Wrap up your week with the latest tech news from around the globe. From Tonal to Nvidia and more, we have you covered. Check out our weekly round-up below!
Microsoft Teases Major Surface Announcement for Businesses
Microsoft is gearing up for a significant Surface for Business announcement. The announcement will likely happen during Microsoft’s AI tour in New York City on January 30. The tech giant recently teased the news in a LinkedIn post, sparking speculation about upcoming hardware updates. Rumors suggest Microsoft may introduce Intel Lunar Lake-powered versions of the Surface Laptop 7 and Surface Pro 11, both redesigned for business applications. These updates would follow last year’s releases of Surface Pro 10 and Surface Laptop 6, which debuted with Intel Meteor Lake processors and were later refreshed with Qualcomm-powered Surface Copilot Plus devices. While other products, like the Surface Laptop Studio and an 11-inch Surface Go/Laptop Go hybrid, are rumored for future updates, they’re unlikely to be part of this business-focused event. With Microsoft’s increasing emphasis on integrating AI capabilities across its product lines, this announcement is expected to highlight both hardware innovation and AI-driven functionality. Stay tuned for live updates as the event unfolds.
Tonal Launches Tonal 2: A Smarter, Stronger Home Gym
Tonal has unveiled the Tonal 2, an upgraded version of its smart wall-mounted strength trainer. Building on its 2018 predecessor, the Tonal 2 offers enhanced features like an adaptive weight system with up to 250 pounds and more. The device’s improved Smart View feature now uses an integrated camera to analyze 500 data points per second for real-time coaching. Additionally, it comes with the option to add a second angle via smartphone. The Tonal 2 sports a sleek all-black design with chrome accents and comes with a starting price of $4,295. Tonal promises a trade-in program for existing Tonal 1 owners. The release solidifies Tonal’s position as a leader in the home fitness market, offering a more personalized and tech-driven workout experience.
Bluetti Unveils EnergyPro 6K and Apex 300 Energy Storage Systems
Bluetti has introduced two new energy storage solutions: the EnergyPro 6K and the Apex 300. The EnergyPro 6K offers 5.8kW to 29kW of power output and up to 38.4kWh of LFP battery storage. Likewise, this seamlessly integrates with existing solar systems and supports automatic backup through Bluetti’s AT1 Smart Distribution Box. The Apex 300, meanwhile, delivers 3840W max AC output and expandable storage up to 58kWh. Of course, the Apex 300 comes with the ability to power both 120V and 240V loads and accept up to 30,720W of solar input. These updates are part of Bluetti’s rebranding into three product series. The products are EnergyPro for fixed solutions, Apex for advanced portable needs, and Elite for casual use. Of course, these systems offer scalable energy options for diverse scenarios. The EnergyPro 6K is expected in Q2 2025, while the Apex 300 will be available in April 2025. Pricing details were not provided, but these systems are anticipated to start in the low thousands, climbing higher for fully customized installations.
Omi: The Wearable AI Assistant Aiming to Revolutionize Your Day
Nik Shevchenko has unveiled Omi, an $89 wearable device designed to streamline daily life through AI-powered insights and assistance. Worn as a puck on your temple or around your neck, Omi listens continuously without a wake word, offering real-time summaries, action items, and answers to questions. With features like an AI mentor tool, “Personas” for creating bots based on social profiles, and integration with apps like Google Drive and Zapier, Omi aims to serve as both a companion and productivity assistant. While still in early stages with some quirks, the open-source platform boasts 250 apps and plans to expand as a versatile tool for personalized support. Shipping begins in Q2, promising to redefine how people interact with AI in their daily lives.
Google Boosts Local Smart Home Control with Matter Integration
Google has introduced full local control for Matter-enabled devices across its smart home platforms. The update integrates Home Runtime into Google Home hubs. This upgrade allows devices like Nest hubs, speakers, Chromecasts, and some LG TVs to control Matter devices locally. Likewise, the updates improve reliability, and privacy, and reduce latency. Even during internet outages, users can rely on Google Assistant to operate devices like lights seamlessly. Additionally, Google is collaborating with the Connectivity Standards Alliance and MediaTek to streamline Matter device certification and development, including creating a chip that combines Wi-Fi, Bluetooth LE, and Thread. The company has also opened its Home APIs to all developers, providing tools for building apps that leverage Google Home’s ecosystem, enabling seamless device integration, onboarding, and intelligent automations. This marks a significant step toward simplifying and enhancing the smart home experience for users and developers alike.
Nvidia Teases Entry into Consumer CPU Market with Arm-Based Processor
Nvidia’s rumored entry into the consumer CPU market gained traction at CES 2025. This came with Nvidia’s reveal of Project Digits, a $3,000 personal AI supercomputer. Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang hinted that the 20-core desktop CPU has broader ambitions beyond Project Digits. Of course, this potentially signals Nvidia’s move into the consumer market. MediaTek may also independently release the CPU, expanding its reach further. This development comes as competition heats up in the Arm-based CPU space, dominated by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X Elite. Nvidia’s potential entry in 2025 could reshape the landscape, intensifying the rivalry in the consumer CPU market.