Category: Home

  • Airgradient: First Home Assistant-Compatible Air Quality Monitor

    Airgradient: First Home Assistant-Compatible Air Quality Monitor

    Key Takeaways

    1. Home Assistant is free software that centralizes control of smart home devices, with increasing compatibility for various gadgets.
    2. Devices do not need “Works with Home Assistant” certification to be added, but certified devices ensure better compatibility.
    3. Airgradient’s air quality sensors are the first to receive official certification, allowing seamless integration with smart home systems.
    4. The sensors track multiple air quality metrics and can trigger automated actions in response to poor air quality.
    5. Pricing for the indoor air sensor is $230, with a self-assembly kit available for $138, plus an additional shipping fee.


    Home Assistant is a free software that acts as a central system for managing smart homes, per Wikipedia. More devices are now being made compatible with this software, allowing users to control various smart gadgets from one place.

    Device Compatibility

    For a device to be compatible with Home Assistant, it doesn’t necessarily need the “Works with Home Assistant” certification. Even devices that lack this certification can still be added to the system through other methods. Yet, having the certification means that the device has been thoroughly tested to confirm it works well with Home Assistant right out of the box.

    Certification for Air Quality Sensors

    Airgradient’s indoor and outdoor air sensors are the first of their type to earn this certification officially. They can easily be added to smart home systems, which allows users to set up automated actions alongside other smart devices like air purifiers, air conditioners, and even humidifiers and dehumidifiers. This integration aims to promote a healthier indoor environment by activating these devices automatically when air quality falls below a set threshold.

    These sensors can track various metrics, including particulate matter (PM2.5), CO2 levels, volatile organic compounds (TVOC), nitrogen oxides (NOX), temperature, and humidity. The color LEDs and small display on Airgradient One’s Indoor Air Quality Monitor help users quickly check air quality. This feature encourages timely ventilation, enhancing the home atmosphere when CO2 is too high or minimizing mold growth during high humidity. The system is also open source, providing opportunities for future enhancements. Besides working with Home Assistant, it can also link with Homey.

    Pricing Details

    The indoor sensor is priced at $230. For those who prefer to build the device themselves, a self-assembly kit is available for about $138. Both prices exclude a shipping fee of $25. As the products are shipped from Thailand, longer delivery periods should be anticipated.

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  • Philips Hue Launches Two New Festavia Outdoor Lighting Options

    Philips Hue Launches Two New Festavia Outdoor Lighting Options

    Key Takeaways

    1. Philips expands its Festavia collection with two new outdoor products designed for year-round use.
    2. The permanent string lights can be installed along building edges and rooflines, offering neat appearance when off and uniform outline when on.
    3. Both new products are app-controlled, allowing for scene setting, automations, and voice commands, including music syncing.
    4. The globe string lights are suitable for patios and balconies, providing similar features as other Hue products.
    5. These additions aim to enhance outdoor lighting for Hue users, transitioning from temporary setups to permanent decorative solutions.


    Philips is officially broadening its Festavia collection by adding two outdoor products for all-year-round use, moving beyond just holiday decorations. The new Festavia permanent string lights are now available on Amazon and are meant to be installed along building edges and rooflines. They are designed to give a neat appearance when turned off and a uniform outline when illuminated, offering full app control and dynamic effects within the Hue ecosystem. In addition, the Festavia globe string lights feature a light-guide bulb on a weatherproof string, perfect for patios, balconies, and pergolas, while providing the same scene support and animations found in other Hue products.

    Outdoor Integration and Features

    Both items are rated for outdoor use and can be controlled via the Hue app, which allows for scene setting, automations, grouping, and voice commands with compatible devices. They also support music syncing. The length options will differ by location and timing: the globe string lights are expected to start rolling out in September, with longer lengths available later, while the permanent string lights will launch in North America in September and reach Europe in December, with prices set according to size. As they operate on the same platform as other Hue devices, users can include them in routines, mix them with indoor lighting, and control them together for cohesive colors, brightness, and effects.

    A New Era for Hue Users

    The introduction of permanent outdoor string lights will transform the typical temporary setups many Hue users have relied on, making outlines and accent lighting a regular feature in home decor all year long. For those already using Hue products, these new additions should greatly enhance outdoor lighting options with minimal compromises.


