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  • Shelly 7-in-1 Weather Station Launches in the US

    Shelly 7-in-1 Weather Station Launches in the US

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Shelly Ecowitt WS90 7-in-1 weather station tracks seven weather metrics, including temperature, humidity, UV levels, and more.
    2. It offers smart connectivity with Bluetooth and Zigbee, allowing compatibility with various smart home devices.
    3. The device is powered by solar energy, with AA batteries as a backup, and has an IPX5 rating for low maintenance.
    4. The WS90 is priced at $199.99 and is available in limited stock, with only 300 units released in the US.
    5. Users can access weather data through the Shelly Smart Control app, requiring a compatible gateway for connectivity.

    Shelly has introduced the Ecowitt WS90 7-in-1 weather station in the United States. Initially launched in Europe in 2025, this device enables users to monitor various weather conditions, which can help improve home efficiency.

    Comprehensive Weather Monitoring

    The Shelly Ecowitt WS90 is capable of tracking seven weather-related metrics, including temperature, humidity, UV levels, solar radiation, and atmospheric pressure. It features ultrasonic wind tracking and haptic rain detection. The temperature and humidity sensors are claimed to be very accurate, with temperature ranges from -40 to 60ºC (approximately -40 to 140ºF) and humidity from 0 to 99% RH. Understanding pressure trends can assist users in determining if the weather is getting better or worse.

    Smart Connectivity and Data Sharing

    The WS90 by Shelly provides both Bluetooth and Zigbee connectivity, enhancing its compatibility with a variety of smart home devices. It can transmit data to multiple gateways at the same time. To access weather information through the Shelly Smart Control app, users must have a compatible gateway, such as the Shelly BLU Gateway, which currently retails for $17.99 on Amazon. Additionally, device offset settings help ensure that readings remain accurate despite environmental factors. This weather station is powered by solar energy, with AA batteries serving as a backup. Furthermore, the device has an IPX5 rating, indicating a design that requires minimal maintenance.

    Availability and Pricing

    You can purchase the Ecowitt WS90 7-in-1 weather station from Shelly’s online store in the US for $199.99. Currently, only 300 units are available for this release, and there is no information on when more stock might be restocked. This product is among six new items that have just entered the market, with limited quantities of The Pill and the BLU H&T Display ZB also available.

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  • Tapo Solar-Powered Floodlight Security Camera Expands to More Countries

    Tapo Solar-Powered Floodlight Security Camera Expands to More Countries

    Key Takeaways

    1. The TP-Link Tapo C615F Kit combines a 2K security camera with an 800 lumen floodlight, offering multifunctionality for home security.
    2. The camera features color night vision, smart motion detection, and tracking, providing alerts for humans, animals, and vehicles without subscription fees.
    3. The solar panel can power the device with just 45 minutes of sunlight, and the built-in battery lasts up to 140 days.
    4. Users can store videos on a microSD card (up to 512GB) or in the cloud with a Tapo Care subscription.
    5. The Tapo C615F Kit is priced at €119.99 in Italy and €109.90 in Germany, with release dates set for January 29th and February 1st, respectively.

    The TP-Link Tapo C615F Kit Solar-Powered Floodlight Security Camera with Pan-Tilt-Zoom is set to hit the EU market soon. This device was first launched in the US at the end of 2025 and recently became available in the UK.

    Multifunctionality of the C615F Kit

    The Tapo C615F Kit is a versatile smart home device that merges a security camera with an 800 lumen floodlight. This floodlight can be handy for those coming back home at night and may help scare off unwanted visitors. Users have the ability to modify both the brightness and the direction of the floodlight, and there’s also an option for motion-activated lighting. The camera on this model is a 2K 3MP unit that provides color night vision and is capable of smart motion detection and tracking. Users will get smart alerts that tell them if a human, animal, or vehicle has been detected; it is important to highlight that this feature comes without any subscription fees.

    Power Supply Features

    Another key aspect of the Tapo C615F Kit is the solar panel that comes with it. The panel can be connected directly to the IP65-rated camera or through a 13 ft (about 4.0 m) cable. It is claimed that with just 45 minutes of direct sunlight, the panel can supply enough energy for a full 24 hours. Additionally, the built-in battery can provide power for up to 140 days. Users can store recorded videos either in the cloud through a Tapo Care subscription or locally on a microSD card with a capacity of up to 512GB (not included).

    Pricing and Availability

    In Italy, pre-orders for the Tapo C615F KIT Solar-Powered Floodlight Security Camera with Pan-Tilt-Zoom can now be made on Amazon for €119.99. The item is expected to be available on January 29th. Meanwhile, in Germany, the smart home device has a listed price on Amazon of €109.90 and is set to be released on February 1st.

