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  • Yarbo Upgrades Garden Robot for Mowing, Snow Clearing & More at CES

    Yarbo Upgrades Garden Robot for Mowing, Snow Clearing & More at CES

    Yarbo plans to showcase its upgraded garden robot at next week’s CES in Las Vegas. This robot first made its debut two years ago through a Kickstarter campaign and has been available globally since the latter half of 2024.

    Exciting Updates

    This marks the second time Yarbo is participating in CES, where it will highlight several enhancements made to its garden robot. The company claims that both the Yarbo Core and its modules have undergone significant upgrades, introducing new features that simplify their operations. The designs for the lawnmower, blower, and Smart Assist module have been refined to be more sleek and functional.

    New Features

    Among the innovative features is the "Follow Me" mode, allowing the robot to track a person using visual technology. This is particularly handy for situations when the robot needs to carry heavy items, with a capacity of up to 3,500 lbs (around 1,600 kg). Additionally, the robot now comes with changeable antennas—short ones for summer use and longer ones designed for snowy conditions. The improvements are supported by the new Yarbo Data Center, which utilizes Halow technology to enhance connectivity with better stability and extended range.

    Experience It Live

    Those who visit CES in Las Vegas will have the chance to see the upgraded Yarbo in action. This garden robot is highly adaptable, capable of handling a multitude of tasks, including mowing lawns, removing snow and leaves, and transporting various loads like garden waste.

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  • Plasma Reactor Creates Future Fuel with Zero CO₂ Emissions

    Plasma Reactor Creates Future Fuel with Zero CO₂ Emissions

    The Haber-Bosch method is essential for modern farming because it allows for the mass creation of ammonia. This process works under high pressure and high temperatures, around 500°C, transforming nitrogen, the main element in the air, into ammonia. It also generates hydrogen, which usually comes from fossil fuels.

    Energy and Emissions Impact

    About 1% of the total energy used globally is linked to this method, while its contribution to worldwide CO₂ emissions is even greater. So far, we haven’t even discussed the harmful effects on the environment caused by agricultural practices that rely on synthetic nitrogen fertilizers.

    Rethinking Ammonia Production

    It’s crucial to look at this method, which was invented over a century ago, since ammonia is vital for much more than just growing food. The molecule which is made up of one nitrogen atom and three hydrogen atoms can also be found in nature.

    In the atmosphere, light can break apart nitrogen bonds. Rain then brings nitrogen oxides down to the ground, where bacteria and fungi use water to turn them into ammonia. This acts as a natural fertilizer for plants, which is a key idea behind organic farming.

    Innovative Approaches to Ammonia Synthesis

    Researchers at the University of Buffalo in New York have developed a plasma reactor that mimics this natural process. This device harnesses energy from solar panels to heat air into plasma. A catalyst made from copper and palladium triggers reactions between nitrogen oxides and water to create ammonia.

    Currently, this small testing setup can produce 1 gram of ammonia each day at room temperature, pulling directly from the air without generating CO₂ emissions. Scientists are already working on a larger plasma reactor that could provide sustainable and localized nitrogen fertilizer, particularly in areas where traditional industrial methods are not feasible.

    Advantages of Ammonia

    Moreover, ammonia is regarded as easier to store and manage compared to hydrogen, with a much higher energy density per liter. Fuel cells that use ammonia have been around for a long time, and large industrial storage systems have also been tested, although they do carry some risks. The same concerns apply to hydrogen, oil, and natural gas too.

    University of Buffalo, Journal of the American Chemical Society.

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  • Aqara Hub M100 and New Smart Home Devices Leaked Before CES 2025

    Aqara Hub M100 and New Smart Home Devices Leaked Before CES 2025

    Several new products from Aqara have been listed on the Connectivity Standards Alliance (CSA) website, hinting at what we might see at CES 2025. In late December, Aqara teased an image on X featuring blurred devices, claiming it was a “sneak peek” at their newest offerings.

    Aqara Hub M100 Details

    The latest addition to the CSA database is the Aqara Hub M100, which is anticipated to replace the M3, currently priced at $129.99 on Amazon. The listing provides limited details about this smart home device, leaving us in the dark about its full features and improvements compared to the M3. However, it does indicate that it will operate on the same firmware version 4.0.4 and will support both Wi-Fi and Ethernet connections.

