Smart Home

The Optoma CinemaX D2 Plus has been launched in Korea. The 4K ultra-short throw device has several gaming features, such as a 4.2 ms input lag and a 240 Hz refresh rate. The laser light source has a peak brightness of 3,000 lumens and is expected to last up to 30,000 hours when using ECO mode.

Google is projected to launch the Pixel 7 and 7 Pro in October 2022. Now, rumors of a new external Chromecast that might be unveiled alongside it have sparked up again, following its reported addition to regulator databases. It is said to aim for the budget tier of the smart home market as it will lack 4K, yet run Google TV out of the box.

The BenQ TH690ST short throw projector is available in Europe. The device has several features aimed at gamers, such as an 8.3 ms response time at 1080p 120 Hz resolution. The gadget also supports 4K at 60 Hz, and a Game Mode enhances the image based on ambient lighting. The light source can last up to 20,000 hours with a peak brightness of 2,300 lumens.

LG has launched its CineBeam HU915QE and HU915QB projectors in Canada. The 4K laser projectors can cast images up to 120-in (~305 cm) wide, with a 0.19 throw ratio. The gadgets have a light source with up to 20,000 hours of light and brightness up to 3,000 ANSI lumens, plus a built-in 40 W sound system.

The 55-inch version of the comparatively affordable LG A2 OLED TV with Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos support is now on sale at Amazon with a decent US$500 discount in relation to its official MSRP of close to US$1,400.

The OneOdio Monitor 60s have been announced at a price of well under US$100; nevertheless, the OEM asserts that they are ideal for work such as DJing and even recording songs. They have a "professional monitor" build with faux-leather "memory" ear-cushions for noise isolation and comfort, and is compatible with the 1/4-inch and 3.5mm interfaces.

The LG ProBeam BU53PST 4K projector has launched in Canada following its release in the US in August. The device is designed for business use, with a 0.94 throw ratio and a maximum image size of 300-in (~762 cm) across. The gadget has a brightness of up to 5,000 lumens and comes with built-in speakers.

The Yarbo Yard robot is now available via a Kickstarter crowdfunding campaign. Thanks to modular accessories, you can use the device to clear snow, mow your lawn, or blow leaves. The robot is guided by RTK-GPS rather than boundary wires and can operate in temperatures as low as -30 °C (~-22 °F).

The Xiaomi Mijia Graphene Folding Skirting Board Electric Heater Ultra-Thin Model will be available to pre-order in China from September 14. The 2,220 W device can raise the temperature in your room by up to 5 °C (~9 °F) in 10 minutes and can be folded in half for easy storage. Plus, you can control the heater with voice commands or the Mijia app.

The Zendure SuperBase Pro 2000 is a new portable generator rated for a 2,096 watt-hour (Wh) capacity and for an output of up to 2,000 watts (W). The OEM has also fitted it with handy wheels and a suitcase-like carrying handle, not to mention an uninterrupted power supply (UPS) mode. It currently comes with an interesting deal on Geekbuying for European customers: either a Bluetti solar panel or an electric scooter thrown in for free.

BenQ has launched the TH575, a new projector aimed at gamers. The company suggests a 1080p resolution at 60 Hz with 16 ms latency provides an immersive gaming experience at the budget-friendly price of US$599. Other features of the device include a built-in 10 W speaker and a LampSave mode to elongate the lifetime of the light source.

The upgraded Wanbo T6 Max+ projector has launched on Banggood. The portable device can throw images up to 200-in (~508 cm) wide, with a 1080p native resolution. The gadget supports 4K content decoding and has a peak brightness of 550 ANSI lumens. Plus, the projector has built-in 5 W speakers.

The Xiaomi Projector Mini is now available in China. The portable gadget weighs 1.2 kg (~2.6 lbs) and has a battery that lasts around two hours. Smart features of the device include Xiao AI voice commands, NFC one-touch smartphone connection and autofocus. Plus, a gaming mode is available with 40 ms latency.

The VIMGO P10 projector has launched in Europe and is available via BestBuyGear. The compact projector has a 1080p native resolution and can throw images up to 120-in (~305 cm) wide. You can download many popular apps to the device to stream content, or you can cast from your smartphone via services like Apple AirPlay.

New Philips Hue products and features have been announced. The Lightguide bulbs have an unusual design, providing smart lighting with a wide range of color options. A Mimic presence automation tool has been added to the Philips Hue app to deter intruders when you are away. Plus, a Philips Hue + SmartThings feature enables you to sync your lighting and music.

TCL has demonstrated its 98-in C735 TV at IFA. The QLED 4K model has a 120 Hz refresh rate, MEMC technology and an average brightness of 450 nits. The gadget has built-in Google Assistant and Chromecast, as well as an integrated speaker system. Gaming features include a 15 ms input lag, VRR and ALLM.

