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  • Solar Power Bank: Sports Charger, Lamp & Bluetooth Speaker

    Solar Power Bank: Sports Charger, Lamp & Bluetooth Speaker

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Syul power bank is seeking funding on Kickstarter, with a price of $59 and expected shipments in October.
    2. It features a solar panel that can generate up to 500mAh, though achieving this may be difficult due to its design.
    3. The power bank has a capacity of 15,000mAh, allowing for multiple device recharges, including two full charges for an Apple iPad Pro.
    4. It includes a built-in 20-watt Bluetooth speaker with up to 24 hours of battery life and the ability to connect two units for stereo sound.
    5. Additional functionalities include a lamp, bottle opener, and a durable design, making it suitable for outdoor activities.

    A new power bank featuring several advanced capabilities is currently seeking funding on Kickstarter. Supporters of the product, named Syul, can secure a unit along with a compatible USB-C cable by contributing $59. Shipments are expected to begin this October, though it’s important to remember the typical financial uncertainties that come with crowdfunding initiatives.

    Unique Charging Capabilities

    This innovative power bank can harness solar energy, thanks to an integrated solar panel that can generate up to 500mAh when given enough sunlight. Nonetheless, the solar panel’s 360-degree design means it can’t directly face the sun all the time. Thus, reaching the claimed 500mAh seems quite unlikely. On the bright side, this feature allows the power bank to still collect some charge without needing to be adjusted or repositioned.

    Impressive Battery Capacity

    The standout feature of this portable charger is its capacity of 15,000mAh, which should be sufficient to completely recharge an Apple iPad Pro two times or an AirPods Pro up to 26 times. Devices can be powered through USB-C at a maximum of 45 watts. This indicates that the Syul power bank can indeed charge laptops, although bigger notebooks may require more power to charge fully.

    Additional Features

    Moreover, it comes with a built-in Bluetooth speaker that boasts an output of 20 watts and can last for up to 24 hours on a single charge. Users can connect two of these devices together for a stereo experience. Aside from this, the power bank can also function as a lamp and a bottle opener, plus it is designed to be relatively robust.

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    Solar Power Bank: Sports Charger, Lamp & Bluetooth Speaker
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  • PhotonMatrix Laser Prototype Effectively Eliminates Mosquitoes

    PhotonMatrix Laser Prototype Effectively Eliminates Mosquitoes

    Key Takeaways

    1. PhotonMatrix uses short-range laser beams and lidar technology to detect and eliminate mosquitoes and similar flying insects in real-time.
    2. The system is designed to avoid targeting larger animals like humans or pets, using specific size-based detection settings.
    3. It operates without chemicals or AI, relying on set detection criteria for insect elimination.
    4. PhotonMatrix is currently crowdfunding on Indiegogo, having raised over $400,000, and plans to deliver the product by October 2025.
    5. The device is still in prototype stage and has not received regulatory approvals or independent testing for commercial sale.

    PhotonMatrix is a new mosquito control solution that targets flying insects using short-range laser beams. This system detects mosquitoes in real-time through lidar technology. The prototype can spot mosquitoes and insects that are similar in size, ranging from 2 to 20 millimeters, and moving at speeds below 1 meter per second. When it identifies a valid target, the laser automatically activates and eliminates the insect while it’s flying. It’s important to note that this system operates without chemicals or physical agents, depending instead on set detection criteria instead of using artificial intelligence or predictive classification.

    Detection Specifications

    The system has size-based detection settings to prevent the laser from firing when larger creatures like humans, pets, or birds come into its view. The creators have mentioned their plans to seek necessary safety certifications, but as of now, they haven’t received any regulatory approvals. The device is powered through USB-C, which means it can work using a standard PD-compatible power bank or a portable battery station.

    Operating Conditions

    PhotonMatrix is made for use in outdoor or semi-sheltered spaces and functions well both during the day and at night. The developers suggest installing it under eaves or solar panels to minimize disruptions caused by rain and debris. While it’s mainly focused on mosquito control, the prototype can also target other slow-flying pests like fruit flies or sand flies. However, it struggles with faster insects such as houseflies unless a narrower scanning angle is employed, which decreases the coverage area.

