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  • Black Shark Launches Affordable 45W Fast Charger

    Black Shark Launches Affordable 45W Fast Charger

    Key Takeaways

    1. Black Shark has launched a new dual-port charger in China, part of the “Star Stream” series.
    2. The charger supports fast charging at 45 W for a single device; when both ports are used, they provide 20 W and 25 W, respectively.
    3. It is compatible with multiple charging standards, including PPS, PD, QC, Apple 2.4, and SFC.
    4. The charger features a compact design with a foldable plug, measuring 45.5x40x28 mm and weighing 75 grams.
    5. The price of the charger is CNY 89 (approximately $12), with no current information on global availability.

    Black Shark has introduced a new charger head in China, which is part of their “Star Stream” series. This charging brick features a dual-port setup, both equipped with USB Type-C connections. These ports support fast charging at 45 W, but that’s only when a single device is plugged in.

    Charging Specifications

    When both ports are being used, the USB-C1 provides a maximum of 20 W, while USB-C2 can deliver up to 25 W, summing up to 45 W. Black Shark claims that their charging head is compatible with key charging standards, including PPS, PD, QC, Apple 2.4, and SFC.

    Design Features

    In terms of design, the Black Shark 45 W GaN charger is crafted for travelers. It features a foldable plug, much like some products from Anker. The company emphasizes the compact size of the charger, which measures 45.5x40x28 mm. Additionally, it is lightweight, weighing just 75 grams.

    Pricing Information

    As for the cost, the Black Shark 45 W GaN charger is priced at CNY 89 in China, which is approximately $12. The company has not yet provided information about global availability and pricing, but it typically releases most of its products outside of China.

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  • Indiana’s 1.3 GW Solar Project to Power 200,000 Homes

    Indiana’s 1.3 GW Solar Project to Power 200,000 Homes

    Key Takeaways

    1. Work has started on the 1.3-gigawatt Mammoth Solar project in Indiana, with Bechtel handling engineering and construction for three sections contributing 900 megawatts.
    2. Bechtel will install about two million photovoltaic modules, with half produced in the U.S., along with necessary infrastructure over the next two years.
    3. The project is expected to create over 1,200 jobs during peak construction, with 15% dedicated to apprenticeships for entry-level workers.
    4. The commercial operation for the current phase is anticipated to begin in 2027, providing power for approximately 200,000 U.S. households.
    5. Doral Renewables plans to implement agrivoltaic practices at the site, allowing for livestock grazing and crop production alongside solar infrastructure.

    Work has increased at the 1.3-gigawatt Mammoth Solar project located in Indiana. Doral Renewables has given the Full Notice to Proceed to their engineering and construction partner Bechtel. This allows for permanent work to begin on three sections: Mammoth South, Mammoth Central I, and Mammoth Central II. These segments will together contribute 900 megawatts to the project, boosting Indiana’s solar capacity by over 20 percent.

    Bechtel’s Responsibilities

    Bechtel’s responsibilities include designing, procuring, and constructing across the three phases. They plan to install about two million photovoltaic modules, with half of them being made in the United States, over the next two years. This will be supported by new cabling, substations, and other site infrastructure. The company intends to use digital delivery workflows and autonomous equipment to keep the project on schedule and manage costs effectively.

    Job Creation and Local Collaboration

    During peak construction, it is anticipated that over 1,200 jobs will be created, with 15 percent of those set aside for apprenticeships aimed at giving entry-level craftworkers valuable experience on a large-scale renewable project. Leaders from Doral Renewables and Bechtel have highlighted their commitment to working with local trade unions and suppliers to develop a skilled workforce and enhance the economic benefits for the county.

    The commercial operation for the current phase is expected to start in 2027. Once operational, the combined 900 megawatts AC will be able to provide power for approximately 200,000 average U.S. households. The full 1.3 gigawatt project will follow, putting Mammoth Solar among the largest solar facilities in the nation.

    Agrivoltaics Initiative

    In addition to generating electricity, Doral Renewables plans to implement agrivoltaic practices at the site. They intend to manage livestock grazing and crop production beneath and around the solar panels, enabling local farmers to continue their agricultural activities while coexisting with the solar infrastructure. This dual-use strategy aims to enhance land productivity and reinforce community connections long after construction is completed.

