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  • EcoFlow Launches Rapid Pro Power Banks with Discounts and Cables

    EcoFlow Launches Rapid Pro Power Banks with Discounts and Cables

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Rapid Pro power bank series includes two models: 27,650mAh and 20,000mAh, each with different charging capacities.
    2. Both models have a rectangular design, built-in retractable USB-C cable, and a small display for charging details.
    3. The 27,650mAh model can deliver a maximum output of 300W, allowing for fast charging of two laptops simultaneously.
    4. The Rapid Pro 20,000mAh model has a maximum output of 230W and charges slower than the larger model.
    5. Pre-orders for the 20,000mAh model are available with an early bird discount, while pricing for the 27,650mAh model will be announced later.

    Along with the Rapid Pro X Power Bank, ECoFlow has introduced the Rapid Pro power bank series, offering two different capacities. The options include the Rapid Pro 27,650mAh and the Rapid Pro 20,000mAh. While they have their unique traits, they also share several features.

    Design and Features

    The Rapid Pro power banks do not feature the modular design seen in the Rapid Pro X, but they maintain a similar rectangular prism shape with ports located at the top. Unlike the Rapid Pro X, though, these power banks come equipped with a 60cm long built-in retractable USB-C cable. They also include a small colored display that shows charging details.

    Charging Capabilities

    For the Rapid Pro 27,650mAh, both the main USB-C port and the retractable USB-C cable each offer a maximum output of 140W, combining for a total of 280W, which enables charging of two laptops at full speed. The other two USB-C ports can each provide a maximum output of 65W. Overall, the power bank can deliver a maximum output of 300W at any given moment.

    Charging the Rapid Pro 27,650mAh from zero to 80% takes just 40 minutes when using either the prime USB-C port or the retractable USB-C cable at 140W fast charging. If you connect both the prime USB-C port and the retractable cable to a charger that can output 140W, the time drops to 26 minutes for reaching 80%.

    Fast Charging Options

    If you have the EcoFlow Rapid Pro Desktop Charger, you can charge the power bank to 80% in only 20 minutes by placing it on the pogo pins located on top of the charger, allowing for a charging rate of 320W.

    Conversely, the Rapid Pro 20,000mAh Power Bank has a maximum power output of 230W, with both its main USB-C port and the retractable cable maxing out at 100W each, while the other two USB-C ports offer 65W each. This power bank can also charge two laptops at 100W each, but its charging speed is slower compared to the larger model.

    When using either the 100W USB-C port or the retractable cable, it takes 39 minutes to charge the 20,000mAh power bank from empty to 50%. If you use both the prime USB-C port and the retractable cable together, the maximum input is 120W, reducing the time to 50% to 25 minutes. It can also be charged using the pogo pins on the desktop charger, and although this has a maximum input of 120W as well, it shortens the time to reach 50% to just 19 minutes.

    The EcoFlow Rapid Power Bank 20,000mAh can be pre-ordered starting today, from June 24 to July 31, with an early bird discount of 18% that lowers the price from €129.99 to €109.99. The pricing and availability details for the 27,650mAh model will be shared later.

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  • Cuktech CP6: Affordable Fast Charger with Retractable Cable

    Cuktech CP6: Affordable Fast Charger with Retractable Cable

    Key Takeaways

    1. Integrated Retractable Cable: The CP6 charger features a 0.7-meter retractable cable for easy charging.

    2. Multiple Charging Options: It includes one USB Type-A and one USB Type-C port, allowing users to charge three devices at once.

    3. Fast Charging Capability: The charger can charge the Xiaomi 15 from 0% to 49% in just 15 minutes and supports various charging protocols.

    4. Intelligent Control and Design: Equipped with a two-way intelligent control chip for temperature regulation, it also has a compact design with a foldable plug for travel.

    5. Affordable Pricing: The launch price is CNY 134 (approximately $19), with an increase to CNY 149 (around $21) after the promotional period.

