Tag: smart display

  • Smart Home Hub: 3.5-Inch Display with Microphone

    Key Takeaway

    – Low-cost ESP32-S3 smart display ($21) with integrated development board
    – Can function as a standalone smart home interface, similar to an Echo Show
    – Supports LVGL for customizable UI and user programming
    – Built-in microphone, external speakers, and touchscreen for acoustic and tactile interaction
    – Connectivity via WiFi/Bluetooth, USB-C, I2C ports, and microSD card slot for expansion

    New Display From Elecrow

    Elecrow is now offering a new display for a relatively low price of $21. In practice, it is not just a display, as a development board is integrated as well. This allows the model to be used without an external source device, and it is ultimately not intended for that purpose anyway. Instead, the ESP32-S3 display can be used as a smart display, making it a potential alternative to devices such as an Echo Show. There are limitations, but also almost endless possibilities, since the system can and must be programmed by the user.

    Features and Programmability

    LVGL is supported for easier interface design. An ESP32-S3 SoC is used, with support for Bluetooth and WiFi in the 2.4GHz band. This makes integration into a smart home possible. Acoustic interaction is possible due to a microphone being installed on the board, external speakers are included for functionality right out of the box. This means users can also interact with smart home devices by tapping the screen, for example.

    Panel and Connectivity Options

    The 3.5-inch panel, which has a resolution of 320 x 480 pixels, can process touch inputs. Power can be supplied either via USB-C or with a battery. Programming is also handled via USB-C. I2C ports are available, allowing additional sensors, such as gas detection sensors, to be connected. You’ll find a microSD card slot is included, which gives you more storage options for your projects or data logging needs.

    • Pricing: $21
    • ESP32-S3 SoC with Bluetooth and WiFi 2.4GHz
    • 3.5-inch touchscreen, 320 x 480 resolution
    • Microphone and external speakers
    • USB-C for power and programming, battery support
    • I2C ports for sensors, microSD card slot


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    • ZTE FreeScreen F10 Smart 5G Display on Wheels with 9500mAh Battery

      ZTE FreeScreen F10 Smart 5G Display on Wheels with 9500mAh Battery

      Key Takeaway

      1. The ZTE FreeScreen F10 is a portable 27-inch smart display with 1080p resolution, 10-point touch, and 85% color gamut.
      2. It features mobile connectivity options including 5G, dual-band Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth 5.0, with various ports such as HDMI 2.0, USB 2.0, and a SIM slot.
      3. The device boasts an 8MP privacy shutter camera, built-in speakers with a subwoofer, and a sizable 9,500mAh battery offering 8-12 hours of use.
      4. It is equipped with a wheeled base, weighs 18kg (6kg without the base), and is priced around $436 after subsidies.

      ZTE’s New Portable Smart Display Launch

      ZTE recently introduced its latest gadget, the FreeScreen F10, which builds on the portable smart display idea just like LG’s StanbyME and the StanbyME 2. Unlike LG’s model that lacks a rotating screen or a wheel base, ZTE’s device comes with a wheels base that makes it easier to move around. This new device has some features that make it stand out, especially for users wanting more connectivity options and multimedia capabilities.

      Display and Design

      The F10 sports a 27-inch LCD display with a resolution of 1080p, and it has a brightness of 300 nits, meaning it should perform well indoors. It features a 100Hz refresh rate, perfect for smooth scrolling and videos, along with a 16:9 aspect ratio. The display supports 10-point touch, which makes it suitable for interactive use, and an 85% color gamut promises vibrant images. The screen can rotate 90°, has thin bezels on each side, but the top and bottom bezels are slightly thicker, providing a balanced look.

      Hardware and Connectivity

      This device runs on a Unisoc T8300 processor, coupled with 6GB of RAM for multitasking, and includes 128GB of storage space. Such specifications ensure decent performance for streaming, browsing, or video calls. Connectivity options include 5G for high-speed mobile internet, dual-band Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth 5.0. An 8MP camera with a privacy shutter is embedded, making video calls more private and clearer for users.

      Speakers and Ports

      To enhance audio experience, ZTE equipped the F10 with two 5W speakers and a 20W subwoofer, aiming for balanced sound quality. In terms of ports, it features a SIM slot, a Type-C port, a full-size USB 2.0 port, and an HDMI 2.0 port, offering extensive connectivity options for external devices. Unlike some competitors, ZTE claims a long battery life thanks to its 9,500mAh capacity, projecting usage times between 8 and 12 hours, a significant upgrade over the LG StanbyME 2’s 4 hours.

