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iGarden K Series Robotic Pool Cleaner Review

If you’ve been in the market for a robotic pool cleaner, you know how hard it is to sift through the noise. Every brand claims “smart” features and “next-gen” designs. So when I got my hands on the iGarden K60, I was cautiously optimistic. Billed as a premium cordless robotic pool vacuum with six-hour runtime and techy touches like “AI-Inverter Technology” and a full touchscreen interface, it promised a lot, especially for a brand I’ve never heard of before this year.

Launched as part of the iGarden K Series at CES 2025 (originally the “TurboX Series”), the K60 is positioned as a flagship model aimed squarely at homeowners who want power, intelligence, and some style while they’re at it.

On paper, it looks like iGarden’s going after established brands with an emphasis on endurance, sleek aesthetics, and a user-friendly experience. But let’s get into what that actually means in practice.

With a true six-hour runtime and smart path planning, the iGarden K60 offers a cordless cleaning experience that’s not just convenient, but genuinely capable. pool owners have a reliable, set-it-and-forget-it solution for keeping things spotless.

Design & Build: The “Hypercar” Vibes Are Real

Packaging of the iGarden K Series pool cleaner displayed outside a pool with a grassy area in the background.

The iGarden K60 doesn’t look like your typical boxy pool bot. It’s designed with a “hypercar-inspired” aesthetic, which might sound like marketing fluff, but in person, it does come across as sleek and sporty, like a Bugatti’s little cousin who cleans pools instead of tearing up racetracks.

It’s made from polycarbonate and ABS plastic, with a UV-resistant, anti-corrosion coating to stand up to chlorine, sun, and general pool abuse. The dimensions are fairly typical for its class coming in at about 19 inches long, 15 inches wide, and roughly 9.5 inches tall, and weighing in at a substantial 21.6 pounds. You’re probably not going to toss it into the pool with one hand, but it’s manageable.

What stands out is the smartphone-style touchscreen on top. No physical buttons, which is a double-edged sword. It looks clean and feels premium, but wet fingers and direct sunlight can make touchscreens finicky. Still, the interface is intuitive and easier to navigate than the clunky button layouts on cheaper models.

Under the Hood: Features That Matter (and Some That Don’t)

Power & Efficiency: The AI-Inverter Angle

iGarden’s big claim is its proprietary AI-Inverter Technology, which dynamically adjusts motor power in real-time to improve efficiency. Moreover, it throws around figures like “5x greater efficiency” compared to industry norms. I’m always skeptical of these vague multiples, but the idea at least makes sense. Instead of running full tilt the entire time, the K60 adapts to conditions, extending battery life without compromising on cleaning.

Backing this up are three brushless motors and a turbine-grade impeller. The pump flow rate ranges from 15 to 22 m³/h, which is respectable for its class. To be fair, I had to look up what those details mean, but I found them to be in line with expectations for this price.

Navigation & Obstacle Handling: More Than Just Random Wandering

Navigation is where many budget cleaners fall flat. The K60 uses a 3D S-shaped path planning system with IMU sensors, infrared detection, and a crawler-style chassis. This combo helps it stick to a systematic cleaning pattern while handling pool walls, steps, and slopes.

iGarden claims it can handle obstacles up to two steps high which is a nice upgrade if your pool isn’t perfectly flat. In my testing, it had no trouble navigating a standard in-ground pool with a mix of flat surfaces/lips and gentle slopes. Now, it’s not going to hit every corner or curve, but I think it does a commendable job of dealing with oddly shaped pools or those with unique designs.

Cleaning Modes: Customizable but Simple

You get the basics: Floor Only or Floor/Wall/Waterline modes. There’s a Turbo Mode for stubborn debris that cranks up the power when needed. You can also choose between timed cycles (1, 1.5, or 2 hours) or let it run in Max mode until the battery runs out.

There’s also an AI Scheduler that lets you automate cleanings every 24, 48, or 72 hours. iGarden even boasts you can “set and forget” it for up to 10 days on a single charge if you’re just doing light maintenance cleans.

App Control: Nice to Have, But Limited

The iGarden Robotics app connects via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, allowing you to set schedules and tweak settings. The catch? Once the cleaner is underwater, you pretty much lose connection as Wi-Fi and Bluetooth signals don’t play nice with water. So app control is more of a convenience for setup rather than real-time management. This isn’t an iGarden issue, though as other brands have similar drawbacks.

Filtration: Big Basket, Standard Mesh

The K60’s filter basket is a generous four liters, cutting down on how often you’ll need to empty it. The filter itself is a 180 µm mesh, which handles most common debris: sand, leaves, hair, bugs, etc. It won’t catch ultra-fine silt as well as some multi-stage systems, but for typical residential pools, it’s more than adequate.

I quite liked that the basket was built into the part of the front lid of the pool cleaner. Moreover, I was pleased with the amount of area for spraying the hose into the basket or through the mesh screen.

Setup & Everyday Use: Mostly Smooth Sailing

Getting started is straightforward. You flip a switch underneath the unit, charge it up (~ 4.5 hours), and pair it with the app. Deploying it is as simple as powering it on and placing it in the pool within a three-minute window to avoid standby mode.

Retrieving it requires a hook attachment for a telescopic pole, or standard practice for pool cleaners. It’s pretty easy to fish out once you get a feel for where exactly you want to grab the unit. It would not surprise me if new users accidentally grab the basket and lift that off instead of the handle.

Real-World Cleaning Performance: Hits and Misses

Now for the part that really matters: does it clean well?

