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  • Shelly Unveils Compact Long-Range Wave Door/Window Sensor

    Shelly Unveils Compact Long-Range Wave Door/Window Sensor

    Key Takeaways

    1. Smart Monitoring: The Shelly Wave Door/Window LR detects whether doors or windows are open or closed and can notify users or activate connected devices.

    2. Long Range Communication: Operates as a Z-Wave Long Range sensor, communicating up to 1 mile (1.6 km) in clear line of sight.

    3. Easy Installation: Features a straightforward installation process with SmartStart and has a battery life of about two years with a CR2032 battery.

    4. Compact Design: The sensor is small, measuring 35 x 35 x 7 mm, and comes in a white finish.

    5. Pricing and Availability: Priced at $32.00 in the US, it is available through Shelly’s online store in multiple countries.

    The Shelly Wave Door/Window Long Range, also known as the Wave Door/Window LR, has recently been released in North America and Europe. This innovative smart home gadget is intended to recognize whether a door or window is open or closed. Once it detects the status, it can notify the user or activate another connected device.

    Intelligent Home Management

    The Shelly Wave Door/Window LR can be utilized to smartly manage heating or air conditioning systems when a window is opened. Additionally, it serves as a notification system when a door or window is opened while the user is away from their residence. This device operates as a Z-Wave Long Range (ZWLR) sensor, supporting frequencies of 864 MHz (ZWLR) and 868.4 MHz (Z-Wave Plus). It can communicate over distances up to 1.0 mile (~1.6 km) in a clear line of sight. Furthermore, it measures the tilt angle of doors or windows and has a built-in light sensor to gauge illumination.

    Easy Installation and Long Battery Life

    The Wave Door/Window LR is a wireless device that can last for about two years with the included CR2032 battery. Shelly claims that the installation process is fairly straightforward, thanks to the SmartStart feature, and users can look forward to receiving over-the-air (OTA) updates in the future. It’s important to keep in mind that a smart home hub is necessary for this Z-Wave Plus device. The sensor is quite compact, with dimensions of 35 x 35 x 7 mm (~1.38 x 1.38 x 0.27 inches) and comes in a white finish.

    Pricing and Availability

    You can purchase the Shelly Wave Door/Window LR at the brand’s online store in various countries including the US, UK, and Netherlands for $32.00/£28.80/€38.72. For comparison, the previous model, the Shelly BLU Door/Window sensor, is currently priced at $19.99 on Amazon US.

    Shelly’s new product offers a modern solution for monitoring doors and windows, enhancing the convenience of smart home technology.

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  • IKEA Smart Home Sensors Compatible with Matter Now in the US

    IKEA Smart Home Sensors Compatible with Matter Now in the US

    Key Takeaways

    1. IKEA has launched new smart home sensors in the US, previously available in Europe.
    2. The Alpstuga Air quality sensor costs $29.99 and monitors CO₂, particles, temperature, and humidity.
    3. The Myggspray motion sensor and Klippbok water leak sensor are priced at $9.99 each, enhancing home automation and leak detection.
    4. The Myggbett Door/window sensor is available for $7.99, improving home security by detecting open or closed windows and doors.
    5. All sensors connect to the Dirigera hub for remote access and are compatible with Matter for integration with various smart home systems.

    IKEA has launched several new smart home sensors on its online shop in the US. These devices were previously made available in physical stores and online in various European nations following their announcement in November 2025.

    Pricing and Features

    Customers in the US can now buy the Alpstuga Air quality sensor for $29.99 at ikea.com. This gadget has an elongated display that shows carbon dioxide (CO₂) levels, particles (PM2.5), temperature, and humidity within a room. It can connect to a smart air purifier, activating it when it detects that air quality is low.

    Additional Sensors

    The Myggspray Wireless motion sensor and the Klippbok water leak sensor are priced at $9.99 each. The Myggspray is intended to activate smart lights, whether indoors or outdoors. The Klippbok can be placed near appliances like dishwashers or washing machines, alerting users to any leaks that may occur.

