Category: Home

  • SwitchBot Hub 3 Now Supports Apple Home and New Features

    SwitchBot Hub 3 Now Supports Apple Home and New Features

    Key Takeaways

    1. SwitchBot Hub 3 is now recognized as a “Works with Apple Home” device, marking a first for the brand.
    2. The Hub 3 introduces a new Smart Schedule feature with five temperature modes: Home, Away, Sleep, Comfort, and Custom.
    3. The Away mode can be activated using the SwitchBot Motion Sensor to control air conditioning efficiently.
    4. A Manual Hold option allows users to temporarily bypass the Smart Schedule settings.
    5. The Smart Schedule feature is currently in beta testing with the SwitchBot app update version 9.13, available for iOS and Android.


    SwitchBot has revealed two major updates for the Hub 3. First off, this smart home hub, which debuted earlier this year, has now been recognized as a “Works with Apple Home” device. This marks the first time a product from SwitchBot has received this distinction, and the integration with Apple Home is said to be ‘smooth.’

    New Smart Schedule Feature

    In addition, the SwitchBot Hub 3 (currently priced at $119.99 on Amazon) now includes a new Smart Schedule feature. This feature offers a clever method for controlling your home’s climate system. There are five tailored temperature modes available: Home, Away, Sleep, Comfort, and Custom. For instance, the Away mode can be activated using the SwitchBot Motion Sensor, which can ensure your air conditioning is turned off or set to low power until you come back home.

    Temporary Manual Control

    Another feature is the Manual Hold option, which allows users to temporarily bypass the Smart Schedule. Moreover, after a period of 14 days, users will receive a suggested Smart Schedule that is customized to their preferences based on data collected during that two-week timeframe.

    At the moment, support for the Smart Schedule feature on the Hub 3 is in beta testing, introduced with the SwitchBot app update version 9.13. This update is available for both iOS and Android users. Additionally, it contains enhancements for those utilizing the brand’s Pan Tilt Cam Plus 2K and 3K with a Cloud Storage subscription, as the home page camera view now allows for live photos of events. You can download the SwitchBot app version 9.13 from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.

    Source:
    Link


     

  • Introducing the New Govee Light Wall for Indoor and Outdoor Use

    Introducing the New Govee Light Wall for Indoor and Outdoor Use

    Key Takeaways

    1. Govee’s new product, the Light Wall, has received Matter 1.2 certification, indicating compatibility with various smart home systems.
    2. The Light Wall is designed for outdoor courtyards and indoor stages, offering lively lighting effects controllable via the Govee Home app.
    3. It supports both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, enhancing its usability in smart home setups.
    4. The model number H70B8 suggests it may function similarly to the Govee Curtain Lights 2, which have various features and scene modes.
    5. There is currently no announced release date or pricing for the Light Wall, but it may be priced similarly to the Govee Curtain Lights 2, starting at $149.99.


    A new product from Govee has popped up in the Connectivity Standards Alliance (CSA) database, known as the Light Wall. The CSA oversees protocols such as Zigbee and Matter. The listing indicates that this upcoming Govee item holds a Matter 1.2 certification.

    Usage and Features

    As per the CSA product details, the Govee Light Wall is meant for use in an “outdoor courtyard” or on an “indoor stage.” It aims to provide lively lighting effects, controllable remotely through the Govee Home app. Additionally, it will work with both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, and its Matter certification means it will fit into many smart home systems.

    Model Information

    The model number for this yet-to-be-released Govee Light Wall is H70B8. This hints that it might be a network of smart lights similar to the Govee Curtain Lights 2, which come in three sizes with model numbers H70B3, H70B4, and H70B5. Features of the previous smart lighting option include AI-generated lighting effects, GIF displays, and more than 200 scene modes. At this moment, it’s not clear how the Govee Light Wall will be different from the Curtain Lights 2.

    Govee has not yet announced a release date for the Light Wall or its pricing. It might have a price point comparable to the older Govee Curtain Lights 2, which start at $149.99 on Amazon.

    Source:
    Link

  • DJI Power 2000: Fast Solar Charge & Quiet 29dB Operation

    DJI Power 2000: Fast Solar Charge & Quiet 29dB Operation

    Key Takeaways

    1. Powerful Specifications: The Power 2000 features a 2048Wh LFP battery with a continuous output of up to 3000W and can support ten expansion batteries for a total capacity of 22,528Wh.

