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  • Xiaomi Launches New Ultra Slim Power Bank in Two Countries

    Xiaomi Launches New Ultra Slim Power Bank in Two Countries

    The Xiaomi Ultra Slim Power Bank 5000mAh is now being introduced in several countries. This device was first showcased on the brand’s global website in November. Recently, it has appeared on the Xiaomi online store in Hong Kong, and crowdfunding in India is set to begin soon.

    Lightweight Design

    Weighing only 93g (about 3.3 oz) and measuring 10mm (around 0.4 inches) thick, the Ultra Slim Power Bank has a sleek metallic finish. It features a single USB-C port that offers a maximum output of 20W. According to Xiaomi, this power bank can charge a Xiaomi 14 Ultra to 37% in just 30 minutes. It recharges through an 18W USB-C input, with a total charging time of approximately 1.75 hours. Additionally, it includes safety features to protect against problems like overheating and short circuits.

    Pricing and Availability

    The Ultra Slim Power Bank 5000mAh will be available in Hong Kong for HK$149 (around $19) starting December 12th. In India, a crowdfunding campaign for this product will kick off on December 13th, with supporters asked to contribute ₹1,499 (approximately $18). The expected shipping date for backers is January 20th. However, it’s still uncertain whether or when this power bank will be available in other regions, such as the US, where it would face competition from products like the Anker 621 Magnetic Battery (MagGo), which is currently priced at $29.74 on Amazon.

    Source: Link

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  • New Anker 12-in-1 Power Strip Set to Launch Soon

    New Anker 12-in-1 Power Strip Set to Launch Soon

    Anker is reportedly developing a new 12-in-1 charging station specifically for the European market. A tipster on Reddit, known as u/joshuadwx, has recently shared some insights regarding this upcoming power strip. Along with the details, there’s also a product sketch that looks to be official.

    Specifications of the Charging Station

    The new charging tower, identified by the model number A9185, features eight AC outlets, with two located on each side. On the top part of the station, there are four USB ports, consisting of two 12W USB-A ports, one 20W USB-C, and another 15W USB-C. When all four ports are utilized, the total power of 15W gets distributed across them. The device is designed to handle an AC input of up to 4,000W and comes with a built-in cable measuring 2m (about 6.6 ft). Additionally, it claims to provide 300J of surge protection.

    More Information Yet to Come

    As for other specifics—like the dimensions and color of the charging unit—those details have not been disclosed yet. There’s also uncertainty regarding the pricing of this Anker 12-in-1 power strip, its release date in Europe, and which countries will see its launch. In the United States, Anker already sells a similar USB Power Strip (12-in-1, 35W) that features 8 AC outlets and four USB ports. This variant is currently listed on Amazon for $29.99.

    Source: Link

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  • Solar Reactor Advances Clean Hydrogen Production Efficiency

    Solar Reactor Advances Clean Hydrogen Production Efficiency

    Researchers from Shinshu University have created a new reactor system that generates hydrogen fuel from sunlight and water. This innovation could significantly advance the sustainable production of hydrogen, eliminating the need for fossil fuels. The reactor, which spans 1,076 square feet, employs photocatalytic panels in a two-step method to divide water into hydrogen and oxygen.

    Two-Step Process Advantage

    Unlike conventional one-step methods, this system separates hydrogen and oxygen production into two distinct stages. This innovative approach results in improved solar-to-hydrogen conversion efficiencies compared to traditional systems, which often rely on natural gas for hydrogen refinement.

    Real-World Testing Benefits

    During testing under natural sunlight, the reactor displayed unexpected advantages. It achieved roughly 50% higher solar energy conversion efficiency in real-world scenarios than it did in controlled lab conditions. Professor Kazunari Domen, the lead author of the study published in Frontiers in Science, suggests that this enhancement is likely due to variations in the components of the solar spectrum in different regions.

    Efficiency Challenges Ahead

    Nonetheless, despite these encouraging findings, the system’s efficiency must improve to meet commercial standards. Currently, it converts about 1% of sunlight into hydrogen fuel under typical conditions. Experts assert that a minimum of 5% efficiency is essential for large-scale viability. The research team highlights that achieving this goal will necessitate the creation of superior photocatalysts and the expansion of their reactor systems.

    Safety Measures in Design

    The technology also addresses safety concerns related to hydrogen production. The researchers have implemented design features aimed at minimizing explosion risks when handling oxyhydrogen, such as using narrow compartments and soft PVC plastics for safe containment.

