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  • IKEA Bilresa: New Matter-Compatible Smart Home Switch Unveiled

    IKEA Bilresa: New Matter-Compatible Smart Home Switch Unveiled

    Key Takeaways

    1. The new IKEA smart switch, Bilresa Dual Button, features two independent buttons.
    2. Bilresa will support Matter over Thread, enabling compatibility with Google Home, Apple HomeKit, and Amazon Alexa.
    3. It is one of the first IKEA products to support Matter, following the Dirigera hub’s update.
    4. The product is currently in internal testing, with no confirmed release date or price yet.
    5. IKEA’s existing smart switches include the Rodret Wireless dimmer and the Somrig shortcut button.

    An image has surfaced showing a new IKEA smart switch called the Bilresa Dual Button. Currently, IKEA has two smart home switches available: the Rodret Wireless dimmer/power switch designed for smart lights and the Somrig shortcut button. The Somrig button is useful for activating smart home scenes that are saved in the IKEA Home smart app.

    Details of the Bilresa Switch

    The photo of the Bilresa was posted by Homewithapple on social media, revealing a switch mounted on a wall with two separate buttons. The source hints that each button can be operated independently. Furthermore, it was mentioned that this device will support Matter over Thread, which means it can work with various smart home systems like Google Home, Apple HomeKit, and Amazon Alexa.

    Future of IKEA’s Smart Products

    As it appears, the Bilresa is set to be among the first products from IKEA that supports Matter. The Dirigera hub, which connects the company’s smart home devices, received Matter support through a software update in September. Users can currently explore this feature in the Workshop section of the IKEA Home smart app.

    Price and Availability Uncertain

    At this moment, it’s not clear when the Bilresa Dual Button will be available for purchase or what its price tag will be. Homewithapple reports that this product is still undergoing internal testing. For comparison, the IKEA Rodret and IKEA Somrig are priced at £5.00/€6.99 and £7.00/€6.99, respectively.

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  • Oukitel P1000E Plus Power Station: Solar Charging & Discounts Available

    Oukitel P1000E Plus Power Station: Solar Charging & Discounts Available

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Oukitel P1000E Plus is now available in Europe for a special price of €429, down from €699.
    2. It has a rated power of 1,800 watts with surge capability up to 3,600 watts, suitable for power tools.
    3. The power station features Lithium Iron Phosphate batteries with a capacity of 1,024Wh, lasting around 30 minutes at maximum output.
    4. Charging options include two USB Type-C ports, two USB Type-A ports, wall socket, solar, and 12V car connector, with a total charging capacity of 1,700 watts when combined.
    5. The device can act as an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) with a 10-millisecond activation during power failures and can be monitored via a smartphone app.

    The Oukitel P1000E Plus has recently launched in Europe and is now accessible for purchase. It is currently available on Amazon and the manufacturer’s website at a special introductory price of €429, down from the original price of €699. Weighing 26.4 pounds and with dimensions of 13.6 x 8.9 x 9.4 inches, this power station is relatively convenient to carry around, even if you’re riding a bike.

    Performance and Specifications

    When it comes to powering devices, the P1000E doesn’t have significant restrictions. It offers a rated power of 1,800 watts and can manage brief surges up to 3,600 watts. This feature proves beneficial when operating power tools through any of its four AC outlets. The power station is equipped with Lithium Iron Phosphate batteries, providing a total capacity of 1,024Wh. This means it can run for approximately thirty minutes at the maximum output of 1,800 watts. After around 4,000 charging cycles, users can expect at least 80% capacity remaining, and even with daily full cycles, it would take over a decade to notice a significant drop in performance.

    Charging Options and Features

    In addition, the Oukitel power station includes two USB Type-C ports that support USB PD, which can output up to 100 watts and 20 watts, respectively. There are also two USB Type-A ports capable of delivering 18 watts each. The power station can be recharged through a wall socket with a maximum input of 1,200 watts, or up to 500 watts using solar energy. If these two methods are combined, the total charging capacity rises to 1,700 watts. It also supports charging through a 12V car connector. Furthermore, this power station can function as an uninterruptible power supply (UPS), activating in just 10 milliseconds during a power failure. Users can also manage and monitor the P1000E via a smartphone application.

