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  • SwitchBot Hub 3 Launches: Smart Home Hub with Matter & IR Blaster

    SwitchBot Hub 3 Launches: Smart Home Hub with Matter & IR Blaster

    Key Takeaways

    1. The SwitchBot Hub 3 is priced at $119 and connects multiple devices for smart home integration.
    2. It features internal sensors for temperature, humidity, motion, and light, allowing for automated scene activation.
    3. The compact design (4.9 x 3.7 x 1.5 inches) includes a display and a rotary knob for easy control of devices.
    4. It supports connections through 2.4GHz WiFi, Bluetooth LE, and infrared, with a range of up to 650 feet in open spaces.
    5. The hub is compatible with SwitchBot devices and the Matter standard, allowing mapping of up to 30 Matter buttons.

    The SwitchBot Hub 3 is now offered at a price of $119, allowing users to connect numerous devices into their smart home system. In addition to its integration capabilities, it functions as a sensor and includes a display along with various control methods. This hub is equipped with internal sensors that measure temperature and humidity, helping users figure out their comfort levels. It also has built-in motion and light sensors that can activate scenes based on detected movement or specific lighting conditions. For instance, you can set up a hallway light to turn on when someone walks by. There’s a USB-C port included for connecting external sensors, and another USB-C port provides power up to 10 watts.

    Compact Design

    Measuring approximately 4.9 x 3.7 x 1.5 inches, this smart home hub is quite small but still comes with a display and several input options, such as a rotary knob. This knob can be handy for dimming lights, setting the desired temperature for an air conditioner, or adjusting media device volumes. Moreover, you can activate scenes with just a single button press. The Hub 3 supports both 2.4GHz WiFi and Bluetooth LE, primarily serving to unify various devices into a network.

    Versatile Control Options

    Older air conditioning units and other gadgets can be managed through infrared, and it is compatible with SwitchBot devices along with the Matter standard. You can map up to 30 Matter buttons. In open spaces, it claims to have a range of up to 650 feet, and the Hub 3 can act as a gateway to enhance the signal range. Finally, the infrared feature mentioned earlier has a reach of up to 98 feet.

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  • Xiaomi Unveils Compact 90W GaN Charger for Fast Charging

    Xiaomi Unveils Compact 90W GaN Charger for Fast Charging

    Key Takeaways

    1. Compact Design: The Xiaomi GaN charger is 48% smaller and 33% lighter than typical chargers with the same 90 W charging speed, featuring rounded corners and a foldable plug for portability.

    2. Fast Charging Performance: The charger can charge devices quickly, reaching 83% for the Xiaomi 15 Pro, 55% for the iPhone 16 Pro Max, and 97% for the Vivo X100 Pro in just 30 minutes.

    3. Versatile Compatibility: It supports major charging protocols, including PD, PPS, and QC, making it suitable for a wide range of devices.

    4. Optional Accessories: The charger includes an optional 1.5 m USB-C cable, designed to complement the charger, enhancing usability.

    5. Affordable Pricing: The charger is priced at CNY 149 (about $21), and CNY 169 (approximately $23) with the USB-C cable; global availability has not yet been announced.

    Xiaomi has launched a small GaN charger in China. This charger has one USB-C port that supports fast charging at 90 W. The company mentions that it works with major charging protocols like PD, PPS, and QC, making it suitable for many different devices.

    Compact and Lightweight Design

    Xiaomi claims that the “small pudding” 90 W charger is 48% smaller than regular chargers that offer the same charging speed. It also weighs 33% less than typical chargers. In addition, the charger has rounded corners and a foldable plug, making it easy to take on trips.

    Fast Charging Capabilities

    With its 90 W fast charging support, this new GaN charger can reportedly charge the Xiaomi 15 Pro to 83%, the iPhone 16 Pro Max to 55%, and the Vivo X100 Pro to 97% within just 30 minutes.

    Bundled Accessories and Pricing

    A key feature of this Xiaomi charger is that it comes with an optional USB-C cable. This cable is designed to match the charger and is 1.5 m long (in comparison, the 1.8 m 2-pack Anker 100 W USB-C cable is currently priced at $11.99 on Amazon).

