The Apple HomePod mini 2 was launched in October 2026, alongside other smart home devices as announced at Apple’s ‘Welcome Home’ event. I’ve been covering smart home on T3 for years, and have been waiting equally as long for a new HomePod so, as you can imagine, I was elated to hear that we were finally getting one.

Having now got my hands on, not one but two, HomePod mini 2’s, this small yet mighty smart speaker has quickly become a staple in my home. I have a green one in my living room, and a pink one in my bedroom, both of which I use constantly for music, timers, questions and more.

But the feature that I’ve been loving the most is something that recently arrived on the HomePod mini 2 – as well as Apple’s older HomePod devices – following a HomePod and iPhone 27.2 software upgrade. And that is the Sound Glow feature.

Sound Glow is a visual lighting feature that makes the top of the HomePod mini 2 light up and pulse with colour. It does this in sync to the songs, podcasts and Apple’s ambient music that you’re playing, so it becomes a ‘visual canvas’ in your home.

The top of the HomePod mini 2 – which also happens to have its touch controls – is quite a small area of space, but it emits a surprising amount of lights and colours. It has 19 RGB LEDs underneath the top cap which glow brightly and change in real time.

The Sound Glow feature draws from the album artwork of the song it's playing to choose the colours and lighting patterns. For Apple’s ambient music, the HomePod mini 2 can produce bespoke animations for a more immersive experience.

I was very excited to try Sound Glow when I installed my HomePod mini 2 speakers, and let me tell you, it doesn’t disappoint. I have the one in my living room quite close to a wall, and was pleasantly surprised to see that the colours almost bounce off the wall, making it feel like an actual lighting experience rather than a ‘gimmicky’ add-on feature.

Where Sound Glow really excelled was with Apple ambient music. To wind down for bed, I asked the HomePod mini 2 to play rain sounds. Not only were the sounds extremely relaxing, but I could see my HomePod mini 2 faintly glowing and flickering in white and blue which really looked like it was mimicking the rain.

While the Sound Glow feature produces colours similar to album artwork, I noticed how well the lighting matched the actual colour of the HomePod mini 2. The pink model looked great next to white, pink, purple and red shades, while the green version better suited darker colours.

The Apple HomePod mini 2 has quickly become my favourite smart speaker to test – my review is coming soon so stay tuned – and the Sound Glow feature is one of the reasons. What’s better is if you have an older HomePod or HomePod mini, you can use this feature too if you update it to the HomePod 27.2 software.

The best LED face masks are everywhere at the moment, and it's easy to see why. More and more people are enjoying the benefits of smoother-looking skin and reduced signs of ageing from the comfort of their own homes, with many making LED a permanent part of their skincare routines.

However, whilst at-home devices have made LED treatments more accessible than ever, professional treatments still have plenty to offer. A home LED mask might be a more convenient and cost-effective option in the long run, but when it comes to results, is there still a reason to book in with a professional? And can a salon treatment deliver something you simply can't achieve at home?

I headed to the newly opened Innerskin salon on Westbourne Grove to find out. I wanted to experience a professional LED treatment first-hand, see how it compared with using a mask at home and, ultimately, discover whether it was worth the cost.

The treatment I tried was SkinFusion, Innerskin's signature facial, which promises instant radiance alongside a gradual improvement in overall skin quality. It's a multi-step experience that begins with a detailed skin analysis, followed by an Innerskin double-cleansing ritual, pressurised oxygen jet preparation and a deep cleanse. A mask is then paired with radiofrequency to further prepare the skin, before PDRN is delivered using controlled pressure rather than needles. Finally, an LED photobiomodulation session helps soothe the skin and complete the treatment.

The skin analysis deserves a mention from the outset. In fact, it was one of the most interesting parts of the whole experience, and I learnt a surprising amount about my skin. The good news? It was properly hydrated and, apparently, in keeping with my age (a sigh of relief!). Less encouragingly, the analysis also picked up on blemishes, sun spots – particularly on the right side of my face, which may be linked to time spent driving or sitting next to windows – and the first signs of fine lines, which I was already aware of.

What I appreciated most was having that insight before the treatment even began. Rather than simply settling in for a facial and hoping for the best, I knew what was going on beneath the surface, which concerns the treatment would focus on and how the different stages were intended to support my skin.

The treatment itself was every bit as enjoyable. My therapist began with a wonderfully thorough cleanse, and the cooling oxygen jet was an early highlight. She then spent a little extra time targeting specific areas of my T-zone to make sure my skin was as clean as possible before moving on to the treatment formulations. It was one of the most thorough cleansing experiences I've had, and I liked knowing the groundwork was being taken care of before the more advanced stages began.

After the various treatment steps, it was time for the LED session. SkinFusion uses Innerskin's professional triWings LED technology, which offers five different wavelengths that can be tailored to individual skin concerns. Again, this was personalised to my skin analysis, with my therapist choosing blue light to target blemishes and near-infrared light, which penetrates more deeply and is used to address signs of ageing.

Interestingly, LED isn't doing all the work when it comes to the treatment's promised glow. Before my visit, I spoke to Chrystelle Eid, founder of Innerskin, who explained that much of the immediate radiance and hydration comes from the wider facial, particularly the cleansing, exfoliation and infusion of active ingredients. LED plays a slightly different role, helping to soothe the skin after the more intensive stages. It's this combination of technologies, rather than any one step working alone, that makes SkinFusion so effective.

The Innerskin products were another part of the experience that stood out to me. One thing I really appreciated was that they weren't pushed on me in the way you can sometimes experience at salons, where the focus can feel a little too much like selling you products. Instead, my therapist took the time to explain the ingredients in each formulation, what they were designed to do and how they would benefit my skin throughout the treatment.

I did come away with two products to continue my skincare routine at home – the Glycolic Acid Cleansing Gel and Antiox-Glow C15 Serum – along with some useful advice based on my skin analysis. It felt like careful guidance instead of a sales pitch, and I left with a much better understanding of what my skin needed and why.

The glow afterwards also took me by surprise. I expected some degree of radiance, of course, but I don't think I've ever noticed such an immediate difference following a treatment. When I review at-home LED masks, one thing I always stress is that consistency is key. They're not necessarily going to deliver overnight results, so you need to commit to using them regularly as part of your routine. However, with SkinFusion, the combination of the steps used meant I could see a difference straight away.

So, does that mean professional LED treatments are better than using a mask at home? Not necessarily. The two serve slightly different purposes and, as Chrystelle explained, are best viewed as complementary rather than competing approaches. An at-home LED mask is a great way to maintain a consistent routine, but it can't replicate the full SkinFusion experience, which combines professional LED technology with expert skin analysis, targeted ingredients and several complementary treatment stages.

I can imagine incorporating a treatment like SkinFusion into your routine every six weeks or so, alongside consistent at-home skincare, as a way to enjoy immediate results whilst continuing to support and protect your skin in the longer term. If that's the balance you're looking for, SkinFusion is a treatment I'd wholeheartedly recommend.

Eufy has launched its latest security camera, and surprisingly, the thing I love the most about it isn’t its detection or video quality, but its built-in light. To deter intruders and to light your way home, the Eufy TrackLight Cam S1 has a motorised, auto-tracking light that follows you around the outside of your home – yes, really.

Integrated into the Eufy TrackLight Cam S1 is a bright floodlight and TrackLight. When it detects motion, the light turns on as a directional light beam and adjusts itself to follow potential intruders or unidentified visitors around your property, in an attempt to scare them away – and if that doesn’t work, the camera can activate a 105dB siren.

The floodlight of the Eufy TrackLight Cam S1 actually takes up the majority of the camera, and it gives out 20 lux of light. It can sense targets up to 12 metres, and the beam can also be widened or narrowed to respond when people get closer or further away from your home.

Alongside the bright light and siren, the Eufy TrackLight Cam S1 can deter people even more with its use of red and blue flashing lights. But if you’re worried about blinding your guests when they come to visit you, Eufy has thought about this, too.

In the Eufy app, users can add family members and friends to a list which allows the camera to recognise who they are using their smartphone’s Bluetooth. So, instead of the bright, tracking light, the Eufy TrackLight Cam S1 activates soft welcome lighting instead to guide the way.

In terms of camera quality, the Eufy TrackLight Cam S1 has a 4K telephoto camera which offers up to 10x zoom, so you never miss a detail. It has colour night vision to capture video even in the dark, and uses dual radars to offer a 180-degree wide detection field.

The Eufy TrackLight Cam S1 has a pan-tilt-zoom mechanism which can cover 360-degrees, so you should be able to see your full property at all times. With the Eufy app, users can also customise three detection zones to get more precise alerts about specific areas.

The design of the Eufy TrackLight Cam S1 is quite elaborate, and it’s definitely not a small model by any means. Its main camera is at the bottom of the design, and the 180-degree dual radar sits atop of it. On top of that is a 5.5W solar panel and 15,000mAh battery for consistent charging at all times.

I’ll be honest, I don’t like the appearance of the Eufy TrackLight Cam S1, as I think it looks a bit clunky. But there’s a lot to love about Eufy’s new camera, and its light is its biggest selling point for me.

The Eufy TrackLight Cam S1 is available to buy for £249.99 / $299.99 at Anker and Eufy, and it comes in black or white.

Hisense has expanded its smart fridge freezer with the PureSmart Duo Series, and it might be its smartest model yet. Alongside its refrigeration technologies, the Hisense PureSmart Duo Series is designed to act as a smart hub and entertainment centre for all your home needs.

When I first heard about fridges with screens on them, I thought they were a fad that would eventually die out. But after visiting Hisense’s HQ in Slovenia this time last year, I started to change my mind after seeing its PureView smart fridge in action, and it definitely looks like smart fridges are here to stay – something I’m now happy about.

The latest offering from Hisense is the PureSmart Duo Series. Its biggest catch is its 21-inch TFT Smart Screen which has a whole host of food, entertainment and smart functions. The Smart Screen of the Hisense PureSmart Duo Series allows you to make adjustments to the fridge itself, like adjusting its temperature, and setting timers and reminders for food expiration and filter cleaning.

In terms of food management, the Hisense PureSmart Duo Series really excels with its Food Inventory function – my favourite smart fridge feature. Using Smart Food Vision which includes three built-in cameras that sit inside the fridge, the Food Inventory feature monitors and records foods that are stored inside it.

The Food Inventory feature allows you to set expiry dates on your food, so when you view them as a list on the Smart Screen, you can see their use-by dates. The Hisense PureSmart Duo Series can also send notifications and reminders when your food is about to expire.

This feature is also extremely useful for creating shopping lists and recipes. The Smart Screen of the Hisense PureSmart Duo Series has access to over 80 recipes, and you can add ingredients from your chosen recipe directly to your shopping list for easy meal planning.

For those with the Hisense ConnectLife app, you can connect the Hisense PureSmart Duo Series to your smart home devices. Not only does it become part of your smart home ecosystem, but the Hisense PureSmart Duo Series can also act as a hub for your other gadgets, and you can use a voice assistant to talk to your fridge.

As an entertainment centre, the Hisense PureSmart Duo Series uses a VIDAA platform to access TV, music, apps and the internet – so yes, you can watch the newest episode of your favourite show on your fridge’s screen! When not in action, the screen of the Hisense PureSmart Duo Series can also be used to display artwork and screen savers.

But enough about the screen! As an actual refrigerator, the Hisense PureSmart Duo Series has a huge internal capacity, including sliding shelves, and cool fresh boxes. It uses dual-tech cooling and triple temperature zones to keep your food fresher for longer, and it has an integrated Refresh Hub Pro – a water filtration system that dispenses water and ice.

The new Hisense PureSmart Duo Series is the whole package, and with its black stainless steel finish, it looks the part in your kitchen, too. It’s available to buy at Hisense and select retailers.

EcoFlow's Stream Plug-in Solar Kit is now available to buy in the UK, giving households a new way to generate their own electricity without the need for rooftop solar installation. The system uses solar panels and a microinverter to convert sunlight into electricity that can be used to power everyday appliances.

The launch follows changes to UK plug-in solar regulations introduced on 27th August 2026, which have opened up new possibilities for more flexible home solar systems. EcoFlow first announced that the kit would be available to pre-order on 20th August, but general availability beings today.

The EcoFlow Stream Plug-in Solar Kit starts at £599 and is available now via the EcoFlow UK website.

According to EcoFlow, the Stream kit can generate up to 900kWh of electricity annually, potentially saving households up to £187 a year on their energy bills. Its microinverter can also start operating with as little as 3W of solar input, helping it make use of available daylight even in overcast conditions and at different times of the day.

EcoFlow also says the Stream meets the new UK requirements, with its microinverter registered on the Energy Networks Association (ENA) Type Test Register. It also has an IP67 rating for dust and water resistance and is designed to operate in temperatures ranging from -40°C to 65°C. The microinverter comes with a 10-year warranty, whilst the EcoFlow 500W solar panel is covered for 15 years.

If you're considering buying one, it's worth knowing that the system is designed to connect to a compatible UK socket, allowing the electricity it generates to be used by household appliances during daylight hours. However, installation and use must still meet the relevant UK electrical safety requirements, and renters or flat owners may need permission before setting up a system at their property.

You can also read our guide to five important things to know before investing in EcoFlow's new home battery if you're considering other ways to make the most of solar energy at home.

Roku appears to be dropping its smart home products so that it can focus on what it's known for - streaming entertainment.

Roku entered the smart home segment with a small selection of devices - cameras, doorbell, light strips and so on - with the most recent addition being cameras with a long battery life.

But Roku's smart home hardware has never really been that widely available and in terms of impact, we're not sure that anyone will miss its discontinuation. With Roku now owned by Fox, it might be that there's some refocusing of Roku's business.

The news comes from Janko Roettger's Lowpass newsletter (via Gizmodo), reporting that a Roku spokesperson confirmed that the focus would be on becoming the "top streaming platform".

Roku's smart home products - and the move into the segment - fits a pattern that we've seen before from brands like Sky and in the past Hive. In both cases, the companies took OEM products and rebranded them; in both cases, the results didn't stand up against established rivals.

Blink is one of the dominant players at the affordable end of the segment and is owned by Amazon. That gives it the advantage of huge exposure, regular discounts and a wide ecosystem of self-developed devices.

It does, however, lean on subscriptions to power many of the features, although starting at £2.50 a month, it's one of the cheapest subscriptions around.

Roku's affordable smart home position was also threatened by brands like Tapo, which has a huge range of devices, often at very aggressive prices with most of the features available without a subscription - using microSD storage on the devices themselves.

It's understandable that Roku would look to use its brand to make this expansion in hardware offerings, but the smart home isn't that simple. Devices need to work together, seamlessly, or come with an ecosystem advantage to encourage people to buy in.

While Roku seems to be leaving the smart home, Apple is just making its entrance with HomeView. Even with Apple's might behind it, one of the downsides of the HomeView is the limited compatibility with some big brand systems, like Ring.

Smart displays have become a familiar sight in the modern smart home, offering a convenient way to keep track of everyday tasks, check the weather, play music and control connected devices. Apple's first take on the category is the HomeView, a 7-inch smart display that brings together Siri, Apple Intelligence and Apple Home in one device.

Launched last month alongside the new HomePod mini 2 and Apple TV 4K, the HomeView is designed to act as a central hub for the home. It can recognise different household members and tailor the information it displays, with a range of features aimed at making everyday life that little bit easier.