    2. Fast Recharging Options: It offers 2200W fast AC charging, reaching full charge in just 75 minutes, along with solar and car charging capabilities.

    3. Durable and Quiet Design: Built with flame-retardant materials, it operates quietly at below 29dB during recharging and is designed for high-altitude use up to 5,000 meters.

    4. Longevity Focus: The LFP cell maintains 80% capacity after 4,000 cycles, and the device is compact, offering double the capacity with only a 42% increase in size.

    5. App-Based Controls: The DJI Home App allows for remote control of AC output and power monitoring, making it suitable for various applications like RV use, camping, and home backup.


    DJI has revealed the Power 2000, their newest and most powerful portable power station to date. This model follows the previous Power 500 and Power 1000 versions, stepping up to meet higher energy demands for both home use and outdoor adventures.

    Impressive Specifications

    The Power 2000 boasts a 2048Wh LFP battery, providing a continuous output of up to 3000W. It can accommodate up to ten expansion batteries, totaling a potential storage capacity of 22,528Wh. For recharging, it offers 2200W fast AC charging, reaching full charge in just 75 minutes, along with options for solar and car charging, using 1 kW and 1.8 kW adapters available separately.

    Robust Build and Quiet Operation

    Constructed with flame-retardant materials, the Power 2000 includes advanced sub-nano coating and inverter potting protection. It’s designed to function at altitudes of up to 5,000 meters. When recharging, it’s quite, with DJI stating that the noise level is below 29dB in standard mode.

    Focus on Durability

    DJI seems to prioritize longevity in this model. The LFP cell is said to maintain 80% of its capacity even after 4,000 complete cycles. Despite its large energy capacity, the device is still compact, offering double the capacity while only taking up 42% more space than its predecessor.

    The DJI Home App provides app-based controls for remote toggling of AC output and intelligent power monitoring. This system appears to cater to a variety of uses, from RV setups and camping trips to home backup systems and professional workflows on location.

    Pricing and Compatibility

    As of now, no worldwide pricing or release date has been announced. DJI has not specified if existing Power-series accessories will work with the new Power 2000 model.


  • Anker Switches Battery Supplier After Power Bank Recall

    Anker Switches Battery Supplier After Power Bank Recall

    Key Takeaways

    1. Anker Innovations is recalling several power bank models and switching battery suppliers.
    2. The new supplier is Amperex Technology Limited (ATL), replacing Apex Wuxi.
    3. Anker has not confirmed if recalled models used batteries from Apex Wuxi.
    4. A Chinese agency noted that the Anker Zolo Power Bank used a battery from Apex Wuxi.
    5. ATL will provide Anker with an initial order of 45 million lithium-ion batteries.


    Anker is a well-known brand for power banks, but the company behind it, Anker Innovations, has had to recall several models. Following this situation, Anker Innovations has revealed that it is switching its battery supplier.

    New Supplier Announcement

    As reported by the South China Morning Post, Anker Innovations has entered into a partnership with Amperex Technology Limited (ATL) to become its new battery supplier. ATL will take over from Apex Wuxi, which is a subsidiary of Amprius Technologies and Wuxi Industrial Development Group.

    Unclear Origins of the Issue

    Anker has not disclosed whether the batteries in the recalled power bank models came from Apex Wuxi, but it has confirmed that it will no longer work with them. However, Chongdiantiou, a Chinese agency that specializes in assessing battery and charging technology, has indicated that the Anker Zolo Power Bank (20,000mAh, 30W with built-in USB-C cable), also known as Anker 1681, utilizes a battery from Apex. Apex Wuxi is reportedly investigating the recalled power banks.

    Major Battery Supply Deal

    According to an official statement that was allegedly shared on Anker’s website, ATL, which is recognized for supplying batteries to major companies like Apple and Samsung, will provide Anker with an initial order of 45 million lithium-ion batteries.

