3 – Breaking News & Latest Updates 2026
Skip to main content

Reviews Archive

Archives for January 2026

I played with the Lego Smart Brick

I get it now.

Sean Hollister
Sean Hollister
Sean Hollister
This is what the Lego Smart Brick actually does.

Today I toyed with the Lego Smart Brick, touted as the “most significant evolution” to the Lego system in 50 years, and I came away impressed. I have a whole hands-on preview story coming Wednesday, but here’s a whirlwind two-minute video tour of what it can actually do. (Also on YouTube.)

I tested Apple’s hands-free Home Key — and it’s a big upgrade

Aqara’s new U400 smart lock is the first to use Apple’s UWB-based hands-free unlocking, and it works every time, even with full hands.

Jennifer Pattison Tuohy
The taint bandaid has evolved into the taint zapper

It took six years, FDA clearance, and some rabbits, but this CES health wearable didn’t end up as vaporware.

Victoria Song
This smart home controller is literally a piece of wood

Mui’s long-gestating calm-tech board finally ships — and it’s a thoughtful, if very expensive, alternative to screens.

Jennifer Pattison Tuohy
Sean Hollister
Sean Hollister
These AA batteries charge over USB-C and genuinely impressed me.

What if you could charge double-As with the same cord as your phone? That’s a thing, and these 1.5V lithium-ion Zepath batteries are surprisingly good! Don’t throw away your Eneloops yet, as NiMH is likely safer and can last longer in low-current applications. But these last way longer in my modded GBA.

If you buy something from a Verge link, Vox Media may earn a commission. See our ethics statement.