    Future of Hydrogen Fuel Production

    Professor Domen emphasizes that enhancing the efficiency of solar energy conversion into chemical energy could accelerate the advancement of mass production technologies, gas separation methods, and larger facilities.

    The successful operation of this proof-of-concept reactor over three years signifies a major step toward making hydrogen fuel production more sustainable. If further advancements can be made in this technology, it could lead to a transition away from fossil fuels in hydrogen production.

    Source: Link

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  • Philips Hue Bridge Update: New Smart Lighting Features Coming Soon

    Philips Hue Bridge Update: New Smart Lighting Features Coming Soon

    Signify has shared news about a fresh update for the Philips Hue Bridge. The new software version 1968096020 introduces various features and upgrades to the smart home hub. This update follows an October stability patch and a November launch that brought support for multiple bridges.

    Brightness Enhancements

    With software version 1968096020, users can expect improved brightness levels for smart lights during the Go to sleep automation. However, the exact extent of this enhancement is not specified. In addition, the company has confirmed the much-discussed All-day scenes. New scenes like Golden hours and Nature’s colors will be added to the existing Natural light scene to create dynamic lighting effects. The release notes mention that the Bridge is ready to support this feature, but it’s still unclear when these new scenes will actually be available, likely in a future app update.

    Reliability Improvements

    The change log also highlights some general updates related to reliability and performance. Currently, software version 1968096020 is being rolled out to all Philips Hue Bridge units worldwide, with the current price being $44.98 on Amazon. However, the company hasn’t provided a timeline for when the rollout will finish or when users can expect to access the All-day scenes for their smart lighting systems.

    In conclusion, Philips Hue continues to evolve with exciting upgrades and features, as noted by HueBlog.com.

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  • Xiaomi Mijia Air Purifier 5 Pro: Advanced Air Monitoring Features

    Xiaomi Mijia Air Purifier 5 Pro: Advanced Air Monitoring Features

    Xiaomi has launched its new product, the Mijia Air Purifier 5 Pro, in China. This comes after the release of the Mijia Air Purifier 5 that was introduced earlier this year. The new purifier is now on sale for a special price of 2,499 yuan ($344). Let’s take a look at its main features.

    Key Features of the Mijia Air Purifier 5 Pro

    The Mijia Air Purifier 5 Pro comes with a dual-fan system that provides strong purification, allowing it to produce 13,333 liters of clean air every minute. It can renew the air in just 3 minutes, making it perfect for larger areas such as new homes, offices, shops, and kindergartens.

    This purifier can achieve a CADR of 1050 m³/h for particles, effectively covering spaces between 56-96 m². It has a six-layer composite filtration system that can eliminate bacteria, formaldehyde, dust, and allergens. Notably, it has a formaldehyde CADR of 720 m³/h, which is 8 times better than the national standards in China. This rapid removal of harmful gases is particularly useful in newly renovated areas. The purifier also includes powerful antibacterial and deodorizing filters that can remove 99.99% of the H1N1 flu virus, EV71 intestinal virus, and other airborne pathogens.

    Advanced Monitoring and Smart Features

    The device is equipped with six advanced sensors, which detect indoor pollutants like formaldehyde, pollen, and particulate matter, enabling real-time air quality monitoring. It also incorporates UV-C sterilization technology and has an antibacterial coating to provide a clean environment, especially during flu season.

    The Mijia Air Purifier 5 Pro offers smart connectivity through the Mijia App and XiaoAI voice assistant, allowing users to control the device from afar, set automation options, and change modes with ease. It supports HyperOS Connect and features a large LCD screen that shows air quality and device information clearly.

    User-Friendly Design and Maintenance

    This air purifier operates quietly, with a sleep mode that produces only 33 dB(A), making it ideal for use in bedrooms. Its hidden caster wheels also make it simple to move from room to room, and its sleek design with a sealed top cover keeps the interior clean.

    Additionally, it has an energy-efficient filter that lasts up to 12 months, costing around 1.23 yuan per day for upkeep. The snap-in filter compartment door makes replacing the filter easy, enhancing user convenience.

    In other news, Xiaomi has also recently revealed a mini washing machine with a 1kg capacity, which features smart dosing and sterilization capabilities. They also introduced a new Mijia floor scrubber that boasts 15,000Pa suction, triple anti-hair technology, and a runtime of 30 minutes.

