Category: Home

August 28, 2025
Google Home App Update Adds New Features for Smart Thermostats
Key Takeaways
1. Version 3.39 of the Google Home App is now available for both iOS and Android users, following the recent 3.38 update.
2. Nest Learning Thermostat 3rd generation and Nest Thermostat E receive full support for temperature, sensor, and fan schedules, along with improved heating/cooling status visibility.
3. The energy dashboard features enhancements, including separate totals for heating and cooling and monitoring energy consumption by heating type.
4. Home & Away status can now be activated based on your mobile device’s Wi-Fi connections.
5. Bug fixes address issues for iPad users, including freezing, video misalignment, and passcode errors for iOS users.
The Google Home App has just updated to version 3.39 for users on both iOS and Android platforms. This new release comes just a few weeks after version 3.38, which introduced enhancements related to smart cameras.
Enhancements for Nest Thermostat Users
With the arrival of version 3.39, there are notable upgrades for those using the Nest Learning Thermostat 3rd generation and Nest Thermostat E (currently priced at $89.99 on Amazon). These older devices now have complete support for schedules involving temperature, sensors, and fans. Moreover, Google states that it’s now simpler to check the heating or cooling status within the Home app for all Nest Thermostats. The company has implemented “more vibrant colors” and “updated descriptions” to improve the overall experience for users.
Improved Energy Dashboard Features
In addition, the energy dashboard has seen significant enhancements. Users will find distinct totals for heating and cooling, along with the ability to monitor energy consumption by stage or type of heating. Another exciting feature is the Home & Away status, which can now be activated when your mobile device connects or disconnects from your selected Wi-Fi network.
Bug Fixes Included
The release notes mention three bug fixes that address problems for iPad users, where the Google Home App might freeze, as well as issues with misaligned videos and passcode errors for iOS users. You can obtain the latest version of the Google Home App from either the Apple App Store or the Google Play Store.
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Tags: Google Home app
August 28, 2025
Order New Philips Hue Outdoor String Lights Now Available
Key Takeaways
1. The Philips Hue Festavia Globe Outdoor String Lights are available for pre-order in select European countries, with an official launch expected in early September 2025.
2. The string lights come in three lengths: 7 m (10 bulbs) for €149.99, 14 m (20 bulbs) for €199.99, and 21 m (30 bulbs) for €299.99, with delivery set for late October 2025.
3. Each LED bulb emits up to 50 lumens and offers white and colored lighting options, utilizing Philips Hue’s Lightguide technology for enhanced effects.
4. The lights are compatible with smart home systems like Amazon Alexa, Apple Home, and Google Home, and can be controlled remotely via the Hue app.
5. They feature an IP65 rating for resistance to sunlight, dust, and water, and can operate in temperatures from -20 to 45°C, powered by a 30W supply compatible with the Philips Hue Low-volt system.
The Philips Hue Festavia Globe Outdoor String Lights can now be pre-ordered in certain European nations. This innovative lighting solution was previously leaked in August 2025, alongside the new Hue Bridge Pro.
Pricing and Availability
On Amazon France, you can find the Festavia Globe string lights in three different lengths. The 7 m (~23 ft) version with 10 bulbs is priced at €149.99, the 14 m (~46 ft) model with 20 bulbs costs €199.99, and the 21 m (~69 ft) option with 30 bulbs is available for €299.99. However, the earliest delivery is currently set for late October 2025. It’s also uncertain if these listings were meant to be visible or if they might vanish soon.
Features and Compatibility
The product listing from Amazon provides additional insights about the Festavia Globe string lights. Each round LED bulb is claimed to emit up to 50 lumens of brightness, offering both white and colored lighting options. The Lightguide technology from Philips Hue is designed to enhance color, brightness, and direction of the light, providing a variety of effects to match your mood or event. These smart lights are compatible with Amazon Alexa, Apple Home, and Google Home, and remote control is also available via the Hue app.
Performance and Launch
Similar to other items in the latest collection, these outdoor string lights promote “ultra-low dimming.” They are resistant to sunlight, dust, and water with an IP65 rating, and can function in temperatures ranging from -20 to 45°C (~-4 to 113°F). Each bulb set is equipped with a 30W power supply and is compatible with the Philips Hue Low-volt system. The official launch for the Philips Hue Festavia Globe Outdoor String Lights in Europe is anticipated for early September, although the date for a global release is still uncertain.
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Tags: Philips Hue Festavia, Smart Lighting
August 28, 2025
New Philips Hue Smart Bulbs with Ultra-Low Dimming Feature
Key Takeaways
1. Enhanced Lighting Options: New bulbs offer three types of lighting: White, White ambiance, and White and color ambiance, with a broader range of color temperatures from 1,000K to 20,000K.