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    Oukitel P1000E Plus Power Station: Solar Charging & Discounts Available
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  • Anker 2-Port Wall Charger: New Compact Versions Available Now

    Anker 2-Port Wall Charger: New Compact Versions Available Now

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Anker 20W Wall Charger (2 Ports) has been released in new colors: lilac and green, in addition to the original black and white.
    2. The charger features one USB-C port (20W) and one USB-A port (18W), allowing simultaneous charging of two devices.
    3. It includes safety features like MultiProtect technology to prevent overcurrent and short circuits.
    4. The compact design measures 2.8 x 4.3 x 4.5 cm and weighs 52 g, and it comes with a 150 cm USB-C to USB-C cable.
    5. The new colors are priced at €17.99 on Amazon Germany, equal to the original colors; the white version is currently on sale for €9.99.

    The Anker USB-C charger (2-port, 20W) has now been released in new colors. Also referred to as the Anker 20W Wall Charger (2 Ports), this accessory was introduced some time ago, previously offered only in white and black. Now, the company is adding two brighter shades: lilac (purple) and green, available through their Amazon store in Germany.

    Charging Capabilities

    As indicated by its title, this Anker charger features two ports—one USB-C and one USB-A. This allows users to charge two devices at the same time. The PowerIQ 3.0 USB-C port has a power output of up to 20W, which is said to charge an iPhone 15 to 50% in just 30 minutes. The USB-A port has a maximum output of 18W, and when both ports are in use, they share a combined output of 15W.

    Safety Features

    The Anker 20W Wall Charger includes MultiProtect technology to protect against issues such as overcurrent and short circuits. Anker describes the charger as compact, with dimensions of 2.8 x 4.3 x 4.5 cm (approximately 1.1 x 1.7 x 1.8 inches) and a weight of 52 g (around 1.8 oz). Furthermore, this device, identified by model number A2348, comes with a 150 cm (approximately 5 ft) USB-C to USB-C cable, adding extra value.

    Pricing and Availability

    The new green and purple Anker USB-C charger (2-port, 20W) can be found on Amazon Germany for €17.99, which is the same price as the standard black and white models. However, it’s important to mention that the white version is currently available at a reduced price of €9.99. It remains uncertain when or if these products will be available in other regions.

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  • Philips Hue Secure Doorbell Features Revealed in App Update

    Philips Hue Secure Doorbell Features Revealed in App Update

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Philips Hue app update (version 5.38) introduced a new smart doorbell called the Philips Hue Secure.
    2. The app now features a QR code scanning option for easier device setup and enhancements for arranging Hue Bridges.
    3. The new doorbell category appears under “Add Device,” indicating the presence of the unannounced Secure doorbell.
    4. Setup instructions suggest the doorbell is likely wired, as indicated by an error notification about power connection.
    5. No official details on the launch date or pricing of the Hue Secure doorbell have been released, and it’s unclear if it will pair with a Hue Bridge.

    A recent update to the Philips Hue app has revealed information about a new doorbell called the Philips Hue Secure. This discovery came after previous speculations about the device, which included an illustration of this soon-to-be-released smart home gadget.

    App Update Features

    The Philips Hue app, now at version 5.38, was released a few days ago for both iOS and Android platforms. This version introduced several enhancements, like a fresh way to arrange Hue Bridges and improvements for users who utilize all-day scenes. Additionally, a new QR code scanning feature was added to simplify the addition of new devices into your smart home setup.

    New Product Category

    When users navigate to “Add Device” and select the “No QR code” option, they will find a new product category labeled “Doorbells.” Within this category, the unannounced “Secure doorbell” is listed. The setup instructions suggest that users should install the device physically, but no additional information is available. There is also an error notification that states, “your doorbell may not be connected to power,” implying that this device is likely to be wired instead of using batteries. The provided illustration depicts a straightforward two-tone style featuring a camera on top and a large round button, which seems to be encircled by LED lighting.