The Bosch Smart Kitchen Dock has been shown at IFA. The device acts as a stand for a smartphone or tablet and can assist you in the kitchen. For example, built-in Amazon Alexa allows you to ask questions on the go. Plus, you can display recipes and swipe through the content with hand gestures to prevent your screen from getting dirty.

Epson has launched a new home cinema projector, the EH-LS800. The "super-ultra-short-throw” projector has a throw ratio of 0.16:1, allowing you to cast an image 150-in (~3.81 m) wide from a distance of 285 mm (~11.2-in). The LS800 has a built-in 2.1 channel Yamaha sound system, plus Google Chromecast and Google Assistant voice commands.

Xiaomi has launched the Mijia Cooking Robot for pre-order in China. The smart device has 35 different uses, with a maximum heating temperature of 180 °C (~356 °F). The pot can hold up to 2.2 L and intelligently cook as little as 1 g (~0.04 oz) of food. Plus, an integrated display can show one of over 200 recipes and tutorials.

As promised, Leica has unveiled the Cine 1 during IFA 2022. Built with a stylish design and Dolby Atmos speakers, the Leica Cine 1 can create up to 100-inch projections with three RGB lasers. Leica will release two editions, starting with an 80-inch model that will cost approximately €6,900.

Thanks to a generous Labor Day coupon code on eBay, prospective buyers of the gorgeous 65-inch A80K can now order one of the most affordable OLED TVs of Sony's 2022 Bravia lineup at a considerable discount of almost US$1,000 in relation to the official MSRP.

The Husqvarna Automower 415X robot lawn mower is currently on sale at Amazon in the US. At the moment, you can pick up the device for US$1,679.99. The robot uses GPS and boundary wires to navigate your lawn, and you can control the gadget with an accompanying app and Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant voice commands.

Philips has unveiled two new TV models for 2022, the OLED+937 and the OLED+907. The devices are available in sizes from 48-in to 65-in, with the larger models offering a peak brightness of 1,300 nits. All TVs have a built-in Bowers & Wilkins sound system and gaming-ready features such as a 4K 120 Hz variable refresh rate.

Xiaomi has revealed the Smart TV X Series, due to launch in India on September 14. The 4K TVs have a 60 Hz refresh rate and support technologies such as Dolby Vision, HLG and HDR10. Plus, the devices have a built-in 30 W sound system and Android 10, allowing you to use Google Assistant and Chromecast with the gadget.

Sony has finally confirmed European and UK pricing for the HT-A5000, a soundbar that the company released last year in North America. Billed as a 5.1.2 channel soundbar, the HT-A5000 has a built-in subwoofer and supports PlayStation 5 features like Auto HDR Tone Mapping, as well as numerous network functions. Sony has outlined availability for the HT-A5000 in the Eurozone and the UK too.

Sony has introduced the HT-A3000, a new soundbar and a cheaper alternative than the HT-5000 and HT-7000. Equipped with a 3.1-channel configuration, the Sony AT-A3000 supports virtual surround sound, along with Apple AirPlay 2, Dolby Atmos and Google Chromecast, among other things.

The ViewSonic X11-4K projector has been launched. The gadget has a 0.8:1 short throw ratio; for example, this translates to a 100-in (~254 cm) image cast from 5.8 ft (~1.8 m) away. The device uses an LED light source with a maximum brightness of 2,400 lms and has built-in Harman Kardon speakers.

The DreameBot L10s Ultra robot vacuum and mop has been launched in Southeast Asia. The gadget comes with an auto-emptying and self-cleaning docking station. Plus, the robot has 24 sensors, up to 5,300 Pa suction power and can clean an area up to 200 m² (~2,153 ft²) between charges.

LG has announced that its OLED evo Gallery Edition TV 97-in model will shortly arrive in markets globally. The ultra-large TV, first unveiled at CES, uses LG’s OLED evo technology and α (Alpha) 9 Gen5 AI Processor for a cinematic experience. Plus, the device has a 7.1.2 channel speaker system and support for Dolby Atmos.

The Xiaomi Mijia Air Conditioner Natural Wind 1.5 hp has launched in China at the discounted price of 2,799 yuan (~US$408). The device offers a wide angle airflow, with the ability to adjust the wind deflector up to 180°. The smart home gadget can run quietly at 18 dBA and begin to cool a room in as little as 30 seconds.

The XGIMI Magic Lamp is now available to pre-order in China. The multi-use gadget combines a ceiling-mounted light with a projector which can cast 1080p images with a 0.7:1 throw ratio. You can control the device, including the brightness and color temperature of the lamp, via a smartphone app. Plus, the device has an integrated 2.1 channel Harman Kardon sound system.

OEPLAY is currently crowdfunding for its MusicStar5 Hi-Fi speaker on Indiegogo. Thanks to custom-designed AMT tweeters, the sound system has a wide frequency range from 33 Hz to 55 kHz. You can pair two of the gadgets for a stereo sound experience and connect your smartphone via Bluetooth 5.0.

