Tag: Smart Home

  • Xiaomi Launches Smart Electric Blanket with Voice Control Features

    Xiaomi Launches Smart Electric Blanket with Voice Control Features

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Xiaomi Mijia Smart Electric Blanket is designed to improve sleep quality, with features to eliminate mites and reduce mattress humidity.
    2. It measures 1.8 x 0.8 m, delivers 80W power, and has a soft polyester cover with a triple layer insulation system.
    3. The blanket includes smart temperature control, a heating timetable via the Xiaomi Mijia app, and voice command support through Xiao AI.
    4. Safety features include an 8-layer safety system, 3C certification, and low radiation certification.
    5. The product is currently crowdfunding at CNY 179 (about $25) in China, with general availability and pricing yet to be confirmed.


    The Xiaomi Mijia Smart Electric Blanket Single Model is currently raising funds in China. This innovative home gadget aims to enhance your sleep experience, while also providing features to eliminate mites and reduce mattress humidity.

    Product Specifications

    The Mijia Smart Electric Blanket has dimensions of 1.8 x 0.8 m (approximately 5.9 x 2.6 ft), making it ideal for single beds. It is reported to deliver 80W of power through “barely noticeable heating wires,” accompanied by a triple layer insulation system. The blanket has a cover made from polyester fabric, which is described as soft to the touch, and includes polyester filling.

    Features and Functionality

    This smart electric blanket comes with a smart sleep temperature option, which adjusts heating levels throughout the night to promote restful sleep. Users can configure a heating timetable via the Xiaomi Mijia app, and it can integrate with other smart home devices. It includes a high-temperature drying mode to eliminate mites or to dry bedding in damp conditions. Additionally, it supports Xiao AI, enabling users to turn the blanket on or off using voice commands. There is also a physical controller equipped with a large display. Safety is prioritized with an 8-layer safety system that guards against overheating, short circuits, and overloads, and it holds 3C and low radiation certifications, ensuring its safety for all ages.

    Pricing and Availability

    On the Xiaomi Youpin platform in China, backers can contribute CNY 179 (around $25) to receive the Xiaomi Mijia Smart Electric Blanket Single Model, with shipments set to commence from October 24th. It remains uncertain when this product will be available for general purchase at its retail price of CNY 239 (approximately $34). It is also not clear if or when Xiaomi plans to introduce this device to other markets such as Europe, where it recently released the Robot Vacuum 5 Pro (€799.99 at Mi Store DE).

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  • Aqara Launches New Shutter Switch with Thread and Zigbee Support

    Aqara Launches New Shutter Switch with Thread and Zigbee Support

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Aqara H2 EU Shutter Switch is designed for motorized roller blinds and awnings, with a user-friendly interface featuring four buttons for controlling positions and smart home scenes.

    2. Users can customize blind positions from 1% to 100% and schedule operations through the app, along with tracking energy consumption.

    3. The device supports Zigbee and Thread connectivity, allowing integration with various Aqara devices and Matter-compatible ecosystems, such as Apple Home and Google Home.

    4. It requires a Matter Controller or Thread Edge Router for full functionality with smart home systems.

    5. The H2 EU Shutter Switch is priced at £59.99 or €59.99 and is available in select European countries, with no current availability information for the US.


    The Aqara H2 EU Shutter Switch is now launched in Europe. This device is specifically made for motorized roller blinds and awnings and adds to the brand’s collection of smart home items for this region, such as the Light Switch H2 EU.

    Features and Functions

    The H2 EU Shutter Switch from Aqara features four buttons divided into two panels for up and down controls. The left panel is responsible for adjusting the blinds’ positions. Users can utilize the app to pick an opening position anywhere from 1% to 100%. This setting can be activated through the buttons or can be programmed to operate at a certain time. The other two buttons can trigger various smart home scenes or manage other devices, working with single press, double press, and press-and-hold actions. An indicator LED provides feedback during use, and energy consumption can be tracked via the app.

