Baseus has introduced a new portable charger in China that tries to solve a common annoyance: carrying both a wall charger and a power bank.
The new EnerGeek GT 21 combines the two into a single device. It’s a 67W charger with built-in AC prongs, but it also packs a 10,000mAh battery inside. So you can plug it directly into a wall like a normal adapter, or toss it in a bag and use it as a power bank later. It includes a retractable USB-C cable built into the body, which extends up to about 80cm.
In addition to the built-in cable, there’s a USB-C port and a USB-A port. You can charge up to three devices at once, though power is shared when everything is plugged in.
When used as a power bank with all three outputs active, the built-in cable can deliver up to 45W, while the remaining two ports share a combined 15W.
There’s also a small digital display on the front. It shows remaining battery percentage and output details.
On the battery side, the capacity is rated at 10,000mAh, which should provide at least one full charge for most modern smartphones in real-world conditions. It supports common fast-charging standards like PD, PPS, AFC, UFCS, and SCP, so compatibility shouldn’t be an issue either.
The foldable prongs make it easier to carry, and the size appears compact enough to replace both a wall brick and a power bank in a travel bag. For frequent travelers, that kind of consolidation can actually make a difference.
The EnerGeek GT 21 is currently priced at CNY 399 (around $58) in China. There’s no word yet on international availability, but Baseus typically brings its products to other markets, so a wider launch wouldn’t be surprising.
It’s not a revolutionary device, but it does feel practical. If the build quality holds up, it could be a solid option for people who want fewer cables and fewer chargers to think about
Casio has launched the MRGB2100D-2A in the United States. The premium G-Shock MR-G timepiece had previously been released in Japan, Europe, and the UK. It is priced at $4,700 and now joins the brand’s US catalog as part of the flagship MRG-B2100 series.
Casio MRGB2100D-2A Specifications
The MRGB2100D-2A has a silver-toned case with a blue dial inspired by the Japanese hanada-iro shade. The dial features a horizontal texture, bold metallic hour markers, a framed date window at 3 o’clock, and a small day sub-dial at 7 o’clock, creating a balanced, highly legible layout.
Casio builds the MRGB2100D-2A using premium materials. Its octagonal bezel is made of Cobarion, a Japanese alloy four times harder than titanium with a platinum-like shine. The case and crown use Ti64 titanium, while the bracelet is crafted from DAT55G, another titanium alloy prized for its durability and wear resistance. Each of the 27 bezel components is individually polished for precision, and a titanium carbide coating further improves scratch resistance.
The watch features solar-powered timekeeping, Multi-Band 6 radio calibration, and Bluetooth connectivity via Casio’s Mobile Link app, which enables auto time adjustment, watch status updates, and a phone finder. It offers 200-meter water resistance, magnetic resistance, a screw-lock crown, and sapphire crystal glass with an anti-reflective coating.
Casio includes additional design elements inspired by traditional Japanese woodworking techniques. The dial’s latticework structure, known as kigumi, allows light to pass through and power the solar panel. The 12 o’clock marker features a precision-assembled two-part structure that reflects Yamagata Casio’s advanced manufacturing technology.
The MRGB2100D-2A weighs 122 grams and measures 49.5 x 44.4 x 13.6 mm. It supports a full-auto calendar, LED Super Illuminator light, and power-saving mode. The watch is available now through the official Casio store and select retailers.
Apple has reportedly acquired Israeli AI startup Q.ai for ~$2 billion.
Future AirPods could enable silent, lip-based interaction.
The move signals Apple’s deeper push into AI-powered wearable interfaces.
Apple is reportedly exploring a future where users can interact with devices without speaking. According to reports from Financial Times and Reuters, the company has acquired Israeli startup Q.ai for approximately $2 billion, its largest deal since acquiring Beats Electronics.
Q.ai specializes in machine learning systems that analyze micro-movements in facial skin, lip motions, and subtle muscle activity. The technology can detect silently mouthed words, emotional expressions, and even physiological indicators like heart rate and breathing patterns.
Industry analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has previously predicted camera-enabled AirPods could launch in 2026, potentially featuring infrared sensors similar to Face ID’s depth-mapping system. Combined with Q.ai’s algorithms, such hardware could allow users to send messages, activate Siri, or control music without saying a word.