However, there's no denying it's a considerable investment, particularly when there are already plenty of smart displays to choose from. So, how does Apple's version compare, and is it worth adding to your home? I've been putting it to the test to find out.

Price and availability

The Apple HomeView costs £299 in the UK and $299 in the US, and is available to pre-order now, with general availability starting tomorrow. It's not currently available to buy in the European Union, as Siri AI isn't yet supported on iOS in the region.

There are two versions to choose from – standalone and wall-mounted. The standalone model comes in Silver, Starlight, Rose Pink and Space Grey, whilst the wall-mounted option is available in Silver and Space Grey. I've been testing the standalone version in Starlight, which is a gorgeous sandy-gold colour.

Unboxing and set up

The standalone HomeView comes with a USB-C cable and power adapter, so getting it up and running is as simple as plugging it into a socket. The wall-mounted version is a little more involved, as you'll need to buy the mounting hardware and a USB-C power supply separately.

There are a few third-party options available, but I'd recommend the Schneider Home Power Mount USB-C Wall Connector, which is specifically designed for the HomeView. The power mount costs £54.95/$59.95, although you'll also need a minimum 20W power adapter, which costs £19/$19 from Apple.

Once you've got everything plugged in, setup is very straightforward. You'll need an iPhone or iPad running iOS/iPadOS 27.2, connected to the same Wi-Fi network and Apple Account you plan to use with your HomeView. From there, you're guided through a few settings, including whether you'd like to enable Siri AI.

I'd also recommend enrolling other members of your household during setup. The HomeView can recognise up to six people and tailor what appears on screen depending on who's using it. You can do this through the Home app or Control Centre, but it's also included in the initial setup process. As it's just me and my partner at home, getting us both added was nice and easy.

Standalone or wall-mounted?

Choosing between the two versions largely comes down to where you want to put the HomeView and how you plan to use it. The standalone model is better suited to a kitchen worktop, bedside table or shelf, whilst the wall-mounted version offers a neater look for spaces such as hallways and entrances.

Cost is another thing to consider. Both versions start at the same price, but the wall-mounted model requires additional hardware and a power supply, which can add around £100/$100 depending on the setup you choose. That's quite a bit extra just to make things look a little tidier, so it's worth thinking about whether a wall-mounted finish is important to you.

Personally, I'd also consider how often you like to move things around. I'm one of those people who gets the urge to rearrange the furniture every few months, so having the flexibility to pick the HomeView up and move it elsewhere worked better for me.

Design

The HomeView has a sleek aluminium finish and a 7-inch Liquid Retina display. The standalone version connects to a domed speaker base via a stainless steel hinge, allowing you to tilt the screen to get a comfortable viewing angle. The wall-mounted version has a speaker integrated along its bottom edge instead.

The display has a 1088 x 1088-pixel resolution at 220ppi, with True Tone technology that adjusts the screen to suit the surrounding lighting. Brightness ranges from 500 nits down to just 0.3 nits, which is ideal if you're keeping it your bedroom. There's also a fingerprint-resistant coating, and the interface adapts depending on how close you are, showing simpler information from further away and more detail when you approach.

The screen measures 14.55 x 14.55cm, whilst the standalone model measures between 9.60-13.02cm wide and 13.67-17.32cm tall, depending on its position. It weighs 952g, compared with just 286g for the wall-mounted version.

Features

One of the HomeView's biggest selling points is its ability to give everyone in the household a more personalised experience. It can sync with each person to display their apps, widgets and personal information, including Messages, Calendar and Reminders. Shared photo albums and music are also supported, so there's plenty for the whole household to enjoy.

I was initially a little concerned about personal information appearing when someone else was using the device, but the HomeView does a good job of keeping everything separate. Access to personal content such as Messages and Calendar depends on it recognising the user, with their paired iPhone or iPad nearby, connected to the same Wi-Fi network and recently unlocked. I found this reassuring during testing, particularly as it's a device designed to be shared.

The HomeView is powered by Apple's A18 chip and Siri AI, bringing Apple Intelligence into the home. I've been relying on it quite heavily to check my calendar, and I've been impressed by how much context it can pick up. For example, it can find information about plans mentioned in Messages and Mail without me having to manually add everything to my calendar. Responses are also incredibly quick, making asking questions feel much more natural.

I was also curious to see how the HomeView would work alongside my iPhone, particularly as I'm so used to saying 'Hey Siri' to my phone. I wondered whether the two devices would get confused or both respond, leaving me with a rather chaotic conversation with my tech, but that hasn't happened. Everything I've asked the HomeView to do has been handled by the HomeView, without my iPhone chiming in as well.

For FaceTime calls, the HomeView has a 12MP Center Stage camera that automatically keeps everyone in the frame, and four beamforming microphones help pick up voices across the room whilst reducing background noise. You can also send and respond to Messages using your voice or the onscreen keyboard, make audio calls and use Apple's Intercom feature to send announcements to other HomeView and HomePod speakers, as well as iPhones, iPads and Apple Watches.

Find My is built in too, allowing you to locate compatible Apple devices and AirTag-equipped belongings, as well as check the location of people who have chosen to share it with you. There's also a selection of useful built-in apps, including Calendar, FaceTime, Home, Messages, Music, Podcasts, Reminders, Safari, Timers, Weather and World Clock.

The HomeView's A18 chip also includes Secure Enclaves, which process camera and microphone data in a protected environment separate from the main operating system. This allows it to recognise faces and voices without exposing the underlying audio and visual data to the operating system or Apple.

There's no physical privacy switch or camera cover, which might be a reassuring addition for some users, but it's not something I've found particularly concerning. I would feel differently about having it in the bedroom though, which is why I'd be more inclined to use something like Amazon's new Echo Time as a bedside display. However, given the privacy features I've mentioned above, I'm comfortable having the HomeView in other areas of my home.

Smart home integration

As a big smart home fan, this is the part of HomeView I've been most excited to test. It integrates with Apple's Home app, giving you a central place to manage compatible lights, locks, cameras, thermostats and other accessories.

If you already use Apple Home, getting started is incredibly easy. Your existing accessories will appear on HomeView once you've signed in with the same Apple Account, meaning there's very little extra setup involved. If you're new to Apple Home, you'll need to add your devices through the Home app by selecting the '+' symbol and choosing 'Add Accessory'. From there, you can usually scan the product's setup QR code or follow the on-screen instructions.

I've also been testing the HomeView with some newer smart home products, including the Roborock Saros 20 Neo. As Roborock doesn't offer direct Apple Home compatibility, I had to connect it using Matter through the Roborock app. It was still easy enough to do, and once everything was linked, I could ask the HomeView to start a quick vacuum or schedule a full vacuum and mop before friends came round.

Another feature I've really enjoyed is being able to see who's at the front door. I have an Aqara Smart Doorbell Camera G410 connected to Apple Home, and its live feed appears on the HomeView as soon as someone presses the bell. I didn't need to configure anything extra, and it's quickly become one of the features I've used the most.

That said, not every smart home brand or product supports Apple Home or Matter, which means you won't necessarily be able to connect everything you own. For example, Reolink is one of my favourite security camera brands, but some of its products aren't Matter-compatible. The Reolink Argus Magicam, in particular, can't integrate directly with Apple Home either, so I couldn't view its feed through the HomeView. Ring or Blink are other examples, as their devices aren't HomeKit or Matter-certified, so they can't be connected to the HomeView either.

This isn't so much a fault with HomeView itself as a limitation of the brands that don't allow their devices to integrate with other ecosystems. It's still something worth bearing in mind, particularly if you already have a range of smart home gadgets, and I'd recommend checking compatibility before buying to make sure your existing devices will work with it.

For a more visual overview, the HomeView has dedicated Home and Home Camera faces. The Home Modular face gives you quick access to your favourite smart home accessories, whilst Home Camera can display up to nine camera feeds at once. It can also detect the sound of smoke and carbon monoxide alarms and send alerts to your iPhone, iPad or Apple Watch.

The HomeView will also work with Apple's new Home Collection, which includes smart cameras, thermostats and a door lock developed in collaboration with LG and Schneider Electric. These will be available to order starting from tomorrow too, with wider availability beginning in December.

My favourite HomeView feature

Of all the features I've tried on the HomeView, the cooking functionality is probably the one I've found myself getting the most use out of. I love following new recipes, but I'm always relying on my phone to check the next step or look back at the ingredients, but the HomeView simplifies the process entirely.

You can find a recipe in Safari on your iPhone, then transfer it to HomeView and open it in a dedicated cooking view. This breaks the recipe down into individual steps, making it easier to follow as you go. You can also use Siri to repeat instructions or get a preview of what's coming up next, so you don't have to keep stopping to check the screen.

I've found it especially useful when making dinner. I can leave the recipe on display, work through each stage and ask Siri to set a timer without having to stop and wipe my hands before touching my phone. It's also another great example of HomeView doing more than simply displaying information or controlling smart home gadgets.

Sound

As well as being a smart home hub, the HomeView doubles as an entertainment device. Its audio system features two custom full-range drivers in the display, alongside a down-firing woofer and two force-cancelling passive radiators in the base.

I've been pleasantly surprised by how room-filling the sound is. It's been great for playing quieter, calming music in the background whilst I'm working, but it can also get loud enough for having friends over. It supports Spatial Audio with Dolby Atmos, and computational audio adjusts the sound to keep things balanced, with clear highs and fuller bass at different volumes.

You can listen to Apple Music, including album artwork and lyrics, as well as Apple Podcasts, Apple News, audiobooks and Apple TV. I've personally been using Spotify, which was already available on the screen after setup. It worked seamlessly, and it feels like I'm just picking up where I left off on my phone. I haven't had to change the way I listen to music at all, which is exactly what I want from a device like this.

There's also AirPlay multiroom audio, so you can connect HomeView with HomePod, HomePod mini, Apple TV 4K and other compatible speakers around your home. This makes it easy to bring your music into more rooms, rather than having the HomeView feel like a self-contained speaker.

Verdict

After spending time with the Apple HomeView, I've realised it's much more than your average smart display. It's quickly become part of my daily routine, and I've found myself relying on it for little tasks that previously meant scrolling through emails or hunting down my iPhone. I've found it simplifies so many everyday things, making it easier to stay organised and keep on top of what's happening around my home.

The smart home features have probably been my biggest highlight, and I love how the HomeView brings everything together in one place without making me change the way I already use my devices. There are some limitations, particularly when it comes to compatibility with products that don't support Apple Home or Matter, and you'll undoubtedly get more out of it if you're already invested in Apple's ecosystem. If your smart home is spread across lots of different platforms, the HomeView might not be quite the all-in-one solution you're hoping for.

That said, if you're already an Apple Home user and want a more convenient way to manage compatible devices, keep on top of everyday tasks and enjoy your music, I think the HomeView makes a lot of sense. It's the sort of device that quietly becomes more useful the longer you have it, and having spent time with it, I can see myself continuing to use it for a very long time.

Alternatives to consider

The closest alternatives to Apple's HomeView are Amazon's Echo Show 8 and Echo Show 11, both of which launched late last year. Like the HomeView, they combine a touchscreen display with a built-in speaker, voice assistant and smart home controls, making them a useful hub for the home. The Echo Show 8 is the closest match in terms of size, with an 8.7-inch display compared to the HomeView's 7-inch screen, whilst the Echo Show 11 offers a larger 11-inch display. They're also more affordable, starting at around £180/$180 for the Echo Show 8 and £220/$250 for the Echo Show 11. The biggest difference comes down to the ecosystem, with Amazon's devices built around Alexa and support for a wide range of smart home products, whilst the HomeView is designed to work most seamlessly with Apple's devices and services.

Wyze has just launched its latest smart lock, and its advanced technology and unlocking methods have convinced me to upgrade my front door. The new Wyze Lever Lock has a built-in fingerprint scanner like most smart locks do, but what sets it apart is where the scanner is located – on the door handle.

Wyze has an extensive collection of smart locks, most of which have fingerprint or palm vein recognition, but the Wyze Lever Lock takes this to a whole new level. Instead of pressing or holding your hand in front of the lock, homeowners only need to grip and turn the handle of the Wyze Lever Lock to enter their home.

The handle of the Wyze Lever Lock has an integrated fingerprint reader which scans your finger as you hold it. According to Wyze, the fingerprint recognition takes half a second, so you can gain access to your home quickly, easily and without having to use a key or tap an app.

Aside from the handle entry, the Wyze Lever Lock can be unlocked in multiple ways. By connecting the Wyze Lever Lock to the Wyze app, you can quickly unlock your door remotely or as you approach the door. The lock also has a touchscreen keypad for PIN codes, and it comes with a backup key in case of emergencies.

The keypad of the Wyze Lever Lock is especially handy if you have a lot of visitors to your home, or run an Airbnb. Users can create one-time codes for scheduled guest access, and it can even set up and store up to 50 passcodes.

To keep from strangers seeing or using your code, the Wyze Lever Lock has a handy feature which lets you type in random numbers before or after your PIN. It’ll still unlock your door when you do this, but it’s a clever way to prevent people being able to look over your shoulder and see the PIN you’re putting in.

For extra safety, the Wyze Lever Lock sends tamper alerts if it detects multiple incorrect PINs, and it automatically locks your door when it shuts. The lock’s built-in Wi-Fi 6 also maintains a constant connection without the use of a hub, and it’s compatible with Alexa and Google Home.

Installing a smart lock is a bit daunting but Wyze claims that the Wyze Lever Lock is ‘made for simpletons’. Users simply have to swap their existing handle and attach the new Wyze Lever Lock with the use of a Phillips screwdriver and an app that takes you through the entire process.

In terms of battery life, the Wyze Lever Lock is battery powered, and comes with eight AA batteries. Wyze claims that the lock will last up to 12 months with 20 unlocks a day.

The Wyze Lever Lock is available to buy for $99.98, making it one of the most affordable smart locks on the market. As of writing, it’s not yet available in the UK or Europe.

Arlo has just dropped two third generation video doorbells to its ever-expanding collection. The new Arlo Video Doorbell 2K (3rd Gen) and Arlo Wired Video Doorbell 2K (3rd Gen) both have incredible resolution, wide field of views, and the quickest, easiest installation from Arlo to date.

Setting up a video doorbell is much easier than it might initially appear, even for hardwired models that you have to connect to existing wiring. As we found when we tested the Arlo 2K Video Doorbell which came out in 2024, the setup process was extremely easy, and it could be installed both wirelessly and wired.

The new third generation Arlo doorbells are designed for quick and easy DIY installation. The Arlo Video Doorbell 2K (3rd Gen) is battery powered while the Arlo Wired Video Doorbell 2K (3rd Gen) is hardwired, and both automatically connect to the strongest 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz signals to keep your doorbell online at all times.

Instead of continuously having to remove the battery from the doorbell to recharge it, the Arlo Video Doorbell 2K (3rd Gen) comes with the option for trickle charging. It can be placed anywhere wire-free, or you can connect it to existing doorbell wiring for continuous charging.

Alternatively, the Arlo Wired Video Doorbell 2K (3rd Gen) is hardwired but as you’ll find out in our guide to setting up a video doorbell, connecting to existing wiring is extremely easy, and means your doorbell is always on and watching your home. By hardwiring this doorbell, you also get Arlo Foresight which captures the seconds leading up to when motion is detected.

