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  • xTool MetalFab: All-in-One Welding, Cutting & Cleaning Machine

    xTool MetalFab: All-in-One Welding, Cutting & Cleaning Machine

    Key Takeaways

    1. All-in-One Metalworking Solution: The MetalFab by xTool combines laser welding, CNC cutting, and surface cleaning in a compact device, designed for both beginners and experienced users.

    2. Versatile Functionality: It offers manual and automated features, including handheld welding and CNC-guided cleaning, with notable underwater welding capabilities for high-quality connections in wet conditions.

    3. User-Friendly Design: The device includes smart connectivity, a built-in control panel, and a touchscreen for easy navigation, making complex tasks more manageable.

    4. Market Gap Addressed: Unlike competitors like the Snapmaker Artisan, the MetalFab provides comprehensive support for welding and metal surface cleaning, enhancing material shaping and finishing capabilities.

    5. Pricing and Pre-Order Information: The MetalFab is available for pre-order on Kickstarter, with prices starting at $4,999 USD, and final retail prices may vary based on multiple factors.


    What if you could do metalworking without a cluttered workshop packed with tools? That’s the idea behind the MetalFab by xTool – a small, all-in-one device that merges laser welding, CNC cutting, and surface cleaning into one machine. xTool claims this is the first of its kind smart solution for metalworking. It features guided controls and top-notch capabilities suitable for both beginners and experienced users.

    Versatile Functionality

    The MetalFab system offers both manual and automated features, allowing for handheld welding and cutting alongside CNC-guided cleaning and precision engraving. A particularly impressive aspect is its underwater welding capability. As reported by Highways.Today, xTool states this allows for clean connections “with dry-land quality” even in wet conditions.

    User-Friendly Design

    Smart connectivity and a built-in control panel help users navigate through challenging tasks while giving professionals room to add their own customizations. It comes equipped with a touchscreen. For the cleaning process, the laser-based system efficiently targets rust and paint, replacing older methods like sandpaper or chemical stripping with focused light precision.

    Filling a Gap in the Market

    While systems like the Snapmaker Artisan provide 3D printing, engraving, and CNC milling, they lack support for welding or metal surface cleaning. A review from 3DPrinting.com highlights that the Artisan is meant for lighter, modular fabrication. The MetalFab seeks to bridge this gap by offering extended features for material shaping, finishing, and repair.

    The MetalFab is up for pre-order on Kickstarter, with the campaign set to close on Thursday, 22 May 2025, at 6:00 PM PDT (Pacific Daylight Time), as per Kickstarter’s details. Pricing on the platform starts at $4,999 USD for the 800W version, while the complete 1200W CNC setup is priced at $13,999. The suggested retail prices from the manufacturer go from $6,999 to $17,999. It’s important to note that retail availability has not yet been confirmed.

    Important Notes on Pricing

    Keep in mind, the pricing mentioned reflects the Kickstarter campaign tiers at the time of this writing. Final prices could change based on availability, shipping destinations, local taxes (like VAT), and post-campaign retail costs. Also, xTool provides flexible payment plans on its site for certain configurations.

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  • Dreame L40s Pro Ultra: Powerful New Robot Vacuum Cleaner Released

    Dreame L40s Pro Ultra: Powerful New Robot Vacuum Cleaner Released

    Key Takeaways

    1. Enhanced Suction Power: The Dreame L40s Pro Ultra features increased suction power, rising from 11,000 Pa to 19,000 Pa, and offers faster charging capabilities.

    2. Improved Obstacle Avoidance: The vacuum includes advanced obstacle avoidance technology using AI, RGB, LED, and dual lasers for more effective navigation.

    3. Retained Features: Key features from the L40 Ultra, such as the HyperStream detangling DuoBrush, RoboSwing arm, and LiDAR navigation, remain unchanged for thorough cleaning.

    4. Long Battery Life and Smart Control: The 8-in-1 docking station allows for up to 100 days of hands-free operation, with remote control available via a smart app and voice commands.

    5. Pricing and Availability: The vacuum is available for £799 in the UK and €899 in select European countries, with shipping options varying by location.


