Category: Home

  • New Vention 20000mAh Power Bank with 165W Power Now Available

    New Vention 20000mAh Power Bank with 165W Power Now Available

    Key Takeaways

    1. Multi-Device Charging: The Vention power bank can charge three devices simultaneously with a built-in USB-C cable and additional USB-C and USB-A ports.

    2. High Power Output: It supports charging up to 100W, capable of charging a MacBook Pro 13 to 39% in 30 minutes and is compatible with fast charging technologies.

    3. Durable Battery Life: The 20,000 mAh battery retains at least 80% capacity after 500 charge cycles and features a TFT digital display for live charging data.

    4. Quick Recharging: The power bank can be fully recharged in less than two hours using a 65W input and includes features like low current mode and safety safeguards.

    5. Competitive Pricing: Prices range from €83.99 in the Netherlands to €99.99 in Spain and Germany, with available discounts on Amazon.

    The Vention 20000mAh Power Bank 100W has made its way onto Amazon across various countries in Europe. This device competes against offerings like the Cuktech 15 Ultra Power Bank.

    Charge Multiple Devices

    With the Vention power bank, you can charge three gadgets at once. It comes equipped with a built-in USB-C cable that supports charging up to 100W and can also serve as a lanyard. Additionally, there is a USB-C port and a USB-A port that can provide up to 100W and 60W of power, respectively. When two devices are charged via USB-C, the outputs are 100W and 65W. Vention claims that its 100W capability lets you juice up a MacBook Pro 13 to 39% within just thirty minutes. Furthermore, the device is compatible with fast charging technologies, including PD 3.0, PPS, and UFCS.

    Impressive Battery Life

    Equipped with a 20,000 mAh battery, the Vention power bank retains at least 80% of its capacity even after 500 cycles of charging. Users can see live charging data on its integrated TFT digital display, which even features an Emotions mode to show status updates or any issues with cute cartoon faces. The display also indicates the remaining battery level, and the device can be recharged using a 65W input, achieving a full charge in less than two hours. Other notable features include a low current mode and safeguards against overheating and overvoltage.

    Pricing in Europe

    In the Netherlands, the Vention 20000mAh Power Bank 100W is available for €83.99, while it costs €99.99 in Spain and Germany. At this price point, it matches the cost of the Cuktech 15 Ultra. However, you can find discounts on Amazon: 20% off in the Netherlands, 35% off in Spain, and €40 off in Germany. This product is also available for order directly from the manufacturer in other regions, such as the US and the UK.

    Source:
    link

    New Vention 20000mAh Power Bank with 165W Power Now Available
    Tags: ,
  • Starlink Leads in Satellite Internet Speed and Latency Rankings

    Starlink Leads in Satellite Internet Speed and Latency Rankings

    Key Takeaways

    1. Starlink averages over 150 Mbps download speeds, significantly outperforming competitors like HughesNet and Viasat, which have lower median speeds.
    2. The Roaming tier offers mobile download speeds up to 100 Mbps, though competitors are improving their speeds with new satellites.
    3. Starlink has a lower latency average of 45 ms, while HughesNet and Viasat have much higher latencies around 683 ms.
    4. Starlink leads in upload speeds with a median of 14.84 Mbps, far exceeding Viasat’s 4.46 Mbps and similar figures from HughesNet.
    5. The launch of V3 satellites and new Performance dish kits is expected to further enhance Starlink’s performance and capacity.

    Starlink’s download speeds show quite a range, but users can be confident that they consistently outperform their competitors on average.

    Performance Comparison

    Recent speed tests reveal that Starlink surpasses other satellite Internet services, even though those rivals have made notable improvements recently, albeit not by a large amount. The Starlink Residential tier boasts average speeds exceeding 150 Mbps throughout the United States, while its median download speed, from Q1 measurements, stands at around 105 Mbps. This is still more than twice the median speeds of Starlink’s main competitors, like HughesNet and Viasat, during the same timeframe.

