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  • Ecovacs LilMilo: Your Robot Pet Companion for Fun and Play

    Ecovacs LilMilo: Your Robot Pet Companion for Fun and Play

    Key Takeaways

    1. Ecovacs’ new brand message is “ECOVACS, Created for Ease,” focusing on simplifying everyday life with service robotics.
    2. The company’s long-term goal is “Robotics for All,” aiming to integrate robots into homes for routine chores.
    3. LilMilo, a robotic pet, is introduced as a source of companionship rather than a task-oriented assistant.
    4. Features of LilMilo include touch sensors, voice recognition, movement detection, and lifelike responses through its LCD eyes.
    5. LilMilo is designed to enhance interactions with movable parts, realistic behaviors, warmth, and will be launched in early 2026.

    At CES 2026 in Las Vegas, Ecovacs is unveiling its fresh brand message: “ECOVACS, Created for Ease.” This vision is all about making everyday life simpler with the help of service robotics. It fits well with the company’s long-term goal, “Robotics for All,” which seeks to integrate robots into as many homes as possible to handle routine chores. Instead of a humanoid assistant, the household robotics expert is making a surprising move with a robotic pet named LilMilo.

    The Concept Behind LilMilo

    Ecovacs isn’t presenting LilMilo as just a toy or a gimmick. In their press release, the company emphasizes the small white robotic dog as an example of embodied intelligence—essentially, a digital presence rooted in real-life interaction. LilMilo isn’t meant to take on tasks but rather to provide something unique: a sense of warmth, closeness, and companionship in our daily lives.

    Features and Interactivity

    LilMilo sports soft plush fur that hides a network of touch sensors, enabling it to react to contact all over its body. Its microphones capture voice cues, and a camera in its nose detects movement and engagement. The LCD eyes do more than show emotions; they also follow lines of sight, giving a more lifelike quality to its responses.

    LilMilo has movable parts like its head, neck, and tail that allow it to imitate common dog behaviors, such as wagging its tail. It can bark thanks to built-in speakers, and it even emits warmth, which enhances its physical presence, making interactions feel more genuine. The robot charges via USB-C or wirelessly on a dock designed like a dog bed. The launch of Ecovacs LilMilo is planned for the first quarter of 2026, but specific dates, regions, and pricing are still to be announced.

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  • Orico 8-in-1 25W GaN Power Strip with 5ft Extension Cable Launch

    Orico 8-in-1 25W GaN Power Strip with 5ft Extension Cable Launch

    Key Takeaways

    1. Orico has launched a compact power strip that combines 8 functions, featuring a 25 W GaN design for efficient charging.
    2. The power strip includes 4 AC outlets, 2 USB-C ports (25 W), and 2 USB-A ports (22.5 W), allowing users to charge up to 8 devices simultaneously.
    3. It has a flat plug design (0.43 inches thick) that fits easily into tight spaces and comes with a 5 ft fixed extension cable.
    4. The product is FCC certified and UL tested for safety, protecting against short circuits, overheating, and other electrical issues.
    5. The Orico power strip is priced at $29.99, currently available for $19.99 with a promotional discount, and comes in multiple colors.

    Orico, a company that creates charging solutions, has introduced a new power strip that combines 8 functions into one device with a 25 W GaN design for global consumers. This latest accessory is made to keep your work area neat and organized. It has a small and light design, similar to the recently released Anker USB Power Strip, which has 12 functions and 20 W of power. Additionally, the power strip has a flat plug that is just 0.43 inches thick and features a 45° right angle shape. According to Orico, this design is perfect for fitting into tight spaces behind furniture like beds, desks, TV stands, and couches.

    Key Features and Dimensions

    In terms of size, this power strip is 3.82 x 3.07 x 1.26 inches (97 x 77.9 x 32 mm) and weighs about 8.8 ounces (249 grams). The Orico Power Strip includes 8 output options: 4 AC outlets, 2 USB-C ports, and 2 USB-A ports. This means users have the ability to charge up to 8 devices at the same time. Concerning the output capabilities of the USB ports, the USB-C ports can deliver up to 25 W of power, while the USB-A ports are limited to 22.5 W.