2. Brightness and Efficiency Improvements: The bulbs have three brightness settings (810, 1,100, and 1,600 lumens) and feature ultra-low dimming down to 0.2%. They are also 40% more energy efficient than previous models.
3. Smart Home Compatibility: The new bulbs can connect with Amazon Alexa, Google Home, and Apple Home, enhancing their integration into smart home systems.
4. Pricing and Availability: The bulbs are available on Amazon in Europe, starting at €15.99 for the A60 E27 White 810 smart bulb, with multipacks also expected.
5. App Integration: Users can customize lighting effects through the Hue app, and the Hue Bridge allows connections with various Philips Hue smart home devices.
New Philips Hue smart light bulbs have been seen on Amazon in Europe. The product details suggest that these new bulbs provide several enhancements over the existing versions from the brand.
Enhanced Lighting Options
The Philips Hue A60 E27 and A67 E27 bulbs come in three distinct lighting types: White, White ambiance, and White and color ambiance. The White bulbs emit a warm white light at 2,700K. The White ambiance bulbs offer various shades of white, with color temperatures ranging between 1,000K and 20,000K. The White and color ambiance versions cover the same spectrum but additionally include colored lighting effects. This range of correlated color temperature (CCT) is significantly broader than what previous models offered, which were limited to 2,000K to 6,500K.
Brightness and Efficiency Improvements
The new Philips Hue bulbs feature three brightness settings: 810 lumens, 1,100 lumens, and 1,600 lumens. They provide “ultra-low dimming,” allowing users to adjust brightness down to an impressive 0.2% through the brand’s app. Moreover, these bulbs are claimed to be 40% more energy efficient compared to their earlier versions. With the Hue app, users can choose from a variety of lighting effects for the ambiance bulbs, and the Hue Bridge enables connections among many of the brand’s smart home devices. They also work with Amazon Alexa, Google Home, and Apple Home.
Pricing and Availability
The Philips Hue A60 E27 and A67 E27 are available on Amazon in countries like France and Germany, starting at €15.99 for a single A60 E27 White 810 smart bulb. Below are the recommended retail prices (RRPs) for various individual smart bulbs, though multipacks will be offered as well. It remains uncertain exactly when the new Philips Hue smart bulbs will be available for purchase.
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Tags: A60/E27, Philips Hue, smart bulbs
August 28, 2025
New Dreame H15 Pro FoamWash Vacuum Cleaner Now Available
Key Takeaways
1. The Dreame H15 Pro FoamWash features a foaming floor cleaning function designed for pet owners.
2. It includes a high-speed roller mop that spins 480 times per minute and can eliminate 100% of pet stains and 99% of odors.
3. The device adjusts the cleaning solution and water ratio based on detected dirt levels, with information displayed on a built-in LED screen and the DreameHome app.
4. Key technologies include the TangleCut 2.0 scraper to prevent hair tangles and the DescendReach 2.0 robotic arm for cleaning along walls and under furniture.
5. The vacuum launches in Europe on September 5th with a €100 introductory discount, retailing at €699, and is already available on Amazon in some countries without the discount.
The Dreame H15 Pro FoamWash Wet and Dry Vacuum Cleaner has been launched in Europe. This latest model enhances the previous H15 Pro by including a foaming floor cleaning function, specifically designed for pet owners.
Cleaning Features
The H15 Pro FoamWash includes a roller mop that spins 480 times per minute. Dreame claims that its bio-enzyme foam can eliminate 100% of pet stains and dirt while neutralizing 99% of odors. The cleaning solution and water ratio is smartly adjusted based on detected dirt levels, ranging from 30-200:1. This information is visible on the built-in LED screen and can also be controlled through the DreameHome app. The app features smart reminders and updates for the device.
Pet-Friendly Technology
One notable feature is the TangleCut 2.0 scraper, which stops hair from getting caught while cleaning. The H15 Pro FoamWash boasts up to 23,000 Pa suction power, an improvement over its predecessor. The DescendReach 2.0 robotic arm helps you clean along walls and can lay flat to get under furniture. This wet-dry vacuum is designed to operate for 60 minutes per charge and recharges in its dock, where the mop is automatically cleaned and dried with hot air and water.
Launch Details
Dreame will officially release the H15 Pro FoamWash Wet and Dry Vacuum Cleaner in Europe on September 5th, offering a special introductory discount of €100 off the €699 retail price. However, the vacuum is already available for purchase on Amazon in countries like Germany, but without the discount.
