Smart Home

TCL has revealed the new P7L Premium QLED TV, which is set for release in markets worldwide. This 4K model is expected to be a more affordable option from the brand and will be offered in six sizes from 43-inch to 85-inch. Features include support for Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos, with integrated speakers and Google TV.

The Xiaomi TV S Mini LED 2026 series has been released in various European countries. Offered in five sizes from 55-inch to 98-inch, this QD-Mini LED model builds on its predecessor. Features include Google TV, dual integrated speakers and an up to 144 Hz native refresh rate for the larger sizes.

At MWC 2026, Anker revealed the new eufy C15 robotic lawn mower. The entry-level model joins the two existing E-Series products. While the latest addition has the same boundary wire-free navigation set-up, for easy installation, it is designed for smaller yards.

Anker has launched the new eufy Wired Cam C31 in the US and the EU. This smart home security model can be used indoors or outdoors, with pan and tilt functionality for AI movement tracking. Plus, it is said to offer a wider surveillance range and improved Wi-Fi coverage thanks to dual antennas.

Xgimi has launched a new portable projector, the Z6X 5th Generation, in China. This budget model has tools like MEMC motion smoothing and automatic focus. It also comes with an integrated gimal stand, built-in speakers and ports including HDMI 2.1 (eARC) and USB.

The Epson Lifestudio Flex Special Lux Edition EF-73 has launched. Set for release in Europe in the coming weeks and already available in Asia, this is a premium version of the EF-72 portable projector. Features of the new 4K smart home model include a wireless charger, an integrated speaker and Google TV.

Many ISP-provided routers are closed black boxes with limited functionality. In part 3 of my “Unbloated Network” project, I show how to install OpenWRT on an x86 PC to replace the Vodafone router with your own hardware. Step by step, we’ll set up the latest stable release, including image selection, Linux-based installation, and partition expansion.

Xiaomi has launched the Mi Home Water Purifier 2 1200G in China. This new smart home device is designed for the kitchen, filtering and dispensing water on demand. Features include a smart touch faucet with integrated display and app-based monitoring of water consumption and water quality.

The Govee Cone Tree Lights 2 are on the way. This smart lighting product, designed for outdoor use, appears to be a successor to the original model. So far, we know that it will offer colored lighting effects, with support for Matter enabling integrations with many popular smart home ecosystems.

Govee is set to release a new smart outdoor lighting product: the Spherical Net Lights. The model was recently spotted in the database of the Connectivity Standards Alliance (CSA), revealing some of its features. These include Matter compatibility for broad smart home integration.

The Sonoff AirGuard PM2.5/PM10 and the Sonoff AirGuard CO2 Air Quality Monitors are now available in countries worldwide. Both models feature a 3.73-inch display with alarm sounds and an indicator light to alert you to changes in air quality. Plus, they support Matter for a wider range of smart home integrations.

Roborock has launched the Saros 20 robot vacuum and mop in Europe. Now available to pre-order with an introductory discount, this is one of the brand’s most powerful models to date. Its features include 36,000 Pa suction power, an adjustable suction head and the ability to clear dual thresholds.

Roborock has released the Qrevo Curv 2 Flow robot vacuum and mop in Europe. Unveiled in 2025 and already available in the US, this is the brand’s first model to feature a roller mopping system. Other features include anti-tangle brushes, intelligent cleaning at the docking station and support for Matter.

The Philips Hue Essential Strip light and Essential Flex Strip light products are now officially available in various European countries. These cheaper smart light strips have a slightly reduced feature set compared to other models from the brand. Plus, one has a flexible backing for a wider range of placement options.

The Dreame Life SP09 Pro Smart Trash Can has been launched in the brand’s home market of China. This smart home product has features including automatic opening and automatic bag dispensing. It is unclear whether this battery-powered trash can could roll out to other markets like the US.

The Anker eufy Wi-Fi Module for eufy NVR PoE System has been released in the US and Europe. This accessory is designed to expand the home or business security system, which was released in 2025. It allows you to connect a wider range of smart security cameras and sensors, though there are some limitations.

The Honor Magic V6 is set to be unveiled shortly. The foldable is said to be equipped with the largest battery on a smartphone yet and will feature a flat display with symmetrical bezels. Widespread global availability could take a while, however.

Roborock has launched a new robot vacuum, the P20 Max, in China. Compared to its predecessor, the model has significantly higher suction power, a new climbing chassis and a slightly slimmer body. A global version of this model could be released internationally, joining other Qrevo Curv 2 products. 

The Roborock Qrevo Curv 2 Flow robot vacuum and mop appears to be about to launch in Europe. Unveiled in late 2025, this new model is now listed at the brand’s online store in Germany. It is the first model from the brand to feature a roller mopping system, and it also supports the Matter smart home protocol.

Roborock has listed the Saros 20 robot vacuum and mop at its online store in Germany. The product page indicates when this new model could be released in Europe. Its features include up to 36,000 Pa suction power, intelligently detaching mops and a two-stage climbing function.

The new display also supports touch input and can be used as a control panel for a smart home. Users can benefit from very extensive configuration options. In addition, smart home devices can integrated with this system.