    Roaming Offerings

    The Roaming tier, which comes with the Starlink Mini dish currently on sale for a third off on Amazon, provides download speeds of up to 100 Mbps and upload speeds of 10 Mbps. This is still quite impressive for a mobile dish that can be used anywhere. However, HughesNet and Viasat have managed to deliver significantly higher median download speeds for 75% of their users, narrowing the gap with Starlink due to the launch of new satellites. Their subscriber numbers, however, are much lower and are quickly declining with the rise of Starlink.

    Latency Issues

    Ookla identifies latency, or ping, as the weakest point for Starlink’s primary competitors in satellite Internet. With Starlink’s constellation positioned in a lower Earth orbit, the median ping for its Internet connections is 45 ms and continuing to decrease. In contrast, Hughes satellites, which are in a medium orbit, had a ping of 683 ms in Q1, which is comparable to Viasat’s latency.

    Upload Speeds

    Starlink also leads in upload speeds within the satellite Internet sector, recording a median upload speed of 14.84 Mbps in Q1. This is significantly higher than Viasat’s 4.46 Mbps and similar results from HughesNet.

    In conclusion, Starlink stands out as the top satellite Internet provider in the US. The upcoming launch of V3 satellites, promising ten times the capacity, is set to further widen the performance gap. The new Performance dish kit is already rated for gigabit speeds.

    Source:
    Link

    Starlink Leads in Satellite Internet Speed and Latency RankingsStarlink Leads in Satellite Internet Speed and Latency RankingsStarlink Leads in Satellite Internet Speed and Latency RankingsStarlink Leads in Satellite Internet Speed and Latency Rankings

     

    Tags:
  • Xiaomi Launches New Super Slim Magnetic Power Bank Worldwide

    Xiaomi Launches New Super Slim Magnetic Power Bank Worldwide

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Xiaomi Super Slim Magnetic Power Bank 5000 is likely to launch internationally after its initial release in China in May 2025.
    2. It features wireless charging up to 15W and a USB-C port with 22.5W output for versatile charging options.
    3. The power bank has a 5,000 mAh battery that retains at least 70% capacity after 300 charge cycles and is thinner (8.7 mm) than its predecessor.
    4. It will be available in four colors: blue, gold, purple, and black.
    5. The retail price in China is CNY 199 (~$28), but international pricing and availability are still unknown.

    The Xiaomi Super Slim Magnetic Power Bank 5000 has appeared on the company’s global store, hinting at a future international launch. This device was initially launched in China back in May 2025.

    Charging Features

    The Xiaomi Super Slim Magnetic Power Bank 5000 provides two ways to charge your devices. It includes a wireless charging pad that can deliver up to 15W, with magnets to keep your phone aligned properly. For those needing more power, the USB-C port can provide an output of 22.5W. This port is also used to recharge the power bank itself, and there are lights that show how much battery is left.

    Battery Specifications

    This power bank comes equipped with a 5,000 mAh battery, which should maintain at least 70% of its capacity after 300 cycles of charging. Additionally, the lithium cobalt oxide battery is denser compared to other types, which helps to make the power bank smaller. Its thickness is just 8.7 mm (~0.3 inches), making it 27.5% thinner than the previous Xiaomi Magnetic Power Bank 5000mAh (currently priced at €25.49 at Mi Store Germany). The dimensions of the device are 102 x 69.6 mm (~4.0 x 2.7 inches), and it weighs 122 g (~4.3 oz).

    Color Variations and Release Information

    Product images indicate that the power bank will come in four colors: blue, gold, purple, and black. It is still unclear when the Xiaomi Super Slim Magnetic Power Bank 5000 will be available in additional countries. The price in various regions is also not yet known; however, it retails for CNY 199 (~$28) in China.

    Source:
    Link

    Xiaomi Launches New Super Slim Magnetic Power Bank Worldwide

     

    Tags: ,
  • Melting Ice in Antarctica May Trigger Dangerous Volcanoes Worldwide

    Melting Ice in Antarctica May Trigger Dangerous Volcanoes Worldwide

    Key Takeaways

    1. Global warming is worsening, leading to disasters and extreme weather events worldwide.
    2. Melting ice may awaken dormant volcanoes, similar to occurrences in Iceland.
    3. A study in the Chilean Andes focuses on the connection between melting glaciers and volcanic activity.
    4. Historical context shows that warming after the last ice age led to significant volcanic eruptions.
    5. A dangerous cycle could emerge where volcanic eruptions worsen global warming through aerosol release.