    Safety and Performance

    Moreover, this power strip has received FCC certification and has been tested by UL, providing safety against issues like short circuits, overheating, over-voltage, and over-current situations. It also features a shell that is resistant to fire and includes a fixed extension cable that is 5 ft (60 inches) long. Orico claims that one of the 25 W USB-C ports can charge an iPhone 17 Pro from 0 to 60% in only 30 minutes. However, it does not come with a power switch, which is a feature present in Anker’s 12-in-1 tower power strip that currently retails for $23.99 on Amazon.

    Pricing and Availability

    The price of the Orico 8-in-1 25 W GaN power strip is set at $29.99. As part of the promotional launch, the company is providing a $10 discount, allowing customers to buy the power strip for just $19.99 instead of its original price of $29.99 on Amazon. Buyers can select from various colors, including black, purple, white, and blue.

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  • New IKEA Smart Sensor with Alarm Now in the UK

    New IKEA Smart Sensor with Alarm Now in the UK

    Key Takeaways

    1. The IKEA Klippbok Water leakage sensor alerts users of leaks from sinks or appliances and includes a built-in alarm and smartphone notifications via the IKEA Home app.
    2. The device is Matter-compatible, allowing it to integrate with other smart home ecosystems like Google Home and Apple Home.
    3. It operates on a single AAA battery and has compact dimensions of 17 x 70 x 40 mm.
    4. The Klippbok is priced at £7 and is available for purchase both online and in many physical IKEA stores in the UK.
    5. The Klippbok is part of a broader range of new Matter-compatible smart home products from IKEA, which also includes smart bulbs and sensors.

    The IKEA Klippbok Water leakage sensor is now on sale in the UK. This innovative smart home device was introduced in early December 2025 and has already gained traction in markets such as the US and the EU.

    Leak Detection Features

    The Klippbok sensor by IKEA is crafted to notify users of any leaks coming from sinks or appliances like dishwashers and washing machines. It has a built-in alarm that sounds when it detects water. In addition to this sound alert, users can receive notifications directly on their smartphones through the IKEA Home smart app, provided it’s connected to one of the brand’s Dirigera hubs.

    Compatibility and Power Source

    Additionally, the Klippbok water leakage sensor is Matter-compatible, enabling it to work seamlessly with other smart home devices in ecosystems like Google Home or Apple Home. The device runs on a single AAA battery and is fairly small, measuring 17 x 70 x 40 mm (about 0.67 x 2.76 x 1.57 inches).

    Pricing and Availability

    At the IKEA online store in the UK, the Klippbok Water leakage sensor is priced at £7. The Store Purchase tool shows that it’s also available in many physical stores of the brand. The Klippbok is just one item in a larger lineup of new Matter-compatible smart home products from IKEA. The company has a range of smart bulbs and other sensors to keep an eye on things like air quality, and a smart version of the Varmblixt lamp is set to be released soon.

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  • Govee Outdoor Solar String Lights Launching Soon

    Govee Outdoor Solar String Lights Launching Soon

    Key Takeaways

    1. Govee’s Outdoor Solar String Lights offer 16 million color options and dynamic lighting effects.
    2. Each bulb provides up to 50 lumens of brightness, enhancing outdoor ambiance.
    3. The lights feature a solar panel with a stake for ground installation and a 4,800 mAh battery for extended runtime.
    4. They are IP67 rated for weather resistance, making them suitable for year-round outdoor use.
    5. Control via a mobile app is likely, but details on length, bulb count, pricing, and release date are still unknown.

    Govee has unveiled its inaugural solar-powered outdoor string lights. The Outdoor Solar String Lights have recently appeared on the Coming Soon section of the brand’s websites for both the US and EU.