    Currently, PhotonMatrix is being crowdfunded on Indiegogo, where it has surpassed $400,000 in funding—over 20 times its initial goal of $20,000. Supporters are being offered early-bird pricing with free shipping and taxes included, though there are optional charges for batteries.

    Delivery Timeline

    Originally, the first delivery was set for March 2026, but the team has moved it up to October 2025 due to requests from distributors in tropical and temperate areas, aiming to ensure the product is available before summer hits in the Southern Hemisphere. While the prototype is operational, it has not yet undergone independent testing or received certification for commercial sale. The developers recognize that the current manufacturing expenses are high, but they are optimistic about lowering costs in upcoming production phases. It remains to be seen if the device can maintain reliable performance in uncontrolled settings. For now, PhotonMatrix stands as a bold yet unproven option compared to traditional mosquito control methods.

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    PhotonMatrix Laser Prototype Effectively Eliminates MosquitoesPhotonMatrix Laser Prototype Effectively Eliminates Mosquitoes
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  • EcoFlow Wave 3: Portable AC for Camping & Heatwaves on Sale

    EcoFlow Wave 3: Portable AC for Camping & Heatwaves on Sale

    Key Takeaways

    1. The EcoFlow Wave 3 is a portable air conditioner best suited for small rooms (up to 17 square meters or 183 square feet).
    2. It is primarily designed for use while camping or in motorhomes, but may struggle to cool in direct sunlight.
    3. The unit offers effective cooling for small bedrooms and features a quiet night mode for light sleepers.
    4. Currently priced at $899, down from $1,299, it requires a power outlet or station to operate.
    5. An optional battery for more mobility costs an additional $500, making the total investment quite high.

    The recent heat waves in Europe and North America have largely calmed down for now. If you’re preparing for the next wave of hot weather or looking into portable air conditioners, you might find the EcoFlow Wave 3 catching your eye.

    Performance Overview

    We’ve been testing the EcoFlow Wave 3 for several weeks and summarized our findings in this review. This portable air conditioner, which you can control through an app, shows good performance in some aspects, as long as you manage your expectations and keep a few things in mind.

    Room Size Limitations

    If you’re aiming to cool down large spaces during the hottest part of the summer, the Wave 3 isn’t the best option. This portable unit is designed for small rooms, specifically a maximum area of 17 square meters (around 183 square feet). As long as your space is within this range, expect effective cooling, particularly when compared to its predecessor. It can create more comfortable conditions in small bedrooms during summer nights and also has a quiet night mode that’s friendly for light sleepers.

    Intended Use

    Notably, the EcoFlow Wave 3 is mainly meant for use while camping, in motorhomes, and similar situations. However, if the sun is blazing down on the vehicle’s roof all day, the Wave 3 won’t be strong enough to deliver a significant cooling effect. In the evenings, though, it can effectively reduce the temperature in a motorhome, caravan, or even a tent. For more detailed insights, check out our EcoFlow Wave 3 review.

    Pricing Details

    At present, the Wave 3 is available directly from the manufacturer for $899, a reduction of $400 from its original retail price of $1,299. However, it does require a power outlet or a power station to operate. For those seeking a more mobile and independent experience, EcoFlow provides an optional battery that costs an extra $500, which ultimately makes this portable air conditioner quite pricey overall.

    Disclaimer: Notebookcheck does not hold responsibility for any price changes made by retailers. The discounted price or offer mentioned here was valid at the time of writing and may be limited by time or quantity availability.

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    EcoFlow Wave 3: Portable AC for Camping & Heatwaves on SaleEcoFlow Wave 3: Portable AC for Camping & Heatwaves on Sale

     

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  • SpaceX Faces Lawsuit in Mexico for Environmental Concerns

    SpaceX Faces Lawsuit in Mexico for Environmental Concerns

    Key Takeaways

    1. SpaceX is developing Starship, the largest rocket ever, but faced a significant failure during a test on June 18.
    2. Mexico has filed a lawsuit against SpaceX, claiming the explosion breached international environmental laws.
    3. The Boca Chica Beach region, where SpaceX operates, has a fragile ecosystem with protected species affected by rocket launches.
    4. Environmental concerns include air, soil, and water contamination from emissions, as well as noise pollution impacting local wildlife.
    5. SpaceX claims to be working on reducing its ecological impact through cleaner engine technology and debris recovery methods, but recent incidents highlight ongoing challenges.