    Global warming is getting worse every year, leading to many disasters worldwide. Besides higher temperatures and more extreme weather events, melting ice could create a situation reminiscent of a sci-fi film. This melting ice might actually wake up dormant volcanoes.

    Research in the Chilean Andes

    A study in the Chilean Andes is looking into this possibility. While it’s already occurring in Iceland, this issue appears to be spreading to various other continents. Researchers from the University of Wisconsin-Madison are eager to explore the connection between volcanoes and melting glaciers. To gather solid data, they focused on six volcanoes located in Chile.

    Historical Context

    Moreover, it’s essential to look back thousands of years to the last ice age. During that time, a thick layer of ice pressed down on magma chambers, which kept eruptions limited and less powerful. For instance, analyses of crystals indicate that magma built up at depths ranging from 10 to 15 kilometers.

    When the Earth started to warm up about 13,000 years ago, this pressure was relieved, leading to massive volcanic eruptions. The force of these eruptions was so intense that it shattered Earth and rocks. Currently, due to global warming, certain volcanoes in Antarctica might awaken, potentially causing a variety of harmful effects on the environment.

    A Dangerous Cycle

    Researchers are worried about the possibility of a vicious cycle. As volcanoes erupt for the first time, they could release aerosols into the atmosphere. If eruptions happen repeatedly in a short time, this could worsen global warming. In essence, the melting ice caused by these eruptions could further accelerate their own melting. Areas like Alaska and New Zealand, which have subglacial volcanoes, are under close observation due to these concerns.

    Source:
    Link

  • EcoFlow and Shelly Smart Meter Launches in Europe

    EcoFlow and Shelly Smart Meter Launches in Europe

    Key Takeaways

    1. The EcoFlow x Shelly Smart Meter helps users monitor household electricity usage in real-time to reduce energy costs.
    2. The device features automatic energy recognition and optimization options through the EcoFlow Oasis algorithm.
    3. It is easy to install, mounts on a DIN rail, and supports Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 4.2 connectivity.
    4. The smart meter has a response time of less than a second but is not compatible with the EcoFlow PowerStream Microinverter.
    5. The retail price in Europe is €179, with a 5% discount available for mailing list subscribers.

    The EcoFlow x Shelly Smart Meter has officially hit the European market. This device is one of two new offerings from their collaboration, launched together with the EcoFlow x Shelly Smart Plug. The smart meter aims to assist users of the Stream Series solar power plants from the brand in managing their energy consumption effectively.

    Track Your Energy Usage

    This Smart Meter enables you to monitor your electricity usage throughout your entire household in real-time. You can utilize this information to potentially reduce your home energy expenses by turning off specific devices or opting to use them during off-peak times, depending on your energy tariff. The device can automatically recognize extra energy, and the EcoFlow Oasis algorithm provides various optimization options. For instance, when paired with the EcoFlow Stream AC Pro battery, the system can cleverly determine when to save energy and when and where to deploy it in your home for the best efficiency.

    Easy Installation and Compatibility

    As per EcoFlow, the device boasts a response time of less than a second. Installation is said to be relatively simple, as it mounts onto a DIN rail and comes with support for both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 4.2. It’s crucial to mention, however, that this new smart meter does not work with the EcoFlow PowerStream Microinverter.

    Pricing and Discounts

    You can currently purchase the EcoFlow x Shelly Smart Meter in Europe for €179, which is €50 pricier than the EcoFlow Smart Meter. Additionally, customers who are part of the brand’s mailing list can enjoy a 5% discount on their purchase.

    Source:
    Link

  • Anker Debuts New Desktop Charger with Retractable Cables in US

    Anker Debuts New Desktop Charger with Retractable Cables in US

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Anker Nano Charging Station (7-in-1, 100W) is designed to reduce desk clutter with multiple charging options.
    2. It features three AC outlets, two USB ports (one USB-C up to 100W and one USB-A up to 12W), and retractable USB-C cables on each side.
    3. The 100W USB-C output can charge a MacBook Pro (M3 Pro) to 50% in 35 minutes and a MacBook Pro 14 (M4) to 50% in 30 minutes.
    4. The charger includes active cooling technology and a 1.3-inch LCD display for real-time charging data and temperature monitoring.
    5. The Anker Nano Charging Station is available in the U.S. for $89.99, currently only in black, with no confirmed release date for the UK or EU versions.

