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Tag: battery life

Meta’s New Ray-Ban and Oakley Glasses Boost Style and Battery Life

Meta is expanding its lineup of AI smart glasses with new styles, colors, and upgraded features. The Ray-Ban version now offers two limited edition transparent finishes with a matte surface, while the new Oakley smart glasses boast an IP67 rating for dust and water resistance.

What’s New?

The next generation of Meta’s Ray-Ban smart glasses significantly boosts battery performance, nearly doubling the previous battery life to eight hours. They can also reach about 50% charge in just 20 minutes. When paired with the charging case, users can enjoy a total of up to 48 hours of usage per charge.

On the technical front, the Ray-Ban Meta (Gen 2) supports 3K Ultra HD video recording and can capture UHD videos at 60 frames per second. It also introduces Hyperlapse and slow-motion video capabilities, making it a versatile tool for capturing moments.

If you wear Garmin devices, the new Oakley-branded glasses automatically record videos with overlaid stats like speed and distance. There’s also a partnership with Strava, enhancing activity tracking features.

Key Features

One of the standout features is Conversation Focus, which manages voice input by emphasizing the speaker’s voice while suppressing background noise. This update will be available through a software patch for existing Ray-Ban Meta and Oakley Meta HSTN glasses, as well.

Additionally, voice clarity improvements aim to make conversations more natural and less affected by ambient sounds.

Enhanced Language Support

Meta is also rolling out support for live translations in German and Portuguese. Soon, users will be able to engage in back-and-forth conversations across six different languages, even when offline or in airplane mode.

Pricing and Availability

The new Ray-Ban Meta (Gen 2) starts at $379, while the more performance-oriented Oakley Meta Vanguard is priced at $499. Both models are available for pre-order now, with the Oakley version becoming available for purchase starting October 21.

September 18, 2025
iOS 26 Battery Impact: Does the New Glass UI Affect Battery Life?
Apple’s latest operating system, iOS 26, has made waves not just for its new features but also for the introduction of a sleek glass user interface (UI). As users begin to explore this fresh aesthetic, a common concern arises: how does this new design impact battery life? Let’s dive into the details.

Understanding the Glass UI Design

The glass UI in iOS 26 signifies a major shift in design philosophy. Here’s what it entails:
- Transparent Elements: The new UI incorporates transparency, giving users a glimpse of the underlying content.
- Dynamic Effects: Subtle animations and transitions enhance the user experience, contributing to the overall elegance.
- Customizable Themes: Users can now tailor the look and feel of their devices, placing a larger emphasis on aesthetic appeal.
Analyzing Battery Consumption

Any new design, especially one that introduces graphics-intensive elements, leads to questions about energy efficiency. Let’s break down how the glass UI influences battery consumption.

Factors Influencing Battery Life
1. Increased Graphics Processing:
  - The transparency and dynamic effects require more graphical power, which can drain the battery faster, especially in lower-end devices.
2. Higher Display Brightness:
  - The brightness levels for optimal viewing of transparent elements often lead to increased battery usage. Users may need to adjust settings to achieve a balance.
3. GPU Load:
  - The graphics processing unit (GPU) bears more load due to enhanced animations, impacting performance and battery life.
Mitigating Battery Drain

While the glass UI could impact battery life negatively, there are steps users can take:
- Lower Brightness Settings: Adjusting screen brightness can significantly reduce battery drain.
- Manage Background Apps: Closing unused applications can help conserve energy.
- Use Dark Mode: In certain scenarios, dark modes can minimize battery use, particularly on OLED screens.
User Experiences and Feedback

Early adopters of iOS 26 have shared their experiences regarding battery life:
- Mixed Reviews: Some users report no noticeable difference, while others indicate that battery life declines with extensive use of the glass UI.
- App-Specific Behavior: Battery impact varies significantly among apps, with more intensive applications naturally consuming more power when combined with the new UI.
Expert Opinions

Tech experts have weighed in on the battery implications of iOS 26’s design:
- Performance Optimization: Some experts believe Apple may have optimized the OS to balance aesthetics with efficiency.
- Future Updates: Anticipated updates may address battery consumption issues, improving user experience in the long run.
Final Thoughts

As users adapt to the elegant design of iOS 26, the impact on battery life remains an important consideration. While there are valid concerns about increased energy consumption, users can take proactive steps to mitigate battery drain. Time will tell how Apple responds to these concerns and whether additional optimizations will come to enhance device performance.

