Smart Home

Xiaomi has launched the Smart Tower Heater Lite in EU countries, including France, Spain and Italy. The gadget can generate warmth in three seconds with various heating modes, such as a smart temperature maintenance setting. You can control the smart home device remotely via the Xiaomi app or voice commands.

The Connectivity Standards Alliance (CSA) has just introduced version 1.2 of the Matter smart home standard, which adds support for nine new IoT device types including appliances and safety sensors. It also improves device identification, representation and organisation, allowing users to access their devices in a more useful and natural way.

The launch date and pricing for the IKEA PARASOLL and VALLHORN smart home sensors have been announced. The PARASOLL can detect if a window or door is open, while the VALLHORN motion sensor triggers smart lights. The products must be connected to the DIRIGERA hub to enable smartphone notifications and controls.

IKEA has unveiled the BADRING, a smart home sensor to detect water leaks in your house. The new gadget, which must be linked to the DIRIGERA hub, can trigger alerts on your smartphone in the case of a leak. The product has been announced alongside two other smart sensors, all launching in 2024.

The TV S Pro 85 is Xiaomi's latest Smart TV, and one which it presented alongside the Xiaomi 14, Xiaomi 14 Pro, Xiaomi Watch S3 and Xiaomi Watch H1. Spanning 85-inches, the Xiaomi TV S Pro 85 has 1,440 Mini LED zones that deliver up to 2,400 nits peak brightness. The new Smart TV can also run at 240 Hz with its gaming mode enabled or 144 Hz and 4K in other modes.

Paris Rhône has unveiled the SP005 4K Projector, which can now be pre-ordered in the US. The model has an LCD light source producing up to 600 ANSI lumens brightness, with support for HDR10+. Other features of the projector include Android 9.0, a built-in 24W speaker system and autofocus.

Images of a HomePod 3 prototype have turned up online. According to various sources, the third-generation smart speaker will have a touchscreen display element, for which Apple is already optimising various tvOS apps.

Xiaomi has launched a pre-order event for the Xiaomi Mijia Vertical Learning Lamp in China. The smart home device, designed for children, casts light upwards and downwards for ambient and focused lighting. You can control the gadget via a Bluetooth remote, voice commands and the Mijia app.

The new Vankyo Vista T4 laser projector has been unleashed on the US market with "advanced" ALPD 4.0 technology for a "cinematic experience". It is rated to throw a 150-inch image in "native 4K" from less than 20 inches away from the wall in question, and also packs 2-channel 60W speakers with Dolby Audio and DTS for a potentially all-in-one home theater package.

Lenovo has made the Xiaoxin Pad 2024 official as its latest Android tablet. The slate is touted as a thin and light device with a "high-definition eye-protecting" screen, yet is also touted at the budget end of the market with a starting price of US$150 - or even less during its introductory sales event. It has launched alongside other gadgets such as a "stress-relieving" USB stick as part of the latest Xiaoxin series event in China.

Xiaomi is expected to shortly launch the Outdoor Camera CW400 in markets globally. The security camera captures images in 2.5K, with a full-color night vision mode. Other features include two-way voice communications, audible and visual alarms and smart human detection app notifications.

The JMGO Nano PTZ Projector is now available to pre-order in China. The gadget can be tilted up to 127°, allowing you to throw images up to 150-in (~381 cm) wide on your wall or ceiling. Other features of the compact model include 500 CVIA lumens brightness, built-in speakers and voice commands.

Lenovo has revealed the Xiaoxin 100S projector in China, with a pre-order campaign starting this November. The cheaper 1080p model has up to 270 CVIA lumens brightness and can throw images up to 150-in (~381 cm) wide. Other features of the Android projector include automatic image-perfecting tools and built-in speakers.

The Neakasa M1 is a cat litter box that stands out not only because of its open design, but also because of its self-cleaning function. This means that cat owners don't have to clean the litter box as frequently as before.

Hisense has launched its C1 TriChroma Laser Mini Projector in the US and Europe. The gadget has up to 1,600 ANSI lumens brightness and can throw images up to 300-in (~762 cm) wide. Other features include built-in speakers, Apple AirPlay or Miracast screencasting and support for Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos.

Redmi has launched the 2024 edition of its Smart TV A75 in China. The 75-in 4K UHD model has a native 60 Hz refresh rate. Compared to its predecessor, the new version has a gaming mode with 120Hz motion rate, extra storage and improved connectivity. Other features include voice controls and built-in speakers.

Xiaomi has launched a larger 85-in model in its TV A Pro series. The 4K UHD device has a native 60 Hz refresh rate, with a 120Hz motion rate activated in a gaming mode. Other features include voice commands, screencasting from a mobile device and a built-in 20W sound system supporting DTS.

Xiaomi has launched a crowdfunding campaign for the Smart Door Lock E20 Wi-Fi version in China. The gadget allows you to unlock the door with your fingerprint, phone, or password. Other features include an integrated doorbell, unusual activity app notifications and a backup physical key.