    Color and Brightness Options

    Govee has disclosed that these Outdoor Solar String Lights will provide users with a selection of 16 million colors. There are likely to be various preset dynamic lighting effects available, along with the ability to create custom effects. Each bulb is expected to emit up to 50 lumens of brightness.

    Design Features

    A photo of the Govee Outdoor Solar String Lights includes a solar panel that can be secured into the ground using a stake accessory. It’s also known that the lights come with a 4,800 mAh battery to enhance their runtime during periods of low sunlight. These intelligent lights and solar panels are rated IP67 for weather resistance, making them suitable for year-round outdoor use.

    Control and Availability

    Generally, Govee’s smart lights can be managed through its mobile app, though this feature has not been officially confirmed for this model. Additional details like the string length, bulb count, and potential Matter compatibility are still unknown. It is unclear when the Govee Outdoor Solar String Lights will actually hit the market and what their pricing will be. As a reference, the older Outdoor String Lights 2, measuring 144ft, is currently priced at $189.99 on Amazon.

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  • New IKEA Kajplats Smart Bulbs with Matter Launch in the UK

    New IKEA Kajplats Smart Bulbs with Matter Launch in the UK

    Key Takeaways

    – IKEA has launched the Kajplats smart bulb range in the UK, after its release in France and Germany in December 2025.
    – The collection includes three E14 LED bulbs, with prices ranging from £5 to £7, providing different brightness levels and lighting options.
    – Two E27 LED bulbs are also available, with prices from £4 to £9, featuring varying brightness and lighting capabilities.
    – The range includes two GU10 LED bulbs, priced at £5 and £7, offering white and colored lighting options.
    – All Kajplats bulbs can connect to the Dirigera hub for wireless control and support Matter for compatibility with other smart home devices.

    IKEA has just launched its Kajplats smart bulbs in the UK. These innovative products have already been on the market in other European countries such as France and Germany since December 2025.

    Kajplats Smart Bulb Range

    The Kajplats collection features three E14 LED bulbs. One bulb is styled like a candle, made with clear glass, and it provides white lighting effects. This particular bulb can produce up to 470 lumens of brightness and is priced at £5. The other two bulbs are opal white globe designs, providing up to 806 lumens of brightness. One is meant for white light only, while the other offers both white and colored lighting, costing £5 and £7, respectively.

    E27 Bulbs and Options

    In addition, there are two E27 LED bulbs in the Kajplats range, both designed for white lighting and achieving a brightness of up to 470 lumens. The standard white version is priced at £4, while the clear version is available for £5. There is also a brighter clear globe E27 bulb that produces white light at a maximum of 806 lumens, which costs £7. Customers can also choose from three brighter E27 globe bulbs with an opal white finish. Two of these models can reach up to 1,055 lumens; the white light-only version costs £6, while the one that supports both white and colored lighting retails for £9. There’s also a very bright option that delivers 1,521 lumens, limited to white lighting effects, for the price of £9.

    GU10 and Starter Kits

    Lastly, the Kajplats collection includes two smart GU10 LED bulbs. The model that provides a white spectrum reaches up to 575 lumens and is priced at £5, whereas the version with both white and colored lighting has a slightly lower brightness of 470 lumens and costs £7. IKEA also offers starter kits that include various bulbs and a smart remote, starting at £9. All Kajplats smart bulbs can be connected to the Dirigera hub from IKEA, allowing for wireless dimming and color changes. They also support Matter, ensuring compatibility with a variety of third-party smart home devices.

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  • New IKEA Varmblixt Smart Lights Coming Soon

    New IKEA Varmblixt Smart Lights Coming Soon

    Key Takeaways

    1. IKEA will launch two smart Varmblixt lights in April 2026, expanding on the success of the 2023 donut-shaped light.
    2. The new smart table/wall lamp will have a matte white glass finish and offer twelve preset colors with adjustable brightness.
    3. Users can connect the smart table/wall lamp to the IKEA Dirigera hub for personalized lighting options.
    4. The pendant light version will feature multiple warm and cool white light shades while maintaining a similar design to the current model.
    5. Both new Varmblixt lights will include the IKEA Bilresa remote and support Matter for compatibility with various smart home systems.

