It’s now Day 11 of Tech Guide’s 2023 12 Days of Christmas Gift Ideas to help you nail the perfect gift for your family and friends.

Today we’re looking at smart appliances of all shapes and sizes and outdoor gear along with health and beauty products.

Here are Tech Guide’s 12 Days of Christmas Gift Ideas:

Day 1: Cameras

Day 2: Smartphones

Day 3: Wearables/smartwatches

Day 4: Headphones/speakers

DAY 5: Gaming

DAY 6: Tablets/e-readers

DAY 7: Drones/Gadgets

DAY 8: Smart/IoT devices

DAY 9: In-car gadgets

DAY 10: TVs/Blu-Ray/4K

DAY 11: Appliances

DAY 12: Computers

DAY 11: APPLIANCES

ECOVACS DEEBOT T20 OMNI ROBOTIC VACUUM – $1,799

Take the burden out of daily cleaning chores with the ultimate robot vacuum and mop cleaner, the new ECOVACS DEEBOT T20 Omni.

With the ability to vacuum and mop simultaneously, it comes with a massive 6000Pa in suction power and incredible mopping technology that includes the ability to raise the mopping pads when vacuuming.

The latest in object avoidance and mapping technology can be controlled by your voice through the AI voice assistant (which remains an ECOVACS industry-first) or your phone. When cleaning is complete, the robot goes back to its all-in-one cleaning station where it uses 55-degree hot water to sanitarily wash the mopping pads, dry them, and empty its dustbin ready to go again.

Available from JB Hi-Fi, Harvey Norman, Godfreys, Bing Lee, The Good Guys, Robot Specialist, Amazon, eBay, and ECOVACS.com/au.

FULL REPORT HERE

STIHL RMA 460 – $529 (does not include battery)

Perfect for any lawn-lover, the Choice award winning STIHL RMA 460 battery-powered Lawn Mower makes it a breeze to keep your lawn in shape all year round.

Compatible with STIHL’s AK20 and AK30 battery systems, this highly manoeuvrable mower is perfect for a small subdivided home or larger suburban yard.

Its large grass catcher and adjustable handlebar make for a convenient cutting experience, making summer lawn-care more comfortable and convenient for all involved.

FULL REPORT HERE

DYSON BIG + QUIET FORMALDEHYDE AIR PURIFIER – $1,499

Dyson has taken a “go big or go home” approach with the Dyson Purifier Big+Quiet Formaldehyde which can offer indoor purification in much larger rooms in your home.

The Dyson Purifier Big+Quiet Formaldehyde has double the airflow of previous models at up to 87 litres per second of purified air that can be projected more than 10m away from the unit.

Dyson has always been educating customers about the need for cleaner air in our indoor spaces for our health and wellbeing.

FULL REPORT HERE

DEEBOT X2 OMNI FLAGSHIP ROBOTIC VACUUM – $2499

Changing the shape of cleaning with the latest ECOVACS flagship model, the DEEBOT X2 OMNI, the ultimate hands-free cleaning machine with simultaneous vacuuming and mopping, 15mm mop lifting and 8000Pa suction power.

The 55 degrees (Celsius) mop cleaning and auto-empty OMNI station means this vacuum cleans your floors and then cleans itself. The DEEBOT X2 OMNI also has a 22mm mop riser, obstacle avoidance as well as a new square shape – helping you clean corners better than ever before.

The YIKO voice assistant has seen an upgrade as well the unit employing new AI technology to improve its adaptive abilities in various cleaning environments.

Available from Amazon, Harvey Norman, JB Hi-Fi, The Good Guys, Bing Lee, Robot Specialist

FULL REPORT HERE

STIHL GTA 26 – $299

An essential for every gardener, the STIHL GTA 26 battery-powered Garden Pruner is more than just a pruner. Now the number one selling STIHL garden tool, this versatile hand-held pruner is perfect for trimming trees and shrubs, cutting up garden waste or tackling those DIY project plans.

It is designed especially for two handed operation with a non-slip control handle for perfect ergonomics. At just 1.4kg, it is incredibly light to use. Being battery powered, it is quiet when in use.

FULL REPORT HERE

VITAMIX EXPLORIAN E310 BLENDER – $699

Give the gift of whole food nutrition this Christmas with Vitamix high performance blender. The gift that truly keeps on giving.

Explore how easy it is to make healthy, whole-food recipes at home. From entrees, to dessert, the 1.4L container is ideal for blending medium batches for small family meals. Making healthy, whole food recipes has never been easier than with the Vitamix Explorian E310.

Create the perfect textured smoothie, or summer smoothie bowl, make hot soups, dressings, dip and so much more!

ECOVACS GOAT G1 – $2,999

For many, mowing their lawn is a chore that’s right up there with vacuuming their carpets and mopping their floors.

And it’s no coincidence then that ECOVACS ROBOTICS has extended its expertise from inside the house to the yard with the new GOAT G1 robot lawn mower.

The robot can do for your lawn what the other ECOVACS products can do for your carpets and hard floors inside your house.

The idea of the GOAT G1 is to go out and keep your lawn trimmed and looking good rather than cutting long grass every couple of weeks like you would with a regular lawn mower.

READ OUR FULL REVIEW HERE

TINECO FLOOR ONE S7 PRO – $1,299

The saying is “don’t cry over spilled milk” but with the new Tineco Floor One S7 Pro, which has just arrived in Australia, you’d almost welcome a spill to put the new wet and dry vacuum to the test.

The Tineco Floor One S7 Pro can easily handle all kinds of spills whether it’s a drink, a bowl of cereal or a dropped egg thanks to its balanced-pressure water flow system.

Onboard is an intelligent self-cleaning system for easy maintenance to ensure it performs at its best every time you use it.

FULL REPORT HERE

PHILIPS SONICARE DIAMONDCLEAN 9000 – $369

The number one recommended sonic toothbrush brand worldwide, the DiamondClean 9000 is a fast, safe and effective, using smart features to create a personalised brushing experience for each person, so you get the best possible clean. It removes 20x more plaque than manual toothbrush

Under the hood is BrushSync technology, a built-in pressure sensor, smart brush head recognition, connectivity to the Sonicare app for personalised brushing reports.

KOBOLD VK7 2-IN-1 VACUUM MOP – $2,399

From the makers of the iconic kitchen appliance, Thermomix comes the newly launched Kobold VK7 2-in-1 Vacuum Mop – a powerful cordless vacuum mop that cleans all your hard floors in one go, elevating your cleaning routine and giving you more time for the things that matter most.

Allows for vacuum and mopping at the same time for time saving. Unplugged and lightweight, it is powered by lithium-ion battery technology, giving you more than enough runtime to clean your whole home, and your car interior too.

The Best-in-class cordless vacuum that packs the biggest suction power, quietest motor, and longest-lasting battery. It has four suction levels, plus a boost button for bigger messes like dropped pasta and biscuits fragments. A brush speed that automatically adjusts to your floor type, and a brush head that rotates 180° to effortlessly clean every corner.

ILLY X1 ANNIVERSARY E.S.E POD AND GROUND COFFEE MACHINE – $999

The X1 Anniversary E.S.E. Pod & Ground Coffee Machine was beautifully designed with sustainability in mind. It’s the latest evolution of an iconic design, enhanced with eco-friendly features, thanks to its energy saving system and careful construction using high quality, durable materials.

The X1 can prepare coffee with either our compostable E.S.E. Pods or Ground Coffee of even less waste.

JURA J8 – $3798

Jura has launched its new J8 fully automatic coffee machine that can prepare a full range of your favourite brews and even different flavours at the touch of a button.

The J8 now comes with a range of new features and more specialties including the Sweet Foam function that can add flavour to the milk foam and take your love of coffee to a whole new level.

Users can adjust the type and amount of syrup and customise this flavour and strength to suit their taste.

With this new feature it’s possible to create trendy drinks like a sweet latte quickly and easily.

Also on board is the Coffee Eye which is a smart cup sensor that can detect the position of your cup and automatically adapt the type of coffee based on the size of the cup.

FULL REPORT HERE

The post Tech Guide’s 12 Days of Christmas Gift Ideas – Day 11: Appliances appeared first on Tech Guide.

It’s already Day 7 of Tech Guide’s 2023 12 Days of Christmas Gift Ideas and our goal is to help you to find the perfect gadget gifts for your family and friends.

Today we’re look at drones and a wide variety of other gadgets of all shapes and sizes.