      Dimensions and Price

      The F10 stands tall at 158.4cm from top to base and weighs about 18kg, but it drops to 6kg when the base is removed. The official retail price is set at CNY 3499 (approximately $508/€440), but thanks to a government subsidy, the price drops to CNY 2999, which is roughly $436/€377. This pricing makes it an attractive portable display for those looking for good features at a reasonable cost.

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    • Affordable 4-Inch Smart Home Display with Touchscreen and Ports

      Affordable 4-Inch Smart Home Display with Touchscreen and Ports

      Key Takeaways

      1. The Waveshare ESP32-S3 is a smart display aimed at makers and hobbyists, requiring more setup time and effort compared to pre-assembled devices.
      2. It features a dual-core Xtensa LX7 processor with a speed of up to 240MHz and allows connections to various peripherals like temperature sensors and motors.
      3. The device includes a 4.3-inch touch screen with a resolution of 800 x 480 pixels and supports gesture control for up to five fingers.
      4. Users can utilize voice commands through a dual-microphone array, and the device supports WiFi and Bluetooth for wireless data transfers.
      5. The smart display is priced at $40, with an additional $6 for the enclosure.

      Waveshare has released a new device that essentially acts as a smart display. This unit can be easily mounted on a wall and might be seen as an alternative to something like the Echo Show (which starts at $89 on Amazon). While this product is quite flexible, it’s important for potential buyers to realize that the ESP32-S3 4.3inch AI Voice is primarily designed for makers and hobbyists. Consequently, getting this device up and running typically takes more time and effort, but it does come with a wide range of features.

      Power and Connectivity

      The Waveshare ESP32-S3 is equipped with a dual-core Xtensa LX7 processor that operates at speeds of up to 240MHz. In contrast to many pre-assembled smart displays, this device allows for easy connections to additional peripherals. This means you can connect a temperature sensor or even a motor, among other options. However, the practicality of using these features when the screen is mounted on a wall is questionable.

      Features and Functionality

      Regardless, it includes a memory card slot which allows for interface elements to be saved directly onto a microSD card. The display can also function on battery power, and it features a built-in 4.3-inch screen with a resolution of 800 x 480 pixels that recognizes touch inputs. Gesture control is also available and can respond to up to five fingers at once.

      Thanks to the dual-microphone array, users can utilize voice commands as well. The device supports WiFi and Bluetooth, enabling wireless data transfers, such as retrieving current weather updates from the internet. Waveshare is currently selling this new smart home display for $40, with the enclosure priced separately at an additional $6.

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    • Waveshare 4.2-Inch Smart Display with WiFi and Bluetooth Features

      Waveshare 4.2-Inch Smart Display with WiFi and Bluetooth Features

      Key Takeaways

      1. The ESP32-S3-RLCD-4.2 features a 4.2-inch reflective LCD screen that utilizes natural light for visibility, making it easy to read in bright sunlight.
      2. It has a resolution of 300 x 400 pixels and can display customizable content like time and weather updates.
      3. The device includes a built-in temperature and humidity sensor and two microphones for interaction with virtual assistants.
      4. Connectivity options include WiFi and Bluetooth via the ESP32-S3 chip, along with GPIO pins for connecting external sensors.
      5. The price for the smart display is €29, with an additional charge of €3 if a rechargeable battery is included.

      The ESP32-S3-RLCD-4.2 is a innovative display that comes with a development board and a reflective LCD screen. This design utilizes natural light for visibility, as opposed to built-in LEDs. The company Waveshare claims that this feature enables the smart display to be easy to read in bright sunlight, much like e-ink displays, but without the slower response times often seen with those types of screens. Power can be drawn from a rechargeable 18650 battery.

      Display Features and Functionality

      The display measures 4.2 inches and has a resolution of 300 x 400 pixels. Users can utilize this device as a smart screen to display the current time, weather updates, or personalized content. The focus is on customization, as users will need to do some work to set up the device properly. It supports both ESP-IDF and the popular Arduino IDE. Additionally, it comes with a built-in temperature and humidity sensor, which can provide useful information for assessing comfort in indoor spaces. There are also two microphones included, allowing interaction with virtual assistants; however, users might consider adding a speaker, which may or may not be included depending on the seller.