In floor-only mode, the K60 happily chugs along, methodically covering the pool with minimal overlap or missed spots. The six-hour runtime doesn’t seem to be just marketing fluff as it seems like it really would go the distance. Ideal for larger pools or owners who prefer infrequent but thorough cleans, that battery life is certainly commendable.

When tasked with wall and waterline cleaning, battery life dips to the about 3.5 hours. That’s still solid for a cordless model, and it handles moderate algae lines and stuck-on debris in line with other suction-side cleaners I’ve used.

Turbo Mode is a nice touch. For leafy messes after a storm or hair buildup, the extra oomph makes a visible difference. However, it also chews through battery faster, so it’s best used sparingly.

The self-parking feature is a quality-of-life perk, guiding the K60 to the pool’s edge for easier retrieval. Small things like this make the experience feel more polished.

Battery Life & Charging: Strong Endurance, Some Hassles

The K60’s battery is a 7.5Ah (192Wh) Lithium-Ion pack, giving it that six-hour ceiling in floor-only mode. This is top-tier for cordless units in its class. But, to be fair, you’re likely wanting to use it this guy for surface and walls, too.

Charging takes 4.5 hours, which is reasonable, but it does require an indoor outlet, you can’t leave it charging poolside. That might be inconvenient depending on your setup, especially given its weight.

On a related note, the pool cleaner plugs directly into the power cable. There is no dock or platform you can sort of place the device for charging up. Not a major deal, but it’s something that does come with most robot pool units in this price range.

iGarden advises topping up the battery every three months during off-season storage and keeping the unit out of extreme heat or cold.

Maintenance & Filter Cleaning: User-Friendly Enough

Maintenance is refreshingly simple. The filter basket is easy to remove and rinse clean, and with its larger capacity, you won’t be doing this after every single run unless your pool is particularly messy. I can imagine that once you’re beyond the windy and pollen-laden days of spring, you can expect to go weeks without having to empty the basket.

Post-clean, draining water and letting the unit dry is recommended, as is indoor storage to avoid UV damage. As long as you’re diligent, upkeep is minimal.

Noise Levels: The Silent Treatment?

No official decibel ratings are provided, but with brushless motors and a well-sealed design, the K60 operates quietly enough not to be intrusive. You’ll hear the water moving more than the unit itself. For context, it’s significantly quieter than traditional suction-side cleaners or pressure-side systems.

Warranty & Support: iGarden’s Got You Covered

One standout feature is the three-year full machine replacement warranty on core components (motors, battery, electronics). Instead of repairs, they replace the entire unit if something critical fails. That is, of course, as long as you bought through official channels.

Consumable parts like brushes and filters are covered for six months, which is standard. The warranty does have typical exclusions (misuse, off-spec pool chemistry, etc.), but overall, it’s a robust policy that inspires confidence.

iGarden also offers 24/7 support, though turnaround for replacements can take 7-10 days, factoring in shipping both ways.

Value & Verdict: Is It Worth the Price?

At its retail price of $1,199.99 (just $899 after discounts), the iGarden K60 competes directly with other mid-range cordless models. For that money, you’re getting:

  • A true six-hour runtime (floor mode)
  • Wall and waterline cleaning with solid climbing ability
  • Smart navigation that works as advertised
  • Turbo Mode for heavy debris
  • A generous filter basket
  • A slick touchscreen interface
  • App controls (with limitations)
  • A no-nonsense three-year replacement warranty

The downsides? App connectivity that drops underwater, and the requirement for indoor and/or direct cable charging. Neither of these are deal-breakers, but they’re considerations if your pool setup or expectations lean in a different direction. Moreover, iGarden is a brand I’ve not had any experience with so I cannot say with certainty that the build quality holds up over time. Or, perhaps more importantly, whether or not the warranty stands up.

In my experience thus far, the K60 delivers on most of its promises. It’s a well-built, thoughtfully designed machine that blends endurance with enough smarts to keep your pool in good shape without constant babysitting. And it looks pretty darn sweet, too.

If that six hours of runtime isn’t all that appealing to you or should your needs be more modest, there is a K40 model that comes in around $959 on a normal day. To that end, if you’re able to get the K60 on sale, you might as well hop on it.

Final Thoughts

If you’re in the market for a cordless robotic pool cleaner and are willing to invest in a premium model, the iGarden K60 deserves a spot on your shortlist. It might not reinvent the wheel or pool cleaners, but it fine-tunes the experience in ways that genuinely add value.

The six-hour runtime alone sets it apart in this category. Combine that with its efficient path planning, Turbo Mode, and that reassuring replacement warranty, and you’ve got a package that feels worth the asking price, provided you’re okay with a few quirks. Or, if that battery life is what you’re truly after, just know it’s for cleaning the bottom only.

For pool owners tired of battling cords and wanting a sleek, capable robot that can go the distance, the iGarden K60 hits a sweet spot. Just make sure to grab it while it’s on sale to maximize your value.

Yarbo Cuts Prices Across Modular Yard Robot Lineup for U.S. Shoppers

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Yarbo, the maker of modular, all-season yard robots, has announced a permanent price drop on its product lineup for customers in the United States. The move comes as a result of recent improvements in the company’s supply chain operations, which have lowered costs and opened the door to more accessible pricing.

This isn’t a limited-time sale or promotional event. Yarbo has adjusted the MSRP across its core module and accessory lineup, making its robotic solutions more attainable for homeowners looking to automate lawn care, snow removal, and general yard cleanup.

Updated U.S. Pricing

Here’s a breakdown of the new pricing for Yarbo’s base unit and compatible attachments:

  • Yarbo Core – $3,999
  • Snow Blower Module – $1,299
  • Lawn Mower Module – $1,299
  • Blower Module – $1,199
A yellow Yarbo robotic snow blower operating in a snowy outdoor environment.