    The Dreame L40s Pro Ultra Robot Vacuum Cleaner and Mop has recently been released in various European nations, such as the UK, Spain, and Italy. This new version comes with a few enhancements when compared to the previous L40 Ultra model, which debuted in 2024.

    Enhanced Suction Power

    One of the most significant upgrades is the suction power, which has jumped from 11,000 Pa to 19,000 Pa. Another interesting addition to the L40s Pro Ultra is its fast charging capability, allowing the docking station to charge the vacuum up to 30% quicker than the earlier model. Additionally, there’s an upgrade in obstacle avoidance tech, combining AI, RGB, LED, and dual lasers to help it move around your home more effectively.

    Similar Features

    Many features remain unchanged from the L40 Ultra. It still includes the HyperStream detangling DuoBrush and RoboSwing arm for sweeping, along with the DuoScrub and MopExtend for mopping, all aimed at ensuring thorough cleaning. The vacuum uses LiDAR navigation to traverse your home and the EasyLeap technology helps it tackle obstacles of up to 4 cm (about 1.6 inches), such as door thresholds. Users can control the vacuum remotely through the brand’s smart app or by using voice commands. Furthermore, the 8-in-1 docking station is reported to offer up to 100 days of hands-free operation, automatically emptying the dustbin and washing and drying the mops.

    Pricing and Availability

    You can currently purchase the Dreame L40s Pro Ultra Robot Vacuum Cleaner and Mop from the brand’s online store in the UK for £799, with immediate shipping. It’s also listed on Amazon for €899 in countries including Spain, Italy, and Germany. However, the Amazon listings indicate that buyers should anticipate delivery between June and November of 2025. In Germany, the vacuum can also be obtained through MediaMarkt, which provides an immediate delivery option in certain areas. At this price point, the new version is just £50/€50 more expensive than the L40 Ultra. It remains unclear when the Dreame L40s Pro Ultra will make its debut in the United States.

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  • Casio Launches G-Shock Collector Watch Display Case

    Casio Launches G-Shock Collector Watch Display Case

    Key Takeaways

    1. Casio launched a new collection of watch stands, holders, and a display case for G-Shock watch collectors.
    2. The G-Shock Collection Display Set is priced at $199 and features an etched logo, flip-open acrylic cover, and three watch mounts.
    3. Single and dual-watch holders are available for $35 and $45, respectively, both featuring the G-Shock logo and made from similar materials.
    4. Entry-level C-shaped watch stands are sold in pairs for $25, made of acrylic with protective resin coating.
    5. Suggested models for new collectors include the GMC-B2100ZE-1A (analog) and GPRH1000-1 (digital), with a premium option being the MRG-BF1000RG.


    Casio has introduced a new collection of watch stands, holders, and a display case, aimed at fans of G-Shock watches who wish to show off their collections.

    Main Attraction

    The standout item in this collection is the G-Shock Collection Display Set, featuring a prominent ‘G’ on either side of the display case. Priced at $199, this case boasts the G-Shock logo etched on the stainless steel top, complete with a flip-open acrylic cover. Its clear top enables solar charging. Included in the set are three watch mounts made from acrylic, steel, and MDF, wrapped in a fabric blend of polyurethane and nylon. The total weight of the case is an impressive 2,490 g (5.49 lbs.).

    Smaller Holders

    In addition, the series offers watch holders tailored for one or two G-Shock watches. These compact holders also feature the G-Shock logo on the steel base and are constructed from acrylic, steel, MDF, and the same cloth made from polyurethane and nylon. The single-watch holder is priced at $35 and weighs 270 g (9.52 oz.), while the dual-watch holder costs $45 and has a weight of 430 g (15.2 oz.).

    Basic Stands

    The entry-level C-shaped watch stands are sold in pairs, with the G-Shock logo printed on the base. These stands are made of acrylic, with the C-mounts coated in a protective resin. The set of stands is available for $25 and each stand weighs 50.5 g (1.78 oz.).