    In terms of pricing, the new 90 W charger (without the cable) was released in China for CNY 149, which is about $21. If you want the charging cable included, the price is CNY 169, approximately $23. Xiaomi has not revealed any information about global availability or pricing yet, but the company typically expands its product range beyond the Chinese market.

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    Xiaomi Unveils Compact 90W GaN Charger for Fast Charging

     

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  • Xiaomi Smart Camera C100: 2K Video, AI Detection, Night Vision

    Xiaomi Smart Camera C100: 2K Video, AI Detection, Night Vision

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Xiaomi Smart Camera C100 features a 3MP sensor with 2304×1296 resolution and uses H.265 video compression for efficient storage.
    2. It includes advanced AI capabilities such as human detection, crying baby alerts, and two-way audio communication through the Xiaomi Home app.
    3. The device prioritizes user privacy with a physical lens cover and privacy masking zones, ensuring local AI processing to reduce reliance on cloud services.
    4. Connectivity options include Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2, and it is compatible with Android 8.0, iOS 12.0, Google Assistant, and Amazon Alexa.
    5. The camera offers multiple storage options, including microSD cards (up to 256GB), NAS devices, and paid cloud storage, with an international release expected soon.

    Xiaomi has announced the launch of the Smart Camera C100 on its global site, indicating that the new indoor security camera will soon be available worldwide. This device is designed for those who prioritize smart home safety, focusing heavily on privacy, artificial intelligence features, and user-friendliness.

    Smart Camera C100 Details

    The Smart Camera C100 features a 3MP sensor that records in a resolution of 2304×1296. It utilizes H.265 video compression to decrease storage requirements while providing smoother video playback. The camera is equipped with a 128° wide-angle lens and a large f/1.6 aperture, allowing for full-color video capture in low-light settings. It also has hidden 940nm infrared LEDs for night vision, which avoids the red glow that some cameras produce at night.

    AI Capabilities and User Privacy

    Xiaomi has incorporated a variety of AI features into the C100, such as human detection, crying baby alerts, loud noise notifications, and virtual fence monitoring. The device can recognize movement and send immediate alerts if someone enters or exits a specified area. Additionally, users can interact with individuals near the camera through two-way audio calls via the Xiaomi Home app. The audio system utilizes algorithms like Acoustic Echo Cancellation and Noise Suppression for clearer communication.

    To ensure user privacy, Xiaomi added a physical lens cover that can be manually closed. When activated, it prevents the camera from recording. The C100 also features privacy masking zones that allow users to exclude certain areas from surveillance. Xiaomi claims that all AI processing occurs locally to enhance performance and lessen dependence on cloud services.

    Connectivity and Storage Options

    The Smart Camera C100 is compatible with Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2 for enhanced connectivity. It works with Android 8.0 and iOS 12.0 or later and is compatible with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa. Users have various storage options for footage, including microSD cards (up to 256GB), NAS devices, or paid cloud storage services.

    The camera weighs around 170 grams and has dimensions of 69 x 68 x 115 mm. It requires a power source of 5V⎓1A. Although Xiaomi hasn’t disclosed the pricing or exact launch date, the listing on their global website indicates that an international release is on the way.

    Recently, Xiaomi also introduced a new washing machine with HyperOS integration, Blue Oxygen cleaning technology, and a sleek design. Furthermore, they unveiled a 20L smart microwave with a minimalist look and effective performance.

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  • Tapo H500 Smart Home Hub: Supports Matter, HDMI & 16TB Storage

    Tapo H500 Smart Home Hub: Supports Matter, HDMI & 16TB Storage

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Tapo H500 acts as a central hub for smart home devices, connecting wirelessly via dual-band WiFi and supporting up to 16 Tapo cameras and 64 sensors.
    2. It features 16GB built-in eMMC storage, expandable to 16TB, allowing for extensive local video recording options that enhance privacy and reduce cloud storage costs.
    3. The hub will provide AI features, like face detection, to TP-Link cameras that lack these capabilities when connected to the Tapo H500.
    4. It supports the Matter standard, allowing compatibility with a broader range of smart home devices beyond just TP-Link products.
    5. The Tapo H500 functions as an alarm system and can connect to a tablet for features like live feed viewing, while also including an HDMI port.