    Bechtel’s involvement in Mammoth Solar leverages their experience with large-scale renewable projects, such as the Ivanpah concentrated solar complex in California. This expertise, combined with a focus on digital project management, is expected to aid in maintaining Mammoth Solar’s project timeline and ensuring operational stability.

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  • Jmgo P5X Portable 1080p Projector: 300 Lumens & Xiaomi Support

    Jmgo P5X Portable 1080p Projector: 300 Lumens & Xiaomi Support

    Key Takeaways

    1. Compact and Lightweight: The Jmgo P5X weighs only 0.73 kg and is similar in size to a smartphone, making it highly portable.

    2. High-Quality Projection: It features a native resolution of 1080P, 300 CVIA lumens brightness, DLP technology, HDR10 decoding, and 124% of the Rec.709 color gamut for enhanced image quality.

    3. User-Friendly Design: The projector includes a built-in carrying strap, gimbal system for flexible projection angles, autofocus, and real-time keystone correction for easy setup.

    4. Advanced Audio and Connectivity: Equipped with an 8W speaker system supporting DTS and 360-degree surround sound, the P5X also features Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth, HDMI 2.1, and USB 2.0 connectivity.

    5. Smart Home Integration: Compatible with Xiaomi’s HyperOS, the projector allows users to control smart home devices using voice commands and includes a quiet cooling system for a peaceful viewing experience.

    Jmgo has introduced its latest portable projector known as the P5X in China. This projector tips the scales at a mere 0.73 kilograms and boasts a compact form factor similar to that of a smartphone. With a native resolution of 1080P and a brightness level of 300 CVIA lumens, it’s ideal for relaxed viewing in indoor settings or places with some lighting. The official retail price stands at 1,646 yuan ($228), and the projector is now up for grabs on prominent e-commerce sites.

    Jmgo P5X Projector Features

    The P5X leverages DLP projection technology, which Jmgo asserts can last up to six times longer than conventional LCD projectors. The device encompasses 124% of the Rec.709 color gamut and is capable of HDR10 decoding, enhancing contrast and detail. Additionally, Jmgo has incorporated MEMC motion compensation to minimize blur when displaying fast-paced content.

    Design and Usability

    This projector comes with a built-in carrying strap and a discreet gimbal system that allows for versatile projection angles without the need for a tripod. It includes features such as autofocus and real-time keystone correction for swift setup. Jmgo also promotes the P5X as a versatile gadget, complete with a 1260-color ambient lighting system that has seven dynamic themes. These lighting effects can synchronize with audio playback and are expected to gain more features through a software update.

    Audio and Connectivity

    For sound, the P5X is equipped with an 8W speaker system boasting DTS decoding and 360-degree surround sound support. The speaker utilizes JMGO’s Master Sound algorithm and can operate independently as a Bluetooth speaker.

    Under the hood, the projector is powered by a MediaTek MT9 series chipset, features 2GB RAM, and has 32GB of internal storage. It runs on Bonfire OS 7 and supports both Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth connectivity. The physical ports include HDMI 2.1 (with eARC support) and USB 2.0.

    Smart Home Integration

    Moreover, the P5X works seamlessly with Xiaomi’s HyperOS smart home platform. This feature allows users to manage smart lights, curtains, and other connected devices using XiaoAI voice commands or through automated scenes in the Mi Home app. Furthermore, JMGO has integrated a quiet cooling system that operates below 26dB, ensuring an undisturbed viewing experience.

    Additional Accessories

    A separately available 3-in-1 dock combines a stand, a 65W GaN charger, and a 20,000mAh power bank. This accessory enables the P5X to run for up to 7 hours without needing a power outlet. While it’s a small detail, it enhances the product’s design meant for mobility.

    In similar news, Hisense has recently unveiled the Vidda C3 Pro projector, which boasts 2800 CVIA lumens brightness, a tri-color laser engine, and Harman speakers. Meanwhile, Epson has rolled out the EF-51 projector with native 4K resolution, 700 lumens brightness, ambient lighting features, and Dolby Audio support.

