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  • Wyze Scale Ultra Launches: Large Screen and $50 Price Tag

    Wyze Scale Ultra Launches: Large Screen and $50 Price Tag

    Wyze has been in the smart scale game for a while, but their latest version might just be their finest one yet. The Wyze Scale Ultra, like many other smart scales, goes beyond simply measuring weight. It can also assess BMI, muscle mass, visceral fat, and other metrics. What sets it apart from earlier Wyze models is its spacious color display, which means you no longer need to open the companion app to check your health data.

    Stunning Display

    Featuring a 4.3-inch color screen, the Wyze Scale Ultra shows body metrics right away. Wyze isn’t alone in introducing a smart scale with a color display; back in September, Xiaomi released the Mi Body Composition Scale S400 Pro, which includes a smaller 3.5-inch color display.

    Health Tracking Features

    This smart scale tracks a total of 13 health metrics and can automatically recognize up to 8 users, plus it includes a guest mode. Besides health metrics, it also offers special modes for babies, pets, and luggage. The Wyze Smart Scale Ultra includes both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi capabilities, allowing it to automatically sync data, even when your phone isn’t nearby. Additionally, it works with Apple Health, Fitbit, and Google Fit.

    Design and Specifications

    You can choose the Wyze Scale Ultra in either black or white. Both versions feature ITO coated glass and anti-slip feet. It runs on four 1.5V AAA batteries (which are included) that Wyze claims can last up to 9 months. The scale weighs 1.8 kg (3.96 lbs) and can handle a weight range from 5 to 180 kg (11 to 400 lbs).

    If you’re interested in purchasing the Wyze Scale Ultra, it’s currently available on Amazon for $49.98 and at Wyze’s store for $43.99.

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  • New Anker 25K Power Bank with 100W Retractable Cable Leak

    New Anker 25K Power Bank with 100W Retractable Cable Leak

    More details have emerged about the new Anker Zolo Power Bank 25K 165W, which features retractable and built-in USB-C cables. Initially, the product was introduced with a blurry image back in September, making it difficult to gather much information. However, reliable leakster u/joshuadwx from Reddit has shared new insights.

    Power Bank Specifications

    We already knew the Zolo Power Bank 25K boasts a capacity of 25,000mAh (90Wh) and can deliver a maximum output of 165W. It has been verified that there is one retractable USB-C cable capable of 100W output, along with another integrated 100W USB-C cable. The exact lengths of these cables are still unknown, but one is designed with a clip to serve as a lanyard. Besides the two USB-C cables, the device includes a bidirectional 100W USB-C port and a 33W USB-A output. The power bank can be recharged at a rate of 100W and supports both pass-through charging and a trickle charging mode.

    Features and Design

    In addition, a digital display on the power bank shows the charging status and battery temperature. According to the source, the product will measure approximately 15.7 × 5.4 × 4.9 cm (about 6.2 x 2.1 x 1.9 inches) and have a weight of 555g (around 1.2 lbs). There are rumors that the Anker Zolo Power Bank 25K 165W, featuring retractable and built-in USB-C cables, may be released within the next year at a price of roughly $100; however, Anker has yet to verify this information. In the meantime, you might want to look into the Anker 737 Power Bank (PowerCore 24K), which offers a 140W Output, currently priced at $109.99 on Amazon.

    Conclusion

    In summary, the Anker Zolo Power Bank 25K 165W seems to be a promising product with a variety of features. With its dual USB-C cables and high output, it could be a great option for those in need of a powerful charging solution. Keep an eye out for more updates as the release date approaches!

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  • Improving Insulation in Japanese Homes Lowers Winter Heart Risks

    Improving Insulation in Japanese Homes Lowers Winter Heart Risks

    A new research led by Assistant Professor Wataru Umishio from Science Tokyo highlights the health and economic advantages of having well-insulated homes in Japan. This is particularly important in reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) during the cold season.

    The Risks of Cold Indoor Temperatures

    Low indoor temperatures can cause a rise in blood pressure, increasing the likelihood of hypertension and CVDs. This is a significant issue in Japan, where many residences fall below the World Health Organization’s suggested minimum temperature of 18°C. The research examined different insulation enhancements to determine their cost-effectiveness regarding indoor temperature improvements and the decrease of medical costs linked to CVDs.

