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  • Govee Curtain Lights 2: Now with GIF Display Feature Available

    Govee Curtain Lights 2: Now with GIF Display Feature Available

    The Govee Curtain Lights 2 have officially been released in various countries around the globe. These innovative indoor smart lights can showcase patterns and GIFs, allowing you to create the perfect ambiance. They come in three different sizes: 4.9ft x 6.6ft (1.5m x 2m), 9.8ft x 6.6ft (3m x 2m), and 14.8ft x 6.6ft (4.5m x 2m).

    Features and Connectivity

    Each version of the Govee Curtain Lights 2 is equipped with RGBIC LEDs, featuring 520 LEDs in the smallest size, 1,040 in the medium model, and 1,560 in the largest option. With Bluetooth connectivity, users can manage the lights remotely through the Govee app, which allows for the uploading of images and GIFs to be displayed on the curtains. Additionally, you can utilize AI to create effects based on your input or select from over 200 preset scene modes, including eight that can synchronize with music. These lights are also Matter compatible and can respond to voice commands from Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. Notably, there is a themed version based on ‘The Wild Robot’ in the smallest size, which will feature special effects linked to the film through an over-the-air update at an unspecified time in the future.

    Pricing and Availability

    All three sizes of the Govee Curtain Lights 2 are now on sale in the US, with the smallest option priced at $149.99. The two larger variants are currently available at promotional prices of $219.99 (originally $259.99) and $339.99 (originally $399.99). In the UK, the two smaller models are priced at £149.99 and £259.99. Customers in the EU can acquire these products for €149.99, €259.99, and €399.99. The Wild Robot edition is priced at $149.99 in the US and €149.99 in the EU.

    Govee continues to innovate in the smart lighting space, offering unique solutions that blend technology with creativity.

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  • Assa Abloy Acquires Smart Lock Startup for Expanded Security Solutions

    Assa Abloy Acquires Smart Lock Startup for Expanded Security Solutions

    Assa Abloy, recognized as the largest lock manufacturer globally since the early 2000s, continues to expand its access control market by acquiring competitors. This year, the California-based smart lock company Level Lock has become Assa Abloy’s twelfth acquisition.

    Strategic Shift for Level Home, Inc.

    Level Home, Inc., the previous parent company of Level Lock, will shift its focus to the multifamily smart apartment platform, now renamed Ambient Technologies. According to a press release from Level, co-founders John Martin and Ken Goto will join Assa Abloy to further develop Level Lock, while Mike Rovito stays on as CEO of Level M. The financial details of the acquisition remain undisclosed by both companies.

    Innovative Design of Level Smart Locks

    Level smart locks are distinguished by their unique minimalist deadbolt design. The electronic components are integrated into the lock itself, allowing for a more compact structure that avoids the bulky external casings typical of other digital locks. As a result, these locks take up less than half the space compared to industry standards, making them nearly indistinguishable from traditional non-smart deadbolts.

    Premium Pricing and Market Presence

    However, this innovative technology comes at a premium price; the retrofit WiFi bolt is listed on Amazon at a significantly higher cost than many all-in-one smart locks from brands like Aqara or Yale, which often include keypad access for a lower price than the Level Lock Plus Connect. Level has achieved its high-end status through extensive research and development, aided by design expertise from former Apple employees. Despite this, the brand’s impact on the smart lock market has been limited, reporting sales of only $16 million in the past year.

    Enhancing Assa Abloy’s Portfolio

    For Assa Abloy, acquiring Level Lock greatly enhances its extensive portfolio, which includes major US brands like Kwikset and Baldwin. This purchase could lead to Level Bolt and Lock Plus users finally receiving Matter support, which Level has been slow to implement. More likely, Assa Abloy will integrate the engineering patents of Level smart locks into its existing product lineup, similar to its approach after acquiring August Home in 2014.