    More Options

    The Myggbett Door/window sensor comes in at a slightly lower price of $7.99. This device is capable of detecting whether a window or door is open or closed, aiding in home security. The launch date for the Timmerflotte Temperature/humidity sensor, the final addition to this lineup, remains uncertain, but it is anticipated to sell for $9.99.

    All of these innovative IKEA smart sensors can be linked to the Dirigera hub, enabling remote access and notifications through the IKEA Home smart app. Furthermore, these devices are compatible with Matter, allowing them to integrate into various smart home systems, such as Apple Home or Home Assistant.

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  • Hubble’s Picture of the Week: Azure Cloud Galaxy with Giant Stars

    Hubble’s Picture of the Week: Azure Cloud Galaxy with Giant Stars

    Key Takeaways

    1. Markarian 178 (Mrk 178) is a small dwarf galaxy located 13 million light-years away in the Ursa Major constellation, noted for its bright ultraviolet light.

    2. Hubble Space Telescope images reveal Mrk 178 as a compact blue galaxy with a reddish tint caused by Wolf-Rayet stars.

    3. Wolf-Rayet stars are massive, hot stars with a short lifespan of only a few million years, shedding their outer layers and ionizing nearby hydrogen gas.

    4. The presence of faint tidal features around Mrk 178 suggests a smaller satellite galaxy may have triggered recent star formation activity.

    5. Future Hubble observations will help astronomers better understand the star formation processes in Mrk 178.

    Markarian 178 (Mrk 178) is a small dwarf galaxy, which means it is significantly less massive than our own Milky Way. Located 13 million light-years away in the Ursa Major constellation, Mrk 178 stands out for its bright ultraviolet light, much like other galaxies in the Markarian group.

    Hubble’s Stunning View

    In images captured by the Hubble Space Telescope, Mrk 178 shows up as a compact blue galaxy set against a dark backdrop. The blue hue suggests that many young, hot stars are present within it. However, the galaxy also displays a reddish tint, particularly noticeable around its edges. This red color comes from a unique type of stars known as Wolf-Rayet stars.

    The Life of Wolf-Rayet Stars

    Wolf-Rayet stars are incredibly massive and hot, but they do not live long—only a few million years. These stars are nearing the end of their life cycles, preparing to explode as supernovae and eventually become neutron stars or black holes. During this process, they shed their outer layers into space through powerful stellar winds. The strong energy emitted by these Wolf-Rayet stars ionizes nearby hydrogen gas, which results in the observed red glow.

    Uncovering Star Formation Triggers

    The brief lifespan of Wolf-Rayet stars indicates that some event likely sparked the recent wave of star formation in Mrk 178. Observations from the Large Binocular Telescope have shown faint tidal features encircling the galaxy. These features imply that a smaller satellite galaxy may have played a role in igniting the recent star activity in Mrk 178.

    Future observations with Hubble will further assist astronomers in understanding the processes behind the star formation in this galaxy.

    You can purchase the Planetarium Projector Pro galaxy light projector for $29.99 on Amazon.

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  • New Xiaomi Smart Washer Dryer Pro Set Now Available

    New Xiaomi Smart Washer Dryer Pro Set Now Available

    Key Takeaways

    1. Washing Options: The Mijia Washer features various cycles, including a quick wash in 36 minutes and advanced stain removal with super electrolysis technology.

    2. Capacity and Drying Efficiency: The set has a 12kg capacity, suitable for large loads, and can dry clothes in as little as 35 minutes using a 650W heat pump.

    3. Smart Features: Users can control the appliances remotely through Xiaomi’s app, utilizing voice commands and integration with smart home devices.

    4. Pricing: The complete Washer Dryer Set Pro is priced at CNY 8,749 (approximately $1,238) in China.

    5. Availability: It is currently available in China, with no confirmation on release dates for Europe, where Xiaomi sells other washer dryer models.