    Uncertain Launch Details

    Philips Hue has yet to make an official announcement regarding this new product. Therefore, the release date and pricing for the Hue Secure doorbell remain unknown. It’s also uncertain if the device will require pairing with a Hue Bridge, which currently retails for $42 on Amazon.

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    Philips Hue Secure Doorbell Features Revealed in App Update

     

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  • Xiaomi Launches Fast Water Purifier for Clean, Mineral-Rich Water

    Xiaomi Launches Fast Water Purifier for Clean, Mineral-Rich Water

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Xiaomi Mijia Mineral-Rich Water Purifier 1200G is priced at 3,399 yuan (about $470) and available on JD.com in China.

    2. It features a six-stage filtration system using RO technology to remove impurities, including heavy metals, bacteria, and viruses, while adding essential minerals back into the water.

    3. The added minerals, including strontium, calcium, magnesium, sodium, and potassium, meet mineral water-grade standards and are sourced from the Nianqing Tanggula Mountains.

    4. The purifier has a 1200G capacity with a flow rate of nearly 4 liters per minute and offers three water modes: pure water, strontium-rich water, and micro-mineral water.

    5. Smart features include an OLED touch display for real-time water quality monitoring, connectivity with Xiaomi’s HyperOS Connect and Mi Home app, and an automatic membrane flushing system for maintenance.

    Xiaomi has launched its newest smart home appliance in China. The Mijia Mineral-Rich Water Purifier 1200G is now on JD.com, priced at 3,399 yuan (about $470). This device is designed to make clean and mineral-rich drinking water easy and convenient for daily use.

    Specifications of the Xiaomi Mijia Water Purifier 1200G

    The purifier features a six-stage filtration system that uses RO (reverse osmosis) technology, which can filter out particles as small as 0.0001 microns. This means it effectively removes heavy metals, bacteria, viruses, and chlorine—things you definitely want to avoid in your drinking water.

    But Xiaomi goes beyond just purifying the water. The purifier adds essential minerals back into the water, utilizing patented mineralization technology developed in collaboration with the China University of Geosciences.

    Mineral Quality and Sourcing

    The minerals added are not random; Xiaomi ensures that the water is enriched with strontium, calcium, magnesium, sodium, and potassium, all measured to meet mineral water-grade standards. Specifically, strontium is maintained at a stable concentration of at least 0.2mg/L, with minerals sourced from rock fractures in the untouched Nianqing Tanggula Mountains. In essence, it aims to give your tap water a refreshing mountain-spring quality.

    The hardware is built for efficiency and adaptability. With a 1200G capacity, it supports a flow rate of almost 4 liters per minute. According to Xiaomi, it can fill a 150ml glass in about three seconds. There are three water modes available: pure water, strontium-rich water, and micro-mineral water, catering to various needs such as drinking, cooking, or making tea and coffee.

    Smart Features and Maintenance

    Naturally, no Xiaomi product would be complete without smart features. The purifier includes an OLED touch display faucet that provides real-time information on water quality (TDS values) and filter status. It also connects with Xiaomi’s HyperOS Connect and the Mi Home app, allowing you to monitor water consumption and filter lifespan.

    The system automatically flushes the membrane to ensure freshness and features a five-chamber pump to minimize noise. Its RO filter can last up to five years, lowering maintenance and long-term costs.

    Xiaomi has also recently launched a high-speed hair dryer that dries hair in just one minute and introduced a desktop fan that can operate for 26 hours when connected to a power bank.

    Xiaomi Launches Fast Water Purifier for Clean, Mineral-Rich Water
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  • TCL Launches Smart Lock with iPhone-Style Face Unlock Feature

    TCL Launches Smart Lock with iPhone-Style Face Unlock Feature

    Key Takeaways

    1. TCL has introduced the K7G Max smart door lock in China, priced at 2,349 yuan ($324), available on JD.com.
    2. The K7G Max features advanced 3D facial recognition technology with AI learning and can store up to 20 different faces.
    3. It includes a dual-camera system for external monitoring and a 4.5-inch IPS touchscreen for live video feed and remote access.
    4. The door lock has a long-lasting 6000mAh battery with an 8-month standby time and energy-saving modes.
    5. Its design combines aluminum alloy and basalt glass, offering a luxurious feel and noise reduction technology for quiet operation.