Aside from their different set-up options, the new third generation Arlo video doorbells have similar features, including 2K HDR video with 12x zoom, and a wide 180-degree field of view. The doorbells also come with night vision, an integrated siren and two-way audio which you can access via the Arlo app.

As with all Arlo doorbell and camera collections, the new Arlo video doorbells connect to the Arlo app to send real-time notifications while you’re away and monitor your home at all times. If you choose a paid Arlo subscription, you also get access to the Arlo Secure Early Warning System which can connect you to safety agents to dispatch emergency services if needed.

The new Arlo 3rd Gen doorbells now come in four new colour options – white, black, sand dune and greystone – to better match your home’s exterior. They’re also compatible with Alexa, Google Home, Samsung SmartThings and IFTTT to become part of your smart home ecosystem.

Both the Arlo Video Doorbell 2K (3rd Gen) and Arlo Wired Video Doorbell 2K (3rd Gen) are available to pre-order now at Arlo for $79.99. Shoppers can also buy them with a chime for $99.99. As of writing, the Arlo 3rd Gen doorbells are not yet available in the UK or Europe.

Katie Loxton has launched its first-ever hardshell suitcase range, the Avora Hardshell Suitcase. Available in cabin and large check-in sizes, the new cases are designed to complement the brand's existing Milan Cabin Bag collection.

Both sizes come in two tonal colourways, black and cream, and can be customised with a choice of suitcase straps. There are 14 styles available, with the option to personalise the straps for an additional cost or add embroidered initials to your case. This sets your luggage apart from other best suitcases, as well as making it easier to spot in the airport.

The Avora range is available to shop from Monday 16th November via the Katie Loxton website, with the Large Hardshell Suitcase priced at £249.99 and the Hardshell Cabin Case costing £199.99.

Made from durable, impact-resistant polycarbonate, the suitcases are designed to survive knocks and bumps whilst remaining relatively lightweight. The hard shell is also water-resistant, and both sizes feature a TSA-approved combination lock, four smooth-rolling 360-degree wheels and a retractable handle, alongside a top handle for easier lifting.

Inside, multiple pockets and a compression strap help keep clothes and accessories organised, and each case comes with a dustbag for storage and a three-year warranty. There's even the option to add a free personalised gift bag, making either suitcase a perfect gift for Christmas.

Peak Design has been making some of the most thoughtfully designed camera bags and travel accessories for years, but the company's ambitions have recently expanded beyond its traditional territory.

Last year's Roller Pro marked its first major move into premium rolling luggage, introducing a rather unconventional suitcase with a carbon fibre handle mechanism and an ingenious opening system.

Now, the San Francisco-based brand is back with the Roller Lite collection, a range of three hard-shell suitcases that take a slightly different approach to luggage design.

The brand has stripped things back, creating lighter, more affordable cases that offer more packing capacity than the original Roller Pro.

And the cleverest part of the design is something most travellers probably wouldn't give a second thought.

A little engineering goes a long way

The secret is Peak Design's proprietary SlimDrive trolley system, which replaces the aluminium tubes typically found in wheeled suitcases with an ultra-slim carbon fibre construction.

According to the brand, the system is lighter and considerably stiffer than conventional aluminium alternatives, while its streamlined profile leaves more room for your belongings.

The standard Roller Lite Carry-On offers 38 litres of internal capacity, expandable to 45 litres, despite weighing only 3.2kg.

The more expensive Roller Pro offers 34 litres, expandable to 39 litres, and weighs approximately 3.9kg.

Of course, there are compromises. The new collection replaces the Roller Pro's more elaborate opening mechanism with a traditional clamshell design and does away with features such as its external laptop compartment.

Three ways to pack

The Roller Lite collection consists of three models, starting with the standard 38-litre Carry-On, which is designed to comply with the cabin baggage requirements of most international airlines.

The slightly larger Carry-On+ increases the capacity to 43 litres, expandable to 50 litres, and weighs 3.3kg. It's primarily intended for US travellers, where cabin baggage allowances can be more generous.

The largest 95-litre Roller Lite Trunk is designed for longer journeys and those who need considerably more packing space.

Either of the smaller cases can fit inside the Trunk when not in use, making storage easier when you take empty suitcases on your Japanese shopping trip.

All three models feature custom smooth-gliding wheels, low-profile handles, a felt-lined interior, an integrated TSA-compatible lock and a retention system.

More importantly, Peak Design has made the components replaceable, letting you repair damaged or worn parts rather than replace the entire suitcase.

"With Roller Pro, we reimagined what a suitcase could do and how it could feel. But let's face it, not everyone needs a suitcase that does quite so much," says Peak Design founder and CEO Peter Dering.

"So with Roller Lite, we took all those hard-won innovations and packed them into something lighter, roomier, and refreshingly simple."

The Roller Lite collection is available now at Peak Design. The standard Carry-On costs £399.99 / $449.95 / €449.99, while the 95-litre Trunk retails for £499.99 / $549.95 / €549.99. The Carry-On+ is priced at $469.95 in the US.

The two smaller models come in Black, Cypress and Stone, while the Trunk is available exclusively in Black. Peak Design is also offering a limited-time 10% introductory discount across the collection.

Apple has launched an updated version of its World Travel Adapter Kit worldwide, following the discontinuation of the original model last year. The new kit has been refreshed in response to what Apple describes as “updated regulations."

Like many of the best travel adapters, Apple's World Travel Adapter Kit is designed to work in multiple countries, making it useful for international trips. It's also compatible with the latest versions of Apple's 70W and 140W Power Adapters.

The Apple World Travel Adapter Kit costs £39/$39/€45 and is available from the Apple Store and selected retailers, including Amazon. Buyers can choose free one-business-day delivery or opt for in-store collection.

Inside the kit, you'll find five interchangeable AC plugs, including Type A for North America and Japan, Type C for Europe and Brazil, Type D for India, Type G for the UK, UAE and Singapore, and Type I for Australia and New Zealand.

Apple has also published a guide to using extension cables and duckheads with Apple power adapters, which provides further information about its power adapter accessories.

Cuisinart has launched its new Color Collection, and it’s made me love its range of air fryers even more! With six exclusive colours available across 11 of Cuisinart’s bestselling appliances, the Cuisinart Color Collection is here to add some extra style to your kitchen – but there’s a catch for those across the pond.

The Cuisinart Color Collection comes in six colours – Tahini, Bayside, Sage, Blush, Toasted Oat and Blue. Despite ranging from blues to greens to pinks, the colours available are quite subtle and pastel, adding some warm, neutral shades to your kitchen.

To really go for the neutral theme, Tahini and Toasted Oat are the more understated colours in the collection. Blush is more powerful with a bright pop of pink, and Bayside, Blue and Sage are inspired by the coast.

For fans of Cuisinart, you’ll be happy to know that most of its bestselling appliances now feature in the brand’s Color Collection. This includes its range of air fryers, ice cream makers, food processors, toasters and kettles.

My personal favourite is the Cuisinart ClearView 4Qt Glass Air Fryer, which now comes in Tahini, Sage, Bayside and Toasted Oat. Best described as a Ninja Crispi dupe, the Cuisinart ClearView 4Qt Glass Air Fryer features the colours on the base, top and controls, while the glass container remains the same.

Another standout from the line is the Cuisinart Compact Air Fryer Toaster Oven which is available in Tahini or Bayside. I love the Bayside colour on this air fryer, and it makes it look even more similar to the Our Place Wonder Oven.

The Cuisinart Color Collection is available to buy now at Cuisinart. The slight ‘catch’ to the launch is that the Cuisinart Color Collection is currently only available in the US, so shoppers in the UK and Europe won’t be able to buy the new colours – at least not yet anyway.

Whether the Cuisinart Color Collection will be available across the pond is unknown, but I’d love to fill my kitchen with Bayside colours, so hopefully this changes soon. The Color Collection appliances are rolling out from now until early 2027, with more appliances expected to be added to the range, and Blue and Toasted Oat to come soon.

Meross' new MS120 Smart Temperature & Humidity Sensor is now available to buy, having launched at the beginning of September alongside two other smart sensors and the MSH450P Matter Smart Hub Pro.

As its name suggests, the MS120 focuses on temperature and humidity monitoring, offering a temperature resolution of 0.1°C and relative humidity resolution of 1%, across an operating range of -20°C to 60°C.

The sensor is available now on Amazon for £49.99 as part of a bundle with the MSH450P Matter Smart Hub Pro, so everything you need to get started is included.

Alongside temperature and humidity, the MS120 can track dew point, vapour pressure deficit (VPD) and absolute humidity. It runs on a CR123A battery, which Meross says can last for up to three years, and has an IP66 rating, making it suitable for use in appropriate indoor and outdoor locations.

The included hub unlocks remote monitoring, app alerts and smart home automations. With a claimed signal range of up to 150 metres in suitable conditions, it connects the sensor to compatible platforms including Home Assistant, Apple Home, Amazon Alexa and Google Home. Just bear in mind that the actual range will vary depending on walls and interference, whilst available features will depend on your chosen platform and setup.

Ring has surprisingly announced a couple of new security devices that aren't its usual cameras or doorbells. It has introduced two robots that can potentially patrol your home when you're out.

The Ring Drone Cam is an indoor, flying camera with its own charging dock. It uses AI to fly around your home when empty, keeping an eye on every room without you needing to install individual devices.

You can set custom flight routes and a schedule through the Ring app. It can also be deployed on demand. The drone will whizz around, automatically peering in each room on its route and setting off an alarm if it spots trouble.

It will also automatically head to an area where an alarm or sensor has been triggered, to record video of the intruder or incident.

The Ring Drone Cam comes with a 148-degree field of view and it can spin around 360-degrees. It records in 2K video day or night, with two LED lights that activate in low-light conditions.

The other robotic security guard is ground-based. The Ring Rover Cam performs a similar function but is an autonomous, wheeled bot that can patrol rooms from the floor. It will perform 360-degree scans of rooms when visiting, which can be done on a scheduled patrol or if you tap on the room map in the app.

It too will automatically respond to incidents when triggered and includes a built-in sired and light tower to ensure intruders are left in no doubt that they have been spotted.

The Ring Rover records continuous 4K video when patrolling or moving, so you can review every journey.

The Ring Drone Cam will be available in the US from 27 January 2027, priced at $249.99. The Ring Rover Cam will be released a bit sooner – on 16 December 2026. It costs $999.99.

We're still awaiting details on a wider rollout, including UK availability and pricing.

Whilst Smeg's range of coffee machines might not be the biggest, it has built a reputation for its quality and premium designs. It's one of my favourite names when it comes to the best bean-to-cup coffee machines, but you'll need a fairly generous budget to get your hands on one.

That said, whilst some of Smeg's machines cost well over £1,000, there are a few more affordable options available for a few hundred pounds – if you know where to look.

Below, I've picked out three worth considering and what makes each one stand out.

Check out our other affordable coffee machine guides...

• 3 affordable Breville coffee machines I'd buy over an expensive one

• 3 affordable Smeg coffee machines I'd buy over an expensive one

• 3 affordable Ninja coffee machines I'd buy over an expensive one

• 3 affordable De'Longhi coffee machines I'd buy over an expensive one

With millions of households set to receive a £100 energy payment this winter, finding ways to keep energy bills down is likely to be high on many people's priority lists.

To help households make their money go further, Madeline Porter, Head of Marketing at Utility Bidder, has shared six simple ways to heat your home more efficiently and reduce energy use this winter. She explains: “The £100 payment for households in council tax bands A to D this winter will offer welcome short-term relief to eligible households. However, looking ahead, improving energy efficiency through better insulation, more efficient heating systems and smarter energy management will be essential to reducing energy consumption and lowering bills.”

Below, we've rounded up her six tips to help you stay warm whilst keeping your energy costs in check.

1. . Set your thermostat between 18°C and 21°C

For most people, a comfortable indoor temperature is between 18°C and 21°C. According to the Energy Saving Trust, turning your thermostat down from 22°C to 21°C could save around £120 a year on energy bills.

2. Programme your heating around your routine

A timer or programmer lets you control when your heating and hot water come on and switch off. Make sure your heating works around your daily routine, so your home is warm when you need it most. Set your timer to switch on shortly before you wake up or arrive home, and turn it off earlier in the evening. This helps make the most of the heat already in your home without using energy when it's no longer needed.

3. Add a shelf above your radiator

A correctly positioned shelf above your radiator can help direct warm air further into the room, rather than allowing it to rise straight towards the ceiling. For an extra boost, try placing a small fan on the shelf, angled outwards into the room. Whilst it might sound strange to use a fan in winter, it can help circulate warm air more evenly, reducing cold spots and making better use of the heat your radiator produces.

4. Check your boiler's flow temperature

Turning down your boiler's flow temperature can help it run more efficiently without making your home feel colder. Check your boiler settings and consider reducing the flow temperature to around 60°C or lower. This can help modern boilers operate in condensing mode, which uses less energy.

5. Lower your hot water temperature slightly

Your hot water doesn't need to be scalding, and heating it more than necessary can waste energy. For combi boilers, reducing the hot water temperature to around 50-55°C can help cut energy use whilst still providing comfortably hot water.

6. Block draughts, including around your letterbox

Draught excluders, window seals and properly fitted curtains can all help reduce heat loss and keep rooms warmer for longer. Don't forget your letterbox either, as it effectively creates a small opening straight through your front door, allowing cold air to enter. Fitting a letterbox brush or flap is a quick DIY job that can help keep draughts at bay and retain warmth inside your home.

Scapade has launched the AirPack Dual, which it describes as the world's first travel backpack to support both Apple Find My and Google Find Hub tracking. This means the bag can be tracked by both iPhone and Android users, making it a more versatile option for travellers regardless of which smartphone they use.

It's not the first time Scapade has incorporated tracking technology into its luggage, with the original AirPack launching in September 2025. The new model also features wireless charging and one-press activation, making it easier to keep track of your bag whilst on the move.

The Scapade AirPack Dual costs £124.99/€149.99 and is available to buy directly from Scapade's online store.

Beyond its smart features, the AirPack Dual has a 28-litre capacity, with space for a laptop and other tech accessories. It features a hidden TSA-approved lock, durable waterproof fabric and an ergonomic design, and the bag also opens flat, making it easier to pack and organise your belongings.

First launched at IFA, Haier's new floorcare appliances are now available to buy. Each one is designed to tackle common household cleaning frustrations, from limited battery life and tangled hair to the time and effort involved in washing floors.

The new range includes the I-Pro Clean M5 Cordless Vacuum Cleaner, I-Pro Clean M5 Station and I-Pro Clean Z5 Wet & Dry Cleaner. All three feature a selection of cleaning technologies, including Double Roller technology and automatic dirt detection, whilst the Z5 also offers the ability to vacuum and wash floors simultaneously.

All three products are available now from Haier's UK online store. The I-Pro Clean M5 costs £259, the I-Pro Clean M5 Station is £349, and the I-Pro Clean Z5 is priced at £239.

The I-Pro Clean M5 is a cordless vacuum featuring Haier's Double Roller System, which cleans on both forward and backward movements to help cover floors more efficiently. It offers up to 100 minutes of runtime on a single charge, which is good for even the best cordless vacuum cleaners, and uses automatic dirt detection in the process.