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  • Elon Musk’s Tesla Robots: Household Helpers Coming in 2027

    Elon Musk’s Tesla Robots: Household Helpers Coming in 2027

    Key Takeaways

    1. Elon Musk announced that the Optimus robot will be available for private buyers by late 2027.
    2. The current version of Optimus is used in Tesla’s factories for simple tasks, with improvements in speed and dexterity in the latest model.
    3. Optimus is expected to handle more complex tasks in factories by 2026, but home availability by 2027 is uncertain due to safety standards.
    4. Tesla aims to keep the price of Optimus below $30,000, but the exact cost is still unclear.
    5. Public reaction is mixed, with skepticism on platforms like Reddit and increased investor optimism reflected in Tesla’s stock price.

    A mechanical helper that can clean, do laundry, or serve food is a wish for many people, but even with great progress in robots, it still seems far away. Yet, a recent statement by Elon Musk has made the concept of home robots feel closer to being real. While speaking at the World Economic Forum in Davos, the CEO of Tesla announced that the Optimus robot will be available for private buyers starting in late 2027.

    Advances in Optimus

    Optimus is currently being used in Tesla’s factories, where it manages simple sorting and transporting tasks. The second version of this humanoid robot, revealed in December, is lighter and quicker, with more skillful hands. This development suggests that Optimus could take on more complicated jobs in the future, possibly making it useful in private residences. Elon Musk seems to agree with this perspective.

    Future Tasks and Pricing

    Musk mentioned that the Tesla robot is expected to start managing more intricate tasks at the company’s car factories in 2026. However, whether Optimus will really be available for homes by 2027 is still in doubt. Tesla has established strict safety standards that need to be satisfied before this can happen. Regarding the cost, it’s still unclear. Tesla has previously indicated it hopes to keep the price below $30,000.

    Public Reaction

    On Reddit, Musk’s announcement has faced doubt. Many people are skeptical that Optimus will actually be for sale to private buyers in 2027, citing previous commitments that did not come true – like full self-driving capabilities, robotaxis, or the new Roadster. On the other hand, investors seem to be more hopeful. Following this news, Tesla’s stock has seen an increase.

    Bloomberg (Paywall)

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  • Anker Launches New Power Bank Version in New Country

    Anker Launches New Power Bank Version in New Country

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Anker Nano Power Bank (10K, 45W) has launched in the UK with a new pink color option, priced at £49.99.
    2. The pink version features a shiny metallic finish, a pink retractable USB-C cable, and a carrying loop, maintaining the same specifications as earlier versions.
    3. It can output up to 45W via the built-in USB-C cable or port, and 22.5W through a USB-A port, with 7.5W delivered when charging three devices simultaneously.
    4. The power bank includes a battery level display and ActiveShield 3.0 technology for safety against overheating.
    5. The dimensions are 81.5 x 50.5 x 36.0 mm, weighing 232 g, with no current availability date for the pink version in other European countries.

    The Anker Nano Power Bank (10K, 45W, Built-In Retractable USB-C Cable) has just launched in the UK with a new color option. This power bank first hit the market in black and white back in June 2025, and then a green version followed in late July.

    New Color Option

    Now, UK customers can select from four colors, including a fresh pink variant. This new pink Anker Nano Power Bank is currently available only through the brand’s Amazon store and is priced at £49.99, which is the same as the other three color options.

    Features and Specifications

    The pink version features a shiny metallic finish, a pink retractable cable, and a handy carrying loop. Despite the new color, this power bank shares all the same specifications as its earlier versions. The built-in USB-C cable extends to about 27.6 inches (around 70 cm), and the device can output up to 45W through either the USB-C cable or USB-C port. Additionally, there’s a USB-A port that can provide up to 22.5W of power. When charging three devices at once, each output will deliver 7.5W.

    Additional Information

    This Nano Power Bank includes a display that shows the battery level and charging details. To ensure safety, it features ActiveShield 3.0 technology to prevent overheating. Its dimensions are 81.5 x 50.5 x 36.0 mm (approximately 3.2 x 2.0 x 1.4 inches), and it weighs 232 g (around 0.51 lbs). It’s not clear when this pink version will be available in other European countries, but it has recently launched in the US, where it sells for $59.99 on Amazon.