     

  • Philips Hue Launches Efficient A19/E27 Bulbs and Affordable Essentials

    Philips Hue Launches Efficient A19/E27 Bulbs and Affordable Essentials

    Key Takeaways

    1. Philips Hue is releasing new budget-friendly Essential A19/E27 smart bulbs in September, maintaining key features while offering a narrower color temperature range.
    2. The new Essential bulbs are designed for affordability, allowing consumers to light their spaces without high costs while still being compatible with existing Hue products.
    3. Philips has improved standard A19 bulbs, making them 40% more energy-efficient and allowing dimming down to 0.2%, compared to 2% for the Essential versions.
    4. Both Essential and standard Philips Hue bulbs are compatible with Matter over Thread, Zigbee hubs, and Bluetooth for better integration with third-party applications.
    5. Pricing for Essential bulbs ranges from €24.99/$24.99 to €59.99/$59.99, while traditional A19/E27 smart bulbs range from $15.99 to $79.99, with new products like BR30 bulbs and updated strip lights also launching.


    Despite having a wider selection of lights, adaptable bulbs continue to be the foundation of many smart home systems. Hue is making a comeback with new additions to its well-liked A19/E27 smart bulb series. Set to launch in September, the company will roll out more budget-friendly options as part of their new Essential range. Consumers can look forward to enhanced lights that use less energy and offer a broader spectrum of white shades.

    Affordable Illumination Options

    The Essential smart bulbs provide a way for consumers to light up various spaces without breaking the bank. These economical A19/E27 bulbs maintain common Hue functionalities while working seamlessly with the brand’s other products. In comparison to the more expensive models, one key difference is a narrower color temperature range of 2,200K to 6,500K.

    Enhanced Efficiency and Dimming Features

    Philips has also upgraded its standard A19 bulbs, which they claim are now 40% more energy-efficient. These bulbs can be dimmed down to 0.2% of their maximum brightness, while the Essential versions can only dim to 2%. The A19 smart bulbs come with E27 bases for customers in Europe. Options include White Ambiance, White and Color Ambiance, and Color Ambiance versions.

    Compatibility and Pricing Details

    Both the Essential and standard Philips Hue bulbs are compatible with Matter over Thread, which allows better access in various third-party applications. Even without this protocol, the latest Hue products work well with Zigbee hubs and Bluetooth.

    The Essential A19 bulbs are priced between €24.99/$24.99 and €59.99/$59.99, with Philips offering packs containing up to four smart lights. Starter kits that include the Hue Bridge V2 are expected to be available soon.

    Pricing remains consistent in both the EU and North America for the traditional A19/E27 smart bulbs. Homeowners can expect to pay between $34.99 and $54.99 for White Ambiance lights available in 60, 75, and 100 watts. The White and Color Ambiance option is priced from $59.99 to $79.99, while the basic White Hue bulbs range from $15.99 to $27.99.

    Philips Hue is also launching Essential BR30 smart bulbs, new indoor and outdoor strip lights, and updated Festavia string lights.

     


     

  • Experimental Drug Lowers Stubborn High Blood Pressure by Blocking Aldosterone

    Experimental Drug Lowers Stubborn High Blood Pressure by Blocking Aldosterone

    Key Takeaways

    1. Baxdrostat is an experimental once-a-day pill that significantly reduces blood pressure in patients with resistant hypertension.
    2. It works as an aldosterone synthase inhibitor, blocking the production of aldosterone, which contributes to high blood pressure.
    3. In a Phase III trial with 800 patients, baxdrostat reduced systolic blood pressure by an average of 15.7 mmHg compared to 5.8 mmHg for the placebo group.
    4. A reduction of nearly 10 mmHg in systolic blood pressure is linked to lower risks of serious health issues such as heart attack and stroke.
    5. The drug is considered safe, though some patients experienced elevated potassium levels, indicating it may become a preferred treatment option for hypertension.


    An experimental once-a-day pill named baxdrostat has been proven to significantly reduce blood pressure in individuals whose pressure remains dangerously high even when treated with various other medications. These findings were part of an international Phase III trial directed by Professor Bryan Williams.