    The Xiaomi Mijia Washer Dryer Set Pro is now available in China. This set features the Pro Super Electrolytic Smart Drum Dryer 12kg and the Heat Pump Dryer Pro 12kg, which can be stacked on top of each other or arranged side by side.

    Diverse Washing Options

    Xiaomi’s Mijia washing machine is equipped with a variety of washing cycles, including a quick wash option that takes just 36 minutes. The company claims its super electrolysis technology can effectively tackle different stains, such as blood and soy sauce, while also stopping colors from bleeding. Another notable feature is the whitening capability, which Xiaomi says is like using 50g of color-safe bleach. The detergent is dispensed smartly from two compartments, with each drawer capable of holding enough for about a month.

    Ample Capacity and Efficient Drying

    The Xiaomi Washer Dryer set has a capacity of 12kg, which can accommodate around four sets of bedding or five sets of clothing for an entire family. The dryer is equipped with a 650W heat pump, allowing it to dry clothes in as little as 35 minutes. Each machine features a touch control panel on the front for easy adjustment of settings. Additionally, with HyperConnect, users can manage these appliances remotely via Xiaomi’s app, using voice commands or through another connected smart home gadget.

    Pricing and Availability

    In China, the Xiaomi Mijia Washer Dryer Set Pro is priced at CNY 8,749 (about $1,238). It remains uncertain if these products, or the entire set, will be launched in Europe, where Xiaomi already offers models like the Mijia Front Load Washer Dryer Pro 9kg (currently €499 at Xiaomi Store Spain).

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  • Xiaomi Unveils Upgraded Smart Air Conditioner Version

    Xiaomi Unveils Upgraded Smart Air Conditioner Version

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Xiaomi Mi Home Air Conditioner Super Energy Saving 1.5 HP features improved cooling (5,300 W) and heating (6,820 W) capacities.
    2. It has a stronger airflow rate of 900 m³/h and a new power-saving algorithm that enhances energy efficiency by 30%.
    3. The air conditioner is rated as Level 1 energy-efficient and supports a wide temperature range from -35 to 60°C.
    4. Users can control the unit remotely through the Xiaomi Home app, which also provides maintenance alerts and OTA updates.
    5. The product is priced at CNY 3,199 (approximately $452) in China, with pre-order discounts available, but its European availability is still unknown.

    The latest model of the Xiaomi Mi Home Air Conditioner, called Super Energy Saving 1.5 HP, has been unveiled in China. This new version comes with enhancements over the original Mi Home Air Conditioner, featuring various upgrades.

    Enhanced Performance

    Xiaomi’s revamped Mi Home Air Conditioner Super Energy Saving 1.5 HP boasts a stronger cooling capacity of 5,300 W and heating capacity of 6,820 W. The airflow rate has been raised to 900 m³/h (about 530 ft³/min), and the 118 mm cross-flow fan blades provide swinging options both vertically and horizontally. A key upgrade is the new power-saving algorithm, claimed to improve energy efficiency by 30% compared to earlier models.

    Energy Efficiency and Features

    The Xiaomi Mi Home Air Conditioner Super Energy Saving 1.5 HP is rated as a Level 1 energy-efficient appliance by Chinese standards, featuring an APF of 5.45. Both the indoor and outdoor units come with a self-cleaning mode and can function in temperatures ranging from -35 to 60°C (approximately -31 to 140°F). Users have the ability to control the smart air conditioner remotely via the Xiaomi Home app, and with HyperConnect, it integrates seamlessly into the brand’s smart home network. The app also provides alerts for problems such as a blocked filter, and you can receive OTA updates for the device. The internal unit has a white design and its dimensions are 855 x 328 x 219 mm (around 33.7 x 12.9 x 8.6 inches).

