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  • Philips Hue Introduces Colorful Themed Scenes for Smart Lights

    Philips Hue Introduces Colorful Themed Scenes for Smart Lights

    Key Takeaways

    1. Philips Hue has introduced eight Halloween lighting scenes for users to enjoy as the holiday approaches on October 31st.
    2. Two new lighting effects were added in 2024, but no new scenes were introduced this year.
    3. Some scenes include Candlelight or Fireplace effects, which are compatible only with specific Philips Hue smart lights.
    4. Users can customize their Halloween lighting using the Philips Hue app, adjusting speed, brightness, and colors.
    5. The Halloween scenes are available immediately and will be removed from the app in early November.

    Halloween scenes are now available in the Philips Hue app. The brand frequently introduces seasonal lighting effects for its users; for instance, in September, a new section called Harvest Hues was added to the Hue Scene gallery to welcome the autumn season.

    Exciting Halloween Options

    As Halloween gets closer on October 31st, Philips Hue smart light users can already enjoy eight scenes that celebrate this spooky holiday. Although the company introduced two new lighting effects in 2024, there are no fresh scenes this year. This means users can select from these eight options:

    It’s important to mention that some of these scenes feature Candlelight or Fireplace effects, but these can only be used with certain Philips Hue smart lights, such as the Philips Hue Smart LED A21 Bulb, White and Color Ambiance (currently priced at $167.72 for a 4-pack on Amazon). Users can personalize their Halloween lighting using the Philips Hue app, allowing adjustments to speed, brightness, and colors.

    Accessing the Scenes

    Users can start using these scenes immediately, without needing to update the Philips Hue app on iOS or Android. They can be found in the Hue Scene gallery for either a specific light or a group. The Philips Hue Halloween scenes are anticipated to be automatically taken down from the app in early November.

     

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  • 65W USB Charger with 3 Ports – Compact Design & Discount Offer

    65W USB Charger with 3 Ports – Compact Design & Discount Offer

    Key Takeaways

    1. Aohi has launched the EU edition of its Youth PD PPS 65W 3-Port Charger, priced at $35 (about €30).
    2. Customers can get a 10% discount using a voucher code, and there’s a Halloween promotion with conditions on shipping costs.
    3. The charger features a unique yellow design, but the EU version is not foldable, unlike the US version.
    4. It includes three USB ports: two USB-C ports (65W each) and one USB-A port (22.5W).
    5. The charger has an LED light for charging status and uses Aohice 4.0 technology for safe operation.

    Aohi has introduced the EU edition of its Youth PD PPS 65W 3-Port Foldable Charger. This comes after the US version has been available for some time and is currently priced at $35 on Amazon. Customers in the EU can now buy it straight from the maker for the same price tag of $35, which is about €30.

    Discounts and Promotions

    Shoppers who use the voucher code displayed on the product page at launch can enjoy a 10% discount. There’s also a Halloween promotion happening right now, but customers will incur an extra shipping cost unless their order totals at least $39.99. Aohi also provides the option to purchase the new charger in a bundle along with various USB-C cables. It is expected that this USB charger will soon be listed on Amazon, as other chargers from the Youth series are already being sold on the big online platform.

    Unique Design and Specifications

    The Aohi Youth PD PPS 65W 3-Port Foldable Charger is visually distinctive, especially since most chargers in the market tend to be gray or black. This model stands out with its eye-catching yellow color, but it’s important to note that the EU version is not actually foldable, which is a bit misleading given its name. Only the US variant offers a foldable design for easier transport and storage. Nevertheless, the 65-watt charger is still compact, with dimensions of 72 x 43 x 35 mm.

    Charging Capabilities

    This charger features a total of three USB ports, with the two USB-C ports delivering up to 65 watts each, and the single USB-A port offering a maximum of 22.5 watts. A small LED light shows the charging status, and the manufacturer assures users of safe and cool operation thanks to the Aohice 4.0 technology and several protective features included.