    The Anker Nano Charging Station (7-in-1, 100W) is now for sale in the U.S. This gadget first appeared on the brand’s online shop in Japan earlier this year and aims to help reduce the mess on your desk.

    Output Options and Design

    Out of the seven outputs on the Nano Charging Station, three are AC outlets located at the back of the unit. On one side, it has two USB ports: one USB-C output that can provide up to 100W and a USB-A output that can deliver up to 12W. Additionally, there are retractable USB-C cables on each side of the charger, each extending as far as 2.3 ft (~0.7 m). These cables have been put through rigorous testing, enduring more than 18,000 pulls and bends, ensuring they can last for over five years.

    Charging Performance

    The USB-C output of 100W is capable of charging a MacBook Pro (M3 Pro) to 50% in just 35 minutes, or a MacBook Pro 14 (M4) to 50% in 30 minutes. This desktop charger also comes equipped with active cooling technology, measuring the temperature more than 6,000,000 times a day. Additionally, there’s a 1.3-inch LCD display at the front that shows real-time charging data or the internal temperature of the device.

    Pricing and Availability

    You can purchase the Anker Nano Charging Station (7-in-1, 100W) from Amazon in the U.S. for $89.99. Currently, this accessory is only available in black in this market, although a white version can also be found in Japan. It’s still unclear when or if a UK or EU version of this product may be released.

    Source:
    Link

    Anker Debuts New Desktop Charger with Retractable Cables in US
    Tags:
  • Xiaomi Smart Air Conditioners Coming Soon to Europe

    Xiaomi Smart Air Conditioners Coming Soon to Europe

    Key Takeaways

    1. Xiaomi has launched the Mijia Air Conditioner Pro Eco in 2.6 kW and 3.5 kW models for international markets.
    2. Both models can cool and heat rooms quickly, with heating capacity of 3.6 kW and cooling power of 650 W (2.6 kW) and 875 W (3.5 kW).
    3. Smart features include remote control via the Xiaomi Home app, Google Assistant compatibility, and energy monitoring.
    4. The air conditioners are energy-efficient, rated A+++ for cooling and A++/A+++ for heating, with a SEER of 8.5 and SCOP ranging from 4.6 to 5.7.
    5. The exact release date and pricing for the models are still uncertain.

    Xiaomi has introduced the Mijia Air Conditioner Pro Eco in two models, 2.6 kW and 3.5 kW, on its global website. This marks the first time the brand’s smart air conditioners will be available in international markets.

    Performance Features

    Both Mijia Air Conditioner Pro Eco units are capable of both cooling and heating, featuring a heating capacity of 3.6 kW and a heating power of 860 W. Xiaomi claims these air conditioners can heat a room in just 60 seconds and cool it in 30 seconds. The 2.6 kW version offers 650 W cooling power with an airflow rate of 600 m³/h (approximately 21,190 ft³/h), making it suitable for rooms sized between 10 to 20 m² (about 108 to 215 ft²). In contrast, the more robust 3.5 kW model provides 875 W cooling power and has an airflow rate of 650 m³/h (around 22,955 ft³/h), ideal for larger spaces of 15 to 25 m² (roughly 161 to 270 ft²).

    Smart Features

    The Mijia Air Conditioners are designed to ensure a smooth airflow thanks to their full DC inverter system and a 108 mm (around 4.3 inches) cross-flow fan. Users can control the units remotely using the Xiaomi Home app, which features the Mijia AI Energy Saving mode and allows real-time monitoring of energy consumption. Additionally, the air conditioners support Google Assistant voice commands and can be integrated with other Xiaomi Home products. They also come equipped with smart pre-heating and anti-condensation functions, along with reminders for cleaning the filters.

