Tag: Smart Home Devices

  • SwitchBot AI Art Frame: AI Art Creation & Ikea Rödalm Compatible

    SwitchBot AI Art Frame: AI Art Creation & Ikea Rödalm Compatible

    Key Takeaways

    1. Product Launch: SwitchBot introduces the AI Art Frame, a digital picture frame that generates artwork using AI technology.

    2. Pricing and Sizes: The frame comes in three sizes, priced at $149 for 7.3 inches, $349 for 13.3 inches, and $1,299 for 31.5 inches.

    3. Display Features: It uses an E Ink Spectra 6 panel for a realistic appearance, is glare-free, and has a long-lasting 2,000mAh battery.

    4. AI Capabilities: The frame can store up to 10 images and create artwork through an AI Studio, offering a 30-day free trial for 400 AI-generated images.

    5. Subscription Model: After the trial, a subscription for continued access to AI-generated content costs $3.99 per month.

    SwitchBot is well-known for its robot vacuums and various smart home tools. Now, the company is launching a new product called the SwitchBot AI Art Frame, which heavily utilizes artificial intelligence. This innovative digital picture frame is capable of generating its own artwork using AI technology.

    Pricing and Sizes

    The SwitchBot AI Art Frame is now available for purchase in three distinct sizes. The starting price is $149 for the smallest model, which features a 7.3-inch display. The medium-sized version, boasting a 13.3-inch screen, is available for $349. The largest model, which has a 31.5-inch display, comes with a price tag of $1,299. You can also customize the aluminum alloy frame using frames from Ikea’s Rödalm collection.

    Display Features

    This digital frame utilizes an E Ink Spectra 6 panel. According to SwitchBot, it provides the texture and depth similar to real paintings, offering vivid layered colors and a surface that resembles paper. The display does not require backlighting and is designed to be glare-free. Moreover, the panel is said to be very efficient, using minimal power. The device includes a 2,000mAh battery, allowing for completely wireless usage. If you change the image just once a week, the battery can reportedly last for as long as two years.

    AI Capabilities

    Alongside showing personal photographs, the SwitchBot AI Art Frame can also produce artwork using AI. It can store up to 10 images locally and features an AI Studio powered by NanoBanana. This lets users create unique artwork through an AI prompt or remix feature that incorporates text inputs, sketches, and more. A 30-day free trial offers access to as many as 400 AI-generated images. After this period, a subscription costs $3.99 each month.

     

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    SwitchBot AI Art Frame: AI Art Creation & Ikea Rödalm CompatibleSwitchBot AI Art Frame: AI Art Creation & Ikea Rödalm Compatible

     

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  • Xiaomi Smart Control Screen with HyperOS Coming Soon

    Xiaomi Smart Control Screen with HyperOS Coming Soon

    Key Takeaways

    1. Xiaomi is launching a crowdfunding project for the Smart Control Screen, which will serve as a hub for managing smart home devices.
    2. The device features a 3.83-inch touchscreen and can manage over 5,500 smart home devices, displaying 48 at a time.
    3. It offers functionalities like voice commands, remote app control, and the ability to view video feeds from smart cameras.
    4. The Smart Control Screen runs on Xiaomi HyperOS, supports dual-band Wi-Fi, and can act as a Xiaomi Mesh 2.0 gateway.
    5. Backers in China can secure the device for CNY 369 (~$52) starting November 10th, with a retail price of CNY 399 (~$56); European availability is still uncertain.

    Xiaomi is set to launch a crowdfunding project for its latest Smart Control Screen. This device, meant to be mounted on a wall, aims to be the main hub for managing all your smart home gadgets.

    Specifications and Features

    The Xiaomi Smart Control Screen has a display size of 3.83 inches (~97.3 mm) and comes in either a Space Gray or White frame. As per the product details, it can manage more than 5,500 smart home devices, although only 48 devices can be shown at a time across twelve different screens. Users can interact with the touchscreen to control connected devices like smart lights and robotic vacuums. Additionally, it allows for viewing video feeds from compatible smart cameras. Voice commands and remote app controls are also available for convenience.

    Additional Functionalities

    Moreover, the Smart Control Screen can show useful information such as the current time, weather updates, and your calendar appointments. It runs on Xiaomi HyperOS and supports dual-band Wi-Fi at 2.4GHz/5GHz. The device can also function as a Xiaomi Mesh 2.0 gateway, which improves connection reliability. The dimensions of the smart screen are 86.0 x 86.0 x 39.4 mm (~3.4 x 3.4 x 1.6 inches).

