Adobe is leveling up its Firefly generative AI platform with a fresh set of tools designed to give creators more control, creative options, and flexibility, all from within the Firefly app. Rolling out now, the update brings beta support for text- and voice-generated sound effects, expanded video editing features, and access to a growing lineup of partner AI models, including Google Veo 3 and Moonvalley Marey.
Generate Custom Sound Effects With Text or Voice
Headlining the update is Generate Sound Effects (beta), a new feature inside the Firefly app that lets users create custom audio by simply typing a description or speaking it aloud. Whether it’s a cinematic thud, ambient rainfall, or the subtle hum of traffic, the tool supports impact sounds and atmospheric layers for more immersive content.
Firefly users can blend generated effects with uploaded footage, layering in ambience to set mood, location, or tone, without having to hunt through third-party libraries or fiddle with external tools. And yes, the feature works whether you’re chasing epic explosions or the delicate crunch of gravel underfoot.
Adobe Firefly Style Presets
More AI Models, One Seamless Workflow
Adobe is further deepening its Firefly partner ecosystem with support for several new third-party models, including:
Moonvalley’s Marey
Google’s Veo 3, now with audio generation
Runway’s Gen-4 Video
Pika 2.2
Luma AI’s Ray2
Topaz Labs’ image and video upscalers
All of these join Adobe’s existing in-app models from OpenAI, Black Forest Labs, Ideogram, and others. The appeal: creators can access everything from stylized visuals to high-res video upscaling without bouncing between multiple tools or accounts. All partner content respects Adobe’s content policies, user uploads and generated assets are not used to train models, and Content Credentials are applied automatically to indicate the model used.
One login, one plan, zero app-hopping.
Firefly Video Gets Precision Tools for Creators
Keyframe Cropping
The Firefly app now offers deeper control over video generation and editing with new frame-specific tools aimed at professionals working on everything from vertical social clips to long-form cinematic cuts. New capabilities include:
Composition Reference: guide framing based on an existing image
Keyframe Cropping: adjust layout across multiple frames
Style Presets: quickly apply a consistent look across outputs
These tools are designed to save time while still allowing for detailed creative adjustments. This will be useful whether you’re building brand content, pitching client visuals, or simply fine-tuning a personal project.
One Platform, Billions of Creations
According to Adobe, Firefly users have generated over 26 billion assets to date using its family of AI models. With this latest update, that number is likely to accelerate as more creators explore what’s possible when sound, video, and visual design come together under one unified, customizable toolkit.
More details on the new features and model integrations can be found on the official Firefly site.
Alienware has announced the launch of two new gaming monitors, the Alienware 27 280Hz QD-OLED Monitor and the Alienware 25 320Hz Gaming Monitor. Bringing these high-performance displays to the market, Alienware aims to cater to gamers who crave top-quality visuals and competitive gameplay without emptying their wallets.
Alienware 27 280Hz QD-OLED Monitor
The Alienware 27 280Hz QD-OLED Monitor (AW2725D) sets its sights on delivering a premium gaming experience with its vibrant QHD resolution. Equipped with Quantum Dot OLED technology, this monitor promises vivid color reproduction and deep blacks, certified by VESA DisplayHDR True Black 400. Gamers can expect an immersive visual experience, whether they’re exploring open worlds or battling in action-packed arenas.
Performance is at the core of this monitor, thanks to a 280Hz refresh rate and an impressively low 0.03ms gray-to-gray response time. NVIDIA G-SYNC Compatibility, along with AMD FreeSync Premium Pro and VESA AdaptiveSync certification, ensure that gameplay remains smooth and free from screen tearing. All this is packaged at an accessible price of $549.99 USD, making high-end QD-OLED gaming more attainable.
Alienware 25 320Hz Gaming Monitor
For those with a competitive edge, the Alienware 25 320Hz Gaming Monitor (AW2525HM) is designed to meet the demands of fast-paced gaming genres such as first-person shooters. With a blazing 320Hz refresh rate and a rapid 0.5ms gray-to-gray response time (in Extreme mode), this monitor delivers ultra-smooth visuals with minimal ghosting, keeping players ahead in the game.
This model features a fast IPS panel with FHD resolution, making it a perfect fit for those who want sharp, fluid graphics. The inclusion of NVIDIA G-SYNC Compatibility, AMD FreeSync Premium, and VESA AdaptiveSync ensures that gamers experience stutter-free visuals regardless of their GPU choice. Priced at $249.99 USD, this monitor is tailored for budget-conscious gamers seeking high performance.