    How Baxdrostat Works

    This innovative drug, reported in The New England Journal of Medicine, is categorized as an aldosterone synthase inhibitor. It works by directly blocking the production of aldosterone, a hormone. Elevated levels of aldosterone are a primary contributor to resistant hypertension, as it leads the body to hold onto excess salt and water.

    Trial Details and Results

    The BaxHTN Phase III trial was a double-blind study that involved around 800 patients suffering from controlled or resistant hypertension. After 12 weeks, participants who received a daily dose of 2 mg of baxdrostat along with their existing treatment experienced an average decrease in systolic blood pressure of 15.7 mmHg. In contrast, those on a placebo only saw an average reduction of 5.8 mmHg. This results in a statistically important, placebo-adjusted decrease of 9.8 mmHg.

    Implications for Heart Health

    Achieving a nearly 10 mmHg reduction in systolic blood pressure is thrilling, as this extent of decrease is associated with a markedly lower risk of heart attack, stroke, heart failure, and kidney disease, according to Professor Williams.

    The research team determined the drug to be safe, although about 3% of those taking the medication experienced elevated potassium levels, in comparison to just 0.4% of the placebo group. This indicates that the drug has a strong potential to become a preferred option for individuals dealing with hypertension.

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  • Philips Hue Bridge Pro Launch: Powerful New Features Unveiled

    Philips Hue Bridge Pro Launch: Powerful New Features Unveiled

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Philips Hue Bridge Pro has officially launched, featuring a sleek all-black design.
    2. It supports up to 150 smart lights and 50 accessories, a significant upgrade from the original model.
    3. The new bridge has a processor five times more powerful than its predecessor and 15 times the memory.
    4. It introduces the Hue Motion Aware feature, allowing lights to act as motion sensors.
    5. The Philips Hue Bridge Pro will be available worldwide starting September 2025 for $89.99/€89.99, with an easy transfer process for existing users.


    The Philips Hue Bridge Pro is finally here. After being the topic of much speculation and even appearing on the brand’s website back in August 2025, the company has now officially introduced this new hub. Alongside the Bridge Pro, Philips also unveiled a variety of other smart home products, including the Essential bulbs and Festavia outdoor lighting.

    Upgraded Features

    As anticipated, the Hue Bridge Pro comes with several improvements compared to the original version. It sports a sleek all-black design and can handle up to 150 smart lights and 50 accessories, which is significantly more than what the previous model could support. Moreover, the device is equipped with a processor that is claimed to be five times more powerful than its predecessor.

    Enhanced Performance

    With 15 times the memory, users can look forward to quicker response times and the capability to store as many as 500 smart lighting scenes. Another innovative feature of the Hue Bridge Pro is Hue Motion Aware, allowing Hue smart lights to function as motion sensors. This means the lights can automatically turn on whenever movement is detected.

    The Philips Hue Bridge Pro will be available worldwide starting September 2025, priced at $89.99/€89.99. For comparison, the original Hue Bridge is priced at $65.99/€59.99. Philips has also mentioned that users who currently own the original Hue Bridge will find it relatively simple to transfer their settings to the new device. Additionally, a method to merge multiple Hue Bridges into one unit of the Hue Bridge Pro will be made available later in 2025.

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  • Eufy Launches S2 Robot Vacuum with Stair-Climbing Accessory

    Eufy Launches S2 Robot Vacuum with Stair-Climbing Accessory

    Key Takeaways

    1. Powerful Cleaning Capabilities: The eufy Robot Vacuum Omni S2 features AeroTurbo suction with 100 AW power and up to 30,000 Pa, designed for effective carpet cleaning and a HydroJet mopping system that leaves floors clean and scented.

    2. Advanced AI Navigation: Equipped with CleanMind AI, the vacuum can navigate over obstacles up to 4.2 cm high and recognize 200 types of obstacles, enhancing its cleaning efficiency.

    3. Automatic Cleaning and Maintenance: The 12-in-1 UniClean docking station allows the Omni S2 to automatically empty its bin and clean its mop with hot water and air drying.

    4. Multi-Floor Cleaning Accessory: The new MarsWalker stair-climbing carrier enables the Omni S2 to clean multiple levels by navigating various stair shapes, using a track-drive system and independent arms.