    Regulatory Challenges and Future Prospects

    When Assa Abloy sought to acquire the Hardware and Home Improvement (HHI) division of Spectrum Brands, which included significant smart lock brands like Kwikset and Baldwin, it had to divest August and the US branch of Yale due to concerns from the DOJ about creating a “near-monopoly.” This resulted in an $800 million deal that sold August and Yale to Fortune Brands.

    Just over a year later, Assa Abloy has resumed its strategy of acquiring access control startups, such as Level Lock. Given the small size of Level, it is unlikely the DOJ will challenge this acquisition. Assa Abloy is banking on Level’s patents to boost its smart lock offerings, providing a smoother transition for customers moving from mechanical locks to digital solutions.

    Leading the Digital Lock Revolution

    By taking control of what is arguably the most innovative brand in the locksmith industry, Assa Abloy positions itself ahead of its competitors in the access control market. With the future of locking mechanisms leaning towards digital solutions, Assa Abloy has firmly established its presence in this evolving landscape.

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  • 12W Portable Laser Engraver Nano Pro for DIY & Professional Use

    12W Portable Laser Engraver Nano Pro for DIY & Professional Use

    Longer Nano Pro 12W, introduced on September 17, 2024, is gaining attention in the laser engraving industry. This compact device caters to both hobbyists and professionals, striking a perfect balance between portability and performance. If you’re a DIY lover working on home projects or a professional artist crafting detailed designs, this laser engraver is poised to transform your creative endeavors.

    Exceptional Portability

    A key highlight of the Longer Nano Pro 12W is its remarkable portability. Weighing in at just 1.2 kg, roughly equivalent to a pair of football shoes, this laser engraver is easy to transport. Its lightweight construction liberates you from a fixed workspace, enabling you to bring it to craft fairs, workshops, or even use it in various rooms of your home. This adaptability is a significant advantage for creators who enjoy working in different environments or those without a dedicated workspace.

    Powerful Performance

    Despite its compact size, the Longer Nano Pro 12W does not skimp on power. It is available in both 6W and 12W models, with the 12W version particularly excelling in professional-grade engraving capabilities. This allows for effortless work on a diverse range of materials. Whether you’re engraving intricate designs on wood or cutting through acrylic, this engraver has the strength to turn your ideas into reality.

    Speed and Precision

    At the core of the Longer Nano Pro 12W’s design are speed and precision. It boasts an advanced Galvo system that enables engraving speeds of up to 5000mm/s. This impressive speed is complemented by remarkable accuracy of 0.01mm, ensuring that even the most minute details in your designs are flawlessly executed. For artists and crafters focused on detailed projects, this level of precision is crucial, allowing for the creation of complex designs with assurance.

    User-Friendly Experience

    One of the best aspects of the Longer Nano Pro 12W is its ease of use. It works seamlessly with popular engraving software such as LightBurn and LaserGRBL, making it user-friendly for all experience levels. Beginners will find the setup straightforward, while seasoned users will appreciate the advanced features these software options offer. Additionally, LONGER has created the LaserBurn app, enabling you to control the engraver from your smartphone. This intuitive approach allows you to start creating impressive projects right away, regardless of your technical skills.

    Versatile Applications

    The versatility of the Longer Nano Pro 12W makes it an outstanding option for a diverse range of users. DIY enthusiasts will enjoy its capacity to work with various materials and project types. Small business owners can leverage it to produce custom products or personalized gifts. Professional artists will benefit from its precision for crafting intricate artwork. Even educators might find it advantageous for teaching design and manufacturing concepts through hands-on experiences.

    In summary, the Longer Nano Pro 12W Portable Laser Engraver is an exceptional tool that delivers professional-grade engraving capabilities in a portable format. Its power, precision, and user-friendly design distinguish it in the competitive laser engraver market. Whether you’re embarking on a new hobby, expanding your small business offerings, or enhancing your professional designs, this engraver provides the flexibility and performance necessary to succeed.

