Latest news with #Zigbee
The Verge
23-06-2025
- The Verge
Hue's new smart button is bigger and more expensive
Smart lighting company Hue has released a new version of its Smart Button, one of the simplest ways of controlling Hue's colorful smart lights. The new Smart Button has a bigger design and a bit of price hike — in the U.S., at least, where it now costs $32.99 compared to $29.99 for its predecessor. That's significantly more than the UK and EU pricing for the new button — £19.99 and €21.99 respectively — possibly a sign of things to come. The new button is available now directly from Hue's site. A Zigbee device, the Hue button can be programmed to control any single or group of Hue light bulbs and fixtures through the Hue app. According to Philips Hue's website, the button 'allows you to trigger scenes based on time of day, or cycle through a selection. Press and hold to dim and brighten your lights, or even set it to start an automation.' This is the same functionality as the prior model, meaning all that appears to have changed is the design and the price. The new button is almost twice the size, with a 45mm diameter (about 1.8 inches) versus 32mm (about 1.3 inches). It's now more angular and flatter, versus the more bulbous style of the prior model. It also doesn't come with a large plastic wall plate that resembles a standard light switch – handy for people who are used to using regular switches. Instead, it only comes with a small metal plate to magnetically attach the button to the wall, according to HueBlog's hands-on with the button. The Hue button uses the same CR2032 battery, which, according to Hue, should last for two years. HueBlog called out the battery for being a lot easier to replace on this new button than on the previous one. As it works over Zigbee, the button requires a Hue Bridge and is compatible with Matter-supported platforms through the bridge (as its predecessor was). This includes Apple Home, where it shows as a single-press button. I reviewed the first generation of the button when it launched in 2019 for $24.99, and it's long been one of my favorite easy ways to control Hue lights. An update in 2023 added more control options, including the ability to cycle through Hue's natural light scenes based on time of day, so you could get the right type of tunable white light for the time of day with just one press. I like the idea of a slightly larger design, which could be easier to use, but the fact that it's more expensive in the States than in the EU and UK is a worrying sign. Hue is already one of the most expensive smart lighting brands, and based on an email the company sent to users earlier this month, it may be getting even more expensive — at least for those of us on this side of the pond. According to the promotional message I got on June 9th, Hue's 'prices go up on July 1.' The note about the price increase appears to have only been sent to US customers, indicating the increase may be due to Trump's tariffs. We've reached out to Signify (Philips Hue's parent company) to confirm and to find out which products will be affected.
Hindustan Times
23-06-2025
- Hindustan Times
Ambient computing: Invisible tech revolution in Indian homes
Gadgets may still be around, but the way we experience them is changing fast. In 2025, Indian homes are quietly stepping into a new era. One where technology blends into the background. Welcome to the age of ambient computing, where intelligence is no longer about flashy screens or voice commands. It's about tech that works silently, automatically, and meaningfully, without you needing to lift a finger. Ambient computing is becoming an integral part of your daily lives. Ambient computing is best described as an invisible web of connected devices, sensors, and artificial intelligence working together in the background. These systems detect, learn, and adapt to your daily habits, turning your home into a responsive space that requires minimal manual input. You don't have to ask the lights to dim or the fan to start. They simply respond to context, whether it's movement in the room, the time of day, or your past preferences. It's a shift from tech that demands attention to tech that intuitively fades into the flow of life. How it's already showing up in Indian homes Across Indian households, ambient computing is already in motion. Sometimes without users even labelling it as such. Smart thermostats and lighting systems, for instance, now adjust automatically based on room occupancy, external temperatures, or even your weekday schedule. Voice assistants like Alexa and Google Nest go beyond playing music; they now coordinate entire routines, from dimming lights and turning on the AC to managing entertainment and kitchen appliances. Homes are beginning to respond to cues without needing constant supervision. Even mundane routines have quietly transformed. Doors lock when everyone leaves. Robot vacuums start once you're off to work. Geysers switch off automatically after use. And increasingly, energy meters and connected appliances track usage and adapt to reduce electricity bills, blending convenience with sustainability. In urban