    For many years, SpaceX has changed the space sector through its innovative technologies while dramatically cutting down launch costs. However, like all success stories, there’s a troubling aspect to consider. Right now, this company faces a serious threat from a lawsuit brought against it by Mexico.

    Starship’s Ambitious Goals

    SpaceX is in the process of developing the biggest rocket ever, called Starship. However, not everything is going smoothly. The most recent test of this spacecraft, which occurred on June 18 at the Mexico border, ended in a total failure. During the upper section test, this remarkable vehicle unexpectedly exploded. While SpaceX insists that the environment was not harmed by this incident, Mexico strongly disagrees, viewing it as a breach of international environmental laws.

    Environmental Concerns

    It’s key to recognize that the Boca Chica Beach region, where Starship is situated, hosts a delicate ecosystem with several protected species. Every rocket launch or test emits gases and particulates into the atmosphere. Moreover, various substances like perchlorates and metal oxides pose a risk of contaminating the air, soil, and water.

    In addition to this, noise pollution and vibrations from launches can disturb the local ecosystem, including endangered species near the launch area. Furthermore, space debris resulting from explosions can negatively impact local wildlife and plant life, potentially destroying their habitats.

    SpaceX’s Initiatives

    In light of these environmental challenges, SpaceX asserts that it is taking steps to minimize its ecological impact. For instance, the Raptor engines, which run on liquid methane, are designed to be less polluting than traditional fuels. Additionally, the company is exploring various methods to recover debris and reduce waste. Nevertheless, recent events like the explosion on June 18 indicate that there is still much to be done, and new solutions need to be discovered.

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  • Navimow X3 Review: Nearly Perfect, One Key Question Unanswered

    Navimow X3 Review: Nearly Perfect, One Key Question Unanswered

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Navimow X3 features a unique connector for accessories, including a side trimmer for edge mowing, though the accessory is not yet available in Germany.
    2. The Navimow X3 offers reliable and high-quality mowing, but its entry-level model, the X315, is slower than the premium versions X350 and X390.
    3. The mower requires an RTK antenna for effective navigation and includes cameras for excellent obstacle detection.
    4. The entry-level X315 is priced at $2,299, which is higher than some competitors, but lacks the option for accessory connectivity.
    5. The premium model X390, capable of handling larger areas, is priced at $4,999, reflecting its advanced features.

    The Navimow X3 by Segway stands out as one of the top lawnmowers in 2025. This model boasts a unique connector on its side that allows for the attachment of various accessories, including a side trimmer aimed at achieving perfect edge mowing. Regrettably, this accessory is not yet available in the reviewer’s country (Germany), so we couldn’t include this exciting feature in our review of the Navimow X3. We will make an effort to update this once it becomes accessible.

    Performance Highlights

    Even without this cutting-edge solution, which Navimow hopes will address the significant issue of edge-free mowing in robotic lawnmowers, the Navimow X3 has nearly captured our full attention. Although its power consumption (particularly in standby mode) is somewhat high, the Navimow X315 is notable for its dependable and high-quality mowing capabilities. However, the entry-level model is a bit slower than the two premium versions, the X350 and X390.

    Navigation and Obstacle Detection

    The systematic navigation through the testing areas generally performed well, but the mower does require an RTK antenna to function in the garden. Additional cameras situated on the front and sides of the robotic lawnmower help with obstacle detection. In this aspect, the Navimow X3 performs nearly flawlessly, as our review indicates.

    Pricing Concerns

    One criticism is that the entry-level model, the Navimow X315, priced at $2,299 for a robotic lawnmower capable of mowing up to 1,500 square meters, seems quite pricey compared to competitors like the Mammotion Yuka, which retails at $1,399. However, the Mammotion model lacks the option to connect a module. The Navimow X390, which can handle areas up to 10,000 square meters, is also not inexpensive, with a retail price of $4,999.