    Pricing and Availability

    In China, backers will need to contribute CNY 369 (~$52) to secure the Xiaomi Smart Control Screen through the Youpin crowdfunding initiative starting on November 10th. The listed retail price for this smart home device is CNY 399 (~$56), but it remains uncertain when it will be available for general purchase. It’s also still unknown if or when this product will be introduced in Europe; in countries like Germany, the brand currently offers the older Smart Home Hub 2 (currently priced at €39.99 at Mi Store).

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    Xiaomi Smart Control Screen with HyperOS Coming Soon

     

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  • Xiaomi Launches Robot Vacuum 5C with Extendable Mops

    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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    Xiaomi Launches Robot Vacuum 5C with Extendable Mops

     

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  • New Philips Hue Outdoor String Lights Coming Soon

    New Philips Hue Outdoor String Lights Coming Soon

    Key Takeaways

    1. Philips Hue has introduced the Festavia Globe String Lights, designed for outdoor use in gardens or balconies.
    2. The lights offer warm white and colorful lighting options, along with customizable lighting scenes and effects.
    3. They feature a unique inner tube to maintain color and brightness, and their design includes rounded bulbs in black fixtures.
    4. Specific details about string length, bulb count, and maximum brightness are still undisclosed.
    5. Pricing has not been announced, but the official presentation is expected during IFA 2025 in September.

    A new Philips Hue product has been revealed: the Festavia Globe String Lights. This product is part of a collection of smart home gadgets that were unintentionally showcased on the company’s website for a short period in August 2025. Other leaked items include the Hue Bridge Pro and the Festavia Permanent Outdoor String Lights.

    Features of the Festavia Globe String Lights

    Philips Hue claims that the Festavia Globe String Lights are perfect for your garden or balcony. They are said to provide both warm white and colorful lighting, featuring various lighting scenes and dynamic effects. Users can also create a personalized gradient along the string of lights. Additionally, the ‘unique inner tube’ guarantees that the lights maintain their color and brightness.

    Design and Specifications

    A leaked image reveals the Festavia Globe String Lights with rounded bulbs placed in black fixtures, connected to a black wire. This design differs from the slimmer Festavia String Lights (set of 250 currently priced at $214.99 on Amazon). Further information, such as the length of the string, the number of bulbs, and the maximum brightness level, has not been revealed yet. As usual with Philips Hue products, these lights are anticipated to be controllable via the Philips Hue app, and they can be connected to other compatible smart home devices.

    Pricing and Launch

    The price tag for the Philips Hue Festavia Globe String Lights has not been announced yet. This smart lighting solution is expected to be officially presented in September at IFA 2025, along with a variety of other gadgets.

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    New Philips Hue Outdoor String Lights Coming Soon

     

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  • Shelly Introduces New Z-Wave Long Range Smart Home Devices

    Key Takeaways

    1. Shelly has launched four new products using Z-Wave Long Range technology, enhancing wireless range significantly.
    2. The new devices include the Wave 1PM Mini (LR) smart switch, Shelly Wave Plug S (LR), Shelly Wave Plug UK, and Shelly Wave i4 (LR) inputs module.
    3. These products support Z-Wave Long Range (ZWLR) and Z-Wave Plus, with a range of up to 80 m indoors and 1,000 m outdoors.
    4. All connected devices and controllers must support Z-Wave Long Range for proper functionality.
    5. Pricing for the new devices includes $29.99/€33.00 for the Wave 1PM Mini (LR) and $32.99/€31.00 for the Wave i4 (LR).

    Shelly has unveiled four fresh products that utilize Z-Wave Long Range technology. Although the brand has been offering Z-Wave compatible gadgets for several years, this latest innovation enhances the wireless range significantly.

    New Product Lineup

    The four new offerings from Shelly include the Wave 1PM Mini (LR) smart switch, the Shelly Wave Plug S (LR), the Shelly Wave Plug UK, and the Shelly Wave i4 (LR) inputs module. Each of these devices is compatible with both Z-Wave Long Range (ZWLR) (912 MHZ in the US, 864 MHz in Europe) and Z-Wave Plus (908.4 MHz US, 868.4 MHz Europe). They are part of the Z-Wave 800 series and can achieve a wireless range of up to 80 m (approximately 262 ft) indoors and an impressive 1,000 m (3,281 ft) outdoors.