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  • Eufy Outdoor String Lights E10: Voice Control & Weatherproof Design

    Eufy Outdoor String Lights E10: Voice Control & Weatherproof Design

    Outdoor lighting has evolved from merely brightening spaces to enhancing functionality, style, and security in a single solution. Eufy has recognized this shift with the introduction of its Outdoor String Lights E10, a 30-meter smart lighting system priced at $129.99 on Amazon. These lights feature RGB, warm white, and cool white LEDs, providing a color temperature range from 1500K to 9000K, allowing for versatile lighting choices.

    Durable and Weather-Resistant Design

    Designed specifically for outdoor environments, the E10 lights boast an IP65 rating, ensuring resistance against water and dust, along with UV protection. They can endure temperatures between -4°F and 104°F, making them ideal for use throughout the year. Furthermore, the lights are expected to last over 50,000 hours.

    Smart Features and Control Options

    The E10 system connects with Eufy cameras via the WonderLink feature, which allows for automatic lighting activation upon detecting motion. Users can manage the lights through the EufyLife app, which includes more than 80 different lighting themes, and can also utilize voice commands with Alexa and Google Assistant.

    Flexible Installation Methods

    For setup, the E10 offers three installation options: nails, zip ties, or hooks, allowing for easy adaptation to various outdoor environments. Each package comes with two 15-meter strings, totaling 30 bulbs, along with a control unit, adapter, screws, and zip ties.

    You can purchase the Eufy Outdoor String Lights E10 on Amazon for $129.99.

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  • BioLite Launches Easy 30-Minute Affordable Energy Backup Solution

    BioLite Launches Easy 30-Minute Affordable Energy Backup Solution

    BioLite has unveiled an affordable and easy-to-use power backup solution designed for essential home appliances. The Backup by BioLite project has already surpassed its $100,000 funding goal, attracting supporters who appreciate the convenience of safeguarding against power outages. This is BioLite’s fifth campaign on Kickstarter, and the company is known for its commitment to sustainable energy solutions. Their product range includes everything from portable solar lighting to thermal energy-powered power banks. The Backup by BioLite aims to leverage the company’s expertise by providing substantial energy storage for both outdoor adventurers and homeowners.

    Product Configurations

    The Backup by BioLite comes in two versions: Backup Core and Backup Complete.

    Backup Core serves as the foundational setup, containing the system’s main components. It provides 1.5 KWh of energy storage and includes two AC ports, which are suitable for powering a refrigerator, medical devices, or other essential appliances that require continuous electricity. According to BioLite, "Anything your wall outlet can do, Backup can do."

    Expanded Storage Options

    Backup Complete features an additional panel that connects to the Backup Core, increasing the overall storage capacity to 3 KWh. Users have the option to enhance their system further by adding up to seven more panels, potentially raising the total storage to 10.5 KWh. Installation is straightforward; users can either place the Backup unit on top of the appliance needing power or use the provided mounting bracket to secure it to a wall. After installation, users can connect their appliance to Backup and plug the unit into a wall socket. The system will automatically activate during a power outage, and users can monitor it through BioLite’s accompanying app.

    Renewable Energy Integration

    In line with BioLite’s sustainability goals, users can lengthen their system’s operational time by integrating solar panels. BioLite offers a 400 W solar panel along with a 30-foot extension cable for those interested in maximizing their backup capabilities.

    For further details, including backing options and information on available tax credits, energy enthusiasts can check out the Backup by BioLite project on Kickstarter.

  • Portable Wind Turbine Shine 2.0 with Built-In Battery and Charger

    Portable Wind Turbine Shine 2.0 with Built-In Battery and Charger

    While there are many portable solar panels available for charging devices away from power sources, they all share a common drawback: they stop working in bad weather or at night. In contrast, the Shine 2.0 portable wind turbine generator from Aurea Technologies can keep powering your devices continuously as long as there is sufficient wind.