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Tags: wet and dry vacuum
August 28, 2025
Anker Solix Solarbank 3 Pro Update Introduces Exciting New Feature
Key Takeaways
1. Anker released a software update (v1.0.2.6) for the Solix Solarbank 3 Pro, enhancing its home energy storage system.
2. Users in select European countries can now check surplus energy from external solar panels via the Anker app.
3. The update corrects the previous misclassification of energy input from Schuko connections.
4. The CO2 emissions calculation formula has been updated to a new coefficient of 0.363 kgCO2/kWh, significantly lower than the previous value.
5. Additional updates are available for the BP1600 and BP2700 expansion batteries, priced at €899.99 on Amazon.de.
Anker has just rolled out an update for the Solix Solarbank 3 Pro. This home energy storage system was launched in 2025 and has already seen various software enhancements, including a wake function for Sleep mode.
Update Details
The Anker Solix Solarbank 3 Pro is now on software version v1.0.2.6. This update introduces a couple of changes for customers in the Netherlands, France, Italy, Sweden, Belgium, Germany, and Austria. First off, users can now check the surplus energy stored from external photovoltaic (PV) systems through the brand’s app. This specifically refers to solar panels that aren’t directly linked to the Anker storage device but are connected to the grid using Schuko; in the past, all energy input through Schuko was identified as ‘from the grid’ regardless of its actual source.
CO2 Emissions Update
Additionally, the formula used to calculate CO2 emissions has been revised. Anker states that the new coefficient of 0.363 kgCO2/kWh is aligned with the most recent standards certified by the German Federal Environment Agency (UBA). Previously, this figure was considerably higher at 0.997 kgCO2/kWh. Alongside these updates, there are also v0.3.3.6 updates available for the BP1600 and BP2700 expansion batteries, currently priced at €899.99 on Amazon.de.
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Tags: software update
August 28, 2025
Philips Hue Launches Affordable Essential Smart Bulbs Pricing Details
Key Takeaways
1. Pricing: Philips Hue Essential E27 and GU10 bulbs are priced at €24.99 each in Germany, with starter kits available but currently out of stock in France.
2. Features: The bulbs provide millions of colors, preset lighting scenes, and a color temperature range of 2,200K to 6,500K, with dimming capabilities down to 2%.
3. Brightness: The E27 and B22 bulbs can reach up to 806 lumens, while the GU10 bulbs can achieve up to 345 lumens.
4. Compatibility: Essential bulbs work with all Philips Hue products and support voice commands through Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple Home via the Hue Bridge.
5. Launch Date: The official release of the Philips Hue Essential bulbs is expected in early September, but the exact date is still uncertain.
The cost of the Philips Hue Essential E27 and GU10 White and color ambiance bulbs has been disclosed. Speculations about these smart lighting options began around mid-August 2025, when they surfaced at a retailer in Switzerland.
Pricing Details
Recently, Amazon Germany listings revealed that individual Hue Essential E27 and Hue Essential GU10 smart bulbs are set at a price of €24.99 in that area. Although these listings have since been taken down, Amazon France still lists kits that include the Essential bulbs, but they are marked as ‘Temporarily out of stock’. The first Starter kit features the Hue Bridge along with two Essential B22 bulbs. The second kit includes the Hue Bridge, three Essential GU10 Smart Bulbs, and a Smart Button.
Features and Specifications
According to the information on Amazon, Philips Hue’s Essential bulbs provide millions of colors and a diverse selection of preset lighting scenes. The supported color temperature spans from 2,200K to 6,500K, which is a bit lower than the previous White and color ambiance bulbs that offered a range of 2,000K to 6,500K. Additionally, users can dim these bulbs to as low as 2%; the B22 and E27 bulbs can reach up to 806 lumens, while the GU10 bulbs can achieve up to 345 lumens.
Compatibility and Availability
The Philips Hue Essential bulbs are designed to work with all other Philips Hue products, and remote controls can be accessed through the Philips Hue app. They also support voice commands via Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple Home when linked to a Hue Bridge (currently priced at $59.97 on Amazon). The exact launch date for the Philips Hue Essential bulbs is still uncertain, but they are anticipated to officially debut in early September.
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Tags: Philips Hue Essential, Smart Lighting
August 27, 2025
Govee S14 Smart Outdoor String Lights Now Available in the US
Key Takeaways
1. Govee has launched the Smart Outdoor S14 Bulb String Lights 2 in the U.S., claiming increased brightness compared to the previous model.
