can illuminate large spaces with three adjustable zones. Its LuiminBlend feature adapts to different moods, showcasing up to 77 pre-set scenes. Additionally, the Torchiere offers six music-reactive modes that synchronize with other Govee lights.

    On the other hand, the Tree Floor Lamp is the most flexible option among Govee’s latest offerings. It features three rotating arms and heads that can be adjusted individually, allowing for light in various areas of a room. With an impressive brightness of 1500 lumens, it’s the most powerful new lamp in Govee’s smart lineup. You can find it available at Govee’s store and on Amazon for $169.99.

    Important Note

    Please note that Notebookcheck is not liable for any price changes made by retailers. The price or offer mentioned in this article was accurate at the time of writing and could be limited by time and/or stock availability.

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  • China Bans Power Banks Made Before 2024 from Air Travel

    China Bans Power Banks Made Before 2024 from Air Travel

    Key Takeaways

    1. Anker has recalled over a million power banks due to safety concerns, highlighting issues with faulty devices.
    2. As of June 28, 2025, power banks without a CCC certification and logo are banned on domestic flights in China.
    3. The CCC certification for power banks was introduced after August 2023, leading to a surge in sales starting in 2024.
    4. Travelers planning to visit China should be aware of the new power bank restrictions, which may extend to international flights in the future.
    5. Currently, power banks with a capacity of 100 Wh are allowed on most international airlines but must be stored in hand luggage.


    The subject of power banks is very relevant right now, especially with Anker having to recall more than a million of their devices and then later expanding that recall. But Anker isn’t alone facing challenges; airlines must also deal with these recalls and take steps to prevent faulty power banks from accidentally boarding flights. As of today, June 28, 2025, specific power banks will not be allowed on domestic flights in China. Saying “specific power banks” is an understatement: Power banks that do not carry a CCC certification and the required logo are no longer allowed on board.

    Investigating the Certification

    We looked into this issue and discovered that none of our power banks display a CCC logo. This isn’t very surprising; as one Reddit user points out in a thorough post, the CCC certification for power banks was only introduced after August 2023. This means the significant surge in sales for power banks with this certification really didn’t kick off until 2024. Even after that, there were likely still some leftover stock from earlier years.

    Implications for Travelers

    For travelers outside of China, this restriction will only be concerning if they are planning to visit China soon. It’s also possible that Chinese airlines may impose limitations on carrying power banks on international flights down the line, and a tougher stance from airlines globally is plausible. At present, power banks with a capacity of 100 Wh are allowed on most international airlines, but they must be kept in hand luggage.

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  • Govee Outdoor Up Down Wall Light Discount Now Available

    Govee Outdoor Up Down Wall Light Discount Now Available

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Govee Outdoor Up Down Wall Light (model H7076) is now available in various European countries, offering wall-washing light effects for areas up to 10 m² (~108 ft²).
    2. The current price at Govee’s online store is €169.99, down from €229.99, with the discount valid until June 29th; a bundle with an Outdoor Motion Sensor is available for €259.99, but offers no savings.
    3. Features include enhanced RGBWW LED beads for extended light range, 17 RGBIC beads for diffused lighting, dimming options, and 64 preset scene modes via the Govee Home app.
    4. The lights are compatible with voice commands through Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa and support Matter for integration with other lighting sources.
    5. With an IP66 rating, the wall lights are dust and water-resistant, functional in temperatures from -20 to 45°C (~-4 to 113°F), but there are no plans for US or UK availability.


    The Govee Outdoor Up Down Wall Light is now accessible in various European nations. Known as model H7076, this innovative four-sided smart light was first introduced in June 2025. It is designed to provide wall-washing light effects, capable of illuminating an area up to 10 m² (~108 ft²).

    Pricing Details

    At Govee’s online European store, the Outdoor Up Down Wall Light is priced at €169.99, reflecting a discount of €60 off the original retail price of €229.99. This special offer is said to be valid until June 29th. There’s also a bundle option that includes the Wall Light and an Outdoor Motion Sensor for €259.99; since the sensor costs €29.99 individually, this bundle doesn’t provide any actual savings.

    Features and Functionality

    The Outdoor Up Down Wall Light features enhanced RGBWW LED beads positioned at the top and bottom, providing a more extended light-throwing range due to its reflector cups. Additionally, it has 17 RGBIC beads on the sides for a gentler, diffused lighting effect. Users can dim these lights and choose from white or colored lighting options. In the Govee Home app, over 64 preset scene modes are available, and users can even create their own lighting effects. Furthermore, the smart lights can be operated using voice commands via Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa. With Matter support, they can seamlessly integrate with numerous lighting sources.

    Durability and Availability

    Govee claims these wall lights have an IP66 rating, making them resistant to dust and water, and they can function in temperatures ranging from -20 to 45°C (~-4 to 113°F). However, the company has not yet disclosed any plans to launch this model in the US or the UK.