    Cuktech has launched a fresh charger in China, known as the CP6. A standout feature of this device is its integrated retractable cable. The company states that this cable measures 0.7 meters (approximately 2.3 feet) and has a convenient pull mechanism, making it easy to use for charging without fuss.

    Multiple Charging Options

    Besides the built-in USB-C cable, this budget-friendly charger includes one USB Type-A and one USB Type-C port (you can find a 6-feet Anker Nano 240 W USB-C cable for $17.99 on Amazon). This setup enables users to charge three devices simultaneously. Regarding charging performance, the CP6 supports rapid charging of up to 67 W.

    Fast Charging Capability

    According to the company, the CP6 charger can charge the Xiaomi 15 from 0% to 49% in a mere 15 minutes. With its compatibility with various charging protocols, it can effectively charge a wide array of gadgets, including laptops, smartwatches, and wireless earbuds, which typically require less power.

    Intelligent Control and Design

    Another key feature of the Cuktech CP6 charger is its two-way intelligent control chip. This chip is designed to regulate temperature, ensuring charging remains stable and safe. Other notable features include its compact size and a design that is perfect for travel, complete with a foldable plug.

    As for the pricing, this new charger is set to debut with a launch price of CNY 134 in China, which is roughly $19, and will be ready for purchase starting June 26, 2025. After the promotional period ends, the price will rise to CNY 149, around $21. Cuktech has yet to reveal any details regarding global availability and pricing, but they usually offer most of their products beyond the Chinese market.

    Cuktech shared this information via Weibo (machine translated from Chinese).

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    Cuktech CP6: Affordable Fast Charger with Retractable Cable

     

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  • TP-Link Launches Waterproof WiFi 7 Router for Outdoor Use

    TP-Link Launches Waterproof WiFi 7 Router for Outdoor Use

    Key Takeaways

    1. Durable Design: The TP-Link Omada EAP772-Outdoor has an IP68 rating, making it dustproof and waterproof, suitable for outdoor use.

    2. Installation Flexibility: It can be easily mounted on poles or walls and receives power via Ethernet, supporting network speeds up to 2.5 Gbps.

    3. Wide Coverage: A single unit can cover an area of up to 3,200 sq ft, making it ideal for expanding networks outdoors.

    4. High Device Capacity: It can manage up to 380 devices simultaneously, making it suitable for high-density environments like public spaces.

    5. Advanced Features: Supports tri-band frequencies (2.4GHz, 5GHz, 6GHz) and WiFi 7, with easy setup and monitoring through TP-Link’s Omada SDN Software and a mobile app.

    The TP-Link Omada EAP772-Outdoor is the outdoor variant of the EAP772 and provides comparable performance with an IP68 rating, making it both dustproof and waterproof. As stated by TP-Link, this feature makes the router ideal for expanding an existing network into outdoor spaces.

    Versatile Mounting Options

    This WiFi 7 router can be easily installed on a pole or a wall. It receives power through an Ethernet cable, allowing it to connect to a network with speeds of up to 2.5 Gbps. Additionally, it is designed to work with mesh networks, enabling multiple routers to work together for broader coverage. A single unit of the Omada EAP772-Outdoor can supposedly cover an area as large as 3,200 sq ft.

    Suitable for High-Density Environments

    Capable of managing up to 380 devices simultaneously, this router is well-suited for public networks. It operates on tri-band frequencies of 2.4GHz, 5GHz, and 6GHz and supports the latest WiFi 7 standard, offering data rates as high as 9.3 Gbps. With TP-Link’s Omada SDN Software, setting up the router for expanding an existing network can be done with just a single click, and a mobile app is available for easy network monitoring.

    The TP-Link Omada EAP772-Outdoor is currently priced at $249 at B&H Photo Video and several other retailers in the US. For more in-depth technical information regarding this new TP-Link router, you can visit its official product page.