With iOS 26, the question of whether aesthetics can coexist with efficiency is one that Apple and its users will continue to explore.
June 5, 2025
New Blink Video Doorbell Has Two-Year Battery Life And Detection

The Blink Video Doorbell has gained significant popularity among budget-conscious consumers, and its latest model aims to continue that trend. On the market now, the new Blink Video Doorbell boasts an impressive two-year battery life, an enhanced field of view, a sleek redesign, and a competitive price tag of just $70.

If you’ve been on the hunt for an economical video doorbell, you’ve likely come across the original Blink Video Doorbell, which retails for $60. It served as an appealing option compared to the higher-end devices available from brands like Nest and Ring. Now, Blink is expanding on that foundation with the newly released Video Doorbell. While the cost has increased by $10, the device introduces several noteworthy features. The most significant upgrade is its broader field of view, which now offers a 150-degree coverage from head to toe—an improvement from the previous model’s 135-degree horizontal view.

Blink

This updated model offers smart notifications complete with person detection when used with a Blink subscription plan. Other appealing aspects include the two-year battery life, an easy installation process, and choices between black and white finishes. Additionally, it seamlessly integrates with Alexa and Echo devices, enabling hands-free monitoring and various automations.

Blink has revamped the design of the latest video doorbell, swapping the circular button for a more elongated one. The device features smoother curves and a refined color palette, resulting in a polished look. While it may not rival the more extravagant designs of its pricier counterparts, it stands out impressively for its budget-friendly price.

Alongside the new Blink Video Doorbell, the Sync Module Core is also now available. This hub allows users to connect and manage up to 10 Blink devices. For those seeking additional options, there are plenty of video doorbells out there, ranging from budget-friendly models to premium offerings from brands like Nest, Ring, and Arlo.

May 29, 2025
iPhone 17 Air May Fall Short On Battery Life

Concerns regarding the battery life of the iPhone 17 Air may have some validity, according to a recent report from The Information. Internal tests by Apple reportedly reveal that only 60 to 70 percent of iPhone 17 Air devices can last a full day on a single charge, compared to 80 to 90 percent for other iPhone models.

This battery issue is likely linked to the phone’s sleek design. At a mere 5.5mm thick, the iPhone 17 Air is anticipated to be the slimmest iPhone to date, and potentially among the thinnest smartphones available. Unfortunately, this reduction in thickness may mean a smaller battery capacity. To mitigate this limitation, Apple is reportedly considering the release of an optional battery case accessory to provide users with extra power throughout the day.

Initial rumors hinted that Apple might transition from lithium-ion to silicon-carbide batteries, which typically offer higher energy density and more compact designs. However, if the latest findings are correct, this shift may not be happening.

Majin Bu

The iPhone series has consistently enjoyed popularity, but it can still be challenging to predict consumer response to design changes like this. As per the report, Apple has allocated only 10 percent of its manufacturing capacity for the iPhone 17 Air. This figure may be adjusted post-launch based on demand, but for the time being, it appears that this model will cater to a more niche audience.

The iPhone 17 Air is scheduled to debut in September alongside the rest of the iPhone 17 lineup, with a starting price estimated at $799. It is likely to feature a single rear camera and 12GB of RAM, an upgrade from the 8GB found in the current iPhone 16.

May 4, 2025
Lenovo’s New Gaming Tablet Offers Improved Battery Life

The highly anticipated gaming tablet from Lenovo is set to launch soon, with the company unveiling some of its essential specifications. The Lenovo Legion Tab Gen 4 serves as an update to its predecessor, boasting numerous enhancements that are likely to make it competitive among the top gaming tablets on the market.