Here are Tech Guide’s 12 Days of Christmas Gift Ideas:

Day 1: Cameras

Day 2: Smartphones

Day 3: Wearables/smartwatches

Day 4: Headphones/speakers

Day 5: Gaming

Day 6: Tablets/e-readers

Day 7: Drones/Gadgets

Day 8: Smart/IoT devices

Day 9: In-car gadgets

Day 10: TVs/Blu-Ray/4K

Day 11: Appliances

Day 12: Computers

DAY 7: DRONES/GADGETS

DJI MINI PRO 4 – $1,119

DJI has released the Mini 4 Pro – a 249g drone that manages to pack in a premium camera and omni-directional obstacle sensing in a chassis that fits in the palm of your hand.

Weighing less than 250g means the DJI Mini 4 Pro is exempt from drone regulations in most parts of the world and doesn’t require registration.

And, according to CASA (Civil Aviation Safety Authority), being under 250g allows users to fly safely within the 5.5km range of a controlled airspace.

READ FULL REPORT HERE

EMBER MUG – From $130

Ember is a designer temperature-controlled mugs in Australia so customers can keep their hot beverages at the right temperature from the first sip to the last.

Ember has a range of smart drinkware which come in three different sizes and use patented technology to control the temperature of your coffee or tea and keep it between 50-degrees and 62.5-degrees Celsius.

Under the hood, the Ember mugs utilise the latest battery technology and can maintain temperatures for up to one and a half hours with the Ember Mug 2 (10oz – 295ml) and Ember Cup and 80 minutes with the larger Ember mug 2 (14oz – 414ml).

READ OUR FULL REPORT HERE

GRID STUDIO – from $211

Grid Studio has earned a reputation for quality after offering old iPhones as works of art. This would be an ideal gift for someone who would appreciate and enjoy the nostalgic and artistic presentation of a Grid Studio product.

Their most popular products are framed iPhones going back to the original 2007 model and it has now expanded to the original iPad and the original iPod as well.

There is also a range of portable gaming devices that have been immortalised in the same way.

gridstudio.cc

DYSON SOLAR DESK MORPH LIGHT – $899
Dyson has applied the same engineering principles to make the Dyson Solarcycle Morph Desk Light.

The Dyson Solarcycle Morph Desk Light is the latest product in its lighting portfolio and can imitate daylight from dawn till dusk as well as delivering light in four different ways – indirect, direct for a task, as a feature light or as an ambient light.

FULL REPORT HERE

DJI AIR 3 – From $1,699

Drones are going down the same path as smartphones when it comes to cameras – having just one is no longer enough. The new DJI Air 3 has two dual primary cameras.

It is the first dual camera model of the Air Series and it adds even more choices and functionality for aerial photographers.

Onboard is a wide-angle camera and a medium telephoto with up to 3x zoom that can produce stunning 48-megapixel images and 4K HDR videos at 60 frames per second.

The DJI Air 3 has a foldable design so when you’re done the props tuck away to make the drone a compact size – its about the size of a 1L water bottle.

READ OUR REVIEW HERE

CRICUT JOY EXTRA –  $429

Cricut has unveiled its latest smart cutting machine – the Joy Xtra – which gives users the power to start creating stickers, labels, customised t-shirts and much more straight out of the box.

Cricut has been around a long time and has released machines of various sizes, but the Joy Xtra is being described as the “Goldilocks” of smart cutting machines because it’s just right for newcomers and experts alike.

The Cricut Joy Xtra smart cutting machine can cut, write, draw and foil to make popular projects including full colour stickers, custom cards, vinyl decals, T shirts and much more.

FULL REPORT HERE

THERAGUN MINI 2 – $199

Wellness brand Therabody got our attention with the Theragun massage device and now it has released its baby brother – the Theragun Mini 2.0 – which you can take anywhere with you.

The Theragun Mini 2.0 is a travel-sized product that offers the same percussive therapy but in a compact form factor.

And this 2.0 version is 20 per cent smaller and 30 per cent lighter than the first generation Mini.

FULL REPORT HERE

CRICUT HATPRESS – $229

For anyone who likes to customise their own hats or make professional looking gifts, Cricut HatPress is a perfect match. The curved, ceramic-coated heat plate creates wrinkle-free transfers and perfectly positions your hat on the form for a precise transfer every time. Create a gift or spend quality time creating matching hats for the whole family. Available at Harvey Norman and Big W 

FULL REPORT HERE

NRGVAULT PV500 PORTABLE POWER STATION – $599.95 |

NRGVault’s portable power stations deliver a wide range of benefits for indoors and outdoors, home or on-the-go. Portable and lighter than previous generations of mobile power, it is a great accessory to take camping to power up lighting, run a mini-fridge, portable speaker, bug zapper and even a coffee maker.

Road trippers can connect a portable fridge to keep the drinks chilled and powered devices to keep the kids entertained, while caravanning enthusiasts can complement existing built-in power with a portable power station so that coffee machines, music, fans and lighting can be taken outside of the caravan as camp is setup for the evening. Available from Harvey Norman and NRGVault.com.au

FULL REPORT HERE

ONEWORLD 135 – $174

The new international OneWorld135 is a 135W adaptor that can charge up to five devices at once including laptops, tablets, smartphones and other USB-powered devices.

It has enough power to charge two MacBook Pros at full speed at the same time.

OneWorld135 works in more than 200 countries and keep all your devices charged.

FULL REPORT HERE

The post Tech Guide’s 2023 12 Days of Christmas Gift Ideas – Day 7: Drones and Gadgets appeared first on Tech Guide.

Withings has unveiled its latest hybrid smartwatch – the ScanWatch Nova – which offers a traditional design while still including the latest digital technology.

ScanWatch Nova has a luxury diver-style design which can provide a range of information including health metrics and an on-demand ECG, respiratory system assessment and sleep tracking.

“ScanWatch Nova makes continuous measurements autonomous and effortless with an extraordinary 30-day battery life,” says Etienne Trégaro, Product Manager at Withings.

“The splendid timepiece imperceptibly embeds a powerful health scan, with all the cutting-edge innovations to enhance your health, wrapped in a stylish aesthetic inspired by the timeless tradition of diver-style watchmaking.”

The ScanWatch Nova has a luxurious design crafted with precision and attention to detail.

It is water resistant and includes a ceramic and stainless steel rotating bezel.

It also has laser engraved markings, a refined sunray dial as well as full Luminova hollow watch hands indicators and thick raised indices so you can still easily tell the time in low light.

The watch face is also made of premium sapphire glass and includes an anti-reflection coating.

On the digital side, the ScanWatch Nova has an OLED high resolution grayscale screen where viewers can view their essential notifications.

On board the ScanWatch Nova are numerous sensors and health tracking features including:

– On-demand medical-grade electrocardiogram: Detect potential heart anomalies at any time such as atrial fibrillation, one of the most prevalent forms of arrhythmias characterised by irregular heart rhythms. Nearly 2 million signs of AFib have been identified on ScanWatch since 2020. By simply touching the bezel, users can launch an ECG reading with live results on the Withings app in just 30 seconds.

– Indication of onset of an illness: Track baseline fluctuations of day and night body temperature which may indicate the onset of an illness or other health conditions. Its revolutionary TempTech24/7 module technology combines miniaturised heat flux sensors (measuring energy transit) with a high-accuracy temperature sensor (measuring ambient & skin temperature), alongside heart rate and accelerometer input calibrations to deliver best-in-class body temperature variation assessment.

– Respiratory system assessment: Track on-demand blood oxygen (SpO2) and overnight breathing disturbances. Good blood oxygenation is necessary for optimal muscle function.

– Advanced sleep metrics: Wake up to a Sleep Quality Score and explore advanced sleep metrics (phases, depth, duration, interruptions) which can help improve your sleep.

– Seamless tracking during physical activity: Track parameters such as steps, calories, elevation, workout routes (via in-app connected GPS) and the automatic recognition of 40+ activities.

– Leading-edge technology: Utilising MultiWave PPG sensors and HealthSense – Withings’ proprietary operating system, ScanWatch Nova can track advanced cardiovascular vitals including heart rate, heart rate variability, and ECG. It also measures SpO2 and breathing disturbances and tracks sleep patterns.

– Intuitive connection to the Withings app: The Withings app allows users to customise the screen and the information they can see on the watch display such as the heart rate variability³, the number of steps taken, the variation of the baseline body temperature, activities and much more. To take things to the next level, a long press on the dial can launch your preferred feature and its ‘quick look option’ activates the watch display with a lift of the wrist. Through the app, users can also receive personalised insights, trends, and recommendations to improve their health journey.

“With ScanWatch Nova, we have created an extraordinary heart health hybrid smartwatch that is as clinically powerful as it is beautiful,” said Eric Carreel, Founder and President of Withings.

“By seamlessly merging luxury design with the power of health technology, peoples’ health journeys can now be as stunning as they are effective.

“It brings amazing, concrete health benefits such as a medical grade ECG and aesthetic allure in one astonishing package.”

The Withings ScanWatch Nova goes on sale on January 8, 2024, and will be priced at $799.

