GoKawiil
Tech News
Google ended software support in October 2025 for first- and second-generation Nest Learning Thermostats, cutting them off from app connectivity, accessory integration, and updates after roughly 14 years of use. The devices still function for basic on-device temperature control and scheduling, and Google has offered discounted upgrades to its fourth-generation thermostat as an alternative.
A review highlights how AI-enabled smart glasses can outperform headphones and earbuds in everyday tasks like reading incoming messages aloud and handling phone calls, since they remain on the wearer's face at all times. The piece notes that glasses avoid issues like ear fatigue from holding a phone, overheating from over-ear headphones, or isolation from noise-canceling earbuds, while still allowing awareness of surroundings during calls.
An article comparing smart home lighting options highlights a key drawback of smart bulbs: when someone flips the physical wall switch out of habit, the bulb loses power and Wi-Fi connectivity, becoming unresponsive to apps or voice commands until the switch is flipped back. Smart switches avoid this by staying wired into the home's electrical system, letting anyone operate lights normally without an app, while still enabling smart control.
An Android Authority columnist, who reviews gadgets professionally, lists seven products he continues to use despite regular access to newer alternatives. The first highlighted is the Sony WH-1000XM3 noise-canceling headphones, which he says still meet his needs even after three newer Sony generations were released.
Meta has released the Ray-Ban Meta Audio, a version of its smart glasses that strips out the camera found in earlier models. The glasses retain features like voice-activated AI assistance and turn-by-turn navigation through 'Hey Meta' voice commands, delivered via built-in speakers.
A growing number of tech-savvy consumers are reportedly using AI-assisted 'vibe coding' tools to tweak or build custom interfaces and features for their televisions, bypassing manufacturer software. The trend reflects broader use of generative AI coding assistants by non-professional programmers to modify consumer electronics.
Birdbuddy has introduced three new birdfeeder cameras that replace its existing Birdbuddy Pro model, with prices starting around $100. All three new devices are priced lower than the Pro version they succeed.
Oura has sued Ultrahuman again in a Texas federal court, alleging the Ring Pro smart ring infringes two patents covering design and internal hardware, including one issued just two days before filing. The suit also names manufacturer SVTronics, which Oura says assembles the ring at Ultrahuman's direction, and seeks to block US sales and recover damages. Ultrahuman CEO Mohit Kumar says the company will contest the claims and that the Ring Pro remains on sale in the US with no court order against it.
Google's Android 17 update introduces the ability to 'bubble' any app, not just messaging apps, keeping its icon floating on top of the screen for quick access. Users can place up to five bubbled apps along the left or right edge of the home screen by long-pressing an app and selecting the Bubble option. The feature currently works only on Pixel devices, though Google says it will expand to other manufacturers.
Amazon has cut the price of Govee's LED Smart Light Bulbs to $33.99, down from a $49.99 list price, a 32% reduction. The bulbs use a standard E26 base and come in common shapes like A19, A21, BR30, and Edison-style, with app controls, dimming, scheduling, and voice assistant compatibility, and some newer models add Matter support. The listing carries a 4.6-star rating on Amazon.
The FCC has blocked US sales and marketing of a dashboard camera and a wireless video transmitter, marking the first enforcement of a new rule that bans devices based on their internal chips rather than brand or model. Both products use the HiSilicon Hi3516CV610 Smart Vision SoC, which includes facial-detection and AI video analysis features. HiSilicon is a Huawei subsidiary, and Huawei entities are listed on the FCC's Covered List of national security risks.
CNET's review of Apple's first foldable phone, the iPhone Duo, highlights its 5.4-inch cover screen and 7.6-inch inner display, along with a matte inner panel designed to reduce glare and crease visibility. The device includes camera features like Duo Preview and Smart Take, which let users preview shots on the cover screen while using the higher-resolution 48-megapixel rear cameras instead of the 12-megapixel selfie camera.