    Pricing and Availability

    At the Xiaomi Youpin store in China, the Mi Home Air Conditioner Super Energy Saving 1.5 HP is available for CNY 3,199 (approximately $452), but it can be pre-ordered at a reduced price. However, Xiaomi has yet to share any details about bringing this model to Europe, where they have previously launched the Mijia Air Conditioner Pro Eco 3.5 kW, currently priced at €699 at the Xiaomi Store in Spain.

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  • New Energy-Saving Xiaomi Air Conditioners Now Available

    New Energy-Saving Xiaomi Air Conditioners Now Available

    Key Takeaways

    1. Xiaomi launched two new Mi Home Air Conditioner models (2HP and 3HP) for pre-order in China.
    2. Both models offer heating in 60 seconds and cooling in 30 seconds, with airflow rates of 1,520 m³/h and 1,755 m³/h respectively.
    3. The air conditioners feature AI technology for over 30% energy savings and received Level 1 efficiency certification.
    4. Users can control the units remotely via Xiaomi’s app, with features like OTA updates and maintenance alerts.
    5. The 2HP model is priced at CNY 4,599 (~$650) and the 3HP at CNY 5,299 (~$750), with no current plans for release in other markets.

    Xiaomi has just launched two new models of their Mi Home Air Conditioner (Super Energy Saving) in China. These air conditioning units, which are sometimes called vertical models, are now up for pre-order in the region.

    Power and Airflow

    The two Mi Home Air Conditioner options come in 2HP and 3HP power choices. Each version features a 115° airflow angle and can provide both heating and cooling. The heating process is said to take about 60 seconds to warm up a room, while cooling can start in a mere 30 seconds. The 2HP model has an airflow rate of 1,520 m³/h (~895 ft³/min), while the 3HP variant boasts a higher airflow rate of 1,755 m³/h (~1,033 ft³/min).

    Energy Efficiency and Features

    According to Xiaomi, the AI technology in the Mi Home Air Conditioner achieves an energy-saving rate of over 30%. The 2HP version has an annual performance factor (APF) rated at 4.90, while the 3HP variant is rated at 4.86. Both models have received Level 1 efficiency certification in China. These smart air conditioners can be controlled remotely through Xiaomi’s app, which allows users to adjust settings, perform OTA updates, diagnose issues, and receive maintenance alerts. Additionally, with HyperConnect support, these units can integrate into a larger Xiaomi smart home system. The indoor unit is designed with a simple white exterior, measuring 346 x 1,868 x 434 mm (~13.6 x 73.5 x 17.0 inches).

    Pricing and Availability

    In China, the Xiaomi Mi Home Air Conditioner (Super Energy Saving) 2HP is priced at CNY 4,599 (~$650), while the 3HP model is available for CNY 5,299 (~$750). It remains uncertain when or if these models will be introduced to other markets, such as Europe, where Xiaomi currently offers wall-mounted options like the Mijia Air Conditioner Pro Eco 3.5 kW (currently priced at €699 at Xiaomi Store Spain).

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  • Woman with Schizophrenia Hospitalized After Samsung Fridge Ad

    Woman with Schizophrenia Hospitalized After Samsung Fridge Ad

    Key Takeaways

    1. A Samsung smart fridge’s advertisement led to a woman’s psychotic episode due to a misunderstood message, highlighting concerns about intrusive advertising.
    2. The message “We’re sorry we upset you, Carol” was part of a promotional campaign for an Apple TV+ series, causing paranoia for the woman with schizophrenia.
    3. The family recognized the advertisement online, raising questions about the appropriateness of emotionally charged ads on personal devices.
    4. Community reactions included sympathy for the family and outrage at Samsung’s advertising practices, with suggestions to file a complaint with the UK Advertising Standards Authority.
    5. The incident raises important questions about the balance between convenience provided by smart devices and the potential for harmful advertising practices.

