Blog Posts

Blog Posts

Philips Hue Unveils SpatialAware Functionality for Improved Floor Plan Integration

Your Space Becomes a Work of Art: Redefining Environments with Hue SpatialAware

In the sphere of smart home innovations, Philips Hue has unveiled a revolutionary feature that alters our understanding and engagement with illumination in our living areas. With the launch of Hue SpatialAware, your space genuinely transforms into a work of art, facilitating a more immersive and interactive lighting experience.

Essential Information:

– In contrast to earlier versions where colors were randomly selected, Hue SpatialAware utilizes a sophisticated algorithm to map your space, guaranteeing that lights function cohesively.
– The journey begins with scanning your space via your mobile device, allowing the Hue app to create a spatial model. This model empowers the algorithm to automatically coordinate the lighting scene.
– At its initial release, roughly half of Hue’s Scene Gallery is compatible with SpatialAware, showcasing scenes such as Lake Mist, Mountain Breeze, Savanna Sunset, and Lake Placid.

Previously, Hue scenes were visually appealing but did not account for the room’s layout. Colors were allocated without regard to the actual location of lights, which could disrupt the desired atmosphere. Hue SpatialAware resolves this issue by substituting guesswork with a deliberate methodology, ensuring lighting feels crafted rather than simply programmed.

The Hue app leverages augmented reality to scan your space, generating a model that detects the position of each light source, including floor lamps, wall lights, and ceiling fixtures. An algorithm subsequently organizes scenes so that every light integrates seamlessly into the environment. If new lights are introduced, a quick scan promptly refreshes the room model without hassle.

Nature Scenes Receive Major Enhancements:

The most substantial upgrade is observed within Hue’s nature-themed scenes. Approximately half of the revised Scene Gallery will be compatible with SpatialAware at launch. For example, in a sunset-themed scene, lights on one side of the room radiate warm yellows, whereas those on the opposite side shift to richer hues. While the traditional scene mode remains an option, the difference with SpatialAware is clear.

Philips Hue markets this feature for Bridge Pro users, delivering a premium experience that capitalizes on advanced processing and room awareness. Bridge Pro is also evolving to be more flexible, enabling users to merge several Bridges into a unified setup, constrained only by the hardware’s capability.

Furthermore, Hue’s AI assistant is undergoing enhancements, allowing users to establish automations using natural language and offering improved troubleshooting support. Hue SpatialAware is anticipated to launch in spring 2026 for Bridge Pro users, with additional upgrades scheduled for release by the first quarter of 2026.

With Hue SpatialAware, your space transforms into a work of art, revolutionizing how you experience and engage with lighting, making every moment more vibrant and personalized.

Highlights from CES 2026: Leading 15 Innovations and Technologies

There was no lack of fascinating (and truly bizarre) products at CES 2026. CES is the platform where the globe’s most groundbreaking products are unveiled. It’s also a chance for us to witness unique, one-off demos and products that are captivating yet not particularly practical, but still impressive. I explored the exhibition floor this week, and here are the most intriguing products I encountered.

These smartphones shift colors, and they are actually set to launch. Infinix produces phones with captivating designs, and the Chinese manufacturer displayed some of its advancements in this field. These innovations feature an E Ink panel on the back that alters patterns — you can even design your own — in addition to color-changing models and phones with lenticular aesthetics. The brand states it will even push some of these models into production, so prepare to see a Hot 60 device later this year sporting one of these styles.

You’ll find yourself wanting to use a physical keyboard once more with this gadget. Clicks took center stage with the Power Keys, a slide-out keyboard accessory that incorporates a portable battery. You attach it to your phone magnetically, and then you can pair the keyboard via Bluetooth, providing you a physical typing experience. Since it’s just over Bluetooth and comes with a built-in battery, this accessory is compatible with your tablet and other gadgets as well.

This camera observes while you dine — and evaluates each bite. Still tracking your food manually? That’ll soon be obsolete if Amazfit’s Food Camera reaches production. This device sits on the dinner table and captures you eating, estimating portion sizes, automatically assigning macros, and offering tips based on your eating pace and sequence.