    65W USB Charger with 3 Ports - Compact Design & Discount Offer

     

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  • New Shelly BLU Distance Sensor for Smart Homes Coming Soon

    New Shelly BLU Distance Sensor for Smart Homes Coming Soon

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Shelly BLU Distance is a Bluetooth ultrasonic sensor designed to measure distances between surfaces, with applications in smart homes.
    2. It can measure distances from 0.25 to 5 m (0.8 to 16.4 ft) with millimeter-level precision and has adjustable data capture intervals from 5 to 300 seconds.
    3. The sensor uses Bluetooth Low Energy 5.0 for connectivity, with future Zigbee support expected through a firmware update.
    4. The retail price is set at $31.49/€24.90, but it is currently out of stock, with an option to subscribe for restock alerts.
    5. The device is compact, designed to fit into a 36 mm (1.4 inch) opening, and features a battery life of 2 to 3 years.

    The Shelly BLU Distance is set to launch in the near future. It was showcased at IFA 2025, and this advanced Bluetooth ultrasonic sensor is designed to measure the space between two surfaces. It has several applications in smart homes, like keeping track of water tank levels or verifying if a vehicle is parked in a garage or driveway.

    Measurement Capabilities

    According to Shelly, the BLU Distance sensor can gauge distances from 0.25 to 5 m (about 0.8 to 16.4 ft) with millimeter-level precision. There are four different preset range profiles, and the company claims to have made adjustments for temperature variations to guarantee accurate readings in various environments. Users can also set how often data is captured, choosing between 5 and 300 seconds, with 30 seconds being the default option. Additionally, the device includes an obstacle detection feature and is powered by a lithium battery that lasts for two to three years.

    Connectivity and Compatibility

    Upon its release, the Shelly BLU Distance sensor will utilize Bluetooth Low Energy 5.0, and Zigbee support is expected to come through a firmware update later. The device can be controlled remotely via the Shelly Smart Control app, and it works with several of the brand’s gateways, including the BLU Gateway (currently priced at $17.99 on Amazon). Furthermore, the sensor is fairly small, fitting comfortably into a 36 mm (around 1.4 inch) opening.

    Pricing and Availability

    The retail price for the Shelly BLU Distance sensor is set at $31.49/€24.90 in both North America and Europe. Although it’s currently marked as out of stock in the brand’s online shop, interested buyers can subscribe to receive email alerts when the product is back in stock.

     

    New Shelly BLU Distance Sensor for Smart Homes Coming Soon

     

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  • IKEA Launches Unique Smartphone Bed for Improved Sleep Quality

    IKEA Launches Unique Smartphone Bed for Improved Sleep Quality

    Key Takeaways

    1. IKEA has launched a unique bed called The Phone Sleep Collection designed to help customers reduce smartphone use at night in the UAE.
    2. Customers can obtain the bed with a purchase of over Dhs 750 (approximately $204) that includes at least one item from the Complete Sleep Collection.
    3. The bed features a built-in NFC chip that tracks smartphone usage; users can earn a Dhs 100 (~$27) gift voucher for keeping their phone in the bed for seven hours each night for a week.
    4. The bed requires assembly by the customer and consists of a plastic frame and mattress, but does not include a small pillow or duvet shown in promotional materials.
    5. It is currently unclear if IKEA will expand this initiative to other regions beyond the UAE.

    IKEA is now offering beds designed for smartphones in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This initiative is part of a broader effort to assist customers in enhancing their sleep quality by reducing the time spent on their phones.

    A Unique Offer

    The tiny IKEA bed has been promoted on the company’s UAE YouTube channel and is called The Phone Sleep Collection. Shoppers can acquire this product when they make a purchase exceeding Dhs 750 (approximately $204) at any of the brand’s locations in the region. Additionally, their shopping cart must include at least one item from the IKEA Complete Sleep Collection, which features a variety of sheets, pillows, and duvets offered by the brand.

