Space is always at a premium, whether it’s in the bedroom, the living room, or the kitchen. Maximizing space is a challenge, which is why multifunctional designs are in high demand. Furniture that can transform to do different things in different situations or appliances that can serve different needs help not only save space but sometimes even money in the long run.
Unfortunately, multifunctional designs also tend to be complex and confusing due to cramming many features into a single product or system. Of course, it’s always possible to create minimalist multifunctional designs with some careful thinking, and this concept for a smart cooker system puts that theory to the test.
Our kitchens are becoming smarter every year as refrigerators, ovens, and even hubs gain some intelligence and Internet connectivity. These large appliances are more or less permanently installed in place, so the space they take up is not really a problem. Stoves and cookware, however, are a different question, especially given how many pots and pans we tend to use.
The ODS Smart Cooker concept tries to reduce some of that wasted space by combining a few simple objects into one. The base of the system is an induction stove with a very minimalist aesthetic. A simple intuitive dial controls the temperature, while a touch-sensitive surface switches between different modes.
The more interesting part, however, is the pot itself. It looks very simple with a matching simple cover. That said, that cover also functions as a stovetop grille. When not needed, these two cookwares can occupy the same spot, saving space. You also don’t need a separate cover for the pot, but it also means that you can’t use the grille and the pot simultaneously when you also need to cover the pot.
The handles for the cooking vessel are rather strange but not accidental. The angle of handles for the cover/grille leaves a gap where you can easily wedge in your fingers to take the cover off. Alternatively, you can probably also squeeze two handles on the same side together to lift the opposite side slightly, allowing steam to escape without risking burning your hand.
When organizing and setting up your home, smart home appliances are essential. If you’re a tech-savvy homeowner seeking convenience, efficiency, and a touch of modern elegance in your home, then you need to collect a few worthy smart appliances. From intelligent control panels to portable smart assistants, we have curated a collection of nifty devices that will seamlessly integrate with your home, while providing advanced functionalities.
These smart home appliances represent the pinnacle of modern technology, offering tech-savvy homeowners an array of options to enhance their living spaces. Whether you’re seeking elegant design, intuitive control, or comprehensive management, these devices provide innovative solutions to meet your needs. Pick the one that perfectly caters to your techy requirements!
1. The Frame
Say hello to the Frame – a sophisticated smart device that merges cutting-edge tech with a stunning design. The appliance measures 13.3 inches, and it functions as a full-screen touch system, serving as the central hub for all your IoT devices. The smart device is wrapped in Kvadrat fabric and features a lovely color palette.
The Frame is more than just a functional and nifty smart appliance, it also serves as a statement piece that elevates the aesthetic and appeal of any living space. It seamlessly merges with your home, and your decor style, ensuring it doesn’t stand out like a boxy eye-sore.
Why is it noteworthy?
What makes the Frame Wall Pad unique is that it seamlessly merges with any sophisticated living space. It provides a level of control and convenience that redefines home automation. With one single touch, users can manage and control their entire home’s IoT equipment, including the security systems and front door panels.
The Frame is a wonderful combination of functionality and elegant design, making it a great purchase for homeowners and tech lovers who value both style and technology. The minimal but luxurious color palette and attention to detail set the device apart.
What we like
The Kvadrat fabric and color palette add a touch of sophistication
Allows you to manage all IoT devices from a single interface.
What we dislike
We are unsure of the fabric options being provided.
It will require some professional installation for optimal integration.
2. Anona Aurora Security Camera
The Anona Aurora Security System was created with a clear focus on utility and independence. It delivers 4K resolution, a long-lasting battery, always-on recording, and smart AI detection. These handy features make it a true security asset for your home. It is an excellent option for those who are fed up with subscription fees and complicated installations. Most cameras on the market max out at 1080p, but the Anona Aurora provides an impressive 4K HDR resolution, providing a clear and clean view of your surroundings.
It delivers eight megapixels, ensuring you capture significant details like license plates and distant movements with up to 8x zoom. It also works wonderfully in low-light conditions with color night vision. It uses a starlight sensor, an F1.2 aperture, and a 10-LED spotlight to ensure the color and detail remain intact even in the dark.
You could also pair up the Anona Aurora Security Camera with the Anona Holo Smart Lock – which is designed to merge with your existing door setup and provides multiple access methods, including fingerprint recognition, smartphone control, and even voice activation via Google Assistant or Alexa.
It is equipped with a worthy 10,000mAh battery, which can deliver up to 180 days of power on a single charge. This makes it a better choice than the popular Google Nest Cam which lasts an average of 1.5 to 3 months. The Anona Aurora can be paired up with Anona’s 4.8W solar panel, allowing it to function as a self-sustaining security unit
The solar panel will harness renewable energy, hence reducing the camera’s dependency on power outlets, and making it a viable option for those looking for low-maintenance, long-term installation options. It is also equipped with on-device AI, which can easily distinguish between people, pets, cars, and packages – without any kind of monthly subscription fees or cloud dependency!
What we like
Equipped with a two-way audio, a 10 LED spotlight, and a siren.
Pocket-friendly price tag.
What we dislike:
If the security system does not integrate with the existing smart home ecosystems, it could be an issue for some users.
3. Zoey Smart Home Assistant
Say hello to the Zoey Smart Home Assistant – a revolutionary device that is redefining the concept of home automation. This device merges functionality with portability and aesthetic appeal. It provides the flexibility of wireless use and adapts to your dynamic and fluid lifestyle. It features a sleek and minimalist form built with premium materials.
The assistant will seamlessly merge with your home decor, feeling like a natural component of your home. It focuses on user interaction and engagement, ensuring it becomes a part of your everyday life. Zoey can detach from its dock, converting it into a portable assistant that can be carried around in the home.
Why is it noteworthy?
Zoey’s portability helps it stand out in a crowded market of smart home assistants. The assistant can move with its users, instead of being tied to a single location. Zoey is also equipped with a bunch of cool features such as – advanced voice recognition capabilities, enabling effortless interaction through simple voice commands.
This feature allows you to control Zoey in an intuitive and user-friendly manner, making it easy even for not-so-tech-savvy individuals. Zoey can connect with different smart home systems, allowing it to control lighting, temperature, and security settings, providing comprehensive home management at your fingertips.
What we like
Delivers rich sound quality for an immersive listening experience.
Easy to interact with via voice commands.
What we dislike
It has limited surface compatibility and only sticks to metal surfaces.
4. Nothing Robot Vacuum (1)
Dubbed the Nothing Robot Vacuum (1), this conceptual smart cleaning device is a far cry from the traditional robot vacuums on the market. It features a unique design and innovative features. The vacuum is inspired by the design language of Nothing’s tech products, and it features a transparent D-shaped outer shell, offering a visually appealing appearance.