The Yamaha SR-C30A Compact Soundbar with Wireless Subwoofer has been revealed. The device will launch this October for US$279.95. The gadget comes with a range of sound-enhancing technologies, such as 3D Surround Sound, with support for Dolby Digital. You can connect to the sound system via Bluetooth and control the device with your smartphone.

LG has previewed its PuriCare Objet Collection Aero Furniture series, three tables with built-in air purifiers. Compatible with the LG ThinQ ecosystem, the three devices mirror the IKEA Starkvind, which is already orderable. LG will exhibit the PuriCare Objet Collection Aero Furniture series at next month's IFA 2022 conference.

Asus has already unleashed routers with heavy ROG branding and the gaming-friendly features one might expect as a result; now, the OEM has gone one further with a new mesh system. The GT6's modules packs a new antenna array, tri-band Wi-Fi 6 support and the potential for blazing-fast speeds into a distinctly Rapture-series design.

The Xiaomi Mijia Smart Socket 3 has been released in China for 59 yuan (~US$8.61). You can use the products to turn your regular household devices, such as lamps and kettles, into smart gadgets. This allows you to control them via an app or voice commands and link them with other items in your smart home network.

The Xiaomi Mijia Smart Curtain Motor 1S is now available to pre-order in China. The device lets you remotely control your drapes in various ways, such as with voice commands or an app. Plus, you can use the smart curtains to wake you, with the setting slowly opening the drapes over 35 minutes before your desired rising time.

The 2022 Samsung NEO QLED 98-in TV has launched in South Korea for 4.5 million won (~US$3,372). The 4K device has up to 5,000 nits brightness, and the display can be split into four 4K screens simultaneously showing the content of your choice. The QNB100 has an integrated 6.4.4 speaker system and support for Dolby Atmos.

The Portronics BEEM 300 projector is now available in India for ₹19,999 (~US$251). The gadget can throw images from 50-in to 200-in (~127 to 508 cm) wide in multiple aspect ratios with up to 250 ANSI lumens brightness. You can use the built-in 10 W speakers or connect your own via various ports.

The TCL T7G TV has been launched for pre-order in China. The 4K TV, which runs on Android, has a 3840 x 2160 px resolution and up to 1,000 nits of brightness. The device supports various technologies, including Dolby Vision IQ and Dolby Atmos. Plus, you can cast from a smartphone to the TV by tapping the gadget on an accompanying NFC card.

Sony has confirmed that the Bravia Z9K 8K Mini LED TV will soon be available to pre-order in some European countries. The device has many features, such as XR 8K upscaling and gesture controls. Exclusive tools for PS5 include Auto HDR Tone Mapping and Auto Genre Picture Mode to optimize the image.

TCL concedes that the economic climate was not kind to the global TV market, one of the areas in which the OEM is best known, throughout 2022 thus far. Nevertheless, the company has now reported very healthy revenues and profits for the first half of this year (1H2022). It attributes much of this success to its growing reputation for mid- to upper-tier smart screen sales, as well as improving supply-chain conditions

The EcoFlow Power Kits can be pre-ordered in several countries across the world. The modular systems have been designed to provide power to off-grid buildings and RVs, with various components on offer. The Power Hub provides 3,600 W AC and 1,000 W DC outputs and supports charging via solar panels and smart generators.

Xiaomi has announced that new electronics from 2 categories will hit the Indian market soon. The intriguingly-named Notebook Pro 120G will join a "series" of 4K smart TVs that, while new to this country, might be re-brands of products already on the Chinese market. Nevertheless, with the bezels and specs as advertised or hinted at thus far, prospective customers are unlikely to care all that much.

The Xiaomi Smart Multimode Gateway 2 is currently crowdfunding in China. The smart home hub supports the Bluetooth, Bluetooth Mesh and Zigbee protocols, and you can also connect to the device via dual-band Wi-Fi. The gadget allows you to link various smart home gadgets, enabling you to set up multi-product scenarios.

A crowdfunding campaign for the Fluid One smart home system has launched on Kickstarter for customers in the US. The technology allows you to use your iPhone to point and click to control your gadgets, such as smart lights and TVs. You can also use the system to trigger smart home products with gestures or motion detection.

LG Display has showcased transparent OLED panels, another step in the advancement of the technology. Additionally, the display manufacturer has exhibited the world's largest OLED panel, which also has a 5.1 channel sound system built directly into the display.

ZTE has introduced the AX3000 Pro as its latest dual-band router that is available on Amazon. The device supports up to Wi-Fi 6 speeds over up to 160MHz channels thanks to a "winning" Qualcomm processor. Its new and award-winning design is touted to maximise its surface-area coverage and ability to form a house-wide mesh.

A crowdfunding campaign for the Lawna smart mower is live on Kickstarter. The robot uses visual AI technology to map your garden, so it does not need a perimeter wire. An integrated humidity sensor allows Lawna to detect rain, stop mowing and return to its dock. Plus, you can control the mower via an accompanying app.