Design and Warranty
Both models showcase Alienware’s new AW30 design language, inspired by extraterrestrial phenomena. The design seamlessly blends aesthetic appeal with functionality, including features like an integrated headset hanger on the Alienware 25. Alienware further supports gamers with a 3-year limited hardware warranty that covers OLED burn-in, providing peace of mind during intense gaming sessions.
In a revealing new survey conducted in partnership with Morning Consult, Comcast has uncovered a surprising gap in consumer awareness regarding potential savings on mobile plans. The survey, released today, shows that over 75 percent of Americans underestimate the significant cost benefits of switching to Xfinity Mobile, with many missing out on savings of $1,000 or more annually.
Cost Concerns Lead the Charge
As budget-conscious consumers continue to seek relief from high wireless costs, 42 percent of those surveyed indicated they are actively looking to change mobile providers in the next year, with cost being the primary motivator. Despite this, a common misconception persists: a majority believe they would only save around $100 by switching providers, far less than the reality for those who make the jump to Xfinity Mobile. In fact, Xfinity Internet customers who add Xfinity Mobile can see savings multiply up to tenfold.
Features That Matter
Xfinity Mobile’s new Premium Unlimited Plan is tailored to meet the demands of today’s tech-savvy users. Advanced spam protection and the flexibility to upgrade devices anytime are prime features drawing interest, cited by 52 and 47 percent of respondents, respectively.
Additionally, nearly half of Americans are seeking the fastest internet speeds available, which Xfinity Mobile delivers with its WiFi PowerBoost, offering gigabit speeds when connected to Xfinity hotspots or home gateways.
Perfect Timing for Summer Travel
With 60 percent of Americans planning to travel this summer, the timing couldn’t be better to switch and save. Not only does Xfinity Mobile offer unlimited talk, text, and data in Canada and Mexico, but its Global Travel Pass ensures connectivity in more than 215 destinations worldwide for a modest $10 per day. The survey indicates that 41 percent of potential switchers plan to allocate their savings towards summer travel, making Xfinity Mobile an attractive option for jet-setters looking to stay connected without breaking the bank.
Breaking Free from the Big Three
In its ongoing mission to challenge the status quo, Xfinity Mobile celebrates its fifth annual “Break Free from the Big Three Day.” This initiative encourages consumers to break away from overpriced plans, with enticing offers including up to $500 per line to ease the transition. Xfinity Internet customers can further sweeten the deal with a complimentary Unlimited Mobile line for a year. Additionally, the Xfinity Refer-a-Friend program offers a win-win for existing and new customers, with rewards up to $500 for successful referrals.
Seamless Connectivity
Xfinity Mobile prides itself on providing the most reliable 5G network, boasting over 23 million hotspots across the United States. This robust infrastructure supports the company’s claim to fame as the fastest mobile provider in Comcast service areas, validated by recent consumer testing.
For those looking to save significantly while enjoying top-tier features and connectivity, Xfinity Mobile presents a compelling case. To see how much you could save and explore the benefits of breaking free from the Big Three, visit Xfinity Mobile.
I recently was introduced to Suunto as a fitness and outdoors, brand a few months back when I took the Race S Sports Watch for a spin. Suffice it to say, I came away very impressed with the company as a direct competitor to the likes of Garmin. Since then, Suunto introduced another watch called the Run which I was only too happy to check out.
Our Suunto contact offered up the Suunto Run for review as well, but how does it hold up to an ever more flooded market of more advanced sport watches?
Design
If you set the Run and the Race S next to one another, you’d immediately assume they are the same watches. After closer inspection, you’ll find that the Run is composed of polycarbonate (plastic) housing with an impact resistant face. This makes the latest Suunto much lighter, and I think it slightly hugs my wrist better for some reason.
Otherwise, you have the same button layout and rotating crown from the Run to the Race S. Much like Garmin, Suunto seems to keep this continuity between devices. This usually lends to less confusion, and learning curve, from upgrading watches (more on this later in the software).
Suunto doesn’t skimp on sensors with the Run, even at the palatable $240 cost. It’s tuned for runners, hence the name, and includes onboard GPS. There’s also real-time tracking of heart rate, steps, elevation, and heart rate variability. It’s a well-rounded package out of the box when you purchase the Suunto Run.