    IKEA is set to introduce two innovative smart Varmblixt lights in 2026. This new line expands on the success of the donut-shaped light, which was developed with designer Sabine Marcelis and launched in 2023.

    New Smart Table/Wall Lamp

    The new intelligent version of the Varmblixt LED table and wall lamp is in the works. Unlike its previous version that features an orange glass exterior, the new model will showcase a matte white glass finish. It will have an integrated light source that provides twelve preset colors, smoothly transitioning from white to shades of pink, turquoise, and yellow. Users will be able to connect this smart lamp to the IKEA Dirigera hub, which allows for personalized light colors and brightness adjustments.

    Pendant Light Version

    The second smart offering from IKEA is a pendant light. It retains a similar design to the current LED pendant light but will now include a feature that changes through multiple warm and cool white light shades. Both of these new Varmblixt smart lights will be equipped with the IKEA Bilresa remote. Additionally, they will support Matter, enabling them to work with a wide variety of smart home systems.

    The launch for the IKEA Varmblixt smart table/wall lamp and smart pendant light is scheduled for April 2026. Nevertheless, the exact release date and pricing details for these smart home devices have not yet been revealed by the company.

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  • Xiaomi Smart Camera 3 3K: Affordable Security Camera Without Cloud

    Xiaomi Smart Camera 3 3K: Affordable Security Camera Without Cloud

    Key Takeaways

    1. High Resolution: The Xiaomi Smart Camera 3 3K offers a clear image quality with a resolution of 2,960 x 1,668 pixels.

    2. Wi-Fi Compatibility: It supports both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz Wi-Fi networks for a reliable connection but requires external power.

    3. Flexible Placement: The camera can be placed on surfaces or mounted on ceilings, with 360-degree rotation and 109-degree tilt for broader coverage.

    4. AI Features: The camera detects human presence and allows two-way communication via an integrated speaker and microphone, with night vision capabilities.

    5. Affordable Pricing: Currently available in China for a promotional price of ¥169 (around US$24), with options for cloud or local video storage.

    Xiaomi has introduced a new surveillance camera to its collection of smart home gadgets. As its name suggests, the Xiaomi Smart Camera 3 3K provides clear images with a resolution of 2,960 x 1,668 pixels. This compact device is compatible with both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz Wi-Fi networks, allowing for a more reliable wireless connection based on placement and network conditions. However, it’s important to note that the Xiaomi Smart Camera 3 3K cannot function entirely wirelessly, as it needs external power due to the absence of a built-in battery.

    Versatile Placement Options

    The camera can be set up on flat surfaces like shelves or tables, or it can be installed on ceilings. It is designed to monitor larger areas thanks to its ability to rotate a full 360 degrees and tilt up to 109 degrees, making it particularly beneficial for ceiling mounts where the adjustable pitch enhances coverage.

    Smart Features and Accessibility

    Equipped with AI, the camera is capable of detecting human presence. Users can interact with people in front of the camera through its integrated speaker and microphone. Xiaomi claims that the device can produce color images even in dim lighting. Furthermore, it comes with infrared LEDs for night vision in very dark places. Videos can be saved on a microSD card, network storage devices, or in cloud storage. The Xiaomi Smart Camera 3 3K is currently available in China for a promotional price of ¥169 (approximately US$24), reduced from its original price of ¥199 (around US$29). For those outside of China, the Xiaomi Smart Camera C500, which offers a higher resolution of 3.5K, is also available on platforms like Amazon.