    Methodology and Findings

    The research team analyzed information from Japan’s health survey to create scenarios involving 100,000 virtual couples, concentrating on insulation improvements made at age 40 and retrofitting homes at age 60. Findings indicated that making insulation upgrades when buying a home could raise healthy life expectancy by as much as 0.48 QALYs (quality-adjusted life years) and recover up to 74% of insulation expenses through lowered medical bills. In contrast, retrofitting was not as financially viable, suggesting that partial insulation might be a more budget-friendly option.

    Implications for Policy and Health

    This study illustrates that well-insulated and warm homes not only lower the chances of CVDs but also contribute to overall health objectives. They could significantly help in avoiding respiratory problems as well. The insights from this research might assist policymakers in advancing housing upgrades that are in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (a formal set of global objectives set by the United Nations) regarding health, inequality, sustainable cities, and climate action. Thus, promoting warmer homes could serve as a strategy to mitigate health risks during the winter months.

    BMJ Public Health via EurekAlert

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  • Govee Launches New Cone Tree Lights with Matter Support

    Govee Launches New Cone Tree Lights with Matter Support

    Govee has introduced the Cone Tree Lights to customers around the world. These smart lighting solutions are styled to look like a Christmas tree that stands about 6 ft (approximately 1.8 m) tall, making them suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. The company states that these lights have an IP65 rating, meaning they are resistant to dust and water, and they can function in temperatures as low as -20°C (around -4°F).

    Features and Customization

    The Cone Tree Lights feature RGBIC 316 lamp beads strung across several lines surrounding a central pole, topped with a shining star. Users can pick from 66 pre-set scene modes, which include various Christmas themes. If you prefer a personal touch, you can design your own lighting settings or create designs using the Finger sketch tool. The DreamView feature allows these lights to sync seamlessly with other Govee products, creating a unified lighting design. Additionally, you can control the lights remotely using voice commands via Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant, and their Matter compatibility ensures smooth integration with various smart home systems.

    Installation and Pricing

    According to Govee, setting up the tree is fairly straightforward. It comes with stakes and a water bag to help secure it in place. The Govee Cone Tree Lights are available now worldwide, currently on sale for $134.99/£119.99/€119.99; however, this offer seems not to be listed on Amazon. The suggested retail price for the product is $149.99/£149.99/€149.99, and it remains uncertain how long these promotional prices will be available.

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  • New Xiaomi Mijia Vertical Study Lamp Pro with HyperOS Launches

    New Xiaomi Mijia Vertical Study Lamp Pro with HyperOS Launches

    The Xiaomi Mijia Vertical Study Lamp Pro has been launched in China. This smart home device is crafted for work or study environments, featuring a tall 2,000 mm (about 78.7 inches) stand and a long 1.05m (around 41.3 inches) light source that emits light from both sides.

    Specifications and Features

    Equipped with a four-core full spectrum LED, the Mijia Vertical Study Lamp Pro claims to deliver natural light with an impressive Ra98 color rendering index. The lamp can reach a maximum brightness of 17,800 lumens—14,800 lumens from the upper light source and 3,000 lumens from the lower. Notably, it includes smart features such as adaptive dimming, allowing the brightness to automatically adjust according to the surrounding light. Additionally, it has a built-in 24 GHz radar that activates the lamp when it detects motion.

    Control and Pricing

    Users have multiple ways to customize the lamp’s settings, including a built-in touch control sensor, a remote, the Mijia app, or through Xiao AI voice commands. The Xiaomi Mijia Vertical Study Lamp Pro is currently available for a promotional price of CNY 4,799 (approximately $674). It is anticipated to be priced at 4,999 CNY (around $702) in the near future. At this time, there’s no information on if or when this product will be available in Europe, where Xiaomi already offers smart home products like the Mi Motion-Activated Night Light (currently €16.99 on Amazon).

    Xiaomi Youpin, XiaomiToday.it

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  • Xiaomi Router BE3600 Pro: Wi-Fi 7, MLO Tech, High Security

    Xiaomi Router BE3600 Pro: Wi-Fi 7, MLO Tech, High Security

    Xiaomi has introduced its newest product for smart homes, the Xiaomi Whole-Home Router BE3600 Pro. This release follows the recent debut of the Router BE3600.

    Pricing and Availability

    The router is available for 349 Yuan ($49) on JD.com. It promises extensive Wi-Fi 7 coverage, rapid data speeds, and smart device interaction, making it suitable for intricate home layouts. Let’s dive into some of its main features.