    TP-Link has introduced the Tapo H500, which they call a smart HomeBase, meant to act as a central point for different smart home devices. This gadget connects easily to a network through dual-band WiFi, allowing it to link wirelessly with cameras and sensors. Specifically, it can support up to 16 Tapo cameras and as many as 64 Tapo sensors. The company states that users can store video recordings from these cameras locally.

    Storage Options

    The HomeBase features built-in 16GB eMMC storage, which can be expanded to a whopping 16TB when using hard drives or SSDs. When equipped with 1TB of internal storage, it could keep four 24/7 camera recordings for weeks at a time. If users are only capturing events or alerts, that same 1TB could last for years. This local storage solution helps address privacy worries and reduces costs associated with cloud storage. TP-Link cameras that do not have built-in AI features like face detection are expected to receive this functionality when connected to the new smart hub, which is said to be more precise as well.

    Compatibility and Features

    The Tapo H500 smart home hub is not limited to just TP-Link Tapo devices; it also supports the Matter standard. However, it’s important to note that the Tapo H500 serves primarily as a base station, not a smart display. That said, users can attach a tablet to the base station to access functionalities such as live feed viewing, utilizing the 3D dashboard, or seeing an overview of connected IoT devices. Furthermore, the hub can function as an alarm system and works with a compatible smart doorbell. An HDMI port is also included. The Tapo H500 Smart HomeBase is currently available for purchase in Europe at a price of €130.

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  • Organic Solar Battery Stores Sunlight for 48 Hours Using Water

    Organic Solar Battery Stores Sunlight for 48 Hours Using Water

    Key Takeaways

    1. Researchers in Germany created a unique organic “solar battery” that captures sunlight and stores energy for over two days.
    2. The device uses a porous covalent organic framework (COF) made from naphthalenediimide, combining photovoltaic and electrochemical functions without metals.
    3. The COF acts as both a light absorber and a charge reservoir, stabilizing stored energy for at least 48 hours, surpassing similar materials in capacity.
    4. Water plays a key role in energy preservation by preventing charge recombination and stabilizing trapped electrons without metallic centers.
    5. The device maintains over 90% capacity after multiple charge-discharge cycles, showing potential for sustainable solar energy storage solutions.

    Researchers in Germany have developed a unique “solar battery” that is entirely organic. This innovative device can capture sunlight, store energy for more than two days, and then release it as electricity. It employs a porous, two-dimensional covalent organic framework (COF) made from naphthalenediimide, which merges photovoltaic and electrochemical functions into a lightweight material. This design, which is free of metals, presents a greener choice for off-grid energy solutions.

    Functionality of the COF

    The COF serves dual purposes as a light absorber and a charge reservoir. When it is exposed to light, it produces electron-hole pairs and captures the generated charges within its structured pores. Even in watery conditions, these charges stay stable for at least 48 hours—an impressive duration for materials of this kind—and can be released when needed to power an external device. The research team recorded a specific capacity of 38 milliampere-hours per gram, surpassing similar materials like carbon nitrides, polymer semiconductors, and metal-organic frameworks.

    Role of Water in Energy Preservation

    Water molecules play a crucial role in maintaining the stored energy. Instead of neutralizing the charges, water rearranges around the COF structure, creating an energy barrier that stops recombination. Research indicates that this interaction helps stabilize trapped electrons without the need for ions or metallic centers.

    Simulations and Testing Results

    Spectroscopists at the Technical University of Munich conducted simulations to analyze various scenarios for charge stabilization. They demonstrated how molecular design, the architecture of the framework, and the surrounding environment collaborate to secure charges. The straightforward nature of the mechanism—organic components combined with water—helps clarify the material’s durability during cycling.