According to Notebookcheck, this new gaming tablet is beginning to take form. Lenovo just introduced the previous model, the Legion Tab Gen 3, in late 2024, yet gamers will be able to experience the updated version in May 2025, less than a year later.

Earlier leaks highlighted that the tablet will feature the Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset. This upgrade is expected to result in a significant boost in performance, although it’s still unclear whether Lenovo will opt for the seven-core or the eight-core variant of the system-on-chip (SoC), which adds an element of uncertainty regarding its full potential.

Joe Maring / Digital Trends

Another significant upgrade appears to be the battery life. Lenovo disclosed that the battery capacity has increased from 6,550 mAh to 7,600 mAh. When paired with the new Snapdragon 8 Elite, this enhancement suggests an improvement in battery performance, which is essential for gaming devices.

Additionally, Lenovo has revealed that the tablet will feature a new large vapor chamber cooling system, complete with a 12,000mm² copper cooler. Given that gaming tablets can generate considerable heat during demanding sessions, this upgrade is particularly beneficial.

Finally, the tablet will support up to 16GB of RAM and offer 512GB of storage, while maintaining a lightweight design at approximately 340 grams (0.7 lbs).

Although the exact launch date and pricing remain unclear, with an anticipated release in May, the wait for the Lenovo Legion Tab Gen 4 is nearly over.

April 23, 2025
Lenovo’s New Gaming Tablet May Improve Battery Life And Performance

Joe Maring / Digital Trends

If you’re in the market for a gaming tablet, Lenovo may have something in the works that piques your interest. Recent leaks suggest that the tech giant is gearing up to launch an updated version of the Legion Y700 gaming tablet, featuring some subtle yet significant enhancements. Here’s a breakdown of what we know so far.

The information comes from a leak shared by Digital Chat Station. As is typical with such leaks, the message is concise, yet packed with insights. Although not explicitly named, it seems to refer to the upcoming iteration of the Lenovo Legion Y700. The original Y700 was released in September 2024, but Lenovo might have an upgraded model on the horizon. It’s important to remember that leaks are not confirmed until verified by Lenovo.

The new tablet is targeted toward esports enthusiasts and is expected to swap out the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip for the more powerful Snapdragon 8 Elite. This upgrade is expected to significantly enhance performance, with some sources indicating a performance increase of up to 45% compared to the Gen 3 processor.

Joe Maring / Digital Trends

Additionally, battery life is set to improve. The previous Y700 model featured a 6550 mAh battery, and while the capacity for the new variant hasn’t been disclosed, it’s expected to house a larger battery while maintaining a sleeker profile.

Similar to its predecessor, the new Legion tablet is anticipated to come equipped with dual speakers and dual X-axis monitors. The display size is reportedly remaining at 8.8 inches.

As for the release date, it’s still uncertain. The leaker did not provide specifics, but sources from Notebookcheck speculate it could arrive in the second quarter of 2025, which would be less than a year after the original Y700 launch.

April 1, 2025
Samsung’s Slim S25 Edge May Face Battery Life Issues

Samsung and Apple are set to unveil their latest ultra-slim smartphone models this year. While there are speculations that Apple is adopting a higher-density design for enhanced performance, a recent certification from Denmark indicates that the Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge may not feature a similar innovation.

GSMArena

As reported by GSMArena, the certification confirms that the S25 Edge will be equipped with a 3,900 mAh battery, which is 100 mAh less than that of the S25. While it makes sense for a smaller model to have a reduced battery size, Samsung might regret this choice if Apple’s iPhone 17 Air manages to strike a balance between a compact size and high capacity.

Other leaks suggest that the S25 Edge will also utilize the 8-core Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset found in other S series devices, indicating robust performance. However, this increased power could lead to greater battery drain, presenting a challenge given the S25 Edge’s smaller battery capacity.

