Smart Home

Xiaomi recently introduced a new AI-powered smart camera that promises exceptional image quality and dynamic range. Depending on lighting conditions, it can even capture colour images at night. Availability remains limited for now.

The Philips Hue software version 1.122.8/20250213 has arrived. The company has yet to officially announce this release, though it has already been reported by multiple users. It appears to be a relatively minor update bringing bug fixes to the brand’s smart lamps and light fixtures.

Anyone using a Nest Doorbell or a surveillance camera from Google's subsidiary will have to pay 25 to 33% more for the corresponding Nest Aware subscription, which is almost indispensable for using the cameras.

A new Philips Hue smart spotlight accessory has arrived in Europe: the MR16 transformer. This product is designed for use with one of the brand’s smart bulbs, which requires a transformer to operate safely. However, this could be an expensive option, given that the Philips Hue MR16 bulbs are compatible with other transformers.

The Xiaomi Mijia Washing Machine Washing and Drying 12kg has been released in China. This new large drum model is suitable for families, washing up to 12 kg loads and drying up to 9 kg loads. It features an AI laundry assistant, Hyper OS Connect and can be remotely controlled through the brand’s app or voice assistant.

Home Assistant app version 2025.6 for iOS and Android has arrived. It brings a few changes to users of the open source smart home automation software, including an improvement for server organization. Plus, for Apple device users, there is said to be a fix for an issue which occurred when the server was disconnected.

The LG StanbyME 2 is a portable 27-inch QHD smart display with a detachable design, Dolby Atmos speakers, and an α8 AI processor. It runs webOS 24, supports voice control, and offers up to 4 hours of battery life for flexible, cable-free use around the home.

Govee has released the Outdoor Spotlights 2 in the UK and has announced their upcoming launch in the US. Originally released in Europe earlier in 2025, these upgraded smart lights are said to be brighter than the original model. Other features include app-based controls, support for voice commands and Matter compatibility.

The Xiaomi Mijia Air Conditioner Pro Eco 2.6 kW and Mijia Air Conditioner Pro Eco 3.5 kW have appeared on the brand’s global website. These two products will be the first of their kind to be sold by the company internationally and are expected to be released in Europe. Each offers rapid heating and cooling, with app-based controls and support for Google Assistant.

EcoFlow and Shelly have released another joint product, a Smart Meter. This gadget is designed for use with EcoFlow’s Stream solar power plants, allowing users to track their energy consumption in real-time. Plus, it can be used to intelligently optimize energy storage, helping you to further reduce your bills.

Baseus is launching the S2, a new outdoor surveillance camera. Thanks to its battery and solar cell, the model provides virtually unlimited runtime without requiring attention, even without a wired power supply.

The Baseus S1 Lite is a new security camera designed especially for outdoor use. Equipped with a built-in battery and solar panel, it can operate without requiring a wired power connection.

Wanbo has revealed a new projector: the 2025 Mozart 1 Pro. This is an upgraded version of the original Mozart 1 Pro, with increased brightness, Google TV and more powerful integrated speakers. Other features include a gimbal stand, an automatic focus tool and an HDMI 2.0 port.

Shelly is now offering a new smart switch for smart home enthusiasts. It has two separate channels and is compatible with the Matter standard, which should make it quite versatile.

The Aqara Camera G100 is now available in countries globally. Designed for outdoor use, this model features a 2K camera and an integrated spotlight. Tools include night vision, local human presence detection and support for Apple HomeKit Secure Video, though at a lower video resolution.

The IKEA smart home product range is expanding in early 2026. In a recent statement, the company has teased more than 20 new devices which will support the Matter standard. Each can be connected to the brand’s Dirigera Hub, through which they will be able to integrate with other smart home ecosystems.

Xiaomi has released the new Mijia Desktop Water Purifier Cold Boiled Water Edition in China. This device is said to boil water, then rapidly cool it before serving at room temperature for enhanced purification. Users can set the volume and temperature of water dispensed, and presets can be triggered via NFC.

Aqara has officially released its new Doorbell Camera Hub G410. Features include a 2K camera, a mmWave presence sensor, on-device facial recognition and a voice changing tool. There are two versions of the product, standard and Select variants, which appear to offer different cloud storage options.

The Hisense 116UX Mini-LED RGB TV has started to roll out to more markets worldwide. Launched in China earlier this year, the model is now listed on the brand's US website and at a couple of retailers. Plus, the 116-inch UXQ TV has been spotted on the company's site in Spain.

The IKEA Blomprakt speaker lamp has been revealed. The hybrid device will be available in multiple colors, each featuring an angled shade. This upcoming product arrives alongside another Bluetooth speaker and is expected to launch globally later in 2025.

Philips Hue has shared an update for users of its smart home app. Version 5.46 appears to be a relatively minor release, lacking in new features or improvements. However, a feature has been unlocked for users of the brand’s smart lights in one particular country.

The IKEA Nattbad Bluetooth speaker has been released in various countries. This new device’s design is inspired by an old-fashioned radio, with three colors on offer. Features include a multi-speaker mode and support for Spotify Tap, making it easier to start a new listening session.

Samsung's QLED TVs have secured a "Real Quantum Dot" certification from TUV Rheinland, confirming the technology delivers 100 percent color volume for vivid picture quality.

CheckMag Smart doorbells, thermostats, and IoT sensors have made it exponentially easier for homeowners to reduce the risk of damage to their properties. As such, some insurance companies have started offering discounts to owners who utilize these smart home gadgets.