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  • Xiaomi Mijia 502L Smart Fridge Launches in More Countries

    Xiaomi Mijia 502L Smart Fridge Launches in More Countries

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Xiaomi Mijia Refrigerator Cross Door 502L is expanding its availability in several European countries after its initial launch in Spain in 2025.
    2. It features a total capacity of 502L, including a 297L fridge, a 176L freezer, and a 29L iFresh zone for versatile cooling options.
    3. The fridge includes smart features such as remote management via the Xiaomi Home app and compatibility with voice commands through Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant.
    4. It offers three cooling modes: auto, super cool, and super freeze, along with an antibacterial silver ion module to enhance freshness.
    5. The regular price in Europe is £799/€849, but a promotional deal currently offers it for £699/€749 in the UK and France.

    Xiaomi’s Mijia Refrigerator Cross Door 502L is now more accessible in several European countries. Initially launched in selected places like Spain in 2025, this was the first product of its type from the brand for this market. It is now expanding its availability throughout the region.

    Appliance Features and Capacity

    The Xiaomi Mijia Refrigerator Cross Door is touted by the company as both “premium” and “versatile.” The 502L capacity is divided into three sections: a fridge compartment of 297L, a 176L freezer compartment, and a 29L iFresh zone. The iFresh convertible area can function at a different temperature than the rest of the fridge, providing cooling options of -1 to 5°C (30 to 41°F). Xiaomi mentions this feature could help in chilling beverages or maintaining the freshness of produce for longer periods. An antibacterial silver ion module is included to help reduce odors and enhance freshness. Users have the option to select from three cooling modes: auto, super cool, and super freeze, according to their preferences.

    Remote Management and Smart Features

    In addition, you can control the Xiaomi Mijia Refrigerator Cross Door remotely via the Xiaomi Home app. This allows you to adjust the temperature, pick from various modes, and initiate over-the-air (OTA) updates. Furthermore, users will receive smart alerts if the fridge door remains open for more than two minutes. The model is also compatible with voice commands through Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant.

    Pricing Information

    In Europe, the Xiaomi Mijia Refrigerator Cross Door 502L is priced at £799/€849 in countries like the UK and Germany. However, it’s currently being offered at a lowered price of £699/€749 due to a promotional deal on the brand’s online shops in the UK and France.

    Xiaomi’

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  • Nitecore TIP3 Flashlight: Switch Between 3000K, 4500K, 6000K

    Nitecore TIP3 Flashlight: Switch Between 3000K, 4500K, 6000K

    Key Takeaways

    1. Compact Design: The TIP3 is a small flashlight, measuring 6 cm in length and weighing 30 grams, making it ideal for keychain attachment.

    2. Color Temperature Selection: Users can choose from three color temperatures: warm white (3,000K), neutral white (4,500K), and cool white (6,500K) using a simple switch.

    3. Enhanced Battery Capacity: The battery capacity has increased to 650 mAh from 500 mAh, with charging via a user-friendly USB-C port.

    4. Runtime Improvements: The TIP3 offers up to 160 hours of runtime on the lowest setting (1 lumen), compared to 50 hours for the TIP SE.

    5. Turbo Mode Functionality: The flashlight features a turbo mode with 720 lumens output for short bursts, covering a range of 92 meters.

    Nitecore has recently launched the TIP3, a compact flashlight that measures about 6 cm in length and has a weight of 30 grams, making it ideal for attachment to a keychain. The company has introduced this model as the next version of the TIP SE.

    Color Temperature Selection

    One of the standout features of the TIP3 is its ability to switch among three different color temperatures (MCT), much like its predecessor, the TINI3. Users can easily select from warm white (3,000 Kelvin), neutral white (4,500 Kelvin), and cool white (6,500 Kelvin) using a convenient switch.

    Enhanced Battery Capacity

    The flashlight’s battery capacity has been upgraded to 650 mAh from the previous 500 mAh, while the voltage remains likely unchanged. Charging is done through a USB-C port, making it more user-friendly.

    Runtime Improvements

    Nitecore has also significantly enhanced the maximum runtime in certain modes. In its lowest setting, which produces one lumen, the TIP3 can operate for up to 160 hours. In contrast, the TIP SE only lasts for 50 hours under the same conditions. This improvement showcases how Nitecore has optimized LED efficiency for low-light usage.

    Performance in Brightness

    However, the advancements in higher brightness levels aren’t as dramatic. When used in maximum continuous mode at 220 lumens, the TIP3 lasts for 1 hour and 45 minutes, while the TIP SE provides only 180 lumens for 1 hour and 30 minutes. The beam distance has also increased from 45 meters to 57 meters.

    Turbo Mode Functionality

    The flashlight includes a turbo mode that now outputs 720 lumens compared to the previous 700 lumens, but it’s only available for short bursts. There are no specified limits on battery charge for this mode, so it should function continuously unless the TIP3 overheats. The range it covers is now 92 meters.