Bundled configurations have also been updated:

  • Yarbo Snow Blower – $4,999
  • Yarbo Lawn Mower – $4,999
  • Yarbo Blower – $4,799
  • Snow Blower + Lawn Mower – $6,199
  • Snow Blower + Blower – $5,899
  • Lawn Mower + Blower – $5,799
  • 4-in-1 Yard Robot – $6,999

The Core module serves as the main platform for Yarbo’s yard robot system, allowing users to swap out attachments depending on the season or task at hand, whether that’s plowing snow, cutting grass, or blowing leaves and debris.

U.S. Focus, For Now

At this time, the price drop only applies to customers in the United States. Yarbo noted that it is actively reviewing pricing in other regions and may implement changes elsewhere in the future.

Memorial Day Deals on the Horizon

While these price changes are permanent, Yarbo has hinted at additional Memorial Day offers coming soon. More details are expected in the days ahead.

To learn more about Yarbo’s product lineup and updated pricing, visit the official Yarbo website for current availability and configurations.

Total Wireless Offers $35 Unlimited Home Internet for New Movers and Grads

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Total Wireless, a prominent prepaid brand operating on Verizon’s robust 5G network, has unveiled an enticing new offer aimed at making home internet more accessible and affordable for everyone, especially recent graduates and individuals on the move.

With a commitment to delivering quality without the financial strain, Total Wireless introduces their latest plan, offering unlimited home internet for just $35 per month when paired with their 5G Unlimited Plan or higher. This offer, available with Auto Pay, guarantees not only seamless connectivity but also peace of mind with no long-term contracts and a 5-year price guarantee.

Affordable Connectivity for New Beginnings

For those transitioning into new phases of life, such as moving into a new apartment or embarking on post-graduation adventures, Total Wireless’s new home internet deal arrives as a welcome relief. The plan is designed to cater to individuals who require reliable internet access for work, study, or leisure without the burden of hefty bills. The easy setup process ensures a hassle-free experience, allowing users to connect swiftly and efficiently.

A young person wearing a headset is sitting at a computer, smiling while gaming or streaming, with a promotional banner highlighting a home internet offer for $35/month.

Special Offer on Home Internet Routers

In a move to further ease the transition for their customers, Total Wireless is offering an exclusive deal on home internet routers. For a limited time, new subscribers can purchase a Home Internet Router for just $24.99 when activating the Total Wireless Home Internet plan. This offer promises substantial savings and enhances the overall value proposition for customers looking to equip their new homes with reliable internet access. However, the offer is limited to one device per account.

Enhanced Savings with Bundled Plans

Beginning May 28, customers stand to gain even more by bundling eligible Total Wireless mobile plans with Verizon Fios Home Internet. This initiative enables customers to save an additional $15 per month on their Verizon Fios home internet bill, potentially saving up to $180 annually.

When combined with the $10 Auto-Pay discount, the total savings can reach up to $300 per year. This bundled plan is available to customers across various brands, including Straight Talk Wireless, Tracfone, and Visible, among others. More details can be found on Verizon’s official page.

Fios Home Internet Expands to Total Wireless Stores

Starting June 5, Total Wireless will offer Fios Home Internet plans in select retail locations within the Fios footprint across New England and the Mid-Atlantic. This strategic move marks the first time Fios services will be available directly in Total Wireless stores, providing customers with the opportunity to experience the fast, reliable speeds of fiber optic internet. Interested customers can check Total Wireless’s store locator to see if their local store offers Fios Home Internet.

David Kim, Chief Revenue Officer at Verizon Value, emphasized the importance of providing affordable internet solutions during significant life transitions. “We understand how stressful and financially straining it can be for anyone who’s moving, graduating, or starting a new chapter in their lives,” he stated. “Total Wireless is always in your corner, offering affordable home internet that fits your life.”

With these new offerings, Total Wireless aims to empower customers to stay connected, stream entertainment, and conduct work or studies from home effortlessly.

Aiper Scuba X1 Review

I suspect that owning a pool is a lot like owning a convertible. It looks great, it’s fun when the weather’s right, but it comes with its fair share of maintenance headaches. Skimming leaves, brushing algae, wrestling with hoses, all of it takes time. So, when I got my hands on the Aiper Scuba X1, a cordless robotic pool cleaner promising to lighten that load, you can bet I was eager to put it through its paces.

My mother-in-law has a pool and for the last few years I have been able to test out various robotic cleaners as part of my “work duties”. Having previously checked out an Aiper model or two, I was pleased to see what’s on offer for 2025.

The Aiper Scuba X1 is a powerful, cordless workhorse that handles daily cleaning with ease, from stubborn waterline grime to fine debris that lesser vacuums leave behind. Once you fine-tune its settings, it becomes a reliable maintenance partner that earns its keep.

The Scuba X1 is Aiper’s “base” model for 2025, though calling it a base model feels a bit like calling a fully loaded Camry an “entry-level” car. Priced

when you catch it on sale, and that’s almost always, the Scuba X1 comes loaded with high-end features: 6600 GPH suction, dual filtration, wall climbing, and dedicated waterline scrubbing. On paper, it’s punching well above its weight class. But specs are one thing; what really matters is how it performs in a real backyard pool.

First Impressions: Design, Setup, and “Cordless Freedom”

Out of the box, the Scuba X1 looks the part. It’s a sleek gray unit with a low profile and chunky caterpillar tracks that make it feel more like a little tank than a vacuum. Weighing in at about 24 pounds dry, it’s manageable, but I’ll tell you right now, once it’s waterlogged and full of debris, you’ll know you’re lifting something substantial.