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  • Brolan Launches Smart Shoe Cleaning Robot 1.0 for Easy Cleaning

    Brolan Launches Smart Shoe Cleaning Robot 1.0 for Easy Cleaning

    Key Takeaways

    1. Dual Functionality: The Smart Shoe Cleaning Robot 1.0 acts as both a washer and dryer, with two models available—one that connects to plumbing and another with a fresh water tank.

    2. Advanced Cleaning Technology: Utilizes microbubbles and infrared sensors to customize cleaning based on shoe size and material, ensuring thorough cleaning without damage.

    3. Water Efficiency and Noise Levels: Each wash uses only 4 liters of water and operates quietly, with noise levels below 55 dB during washing and under 60 dB while drying.

    4. Smart Features: Users can control and monitor the device via a smartphone app, which also tracks the cleaning history of shoes.

    5. Kickstarter Campaign: The campaign for the Smart Shoe Cleaning Robot will launch in March 2026, with updates available for interested individuals, although pricing details are not yet revealed.

    Brolan has introduced the Smart Shoe Cleaning Robot 1.0 at CES 2026. This innovative device functions as both a washer and dryer, and it is available in two models: one that connects directly to plumbing and another that features a fresh water tank. It is specifically made for cleaning shoes made from canvas, fabric, certain leathers, and mixed materials that are usually washable. However, it is not suitable for shoes made from genuine leather or similar materials that cannot withstand washing.

    Advanced Cleaning Technology

    The Smart Shoe Cleaning Robot utilizes microbubbles smaller than 50 µm to deeply penetrate the fabric fibers, effectively loosening dirt and bacteria. Equipped with infrared sensors, the machine can identify the shoe’s size and shape, allowing it to automatically choose the appropriate cleaning mode and water pressure based on the material. Its arms are powered by various geared motors to ensure every part of the shoe, including the inside, is reached, while soft microfiber rollers are used to clean without scratching.

    Water Efficiency and Noise Levels

    For each washing cycle, the Brolan uses 4 liters (0.26 gallons) of water, which also includes a self-cleaning feature for the inner chamber after every use. The drying process takes place at a temperature of 50°C (122°F) and lasts between 30 to 60 minutes. According to the company, the washing cycle produces noise levels below 55 dB, while the drying cycle is quieter at under 60 dB. Users can control, schedule, and monitor the machine through a smartphone app, which also keeps a record of all the shoes that have been cleaned.

    Upcoming Kickstarter Campaign

    The Kickstarter campaign for the Brolan Shoe Cleaner is set to launch in March 2026. Although pricing details have not yet been disclosed, interested individuals can subscribe to receive updates. It’s worth noting that there’s no assurance that owners of collectible shoes, like the Nike Men’s Kobe 9 Elite, will have their shoes returned looking as pristine as they did before washing.

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  • Mammotion Launches Luba Mini 2 AWD and Yuka Mini 2 for Small Gardens

    Mammotion Launches Luba Mini 2 AWD and Yuka Mini 2 for Small Gardens

    Key Takeaways

    1. Mammotion is launching enhanced versions of the Luba mini 2 AWD and Yuka mini 2 robotic mowers at CES 2026.
    2. The Luba mini 2 AWD features advanced navigation with tri-camera AI, NetRTK technology, and a compact cutting side disc for close trimming.
    3. Pre-orders for the Luba mini 2 AWD are available in the EU and UK, priced at €1,499/£1,399, with delivery starting in February.
    4. The Yuka mini 2 includes the new AI chip and offers two navigation options for lawns up to 1,000 square meters.
    5. Pre-orders for the Yuka mini 2 start at €999/£949, with models available for lawn sizes of 800 or 1,000 square meters.

    In 2026, alongside its main model, the Luba 3 AWD, Mammotion is introducing enhanced versions of its two smaller robotic mowers. After being launched a year prior, the Luba mini 2 AWD and Yuka mini 2 are being highlighted at CES 2026.