    Aqara Dimmer Switch H2 EU

    Also noted is the Aqara Dimmer Switch H2 EU, which comes with a product image (shown below). This device utilizes Thread technology and is compatible with Matter 1.3 and Bluetooth, working seamlessly with various types of light bulbs. Users can control their lighting remotely through an app, enabling them to set schedules and monitor energy usage.

    Other Upcoming Aqara Products

    In recent months, other products that have surfaced on the CSA include the Aqara Climate Sensor W100, the Aqara LED Bulb T2 E27 CCT, and the Aqara LED Bulb T2 E27 RGB CCT. At CES 2025, beginning on January 7th, Aqara is likely to announce the release dates and prices for some of its new smart home gadgets.

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  • Xiaomi’s Affordable Compact Smart Display with Video Call Support

    Xiaomi’s Affordable Compact Smart Display with Video Call Support

    Xiaomi has introduced a new small smart display. This gadget has some things in common with the Echo Show, but it’s made for a different purpose. The Xiaomi Smart Camera Video Call Version focuses more on video calls than on playing media. It features a camera, a microphone, and a 3.5-inch screen with a resolution of 320 x 480, making it suitable for quick video chats. The target audience seems to be young people and families who need a device that is easy to use for connecting with others.

    Easy to Use for Quick Calls

    Making calls is as easy as touching the screen. However, Xiaomi has linked the device with WeChat, which is very popular in China but not as well-known in other countries. Because of this, the Xiaomi Smart Camera might not be very useful for video calls outside of China. Additionally, the device can act as a security camera. It has a wide-angle lens of 131° and a 4-megapixel resolution, along with infrared lighting for night recording. Users can upload pictures to the cloud, save them on an SD card, or store them on a network drive. The device also comes with AI features that can detect humans.

    Pricing and Availability

    Right now, the product is up for grabs in China for about $40. There are no updates about when it might be released globally.

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  • Xiaomi Launches Two Smart Ceiling Lights with Adjustable Brightness

    Xiaomi Launches Two Smart Ceiling Lights with Adjustable Brightness

    Xiaomi has introduced two new lighting options: the Xiaomi Smart Ceiling Light D40 and the Ceiling Light D30. While both models share a similar basic design, they vary in size, brightness, and power ratings. The D40 has a diameter of 450 mm (17.7 in), while the D30 is smaller at 350 mm (13.8 in). Each model has a thickness of 60 mm (2.4 in). The D40 produces 3,000 lumens and uses 45 watts when it’s at its brightest, whereas the D30 reaches up to 1,700 lumens and uses 30 watts. The D40 is suited for illuminating spaces ranging from 15 to 25 sqm (161 to 269 sqft), in contrast to the D30, which works best for areas between 8 to 15 sqm (86 to 161 sqft).

    Color Accuracy and Uniformity

    According to Xiaomi, both lights have a color rendering index (CRI) of Ra 97, with natural sunlight being the benchmark at Ra 100. The CRI indicates how accurately colors are represented under a light source. If the color deviation is high, it may lead to objects, like fruits, looking unnatural to our eyes. Both the D40 and D30 feature a lighting uniformity of over 0.8, which means they evenly light up an area, offering better visibility.

    Protection and Smart Features

    These models come with IP50 ratings, meaning they are protected against dust but not against water. Thus, if one plans to use them outside, additional protection from the weather would be necessary. With built-in Wi-Fi, the Xiaomi Ceiling Light D40 and D30 can be managed via the Xiaomi Home app, along with compatibility with Alexa and Google Home. The company hasn’t shared details about their pricing or when they will be available. Nevertheless, since these products are on Xiaomi’s global website, they might be released internationally and won’t be limited to the Chinese market.

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  • Inky Frame: Energy-Efficient E Ink Display with Raspberry Pi

    Inky Frame: Energy-Efficient E Ink Display with Raspberry Pi

    We have frequently shared information about e-readers and E-Ink displays that appeal to technology enthusiasts. One such device is the Inky Frame 7.3, which can be utilized to build a smart display for your home. Essentially, the Inky Frame 7.3 is quite fitting for this role due to its low energy usage, wireless capabilities, and the option to attach extra sensors and actuators.

    Display Features and Advantages

    As indicated by its name, the Inky Frame 7.3 features a 7.3-inch e-paper display with a resolution of 800 x 480 pixels, which supports color. A significant benefit of using an e-ink display is how little power it consumes, and it’s also readable in bright sunlight. However, according to Pimoroni, refreshing the display completely takes about 40 seconds, which limits its use to semi-static information that can be updated every minute.