The transparent nature of the design offers it a futuristic, and “preserved in glass” aesthetic, which makes it a real conversation starter for your home. It also features a Glyph Interface, which provides real-time feedback on the cleaning process. This interface functions as a visual progress bar, allowing you to track how much cleaning is left.
Why is it noteworthy?
The Glyph Interface adds a layer of interactivity that improves the user’s control over the cleaning process. This offers real-time updates, cutting out the guesswork often required with automated cleaning devices. This feature is great for homeowners who value transparency and efficiency in their smart home devices.
The Nothing Robot Vacuum (1) offers the perfect approach to design and functionality. It serves as a statement of modernity and technological advancement. It is a great option for tech enthusiasts who want home appliances that push the boundaries of traditional and typical design.
What we like
Transparent shell and LED indicators for a futuristic look.
Glyph Interface offers real-time updates.
What we dislike
Since it is a concept, we are unsure how well it will translate into a real product.
5. Flic Twist
Dubbed the Flic Twist, this innovative smart home controller provides a tactile and intuitive way to manage all your smart home devices. It is a wireless dial, created for simplicity and versatility, allowing users to control lights, music, blinds, and more without having to use smartphone apps or voice commands.
The Flic Twist features a minimalist design, making it a functional tool and elegant addition to your home. The Flic Twist is made up of four distinct actions – push, double push, twist, and push & twist—each of which can be customized to perform different functions.
Why is it noteworthy?
The Flic Twist prioritizes tactile interaction, providing a refreshing alternative to voice and app-based controls that are currently dominating the smart home market. It provides users with a more hands-on method of managing their devices, offering a sense of physical engagement, which isn’t available in digital interfaces.
The device also allows users to set up custom actions that merge well with their daily routines. This makes the Flic Twist a flexible device that can handle a wide range of applications – ranging from adjusting lighting and music to controlling blinds and other smart home devices. It features a user-friendly design that can be used by different family members.
What we like
Easy to use with four customizable actions.
Manage various smart home devices with a single dial.
What we dislike
It may not support all home devices.
6. NEEO
Dubbed the NEEO Smart Home Automation System, this innovative solution will simplify how you manage your smart home devices. It includes two components – the brain and the remote. It provides a seamless way to control all your devices from one single place. This system is designed for user convenience, offering an intuitive interface that recognizes users, and provides personalized control options.
NEEO focuses on easy usage and integration, allowing users of all tech proficiency levels to handle it. The brain functions as the central hub, it communicates with different smart devices, while the remote offers instant control with a touch. It provides remote management capabilities as well.
Why is it noteworthy?
NEEO can streamline smart home management, serving as a centralized solution, while eliminating the need for multiple apps and remotes. The user recognition features add a layer of personalization, ensuring each user has their own settings and devices. This is excellent for homes with multiple users, offering a tailored experience for everyone.
The system’s ease of setup is another key advantage, addressing one of the most common issues in smart home management. With a simple three-step process, users can quickly connect their devices and begin enjoying the benefits of home automation. This user-friendly approach makes NEEO an attractive option for tech-savvy homeowners looking to simplify their smart home systems.
What we like
Manages all devices from one system.
Recognizes users for tailored device management.
What we dislike
Doesn’t include voice controls, which may be preferable for some users.
7. Smart Pad
This adorable design concept gives your impersonal tech products a makeover, by giving a smart display a comical and funny face. This makes the product seem friendly and approachable! Called the Smart Pad, this clever little product changes the core design of its smart display. It features a 4-inch screen which may be a bit too small, but which only shows the essentials, instead of flooding users with information.
The smart display looks like an egg, bringing to mind visions of old, colorful iMacs or some vintage CRT TVs. The screen is positioned at a comfortable angle, and you don’t need to employ any stands or external mechanisms. The Smart Pad aims to transform the way users interact with smart home technology by making it more approachable and engaging.
Why is it noteworthy?
The Smart Pad adopts a cartoon face, hence creating a more inviting and welcoming user experience. This design is great for tech-savvy homeowners who want products with a more personal touch. The pad also features a compact size, which is ideal for homes with space constraints. It also incorporates a minimal design, ensuring it will complement different decor styles.
The Smart Pad is blessed with the ability to humanize technology, forming a more engaging user experience. It is the right choice for individuals who appreciate both functionality and personality in their home devices, with the ability to enhance home automation.
What we like
Features an egg-shaped screen with a cartoon face that adds charm and personality.
Small size fits seamlessly into any space.
What we dislike
The 4-inch display may restrict information visibility, as it has a limited screen size.
8. Sonoff NSPanel Smart Scene Wall Switch
Named the Sonoff NSPanel Smart Scene Wall Switch, this device is a comprehensive solution for home automation. It provides centralized control of different appliances and systems. It is equipped with an HMI (Human-Machine Interface) panel design, which offers a harmonious and seamless way to manage lights, temperature, and preset scenes from a single interface.
The wall switch includes multiple control methods, including a touchscreen, dual-channel switch, voice commands, and a smart app. It is designed to make smart home management an intuitive and more accessible process. It features a design that is both functional and stylish, allowing it to complement any home environment.
Why is it noteworthy?
The Sonoff NSPanel Smart Scene Wall Switch is versatile, and equipped with comprehensive control capabilities. It merges multiple control methods into one single device, cutting down the need for multiple remotes or apps. This simplifies the user experience and offers an all-in-one approach that is appealing to modern homeowners.
The NSPanel’s ability to activate preset scenes based on user preferences is another excellent feature. This functionality allows users to customize their home environment with ease. The remote access provided by the smart app ensures that users can manage their home automation systems from anywhere, adding an extra layer of convenience.
What we like
Centralizes management of multiple devices and scenes.
Equipped with touchscreen, voice, and app controls for flexibility.
What we dislike
May require time and effort to configure all devices.
9. TOKIT Omni Cook
Dubbed the TOKIT Omni Cook, this all-in-one kitchen appliance is the innovative kitchen assistant you’ve been searching for. It makes your meal prep process quick, and efficient, ensuring you don’t spend hours cooking. The TOKIT Omni Cook is designed to bring some fun and playfulness to your cooking and meal prep experience.
It is the versatile device you’ve been searching for. It merges state-of-the-art technology with user-friendly features to streamline your meal prep process. It will encourage even the most hesitant cooks to explore new recipes and techniques, opening up the culinary world for them.
Why is it noteworthy?
The TOKIT Omni Cook is equipped with an impressive array of features that will simplify the cooking process for you. It makes cooking accessible for both beginners and seasoned chefs. It automates the cooking to an impressive degree, so you can depend on the appliance to deal with complex cooking tasks with minimum intervention on your part.
The appliance is equipped with a library of digital recipes, which guide you through the cooking process. This is a great feature for individuals who aren’t too confident in the kitchen and require clear instructions and visual aids to prepare their meals.
What we like
Features an integrated 7-inch touchscreen display, which lets you customize and tweak your preferences.
