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Robot vacuums are having a very weird year at CES 2025. Weve seen robot vacs that can scoot over stairs and pick up socks. Now, another robot vacuum maker is showing off robot vacuums that can zoom around with air purifiers, tablet stands, security cameras, tabletops and other objects on top. The SwitchBot K20+ Pro is a robot vacuum that doubles as a modular platform for other household devices. The company describes it as a multitasking household assistant that can perform a bunch of tasks while maybe also cleaning your floor. The vacuum itself mostly resembles a typical robot vac, if a bit larger. It also has a connector on top that supports a wide array of attachments or even appliances. The company says it can support up to 8 kg nearly 18 lbs and will connect seamlessly to other SwitchBot appliances like an air purifier or home security cam. The SwitchBot vac can then be programmed to follow you around or stay in one spot. Karissa Bell for Engadget At SwitchBots booth, I saw vacuums that had a tablet stand, an air purifier with an attached tabletop and a security cam. But the companys promotional materials also show a vacuum with a fan and a laundry basket on top. It also suggests that the K20+ Pro can deliver drinks and carry small packages around the house. A SwitchBot rep at the booth said the company wants to allow people to 3D print their own custom parts for the K20+ Pro so that anyone can come up with their own use case for a vacuum-enabled small appliance. A video posted to the companys YouTube channel even shows a vacuum with an arm that can pick up trash and deposit it in a wastebasket. (Yes, another robot vacuum with an arm.) If all of this sounds a bit ridiculous, thats because it is. While I can kind of understand the appeal of a robot vacuum that doubles as a phone or tablet stand, I cant imagine many scenarios when Id want a floor-level fan or air purifier zooming around my house. I didnt get to see any of SwitchBots vacuums actually moving around at its booth, so I have no idea how well any of this might work. Its also not clear how much the K20+ Pro will cost when it goes on sale later this year, though the company is already selling some of its attachments, like the $270 air purifier/tabletop combo.This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/home/smart-home/one-robot-vacuum-is-trying-way-too-hard-to-outdo-the-competition-at-ces-2025-171554433.html?src=rss
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Marketing and Advertising
CES 2025 is ongoing, but if you're wondering if some of the products showcased there are available, you're in luck. Many of them are up for pre-order, if not already on store shelves. This year, there are wireless headphones, smart glasses and even a baby bouncer and bassinet combo. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/15-ces-gadgets-you-can-actually-buy-right-now-170544358.html?src=rss
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Marketing and Advertising
Tonal, the company behind the smart home gym of the same name, is now launching the Tonal 2. This machine is an upgrade over its predecessor, which we tested some years ago. Two years ago, Tonal laid off 35 percent of its workforce, but the company seems to be doing much better now. According to the company, Tonal 2 has improved hardware, including a better camera that uses AI to analyze 500 data points per second and an upgraded adaptive weight system. The latter can now let users lift up to 250 pounds. Tonal 2 also comes with new Aero HIIT workouts you can follow to combine cardio and strength training, something the first generation trainer doesnt offer. Additionally, Tonal 2 has a sleeker design and new look, thanks to an all-black appearance with chrome accents. Like the original Tonal trainer following a few software updates, Tonal 2 knows when your muscles are fatiguing and will reduce the resistance. This adjustment lets you pump out a few more reps and ensure you reach muscle failure easier, increasing muscle gains as a result. Tonal 2 is now available to purchase in all 50 states for $3,995. This price doesnt include a subscription, which costs $60 a month. The company will install the machine for you in your home when it arrives.This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/home/smart-home/tonal-2-is-now-available-for-purchase-170040163.html?src=rss
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