Govee has even more methods to introduce RGB lighting into every nook of your abode. I appreciate what Govee is doing with lighting solutions, and the brand just launched LuminBlend+ technology, which effectively allows its products to emit realistic colors, even at raised brightness levels. If you’re like me and possess numerous Govee products at home, you’ll be pleased to discover that the brand is simplifying the process of adjusting lighting and creating zones or scenes across its offerings.

Reebok is eager to dive into the smart glasses trend. Lucyd produces smart glasses with integrated audio, and does so remarkably well. It partnered with Reebok to create smart glasses that resemble the Oakley Meta Vanguard. They feature UV 400 lenses, and without a camera, they are noticeably lighter. While they don’t possess the same degree of intelligence as those from Meta, they are undeniably stylish — and priced at $299, they’re less than half the cost of my Vanguard.

SwitchBot unveiled robots that you’ll want in your home. SwitchBot usually showcases intriguing products, and it highlighted several robots at its stand. While many robots at the expo lean towards humanoid forms, the brand opted for teddy bear-like designs that were utterly charming. There was even a robot tidying up around the booth. If someone from SwitchBot is reading this, I’d like two of those, please.

Keychron is going all out with keyboards. Think your all-metal keyboard is impressive? Keychron has something to say about that. The brand is experimenting with unique materials and is launching keyboards made from wood, ceramic, marble, and even stone. I admire Keychron keyboards for their reliability and fantastic features, and I can’t wait to try out some of these distinctive keyboards.

AGIBOT is focused on creating astonishingly lifelike humanoid robots. A day will come when robots can genuinely perform awesome tasks, but until then, we have demos where they wave, dance, and generally follow the person controlling them. What if a robot manages to access that control interface? It’s probably best not to ponder that — AGIBOT must have contingency plans, right? Right?

This brand aims to revive landlines. We had a landline in our home when I was younger, but all that does is remind me of my age. Kids nowadays don’t recognize what a landline is, and Pinwheel Home is trying to change that perception. It has unique designs for landlines, meant to be connected the traditional way. Fortunately, you don’t need to acquire a new number, as the service operates on VOIP for making calls.

ASUS has finally identified its target audience. ASUS is determined to entice you into purchasing an unneeded router; at least this time, its designs are no longer arachnid-like. Although Wi-Fi 7 hasn’t yet become mainstream, ASUS is introducing Wi-Fi 8 routers later this year — it remains to be seen if anyone will actually invest in them. Another concern with routers is the devices they target. I’ve been utilizing phones equipped with the necessary Wi-Fi 7 modem, and honestly, I don’t perceive a difference with the standard. But then again, ASUS seems to be targeting D&D-style 20-sided dice with

iPhone Fold: Possible Characteristics More Alike an iPad Instead of an iPhone

# iPhone Fold: A Fresh Path for Apple’s Design Approach

Recent leaks about the iPhone Fold have ignited fascinating discussions regarding its possible design and features. In contrast to rivals like the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold7 and Google Pixel 10 Pro Fold, which maintain a conventional phone structure when closed, the iPhone Fold is speculated to embrace a unique design. This article delves into the ramifications of these leaks and what they might signify for the future of Apple’s mobile offerings.

## Distinctive Design Characteristics

Latest renderings indicate that the iPhone Fold could adopt a short and wide form when closed, akin to a petite notepad. Upon unfolding, it’s anticipated to match the size of an iPad mini. This design direction starkly contrasts with the taller, slimmer silhouettes of current foldable phones, suggesting a possible shift in how Apple conceives the device’s functionality.

Stephen Hackett of 512 Pixels has produced a 3D-printed model of the iPhone Fold, which has been analyzed by Jason Snell at Six Colors. The piece titled “Will the iPhone Fold be a phone you open, or an iPad you close?” poses essential inquiries regarding the device’s intended function.

> “If these mock-ups are genuine, this folding iPhone isn’t going to be what you may envision: a contemporary iPhone, roughly the form of an iPhone Pro, that unfolds to display a larger screen inside.”