    Jmgo P5X Portable 1080p Projector: 300 Lumens & Xiaomi Support
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  • Superwood: Engineered Timber 10x Stronger Than Steel

    Superwood: Engineered Timber 10x Stronger Than Steel

    Key Takeaways

    1. InventWood is expanding production of Superwood, a wooden-based material that is nearly ten times stronger than steel and significantly lighter.
    2. The technology for Superwood was developed by Dr. Liangbing Hu, who created a method to make wood up to 12 times stronger and reduced production time dramatically.
    3. InventWood has raised $15 million in Series A funding and over $50 million in total to support manufacturing and partnerships for material adoption.
    4. Superwood is engineered through molecular manipulation, enhancing its strength and resistance to fire, water, rot, and pests compared to regular wood.
    5. Initial production focuses on architectural facades, with long-term goals of replacing structural components to reduce construction’s carbon footprint.

    InventWood, a spin-off from the University of Maryland, is getting ready to expand its production of a wooden-based material called Superwood. This innovative product boasts a strength-to-weight ratio nearly ten times greater than that of steel, all while being significantly lighter and renewable. The first commercial shipments are expected to leave a new facility in Frederick, Maryland, in the third quarter of 2025.

    Groundbreaking Research

    The technology behind Superwood stems from research conducted by Dr. Liangbing Hu, a materials scientist. In 2018, he introduced a method that converts regular wood into a material that is up to 12 times stronger and 10 times tougher than its natural state. Instead of keeping this breakthrough confined to the lab, he worked on refining the process, reducing production time from more than a week to only a few hours, and then licensed the patents to InventWood.

    Funding and Partnerships

    Since then, InventWood has secured $15 million in the initial closing of its Series A funding round, led by the Grantham Foundation and supported by investors focused on climate solutions. The startup has accumulated over $50 million, which will be used to finance the new manufacturing line and a strategic partnership with distributor Intectural, aimed at accelerating the material’s adoption throughout North America.

    Innovative Material Properties

    Superwood’s exceptional performance is a result of molecular engineering. Regular lumber, mainly composed of cellulose and lignin, is treated with food-grade chemicals to alter its structure, selectively remove certain components, and increase the density of the remaining cellulose. This is followed by a compression process that enhances hydrogen bonding between the fibers, resulting in a material that InventWood claims is 50 percent stronger in tensile load than steel and is also resistant to fire, water, rot, and pests.

    The initial production is focused on creating architectural facades for commercial and premium residential projects. In the long run, InventWood plans to replace structural components like beams and columns, helping to reduce the heavy carbon footprint of construction by offering a domestically sourced renewable alternative to steel and concrete.

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  • Anker Upgrades 20,000mAh Prime Power Bank to 200W Output

    Anker Upgrades 20,000mAh Prime Power Bank to 200W Output

    Key Takeaways

    1. The new variant of the Anker Prime 20,000mAh Power Bank (200W) has improved PPS charging capabilities, increasing from 30W to 45W.
    2. The updated version now supports Samsung’s Super Fast Charging 2.0 due to the enhanced PPS range of 3.3V-11V/5A.
    3. Both versions of the power bank share the same model number (A1336) and appearance, making it hard for buyers to identify the updated version.
    4. The USB-C port can deliver up to 100W using the PD fast charging standard, but this is not guaranteed for all units.
    5. Availability of the updated version on Anker’s online shop or Amazon is uncertain, as Anker may be waiting to sell out current inventory before making a formal announcement.

    A new variant of the Anker Prime 20,000mAh Power Bank (200W) is gradually becoming available. The first version of this portable device was launched in 2023. Both versions share the same model number, A1336, and they are said to look the same, including their packaging.

    Updates on Charging Capabilities

    Originally, the Prime 20,000mAh Power Bank (200W) came with USB-C ports that had a PPS range of 3.3V-11V/3A, which limited charging with PPS to between 27W and 30W. This also indicated that it was not compatible with Samsung’s Super Fast Charging 2.0.