      Connectivity Options

      With the built-in ESP32-S3 chip, the device supports wireless connections through WiFi and Bluetooth, meaning that displaying current weather information does not depend on a wired Ethernet setup. Regardless, users can connect external sensors and devices through GPIO pins. On AliExpress, Waveshare’s new smart home display is available for €29, plus shipping costs. If a battery is included, the price rises to €32.

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    • Compact Anker 100W Charger with Display Now Available in UK

      Compact Anker 100W Charger with Display Now Available in UK

      Key Takeaways

      1. The Anker Charger (100W, 3 Ports, Smart Display) is available in the UK for £50.99, with a promotional price reduction ending on November 16th.
      2. It uses GaN technology, allowing up to 100W power for a single USB-C port, with varying power distribution when multiple ports are used.
      3. The charger features a digital display that shows real-time charging information and temperature, with a low-current mode for efficiency.
      4. Its compact design (69 x 55 x 34 mm) includes foldable pins for easier storage and travel.
      5. The product is a practical solution for efficient charging, though an EU version’s release date is currently unknown.

      The Anker Charger (100W, 3 Ports, Smart Display) is now up for sale in the UK. Initially introduced in China in May 2025, it has made its way to the US since then.

      You can purchase the UK version of the Anker Charger (100W, 3 Ports, Smart Display) for £50.99 on Amazon, benefitting from a £9 reduction from the original price of £59.99. This special offer is set to end on November 16th. Additionally, a comparable promotion is offered at the brand’s own online shop.

      Charging Power and Distribution

      This Anker Charger (100W, 3 Ports, Smart Display) utilizes GaN technology, allowing each USB-C port to provide up to 100W of power when used alone. If two USB-C ports are used at the same time, the power distribution is either 70W:30W or 95W:5W. The third port, a USB-A, can supply up to 33W; when all three ports are in use, power is shared as 80W:12W:7.5W.

      There is a digital screen that displays real-time charging details as well as the temperature of the device. Users can pick from six smart interface options, with the display turning off automatically after one minute of inactivity. A notable feature is the low-current mode, which kicks in when the output is at 5W or lower for 60 seconds. The charger is compact, with dimensions of 69 x 55 x 34 mm (~2.72 × 2.17 × 1.34 inches), and its pins fold in, making it more convenient for storage and travel. It’s unclear when an EU version of this charger may become available.

      Conclusion

      In summary, the Anker Charger (100W, 3 Ports, Smart Display) is a versatile and practical charging solution for those in the UK. With its advanced features and competitive pricing, it’s a great option for anyone needing efficient charging on the go.

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      Compact Anker 100W Charger with Display Now Available in UK

       

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    • Anker Launches Compact Charger with Smart Display Upgrade

      Anker Launches Compact Charger with Smart Display Upgrade

      Key Takeaways

      1. The Anker Charger (100W, 3 Ports, Smart Display) is now available in the US for $59.99, down from $69.99.
      2. It features a compact design with folding pins, measuring 2.7 x 2.2 x 1.3 inches and weighing 7.5 oz.
      3. The charger has two USB-C ports (up to 100W each) and one USB-A port (up to 33W), allowing simultaneous charging of three devices.
      4. It includes a smart low current mode for outputs at or below 5W and a built-in digital display with six screen options for monitoring.
      5. The product’s availability in Europe is still uncertain.

      A fresh iteration of the Anker Charger (100W, 3 Ports, Smart Display) has hit the shelves in the US. The first version made its debut in early October 2025, after being introduced in China earlier in May.

      Pricing and Availability

      You can now snag the Anker Charger (100W, 3 Ports, Smart Display) in a sleek silver finish from the brand’s online shop for $59.99, reflecting a $10 reduction from the original retail price of $69.99. This deal is also applicable to the original dark gray model. However, it’s uncertain how long these discounts on the accessories will be available. Although this product is listed on the brand’s Amazon page, the $10 discount is not applicable there.

      Specifications

      The Anker Charger (100W, 3 Ports, Smart Display) is a compact GaN charger that features folding pins, with dimensions of 2.7 x 2.2 x 1.3 inches (~69 x 55 x 34 mm) and a weight of 7.5 oz (~212 g). As indicated by its name, this device can charge three gadgets at the same time. It has two USB-C ports, which can output up to 100W each when used independently. It’s important to mention that the charger maintains a top output of 100W for 50 minutes before it reduces to 90W. The third port is a USB-A port that provides up to 33W. When all three ports are used together, the first USB-C delivers 80W, the second provides 12W, and the USB-A port gives 7.5W.