This assertion captures the core of the iPhone Fold’s design ideology: it might emphasize the experience of using an iPad-like device that can be conveniently tucked away in a pocket, rather than serving as a conventional phone that unfolds into a more extensive display.

## Possible Effects on iOS

Should the iPhone Fold embrace this distinctive form factor, it will require substantial adjustments to iOS. The operating system will need to adapt to a wider interface, potentially involving a complete overhaul of how applications and features are showcased. This challenge could be formidable for Apple’s design team, casting doubt on the fidelity of the existing mockups.

The excitement surrounding the iPhone Fold also underscores the potential for iOS 27 to integrate features from iPadOS, notably a more robust windowing system. Such improvements could unleash the device’s full capabilities, transforming it into a multifaceted instrument for both productivity and leisure.

## Final Thoughts

The iPhone Fold marks a daring advancement for Apple, possibly reshaping the distinctions between smartphones and tablets. While the finished product might vary from the present mockups, the idea of a device that fuses the portability of an iPhone with the utility of an iPad mini is thrilling. As Apple forges ahead with innovation, the tech community keenly anticipates how these developments will impact the future of mobile technology.

Would you find an iPhone Fold crafted primarily for iPad-like functionality appealing? Share your opinions in the comments.

Disney+ Set to Launch Vertical Video Function in Upcoming Update

Disney+ is poised to launch vertical video content within its app in the U.S. this year, following a successful rollout in the ESPN app. This initiative is in line with the increasing popularity of vertical video formats observed on platforms such as TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts.

Disney’s reveal suggests that the vertical video experience will progress to feature a blend of news and entertainment, aiming to foster a more personalized and engaging user experience. Erin Teague, EVP of Product Management for Disney Entertainment and ESPN, mentioned that vertical video delivery could encompass original short-form content, repurposed social media clips, and reimagined excerpts from longer videos. The emphasis will be on seamlessly incorporating vertical video that resonates with user habits, steering clear of a fragmented experience.

The choice to adopt vertical video illustrates the demand for streaming services to captivate users on a daily basis, akin to social media networks. Disney’s venture into vertical video extends beyond merely creating teasers for longer content; it seeks to enrich the overall service. The recent licensing partnership between Disney and OpenAI for Sora hinted at the possibilities for vertical video, indicating a more expansive vision that goes beyond just AI-generated material.

As the streaming environment continues to change, the inclusion of vertical video on Disney+ represents a significant transformation in content consumption, catering to the preferences of contemporary audiences.

How to Enhance the Advantages of Your Smart Home: 10 Key Suggestions

**10 Strategies To Fully Maximize Your Smart Home**

Smart home gadgets present numerous advantages for all family members, simplifying daily life for everyone. By utilizing your home’s Wi-Fi network, these devices offer benefits that you won’t find anywhere else. With an increasing number of companies dedicated to smart home innovations, it’s likely that a device is already available to address a significant challenge in your household, or at least reveal a need you weren’t aware of.

Nonetheless, establishing your smart home shouldn’t merely begin and end with purchasing gadgets. While these devices can independently address issues, there are multiple actions you can take to further enhance your smart home ecosystem.

For individuals eager to fully leverage their smart home capabilities, and for those starting anew, here are several pointers to unlock the complete potential of investing in smart home technology. Since purchases can accumulate, it’s crucial to ensure that every dollar spent contributes to a cohesive and efficient smart home environment.

**1. Strengthen your Wi-Fi connection**

First and foremost, just like a vehicle’s efficacy hinges on its fuel, a smart home is substantially reliant on the strength and reach of its Wi-Fi connection. If your smart home devices aren’t consistently connected to the internet, they will not be able to execute their intended functions.

You should consider investing in a plan that offers an internet speed of at least 50 Mbps, or higher if your family uses multiple devices alongside various smart home gadgets. You also need to ensure that your network extends to every corner of your home to connect with all your devices. 5G signals may struggle to penetrate walls, which might require investing in a top-notch router, range extenders, or a mesh network.