It will not occupy substantial space in your kitchen.
What we dislike
It has multiple culinary modes and functionalities, hence users may take some time to adjust to the appliance.
10. Mr.Alfred
Meet Mr.Alfred – a smart home appliance that functions as a humidifier, dehumidifier, air purifier, and vacuum. It is blessed with a unique combination of retro aesthetics and cutting-edge technology. Mr.Alfred is on a mission to revolutionize the home appliance landscape, by serving as a comprehensive solution for healthy air management.
It is more than just an appliance, Mr.Alfred is also a statement piece that will seamlessly integrate with your home decor. It resembles an elegant bar cart, equipped with gold rails that add a retro touch. A muted grey body adds to the rich yet subtle aesthetic. This appliance not only saves space but also merges multiple appliances into one.
Why is it noteworthy?
Mr. Alfred is designed for comprehensive air management. It will sense the air quality, and take targeted action to keep your home clean and healthy. This smart system combines the functionalities of an air purifier, humidifier, dehumidifier, and robot vacuum, ensuring comprehensive air management.
The appliance also features a sleek form and includes six important parts – the main body, a drone for space monitoring, a robot vacuum, an air purifier, a humidifier, and a dehumidifier. These components are designed to work together seamlessly. The air-management parts rest on the robot vacuum, making them portable, and ensuring they clean your home spectacularly.
What we like
Merges elegant aesthetics and smart functionality.
A multifunctional appliance that embodies four devices in one.
What we dislike
It is a concept, so we are unsure how well it would work as a tangible product.
In this fast-paced and speedy era, the kitchen isn’t simply a space for cooking, it is a hub of convenience and innovation combined. Smart kitchen appliances have been on the rise, making our meal prep process more efficient, enjoyable, and perfectly tailored to our modern lifestyles. These unique and cutting-edge gadgets are upgrading our everyday culinary experience. These smart and well-designed devices save time, simplify tasks, and improve our overall cooking experience. They make meal prep fun, simple, and much less chore. Here’s a detailed and immersive look into ten smart kitchen appliances that will elevate your cooking game, while streamlining your process.
1. TOKIT Omni Cook
Named the TOKIT Omni Cook, this all-in-one innovative kitchen appliance is the kitchen assistant you’ve been searching for. The TOKIT Omni Cook makes your meal prep process fast and efficient. It also brings an element of fun and playfulness to your cooking and meal prep experience.
Why is it noteworthy?
It is equipped with innovative technology, an automated cooking process, and step-by-step digital recipes, which makes cooking up delicious dishes super easy and simple. It has 11+ built-in culinary modes and can function as 21 cooking appliances.
What we like
Equipped with an integrated 7-inch touchscreen display, which lets you customize and tweak your preferences
Doesnt occupy much space in your kitchen
What we dislike
It has multiple culinary modes and functionalities, making the appliance tough to use
2. Hoto Kitchen Scale
Say hello to Hoto – a smart kitchen scale that merges the pros of smart technology such as accompanied social media channels with interaction control panels. It is designed by Lu Zheng and is quite minimal with stainless steel controls, and a polished reflective sheen. It isn’t amped with a whole bunch of knobs, controls and buttons.
Why is it noteworthy?
The scale features one interactive knob, consolidating all the controls in it. This serves as the scale’s power sensor, weight dial, and net-zero button. This ensures that the scale is minimal and easy to use. You don’t need to spend much time figuring out how to use it.
What we like
Features a sleek, attractive, and smart design with one knob operating it
Hoto users can share recipes via the social media app
What we dislike
With the scale, users can keep track of how much they’re eating, which could support unhealthy eating habits if not used carefully
3. B Point
Say hello to B Point – a smart kettle that will give your ordinary kettles a run for their money. It includes a touch interface, which gets the appliance up and working, and allows the users to have an organic connection with it. The circular display features two rings, with the outer ring displaying the temperature, and the inner ring displaying the water level inside.
Why is it noteworthy?
This smart kettle offers the everyday kettle a much-needed upgrade. It has a circular display that allows users to maintain a connection with the kettle and informs them once their warm water is ready. It has a sleek and compact form, making it a lovely addition to your kitchen.
What we like
Gives the boring kettle a sleek and futuristic upgrade
What we dislike
Some users may need time to get used to the digital interface
4. Tineco Toasty One
Named the Tineco Toasty One, this toaster is new, upgraded, and fascinating! This toaster makes your toast consistent and browned to perfection. It features a touchscreen interface, which makes handling the toaster multiple functions a breeze. The screen features a slider that lets you adjust your toaster’s temperature setting, while a small toast icon changes from white to golden to brown as you move your finger along the slider.
Why is it noteworthy?
The smart toaster lets you toast two slices of bread at different temperatures, preparing them both at the same time while ensuring different preferences are catered to. This toaster is a boon for families with different members and diverse tastes.
What we like
It has dual temperature control, which toasts different types of bread in one go
You can adjust the settings to choose your browning preferences
What we dislike
Expensive price tag
Larger than a traditional toaster, will occupy more space
5. Tovala Smart Oven Air Fryer
If you’re looking to purchase an Air Fryer then you may want to consider the Tovala Smart Oven Air Fryer. It is a smart device amped with a sleek, stone-gray finish. It functions as an all-in-one appliance, which ensures you don’t need a variety of different appliances on your kitchen countertop, saving some precious real estate for you.
Why is it noteworthy?
The Tovala Smart Oven Air Fryer merges multiple cooking functionalities with smart technology. It is equipped with a unique scan-to-cook feature which makes meal prep smooth and effortless. It is capable of baking, broiling, and air frying, making it a versatile addition to any kitchen.
What we like
It is equipped with scan-to-cook technology
It serves as an oven, air fryer, and more, it is blessed with multi-functionality
What we dislike
There is limited app control
There is no Alexa or Google Home support
6. Suvie
Say hello to Suvie – a clever kitchen robot with a smart Wi-Fi-enabled countertop multi-zone cooker and refrigerator that transforms the different meal components – raw proteins, veggies, chef-designed sauces, and dry starches into one delicious and high-quality meal.
Why is it noteworthy?
Suvie is an excellent option for those who want to eat healthy and well-balanced meals, but don’t really have the time to prepare them. Suvie is paired up with optional meal kits, which gives users the chance to prepare fresh meals. This is pretty great for those who work.
What we like
Teamed up with a fully customizable Suvie Smart Meals delivery service
Easy to clean and maintain
What we dislike
It can only prepare meals for 2-4 adults, so not a suitable product for bigger families
7. iGulu S1
If you’re someone who loves crafting their own beverages, then you need to incorporate the iGulu S1 into your beer routine. It is an all-in-one appliance that supports fermentation, conditioning and dispensing. It can produce 5L kegs of professional-quality beer for you, helping you brew like a pro.
Why is it noteworthy?
