Top items to watch
- Google has discontinued the Nest Home Mini and Nest Audio — availability is changing and retailers may adjust prices. (Source: Engadget)
- Valve warns some Steam Controller orders may not ship until 2027, so expect long wait times for preorders. (Source: Engadget)
- Wearables: growing interest in simpler wrist devices; fitness trackers can be affected by tattoos — results are “sometimes, but complicated.” (Sources: Engadget)
What shoppers should consider
- When a product line is discontinued (Nest Mini/Audio), check major retailers for clearance or remaining stock, but be prepared for limited support/stock over time. This could be a buying opportunity or a reason to choose a current-generation alternative.
- If you preordered a Steam Controller, verify shipping dates and cancellation/refund policies; consider ready-to-ship controllers if you need hardware now.
- If you have tattoos or rely on accurate health metrics, test a tracker in-store or check return policies — trackers can work but performance may vary.
- Think about simplicity: some users are ditching full-feature smartwatches for basic trackers or non-screen options to reduce complexity and cost of ownership.
Quick tips to save
- Compare prices across retailers before buying discontinued models; set price alerts for clearance events.
- Prioritize return windows and warranty when buying discounted hardware.
- For wearables, prefer retailers with generous returns so you can test sensors (tattoos can affect accuracy).
Key takeaways
- Google discontinued Nest Home Mini and Nest Audio — watch retailers for price shifts.
- Valve may delay some Steam Controller shipments into 2027; expect long waits.
- Fitness trackers can sometimes be affected by tattoos; testing and return options matter.
- Simpler wrist devices are a viable way to cut cost and complexity for many users.
Sources
- Do fitness trackers still work if you have tattoos? (2026-06-19) — https://www.engadget.com/2197736/do-fitness-trackers-work-with-tattoos/
- Why people might ditch their smartwatches for something simpler (2026-06-19) — https://www.engadget.com/2197565/reasons-why-people-ditch-smartwatches-something-simpler/
- Are you prepared to wait until 2027 for a Steam Controller? (2026-06-19) — https://www.engadget.com/2197972/valve-steam-controller-2027-shipping/
- Google has discontinued the Nest Home Mini and Nest Audio (2026-06-18) — https://www.engadget.com/2197748/google-has-discontinued-the-nest-home-mini-and-nest-audio/
Disclaimer: Not financial/professional advice