Category: Home

Motion sensors like Eve Motion and the Philips Hue Motion Sensor have become common in many smart homes. These sensors are typically used for automatically turning lights on and off. However, a new technology called Sensify ambient sensing aims to change that by allowing nearby Zigbee devices to recognize when people are present, eliminating the need for extra sensors.

How Ambient Sensing Works

According to a video from the Connectivity Standards Alliance (CSA), ambient sensing operates (in theory) when at least three compatible devices are within a certain range and create a zone. When someone moves within this area, the system can pick up slight variations in signal strength that occur due to the person’s presence.

The Launch of Sensify

Sensify has been under development since 2016, and its launch is said to be very close now. Although Ivani, the company behind this tech, hasn’t provided any details about possible partners, they claim that several well-known smart home product manufacturers are getting ready to implement the technology “very soon.” The CSA has informed The Verge that Sensify won’t be a permanent aspect of Zigbee, which means it will only be supported by a few select products, not every new Zigbee device hitting the market.

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At the close of last year, Anker confirmed its plans to introduce its inaugural robot mower for the gardening season of 2025. Initially, a teaser page only displayed an image of the device along with an in-depth look at its navigation and obstacle detection capabilities.

Exciting Developments at CES 2025

Earlier this year at CES 2025, Anker shared further details about its first robotic mower. Meanwhile, the Eufy US website offers a better view of the design for Anker’s first robotic lawnmower, which seems to be set for release under the name Eufy E18.

Design and Features

The fundamental design of Anker’s Eufy E18 robotic mower isn’t surprising. The firm previously mentioned that the model would utilize technology from TerraMow, whose S800/S1200 robotic mower performed well in our tests (in German only) and operates without boundary wires, RTK, or LiDAR. Instead, it relies on an array of cameras and sensors positioned at the front of the unit, as Anker has previously demonstrated and detailed.

Concerning color options, the Eufy E18 will be available in grey or black, setting it apart from the white color of the TerraMow. The overall design bears significant resemblance, although the Eufy E18 appears somewhat sleeker. On the top, there’s a display showing battery life, a control panel, and the usual stop button. Additionally, a handy carrying handle is located at the back. Anker highlights AI-supported navigation, obstacle detection, and multi-zone functionality in the software, mirroring the features of TerraMow.

What’s Next for the Eufy E18

More information about the Eufy E18 is anticipated at MWC 2025. Anker’s first robotic lawnmower is expected to launch in time for the 2025 gardening season, positioning itself to compete with both established brands and new startups. There are also several new robotic lawnmowers on the horizon, including models from Dreame, Ecovacs, Navimow, and Mammotion.

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Google Fiber is known for its impressive download and upload speeds that many users desire, but its limited reach can be a hassle. The good news is that the service is gradually extending its presence in more areas. Currently, construction is taking place in Las Vegas, Nevada, and customers are anticipated to gain access to this internet service later this year. Additionally, Google Fiber has revealed that it is updating three of its plans and introducing new benefits in various regions of the United States.

Focus on Major Cities

Since its debut in 2012, Google’s internet service has mainly targeted large urban centers. While it has had a hard time matching the coverage of rivals like Verizon Fios and AT&T Fiber, the speed tests from Google Fiber are exceptional. Rather than offering low-cost, slower plans, the provider aims at those who need high bandwidth for their homes and businesses. The company also claims that its monthly fees remain constant and are uniform across the nation.

Expansion in Las Vegas

Las Vegas is a hotspot for tech fans, and many are often surprised to find that Google Fiber isn’t yet available there. Last week, the GFiber blog confirmed partnerships with local authorities in the city and the surrounding Clark County. Google even shared images from the construction site and assured residents that traffic disruptions would be minimal.

New Plans and Features

The latest Google Fiber internet offerings, which maintain the existing price range of $70-$150, are named Core 1 Gig, Home 3 Gig, and Edge 8 Gig. Customers can look forward to upgraded equipment featuring WiFi 6E, along with a renewed app that simplifies home network management. However, these new plans are currently only available in a few states, including Tennessee, Alabama, Arizona, and North Carolina.

Google Fiber is rolling out new lifestyle internet products to cater to the unique needs of customers. These products include Core 1 Gig, Home 3 Gig, and Edge 8 Gig, which have been tested in Tennessee and Alabama over the past months. They are now being launched for customers in Arizona and North Carolina, with plans for additional cities soon.

Meeting Modern Demands

Founded on the belief that affordable symmetrical 1 Gig internet is essential, Google Fiber recognizes that the internet plays a pivotal role in daily life. It affects how individuals work, study, shop, and maintain connections with others. As the need for bandwidth continues to rise, internet services must adapt to fulfill customers’ online requirements. Google Fiber remains dedicated to constructing the internet that users need, with products that align with the shifting digital landscape.

These lifestyle products not only provide symmetrical speeds and excellent service, but also great value, with prices unchanged since 2012. Among the features included are:

– Customizable wired connections for tailored home networks.
– An upgrade to WiFi 6E technology for improved speeds and latency, especially for homes with numerous connected devices.
– An app that offers a personalized network health score and aids in optimizing performance.
– A robust router that ensures Wi-Fi coverage throughout the home, along with battery backup to keep everything operational during power outages.
– An Uptime Guarantee, among other benefits.

Tailored Internet Options

With the new offerings, customers can pick the internet service that best suits their needs. Core 1 Gig is a high-quality option at a reasonable price that requires minimal management. Home 3 Gig is designed for the typical household where multiple users are working, learning, streaming, and engaging in other activities simultaneously. Meanwhile, Edge 8 Gig provides advanced technology features at under 2 cents per Mbps. It’s not just about getting more; it’s about making the right choice that fits each customer’s situation.

The introduction of these lifestyle-oriented products showcases Google Fiber’s dedication to providing fast, dependable, and fairly priced internet access. To discover more about the Core 1 Gig, Home 3 Gig, and Edge 8 Gig plans in Tennessee, Alabama, Arizona, and North Carolina, refer to Liz Hsu’s latest post on Connect: The GFiber Blog.

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