You might also refer to our suggestions for enhancing Wi-Fi speeds, to determine if any will help achieve your desired internet speed. A reliable, quick, and broad Wi-Fi network serves as the cornerstone for a dependable and effective smart home ecosystem.

**2. Identify the benefits you desire**

Attempting to install every available smart home device can lead to significant expenses, especially if you’re just beginning to create your ecosystem. It’s vital to pinpoint the specific advantages you wish to gain for you and your family, to prevent being overwhelmed with an excess of gadgets and applications to manage, and to avoid purchasing devices that you don’t genuinely require.

Two main motivations for developing a smart home ecosystem are convenience and security. For instance, you can request recipes via your digital assistant on a smart display in your kitchen, and configure your smart thermostat to adjust the temperature as you approach home. You can also set up smart security cameras around the house to monitor activities from your smartphone, and secure your door with a smart lock for added safety.

Naturally, there are other advantages of a smart home configuration, like energy efficiency and entertainment. It’s entirely up to you to define what you wish to achieve with your devices so that your invested money and efforts don’t go to waste.

**3. Streamline your applications**

Smart home devices typically come with various companion applications that allow you to access their features and settings. However, can you envision having five different devices at home, each requiring a separate app for management? It becomes even more cumbersome with 10, 20 devices, and beyond. It would be much simpler if, for instance, your smart security cameras and smart locks could be managed from a single app or a couple of apps.

This doesn’t imply that you should exclusively purchase devices from one brand, as there are alternative methods to reduce the number of apps and ecosystems you need to handle. One of the most favored approaches is to employ a digital assistant such as Amazon’s Alexa alongside an Amazon Echo device, or to integrate them with your Google Home application.

Once you’ve become accustomed to your smart home, you might contemplate establishing a HomeAssistant server, as suggested by Reddit user u/mlee12382. This server would facilitate communication between devices from different ecosystems, allowing for a broader range of setups for your smart home. According to Redditor u/OpethNJ, the cost associated with setting up a HomeAssistant server is approximately $200.

**4. Leverage voice assistants**

Speaking of digital assistants, voice-operated assistants are fantastic if you prefer to manage your smart home devices without using your hands. For instance, you can request a specific recipe if you forgot the measurements while preparing ingredients, or you can adjust your room’s temperature without leaving the comfort of your bed on a leisurely weekend morning. It’s often quicker to issue a voice command than to launch an app and navigate through menus.

Numerous voice assistants are available on the market. Besides the previously mentioned Alexa (and Amazon’s upgraded version, Alexa+), other popular options include

Netflix Broadcasts Renowned British Sci-Fi Show with Flawless Rotten Tomatoes Rating

For all of Netflix’s high-budget originals and its vast collection of acquisitions, some of the platform’s most intriguing sci-fi gems often appear quietly — “The Lazarus Project” aptly exemplifies this. The British show, which first aired on Sky Max, is now available for streaming on Netflix and proudly holds a unique honor: a flawless 100% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. For sci-fi enthusiasts who believe they’ve experienced everything the service provides, this title warrants immediate attention.

The narrative revolves around George (portrayed by Paapa Essiedu), an unremarkable man who awakens one day to find that the world has reverted back in time by several months. Only a limited group of individuals remember the shift, all of them part of a clandestine organization called the Lazarus Project. Their goal: to avert extinction-level crises by reversing time and guiding history towards a viable future. George gets recruited, and the adventure truly kicks off.

What genuinely distinguishes the series is its grounded nature, despite its high-concept premise. Instead of relying on sci-fi clichés and excessive CGI, The Lazarus Project emphasizes the emotional stakes involved in manipulating time. Characters must confront their trauma, make impossible decisions, and deal with the realization that entire timelines — along with their inhabitants — could be wiped out in a blink.

In March 2024, the show was canceled after two seasons, with no updates regarding a revival. That said, if you have already seen all the top sci-fi series of 2025, The Lazarus Project is certainly worth exploring.

Here’s what the critics have to say:

As noted, The Lazarus Project maintains a flawless 100% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, based on 14 reviews. Over at Metacritic, the series earned a score of 73 from 11 critic reviews. Writing for Empire, critic Jordan King remarked, “Affirming Joe Barton’s reputation as one of the finest screenwriters in the industry, The Lazarus Project is precisely the sort of mind-bending, thrilling television that you’ll find yourself wanting to revisit repeatedly.”