    Recently, a trustworthy source on Reddit, known as r/N8falke, revealed that Anker has enhanced the PPS range to 3.3V-11V/5A. Consequently, the maximum output for PPS charging has risen to 45W, allowing the Anker power bank to now support Samsung Super Fast Charging 2.0.

    Availability Concerns

    It’s important to mention that the USB-C port can deliver up to 100W, but this is only achievable through the PD fast charging standard. Sadly, there’s no way for interested buyers to guarantee they are getting the updated version of the Anker Prime 20,000mAh Power Bank (200W) either on Anker’s online shop or on Amazon, where it currently retails for $129.99. It seems that Anker might be waiting for their current inventory to sell out before they officially announce the upgrade on their website. Additionally, it’s still uncertain if other products, such as the Anker 12,000 mAh Power Bank (130W), will also get a similar upgrade.

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    Anker Upgrades 20,000mAh Prime Power Bank to 200W Output
  • Xiaomi Unveils Mijia Vertical 3 HP Air Conditioner for Powerful Cooling

    Xiaomi Unveils Mijia Vertical 3 HP Air Conditioner for Powerful Cooling

    Key Takeaways

    1. Fast Cooling and Heating: The Mijia Air Conditioner can cool in 40 seconds and heat in 80 seconds, suitable for areas around 40 m² (431 ft²).

    2. Strong Airflow: It has an airflow of 1,752 m³/hour and can project air up to 13 m (42.7 ft) with a wide 115° air supply angle.

    3. Smart Features: Includes a self-cleaning function, Xiaomi HyperOS Connect for smart home integration, and remote control via the Xiaomi app or voice commands.

    4. Pricing: Priced at CNY 4,999 (approximately $694), with a recommended retail price of CNY 5,599 (about $777).

    5. Availability: Currently available in China, with no smart air conditioners yet released in Europe.

    Xiaomi has introduced the Mijia Air Conditioner Super Energy Saving Vertical 3 HP in China, designed for quick cooling and heating across your entire living space. The product description highlights that it is optimal for areas measuring about 40 m² (approximately 431 ft²).

    Impressive Airflow and Temperature Control

    The newly launched Mijia Air Conditioner boasts an impressive airflow of 1,752 m³ (around 61,871 ft³) each hour, featuring an air outlet that is 181 mm (about 7.1 inches) wide, allowing for a 115° air supply angle. Xiaomi claims that users can feel the airflow from as far as 13 m (about 42.7 ft). The air conditioner is designed to start cooling in just 40 seconds or heating in 80 seconds, with a temperature range that can be set between -32 to 60°C (roughly -26 to 160°F).

    Smart Features and Design

    Another notable aspect of this air conditioner is its self-cleaning function, which incorporates a 56°C (around 133°F) sterilization option. It also features Xiaomi HyperOS Connect, enabling it to connect with other smart home gadgets from the brand. Users can control it remotely via the Xiaomi app or use Xiao AI voice commands. Additionally, the company has mentioned that future over-the-air (OTA) updates will be provided. The vertical unit has a metallic exterior and dimensions of 346 x 1,868 x 434 mm (approximately 13.6 x 73.5 x 17.1 inches).

    Pricing and Availability

    The Xiaomi Mijia Air Conditioner Super Energy Saving Vertical 3 HP is currently priced at CNY 4,999 (around $694) in China, although its recommended retail price (RRP) is CNY 5,599 (about $777). It is worth noting that Xiaomi has not yet released any of its smart air conditioners in Europe, although they do offer other cooling solutions like the Smart Standing Fan 2 Pro (currently priced at €124.89 on Amazon).

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  • Sharge Flow Mini 2 Power Bank Now Available Worldwide

    Sharge Flow Mini 2 Power Bank Now Available Worldwide

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Sharge Flow Mini 2 power bank is now available in North America and Europe, following its April 2025 launch in China.
    2. It is priced at $19.90 in the US for a limited time, with regular pricing at $24.90, and similar introductory prices in the UK and Europe.
    3. The Flow Mini 2 features improved charging capabilities, with a maximum output of 22.5W, allowing for faster charging of devices.
    4. The maximum input power has increased from 12W to 18W, offering two ways to recharge: via the connector or the built-in cable.
    5. The design includes a modified slope for easier access to the integrated cable, while retaining a compact form similar to the original model.