Xiaomi has launched the Mijia Water Purifier S1 1200G in China. This new smart home device is designed for the kitchen, with filtered water delivered through the accompanying tap. The faucet features a touch display, with further settings and features available through the brand’s app.

The LG OLED evo AI M5 4K Smart TV 2025 is on the way to stores globally. Already available at retailers in the UK and Austria, this model is offered in four sizes up to 98 inches. Features include an accompanying Zero Connect Box for a wireless setup, and a 45% brighter display than its predecessor.

Xiaomi has launched the new Xiaomi Mijia Air Conditioner Pro Super Energy Saving Vertical 2HP Super Class 1 Energy Efficiency in China. This powerful smart air conditioner is said to have enhanced efficiency thanks to AI. It also has a wider air outlet, a large air circulation volume and support for HyperOS Connect.

Aqara has listed the Camera Doorbell Hub G410 Select at its UK online store. The company is also teasing this product on social media, suggesting that its launch is imminent. Features of the smart video doorbell include a mmWave radar presence sensor, facial recognition and support for Matter.

Xiaomi has released a new smart home product in China: the Mijia Air Conditioner Super Energy Saving Vertical 2 HP. The company claims that this is one of its most energy efficient models to date. It is said to deliver fast cooling or heating with a self-cleaning mode and support for HyperOS Connect.

TCL has released the Q8C QD-MiniLED TV in Europe. Features of the 4K TV include a WHVA panel with a native 7,000:1 contrast ratio, a 144 Hz native refresh rate and support for Dolby Vision IQ and Dolby Atmos. Available in four sizes up to 98 inches, it is identical to models released by the brand earlier this year.

Those looking for mobile cooling for heat waves, camping and the like will be in good hands with the EcoFlow Wave 3. We recently reviewed the portable air conditioner in order to determine its strengths and weaknesses.

The Navimow X3 robotic lawnmower scored very well in our review. However, its crowning feature of perfect edge mowing with an attachable edge trimmer leaves one crucial question unanswered.

The Airseekers Tron robotic lawn mower can now be purchased at Amazon in several European countries. Described as a mulching mower, the robot uses cameras rather than a boundary wire to navigate your lawn. Backers of the original Kickstarter campaign for the robot have expressed their frustration that the product is listed at Amazon before all existing orders have been fulfilled.

Govee’s Smart Air Purifier 2 has been launched in various European countries. It arrives as an upgraded version of the original GoveeLife product, with an integrated PM2.5 sensor for intelligent setting adjustments. Other features include mood lighting, app-based controls and support for Amazon Alexa.

Signify is rumored to be working on a new Philips Hue COB strip light product. A recent report suggests that this technology could improve the brand’s smart strip light offering in several ways. These benefits are said to include a smoother appearance and enhanced brightness.

The IKEA Dirigera Hub can now act as a Matter controller. Currently in beta testing, this feature arrives a few months after the smart home hub became a Matter bridge. The latest release for the Dirigera Hub also brings an unpopular change for users of the brand's smart lights.

Eufy's Smart Display E10 is now on general sale in the US. Available at the brand's online store and on Amazon, this 8-inch touchscreen allows you to view multiple live streams from smart home security devices. While the company bills this as a smart home hub, it has somewhat limited functionality.

Loewe just released its largest smart TV to date: the stellar 97. Equipped with a massive 97-inch OLED panel, this flagship model is made in Germany and combines premium materials with smart features.

The Anker eufy NVR Security System S4 Max has officially launched worldwide and is now available in more European countries. Plus, in the UK, customers can currently sign up to receive a discount on the product when it launches in the near future. This smart home security solution includes four cameras and a network video recorder (NVR) with a local AI agent.

With power outages becoming the norm in summer, the FOSSiBOT F3600 Pro is a one-stop solution for all your energy needs. The F3600 Pro's capacity can be expanded as required and can power even heavy-duty appliances with ease. Together with FOSSiBOT's own SP420 solar panels, the F3600 Pro is getting some great discounts this time, making for a veritable power backup system both indoors and out.

TCL has unveiled a new smart home gadget, the D2 Pro smart door lock, in the US. TCL’s new smart home accessory comes with AI-powered palm vein recognition that is advertised as being able to open the door in just 0.3 seconds. The smart lock also features a built-in 10,000 mAh rechargeable battery, doorbell, IP55 water resistance, Amazon Alexa, and Google Voice Assistant support.

The Dreame Light Bulb L11 and the Dreame Strip Lights P11 have appeared in the Connectivity Standards Alliance (CSA) database. These smart lighting products are now certified for Matter version 1.3. While Dreame has yet to officially announce these new devices, the database reveals a couple of details about them.

Home Assistant’s 2025.7 release has arrived for users. This latest version of the smart home automation software brings a new Ask Question action, allowing the voice assistant to ask users questions. Other changes include redesigned Area cards and Areas dashboard overview, and new integration sub-entries.

Xiaomi has released the Smart Ceiling Light D20 in one European country and has indicated that it will be rolled out across the region. This is a motion-triggered smart light, thanks to an integrated radar sensor. Other features include Xiaomi HyperOS Connect and support for Amazon Alexa and Google Home.

Jmgo has released two new portable projectors worldwide: the PicoPlay and the PicoPlay+. These are said to offer up to 450 ISO lumens brightness, throwing images with a 1080p resolution. Features include Google TV, an integrated battery and a built-in speaker. Plus, the company is offering a discount for early customers.

Govee’s upcoming Light Wall is now Matter certified by the Connectivity Standards Alliance (CSA). This unreleased smart home product is said to be suitable for indoor or outdoor use, offering various dynamic lighting effects. Plus, its model number indicates that it is similar to an older Govee product.