    Compatibility Requirements

    It’s important to mention that for all connected smart home devices and the controller, whether it’s a hub or gateway, must support Z-Wave Long Range to function properly. The Shelly Wave 1PM Mini (LR) is priced at $29.99/€33.00, while the Shelly Wave i4 (LR) is available for $32.99/€31.00. In Europe, the Shelly Wave Plug S (LR) is listed at €40.00. The Shelly Wave Plug UK can be found at the brand’s UK store for £27.49, but the product listing does not currently highlight the new Z-Wave Long Range feature.

    Conclusion

    For more information, you can check Shelly’s official channels, including their presence on X.com and Smarthome Assistent.

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  • Xiaomi Launches New AI Security Camera with No Cloud Requirement

    Xiaomi Launches New AI Security Camera with No Cloud Requirement

    Key Takeaways

    1. Xiaomi offers a wide range of smart home gadgets, including the new Outdoor Camera 4 with advanced features.
    2. The Outdoor Camera 4 has a high resolution of 3,840 x 2,160 pixels and can capture colored images in low light.
    3. It supports local storage options via memory cards or network storage, reducing reliance on cloud services.
    4. The camera is designed for outdoor use with an IP66 rating, ensuring resistance to dust and water.
    5. It includes AI capabilities and two-way audio for enhanced communication and security functionality.

    Xiaomi has a broad selection of smart home gadgets, which includes various home security cameras, like the C200 found on Amazon. These Xiaomi devices usually launch in China before they are available in other areas. The new Xiaomi Outdoor Camera 4 is one such security camera that boasts an f/1.6 lens along with a single image sensor, offering a resolution of 3,840 x 2,160 pixels. This should not be mistaken for the dual-camera version of the Camera 4. The company states that this camera can provide videos with a wide dynamic range and also capture colored images in low light, depending on the environmental lighting. If there are no external light sources, like street lights, the camera can use its built-in regular LEDs or infrared LEDs to provide illumination.

    Local Storage Options

    Besides transferring data via Wi-Fi, the Outdoor Camera 4 can also store videos locally on a memory card or through a network storage system, meaning you don’t have to depend on cloud services. However, it’s worth noting that the camera is not fully wire-free; it does not come with a battery or solar panel. There is also the option for Ethernet connectivity, which helps in providing a more reliable data transfer. Made specifically for outdoor settings, the device is rated IP66, indicating it is resistant to dust and water. Additional features include AI capabilities and two-way audio, allowing for communication with people nearby the camera. In China, the Xiaomi Outdoor Camera 4 is priced at CN¥389, which is approximately US$54. Details regarding pricing and availability in other regions have yet to be disclosed.

    Xiaomi’s Innovative Approach

    Xiaomi is continuously expanding its product lineup, and with the Outdoor Camera 4, it demonstrates a commitment to innovation in home security. The various features and specifications make it a versatile choice for those looking to enhance their home security system. The ability to utilize AI and communicate through the camera adds a modern touch to traditional security measures, making it an appealing option for many consumers.

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    Xiaomi Launches New AI Security Camera with No Cloud Requirement

     

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  • SwitchBot Launches Vision Keypad with Face ID for Lock Ultra

    SwitchBot Launches Vision Keypad with Face ID for Lock Ultra

    Key Takeaways

    1. SwitchBot introduced the Lock Ultra at CES 2025, featuring 3D facial recognition technology, making it the first retrofit smart lock with this capability.
    2. The Lock Ultra offers multiple access methods, including remote app control, auto-unlock, voice commands, passcodes, NFC keycards, fingerprint scanning, and facial recognition, priced at $139.99.
    3. A package deal including the Lock Ultra and vision keypad with a SwitchBot Hub mini is available for $249.99, expanding connectivity beyond Bluetooth.
    4. The SwitchBot Hub 3, priced at $119.99, supports over 30 Matter-compatible devices and features a programmable dial for managing lighting and temperature.
    5. While the Lock Ultra and vision keypad are compatible with Matter, the Hub 3 does not support Thread and is designed to enhance existing smart home setups.