areas where air quality is a growing concern, sensors that detect rising PM levels are now triggering air purifiers and alerting users to ventilate their homes. These aren't isolated devices, they're parts of an intelligent network that learns and improves with time. What powers this 'Invisibility'? The smoothness of ambient computing comes from an invisible stack of technologies. Sensors embedded across homes collect data on light, temperature, motion, and even air quality. That data is processed using machine learning algorithms that figure out patterns and make predictions, so your home can anticipate needs rather than wait for instructions. Connectivity between devices via Wi-Fi, Zigbee, or emerging Matter protocols ensures every smart object works in harmony. Meanwhile, a mix of edge computing (for local tasks) and cloud processing (for updates and long-term learning) keeps everything running efficiently and securely. Why it's catching on in India Indian households are increasingly embracing this quiet tech revolution. The appeal lies in effortless convenience, less fiddling with switches or settings, more time doing what matters. For busy professionals, elderly users, or anyone looking for more intuitive living, ambient computing offers an experience that feels tailored and responsive. There's also a growing focus on personalization. Whether it's your preferred bedroom lighting at 8 p.m. or the AC switching to power-saving mode when no one's home, ambient systems adjust in real time. Add to that the energy efficiency and enhanced security, and the value becomes obvious, especially as more affordable solutions hit the market. Where it's all headed? As ambient computing continues to mature, Indian homes are evolving from smart to sensitive, capable of learning, adapting, and responding with near-human intuition. The tech doesn't shout for your attention; it simply works. And in a country where time, energy, and space are all at a premium, this invisible revolution is one that's quietly changing the way we live.
Korea Herald
12-06-2025
- Business
- Korea Herald
APsystems Unveils Full-Scope AI-Driven Solar & Storage Solutions at SNEC 2025
SHANGHAI, June 12, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- APsystems made a strong impression at the 18th SNEC PV Power & Energy Storage Expo, held at the National Exhibition and Convention Center in Shanghai. With more than 15 years of disruptive technological innovation, the company introduced its latest advancements in solar and storage technologies, highlighting new products and showcasing the impact of AI integration on energy management. Leading with Innovation: New Product Launches APsystems is introducing the QS2, a brand new single-phase quad microinverter with an impressive 2200W output and support for four high-power PV modules via independent MPPT channels. Designed for safety and efficiency, its module-level architecture keeps DC voltage below 60V during operation, effectively minimizing high-voltage risks. The upgraded Zigbee module enhances communication speed and stability, while the QS2's compatibility with other APsystems single-phase models like the DS3 and QS1 makes system design more flexible. Also introduced was the AHS series Solar Battery Hybrid Controller, designed for off-grid and backup power scenarios. Supporting 12V/24V/48V lead-acid and lithium batteries, the flagship AHS-6.3 delivers a 6300VA pure sine wave output with 99.9% MPPT efficiency and seamless 5ms UPS switching. With IP43 cooling and real-time app monitoring, it's built for reliability in both home and telecom applications. Versatile Solar + Storage Solutions for Every Need APsystems highlighted its complete lineup of distributed energy solutions across micro, residential, and commercial applications. The EZ1/EZHI series empower DIY users with microgrid capabilities and energy independence. For residential settings, 20A microinverters and ELS/ELT storage options provide flexible options. In the C&I space, the QT2 three-phase microinverters and Ocean series storage systems are designed for cost efficiency and scalable performance. Smarter Energy with AI Integration A major focus this year was APsystems' AI-driven enhancements. The new BESS AI model uses deep learning to forecast energy generation and consumption based on historical data and local energy prices. This enables automatic, personalized charge/discharge schedules for balcony and residential storage systems—delivering smarter, more efficient energy use. APsystems also unveiled APbot, a smart support assistant built on advanced AI architecture using private LLM deployment and RAG technology. Designed to improve customer interaction, APbot delivers fast, accurate responses using semantic search and knowledge-based reasoning, all while being easily adaptable for global compliance needs. The AP Designer tool also received an AI boost. Now featuring image recognition, real-time simulation, and 3D modeling, it streamlines PV design by analyzing rooftops, trees, and shading. With online design capabilities and automatic report generation, it simplifies everything from planning to budget forecasting.