    A recent post on Reddit from the UK has sparked much discussion after a family reported that an advertisement on a Samsung smart fridge contributed to their relative’s hospitalization during a psychotic episode. The post, found on r/LegalAdviceUK, explains that a woman with schizophrenia thought someone was sending her messages through the fridge’s screen after noticing a phrase that stated: “We’re sorry we upset you, Carol.”

    The Incident

    The woman in question is named Carol. Her sibling, who shared the story, mentioned that she felt the message was aimed directly at her. This led her to a heightened state of paranoia, prompting her to call a taxi and seek emergency psychiatric help. Days later, her family learned that the message was actually part of a promotional campaign for an Apple TV+ series (Pluribus), which had automatically appeared on the refrigerator’s Family Hub display.

    Family’s Discoveries

    The sibling recounted how disturbing it was to encounter the advertisement online, where they recognized the message immediately. After sharing a screenshot with Carol for her confirmation, she responded that it was indeed the same wording she had seen. This revelation raised a significant concern for the family: why should an appliance in their home show emotionally charged ads, especially without context to clarify that it was advertising?

    Community Reactions

    The post received a flurry of replies, with many expressing sympathy, while others voiced their outrage at Samsung and the practices surrounding modern smart devices. Some commenters recommended lodging a complaint with the UK Advertising Standards Authority. They pointed out that while individual ads can be turned off, advertisements in personal spaces should refrain from using language that could be easily misunderstood or mistaken for private communication.

    For Carol’s family, this advertisement was not merely an inconvenience. This situation brings to light a critical question: where do we draw the line between “connected convenience” and intrusive advertising, and who bears the consequences when that line is crossed?

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  • Serapis Sleep Pyramid: Enhance Sleep with Schumann Resonance & Light

    Serapis Sleep Pyramid: Enhance Sleep with Schumann Resonance & Light

    Key Takeaways

    1. Serapis is a pyramid-shaped device designed to help improve sleep quality by addressing various sleep issues.
    2. Users start by taking a free online sleep assessment to determine the best settings for their sleep needs.
    3. The device features RGB lighting for calming effects, plays sounds at 7.83 Hz (Schumann resonance), and emits white noise to mask background sounds.
    4. Serapis is currently available for pre-order on Kickstarter for $119, with a projected retail price of $239.
    5. Deliveries are expected to begin in March 2026, but potential backers should be cautious due to risks associated with first-time Kickstarter projects.

    Smartwatches and smart rings can track how well you sleep, but they don’t really help you get to sleep. That’s where Serapis comes in. This unique pyramid-shaped device is meant to sit on your nightstand and address various sleep issues.

    Free Sleep Test

    To use Serapis, you first take a free online sleep assessment that asks some questions to find out which setting will help you sleep better. Depending on what you choose, the pyramid uses three different sleep features in various combinations. The first feature involves RGB lighting that can glow or pulse in a color you like, which is believed to help calm those who prefer some light when going to sleep.

    Sound Features

    The second feature of the pyramid plays a steady sound with a frequency of 7.83 Hz, known as the Schumann resonance, which is thought to align with the Earth’s electromagnetic frequencies. Lastly, Serapis can emit white noise at various frequencies to cover up annoying background sounds. The effectiveness of these features in helping people fall asleep is likely to differ from one user to another. You can control the pyramid using buttons on the front, and it doesn’t need an app.

    Pricing and Availability

    Serapis is currently raising funds on Kickstarter, where you can pre-order the sleep pyramid for $119, excluding shipping costs. Once it hits retail, the price is expected to go up to $239. Deliveries are projected to start in March 2026. As this is the first project for the company on Kickstarter, it’s wise to be cautious, since there is a chance that the product might arrive late, have quality issues, or not be delivered at all.