    5. Launch and Pricing Information: The Omni S2 will be available in Europe in late October for £1,599.99/€1,599.99, with a US release expected in early 2026 for around $1,599, while the MarsWalker accessory will launch in spring 2026.


    Anker has unveiled the eufy Robot Vacuum Omni S2, which they tout as a groundbreaking model. This vacuum is said to bring together the CleanMind AI technology, AeroTurbo suction, and HydroJet mopping to achieve a thorough cleaning.

    Powerful Suction and Mopping Features

    The Omni S2 utilizes AeroTurbo 2.0, boasting a power of 100 AW, which enables it to create suction of up to 30,000 Pa. This capability makes it effective on carpets that are as deep as 5 cm (around 2.0 inches). Equipped with DuoSpiral detangle brushes and an extending side-arm, the robot can effectively clean along walls. The HydroJet 2.0 system features a roller mop that spins 360 times per minute and exerts a downward pressure of 15N. It can extend up to 15 mm (approximately 0.6 inches), and the vacuum has separate tanks for clean and dirty water, ensuring your floors remain pristine. Additionally, after cleaning, it can leave a pleasant scent on your floors, with options including citrus basil, bamboo sage, or bergamot lychee.

    Advanced AI and Smart Features

    Eufy promotes the Omni S2 for its CleanMind AI system, which integrates 3D ToF, RGB camera, and LED tech. The robot can navigate over obstacles of up to 4.2 cm (about 1.7 inches) in height and can identify 200 different types of obstacles. Furthermore, at the 12-in-1 UniClean docking station, the robot empties its bin automatically, while the mop is cleaned with hot water and dried using hot air. Additional functionalities include app controls and compatibility with the Matter standard.

    New Accessory for Multi-Floor Cleaning

    At the IFA 2025, Eufy is also showcasing its innovative MarsWalker stair-climbing carrier designed for robot vacuums. This accessory works with the S2, enabling it to navigate straight, L-shaped, and U-shaped stairs, making it capable of cleaning across multiple levels. The MarsWalker employs a track-drive system and features four arms that operate independently to lift and lower the robot as needed.

    The eufy Robot Vacuum Omni S2 is set to launch in late October across Europe, priced at £1,599.99/€1,599.99. In the US, it is anticipated to be available in early 2026 for around $1,599. Meanwhile, the eufy MarsWalker accessory is expected to hit the market in spring 2026, although its price has yet to be determined.

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  • Anker eufyCam S4 PTZ Security Camera Now Available for Purchase

    Anker eufyCam S4 PTZ Security Camera Now Available for Purchase

    Key Takeaways

    1. The eufyCam S4 features a 4K upper bullet camera and a lower dual 2K PTZ camera with advanced panning and tilting capabilities.
    2. It includes automatic tracking, framing, and human, vehicle, and pet recognition for enhanced monitoring.
    3. Users with HomeBase S380 can access additional features like cross-camera tracking and facial recognition.
    4. The camera is powered by an efficient removable solar panel that requires just one hour of sunlight daily.
    5. Pre-orders start at $299 for a single camera, with bundle options available for $649 (two-camera) and $1,149 (four-camera).


    The Anker eufyCam S4 Bullet-PTZ Security Camera has been officially revealed. First hinted at in August 2025, this innovative smart home device will be displayed at IFA 2025, alongside other products like the eufy S2 robot vacuum cleaner from the same brand.

    Camera Specifications

    The eufyCam S4 features an upper bullet camera that boasts a 4K resolution, providing a 130° field of view (FOV). It has an aperture of f/1.6 and can pan 180° and tilt by 30°. The lower PTZ camera is equipped with dual 2K lenses, offering an 8x hybrid zoom, and allows for more adaptive coverage due to its 360° panning and 70° tilting capabilities. This second camera also includes automatic tracking and framing features to ensure that important moments are captured. Additionally, there are four LED spotlights that enable color night vision, and the device can automatically recognize humans, vehicles, and pets.