Changing bands are a snap with the industry standard 22mm quick release pins. Suunto includes a nice nylon strap in the box, and mine is a striking Lime colorway. If that doesn’t suit you, then Amazon is your friend. Finding a band that is your style can be had for less than $15 in my experience.
Fitness Tracking
Let’s start with the mostly positive portion of my daily experience with the Suunto Run. The overall fitness tracking has been pretty solid. I’ve found my daily steps, GPS run data, and HR all to be well within that same ranges I’d expect from my Garmin Forerunner 165. It’s not exactly the same, but I have seen improvements in the new heart rate sensor layout, and the step count, over my recent testing of the Suunto Race S.
The same is true for workouts. There’s a ton of included sports profiles that should easily get you started in the right place to log almost any workout you need. During these activities, the Run was accurate to reason on taking in metrics you’d expect like heart rate, calories burned, and even reps for some fitness profiles.
Smartwatch Things
Where I really struggled with the Suunto Run is in the smartwatch interactions. There’s a certain level of standard features that I was frankly shocked at what it lacked to perform well. My main gripes are UI elements and navigation, as well as customization via the Suunto Plus store in the app, are different from previous models.
This includes two main issues I’ve found in the lack of adding additional widgets and watch faces via the Suunto Store not being available for this device. This is the app Settings options on other Suunto watches, and it’s simply not available for the Run watch at launch. Having no way to add additional watches faces is pretty unacceptable for a $250 watch.
SuuntoPlus Store on Race SMissing Plus Store on Run
The same is true on general UI elements and navigation. The notifications are buried in the control panel for some reason, instead of having a dedicated widget for the Suunto Run. This adds an added layer that just doesn’t make sense. All modern smartphones, including other Suuntos, have a dedicated space for notifications. This makes them easily found in the UI and actionable.
Speaking of, the same is found when trying to action notifications, the ability to dismiss them from the current watch aggregation, but it doesn’t seem to action the swipe away on your phone and also seems to return when you get more notifications on the Run. The entire notifications system seems a little under baked.
This is all due to Suunto overhauling the underlying operating system on the Suunto Run. It’s running a different core variant that the company has hinted will come to other devices later. Even though the Run is the first one to run this new underpinning, I’d expect more cohesion from device to device and fewer bumps altogether like the lack of Suunto Store Plus access and essential notifications to be better.
“With accurate fitness tracking, onboard GPS, and week-long battery life, the Suunto Run delivers serious training features at a runner-friendly price—just don’t expect full smartwatch perks.”
Battery Life
Despite some of the software hang-ups, I’ve been impressed with the battery life. I’m getting well over a week’s usage per charge. This depends on how many running activities or notifications I get during that time, but this is the top end of the spectrum from a smartwatch perspective. You can only really point to the likes of dedicated Fitbit or Garmin for similar runtimes.
Honestly, Wear OS could learn a lot here. When you have something that’s featured around outdoor life, fitness, and unplugging in general, battery endurance is a huge selling point. Some have come closer with four days with options like the OnePlus Watch 3, but most Wear OS watches fall well short of anything offered by the Suunto Run.
Suunto Run New ChargerSuunto Race S Charger
Charging is done via a magnetic puck found in the packaging. It’s quick, effective, and includes USB-C cable connection on the other end. No complaints here other than I think they could have nailed the cohesion again with having this be reverse compatible with previous models, but the charging contacts are in a different layout. It’s a small thing, but cuts down on waste, user buy-in, and SKUs for Suunto.
Final Thoughts
Awarded to products with an average rating of 3.75 stars or higher, the AndroidGuys Smart Pick recognizes a balance of quality, performance, and value.
Products with this distinction deserve to be on your short list of purchase candidates.
I had a fairly positive first experience with the Suunto Race S a few months ago. I fully expected the Run to build on that, but I was left with more questions than confidence. The biometrics and hardware are there, but the decision to vastly alter the software tarnishes the final product. And you should never buy a product on the promise of features in future software updates.
I don’t want to bash the Suunto Run here. As I said, it does a ton very well for just fitness. If you don’t plan, or maybe consciously don’t want, better smartwatch options, the Run still checks a ton of boxes. My only counter to that thought is you can get the fantastic bargain buy of the Garmin Forerunner for the same price.
If you do want to give the Run a shot, you can snag one from both Suunto and Amazon. You have a palette of color options as well, but our review unit is the blinding Lime. Alternate colors are Black, Coral Orange, and Frost Gray.