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  • IKEA Unveils Affordable LED Light with Motion Sensor

    IKEA Unveils Affordable LED Light with Motion Sensor

    Key Takeaways

    1. The IKEA Gömpyssling LED light features a built-in motion sensor that activates the light when a door is opened or someone enters the area.
    2. The light emits a warm white glow at 2,700 K and provides 20 lumens of brightness, turning off after ten seconds of no movement.
    3. It is powered by AA batteries and is designed to last around 25,000 hours.
    4. The round casing measures 70 x 19 x 19 mm and can be easily attached to furniture using a gel pad.
    5. The Gömpyssling is priced at £3 in the UK and €4 in France and Germany for a two-pack, with batteries sold separately.

    The IKEA Gömpyssling LED light with sensor has been launched across multiple European nations. Although it isn’t classified as a smart home device, it serves the purpose of automatically lighting up areas such as closets or cupboards.

    Motion Sensor Features

    The Gömpyssling features a built-in motion detector that activates the light whenever a door is opened or a person walks into the area. If no movement is sensed, the light will turn off after ten seconds. Additionally, the light emits a warm white glow at 2,700 K, providing 20 lumens of brightness, which helps to softly light the area from above.

    Battery and Design Specifications

    Powered by AA batteries, the IKEA Gömpyssling is designed to last approximately 25,000 hours. Its round white casing measures 70 x 19 x 19 mm (about 2.76 x 0.75 x 0.75 inches), and it can be easily affixed to furniture using the included gel pad.

    You can purchase the IKEA Gömpyssling LED light with sensor in the UK for £3, and in European countries such as France and Germany for €4. This price is for a two-pack, but IKEA mentions that batteries are sold separately. It’s uncertain if or when this product will be available in additional markets. If you’re interested in a smart motion-activated lighting option from IKEA, you might want to check out the new Myggspray Motion sensor and Kajplats smart light bulbs.

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  • New Xiaomi Magnetic Power Bank with Built-in Cable Launch

    New Xiaomi Magnetic Power Bank with Built-in Cable Launch

    Key Takeaways

    1. Charging Capabilities: Supports charging of three devices simultaneously, with a 15W wireless charging pad and USB-C ports offering up to 33W output and 30W input.

    2. Battery and Design: Features a 10,000 mAh battery, a display for battery level, pass-through charging, and an adjustable stand for comfortable viewing angles.

    3. Dimensions and Weight: Measures 108.8 x 68.9 x 20.3 mm and weighs 229 g, making it portable and easy to handle.

    4. Availability and Pricing: Priced at €35.90 in Italy and €39.99 in Germany, with expected availability in the UK and other European countries soon.

    5. Color Options: Available in four colors: Beige, Blue, Black, and Purple.

    Xiaomi has introduced the Magnetic Power Bank 10000 with Built-in Stand in Europe. This product initially debuted in China in August 2025 and was expected to become available more broadly as indicated by a listing on the company’s global website.

    Charging Capabilities

    The new Xiaomi Magnetic Power Bank 10000 allows you to charge three devices at once. It features a wireless charging pad on the front that provides up to 15W of power, securely holding a compatible phone using a magnetic force of 13N. Additionally, there is an integrated USB-C cable and another USB-C port, both of which can support up to 33W output and 30W input.

    Battery and Design

    As the name indicates, this power bank comes with a 10,000 mAh battery, and it has a small display to show the remaining battery level. This capacity lets you charge a Xiaomi 15 about 1.3 times or an iPhone 16 Pro two times. The device supports pass-through charging along with various fast charging protocols. Moreover, the adjustable stand makes it easy for users to find a comfortable viewing angle while their device is charging. Its dimensions are 108.8 x 68.9 x 20.3 mm (approximately 4.3 x 2.7 x 0.8 inches) and it weighs 229 g (around 8.1 oz).

    Availability and Pricing

    You can purchase the Xiaomi Magnetic Power Bank 10000 with Built-in Stand from the brand’s online store in Italy for €35.90, and in Germany for €39.99. Customers have the option to choose from four colors: Beige, Blue, Black, and Purple. Furthermore, a support page on the Xiaomi UK website indicates that this product will likely be available in the UK and possibly other European nations soon.

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