Xiaomi subsidiary Linptech has launched a crowdfunding campaign for the Smart Curtain Motor C4 in China. The gadget is battery-powered, recharging via an accompanying solar panel for a technically infinite run time. The device lets you control your curtains with voice commands, an app, or a Bluetooth smart switch.

The new Hyperlux LP low power image sensors from onsemi are set to bring significant performance improvements in imaging applications like AR/VR headsets, smart home devices, security cameras and video conferencing. They not only extend battery life by up to 40%, but also feature in-built smart features which reduces the load on image processors, making the device simpler, cheaper and more efficient.

Switchbot has launched a Kickstarter crowdfunding campaign for its S10 robot vacuum and mop. The self-cleaning device has two separate docking stations, one that handles water and another to empty the dustbin. Other features include 6,500 Pa suction power, LiDAR navigation and automatic carpet detection.

A crowdfunding campaign is now live for the Tidbyt Gen 2 smart display. The gadget is highly customizable, offering hundreds of apps to display information like upcoming calendar events, the weather and what's playing on Spotify. Customers who pre-order the device via Kickstarter receive a 20% discount on the MSRP.

The Anker SOLIX Balcony Power Plant RS50B is now available at Amazon in Germany. The kit includes new powerful 540W solar panels with a 23% conversion rate alongside the MI80 microinverter. Two further kits offer floor brackets and a storage solution with the SOLIX Solarbank E1600.

Samsung's S90C TV lineup now starts at US$1297.99 after receiving some major price cuts at Amazon US. They come with bright and vivid QD-OLED panels with a maximum refresh rate of 144 Hz, making them equally stunning for watching movies and gaming. Additionally, they're some of the few TVs on the market with four full-bandwidth HDMI 2.1 ports.

The Xiaomi TV S Pro is now available to pre-order in China in 65-in and 75-in sizes. The 4K Mini LED model has a 144Hz refresh rate with support for Dolby Vision IQ and over 2,000 nits brightness. The more affordable device also has Filmmaker and Gaming modes alongside support for Wi-Fi 6.

The 2023 TCL SF5 TV has arrived as a more affordable option in Spain and will soon launch in the UK. The device has built-in Fire TV with an Alexa-powered voice remote and Apple AirPlay screencasting. Plus, the new TV boasts support for HDR10, HLG, Dolby Audio and DTS-HD technologies.

With a 4K resolution, 120 Hz refresh, and a rich set of smart features — including Alexa support — the LG C3 smart TV is available on Amazon for less than US$1,000. Thanks to a generous 23% discount, the OLED42C3PUA model's first drop below the aforementioned threshold takes its price to US$921.48.

Hisense's PL1 4K Smart Laser Cinema has debuted in the US, now selling at retailers like Amazon and Best Buy. The ultra-short throw model offers vibrant colors and compatibility with HDR10, Dolby Vision, and Dolby Atmos. Plus, the gadget is currently discounted at Amazon.

The Hisense PX2-PRO TriChroma Laser Cinema is now on sale in the US, following an EU launch earlier this year. The 4K projector’s laser engine delivers up to 2,400 ANSI lumens brightness, covering 107% of the BT.2020 color gamut and supporting Dolby Vision. Other features include Game Mode, built-in speakers and Google TV.

The Dangbei X5 Pro projector is now available to pre-order in China. The 4K model has a laser light source with up to 2,450 CVIA lumens brightness, supporting HDR10+. Other features include an integrated 24W sound system compatible with Dolby Audio, voice commands and 120Hz MEMC motion smoothing.

Xiaomi has launched a crowdfunding campaign for its new Smart Home Panel in China. The gadget is a Bluetooth Mesh gateway, compatible with over 5,500 smart home products. The device features an LED screen with automatic brightness adjustments and three built-in wireless switches.

The Displace TV is touted as the world's first smart screen that works without cables of any kind, and also without a conventional wall-mount of any kind. Now, its OEM has gone into more detail on the "vacuum suction system" that keeps it up instead, and what happens if it or the integrity of the wall behind it were to fail. This involves the "ingenious" safeguards inside the TV rated to let it abseil down gently rather than shatter on the floor.

Amazon has revealed an invite-only deal which will give some customers a 60% discount on the Amazon Fire TV 50" Omni Series 4K UHD smart TV. The deal will be available to successful Prime customers between October 10th and 11th as part of the Prime Big Deal Days event. Features of the 4K TV include support for HDR10, HLG and Dolby Digital Plus, and Amazon Alexa voice commands.

An invite-only Amazon deal will offer 60% off the Hisense 50-inch U6HF 4K ULED Smart Fire TV. Successful applicants will be able to access the discount via a link shared by email between October 10th and 11th. Features of the TV include support for Dolby Vision HDR, built-in Fire TV, and Amazon Alexa voice commands.