    SwitchBot recently introduced the Lock Ultra at CES 2025 in January, presenting it as a successor to the SwitchBot Lock Pro. Now, they have revealed a new keypad accessory that features 3D facial recognition technology. While face ID is not a new concept in smart locks, the SwitchBot Lock Ultra stands out as the first retrofit smart lock in the industry to offer this capability.

    Keypad Features and Functions

    Similar to other smart lock keypads, the SwitchBot Keypad Vision is installed outside the door, while the Lock Ultra manages the locking mechanism from the inside. The two components communicate via Bluetooth, providing various access methods, such as remote app control, auto-unlock through geofencing, voice commands, passcodes, NFC keycards, fingerprint scanning, and facial recognition. The price of the Lock Ultra is $139.99, featuring a lithium-ion battery that can last up to nine months, an aluminum exterior, and a slightly more compact design compared to its predecessor. Since the lock is designed to be retrofitted, traditional keys can still be used for unlocking the door without needing to purchase the $99 keypad.

    Pricing and Combo Offers

    SwitchBot has also created a package deal that includes the Lock Ultra Vision set (Lock Ultra + vision keypad) paired with a SwitchBot Hub mini, priced at $249.99. This hub expands access options beyond Bluetooth’s limitations, allowing other SwitchBot devices and third-party IR gadgets to connect to your home WiFi network.

    While Matter support is absent, both the SwitchBot Lock Ultra and the vision keypad are compatible with Matter. Users might prefer to invest in a SwitchBot Hub 3 instead of the mini to fully utilize this feature. The third-generation smart home hub has a notably larger design than the SwitchBot Hub 2 and includes a programmable dial located beneath its display.

    Advanced Hub Capabilities

    The programmable dial on the SwitchBot Hub 3 can be set up to adjust lighting and temperature, provided the appropriate devices are integrated. According to the product listing, the hub can manage over 30 Matter-compatible devices across major smart home platforms like Apple Home, Google Home, Amazon Alexa, Samsung SmartThings, and Home Assistant.

    SwitchBot Hub 3 also accommodates Homey automations and customizable scenes. However, there is no indication of Thread support, so it won’t serve as a replacement for your Thread border router. Pre-orders for the Hub 3 are priced at $119.99 and are anticipated to ship by mid-June.

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    SwitchBot Launches Vision Keypad with Face ID for Lock Ultra

     

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  • Xiaomi Unveils Mijia Vertical 3 HP Air Conditioner for Powerful Cooling

    Xiaomi Unveils Mijia Vertical 3 HP Air Conditioner for Powerful Cooling

    Key Takeaways

    1. Fast Cooling and Heating: The Mijia Air Conditioner can cool in 40 seconds and heat in 80 seconds, suitable for areas around 40 m² (431 ft²).

    2. Strong Airflow: It has an airflow of 1,752 m³/hour and can project air up to 13 m (42.7 ft) with a wide 115° air supply angle.

    3. Smart Features: Includes a self-cleaning function, Xiaomi HyperOS Connect for smart home integration, and remote control via the Xiaomi app or voice commands.

    4. Pricing: Priced at CNY 4,999 (approximately $694), with a recommended retail price of CNY 5,599 (about $777).

    5. Availability: Currently available in China, with no smart air conditioners yet released in Europe.

    Xiaomi has introduced the Mijia Air Conditioner Super Energy Saving Vertical 3 HP in China, designed for quick cooling and heating across your entire living space. The product description highlights that it is optimal for areas measuring about 40 m² (approximately 431 ft²).

    Impressive Airflow and Temperature Control

    The newly launched Mijia Air Conditioner boasts an impressive airflow of 1,752 m³ (around 61,871 ft³) each hour, featuring an air outlet that is 181 mm (about 7.1 inches) wide, allowing for a 115° air supply angle. Xiaomi claims that users can feel the airflow from as far as 13 m (about 42.7 ft). The air conditioner is designed to start cooling in just 40 seconds or heating in 80 seconds, with a temperature range that can be set between -32 to 60°C (roughly -26 to 160°F).

    Smart Features and Design

    Another notable aspect of this air conditioner is its self-cleaning function, which incorporates a 56°C (around 133°F) sterilization option. It also features Xiaomi HyperOS Connect, enabling it to connect with other smart home gadgets from the brand. Users can control it remotely via the Xiaomi app or use Xiao AI voice commands. Additionally, the company has mentioned that future over-the-air (OTA) updates will be provided. The vertical unit has a metallic exterior and dimensions of 346 x 1,868 x 434 mm (approximately 13.6 x 73.5 x 17.1 inches).