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  • Nose Microrobots Show Success in Treating Stubborn Sinusitis

    Nose Microrobots Show Success in Treating Stubborn Sinusitis

    Key Takeaways

    1. Tiny robots, about the size of a dust particle, are being developed to treat stubborn bacterial infections in deep body cavities like the sinuses.
    2. These photocatalytic microrobots are made from copper-doped bismuth oxoiodide and can be precisely directed to infection areas using an external magnetic field.
    3. The therapy involves using optical fibers to transmit visible light to the targeted area, enhancing the effectiveness of the treatment.
    4. The robots can be easily removed from the body after treatment, showing potential for non-invasive procedures.
    5. While pre-clinical trials have shown promise, it may take several years before this innovative method is available for clinical use.


    Swarms of tiny robots, each about the size of a dust particle, are set to change the way we tackle stubborn bacterial infections, especially those hidden deep within the body’s intricate cavities, like the sinuses. A group of researchers from various universities in China and Hong Kong has developed this innovative technique, which aims to break down the challenges that standard treatments often encounter.

    Advanced Technology Behind the Robots

    The foundation of this cutting-edge therapeutic approach is its photocatalytic microrobots. These tiny devices are not just ordinary machines; they are carefully crafted from copper (Cu) single atom–doped bismuth oxoiodide (BiOI). Once they are injected into the sinus cavity through a slim catheter inserted via the nostril, these CBMR swarms are precisely directed to the infection area using an external magnetic field. Doctors can monitor their journey in real-time with the help of X-ray imaging.

    Unique Therapy Method

    The true brilliance lies in the therapy that utilizes optical fiber assistance. A separate optical fiber, which is also placed inside the body, transmits visible light straight to the targeted area. This light accomplishes two functions:

    After they finish their job, these minuscule doctors can be easily removed from the body, for example, by being blown out through the nose into a tissue. The effectiveness of this approach has already been proven in thorough vivo tests, using a model of rabbit sinusitis. The results were quite encouraging, showing their ability to eliminate infections without causing noticeable tissue damage, indicating their promise for future clinical applications.

    Future of Clinical Use

    Even though pre-clinical trials have shown success, it may take several years before this method is available for clinical use — until then, traditional methods will have to do. One product that can assist with sinusitis is a sinus pressure relief mask (curr. $35.98 on Amazon), which is designed to help relieve sinusitis, migraines, and headaches.

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  • Hisense M2 Pro Mini Projector Pre-Order with Free Anker Power Station

    Hisense M2 Pro Mini Projector Pre-Order with Free Anker Power Station

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Hisense M2 Pro 4K UHD Triple Laser Smart Mini Projector is available for pre-order at $1,299.99 in the US, with a free Anker power station for early buyers.
    2. In Australia, the projector is priced at A$1,695, a significant discount from the original A$2,495 retail price.
    3. The projector features 4K resolution, a 240 Hz refresh rate, and can project images up to 200 inches, with a brightness of 1,300 ANSI lumens.
    4. It includes a built-in 20W speaker system with Dolby Atmos support and offers HDMI 2.1 and USB 3.0 connectivity, but lacks Ethernet and RF Antenna ports.
    5. The M2 Pro is designed to be compact and lightweight, measuring 7.6 x 8.6 x 9.1 inches and weighing 8.6 lbs, and operates on the Vidaa OS for streaming access.


    The Hisense M2 Pro 4K UHD Triple Laser Smart Mini Projector is now open for pre-orders. This device was first introduced earlier this year and is set to be available in various countries, such as the US, Australia, and Germany.

    Pricing and Availability

    In the United States, consumers can pre-order the M2 Pro directly from Hisense for $1,299.99. Additionally, those who buy the projector before July 31st can get a complimentary Anker Solix C300 Portable Power Station, valued at $299.99 (currently priced at $249.99 on Amazon) with their purchase. For shoppers in Australia, JB Hi-Fi is selling the projector for A$1,695, which represents an A$800 reduction from the A$2,495 recommended retail price. Meanwhile, in Germany, the Hisense M2 Pro can be ordered for €1,299, with expected delivery on July 4th.

    Features and Specifications

    This M2 Pro is a compact projector that boasts a 4K resolution. The device is advertised as featuring a 240 Hz refresh rate and can project images as large as 200 inches. Its triple laser light source is claimed to produce up to 1,300 ANSI lumens of brightness and has an estimated lifespan of about 25,000 hours. Hisense asserts that the projector covers 110% of the BT.2020 color gamut and supports Dolby Vision, HDR10+, and HLG. Additional features include Filmmaker Mode, MEMC motion smoothing, and automatic keystone correction. It operates on the Vidaa OS, granting access to various streaming platforms such as Netflix and YouTube.

    Audio and Connectivity

    The projector is equipped with a built-in 20W speaker system that supports Dolby Atmos and DTS Virtual:X. It offers HDMI 2.1 (ALLM) and USB 3.0 ports; however, there are no Ethernet or RF Antenna ports available. The M2 Pro is touted as the lightest and smallest laser projector from the company to date, with dimensions of 7.6 x 8.6 x 9.1 inches and a weight of 8.6 lbs (~3.9 kg). There is currently no information regarding when Hisense will officially release this product in other regions, such as the UK.

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