    Advanced Features of the Luba mini 2 AWD

    The Luba mini 2 AWD comes with a better navigation system, employing tri-camera AI vision and NetRTK technology, all powered by the same 10-TOPS AI chip found in the Luba 3 AWD. A notable upgrade is the inclusion of a compact ultra-close-edge cutting side disc equipped with three mini-blades that can mow alongside walls, fences, and other barriers as close as 2.5 cm, which greatly minimizes the need for additional trimming. Like its predecessor, this new version also features all-wheel drive and can tackle steep inclines with an 80% (38.6°) climbing ability.

    Pre-Order Details and Pricing

    The Mammotion Luba mini 2 AWD is currently available for pre-order in both the EU and the UK, with delivery expected to start in February. This model is designed for spaces up to 1,000 square meters and is priced at €1,499/£1,399.

    The Yuka mini 2 and Its Navigation Options

    As the next iteration of the Yuka mini, the Yuka mini 2 also includes the new AI chip. It offers two different navigation choices for lawns up to 1,000 square meters, similar to what we observed in 2025. One option provides accurate, wireless mapping of complicated areas using a comprehensive 360-degree LiDAR and vision fusion system. The other choice, featuring a tri-camera AI vision system, is made for ease of use in most common situations.

    Pre-orders for the Mammotion Yuka mini 2 are also available now. Customers can select from two models designed for lawn sizes of either 800 or 1,000 square meters, with prices beginning at €999/£949.

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  • HIZERO Unveils H100R Multi-Surface Cleaner at CES 2026

    HIZERO Unveils H100R Multi-Surface Cleaner at CES 2026

    Key Takeaways

    1. Traditional cleaning methods like mops and cloths often fail to achieve real hygiene due to ineffective self-cleaning capabilities.
    2. HIZERO’s No Suction Technology and Ultimate Clean™ system provide a more efficient mechanical cleaning process without the need for air suction or dirty filters.
    3. The multi-function roller in HIZERO’s technology operates at 100 cycles per minute, self-cleans, and dries surfaces quickly after cleaning.
    4. The HIZERO H100R Handheld Multi-Surface Cleaner is designed for various hard surfaces and has been recognized by the Consumer Technology Association.
    5. The H100R is priced at $169 and will launch in the first quarter of 2026, aiming to replace conventional cleaning tools globally.

    Traditional cleaning methods, such as standard mops and cloths, often fall short in achieving real hygiene. This is mainly because they do not have the capability to self-clean in real time, resulting in slow and water-wasting processes. HIZERO has tackled these challenges with its unique No Suction Technology and the Ultimate Clean™ system. These patented advancements have positioned HIZERO as a leader in the industry, eliminating the need for traditional air suction and dirty filters for a more effective mechanical cleaning process.

    Advanced Cleaning Technology

    At the heart of this innovative technology is a highly absorbent, polymer-based multi-function roller that operates at 100 cleaning cycles every minute. This creates a self-cleaning system that collects solid waste and wastewater simultaneously, all while keeping the cleaning surface fresh. By automatically separating waste, the system makes maintenance easier and prevents dirt from being spread across the floor. Thanks to the roller’s absorbency, surfaces usually dry in just seconds after one pass.

    Introducing the HIZERO H100R

    The newest addition to utilize this remarkable technology is the HIZERO H100R Handheld Multi-Surface Cleaner. This handy household tool goes beyond just cleaning floors, as the H100R is tailored for various hard surfaces, including countertops. The innovations behind this device have been acknowledged by the Consumer Technology Association, which is why the H100R was featured in a news segment during CES 2026.

    Pricing and Availability

    The H100R is set to retail for $169 and is expected to launch in the first quarter of 2026. This product reflects HIZERO’s ambition to replace conventional cleaning cloths and mops globally. With a presence in over 30 countries, HIZERO is committed to delivering professional cleaning outcomes through energy-efficient and advanced technological devices that enhance the speed and cleanliness of everyday tasks.

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