    TCL is broadening its smart home device range in China with the introduction of the K7G Max smart door lock. With a price tag of 2,349 yuan ($324), it is currently available on JD.com. The K7G Max merges security technology with a modern, connected look. Plus, it features a large display right on your door. Earlier this year, TCL also launched the K7G Plus model, but the Max offers even more sophisticated features.

    Key Features of the K7G Max

    The standout feature is its 3D facial recognition, which utilizes structured light technology similar to Apple’s Face ID. TCL claims that the system is intelligent enough to adjust to changes in lighting and looks due to continuous AI learning and eight different recognition algorithms working behind the scenes. It can store up to 20 different faces and offers various unlocking methods, including fingerprint, password, NFC, mechanical keys, and remote unlocking via your smartphone.

    Advanced Surveillance Capabilities

    The door lock goes beyond just facial recognition; it also monitors the area outside. Its dual-camera system combines a 2MP front camera with a 160-degree field of view and a 1MP rear camera featuring a 120-degree wide-angle lens for comprehensive coverage of your entryway. The live video feed can be accessed on a 4.5-inch IPS touchscreen that TCL refers to as a “cat-eye” display. This screen integrates with TCL’s smart ecosystem, connecting with smartphones, TVs, and other devices for remote surveillance.

    Long-lasting Battery and Design

    The K7G Max is powered by a 6000mAh battery, which TCL claims can remain on standby for as long as eight months, thanks to its T-Power energy management system. It provides low-battery alerts and visual cues to prevent unexpected issues, and it includes energy-saving modes for those who want to extend battery life even further.

    Constructed from aluminum alloy and basalt glass, the K7G Max has a luxurious feel. It also includes features like noise reduction technology to minimize sound when locking or closing the door.

    Earlier this year, TCL also expanded its television offerings in Europe by launching the Q6C QD-Mini LED TV, boasting a 144Hz refresh rate, Dolby Vision support, and competitive pricing. Additionally, the company unveiled the QM7K Mini LED TVs, which come with 2,800 dimming zones and various gaming features.

    Vibrant colors, fluid 144Hz refresh rates, and Dolby Vision support—an ideal enhancement for your living space. Limited-time offer, grab yours today!

    TCL Launches Smart Lock with iPhone-Style Face Unlock FeatureTCL Launches Smart Lock with iPhone-Style Face Unlock Feature
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  • Narwal J5 Max Robot Vacuum: 18,500Pa Suction & AI Features

    Narwal J5 Max Robot Vacuum: 18,500Pa Suction & AI Features

    Key Takeaways

    1. Exceptional Suction Power: The J5 Max features a powerful suction of 18,500Pa with a cyclone dust removal system, priced at 3,599 yuan ($496) for the Water Tank version and 4,099 yuan ($566) for the Automatic Water Supply and Drainage version.

    2. Impressive Specifications: The robot includes anti-tangle side brushes and a no-tangle roller brush, both SGS certified, designed to minimize tangles and enhance ease of use.

    3. AI-Driven Technology: Equipped with an AI vision system, the J5 Max can identify over 100 household items, allowing it to navigate obstacles and adapt cleaning intensity through Dirtsense 3.0 technology.

    4. Advanced Mopping Features: The device uses a LeLuo triangular rotating mop and Whale Fin hand-wiping system, with self-cleaning, antibacterial rinsing, and a dust bag that lasts up to 90 days.

    5. Robust Base Station: The premium base station offers automatic water exchange, self-emptying features, and smart drying, all while being powered by a 5,200mAh battery for up to three hours of cleaning.

    Narwal has recently introduced its new flagship robot vacuum and mop, the J5 Max, in China, showcasing impressive capabilities.

    Exceptional Suction Power

    The highlight is its powerful suction of 18,500Pa, made possible by Narwal’s specially designed cyclone dust removal system. The starting price for the Water Tank version is 3,599 yuan ($496), while the fully equipped Automatic Water Supply and Drainage version retails for 4,099 yuan ($566).