With the iGulu S1, you can customize and create personalized brews with ease. It helps you explore a whole range of global beers, ranging from lagers to ales. It is equipped with detachable beer tubes and a wide-opening fermentation keg which makes cleaning the device quite easy.
What we like
It prepares craft quality beer with 3 simple steps
What we dislike
It will occupy a lot of counter space, not well-suited for smaller kitchens
8. Airthereal Revive Electric Kitchen Composter
Say hello to the Airthereal Revive Electric Kitchen Composter – this innovative appliance makes the process of turning food scraps into organic fertilizer an easy peasy process. It is quite easy to use, as you just need to fill the 2.5L stainless container with food scraps and press the Start Button. The SHARKSDEN Tri-Blade then does its job!
Why is it noteworthy?
The Airthereal Revive Electric Kitchen Composter breaks down the waste in multiple directions to provide a uniform finish. The bucket can hold a day’s worth of food waste for a family of four. It is made using nonstick coating and dishwasher-safe materials, making it easy to clean.
What we like
You save money on garbage bags and premade organic fertilizer
What we dislike
It is limited to small batches, and cannot be used for bigger families
9. Pronto & Alto
Dubbed Pronto, this compact gadget handles your cooking process for you – ranging from weighing to sautéing, slow-cooking, simmering, reheating and even air-frying, which is on account of its modular companion – Alto. Both Pronto and Alto pair up to serve as the ultimate cooking aids for you!
Why is it noteworthy?
The dynamic duo Pronto and Alto feature multipurpose designs and a compact footprint. They occupy only a small portion of your countertop and can help you prepare delicious meals without creating much of a mess. They were designed to make cooking effortless, allowing you to truly focus on eating!
What we like
Multipurpose design, helping you with a whole bunch of cooking processes
The devices make meal prep easier, faster, and smarter
What we dislike
The devices may take a while to get used to, and users will have a learning curve
10. Super Smart Fridge
Designed by Rocco co-founders Alyse Borkan and Sam Naparstek – this is the Super Smart Fridge. This compact, stylish, and unique-looking fridge doesn’t simply look like a modern kitchen appliance, it also resembles a furniture piece that could seamlessly merge with your living space.
Why is it noteworthy?
This innovative fridge lies somewhere between a small fridge and a dedicated wine fridge. It is visually pleasing with a modern and stylish design. It is equipped with a smart exterior and a fluted glass door. It also has a compact size, that ensures it occupies minimal space.
What we like
It will merge with the rest of your home, so you can place it in your living room
What we dislike
Seems more suitable to store wine bottles than food items or containers
Samsung Electronics has expanded its renowned smartwatch lineup with the introduction of the Galaxy Watch FE. This new model brings Samsung’s advanced health monitoring technology and sleek design to a wider audience. Specifically crafted to resonate with the health-conscious and tech-savvy demographic, this watch offers a comprehensive and personalized wellness experience. This article digs deep into key features, stylish design, and seamless integration within the Samsung ecosystem.
Designer: Samsung
Aesthetic Appeal and Customization
This smartwatch serves as both a tool for health monitoring and a fashion statement. Available in three striking colors—Black, Pink, Gold, and Silver—the watch is designed to complement any look. The new watch bands, featuring distinct blue and orange stitching, add a touch of modernity and style that appeals to vibrant and diverse tastes. These colors and design elements ensure it fits seamlessly into both casual and formal attire, making it versatile for any occasion.
Customization is a key aspect of this device, allowing users to express their individuality. The variety of new watch faces offers endless possibilities for personalization. Whether you prefer a minimalist design or something more colorful and dynamic, there’s a watch face for everyone. The one-click band mechanism makes it easy to switch bands, enabling users to mix and match according to their outfit or mood. This level of personalization is crucial for those who value unique and customizable products. By offering a wide range of customization options, Samsung ensures that every user can make this watch their own, reflecting their personal style and preferences.
Robust and Durable Design
Renowned for its durability, the smartwatch features sapphire crystal glass that is highly resistant to scratches, ensuring it maintains its pristine appearance over time. This is particularly important for an active generation that values both style and functionality. Its robust construction guarantees it can withstand the rigors of daily life, from intense
Samsung Galaxy Watch FE
In addition to its durability, the design focuses on comfort and ease of use. The 40mm size strikes a balance between visibility and comfort, making it suitable for both small and large wrists. Its lightweight design ensures that it can be worn all day without causing discomfort, whether you’re at the gym, at work, or out with friends. Samsung has paid close attention to the details, ensuring that the watch not only looks good but also feels good to wear, enhancing the overall user experience.
Comprehensive Health and Fitness Monitoring
At the heart of this smartwatch is Samsung’s advanced BioActive Sensor, which provides a suite of powerful health and fitness functions. These features deliver personalized and actionable insights, helping users to improve their wellness daily. For those focused on maintaining a healthy lifestyle, these capabilities are particularly appealing. The watch acts as a personal health coach, offering guidance and motivation to help users achieve their fitness goals.
Sleep Monitoring and Coaching
Good sleep is essential for overall wellness, and this device excels in this area. The watch offers advanced sleep features that monitor sleep patterns and provide detailed analysis. It also includes sleep coaching, which helps users create a sleep-friendly environment and improve their sleep habits. For individuals who often struggle with maintaining healthy sleep patterns due to busy lifestyles and screen time, these features are invaluable. By offering insights into sleep quality and actionable tips for improvement, this smartwatch helps users wake up feeling refreshed and ready to tackle the day.
Samsung’s sleep monitoring technology goes beyond just tracking sleep duration. It provides a comprehensive overview of sleep stages, including REM, light, and deep sleep. This detailed analysis helps users understand their sleep patterns and identify areas for improvement. Additionally, the sleep coaching feature offers personalized tips and routines to help users develop better sleep habits. Whether it’s adjusting bedtime routines or creating a more sleep-conducive environment, this smartwatch empowers users to take control of their sleep health.
Heart Health Monitoring
Heart health is another critical area where this device shines. It offers a range of heart health monitoring features, including HR Alert, which detects abnormally high or low heart rates, and the Irregular Heart Rhythm Notification (IHRN), which monitors for signs of atrial fibrillation (Afib). Users can also monitor their blood pressure and ECG, gaining deeper insights into their heart health. This comprehensive heart monitoring is crucial for a generation increasingly aware of the importance of preventive health measures.
The heart health features provide users with peace of mind, knowing they can monitor their heart health in real-time. The HR Alert feature notifies users if their heart rate goes above or below normal levels, allowing for immediate action if necessary. The IHRN feature is particularly beneficial for detecting early signs of Afib, a condition that can lead to serious complications if left unchecked. By providing these advanced heart health monitoring capabilities, Samsung ensures that users can take proactive steps to maintain their cardiovascular health.