Sources indicate that Samsung will officially announce the S25 Edge on April 16, giving it a head start ahead of the iPhone 17 Air. Yet, it remains to be seen whether this will be enough to compensate for its battery limitations. Samsung may struggle to market battery life as a key selling point, especially as consumers come to expect incremental improvements with each smartphone release. While the sleek design can serve as justification for the reduced battery life, this could backfire if Apple’s slim offering avoids similar issues.

Additionally, customers may remain loyal to their chosen platform, with Android enthusiasts gravitating to the slim Samsung device and iOS users opting for the sleek iPhone. In this scenario, the S25 Edge’s lower-capacity battery might not be a significant drawback. Regardless, we will likely have clarity on these developments in just over a month.

March 11, 2025
Anker Solix EverFrost 2 Cooler Lasts Two Days On A Charge

Anker

Anker Solix has recently begun accepting preorders for its innovative EverFrost 2 Electric Cooler, which promises to be a tough and efficient companion for your outdoor excursions. Available in three different sizes and built to endure the rigors of travel, this premium cooler can keep your food and beverages chilled for an astonishing 52 hours on just one charge.

For those planning longer trips, the cooler can last up to 104 hours with the addition of an optional second battery pack. This standout feature makes the EverFrost 2 the longest-lasting battery-powered cooler currently on the market, easily surpassing its predecessor, which offered up to 42 hours of cooling time.

According to Anker Solix, this electric cooler operates 30% faster than conventional models and eliminates the need for ice. It also offers a wide temperature range, allowing you to set it anywhere between -4 degrees Fahrenheit and 68 degrees Fahrenheit.

This exceptional performance is driven by an advanced compressor system that works in tandem with internal fans. Anker Solix claims that the cooler can reduce temperatures from 77 degrees to 32 degrees in just 15 minutes when it is empty.

Anker

In addition to its impressive cooling capabilities and extended battery life, the EverFrost 2 Electric Cooler boasts several additional features. It includes both 60W USB-C and 12W USB-A ports, allowing it to function as a power bank for your devices. There’s also a handy fold-down tray for meal preparation and a mobile app that keeps you updated on the cooler’s performance. Charging options are flexible, as you can power the cooler through solar energy, an AC source, a vehicle socket, or via USB-C.

Designed for durability, the EverFrost 2 features sturdy 6-inch wheels for easy transport. It also has an IPX3 rating, signifying its ability to resist various weather conditions. The brand has a solid reputation for producing gear well-suited for extreme outdoor activities, and the upcoming EverFrost 2 continues this trend.

Preorders for the Anker Solix EverFrost 2 Electric Cooler are now open, with an official release date set for March 7. The 40L model is priced at $900, while the 58L variant costs $1,100. Additionally, a 23L model will be available on May 31 for $800. Those who preorder early can enjoy a $300 discount and receive a complimentary road trip kit filled with assorted accessories. If you want to enhance the operating time to 104 hours, an additional battery can be purchased for $200.

February 23, 2025
Samsung Set To Transform Smartwatch Battery Life In 2026

Rumors about Samsung’s development of a groundbreaking battery technology began circulating in late September and early October 2024. Recent reports from a Samsung subsidiary reveal that these innovative batteries are not only in the pipeline but also set to enter mass production by 2026.

The new batteries, which utilize an oxide-based design, boast a density of 200 watt-hours per liter, bringing them closer in performance to traditional lithium-ion batteries, as detailed in a report by the Korea Herald. Samsung aims for these solid-state oxide batteries to take the place of lithium batteries due to their enhanced safety, efficiency, and flexibility compared to current technologies.

The specific subsidiary involved in this development is Samsung Electro-Mechanics, a company that provides components and products to a diverse range of clients. At CES 2025 in Las Vegas, CEO Chang Duk-hyun noted that the company has conducted thorough internal testing and is actively engaging in discussions with potential clients. While the identities of these clients remain undisclosed, there are suggestions that major wearable technology companies, possibly including Apple, could also benefit from this advanced battery technology.

Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

If these reports prove accurate, the 2026 Samsung Galaxy Watch could significantly enhance battery life. Currently, some smartwatches boast impressive performance, such as the Garmin Instinct 3, which is said to last for 24 days, though this often relies on solar charging features. A true multiweek battery life lasting through medium to heavy usage would be a game changer for smartwatch enthusiasts.