UGREEN has announced the launch of its MagFlow Magnetic Power Bank, the first wireless charging device in the world to earn Qi 2.2 certification from the Wireless Power Consortium. The certification confirms full support for 25W wireless fast charging, setting the stage for improved performance and safer charging in future smartphones and accessories.
Leading the Qi 2.2 Charge
As the first officially certified product under the new Qi 2.2 standard, UGREEN’s MagFlow Magnetic Power Bank delivers a notable boost in wireless charging speed, especially for iPhone users. Qi 2.2 builds on the familiar MagSafe framework but ups the ante with higher power limits, tighter thermal control, and broader compatibility through the Magnetic Power Profile (MPP).
This milestone reflects UGREEN’s long-standing involvement in wireless charging innovation. The company has been active in adopting Qi standards through several product generations, and this latest move reinforces its role as a dependable option in the fast-charging space.
Designed for Portability and Everyday Use
The new MagFlow model works with current iPhone models and is positioned to support upcoming releases like the iPhone 16. It’s also compatible with other devices adopting the Qi 2.2 standard. With advanced power and heat management packed into a travel-friendly design, it’s suited for commutes, travel days, or quick top-ups during coffee breaks.
The emphasis on convenience carries through to the hardware itself, offering a magnetic, hands-free design that holds steady and charges quickly… no cables required.
Availability and Rollout
UGREEN says the new MagFlow Magnetic Power Bank will launch in Q3 2025, with availability through its official website and Amazon. It’s expected to roll out to major markets including the U.S., Europe, and Southeast Asia.
DJI, a leader in innovative technology, recently announced an exciting addition to its power station lineup: the Power 2000. This versatile portable power station promises to deliver substantial energy capacity in a user-friendly package, making it a go-to choice for adventurers, homeowners, and content creators alike.
A Boost in Power
The Power 2000 boasts a formidable 2048Wh capacity, effectively doubling the output of its predecessor, the Power 1000. This upgrade makes it suitable for powering an impressive 99% of everyday appliances, from smartphones and laptops to microwaves. Whether you’re planning an off-grid adventure or preparing for unexpected power outages at home, the Power 2000 is designed to meet your needs.
Fast and Flexible Charging Options
One of the standout features of the Power 2000 is its ultra-fast charging capability. It can charge from zero to 80% in just 55 minutes using grid power and reach full capacity in 90 minutes. The device also supports charging via car and solar power, offering flexibility for those on the go. Solar enthusiasts will appreciate the ability to harness up to 1800W of solar power, making it both an economical and eco-friendly option.
Versatile Port Selection
DJI has equipped the Power 2000 with a range of ports to accommodate various devices. Users will find four AC outlets, four USB-A ports, four USB-C ports, and two SDC ports, ensuring seamless connectivity for multiple devices simultaneously. This array of ports provides the convenience of powering or charging different gadgets, whether at home or on the road.
Built for Durability
Durability is a key aspect of the Power 2000’s design. The unit features a new nano-coating that offers maximum protection against water damage. Additionally, an inverter potting process safeguards the device from environmental challenges such as earthquakes, further enhancing its reliability in demanding situations.
Intelligent Power Management
Safety and efficiency are top priorities for the Power 2000. Its intelligent battery management system employs 26 temperature sensors to monitor heat dissipation, ensuring optimal operation even in high temperatures. The device also includes 21 fuses for comprehensive circuit protection, automatically activating protective mechanisms if electricity usage exceeds safe thresholds.
The Power 2000 also features an Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) mode, providing seamless power continuity during outages. This feature ensures that connected devices remain powered within a fraction of a second, offering peace of mind in the face of unexpected disruptions.
Convenient Control and Accessories
Complementing the Power 2000’s robust capabilities is the DJI Home app, which allows users to manage the power station remotely. With a simple and intuitive interface, the app enables real-time monitoring and control of the device’s settings and parameters.
For those requiring expanded capacity, the Power 2000 can connect with up to 10 expansion batteries, offering a staggering 22,528Wh of power. DJI also provides a range of accessories, including a hand truck for easy transport and super-fast chargers for expedited refueling.
Availability and Pricing
The Power 2000 is available for purchase starting today at a retail price of $1,299 USD. Customers can order it through DJI’s online store or authorized retail partners. For further details, visit DJI’s official page and explore the full range of features and accessories available with the Power 2000.