    Source:
    Link

  • Xiaomi 65W Power Dock Expands Availability to More Countries

    Xiaomi 65W Power Dock Expands Availability to More Countries

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Xiaomi 65W Power Dock is a 7-in-1 charging solution with three AC outputs and two USB-C ports.
    2. It supports Xiaomi’s 65W HyperCharge technology, allowing fast charging for devices like the Xiaomi 14 and MacBook Air.
    3. The device includes two 22.5W USB-A ports and can handle a maximum load of 1,650W.
    4. It features an overload protection button and is designed to be compact and sleek.
    5. Currently available in Taiwan for NT$799 (about $28), with no confirmed global release date or pricing yet.


    The Xiaomi 65W Power Dock has been listed on the company’s global website. This charging device is currently on sale in Taiwan, where it is referred to as the Xiaomi 65W GaN extension cable. There are expectations it will soon be available in other parts of the world.

    A Versatile Charging Solution

    Xiaomi brands the 65W Power Dock as a 7-in-1 charging solution. It comes equipped with three AC outputs. The Taiwanese version includes two three-pin Type B sockets and one two-pin socket. Additionally, there are two USB-C ports that support Xiaomi’s 65W HyperCharge technology. Xiaomi claims that this allows users to charge a Xiaomi 14 to 50% in just 18 minutes, and a MacBook Air 13 M1 to 50% in 43 minutes. The device also supports fast charging protocols like PD3.0, QC3.0, and FCP. Furthermore, it utilizes Gallium Nitride (GaN) tech for speedy and efficient charging.

    Additional Charging Ports

    Moreover, the Power Dock includes two 22.5W USB-A ports that are suitable for charging devices such as an iPhone or a smartwatch. When all four ports are used, the first USB-C port provides 45W, while the other three share a total of 15W. The device features an overload protection button, and it can handle a maximum load of 1,650W. The 65W Power Dock is designed to be compact, with dimensions of 120.0 x 46.5 x 44.0 mm (about 4.7 x 1.8 x 1.7 inches), and boasts a sleek white aesthetic.

    Pricing and Availability

    As of now, Xiaomi has not revealed when the 65W Power Dock will be available in other regions or the pricing details. In Taiwan, the Xiaomi 65W GaN extension cable is priced at NT$799, which is approximately $28.

    Source:
    Link


     

  • Starlink Launches $15/month Residential Lite Internet for NY Users

    Starlink Launches $15/month Residential Lite Internet for NY Users

    Key Takeaways

    1. Starlink has introduced a $15/month Residential Lite plan for eligible low-income residents in New York, complying with the New York Affordable Broadband Act.
    2. The standard Starlink Residential plan costs $120/month, offering unlimited data and speeds up to 400 Mbps, while the Lite plan provides deprioritized data at speeds as low as 40 Mbps.
    3. Low-income residents can access the Residential Lite plan with speeds of 25 Mbps for just $15/month, but must meet eligibility requirements.
    4. To sign up, low-income households must register with matching address documents on the Starlink support website, using the “New York Affordable Broadband Act” as the ticket subject.
    5. Starlink initially tried to avoid compliance with the law but has committed to providing affordable internet options for eligible residents recognizing potential growth in the state.


    The recently introduced Starlink Residential Lite plan from SpaceX is now available at a significantly reduced price for some residents of New York state, being five times less than the usual cost.

    New Pricing for Eligible Residents

    To adhere to the New York Affordable Broadband Act, which was implemented recently, Starlink has rolled out a new $15/month Residential Lite plan for qualifying individuals in the state. In comparison, the standard Residential plan from Starlink is priced at $120/month and offers unlimited data with speeds reaching up to 400 Mbps, depending on the coverage area provided by the SpaceX satellite network. The $80 Residential Lite plan, however, offers deprioritized data with speeds as low as 40 Mbps.

    Affordable Options for Low-Income Subscribers

    For low-income residents in New York who are okay with even slower speeds, the Residential Lite plan now allows them to access 25 Mbps for only $15/month. It’s important to emphasize that this $15/month Starlink price is exclusively available to those residents who meet the eligibility requirements set by the New York Affordable Broadband Act.

    Signing Up for the Service

    Starlink requires low-income households interested in the Residential Lite plan to register using an address that matches their supporting documents. They must submit these documents for approval by creating a ticket on the www.support.starlink.com website with “New York Affordable Broadband Act” as the ticket subject line.