    Key Features of the BE3600 Pro

    Equipped with a Qualcomm quad-core processor running at 1.1 GHz, the BE3600 Pro provides a significant 120% increase in processing power compared to earlier versions. This router uses Wi-Fi 7 technology, establishing a new benchmark for wireless connectivity, with speeds capable of reaching 3600 Mbps.

    It operates on both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequency bands and employs Multi-Link Operation (MLO) aggregation for stable, high-speed connections throughout your home. The device comes with a 2.5G adaptive WAN/LAN port that supports bandwidths up to 2000 Mbps, making it perfect for users with high-speed internet needs. Furthermore, it features three 1G LAN ports for multiple wired connections.

    Coverage and Connectivity

    The router provides coverage for areas up to 160 square meters and is equipped with four high-power amplifiers to enhance the signal, ensuring it penetrates walls and maintains connections in difficult spots like bathrooms and balconies. It can connect up to 256 devices and utilizes Xiaomi’s Mesh networking technology, permitting the connection of up to 10 routers in one network, thus ensuring extensive coverage in larger or more complex home designs.

    The BE3600 Pro also supports Bluetooth Mesh, allowing seamless integration of up to 128 Wi-Fi devices and 300 Bluetooth devices in a smart home system. It features an NFC tap-to-connect function for quick network access from Android devices. Additionally, it supports Xiaomi’s HyperOS Connect to improve smart home interactions.

    User Control and Design

    You can manage the BE3600 Pro via the Mi Home app or a web interface. It comes with options for guest networking, data encryption, parental controls, a built-in firewall, and game acceleration to enhance gaming experiences. The router is backed by a 1-year warranty.

    The design of the router is minimalist and antenna-free, featuring a sleek grey finish with effective heat dissipation achieved through a chimney vent, heat sinks, and electroplated surfaces for durability.

    Earlier today, Xiaomi also unveiled the Magnetic Cooling Clip with RGB lighting and PID control, alongside the Mijia Portable Hot Water Dispenser, which boasts 3-second quick heating and self-cleaning capabilities.

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  • Xiaomi Mijia Portable Hot Water Dispenser: Heats in 3 Seconds

    Xiaomi Mijia Portable Hot Water Dispenser: Heats in 3 Seconds

    Xiaomi has recently introduced the Mijia Portable Instant Hot Water Dispenser in China, a compact and convenient hot water solution that fits into your bag. This device is priced at 249 Yuan ($35) and is available for pre-order at JD.com, with official sales kicking off on November 8. Let’s dive into its main features.

    Size and Portability

    The Mijia Portable Instant Hot Water Dispenser is made for easy transport, measuring 80mm x 80mm x 214mm, which is about the size of a typical thermos. With a weight of 880 grams, it’s simple to slip into a side pocket of your backpack, making it perfect for travel by plane, high-speed trains, or any journey.

    Design and Features

    This dispenser comes equipped with a side pull-out water inlet that ensures better weight distribution, which helps stop it from tipping over when a bottle is connected. It’s compatible with a range of bottled water sizes, and it includes a bottle adapter along with a 0.5-meter water tube that works with most bottles sized between 330ml and 596ml.

    Moreover, it has a built-in 350ml stainless steel cup that serves dual purposes: it can be used for drinking and also acts as a dust cover when it’s not needed. This cup is designed with double-layer insulation to keep the water warm while also being safe to touch.

    Heating and Temperature Control

    Utilizing advanced ceramic heating technology, this device can heat water in just three seconds. It offers five preset temperature settings: room temperature, 45°C, 60°C, 75°C, and 95°C, catering to various requirements like making tea, coffee, or baby formula.

    For those who need more control, the dispenser allows adjustments of 5°C increments between 45°C and 95°C. Also, it has three different volume settings: 250ml, 350ml, and 500ml, making it flexible for different types of drinks.

    The Mijia Dispenser also features a high-altitude mode, which adjusts the boiling point based on the elevation, an 80°C self-cleaning mode for sanitation, and a child-lock feature for safety. The cleaning progress is displayed in real-time on an LED screen, which also indicates the current water temperature and volume settings.

    Color Options

    The product comes in two attractive colors: Moonlight White and Bamboo Green.

    Earlier today, Xiaomi also unveiled their new Magnetic Cooling Clip aimed at gamers, which boasts RGB lighting and is compatible with the Mi Home app.