The technology may also extend beyond earbuds to devices like Apple Vision Pro and future smart glasses. Q.ai’s founder, Aviad Maizels, previously co-founded PrimeSense, whose 3D sensing technology later evolved into Apple’s Face ID system.
If implemented, silent facial input could mark a shift from voice commands to discreet, sensor-based interaction, reshaping how users engage with wearable AI while raising new privacy questions.
Privacy Questions:
Silent facial tracking raises significant privacy considerations. Continuous monitoring of lip and muscle movements could generate highly sensitive biometric data. If stored improperly, such data might reveal emotional states, health indicators, or private communications. There are also concerns about potential misuse, including unauthorized tracking or remote intent detection.
If implemented, silent facial input could redefine human-computer interaction, while intensifying the debate over how much data wearable devices should be allowed to observe.
Lenovo has officially started teasing its upcoming Legion Y700 (2026), which is set to launch in March. The company claims the device features a new AI-powered network acceleration system that can reduce game latency by 54.8% in complex network conditions. The tablet also lowers in-game stutter rates by 42.7% compared to rival models, according to Lenovo’s internal data.
The Legion Y700 (2026) introduces a dedicated acceleration channel for gaming. Lenovo says the AI engine detects congested or unstable network environments and prioritizes real-time gaming traffic to reduce packet loss and jitter.
Lenovo also teased that the tablet supports a 2640Hz touch sampling rate. The display is tuned for ultra-fast response, allowing for near-instant input detection. The company describes it as “instant touch, instant response,” reinforcing the tablet’s focus on performance gaming.
In an earlier teaser, Lenovo confirmed that the Legion Y700 will feature an 8.8-inch 3K+ LCD display with a resolution of 3040 x 1904 pixels, a 165Hz refresh rate, and 12-bit color depth. The screen supports up to 800 nits of peak brightness and the DCI-P3 wide color gamut.
Lenovo also explained that the 165Hz refresh rate reduces the refresh interval to 6.06ms, compared to 6.94ms at 144Hz and 16.67ms at 60Hz, resulting in lower input latency and improved motion clarity during gameplay.
According to a leak from Digital Chat Station, the Lenovo Legion Y700 (2026) will be powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset. The tablet is expected to launch in multiple variants, including 12GB + 256GB, 16GB + 512GB, and 24GB + 1TB configurations.
It will feature a 50MP rear camera with an RGB ring light and pack a roughly 9,000mAh battery. The retail box will include a 68W fast charger, and the device is also said to come with dual USB-C ports.
While it’s not Lenovo’s first AI-enabled product, this is its most aggressive attempt to blend AI into the gaming tablet experience. The Legion Y700 (2026) will be available in black and white colors.
For more daily updates, please visit our News Section.
Memory prices have been climbing for a while, largely because of strong demand from AI infrastructure and data centers. That usually spells trouble for smartphone pricing. But if recent analyst notes are accurate, Apple isn’t planning to pass those increases directly to buyers of its next Pro iPhones.
According to GF Securities analyst Jeff Pu, Apple intends to keep the starting prices of the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max in line with their predecessors. That would mean $1,099 and $1,199 respectively for base 256GB configurations, assuming no last-minute changes.
The information comes from supply chain checks shared in a note reviewed by MacRumors. Pu suggests Apple has been negotiating aggressively with memory suppliers, including Samsung and SK Hynix, to soften the impact of rising DRAM and NAND prices. Similar negotiations are reportedly taking place around display panels and camera modules.
In short, Apple appears willing to absorb some of the pressure.
Apple has also shifted to quarterly memory contract negotiations instead of semi-annual agreements, giving it more flexibility, though that could also mean exposure to further price bumps later in 2026.
Even so, Kuo believes Apple’s strategy is clear: keep entry pricing stable for the Pro models, even if that trims margins slightly in the short term.
That wouldn’t be surprising. Apple’s Services business continues to grow steadily, bringing in over $30 billion in a single quarter recently. A stable hardware price helps protect market share, and any margin pressure on devices can be offset over time through ecosystem revenue.
The broader industry isn’t quite as insulated. IDC has warned that smartphone prices could rise by 6–8% this year due to component shortages. Meanwhile, Samsung executives have already hinted at cost pressures ahead of upcoming launches.
For now, the iPhone 18 Pro lineup is expected to arrive in September 2026. Nothing is official yet, and pricing decisions often come down to late-stage market conditions. But if these reports hold true, Apple seems prepared to lean on its scale.