    How It Works

    Moreover, the IKEA bed comes equipped with a built-in NFC chip, which tracks how long the smartphone stays ‘snuggled in’. If customers manage to keep their phone in the bed for seven continuous hours each night over the span of a week, they will receive a Dhs 100 (~$27) IKEA gift voucher. It’s important to point out that there doesn’t seem to be any charging capability incorporated within the product itself.

    Product Details

    The advertisement for the Phone Sleep Collection smartphone bed indicates that it consists of multiple parts and must be assembled by the user, similar to the brand’s regular furniture. The kit appears to have a plastic frame and mattress, although the small pillow and duvet featured in the video do not seem to be part of the package. It remains uncertain if IKEA plans to expand this campaign to other areas in the future.

     

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  • China’s CR450 High-Speed Train Hits 281 MPH with Faster Acceleration

    China’s CR450 High-Speed Train Hits 281 MPH with Faster Acceleration

    Key Takeaways

    1. China’s new high-speed train, the CR450, achieved a test speed of 453 km/h (281 mph), exceeding the required safety margin for certification aimed at regular service at 400 km/h (250 mph).

    2. German high-speed trains, like the Velaro Novo, struggle to reach speeds above 405 km/h (251 mph), with the current German record set at 406.9 km/h.

    3. The CR450 still requires extensive testing, with plans for around 600,000 kilometers (nearly 373,000 miles) of trials before it can be considered for operational use.

    4. The CR450 significantly accelerates faster than its predecessor, reaching 350 km/h (218 mph) in just 4:40 minutes compared to the Fuxing train’s 6:20 minutes.

    5. There are rumors that China may aim to break the world speed record for trains, currently held by a French TGV at over 570 km/h (355 mph), potentially setting a record for multiple unit trains.

    China’s latest high-speed train has recently achieved a remarkable speed of 453 km/h (281 mph) during a test run, as reported by state media outlet China Central Television (CCTV). This accomplishment is a significant milestone toward establishing passenger service at 400 km/h (250 mph). For certification, a safety margin of around 10% above the intended service speed is generally required, making 453 km/h (281 mph) a notable achievement.

    German Trains and Their Limits

    This speed is something that German high-speed trains can barely reach in theory. Recently, a test train run by DB Systemtechnik nearly set a new record with a Velaro Novo intermediate car, hitting 405 km/h (251 mph). However, due to poor wind conditions, the train did not surpass the German record of 406.9 km/h. Siemens Mobility has stated that the powered bogie of the Velaro Novo was not utilized during this test.

    Future of CR450

    If the CR450 operates at 400 km/h (250 mph), it would become the fastest train in regular operation. During its test run, the Transrapid, which is the Shanghai Maglev Train, only managed to reach 300 km/h. Still, the Chinese train has a long road ahead before it can enter regular service, as certification demands extensive testing. CCTV reports that about 600,000 kilometers (nearly 373,000 miles) of testing is planned, primarily between Chengdu and Chongqing next year. After this, the CR450 could be considered for operational use.

    Enhanced Speed and New Records

    The new CR450 trains are faster than their predecessors. CCTV mentions that the CR450 can accelerate to 350 km/h (218 mph) in just 4:40 minutes, whereas the earlier Fuxing train took 6:20 minutes for the same speed. This improvement makes the CR450 more appropriate for services that require frequent stops.

    Rumors, as reported by the knowledgeable Bluesky account JR Urbane Network and sourced from Chinese outlets, suggest that China may be aiming for a world speed record with this new train. The current record is held by a French TGV, which surpassed 570 km/h (355 mph) using power cars. In contrast, the CR450 is a multiple unit with distributed traction. Should a record-setting run occur, it would mean that a multiple unit train would then set a record within the wheel-rail category.

  • Blink Mini 2K+ Security Camera: 2K Resolution & Alexa for $49

    Blink Mini 2K+ Security Camera: 2K Resolution & Alexa for $49

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Blink Mini 2K+ security camera is priced at $49, with bundle options available for $89 (two cameras) and $139 (three cameras).
    2. It offers video quality of 2560 x 1440 pixels and a 4x digital zoom feature.
    3. The camera requires a power cable for operation and connects via 2.4GHz WiFi, lacking support for 5GHz networks.
    4. It features a 138-degree viewing angle and can be used as a two-way intercom with a built-in microphone and speaker.
    5. The camera includes night vision capabilities and requires a 30-day Blink Plus subscription for full feature access.