    Enhanced Design and Features

    The Shine 2.0, the second version of this product, boasts several notable improvements over its predecessor. With an elongated egg shape, this portable wind turbine includes a built-in battery. Once assembled, it only requires wind speeds of 8mph (13kph) or higher to start generating electricity, which can be used to charge various devices like phones, laptops, cameras, and flashlights through its USB-C PD port, which has a maximum output of 75W. Additionally, you can charge the Shine 2.0 itself from a wall outlet using the USB-C port.

    At maximum wind speeds of 28mph (45kph), the turbine can produce up to 50W of power, allowing it to fully charge a laptop in just under 2 hours. However, if the wind speed drops to 8mph, the output will decrease to 5W. The original version only generated 40W and featured a 13W USB-A output. When not charging devices, the Shine 2.0 uses its generated power to recharge its 12,000mAh lithium-ion battery for later use.

    Smart Monitoring and Compatibility

    Another new feature of the Shine 2.0 is its Bluetooth-enabled app, which lets users keep track of wind speed, power output, battery status, temperature, and charging duration. The device can also charge portable power stations, like the Anker Solix C300, currently priced at $199 on Amazon. However, users will need to buy a separate USB-C to XT60 connector to connect it to the power station. Additionally, there’s an 8mm DC barrel connector option for other types of power stations.

    Portability and Pricing

    When not in use, the Shine 2.0 can be folded up and easily carried in a backpack. Weighing only 3lbs (1.3kg), it is rated IP54 for both dust and water resistance. It includes a 3ft collapsible mount, although users can opt for a 6ft mount to capture stronger winds. Pegs and guy wires are also provided to secure the turbine to the ground.

    The Shine 2.0 is currently available on Kickstarter, retailing for $571, but early supporters can purchase it for as low as $358. If everything goes as planned, shipping is expected to start in March 2025.

    Aurea Technologies (Kickstarter), via The Verge

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  • Reolink Smart Battery Doorbell Now Features 2K Resolution Upgrade

    Reolink Smart Battery Doorbell Now Features 2K Resolution Upgrade

    Reolink has introduced its latest Smart Doorbell, which operates on battery power but is claimed to match the performance of wired models, featuring impressive new specifications that may even surpass Eufy’s offerings.

    Enhanced Viewing Experience

    This new accessory boasts a 4MP sensor that changes to a 1:1 aspect ratio, unlike its wired predecessor, which used a 4:3 ratio. Reolink argues that this adjustment provides users with an improved vertical perspective, enhancing the likelihood of seeing a visitor "from head to toe."

    Advanced Features

    The Battery Doorbell is designed to detect various activities outside the door, including features like AI package recognition and theft tracking. It supports microSD cards with a capacity of up to 256GB; however, users need to purchase a Reolink Home Hub, priced at $99.99 on Amazon, for additional storage options.

    Connectivity and Installation

    Both the Hub and the new Battery Doorbell support dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4/5GHz), a feature typically found in wired versions. Reolink promotes this doorbell as an easy-to-install device that can last up to 5 months on a single charge, thanks to its 7,000mAh battery. Additionally, it is compatible with Google Assistant and Alexa.

    The new Battery Doorbell can be purchased directly from Reolink for $145.99 starting now.

  • Philips Hue Argenta Spotlight Now Brighter with Color Ambiance

    Philips Hue Argenta Spotlight Now Brighter with Color Ambiance

    Philips Hue has introduced a refreshed version of the White and Color Ambiance Argenta spotlight in the UK and EU markets. This smart lighting solution provides both white and colored illumination, offering a choice of over 16 million colors. It is perfect for enhancing the ambiance of living rooms or bedrooms. Customers can opt for models featuring one to four lights on a rectangular base.