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    TP-Link Launches Waterproof WiFi 7 Router for Outdoor Use

     

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  • Ugreen 90W Car Charger with Retractable Cable Now Available

    Ugreen 90W Car Charger with Retractable Cable Now Available

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Ugreen 90W Retractable Car Charger is available in multiple countries, including the US, UK, and France.
    2. It features a built-in USB-C cable that extends 70 cm and delivers up to 60W of power.
    3. The charger can power up to three devices simultaneously with a total output of 90W.
    4. It includes safety features against overvoltage, short circuits, and overheating.
    5. The price is $39.99 in the US, £25.99 in the UK, and €34.99 in France, with availability on Amazon.

    The Ugreen 90W Retractable Car Charger is now available in multiple countries, such as the US, UK, and France. This handy gadget fits right into your car’s cigarette lighter or 12V power socket, allowing you to charge your devices while on the road.

    Features and Performance

    This Retractable Car Charger comes with a built-in USB-C cable that extends up to 70 cm (about 27.6 inches) and can deliver up to 60W of power. Tests conducted by Ugreen show that the cable can endure more than 25,000 retractions and 10,000 bends. Ugreen claims that this 60W output can charge a MacBook Pro 14 to about 30% in just half an hour, or an iPhone 16 to 56% in the same period.

    Charging Multiple Devices

    With the 90W Retractable Car Charger, you can power up to three devices at once, thanks to its 30W USB-C and USB-A ports, offering a total maximum output of 90W. When all three ports are in use, the USB-C cable provides 60W, and the USB-C and USB-A ports together share 24W. Additionally, it includes safeguards against problems like overvoltage, short circuits, and overheating. The Ugreen 90W Retractable Car Charger is currently listed on Amazon for $39.99/£25.99/€34.99, but it remains unclear when it will be available through the brand’s official online store.

    Ugreen 90W Car Charger with Retractable Cable Now Available
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  • Philips Hue Unveils New Adore Bathroom Recessed Downlight

    Philips Hue Unveils New Adore Bathroom Recessed Downlight

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Philips Hue Adore Bathroom recessed downlight now comes in a fresh white edition, designed to blend in with white ceilings.
    2. It features the GU10 White ambiance light source, providing up to 400 lumens of brightness at 4,000K color temperature and a lifespan of approximately 25,000 hours.
    3. Users can control brightness and color temperature (2,200K to 6,500K) via a wireless dimmer or the Philips smartphone app, with compatibility for Bluetooth and Zigbee.
    4. The recessed downlight is priced at €54.99 individually, with a pack of three available for €139.99, offering a savings of €24.98.
    5. Availability is currently limited to several European countries, with no confirmed release date for the US or UK markets.

    A fresh white edition of the Philips Hue Adore Bathroom recessed downlight has been introduced in Europe. The original model, which hit the market in 2019, featured a silver frame. Now, consumers can purchase these lights with a white plastic exterior, allowing them to blend in seamlessly with a white ceiling.

    Specifications and Features

    The white Philips Hue Adore Bathroom recessed downlight maintains the same functionalities as its upgraded silver counterpart. It incorporates the brand’s latest GU10 White ambiance light source, which is claimed to produce up to 400 lumens of brightness at a color temperature of 4,000K and has a lifespan of approximately 25,000 hours. It offers a beam angle of 40° and boasts a Color Rendering Index (CRI) that exceeds 80.

    Smart Control Options

    You can modify the brightness using either a wireless dimmer or Philips’ smartphone app. This app also allows you to change the color temperature anywhere from 2,200K to 6,500K. Each recessed spotlight measures 92 mm (around 3.6 inches) in diameter and is compatible with both Bluetooth and Zigbee protocols. Additionally, the new white Philips Hue Xamento recessed spotlight has also been launched. The key distinction between these two models is that the Xamento features a White and color ambiance light source, enabling colorful lighting effects.

    Pricing and Availability

    The Philips Hue Adore Bathroom Recessed Downlight is currently available for €54.99 in several countries, including the Netherlands, Spain, and Germany. A pack of three Philips Hue Adore Bathroom Recessed Downlights is also offered for €139.99, which saves customers €24.98 compared to buying them individually. It’s still uncertain whether these smart lights will be made available in the US or the UK in the future.