Hisense asserts that its L5H 4K Smart Laser TV is the best gateway to the "big-screen experience" as delivered by a high-end short-throw projector with Dolby Vision HDR and Dolby Atmos. For those with even more of a big home cinema budget, there is the L9H with the OEM's hallmark TriChroma technology. Both Laser TVs also support Google TV and NEXTGEN TV, and come bundled with large ALR screens in the US.

The Roborock Q5 Pro, Q5 Pro+, Q8 Max and Q8 Max+ robot vacuum and mops are now on sale with an introductory offer. Customers can get up to US$220 off the devices, with discounts offered at the brand’s store and Amazon. The vacuums have a maximum of 5,500 Pa suction power and a 5,200 mAh battery.

The BenQ X500i and X300G gaming projectors have been unveiled. The new short throw 4K models cover 84% of the DCI-P3 color gamut and have up to 2,200 ANSI lumens brightness. Gaming features include modes to suit various game types, a low input lag and audio enhanced with BenQ CinematicSound technology.

ULTIMEA has launched a Kickstarter crowdfunding campaign for the Thor T60 Laser TV. The device has a triple laser light source delivering up to 4,000 ANSI lumens brightness and covering 120% of the BT.2020 color space. Other features include a 3D mode, ALLM and support for Dolby Vision.

BenQ has unveiled the X3100i, a 4K HDR gaming projector expected to launch later this year. The device has a 4LED light source for up to 3,300 ANSI lumens brightness, throwing images up to 150-in (~381 cm) wide. Gaming features include RPG and SPG modes and a 4.2ms input lag for a 1080p@240Hz resolution.

EcoFlow promises the "biggest discounts ever" offered on its DELTA series of portable generators during the Prime Day period. Those deals are to be augmented by various single-day flash sales with extra offers on select bundles. EcoFlow's Smart Device line, which include the WAVE wireless HVAC unit and GLACIER "portable fridge with integrated ice maker", is also involved in the event.

Jackery asserts that it will be offering "guaranteed lowest prices" during its latest sale, even on newer products such as the Explorer 3000 Pro. The event will also have specials only available for the last two days of the sale, during which apparently unprecedented deals on accessories such as solar panels go live.

Kioxia has announced that its latest product for smart home and mobile devices upgrades to the latest 5.1 standard for the eMMC storage of its category. The new BiCS-series memory is rated to achieve up to 2.7 times the performance of its predecessor, and is touted to be more user-friendly and to integrate better with other components.

A report by Reuters claims that Amazon is working on several new smart home devices, including a projector which can turn any surface into a screen to help you with everyday tasks. The new outlet suggests that it has information from people close to the project, with the acquisition of a start-up helping to provide momentum to the product’s development.

The Redmi Projector 2 and the Redmi Projector 2 Pro are now on sale in China. The gadgets are brighter than the original models, with the Pro offering up to 300 CVIA lumens brightness. Other features include built-in speakers, voice commands, automatic focus and screen alignment tools.

The Hisense Laser TV L5K is now on sale in China. The company claims that the 110-in 4K gadget is a world first, with a Laser Engine LPU for up to 380 nits brightness. Other features include an integrated 100W Harman Kardon speaker system, Android 9.0 and a 1TB hard drive for storage.

Casiris has launched an Indiegogo crowdfunding campaign for its H6 4K projector. The company has already reached its funding target with over 50 backers at the time of writing. The new model has up to 3,000 ANSI lumens brightness from an RGB triple laser light source and an ultra-short throw ratio of 0.25:1.

Amazon just unveiled the third generation Echo Show 8 at its launch event yesterday. The smart speaker now features spatial immersive audio and room adaptation, and its 8” screen features proximity-based Adaptive Content for maximum legibility. It can now connect with Zigbee, Sidewalk, Thread, Bluetooth, and Matter compatible devices. The new Echo Show can be pre-ordered for US$150 and will begin shipping on October 25.

EE has announced plans to bring Wi-Fi 7 routers powered by Qualcomm to the UK market soon. The carrier asserts that its residential broadband customers will be among the first on Earth to access such potential speeds thanks to the new devices. The partners are also confident that the upgrade will improve the service in general.

Qualcomm has announced that it will partner the US broadband company Charter to deliver a new router for the latter's Spectrum Advanced WiFi service. It is rated to deliver 10 gigabit per second (Gb/s) wired speeds as well as Wi-Fi 7 to the customers that upgrade to it, while still supporting features such as the My Spectrum App and Security Shield.

Qualcomm asserts that it will unlock next-gen broadband speeds with its new 10G Fiber Platform. It is designed to become the basis of next-gen service access devices capable of using 10 gigabit (10Gb) cables to unleash Wi-Fi 7 speeds within the home. It also features Qualcomm's Service Defined Wi-Fi technology, a feature touted to make the gateway in question as custom as possible.