The Soundcore Liberty 5 earbuds are making waves as a feature-rich wireless audio option that offers tremendous value without demanding a hefty price tag. While Soundcore continues to refine its offerings, the Liberty 5 distinguishes itself, especially for listeners who crave a truly personalized audio journey.
Design
The Soundcore Liberty 5 feature a stem earbud design, similar to their predecessor, the Liberty 4 Pro. I found them slightly “less sturdy” in feel both in the hand and in my ears than the Pro model. Unlike the Liberty 4 Pro, the Liberty 5’s charging case replaces a screen with a simple LED light strip, which doesn’t sway me one way or the other. The case features a convenient sliding mechanism to open, and a matte finish replaces the previous glossy finish, addressing fingerprint issues.
The earbuds are exceptionally comfortable to wear for long periods, with a fit comparable to AirPods Pro. They come with six different sizes of ear tips to ensure a secure fit for various ear sizes. Being very lightweight and fitting securely, they are great for exercising. The stem design also allows for pinch controls, which are customizable via the Soundcore app. This is another aspect I found inconsistent, with the pinch just not as responsive as the Liberty 4 Pro design.
App Control and Sound
“Beyond their comfortable fit and impressive battery life, the Liberty 5 earbuds stand out by offering extensive sound customization through the intuitive Soundcore app, ensuring your audio is always dialed in just for you.”
What truly sets the Soundcore Liberty 5 apart is its unparalleled sound customization through the intuitive Soundcore companion app. Forget one-size-fits-all audio; these earbuds empower you to sculpt your sound profile to perfection. While the out-of-the-box sound has an emphasis on bass and treble, this is easily overcome by the extensive customization options available.
Within the app, you’ll discover a treasure trove of tuning capabilities:
An eight-band custom equalizer allows for precise adjustments.
You can select from 22 different EQ presets tailored to various genres and preferences, including Bass Booster, Bass Reducer, Treble Booster, Classical, and Acoustic.
For those unsure how to begin, a preference test in the app guides you to a bespoke sound profile based on your listening choices, a feature one reviewer found better than even Sony’s preference-based EQ function.
HearID can even identify specific hearing sensitivities and compensate accordingly.
Dolby Audio modes for music, podcasts, and movies enhance sound width and depth, providing a more immersive experience. While enhancing bass and making sound broader, some detail might be lost compared to listening with Dolby Audio off.
This deep level of control means you can transform the Liberty 5 to match your exact acoustic desires, ensuring a very enjoyable experience once dialed in with its EQ adjustment capabilities. The app also includes features like multipoint connectivity, a Android Find Device and quick connect, customizable touch controls, safe volume limiter, adaptive sound leakage compensation, an earbud fit test, and a low-latency game mode.
Beyond sound, the Liberty 5 also offer notable features such as Bluetooth 5.4 with LDAC support for high-resolution audio, Bluetooth Multipoint for connecting to multiple devices simultaneously, and an IP55 rating for sweat and water resistance, making them suitable for exercise and withstanding low-pressure water jets. While the active noise-canceling (ANC) is considered average, it’s still more than adequate for daily commutes and effectively dulls external sounds. You can also select from five different ANC strength levels and use a transparency mode.
Call quality is good, but not great. I had a few issues where the other caller pointed out that the surroundings were interfering more than I’d expect from Soundcore. It’s not a huge issue, or dealbreaker, but I never have this issue in other options from the company and was worth pointing out.
Battery Life
In battery testing, the Anker Soundcore Liberty 5 lasted just over seven hours of playback with ANC enabled. This aligns closely with Soundcore’s stated playback time of eight hours with ANC enabled, and 12 hours with ANC disabled. When combined with the charging case, you can get up to 32 hours of battery life with ANC on, and up to 48 hours with ANC off.
The Liberty 5 support fast charging, with Soundcore stating that just ten minutes in the case provides up to five hours of playback time. The case can be charged via USB-C or Qi wireless charging. This should be plenty in both endurance and charging options to make the Liberty 5 earbuds viable for any buyer.
Final Thoughts
Awarded to products with an average rating of 3.75 stars or higher, the AndroidGuys Smart Pick recognizes a balance of quality, performance, and value.
Products with this distinction deserve to be on your short list of purchase candidates.
The Anker Soundcore Liberty 5 are not perfect, but at their price point, there is “a lot to like here”. They are a smart choice for consumers seeking high-value wireless earbuds, offering a ton of features and customization options through their companion app. Once you dial in the settings to your liking, you’ll likely have a very enjoyable experience. For those seeking highly customizable sound and a feature-rich experience without breaking the bank, the Anker Soundcore Liberty 5 stands out.