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    Philips Hue Unveils New Adore Bathroom Recessed Downlight

     

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  • Hisense PT1 4K Triple Laser Cinema Projector Now Available

    Hisense PT1 4K Triple Laser Cinema Projector Now Available

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Hisense PT1 projector features a brightness of up to 2,500 ANSI lumens and covers 110% of the BT.2020 color gamut.
    2. It offers a native contrast ratio of 3,000:1 and supports various formats including HDR10+, Dolby Vision, and IMAX Enhanced.
    3. The projector is equipped with gaming features like auto low latency mode (ALLM) and MEMC motion smoothing.
    4. It operates on Vidaa OS for easy access to streaming apps and supports smart home system integration.
    5. Pricing for the PT1 is £2,399 in the UK, A$3,499 in Australia, and €2,499 in Germany.

    The Hisense PT1 4K TriChroma Laser Cinema has hit the shelves globally. Launched earlier this year alongside the M2 Pro projector, this device is crafted for home movie experiences.

    Brightness and Color Features

    The PT1 projector from Hisense utilizes the company’s LPU digital triple laser light source, claiming to achieve a brightness of up to 2,500 ANSI lumens. It adapts its brightness automatically depending on the surrounding light, and it covers a remarkable 110% of the BT.2020 color gamut. With a native contrast ratio of 3,000:1, it comes equipped with AI features designed to boost color and clarity. This projector presents images in 3K resolution, sized between 80 and 150 inches wide, and it also supports 3D viewing. The automatic screen alignment feature ensures that the images are quickly optimized. Additionally, it supports formats like HDR10+, Dolby Vision, IMAX Enhanced, and Filmmaker Mode.

    Gaming and Connectivity

    For gamers, the PT1 includes useful features such as auto low latency mode (ALLM) and MEMC motion smoothing. It has multiple ports, including HDMI and USB-A. The projector operates on Vidaa OS, which allows easy access to numerous streaming applications, and it recognizes Vidaa voice commands. Furthermore, it can work with smart home systems like Control4, providing the ability to manage other connected devices. It also has built-in dual 15W top-firing speakers and dual 8W up-firing speakers, supporting Dolby Atmos for an immersive audio experience.

    Pricing Around the World

    You can purchase the Hisense PT1 4K TriChroma Laser Cinema in the UK from retailers such as Visunext with a price tag of £2,399. In Australia, the cost is A$3,499, while in Germany and other European nations, it is available for €2,499 at places like Heimkinoraum.

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    Hisense PT1 4K Triple Laser Cinema Projector Now Available
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  • Philips Hue Xamento: New Smart Recessed Spotlight Release

    Philips Hue Xamento: New Smart Recessed Spotlight Release

    Key Takeaways

    The Philips Hue Xamento recessed spotlight has recently launched in a fresh color option in several European nations. Originally introduced in silver in 2021, a black variant followed in 2022. Furthermore, these lights were upgraded in 2024 to incorporate the latest GU10 technology from the brand.

    New Color Introduction

    The latest version of the Xamento recessed spotlight now comes with a white plastic frame. It retains the same features as the previous models, including a White and color ambiance light source that is expected to last for 25,000 hours. The spotlight has a beam angle of 40°, a Color Rendering Index (CRI) exceeding 80, and offers brightness of 400 lumens at 4,000 K.

    Smart Control Options

    These smart lights can be controlled remotely via the Philips Hue app, which utilizes Bluetooth. Users can select from an extensive palette of colors or various white temperature settings, modify the brightness, or include the lights in a smart scene. Additionally, you can use voice commands through Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant to change the lighting. Each recessed spotlight measures around 92 mm (about 3.6 inches) in diameter and is rated IP44 for dust and water resistance.

    Pricing and Availability

    In countries such as the Netherlands, France, and Germany, a single Xamento recessed spotlight is priced at €79.99. A pack of three Xamento recessed spotlights can be purchased for €219.99, providing a discount of €19.98 compared to buying individually. These products are available in the brand’s online store or on Amazon. It remains uncertain if or when these products will be available in other markets like the US or UK.