For those unfamiliar, Joe Barton served as the showrunner for The Lazarus Project, having also created and directed series like “Giri/Haji” and “Black Doves.”

Writing for The Times, Carol Midgley provides a more varied critique of the series, highlighting how abruptly its tone shifts: “The Lazarus Project” moves from domestic drama to peculiar time-travel sci-fi, then to a full-blown Mad Max–style car chase in under an hour…”

There’s an abundance of remarkable TV to explore on Netflix, but if you’re seeking intelligent storytelling that can genuinely compete with the prestigious sci-fi captivating Apple TV+, The Lazarus Project comes highly recommended. It’s intelligent, ambitious, and refreshingly self-assured in its concepts, providing high-concept science fiction without losing sight of the human elements at play.

Apple TV Unveils the Comeback of Its Highly Praised Series

### Drops of God Season 2: Anticipations for Apple TV’s Celebrated Series

Apple TV is poised to unveil an exhilarating lineup of returning programs, with the much-awaited second season of **Drops of God** debuting on **January 21**. This series has received considerable acclaim, establishing it as one of the platform’s premier offerings.

#### Summary of Drops of God

**Drops of God** is based on a New York Times bestselling manga and immerses its audience in the complex realm of gastronomy and premium wines. Significantly, the series incorporates multiple languages, showcasing dialogue in English, Japanese, and French, thereby enriching its cultural landscape.

#### Season 2 Launch Information

The second season will commence with its inaugural episode on **January 21**, succeeded by weekly releases until **March 11**. This release format keeps viewers engaged and creates opportunities for deeper discussions and expectations between episodes.

#### Positive Reception

The first season of **Drops of God** earned an impressive **100% critics score** on Rotten Tomatoes, coupled with a **93% audience score**, reinforcing its position as one of the most critically lauded series on Apple TV. This level of acclaim underscores the program’s quality and its appeal to audiences.

#### Trailer and Insights

A new trailer for season 2 has been unveiled, containing some spoilers from the first season. Fans are invited to watch it for a preview of what lies ahead, as the series vows to explore its enthralling storyline further.

#### Additional Upcoming Apple TV Series

Alongside **Drops of God**, Apple TV is also bringing back other beloved series, including:
– **Shrinking**: A cherished comedy making a return for a fresh season.
– **Hijack**: A gripping thriller featuring Idris Elba that has stirred considerable interest.
– **Monarch: Legacy of Monsters**: A sci-fi epic that is also making its return.

#### Viewing Options

Audiences can catch up on the inaugural season of **Drops of God** on Apple TV, which is available for **$12.99 per month**. For those searching for a bargain, the service can be accessed at a reduced rate through the **Apple One bundle**.

As the premiere date draws near, fans are keen to witness how the narrative unfolds in season 2. Will you be tuning in to see **Drops of God** upon its return?

User Perspectives on the Safety of Dollar Tree Technology Items

excellent products for your workplace. While exploring the tech section at Dollar Tree, it’s easy to be tempted to stock up on usually pricey items for a fraction of the cost. But is it wise to do so?

Regrettably, not all technology from Dollar Tree has a strong reputation for durability, performance, and safety. There have been consumer reports of batteries overheating and charging cables catching fire. This is not just an inconvenience and a loss of money; it poses a genuine threat to the buyer and their property. One product failure even led to a widespread recall.

There’s a common saying that you receive what you pay for. Since many newer technology items can seem quite costly, finding a bargain can be appealing. However, there’s a threshold to how inexpensive something can be manufactured before its reliability is compromised. If you decide to shop for tech at Dollar Tree, there are specific products to steer clear of and warning signs to be mindful of.