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    Navimow X3 Review: Nearly Perfect, One Key Question Unanswered

     

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  • New Anker NVR Security System with AI Expands to More Countries

    New Anker NVR Security System with AI Expands to More Countries

    Key Takeaways

    1. The eufy NVR Security System S4 Max is now available in the Netherlands and Spain, priced at €1,299.99.
    2. UK customers can sign up for an Early-Bird program for a 15% discount, with the system launching on August 1st for £1,099.
    3. The system was first released in the US market in April 2025, priced at $1,299.99, and pre-orders began in Germany in June.
    4. Each S4 Max unit includes a 4K wide-angle camera, two 2K PTZ cameras, an 8-core processor, and 2 TB of built-in storage expandable to 16 TB.
    5. Features include support for up to 16 cameras, EdgeAICore for quick footage search, cross-camera tracking, and automatic threat detection.

    The eufy NVR Security System S4 Max has expanded its availability to more countries in Europe. This product, from the Anker sub-brand, promises to help you keep an eye on your property. They claim it’s the first of its kind in the world. The package comes with four smart security cameras and a network video recorder (NVR) featuring a local AI agent.

    New Launch in Europe

    Eufy has introduced the NVR Security System S4 Max to the Netherlands and Spain, with a price tag of €1,299.99. Additionally, customers in the UK can join an Early-Bird Sign Up program, which gives them a 15% discount on the system when it arrives on August 1st. In the UK, it will retail for £1,099.

    Availability in the US

    This smart home security solution first hit the US market in April 2025, where it is available for $1,299.99. Moreover, pre-orders for the eufy PoE NVR Security System began in Germany in June, and it has recently been launched in that region as well.

    Specifications and Features

    Each S4 Max unit comes with a fixed 4K wide-angle camera and two 2K PTZ cameras with automatic zoom capabilities of up to 8x. The NVR boasts an 8-core processor and has 2 TB of built-in storage that can be expanded to 16 TB. It can support up to 16 cameras, and the EdgeAICore agent helps you quickly locate footage through a search feature. Additionally, it supports cross-camera tracking and automatic threat detection. It remains unclear whether this new eufy smart home system will become available in other nations like Australia and Italy.

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  • Eufy Smart Display E10 Launches in the US: Features & Details

    Eufy Smart Display E10 Launches in the US: Features & Details

    Key Takeaways

    1. The eufy Smart Display E10 is now available in the US for $199.99, following its earlier release in Europe.
    2. Bundles are available, including a discounted package with the eufyCam S3 Pro 4-Cam Kit, originally priced at $999.98, now $799.98 until July 7th.
    3. The display features an 8-inch touchscreen (1280 x 800 px) for smart home security integration, allowing live video feeds from multiple cameras.
    4. It has a limitation as it cannot control other smart devices and lacks voice assistant capabilities; it is primarily a security hub.
    5. The device is portable with a 4,050 mAh battery for up to 24 hours of use, measuring 13.9 x 20.1 x 1.65 cm (5.5 x 7.9 x 0.6 inches).

    The eufy Smart Display E10 has now officially hit the market in the US. First teased back in April 2025, this smart home hub was previously released in Europe. It became available for pre-order in the US around mid-June.

    Pricing and Availability

    You can purchase the eufy Smart Display E10 in the US directly from the brand’s online store or on Amazon for a price of $199.99. Additionally, there are several bundles that include the smart home hub. One such bundle combines the eufy Smart Display E10 with the eufyCam S3 Pro 4-Cam Kit, which is priced at $799.98 (originally $999.98) thanks to a $200 discount; this offer is set to last until July 7th.

    Features of the Smart Display

    Eufy’s Smart Display 10 features an 8-inch touchscreen with a resolution of 1,280 x 800 px, intended to integrate into your smart home security setup. You can connect various security cameras and video doorbells, receiving live video feeds and alerts right on the display. It allows you to watch up to four video streams at once, and users can also access instant playback for earlier events. When used with the HomeBase S380, it generates daily summaries, giving you a recap of the activity from the past 24 hours. This device comes with 8 GB of internal storage, which can be expanded to 512 GB.