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  • Oregon Approves 1,200 MW Sunstone Solar, America’s Largest Solar Farm

    Oregon Approves 1,200 MW Sunstone Solar, America’s Largest Solar Farm

    Oregon has recently approved the Sunstone Solar project, which is poised to become the largest solar farm in the United States. Spanning approximately 10,000 acres in Morrow County, this initiative marks a significant advancement in the state’s commitment to sustainability.

    Solar Panel Details

    Sunstone Solar is set to deploy nearly 4 million solar panels, producing 1,200 megawatts of clean, emission-free energy. This amount of power is sufficient to supply around 800,000 households annually.

    Regulatory Challenges

    Ben Catt, the CEO of Pine Gate Renewables, highlighted the stringent regulations Oregon enforces regarding energy projects. The state is diligent in safeguarding prime agricultural land, which necessitates that solar farms demonstrate tangible benefits to the local community to gain approval. However, projects like Sunstone receive the green light when they can substantiate their advantages.

    Future Investments

    Construction is slated to commence in 2026, with Pine Gate intending to invest over $1,000 per acre to assist local farmers. Additionally, they are allocating roughly $11 million into a fund dedicated to supporting the wheat farming sector in the region, ensuring that Morrow County’s agricultural future remains robust and sustainable.

    U.S. Senator Ron Wyden emphasized the significance of this project in combating climate change. He cited it as a prime example of the federal investments fostered by the Inflation Reduction Act and vowed to continue advocating for policies that bolster clean energy innovation across the nation.

    Pine Gate’s Experience

    Pine Gate Renewables is no stranger to Oregon’s renewable energy landscape, already managing 17 other solar projects within the state. In 2022, the company acquired Sunstone Solar from Gallatin Power Partners, thereby reinforcing its position in the market.

    Aligning with State Goals

    The initiative also coincides with Oregon’s ambitious objective of sourcing all its electricity from clean sources by 2040 and eradicating pollution associated with energy generation.

    Once operational, Sunstone Solar will link to the power grid through the Bonneville Power Administration and the Umatilla Electric Cooperative. Engineering and procurement activities are scheduled to commence in early 2025, with construction set to begin in phases starting in 2026.

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  • Eve Systems Android Support Limited to Eve Thermo Only

    Eve Systems Android Support Limited to Eve Thermo Only

    Eve Systems first talked about creating an Android app during IFA 2022. Recently, after waiting over two years and using makeshift solutions with Samsung SmartThings, the smart home brand finally released the Eve for Matter app on the Google Play Store. However, in a strange turn of events, Android users of Eve devices hoping for the new app to offer the same access to custom features as iOS will have to be patient a bit longer.

    Unlocking Features

    Eve is promoting its Android app as the way to fully utilize the Eve Thermo, which is the company’s smart radiator thermostat and the only device that the app currently supports. With the app, Android users can integrate this device into Google Home, allowing them to connect it to other smart home platforms. For the moment, no other Eve gadgets are available for use with the app.

    Limitations for Android Users

    This situation feels like a step back, given that Android users already have multi-device support through Eve’s connections with SmartThings and Alexa. Yet, those apps lack certain features like automated scheduling, which are not supported by Matter. Matter is essential to connect the Eve Thermo to Google Home using the Eve app, but the extra features can only be used through the Eve app. Meanwhile, iOS users benefit from a broader selection of custom features across various Eve smart home devices.

    New Device Options

    Current Eve Thermo users must upgrade their devices to be compatible with Matter, but the company has also introduced a new version of the Eve Thermo for €79.95 that comes with Matter-over-Thread support right out of the box. You can grab it at a 15% discount on Amazon right now.

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  • Level Home Expands Matter-over-Thread to Bolt Smart Lock

    Level Home Expands Matter-over-Thread to Bolt Smart Lock

    Level Home, part of the locksmith giant Assa Abloy, has finally introduced Matter support for the Bolt smart lock users. This firmware update began with the Level Lock Plus in early November and is free for current Level Bolt users.

    Understanding Matter and Its Importance

    Matter is the IoT standard that enables different smart home systems to work together. For devices with low bandwidth like smart locks, Matter operates via Thread, a mesh networking method akin to ZigBee and Z-Wave. In November 2022, Level disclosed to The Verge that all its smart locks were equipped with Thread radios, meaning these locks were already ready for Matter even before the standard was established.