The I-Pro Clean M5 Station offers the same cleaning features but comes with a self-emptying charging dock. When the vacuum is returned to its station, dust is automatically transferred into an integrated 3-litre bag, reducing the need for manual emptying. The station also uses plasma disinfection technology, which Haier claims can eliminate up to 99.99% of bacteria inside the unit.

Completing the range is the I-Pro Clean Z5, a cordless wet-and-dry cleaner that vacuums and washes hard floors simultaneously. It combines 25,000Pa of suction power with a double-roller system and intelligent dirt detection to tackle both wet and dry messes in a single pass.

The Z5 also features an automatic roller-cleaning system, which uses hot water to wash the rollers before drying them with hot air. According to Haier, the process takes just five minutes, leaving the rollers ready for their next use.

According to new code as spotted by pdfu, the Apple HomeView could be used as a HomeKit security camera. Strings found in HomeView Software 27.2 show support for HomeKit Secure Video, and once enabled, it could potentially allow the HomeView camera to monitor and record events in your home.

The HomeView was officially announced during Apple’s ‘Welcome Home’ event in October, after years of speculation about a new Apple smart home hub and display. It’s scheduled to be released on the 13th November, but if this code ‘leak’ is to be believed, it’s already getting software and feature updates.

While Apple hasn’t officially announced anything, pdfu on X has found localisation strings in HomeView Software 27.2 that could enable the HomeView to work as a security camera. As quoted from the post, “With HomeKit Security Camera enabled, HomeView’s camera can be used for activity detection, streaming and recording.”

If this software update is to be believed, there are four streaming / recording options available that allow users to manage how the HomeView works as a security camera. First is ‘Off’ which means the HomeView won’t detect any motion, or stream or record footage, and Home members won’t be able to stream in real time.

The other three options are Detect Activity, Stream and Stream & Allow Recording. Detect Activity does exactly what you’d expect – it detects motion but won’t stream or record anything. The Stream setting is for Home members to stream in real time without recording, and Stream & Allow Recording offers both, as well as viewing recordings.

Privacy is a top priority with this supposed feature. Users can customise when they want the camera to detect, stream or record, with the options being when you’re at home, away and asleep. Streaming, recording and detecting is also completely private to Home members, as only they can view them, and notifications will be sent if any camera settings are changed.

Other features include light and sound indicators so you can see when the HomeView is streaming or recording. A green light should appear on the display, and a sound should play when the camera starts to record, and when someone views the stream.

Your iPhone and other Apple devices with location enabled are expected to be used so the HomeView knows when you’re home and away, so it can trigger when the camera records or not. The pdfu post also states that face recognition, activity zones and other camera settings are available in the Home App, and location detection can be changed for specific devices in iCloud Settings.

Anker has announced the launch of the Eufy Robot Vacuum Omni S2 Pro, which it describes as the world's first robot vacuum to combine UV-C light and electrolysed water in a single floor-disinfection system.

It builds on the original Eufy Omni S2, which already used electrolysed water in its HydroJet 2.0 mopping system. The new S2 Pro adds UV-C floor disinfection, combining the two technologies to tackle bacteria and mould spores on hard floors, as well as dust mites and pollen allergens embedded deep within carpets.

Th Eufy Robot Vacuum Omni S2 Pro is available from today, priced at £1,599 in the UK and $1,699 in the US. It's available directly from Anker's online store.

The Omni S2 Pro uses six UV-C LEDs beneath the robot alongside electrolysed water, with Anker claiming the combination achieves a 99.99% disinfection rate against common household pathogens. The electrolysed water is made from tap water and provides antibacterial protection for up to five days, whilst the mop uses water heated to 55°C to help break down grease.

Mopping is handled by the upgraded HydroJet 3.0 system, which features a 290mm roller that applies 16N of downward pressure. Dual scrapers clean the roller eight times per second, helping to remove collected dirt and ensure it uses fresh water as it moves around the home.

The robot offers up to 40,000Pa of suction, which is more than impressive for the best robot vacuum cleaners, and uses a five-layer AeroTurbo 3.0 filtration system to capture dust and allergens. It also comes with the UniClean Hot Wash-and-Dry Station, which automatically empties, washes, dries and refills the robot.

Navigation is handled by CleanMind AI, which uses 3D laser technology to map the home and recognise more than 360 types of obstacle, including objects as small as 1cm. It can identify different rooms and floor types, automatically adjusting suction and water flow accordingly. The CornerRover system also extends the side brush and mop to reach into corners, whilst additional lasers help the robot clean along walls and skirting boards.

Other features include a built-in fragrance diffuser with two scent options, designed to help neutralise household odours, including pet smells. The robot can also climb thresholds up to 3.5cm high, or 7cm when tackling a double threshold.

We're currently testing the Omni S2 Pro, so keep an eye out for our full review and verdict soon.

It’s wild to think that the Ninja Crispi only came out a year ago, as its glass, portable design has completely taken over the world of air fryers. Since then, more and more glass air fryers have hit the market with brands like Cuisinart, Dreame and Salter making their own versions – but this model by Magnifique might be my favourite one yet.

California-founded appliance company, Magnifique is known for its non-toxic, pure clay kitchen gadgets. But it's the brand’s new air fryer which has caught my attention. While its glass design and pod-like cooking system make it look like another Ninja Crispi dupe, Magnifique’s version of the glass air fryer makes it stand out among the rest – here’s why.

The Magnifique Combo is a 12-in-1 appliance that combines both an air fryer and multi-cooker in one compact gadget. Dubbed as ‘the only appliance that allows you to slow cook and air fryer in the same glass dish’, the Magnifique Combo has eight multi-cooker modes and four air fryer modes.

How the Magnifique Combo works is similar to the Ninja Crispi which attaches the main heating element directly to its glass container. The Magnifique Combo does this too, as its AirCrisper unit attaches to its 4.5-quart glass pot and has the controls at the top, which include time, temperature, and a choice between Air Fryer, MaxCrisp, ReCrisp and Bake.

To use it as a multi-cooker, the Magnifique Combo sits on its multi-cooker base which ‘unlocks’ eight cooking methods, including slow cook, braise, steam, proof, pasta, rice, oatmeal and keep warm. Instead of attaching the AirCrisper unit, the Magnifique Combo has a glasspot lid which fits on top while in multi-cooker mode.

Aside from its pure glass material, the Magnifique Combo is also made from stainless steel, making it high quality and easy to clean. There are also no coatings or chemicals on the air fryer, making it a non-toxic option for your kitchen. It also comes with attachments, including a crisper disk, steam rack and storage lid.

Available in oatmeal or sage colours, the Magnifique Combo 12-in-1 Air Fryer & Multi-Cooker is priced at $249.99. Sadly, it’s not available in the UK so I’ll just have to hope that it ventures to this side of the pond one day.

I've seen some unusual approaches to home lighting, but this one looks like it's landed straight from another planet. WOLOLOW 2.0 is a tabletop lamp designed by Arthur Koshatahyan and Kostya Trunov, taking inspiration from one of the strangest buildings of the 1960s.

That building is the Futuro House, a futuristic prefabricated home designed by Finnish architect Matti Suuronen in 1968. With its flying-saucer silhouette and raised legs, it looked more like something you'd expect to find in a science-fiction film than on a residential street. Now, its distinctive shape has been shrunk down into an eye-catching bedside light.

A miniature flying saucer for your bedside table

WOLOLOW 2.0 recreates the Futuro House's elliptical shape, complete with a ring of oval portholes and three angled metal legs. Its transparent-looking architectural influence is replaced by an opaque shell, while the five available finishes – white, yellow, orange, sky blue and mirror chrome – give it plenty of personality.

When switched on, light shines through the individual openings, highlighting the shape and details of the housing. It's designed to work as either a bedside lamp or an accent light, although I suspect the chrome version will attract just as much attention when switched off.

The updated model also makes a practical change to the original design. Rather than relying on an integrated battery, version 2.0 uses a wired power connection and a replaceable 12V MR16 LED bulb with a GU5.3 fitting. That means you can swap out the bulb when needed, or install a compatible smart LED bulb for features such as dimming and RGB lighting.

How much does WOLOLOW 2.0 cost?

WOLOLOW 2.0 is currently being funded through Kickstarter, although a confirmed retail price and delivery date aren't detailed. The project is the latest version of the original WOLOLOW night lamp, which was also inspired by the Futuro House.

As a huge Le Creuset fan and someone who has spent far too much time deliberating over which colour to choose, I was more than excited to hear about the brand's new personalised colour-matching experience. Choosing a Le Creuset shade might seem like a straightforward decision to some, but when you're investing in cookware you'll hopefully keep for years, it's not quite so simple.

Part of Le Creuset's Made to Be Yours campaign, the experience uses AI and cameras to analyse your responses and find your ideal colour match. It narrows down 16 of Le Creuset's signature shades to one personalised recommendation, based on the colours, patterns and movements you're naturally drawn to.

The experience is taking place at Harrods' Linley Kitchen, so I headed along to see how it worked and, naturally, find out which Le Creuset colour was supposedly made for me. No pressure, then.

Set among a glorious display of Le Creuset cookware, the installation is hard to miss. It consists of a wall of five screens, including three large 86-inch displays, which create an immersive space for the colour-matching process. I walked up, ready to give it a go, and was guided through three rounds of prompts. Each one asked me to look at different parts of the screens and respond to what caught my attention, whether that was a particular movement or visual effect.

It sounds simple enough, but there's something quite funny about trying to respond instinctively when you know you're ultimately going to be given a colour recommendation. I had to resist the temptation to second-guess the process or steer it towards a shade I already liked. Instead, I tried to focus on what was actually in front of me and let my natural preferences do the work.

Before I knew it, the screens had processed my responses and revealed my result: Azure.

Launched in 2023, this bold blue colourway takes its inspiration from the Mediterranean Sea, and it's a particularly beautiful shade. It's brighter and more vibrant than the neutral tones I usually gravitate towards, but I instantly loved it.

Alongside the colour, I was given a short description of what my result supposedly says about me. Azure, apparently, represents someone who is “profound and graceful with a refreshing presence”. I'm not entirely sure how accurately that sums me up, but it's a rather lovely thing to be told by a wall of screens, so I'll take it.

I could also scan a QR code to access a personalised video of my result, which was easy to share with friends and family. With Christmas approaching, I can see this being particularly useful for anyone looking to drop a not-so-subtle hint about which Le Creuset colour they'd like to find under the tree.

I left Harrods with a newfound appreciation for a colour I probably wouldn't have considered before, and a slightly clearer idea of what I'd like to add to my collection next. Again, it might seem like a small decision, but anyone who's grown up around Le Creuset, or appreciates the quality and longevity of its cookware, will understand why choosing the right colour can feel like such a big deal. These are pieces you're likely to use for years, so the shade you choose becomes just as much a part of your kitchen as the cookware itself.

That said, the experience is only running for a limited time, with its final day being Sunday 15th November. So, if you're curious to find out which Le Creuset colour best matches your personality, you'll need to head to Harrods' Linley Kitchen before then. You might even discover a new favourite shade along the way.

I've already covered all the gifts a bearded man could want this Christmas, so now it's time to turn to beauty. There's been a steady stream of new beauty tech launches throughout 2026, covering everything from hair styling to skincare gadgets, which means there's quite a bit to choose from.

I've rounded up a selection of this year's releases, most of which I've had the chance to test myself. Whether you're shopping for someone who enjoys keeping up with the latest beauty trends or simply looking for a few Christmas gift ideas, these are the products worth taking a look at.

It’s my favourite time of the year – Le Creuset has finally dropped its new Christmas collection. While it might be too early for some to talk about the ‘C’ word, the Le Creuset L’Étoile has got me excited for the season with its range of festive-inspired cookware and bakeware essentials.

Similar to last year’s Christmas collection, the L’Étoile range is full of festive-inspired cookware and bakeware. Instead of favouring holly like it did for 2025, Le Creuset has adorned its limited edition collection with winter stars, a decoration that is synonymous with the Christmas holiday.

The star decorations are displayed on the top of Le Creuset’s casserole dishes, as the centre piece of its plates, and on the side of its bowls, mugs and other accessories. As you’d expect with a Christmas collection, the L’Étoile range comes in red, white and green – or cerise, cotton and forêt as the brand calls them.

Aside from the stars, the main difference between Le Creuset’s 2025 and 2026 Christmas collections is the green colour. This year, Le Creuset introduces its forêt colourway, a deep, forest-like emerald green that’s much richer yet brighter than the 2025 green shade.

As someone who keeps up to date with Le Creuset, I also noticed that the L’Étoile collection has more accessories than before. This includes mini cocottes, gravy boats and its Christmas Tree pie vent, which has since gone to the top of my Christmas list.

But if I were to buy anything from Le Creuset for the Christmas season, it’d be this ‘hidden’ gem that I found in its Latest Arrivals section. While it’s not included in the main L’Étoile collection, the Le Creuset Cast Iron Signature Fondue Set is the perfect festive cookware.

I don’t know how the tradition started but growing up, my family always used to have cheese fondue every Christmas Eve, so the Le Creuset Cast Iron Signature Fondue Set caught my attention immediately, and made me feel very nostalgic.

Available in Le Creuset’s signature volcanic orange colour, the Cast Iron Signature Fondue Set is made from enamelled cast iron, and can be used to melt cheese, chocolate and oil. It retains heat nicely for even cooking, and keeps everything nice and toasty warm for serving and sharing.

The Le Creuset Cast Iron Signature Fondue Set looks almost identical to the fondue set I had as a kid, although its looped handles are a noticeable difference that make it look more like a Le Creuset casserole dish. It comes with a stainless steel crown as the lid which has divots around the inside to hold the wooden, colour-coded forks, of which the Cast Iron Signature Fondue Set comes with six.

At £315, the Le Creuset Cast Iron Signature Fondue Set is something I might have to splurge on to keep with my favourite family Christmas tradition.

Nanoleaf and Philips Hue might seem like a natural pairing, given their shared love of colourful and customisable lighting. However, despite their similarities, the two smart home ecosystems have largely operated separately until now. That's finally changing, opening up new possibilities for existing Hue users who want to bring Nanoleaf's distinctive wall lights into their homes.

We recently spoke to the brains behind the collaboration to get an insight into how it came about and what it means for the future of smart lighting. Now, I've been trying the new integration for myself with the Hue x Nanoleaf Hexagon Starter Set, which includes nine panels and the dedicated wall light module, to see how well it all comes together in practice.

Price and availability

The Philips Hue x Nanoleaf Hexagon Shapes bundles start at £214.98 for 9 hexagons or 9 triangles plus the Hue Wall light module. Starter sets with 12 panels will set you back £259.97, while the 15 pack of hexagons costs £304.95.

If you already happen to own any of the Nanoleaf Shapes panels mentioned above, you can also buy the Philips Hue wall light module separately for £34.99.

Unboxing and set up

If you already have the Hue ecosystem set up in your home, the starter bundle comes with everything you need. This includes the Hue module, 9 hexagon panel lights, 9 backing clips, 10 connectors and a multipack of backing stickers to attach them to your wall.

I found the setup really easy. You just stick and click the panels as you go, so you don’t need to build your entire setup before adding it to the wall. I also found the included plug cable to be a good size if you need a little extra stretch from your sockets to where you want the panels on your wall.

The one downside I did notice during setup is that there’s only ten connector clips included in the starter pack. This means the initial layouts you can create are limited, as some structures need multiple clips to hold them securely in place.