Fitness Tracking and Running Analysis
This smartwatch supports more than 100 different workouts, providing detailed tracking and progress reports. For runners, the advanced running analysis is particularly beneficial. It helps analyze overall performance to maximize efficiency and provides insights to help prevent injuries. The Personalized Heart Rate Zone feature allows users to set goals based on their physical capabilities, optimizing their workouts and helping them achieve their fitness objectives. These features cater to fitness enthusiasts and their pursuit of a healthy lifestyle.
Samsung’s fitness tracking technology is designed to motivate and inspire users to stay active. This smartwatch tracks a wide range of activities, from running and cycling to swimming and yoga. Each workout is meticulously recorded, providing users with detailed feedback on their performance. The advanced running analysis feature goes a step further, offering insights into running form and technique to help users run more efficiently and reduce the risk of injury. By setting personalized heart rate zones, users can tailor their workouts to their fitness level, ensuring they get the most out of each session.
Integration with the Samsung Ecosystem
Seamless integration with other Samsung Galaxy devices offers a connected and convenient user experience. Features like Find My Phone and Camera Controller enhance everyday convenience. The watch also supports Samsung Wallet, allowing users to make payments and access identification cards directly from their smartwatch. This level of integration is a significant draw for those who value seamless technology that simplifies their lives.
Seamless Connectivity
The watch offers seamless connectivity with other Samsung devices, enhancing the overall user experience. The Find My Phone feature ensures that users can easily locate their misplaced phone, adding a layer of convenience. The Camera Controller feature allows users to control their smartphone camera remotely, making it easier to take group photos or capture shots from different angles. These features show how Samsung is dedicated to creating a cohesive and integrated ecosystem that enhances daily life.
This seamless integration extends to fitness and wellness apps, ensuring users can sync their health data effortlessly across devices. Whether tracking a workout, monitoring sleep, or checking daily activity levels, this smartwatch ensures that all this data is easily accessible on your smartphone, tablet, or other Galaxy devices.
Digital Wallet
Samsung Wallet support allows users to make payments and access identification cards directly from their smartwatch. This feature aligns perfectly with a digital-first lifestyle, offering convenience and efficiency. With Samsung Wallet, users can make purchases, store loyalty cards, and access their driver’s license or student ID, all from their wrist. This all-in-one digital wallet feature simplifies transactions and enhances the overall user experience, making this smartwatch an indispensable tool for the modern, tech-savvy user.
The digital wallet feature also supports secure transactions, ensuring that user data is protected. This is particularly important in today’s digital age, where security and privacy are paramount. Samsung’s commitment to providing secure and convenient digital solutions makes this device a reliable companion for daily transactions.
Samsung Electronics has expanded its renowned smartwatch lineup with the introduction of the Galaxy Watch FE. This new model brings Samsung’s advanced health monitoring technology and sleek design to a wider audience. Specifically crafted to resonate with the health-conscious and tech-savvy demographic, this watch offers a comprehensive and personalized wellness experience. This article digs deep into key features, stylish design, and seamless integration within the Samsung ecosystem.
Designer: Samsung
Aesthetic Appeal and Customization
This smartwatch serves as both a tool for health monitoring and a fashion statement. Available in three striking colors—Black, Pink, Gold, and Silver—the watch is designed to complement any look. The new watch bands, featuring distinct blue and orange stitching, add a touch of modernity and style that appeals to vibrant and diverse tastes. These colors and design elements ensure it fits seamlessly into both casual and formal attire, making it versatile for any occasion.
Customization is a key aspect of this device, allowing users to express their individuality. The variety of new watch faces offers endless possibilities for personalization. Whether you prefer a minimalist design or something more colorful and dynamic, there’s a watch face for everyone. The one-click band mechanism makes it easy to switch bands, enabling users to mix and match according to their outfit or mood. This level of personalization is crucial for those who value unique and customizable products. By offering a wide range of customization options, Samsung ensures that every user can make this watch their own, reflecting their personal style and preferences.
Robust and Durable Design
Renowned for its durability, the smartwatch features sapphire crystal glass that is highly resistant to scratches, ensuring it maintains its pristine appearance over time. This is particularly important for an active generation that values both style and functionality. Its robust construction guarantees it can withstand the rigors of daily life, from intense
Samsung Galaxy Watch FE
In addition to its durability, the design focuses on comfort and ease of use. The 40mm size strikes a balance between visibility and comfort, making it suitable for both small and large wrists. Its lightweight design ensures that it can be worn all day without causing discomfort, whether you’re at the gym, at work, or out with friends. Samsung has paid close attention to the details, ensuring that the watch not only looks good but also feels good to wear, enhancing the overall user experience.
Comprehensive Health and Fitness Monitoring
At the heart of this smartwatch is Samsung’s advanced BioActive Sensor, which provides a suite of powerful health and fitness functions. These features deliver personalized and actionable insights, helping users to improve their wellness daily. For those focused on maintaining a healthy lifestyle, these capabilities are particularly appealing. The watch acts as a personal health coach, offering guidance and motivation to help users achieve their fitness goals.
Sleep Monitoring and Coaching
Good sleep is essential for overall wellness, and this device excels in this area. The watch offers advanced sleep features that monitor sleep patterns and provide detailed analysis. It also includes sleep coaching, which helps users create a sleep-friendly environment and improve their sleep habits. For individuals who often struggle with maintaining healthy sleep patterns due to busy lifestyles and screen time, these features are invaluable. By offering insights into sleep quality and actionable tips for improvement, this smartwatch helps users wake up feeling refreshed and ready to tackle the day.
Samsung’s sleep monitoring technology goes beyond just tracking sleep duration. It provides a comprehensive overview of sleep stages, including REM, light, and deep sleep. This detailed analysis helps users understand their sleep patterns and identify areas for improvement. Additionally, the sleep coaching feature offers personalized tips and routines to help users develop better sleep habits. Whether it’s adjusting bedtime routines or creating a more sleep-conducive environment, this smartwatch empowers users to take control of their sleep health.
Heart Health Monitoring
Heart health is another critical area where this device shines. It offers a range of heart health monitoring features, including HR Alert, which detects abnormally high or low heart rates, and the Irregular Heart Rhythm Notification (IHRN), which monitors for signs of atrial fibrillation (Afib). Users can also monitor their blood pressure and ECG, gaining deeper insights into their heart health. This comprehensive heart monitoring is crucial for a generation increasingly aware of the importance of preventive health measures.
The heart health features provide users with peace of mind, knowing they can monitor their heart health in real-time. The HR Alert feature notifies users if their heart rate goes above or below normal levels, allowing for immediate action if necessary. The IHRN feature is particularly beneficial for detecting early signs of Afib, a condition that can lead to serious complications if left unchecked. By providing these advanced heart health monitoring capabilities, Samsung ensures that users can take proactive steps to maintain their cardiovascular health.