    For those who are new to collecting G-Shock watches, they might want to consider the analog 50th anniversary model GMC-B2100ZE-1A in black and gold, or the digital GPRH1000-1 in black. Collectors looking for a top-tier G-Shock might be interested in the MRG-BF1000RG, which comes in a striking Goliath frog green.

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  • Philips Hue Bridge and HDMI Sync Box Receive Exciting Updates

    Philips Hue Bridge and HDMI Sync Box Receive Exciting Updates

    Key Takeaways

    1. Philips Hue Bridge firmware update to version 1970188010 improves performance and reliability.
    2. Philips Hue Play HDMI Sync Box 4K firmware update to version 2.5.1 includes general bug fixes.
    3. Both updates are being rolled out to most users with no major new features.
    4. The previous HDMI Sync Box update (version 2.5.0) introduced new features for the 8K model.
    5. Users should ensure automatic updates are enabled in the Philips Hue app to receive the latest versions.


    Philips Hue has just released new firmware updates for both the Hue Bridge and the Hue Play HDMI Sync Box 4K. These updates are relatively minor and come a few weeks after the previous versions.

    Philips Hue Bridge Update

    The Philips Hue Bridge (currently priced at $41.89 on Amazon) is now getting software version 1970188010. The notes for this release suggest that there are improvements in performance and reliability for this smart lighting hub, but no additional specifics are mentioned. The company states that this update should be available to all Hue Bridge users.

    Philips Hue Play HDMI Sync Box 4K Update

    On the other hand, the Philips Hue Play HDMI Sync Box 4K (currently available for $249.99 on Amazon) is being updated to firmware version 2.5.1. Similar to the Bridge update, the release notes are quite brief, mentioning general bug fixes. This update is expected to reach most, if not all, users during this rollout phase. It’s worth noting that back in early April, Philips Hue released version 2.5.0 for the HDMI Sync Boxes, which addressed bugs for the 4K model and introduced new features for the 8K variant, such as support for Display Stream Compression (DSC) pass-through, 3D content pass-through, and 144Hz light syncing.

    Ensuring You Get the Updates

    To make sure you receive these updates, it’s important to verify that automatic updates are enabled in the Philips Hue app. You can easily check this by navigating to Settings > Software update > Automatic update.

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  • Xiaomi Mijia Water Purifier S1: Smart Faucet, 2.78L/min Flow

    Xiaomi Mijia Water Purifier S1: Smart Faucet, 2.78L/min Flow

    Key Takeaways

    1. High Flow Rate: The Mijia Water Purifier S1 (1000G) delivers up to 2.78L of purified water per minute, filling a 150mL cup in just 3.2 seconds.

    2. Advanced Filtration: It features a 0.0001-micron RO filtration membrane that removes over 99.9% of common pollutants, including heavy metals and harmful bacteria.

    3. Smart Technology: Supports Xiaomi’s HyperOS Connect for monitoring water quality, filter life, and has a one-touch reordering feature for filters.

    4. User-Friendly Design: Comes with a smart touch-sensitive faucet, an OLED display for real-time TDS values, and four preset volume options.

    5. Long-lasting Filters: The RO filter lasts up to five years, while the PPC filter lasts up to two years, ensuring durability with quiet operation and a leak-proof design.


    Xiaomi has unveiled the Mijia Water Purifier S1 (1000G) in China, a cutting-edge smart RO system designed for modern households that are connected. Pre-orders are now open on JD.com, with a price tag of 1,599 yuan ($220). Official sales will commence at 10:00 AM on May 8.

    Specifications of the Mijia Water Purifier S1 (1000G)

    This water purifier boasts a 1000G high flow rate system, providing up to 2.78L of purified water each minute. It can fill a 150mL cup in just 3.2 seconds, making it ideal for families with busy lifestyles. It features a 0.0001-micron RO filtration membrane that eliminates over 99.9% of common pollutants, including heavy metals like cadmium and lead, as well as harmful bacteria like E. coli.

    Features and Technology

    Equipped with an advanced PPC + RO filtration module, the Mijia S1 offers thorough purification by removing chlorine, sediment, and other dangerous substances. The system comes with an advanced “Zero Stale Water 3.0” mechanism, which flushes the RO membrane before each use to guarantee that each drop is fresh and clean.