    Connectivity Options

    This Shutter Switch is compatible with both Zigbee and Thread protocols. Zigbee allows connections to a wide array of Aqara smart home devices, while Thread enables direct integration with Matter compatible ecosystems, such as Apple Home, Google Home, and Home Assistant. It’s important to note, however, that users will need a Matter Controller or a Thread Edge Router for this capability. The device has dimensions of 86 x 86 x 11 mm (approximately 3.4 x 3.4 x 0.4 inches) and fits into 55 mm (around 2.1 inches) modular systems.

    Pricing and Availability

    You can purchase the Aqara H2 EU Shutter Switch at the brand’s official website and on Amazon in several European nations, including the UK, Netherlands, Spain, and Germany, for £59.99 or €59.99. It remains uncertain if or when this product will be available in other regions like the US.

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  • Gemini for Home: Google’s New Household Assistant Replacement

    Gemini for Home: Google’s New Household Assistant Replacement

    Key Takeaways

    1. Advanced Features: Gemini for Home incorporates enhanced reasoning, inference, and search capabilities, allowing users to execute multiple commands in one phrase and engage in fluid conversations.

    2. Proactive Role: Google aims to shift Gemini’s role from a reactive assistant to a proactive helper, competing with advanced assistants like Amazon’s Alexa Plus.

    3. Market Update: The rollout of Gemini for Home is considered one of the most significant updates for Google Home in years, addressing gaps in smart home technology.

    4. Pricing and Security: Specific pricing and availability of premium features are unclear, with a focus on security and data protection for seamless integration with essential devices.

    5. Future Launch Plans: A staggered launch is set to begin in October 2025, with new Nest hardware expected, emphasizing the growing importance of voice assistance in daily life.


    According to Google, the new Gemini for Home represents a major advancement in smart home technology. This assistant aims to ultimately take over from the existing Google Assistant found on Nest speakers and displays, allowing it to handle more sophisticated and subtle voice commands.

    Enhanced Capabilities

    As Google has pointed out, Gemini for Home is built on the latest and most powerful Gemini models. The assistant enhances existing features with “advanced reasoning, inference and search capabilities.” This means that it can handle questions across various services and execute multiple commands in a single phrase. For instance, users might say, “Dim the lights and set the temp to 72 degrees.” Additionally, the new Gemini Live conversation feature enables a more fluid dialogue after the initial command “Hey Google, let’s chat,” eliminating the need to repeat the wake word constantly.

    Competing in the Market

    The Verge notes that the rollout of Gemini for Home is happening when competitors like Amazon have already launched a similarly advanced assistant called Alexa Plus. Google is thus filling a gap in its smart home offerings while indicating that it plans to shift the assistant’s role from being just a reactive tool to becoming a more proactive helper in daily life. The Verge has highlighted Gemini for Home as one of the most significant updates for Google Home in several years.

    Future Considerations

    Details about the pricing and availability of specific premium features remain uncertain. Google has mentioned both free and paid options, but hasn’t revealed specifics yet. Furthermore, the seamless integration with essential devices, like locks and heating systems, demands a greater focus on security and data protection. This indicates that Google will likely implement phased rollouts and thorough testing procedures.

    With a staggered launch beginning in October 2025 and potential new Nest hardware expected in the fall, Google is gearing up for a future where voice assistance becomes more embedded in daily routines, as noted by The Verge. As AI voice assistants become increasingly complex, users will need to carefully investigate features, data protection measures, and subscription costs to choose the option that best fits their needs.

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  • Xiaomi Launches Smart Air Conditioner with Optional Presence Sensor

    Xiaomi Launches Smart Air Conditioner with Optional Presence Sensor

    Key Takeaways

    1. Xiaomi introduced two new Mijia Central Air Conditioner models: a 3HP unit with 1,350 m³/h circulation and a 4HP unit with 1,580 m³/h circulation.
    2. The air conditioners can heat a room in 60 seconds and cool it in 30 seconds, functioning efficiently in temperatures from -35 to 60°C (~-31 to 140°F).
    3. The models feature an energy-saving algorithm that reduces energy consumption by 21.8% compared to similar models without it, with APF ratings of 4.72 for the 3HP and 4.5 for the 4HP.
    4. Users can control the air conditioners via a wired controller or upgrade to the Mi Family Sensor Air Control Panel, which includes features like automatic shutoff and airflow direction based on room occupancy.
    5. The 3HP model is priced at CNY 9,999 (~$1,398) and the 4HP model at CNY 11,999 (~$1,677), with uncertain availability in markets outside of China.