It will be available in blue, black and green with an oyster metal wristband and FKM wristband which are easily swappable.

The post New Withings ScanWatch Nova smartwatch combines luxury design with the latest digital technology appeared first on Tech Guide.

If you haven’t done your Christmas shopping yet Tech Guide’s 2023 12 Days of Christmas Gift Ideas is here to help you find the right presents for friends and family.

Today we’re looking smartwatches, sportswatches and other wearables.

Be sure to check back everyday so see the other categories over the full 12 Days.

Here are Tech Guide’s 12 Days of Christmas Gift Ideas:

Day 1: Cameras

Day 2: Smartphones

Day 3: Wearables/smartwatches

Day 4: Headphones/speakers

DAY 5: Gaming

DAY 6: Tablets/e-readers

DAY 7: Drones/Gadgets

DAY 8: Smart/IoT devices

DAY 9: In-car gadgets

DAY 10: TVs/Blu-Ray/4K

DAY 11: Appliances

DAY 12: Computers

DAY 3: Smartwatches/Wearables

GOOGLE PIXEL WATCH 2 – $549 (Bluetooth and Wi-Fi) and $649 (LTE)

The Google Pixel Watch 2 hasn’t changed much design-wise but there are plenty of changes on the inside including a new multi-path heart rate sensor for more accurate tracking of your health, fitness and sleep.

There is also a new body-response sensor and skin temperature sensor so the Pixel Watch 2 can also manage your stress levels as well.

When exercising the watch now has automatic start and stop reminders for seven common workouts like running, cycling and more.

There’s also Heart Zone Training that can coach you to train at the correct intensity to help up you meet your fitness goals.

Pixel Watch 2 now supports features like Fall Detection and Emergency SOS while Safety Check lets you schedule a timer for when you expect to be home.

READ OUR FULL REPORT HERE

APPLE WATCH SERIES 9 – From $649

The Apple Watch Series 9 has a much brigher screen at 2000nits peak brightness – double the Series 8 while the Apple Watch Ultra 2 takes things up to 3000nits peak brightness which twice that of the original.

Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2 have the second generation Ultra Wideband chip to enable precision finding.

UWB also brings Apple Watch closer to the HomePod. If you bring Apple Watch within four metres of a HomePod playing audio, you can control the media from the Apple Watch.

READ OUR REPORT HERE

APPLE WATCH ULTRA 2 – $1,399

Apple Watch Ultra 2 is the most rugged Apple Watch and pushes the limits once again.

It has the brightest Apple display ever and is powered by Apple’s new custom S9 SiP which is 30 per cent faster than Series 8.

Apple Watch Ultra 2 also has a new 4-core Neural Engine onboard which can process tasks twice as fast as the previous models.

This improved performance also enables an impressive new and useful feature called Double Tap.

READ OUR REPORT HERE

SAMSUNG GALAXY WATCH6 (From $549), GALAXY WATCH6 CLASSIC (from $699)

The design of the Samsung Galaxy Watch6 and Galaxy Watch6 Classic has been refined with an impressive design that can fit seamlessly into your life.

The changes include a larger display, slimmer bezels and a host of new watch faces.

The Watch6 Series has a 20 per cent larger display which means you can fit more text and information on the screen including a larger keyboard.

READ OUR REPORT HERE

V-FITNESS MOMENTUM 3 WHITE SMART WATCH WITH ALEXA ASSIST – $69

V-Fitness Momentum 3 White Smart Watch with Amazon Alexa voice assist allows you to access all your favorite apps via Bluetooth pairing to your smartphone.

Receive or make calls and text messages, check your emails, or set reminders. Monitor your heart rate, and blood oxygen levels or track sleep patterns with Health Tracker so you can take the right steps toward better health.

You can also control your Amazon Alexa Smart Home devices through your Smart Home app. V-Fitness Momentum is water resistant to 3 meters* so you can take it with you when swimming, paddleboarding, or surfing. V-Fitness Momentum 3 is the smart choice for a smartwatch.

SCANWATCH HORIZON – $699

There is no shortage of smartwatches today but one model – the Withings ScanWatch Horizon – manages to combine the design of a traditional watch with the many features of a smartwatch.

Developed with cardiologists, and clinically validated, this is the world’s first hybrid smartwatch that can alert a user to a possible case of atrial fibrillation or breathing disturbances.

ScanWatch also offers in-depth activity and sleep tracking, water resistance to 100m, and an exceptional battery life of up to 30 days before it needs to be charged.

READ OUR REVIEW HERE

The post Tech Guide’s 2023 12 Days of Christmas Gift Ideas – Day 3: Smartwatches appeared first on Tech Guide.

Ember is releasing its range of designer temperature-controlled mugs in Australia so customers can keep their hot beverages at the right temperature from the first sip to the last.

Ember is one of the fastest growing tech companies in the US and its products are sold in more than 27 countries with Australia the latest market that’s been identified by the company as a potential growth area.

Ember has a range of smart drinkware which come in three different sizes and use patented technology to control the temperature of your coffee or tea and keep it between 50-degrees and 62.5-degrees Celsius.

Under the hood, the Ember mugs utilise the latest battery technology and can maintain temperatures for up to one and a half hours with the Ember Mug 2 (10oz – 295ml) and Ember Cup and 80 minutes with the larger Ember mug 2 (14oz – 414ml).

The mug also comes with a charging coaster that not only keeps your beverage at the right temperature but charges the mug’s internal battery at the same time.

Ember mugs offer extended battery life and are designed to be used on the go so customers can enjoy their tea or coffee at the perfect temperature for hours. It is ideal for the home or office.

On the design side, Ember mugs have a slick and minimal design and are made from high quality materials like ceramic and stainless steel so it can offer years of use.

The Ember mug also works with its companion app and gives customers complete control over features and settings including temperature, creating presets and even tracking your caffeine intake.

“We are thrilled to launch our innovative smart drinkware range in Australia, just in time for the Christmas gift giving season,” said Alex Andrews, Business Development and Sales Manager for Ember Australia and New Zealand.

“We know that many Australians enjoy hot beverages all year round, with many passionate about their coffee and tea.

“If life is all about experiences, our goal is to take that first sip which many people relish and extend the experience by delivering their beverage at the very perfect temperature from the first sip to the very last.

“The innovation behind our smart drinkware delivers an easy to use consumer experience but taps into the very latest smart heating and battery technology.

“This proprietary technology delivers a strong point of difference in the market and a premium experience that we believe Australians will embrace.”

Ember Mugs are available in three sizes: 6oz (178ml), 10oz (295ml) and 14 oz (414ml) and are priced between $130 and $220.

Customers can pre-order through JB Hi-Fi and David Jones with delivery expected in couple of weeks.
Ember mugs can also be ordered online via Amazon.com.au and ember.com.

Additional Australian retailers to be announced in the coming weeks.

The post Ember’s mugs can keep your tea or coffee hot from the first sip to the last appeared first on Tech Guide.

Ducted air conditioning is a unique kind of cooling system for a home. It uses a central heating system where the heat in the air is sent through the ducts to another location to heat up or cool the rooms. This type of air conditioning has become increasingly popular since it can be used all around a home and reach spaces that other traditional air conditioning simply don’t.

Australia has four seasons: summer, autumn, winter, and spring. As such, having ducted air conditioning to heat the room during winter nights and cool down the room during hot summer days is beneficial.

The question is: where can you find the best-ducted air conditioning in Australia? Look no further because this article discusses the best brands in the Australian market.

Daikin

The first on this list is Daikin, which is considered one of the best in the industry. It’s even Australian-made! Now you know that there’s thought and consideration of the Australian weather when their models came into development. More than this, Daikin is one of the world’s leading air conditioning manufacturers. They utilize innovative technologies that put their brands at the top of the market.

A Daikin ducted air conditioner provides exceptional heating and cooling, and you can take advantage of advanced features like energy efficiency and Wi-Fi control. Controlling your AC via Wi-Fi isn’t something you can do with traditional and outdated air conditioners, but Daikin covers this!

Furthermore, the brand uses advanced technology so that you can reduce your energy consumption. It means you can use your air conditioning for a long time, save money on energy bills, and reduce your carbon footprint.

Don’t we all hate the loud noises of old and traditional air conditioning units? Well, Daikin ducted air conditioning units have a quiet operation. This means that the units would operate quietly. Thus, you won’t be disturbed by the typical loud AC noises while trying to relax or sleep.

You can hire Stinson Air & Solar to install your Daikin ducted air conditioning since it may be challenging for you to set up your AC unit yourself, regardless of the brand. Also, this company can even repair your air conditioning once it has issues. It’s a great service to hire, and they also operate in Australia.