    Enhanced Brightness and Lifespan

    Each Argenta spotlight utilizes the company’s GU10 technology, delivering brightness of up to 400 lumens at a color temperature of 4,000K. This marks an increase of 50 lumens compared to the previous version of the smart spotlight. Additionally, the new GU10 technology ensures a longer lifespan of 25,000 hours. Users can control the lighting remotely through the Philips Hue app via Bluetooth connectivity. Furthermore, by connecting to a Hue Bridge, users can manage their lights even when they are away from home and create personalized lighting scenes.

    Pricing and Availability

    The starting price for the Philips Hue White and Color Ambiance Argenta spotlight products is £84.99/€99.99 in Europe, with a detailed price list provided below. At this moment, only a white version of each model is available, and it remains uncertain if the company plans to release silver variants in the future to complement the original product line.

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  • Epson Launches New EF-21 and EF-22 Mini Laser Projectors

    Epson Launches New EF-21 and EF-22 Mini Laser Projectors

    Epson has introduced the EpiqVision Mini EF-21 and EpiqVision Mini EF-22 smart home projectors in Europe. While both models share many features, the EF-22 includes a stand for adjusting the projection angle.

    Specifications and Features

    Both the EF-21 and EF-22 offer a native 1080p resolution and boast a dynamic contrast ratio of up to 1:5,000,000. Utilizing 3LCD projection technology, these projectors can display images as large as 150 inches (~382 cm). They come equipped with autofocus, keystone correction, and screen fit tools to enhance image quality. The laser light source provides brightness of up to 1,000 lumens. With integrated Google TV, users can stream from popular platforms such as Apple TV and Netflix, and also benefit from Chromecast and Google Assistant voice controls. The models differ in audio capabilities as well; both feature built-in 5W speakers, but the EF-22 includes a passive radiator for improved bass performance.

    Longevity and Pricing

    Additionally, Epson claims that these projectors require no maintenance for up to 10 years. The EpiqVision Mini EF-21 and EF-22 will be available in the EU starting this October, with prices set at €899 (~$999) and €1,099 (~$1,222), respectively. Information regarding a US release has not yet been provided; however, customers in that region can opt for the older Mini EF-12 laser projector.

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  • Xiaomi’s New Mijia Flashlight: 1000 Lumens, 30hr Battery, IP65

    Xiaomi’s New Mijia Flashlight: 1000 Lumens, 30hr Battery, IP65

    Xiaomi has introduced the Mijia Multi-Functional Portable Flashlight at a crowdfunding price of 89 yuan ($13), with a subsequent retail price of 129 yuan ($18). The flashlight will be available for purchase starting September 18.

    Specifications of the Xiaomi Mijia Multi-Functional Portable Flashlight

    This Mijia flashlight is designed with portability in mind, weighing only 125 grams and having a diameter of 3 cm, which makes it convenient to carry wherever you go. Its lightweight nature allows it to fit effortlessly into a backpack or pocket without being cumbersome. The stylish black design is versatile, suitable for outdoor activities like camping or for use around the home.

    The flashlight is equipped with a powerful main light that emits 1000 lumens, capable of lighting up distances up to 150 meters. It provides three levels of adjustable brightness: high for outdoor settings, medium for nearby illumination, and low for softer indoor lighting.

    Versatile Lighting Modes

    This flashlight comes with four different lighting modes: high brightness, ambient light, candlelight, and emergency. The ambient light mode offers adjustable color temperatures (4000K, 3300K, and 2700K), perfect for outdoor scenarios or creating a cozy indoor atmosphere. The candlelight mode simulates a gentle flickering candle, ideal for a soothing nighttime environment.

    Powered by a 3100mAh lithium battery, the flashlight can run for up to 30 hours, ensuring you won’t be left in the dark during extended outings. It is also rated IP65 for water and dust resistance, making it robust enough for tough outdoor conditions. A soft rubber seal protects the charging port, enhancing its durability against external elements.

    Designed for Outdoor Use

    With outdoor use in mind, the flashlight features a hidden hook at the base, allowing it to be easily hung during camping trips. Additionally, it includes an emergency SOS mode to increase safety during nighttime adventures.

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