    Hardware and Power Options

    The device is powered by a Raspberry Pi Pico 2 W chip, which enhances its low power usage and provides wireless options, supporting WiFi 4 and Bluetooth 5.2. It has a microUSB port for power, though this is unfortunate as it does not align with current standards. Additionally, you can power the Inky Frame using rechargeable batteries or regular batteries; if you purchase the accessory kit, three AA batteries come included in the package.

    The system can be programmed using languages like C, C++, and MicroPython. There’s an option to insert a microSD card, and two Qwiic/Stemma connectors are provided for easy attachment of compatible expansion boards or sensors. Moreover, five tactile buttons are located on the front for user interaction.

    Pricing and Availability

    The Inky Frame 7.3 is offered directly from Pimoroni for the price of $93.75. They provide worldwide shipping options for customers.

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  • Dreame Mova S20 Ultra Robot Vacuum: 8,300 Pa Suction Power

    Dreame Mova S20 Ultra Robot Vacuum: 8,300 Pa Suction Power

    Mova, a sub-brand of Dreame, has launched its new robot vacuum cleaner, the Mova S20 Ultra, in Turkey. In addition to this model, Mova has also introduced the E30 Ultra, S10 Plus, S10, and the M1 robotic vacuums. The S20 Ultra features a smart cleaning system that effectively cleans both hard floors and soft carpets with an impressive suction power of 8,300 Pa.

    Advanced Technology

    This robot vacuum utilizes obstacle avoidance technology, which can identify 70 different kinds of objects such as shoes, cables, cans, and more to create a smart cleaning path. However, Mova has not revealed the specific name of this technology. The device also comes equipped with 4-level mapping technology that allows for quick home mapping.

    Cleaning Capabilities

    Additionally, the S20 Ultra offers a hot mopping feature that can heat water to 60 °C (~140 °F). It includes a self-cleaning docking station that automatically cleans and dries the mop, refills water and solution, and empties the dustbin, providing up to 7 weeks of hands-free cleaning. The vacuum can detect carpets and will elevate the mop by 8 mm (~0.31 inches) to prevent moisture from soaking into the carpet.

    Battery and App Features

    The self-emptying vacuum is powered by a 5,200 mAh battery that allows it to operate for as long as 2 hours and 50 minutes on one charge. Similar to other premium models, the S20 Ultra can be controlled via an app or through voice commands using Alexa, Siri, or Google Assistant. The Mova app offers various features, including scheduling cleanings, creating no-go zones, selecting cleaning modes, toggling between mop washing and drying, and customizing routines with AI smart planning.

    Additional Features and Pricing

    Other features of the vacuum include a dual rubber brush, a VibroTurbo mopping system, and RoboSwing technology for mopping. The Mova S20 Ultra is available for purchase in Turkey on Trendyol for approximately 32,999 TL (~US $933). It can also be found in the US for $999 on Amazon.

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  • New Anker eufy E30 4K Security Camera with HomeKit Discounted

    New Anker eufy E30 4K Security Camera with HomeKit Discounted

    The Anker eufy Indoor Cam E30 has made its way to more nations. This product was first seen in leaks back in November and officially launched in the US around mid-December. Now, it’s also hitting the shelves in several European countries.

    Impressive Features

    The Indoor Cam E30 provides 4K video quality and can pan, tilt, and zoom to give 360° coverage of your home. It comes with a built-in spotlight that allows for color night vision. The AI capabilities have been enhanced, allowing it to identify humans, pets, and various sounds more effectively. Additionally, the E30 works with Apple HomeKit; however, it’s important to note that Apple Home only allows for 1080p video streams or recordings. It’s unknown if HomeKit Secure Video is supported, although it’s likely since many other eufy devices come with it. Other notable features include 2.4 GHz connectivity and an SD card slot for those who prefer not to use cloud storage. While there isn’t a siren mentioned, the camera does have built-in speakers for two-way voice communication.

    Pricing and Discounts

    The Anker eufy Indoor Cam E30 is priced at $69.99/£69.99/€89.99. In the United States, some customers on Amazon are being offered a discount of $10, bringing the price down to $59.99. Certain customers in the UK can enjoy a £15 discount at Amazon, making it available for £54.99. There are also special deals in various EU nations. For instance, in Amazon Germany, you can snag the security camera for as low as €35.19.