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  • IKEA Parasoll Smart Home Sensor Adds Exciting New Feature

    IKEA Parasoll Smart Home Sensor Adds Exciting New Feature

    IKEA has updated its iOS app, adding a new ability for the Parasoll door/window sensor. This device, part of the smart home lineup, was introduced in 2023 along with the Vallhorn motion sensor. The Parasoll is designed to alert you when a door or window is opened unexpectedly, sending push notifications, sounding alarms, or activating a connected smart light.

    New Features for the Parasoll Sensor

    With the arrival of version 1.39.0 of the IKEA Home smart app for iOS, a new feature has been added for the Parasoll. Users can now set reminders that will activate if the door or window equipped with the sensor stays open for a prolonged time. This could be particularly handy for a garage door that might be left open after returning home. However, it remains uncertain if users can set their own time limits before receiving these alerts.

    Important Connection Requirements

    It’s essential for users to know that notifications can only be sent if the Parasoll sensor is connected to a Dirigera hub. As of now, the IKEA Home smart app for Android is still on version 1.33.0 and does not include this new functionality, with no clear timeline for when it might be added for those users. You can get the latest version of the IKEA Home smart app from the Apple App Store. A similar feature for detecting when a door is left open is also found in the YoLink Door Sensor, currently priced at $16.99 on Amazon.

    Apple App Store, Google Play Store.

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  • Nitecore EDC23 Saber: Compact Flat Torch with Display

    Nitecore EDC23 Saber: Compact Flat Torch with Display

    Nitecore has launched a very compact flashlight, the EDC23 Saber, which features USB-C charging within its EDC (Everyday Carry) lineup. Measuring around 10 centimeters in length and weighing 100 grams, it stands out as the tiniest model in the collection, while still embodying some pros and cons typical of EDC devices.

    Features and Limitations

    A clear drawback is that the built-in 1,500 mAh battery is non-removable. However, the flashlight incorporates the advantages of the larger EDC20 models, including an OLED display that shows status and allows for power adjustment. Additionally, the EDC23 Saber includes a slide switch designed to prevent accidental activation of the flashlight.

    Brightness and Performance

    The flashlight utilizes UHI-25 LEDs that emit a cool white light (6,500K, with slight variations promised by Nitecore) and can produce a maximum brightness of 2,500 lumens, covering a distance of 280 meters. This brightness level is in turbo mode, which reduces automatically if the flashlight overheats, yet it remains functional even when the battery is low. In the 1,100 lumens mode, Nitecore assures that the flashlight can operate for extended durations, as heat is evenly distributed throughout the body of the torch.

    Battery Life and Durability

    In terms of battery performance, the EDC23 lasts 1 hour and 30 minutes on high mode at 1,100 lumens. There are additional modes available, including a mid setting (200 lumens for 3 hours and 45 minutes), a low mode (65 lumens for 11 hours), and an ultra-low mode with 15 lumens that lasts for 39 hours. A strobe function is also included. Furthermore, the flashlight has an IP54 rating, indicating it is resistant to shocks.

    The EDC23 is anticipated to hit store shelves soon, but Nitecore has not yet disclosed the pricing details.

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  • Philips Hue Bridge Update: Bug Fixes Now Rolling Out

    Philips Hue Bridge Update: Bug Fixes Now Rolling Out

    The Philips Hue Bridge has received a new software update, version 1967054020. This is a relatively minor update that includes a bug fix for the smart home device, addressing an issue where users were unable to add a Friends of Hue switch, such as the Lutron Aurora Smart Bulb Dimmer Switch, which is currently priced at around $39.95 on Amazon.

    Recent Updates

    This new firmware was released a few weeks after the previous version, 1967054010, which focused on enhancing overall system performance and reliability. Before that, the related update for Friends of Hue accessories was version 1966117030, launched in September. This version introduced additional features for these light switches, allowing users to initiate or end a Timer or Mimic presence automation using these devices.

    Rollout Information

    On October 22nd, the Philips Hue team announced that the firmware rollout would commence in the "next few days," but they did not provide a specific date for when all users could expect to receive the update. The software version 1967054020 is designed to be automatically installed on the Philips Hue Bridge. If you don’t see the update, make sure automatic updates are turned on in the Hue app, by navigating to Settings > Software update > Automatic update.

    Philips Hue, HueBlog.com

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