Once the panels are assembled and powered, getting them into the Hue app is just as simple. The small Hue wall light module connects to the panels via a Nanoleaf linker, and all you need to do is open the Hue app and scan the QR code on the module. The Shapes will then appear alongside your other connected Hue lights, without needing to set them up separately through the Nanoleaf app. A Hue Bridge isn't essential for the initial connection, but having one gives you access to additional Hue features.

Design and features

The appeal of the Nanoleaf Shapes has always been their customisable, interchangeable design – and the introduction of the Philips Hue functionality only adds to this. Each panel can be connected to another to create a layout of your choice, whether that's a simple geometric pattern or a much larger wall installation. The panels are designed to sit together seamlessly, with coloured lighting that can transform a wall into a decorative feature.

Once connected, you can control the Shapes just like other Hue lights, adjusting their brightness and colours, adding them to rooms and zones, and using them in the hundreds of pre-made static and dynamic Hue scenes. You can also include them in schedules and automations, control them using compatible voice assistants and group them with other Hue lighting to create a more cohesive atmosphere throughout your home.

That said, there are a few limitations worth keeping in mind. As this partnership is primarily designed to bring Nanoleaf lighting into the Hue ecosystem, not every feature from the Nanoleaf app carries across. Music visualisations, Nanoleaf-specific scenes, effects and touch gestures aren't available through the Hue app, and you'll also need to have compatible Nanoleaf Shapes panels, as older products such as the original Aurora and Canvas ranges aren't supported. The integration currently covers Hexagons, Triangles and Mini Triangles.

Performance

Thankfully, the Nanoleaf Shapes integrate seamlessly with the Hue app, so switching over doesn't mean having to compromise on responsiveness or compatibility. I found it really easy to move between different lighting scenes, and the panels worked particularly well alongside my main office light, which also uses a Philips Hue colour bulb. Everything felt nicely joined up, rather than like I was managing two separate lighting systems.

I'm a big fan of colour lighting and enjoy changing things up depending on my mood and the time of day. On darker days, I'll often opt for a brighter, more vibrant gradient to lift the room, before switching to softer pinks and oranges when I'm winding down in the evening. With so many colours and scenes to choose from, there's plenty of scope to experiment, and I found myself regularly changing the look of my office throughout the day.

That said, there is one limitation worth mentioning. At the moment, you can't have the Nanoleaf controller module and Philips Hue wall light module connected at the same time, meaning you can't control the panels through both apps simultaneously. Philips Hue has confirmed that combined control is planned for a future software update, but there's no confirmed release date just yet.

For existing Hue users looking to bring Nanoleaf lighting into their setup, this shouldn't be much of an issue. However, if you already own Nanoleaf Shapes and want to retain the ability to switch between both ecosystems, it may be worth holding off on buying the Hue controller until that update arrives.

Verdict

As an existing Philips Hue user who loves adding a bit of colour to my office, I think the Nanoleaf Shapes are a really lovely addition. While Nanoleaf products have traditionally been popular with streamers and gamers, I think these starter kits have much wider appeal and would be perfect for anyone who enjoys experimenting with smart lighting.

My main disappointment is that, at the time of writing, the Nanoleaf and Philips Hue apps and controllers can't be used simultaneously. This is a particular drawback for existing Nanoleaf users who want to enjoy the benefits of both ecosystems. As mentioned, Philips Hue has confirmed that combined control is planned for a future update, but it's a shame this functionality wasn't available from the outset.

Alternatives to consider

If hexagons aren't quite your thing, Nanoleaf also offers starter kits featuring triangles and mini triangles, available for the same price as the Hexagon Shapes range.

Alternatively, if you're not sold on the Nanoleaf Shapes but still want to expand your smart lighting setup, it's worth checking out some of Philips Hue's latest smart lighting launches, which were unveiled alongside the Nanoleaf collaboration. T3 is currently reviewing several of these products, so look out for those reviews coming soon.

Hair loss and hair thinning affect more people than you might think, but because they're often sensitive subjects, they're not always openly discussed. This can leave people with the impression that more drastic solutions, such as hair transplants, are the only options available. However, there are other approaches worth exploring, including at-home hair and scalp treatments.

Sensse, a brand best known for its best LED face masks, has launched the Sensse Aura Pro to target concerns such as thinning hair, excess oil and general scalp health. The device is designed to let users incorporate different scalp treatments into their routine from the comfort of home, and I put it to the test for six weeks to see how it performed.

Price and availability

The Sensse Aura Pro is priced at £159.99 and is available from Sensse's website, as well as Boots, LOOKFANTASTIC, Currys, Argos and Very.

You'll also need to supply your own hair serum or tonic to use with the device. I've been pairing mine with the Bouf Flouf Factor Growth Tonic, which costs £22 and is available from Boots.

Design and features

The Sensse Aura Pro combines several technologies in one handheld tool, including low-level laser therapy (LLLT), LED light therapy, electrical muscle stimulation (EMS) and vibration massage.

In terms of design, the Aura Pro has a cordless build with a chocolate brown finish, a digital display and simple button controls. It measures 22 x 11 x 6.5 cm and weighs 351g, so it's relatively easy to hold and move across different areas of your scalp during a treatment.

Alongside its laser technology, the device features 30 red and blue LED lights, with each colour designed to target different concerns. Red light is intended to support hair density and growth, whilst blue light focuses on oil control and scalp clarity.

These are then organised into three dedicated treatment modes – Hair Loss, which combines red LED light with laser therapy, Oil Control, which uses blue LED light, and Scalp Care, which combines both red and blue light. I always appreciate it when a beauty gadget has modes based on specific concerns, as it makes choosing the right setting much easier than having to remember what each individual light or colour is supposed to do.

The Aura Pro also incorporates EMS technology, which uses gentle electrical pulses to stimulate the scalp. This works alongside a built-in vibration massage function, with three intensity levels to choose from depending on your preference. According to Sensse, these features are designed to encourage circulation and stimulate the scalp during treatment, adding another layer to the device's overall approach to scalp care.

Another useful addition is the 10ml automatic hair oil dispenser. Rather than having to apply your serum or tonic separately before using the device, the built-in reservoir delivers the product directly onto your scalp as you move the treatment head around. A pipette is included to make filling the dispenser easier, and there's a cleaning brush to help keep the device maintained between uses.

The Aura Pro has a 10-minute automatic timer, meaning each treatment switches off once the session is complete. It's powered by a rechargeable battery that offers up to 80 minutes of use per charge, depending on the settings selected. In the box, you'll also find a USB charging cable and instruction manual, and the device comes with a two-year guarantee.

Performance

I'll admit I was initially a little unsure about accepting the Sensse Aura Pro for review, mainly because hair loss isn't something I'm currently experiencing. However, as I've headed into my late twenties, hair thinning has become something I've increasingly noticed. Over the past five years, I've felt that my hair has become noticeably finer, particularly around my hairline, which prompted me to give the device a proper try. I'm glad I did, as the experience turned out to be more interesting than I initially expected.

To start with, the device is very straightforward to use. The included pipette makes filling the oil dispenser simple, and once that's done, you can switch it on, select your preferred treatment mode and EMS intensity, and get started. The only thing I'd mention is that your arm can start to ache a little when holding the device for the full recommended 10 minutes. However, being cordless makes it much easier to move around whist using it, rather than having to stay close to a plug socket.

I also appreciated having several dedicated treatment modes, as it meant I could focus on the settings most relevant to my concerns. I mainly used Hair Loss and Scalp Care modes, and switching between them was easy as the display shows which mode you're using.

One feature I did struggle with was the EMS. I found it quite loud, and the sensation itself took some getting used to. I'm not entirely sure whether this was down to the movement of the device across my scalp or the feeling coming through the treatment prongs, but I didn't find it particularly comfortable. Having previously tested the Therabody TheraFace Mask Glo, which also incorporates EMS through its head straps, I found that experience more relaxing as it felt closer to a gentle massage. With the Aura Pro, the sensation was a little stranger, particularly when moving it around my head. Thankfully, you can switch EMS off completely, which is a welcome option if, like me, you don't particularly enjoy the feeling.

Of course, the main thing I wanted to find out was whether the Aura Pro actually made a difference, and I've been pleasantly surprised by my experience so far. I've used it for six weeks, following the recommended routine of 10 minutes per session, four times a week. Around the fourth week, I started noticing that less hair seemed to be falling out when I brushed or washed it. I hadn't made any other significant changes to my haircare routine, aside from introducing the laser device and hair tonic, so it was an encouraging change to notice during testing.

More recently, I've also started noticing what looks like new growth around my hairline. It's still early days, and I can't say for certain how much of a difference the device itself has made, particularly as I've been using it alongside the Bouf tonic. However, seeing these changes over the six-week testing period has certainly encouraged me to keep going. I'm interested to see how things develop with more consistent use

With four 10-minute sessions a week, I was able to get around a week to a week and a half of use from a single charge, which was perfectly fine. When it did need charging, the USB-C connection made it quick and convenient to top up.

One thing that did take a little getting used to was finding the right time to fit the Aura Pro into my routine. Because you're applying hair tonic directly to your scalp, your hair can feel quite greasy afterwards. I eventually settled on using the device for 10 minutes before bed, loosely plaiting my hair overnight and washing it the following morning. This worked best for me, as it meant I didn't have to worry about styling my hair straight after treatment. It's something worth bearing in mind when planning your routine, particularly if you're someone who prefers to shower in the evenings. Leaving the tonic on your scalp overnight also gives it more time to sit before your next wash.

Verdict

Overall, I've found the Sensse Aura Pro to be a really useful addition to my haircare routine. Its biggest strength is its versatility, with three dedicated modes that cover everything from hair thinning to oil control and general scalp care. It's easy to use, comfortable to incorporate into a regular routine and offers plenty of customisation, whilst the built-in serum dispenser is a great addition. The EMS function wasn't quite to my taste, and the 10 minute sessions can cause minor arm ache, but these are relatively minor drawbacks. It's also worth remembering that consistency is key with this type of treatment, and results won't happen overnight.

Alternatives to consider

If you're looking at other options, a similar device is the Rootique Duo, although its main focus is scalp serum application. It's designed to help improve serum absorption, with the brand claiming up to 3.5 times greater absorption compared with applying products by hand. It also features built-in 660nm red light therapy, compared with the Aura Pro's 650nm laser technology.

Another alternative is the CurrentBody LED Hair Growth Helmet, which takes a different approach by using red light therapy across the scalp. This could be worth considering if you're particularly interested in light-based hair treatments, although it's a considerably more expensive option.

Why are people suddenly stomping on salt?! Well, according to the latest viral TikTok trend, it could be for a good reason.

As T3’s resident sleep expert, I’ve tried many TikTok sleep hacks. From drinking tart cherry juice before bed to using the military sleep method, there are a surprising amount of sleep trends that are actually effective, and some which, quite frankly, just don’t work at all.

But a recent sleep trend that I’ve seen making the rounds on social media is salt stomping. Lots of TikTok users are raving about how effective salt stomping is for sleep, while others say there’s no scientific evidence behind it – so what is salt stomping? And does it actually work?

What is the salt stomping sleep trend?

The name ‘salt stomping’ is quite self-explanatory, so if you thought it entails standing on salt, you’d be onto a winner there. Salt stomping involves you standing barefoot on coarse salt for about 10 minutes before you go to bed.

As shown on TikTok, many are using salt like sea salt, Epsom salt or Himalayan pink salt to try the trend, and are doing it either directly on the bathroom floor or in the shower. For 10 minutes, you are meant to ‘stomp’ on the salt, so continuously stand on it and shift your weight.

So, why exactly are people standing on salt? Many social media users are claiming that the coarseness of the salt is great for stimulating and massaging the pressure points on the feet. This action is said to feel relaxing, and helps lower cortisol levels and regulate your circadian rhythm.

Those who indulge in this trend also say the salt is great for exfoliating the skin and drawing out toxins.

Does salt stomping actually work?

Now to the most important question: Does salt stomping actually help you sleep better? According to those who have tried it, salt stomping is incredibly relaxing, and they’ve noticed differences in their sleep, from falling asleep quicker to less disruptions in the night.

But scientifically, there is no evidence to support that salt stomping is actually effective for sleep. As it’s typically done before bed and as part of a nighttime routine, there is something to be said about salt stomping being relaxing in a ritualistic sense, as you’re already winding down and getting ready for sleep.

The feet have lots of pressure points, with many located on the toes, heel and arch of the foot which can relax the nervous system. Pressing or massaging these areas are said to help with sleep and relaxation, so theoretically, stomping on salt could help with this, too.

I’ve tried many TikTok hacks in my day, and I have to say, salt stomping might be the most ridiculous one I’ve ever heard. While I understand the effectiveness of stimulating the feet for sleep, you’d have to stomp pretty hard to get the same effects of pressing or rubbing.

Call me boring but my main concern is the mess. Many who try this trend are pouring a large amount of salt on the floor, and after they’ve stomped on it for 10 minutes, it’s even worse of a clean-up.

Salt stomping in the shower seems better, but that’s still a lot of salt going down the drain – and if you’re showering before bed, this tends to act as a natural relaxation technique already, so who’s to say if the salt is actually doing anything?

If it’s feet-related sleep tips you’re after, I’d recommend trying the cricket feet sleep hack instead.

Despite testing many kitchen appliances during my time as T3’s Home Editor, I’ve only recently converted to an air fryer. It took me a while to come over to the ‘dark side’, mainly because my house came with two ovens when I bought it, so it seemed silly to not use them.

But after testing the Tower AirX, this gadget has become a firm favourite in my kitchen, and it’s something I use multiple times a week. It’s my go-to appliance for cooking chicken, chips and vegetables, but I’ve been experimenting recently, and found three foods I think taste better when air fried – but they’re probably not foods you’d immediately think to put in an air fryer.

Here are three ‘strange’ foods that I always cook in my air fryer, and one that I avoid like the plague.

Foods I Always Make In My Air Fryer

1. Gnocchi

At the moment, my favourite way to cook gnocchi is to put it in the air fryer. This might sound strange, as gnocchi is quick and easy to cook when you add it to boiling water, but I haven’t been loving the gummy texture of it recently.

Instead, I add a small swirl of oil to my air fryer, and a packet of gnocchi. I give the basket a quick shake to break up the gnocchi and coat it in oil, before lightly seasoning and cooking at 200-degrees for 15-20 minutes. By cooking it in the air fryer, it might take a bit longer, but the gnocchi gets a crispy exterior and a soft interior that doesn’t feel like Playdoh.

2. Tofu

Similar to gnocchi, I’ve been loving frying up tofu in my air fryer instead of in a pan or oven. I’m trying to eat more tofu, but have always found the texture and flavour to be a bit of a problem. To fix this, I press the tofu to remove excess moisture before cutting it into chunks and lightly tossing it in flour or cornstarch. I then add it to my air fryer with minimal oil and cook it at 200-degrees for 15 minutes.

When it comes out, the cooked tofu is extremely crispy but still has a bit of ‘bounce’. I then toss it in a sauce to enhance its flavour. I’d recommend doing this instead of cooking tofu with the sauce, as it tends to make the tofu stick to the air fryer basket and doesn’t cling to the food properly.