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  • Nitecore Unveils 1.5V Rechargeable AA Batteries with USB-C

    Nitecore Unveils 1.5V Rechargeable AA Batteries with USB-C

    Nitecore has recently started offering AA rechargeable batteries, introducing the NH2400 to the market. This new product is designed to compete mainly with lithium-ion batteries that keep a steady voltage of 1.5 volts. The NH2400 boasts a slightly higher capacity compared to competitors. For instance, Fenix’s similar product only provides 3.3 watt hours.

    Specifications of the NH2400

    In contrast, Nitecore claims that the NH2400 has a capacity of 2,400 mAh along with 3.6 Wh. However, there’s a significant drawback: these batteries cannot be charged using regular chargers. The company specifies that the NH2400 must be charged via a USB-C port, which is built into the battery. It accepts a maximum charging power of 2.5 watts.

    Charging Details

    Included with the purchase, Nitecore provides a four-way cable whip for charging. Additionally, the batteries come with an LED indicator that shows the charging progress. It is reported that it takes about three hours to fully charge the batteries using the cable whip, and they are estimated to endure around 500 charge cycles. While this may seem low, Panasonic’s NiMH-based Eneloop LSD batteries can last for approximately 2,100 cycles. However, Panasonic notes that around 600 cycles is a more realistic number under strict testing methods.

    The NH2400 batteries seem to have been recently released, as they are still being shipped and are hard to come by. In Nitecore’s US store, a four-pack of NH2400 batteries along with the cable whip is listed for just below $25.

    The Rise of AA Rechargeable Batteries

    New AA rechargeable batteries are becoming increasingly popular as a substitute for traditional 1.2-volt batteries, as they are believed to perform better in devices that need the 1.5 volts provided by fully-charged AA batteries. Besides the NH2400, which has a declining voltage, there are also batteries available that maintain their voltage until depletion.

    It’s important not to confuse the NH2400 batteries with the 14500 round batteries, which operate at a higher voltage and are intended for specialized applications since they are not compatible with AA slots. Users should exercise caution here too, as Fenix markets its USB AA rechargeable batteries as 14500 batteries with 1.5 volts and sometimes with the LR6 label.

    Nitecore’s Product Range

    Nitecore also offers 14500 batteries but refers to them primarily for their higher voltage. These batteries provide 1,100 mAh at 3.6 volts, which gives them a slight edge in capacity over the NH2400 rechargeable batteries.

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  • Xiaomi Launches 513L Cross Door Mijia Refrigerator

    Xiaomi Launches 513L Cross Door Mijia Refrigerator

    Xiaomi has broadened its Mijia series refrigerator lineup by introducing the new Mijia Refrigerator Moyuyan Edition, which translates to ‘Black Feather Rock’, in China. This fresh model boasts a sizable 513 L capacity, which is organized into three distinct sections. These include a 304 L cooling area, a 180 L freezing space, and a 29 L adjustable temperature zone.

    Storage Features

    The refrigerator comes equipped with several drawers and trays, along with extra storage space on the doors, perfect for placing drinks, vegetables, fruits, and other food items. Additionally, there’s a unique 29 L drawer that allows you to set the temperature between -1 °C (~30.2 °F) and 5 °C (41 °F). This feature means you can conveniently keep various food items like meat, seafood, and fresh veggies at their ideal temperatures.

    Advanced Technology

    Xiaomi has incorporated its own dual-frequency conversion technology into this cross-door refrigerator. As per the company’s claims, this innovation enables the appliance to provide precise cooling while also conserving energy. It is rated with top-notch energy efficiency, averaging a consumption of 0.93 kWh of power daily.

    The appliance operates at a quiet 36 dB, and Xiaomi has also integrated silver-ion antibacterial technology. This technology reportedly eliminates 99.9% of bacteria, ensuring the safety and quality of your food. You can modify the settings of the Mijia Moyuyan Edition refrigerator via a built-in touchscreen, the Mijia app, or even through Xiao AI voice commands.

    Pricing and Availability

    The Mijia Refrigerator Moyuyan Edition with a 513 L capacity is priced at CNY 2,699 (approximately $370) and is available in a Lead Gray color with a rock board texture. It’s currently up for pre-order on JD.com in China, with official sales set to begin on January 1, 2025, at 8 PM.

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