    The purifier includes a smart touch-sensitive faucet that has an IPX7 waterproof rating and a 10-level anti-corrosion electroplating finish. Users can enjoy four preset volume options, and a large OLED display shows real-time TDS values along with water output. The faucet’s high-flow design allows for quick filling, while an internal precision rectifier ensures smooth dispensing.

    Connectivity and Maintenance

    This device supports Xiaomi’s HyperOS Connect, allowing users to monitor water quality, keep track of filter life, and receive alerts for replacements through the Mi Home app. Additionally, it has RFID-enabled anti-counterfeit filters and a one-touch reordering feature.

    The unit is equipped with a long-lasting RO filter that can last up to five years, and a PPC filter that endures for up to two years with normal use. It operates quietly thanks to a six-chamber diaphragm pump and has a built-in leak-proof water circuit for added safety.

    Physically, the purifier measures 163mm × 445mm × 379mm and weighs around 11.7kg. It runs on 2.4GHz Wi-Fi for smart connectivity and is optimized for municipal tap water temperatures between 4°C and 40°C. All essential accessories are included, such as filters, PE pipes, a faucet, T-valve, and mounting components.

  • Shelly Gen3 Smart Switches Now Support Matter in Latest Update

    Shelly Gen3 Smart Switches Now Support Matter in Latest Update

    Key Takeaways

    1. Shelly’s Gen3 smart switches now support Matter, enabling control of various devices like lights and heaters from afar.
    2. The firmware version 1.6.0 beta is being rolled out to specific devices, including Shelly 1 Gen3 and Shelly Mini 1 Gen3.
    3. Matter compatibility allows seamless integration with popular smart home systems such as Amazon Alexa, Apple Home, and Google Home.
    4. The update also introduces compatibility with the LoRa add-on and new calibration features for ProDimmer models.
    5. Gradual rollout of the firmware is expected over the coming weeks, with more devices gaining Matter support in the future.


    Shelly is launching a fresh beta update that introduces Matter support for its Gen3 smart switches. This new feature lets you control and automate a variety of devices, such as lights, heaters, and blinds, from afar. With Matter compatibility, these products can work seamlessly with numerous smart home systems, including Amazon Alexa, Apple Home, and Google Home.

    Details of the Update

    The firmware version 1.6.0 beta is being rolled out to devices like the Shelly 1 Gen3, Shelly 1L Gen3, and Shelly Mini 1 Gen3 (currently priced at $14.99 on Amazon). A complete list of devices that will support Matter with this update can be found below. This will be a gradual rollout, with eligible devices expected to receive the firmware in the next weeks. The Shelly Gen4 smart switches, which were designed with Matter support from the start, debuted in Europe in March 2025 and are also making their way to the US. In addition, the Shelly Plug S Gen3 smart plug also came with Matter already integrated.

    Additional Features

    In addition to Matter support, this update also adds compatibility with the LoRa add-on for many devices. Moreover, the ProDimmer1PM and ProDimmer2PM can now initiate calibration either on the first toggle or with a simultaneous button press. You can check out the full changelog for firmware version 1.6.0 in a post on the company’s forum.

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  • WiZ HDMI Sync Box Launches at Half the Price of Philips Hue

    WiZ HDMI Sync Box Launches at Half the Price of Philips Hue

    Key Takeaways

    1. The WiZ HDMI sync box is a budget-friendly alternative to the Philips Hue HDMI sync box, priced at $89.99 for smaller TVs and $109.99 for larger TVs.

    2. It features a single HDMI input port and a built-in microphone for syncing lights with audio, offering four preset lighting modes and adjustable settings.

    3. The sync box supports HDMI 2.0 devices, allowing for 4K resolution at 60Hz and compatibility with HDR 10+ and Dolby Vision.

    4. It can connect to unlimited WiZ lights on the same Wi-Fi network and is compatible with both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.

    5. WiZ has also introduced gradient light bars and floor lights, with prices ranging from $59.99 to $89.99, which can be used alongside the sync box.