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    Philips Hue Xamento: New Smart Recessed Spotlight Release
  • Monstrous Lizard from Tolkien’s Universe Discovered in Museum

    Monstrous Lizard from Tolkien’s Universe Discovered in Museum

    Key Takeaways

    1. A new lizard species named Bolg amondol was discovered in a museum, highlighting its significance in understanding Cretaceous-era ecosystems.
    2. The skeleton of Bolg amondol, found in Utah’s Kaiparowits Formation, dates back 75 million years and includes various skeletal elements.
    3. Bolg amondol measures about one meter in length and was capable of hunting small dinosaurs or their eggs.
    4. The name Bolg amondol references both Tolkien’s goblin prince and the lizard’s skull shape, enhancing its cultural significance.
    5. This discovery sheds light on the evolutionary history of lizards and their ecological roles in the ancient Laramidia forests.

    A newly found lizard, reminiscent of a creature from Tolkien’s world, has been uncovered in a museum. The species, named Bolg amondol, sheds light on the complex biological interactions between continents during the Cretaceous era.

    Discovery in a Museum

    This unusual discovery was made by Hank Woolley while examining a jar filled with bone fragments at the Utah Natural History Museum. He shared with the journal Royal Society Open Science: “I opened it and instantly realized that it wasn’t merely a lizard. There was a fragmented but cohesive skeleton. I recognized it was significant right away.”

    Details of the Skeleton

    The skeleton consists of various elements, including parts of the skull, vertebrae, pelvic and scapular girdles, and bone plates. It was found in the Kaiparowits Formation, which dates back 75 million years in Utah.

    Bolg amondol measures approximately one meter in length, similar in size to a desert monitor lizard, and had the ability to hunt small dinosaurs or their eggs for sustenance. Its looks are also somewhat recognizable, as it belongs to the group of creatures known as monstersaurs, which includes the Gila Monster.

    Name Origin and Significance

    The name Bolg may sound familiar. Woolley explains: “Bolg is a resonant name, that of a goblin prince in The Hobbit. These lizards exhibit a somewhat monstrous facade, especially when you examine their skulls.” He then added “amondol,” a term derived from Tolkien’s Elvish language meaning ‘mound’ and ‘head’, which references the skull shape of this carnivorous armored lizard.

    This discovery enhances our understanding of its extinct species and its family: “The finding of Bolg fills in the fragmented puzzle of this ancient lineage, which spans over 100 million years.” Previously found fossils were mostly limited to teeth and small bone fragments. Now, Bolg amondol offers a more thorough view of this dinosaur: “This enables us to accurately place it within the evolutionary tree of lizards and contrast its characteristics with those of other, even more distantly related, species.”

    Ecological Role

    Additionally, this extinct lizard played a crucial part in the ecosystem of the Laramidia forests. This area was home to three species of giant lizards. Interestingly, the closest ancestor of Bolg amondol resided in the Gobi Desert, implying that these lizards didn’t travel across natural land bridges between continents to seek better climates or territories.

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  • New 240W Charging Station with Display, Clock, and Wireless Charging

    New 240W Charging Station with Display, Clock, and Wireless Charging

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Blitzwolf BW-FW10 charger has a total output of 240 watts across all ports, with individual USB-C ports capable of 140 watts but not simultaneously.
    2. It features four USB-C ports (max 140 watts total) and two USB-A ports (max 60 watts), plus two wireless charging pads (15 watts for smartphones, 5 watts for headphones/smartwatches).
    3. The charger measures 2.8 x 4.6 x 3.5 inches and functions as a digital clock with two alarm settings, but it is not a docking station.
    4. Priced at $44 for import from China, buyers should be cautious of potential customer service issues from sellers.
    5. Similar charging stations with displays are available on Amazon starting at $39.

    Blitzwolf has launched a new charger known as the BW-FW10, which is now obtainable through import and allows for the simultaneous charging of multiple devices. This charger can reach a charging speed of up to 240 watts, but it’s important to clarify that this is the total output across all ports, not what a single port can provide.