3. Kale

Kale and salad-like leaves are typically something I would never cook in an air fryer. The rapid air circulation tends to make light leaves like these fly around the basket which results in uneven cooking, but after much experimentation, I have perfected my recipe for crispy air fried kale.

After trimming and massaging the kale in oil and seasonings, I add it to my air fryer basket. If I have a lot of kale, I tend to do it in batches rather than as a large quantity as I found that it cooks unevenly like this. With my crisper plate, I position it on top of the kale to stop it from flying around, and I cook it at 180-degrees for five minutes.

The Food I Never Make In My Air Fryer

Bacon

My air fryer has become my go-to way to cook meats like chicken, meatballs and sausages, but the one food I never cook in my air fryer is bacon. This might sound odd, as bacon is the most popular thing that Brits cook in their air fryer, but I’d much rather cook it in an oven or pan.

Even without oil, bacon releases a lot of fat while cooking, so when I open the basket to check its progress, I’m often hit with splatters of hot grease. Due to air fryers being much smaller than ovens, this feels a lot more intense and hard to avoid – oh, and it hurts! So, bacon will remain the food I will never cook in my air fryer.

The Xiaomi Mijia Smart Steam Air Fryer 7L has finally launched in the UK and Europe, following its initial announcement earlier this year. As its name suggests, it's more than a standard air fryer, offering 10 cooking functions, including steam and sous vide.

To accommodate these additional cooking modes, the appliance features an integrated 1.5-litre water tank positioned on top of the unit. This makes it easy to access and refill when using the steam function.

The air fryer is available now for £159.99/€179.99 through Xiaomi's online store.

It offers a temperature range of 30°C to 230°C, alongside 25 preset recipes to help users get started. Settings can be adjusted using the integrated LCD display and dial, whilst other cooking functions include frying, baking and defrosting.

There's also smart functionality built in, with the Mijia Smart Steam Air Fryer 7L connecting to the Xiaomi Home app. Through the app, users can browse more than 100 recipes and access additional controls. The appliance is also compatible with Google Home, allowing it to fit into an existing smart home setup.

Hotpoint is celebrating its 115-year anniversary by launching a new collection of range cookers. With 10 models available in two different sizes and three finishes, the new Hotpoint range cookers offer multiple cooking functions, and prove that oven cooking is making a comeback in 2026.

Due to the rise of air fryers, ovens have become obsolete. However, trends come and go, and this year, large appliances like ovens and microwaves have been gaining popularity again.

As a kitchen expert, I’ve noticed that the main thing causing this oven mania is that many brands are adding extra cooking features to them, like air fryer and pizza settings. Hotpoint’s new range cookers offer these functions and more in 90cm or 100cm sizes.

The Hotpoint range cookers are made up of three separate ovens, so – like an air fryer – you can cook different meals using different methods at the same time. The main oven on the 90cm Hotpoint range cooker comes with air frying technology, so it can rapidly heat your food so it cooks quicker, and uses less oil.

The top oven in the Hotpoint range cooker acts as a pizza oven with its dedicated pizza setting. It reaches 310°C and cooks from the base upwards so it gives your pizza a crisp bottom without burning the cheese or toppings. The top oven can also cook fresh or frozen pizzas in as little as 10 minutes, so it’s almost like having a traditional pizza oven in your home.

For those who like cooking with steam, the 100cm size of the Hotpoint range cooker will be your favourite. It combines a multifunction oven with fan and static ovens, and offers a steam setting where you can pour water into the oven to steam foods like fish, bread and vegetables.

Both 90cm and 100cm Hotpoint range cookers come with hobs, so it’s a full oven system that you can add to your home. Three ovens might seem excessive, but the Hotpoint range cookers are great for big families, batch cooking and the upcoming festive season where you’re juggling mains, sides and desserts.

Available in black, stainless steel and anthracite finishes, the new Hotpoint range cookers start at £1,299 and are available to buy at select retailers, like Currys and AO.com.

Ninja has added a new colour option to its coffee machine range, bringing a pop of pink to one of its existing models. Called Raspberry Blush, the new shade is currently available on the Ninja Luxe Café Premier, although there's always the possibility it could join other models in the future.

Ninja is already known for offering many of its kitchen appliances in pastel shades, but these finishes are less common across its coffee machines. Most tend to stick to more traditional black or stainless steel, so it's nice to see the brand bringing a little more colour to this part of its range.

The Ninja Luxe Café Premier in Raspberry Blush is available for £599.99 via SharkNinja's website, and can also be purchased through Very.

As for the machine itself, the Luxe Café Premier was Ninja's first-ever coffee machine when it launched in 2024. It quickly established itself as one of the more versatile options on the market, combining several coffee-making functions in one machine. We awarded it four stars in our full review, and it remains one of Ninja's strongest coffee machines, even with newer models joining the range since.

Aside from the new colour, there's no change to the machine's design or functionality. You're getting the same Luxe Café Premier as before, just in a different finish.

Xiaomi’s new indoor security camera might be one of the most advanced models I’ve seen in a long time. The Xiaomi Smart Camera C701 Pro has dual lenses, impressive zoom and views, and clever AI detection features, including gesture recognition to start phone calls.

Dual lens cameras have become a popular security trend this year, offering double the views in one sleek model. The Xiaomi Smart Camera C701 Pro is a recent dual lens model to hit the market, and its two camera lenses offer 4K Ultra-HD resolution that captures images in crisp, clear detail.

The dual lens cameras on the Xiaomi Smart Camera C701 Pro include a 8MP ultra-wide angle lens and a 5MP long-range telephoto lens. They work together to monitor every area of your home, and offer 360° horizontal and 180° vertical views so you won’t miss a thing.

The camera lenses also support 9x hybrid zoom which automatically zooms and tracks objects. Unlike other camera’s zoom which often goes out of focus during extreme close-ups, the Xiaomi Smart Camera C701 Pro scales images to retain details and clarity.

As an indoor camera, the Xiaomi Smart Camera C701 Pro is petite and takes up minimal space, so you’ll hardly notice it in your home. It reminds me of Eve from Wall.E with its two lenses (or eyes), and while it’s wired, its cables can tuck away neatly.

The Xiaomi Smart Camera C701 Pro really comes into its own with its tracking and detection. Like most cameras with AI detection, the Xiaomi Smart Camera C701 Pro can differentiate between humans and pets, and can detect unusual noises, like babies crying or vases breaking.

When the Xiaomi Smart Camera C701 Pro hears these noises, it’ll alert you via notifications on the Xiaomi Home app. It also has a proactive alerts feature which allows it to recognise key areas, and its entrances and exits. If the camera detects your child has left a specific room, it’ll notify you immediately on your phone.

Speaking of phones, the Xiaomi Smart Camera C701 Pro comes with gesture recognition. If you make an ‘OK’ gesture at the camera, it will start a call for you, using its box speaker and noise-cancelling microphone.

I’m not sure why you’d want a gesture-based call feature, but it’s a fun thing to have, I guess. Personally, I’d worry about making accidental calls, but for enhanced privacy, the Xiaomi Smart Camera C701 Pro supports physical lens shielding, so you can turn the lenses off if you don’t want it to see or record anything.

The Xiaomi Smart Camera C701 Pro is available to buy for £109.99 / $129 at Xiaomi.

Revlon has expanded its One-Step hair styling range with two new tools, both arriving just in time for Christmas. It's the brand's first major addition to the range since it launched the One-Step Multi Air Styler 4-in-1 around this time last year.

Catering to slightly different styling needs, the One-Step VersaStyler combines drying and brushing functions in a single tool, whilst the One-Step PowerMove is a compact hairdryer supplied with four interchangeable attachments.

Both are also relatively affordable compared with many premium hair styling tools. The VersaStyler costs £99.99 and is available from Amazon, whilst the PowerMove Dryer is priced at £69.99 and can be bought from Amazon, Boots and Argos.

The Revlon One-Step VersaStyler is a 3-in-1 styling tool with Blow-Dry, Volumiser and Thermal Brush modes. These allow users to dry their hair, add volume or refresh an existing style without having to switch attachments. It's designed to be used on both wet and dry hair, with the Thermal Brush mode particularly suited to restyling second-day hair.

It features a ceramic-coated barrel, which Revlon says helps reduce frizz, alongside a high-speed digital motor that delivers airflow for drying and styling. There are also three heat and three airflow settings, whilst the maximum air temperature in dryer mode is 100°C.

The Revlon One-Step PowerMove Dryer is a compact hairdryer powered by a 110,000 RPM motor, weighing just 280g. It comes with four styling attachments, which is quite rare for a best hair dryer, including a concentrator, diffuser, Smooth & Shine Finisher and Root Lift Comb.

The PowerMove also offers three heat settings, three power settings and a Cool Air Mode. Revlon says it's designed to operate quietly, whilst its lightweight build and included storage pouch make it easier to pack for travel.

Aldi has finally relaunched its Cast Iron Cookware collection to the middle aisle of its stores – and it could give Le Creuset a run for its money. Available in multiple colours, including a stunning new sage green colourway, the Aldi Cast Iron Cookware is great for bakers and home chefs – and it starts as little as £1.99.

When you think of cast iron cookware, Le Creuset is probably the first brand that comes to mind, and for good reason. As a Le Creuset fan, I’m often asked if Le Creuset is worth the money, and my answer is always yes, as it’s high quality, colourful and incredibly versatile.

But while I love Le Creuset, it can get expensive, especially if you’re looking for a large casserole dish or Dutch Oven. That’s where our favourite Le Creuset dupes come in where you can get similar styles for less from the likes of ProCook, IKEA and even your local Aldi.

The Aldi Cast Iron Cookware has been in stores before, but it’s officially making a comeback starting today (5th November). The cookware, bakeware and kitchen accessories are now available in black, red and sage green, and can cater to all your cooking needs, from winter stews to homemade sourdough.

The standout from the Aldi Cast Iron Cookware range is its Cast Iron Dutch Oven (£16.99). It’s available in multiple sizes – either in 5.7-litres or 3.9-litres – and both are oven safe up to 200-degrees. They’re also compatible with all hob types, including induction, and make for great serving dishes for hearty meals like stews, soups and casseroles.

Other cookware includes roasting trays and skillets. My favourite is the Aldi Cast Iron Cookware Set (£9.99) which comes with a fry pan, grill pan and saucepan with a lid. Another favourite is the Aldi Cast Iron Casserole & Bread Baking Range (£19.99). For under £20, you get two casserole dishes, and a bread baking pot, complete with proofing lid.

The maximum price you can expect to pay on the new Aldi Cast Iron Cookware is £19.99, so you’re getting colourful, cast iron dishes for an insanely low price. The cheapest option in the range is the Aldi Cast Iron Accessories. At just £1.99, you can buy hot-handle covers, trivets, spoons, and spatulas, all of which are colour-coordinated to the range.

The Aldi Cast Iron Cookware is available in stores and online from the 5th November, but as it’s part of the SpecialBuys section, you’ll have to be quick as it’ll likely sell out quickly!

As a sleep expert, I’m often asked how often you should replace your mattress, and honestly, the answer is tricky. Most mattresses can last up to 10 years but it completely depends on how well you take care of it, and your overall sleep style.

But if you’re starting to feel sore and achy after a night’s sleep, this is a clear indication that your mattress is getting a bit worse for wear. However, while this sign makes it quite obvious that your bed is getting old, there are other, subtler things that you might be doing at night which signals that your bed needs replacing.

To find out more, I spoke to bed expert and store manager at Linthorpe Beds, Paul Keenan who said that “people assume their sleep habits are just quirks, but they're often a signal.” Keenan identified five things you’re doing at night which show that your mattress or pillow is no longer giving you the support you need.

1. Folding or stacking your pillow

Following your mattress, your pillow is arguably the most important part of your sleep set-up as it supports your head and neck. But if you’re folding your pillow in half or stacking multiple pillows, this is a sign your current pillow isn’t giving you enough support.

“"If someone is regularly bulking up their pillow through the night, that's usually their neck telling them it needs more support to stay level with the spine," says Keenan. "Lying on your side, there shouldn't be a gap wider than a clenched fist between your ear and your shoulder. Any bigger, and the pillow is too flat."

2. Sleeping diagonally across your bed

If you tend to sleep diagonally across your bed, this is a sign that your mattress is too narrow, rather than you taking up space, feeling restless or sharing a bed with a partner. As Keenan explains, “a useful test is to lie with your arms folded behind your head and elbows out," he adds. "If your elbows hang off both edges of the mattress, you and your partner are sharing less space than you think."

3. Migrating to the edge of your mattress

As someone who sleeps on their side – and who’s husband has very pointy elbows that push her towards the edge – I often find myself migrating to the edge of the bed for these reasons. But if you find yourself consistently drifting to the side rather than staying in the middle, this could mean the centre of your mattress is lacking support or sagging.

"A mattress that has softened in the middle will often push a sleeper towards the firmer edges without them noticing," says Keenan. "Ask someone to watch side-on while you lie in the centre. A visible dip, or a mattress that takes a moment to spring back after you press down on it, both point to a bed that has passed its best."

4. Constantly changing position

I can be a bit of a fidgeter in my sleep, however, I always return to sleeping on my sides. But if you’re turning over repeatedly in the night rather than settling into one or two positions, this can be a sign that your mattress isn't distributing weight evenly across your pressure points, like your hips and shoulders.

Keenan explains that if you’re waking up in a different spot several nights a week, “that's the body searching for relief rather than simply being restless… when the body keeps adjusting itself through the night, it’s usually the body's way of compensating for a mattress or pillow that isn't doing its job properly."

5. Overheating

Overheating at night could be due to a number of factors, but if you’re waking up with damp bedding and with your duvet hanging off the bed, this “usually points to poor airflow within the mattress or bedding rather than just the bedroom temperature.”

This is especially true with memory foam mattresses, as it “can trap heat if it isn't paired with a breathable cover," says Keenan. "Press a hand flat on the mattress for thirty seconds, then take it away. If the warm patch lingers rather than fading quickly, that's a sign the material isn't letting heat escape properly."

I’ve always been a big fan of IKEA when it comes to smart home tech. It's one of the brands I recommend most often, particularly if you're looking to build a smart home without spending a fortune.

I last covered IKEA's smart home lineup last in September, but there's been plenty of change since then. The retailer has continued to expand its offering, whilst also discontinuing a number of older products, meaning the range looks quite different now.

So, I thought it was time to take another look at what's available and put together an updated guide, and you'll find each suggestion below.

I’ve always loved coffee, potentially to my detriment. I started drinking coffee at age 12, and at one point, was up to four cups a day, so I’d like to say I know a thing or two about making a good cup of coffee, especially now that I’ve tested multiple pod, drip and bean-to-cup models as T3’s Home Editor.

That has come with a slight downside though – I’m now a complete coffee snob. It’s probably not something to be proud of, but I’m very particular about my coffee, and prefer using my at-home, barista-level machine over anything else. What’s worse is I’m easily taken by luxury-looking machines, and I recently came across the Meraki Espresso Machine which has gone to the top of my wishlist.

The first generation of the Meraki Espresso Machine came out in early 2025 following a Kickstarter campaign. In 2026, the Gen 2 version of the Meraki Espresso Machine came out, with refined details built off the Gen 1, including more grinder adjustments and portafilter support, and an improved interface.

The Meraki Espresso Machine caught my attention in lots of ways. As a dual boiler espresso maker, the Meraki Espresso Machine brews and steams at the same time, with its 350ml brew boiler and 550ml steam boiler.