Setup is refreshingly simple. You get the robot, a wireless charging dock, a retrieval hook, and a couple of filters: one standard fine basket, and an ultra-fine 3-micron mesh filter for the really pesky particles. Plug in the dock, charge it up, pair it with the Aiper app, and you’re ready to go. No hoses, no cords trailing behind it. That cordless design might seem like a small thing, but once you’ve dealt with a corded cleaner, it feels quite liberating.

One thing to keep in mind: while Aiper talks a lot about “smart” features, the full underwater remote control requires a separate HydroComm Pro accessory. Out of the box, you’re getting app control for cleaning modes and updates, but not real-time underwater commands. That’s a little disappointing, but at least they’re upfront about it.

Features That Matter: Cleaning Power, Navigation, and Waterline Magic

Let’s get into what really matters: how well does it clean?

The Scuba X1 is rated for pools up to 2,150 square feet (or about 66 feet long), handling surfaces like concrete, vinyl, fiberglass, and tile. My mother-in-law’s pool’s is kidney-shaped and roughly 2,000 square feet with a mix of smooth plaster and tile accents, so it’s well within the X1’s wheelhouse.

The dual active rollers, one in front, one in back, combined with its 6600 GPH suction, do a solid job picking up leaves, sand, and the usual backyard debris. The filtration system is a two-stage affair: a five-liter basket for larger debris and an ultra-fine filter that catches sand, silt, and even algae. After a typical cleaning cycle, pulling out that filter basket is both satisfying and a little gross but that’s just proof it’s doing its job.

What sets the X1 apart is its waterline cleaning. Aiper calls this WaveLine 2.0, which is a fancy way of saying it can scrub about two inches above the waterline. This is huge. Sunscreen residue, oils, and that stubborn grime that clings to the tile band get special attention. Watching it methodically work its way around the pool’s perimeter is oddly hypnotic. I’ve tested cleaners before that claim to handle waterlines, but they tend to “brush past” rather than really clean. The X1 stays put and gets to work.

Navigation: Good, But Not Perfect (Yet)

Let’s talk navigation. Aiper uses WavePath 3.0 tech, which is meant to map out efficient cleaning patterns; think S-shaped and N-shaped routes rather than aimless wandering. In practice, the Scuba X1 generally stays on task, but it’s not flawless.

Straight out of the box, I noticed it sometimes missed spots, especially on the pool floor. Stairs? You might almost want to forget it. Like most robot cleaners, it struggles there, gingerly climbing halfway up before retreating. Similarly, the little lip in the deeper end of the pool presented its own challenges but it’s not unique to this model.

In my first hour with the Scuba X1 I let it do its own thing at the bottom of the pool, chasing down whatever dirt or debris it wanted. It’s not the same pool I would normally use so I wanted to see if it treated the shape and angles the same.

A little time with the Aiper app can make a difference. There’s a setting to adjust the cleaning path, and switching from “S-shaped” to “Adaptive Path” improved coverage noticeably. It’s a reminder that while the robot is smart, it benefits from human guidance to optimize its routine.

Obstacle avoidance is solid. It never got hung up on my main drain, and it gracefully navigates around pool toys and floating leaves. The occasional “wheelie”, where the front end pops up off the floor, happens, but it self-corrects every time.

Real-World Use: The Good, The Bad, and The “Poop”

In day-to-day use, the Scuba X1 is pretty hands-off. You drop it in, hit start, and let it do its thing. When it’s done, it parks itself at the waterline for easy retrieval. That retrieval hook comes in handy, though sometimes you can grab it by hand if it’s floating near the edge.

Here’s the thing, though: when you lift it out, you need to be careful. There’s this charming little phenomenon owners call “pooping”, where the robot releases some of the collected debris back into the pool as it exits the water. It’s obviously not a dealbreaker, and it’s certainly not an Aiper-specific issue, but it can be mildly annoying, especially if you’re particular about your water clarity.

Draining is quick thanks to the “Quick Water Release” design, but you’ll still feel that weight when it’s full of water and gunk. Emptying and rinsing the filters is easy, though the ultra-fine mesh filter can be a little delicate. After a few weeks, I worry I might soon see slight fraying, so gentle handling is a must.

Battery life is rated up to 180 minutes. In my experience, I averaged around 150 minutes per charge or still enough to clean the pool in one go. Charging takes about three to four hours. Could it be faster? Sure. But the runtime-to-charge ratio feels fair for a cordless robot at this price.

The App Experience: A Good Start with Room to Grow

The Aiper app is functional and straightforward. You can select cleaning modes (floor, wall, waterline, auto), check battery status, and initiate OTA firmware updates. Scheduled cleaning is a nice touch as I set mine to run a maintenance clean every other day. Updates have been smooth so far, though I wouldn’t mind seeing more advanced features added down the line, like custom zone cleaning or improved diagnostics.

As mentioned above, if you want real-time underwater control, like telling the robot to come here, now, you’ll need that HydroComm Pro accessory. Without it, your control options are limited to surface-level commands. At $500 it doesn’t come cheap so you’ll have to decide whether it’s worth the expense.

Reliability and Support: The Long Game

Aiper backs the Scuba X1 with a two-year warranty, which is fairly standard for products like this, but it’s better than the one-year stuff that most tech gets. They claim rigorous testing, including extreme temperatures and a million component cycles. My unit has been reliable so far, but pool cleaners live in a harsh environment. Chlorine, UV exposure, and constant water immersion take a toll over time. Only extended use will reveal how well the X1 holds up in the long run.