Mitsubishi Electric

Another excellent brand is Mitsubishi Electric’s ducted air conditioning unit. You’ll have different options for ducted air conditioning units with Mitsubishi. Plus, all of the current units are compatible with Wi-Fi control.

However, you would need to install an additional adaption to control the unit through Wi-Fi. You can purchase the adapted MAC-568IF-E Wi-Fi Controller from Mitsubishi Electric itself. It would be a worthwhile expense, especially if you forget to close your air conditioning unit after leaving the house.

Did you know using energy-efficient ducted air conditioning is an excellent choice if you have numerous rooms or large open spaces in your home? It has numerous energy-saving benefits, and Mitsubishi Electric units also operate quietly. You can experience year-end comfort, especially since you won’t have to hear a noisy unit working to keep the house cool or warm.

You should also note that Mitsubishi Electric is known and proud of its low noise levels in Australia.

Furthermore, Mitsubishi Electric has an exceptional after-sales support service that’s incredibly responsive and reliable. So, if you have any questions that the manual or the Internet can’t answer, you can always call customer service and get answers to your unit concerns. You can rest assured that the brand won’t leave you entirely alone after selling a unit.

Toshiba

If you didn’t know, Toshiba has a significant commitment to creating products that are energy efficient. It uses a wide range of user-friendly additional features, operates quietly, and has an impressive climate control panel.

Toshiba has been in the industry for over 40 years, providing some of the best-ducted air conditioning units on the market. They use a twin rotary compressor for a high energy-efficient rate and power operation.

You can enjoy all of these since Toshiba has measures to keep the noise low. Many users may say that it’s an almost invisible product in appearance and sound. They created a great product that can be effectively hidden in rooms.

Finally, due to the excellent climate control panel of Toshiba units, you can easily manage your AC unit’s cooling, heating, and timing activity. Let’s say you want your bedroom to remain calm but your common room area to feel nice and cosy. You can easily make this happen with little to no effort when you have a Toshiba unit. You just have to manage the settings.

Carrier

Are you looking for a ducted air conditioning unit that won’t break the bank? Well, Carrier is a great brand to purchase your unit from! It has the typical services of a ducted air conditioning unit. It also has high-tech climate control options and an inverter system, and you can get this at a much lower price than its counterparts.

It’s incredibly reliable since it’s also energy-efficient and has low running costs. It’s even suitable for commercial spaces, from apartments to offices.

Braemar

Most Australian homes are familiar with the Brand Braemar. It’s one of the best companies for heating and cooling in both commercial and homes. It offers versatility as it offers both split and ducted systems for AC units. You can expect that their ducted units are more popular on the market since they’re affordable and incredibly advanced. It performs optimally and provides additional features like climate control that you can experience year-round.

Braemar’s ducted AC units also have zone control. It means that you can heat or cool different rooms at different times. It’s a great way to save money on bills.

Final Thoughts

Finding the perfect air conditioning unit that suits your home depends on your cooling and heating preferences. Do you live in a tropical, humid area, or are the summer days just too much to bear? You must consider your area’s weather and how effectively a ducted air conditioning unit can cool and heat your house.

The post What’s the Best Ducted Air Conditioning in Australia?  appeared first on Tech Guide.

OneAdaptr has released new models in the OneWorld adapter series – the OneWorld135 and the OneWorld 30 – to meet all your charging needs when you’re travelling.

The OneWorld adapters have three sliding switches on the side which expose plugs for the US, UK and Europe along with universal AC outlets and four or five USB ports.

ONEWORLD 135 – $174

The new international OneWorld135 is a 135W adaptor that can charge up to five devices at once including laptops, tablets, smartphones and other USB-powered devices.

It has enough power to charge two MacBook Pros at full speed at the same time.

OneWorld135 works in more than 200 countries and keep all your devices charged.

There are dual 100W USB-C PD (power delivery) ports (to charge laptops) and a 20W USB-C PD ports (to charge tablets and smartphones) and a USB-A 18W charging port for all your other devices.

The adapter incorporates the latest Gallium Nitride (GaN) technology which offers even higher charging efficiency while maintaining the smallest possible package.

The front face of the OneWorld135 charger is about the size of a credit card with a thickness of 5.4cm so it’s easy to fit in your bag on your travels – all you need to bring with you are the cables.

The adapter is also IEC 60884 Certified and offers protection for over temperature, over current, over voltage, over power and fuse protection.

OneWorld 135 is available in blue or white.

International Adapter with 135W USB C charger

– Works in over 200+ countries

– Charge 2 MacBook Pro/Notebook simultaneously

– Charge up to 5 devices simultaneously

– 2 x 100W USB PD charging port with QC

– 20W USB PD charging port with QC

– 18W USB A Smart charging port

– Over current, over temperature and fuse protection.

– 10A AC universal power outlet

– GaN (Gallium Nitride) Technology

ONEWORLD30 – $62

The front of the OneWorld30 adapter is smaller than a credit card and is 5.3cm thick.

It can charge up to six devices simultaneously through the universal AC adapter, a 20W USB-C PD port, two 15W USB-C PD ports and two USB-A ports.

The GaN charger can power all your Apple mobile devices at once along with other tablets, cameras and other USB-powered devices.

The OneWorld135 is also IEC 60884 Certified with built-in protection for over temperature, over current, over voltage, over power and fuse protection.

International Adapter with 30W USB-C PD charger

– Works in over 200+ countries

– Charge up to 6 devices simultaneously

– 20W USB-C PD charging port with QC

– 15W Smart charging ports (2x USB-C, 2x USB-A)

– Over current, over temperature and fuse protection.

– 10A AC universal power outlet

– GaN (Gallium Nitride) Technology

www.oneadaptr.com

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Custom label printing is a captivating realm where your products find their unique identity. Whether you seek to personalize your product packaging or require distinctive labels for marketing endeavours, the world of custom label printing opens up possibilities in an array of shapes, sizes, and materials. These labels are exceptionally versatile, spanning from robust outdoor-durable vinyl labels to food-safe wraparound designs.

They serve as a canvas for full-color images and text, breathing life into your product, and ensuring it stands out in the bustling crowd of consumer choices. Whether your needs call for a single label or thousands of them, custom label printing emerges as a versatile choice that harmonizes with the diverse landscape of business.

Advantages of Custom Label Printing

Custom label printing serves as a potent arsenal for businesses seeking to communicate their brand identity and carve a distinct niche in the competitive marketplace. It ushers in a spectrum of materials and finishes, bestowing a professional sheen to your offerings, all while remaining a cost-effective solution for your branding needs. Here, let us delve into the labyrinth of advantages offered by custom label printing:

Variety of Materials and Finishes: The realm of custom label printing unfurls a tapestry of materials for your choosing, ranging from classic paper to versatile vinyl, polypropylene, foil labels, and the ethereal clarity of clear labels. Each material boasts a unique finish, lending character and texture to your product or packaging. For instance, glossy labels don vibrant colours, and captivate attention on the shelves, while matte finishes exude subtlety, ideal for a restrained branding approach. With custom label printing, the material and finish choice unfurl at your fingertips, allowing you to tailor the label to your precise needs.

Professional Look and Feel: The professional demeanour of your packaging wields a significant influence on establishing a commanding brand presence in today’s cutthroat market. Custom label printing empowers you to craft high-quality labels that hoist your products above the competition, courtesy of vivid colours that articulate your message with unmistakable clarity. Custom labelling grants you the creative license to explore unique shapes and sizes, enabling your packaging design to make a resounding statement, and fortifying the recognition among potential customers who explore the plethora of similar products.

Types of Custom Labels Available

Custom labels are a versatile asset in the arsenal of any business, wielding an instrumental role in the spheres of branding and marketing. With the right label, you have the power to forge a robust identity and communication channel for your product or service. The landscape of custom labels offers myriad choices to accommodate your diverse needs. Here, we venture into a realm of possibilities with some of the top options:

1. Paper Labels with Lamination or Varnish Coating: Among the most sought-after types of custom labels on the market, paper labels emerge as a timeless favourite. Renowned for their superb durability and flexibility, these labels sport a protective lamination or varnish coating. This shield wards off the perils of moisture, dirt, UV rays, and other environmental factors that could assail or fade traditional paper-based labels over time.
2. Vinyl Labels with Protective Overlaminate Coating: Vinyl labels command the spotlight as an enduring choice, primarily due to their protective overlaminate coating. This shield delivers an extra layer of defence against water damage, abrasions, UV rays, and the rigours of scratching. This resilience makes them ideal candidates for outdoor use in the face of extreme weather conditions. Simultaneously, they remain a trusted choice for indoor applications, offering a long-lasting label without any compromise on quality or visual appeal.
3. Polyester (PET) Labels with Durable Adhesive Backings: Polyester (PET) Labels emerge as the versatile contender, endowed with high-level durability, thanks to their robust adhesive backings. This material effortlessly accommodates a multitude of printing techniques, making it the go-to option for various applications, including product labels, branding, or even custom decals. The adhesive backing ensures these labels remain steadfast and enduring on a wide array of surfaces.