    Sadly, this also means that low-income New Yorkers relying on Medicaid or SNAP must purchase their own $350 Starlink Standard Kit, which is currently discounted on Amazon, as this is the only method to sign up for the Residential Plan service.

    Company Compliance and Growth

    Starlink attempted to evade the requirements of the New York Affordable Broadband Act by arguing that its subscriber numbers in the state were below the thresholds specified in the law. However, recognizing its potential for significant growth, Starlink has committed to providing at least 25 Mbps Internet speed for $15/month to eligible low-income residents in New York.

    Source:
    Link

  • Starlink Imposes $1000 Surcharge for Sign-Up in 3 US States

    Starlink Imposes $1000 Surcharge for Sign-Up in 3 US States

    Key Takeaways

    1. Starlink has increased the demand surcharge for new Residential customers in Washington, Oregon, and Idaho to $1000 in major cities like Seattle and Portland.
    2. This surcharge has risen three times in 30 days, starting from $100 over a year ago, and is now combined with the Standard Kit price for a total upfront cost of $1,349.
    3. The surcharge is specific to congested areas and does not apply in less competitive regions, where the Standard Kit may still be available for $349 or even for free with a 12-month commitment.
    4. Residents in crowded areas may want to wait for SpaceX to improve network capacity before signing up for Starlink to avoid high costs.
    5. For immediate access, customers can choose the Roam plan with the Standard dish, but they will experience reduced data speeds during peak times.


    If you’re a resident of Washington, Oregon, or Idaho and considering getting Starlink service, you might want to think about postponing your signup. Starlink has stealthily increased the “demand surcharge,” which is a one-time cost for new Residential customers in heavily populated regions, to a staggering $1000.

    New Pricing for Major Cities

    Residents in Seattle, Redmond, Portland, and Sandpoint are now encountering this new $1000 fee when they attempt to enroll in the Residential plan, as reported by PCMag. This marks the third significant increase in the surcharge within just 30 days, starting from when the fee was first set at $100 over a year ago. In early June, it rose from $250 to $500, and then a few weeks later, it increased again to $750 for new sign-ups. However, it seems this was not enough to discourage new customers, prompting SpaceX to add yet another $250 last week, resulting in the total reaching an incredible $1000. Alongside the Standard Kit’s price of $349, newcomers are now looking at an upfront cost of $1,349 just to access the service.

    Surcharge Specifics and Market Insights

    SpaceX clarifies that the demand surcharge is only for those who are purchasing or activating a new Residential service plan in these congested zones. Washington stands out as one of the most crowded markets for Starlink, with Seattle showing some of the lowest average download speeds, which range from 54Mbps to 223Mbps. The silver lining is that this high surcharge is confined to certain areas in the Northwest. In other parts of Washington, where Starlink appears to have less competition, new customers only have to pay the standard $349 for the dish. Moreover, in some regions of Oregon and Idaho, SpaceX is still offering the Standard Kit for free if you agree to a 12-month commitment to the Residential plan.

    Waiting It Out or Alternative Options

    If you’re living in one of these congested areas, it might be wise to hold off until SpaceX can enhance its network capacity and eliminate the surcharge. However, if you need Starlink right away, you still have the option to purchase the Standard dish and activate the Roam plan instead. Just keep in mind that Roam users experience deprioritized data, meaning download speeds, especially during peak times, won’t be as fast as what you would expect from the Residential tier.

    Source:
    Link

  • Adjustable Dangbei DBOX02 Pro 4K Laser Projector with 120Hz Gaming

    Adjustable Dangbei DBOX02 Pro 4K Laser Projector with 120Hz Gaming

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Dangbei DBOX02 Pro is a new 4K projector designed for home entertainment, featuring two HDMI 2.1 ports for 4K gaming at 120Hz.
    2. It uses ALPD Laser Technology for high brightness and color range, with a brightness output of 2000 ISO Lumens, and enhanced LaserVibe technology to reduce distortion in 4K images.
    3. The projector includes a gimbal stand for 360-degree rotation, vertical tilt adjustment, Auto Focus, Auto Keystone, and AI Brightness for real-time lighting adjustments.
    4. It supports various streaming services, maintains Netflix compatibility, and includes optional voice control features, along with dual built-in 12-watt speakers for convenience.
    5. The DBOX02 Pro is available on Amazon for $1,599, with a current promotion offering a $300 discount until July 7th, reducing the price to $1,299.