    Pricing and Availability

    The Xiaomi Mijia Air Conditioner Super Energy Saving Vertical 3 HP is currently priced at CNY 4,999 (around $694) in China, although its recommended retail price (RRP) is CNY 5,599 (about $777). It is worth noting that Xiaomi has not yet released any of its smart air conditioners in Europe, although they do offer other cooling solutions like the Smart Standing Fan 2 Pro (currently priced at €124.89 on Amazon).

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  • New Philips Hue Bridge Upgrade Expected Soon

    New Philips Hue Bridge Upgrade Expected Soon

    Key Takeaways

    – A new Philips Hue Bridge (v3) may be coming soon, as indicated by a recent article.
    – The new model might support more connected devices than the current limit of 50, but no specific number has been mentioned.
    – One potential feature of the v3 could be wireless connection to home Wi-Fi, unlike the current requirement for an ethernet cable.
    – The last version of the Hue Bridge was released in 2016, making a new version anticipated by fans.
    – The release is speculated for 2025, but pricing details are still unknown.

    A new Philips Hue Bridge might be coming soon. The first version (v1) was introduced in 2012, and the second version (v2) followed in 2016. This smart hub lets users link up to 50 smart devices for remote and simultaneous control. Users have shown that it is possible to connect up to 63 devices, but doing so might reduce performance.

    New Developments

    A recent article from Hueblog.com indicates that a third-generation Philips Hue Bridge could be in the works. It is said that this new model might allow for more connected devices, but the exact number is not mentioned. Another potential feature could be the ability to connect to your home Wi-Fi wirelessly; right now, you need to use an ethernet cable to connect the Hue Bridge to your router. Unfortunately, the report does not specify where this information comes from.

    Anticipated Features

    The release of the Philips Hue Bridge v3 wouldn’t surprise fans of the brand, since it has been a while since the last version came out. The company has also been making improvements to the existing model, with significant updates like the one in November 2024, which introduced support for controlling multiple bridges at once.

    Although the company hasn’t confirmed this new product yet, there are speculations that it might be released sometime in 2025. The pricing for this upcoming Philips Hue Bridge is still unknown; however, the second-generation model is currently listed on Amazon for $41.89.

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    New Philips Hue Bridge Upgrade Expected Soon

     

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  • Shelly Gen3 Smart Switches Now Support Matter in Latest Update

    Shelly Gen3 Smart Switches Now Support Matter in Latest Update

    Key Takeaways

    1. Shelly’s Gen3 smart switches now support Matter, enabling control of various devices like lights and heaters from afar.
    2. The firmware version 1.6.0 beta is being rolled out to specific devices, including Shelly 1 Gen3 and Shelly Mini 1 Gen3.
    3. Matter compatibility allows seamless integration with popular smart home systems such as Amazon Alexa, Apple Home, and Google Home.
    4. The update also introduces compatibility with the LoRa add-on and new calibration features for ProDimmer models.
    5. Gradual rollout of the firmware is expected over the coming weeks, with more devices gaining Matter support in the future.

    Shelly is launching a fresh beta update that introduces Matter support for its Gen3 smart switches. This new feature lets you control and automate a variety of devices, such as lights, heaters, and blinds, from afar. With Matter compatibility, these products can work seamlessly with numerous smart home systems, including Amazon Alexa, Apple Home, and Google Home.

    Details of the Update

    The firmware version 1.6.0 beta is being rolled out to devices like the Shelly 1 Gen3, Shelly 1L Gen3, and Shelly Mini 1 Gen3 (currently priced at $14.99 on Amazon). A complete list of devices that will support Matter with this update can be found below. This will be a gradual rollout, with eligible devices expected to receive the firmware in the next weeks. The Shelly Gen4 smart switches, which were designed with Matter support from the start, debuted in Europe in March 2025 and are also making their way to the US. In addition, the Shelly Plug S Gen3 smart plug also came with Matter already integrated.

    Additional Features

    In addition to Matter support, this update also adds compatibility with the LoRa add-on for many devices. Moreover, the ProDimmer1PM and ProDimmer2PM can now initiate calibration either on the first toggle or with a simultaneous button press. You can check out the full changelog for firmware version 1.6.0 in a post on the company’s forum.

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