Customer support seems hit-or-miss based on community feedback and from what I can glean. Some users report great experiences, while others have faced slow responses. I haven’t had to contact them yet (fingers crossed), but it’s something to be aware of.

The Value Question: Is It Worth It?

At its full retail price of $1,499, the Scuba X1 is a tough sell as the entry-level model for 2025. But let’s be honest, I’ve checked off and on and it’s almost always on sale for $999 to $1,099. At that price, it’s a more-than-worthy contender in the cordless pool cleaner market. Assuming it stays at this price for the summer, I would have zero reservations in recommending it as one of the first to consider.

You’re getting high suction power, effective filtration, reliable waterline cleaning, and the freedom of cordless operation. Yes, you’ll have to fiddle with app settings to get the most out of it, and yes, you’ll occasionally deal with the dreaded “poop” when pulling it out. But for routine maintenance of an in-ground pool, it performs admirably.

The big picture is this: no robotic cleaner is truly “set it and forget it.” They all require some degree of user interaction, whether it’s tweaking settings, cleaning filters, or pulling them out of the water. The Aiper Scuba X1 reduces the manual labor of pool upkeep significantly, but it doesn’t eliminate it entirely. On the other hand, it doesn’t stop short where others continue on, at least in this price range.

Do You Need More?

While the Scuba X1 is a great option, it might fall short for some consumers. To that end, there are two other models in the lineup this year which might help address more specific or ambitious needs.

Scuba X1 Pro: The Premium Upgrade

Building upon the base model, the Scuba X1 Pro introduces enhancements for improved performance:

  • Sensors: Increased to 26 for better navigation and obstacle avoidance.
  • Navigation System: Upgraded to FlexiPath 1.0 for more efficient cleaning paths.
  • Adaptive Cleaning: Features adaptive power for optimized cleaning based on pool conditions.

While maintaining the same suction power and battery life as the base model, the Pro version offers smarter navigation and adaptability, making it suitable for pools with more complex layouts.

Scuba X1 Pro Max: The Pinnacle Model

The Pro Max stands as Aiper’s top-tier offering this year, boasting significant advancements:

  • Suction Power: Enhanced to 8,500 GPH for superior debris removal.
  • Motors: Equipped with 9 motors, providing robust cleaning capabilities.
  • Sensors: Over 40 sensors enable comprehensive 360° mapping and obstacle detection.
  • Navigation System: Features FlexiPath 2.0 for precise and adaptive cleaning routes.
  • Cleaning Coverage: Extends to the pool surface and elevated platforms, in addition to the floor, walls, and waterline.
  • Battery Life: Offers up to 300 minutes for floor cleaning and up to 600 minutes for surface cleaning.
  • Pool Size Capacity: Suitable for larger pools up to 3,230 square feet.

The Pro Max is designed for pool owners seeking the most advanced and thorough cleaning solution, capable of handling larger and more intricate pool environments.

Final Thoughts

Would I recommend the Aiper Scuba X1? Absolutely, but with realistic expectations in mind. It is not a miracle worker, but it is a meaningful upgrade to the day-to-day reality of pool ownership.

For anyone managing a medium or large in-ground pool, the X1 hits a smart balance between performance, price, and low-effort upkeep. Its cordless design and reliable waterline cleaning already set it apart, and once you dial in the settings, it becomes a steady, capable ally.

No robot will eliminate pool chores entirely, but the Scuba X1 trims the list down enough that you might actually enjoy your pool a bit more. If we’re being honest, that is the whole point. It does not just clean; it gives you a little time back. And in my book, that’s worth the price of admission.

Google Highlights Developer Tools and Cross-Device Features at I/O 2025

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At I/O 2025, Google gave Android developers plenty to work with, both literally and figuratively. From AI-assisted coding and smarter design systems to expanded support for wearables, TVs, and XR, the updates are aimed at making app creation more efficient and more adaptable across platforms.

Smarter Apps with Built-In AI

Developers now have direct access to Gemini Nano through the new ML Kit GenAI APIs, with features like text summarization, proofreading, rewriting, and image descriptions running on-device. For more demanding tasks, Firebase AI Logic supports heavier models like Gemini Pro and Gemini Flash, covering everything from image generation to multimodal data processing.

Google’s sample app, Androidify, puts these tools on display, turning selfies into custom Android robots. It’s part of a broader push to bring personalization into everyday app experiences.

One App to Reach Phones, XR, Cars, and More

Google continues nudging developers toward a “build once, run anywhere” mindset. With updated Compose Layouts and navigation tools, devs can more easily design apps that scale across phones, tablets, foldables, ChromeOS, and now cars and XR.

Android XR is moving forward with Developer Preview 2 of its SDK. Google confirmed support for Samsung’s Project Moohan and introduced a new portable XR headset from XREAL called Project Aura. Google wants apps that aren’t just XR-compatible but XR-aware, playing nice with 3D content, new inputs, and AI assistance.

Meanwhile, Android Auto and Android Automotive OS are getting wider app category support, Gemini integrations, and better testing tools. Think video, games, and communication, all of which are accessible from the dashboard.

Wear OS 6 and Material 3 Go All-In on Expression

Wear OS 6 brings Material 3 Expressive to the wrist. The new design approach is built around emotion and clarity, giving developers the tools to build interfaces that feel more personalized. Updates to Jetpack libraries such as Wear Compose Material 3 and ProtoLayout make it easier to support this expressive new look across apps and tiles.

Three smartphones displaying app pages, featuring Uber Eats, Lightroom, and the Calm app. Each screen shows app ratings, a brief description, and installation options.