Processes Used in Custom Label Printing

Custom label printing is the art of crafting high-quality, distinctive labels for an expansive spectrum of products and services. It furnishes businesses with the canvas to design labels that bear their distinctive stamp, incorporating a diverse range of options, encompassing colours, shapes, sizes, and materials. The process of creating custom labels unfolds across four distinct phases, each playing a crucial role in birthing these labels:

Design/Layout Creation and Proofing Processes: The inception of custom labels is a journey that commences with the creation of a design or layout. This journey includes selecting fonts and colours and integrating images, logos, and other design elements. The design phase warrants meticulous attention to every detail, for it will eventually dictate the visual impact of the final product. Once the design achieves completion, it undergoes a rigorous proofing process. Here, vigilant scrutiny is employed to unearth any potential errors that might jeopardize the production phase.

Pre-Press Preparation Processes: Following the finalization of the design and layout, the journey advances to the preparation phase, transforming the artwork into formats suitable for printing. This may involve converting the artwork into digital formats, such as PDFs or vector graphics, and aligning the design to the specific requirements of the production process. The goal is to ensure the design is seamlessly prepared for the forthcoming printing phase.

Printing Techniques Used for Different Types of Materials: The heart of custom label printing resides in the actual printing phase. Here, the selected material receives the design crafted with meticulous precision. The label takes shape as the ink adheres to the material, breathing life into the colours, shapes, and text. The chosen printing techniques differ, depending on the material, with each technique uniquely adapted to ensure the final product aligns with the envisioned design.

Finishing Options Including Lamination, Die Cutting, Foil Stamping, etc.: The final step in the journey of custom label printing encompasses a variety of finishing touches that impart character and distinction to the labels. This stage offers choices like lamination, die cutting, foil stamping, embossing, or varnish coating, among others. These finishing touches stand as the hallmark of custom labels, adding depth and texture, while ensuring they remain resilient and visually striking.

Conclusion

In the tapestry of commerce, custom label printing emerges as a powerful instrument to elevate your products above the crowd. It grants you the creative license to imbue any label with vivid images, text, and colours, instilling a unique character that captivates attention. It is more than a mere printing process; it is the gateway to bestowing a professional and distinctive appearance to your products, fostering brand recognition and customer loyalty. Custom label printing, supported by the right printing company, can be an invaluable asset in the pursuit of standing out amidst the competition, a testament to the potential for excellence that lies within your reach.

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Venturing into the realm of cardboard balers, one finds an indispensable piece of equipment for businesses grappling with substantial volumes of cardboard packaging. These machines wield the power to compress and transform cardboard waste into compact, manageable forms, simplifying the logistics of transportation and storage.

This dual benefit doesn’t just translate into cost savings but also underscores a commitment to sustainability by reducing the cardboard’s contribution to landfills. As technology marches forward, a rich array of balers now graces the market, catering to diverse needs and budgets. In this introduction, we shall embark on a journey to unravel the inner workings of these machines and delve into the myriad advantages they offer to businesses that embrace their utility. 

Types of Cardboard Balers

Cardboard balers serve as an invaluable cog in the machinery of businesses routinely grappling with voluminous cardboard waste. There are three prominent categories of balers, each carrying its own distinct set of advantages and limitations. To make an informed investment, it is crucial to decipher the nuances differentiating them:

Automatic Balers Automatic balers are meticulously designed to be operated by a solitary individual, making them the weapon of choice for businesses with limited staffing or those tasked with the swift processing of substantial cardboard volumes. The adept automatics can efficiently handle loads of up to 2 tons per hour, sporting cycle times spanning from a brisk 30 seconds to several minutes, contingent on the size and nature of the materials in play. The paramount advantage they unfurl is their rapidity, empowering companies to expedite the processing of substantial volumes with minimal toil. Furthermore, these machines alleviate the physical labour burden, as their operations are entirely automated, thus mitigating fatigue among the workforce. However, it is worth noting that the advanced technology underpinning automation translates to a higher price tag compared to their manual or semi-automatic counterparts.

Semi-Automatic Balers Semi-automatic balers carve a niche as a judicious middle ground, bridging the chasm between manual models and full-fledged automatics. 

Features of a Quality Cardboard Baling Machine

In the realm of cardboard baling, the cornerstone of effective and safe waste management lies in a quality baling machine. These machines boast a bevvy of features that demand careful consideration when selecting the right one to align with your specific needs. In this section, we embark on a journey to illuminate the key features that should be the lodestar in your quest for a top-tier cardboard baling machine.

Automation Capabilities and Options

In the quest for a quality cardboard baling machine, automation takes centre stage. These machines should furnish robust automation capabilities, providing the dexterity to steer and supervise the process from inception to conclusion. The spectrum of automation features includes programmable settings, adjustable compression force levels, intelligent weighing systems, and a repertoire of custom features engineered to supercharge productivity and efficiency. It is imperative to scrutinize the automation options offered by the model you select, as the right choice can unlock the full potential of your investment.

Baling Chamber Design and Size Considerations

The chamber design, the crucible housing your baled material, wields profound influence in determining the effectiveness of your system. This design must nimbly compress substantial quantities of waste into manageable sizes, ensuring both swiftness and safety. Seek models fortified with durable frames capable of withstanding arduous usage while maintaining flexibility in terms of size requirements. When navigating the labyrinth of chamber size considerations, exercise prudence by selecting one capacious enough to accommodate diverse material types without straining under the burden.

Conclusion

In the grand tapestry of commerce, cardboard balers emerge as indispensable tools for businesses and organizations grappling with substantial volumes of cardboard waste. These machines unfurl an efficient and cost-effective avenue for reducing the bulk of cardboard waste, rendering it more manageable. Beyond this, they assume the mantle of eco-warriors, enhancing the prospects of recycling by compressing significant material quantities into compact bundles that are easier to transport. With their adaptability and versatility, it comes as no surprise that cardboard balers have carved a place of prominence in recent years, heralding a more sustainable future.

The post The Role of Cardboard Balers in Sustainable Business Practices appeared first on Tech Guide.

Double tap – the breakout new feature for Apple Watch – is now available on Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2 with the release of the watchOS 10.1 update today.

This new feature will allow users to interact with their Apple Watch like never before.

Double tap means users will be able to control Apple Watch with one hand simply by double tapping their index finger and thumb.

Usually, an Apple Watch user would have to use their other hand to answer calls, view notifications and reply to messages.

Not anymore.

They can simply use double tap to do things like answer and end calls, view a message from a notification, pause, resume and end a timer or stop and resume a stopwatch, snooze an alarm and even take an iPhone photo with the camera remote app on the Apple Watch.

We gave it a try when answering a message.

After we saw and read the message on Apple Watch, we were able to use double tap to reply.

This activated the microphone to allow us to dictate the reply and then send with another double tap.

Double tap also allows users to open and scroll through the widgets in their Smart Stack so they can see their next appointment, the latest news, the weather and check their exercise rings.

Double tap only works on the latest Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2 which are both powered by the S9 SiP which includes a new four-core neural engine and 25 per cent more power efficiency than the previous generation.

Double tap was created after Apple developed an algorithm that can detect the tiny wrist movements and changes in blood flow when you tap your index finger and thumb together.

The onboard neural engine processes this data from the accelerometer, gyroscope and optical heart sensor to trigger the action.

Double tap will only work when you raise your arm and the display is awake.

By default, double tap automatically activates the primary action for most apps and notifications.

But for Smart Stack you can either advance through the widgets or select the first available widget. This can be adjusted in the settings within the Apple Watch app.

Users can also customise media playback with double tap to either play/pause your music or skip to the next track.

To use double tap you need to update Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2 to watchOS 10.1.

To do this, go to the Apple Watch app on your iPhone > General > Software Update and you should see the watchOS 10.1 update.

Click download and install and place your Apple Watch back on its charger to complete the update.

The post New Double Tap gesture available now for Apple Watch – and its a game changer appeared first on Tech Guide.

Australians are working from anywhere – from home, on the go and in the office – so Logitech has released a product to make that even easier – the new Casa Pop-Up Desk.

Today work is a thing you do, not a place you go – but you also need to maintain efficiency and productivity no matter where you are.

The Logitech Casa Pop Up Desk has everything you need to put your laptop in the right position so you can work comfortably.

Casa includes a laptop stand, a keyboard and trackpad and it comes in a single case which makes it easy to take with you anywhere.

When it’s all packed up it’s like carrying a slightly thicker iPad case so you can easily find room for it.

So how does it work?

When you set up you open the Casa case and take out the keyboard and trackpad.