It’s unclear whether this new battery technology will be extended to smartphones as well. While improving battery performance in wearables is critical, a sufficiently large capacity that can support a smartphone throughout an entire day, even under heavy usage conditions, would also represent a major advancement. Regardless, first movers in incorporating this technology into their wearables stand to gain a significant advantage.

January 16, 2025
Robotic Pool Cleaner Unveiled With 15-Hour Battery Life
iGarden

CES 2025

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At CES 2025, iGarden showcased several innovative products, but the TurboX and TurboX Master robotic pool cleaners captured the most attention. Both models are engineered to simplify pool upkeep, but it was the TurboX Master that truly impressed with its remarkable 15-hour runtime.

Digital Trends received compensation for considering coverage of these products. The brand had no input on the editorial content and did not influence the coverage.

The TurboX Master is set to be available in April, promising to shake up the robotic pool cleaner market. Unlike most competitors that need to recharge after a few hours, this model can operate for a staggering 15 hours. iGarden claims it holds a Guinness Record for the longest uninterrupted operation of a robotic pool cleaner, attributed to its innovative AI-inverter technology that enhances battery performance while delivering top-tier cleaning.

This robot is equipped with advanced infrared sensors, a gyroscope, and a feature that enables it to return to its starting point when the battery is low, making it a well-crafted device. Its sleek design draws inspiration from supercars, putting it on par with premium pool cleaners from brands like Polaris, Aiper, and Beatbot.

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This cleaner can effectively tackle both the waterline and stubborn stains like algae from the pool floor. iGarden mentions that it is compatible with various pool shapes and sizes, ensuring a comprehensive clean.
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Cleverly, users can set cleaning schedules or highlight specific areas that require extra attention, like walls or floors. With a month-long standby capability, you won’t frequently need to recharge the robot or handle manual maintenance. Depending on your settings and pool dimensions, you might only need to power it up once a month—a significant advantage over many robotic pool cleaners that require recharging after each cycle.

In addition, the TurboX Master boasts a user-friendly touchscreen interface, a two-year warranty, and a UV-resistant exterior, making it a product to watch. More information on pricing is anticipated soon.
January 9, 2025
32 Hours Battery Life? This New Ultralight Laptop Is Awesome
CES 2025

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With CES 2025 on the horizon in just two weeks, Asus is gearing up to unveil a new ultrathin laptop that it boasts will be the lightest Copilot+ PC in the world.

A brief teaser shared by Asus showcases the laptop effortlessly floating, though specific weight details remain under wraps. To claim the title of the world’s lightest, it would need to weigh less than 2.6 pounds, surpassing competitors like the Surface Pro 11th edition (including keyboard) and the Lenovo Yoga Slim 7x.

CES 2025 ASUS Official Teaser – Unload

While Asus hasn’t disclosed the processor that will power this model, a press release hints at impressive battery longevity—up to 32 hours. To reach such ambitious numbers, the most likely candidate for the CPU is Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X Elite, renowned for its energy efficiency. Alternatively, it could feature the Intel Core Ultra Series 2, which has also demonstrated commendable battery performance.

However, it’s crucial to remember that the battery life figures promised by manufacturers often differ from real-world results. Companies typically create optimal conditions for testing that don’t accurately reflect typical usage. When reviewers eventually test this new laptop, it’s likely the actual figures will fall short by at least three to four hours. As always, your actual mileage may vary.

Nonetheless, this claim is certainly eye-catching. Achieving over 25 hours of battery life would rank this new device among the best in its category, making the impending results all the more intriguing.
More Information

Asus launches the world’s lightest 14-inch laptop with impressive battery capabilities

Asus’ Project Athena-certified Chromebook Flip promises all-day battery life
Fortunately, we won’t have to wait long for more details, as Asus is set to formally introduce the laptop during its “Always Incredible” event on January 7.
December 24, 2024