    Slow Adoption of Matter

    However, as Matter was just beginning to develop, many smart home manufacturers were cautious about embracing the standard. Level was particularly slow, choosing to rely on a WiFi bridge for integration with platforms like Apple Home. The $79 Level Connect had to remain plugged in, which clashed with the clean, simple design that users expect from the “invisible lock.” Additionally, the reliance on the cloud didn’t help Level locks’ reputation.

    The Long-Awaited Update

    After over two years and a significant acquisition, Level is now moving forward with Matter. Smart home users who have the Level Lock Plus received the first firmware updates last month, and the rollout has also reached Level Bolt smart locks. The firm has introduced a Matter-compatible version of the Bolt priced at $229, which does not need the Level Connect bridge (this should no longer be required for Bolt and Lock Plus users). Users of the original Level Lock and Level Lock Touch will still need the WiFi adapter since those locks have not yet adopted Matter.

    Level Home cautions Bolt users that the transition to Matter cannot be undone, but it will not affect the warranty. Furthermore, since the Matter specification excludes support for Amazon Sidewalk, connecting to Ring Doorbell devices will not be possible anymore. Users will also need to re-pair their smart lock with their chosen platform after updating to Matter.

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  • Starlink Mini Deal: 25% Off Dish & 40% Off Roam Plan

    Starlink Mini Deal: 25% Off Dish & 40% Off Roam Plan

    Despite Elon Musk’s thoughts that the Starlink Mini dish would be priced at half of what the Standard Kit costs, SpaceX has launched it at the full retail price of $599. This price was even higher than that of the larger dish, which was available with a promotional discount at the time.

    New Pricing for Standard Dish

    Since that initial release, SpaceX has further reduced the price of the standard Starlink dish to $349, which now appears to be its permanent price. Recently, however, the Starlink Mini kit experienced its first significant price drop from $599 to $449 at retailers like Best Buy, marking its lowest price ever.

    Extended Discount Offer

    Originally, this promotion was set to end on December 8, but SpaceX has begun notifying Residential plan subscribers via email that they can still acquire the Mini dish at the discounted price until December 31. The email also mentioned a discount on the roaming plan available for purchase.

    The communication from SpaceX states that customers who buy a Starlink Mini dish by the end of this month will enjoy the same $449 promotional price that was initially scheduled to expire on December 8.

    Roaming Plan Discount

    Additionally, purchasers will receive a 40% discount on the Roam plan, which allows the use of the Starlink Mini dish while traveling. It’s worth noting that this roaming plan applies only to the base option with a 50GB limit, available for $30/month, rather than the unlimited satellite internet plan priced at $165/month.

    For users of the Starlink Standard Kit on the Residential plan who frequently travel and wish to take a Starlink Mini dish along, this new bundle deal could be appealing as it reduces the cost of both the dish and the roaming plan.

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  • Study Examines How Renewable Energy Affects Power Outages

    Study Examines How Renewable Energy Affects Power Outages

    As more renewable energy sources are added to the electricity grid, the reliability of electricity production is starting to decline. If there aren’t adequate storage solutions or gas-fired power plants that can quickly take over, we may experience critical issues or even total power outages repeatedly.

    Challenges with Traditional Energy Sources

    Another perspective is that long heat waves have shown that coal and nuclear power plants struggle to maintain reliable cooling. In contrast, wind turbines and solar panels consistently generate electricity during these periods, helping to stabilize the grid effectively.

    Research Findings

    To investigate the connection between increasing renewable energy use and power outages, a study from Trinity College Dublin analyzed two decades of power outage data in the USA. For instance, California already meets a significant portion of its electricity needs through renewable sources under ideal conditions, while a single nuclear power plant contributes very little to the overall base load.

    Impact on Power Outages

    Overall, the rise in wind and solar energy has not negatively affected the operational stability of the electricity grid. In three key areas, the outages that were recorded were less severe: fewer homes were impacted, the total power loss was smaller, and the average duration of each outage was shorter.

    A major factor contributing positively to stability is the widespread distribution of electricity generation. In earlier times, if a large power plant or an essential substation went offline, it often resulted in widespread outages. However, with electricity being fed into the grid from multiple sources, the effects during critical times have been limited. This highlights the benefits of decentralized energy supply.

    Optimistic Outlook for Future Energy

    Even in Ireland, where this research was conducted, the scientists remain cautiously hopeful, even though the extensive grids in the USA and Europe are more adept at handling the variable electricity production from renewables. It’s possible that electricity generation from rainfall is also being explored now.

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