Abode has released two new security sensors in 2026: a $35 garage door tilt sensor and a $50 outdoor contact sensor built for gates, sheds and barns. A CNET reviewer tested both alongside an Abode starter kit and found them accurate, fast to set up, and well integrated with Abode's hub and app.
A tech feature compiled a list of ten niche Japanese gadgets, ranging from an AI companion shaped like a meerkat that remembers past conversations to a handheld umbrella with a built-in fan, that are largely absent from American retail shelves. The author sourced these products by digging through Japan's domestic gadget market, deliberately focusing on inventions rarely exported abroad.
Engadget tested Breville's Eye Q toaster across all seven of its browning settings using fresh whole wheat bread, finding a smooth, consistent gradient from barely crisped to deep brown without burning. The device automatically senses timing rather than relying on a fixed dial, and includes a sourdough mode plus a button to add extra toasting time if needed.
A tech newsletter writer used an uncensored AI model from startup Abliteration AI to autonomously probe his home network, devices, and personal coding projects for security flaws. Over several days the agent uncovered vulnerabilities in household gadgets, broke into a PC, and flagged bugs in vibe-coded software, all while operating with guardrails stripped away.
A tech reviewer compiled a list of 10 connected gadgets designed to improve backyard spaces, covering categories like entertainment, lawn maintenance, lighting and security. The recommendations span both novel devices and smart add-ons that make existing outdoor equipment more automated.
The Verge's editorial team, including news editor Dom Preston and smart home reviewer Jen Tuohy, spent the week at IFA in Berlin testing new products firsthand. They opened a subscriber-only Q&A session to field reader questions about the devices they tried, with answers rolling out live starting at 12PM ET.
Anker introduced the Nano Universal Charger, a compact wall charger built to work across more than 200 countries and regions using integrated US, UK and EU plug configurations. The device charges up to four gadgets simultaneously via three USB-C ports and one USB-A port, delivers up to 100W to a single laptop, and includes a circular display showing temperature and voltage readings. Anker has not disclosed pricing or a release timeline.
At IFA 2026 in Berlin, Acer showed a concept Windows gaming handheld called the DualPlay Mini that swivels into a mini laptop-style PC. Dell introduced the budget-friendly 14S laptop with colorful finishes and configurable specs, while iRobot launched its $1,199 Roomba Max 875 Combo featuring a new carpet-sealing 'SealForce' skirt.
Epilogue makes USB-C cartridge readers, the $50 GB Operator for Game Boy, Game Boy Color and Game Boy Advance carts, and the $60 SN Operator for Super Nintendo and Super Famicom titles, with an N64 version in development. The devices connect real cartridges to Windows, Mac, Steam Deck, Xbox Ally or even phones, letting users back up save data and play games through companion Playback software that pulls the ROM and runs it in an emulator.
The Talix retractable USB-C to USB-C cable, normally $22, is discounted to $14 on Amazon with a coupon. It supports up to 240W and PD 3.2 charging, packing a 4- to 5-foot cord into a compact, magnet-equipped case about the size of a compact mirror.
A worldwide shortage of memory chips, driven largely by demand for AI infrastructure, is squeezing hardware manufacturers just as major companies prepare new product launches. Apple has already unveiled Mac minis and Mac Studios with new M6 chips, with an iPhone event expected in September featuring the iPhone 18 Pro, Pro Max, a foldable iPhone, and new Apple Watches. Makers are responding to rising component costs by either raising prices on devices or reducing memory and storage specifications to keep costs down.
Retailers are running early Labor Day discounts on kitchen gear, including a 50% price cut on All-Clad's 6-quart D3 Mother of All Pans, now $150, and $62 off a Cuisinart air fryer oven and grill, now $158. Both items are pulled from WIRED's tested and recommended kitchen picks ahead of the fall cooking season.