Avoid Dollar Tree cables, cords, and related items

Shokz Improves Open-Ear Workout Earbuds with Significant Noise-Cancelling Enhancement

The Shokz OpenFit 2 series has already established itself as a leader in audio excellence, and the newly unveiled OpenFit Pro earbuds are poised to elevate this reputation even further. Unveiled at CES 2026, the OpenFit Pro brings several innovative features that represent a significant improvement over its forerunners.

A prominent feature of the OpenFit Pro is the introduction of “Open-Ear Noise Reduction,” a first for Shokz. Each earbud boasts a triple-mic setup that monitors ambient noise and equalizes it, creating an indoor Private Mode while still allowing for situational awareness in outdoor settings. This functionality is especially advantageous for users desiring to immerse themselves in music without becoming entirely detached from their environment.

The Pros also present a new Dolby Atmos mode, delivering 3D directional sound for a captivating auditory experience. The earbuds have been engineered with dual speaker elements that facilitate multi-directional audio, boosting the bass and diminishing Total Harmonic Distortion. Furthermore, the OpenFit Pro features wear detection, expanded frequency response, and an additional hour of battery life compared to the OpenFit 2+.

Weighing approximately 3g more per earbud than earlier models, the OpenFit Pro is offered at $249, which is $50 higher than the OpenFit 2+. Despite the slight increase in weight, the earbuds continue to provide comfort during wear, thanks to the nickel-titanium ear hooks that ensure stability during physical activities.

The OpenFit Pro is additionally equipped with Bluetooth 6.1 for enhanced energy efficiency and superior audio streaming quality. The quick charging functionality has been improved, delivering four hours of playback after merely ten minutes of charging. The earbuds also feature a more reliable charging contact, guaranteeing they stay charged and ready for use.

In summary, the Shokz OpenFit Pro earbuds are crafted for athletes and active individuals looking to enjoy superior audio without sacrificing awareness of their environment. With features such as noise reduction, Dolby Atmos capability, and enhanced battery longevity, the OpenFit Pro stands out as an attractive choice for those aiming for a blend of performance and situational consciousness.

Comparison between Moto G Power 2026 and CMF Phone 2 Pro: Features and Value Below $300

Both the Moto G Power 2026 and CMF Phone 2 Pro are affordable smartphones priced below $300, making them suitable for teens, tweens, seniors, casual users, and as backup devices. Here’s a thorough comparison of the two:

**Moto G Power 2026:**
– **Design & Display:** Sports a 6.8-inch 120Hz FHD+ display with excellent brightness, available in Pantone Pure Cashmere and Pantone Evening Blue. It boasts a robust design with Gorilla Glass 7i and IP68/IP69 ratings.
– **Performance:** Driven by a MediaTek Dimensity 6300 processor with 8GB RAM, expandable storage reaching 1TB, and operates on Android 16.
– **Battery & Charging:** Features a 5,200mAh battery providing up to two days of usage and supports 30W TurboPower charging.
– **Camera:** Includes a 50MP primary camera, 8MP ultra-wide, macro vision lens, and a 32MP front camera.
– **Pros:** Large display, extended battery life, budget-friendly, resilient.
– **Cons:** Mediocre camera quality, limited software upgrades.

**CMF Phone 2 Pro:**
– **Design & Display:** Comes with a 6.77-inch FHD+ flexible AMOLED screen with a distinctive design offered in black, orange, light green, and white.
– **Performance:** Operates on a MediaTek Dimensity 7300 Pro processor with 8GB RAM, storage options reaching 256GB (expandable to 2TB), and runs Android 15 (with upgrade potential).
– **Battery & Charging:** Houses a 5,000mAh battery with 33W fast charging and 5W reverse wired charging capabilities.
– **Camera:** Features a 50MP main camera, 50MP telephoto, 8MP ultra-wide, and 16MP front camera.
– **Pros:** Distinctive design, Essential Space feature, extended security support.
– **Cons:** Mono speaker, limited availability in the US.

**Conclusion:**
The Moto G Power 2026 is a great option for users who prioritize sturdiness and battery longevity, whereas the CMF Phone 2 Pro presents a unique design and superior camera specifications. While the CMF Phone 2 Pro is deemed the top budget phone under $300, its limited availability in the US could be a disadvantage for some consumers.