The Liberty 5 are available in Black, White, Blue, or Apricot color options. You can snag them now from Soundcore or Amazon for $130. The pricing is a little on the high-end, but with all these baked in features, it’s well worth it for most consumers.
T-Mobile has launched a series of enticing tech deals, targeting students as they gear up for the new academic year. The offers, which are packed with savings and freebies, are designed to cater to the tech-savvy student demographic, providing them with the latest devices and services to enhance their educational experience.
Phone Deals Worth Dialing In
Leading the charge is the opportunity to snag a free iPhone 16 or Samsung Galaxy S25 with a trade-in and a new line on most plans. For those who prefer a nostalgic touch, the Motorola Razr+ is available for free with a trade-in, bringing a touch of Y2K vibes to the modern classroom. Students who are more inclined towards audio accessories can get Apple iPhone EarPods with a Lightning Connector, perfect for tuning into online lectures or podcasts.
Wearables and Tablets for the Tech-Savvy Student
Keeping track of time and fitness goals has never been easier with the offer of a free Apple Watch SE 2nd Gen or Samsung Galaxy Watch7 with a new watch line. For those who prefer a larger screen, T-Mobile is offering a generous 50% off the iPad (A16) or a free Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+ 5G with a new tablet line.
Back-to-school savings at T-Mobile (via T-Mobile)
Home Internet and Entertainment Perks
T-Mobile’s 5G Home Internet offer sweetens the deal with up to a $300 MasterCard gift card when switching to T-Mobile Internet, along with free Hulu and Paramount+ subscriptions. This package not only ensures fast internet connectivity but also provides a variety of entertainment options for those study breaks.
Must-Have Gadgets and Accessories
For gadget enthusiasts, the Samsung Galaxy Ring and JBL Clip 5 speaker are part of the “Travel Trio” package, making sure students can stay connected and entertained on the go. Meanwhile, the Beats Solo 4 Headphones and JBL Authentics 200 Speaker provide top-tier audio experiences for music lovers.
Virtual Reality and More
For students who are keen on virtual reality, there’s a $70 discount on the Meta Quest 3S (256GB, online only), available starting July 23. Additionally, T-Mobile is offering the SyncUP KIDS Watch 2 for free with a new watch line, ensuring younger students can also participate in the tech upgrade.
Unmatched Perks and Benefits
Beyond the devices, T-Mobile’s Magenta Status offers students access to America’s Best Network, a five-year price guarantee, and an impressive entertainment bundle featuring services like Apple TV+, Netflix, and Hulu. Travel perks include free in-flight Wi-Fi across major U.S. airlines and free international data in over 215 countries, making it easier for students to stay connected wherever they go.
A Helping Hand for Students in Need
Through Project 10Million, T-Mobile is also addressing the digital divide by providing free internet and mobile hotspots to eligible households, ensuring that every student has the opportunity to succeed.
For students and families looking to take advantage of these deals, T-Mobile’s back-to-school offers can be explored in more detail by visiting their offers page.
Whether you’re a student prepping for the new school year or just in need of a tech upgrade, T-Mobile’s extensive offerings provide a range of options to suit every need and preference.
Tech enthusiasts and book lovers alike have something to celebrate as BOOX announces its Back To School sale, running from July 10th to August 10th. This sale offers substantial discounts on popular BOOX products, including the versatile Palma 2, the colorful Go Color 7, the powerful Note Max, and the innovative Note Air4 C. Perfect for students, professionals, and anyone seeking a digital upgrade, these BOOX devices promise to enhance productivity and reading experiences.
Palma 2: The Smart Companion
The BOOX Palma 2 positions itself as a multi-functional device designed for today’s fast-paced lifestyle. Available at a discounted price of £249.99/€269.99 in the EU and $269.99 in the US, the Palma 2 is packed with advanced features. It boasts dual microphones and speakers, transforming it into a portable audio player for music and podcasts. With a 16MP camera equipped with LED flash, it doubles as a document scanner, ideal for on-the-go office tasks.
Running on Android 13 OS, this device offers users the flexibility to download a plethora of apps from the Google Play Store. Coupled with 6GB RAM and 128GB storage, the Palma 2 ensures swift performance and ample space for apps and data. Its 300 PPI Carta 1200 screen, combined with BOOX’s NeoReader app, elevates the reading experience by supporting up to 20 document formats and offering customization options for fonts, spacing, and margins.