    Additional Features

    Included with the TIP3 is a removable clip that can be used to protect the buttons or securely attach the flashlight to a pocket or cap. It also has an IP54 rating, making it suitable for use on rainy days, although it is not designed to withstand full water submersion.

    The TIP3 comes in three colors: orange, blue, and black, and is priced at just under $40.

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  • Webb Discovers First Clear Evidence Solving a Mind-Puzzling Mystery

    Webb Discovers First Clear Evidence Solving a Mind-Puzzling Mystery

    Key Takeaways

    1. Crystalline silicates have been found in comets located in cold regions like the Kuiper Belt and Oort Cloud.
    2. These silicates require high temperatures to form, raising questions about their presence in comets.
    3. Scientists used the Webb telescope’s Mid-Infrared Instrument (MIRI) to study a protostar called EC 53.
    4. The star undergoes a 100-day burst phase, consuming gas and dust while ejecting strong jets.
    5. These jets can carry crystalline silicates to the outer regions of the protoplanetary disk, where comets are found.

    Astronomers have identified crystalline silicates within comets. These comets are found in extremely cold areas such as the Kuiper Belt and the Oort Cloud. However, crystalline silicates need a lot of heat to develop. So, what explains their presence in comets? The recent Webb observation offers some answers.

    Observing the Protostar

    For this research, a group of scientists utilized Webb’s Mid-Infrared Instrument (MIRI) to study a protostar known as EC 53. They found that crystalline silicates originated from the hot inner section of the gas and dust disk that surrounds the star, which is known as a protoplanetary disk.

    The Star’s Activity

    The observations reveal that the star enters a dramatic 100-day burst phase. During this event, the young star consumes surrounding gas and dust while simultaneously ejecting strong jets and outflows. Webb detected that these powerful outflows can propel the crystalline silicates to the outer regions of the star’s protoplanetary disk. In relation to our solar system, this outer region is where comets are typically located.

    This finding supports the reasoning behind the presence of heat-created crystalline silicates in comets, which are often thought of as icy snowballs. The results of this study were shared in the journal Nature on January 21.

    Nature via NASA

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  • Powerful Solar Storm Unveils Northern Lights in Surprising Locations

    Powerful Solar Storm Unveils Northern Lights in Surprising Locations

    Key Takeaways

    1. Coronal mass ejections (CMEs) are massive bursts of magnetized plasma from the Sun’s corona that can disrupt the solar wind and cause geomagnetic storms on Earth.
    2. On January 19, a geomagnetic storm rapidly shifted between levels G1, G2, G3, and G4, indicating its high intensity.
    3. The storm was caused by a CME from an X1.9 solar flare, which reached Earth in about a day, traveling approximately 91 million miles.
    4. The event produced stunning auroras that extended beyond polar regions, with sightings reported as far as Germany and the southwestern United States.
    5. The auroras displayed vibrant colors like red, green, and magenta, with many images shared widely on social media.

    Coronal mass ejections (CMEs) are huge outbursts of magnetized plasma that explode from the outer layer of the Sun, known as the corona. When these ejections occur, they travel through space, disrupt the solar wind, and can lead to geomagnetic storms on our planet.

    January 19’s Storm

    On January 19, Earth experienced one of these geomagnetic storms. Such storms are typically categorized into levels G1, G2, G3, and G4. The geomagnetic storm on January 19 quickly shifted between all four categories, showcasing its intensity.

    Cause and Speed

    The storm was triggered by a CME that was propelled from the Sun during a potent X1.9 solar flare. This CME moved at a remarkable speed, covering the approximately 91 million miles to reach Earth’s magnetosphere in just about a day.

    The Auroras

    This remarkable event resulted in stunning lights visible in the sky, known as auroras. Unusually, this particular aurora spread beyond the polar regions, illuminating mid-latitude skies. People in various places, ranging from Germany to the southwestern United States, reported seeing it.

    The prolonged duration of these auroras made the event even more spectacular. After the initial impact, the CME kept interacting with Earth’s magnetic field, which remained disturbed for several hours. This led to multiple bursts of auroral activity instead of just a short-lived display.

    A Colorful Display

    In some areas, the northern lights appeared in vibrant shades of red, green, and magenta. Many images capturing this breathtaking scene were shared widely on social media.

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  • Tapo 3K Solar Security Camera Launches in Europe

    Tapo 3K Solar Security Camera Launches in Europe

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Tapo C630 Solar-Powered Security Camera Kit features a 3K 5MP resolution, full-color and infrared night vision, and can detect movement up to 60 ft away.