    After being revealed in a leak last month, the WiZ HDMI sync box has now been officially introduced. This HDMI sync box serves as a budget-friendly option compared to the Philips Hue HDMI sync box, which is listed on Amazon for $249.99. For those unaware, both the WiZ and Philips Hue brands are owned by Signify, a Dutch company that was formerly recognized as Philips Lighting.

    Pricing and Options

    The WiZ HDMI sync box comes in two variants, each equipped with TV backlighting. One model is designed for TVs measuring between 55” to 65”, priced at $89.99 in the US and €89.99 in Europe. The other model caters to larger TVs, specifically those sized 75” to 85”, costing $109.99 in the US and €109.99 in Europe.

    Features and Functionality

    This HDMI sync box includes a single HDMI input port, unlike the Philips sync box which has four. This port connects to your streaming device, set-top box, or gaming console, enabling the box to directly read the content being played on the television and replicate the colors displayed. It also features a built-in microphone that picks up the audio, allowing it to sync the lights accordingly.

    Users can select from four preset lighting modes: cinematic, relaxation, vibrant, or rhythmic. They also have the ability to adjust brightness, color saturation, and intensity. The device can be set to auto-switch, meaning it will automatically activate when it detects a signal from the connected HDMI device. Additionally, users can manage the sync box via the WiZ app, a voice assistant like Google or Alexa, or the included WiZ remote control.

    Compatibility and Additional Products

    The WiZ HDMI sync box supports HDMI 2.0 devices, allowing resolutions up to 4K at 60Hz, along with HDR 10+ or Dolby Vision. It comes with its own backlight but is also compatible with other WiZ lights that support both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. There is no cap on the number of lights that can be connected, as long as they are all linked to the same Wi-Fi network.

    WiZ has additionally unveiled gradient light bars and gradient floor lights that can be used with the sync box. The light bars, sold in pairs, are priced at $59.99/€59.99 while the floor light is available for $89/€89.99. These lights can display up to 16 million colors and are compatible with Matter.

    Signify has announced that the WiZ HDMI sync box and the gradient lights will be available for purchase globally this month.

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  • China Expands Nuclear Energy with Approval of 10 New Units

    China Expands Nuclear Energy with Approval of 10 New Units

    Key Takeaways

    1. China has approved the construction of 10 new nuclear reactors to enhance five existing power plants.
    2. The initiative involves an investment of approximately 200 billion yuan ($27.44 billion).
    3. China is the third-largest country in nuclear power capacity, aiming to lead globally by 2030.
    4. Currently, China is building 30 nuclear reactors, contributing an expected 34.4 gigawatts to the electricity grid.
    5. China has achieved full domestic capacity for essential nuclear technology equipment, though it still relies on some Western technology.


    China has given the green light for the building of 10 new nuclear reactors, which will enhance five existing nuclear power plants. This follows a pattern seen in the past few years.

    Investment and Capacity

    As per details shared by The Paper, a state-supported news outlet, the financial backing for this initiative is projected to be 200 billion yuan, which translates to about $27.44 billion. China ranks as the third-largest nation in terms of nuclear power capacity, trailing behind the United States and France. At present, the country operates 58 nuclear facilities that collectively generate 56.9 gigawatts of nuclear power, as stated in a white paper from the China Nuclear Energy Association. By the year 2030, China aims to take the lead in nuclear energy production.

    Expansion Plans

    The nuclear facilities that will be expanded include:

    Right now, China is in the process of constructing 30 nuclear reactors, which represent half of the total reactors being built around the world. These new reactors are anticipated to contribute an additional 34.4 gigawatts of nuclear power to the national electricity grid.

    Domestic Production and Technology Dependence

    The aforementioned white paper indicates that the nation has reached full domestic capacity in producing essential equipment for nuclear technology, including reactors. Notably, eight of the approved reactors will utilize the domestically developed Hualong One design. However, the World Nuclear Association points out that China still relies on Western technology in certain aspects of this development.