    Impressive Specifications

    When it comes to hardware, Narwal is emphasizing practical features for users. The J5 Max includes enhanced anti-tangle side brushes and a no-tangle roller brush, both of which have obtained SGS certifications. The side brush utilizes a smart movable design that effectively removes hair and directs debris into the dust inlet. The roller brush is designed with aerodynamics in mind, featuring a conical shape that draws hair inward, minimizing tangles. This means less manual effort to untangle and more ease of use.

    There is also a lot of intelligent technology within the device. The J5 Max is equipped with an AI-driven single-lens vision system that can identify over 100 household items. This capability allows it to avoid obstacles and maneuver through cluttered spaces effortlessly. Additionally, Narwal’s upgraded Dirtsense 3.0 technology enhances the cleaning process by detecting dirt levels and adjusting the cleaning intensity on-the-fly, automatically increasing vacuuming and mopping when necessary.

    Advanced Mopping Features

    For mopping tasks, Narwal relies on its signature LeLuo triangular rotating mop and Whale Fin bionic hand-wiping system. This setup exerts a consistent downward pressure of 12N to tackle tough stains, including those along difficult edges. The robot has self-maintenance features, such as automatic mop cleaning, antibacterial hot water rinsing at temperatures between 45°C and 75°C, and dust bags that can last up to 90 days before needing to be changed.

    The base station is equally advanced, providing automatic water exchange in the premium version, self-emptying capabilities, and smart drying features. All of this functionality is powered by a robust 5,200mAh battery, which can deliver up to three hours of uninterrupted cleaning. Plus, its sleek, minimalist design makes it a great fit for contemporary interiors.

    Narwal J5 Max Robot Vacuum: 18,500Pa Suction & AI FeaturesNarwal J5 Max Robot Vacuum: 18,500Pa Suction & AI Features
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  • Shelly Gen 4 Smart Switches with ZigBee and Matter Released

    Shelly Gen 4 Smart Switches with ZigBee and Matter Released

    Key Takeaways

    1. Shelly’s fourth generation relays and power measurement systems are designed as hardwired smart switches for stationary devices like lamps and outlets.
    2. The pricing for the new models ranges from around €18 to €25, with US pricing yet to be determined.
    3. The Shelly 1PM Mini Gen4 measures power usage, while the Shelly EM Mini Gen4 is a power measurement device without smart switch capabilities.
    4. These devices support connectivity options including Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and ZigBee, and are certified by Matter for compatibility with Apple HomeKit.
    5. The smart switches can act as ZigBee range extenders, enabling control of devices in areas without Wi-Fi access.

    Shelly has unveiled its fourth generation of relays and power measurement systems. In simple terms, these are intelligent switches aimed at more advanced users who prefer not to use inline plugs. These smart switches are designed to be hardwired and can be discreetly placed inside an appropriate flush mount. Thus, this solution is mainly meant for devices that stay stationary for extended periods, like lamps or electrical outlets.

    Pricing Details

    The new switches are available in a few options: the Shelly 1PM Mini Gen4 priced at just below €21, the Shelly EM Mini Gen4 at just under €20, the Shelly 1 Mini Gen4 around €18, and the Shelly 1PM Gen4 for €25. Pricing in the US is not yet determined.

    Product Features

    While the Shelly 1 Mini Gen4 is mainly aimed at lamps, the Shelly 1PM Mini has the added feature of measuring power usage. Both of these models can support loads up to 8 amps, whereas the Shelly EM Mini Gen4 is not even a smart switch; it merely measures power and can handle up to 16 amps.

    The Shelly 1 Gen4 is available for €22. Users of this fourth generation have various connectivity choices like Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and ZigBee for wireless operation. This smart switch is also certified by Matter and is compatible with Apple HomeKit. The manufacturer states that these devices can function as ZigBee range extenders, helpful for controlling devices in a secondary building without Wi-Fi access. These smart home devices are currently listed on the brand’s official online store in select areas, but it appears that the US store does not have them available at this time.