    Xiaomi has introduced two fresh Mijia Central Air Conditioner Super Energy Saving Duct Units. The smaller model, which is 3HP, has an air circulation volume of 1,350 m³/h, while the larger 4HP model offers a circulation volume of 1,580 m³/h.

    Performance and Features

    This new Mijia Central Air Conditioner is capable of both heating and cooling. Xiaomi claims it can heat a room in just 60 seconds and cool it in about 30 seconds. Moreover, it operates efficiently in a wide temperature range from -35 to 60°C (~-31 to 140°F). The company asserts that its energy-saving algorithm can reduce energy consumption by 21.8% when compared to the same model lacking this feature. The 3HP model has an annual performance factor (APF) of 4.72, while the 4HP version has an APF index of 4.5.

    Smart Control Options

    The Mijia Central Air Conditioner comes with a standard wired controller, but users have the choice to upgrade to the Mi Family Sensor Air Control Panel. This advanced panel includes two dual mmWave radars for detecting people. As a result, you can program the air conditioner to turn off automatically when no one is present in the room, or to direct airflow specifically towards or away from people. The device also supports HyperOS connect, allowing remote control through the Xiaomi app, where users can initiate OTA updates as well. Additional features include a built-in air filter and self-cleaning options.

    Pricing and Market Availability

    The retail prices for the Xiaomi Mijia Central Air Conditioner Super Energy Saving Duct Units are CNY 9,999 (~$1,398) for the 3HP version and CNY 11,999 (~$1,677) for the 4HP variant. It remains uncertain whether these models will be available in other markets, such as Europe, where the release of two smart air conditioners is anticipated soon.

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  • Affordable Xiaomi Robot Vacuum S40C Now Available for Purchase

    Affordable Xiaomi Robot Vacuum S40C Now Available for Purchase

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Xiaomi Robot Vacuum S40C is priced at €159.99 for a limited time, down from the regular price of €189.99, and is currently available in Italy and Germany.
    2. It features a suction power of up to 5,000 Pa and offers four cleaning modes: Silent, Standard, Strong, and Turbo, along with three adjustable water output levels for mopping.
    3. The vacuum has a 520 ml dustbin and a 260 ml clean water tank.
    4. It uses an LDS laser navigation system for 360° room scanning and allows users to customize saved maps via the Xiaomi Home app.
    5. The vacuum supports scheduling, OTA updates, live progress tracking, and can be controlled remotely with voice commands through Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant.


    Xiaomi has introduced the Robot Vacuum S40C to the European market. This innovative smart home device was first showcased on the company’s global site in May 2025, revealing several of its key features.

    Pricing and Availability

    Currently, consumers in nations such as Italy and Germany can purchase the Xiaomi Robot Vacuum S40C from the official online store for €159.99, which is a special introductory price compared to the regular retail price of €189.99. Additionally, information from Mi Store UK and a product page on Amazon Netherlands suggests that this model will soon become available in more European countries.

    Features and Capabilities

    The features of the Xiaomi Robot Vacuum S40C align with its affordable price tag. It boasts a suction power of up to 5,000 Pa, and users can select from four different cleaning modes: Silent, Standard, Strong, and Turbo. For mopping, there are three adjustable water output levels that let you control the water flow according to your flooring needs. The dustbin can hold 520 ml, while the clean water tank has a capacity of 260 ml.

    Navigation and Control

    Equipped with an LDS laser navigation system, the Xiaomi Robot Vacuum S40C scans rooms in 360° and allows users to customize saved maps through the Xiaomi Home app. It also features sensors for obstacle detection, enabling it to navigate over barriers and objects that are up to 20 mm (approximately 0.8 inches) high. Other functionalities available via the app include scheduling, over the air (OTA) updates, and live progress tracking. Furthermore, users can control the vacuum remotely using voice commands through Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant. It remains unclear exactly when the Xiaomi Robot Vacuum S40C will become available in additional markets.