The lid of the case folds forward and clips magnetically to a slot at the front of the case.

This is where you can place your laptop which is held in place securely with a lip so you can then have the screen at an ergonomically friendly height.

We are writing this report using Casa Pop-Up Desk and our 15-inch MacBook Air.

As soon as we turned on the keyboard and trackpad we went into the settings on the laptop and paired then to the laptop in the Bluetooth menu.

You can also take that a step further and install the Logi Options+ software to pair and control the keyboard and trackpad.

The Logi keyboard has five rows and well-spaced slightly concave keys along with a full row of function keys that allow you to control your media, adjust volume and access all your emojis.

And it still quite compact and just over 1cm tall at its thickest point.

The trackpad has a smooth surface glass surface with Click Anywhere technology for easy navigation and control so you can click and use gestures to get things done.

The keyboard and trackpad can be charged with the included USB-C cable and can draw power when connected to the laptop in front of you.

“Working long hours in front of a PC can take a toll on the body, especially when you do not have a fixed workspace,” said Joseph Mingori, vice president of Mobile Solutions & Partnerships at Logitech.

“With Casa Pop-Up Desk, we are able to deliver a sustainable, cross-OS compatible, and ergonomic solution that addresses workspace limitations, so people feel energised at the end of the workday.”

The Casa Pop-Up Desk is made from certified post-consumer recycled plastic made from old consumer electronics products to give them a second life.

It comes in three colours – Nordic Cam (sand/off white), Bohemian Blush (rose) and Classic Chic (deep green/granite).

The Logitech Casa Pop-Up Desk is available now and is priced at $289.95.

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When it comes to printing HP has already demonstrated its prowess in the home and the office, but it also has a unique printer for building sites and its 3D printing is also being used in the running shoe market.

Printing is still essential in the home and in small to medium businesses and HP has already created solutions like Instant Ink delivery to ensure you’re never short of ink.

This service has now also been extended to paper, so you always have what you need and are never caught out when you need to print.

Sustainability is important and HP is closing the loop with its new EvoMore printers which uses recycled materials to create the printer itself along with consumables like ink and toner cartridges.

But printing isn’t just limited to a home or office using ink and paper.

HP is also using its printer technology on worksites and its 3D printing technology is also being utilised to create running shoes.

HP SITEPRINT

HP SitePrint is a robot printer designed for the construction industry to print site layouts to an accuracy of 3mm.

Normally a builder would look at a set of plans and chalk out the layout or use a plum line to understand where the framework needs to go.

The HP SitePrint increases the accuracy of the layout on site and saves a lot of time and manpower when compared to manual layout techniques which is up to 10 times slower than HP SitePrint.

This ability to automate part of the building process will help improve efficiency and productivity.

“On our first day with the device, we did a competition between SitePrint and a manual layout team of four people. The HP solution laid out seven or eight rooms in the time it took the manual team to do two or three,” recalls Gerardo Rivera, COO, L5 Drywall Inc.

“With HP SitePrint, we’ve been able to eliminate mistakes and move weeks ahead in our schedule.”

HP SitePrint uses a camera, sensors and GPS to accurately print the layout and text on concrete slabs and other surfaces and has obstacle avoidance.

The layouts used by HP SitePrint can be generated by CAD (computer aided design) and other layout management tools that are all stored and accessed from the cloud.

3D PRINTED RUNNING SHOES

HP has formed a partnership with Brooks Running to design and engineer the new Brooks Exhilarate-BL which includes a 3D printed midsole that offers a supportive yet bouncy feel.

HP and Brooks Running took its biomechanical research and looked at the ways technology could optimise the design and performance of the running shoes.

The result was adopting HP’s Multi Jet Fusion 3D printing technology to produce the midsole which has a lattice construction made of out of a polymer to deliver higher energy return than 90 per cent of the midsoles currently on the market today.

Brooks will release a limited number of the new Exhilarate-BL running shoes for a test program among Brooks Wear Testers and the Brooks Run Club loyalty members.

“Using HP’s 3D printing technology has allowed our design team to fine-tune elements of the midsole right down to the millimetre in ways that wouldn’t have otherwise been possible,” says Nikhil Jain, director of footwear product line management and BlueLine at Brooks.

“As a brand rooted in the science that every individual has a unique motion path, we’re just scratching the surface in terms of how we can change the underfoot experience and use 3D printing to deliver a premium, performance run experience with the potential for greater optimization.”

The other benefit of using 3D printed technology is increased sustainability by using less materials during production.

“As a brand, we are focused on doing our part to ensure the shoes that we are building take a lot less energy and virgin material to manufacture,” Jain says.

“And from a sustainability perspective we are learning how 3D printing can help us on that journey.”

HP 3D printing is already being used across multiple industries including medicine where HP can create prosthetic sockets, ankle foot orthoses and paediatric cranial helmets.

Some John Deere tractors include 3D printed engine parts manufactured using HP’s Metal Jet S100 solution.

* Stephen Fenech travelled to Palo Alto as a guest of HP

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Samsung has announced the release of the Galaxy SmartTag 2 – a small device that allows users to track valuables and other important items through their Samsung smartphone.

The Samsung Galaxy SmartTag 2 is similar to Apple’s AirTag, but it only works with Samsung smartphones.

The Galaxy SmartTag2 has a ring-shaped design so they can easily add to keyrings and attached to bags and luggage.

It also has an IP67 rating for water and dust resistance which means you can track your valuables while travelling anywhere.

And for pet owners this means Galaxy SmartTag 2 is durable enough to handle the everyday wear and tear if they are attached to your dog or cat’s colour.

“We are constantly looking at ways to make people’s lives more convenient through Samsung Galaxy’s industry-leading innovations,” said Jaeyeon Jung, Executive Vice President and Head of SmartThings, Device Platform Centre at Samsung Electronics.

“With the Galaxy SmartTag2, we set out to make sure Samsung Galaxy users can find their belongings in an easy and intuitive way.

“With an enhanced finding experience and a longer battery life, Galaxy SmartTag2 will provide users with greater peace of mind for longer and in more situations.”

If the item attached to Galaxy SmartTag 2 is misplaced or stolen, the location is determined and pinpointed if it pings any other nearby Samsung smartphones.

So think of the Galaxy SmartTag 2 as a mobile phone on a network and the towers of that network are any Samsung smartphones that happened to be passing by.

Apple’s AirTags work in a similar way with Apple products in the vicinity helping to narrow down the location.

The Lost Mode for Galaxy SmartTag 2 will make lost items easier to find.

Lost Mode allows users to add their contact information to Galaxy SmartTag 2 and then if anyone discovers your item they can use their phone to scan the tag and read the owner’s message and find out their contact information.

For example, if a Galaxy SmartTag 2 is attached to a dog’s collar – anyone who finds your dog can immediately see the owner’s information and phone number.

Lost Mode works with any NFC-compatible smartphone.

Galaxy SmartTag 2 also has a compass view feature which will literally point you in the direction of your lost item and even tell you the distance in relation to the user.

This mode works on any ultra-wide band (UWB) supported Galaxy smartphone including the Galaxy S23 Ultra.

The SmartThings Find app has been upgraded to work with newly registered Galaxy smart tags and even installs a shortcut to the app on your Galaxy smartphone.

The app can also provide a full screen map view to make the Galaxy SmartTag 2 even easier to find.

Power saving mode can ensure the Galaxy SmartTag 2’s battery will run for up to 700 days.

Normal mode also offers up to 500 days of tracking.

The Galaxy SmartTag 2 uses a Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) connection with a maximum range of 120m and takes advantage of ultra-wide band (UWB) capabilities that can enable Augmented Reality to visually guide users to their item using their Samsung Galaxy smartphone camera.

Samsung Galaxy users will also be able to see an alert if an unknown Galaxy SmartTag 2 is detected nearby for an extended period.

Samsung’s Galaxy SmartTag2 will go on sale on October 12 in black or white and will be priced at $55 each or $169 for a four pack.

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Google has released the new Pixel Watch 2 and Pixel Buds Pro with a range of updated features to round out the updated Google Pixel ecosystem.

Also unveiled today were the latest Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro smartphones.

All the new Pixel products will be available to pre-order from today and go on sale on October 12.

GOOGLE PIXEL WATCH 2 $549 (Bluetooth and Wi-Fi) and $649 (LTE)

The Google Pixel Watch 2 hasn’t changed much design-wise but there are plenty of changes on the inside including a new multi-path heart rate sensor for more accurate tracking of your health, fitness and sleep.

There is also a new body-response sensor and skin temperature sensor so the Pixel Watch 2 can also manage your stress levels as well.

When exercising the watch now has automatic start and stop reminders for seven common workouts like running, cycling and more.

There’s also Heart Zone Training that can coach you to train at the correct intensity to help up you meet your fitness goals.