Go Color 7: A Burst of Color
For those who crave color in their reading devices, the Go Color 7 is a standout choice. With a Kaleido 3 color ePaper display, this 7-inch reader is available for £219.99/€219.99 in the EU and $219.99 in the US. It offers an engaging reading experience with rich, mellow hues and reduced ghosting effects. Designed for convenience, it features physical page-turning buttons and an ergonomic design for comfortable, single-handed use.
Powered by Android 12, the Go Color 7 offers access to a wide range of apps via the Google Play Store. Its 4GB RAM and 64GB storage capacity allow users to store a diverse library of reading materials, making it an ideal companion for bookworms on the move.
Note Max: For the Serious Multitasker
The Note Max is a powerhouse designed for those who demand more from their devices. Available for $629.99 in the US and €629.99/£599.99 in the EU, the Note Max features a Carta 1300 E Ink display that delivers sharp, clear text, mimicking the look of traditional ink on paper. Its large A4-sized screen is perfect for viewing PDFs, taking notes, and sketching ideas.
With a 2.8GHz octa-core processor, 6GB RAM, and BOOX Super Refresh technology, the Note Max ensures smooth multitasking. It runs on an open Android OS, providing access to various apps for productivity and creativity. The optional keyboard cover further enhances its capabilities, transforming it into a full-fledged productivity device.
Note Air4 C: Innovation Meets Flexibility
The Note Air4 C combines enhanced color ePaper display technology with robust performance. Priced at $509.99 in the US and €529.99 in the EU, this device offers an upgraded Octa-core CPU, 6GB RAM, and advanced note-taking tools. Its Kaleido 3 display provides bright whites and soft hues with higher refresh rates for a comfortable viewing experience.
Running on Android 13, the Note Air4 C offers unparalleled flexibility with access to third-party apps and versatile connectivity features. From BOOXDrop for seamless file transfers to integration with cloud services, it supports a wide range of productivity tasks. Its tablet-like UI allows for easy customization, making it user-friendly and efficient.
Aiper, best known for its robotic pool cleaners, is stepping onto new turf, literally. Today see the brand introducing its first smart lawn solution. The IrriSense Smart Irrigation System is now available through Aiper’s official website, bringing weather-aware, app-controlled irrigation to homeowners looking to automate lawn care without digging up their yard or their wallet.
App-Controlled Watering, No Shovel Required
Designed for easy setup and efficient watering, IrriSense skips the usual underground plumbing and instead connects directly to a standard garden hose. The whole setup reportedly takes about 15 minutes, or about the the time same amount of time it takes to regret trying a DIY sprinkler trench.
Once connected and paired with the Aiper app, IrriSense uses real-time weather data and soil moisture tracking to determine when and how much to water. The system supports customizable watering zones, a weekly schedule, and adaptive controls to help avoid overwatering or waste.
Key Features and Specs
EvenRain Technology simulates soft rainfall for more consistent watering, helping to prevent soil erosion and protect new seeds.
Coverage up to 4,800 sq. ft., which Aiper claims is roughly 40% more than typical systems in the same class.
Smart scheduling with Wi-Fi connectivity adjusts watering based on rain forecasts, temperature spikes, and drought conditions.
Remote control and real-time monitoring via the app let users fine-tune water use per zone.
Adaptive Re-Spray automatically reduces spray distance after hitting outer zones to evenly water areas closer to the sprinkler.
The unit is compatible with both 5/8” and 3/4” garden hoses and includes all needed accessories, such as a DC charger, hose connector kit, locator, and stakes.
Smarter Use of Water, Not Just More of It
With sustainability in mind, IrriSense optimizes water usage using zone-based irrigation and flow monitoring. Features like Rain Sensor Auto-Shutdown and High-Temperature Cooling Mode further help balance healthy turf with responsible consumption. Aiper claims one IrriSense unit can replace up to five traditional sprinklers, cutting down installation clutter and hardware.
Durability-wise, the system is rated for UV resistance, comes with auto valve shutoff to prevent leaks, and includes a winter drainage mode to help avoid freeze damage.
Pricing and Availability
The Aiper IrriSense is available now for $699.99 at Aiper.com. It joins the company’s growing portfolio of smart yard tools and enters a market ripe for plug-and-play irrigation solutions that don’t require a call to the landscaper.