Fitness Tracking and Running Analysis
This smartwatch supports more than 100 different workouts, providing detailed tracking and progress reports. For runners, the advanced running analysis is particularly beneficial. It helps analyze overall performance to maximize efficiency and provides insights to help prevent injuries. The Personalized Heart Rate Zone feature allows users to set goals based on their physical capabilities, optimizing their workouts and helping them achieve their fitness objectives. These features cater to fitness enthusiasts and their pursuit of a healthy lifestyle.
Samsung’s fitness tracking technology is designed to motivate and inspire users to stay active. This smartwatch tracks a wide range of activities, from running and cycling to swimming and yoga. Each workout is meticulously recorded, providing users with detailed feedback on their performance. The advanced running analysis feature goes a step further, offering insights into running form and technique to help users run more efficiently and reduce the risk of injury. By setting personalized heart rate zones, users can tailor their workouts to their fitness level, ensuring they get the most out of each session.
Integration with the Samsung Ecosystem
Seamless integration with other Samsung Galaxy devices offers a connected and convenient user experience. Features like Find My Phone and Camera Controller enhance everyday convenience. The watch also supports Samsung Wallet, allowing users to make payments and access identification cards directly from their smartwatch. This level of integration is a significant draw for those who value seamless technology that simplifies their lives.
Seamless Connectivity
The watch offers seamless connectivity with other Samsung devices, enhancing the overall user experience. The Find My Phone feature ensures that users can easily locate their misplaced phone, adding a layer of convenience. The Camera Controller feature allows users to control their smartphone camera remotely, making it easier to take group photos or capture shots from different angles. These features show how Samsung is dedicated to creating a cohesive and integrated ecosystem that enhances daily life.
This seamless integration extends to fitness and wellness apps, ensuring users can sync their health data effortlessly across devices. Whether tracking a workout, monitoring sleep, or checking daily activity levels, this smartwatch ensures that all this data is easily accessible on your smartphone, tablet, or other Galaxy devices.
Digital Wallet
Samsung Wallet support allows users to make payments and access identification cards directly from their smartwatch. This feature aligns perfectly with a digital-first lifestyle, offering convenience and efficiency. With Samsung Wallet, users can make purchases, store loyalty cards, and access their driver’s license or student ID, all from their wrist. This all-in-one digital wallet feature simplifies transactions and enhances the overall user experience, making this smartwatch an indispensable tool for the modern, tech-savvy user.
The digital wallet feature also supports secure transactions, ensuring that user data is protected. This is particularly important in today’s digital age, where security and privacy are paramount. Samsung’s commitment to providing secure and convenient digital solutions makes this device a reliable companion for daily transactions.
After a long and tiring day at work, I really don’t have the energy to deal with complicated and cumbersome kitchen appliances. I need appliances that are quick, efficient, or to be more accurate…Smart! Smart kitchen appliances are a boon in today’s day and age, they do most of the work for you. All you need to do is adjust a few settings on the touchscreen or swipe through a few options on your smartphone – and most of your kitchen chores are done for you. And, we’ve curated a few of our favorite smart kitchen accessories for you that we believe deserve a spot in your kitchen. These innovative accessories are the ingenious sidekicks you need on your cooking adventures!
1. Hoto Kitchen Scale
Designed by Lu Zheng, Hoto is a smart kitchen scale that integrates the perks of smart technology such as accompanied social media channels and interactive control panels.
The smart kitchen scale is minimally designed and features stainless steel controls, and a polished reflective sheen. It doesn’t include a whole bunch of controls and buttons, and in fact, consolidates every control into one interactive knob.
What we like
Sleek and smart design with one knob operating it
Allows Hoto users to share recipes using the accompanying social media app
What we dislike
Since it allows users to keep track of how much they’re consuming, it could promote an unhealthy lifestyle if not used in a balanced manner
2. BORA x BO Flex Oven
The BORA x BO flex oven is intended to be the ultimate dream smart oven, that automates many parts of the cooking process for you, allowing you to pay more attention to preparing the dish.
Why is it noteworthy?
Cooking is a complicated and multi-step process that can take up a lot of your time, and can often feel overwhelming. The BORA x BO smart steam oven makes the cooking process easier, and more streamlined, taking care of many of the parts that you may have taken for granted.
What we like
Features an animated grid right on the screen
You can control all the operations via a bright 19-inch touch display on top
What we dislike
The BORA x BO flex oven is a massive kitchen appliance and will occupy a substantial amount of space in your kitchen
3. Suvie Kitchen Robot
Meet Suvie – a smart WiFi-enabled countertop multi-zone cooker and refrigerator that transforms four individual meal components – raw proteins, dry starches, fresh veggies, and chef-designed sauces into one delicious restaurant-quality meal.
Suvie is designed for those people who want healthy meals made from fresh ingredients but don’t have the time to cook them. Suvie is combined with optional meal kits, providing fresh healthy meals for working parents and busy professionals.
What we like
Comes with a fully customizable Suvie Smart Meals delivery service
Requires minimal clean-up
What we dislike
Serves 2-4 adults, so not the best appliance to cater to a dinner party or provide meals for a larger family
4. Super Smart Fridge
The Super Smart Fridge by Rocco co-founders Alyse Borkan and Sam Naparstek is a compact and stylish refrigerator that looks more like a furniture piece than a modern kitchen appliance!
Why is it noteworthy?
The Super Smart Fridge is a mix between a small fridge and a dedicated wine fridge. The good-looking fridge features a modern and contemporary design, which includes a smart exterior paired with a fluted glass door.
What we like
Effortlessly merges with the rest of the home decor and furniture in the room, so you can place it in your living room as well
What we dislike
Looks more suited to hold wine bottles than food items or containers, so not the most versatile appliance
5. TOKIT Omni Cook
Dubbed the TOKIT Omni Cook, this all-in-one kitchen appliance is the ultimate kitchen assistant you’ve been looking for. It makes meal prep, faster and more efficient, and with an element of fun involved!
Why is it noteworthy?
It is equipped with innovative technology, an automated cooking process, and step-by-step digital recipes, which makes cooking up delicious dishes super easy and simple. It has 11+ built-in culinary modes and can function as 21 cooking appliances.
What we like
Features an integrated 7-inch touchscreen display, allowing you to customize and tweak your preferences
Compact design that occupies minimum space
What we dislike
The numerous culinary modes and functionalities can make the appliance a bit difficult to use and operate
Powerful customization and control via app or smart assistants
CONS:
A bit expensive
Triangular light pattern might not appeal to some
Overwhelming mobile app
RATINGS:
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Bright, colorful, durable, and versatile, the high-quality Govee Permanent Outdoor Lights make sure you never have to buy and put up Christmas lights over and over again.