Pixel Watch 2 now supports features like Fall Detection and Emergency SOS while Safety Check lets you schedule a timer for when you expect to be home.

When the timer expires, you are prompted to confirm you got home safely if you haven’t already done it.

Pixel Watch 2 comes in four colour combinations – polished Silver/Bay, polished Silver/Porcelain, matte Black/Obsidian and Champagne Gold/Hazel.

PIXEL BUDS PRO 2 – $299

The latest Pixel Buds Pro 2 will soon have Bluetooth Super Wideband via a software update which offers even more bandwidth for voice calls and for your music to sound clearer.

Also coming soon is Clear Calling on Pixel so you can be heard clearly on a call with the suppression of ambient noise around you.

The Pixel Buds Pro 2 also have your hearing health in mind and can keep track of the volume you’re using to listen to music and suggest times when you need to lower the volume.

Conversation Detection uses Google AI to detect your voice and then immediately pause your music and switch to Transparency Mode until you stop talking and then the music resumes.

They still have impressive active noise cancellation using Google’s integrated system, custom processor and custom algorithm.

The Google Pixel Buds Pro 2 will be available in two new colours – Bay and Porcelain.

The post Google releases Pixel Watch 2 and Pixel Buds 2 with a range of enhanced features appeared first on Tech Guide.

In an era defined by technological leaps, few advancements have been as captivating and transformative as the rise of solar lighting. This innovation has reshaped our perspective on energy consumption, illuminating our homes, businesses, and public spaces with a sustainable radiance.

Not only does solar lighting promise economic advantages over traditional electric lighting, but it also holds the potential to diminish the emission of harmful pollutants into our precious atmosphere. This article navigates the intricate terrain of solar lighting technology, unveiling the enigmatic beauty of perplexity and burstiness within its narrative.

Tracing the Tapestry: Solar Lighting through Time

The chronicles of solar lighting stretch back to the early 19th century, yet its integration into everyday life remains relatively novel. To understand its contemporary significance, we must voyage through time, exploring the historical tapestry of commercial outdoor solar lighting.

In the annals of history, the first recorded utilization of solar energy for illumination occurred in 1839. French physicist Augustin Mouchot unveiled a rudimentary solar-powered steam engine at the World’s Fair in Paris. This pioneering contraption harnessed sunlight to generate steam, propelling an engine capable of spinning a wheel and extracting water from a well. It marked an epochal moment when humanity first harnessed renewable energy for practical purposes, echoing through time as a testament to human ingenuity.

The commercial breakthrough came in 1954 when Bell Labs engineered silicon-based photovoltaic cells (PV cells) with an efficiency rate of approximately 6%. Although minuscule compared to modern counterparts, this breakthrough signified a significant stride forward. These early PV cells could transmute sunlight into electricity with notable efficiency.

Modern Solar Technology: A Dazzling Tapestry

Modern solar technology, a complex web of photovoltaic wizardry, now weaves its spell over the energy landscape. With a keen eye for detail, we delve into this captivating mosaic, where perplexity and burstiness shine in their splendor.

Overview of Current Technology

The crux of modern solar technology rests upon photovoltaic (PV) cells, meticulously designed to ensnare photons from the sun and transmute them into electricity. These cells, often composed of semiconductors like silicon or gallium arsenide, are artfully arranged in a grid-like pattern on a substrate. Here, the dance of photons unfolds, transforming sunlight into direct current (DC) electricity, which can power devices directly or undergo conversion into alternating current (AC) through an inverter. To enhance efficiency further, many systems integrate batteries, reservoirs of energy harvested during peak sunlit hours, waiting to illuminate the darkest of nights.

Operational Components

The canvas of modern solar systems is populated with various actors. PV panels, akin to the star performers, absorb sunlight with an almost artistic finesse. Inverters, the behind-the-scenes conductors, harmonize the flow of energy. Power optimizers, if invited to the stage, refine the performance. Sturdy mounting hardware and racking systems form the scaffolding, providing stability amidst the elements. Cables and wiring accessories, like the intricate threads of a tapestry, connect the components. And batteries, when the occasion demands, serve as silent reservoirs, storing excess energy for moments of need.

The Radiance of Modern Solar Lighting: Benefits Unveiled

In an era where sustainability and efficiency command center stage, modern solar lighting solutions emerge as star performers. Their benefits, like rays of sunlight, scatter far and wide, illuminating the path towards a brighter, greener future.

Cost Savings and Energy Efficiency

Modern solar lighting’s principal overture is the promise of financial relief. Unlike traditional lighting systems that devour electricity, these systems tap into the eternal reservoir of solar energy. The result? Diminished electricity bills and reduced energy costs, marking a paradigm shift in financial viability. Powered by efficient LED technology, they amplify their eco-credentials, offering superior illumination while demanding less power, a harmonious fusion of utility and thrift.

Unique Design Options and Flexibility

Solar lighting systems, like artisans of illumination, craft diverse designs, accommodating every spatial and aesthetic inclination. From sleek contemporary fixtures adorning commercial settings…

Challenges and Triumphs: Navigating the Solar Path

As with any grand odyssey, the journey of solar lighting is not without its trials and tribulations. Navigating these challenges is essential to harnessing the full potential of this radiant technology.

The Cost Conundrum

One formidable obstacle is the initial cost. The procurement of solar panels and batteries can be a substantial upfront expense, often out of reach for many businesses and homeowners. Nevertheless, government incentives and tax credits can offer a lifeline, ameliorating the financial burden and paving the way for sustainable choices.

Illuminating the Dark

Another challenge lies in the dependence on sunlight for operation. In regions where daylight is a fleeting visitor, solar lights might struggle to provide consistent illumination. In such cases, supplementary artificial lighting, like LED bulbs or motion-activated floodlights, becomes a necessary companion to ensure uninterrupted radiance through the night.

Retrofitting for Renewables

Finally, retrofitting existing structures for solar integration can be a formidable endeavor. Most buildings were conceived in an era oblivious to renewable energy. Integrating solar systems into these structures requires meticulous planning, structural modifications, and financial investments.

The Luminous Dawn of Tomorrow

In conclusion, the ascent of solar lighting technology is a tale of ingenuity, progress, and sustainability. As it continues to evolve, it promises to be an enduring source of illumination for a world seeking greener pastures. With its ability to cast light even in the remotest corners, solar lighting epitomizes the immediate and positive impact of renewable energy on communities worldwide. As we continue this radiant journey, the future shines ever brighter.

The post Revolutionizing Illumination: The Solar Lighting Odyssey appeared first on Tech Guide.

Meta has unveiled new wearable products – the Quest 3 mixed reality headset and updated Ray-Ban smart glasses – and new AI technology at its Meta Connect event in Menlo Park.

Meta chief executive Mark Zuckerberg announced the products at the event saying they were designed to bring the real world and the virtual world together.

Zuckerberg described the new Meta Quest 3 headset as one of the best value headsets in the industry implying it would be much more affordable than Apple’s upcoming Vision Pro headset which will be priced at $US3,499.

Priced at $799, the Quest 3 headset will be available in mid-October and with 10 times the resolution of the Quest 2.

The device is powered by the Snapdragon XR2 from Qualcomm to give it enough power to run the latest graphics intensive games including Asgard’s Wrath II and Assassin’s Creed Nexus.

The new headset will allow user to play games, exercise and stream content in 4K and immersive 3D audio.

The new Touch Plus controllers have also been redesigned with a more streamlined look and now offer haptic feedback.

Also announced at Meta Connect was the new Ray-Ban smart glasses which will have Meta AI onboard and along a camera to capture images and shoot video.

The built-in Meta AI chatbot assistant will also be in your ear so you can do things like translate signs that you’re looking at.

The glasses have a five-microphone array so you can use your voice to issue commands along with open style speakers.

Onboard are 12-megapixel cameras that record up to a minute of full high definition video at a time or stream live to Instagram and Facebook for up to 30 minutes.

Meta has once again partnered with Ray-Ban parent company EssilorLuxottica and will be available in three styles and will be priced at $US299 ahead of an October 17 release.

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If you like getting busy in the garden and the backyard, Stihl has a new range of battery-powered products to help you get the job done quickly and efficiently.

Tech Guide looked at the Stihl GTA Garden Pruner Kit, the Stihl RMA 460 Battery Lawn Mower and the Stihl BGA 57 Battery Blower.

And being all battery-powered there’s no need to have any kind of liquid fuel hand.

That’s one thing that’s stopped some of our yard work in its tracks when we didn’t refill our can of two-stroke.

This is not an issue with the Stihl battery powered range of products.

We used the AK 30 battery ($230) which has a capacity of 180Wh and 36V voltage. On the front of the battery is a LED level indicator.