    Enhanced User Experience

    Moreover, users of the eufyCam S4 who have the HomeBase S380 can access extra functionalities, such as cross-camera tracking and facial recognition. Above the two cameras, there’s a removable 5.5 solar panel, which eufy claims is its most effective panel yet. Just one hour of direct sunlight each day can keep the camera powered. Other functionalities include radar and PIR sensors that can detect people and vehicles, with options to activate warning lights and a siren.

    Pricing and Availability

    You can now pre-order a single eufyCam S4 for $299/£299/€299. If you’re interested in a two-camera bundle with the eufy HomeBase S380, it is available for $649/£699/€699. For those looking for a larger setup, a four-camera kit with the same hub is priced at $1,149/£1,099/€1,099.


     

  • Anker Prime Charger and Wireless Charging Station Launch Announced

    Anker Prime Charger and Wireless Charging Station Launch Announced

    Key Takeaways

    1. Anker Prime Charger Launch: The Anker Prime Charger will launch on September 25, priced at $149.

    2. High Power Output: The charger can deliver a maximum output of 160 Watts alone, with a total of 210 Watts when charging three devices simultaneously.

    3. Compact Design: The Anker Prime Charger is 43% smaller than Apple’s 140W charger, although specific dimensions are not provided.

    4. Wireless Charging Station Features: The Anker Prime Wireless Charging Station has three docks for charging a smartphone, smartwatch, and headphones, and is certified for Apple Watch.

    5. Fast Charging Capability: The Wireless Charging Station can charge an iPhone 16 Pro Max to 80% in 59 minutes, with a primary charging pad offering up to 25 Watts.


    Anker has revealed several new accessories at IFA 2025. This lineup features the Anker Prime Charger and the Anker Prime Wireless Charging Station. The Anker Prime Charger is set to launch on September 25, priced at $149, but there is no specific date yet for when the Wireless Charging Station will be available.

    Powerful Charging Capabilities

    The Anker Prime Charger can deliver a maximum output of 160 Watts when used alone. When three devices are connected, the total power output is distributed as 140 Watts + 35 Watts + 35 Watts, summing up to 210 Watts. Anker asserts that it’s 43% smaller compared to Apple’s 140W charger, although they have not disclosed its dimensions or weight. Additional features include a display that provides real-time information, showing how many devices are being charged, the total power output, and the temperature.

    Versatile Wireless Charging Station

    On to the Anker Prime Wireless Charging Station, it features three docks designed for charging a smartphone, a smartwatch, and headphones. It carries a “Made for Apple Watch” certification, and Anker claims that it can charge an iPhone 16 Pro Max to 80% in only 59 minutes. The primary Qi2 charging pad can provide up to 25 Watts of power, while the smaller pads offer a maximum of 5 Watts each. To ensure the Prime Wireless Charging Station stays powered, a 65 Watt wall adapter is included. Other notable features are an LED display and a ‘sleep mode’ that minimizes noise.

    Anker’s new offerings at IFA 2025 certainly bring exciting advancements in charging technology.

  • Xgimi Launches Brighter Horizon 20 Gaming Projectors for Gamers

    Xgimi Launches Brighter Horizon 20 Gaming Projectors for Gamers

    Key Takeaways

    1. New Horizon 20 Series: Xgimi has launched the Horizon 20 home theater projector series, including the Horizon 20, Horizon 20 Pro, and Horizon 20 Max.

    2. Horizon 20 Max Features: The Horizon 20 Max offers up to 5,700 ISO lumens brightness, aimed at delivering cinema-quality visuals for gamers.

    3. Gaming Focus: The projectors feature a low latency gaming mode with 1 ms input lag, 240 Hz refresh rate, and VRR, catering specifically to gamers.

    4. Enhanced Viewing Options: The projectors support Dolby Vision, HDR10+, Filmmaker Mode, and IMAX Enhanced, with customizable settings through a Pro Tuning menu.

    5. Pricing and Release: The Horizon 20 series will launch in Europe on October 15th, with prices set at €1,699 for the Horizon 20, €2,099 for the Pro, and €2,999 for the Max.


    Xgimi has revealed its latest Horizon 20 home theater projector series. This new lineup, which will be showcased at IFA 2025, builds upon the previous Horizon models, such as the Horizon Ultra (currently priced at $1,099 on Amazon). The new collection features the Horizon 20, Horizon 20 Pro, and Horizon 20 Max.