    The Blink Mini 2K+ is a new security camera from Amazon, and it’s now priced at $49, available in two different colors. If you’re interested in buying two, the cost is $89, while a bundle with three cameras will set you back $139. This camera is primarily intended for indoor use, but you can purchase a special weather-resistant Blink power adapter that gives it an IP65 certification.

    Video Quality and Zoom Features

    The Mini 2K+ offers video recording at a resolution of 2560 x 1440 pixels and can capture up to 25 frames per second, ensuring smooth playback. It also boasts a 4x zoom feature, which is likely a digital zoom, meaning you might experience some loss in quality when using it.

    Setup and Connectivity

    This device does not come with a battery, so it will need to be plugged in with a power cable. However, it can transmit data wirelessly through WiFi on the 2.4GHz band, but it doesn’t support 5GHz frequencies. Setting up the camera is straightforward using its stand, although you can also mount it on a wall. The Blink Mini 2K+ has a viewing angle of 138 degrees, but keep in mind that it cannot tilt or pan.

    Intercom Function and Night Vision

    With a built-in microphone and speaker, the Blink Mini 2K+ functions as a two-way intercom. It is capable of capturing color images even at night or in dim lighting, and it works well with Alexa. The price includes a 30-day Blink Plus subscription, which is necessary to unlock all the features available.

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  • Acebeam UC25 Flashlight: Laser, Ambient & UV Light Features

    Acebeam UC25 Flashlight: Laser, Ambient & UV Light Features

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Acebeam UC25 multi-light flashlight features four light sources: UV light, standard flashlight with two 6,500K LEDs, a Class 1 green laser, and an ambient light.
    2. The ambient light has a CRI value of 95, ensuring good color reproduction and can be clipped onto a shirt pocket for convenience.
    3. The flashlight includes a built-in rechargeable battery that charges via USB-C, with a battery life of up to 70 hours in low mode for both ambient light and flashlight.
    4. The UC25 is rated IP65 for water resistance and can survive drops from 1.5 meters, measuring approximately 14 cm in length and weighing 140 grams.
    5. The flashlight is available for nearly $83 with free shipping from the manufacturer’s online store.

    Acebeam has just revealed the UC25 multi-light flashlight. We first saw the UC25 as a prototype at IWA 2025 in Nuremberg. The final version comes with four different light sources.

    Light Sources

    On the front, there are three different light sources. The first one is a UV light that helps find contaminants in hotels or check security features on banknotes. The second is a standard flashlight that uses two 6,500K LEDs. Lastly, there’s a Class 1 green laser. Essentially, the UC25 is Acebeam’s response to Olight’s Arkpro series.

    Additional Features

    The fourth light, which is located on the side, serves as an ambient light to brighten larger spaces. With a CRI value of 95, it’s claimed to reproduce colors quite well, which is not something all flashlights do. The UC25 can be clipped onto a shirt pocket, allowing the side light to shine forward. There’s also a surprisingly small magnetic area opposite the head, where a control element is located.

    The flashlight comes with a built-in rechargeable battery that charges via USB-C. As is common with Acebeam products, the battery life is intricate, so we recommend checking the chart at the end of this article (provided by Acebeam). This chart details the ranges, candelas, and lumens. Notably, in the low mode, both the ambient light and flashlight can run for about 70 hours. The UV light can also function in both high and low settings.

    Specifications and Pricing

    The UC25 measures around 14 cm in length, has a weight of 140 grams, is rated IP65, and can survive a drop from 1.5 meters. You can currently buy it directly from the manufacturer’s online store for nearly $83. Plus, shipping is free.

