Gear News of the Week: Google’s Latest Pixel Update Lets You Generate Images of People

The Ring 2 also has a newer, bigger suite of health features that add women’s cycle tracking, FDA-cleared Afib detection, electrocardiogram capabilities, and insights by Kira+, Circular’s AI wellness assistant. Naturally, existing features remain, like the ability to track your activity, blood oxygen levels, heart rate variability, and sleep quality. A smart ring has two main advantages over a smartwatch or a wrist-worn fitness tracker, which is that it slips seamlessly on your finger, where you can forget about it and never have to take it off. We haven’t tested it yet, but the Circular Ring 2 looks like it might do just that. —Adrienne So

Polaroid’s 3rd-Gen Instant Cameras Have Better Autofocus

Polaroid has updated its Now and Now+ instant cameras. The third generation Now cameras offer an upgraded two-lens autofocus system, with the camera automatically switching between focus zones (0.40m-1.3m and then 1.0m-infinity), an improved ranging sensor, and better metering. Polaroid promises that the updates will lead to sharper images, even in bright sunlight.

The basic design of the Now and Now+ has not changed, though it now comes in new colors. The “+” designator means it will pair with the Polaroid app on your phone to tap into advanced features like a double exposure mode, aperture priority shooting, and a remote timer. Both cameras shoot standard, full size Polaroid film and are available now starting at $120. —Scott Gilbertson

Dyson’s Supersonic R Is Finally Available for Consumers

Photograph: Dyson

Dyson has announced that its lightest and most powerful hairdryer yet, the Supersonic r, is going on general sale from 2 April.

First announced a year ago, the Supersonic r was previously only available to stylists and salons, but next month the rather unconventionally shaped dryer will be available to all.

Promising to be 30 percent smaller and 20 percent lighter than the original Supersonic released in 2016, the Supersonic r is powered by Dyson’s Hyperdymium motor and packs RFID sensors into its five included attachments. These work with the dryer to automatically adjust the motor speed and heat settings to deliver the optimal airflow and temperature for the job at hand.

The Supersonic r also uses new streamlined heater technology, with 10 heater foils placed in the curve of the machine that promise to heat the air more evenly and avoid hotspots. Its curved shape should also make the dryer more ergonomic and easy to hold, even if it does look just a little bit weird.

As the brand’s flagship hairdryer, the Supersonic r will have a price tag to match, making it quite the investment at $570/£450. It will be available in Ceramic Pink at launch, with Jasper Plum following in the summer. —Verity Burns