Apple Raises Prices, IKEA STYRSTRECK, and tado Smart Charging

This week is mostly about Apple. HomePod and Apple TV are getting noticeably more expensive, and code for a new, AI-powered Siri has surfaced in the tvOS 27 beta. On top of that, two new IKEA neon light strips with Matter appear at the FCC, tado adds smart charging for EVs, and we have a tip on Adaptive Lighting.

HomePod and Apple TV Get More Expensive

Apple is raising prices for the HomePod and Apple TV. The HomePod mini now costs 139 euros instead of 109 euros, and the larger HomePod 399 euros instead of 349 euros. The Apple TV 4K goes up too: the Wi-Fi model rises to 229 euros and the version with Ethernet and Thread to 299 euros. Apple cites rising component costs, especially for memory.

A New Siri: AI Code Found in the tvOS 27 Beta

The tvOS 27 beta already contains code for the new, AI-powered Siri on HomePod and Apple TV. It is not functional on current hardware, though. It requires Apple's N1 chip, which is not yet built into any HomePod or Apple TV. The launch is expected in late 2026, likely alongside a new generation of devices.

IKEA STYRSTRECK: Neon Light Strip with Matter over Thread

Two new IKEA neon light strips, the STYRSTRECK and the KLOLANKE, have surfaced in FCC filings. The STYRSTRECK shines with up to 1,200 lumens, mixes color with warm white tones from 2,700 Kelvin, and relies on Matter over Thread. According to the filings, control via Apple Home has already been tested. The launch is expected for late 2026 or early 2027.

tado Smart Charging for EVs

tado, known for its HomeKit and Matter thermostats, is bringing Smart Charging for EVs to its app. The feature schedules charging based on dynamic electricity rates and your desired departure time, and supports more than 15 brands such as BMW, Mercedes, Tesla, and VW. Six months are free, after which it costs 2.99 euros per month. There is no Apple Home or Matter integration.

Worth Watching: Everything NEW in tvOS 27 for Apple TV

If you want to know what tvOS 27 already brings to the Apple TV today, this hands-on gives you a compact overview of the new features and the most important changes for everyday use.

Tip of the Week: Turn On Adaptive Lighting

Many HomeKit lamps with adjustable color temperature support Adaptive Lighting, but it is not enabled automatically. Once you turn it on, Apple adjusts the white tone throughout the day on its own: cool in the morning, warm in the evening. It requires an adjustable white range, so a fixed warm white like that of the new IKEA STYRSTRECK is not enough. On top of that, the feature can only be configured in Apple's Home app, because Apple has never opened Adaptive Lighting up to third-party developers.