Google accidentally unveiled its upcoming Nest security cameras and video doorbell series. The configuration options for the wired versions of the Nest Cam Indoor (3rd gen), Nest Cam Outdoor (2nd gen), and Nest Doorbell (3rd gen) were accessible in the Google Home app. While these options appear to have been taken down, a Reddit user also spotted the new products at Home Depot, ready for sale. Google has already announced that it will share new information regarding the integration of its Gemini voice assistant into Google Home on October 1, which is expected to coincide with the unveiling of the new hardware. These awaited updates might entail 2K resolution, a new zoom and crop feature, fresh colors, and a transition to Gemini for Home. Furthermore, speculation surrounds a potential new subscription service as Nest Aware transitions into Google Home Premium, along with a new Google Home Premium Advanced plan. These rumors remain unverified, so exercising caution is advisable.
The design of the upcoming products is quite similar to previous models, with the exception of new hues, including a striking red. In anticipation of the new launches, the Nest team has recently refreshed the Home app, incorporating preview images from the last event, swipe functionalities between timeline and events, and enhanced notifications featuring expandable thumbnails. Several performance upgrades and refinements have also been implemented.
Sony’s Xperia 10 VII Will Not Debut in the US
Sony is again opting not to release its flagship Xperia smartphones in the US, continuing this pattern with the newest midrange Xperia 10 VII. The device will be sold in Asia, Europe, and the UK, showcasing a new design with a horizontal camera bar, reminiscent of Google Pixel and iPhone Air devices. It boasts a 6.1-inch display, slightly larger than the iPhone 16, possibly due to thicker bezels, while offering a 120-Hz refresh rate. It retains the 3.5-mm headphone jack and microSD card slot. Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 chip, along with a 5,000-mAh battery, it does not support wireless charging. The phone features a 50-megapixel main camera and a 13-MP ultrawide camera, alongside a side-mounted shutter button. Its price is set at £399 or €449 in the UK and Europe, becoming available on September 19, coinciding with the new iPhone 17 series.
Qualcomm Unveils Quick Charge 5+
Qualcomm has introduced Quick Charge 5+, an upgrade in its fast-charging technology, promoting it as their “fastest and most adaptable charging solution.” This technology is capable of charging devices to 50 percent in just five minutes, emphasizing sustainable speed maintenance through “advanced thermal control” and “intelligent power delivery,” rather than simply enhancing charging speed. It dynamically regulates power to prevent overheating while ensuring both performance and battery longevity. Qualcomm’s technology is utilized in over 1 billion devices globally, with further integration of Quick Charge 5+ expected in US phones and accessories. New devices revealed at the Snapdragon Summit on September 23 will be compatible with this technology.
Ultraloq Introduces NFC Unlock for Android Devices
Smart-lock manufacturer Ultraloq has launched support for Android devices with NFC unlocking capabilities, akin to Apple Home Key. Their Bolt NFC smart lock ($200) now includes tap-to-unlock features for Android devices, similar to the tap-to-pay option. This functionality, frequently highlighted for iPhones, enables effortless switching between Apple and Android ecosystems for devices supporting both. The Bolt NFC lock enables wireless unlocking on both platforms with a simple tap.