    Top-of-the-Line Feature

    Leading this series is the Horizon 20 Max, which Xgimi touts as its premier projector. It’s said to deliver “cinema-grade brightness” with an impressive output of up to 5,700 ISO lumens, thanks to its RGB triple laser light source and the X-Master Red Ring lens. For comparison, the older Horizon S Max provides only 3,100 ISO lumens. The Max, along with the other Horizon 20 models, is specifically designed with gamers in mind. Notable specifications include a low latency gaming mode featuring 1 ms input lag, a 240 Hz refresh rate, and VRR. Moreover, these projectors are being launched in collaboration with Assassin’s Creed Shadows.

    Enhanced Viewing Experience

    The Xgimi Horizon projectors are equipped to support Dolby Vision, HDR10+, Filmmaker Mode, and IMAX Enhanced. They come with various image-enhancing features, such as lens shift and optical zoom, and also include a Pro Tuning menu for user customization. These home theater projectors operate on a modified version of Android TV, allowing for native Netflix support.

    Xgimi plans to launch the Horizon 20 projectors in Europe on October 15th. The pricing will be as follows: the Xgimi Horizon 20 will sell for €1,699, the Horizon 20 Pro will be available for €2,099, and the Horizon 20 Max is set at €2,999. Information regarding a US release has not yet been disclosed.

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  • Roborock Qrevo Curv 2 Pro: Powerful New Robot Vacuum Launch

    Roborock Qrevo Curv 2 Pro: Powerful New Robot Vacuum Launch

    Key Takeaways

    1. Stronger Suction Power: The Qrevo Curv 2 Pro offers improved suction power of up to 25,000 Pa, compared to the previous model’s 18,500 Pa.

    2. Advanced Mopping Features: It includes two rotating mop heads and a hot water mopping function that heats water to 60°C (140°F) for effective cleaning.

    3. Enhanced Docking Station: The multifunctional dock provides hot water washing at 100°C (212°F) and uses warm air to dry the mop cloth.

    4. Compact Design: The robot has a streamlined design with a height of only 7.98 cm (3.1 inches), aided by a retractable LDS navigation module.

    5. European Launch: The Qrevo Curv 2 Pro will launch in Europe on October 2nd, priced at €1,299, with details for other regions yet to be announced.


    Roborock has introduced the Qrevo Curv 2 Pro robot vacuum and mop within Europe. This new model is already on sale in China, where it goes by the name P20 Ultra Plus, and it has also just made its way to Singapore and Vietnam.

    Enhanced Features

    As the name implies, the Roborock Qrevo Curv 2 Pro is an upgrade from the 2024 Qrevo Curv (currently priced at $1,099.99 on Amazon). This new version boasts a much stronger suction power of up to 25,000 Pa, compared to the previous model’s 18,500 Pa. For its vacuuming tasks, the robot is equipped with a dual brush that has anti-tangle tech, which allows it to effectively gather longer strands of hair. In addition to vacuuming, this model includes mopping capabilities, featuring two rotating mop heads similar to those found in the original Qrevo Curv. One standout feature is its hot water mopping function, using water heated to 60°C (~140°F) from an internal tank while it cleans.

    Docking Station Improvements

    An additional enhancement related to mopping can be found in the multifunctional dock of the Qrevo Curv 2 Pro. This dock provides hot water washing at 100°C (~212°F) and uses warm air to dry the cloth, preparing it for its next cleaning session. The robot’s navigation is aided by a retractable LDS module, which allows it to maintain a streamlined design, standing at only 7.98 cm (~3.1 inches) tall.

    The Roborock Qrevo Curv 2 Pro robot vacuum and mop is set to launch in Europe on October 2nd. For this market, the recommended retail price will be €1,299. The release date and pricing for this model in other regions such as the US and UK have not yet been revealed.

    Summary

    In summary, Roborock continues to innovate with the Qrevo Curv 2 Pro, offering enhanced power and functionality for efficient home cleaning. The advancements in mopping features and the compact design highlight Roborock’s commitment to improving user experience. Keep an eye out for more information regarding its arrival in other countries!

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