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    Shelly Gen 4 Smart Switches with ZigBee and Matter ReleasedShelly Gen 4 Smart Switches with ZigBee and Matter Released

     

  • Philips Hue USB-C Cable for Smart Security Cameras Available Now

    Philips Hue USB-C Cable for Smart Security Cameras Available Now

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Philips Hue Secure Camera USB-C power cable is designed specifically for charging Philips Hue Secure cameras, including the Wired camera, priced at $89.99 on Amazon.
    2. The cable supplies up to 24W of power and features a 9.8ft (3m) length, allowing flexible camera placement.
    3. It is intended for indoor use only and does not include a power supply.
    4. Available in black or white, the cable is priced at $19.99 in the US, £16.99 in the UK, and €19.99 in the Netherlands.
    5. The product comes with a two-year warranty and is sold through the brand’s online store.

    The Philips Hue Secure Camera USB-C power cable is now available globally. This accessory is made specifically to charge or power Philips Hue Secure cameras, including the Hue Secure Wired camera, which is currently priced at $89.99 on Amazon. Although it was announced back in January, it has just started to become available.

    Power Features

    This USB-C cable can supply up to 24W of power. One end includes the special contacts for the Secure camera, while the other end has a regular USB-C connector. With a length of 9.8ft (3m), it gives users flexibility in placing their smart home security cameras in various locations. This length is standard for wired cameras, so it may not provide any extra benefit for buyers. However, it could serve as a handy replacement if the original cable is damaged or lost.

    Usage and Availability

    It’s important to highlight that this accessory is meant for indoor use only and does not include a power supply. Customers can select from either black or white cables, although only one length is currently offered. It’s uncertain if more options will be available in the future. The Philips Hue Secure Camera USB-C power cable, measuring 9.8ft (3m), can be purchased in countries like the US, UK, and Netherlands for $19.99/£16.99/€19.99. The product comes with a two-year warranty and can be found through the brand’s online store.

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  • Hisense C2 and C2 Ultra Projectors Launch in New Market

    Hisense C2 and C2 Ultra Projectors Launch in New Market

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Hisense C2 and C2 Ultra projectors have launched in Australia, offering compact smart home cinema options.
    2. The C2 features 4K Trichroma laser technology, 2,000 ANSI lumens brightness, and a unique gimbal stand for large image displays.
    3. The C2 Ultra has a peak brightness of 3,000 ANSI lumens and is designed for gamers, featuring Designed for Xbox certification and IMAX Enhanced.
    4. Both models support Dolby Vision, have built-in JBL speakers, and include a Game Mode to reduce lag.
    5. Pricing for the Hisense C2 is AU$3,499 and for the C2 Ultra is AU$4,499, with availability in various Australian retailers and online platforms.

    The Hisense C2 and C2 Ultra projectors have officially hit the shelves in Australia. These two models made their debut in other regions back in October 2024 and are being touted as compact smart projectors ideal for home cinema experiences.

    Features of the Hisense C2

    The C2 projector boasts 4K Trichroma laser technology, providing a brightness of up to 2,000 ANSI lumens. It comes with a unique integrated gimbal stand that enables viewers to display images as large as 300 inches on walls or ceilings. This DLP projector features a throw ratio of 1.2:1, covers 110% of the BT.2020 color spectrum, and is compatible with Dolby Vision. Additionally, it includes handy features for image adjustment such as auto keystone correction and auto screen fit. Built-in JBL speakers enhance the audio experience, and the projector also includes a Game Mode to reduce lag, along with the Vidda Smart TV interface.

    The C2 Ultra’s Premium Offerings

    The C2 Ultra, on the other hand, is described as a more advanced option with several premium features. This model has an impressive peak brightness of 3,000 ANSI lumens and a throw ratio of 0.9-1.5:1. It shares many features with the C2, such as Dolby Vision support, integrated speakers, and a Game Mode. Hisense has particularly branded this model for gamers, highlighting its Designed for Xbox certification. Another notable feature is IMAX Enhanced, which provides richer colors, better contrast, and improved clarity.

    Pricing and Availability

    You can now purchase the Hisense C2 and C2 Ultra projectors from various Australian retailers, priced at AU$3,499 and AU$4,499, respectively. They are also available through platforms like Amazon in both the UK and the US, where the Hisense C2 projector is currently on sale for $1,799.99 at Amazon US.

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