    Practical tests confirmed this durability: the device managed to keep over 90 percent of its capacity even after numerous charge-discharge cycles. This performance suggests that the COF platform is a strong candidate for integrated solar energy storage, especially in situations where weight, sustainability, and the availability of materials are significant issues. Future research will aim to scale up the synthesis of the framework, enhance charge density, and incorporate the material into complete photovoltaic systems.

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  • EufyCam E40: Affordable Security Camera with Apple HomeKit Support

    EufyCam E40: Affordable Security Camera with Apple HomeKit Support

    Key Takeaways

    1. The eufyCam E40 is an affordable security camera option available on Amazon in several European countries, resembling the higher-end eufyCam S330.
    2. It features a 4MP camera with 2K video resolution, MaxColor Night Vision, and AI facial recognition, but lacks the 4K capability of the S330.
    3. The camera operates wirelessly with a long-lasting 13,000mAh battery and includes a SolarPlus 2.0 panel for minimal charging needs.
    4. It offers compatibility with eufy HomeBase 2 for expandable local storage up to 16TB and supports smart home systems like Apple HomeKit, Alexa, and Google Assistant.
    5. A bundle of two eufyCam E40 units with HomeBase 2 is priced at €299, providing significant savings compared to the eufyCam S330 bundle, which costs €549.

    The eufyCam E40 security camera is now available on Amazon in several European nations. Although it looks much like the eufyCam S330, which debuted in 2024, this new model serves as a more affordable option from the Anker sub-brand.

    Camera Specifications

    The E40 features a 4MP camera equipped with an f/1.0 aperture and a 130° field of view. It records video at a 2K resolution, which is lower than the S330’s 4K capabilities. With MaxColor Night Vision, you can see details clearly even in dim lighting, thanks to its three available night modes. A PIR sensor detects movement to start recording, and there’s also an AI tool for facial recognition.

    Power and Compatibility

    This camera operates wirelessly and comes with a 13,000mAh battery. The SolarPlus 2.0 panel on top helps minimize charging needs; just two hours of bright sunlight daily is enough for the camera to function endlessly. Additionally, the E40 works with the eufy HomeBase 2, which allows for expandable local storage up to 16TB. It also supports smart home systems like Apple HomeKit, Alexa, and Google Assistant.

    Pricing and Availability

    A bundle including two eufyCam E40 units along with the HomeBase 2 is priced at €299 on Amazon in countries such as France, Spain, and Germany. This is a significant discount of €250 from the €549 RRP for a similar bundle featuring the eufyCam S330, which includes the newer HomeBase 3. The eufyCam E40 Add On Camera retails for €149. It is also listed on Amazon UK, but the price there hasn’t been disclosed yet. It’s still uncertain if or when these products will be available in the US market.

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    EufyCam E40: Affordable Security Camera with Apple HomeKit Support
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  • Affordable Starlink Residential Lite Plan Expands to More States

    Affordable Starlink Residential Lite Plan Expands to More States

    Key Takeaways

    1. Starlink’s Residential Lite plan costs $80 per month for unlimited satellite Internet data, significantly lower than the $120 monthly fee in other regions.
    2. Users can expect speeds between 50 Mbps and 100 Mbps, despite experiencing deprioritized data.
    3. Subscribers can use the more affordable Starlink Standard Kit, priced lower than the Starlink Mini dish.
    4. The plan’s availability has expanded to over 30 states, including Texas, California, and Alaska, up from 15 states.
    5. Some areas, like Florida and most of the South Atlantic and East South Central regions, are still not included in the expansion.

    The recently introduced, more affordable Residential Lite plan from Starlink, which is part of SpaceX’s satellite Internet service, has proven to be quite popular, though it was initially limited to a select number of states.

    Pricing and Data Speeds

    In areas where it’s available, the Starlink Residential Lite plan is priced at $80 per month for unlimited satellite Internet data. This is significantly less than the $120 monthly fee charged in other regions. While users may experience deprioritized data, SpaceX ensures that subscribers can still enjoy speeds between 50 Mbps and 100 Mbps, which seems to meet the needs of many customers for that cost.