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  • New Unique Design Nanoleaf Solar Garden Lights Unveiled

    New Unique Design Nanoleaf Solar Garden Lights Unveiled

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Nanoleaf Solar Garden Lights feature eight flexible wires with bulbs and can be powered by solar energy or USB-C.
    2. The lights are designed to activate only in low-light conditions, ensuring energy efficiency.
    3. The Solar Firefly Remote Control allows users to adjust brightness, color temperature, cycle through colors, and set timed functions.
    4. Each package includes two smart lights, extension poles, ground stakes, a remote control, and two solar panels.
    5. Availability and pricing of the Nanoleaf Solar Garden Lights are not yet confirmed, but similar products can be found on the market.


    The Nanoleaf Solar Garden Lights, along with the Solar Firefly Remote Control, seem to be coming soon. These outdoor lighting options and their related accessory were recently found in the database of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). This agency in the United States oversees various devices that use communication technology.

    Features Revealed

    The FCC documents include a user manual for the Nanoleaf Solar Garden Lights, which disclose several features of the product. The images depict these smart lights having eight flexible wires, each ending with a bulb, all stemming from a main pole. True to their name, they can be powered by solar energy, but there is also a USB-C port available as an alternative. These adjustable-height lights will not activate in daylight or under bright ambient light. The Solar Firefly Remote Control seems to include buttons for adjusting brightness and color temperature, cycling through colors, and enabling timed functions like an auto-off feature.

    Kit Contents and Pricing

    Each package contains two smart lights, extension poles, ground stakes, the remote control, and two solar panels. It’s still uncertain when the Nanoleaf Solar Garden Lights will be available for purchase or what their price will be. The company already offers a variety of smart outdoor lighting products in the US; for instance, the Nanoleaf Essentials Matter Smart Multicolor Outdoor String Lights Smarter Kit can be found for $129.99 on Amazon.

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  • Starlink Launches Affordable Mini Router for Mesh and Travel

    Starlink Launches Affordable Mini Router for Mesh and Travel

    Key Takeaways

    1. The new Starlink Mini Router (model UTR-251) is designed for use with the $500 Mini dish kit and offers improved Wi-Fi coverage.
    2. Priced at $40, the Mini Router is currently available only in the US, with plans for wider availability to be announced.
    3. It is ideal for Starlink Mesh setups in larger homes, as well as for smaller spaces with basic Wi-Fi needs.
    4. The Mini Router enhances Wi-Fi coverage for users on the go but may not be suitable for high-demand situations with multiple users.
    5. The device is expected to gain popularity due to its affordability and functionality as a range extender.


    The recent leak of schematics for a new router from Starlink, which many believed was part of a Gen 4 equipment set, has turned out to be the introduction of an unexpected Starlink Mini Router.

    Compact Design and Features

    The new Starlink Mini Router, identified as model UTR-251, is specifically made to work alongside the $500 Mini dish kit, offering improved Wi-Fi coverage compared to the built-in router. This compact device can also function with other routers, such as the existing Gen 3 unit that comes with the Standard dish kit. In a Starlink Mesh setup, users can place one router in every other room of a larger residence for enhanced and more dependable Wi-Fi signal.

    Pricing and Availability

    The Mini router is priced at just $40 in the Starlink US store, with plans for availability in other countries or regions to be announced later by SpaceX. Currently, the Starlink Router Mini can be purchased only in the United States through the Starlink Shop. If it’s not listed, that indicates it’s not available in your area. Updates on wider release will be shared, so keep an eye out!

    Ideal Uses

    This affordable price point makes it perfect for a Starlink Mesh network setup in bigger homes. Additionally, it can serve households with minimal Wi-Fi needs. According to Starlink, it’s “a great fit for smaller spaces, homes with basic Wi-Fi requirements, or to eliminate dead spots within a house.”

    For users on the go, this compact router can enhance the Wi-Fi coverage of a Starlink Mini dish, which often lacks sufficient range. However, for situations involving multiple users streaming, working, or gaming at once, or in multi-unit properties, Starlink suggests opting for the Gen 3 router.

    At just $40, the new Starlink Mini router is an appealing range extender for home use or while traveling, making it likely to gain popularity if the introductory price remains consistent.

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