    The Sharge Flow Mini 2 power bank is now on sale in North America and Europe. This handy device was introduced in China back in April 2025, and the specifications were made public at that time. It maintains a design similar to the first Flow Mini, featuring a compact charger with interchangeable USB-C and lightning connectors, alongside an integrated USB-C cable.

    Pricing and Availability

    Currently, you can snag the Sharge Flow Mini 2 in the US for just $19.90 due to a special introductory deal; its regular price is $24.90. This is a bit pricier than the original model, which costs $18.99. In the UK, there’s a comparable offer, allowing early buyers to grab the device for £15.00 instead of £18.77. In European countries like Spain and France, the price sits at €18.15. Customers have the option to select from silver or black variations.

    Features and Improvements

    The Flow Mini 2 boasts several enhancements over its earlier version. For starters, it now offers a maximum output of 22.5W, up from 12W. According to Sharge, this improvement enables you to charge an iPhone 16 to 50% in just 27 minutes. Additionally, the max input power has been raised from 12W to 18W, giving you two ways to recharge: through the connector or the built-in cable. Moreover, the company claims that the modified slope design facilitates easier access to the integrated cable.

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    Sharge Flow Mini 2 Power Bank Now Available Worldwide
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  • Philips Hue App Update Introduces New User-Friendly Setting

    Key Takeaways

    1. Philips Hue app version 5.42.0 has been released for iOS users.
    2. Users can now choose to show or hide the Home on/off switch on the Home tab.
    3. The update simplifies scene creation with a new plus (+) icon for easy access.
    4. Users can browse the Scene Gallery, select favorites, or create/replicate scenes.
    5. The update is available on the Apple App Store, with no release date for the Android version yet.

    Philips Hue has rolled out a new update, version 5.42.0, for its app on iOS, making it accessible to users of their smart home products. This update follows version 5.40, while it appears that version 5.41 was skipped. The previous update reportedly provided several bug fixes and improvements to stability.

    Changes in the Latest Update

    With the release of version 5.42.0, there are two notable updates for Philips Hue smart home users. First, it now offers the option to show or hide the Home on/off switch on the Home tab. This can be handy if you often find yourself accidentally turning off all the lights in your house. To implement this change, navigate to Settings > App preferences.

    Enhanced Scene Creation

    Additionally, the release notes mention that creating a Scene has been made simpler. A new plus (+) icon is now present in either a Room or Zone, allowing you to either browse the Scene Gallery or select from your favorite Scenes. You also have the capability to develop your own scene or replicate a scene from a different room.

    You can obtain the Philips Hue app version 5.42.0 for iOS through the Apple App Store. It remains uncertain when this update will be available for Android users of the Philips Hue app, which was last updated on April 15th.

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  • Affordable Munbyn RW403B Wireless Thermal Label Printer 203 DPI

    Affordable Munbyn RW403B Wireless Thermal Label Printer 203 DPI

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Munbyn RW403B is a portable wireless thermal label printer designed for small business owners, with a resolution of 203 dpi and label sizes ranging from 1.57 to 4.25 inches.

    2. It features a unique 4-inch DAC chip for automatic calibration, preventing label misalignment and ensuring accurate printing, with a durability of up to 970,000 labels.

    3. The printer is suitable for various monochrome labels, including return slips, inventory tags, and branding materials, and is compact and lightweight at 4.9 x 9.67 x 6.49 inches and 3.3 lbs.

    4. It offers USB and Bluetooth connectivity, compatible with devices like Android, iOS, Mac, and Windows, and supports driver-free integration with major shipping services and e-commerce platforms.

    5. The Munbyn Print companion app enhances functionality, allowing users to adjust settings and access over 3,500 design elements, 2,000 templates, and OCR/voice recognition features.

    Munbyn has introduced the RW403B portable wireless thermal label printer to the global market. This label printer is aimed at small business owners and utilizes thermal and grayscale printing technology, boasting a 203 dpi resolution for precise label printing. It can handle label sizes that range from 1.57 inches to 4.25 inches.