      Additional Features

      One noteworthy function is the smart low current mode that activates automatically when the output is at or below 5W for more than a minute. Additionally, users have the option to select from six different screens on the built-in digital display, allowing them to keep an eye on charging and temperature information. It remains uncertain if or when a version of the Anker Charger (100W, 3 Ports, Smart Display) will be available in Europe.

       

      Anker Launches Compact Charger with Smart Display Upgrade

       

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    • Apple HomePod with Display Launching This Spring: Price & Details

      Apple HomePod with Display Launching This Spring: Price & Details

      Key Takeaways

      1. Apple’s new smart home device launch has been delayed to next spring due to upgrades to Siri.
      2. The company will introduce two indoor security cameras in the fall, with an advanced rotating display model expected in 2027.
      3. Production of the smart display will take place in Vietnam to reduce US tariff costs.
      4. Two models of the hub are being developed: one similar to a HomePod Mini and another designed as a wall-mounted tablet.
      5. The device will feature a 7-inch screen, built-in speakers, microphones, and a FaceTime camera, with a target price of $350.

      Apple’s new smart home device, meant to rival the Amazon Echo Show 8, was initially expected to be released last March. However, due to the delays with the upgrade of Apple’s AI Siri, the launch has been pushed back to next year.

      Upcoming Launch Dates

      A recent Bloomberg report confirms that this smart home hub is set to debut next spring. Additionally, Apple plans to introduce two indoor security cameras in the fall. There is also an advanced version in the works, which will have a display that can automatically rotate to face the user, and it’s expected to be launched in 2027. Interestingly, the production of Apple’s smart display will take place in Vietnam, rather than China or India. This move might be a strategy to avoid US tariffs, since products coming from Vietnam to the US face a lower tariff rate of “only” 20%.

      Design and Features

      Apple is reportedly developing two different models of this hub. One will resemble a HomePod Mini, while the other is designed like a wall-mounted tablet. Both models will come equipped with a nearly square 7-inch screen along with built-in speakers, microphones, and a FaceTime camera. This camera will enable the device to identify the user and customize the interface according to their preferences. Bloomberg’s sources indicate that Apple is aiming for a price point of $350 for this device.

      Future Innovations

      In conclusion, Apple’s entry into the smart home market with this device shows its commitment to expanding its product lineup. With the upcoming security cameras and future innovations in display technology, Apple seems to be preparing for a competitive stance against other smart home solutions.

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    • TRMNL: Long-lasting Smart Display Now Available for Purchase

      TRMNL: Long-lasting Smart Display Now Available for Purchase

      Key Takeaways

      1. The TRMNL device is now available for purchase directly from the maker, with standard and limited edition versions priced at $139 and $154, respectively.
      2. It functions as a smart display for home use, showing information like weather updates and to-do lists, with plugins for enhanced functionality.
      3. The device measures 171 x 116 x 10 mm and features a 7.5-inch E Ink screen with a resolution of 800 x 480.
      4. The TRMNL has a long battery life of up to three months and connects via WiFi, using less power than traditional smart displays.
      5. Various add-ons are available for purchase, including a ‘Clarity Kit’ and ‘Battery Upgrade,’ catering to different user needs.

      We previously covered the TRMNL device last year, and it is now purchasable straight from the maker. The standard version is offered in three shades – black, white, or clear – priced at $139. Meanwhile, the limited edition comes in sage, gray, or wood and is available for $154. Buyers can select from a variety of add-ons, such as a ‘Clarity Kit,’ ‘Battery Upgrade,’ ‘Developer Edition,’ and ‘Charging Cable,’ which could be beneficial to some customers. Additional shipping fees will apply during the checkout process.

      Smart Display for Home Use

      The TRMNL is designed not for computers or laptops, but as a smart display meant for home environments, showcasing different types of information. It can show weather updates, to-do lists, or data from services like Google Analytics. A range of plugins enhance its functionality, including options to display images from cloud storage. Users can set the display to switch its functions at specific times.

      Design and Specs

      This device measures 171 x 116 x 10 millimeters, with its E Ink screen measuring 7.5 inches diagonally and having a resolution of 800 x 480. While this resolution is lower than that of most e-readers, it is still adequate for its purpose. The battery is said to last up to three months, and data transfers occur via WiFi, eliminating the need for a physical connection. In comparison to traditional smart displays, it uses much less power, but it does not support color displays.

      Conclusion

      In summary, the TRMNL offers a unique option for those looking for a smart display that integrates easily into home life. With its various color options and add-ons, it caters to a diverse range of preferences and needs.