    Charging Capacity

    Specifically, each of the four USB-C ports can provide a maximum of 140 watts, although not all at once. The two USB-A ports can handle up to 60 watts of power. Moreover, the device features two wireless charging pads, which can charge smartphones at up to 15 watts and wireless headphones or smartwatches at 5 watts.

    For those interested in specific details, there’s a comprehensive chart that shows the maximum output for each port when multiple devices are connected. For example, the 140 watts from the USB-C ports is only achievable with one USB-C port being used. If more than one port is in use, the total output from USB-C drops to 65 watts.

    Design and Features

    The dimensions of Blitzwolf’s latest charging station are 2.8 x 4.6 x 3.5 inches, and it also serves as a fully functional digital clock, complete with two alarm settings. However, it’s vital to understand that this is not a docking station, which means it lacks HDMI outputs and does not enhance connectivity options for laptops or other devices.

    Despite that, the BW-FW10 is said to include several protective circuits, and it connects to power through a 2-pin plug. Right now, the charger is priced at $44 for import directly from China. Prospective buyers should be aware, however, that sellers on these marketplaces often do not provide good customer service, which could pose a problem if there are issues with defects or returns.

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    New 240W Charging Station with Display, Clock, and Wireless Charging
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  • How to Observe the Visible Nova in the Sky Right Now

    How to Observe the Visible Nova in the Sky Right Now

    Key Takeaways

    1. A new celestial object named V462 Lupi has been discovered, becoming visible after increasing in brightness to +5.7.
    2. V462 Lupi is identified as a classic nova, formed when a white dwarf star accumulates matter from a companion star, leading to a thermonuclear explosion.
    3. The brightness of V462 Lupi has significantly increased, making it observable without telescopes; it reached a magnitude of 5.6 on June 21, 2023.
    4. V462 Lupi can be seen from northern parts of the U.S. by looking towards the constellation Lupus, despite its southern declination.
    5. The constellation Lupus has historical significance, as a supernova in 1006 was documented for its extraordinary brightness and longevity.

    Since June 12, a new light source has made its presence known in the sky, discovered by the All-Sky Automated Survey for Supernovae (ASAS-SN). Although it was too dim at first to see, its brightness has increased over the days, revealing a cosmic event that is both impressive and destructive.

    V462 Lupi Emerges

    This new celestial object has been given the name V462 Lupi and has now reached a brightness level of +5.7. This means that it can be seen with the naked eye, provided the sky is clear and unobstructed. The source of this light is identified as a classic nova.

    In binary systems, these novae happen when a very dense white dwarf star pulls in matter from a companion star. Over time, the material builds up on the white dwarf’s surface, leading to a massive thermonuclear explosion that produces a bright light source traveling through space. Unlike supernovae, which are much more catastrophic and can obliterate their host stars, novae do not destroy the white dwarf. These events can repeat multiple times if the companion star continues to feed the white dwarf.

    Increase in Brightness

    As a consequence, V462 Lupi has been getting brighter since the explosion. For instance, on June 21 at 2 p.m. (Eastern Time), it hit a magnitude of 5.6, making it visible without the use of telescopes or binoculars.

    Sebastián Otero, an observer from the American Association for Variable Stars (AAVSO), notes that its brightness increase is remarkable, especially considering its original magnitude of 22.3.

    Don’t worry, even though it has a southern declination of -40°, V462 Lupi can still be seen from the northern parts of the United States. To spot it, direct your gaze toward the constellation Lupus, as shown in Bob King’s image.

    Historical Context

    This isn’t the first significant event in the constellation Lupus. Back in 1006, a supernova exploded in this area, reaching a brightness of -7 and remaining visible for over three months. This notable occurrence was documented by the medieval Persian philosopher and scientist Avicenna.

    In a 1960 discovery, remnants of that cosmic explosion were located using the Chandra telescope, illustrating the magnitude of that event and the devastation it caused to the host star.

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