Android Studio Gets a Gemini Brain Boost

Gemini is now fully embedded in Android Studio. The AI assistant can turn design mockups into Compose code, help upgrade app versions, and guide developers through common build tasks. New features like Journeys and the Version Upgrade Agent are designed to speed up the process without cutting corners.

A tablet screen displaying various photo and video editing apps with a search bar at the top. The featured app is 'Canva: AI Photo & Video Editor', along with related apps like 'PowerDirector' and 'Lightroom'.

Kotlin Multiplatform also gets a lift, with new templates and updates to Jetpack libraries. Developers looking to build across Android and iOS now have fewer roadblocks and better starting points.

Updates to Google Play and Android 16

Google Play is rolling out new discovery features, subscription options, and content personalization updates designed to help developers grow and retain their audiences. Play Games Services is moving from v1 to v2, bringing better cross-device support and improved integration tools.

Android 16 is in public beta, with features like live updates, pro-level camera tools, desktop windowing support, and accessibility upgrades. Developers are encouraged to test their apps against the latest build to stay compatible.

More details and developer sessions are available now at io.google, with updates continuing throughout the event.

Gemini and Games Take the Wheel: Google I/O 2025 Expands Android’s In-Car Experience

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At Google I/O 2025, Google doubled down on its push into the connected car space, introducing major updates to Android Auto and Android Automotive OS. From AI-powered voice interactions to a broader app ecosystem spanning navigation, entertainment, and even games, the announcements signal a clear message: your car’s digital dashboard is about to get a lot smarter and a lot more fun.

Gemini Is Coming to the Driver’s Seat

Google’s Gemini AI is making its in-car debut, bringing natural voice controls and contextual awareness to supported vehicles. The goal is to make driving safer and more productive without distracting drivers. Users will be able to ask Gemini to do things like find nearby charging stations or pull up directions from a recent email, all by speaking conversationally.

Navigation apps can now integrate Gemini via three new intent formats, allowing developers to support voice-driven navigation, search, and custom actions such as incident reporting. Gemini integration is expected to roll out in the coming months.

App Categories Expand Across Platforms

Android Auto and Android Automotive OS (with Google built-in) continue to gain momentum, now reaching almost 250 million compatible vehicles. Over 50 car models already support the built-in platform, and that number is growing fast—alongside a catalog of 300+ apps on the Play Store optimized for in-car use.

Several app categories are gaining broader support:

  • Weather apps are now officially out of beta and can be published by any developer.
  • Games are entering beta across both Android Auto (parked mode only) and Android Automotive OS, with titles like Angry Birds 2 and Candy Crush Soda Saga already playable.
  • Video apps are on the roadmap for Android Auto later this year, starting with Android 16.
  • Communications apps can now integrate richer features like full message history and meeting previews, thanks to updated APIs and templates.

Developers interested in bringing video, gaming, and browser experiences to cars can reference Google’s new “Car Ready,” “Car Optimized,” and “Car Differentiated” tiers to guide quality and compatibility.

New Tools and Templates for Developers

A table comparing app category statuses for Android Auto and Cars with Google built-in, indicating which categories are open, in beta, or coming soon.

Google is streamlining car app development with a refreshed Car App Templates Design Kit on Figma and two new layouts (SectionedItemTemplate and MediaPlaybackTemplate) in the Car App Library 1.8 alpha release. These are designed to help media apps look and feel more polished and native across platforms.

Distribution is also getting easier. Developers can now use the same APK or app bundle for both phones and Android Automotive OS, with support for mobile release tracks. Testing is more accessible too, thanks to the Pixel Tablet now supporting Android Automotive OS and acting as a receiver for Android Auto.

What’s on the Roadmap?

Google teased several upcoming features to keep an eye on:

  • Audio-only playback for video apps while driving
  • Quick Share between phone and car
  • Credential Manager and Passkey support
  • Pre-launch reports in the Play Console for car apps
  • Firebase Test Lab expansion to include real Android Automotive OS devices

For Developers, the Signal Is Clear

The Android-powered car is no longer a niche; indeed, it’s becoming a standard. With tools like Gemini, new app templates, and easier distribution across platforms, Google is inviting developers to build experiences that go beyond navigation and playlists. Whether it’s checking the weather, joining a call, or crushing candy at a red light (safely parked, of course), the in-car app ecosystem is open for innovation.

Wear OS 6 Launches with Focus on Style, Battery Life, and Developer Flexibility

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Google is officially rolling out Wear OS 6, the latest iteration of its smartwatch platform, and it’s all about smoother performance, smarter design, and more expressive personalization. Packed with updates for both users and developers, this release aims to balance form and function, and without draining the battery in the process.

Material 3 Expressive Brings Personalized Design to the Wrist

At the heart of Wear OS 6 is a new design language called Material 3 Expressive. This visual overhaul introduces a modern UI tailored for round displays, offering more vibrant themes, adaptable layouts, and cohesive animations across apps and tiles. Dynamic color theming lets apps match the watch face for a unified aesthetic, and new Jetpack libraries (Wear Compose Material 3 and Wear ProtoLayout Material 3) give developers the tools to integrate these visual elements natively.

An animated demonstration showcasing the features and design elements of Wear OS 6, highlighting its vibrant themes and smooth transitions.

New components such as the Edge Hugging Button, a smartly positioned UI element that makes use of the circular screen edge, and TransformingLazyColumn, which enables fluid list navigation, bring a more refined feel to interactions on small screens.

Efficiency and Battery Improvements

Wear OS 6 isn’t just a facelift, as it brings performance gains too. Watches upgrading from Wear OS 5 can expect up to 10% better battery life, thanks to platform-level optimizations. That should help wearables stay powered through long days without sacrificing features or animations.