    Energy Efficiency

    According to the energy efficiency labels available in the ‘Specs’ section, these air conditioners are expected to launch in Europe. They are rated with an impressive A+++ for cooling efficiency and A++/A+++ for heating efficiency. The seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) stands at 8.5, and the Seasonal Coefficient of Performance (SCOP) ranges from 4.6 to 5.7. However, the exact release date and pricing for the Xiaomi Mijia Air Conditioner Pro Eco 2.6 kW and 3.5 kW models remain uncertain.

    Source:
    Link

    Tags:
  • Anker Unveils Solix Power Dock for Balcony Solar Power Plants

    Anker Unveils Solix Power Dock for Balcony Solar Power Plants

    Key Takeaways

    1. High Power Output: The Anker Solix Power Dock allows users to connect up to four Solarbank 3 units, delivering a total of 4,800 W AC power and a maximum PV input of 14.4 kW.

    2. Storage Capacity: The system features a substantial energy storage capacity of up to 64.5 kWh, enhancing its functionality for solar energy users.

    3. Pilot Program Opportunity: Anker is inviting 150 individuals to join a pilot program, offering the Solix Power Dock for free and significant discounts on the Solarbank 3 E2700 Pro and installation costs.

    4. Safety Recommendations: Anker advises customers against self-installation of the Power Dock due to safety concerns, emphasizing the importance of professional installation.

    5. Innovative Renewable Energy Solution: The Solix Power Dock represents Anker’s commitment to advancing renewable energy technology and providing efficient solar energy solutions for customers.

    Anker has just released its latest Solix Power Dock in Europe. This new accessory is meant to be used with the Solix Solar Bank Multisystem, which includes the Solarbank 3 E2700 Pro balcony power plant energy storage solution, introduced earlier in 2025.

    Power and Compatibility

    The Anker Solix Power Dock permits users to connect as many as four Solarbank 3 units, providing a total of up to 4,800 W AC power. The system can handle a maximum photovoltaic (PV) input of 14.4 kW from solar panels. Additionally, it offers an impressive storage capacity of up to 64.5 kWh. An image from the project page suggests that a Solix Electric Vehicle charger may be on the way, allowing users to connect this charger to the Multisystem.

    Pricing and Pilot Program

    You can purchase the Anker Solix Power Dock through the brand’s online store in Germany for €399. Moreover, Anker is seeking 150 individuals to join its pilot program for this device. Participants will receive the Solix Power Dock free of charge, along with a €300 discount on the Solarbank 3 E2700 Pro (which has a retail price of €1,499) and a €300 reduction on the installation cost (which starts at €999). If you’re interested in joining this pilot, you can register on the project page. Anker recommends that customers avoid self-installation of the Power Dock due to safety concerns.

    Conclusion

    Anker continues to innovate in the renewable energy space, and the Solix Power Dock is a significant addition to its product lineup. With its robust capabilities and pilot program incentives, it’s an exciting time for customers looking to harness solar energy efficiently.

    Source:
    Link

    Anker Unveils Solix Power Dock for Balcony Solar Power Plants

     

  • Texas Grid Boosts Renewable Energy with 6 GW Battery Discharge

    Texas Grid Boosts Renewable Energy with 6 GW Battery Discharge

    Key Takeaways

    1. Texas achieved a record discharge of over 6 GW from battery storage systems to meet peak evening electricity demand, reducing reliance on fossil fuels.

    2. The battery systems operated without any shutdowns, unlike disruptions witnessed in Southern Europe earlier this year.

    3. Global solar power capacity is rapidly growing, reaching 600 GW last year and projected to reach nearly 1 TW, highlighting the urgent need for effective energy storage.

    4. Texas ranks second in the U.S. for installed battery energy storage capacity, following China, emphasizing its leadership in renewable energy integration.

    5. The ability of battery energy storage systems to generate electricity during peak hours is crucial for balancing the grid and enhancing the viability of renewable energy sources.

    After the Texas energy grid broke records for electricity generation earlier this week, it has now achieved another milestone by rapidly discharging energy storage systems to meet peak evening demand on Friday.

    Battery Performance

    In a real-world test of the battery systems in Texas, over 6 GW of electricity was produced on Friday evening, which played a significant role in stabilizing the grid. This was accomplished with reduced reliance on fossil fuel plants, which are usually activated during high demand periods.