With its commercial-grade, 9-bar rotary pump, the Meraki Espresso Machine offers steady, rich extraction, and its built-in espresso-tailored grinder has 45 grind settings to choose from. While it might look a little intimidating at first, the semi-automatic machine has multiple controls to play with, including grind size, dose, yield, pressure, temperature, pre-infusion, steam power and milk temperature.

The feature I love the most is its touchscreen. Lots of coffee machines come with touchscreen controls now, but the Meraki Espresso Machine does it in a unique way. The small, circular screen sits atop the main coffee dispenser, and allows you to customise your brew, from shot volume to temperature.

Aside from looking great, the Meraki Espresso Machine’s touchscreen talks you through the process, and gives accurate insights, including counting down extraction time, and weighing the grounds. The latter works alongside the machine’s dual scales that measure both grind and brew volumes.

While its name implies it’s only a coffee machine, the Meraki Espresso Machine has a 360-degree adjustable steam wand for making milky coffees. It comes with four control levels, and a milk temperature sensor which automatically stops steaming when it’s reached the right froth and temperature.

The Meraki Espresso Machine looks beautiful, and comes in black or white colours. While there’s a lot going on, it’s not too big, measuring just 370mm x 370mm x 415mm, and weighing 14.5kg. It also comes with filter baskets, a portafilter, tamper and cleaning kit.

The Meraki Espresso Machine is available to buy for $1,999 at Meraki. It’s not available in the UK but you can buy it in select European countries. It might take me some time to save up – and to wait for it to arrive in the UK – but the Meraki Espresso Machine has quickly gone to the top of my coffee wishlist.

Octopus Energy has partnered with battery manufacturer Ampace to explore new ways of improving home energy storage, with the aim of making home batteries smarter, more affordable and more accessible to households.

The collaboration will explore new battery technologies, including sodium-ion chemistry, high-density cells and longer-lasting battery systems. Combined with Octopus Energy's software, these could automatically charge when electricity is cheapest or when more renewable energy is available. They could also send stored electricity back to the grid during periods of high demand.

The initial focus will be on European markets where Octopus Energy operates, but we'll keep you updated as the partnership develops and more details emerge.

The agreement builds on the existing relationship between CATL and Octopus Energy, which previously worked together to roll out Swaptopus battery-swapping stations across Europe.

It also adds to Octopus Energy's growing range of low-carbon home technology, which already includes its Octopus Charge EV chargers, Octopus Nook home batteries and Octopus Cosy heat pumps. The latter was recently back in the news following the announcement of the Cosy Cooler, a new accessory designed to turn the Cosy heat pump into a home cooling system.

Greg Jackson, Founder and CEO of Octopus Energy Group, said: "Combining CATL and Ampace's world-leading battery chemistry with Octopus's smart tech and customer platform will transform home energy storage. Together, we're building next-generation batteries where hardware and software work in complete harmony to slash energy bills and speed up the green energy transition."

It's always interesting when a brand releases an upgraded version of an already well-loved product. The original Laifen Wave earned five stars from us in our 2024 review, but the electric toothbrush market has moved on quite a bit since then, with newer models bringing more personalised brushing experiences.

However, at first glance, that's exactly what's happened with the new Laifen Wave Pro. With improvements to battery life, waterproofing, app functionality and brush head design, there's quite a lot that's been updated. You'll find out whether these changes make it a worthwhile upgrade below.

Price and availability

The Laifen Wave Pro has an RRP of £139.99/€139.99 and is available from Laifen's online store, as well as Currys and Amazon.

It comes in several finishes, including blue, pink, silver, stainless steel and black. I've been testing the black version, which has a slightly translucent design that shows you the technology inside the handle.

The blue, pink and silver versions are also slightly cheaper, coming in at £119/€119.

Design and features

Laifen has always been quite design-led with its products, and the Wave Pro is no exception. It has a slim, cylindrical handle with a seamless exterior that gives it a more premium feel than many other options. From a practical perspective, the smooth body is designed to minimise areas where moisture and toothpaste residue can collect, making it easier to keep clean. It's also IPX8 waterproof, so you can rinse it under the tap without water getting inside.

Two brush heads are included in the box, including a Pro Whitening Brush Head and a Pro Plaque Removal Brush Head. Both feature a combination of spiral, ultra-fine and DuPont bristles, alongside a soft TPE rubber coating designed to cushion contact and improve comfort. The whitening head is intended to help tackle surface stains rather than change the natural colour of your teeth, whilst the plaque removal version focuses on everyday cleaning.

It includes Laifen's WaveMotion technology, which combines two different brushing movements – 60° oscillation and high-frequency vibrations reaching 66,000 per minute. This brings together the sweeping movement associated with traditional oscillating toothbrushes and the high-frequency vibrations found in sonic models. There's also a proprietary Servo System designed to monitor motor performance and maintain consistent power throughout brushing.

Another useful addition is the intelligent pressure sensor, which alerts you if you're brushing too firmly and adjusts the speed to help prevent excessive pressure on your gums and enamel. There are also two built-in brushing modes, Daily Clean and Deep Clean, alongside further customisation options through the Laifen app.

There are also some thoughtful everyday features, including a two-minute brushing timer and 30-second reminders to move between sections of your mouth. An anti-splash function helps prevent toothpaste and water from splattering when switched on, whilst a three-second power ramp-up provides a gentler start. There's also a Travel Mode to prevent accidental activation when packed away, alongside a Quick Spin-Dry function that spins the brush head to remove excess water after use.

Laifen also claims the Wave Pro has up to 70 days battery, which I'll get onto in just a moment.

App

Now, I'm not usually one to get particularly excited about toothbrush apps, as I don't often find them useful unless there's something different on offer, like the live camera feed on the Dyson CameraJet. However, I actually enjoyed the Laifen Wave Pro app experience. Rather than just providing feedback on your brushing, it lets you adjust further settings, including vibration intensity, oscillation range and oscillation speed. I also liked being able to check how much battery was left on the toothbrush, as it made it easier to plan when to charge it.

There's certainly a lot to explore, and whilst I wouldn't say everyone needs this level of customisation, it's a nice addition if you think you'll use it. That said, for a toothbrush at this price point, I thought the app experience was surprisingly good.

Performance

Battery life is one of the Wave Pro's biggest strengths, and it's an area where it really stands out from most electric toothbrushes I've tested. In my testing, I managed around 65 days, falling slightly short of the advertised 70 days, but still delivering excellent longevity.

The Wave Pro delivers a really brilliant clean, and my teeth were left feeling noticeably smooth and fresh after brushing. There are several settings and customisation options to get to grips with, and it can take a little time to experiment with the different modes and find the combination that works best for you. However, once you've settled on your preferred settings, the results are excellent. I found it easy to work into my daily routine, and the level of cleaning is one of the main reasons I've enjoyed using it. It's also noticeably quieter than other electric toothbrushes I've tested, which is another welcome detail during everyday use.

When it does need topping up, the magnetic wireless charging base also kept things clean and simple. I particularly like the magnetic setup, as it kept the toothbrush in place without being covered in toothpaste or water residue.

That said, tere are a couple of design choices that aren't quite as successful. The power button sits quite close to where I naturally rest my thumb, so I occasionally switched the toothbrush off accidentally whilst brushing. This is more of a personal annoyance, but it can be frustrating when it happens.

The lack of a travel case is another missed opportunity. With battery life this good, the Wave Pro is naturally well suited to taking away, but there's no case to protect the brush head when it's packed in a washbag. It's a shame, as it would have made an already convenient toothbrush an even better travel companion.

You'll also need to plan ahead when it comes to replacement brush heads. They're a different design from some of the more widely available alternatives, so you'll need to stick with compatible Laifen replacements. It's worth keeping an eye on how many you have left and ordering a new set before you run out.

Verdict

The Laifen Wave Pro is an excellent electric toothbrush that builds on what made the original Wave so impressive. Its cleaning performance is superb, whilst the extensive customisation options allow you to adjust the brushing experience to suit your preferences. Battery life is another major highlight, alongside the convenience of magnetic charging and impressively quiet operation. There are a few annoyances the lack of a travel case and the need to buy specific replacement brush heads, but they're relatively minor in the grand scheme of things. Overall, the Wave Pro is a very capable premium toothbrush that delivers where it matters most.

Alternatives to consider

If you like the sound of the Laifen Wave Pro but have a smaller budget, I'd still recommend considering the original Laifen Wave. It earned five stars when we reviewed it, and although the electric toothbrush market has moved on since then, it remains a good option if you can find it at a discounted price. It still offers plenty of useful features, and a 30-day battery life is certainly nothing to complain about.

Alternatively, if you're looking for something specifically for travelling, I'd also recommend the SURI 2.0. It's particularly slim, has impressive battery life and comes with a travel case. It also doesn't rely on an app, making it a simpler option to pack and take away.

Following the launch of its Go Cordless range in 2024, KitchenAid has updated its collection here and there over the years. Most recently, KitchenAid added two new appliances to its Go Cordless System so you can grate, slice, shred and vacuum seal with one battery.

For those who are new to the KitchenAid Go Cordless System, how it works is by using one removable battery to power multiple portable appliances. This includes hand blenders, juicers, food processors, and more. With the Go Cordless battery, your kitchen gadgets are constantly ready to go, and aren’t limited by cords and sockets.

The KitchenAid Go Cordless System is already pretty extensive, but the brand has just launched two new gadgets to its range. Starting with the KitchenAid Go Grater, Slicer and Shredder, this handy gadget comes with a grating blade cylinder, slicing blade cylinder and shredding blade cylinder which you can easily swap in and out to process fruit, vegetables, cheese, nuts and more.

If you hate grating ingredients, a cordless grater is a game-changer, and the new KitchenAid Go Grater, Slicer and Shredder does all the work for you. It can prep both small and large batches, and has simple one-button controls. For storage, it comes with a blade cylinder storage to keep everything tidy and safe.

excited about the new KitchenAid Go Handheld Vacuum Sealer. This handy starter kit comes with plastic containers and bag storage which you can use the vacuum sealer attachment on to preserve food.

To protect fresh fruits and vegetables, leftovers, marinades, fish and meat, the KitchenAid Go Handheld Vacuum Sealer seals everything tightly to reduce freezer burn and keep food fresher for longer.

Where I think it excels is with wine, as its wine sealer accessory allows you to seal an unfinished bottle of wine in just 15 seconds. It also has an LED indicator light which flashes when in use, and goes solid when sealing is complete.

Available to buy now, the KitchenAid Go Grater, Slicer and Shredder is priced at £149, while the KitchenAid Go Handheld Vacuum Sealer costs £179. Both come without the battery which you’ll have to buy separately.

After a long, hot summer, many people might be welcoming the colder months with open arms – even if they bring their own problems.

Steamed-up windows and laundry that refuses to get anywhere close to dry are just two of the collection of household annoyances that lie in wait.

The proactive among us might be looking at gadgets to help solve some of these problems – namely air purifiers, dehumidifiers, and humidifiers – each of which tackles a rather different problem.

Choosing the wrong option could mean spending a fair bit of money without actually solving anything. To help you make the right call, we're looking at what each gadget actually does – and whether you need one at all.

For condensation: Dehumidifiers

Come winter, plenty of UK homes have condensation running down the windows and musty rooms – not to mention laundry that seems determined never to dry. Dehumidifiers are designed to combat exactly these situations.

On a basic level, a dehumidifier works by drawing moisture from the air and collecting it in a tank, which can then be poured down the sink. The process helps reduce indoor humidity, and less moisture in the air means less condensation.

Compressor dehumidifiers are generally more energy-efficient in heated rooms, while desiccant models can be better suited to colder spaces, such as garages and conservatories.

Dehumidifiers aren't going to magically fix leaking pipes or inadequate insulation – both of which can cause damp – but they can help make your home more comfortable and get your washing dry a little faster.

We recommend the MeacoDry Arete One, which includes modes for Smart Humidity and drying laundry, and runs quietly. The MeacoDry Arete Two 12L is another excellent option for smaller spaces, with the added bonus of app controls and an air purification mode.

For moisture: Humidifiers

Ironically, not every house has the same problem with humidity: central heating can make already dry indoor air feel even drier during the winter months.

While dry air might not sound like the biggest issue, it can contribute to dry skin, irritated throats, and even static electricity. Humidifiers release moisture into the air, making rooms feel more comfortable.

A relative humidity of around 40% to 60% is a useful rule of thumb, although it's best to aim towards the lower end when using a humidifier – too much moisture can encourage mould growth, and you don't want to end up needing a dehumidifier instead.

Humidifiers need regular cleaning, too, and adding moisture to an already damp room can cause more problems than it solves.

The Meaco Armin 300 is a good choice, with an evaporative system and quiet 24dB night mode. The design is intended to cope with hard water, too. The Blueair InvisibleMist Humidifier is a good smart option.

For clearing the air: Air Purifiers

So far, we've dealt with moisture in the air – but households also have dust, pet dander, cooking smoke, and plenty of other airborne nasties to contend with. To help tackle these issues, we now turn to air purifiers.

Air purifiers draw air through filters that capture airborne particles such as dust, pollen, pet fur, and smoke. HEPA filters are particularly effective at capturing particles, while activated carbon filters can help tackle certain gases and odours.

We tend to spend more time indoors during winter, too, while cosy comforts like wood-burning stoves and open fires can introduce additional particles into the air.

Purifiers won't remove moisture, fix damp, or replace ventilation, and you should consider things like room coverage (especially in larger homes) as well as noise and replacement filter costs.

The Dyson HushJet Purifier Compact HJ10 is our pick for the best air purifier, with quiet operation and automatic air-sensing, while the Coway Airmega 350 is well-suited to larger rooms.

Which one do you need?

Whether you need one of these gadgets (or even all three) really depends on the quirks of your particular home.

A cheap digital hygrometer can help you work out whether your home is too damp or too dry. Take measurements in different rooms over several days, including after activities like cooking and showering.

Before investing in a new appliance, see whether using extractor fans, keeping trickle vents clear, and tackling obvious sources of moisture makes a difference. Persistent or extensive damp might require more substantial repairs.

Some devices combine dehumidification and air filtration, while others offer purification and humidification, although it's worth checking how well they perform both jobs before spending extra.

After all, there's nothing worse than spending £200 on a gadget only to discover you've been solving the wrong problem.

Anker Solix has announced a major software update for its PowerOS energy management system, introducing a number of new features designed to make managing home energy more automated. PowerOS originally launched earlier in 2026 alongside the Anker Solix Solarbank 4 Pro.

Available through the Anker Power App, the system works across compatible Anker Solix energy storage products, helping households monitor and manage how they generate, store and use electricity.

The first features began rolling out in October 2026 to compatible devices, including the Solarbank 4 Pro and Solix XE, with further updates expected in December. Feature availability will vary depending on product compatibility and market.

The update introduces a new Self-Learning Engine, which analyses weather forecasts, energy consumption and electricity prices to optimise when batteries charge and discharge. According to Anker's internal simulations, this could help households on dynamic electricity tariffs save up to 30% more compared with its existing Self-Consumption Mode.

Other additions include Surplus Alert, which notifies users when excess solar energy is expected. Meanwhile, Tariff Auto-Match automatically adapts energy management to suit fixed-rate, time-of-use and dynamic electricity tariffs.