    Limitations and Design

    Although eufy markets this device as a smart home hub, it mainly serves this single purpose; it cannot manage other smart home devices like lights or thermostats, and lacks a voice assistant feature. The device is considered portable with its built-in 4,050 mAh lithium-ion battery, which allows for up to 24 hours of usage. Its dimensions are 13.9 x 20.1 x 1.65 cm (approximately 5.5 x 7.9 x 0.6 inches). It remains unclear if or when the eufy Smart Display E10 will be launched in the UK.

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    Eufy Smart Display E10 Launches in the US: Features & Details

     

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  • Researchers Successfully Record Slow Earthquake for First Time

    Researchers Successfully Record Slow Earthquake for First Time

    Key Takeaways

    1. Slow earthquakes occur slowly over days, weeks, or months and are difficult to detect.
    2. Researchers from the University of Texas at Austin captured the first real-time observation of a slow-slip earthquake in Nankai, Japan.
    3. Drilling sensors were used to monitor tiny movements along the fault line near the ocean floor.
    4. The findings suggest that the deeper section of the fault acts like a shock absorber, reducing pressure without causing sudden earthquakes.
    5. Elevated geological fluid pressure plays a crucial role in the occurrence of slow earthquakes, helping scientists understand seismic fault behavior better.

    While the tectonic plates on our planet are always shifting, witnessing a slow earthquake in real-time is quite a challenge. Most earthquakes that get recorded are due to a rapid slip or break between two separate plates. Nevertheless, scientists have successfully captured this unusual phenomenon for the very first time.

    Understanding Slow Earthquakes

    It’s crucial to recognize that this kind of event is still very much a mystery within the scientific community. Additionally, capturing it on record is no easy task. A slow earthquake can unfold over days, weeks, or even months, often without any clear signs of activity.

    A Breakthrough by Researchers

    A group from the University of Texas at Austin has made a significant breakthrough by documenting the spread of the earthquake when tectonic pressure was released along the fault in Nankai, Japan, which can generate tsunamis. To do this, they employed drilling sensors that are capable of sensing the tiniest movements, which were strategically placed in a crucial area offshore, where the fault is nearest to the ocean floor.

    In 2015, this effort led to the first observation of a slow-slip earthquake that traveled along the tail of the fault. Later, in 2020, a second earthquake followed the same path. In the journal Science, the researchers described: “Slip initiates ~30 kilometers landward of the trench; migrates seaward at 1 to 2 kilometers per day to within a few kilometers of, and possibly breaching, the trench; and coincides with the onset and migration of tremor and/or very-low-frequency earthquakes. The SSE source region lies in a zone of high pore fluid pressure and low stress, which provides clear observational evidence linking these factors to shallow slow earthquakes.”

    Implications of the Findings

    These two occurrences are linked to decompression of the fault. However, the researchers also highlighted that this finding implies that the deeper section of the fault functions more like a shock absorber, easing pressure without causing sudden shakes. Moreover, they took place in regions where geological fluid pressure was elevated, suggesting that these fluids are crucial in slow earthquakes. Therefore, this discovery might assist scientists in gaining a better grasp of how seismic faults operate and the nature of slow-slip earthquakes, which remain largely unexplored.

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  • New Philips Hue Smart Strip Lights Coming Soon

    New Philips Hue Smart Strip Lights Coming Soon

    Key Takeaways

    1. Philips is developing new COB (Chip on Board) strip lights for improved LED lighting technology.
    2. COB technology reduces gaps between LEDs, providing a seamless lighting effect and potentially higher brightness.
    3. The current Philips Hue Ambiance Gradient Lightstrip has a lifespan of around 25,000 hours and delivers up to 1,800 lumens.
    4. The launch details and pricing for the new COB strip light remain unclear, with no official statement from Signify yet.
    5. The new product may compete with the Govee COB Strip Light Pro, which was released in September 2024.