    Successful Operations

    The impressive output from the large-scale battery energy storage systems under the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) occurred without any shutdowns, unlike the disruptions seen in Southern Europe this past spring.

    Growing Solar Capacity

    With the global solar power capacity reaching 600 GW last year and projected to approach 1 TW annually in the coming years, the challenge of storing this energy for peak usage becomes increasingly urgent.

    It remains unclear how many of the battery storage projects in Texas utilize Tesla Megapacks. In August, ERCOT incorporated 480 MW of new battery storage into the grid, which included Tesla’s battery energy storage system located at its Gigafactory in Austin.

    Texas Megapacks continue to utilize Chinese LFP cells, the same type found in popular portable power stations like the Anker Solix C1000. Most other grid-scale battery systems in Texas also rely on these cells, and Tesla’s plans to manufacture LFP batteries in the U.S. are unlikely to significantly alter this situation anytime soon.

    Leading the Charge

    Texas is at the forefront of the rapid deployment of battery energy storage systems (BESS), with the installed capacity in the U.S. now ranking second only to China. The scale of deployment is critical, as renewable energy sources such as wind and solar are among the most cost-effective electricity generation methods. However, integrating this energy with storage solutions significantly shifts the advantages towards nuclear and other energy sources.

    While nuclear energy takes about a decade to integrate into the energy mix, new fossil fuel peaking power plants are currently facing supply issues with turbines. Therefore, the ability of BESS to generate electricity during peak hours, including the recent record discharge of 6 GW in Texas, is vital in demonstrating the capability of renewables to maintain system balance.

    Source:
    Link

    Texas Grid Boosts Renewable Energy with 6 GW Battery Discharge
  • Mysterious Microorganism Discovered on Research Vessel

    Mysterious Microorganism Discovered on Research Vessel

    Key Takeaways

    1. A new microorganism was discovered accidentally on the rudder of the research ship Blue Heron during maintenance at the Great Lakes Shipyard.
    2. The microorganism, named ShipGoo001, resembles a thick substance similar to tar or jelly and is believed to belong to an unknown genus.
    3. Researchers were surprised to find viable DNA and decent biomass levels in the goo, contrary to their expectations of finding no life.
    4. More research is needed to determine the microscopic characteristics of ShipGoo001 and understand its unique features.
    5. This discovery may help explain how a microorganism can thrive in oxygen-free environments, despite the presence of oxygen in the surrounding lake waters.

    There is no need to do long studies or research to find new microorganisms on our planet. In fact, scientists recently stumbled upon a new species purely by accident while aboard a research ship, and it has some unexpected features.

    A Fortunate Mistake

    This incident took place when the Blue Heron, part of the University of Minnesota Duluth’s research fleet that focuses on the Great Lakes, was taken out of the water for maintenance. While at the Great Lakes Shipyard, a peculiar thick substance was found on the ship’s rudder, located in a warm, oxygen-free, greasy spot.

    Surprising Discoveries

    After this unusual find, the researchers at the University of Minnesota Duluth (UMD) decided to take a closer look. They proved that this thick substance came from a new microorganism. To help visualize this substance, the researchers compared it to tar or jelly.

    Professor Cody Sheik mentioned to Sciences et Avenir: “We think this organism might belong to an unknown genus. We are still working on figuring out the phylogenetic tree of this group to confirm it is indeed a new genus.” Named ShipGoo001, this species is special and exists within a biofilm alongside other microbial species. The university noted that some of these species have previously been discovered in oil wells and tar pits. Cody Sheik also stated in a UMD press release: “The biggest shock was that the goo from the ship contained any life at all. We were expecting to find nothing. But to our surprise, we found DNA that was not too damaged, and the biomass levels were also decent.”

    Continuing the Investigation

    Nonetheless, more research is needed regarding this discovery, as Cody Sheik emphasizes: “The gooey substance appears tar-like, very sticky and black. However, we currently lack microscopic images of ShipGoo001, so we can’t accurately determine what it looks like.” Researchers are already gearing up to share the findings of the microorganism’s genome and the studies they will conduct on it. This research might also assist scientists in solving a significant mystery; even though the lake’s waters have oxygen, this microorganism developed and thrived without this essential gas, which is typically required for life.

    Source:
    Link