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  • New Xiaomi Smart Display with Pan-Tilt-Zoom Camera Released

    New Xiaomi Smart Display with Pan-Tilt-Zoom Camera Released

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Xiaomi Smart Home Display 8 Gimbal Edition is priced at approximately US$100 and is currently launched in China.
    2. It features a unique 360° rotating camera with a 5 MP resolution and infrared light for night visibility up to 10 m (33 ft).
    3. The camera design allows for tilting but cannot capture an entire room at once.
    4. The display measures 8 inches and includes AI integration, voice commands, Bluetooth 5.2, and support for Xiaomi Mesh 2.0.
    5. It is uncertain if this specific model will be released globally in its current version.


    The Xiaomi Smart Home Display 8 Gimbal Edition has been officially introduced in China for approximately US$100, adding to the brand’s expanding collection of smart home displays. While Xiaomi has a wide array of smart home products available worldwide, it’s uncertain if this particular item will be released globally in its current version.

    Unique Camera Design

    A key feature of the Smart Home Display 8 Gimbal Edition is its camera. Instead of being fixed in place, the camera sits on top of the device, allowing it to spin 360° for a full view of the area. However, this design does have a drawback: it cannot observe an entire room at once. The camera also has a slight tilting capability for better positioning. As per the official details, the sensor has a resolution of 5 MP, which is generally enough to produce clear images – even at night. The device can use its 940 nm infrared light to light up objects as far as 10 m (around 33 ft) away.

    Display and Connectivity Features

    The display itself has a diagonal measurement of 8 inches and can show a variety of (hopefully) useful information. Other features that have been highlighted include AI integration, voice command functionality, Bluetooth 5.2, and support for Xiaomi Mesh 2.0.

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  • Xiaomi Robot Vacuum H40 with Anti-Tangle Tool Launches in Europe

    Xiaomi Robot Vacuum H40 with Anti-Tangle Tool Launches in Europe

    Key Takeaways

    1. Powerful Cleaning Modes: The Robot Vacuum H40 offers up to 10,000 Pa suction power with four modes: Quiet, Standard, Strong, and Turbo, plus anti-tangle technology for hair management.

    2. Smart Navigation and Battery Life: It features an LDS navigation system and a 5,200 mAh battery, providing up to 180 minutes of cleaning on a single charge, with automatic docking for recharging.

    3. Hands-Free Cleaning: The docking station can automatically empty the dustbin into a larger 4L capacity bin, allowing for up to 90 days of hands-free cleaning.

    4. App and Voice Control: Users can customize settings through the Xiaomi Home app and control the device using voice commands via Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant.

    5. Pricing and Availability: The Robot Vacuum H40 is available in Germany for €249.99, with plans for broader availability across Europe soon.


    Xiaomi has launched the Robot Vacuum H40 in Europe. At the moment, it is available in Germany, with plans to expand to other countries in the region soon. This smart home device made its debut in China in 2024 and has recently been introduced alongside the S40 in Singapore.

    Powerful Cleaning Modes

    The Robot Vacuum H40 provides suction power of up to 10,000 Pa, offering four different modes: Quiet, Standard, Strong, and Turbo. A notable feature is its anti-tangle technology, designed to keep hair from getting stuck. The system includes a comb-like attachment next to the V-shaped central roller brush. Furthermore, it has an anti-tangle side brush that helps collect hair along the room’s edges. For mopping, there is a 210 ml water tank that allows you to adjust the water flow according to your preferences. The device is capable of vacuuming and mopping at the same time, with customizable settings accessible through the Xiaomi Home app.

    Smart Navigation and Long Battery Life

    Xiaomi’s Robot Vacuum H40 utilizes an LDS navigation system for efficient movement throughout your home. The 5,200 mAh battery is claimed to provide up to 180 minutes of cleaning on a single charge. The robot will return to its docking station to recharge when needed. Additionally, the docking station has the ability to automatically empty the onboard dustbin into a larger 4L capacity bin, enabling up to 90 days of hands-free cleaning. Besides the app, users can also control the device using voice commands through Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant.

    Pricing and Availability

    You can purchase the Xiaomi Robot Vacuum H40 from the brand’s online store in Germany for €249.99, which is a reduction from the original price of €299.99. Support pages on Xiaomi’s UK website suggest that it will soon be available in that country as well. Moreover, Amazon listings in countries such as the Netherlands and Spain indicate that the product is expected to be launched more broadly across Europe in the upcoming weeks and months.