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    Acebeam UC25 Flashlight: Laser, Ambient & UV Light Features

     

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  • Tineco Pure One A90S Cordless Vacuum: DustSense & 105 Min Runtime

    Tineco Pure One A90S Cordless Vacuum: DustSense & 105 Min Runtime

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Tineco Pure One A90S cordless vacuum is priced at $749 and offers impressive suction power of 270 AW, which is 46% stronger than its predecessor.
    2. It features advanced technology like 3DSense master brush, DustSense, EdgeSense, and Floor Type detection for automatic adjustment to different cleaning needs.
    3. The design includes a 180° foldable vacuum tube, swivel brush for easier maneuverability, and a smart LED screen displaying three cleaning modes and real-time status.
    4. The vacuum has a hands-free auto-emptying dustbin with a capacity of 0.8 liters and provides up to 105 minutes of runtime in eco mode.
    5. It incorporates Tineco PureCyclone technology, a zero-tangle design, and is suitable for deep carpet cleaning.

    Tineco has introduced a new addition to its Pure One S series of cordless vacuums, named the latest Pure One A90S. This high-end vacuum is currently priced at $749 and can be purchased through Tineco’s official site as well as Amazon. The device is crafted to deliver impressive suction and adaptable performance, ensuring a thorough and hassle-free cleaning experience.

    Enhanced Suction Power

    The Pure One A90S cordless vacuum features a suction power of 270 AW, which Tineco claims is 46% more powerful than the previous model. The company asserts that this suction strength is sufficient to effortlessly pick up dust, debris, and pet hair. It utilizes a 3DSense master brush along with DustSense, EdgeSense, and Floor Type detection to automatically adjust for various dust levels, edges, and floor types.

    User-Friendly Design

    Equipped with a 180° foldable vacuum tube and a swivel brush, the vacuum offers a 20% wider angle of rotation compared to the A50S, allowing for easier maneuvering around and under furniture. Additionally, it features a smart LED screen that displays three cleaning modes (Max, Eco, and Auto) and real-time performance status. There is also companion app support that lets users customize the gadget’s settings even more.

    Similar to robotic vacuum cleaners, the Pure One A90S comes with a hands-free auto-emptying dustbin that can hold up to 0.8 liters of dust and debris. A 150° wide-angle green LED light at the bottom assists users in detecting dirt on the floor. While Tineco has not disclosed the precise battery capacity, it does provide up to 105 minutes of runtime on a single charge when used in eco mode.

    Additional Features

    Among other features, the vacuum is designed for deep carpet cleaning and incorporates Tineco PureCyclone technology, the Tineco Multishield system, and a zero-tangle design. For more detailed information about this cleaning device, you can visit the company’s official website.

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    Tineco Pure One A90S Cordless Vacuum: DustSense & 105 Min Runtime

     

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  • Munbyn Launches RW405B Wireless Thermal Label Printer with App Control

    Munbyn Launches RW405B Wireless Thermal Label Printer with App Control

    Key Takeaways

    1. The RW405B thermal label printer features a replaceable printhead and dual-color printing options (black-red and black-blue).
    2. It maintains the same 203 dpi resolution and lifespan of 970,000 labels as its predecessor but claims to last six times longer than many other thermal printers.
    3. The printer is compact, measuring 4.9 x 8 x 6.49 inches and weighing approximately 4 lbs.
    4. It supports various printing tasks and comes with a companion app offering over 3,500 design elements, 2,000 templates, and multiple fonts.
    5. The RW405B is priced at $179 and is available for purchase on Munbyn’s official website and Amazon.

    Munbyn has revealed the RW403B thermal label printer this year, and now they have launched its successor, the RW405B, in global markets. This new model brings a number of important upgrades over the previous version. Notably, the RW405B includes a replaceable printhead and the ability to print in two colors on dual-color labels, such as black-red and black-blue. The replaceable printhead helps to extend the printer’s life, while the dual-color printing allows for more creative sticker labels.