Epson has released its new Lifestudio Grand EH-LS970B projector in Australia and New Zealand. This home theater model is said to offer a ‘real 4K’ resolution and an ultra short throw ratio. Other features include a laser light source, integrated speakers and the Google TV interface for various streaming services.

A new display with an integrated circuit board can be used to build a relatively affordable smart home display. The Waveshare ESP32-S3 sports two microphones and the ubiquitous touchscreen.

The Mecool MEon1 is a new 4K Google TV box from the company, and it comes packed with features. With the launch price being around $100, the device has expandable storage and is powered by Amlogic S905X4 and Android 14.

The Xiaomi Mijia Front Load Washer Dryer Pro 9kg is now available in the UK. This is the latest European country to get the smart home appliance, which offers features like intelligent detergent dispensing, automatic self-rinsing and remote controls via the Xiaomi Home app.

Waveshare is now offering a 7-inch round touchscreen display with an IPS panel, HDMI input, and 10-point capacitive touch support, targeting smart home systems, in-vehicle infotainment systems, and other interactive embedded HMI hardware.

Philips Hue has officially launched the upgraded Turaco outdoor smart light range in Europe. The line-up includes three models: the Turaco Wall lantern, the Turaco Post and the Turaco Pedestal. Compared to the originals, these devices are brighter, offering dimmable white and colored lighting effects.

Optoma has released the new UHZ36 4K UHD laser projector in the US. This model is designed for the living room, with a laser light source and support for HDR. Other features include a built-in speaker, dual HDMI ports and image adjustment tools like automatic keystone correction.

The Olimex ESP32-P4-PC is an open-source dev board based on the ESP32-P4 SoC, featuring HDMI, 10/100Mb Ethernet, and four USB 2.0 ports for applications such as smart home panels, POS systems, and IP camera controllers.

Xiaomi has unveiled a new X Pro QLED TV. Marketed as the X Pro QLED TV 2026, the new Smart TV spans 75-inches while offering Dolby Vision, AirPlay 2, eARC and a 120 Hz game mode.

Mass surveillance through a tech titan, enabled by cameras purchased by the monitored consumers themselves – this appears to be Amazon’s latest plans. Leaked emails show how Amazon aims to utilise a new Ring feature to track much more than just parcels.

The Philips Hue app has been updated again. The version 5.61 release is now available for both iOS and Android users, arriving a couple of weeks after the last update. In the release notes, Philips Hue officially announces a new Automations function to improve the user experience.

A new Shelly Camera is set to be unveiled in Europe in the next few weeks. This will be the first smart security camera released by the brand in many years. While its design has yet to be revealed, its features are said to include local video storage, and it will not require users to have a subscription.

The Philips Hue Bridge Pro and Bridge v2 devices are receiving new software updates. Versions 2071223010 and 1975170000 are relatively minor releases, bringing small improvements to the smart home products. Users are still waiting for a new dynamic lighting feature to launch. 

Dreame has released the Robotic Lawn Mower A2 1200 in Europe. This model is based on the original A2, though it is designed to cover a smaller area and has a lower RRP. Features include boundary-wire-free navigation thanks to onboard LiDAR and camera, and the ability to tackle up to 50% inclines. 

Anker has released its new eufy Smoke Alarm E10 in some European countries. Currently available via the brand’s Amazon storefront, the benefits of this smart home product are said to include a reduced number of false alarms and a tap to mute function. Plus, it is relatively compact, measuring 70 mm (~2.75 inches) in diameter.

Does it have to be an expensive brand-name power station? Or would a cheaper model from a no-name manufacturer suffice? We put the Aferiy P280, currently on sale for less than $700, to the test.

Anker has unveiled the eufy Glass Break Sensor E10 in Europe. Also set for release in the US, this smart home security device can detect the sound of glass breaking. The sensor can then alert the homeowner to the possible break-in, and play a loud noise to deter a potential intruder.

After deciding against using the ISP router in part one, it’s time to focus on hardware: what actually works best for an OpenWRT router? A mini PC, Raspberry Pi, or a traditional router? And what about the switch and access point? In this part, I’ll walk through my hardware choices, including considerations around power consumption, architecture, and cost.

Eufy is now selling the E20 Motion Sensor in Europe, following its recent launch in the US. Designed to trigger linked smart home devices, this model is said to have a smart animal detection feature, which should reduce the number of false alarms caused by pets and wildlife.

Philips Hue’s new Essential Light Strip is now available at some retailers in Europe. Previously released in the US, this is the brand’s entry-level model with a lower price and a slightly reduced feature set. It offers both white and colored gradient lighting effects, with adjustable brightness and app-based controls.

Amazon subsidiary Ring has unexpectedly ended its partnership with Flock Safety following widespread backlash over a planned AI function. However, the Community Requests feature will remain in place.

Philips Hue is rolling out an update for a range of its smart home products. This release improvea the accuracy of battery status information and fixes a motion detection issue. According to the company, software version 67.116.1/2.85.1/2.85.5 has been pushed OTA to users of most of its battery-powered accessories.

The Cury by Shelly smart diffuser is now available in Europe. This smart home device is designed to fragrance your home, and can also help repel mosquitoes. Features include dual scent compartments, customized scheduling and scent intensity via the app, and support for voice commands.