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  • Yeelight T1 Smart Track Socket: New Xiaomi Ecosystem Device

    Yeelight T1 Smart Track Socket: New Xiaomi Ecosystem Device

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Yeelight T1 Smart Track Socket is a modular home gadget that can extend up to 80 cm and support up to eight adapters.
    2. It features two types of adapters: one with a five-pin socket (up to 2,500W) and another with USB-C and USB-A ports (max 20W).
    3. A built-in 3.2-inch touchscreen allows users to monitor power consumption, view time and weather, and control smart home devices.
    4. The device includes a light strip with adjustable brightness and a radar sensor that activates the light when someone is detected nearby.
    5. Pricing starts at CNY 399 (around $55) during crowdfunding, with an expected price of CNY 699 (about $97) after the campaign, and it may not be available in North America or Europe.


    The Yeelight T1 Smart Track Socket is currently being crowdfunded on Xiaomi Youpin, primarily in China. This innovative home gadget is modular, with tracks extending up to 80 cm (about 31.5 inches) and capable of supporting as many as eight adapters.

    Adapter Features

    The Yeelight T1 Smart Track Socket comes with two different types of adapters that can be easily attached or removed from the rail by twisting. One of the adapters includes a five-pin socket that allows for an output of up to 2,500W. The other adapter is equipped with both a USB-C and a USB-A port, offering a max output of 20W. Overall, the track socket can handle a total output of 8,000W, and users can monitor power consumption via the smart 3.2-inch touchscreen located on the device’s left side. This display also provides information such as the time and weather, and it allows for controlling connected smart home devices.

    Lighting and Sensor Features

    Another standout feature of the T1 Smart Track Socket is its built-in light strip, which emits a warm ambient light at 3,000 K and has adjustable brightness settings. It also has a 24 GHz radar sensor that can activate the light or touchscreen when someone is detected within 1.5 m (approximately 4.9 ft) of the device. The product claims to have several safety features, including overload alerts. As part of the Xiaomi ecosystem, it can be managed remotely using the Xiaomi app and supports voice commands via Xiao AI. The overall design includes an aluminum panel and measures 82 mm (around 3.2 inches) in height and 42 mm (about 1.7 inches) in depth, including the adapters.

    Pricing and Availability

    On Xiaomi Youpin, the pricing for the Yeelight T1 Smart Track Socket sets starts at CNY 399 (around $55) for a 50 cm (approximately 19.7 inches) track equipped with three five-hole adapters. The product page indicates that this kit will be priced at CNY 699 (about $97) once the crowdfunding phase is complete. At the moment, it seems unlikely that this smart home product will be available in markets such as North America or Europe. Nevertheless, Xiaomi does offer a variety of smart lighting products in regions like the US, including the RGBIC LED Basic Strip Lights (20 ft set currently priced at $14.99 on Amazon).

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  • New Xiaomi Smart Hot Water Purifier with Faucet Now Available

    New Xiaomi Smart Hot Water Purifier with Faucet Now Available

    Key Takeaways

    1. Three-Part System: The Mijia Instant Hot Water Purifier 1200G includes a smart tap and two under-sink units for effective water purification and heating.

    2. Advanced Filtration: It features PPC and RO filters that eliminate 99.9% of heavy metals and certain bacteria, with the RO filter lasting up to five years.

    3. Instant Heating: The purifier provides hot water instantly, reaching temperatures up to 95°C (~203°F) with a flow rate of 1,000 ml/min (~33.8 fl. oz/min).

    4. Smart Connectivity: Users can monitor water quality and control settings via the Xiaomi app, including temperature adjustments and mode switching.

    5. Pricing and Availability: The product retails for CNY 3,999 (~$555) in China, with no current plans for availability outside the country.


    Xiaomi has introduced the Mijia Instant Hot Water Purifier 1200G in China. This innovative smart home gadget comes as a set of three parts, featuring a smart tap along with two under-sink units designed to purify and heat the water effectively.