    Equipment Options

    Additionally, subscribers to the Residential Lite plan can make use of the Starlink Standard Kit, which has been more affordable than the Starlink Mini dish, currently priced at $299 on Amazon.

    Expansion of Availability

    However, the main drawback of the Residential Lite plan has been its restricted availability, limited to areas where Starlink had extra capacity, such as parts of the Midwest, Maine, and New Mexico. SpaceX has promised to broaden its coverage, and this month it has made significant progress.

    Starlink’s more affordable Residential Lite plan is now accessible in over 30 states across the US, an increase from the previous 15. This includes regions in Texas and California, as well as Alaska. The coverage has also extended to the entire state of New York, and the reduced prices for the Residential Lite plan are starting to attract customers in Pennsylvania.

    Nevertheless, Florida and most states in the South Atlantic and East South Central regions are still not yet included in this expansion.

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    Affordable Starlink Residential Lite Plan Expands to More States

     

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  • Bluetti Apex 300: New Portable Power Station with 2764Wh Capacity

    Bluetti Apex 300: New Portable Power Station with 2764Wh Capacity

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Bluetti Apex 300 features a 2,764 Wh LiFePO4 battery with TurboBoost fast-charging, reaching 100% in just 65 minutes or 80% in 40 minutes with solar input.
    2. It offers a maximum output of 3,840 W and can power 99% of household appliances through six AC outlets and a 0 ms UPS switchover time.
    3. The power station is scalable, allowing connection of up to three units for a total capacity of 58,000 Wh and a maximum output of 11,520 W.
    4. Users can control the Apex 300 via the Bluetti companion app, managing settings, power priorities, and monitoring load with a built-in display.
    5. The recommended retail price is $2,399, but it is available for $1,199 during the launch promotion on Indiegogo, with a bundle option at $1,999.

    First introduced at CES 2025 in January, Bluetti has now officially launched a new portable power station, the Apex 300. This innovative power station is perfect for home backup, off-grid living, or outdoor activities like camping. It features a 2,764 Wh LiFePO4 battery that utilizes Bluetti’s TurboBoost fast-charging technology. According to the company, this technology enables the power station to charge from 0 to 100% in just 65 minutes. Alternatively, users can charge the Apex 300 with a 2,400 W solar input using dual MPPT controllers, achieving 80% charge in only 40 minutes.

    Maximum Output and Versatility

    The Apex 300 provides a maximum output of 3,840 W with both 120 V and 240 V dual voltage AC output, offering versatility in its energy applications. With six AC outlet ports and a 0 ms UPS switchover time, the Apex 300 can power 99% of household appliances, similar to the Bluetti Elite V2, which is currently priced at $899 on Amazon. This includes devices like refrigerators, laptops, coffee makers, fans, and even heavy-duty equipment such as washing machines and well pumps.

    Scalability and Control Options

    Additionally, this power station is scalable due to its parallel expansion technology, allowing you to connect up to three units together for a total capacity of 58,000 Wh with B300K expansion batteries, while achieving a maximum output of 11,520 W. The front of the device features a built-in display that shows essential information such as current power input, output, battery status, and more.

    Moreover, the gadget can also be controlled through the Bluetti companion app, which enables users to adjust settings, manage power priorities, monitor loads, and activate smart modes like extreme weather alerts. The LiFePO₄ (LFP) battery is rated for 6000 charge cycles, maintaining at least 80% of its capacity throughout its life. According to Bluetti’s press release, this battery can last for over 17 years even with daily usage.

    Pricing and Availability

    The Bluetti Apex 300 has a recommended retail price (RRP) of $2,399 and is available for purchase on the Indiegogo platform. As part of their launch promotion, Bluetti is currently offering the Apex 300 for only $1,199 ($0.43/KWh), and there is also a bundle option that includes the Apex 300 plus one B300K battery for $1,999. Keep in mind that these early bird prices are limited; once the offer ends, the power station will revert to its original price.