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      TRMNL: Long-lasting Smart Display Now Available for Purchase

       

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    • Anker Eufy E10 Smart Display with Battery Launching Soon

      Anker Eufy E10 Smart Display with Battery Launching Soon

      Key Takeaways

      1. The Anker E10 smart display (model T87AO) has been in development for a long time, with online manuals and brochures available, and an upcoming release hinted by FCC certification.

      2. It features a built-in 5,000mAh battery that allows it to operate without a base station, with a battery life of up to 24 hours, and can be wall-mounted.

      3. The E10 can stream videos from Anker’s security cameras and smart doorbells, and includes a microphone for two-way communication with visitors.

      4. It supports WiFi connections on 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands, includes 8GB of internal eMMC storage, and has an 8-inch HD display with smart functionalities like facial recognition.

      5. The device can save videos locally, ensuring it remains functional during internet outages, though compatibility with specific cameras is still uncertain.

      Anker has been developing a new smart display known as the E10, with the model number T87AO, for a significant period. There’s already a manual available online, and recently, a brochure has surfaced. While the official price and launch date remain unclear, a recent FCC certification indicates that its release might be just around the corner.

      Features of the E10

      The E10 smart display can function without needing a base station, thanks to its integrated 5,000mAh battery. This feature could be handy for checking on a video baby monitor from the comfort of your couch. According to the brochure, the Eufy E10 boasts a battery life that lasts for up to 24 hours, and it’s also capable of being mounted on a wall.

      Streaming Capabilities

      This smart display can stream videos from Anker’s security cameras and display live feeds from smart doorbells. Additionally, the Eufy E10 is equipped with a microphone, allowing users to communicate with visitors at their door. It can showcase multiple video streams simultaneously, which is perfect for smart home fans who want to monitor everything happening around their homes.

      Technical Specifications

      The device connects to WiFi on both the 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands and includes 8GB of internal eMMC storage. It features an 8-inch display with HD resolution, and Anker asserts that it comes with smart functionalities like facial recognition. Since videos are saved locally, the Eufy E10 remains operational even during internet outages. However, it’s still uncertain which specific cameras will be compatible with this new smart display.

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      Anker Eufy E10 Smart Display with Battery Launching Soon
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    • Presto: Raspberry Pi Smart Display for Experimentation and Fun

      Presto: Raspberry Pi Smart Display for Experimentation and Fun

      Key Takeaways

      1. Smart displays, like the Pimoroni Presto, offer functionalities such as controlling smart home devices, playing music, and displaying video feeds.
      2. The Pimoroni Presto features an RP2050B chip, a 4-inch IPS touchscreen, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, and supports battery operation.
      3. It includes seven RGB LEDs and a small piezo speaker for alerts and notifications.
      4. Users can expand the device’s capabilities by connecting extra circuit boards and sensors using Qwiic and Stemma QT.
      5. The Pimoroni Presto is priced at about $92, with a starter kit available for around $132, and programming can be done using C, C++, or MicroPython.

      Smart displays can be found at fairly reasonable prices from stores like Amazon. They serve various purposes, such as controlling smart home devices, playing music, and showing video feeds from security cameras. The Pimoroni Presto is a type of smart display, but it has a distinctive feature. This device comes with a development board that offers a range of functionalities, clearly targeting those users who like to build their own projects and possess the necessary skills.

      Specs and Features

      The Presto includes an RP2050B chip, which has two Cortex-M33 cores running at 150 MHz, and it also features flash storage, RAM, and a microSD card slot for file storage, like pictures. It has a 4-inch IPS touchscreen with a resolution of 480 x 480. In addition, it supports Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for wireless connections and has a battery connector that works with 3 to 5.5 volts, allowing it to run without being plugged into a wall outlet.

      Additional Capabilities

      Other interesting features are seven built-in LEDs that can show RGB colors and a small piezo speaker for alerts and notifications. Users can also connect extra circuit boards, such as sensors, using Qwiic and Stemma QT. Pimoroni has a starter kit available that includes a compact I2C controller and a multifunctional sensor that can detect motion. The system can be programmed using C, C++, or MicroPython, and there are helpful documents to assist users in getting started. The Pimoroni Presto itself costs about $92, while the starter kit is priced around $132. Anyone interested should check the company’s shipping policies before buying.

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      Presto: Raspberry Pi Smart Display for Experimentation and FunPresto: Raspberry Pi Smart Display for Experimentation and Fun
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