    A new Philips Hue COB strip light is supposedly coming soon. Philips already has a range of smart strip lights available, such as the Philips Hue Ambiance Gradient Lightstrip (currently priced at $119.31 on Amazon).

    New Technology in Development

    According to a recent post by Hueblog.com, Signify, the brand behind Philips Hue smart lighting, is developing strip lights that utilize a different technology. This Chip on Board (COB) approach allows LEDs to be directly embedded into the circuit board. This design reportedly reduces the gaps between the LEDs, making individual light sources less visible and creating a more seamless lighting effect. Additionally, this technology might provide higher peak brightness and a longer lifespan. For reference, the previous Hue Ambiance Gradient Lightstrip delivers up to 1,800 lumens at 4,000K, or 1,600 lumens at 2,700K, with a lifespan of around 25,000 hours.

    Unclear Details and Competition

    Hueblog.com does not specify where it obtained this information. If the new product is launched in the US market, it could rival the Govee COB Strip Light Pro (currently listed at $99.99 on Amazon), which came out in September 2024. As of now, Signify has not made an official statement regarding the upcoming Philips Hue COB strip light. Therefore, it remains uncertain when this item will be available and what its price might be.

    Conclusion

    In conclusion, the anticipation of the new Philips Hue COB strip light is building, yet many details are still unknown. Whether it will outshine the competition remains to be seen, but the features suggested by the COB technology are certainly intriguing.

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  • Govee Smart Air Purifier 2 Now Available in Europe

    Govee Smart Air Purifier 2 Now Available in Europe

    Key Takeaways

    1. The GoveeLife Smart Air Purifier 2 features a new PM2.5 sensor for detecting fine particles and adjusts filtration intensity automatically.
    2. It is suitable for spaces up to 1,046 ft² and uses an H13 HEPA filter with 99.97% efficiency for particles between 0.1 and 0.3 μm.
    3. The purifier includes multiple modes: Auto Mode, Turbo Mode for faster purification, and Sleep Mode operating quietly below 24 dB.
    4. It has built-in RGB lighting to indicate air quality or serve as mood lighting and can be controlled via the Govee Home app and smart assistants like Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa.
    5. The price in Europe is £129.99/€159.99, with a bundle option available; in the US, it is listed at $99.99 but currently priced at $79.99 on Amazon.

    The GoveeLife Smart Air Purifier 2 has just launched in Europe. It was already on sale in the US and comes as an enhanced version of the original Smart Air Purifier by the same brand.

    Key Enhancements

    The primary upgrade in the Smart Air Purifier 2 compared to the earlier model is the incorporation of a PM2.5 sensor. This sensor is capable of identifying levels of fine particles such as soot and other emissions from combustion, as well as fine dust. With its Auto Mode feature, the purifier can smartly adjust its filtration intensity based on the sensor’s readings. Other than this, both models share many similar functions.

    Specifications and Features

    Govee’s Smart Air Purifier 2 is suitable for spaces measuring up to 1,046 ft² (about 97 m²). The device is equipped with an H13 level HEPA filter, which boasts a 99.97% efficiency in filtering air particles sized between 0.1 and 0.3 μm, alongside a CADR rating of up to 135 cfm. In addition to Auto Mode, there’s a Turbo Mode for quicker purification, and a Sleep Mode that operates at a noise level below 24 dB. Another nice feature is the built-in RGB lighting, which can show the air quality or serve as a mood light in your preferred color. Like other Govee products, it can be controlled remotely through the Govee Home app, allowing you to turn it on or off, adjust the lighting color, and monitor air quality metrics in real-time. It also works with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa.

    Pricing and Availability

    In Europe, the GoveeLife Smart Air Purifier 2 is available for £129.99/€159.99. There is also a bundle option that includes the air purifier and a replacement HEPA filter for £154.98/€186.98; however, no discount is offered, as the replacement filter costs £24.99/€26.99. For those in the US, the GoveeLife Smart Air Purifier 2 is listed at $99.99, but it is currently priced at $79.99 on Amazon.

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    Govee Smart Air Purifier 2 Now Available in Europe

     

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