2. The starting price for the 48 ft version is $79.99, with discounts available for longer lengths on Amazon.
3. The lights feature RGBW LEDs, with brightness up to 65 lumens, a 30% increase from the original model’s 50 lumens.
4. Users can access over 100 pre-set lighting scenes and create custom effects through the Govee Home app, including music sync options.
5. The lights support voice control via Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, have Matter support for smart home integration, and last for 25,000 hours.
Govee has just unveiled the Smart Outdoor S14 Bulb String Lights 2 in the United States. This latest version is claimed to be more luminous than the earlier model, which debuted in Europe back in June 2025.
Pricing and Availability
Currently, Govee is offering the Smart Outdoor S14 Bulb String Lights 2 on its website, starting at a price of $79.99 for the 48 ft option. It’s important to mention that these lights have been on Amazon for a few weeks already. Additionally, the longer versions are on sale at this online retailer; the 96 ft model is now priced at $79.99 (originally $119.99), while the 144 ft edition is set at $126.99 (originally $169.99).
Features and Specifications
The Govee Smart Outdoor S14 Bulb String Lights 2 come with RGBW LEDs, featuring 15 bulbs for the 48 ft length, 30 bulbs for the 96 ft length, and 45 bulbs for the 144 ft length. Each bulb is said to emit brightness up to 65 lumens, which is a 30% increase from the original model’s 50 lumens. Users can explore over 100 pre-set dynamic lighting scenes through the Govee Home app, and some of these can even sync with music. Moreover, there is the possibility to create custom effects either manually or with the help of an AI assistant.
Smart Control Options
In addition to app control, users can also operate the lights via voice commands using Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant. The inclusion of Matter support means that these lights can work well with various smart home systems. They are designed to last for 25,000 hours and can function within a temperature range of -20°C to 40°C (around -4°F to 104°F).
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Tags: Govee
August 27, 2025
Xiaomi Launches Robot Vacuum 5C with Extendable Mops
Key Takeaways
1. The Xiaomi Mijia Robot Vacuum and Mop 5C features dual rotating mop heads for cleaning edges, with a gap of less than 1 mm from walls.
2. It offers powerful suction at 15,000 Pa and has advanced brushes to prevent hair tangling, with smart cleaning settings available via the Xiaomi app.
3. The robot utilizes a wide-angle laser for navigation and has a 5,200 mAh battery that allows it to return to its dock for charging.
4. Two docking station options are available: one with a water tank and another connected to plumbing, which can empty the dustbin and wash mop heads.
5. Pricing is CNY 2,499 (about $349) for the Water Tank Version and CNY 2,999 (around $419) for the Water Supply and Drainage Edition, with no current plans for international release.
The Xiaomi Mijia Robot Vacuum and Mop 5C has just been introduced in China. This new model is said to provide “extreme edge extension,” featuring dual rotating mop heads that can stretch out to clean the edges of your rooms. Xiaomi claims that the gap between the mop and the wall is less than 1 mm.
Advanced Cleaning Features
The Mijia Robot Vacuum and Mop 5C boasts a notable suction power of 15,000 Pa. It has a central roller brush designed with anti-hair tangling tech and a side brush for better coverage. The mops can be automatically lifted when it detects carpets, and there are multiple cleaning settings accessible through the Xiaomi app. With HyperOS Connect, it can connect with other smart home devices for easy control and operation.
Smart Navigation and Charging
For navigation, this robot uses a wide-angle laser that has a 129° field of view (FOV). It comes with a robust 5,200 mAh battery and can return to its dock for charging when needed. There are two types of docking stations available: one with a water tank and another that links to your home’s plumbing system. Besides charging, the dock can also empty the robot’s dustbin and wash the mop heads using water and scrapers.
Pricing and Availability
The Water Tank Version of the Xiaomi Mijia Robot Vacuum and Mop 5C is priced at CNY 2,499 (about $349) in China. On the other hand, the Water Supply and Drainage Edition costs CNY 2,999 (around $419). Currently, Xiaomi hasn’t revealed any plans to launch this model in other markets, including Europe, where the Robot Vacuum S40C has recently become available for €159.99 at Xiaomi Germany.
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Tags: robot vacuum, Smart Home Devices
August 27, 2025
Chipolo Launches Loop and Card Trackers with Discounts for All Devices
Key Takeaways
1. Chipolo introduced two rechargeable Bluetooth trackers, the Loop and the Card, compatible with Apple Find My and Google Find Hub.
2. The Loop is circular with a flexible silicone loop, while the Card is credit card-sized and charges wirelessly, both available in multiple colors.
3. Both devices have a battery life of up to six months, a Bluetooth range of 400 feet, and are IP67 rated for dust and water resistance.