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    Bluetti Apex 300: New Portable Power Station with 2764Wh Capacity
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  • OnePlus Unveils 100W Compact Charger for Fast Charging

    OnePlus Unveils 100W Compact Charger for Fast Charging

    Key Takeaways

    1. OnePlus has launched a compact GaN charger in China, claiming it is one-third the size of typical chargers with similar charging speeds.
    2. The charger supports SuperVOOC 100 W fast charging and stable 65 W PD charging, along with compatibility for PPS, QC 3.0, and UFCS.
    3. It features a travel-friendly design with a foldable plug and a bundled 1-meter USB-C cable that supports 10 A power delivery.
    4. The charger includes safety protection measures, a lightweight body, and an elegant appearance, making it suitable for everyday use.
    5. The launch price is CNY 199 (about $28), with no current global availability date announced.

    OnePlus has introduced a new GaN charger in China, and one of its standout features is its compact size. The company asserts that the “square bottle” shape of the charger makes it one-third the size of typical chargers that provide the same charging speed.

    Fast Charging Capabilities

    This new GaN charger supports SuperVOOC 100 W fast charging. Additionally, OnePlus claims it can deliver stable 65 W PD charging for long-term use. Apart from PD and SuperVOOC, it also supports PPS, QC 3.0, and UFCS, meaning it can work with almost all devices.

    Travel-Friendly Design

    OnePlus emphasizes the portability of their new 100 W GaN charger, which includes a foldable plug for easy transport. Another convenient feature is the included USB-C cable that has magnets for simple storage.

    The bundled 1-meter cable is designed to support 10 A power delivery, making it appropriate for high-power devices (the 2-meter 240 W Ugreen cable currently costs $9.99 on Amazon). OnePlus also highlights that the cable’s high-density interwoven texture ensures its durability for everyday use. Other notable features of this GaN charger include various safety protection measures, a lightweight body, and an elegant appearance.

    Pricing and Availability

    In terms of price, OnePlus has set the launch price of the new 100 W GaN charger in China at CNY 199, which is about $28. There is currently no information regarding when this charger will be available globally, but OnePlus usually releases most of their accessories beyond the Chinese market.

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    OnePlus Unveils 100W Compact Charger for Fast Charging
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  • IKEA Launches New Heat Pump with Exclusive Discount Offer

    IKEA Launches New Heat Pump with Exclusive Discount Offer

    Key Takeaways

    1. IKEA has partnered with Svea Solar to offer air-to-water heat pumps in Germany.
    2. The heat pumps are designed to be affordable and include a 15% discount for IKEA Family and Business Network members.
    3. Customers can receive up to 70% reimbursement on initial costs through German government subsidies.
    4. Professional guidance is provided to assess suitability, along with a fixed-price quote for installation and maintenance.
    5. A 15-year performance guarantee is offered for the heat pumps, though availability in other European countries is still unclear.

    IKEA has begun offering air-to-water heat pumps in collaboration with Svea Solar, targeting customers in Germany. The two companies have teamed up since 2020, previously launching the Solstrale solar panel series for markets in the Netherlands, Spain, and France.

    New Offerings in Germany

    Now, with the introduction of heat pumps to their joint product lineup in Germany, IKEA aims to make these systems “affordable for the masses.” Members of IKEA Family or the IKEA Business Network can take advantage of a 15% discount. This same discount applies to their photovoltaic systems, home energy storage solutions, and electric vehicle charging wall boxes. Additionally, customers can benefit from German government subsidies, which can reimburse up to 70% of the initial investment costs.

    Expert Guidance Included

    IKEA also mentions that they provide professional advice to help customers determine if these heat pumps are suitable for their residences. Customers will receive a “binding, fixed-price quote” that covers installation, maintenance, and repair costs for the heat pump. Furthermore, there is a performance guarantee lasting 15 years, depending on the specific model chosen. However, it remains uncertain when these heat pumps by IKEA and Svea Solar might become available to customers in other European nations.

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    IKEA Launches New Heat Pump with Exclusive Discount Offer

     

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