Smarter Tiles and Richer Media Experiences

Three circular smartwatch screens showcasing media controls and updates from Wear OS, featuring play/pause buttons, playback speed options, and a list of upcoming actions.

Tile design also gets a functional boost with a new 3-slot layout (title, main content, and bottom), helping users quickly absorb info at a glance. Components are designed to scale across screen sizes, improving consistency across devices.

For media lovers, watches running Wear OS 5.1 and above now include upgraded podcast controls; users can fast-forward, rewind, or manage playlists directly from their wrist. Shuffle, like, and repeat functions are all accessible via a refreshed menu interface, with minimal developer effort required to activate.

Credential Manager Comes to Wear OS

Wear OS 6 expands authentication capabilities through the new Credential Manager API, which supports passkeys, passwords, and Sign in with Google. The unified API brings a consistent sign-in experience across devices, eliminating the need for a nearby phone. It’s now live on Pixel Watches running Wear OS 5.1 or newer.

New Tools for Watch Face Developers

An animated graphic showcasing a smiling person with a tan hat on the left, and a Wear OS interface featuring music controls and app options on the right, against a dark background.

Developers building watch faces now have access to Watch Face Format v4, which includes support for animated transitions and photo-based designs. A new API is also in the works for managing watch face marketplaces, potentially opening new opportunities for distribution.

Developer Preview and Resources Available Now

The Wear OS 6 Developer Preview, which is built on Android 16, is live, complete with an updated emulator. Developers can test app compatibility, explore new APIs, and access resources like Figma design kits and codelabs to speed up adoption.

More updates are expected later this year, including general availability timelines. Until then, developers and early adopters can start tinkering by checking out the official documentation and developer tools available through the official Wear OS developer site.

Get-Found: The Digital Marketing Agency Birmingham Businesses Are Turning to for Growth

In a marketplace where online visibility determines market share, Get-Found has emerged as the digital marketing agency Birmingham businesses rely on for strategic growth and measurable results. Rooted in innovation and driven by data, Get-Found is changing the game for companies that want more than just clicks—they want real, scalable business outcomes.

As the demand for intelligent, ROI-focused marketing surges, Digital Marketing Agency Birmingham Get-Found offers a uniquely integrated service model that spans SEO, paid media, web development, CRM automation, and content strategy. In a region teeming with talent and entrepreneurial spirit, Get-Found provides the digital firepower needed to stay ahead.

Full-Spectrum Digital Services, Powered by Performance

What sets Get-Found apart is its commitment to end-to-end performance marketing. Whether you’re a local SME or a growing national brand, the agency’s services are designed to plug directly into your business goals and turn digital activity into bottom-line results.

Services Include:

  • Search Engine Optimisation (SEO): Combining technical precision with smart content strategies to dominate Google’s SERPs—locally and nationally.
  • Google Ads & Paid Social: Every campaign is built around conversions, not just reach. With constant optimisation and conversion tracking, clients enjoy low CPAs and strong ROI.
  • Web Design & Development: High-converting, mobile-optimised websites built with SEO, UX, and CRO principles baked in.
  • CRM Automation & Funnels: From lead capture to nurture, Get-Found automates the entire digital sales pipeline using platforms like GoHighLevel and HubSpot.
  • Content Strategy & Copywriting: Search-optimised, value-led content that informs, builds trust, and drives action.

A Digital Marketing Agency Birmingham Can Be Proud Of

Operating from the heart of the city, Get-Found is deeply invested in the Midlands business community. But while their HQ is in Birmingham, their reach is national, working with clients in London, Manchester, Cardiff, and increasingly with UK brands expanding into global markets.

Being a Digital Marketing Agency Birmingham based gives Get-Found a unique edge: a blend of regional insight and metropolitan ambition. Their team understands the commercial landscape of Birmingham and the wider West Midlands, offering tailored strategies that resonate locally while scaling nationally.

Ahead of the Curve, Ready for the Future

Digital marketing is constantly evolving. Whether it’s algorithm changes, AI-enhanced search, or consumer behaviour shifts, Get-Found is always future-ready.

Innovations Include:

  • AI-Generated Content Support: Integrating tools like ChatGPT and Jasper for scalable yet quality-controlled copy.
  • Behavioural Analytics & CRO: Heatmaps, split testing, and funnel data to optimise every click and scroll.
  • Semantic & Voice Search SEO: Ensuring clients rank for conversational, mobile, and voice-assisted search terms.

Why Now Is the Time to Get Found

In 2025, competition is fiercer, attention spans are shorter, and digital noise is louder than ever. The businesses that win are those who appear at the right time, in the right place, with the right message.

As a trusted Digital Marketing Agency Birmingham businesses continue to recommend, Get-Found empowers ambitious companies to cut through the clutter and connect directly with their most valuable audiences.

Whether you need more leads, better rankings, lower ad spend, or a full digital transformation—this is your sign.

Don’t just be online. Be found.

EDITOR NOTE: This is a promoted post and should not be considered an editorial endorsement

Google TV Adds Gemini, Video Discovery API, and Android 16 Beta for Smarter TV Experiences

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Google is pushing forward with major upgrades to its Android TV OS and Google TV platforms, which now serve over 270 million monthly active devices. With a clear focus on enhancing app engagement and developer experience, the company unveiled several updates during its I/O 2025 announcements, including Gemini integration, a new Video Discovery API, and the release of Jetpack Compose for TV 1.0.

Conversational TV with Gemini

Gemini, Google’s AI assistant, is making its way to Google TV this fall. Designed to improve content discovery through natural language interactions, Gemini allows users to ask for movie recommendations or get help answering questions right from the comfort of their couch.