    Specifications and Features

    Sadly, there are no improvements in the dpi resolution or overall lifespan. The RW405B maintains the same 203 dpi resolution and a lifespan of 970,000 labels as its predecessor. Nevertheless, the company states that it lasts six times longer than many other thermal printers. In terms of dimensions, the new model is now a bit more compact, measuring 4.9 x 8 x 6.49 inches (124.4 x 203.2 x 164.8 mm) and weighing roughly 4 lbs (1.81 kg).

    Versatility and Usability

    Similar to the RW403B, this thermal label printer can be used for various printing tasks, such as return slips, inventory tags, stickers, branding materials, and home organization labels. Additionally, the Munbyn companion app allows users to customize the printer’s settings. The app also provides over 3,500 design elements, more than 2,000 templates, over 80 fonts, and features like OCR and voice recognition.

    Inside the printer, it is equipped with the same 4-inch DAC (Dynamic Algorithm Tech) chip found in the RW403B, which automatically calibrates to prevent label misalignment, ensuring that users get properly aligned labels for their packages. When it comes to connectivity, the RW405B supports both Bluetooth and USB options and is compatible with devices running Android, iOS, Windows, and Mac operating systems.

    Pricing and Availability

    The Munbyn RW405B wireless thermal label printer comes in a single silver color and is priced at $179. Customers can purchase this thermal label printer directly from Munbyn’s official website as well as on Amazon.

    Munbyn Launches RW405B Wireless Thermal Label Printer with App Control

     

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  • Anker Unveils Two Upgraded Power Bank Models

    Anker Unveils Two Upgraded Power Bank Models

    Key Takeaways

    1. Anker has launched the Zolo Power Bank (20K, 45W, Built-In Dual USB-C Cables) in the U.S., improving on the previous 30W model from 2024, which was recalled due to battery issues.
    2. The new power bank is available in blue and pink, in addition to black and white, with discounts for Amazon Prime members.
    3. It features two built-in USB-C cables, a USB-C port, and a USB-A port, allowing simultaneous charging of up to four devices.
    4. The power bank has a 20,000 mAh capacity, capable of charging an iPhone 16 about four times, with a display showing the remaining battery percentage.
    5. The device measures 120 x 73 x 31 mm and weighs 366 g, with availability details for the new colors in Europe still uncertain.

    Anker has introduced two new iterations of the Zolo Power Bank (20K, 45W, Built-In Dual USB-C Cables) in the United States. This model first debuted in September 2025, serving as an improved version of the Zolo Power Bank (20K, 30W, Built-In USB-C and Lightning Cable) that was launched in 2024. It’s important to mention that Anker had to recall the 2024 model voluntarily because of possible battery cell issues.

    New Colors Available

    You can now purchase the enhanced Anker Zolo Power Bank (20K, 45W, Built-In Dual USB-C Cables) in blue and pink at Amazon US. These new colors join the previously released black and white options from a few weeks ago. At present, Amazon Prime members can snag the black, blue, and pink models for $41.99 each, which is $8 cheaper than the regular price of $49.99; however, the white version is still being sold at its full price.

    Charging Capabilities

    This Zolo Power Bank features two built-in USB-C cables, alongside a USB-C port and a USB-A port, allowing users to charge up to four devices at the same time. Even though the integrated cables have been designed to endure 10,000 bends, they cannot be replaced easily if they break. Each of the three USB-C ports provides a maximum of 45W power; an iPhone 17 Pro can be charged to 50% in just 20 minutes at 40W. The USB-A port can deliver up to 22.5W, but it does not specify the maximum combined output.

    Battery Life and Dimensions

    With a 20,000 mAh battery, this power bank can recharge an iPhone 16 roughly four times. The remaining battery percentage is displayed on a straightforward screen, and the device charges via USB-C. Anker states that the power bank measures 120 x 73 x 31 mm (about 4.7 x 2.9 x 1.2 inches) and weighs 366 g (approximately 12.9 oz).

    Although the black version of the Anker Zolo Power Bank (20K, 45W, Built-In Dual USB-C Cables) is already for sale in Europe, it’s still uncertain when the other color options will be available to customers in that area.

    Anker Unveils Two Upgraded Power Bank Models

     

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