    Innovative Features

    Munbyn promotes this printer as the first in its category to include a 4-inch DAC (Dynamic Algorithm Tech) chip. This chip automatically calibrates to prevent label misalignment, ensuring that labels are correctly aligned for packages. Regarding durability, the company asserts that the RG403B label printer can produce up to 970,000 labels, which is six times more than typical thermal printers.

    Versatile Applications

    In terms of functionality, the thermal printer is suitable for creating monochrome labels, such as return slips, inventory tags, home organization stickers, and various branding materials. The portable device measures 4.9 x 9.67 x 6.49 inches (124.4 x 245.6 x 164.8 mm) and weighs about 3.3 lbs (1.4 kg).

    Connectivity and App Support

    The label printer offers USB and Bluetooth connectivity, making it compatible with a wide range of devices, including Android, iOS, Mac, and Windows. Notably, it allows driver-free integration with major shipping services like FedEx, UPS, USPS, as well as e-commerce platforms like Shopify and Amazon, enhancing your workflow. Additionally, the Munbyn Print companion app supports the printer, enabling users to adjust settings and access over 3,500 design elements, 2,000 templates, 80+ fonts, and OCR/voice recognition features.

    The Munbyn RW403B thermal label printer is available in a gray color and can be purchased in the US for $79.99 through Amazon and Munbyn’s official website.

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    Affordable Munbyn RW403B Wireless Thermal Label Printer 203 DPI

     

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  • New Xiaomi Washing Machine Pro Launches with Blue Oxygen Feature

    New Xiaomi Washing Machine Pro Launches with Blue Oxygen Feature

    Key Takeaways

    1. Xiaomi has launched the Mijia Washing Machine Pro with a 12kg capacity in China, featuring advanced stain removal technology.
    2. The Blue Oxygen Technology utilizes active oxygen and high-temperature steam cleaning to effectively remove stains and pet hair.
    3. The washing machine offers 30 washing and drying cycles, including options for delicate fabrics and a quick 15-minute wash.
    4. Users can control the machine via a touch panel, Mijia app, or Xiao AI voice commands, and it can connect with other smart home devices through HyperOS Connect.
    5. The product is priced at CNY 2,999 (about $416) and may not be launched in Europe, despite Xiaomi’s presence in the smart home market there.

    Xiaomi has introduced the Mijia Washing Machine Pro Blue Oxygen Washing and Drying model with a 12kg capacity in China. This appliance includes various intelligent features and is claimed to excel in stain removal due to its innovative technology.

    Blue Oxygen Technology

    The Blue Oxygen function reportedly utilizes active oxygen, or ozone, to boost the machine’s capabilities in removing stains and enhancing brightness. It also offers high-temperature steam cleaning, which, according to the product details, can eliminate up to 90% of pet hair. True to its name, the Mijia Washing Machine Pro can handle up to 12 kg (approximately 26.4 lbs) of laundry simultaneously and can dry loads of up to 9 kg (about 19.8 lbs).

    Advanced Features

    Additionally, this washing machine has a high clearing ratio of 1.2 and features smart low-temperature drying. Users can pick from a total of 30 washing and drying cycles, with specific options designed for wool, silk, and down jackets, along with a rapid 15-minute wash. These selections can be made via the built-in touch panel, through the Mijia app, or using Xiao AI voice commands. Moreover, HyperOS Connect enables connectivity with other smart home devices. The machine sports a dark gray exterior and has dimensions of 598 x 850 x 610 mm (around 23.5 x 33.5 x 24.0 inches).

    Pricing and Availability

    The Xiaomi Mijia Washing Machine Pro Blue Oxygen Washing and Drying model with a 12kg capacity is currently priced at CNY 2,999 (about $416) in China. It appears that this product may not be launched officially in Europe, as it would mark the first Xiaomi washing machine in that region. However, the company already offers other smart home devices in Europe, such as the Smart Plug 2, which is currently available for €16.55 on Amazon.de.

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    New Xiaomi Washing Machine Pro Launches with Blue Oxygen Feature

     

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