    2. The camera can rotate 360° horizontally and 130° vertically, and includes smart tracking to follow moving objects, with event notifications sent via the Tapo app.

    3. The kit includes a solar panel that powers the camera, requiring just 45 minutes of sunlight for a full day’s operation, and the built-in battery lasts up to 180 days on a charge.

    4. Video footage can be stored either in the cloud with a Tapo Care subscription or locally on a microSD card (up to 512GB), and the camera is rated IP65 for weather resistance.

    5. The Tapo C630 Kit is priced at £159.99/€109.90 in the UK and Germany, with a pre-order option in Italy for €119.99, and a release date set for January 29th, 2026.

    TP-Link has begun offering the new Tapo C630 Solar-Powered Pan/Tilt Security Camera Kit in Europe. This innovative home gadget is made for outdoor settings, allowing you to keep an eye on your property from afar.

    Camera Features and Functionality

    The Tapo C630 boasts a 3K 5MP resolution and comes equipped with both full-color and infrared night vision capabilities. The company claims it can sense movement from as far as 60 ft (about 18.3 m) away and can rotate 360° horizontally and 130° vertically. This camera also has a smart tracking feature that follows moving objects. It includes a free identification tool that distinguishes between people, pets, or vehicles. Notifications about these events are sent through the Tapo app, where users can also manage the camera remotely.

    Kit Components and Power Source

    The Tapo C630 Kit features a solar panel that connects to the camera via a 13 ft (approximately 4 m) cable, allowing for flexible placement. TP-Link mentions that just 45 minutes of direct sunlight can power the device for an entire day, and its built-in battery can last up to 180 days on a single charge. Users have the option to save video footage either in the cloud through a Tapo Care subscription or locally on a microSD card that can hold up to 512GB (sold separately). This model is rated IP65 for weather resistance and functions well in temperatures ranging from -20°C to 45°C (-4°F to 113°F).

    Pricing and Availability

    In the UK and Germany, the TP-Link Tapo C630 Kit is currently available for £159.99/€109.90. You can also pre-order this product on the brand’s Amazon page in Italy for €119.99, with a release date set for January 29th, 2026. It’s unclear when this model will be available in other European nations.

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  • Tapo Launches Dual-Lens Security Camera with Free Smart Alerts

    Tapo Launches Dual-Lens Security Camera with Free Smart Alerts

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Tapo C545D is a dual lens outdoor security camera with 2K 3MP resolution and features a 165° wide-angle lens and a pan/tilt lens.
    2. It includes smart tracking capabilities, allowing the camera to follow moving objects automatically.
    3. The camera offers AI detection alerts for unidentified movements and supports two-way audio through a built-in speaker and microphone.
    4. It supports Wi-Fi and Ethernet connections, with local storage options up to 512 GB and cloud storage through Tapo Care.
    5. The Tapo C545D is currently priced at €99.90 in Spain, Italy, and Germany, and £119.99 in the UK, with uncertain availability in other regions.

    Tapo has introduced the C545D Outdoor Dual Lens Pan/Tilt Security Camera in the European market. This innovative smart home gadget from TP-Link’s sub-brand was first announced back in 2025, but it has just recently been made available for purchase in this area.

    Features of the Tapo C545D

    The Tapo C545D serves as an outdoor security camera equipped with dual 2K 3MP lenses. The upper wide-angle lens offers a 165° field of view (FOV), while the lower lens can pan 360° and tilt up to 121°, featuring a 6 mm telephoto lens. This setup enables you to monitor two sections of your property at the same time, or, when activated in smart tracking mode, the pan/tilt lens can automatically adjust to follow moving objects. Moreover, users can select between full color and black and white IR night vision modes.

    Advanced Functionality

    TP-Link’s Tapo C545D is bundled with a complimentary AI detection tool that alerts users to any unidentified movements, whether it be a person, pet, or vehicle, through the company’s app. Additionally, it offers two-way audio functionality due to its built-in speaker and microphone. The security camera supports both Wi-Fi and Ethernet connections, with footage being stored locally on an up to 512 GB microSD card (which is not included), or in the cloud through a Tapo Care subscription. This model is also compatible with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Samsung SmartThings. Furthermore, it boasts an IP66 Weather Resistance rating, allowing it to withstand various weather conditions.

    Pricing and Availability

    Currently, you can purchase the Tapo C545D Outdoor Dual Lens Pan/Tilt Security Camera on Amazon in nations like Spain, Italy, and Germany for €99.90. It has also recently launched in the UK, where it is priced at £119.99. The timeline for when this new model might be available in other regions, such as the US, remains uncertain.

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