Anker is also introducing alerts for potential severe weather and grid disruptions so compatible systems can prepare battery reserves ahead of possible power cuts. Smart home integration is expanding too, with Homey support joining existing Home Assistant compatibility.

More features are planned for December, including Intent-Aware, which lets users describe changes to their routines so the system can suggest suitable energy adjustments. A Proactive Daily Energy Report will also provide automatic summaries of solar generation, household consumption and savings.

We'll update when these further features arrive.

Meaco, the brand best known for its range of dehumidifiers, has just announced its new Grisos heaters collection. Featuring small and large models, the Grisos heaters are powerful, wide-reaching and promise up to five years of heat output without any fades or changes.

The Meaco Grisos heaters range include the 1.5kW PTC Fan Heater and the Smart 2kW PTC Fan Heater. Both have similar features, with the main differences between the two being size, speed options, and the latter model has smart controls.

Compared to other fan heaters, which tend to lose their effectiveness over time, Meaco states that its Grisos heaters are designed to deliver warmth year after year. The brand is so confident, in fact, that the heaters come with a five year heat output warranty, so they should keep you toasty warm for up to five years.

Both heaters use PTC ceramic heating technology to warm your home quickly and with an adjustable airflow. They both offer horizontal oscillation to spread warm air around your home, and you can manually tilt the heater vertically to better cover your entire body – oscillation can also be switched off if needed.

My favourite feature of the new Meaco Grisos heaters is its Calm Mode. Great for evening use, Calm Mode turns off the heaters’ lights and beeps so you won’t be disturbed, and they can operate as quiet as 21dB.

Both Meaco Grisos heaters come in a Warm Pebble finish to blend into your home. They’re also packed with safety features, including tilt-switch and thermal overload protection, and a glow-in-the-dark remote for easy controls. The controls include timers and speeds.

Looking closer at the Meaco Grisos 1.5kW PTC Fan Heater, the smaller version from the range has three fan speeds to choose from. It can warm rooms up to 20m², and its Smart Energy Mode adjusts its heat as the room’s temperature fluctuates to keep it at your desired heat without expending too much power.

The Meaco Grisos Smart 2kW PTC Fan Heater is – you guessed it – the smarter version of the two heaters. This model has added presence sensing and open-window detection to help it adapt to its surroundings so it’s not wasting warmth or energy. Its remote control also has a built-in thermostat, and you can connect the Meaco Grisos Smart 2kW to the Meaco app for remote control.

Compared to the smaller version, the Meaco Grisos Smart 2kW has six speeds, and four oscillation settings up to 180°. It also covers rooms up to 35m², and despite being the bigger option, it’s still compact and quiet enough to work away in the background without you noticing it.

The Meaco Grisos 1.5kW heater is priced at £69.99, while the Meaco Grisos Smart 2kW costs £129.99. As of writing, they’re still listed as ‘Coming Soon’, but we hope to see them arrive by the end of the year.

Google Home just got a whole host of new updates, including better support for Matter devices, software updates for Nest security cameras, and request and voice assistant improvements to Gemini. The updates are rolling out now for iOS and Android devices, so here’s what changes you can expect to see soon.

As detailed in Google’s Home and Nest Help forum, Google Home has received many updates which can be accessed via the Google Home app, Gemini for Home (Early Access) and on specific devices. Starting with Gemini for Home updates, these include fixes for timers, alarms, responses and more.

Despite Gemini for Home being Google’s newest voice assistant, it still needs some improvements here and there. The biggest update is Gemini on smart speakers and displays should respond with less ‘Sorry, I didn’t understand’. This response was reported to happen when no one was speaking to the device or assistant, so this should happen less now.

Timers and alarms have also had some significant updates. Firstly, alarm and timer volumes were previously being set to zero, but this has now been fixed so the volume will be adjusted to match your device’s volume. Gemini also had a strange bug where it couldn’t differentiate between sleep and normal timers and alarms, but this has since been fixed.

Other Gemini improvements include understanding requests for moving music between rooms, and changing volume on speakers or displays in rooms rather than the device you’re speaking to.

If you’re a Nest Cam user, there are also some great updates heading your way. First generation versions of the Nest Cam Indoor, Outdoor and Doorbell, and the Nest Cam IQ Indoor and Outdoor have had software upgrades, and have been migrated to the Google Home app.

This has fixed issues with these devices, like faster night vision, improved Wi-Fi stability, synchronised audio and video, and accurate status lights.

Other Nest Cam features that have been upgraded are live view and event timelines. For iOS users, you can now scroll to the end of your camera’s event timeline without any gaps or ‘Video Not Available’ errors. Live view is also smoother when using foldable phones, and the Nest Doorbell now has got better face and person detection.

For supported Matter devices, the Google Home app will now show energy data from smart plugs and energy monitors. Available on Android, you can now see real-time power and total energy consumption on device tiles and controller screens.

These Google Home and Gemini updates are rolling out to users now on both iOS and Android devices.

The best robot mower market is getting bigger and more versatile by the day, with new brands and features appearing with every new launch. That said, every now and then a model comes along that feels a little more advanced than the rest – and today, that model comes from Pudu Robotics.

Pudu Robotics has just unveiled its new Pudu Tomo S Series, a range of robotic mowers featuring a self-sharpening blade system designed to deliver consistently clean cuts whilst reducing the need for routine maintenance.

The range comes in three models, designed for lawns ranging from 1,500 m² (0.37 acres) to 5,000 m² (1.24 acres), with sales expected to begin in early spring 2027. Pricing and regional availability haven't been announced just yet, but you can sign up for updates through the brand's website.

The headline feature is the SharpLoop Self-Sharpening System, which automatically sharpens the rotary blades at the charging station when needed. It's designed to maintain cutting performance over time whilst saving owners the need to regularly removing and replacing blades.

There's also the Lift-Cut-Discharge System, designed to handle taller, denser and wetter grass. Dual 636W high-torque motors drive the blades at up to 6,000 RPM, whilst aerodynamic high-lift blades raise flattened grass into the cutting path. A dedicated rear discharge channel then directs clippings away to help prevent buildup and blockages.

Another handy addition is Zero Edge Cutting, which combines an offset cutting deck, intelligent side sensing and a responsive bumper to help the mower follow walls, trees, flower beds and lawn boundaries more closely, reducing uncut strips and the need for manual trimming.

Other features include slope handling up to 45°, Triple-Sense Navigation combining 360° LiDAR, AI Vision and network RTK for centimetre-level positioning, and One-Tap Auto Mapping for easier setup.

We'll keep you updated as soon as we hear more about pricing and availability, but there's already plenty here to get excited about.

Peak Design is best known for its excellent travel backpacks, camera accessories and cleverly designed everyday carry gear, but the San Francisco-based brand is now turning its attention to charging accessories.

The company has unveiled a collection of four premium charging essentials, including a magnetic power bank, a foldable wireless charging station, a slimline wall charger and a range of USB-C cables.

It's a bold move into a category dominated by Anker and Belkin, though Peak Design isn't necessarily trying to compete on price.

Instead, the brand is applying the same design philosophy that made its bags and camera accessories popular to everyday gadgets.

Charging accessories with a Peak Design twist

For instance, the Wireless Kickstand Travel Battery is a remarkably slim 5,000mAh magnetic power bank measuring only 10.5mm thick.

Peak Design claims it's the world's first Qi2.3-certified wireless charger that delivers up to 15W of wireless power on its internal battery, increasing to 25W when connected to an external power source.

Its integrated aluminium kickstand makes it especially appealing for travel and lets you prop up your phone in portrait or landscape.

It also supports pass-through charging, so you can top up the battery and your phone at the same time.

The Wireless Charging Station 2-in-1 might be an even better option for people who travel with multiple devices, featuring two equally capable Qi2.2 magnetic charging pads, each delivering up to 25W.

This setup lets you charge two compatible phones at once, while an additional USB-C port powers a third device, such as a smartwatch.

The aluminium stand features an adjustable hinge for positioning devices at different viewing angles and folds flat when it's time to pack up.

Small chargers, serious power

Peak Design has also introduced the Dual Slim Charger, a 65W GaN wall charger that measures just 13mm thick.

Despite its slender profile, it has two USB-C ports that can charge a laptop and phone simultaneously, automatically sharing power between the connected devices.

Depending on what's plugged in, the charger can split its output into two 30W feeds or allocate 45W to one device and 20W to the other.

It also has fold-flat prongs that make it easier to slip into a travel pouch, and sports graphene-based thermal management that is said to help keep temperatures in check.

Lastly, the UltraStrand USB-C cables are available in Everyday and Pro configurations.

The Everyday version supports up to 60W charging and 480Mbps data transfer speeds, while the Pro cable supports 240W and 40Gbps, respectively.

Whether Peak Design’s new collection is worth choosing over the considerably broader ranges offered by Anker and Belkin remains to be seen.

However, it's refreshing to see another established accessories brand putting some thought into how everyday charging gadgets look and function.

The new charging collection is available at Peak Design US from today, 3 November 2026.

The Wireless Kickstand Travel Battery and Wireless Charging Station 2-in-1 are priced at $99.95 each.

The Dual Slim Charger costs $64.95, and UltraStrand cables start at $24.95. Global rollout is expected by mid-November.

T3's Our Place Wonder Oven review in a sentence: an air fryer meets mini oven fusion that cooks brilliantly and is delicious to look at too.

I’ve tried and tested a small mountain of air fryers over the years but there’s one that has passed me by and it’s this, the Wonder Oven from Our Place. Based on looks alone, I already think it should feature in the best air fryers we all know and love here at T3 Towers. Our Place describes it as ‘the do-it-all countertop workhorse’, which for something so cute and compact, is quite a bold claim.

So I’ve been mighty keen to try it. I chose one in a charcoal matte colour, with black being the default colour for air fryers, mini ovens and all that. However, alongside the funky styling, Our Place also offers the Wonder Oven in cool colours that include the likes of Blue Salt, Steam and there’s even a limited-edition number called Spice.

In terms of what it can do, the Wonder Oven is a great all-rounder, with 6-in-1 functionality that makes it ideally suited to folks who want to do a little bit of everything. It’s perfectly happy carrying out standard air frying activities, like crisping up fries or giving chicken wings their distinctive crunchiness. Equally, though, the Wonder Oven can be used for steaming, rehydrating and baking too, amongst other things. It’s effectively an air fryer and mini oven in one compact package. And, that small size is the other very positive thing on offer here.

Price and availability

The Our Place Wonder Oven is available now and can be purchased in four different shades including Steam, Blue Salt, Char and Spice. It has a retail price of £195 for the UK market, which given its 6-in-1 versatility and quality design and build, makes it a very tempting proposition.

Design and build

To be honest, there isn’t much I don’t like about the Wonder Oven. The best thing is its compact design, with dimensions of 29.5cm height x 29.2cm width x 26.9cm depth plus it only weighs in at 5.3kg. What that means is it can be easily moved around in the kitchen and, once fully cooled, even packed away if space is at a premium. This contrasts with some of the countertop ovens I’ve tried that have been both bulky and heavy, making them less appealing to move around.

Considering its diminutive stature, the design of the Wonder Oven is very accommodating, with a 12-litre capacity making it undeniably practical for singles or couples. Used creatively, I think it’d also work for families too, especially thanks to the gaggle of different shelves that come supplied with the appliance.

These include an air fryer basket, wire rack, bake pan and crumb tray. There are two positioning options inside the Wonder Oven and all of the supplied accessories slid in and out without fuss, which is always a bonus.

For me, the other major appeal of this appliance is the look and feel of the control panel. This sits top and front on the unit and is deliciously well laid out. Everything is nice and clear, while the control knobs themselves feel like they're fitted on to last the test of time.

In fact, the overall build quality of the Wonder Oven is excellent. Plus, the size of it should make keeping it looking good over time nice and easy. I found it much easier to access the innards for cleaning than my microwave, put it that way.

Performance

On top of the good looks, the Wonder Oven proved to be excellent and very versatile too. As mentioned earlier, this is a 6-in-1 appliance, which mean it can be used to air fry, bake, roast, grill, toast and reheat. Cleverly, and unlike many rivals, it is also able to keep food moist thanks to a steam infusion design that prevents the scorching that happens with so many air fryers and mini ovens. Simply add a couple of teaspoons of water into that inlet on the top of the unit and you’re in business.

This wasn’t a gimmick either and I found the Wonder Oven really good at cooking consistently. Some mini ovens are either underpowered and don’t seem to achieve enough heat, or go the other way and incinerate oven contents if they’re not being managed minute by minute. I found the Wonder Oven great at getting things about right and it didn’t need as much babysitting either. Sure, I did find that the controls required some tweaking to get things spot on, but that’s no different o any other air fryer or mini oven I’ve tried.

Highlights? Well, the Wonder Oven is an awesome all-rounder, with solid results when roasting a chicken. I tried a 1.75kg bird and that fitted in with ease, though I did need to detach the legs first – it can apparently handle up to 2kg and I saw no reason to disagree. I liked the way the innards were lit up when it was in action too, which makes it much easier to judge progress.

There was some sizzling once things got up to full temperature (it can reach 232°C), which could I guess cause longer cleaning times for removing fat residue from the sides of the unit.

Nevertheless, on lower maintenance items, like pastries and for baking, the results really were rather good. The Wonder Oven is brilliant at browning and crisping things. I also found it ideal for doing roast potatoes and the like. Seeing as I do a lot of roasts it makes total sense and with some planning there is room to do just about everything in one go, allowing for different timings on the various ingredients.

Verdict

I thought the Wonder Oven was excellent. Sure, it might be a little on the small side for anyone who needs to cook a lot of food, although there is now a Pro edition of the Wonder Oven to meet that need. It was hard to fault the results and I found the 6-in-1 functionality meant that it could do a little bit of everything.

Another standout feature is the option of adding a touch of water to help infuse the cooking environment with some moisture. Unlike many air fryers and mini ovens that tend to scorch food or even dry it right out, this is one of the main strengths of the Wonder Oven. It looks pretty cool too, right?

Alternatives to consider

An obvious alternative to the Our Place Wonder Oven, especially if you think it's going to be a little too compact for your needs, is to the Wonder Oven Pro. This is a much larger appliance and boasts 28-litres of cooking space, plus more rack flexibility. It costs £295 so is a little more but the gains are clear to see. We've yet to test it, however.

Elsewhere on the compact front, the Ninja Crispi comes highly recommended although it is less versatile than the Wonder Oven, but very compact. For more conventional needs take a look at the Salter XL Dual Air Fryer with its dual doors and drawers.

Birdfy has announced that automatic bird identification is now free for life across its range of smart birdwatching devices, including the new Birdfy Feeder Vista.

The update covers more than 6,000 bird species and is available to both new and existing customers. You just register your device and link it to the Birdfy app to get unlimited automatic identification, with no daily limits or trial periods to worry about.

The feature is included across all membership tiers, so everyone gets access to the same bird identification model. Plus and Pro subscriptions are still available for those wanting more, including features that identify a bird’s sex, estimate its age category and provide potential health indicators. Anyone who already has access to these enhanced features will keep their existing benefits.

According to Allen Chen, founder and CEO of Birdfy, the aim is to make identifying garden visitors a natural part of the birdwatching experience. He also highlighted that the lifetime benefit applies to existing owners as well as those buying a device for the first time.