    Filtration and Features

    The filtration tank of the Mijia Instant Hot Water Purifier 1200G is equipped with PPC and RO filters, with the RO filter expected to have a lifespan of five years. Xiaomi claims that these filters can eliminate 99.9% of heavy metals and some bacteria types. The included faucet has a magnetic knob that allows users to easily switch between room temperature and hot water modes.

    Instant Heating Capabilities

    According to reports, the heating tank in Xiaomi’s Instant Hot Water Purifier provides instant hot water whenever the tap is turned on. Users can choose from a variety of temperatures, reportedly reaching up to 95°C (~203°F). When hot water is dispensed, it flows at a rate of 1,000 ml/min (~33.8 fl. oz/min), which means a 150 ml (~5.1 fl. oz) cup can be filled in just nine seconds. For room temperature water, the flow rate is 3.18L/m (~108 fl. oz/min), allowing 500 ml of water to be dispensed in about nine seconds.

    Smart Features and App Connectivity

    The smart faucet features a display that shows the TDS value and current settings, enabling users to adjust the temperature right on the tap. Thanks to HyperOS Connect, users can monitor water quality and consumption data through the Xiaomi app. Additionally, the app allows for remote adjustments of the dispensed water’s temperature and volume, along with switching between the two outlet modes.

    In China, the retail price for the Xiaomi Mijia Instant Hot Water Purifier 1200G is CNY 3,999 (~$555). Currently, there have been no announcements regarding the product’s availability outside of China. However, in Europe, such as Germany, Xiaomi already offers other kitchen appliances like the Smart Water Dispenser (Hot and Cold) for €119.99 at the Mi Store Germany.

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  • New Xiaomi Air Conditioner with Air Quality Indicator Launches

    New Xiaomi Air Conditioner with Air Quality Indicator Launches

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Xiaomi Mijia Air Conditioner Healthy Wind 1.5HP is an affordable alternative to the Pro version, offering cooling, heating, and air purification functions.
    2. It has a strong air circulation rate of 780 m³/h and can cool or heat a room quickly, in just 30 seconds and 60 seconds, respectively.
    3. The air conditioner features a health filter that removes harmful substances like formaldehyde and bacteria, claiming to eliminate 99.99% of the H1N1 virus.
    4. Users can monitor air quality through the Xiaomi app, and the unit has a self-cleaning mode that operates at high temperatures.
    5. Priced at CNY 2,999 (around $417), it is currently available for pre-order in China, with no confirmed plans for international availability.


    The Xiaomi Mijia Air Conditioner Healthy Wind 1.5HP has been launched in China. This latest version is a more affordable alternative to the Air Conditioner Pro Healthy Wind 1.5HP. It offers functionality for cooling, heating, and air purification.

    Specifications Overview

    The Mijia Air Conditioner Healthy Wind 1.5HP boasts an air circulation rate of 780 m³/h (approximately 27,545 ft³/h) and comes with a 108 mm (around 4.3 inches) air vent. With a cooling capacity of 850W and a heating capacity of 1,290W, it claims to cool a room in just 30 seconds and heat it in 60 seconds. Users can select from various wind modes and speeds, with the quietest setting producing only 18 dBA of sound. These options are easily adjustable using the supplied remote or via the Xiaomi app.

    Health Benefits and Features

    This intelligent air conditioner includes an optional health filter that effectively eliminates formaldehyde, bacteria, and dust particles from the air. Xiaomi asserts that it can eradicate 99.99% of the Influenza A virus subtype H1N1 and 95% of grass pollen. Additionally, it features a self-cleaning mode that reaches up to 56°C (approximately 133°F). Users can monitor the levels of formaldehyde, PM2.5, and CO2 in the air through the app, and the color of the light around the built-in display indicates the air quality.

    Pricing and Availability

    The Xiaomi Mijia Air Conditioner Healthy Wind 1.5HP has an APF rating of 5.32 and is compatible with HyperOS Connect. The internal unit is finished in white and measures 860 x 311 x 208 mm (about 33.9 x 12.2 x 8.2 inches). It is currently available for pre-order in China, priced at CNY 2,999 (around $417). For comparison, the Xiaomi Mijia Air Conditioner Pro Healthy Wind 1.5HP is priced at CNY 3,699 (about $513). It remains uncertain whether this product will be available in other international markets.

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