Christmas in Summer? Sure, why not? Especially if you can beat the summer heat and hold a raving ‘outdoor party at night. You’ll need to set the right atmosphere, though, to help your guests forget about the sweltering temperatures. And what better way is there to set a festive mood than with brilliant lights that dance to the music? Of course, those same outdoor lights could provide not only decoration but also safety at night, any time of the year. That’s the proposition that the Govee Permanent Outdoor Lights is making, replacing your Christmas lights and staying beyond the winter holidays to be used all year round. These aren’t the first outdoor fairy lights in the market, though, so we took these unique-looking LED lights outdoors, hooked them up, and lit up the house to see if it can rise to the challenge and stand proud apart from the crowd.
You’ve probably seen your fair share of outdoor lights, fairy or otherwise, but if you haven’t, suffice it to say that the Govee Permanent Outdoor Lights are nowhere near what you’d expect. Instead of bulbs sticking out of a strand of cable, you get LEDs enclosed in 3cm squares with a small clear dome covering the LED itself. Each square is set about a foot apart from each other on the flat cable, forming 6 segments that total a 100ft (50m) long string of light of lights that offers some flexibility in how you install them (more on that later). What all these mean is that the lights are designed to be minimalist and almost invisible, getting out of the way to let the lights take center stage.
Those lights definitely deserve all the attention because of their impressive output. Thanks to Govee’s RGBIC technology, each light is capable of showing any color within a range of 16 million. Of course, you won’t be looking at each LED on its own, and its real appeal comes through the combination of those lights, whether as a single stream of color or in a kaleidoscopic display. At 26 lumens per LED, the Outdoor Lights will definitely be an attention grabber, no matter what color you choose. That might also be a consideration you have to take in mind if there are related regulations about night lights in your area.
All-in-all, the Govee Permanent Outdoor Lights delivers a stunning visual, regardless of the holiday or occasion. They’re pretty much like super-powered Christmas lights you don’t have to take down and can use all throughout the year. You can even dim the lights a bit and use a solid swath of color to illuminate your house without making it look like you’re having a party every night. Thanks to its simple and minimalist design, there are no bulbs that stick out from roofs and eaves to steal the show. These outdoor lights are an effective and cost-effective way to make your house pop, any time of the year.
Ergonomics (Installation)
You won’t be handling these outdoor lights all the time, fortunately, but you will have to wrestle with them at least once when you install them on your house. Because they are meant to stay in their place, hence the “permanent” part of their name, you do have to take some time to properly plan out where you’ll be placing them. Fortunately, Govee is making it easy to install these strands of light, giving you plenty of flexibility to run the lights even along areas where you might not want to have any light at all.
That’s because the 100ft (30m) string of LEDs is actually divided into 6 strands, each with clearly-marked waterproof connectors so you can easily tell which end connects to which. There are also extension cables included in the box, in case you need to run the lights down from roof to wall but want to leave gaps in the lighting in those transitional areas. This also means you don’t have to force yourself to use all six segments if you don’t need to. Conversely, you can also extend the length with another 100ft set or the 3-segment 50ft (30m) set that Govee also sells.
Once all the planning is done, installing the lights is relatively painless, though still needs a bit of work to pull off. Each light square has a 3M adhesive that lets you easily stick them to any flat surface outside your house. There are also clips you can use to keep wayward clips in line. Once all the lights have been installed, the last bit is connecting the control box and the power box to finally light up your house. Connecting the lights to the Govee mobile app is just as painless and you’ll be off playing with the settings and features in no time.
Performance
The Govee Permanent Outdoor Lights are definitely one of those things that you have to see to truly appreciate their value. The bright lights can effectively illuminate your house, adding not only flavor but also safety at night. The lights might actually be too bright, so you might want to put on covers or blinds on windows if the lights are anywhere near them.
These Outdoor Lights are also smart lights, which means they’re meant to be controlled through a connected smartphone or via some smart assistants, particularly Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant. This is where the lights really shine, pardon the pun, thanks to the countless ways you can change the way they look or behave. In fact, the sheer number of options available on the app might be overwhelming and confusing for new users. Fortunately, there are also plenty of presets available, including over 70 scenes that let you set the right mood for given occasions.
While there are plenty of ways to configure the Govee Outdoor Lights, one of the most interesting and most dramatic is the Music Mode, where the lights react to the music and sound it hears either through the phone or its control box, making them dance to the beat. Even better, you can harmonize multiple Govee products through DreamView mode to create a captivating synchronized Light Show. And when the party’s done, you can just ask Alexa or Google Assistant to turn the lights into a more peaceful hue to call it a night.
Due to its rather unique enclosure design, the light that the LEDs project has a rather distinctive triangular shape that’s even more visible if the lights are placed close to a wall. Unlike most fairy or string lights that wash the surroundings with a more or less even diffusion, the lights coming from the Govee Permanent Outdoor Lights look more like mini spotlights with a wide-angle spread. It creates a rather unique visual effect, like sharp ridges or stairs, it’s an aesthetic that won’t appeal to everybody. That could be a deal-breaking design that potential buyers will have to consider before making this rather substantial purchase.
Sustainability
Like many outdoor lights, the Govee Permanent Outdoor Lights make use of plenty of plastic and some rubber, not exactly the most environment-friendly materials. Given design and production requirements, however, this is hardly surprising, but it’s definitely a big opportunity for Govee to further take the lead in the smart lighting market. Imagine a brand that not only delivers powerful smart lighting but sustainable products as well. That could be Govee a few years down the line!
The company does make up for it by making sure that its products don’t meet their untimely demise quickly. In other words, Govee lights are built to last, and these Outdoor Lights are no different. In fact, they’re even better, boasting an IP67 dust and water resistance rating that makes them ideal for use even in inclement weather. Even the control box and adapter are IP65 rated, truly marking them safe for outdoor use. As for the LEDs themselves, they’re advertised with a lifetime of up to 50,000 hours, around 5 years if you use them 24/7 (which you won’t anyway). Govee makes these affirmations regarding the durability of the RGBIC Permanent Outdoor Lights:
Successful operation test at 140 ℉
Successful operation test at -40 ℉
Passed operation test at a water depth of 49ft
Withstood a tensile force of 11.02lb
Endured manual pulling of over 10 pounds
Value
It’s easy to do a double-take when you see the $299.99 price tag attached to these lights, but it’s a first impression that won’t last long. Yes, it is a bit steep and pricier than other outdoor fairy lights, but few or none of those can even offer half of what Govee delivers. Some, for example, won’t even last more than two seasons of limited use during holidays only, let alone regular use both on or off-season. Few can also offer a quick and easy method of installing lights that you’ll leave in place until they die many years later. You don’t have to dread removing the lights after the festivities and can just leave them there for the next occasion or as regular night lights for the house.
The Govee Permanent Outdoor Lights also offer a level of control and customization you might only find in more expensive brands. There is, in fact, an overwhelming number of settings you can tweak to your heart’s content, making these outdoor lights not only beautiful but also versatile. Given all that, the $299.99 figure doesn’t look bad at all, especially when you consider that it’s a longer-term investment that will last you for years compared to cheaper lights where you truly get what you pay for.