Examples include asking for “kid-friendly movies like Jurassic Park” or getting help explaining the solar system to a first grader. Gemini responds with curated suggestions or educational video content, boosting visibility for partner apps in the process.

Video Discovery API Now Open for Enrollment

To further boost app engagement, Google has launched partner enrollment for its new Video Discovery API. This API is built around three core features:

  • Resumption: Lets users jump back into paused content via the ‘Continue Watching’ row, one of the most popular entry points on Google TV, responsible for 60% of all user interactions.
  • Entitlements: Helps apps match content with subscription status, removing the hassle of manually syncing account info.
  • Recommendations: Surfaces personalized viewing suggestions based on a user’s in-app activity.

Partners can begin implementing resumption and entitlement features today. More information is available at g.co/tv/vda.

Screenshot of Google TV interface showcasing the movie 'Wicked' with a selection of app icons including Netflix, Freeplay, Prime Video, Disney+, Apple TV, Max, Hulu, and Spotify.

Jetpack Compose for TV Hits Stable Release

After a year in beta, Compose for TV 1.0 is now stable, offering a streamlined way to build responsive UIs across Android TV OS. Built on core and Material Compose libraries, the latest version delivers faster app startup, up to 20% improvement in some internal benchmarks.

For developers new to Compose, Google has updated its Jetcaster sample app to demonstrate best practices for building shared logic across phone and TV platforms.

New Tools for Better TV App Development

Google is rolling out several developer resources aimed at improving performance and usability on TV devices:

  • A Focus Management Codelab walks through strategies for handling input focus across TV UIs.
  • A Memory Optimization Guide helps developers understand memory constraints on low-RAM devices, using Android Studio’s profiler for debugging.
  • In-App Ratings and Reviews are now supported on Google TV, enabling developers to collect user feedback directly within the TV interface.

Android 16 for TV Beta Now Available

Android 16 for TV enters beta with updates aimed at improving media quality and playback. Notable additions include:

  • MediaQualityManager for customizing picture profiles.
  • Support for the Eclipsa Audio codec and IAMF spatial audio format.
  • Improvements in HDMI-CEC behavior and overall media playback stability.
  • 64-bit kernel performance enhancements and API extensions for developers.

Interested developers can dive into the full Android 16 for TV release notes for more detail.

More updates from Google I/O 2025, including these announcements, can be found at io.google.

Google Rolls Out Android XR SDK Developer Preview 2 with New Tools

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Google has announced Developer Preview 2 of its Android XR SDK, adding a fresh layer of capabilities for developers working on immersive apps using familiar Android tools. The update arrives just in time for Google I/O 2025, where Android XR is taking center stage in two featured sessions.

What’s New in Developer Preview 2

The latest preview focuses on expanding functionality and streamlining development for extended reality (XR) applications. Highlights include:

  • Immersive Video Playback: The Jetpack XR SDK now supports 180° and 360° stereoscopic video playback, with encoding options like MV-HEVC for high-quality visuals.
  • Smarter Layouts in Compose for XR: Developers can define UI layouts that dynamically adjust to various XR displays using new tools like SubspaceModifier and SpatialExternalSurface.
  • More Material Components for XR: Material Design for XR adds support for components like TopAppBar, AlertDialog, and ListDetailPaneScaffold, helping apps maintain consistency across 2D and XR environments.
  • Hand Tracking with ARCore: Jetpack XR apps can now access 26 posed hand joints, enabling gesture-based controls and more natural user interaction.

Better Tools, Smoother Dev Experience

The Android XR Emulator continues to improve with stability fixes, AMD GPU support, and tighter integration into the Android Studio UI. Unity developers aren’t left out as OpenXR: Android XR (Pre-Release 2) introduces performance upgrades including SpaceWarp shader support, Dynamic Refresh Rate, and realistic hand meshes with occlusion.

A coding interface displaying an 'AnimalList' component in a development environment for Android XR, featuring a list of animals, a search bar, and detailed information on the Bengal Tiger.

New Unity samples demonstrate features like hand and face tracking, plane detection, and passthrough capabilities. There’s also a refreshed Mixed Reality template and persistent anchor support, making it easier to build advanced spatial apps.

Firebase and AI Come to XR

The integration of Firebase AI Logic for Unity (now in public preview) marks a new chapter for AI-powered XR. Built to work with Gemini’s multimodal and streaming capabilities, it enables responsive conversational interfaces and rich, intelligent interactions. Developers can also take advantage of Firebase services like App Check and Remote Config for security and customization.

Looking Ahead: Devices and Distribution

Developer Preview 2 is optimized for Samsung’s upcoming Project Moohan headset, set to be the first to ship with Android XR. Shortly after, XREAL will release Project Aura, a portable, tethered device designed to run Android XR apps. Aimed at early adopters and developers, Aura offers access to standard Android apps and XR-specific experiences.

Google Play is preparing to host these apps, including support for preview assets like stereoscopic videos and spatial screenshots. Developers are encouraged to get their apps ready now to be among the first listed on the Android XR Play Store later this year.

Building XR Together

Google is continuing to collaborate with industry partners like the Khronos Group to support open standards, such as the upcoming glTF Interactivity spec. Jetpack XR will begin supporting interactive 3D models later this year, unlocking new possibilities for engaging XR content.

More details, sample projects, and resources are available at developer.android.com/develop/xr.

With new tools, devices, and support from Google’s broader ecosystem, Android XR is shaping up to be a key platform for next-gen immersive apps. Developers ready to test the waters can start experimenting now; headsets are coming, and the stage is set.