Yahoo
12-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
APsystems Unveils Full-Scope AI-Driven Solar & Storage Solutions at SNEC 2025
SHANGHAI, June 12, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- APsystems made a strong impression at the 18th SNEC PV Power & Energy Storage Expo, held at the National Exhibition and Convention Center in Shanghai. With more than 15 years of disruptive technological innovation, the company introduced its latest advancements in solar and storage technologies, highlighting new products and showcasing the impact of AI integration on energy management. Leading with Innovation: New Product LaunchesAPsystems is introducing the QS2, a brand new single-phase quad microinverter with an impressive 2200W output and support for four high-power PV modules via independent MPPT channels. Designed for safety and efficiency, its module-level architecture keeps DC voltage below 60V during operation, effectively minimizing high-voltage risks. The upgraded Zigbee module enhances communication speed and stability, while the QS2's compatibility with other APsystems single-phase models like the DS3 and QS1 makes system design more flexible. Also introduced was the AHS series Solar Battery Hybrid Controller, designed for off-grid and backup power scenarios. Supporting 12V/24V/48V lead-acid and lithium batteries, the flagship AHS-6.3 delivers a 6300VA pure sine wave output with 99.9% MPPT efficiency and seamless 5ms UPS switching. With IP43 cooling and real-time app monitoring, it's built for reliability in both home and telecom applications. Versatile Solar + Storage Solutions for Every NeedAPsystems highlighted its complete lineup of distributed energy solutions across micro, residential, and commercial applications. The EZ1/EZHI series empower DIY users with microgrid capabilities and energy independence. For residential settings, 20A microinverters and ELS/ELT storage options provide flexible options. In the C&I space, the QT2 three-phase microinverters and Ocean series storage systems are designed for cost efficiency and scalable performance. Smarter Energy with AI IntegrationA major focus this year was APsystems' AI-driven enhancements. The new BESS AI model uses deep learning to forecast energy generation and consumption based on historical data and local energy prices. This enables automatic, personalized charge/discharge schedules for balcony and residential storage systems—delivering smarter, more efficient energy use. APsystems also unveiled APbot, a smart support assistant built on advanced AI architecture using private LLM deployment and RAG technology. Designed to improve customer interaction, APbot delivers fast, accurate responses using semantic search and knowledge-based reasoning, all while being easily adaptable for global compliance needs. The AP Designer tool also received an AI boost. Now featuring image recognition, real-time simulation, and 3D modeling, it streamlines PV design by analyzing rooftops, trees, and shading. With online design capabilities and automatic report generation, it simplifies everything from planning to budget forecasting. Thank you to everyone who visited our booth at SNEC 2025. We appreciate your interest and look forward to connecting again next time! View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Altenergy Power System Inc.
Android Authority
06-05-2025
- Android Authority
Amazon Echo smart speaker deals are getting hot!
Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority The Amazon Echo and Echo Dot offers come from Amazon, and they are both 'limited time deals.' The Echo Pop discount is available from Woot!, which is also an Amazon-owned deals website. Also, this Woot! sale is available for six days or 'until sold out.' Discounts and availability vary depending on the specific colors. We will discuss each section below in more detail. Amazon Echo This Amazon Echo deal is only available for the Twilight Blue and Glacier White color versions. I happen to be a fan of the blue model, which I actually own. Regardless, the point is that the Charcoal iteration is the only one that costs the full $99.99 price point. If you choose to go with this one, you are in for a treat. We believe it to be Amazon's best smart speaker. There is technically a 'better one,' but the Echo Studio is too expensive for the benefits it offers. The Amazon Echo 4th Gen is the perfect balance between quality and price, and it's the one I personally chose for my home. The design is very similar to the Echo Dot, which you'll learn more about in the next section. It's that spherical shape that made Amazon Echo speakers so popular. This one is bigger at 5.7 x 5.7 x 5.2in, though. It's not really huge, though, so it won't stick out like a sore thumb anywhere, and it should be pretty easy to find a good home for it in a larger space, like a living room. Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority The difference in size will be worth it once you listen to it, though. It gets more space to fit a 3.0-inch neodymium woofer and two 0.8-inch tweeters. All the smaller speakers have a single driver. This makes the sound much fuller and more dynamic. The bass is also much nicer. Of course, you're not getting this speaker just for a good look and audio quality. This is a smart speaker, and its highlight is that it is powered by Amazon Alexa. This means you can use voice commands to request music, random information, solve math problems, set reminders, schedule alarms, call people, control smart home devices, and much more. This one also gets all the cool extra features, such as a Zigbee hub, a temperature sensor, motion detection, and eero mesh Wi-Fi functionality. I like using motion detection to automate lights, so they turn on whenever I walk into a room. If you have a smart thermostat, you can automate the AC. The Zigbee hub can control all your smart home devices without crowding the Wi-Fi network. Amazon Echo Dot Amazon Echo Dot (5th Gen) Amazon Echo Dot (5th Gen) Alexa and voice controlled audio, for cheap. See price at Amazon Save $12.00 Limited Time Deal! If the full-sized Amazon Echo is a bit much for your needs, the Amazon Echo Dot is a nice alternative. It is $12 off, and you can pick whichever color you prefer. These include Charcoal, Deep Sea Blue, and Glacier White. The Amazon Echo Dot 5th Gen keeps the same spherical design, but it is smaller at 3.9 x 3.9 x 3.5in. This makes it smaller, significantly more affordable, and still plenty featureful. It's a nice option for smaller rooms, such as a kitchen, a bedroom, a dorm, or a restroom. Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority The 1.73-inch speaker sounds good, but don't expect it to host any dance parties. That said, we found that the audio quality is really nice for the size. The Echo Dot still gets the light ring at the bottom, which is really nice for notifications and knowing when it is listening to you. It is obviously still Alexa-powered, so you get all the cool digital assistant features. The good news is that it still keeps most of the extra features. It has a temperature sensor, motion detection, and eero mesh Wi-Fi capabilities. It just skips the Zigbee hub. Arguably, though, that isn't a feature many may care much about. Amazon Echo Pop Amazon Echo Pop (Damaged Packaging) Amazon Echo Pop (Damaged Packaging) A cheap and tiny Alexa smart speaker. A great entry or extension to the Alexa smart home ecosystem. The Echo Pop has a sleek design with a front-firing speaker that sits nicely in an office or on a bedside table. See price at Woot! Save $15.00 Damaged Packaging! This deal is available from Woot!, and it is available for all colors except the Charcoal one. That said, it is this cheap because the packaging is damaged. I honestly think the discount is worth getting a beat-up box, as we usually just throw those out. The only downside is that you get a 90-day warranty instead of Amazon's full-year manufacturer warranty. That said, you can currently get the Amazon Echo Pop for $27.99 directly from Amazon, and that gets you all the perks of buying new. If you want a more basic smart speaker experience, the Amazon Echo Pop is the most affordable from the popular retailer. It's also small, adorable, and very functional. The Amazon Echo Pop measures only 3.9 x 3.3 x 3.6in. It has a 1.95-inch speaker and sounds pretty decent, but it is mainly made for less demanding audio purposes. It could be an excellent bedside smart speaker or work amazingly at an office desk. Amazon That said, this one doesn't get any extras, so there's no temperature sensor, motion detection, or Zigbee hub. Like the others, though, it does get eero mesh Wi-Fi support. Otherwise, it is just a minimized version of the other speakers. It supports Alexa, so you can take advantage of everything the digital assistant has to offer. These are some of the best Amazon Echo smart speaker deals we've seen in a while, so jump on them while you can! If you care more about sound quality and don't need Alexa functionality, here is a list of the best Bluetooth speakers.