Verdict
Summer isn’t just about beaches and camping (or glamping). Night pool parties and quiet times out on the porch are also common activities during this season, both of which require the right lights to set the right mood. You could get different lights for different occasions, or you could get the Govee RGBIC Permanent Outdoor Lights and have a versatile outdoor lighting solution for any occasion.
With a modular design and easy installation process, these Govee outdoor lights offer more flexibility in where and how you want to put them up. The bright and vibrant colors of the LEDs help create the atmosphere that you want, while the powerful mobile app put an almost endless array of options at your fingertips. Whether it’s a holiday, a seasonal party, or just a dark night, the Govee Permanent Outdoor Lights will make your house stand out and make you the talk of the town.
Personal transportation devices such as e-scooters and e-bikes have joined bicycles and motorcycles as a popular means to get around places. Unfortunately, their popularity has also caught the attention of less-than-savory individuals who might have other plans for things that are not theirs. Making matters even worse is how traditional safety mechanisms like regular chains and padlocks haven’t been able to keep up with the times, let alone effectively protect your precious metal steed from more creative thieves. There are newer “smart locks” that offer convenience but fail to actually upgrade the protection itself. In order to truly protect your bike these days, you’ll need to upgrade your whole security strategy, which is what this innovative chain lock brings to the table, providing a smarter and better way to keep you from losing your precious property.
Your property can be insured when locked with the ART and Sold Secure certified* LASSO.
LASSO can withstand up to 2,100lb-f (9.5 kilonewtons) pull force. Good luck getting through that!
Every inch of the LINK LASSO is engineered to withstand any attack from different tools, including bolt cutters, hammers, and even hacksaws. The square manganese hardened steel chain provides toughness from within, while a 100% recyclable polyethylene sleeve protects the chain from the outside. The lock itself is protected by a corrosion-resistant stainless steel 304 frame. If it sounds like it’s built like a tank, it’s because it’s “obsessively engineered” to provide the utmost security for your bikes.
LASSO’s patented Quick Lock is fast. Lock and unlock in under 1 second.
Don’t worry if your phone battery dies. Simply enter your unique phoneless access code (PAC) into your LASSO and you’re back on the road in no time.
Despite all that toughness, locking and unlocking the LINKA LASSO couldn’t be easier and just takes under a second. Like most smart locks, you unlock it primarily with your phone, but you don’t have to fret if your phone dies even before you could get to your bike. Simply enter the Phoneless Access Code or PAC on the LASSO and you’ll be riding into the sunset in no time at all. Or you could opt to buy a SmartMotion Key (sold separately) to have a dedicated key to unlock the LASSO. The SmartMotion Key only broadcasts when it’s in motion, preventing any hacker-type spoofing attacks. Pairing a SmartMotion Key can extend the battery life of the LASSO from 3 to 12 months.
LASSO is IP 67 water & dust resistant. LASSO can be submersed under water up to 1 meter for 30 minutes.
The smart chain lock offers more peace of mind beyond durability and convenience. Its IP67 dust and water resistance rating means it will survive downpours and an accidental dip in a puddle. You can also share your access with family or friends through the LINKA mobile app even if you’re halfway around the world. But for those who try to take it without your permission, the LASSO will sound an alarm when it detects unwanted movement. Don’t worry about embarrassing moments, however, because Travel Mode deactivates the alarm to prevent it from getting triggered accidentally.
The LINKA LASSO is designed not just for bikes and scooters but can also lock kayaks, skis, and snowboards. The largest LASSO 10 Moto can even protect motorcycles, garage doors, and watersports equipment. LINKA is so confident in the chain lock’s durability that is generously giving a 5-year warranty with the LASSO. For just $139, you can get the LINKA LASSO Series 8 together with a SmartMotion Key, offering an unbeatable price to not only keep your bike safe but also give you peace of mind.
The University of Toronto researchers have been busy at work – busy drawing inspiration from the fluctuating and color-changing skin of squids and using it to create a multilayered fluidic system that can significantly bring down the energy costs associated with heating, lighting, and cooling buildings. More than a quarter of a building’s energy is lost via its glass-pane windows, and hence the university has developed liquid-filled panels, with the aim of retrofitting windows with them, and in turn, using these windows to supplement modern buildings.
Squids move a certain type of pigment in their skin, which quite literally transforms the color and appearance of their skin. The University of Toronto utilizes a device that mimics this very movement and transports various liquids like dye solutions, glycerol, and carbon powder suspensions with the help of channels into thin plastic sheets. “It’s an advantage that this approach can use simple, relatively inexpensive, non-toxic, aqueous fluids,” said Benjamin Hatton, a professor of materials science and engineering at the University of Toronto.
By producing these liquid windows, the university hopes to make buildings more energy efficient, since currently, buildings consume about a third of the world’s energy. Smart building technologies such as automatic blinds and electro-chromatic blinds have been incorporated into modern buildings, but these systems have their limitations as well. They cant truly differentiate between the different wavelengths of light, nor can they control the distribution of light. The Univerisity of Toronto has instead created a rather dynamic and innovative system using simple and economical elements. Three thin sheets of Plexiglass have been joined together, each sheet holding 2-3mm of patterned channels in them. The researchers insert the different fluids through these sheets – water-based dye solutions or glycerol that absorb light of various colors, carbon pigment suspensions that control light transmission; and titania nanoparticle suspensions that are able direct the light that passes through.
“If we had just one layer that focuses on modulating the transmission of near-infrared light – so not even touching the visible part of the spectrum – we find that we could save about 25 percent annually on heating, cooling, and lighting energy over a static baseline. If we have two layers – infrared and visible – it’s more like 50 percent. These are very significant savings,” said Raphael Kay, who graduated with a master’s degree in mechanical engineering from the Faculty of Applied Science & Engineering. Currently, the panels they have developed are only 30×30 cm, but the team is hoping to build larger designs that can be used for larger constructions. They said that compared to the darkening windows available on the market today, these liquid windows can save 75% on heat energy, 20% on electricity for lighting, and 43% on total energy use annually.
I’ve heard of couch potatoes before, but never bed potatoes. But here to prove there is such a thing, a 39-year-old man from China named Zhu Jianqiang went and built himself a joystick-controlled bed so he never has to get out from under the sheets to go about his day. Talk about a genius!
The bed moves about as fast as a walking human and gets an impressive 30 miles to a full charge (there’s plenty of room for a large battery). It can tackle steep grades thanks to its large tires and braking system and includes a motor for raising the incline of your head and a canopy for staying out of the sun. Now it just needs a mini-fridge and I’ve found my dream bed!
In the video, Zhu even takes the bed down to a pond to do a little fishing. That’s cool. At least until he accidentally steers himself into the water. Then it’s less cool and more cold and wet. Unless, of course, it can transform into a submarine bed the way James Bond’s would.