    As 4K televisions have become more affordable, projectors are now a more feasible option for home entertainment. Dangbei is back with a new 4K projector designed to fit the changing needs of home setups. The DBOX02 Pro can handle 4K gaming at 120Hz thanks to its two HDMI 2.1 ports. Similar to the DBOX02, it features built-in Google TV, making it a strong competitor against smart TVs. You can find the Dangbei DBOX02 Pro available on Amazon for $1,599, and there’s a coupon code for $300 off.

    Advanced Technology

    The latest 4K projector from Dangbei utilizes ALPD Laser Technology, which merges high brightness with a broad color range. Although the DBOX02 Pro’s output of 2000 ISO Lumens isn’t the best in its class, it provides sufficient brightness to deal with some ambient light. Dangbei promotes its enhanced LaserVibe technology, claiming it reduces distortion in 4K images more effectively.

    Enhanced Features

    Unlike its predecessor, the DBOX02 Pro comes with a gimbal stand included. Users can rotate the projector 360 degrees and adjust the vertical tilt by as much as 120 degrees. This 4K laser projector also features Auto Focus and Auto Keystone, which help accommodate various placement options. Furthermore, AI Brightness monitors lighting changes in real-time. The projector can be paired with a screen size of up to 300 inches, although this may lead to a noticeable drop in brightness.

    Streaming Compatibility

    The previous model, known as the Mars Pro 2, was notable for being the first 4K laser projector with official Netflix support. The new DBOX02 Pro maintains support for many popular streaming services, and it even offers optional voice control features.

    Weighing in at 10.5 lbs., the DBOX02 Pro isn’t the most portable projector, though its compact design does help. Additionally, it comes with dual built-in 12-watt speakers, making it easier for users to move the projector to different rooms without needing to set up extra equipment.

    Special Offers

    Currently, there’s an Amazon promotion that lowers the price of the DBOX02 Pro to $1,299, but this offer ends on July 7th. Nevertheless, it’s common for Dangbei projectors to see regular discounts after their initial release.

    Source:
    Link


  • This Behavior-Altering Parasite Affects 2 Billion People Worldwide

    This Behavior-Altering Parasite Affects 2 Billion People Worldwide

    Key Takeaways

    1. Prevalence of Toxoplasma gondii: Affects about one-third of the global population, primarily spreading through cats and contaminated sources.

    2. Behavioral Changes in Hosts: Infected mice lose fear of cats and are attracted to their scent. Similar behavioral changes have been observed in humans.

    3. Connection to Mental Health: Research links Toxoplasma gondii to neuropsychiatric disorders, with potential impacts on mood and decision-making.

    4. Ability to Cross Blood-Brain Barrier: The parasite can create cysts in the brain, affecting regions related to fear and emotions.

    5. Health Risks: While most infected individuals are asymptomatic, pregnant women and those with weakened immune systems face significant health risks.


    Billions of parasites exist in our surroundings, and they can be dangerous in certain circumstances. Indeed, over two billion individuals worldwide are infected with a parasite that can change their behavior.

    The Toxoplasma gondii Threat

    This parasite, known as Toxoplasma gondii, reportedly affects about one-third of the global population, as per the WHO. Traditionally thought to be harmless to humans, recent research indicates it might have significant effects after all.

    This single-celled protozoan primarily infects cats, its final host, and spreads through close contact. To infect cats, however, it first needs to go through an intermediate host, usually a rat or some other rodent.

    Research Findings on Mice

    To investigate this parasite’s effects, experiments have been conducted on mice, revealing alarming findings. Infected mice showed no fear of cats, their primary predators, and interestingly, they were drawn to the scent of cat urine.

    Humans can also act as intermediate hosts by coming into contact with contaminated cat feces, eating undercooked meat or tainted food, or, though less often, through blood transfusions or organ donations. Initial observations were made in the early 2000s when Czech scientist Jaroslav Flegr from Charles University in Prague noted that humans infected with this parasite exhibited slight behavioral changes. Men tended to become more irritable and took more risks, while women were more likely to follow social norms.