This was the battery we used to power the RMA 460 mower and the BGA 57 blower.

The Garden Pruner came with its own smaller battery and charger.

STIHL RMA 460 BATTERY LAWN MOWER – $529 (skin only – no battery)

We enjoy mowing but the part we don’t like is the shoulder dislocating start for a fuel mower.

That’s a thing of the past with the RMA 460 battery mover. To start it up pull up the lever near the top of the handle and press the start button and you’re off.

The battery slipped into the top of the mower below a transparent flap. There’s also room under the flap to store a second spare battery if you need to make a quick change.

Everything else about the mower was like a regular mower including the ability to adjust the height and the length and angle of the handle.

The RMA 460 is quite light thanks to the fact there’s no massive petrol engine onboard so it’s easy to move around the yard.

On the back is a 60L soft grass catcher, another contributor to the mower’s lighter weight, and it was easy to empty and reattach.

And the power and efficiency of the mower was never in question – it handled our long grass with ease.

We were told to take care hosing the blades – you don’t want to soak the electric motor under the hood – which we had to do once after missing one little present from our dalmatians that we wouldn’t see in the long grass.

The battery, when used with the mower, has a run time of about 30 minutes which was long enough for us to mow our average sized backyard and front yards and with enough juice left over to tidy things up with the BGA 57 blower.

STIHL GTA 26 GARDEN PRUNER KIT – $299

This is one tiny but might product from Stihl.

It looks like a tiny chainsaw but it’s official a handheld garden pruner and what a pruner it is.

The GTA 26 is also battery-powered, and the kit comes with a battery and its own charger along with oil for the chain and a handy storage case.

This is one product you need to exercise extra care when using it.

It required two-handed operation for it be used most efficiently.

Despite its handheld size, the GTA easily cut through branches more than 4cm in diameter.

We needed to cut back a few trees including a dying mango tree in our yard, and it was effortless cutting the lower branches.

The GTA 26 also made light work of pruning bushes and other smaller branches.

Now remember we emphasises two-handed operation – that’s really important.

One hand goes on the main handle and the other on top at the back of the unit to provide added stability especially when cutting through thicker branches.

Using this one-handed could be dangerous and bounce around while cutting.

The GTA 26 can through a finger as easily it can a branch, so you need to respect the power and use it safely.

On a full charge you get 30 minutes of use. And that’s not 30 minutes from when you start but 30 minutes made up of all the times you’re cutting branches.

STIHL BGA 57 BATTERY BLOWER – $329 (skin only – no battery)

To clean things up is there a better feeling than using a blower?

The Stihl BGA 57 takes the same battery as the RMA 460 mower and it was simply a case of transferring the battery into the back of the blower with a satisfying snap.

There was still a couple of bars of power from the four LEDs after we did the mowing which was more than enough power for the blower.

What surprised us was the power – we were blowing leaves from metres away which made the tidy up even faster for us.

It also has a nice balanced feel which makes it easier to use to target the debris you want to corral.

The blower tube has three length adjustments for users of different heights.

It also has a symmetrical trigger so it’s just as easy to use for a left hander and a right hander.

The post Make light work of your yard and garden with the Stihl battery-powered range of products appeared first on Tech Guide.

Amazon today unveiled a range of new Echo products including the Echo Hub which is an Alexa enabled smart home control panel to make it even easier to manage all the smart devices in your home.

Amazon also revealed the new Fire TV Stick 4K Max and the Fire TV Stick 4K.
ECHO HUB – $329

The Echo Hub is a thin 8-inch touch screen with a customizable dashboard which makes it simple for users to manage their smart home devices and view multiple smart camera feeds at the same time.

And with your media devices, Echo Hub makes it possible to manage the volume and streaming services on these products all from one place.

When it’s not being used as a smart hub, the device’s screen can be used to rotate your favourite photos and include information like the weather and time.

Thanks to the onboard infrared technology, Echo Hub can detect a person’s proximity and immediately switch back to the home screen.

Echo Hub can be placed on a counter or mounted on the wall with support for Zigbee, Thread, Bluetooth and Matter which makes it compatible with more than 10,000 connected cameras, locks, lights, plugs, thermostats, speakers and much more.

Echo Hub also supports wireless or wired Internet connectivity and is compatible with a Power over Ethernet (PoE) adapter.

Echo Hub will be priced at $329 and will soon be available for pre-order in Australia.

FIRE TV STICK MAX 4K – $119

The new Fire TV Stick 4K Max is even more powerful with an onboard 2Ghz quad-core processor and the industry’s first streaming stick with support for Wi-Fi 6E.

This means customers with a compatible router will enjoy an even smoother streaming experience with less interference from other wireless devices and lower latency for an even better 4K viewing experience.

The new Ambient Experience can transform your TV into an art gallery with access to more than 2000 gallery quality pieces of art absolutely free.

Naturally it’s easy to activate the Ambient Experience by either holding down the home or Alexa button or simply by asking Alexa.

The Fire TV Stick Max 4K will be available from September 27.

FIRE TV STICK 4K – $79

The new Fire TV Stick 4K has a new 1.6Ghz quad-core processor making it almost 30 per cent more powerful than the last model.

Users can enjoy impressive 4K Ultra HD content and Dolby Atmos audio.

There’s also support for Dolby vision, HDR, HLG and HDR10+.

It also has the Alexa Home Theatre feature onboard which allows customers to wirelessly connect compatible Echo devices to stream audio across multiple speakers and inputs.

The new Fire TV Stick 4K goes on sale on September 27 at JB Hi-Fi and other leading retailers.

The post Amazon unveils new Echo Hub to take control of all your smart home devices appeared first on Tech Guide.

Dyson has turned its attention to lighting technology and applied the same engineering principles to make things work properly and better – and as a result they’ve released the Dyson Solarcycle Morph Desk Light.

The Dyson Solarcycle Morph Desk Light is the latest product in its lighting portfolio and can imitate daylight from dawn till dusk as well as delivering light in four different ways – indirect, direct for a task, as a feature light or as an ambient light.

And it can all be controlled via the MyDyson app.

“With the Dyson Solarcycle Morph, our aim was to challenge the fundamental conventions of contemporary artificial lighting and find a solution,” says Jake Dyson, Chief Engineer.

“So we developed a light that tracks natural day light and intelligently transforms for different uses – providing the right light, at the right time, precisely where it’s needed.”

The light has 360-degree manoeuvrability to provide the right kind of light when and where it’s needed.

The key feature of the Dyson Solarcycle Morph Desk is its ability to imitate natural light in different formats using Dyson’s daylight tracking algorithm add three warm and three cool LEDs.

This allows the Dyson Solarcycle Morph Desk to adjust its colour temperature and brightness in direct relation to the local daylight based on the user’s location.

As an indirect light, the Dyson Solarcycle Morph Desk has an intelligent optical head that can rotate 360-degrees and bounce light off walls, floor and ceiling.

As a task light, it provides a powerful light whether you’re working, spending time on your hobbies, applying makeup or any other task.

It emits a high intensity pool of light with a CRI colour-rendering index of 90 and above which is near daylight quality.

The Dyson Solarcycle Morph Desk Light can also be used as a feature light to create dramatic effects including highlighting art and other features in your home and can be precisely positioned using the three point revolve motion.

As an ambient light, it can create a comforting orange glow and, for the evening, also provide relaxation with reduced blue light.

The Dyson Solarcycle Morph Desk Light intelligent optical head produces uniform high quality light with low flicker.

The MyDyson app can also adjust the light based on your age.

According to Dyson’s own research, a 65 year old needs up to four times more light than a 20 year old and can provide the correct brightness based on your age when entered into the app.

Users can also access the preset modes which are: study, relax, precision, boost, wake up, sleep and away.

There are also manual controls with a slide touch dimming and colour temperature selection which allows users to create their own personal lighting preferences.

Users can pre-programme and assign names for up to 20 different light settings to suit their mood or the task at hand.

The Dyson Solarcycle Morph Desk Light is available from today in either white or silver and is priced at $899.

The post Dyson releases Solarcycle Morph Desk Light to meet all your lighting needs appeared first on Tech Guide.

One of the most interesting announcements at the Apple event this year, apart from the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Pro, was the new Double Tap feature with the Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2.

Tech Guide put Double Tap to the test after yesterday’s Apple launch event.

Double Tap works only with the latest Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2 which have the new S9 SiP chip onboard.

Double Tap allows users to do things like answer calls and end timers by simply raising your watch hand and tapping your thumb and index finger together.

Double Tap can also end a call, control the primary button in an app, launch smart stack and scroll just like turning you’re turning the digital crown.

To see Double Tap in action watch our video below.

* Stephen Fenech travelled to the Apple event in Cupertino as a guest of Apple

The post We put Double Tap to the test on Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2 appeared first on Tech Guide.