4. Users can customize ringtones and access features like phone ringing and out-of-range alerts through the Chipolo app.
5. The Loop and Card are available for pre-order, priced at €45 in Europe and $39 in the US, with various discounts for bulk purchases.
Chipolo has introduced two innovative Bluetooth trackers named the Loop and the Card, marking their first rechargeable products. These trackers work with both Apple Find My and Google’s Find Hub, also known as Google Find My Device.
Design Differences
The Loop and Card share many features, yet they stand apart in design and intended use. The Chipolo Loop features a circular shape and comes with a flexible silicone loop, making it easy to attach to various items. There are six vibrant color choices available, similar to the Chipolo Pop, which can be purchased in a pack of four on Amazon for $76.
Slim and Stylish
In contrast, the Chipolo Card resembles a credit card, allowing it to fit snugly into wallets, purses, or phone cases. Chipolo claims its thickness is just 2.5mm, comparable to two stacked credit cards. It comes in a classic black color and charges wirelessly, unlike the Loop that utilizes USB-C for charging.
Long Battery Life
Both the Loop and Card can last up to six months on a single charge. They also feature an impressive Bluetooth range of up to 400 feet and are rated IP67 for dust and water resistance. Integrated speakers are present in both devices, with the Loop reaching a volume of 125dB, while the Card has a maximum loudness of 110dB.
Users can activate the trackers’ sound using the Apple Find My app or the Find Hub app, depending on the platform they used for setup. Additionally, there’s a feature to make the charging light blink, making it easier to locate them in dark environments.
Extra Features
For more functionality, users can download the Chipolo app, which allows them to ring their phone by pressing the tracker’s power button. The app also enables ringtone customization, and Android users get the bonus of out-of-range alerts.
Currently, the Chipolo Loop and Card can be pre-ordered, with their official release slated for October. The price is set at €45 in Europe and $39 in the US. There are discounts available as well; a pack of four Loops can be purchased for €145/$124.80 instead of €180/$156, and a pack of six goes for €199/$175 instead of €270/$234. The Chipolo Card also has a special offer, reduced to €79/$74 from €90/$80 when buying two, or €143/$139 instead of €180/$156 for four units.
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August 27, 2025
“Roborock Qrevo Curv 2 Pro: New Robot Vacuum and Mop Coming Soon”
Key Takeaways
1. The Roborock Qrevo Curv 2 Pro is an international version of the P20 Ultra Plus, offering enhanced features over the original 2024 Qrevo Curv.
2. It was introduced in Singapore and will be showcased at the Comex tech event, with uncertain availability in other regions like Vietnam.
3. The vacuum features impressive suction power of up to 25,000 Pa and includes an anti-tangle roller brush and dual rotating mop heads.
4. The mops are cleaned with 100°C hot water and dried with warm air after use, ensuring cleanliness.
5. Roborock has not announced plans to launch the Qrevo Curv 2 Pro in North America or Europe but will reveal new product details at IFA 2025 on September 4th.
The Roborock Qrevo Curv 2 Pro robot vacuum and mop is now available. This latest model appears to be an international version of the P20 Ultra Plus, which was recently launched in China. As indicated by its name, the Qrevo Curv 2 Pro enhances the features of the original 2024 Qrevo Curv (curr. $1,099.98 at Amazon).
Announcement and Availability
Roborock introduced the Qrevo Curv 2 Pro in Singapore, where it will be featured at the tech event Comex starting August 28th. Additionally, this new model has been seen at a Roborock retailer in Vietnam. However, it remains uncertain when this robot vacuum will officially hit the shelves in these regions.
Impressive Features
The Qrevo Curv 2 Pro boasts suction power of up to 25,000 Pa, significantly surpassing its predecessor, which has a suction power of 18,500 Pa. It features a central roller brush with an anti-tangle system designed to avoid hair clogs. There are also two rotating mop heads at the back, which can utilize 60°C (~140°F) hot water for effective stain removal. Upon returning to its dock, the mops are cleaned with 100°C (~212°F) hot water and dried using warm air to ensure they stay clean. Other specifications include a compact 7.98 cm (~3.1 inches) body, a retractable LDS module for navigation, and the AdaptiLift Chassis that allows it to overcome obstacles up to 40 mm (~1.6 inches) tall.
Future Plans
Roborock hasn’t revealed any intentions to launch the Qrevo Curv 2 Pro in markets such as North America or Europe yet. However, the company is set to deliver a keynote at IFA 2025 on September 4th, where they have hinted at “groundbreaking launches, new product categories, and a few real surprises.”
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Tags: Roborock Qrevo Curv 2 Pro, robot vacuum