    Connections to Mental Health

    Further studies, including one published in 2012 in the Schizophrenia Bulletin, underscored the connection between this parasite and mental health issues. A 2016 analysis in Acta Psychiatrica Scandinavica revealed a link between neuropsychiatric disorders and the parasite. It’s crucial to point out that correlation doesn’t mean causation, but it might significantly influence behavior or mood.

    Toxoplasma gondii has a fascinating trait; it can cross the blood-brain barrier and create cysts in the brain. These cysts tend to form in regions tied to fear, decision-making, and emotional responses. A study in PLOS ONE mentioned that this parasite possesses two genes that can produce an enzyme resembling dopamine, which is known as the happiness hormone.

    Implications for Health

    Most infected individuals show no symptoms, yet this parasite can pose risks for pregnant women due to potential harm to the fetus and for individuals with weakened immune systems.

    Source:
    Link

  • Bluetti Elite 100 V2 Portable Power Station 50% Off Sale

    Bluetti Elite 100 V2 Portable Power Station 50% Off Sale

    Key Takeaways

    1. Launch and Pricing: The Bluetti Elite 100 V2 portable power station was launched on June 18, retailing for $799, but available for $399 during a limited-time early bird promotion until July 11, 2025.

    2. Improved Design: The Elite 100 V2 is more compact and lightweight than the previous AC180 model, measuring 320 x 215 x 250 mm and weighing 11.5 kg.

    3. Battery and Power Output: It features a 1,024 Wh LiFePO4 battery with a maximum output of 2,700 W and a surge capacity of 3,600 W, along with a lifespan of 4,000 discharge cycles.

    4. Port Availability: The power station has 11 ports, including four AC outlets and various USB ports, allowing users to power multiple devices simultaneously.

    5. Fast Charging Options: Equipped with TurboBoost technology, it can recharge from 0 to 80% in 45 minutes, and can be fully charged via solar input in about 70 minutes.


    Bluetti has launched its new Elite 100 V2 portable power station as of June 18. The company has now announced the pricing and availability for this model. The Bluetti Elite 100 V2 typically retails for $799. However, during an early bird promotion, customers can snag it at a whopping 50% discount, bringing the price down to just $399. It’s important to highlight that this deal is time-sensitive and will only be available until July 11, 2025. You can buy the power station through Bluetti’s official website or on Amazon.

    Specifications and Dimensions

    The Bluetti Elite 100 V2 improves upon the AC180 model, offering enhanced output power along with a more compact and lightweight design. To elaborate, the power station measures 320 x 215 x 250 mm (12.5 x 8.4 x 9.8 inches) and weighs approximately 11.5 kg (25.3 lbs). In comparison, the AC180 has dimensions of 340 x 247 x 317 mm (13.3 x 9.7 x 12.4 inches) and weighs 17 kg (37 lbs).

    Battery Capacity and Features

    This portable power station is designed for camping trips and short power outages, featuring a 1,024 Wh LiFePO4 battery. The maximum power output is 2,700 W, with a surge capacity of 3,600 W. Additionally, the LiFePO₄ battery is rated for 4,000 discharge cycles, which is an improvement over the previous model’s 3,500 cycles.

    The device includes a total of 11 ports, which is quite generous. These consist of four AC outlets, a 100 W USB-C port, two USB-A ports, a car socket, and new additions like 140 W USB-C and dual DC5521 ports. This allows you to power up to 11 devices at the same time, such as laptops, microwaves, fans, coffee makers, portable projectors, smartphones, and even drones. The Elite 100 V2 also features companion app support, enabling users to adjust settings and monitor performance easily.

    Charging Capabilities

    The gadget is equipped with Bluetti’s TurboBoost charging technology. According to the brand, this fast-charging capability can recharge the power station from 0 to 80% in a mere 45 minutes. Alternatively, if you prefer solar charging, using a 1000 W solar input can fully charge the device in about 70 minutes.

    To wrap it up, Bluetti has kicked off its early Prime Day deals, offering discounts of up to 50% on select power stations. You can browse these offers on Amazon.

    Source:
    Link