Smart Home

Apple finally updates the original HomePod

With humidity and temperature alerts

Published

January 19, 2023

Luigi Leonardo

Smart speakers have grown into convenient, if not essential, devices to improve quality of life. For a brand operating within the space, it’s now important to stay updated with the newest features. Apple, after resting on one model for several years, has finally updated its full-sized HomePod with a slate of changes.

A day after announcing the new MacBook Pro, Apple unveiled the second-generation HomePod after the first one back in 2018. The new model will sit beside the HomePod mini released in 2020.

Built with an S7 chip, the new smart speaker sports one 4-inch woofer and five horn-loaded tweeters. It will also have a four microphones to keep Siri working even from far away. As an entertainment device, the new HomePod will work on its own (or as a pair with another HomePod) with spacing technology to deliver optimized audio.

As a smart home device, the new model will come with a few changes. For example, it can now detect humidity and temperature throughout a user’s home. In drier winter climes, the ability to detect humidity is an essential. Additionally, coming through a future update, the device will soon be able to detect the sounds of fire and house alarms, alerting users if they can hear something going off.

As with the rest of Apple’s thriving ecosystem, the HomePod will be compatible with the brand’s devices and services like Apple Music and Apple TV+.

The second-generation HomePod is available now for preorders. It will ship starting February 3 in select countries including Australia, Canada, China, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Spain, the United Kingdom, and the United States. It will cost US$ 299.

Philippines

TCL unveils C7L SQD-Mini LED TV, new entertainment lineup

TCL Game Night gives 1st glimpse of new offerings

Published

August 17, 2026

GadgetMatch

TCL has unveiled the TCL C7L SQD-Mini LED TV along with the company’s new entertainment lineup.

The offerings were launched through a special TCL Game Night for visitors to be able to immerse themselves and have a closer look at the new products.

There were three distinct zones: the TCL C7L TV Zone, Party Speaker Zone, and Gaming Monitor Zone.

At the TCL C7L TV Zone, guests had a glimpse of how SQD-Mini LED technology enhances the viewing experience.

The C7L features up to 100% BT.2020 wide color gamut, HDR 3,000 nits, audio by Bang & Olufsen, and 288 VRR Game Accelerator. It is powered by the TSR AiPQ processor.

The TV’s largest model (85 inches) was also used as the main screen throughout the game night.

Meanwhile, the Party Speaker Zone introduced the new TP200K and TP300K party speakers.

The TP200K variant is equipped with 220W maximum audio power, five light show presets, and 12 hours playtime.

Meanwhile, the TP300K has 340W of maximum power, eight light show presets, and up to 18 hours of playtime.

Throughout the program, everything from music to host announcements and questions from the quiz proper were blasted loud on the TCL speakers.

These speakers also provided the atmosphere during the afterparty.

Furthermore, at the Gaming Monitor Zone were the TCL G64 and TCL G54 monitors.

They were presented in complete gaming setups so guests could try some popular titles, like NBA 2K and Counter-Strike.

Smart Home

Hamilton Beach brings Air Grill to this tropical market

Smart griller and air fryer

Published

July 28, 2026

GadgetMatch

American small kitchen appliance brand Hamilton Beach is making its Hamilton Beach Air Grill available in the Philippines.

The Air Grill AF06201 elevates the casual cooking experience, fusing smart griller and air fryer capabilities into one tool designed for modern kitchens.

This sleek countertop companion lets households enjoy authentic, restaurant-quality grilled and fried favorites at home. It combines high-velocity air circulation with a heavy-duty, high-heat, and non-stick ceramic grill plate and basket.

The Air Grill infuses authentic grill marks and smoky char into various recipes, minus the smoke, charcoal prep, and messy clean up.

It utilizes 360° Air Turbo technology to cook food thoroughly, with ultra-high temperature control and a maximum searing temperature of 230°C quickly sealing natural juices.

Users have 15 versatile present menus to choose from: French fries, pizza, sweet potato, cheese toast, egg tart, steak, drumstick, chicken wings, duck, eggplant, fish, shrimp, sausage, kebab, and dried fruit.

Consumers in the Philippines can get the Hamilton Beach Air Grill via Lazada for an SRP of PhP 12,000 (~ US$ 195). In-app discounts are available.

Singapore

Xiaomi Singapore expands lineup of smart washing machines

With different capacities and functions to suit modern household needs

Published

July 26, 2026

GadgetMatch

Xiaomi has expanded its range of smart washing machines in Singapore. These laundry offerings come with different capabilities and functions to suit modern household needs.

The new products include the Mijia Front Load Washer 8kg, Mijia Front Load Washer Dryer 10.5kg, and Mijia Front Load Washer Dryer 9kg.

Both of the Mijia washer-dryer combos are designed for superior cleaning and drying performance.

An ultra-slim and extra large drum offers more tumbling space and strong centrifugal force for fast and efficient drying.

Xiaomi’s Power Wash technology creates deep and effective cleaning, with a dedicated Steam function to remove up to 99.99% of bacteria, viruses, and mites.

There are over 30 programs to choose from on the user-friendly touch control panel, including Baby Care and Underwear. Users can also connect via the Xiaomi Home app for extra care on specific materials.

In addition, both come with a fast 59-minute wash-and-dry cycle, 24-hour delay timer, and function to add clothes during a mid-cycle, further enhancing convenience.

Meanwhile, the ultra-slim Mijia Front Load Washer 8kg is big on cleaning capabilities and energy efficiency.

It is similarly equipped with Power Wash technology and Steam cleaning functions to remove stubborn stains and protect everyone’s health.

With a 15-min super fast Quick Wash, its load-sensing system automatically detects laundry weight to optimize water volume and cycle time, improving energy efficiency.