The original Snapdragon 8 Elite was introduced in 2024 as the company’s first mobile chipset featuring an Oryon CPU, then came the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 next year as its successor, which was earlier supposed to launch as Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 2, but Qualcomm had a different plan.
A few weeks after the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 2’s announcement, Qualcomm followed up with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 as an affordable flagship alternative for premium mid-range devices. While it appears to be a successor to Snapdragon 8 Elite, the latter actually delivers better performance. The inconsistent naming scheme from Qualcomm is confusing many people, so we’ve created this detailed post explaining how the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5, Snapdragon 8 Gen 5, and Snapdragon 8 Elite stack up against each other.
Here’s the spec sheet for a quick overview:
Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5
Snapdragon 8 Gen 5
Snapdragon 8 Elite
Announced
September 2025
November 2025
October 2024
Process node
TSMC’s 3nm (N3P)
TSMC’s 3nm (N3P)
TSMC’s 3nm (N3E)
CPU cores
8-core
8-core
8-core
CPU cores
2 x 4.61GHz — Oryon (3rd gen) 6 x 3.63GHz — Oryon (3rd gen)
2 x 3.8GHz — Oryon (3rd gen) 6 x 3.32GHz — Oryon (3rd gen)
2 x 4.32GHz — Oryon (2nd gen) 6 x 3.53GHz — Oryon (2nd gen)
GPU
Adreno 840 Ray tracing support Snapdragon Elite Gaming features
Adreno 829 Ray tracing support Snapdragon Elite Gaming features
Adreno 830 Ray tacing support Snapdragon Elite Gaming features
NPU
Qualcomm Hexagon NPU Agentic AI support
Qualcomm Hexagon NPU Agentic AI support
Qualcomm Hexagon NPU
Memory
LPDDR5X, up to 5.3GHz
LPDDR5X, up to 4.8GHz
LPDDR5X, up to 5.3GHz
Storage
UFS 4.1
UFS 4.1
UFS 4.0
Camera
Qualcomm Spectra ISP (Triple AI-ISPs, 20-bit) up to 320MP single camera up to 108MP single camera (MFNR, ZSL, 30fps) up to 48MP triple camera (MFNR, ZSL, 30fps) up to 4K/120fps video recording real-time semantic segmentation (limitless) Advanced Professional Video (APV) codec
Qualcomm Spectra ISP (Triple AI-ISPs, 20-bit) up to 320MP single camera up to 108MP single camera (MFNR, ZSL, 30fps) up to 48MP triple camera (MFNR, ZSL, 30fps) up to 4K/120fps video recording real-time semantic segmentation
Qualcomm Spectra ISP (Triple AI-ISPs, 18-bit) up to 320MP single camera up to 108MP single camera (MFNR, ZSL, 30fps) up to 48MP triple cameras (MFNR, ZSL, 30fps) real-time semantic segmentation (limitless) up to 8K/30fps video recording
Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 vs 8 Gen 5 vs 8 Elite: Benchmark numbers
Note: The benchmark tests were performed on the iQOO 15 (Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5), OnePlus 15R (Snapdragon 8 Gen 5), and OnePlus 13 (Snapdragon 8 Elite).
Geekbench performance
The Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5, unsurprisingly, achieves the highest score in both single-core and multi-core tests (3649, 10682), followed by the Snapdragon 8 Elite, which gets about 7% higher single-core score than the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5, while the multi-core scores for the two chips don’t have a big difference.
Single core
Multi core
SD 8 Elite Gen 5
3,649
10,682
SD 8 Gen 5
2,837
9,352
SD 8 Elite
3,026
9,306
AnTuTu performance
The Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 is far ahead of the other two, with a total score above 3.7 million. The Snapdragon 8 Elite almost touches the 3 million mark, while the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 is just below it, scoring 2.96 million points.
AnTuTu score
SD 8 Elite Gen 5
3,751,084
SD 8 Gen 5
2,961,236
SD 8 Elite
2,994,563
3DMark performance
The result isn’t any different on 3DMark than AnTuTu and Geekbench. The Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 pulls off the best high score in the Wild Life Extreme test, followed by the Snapdragon 8 Elite and then the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5.
High score
Low score
SD 8 Elite Gen 5
7,240
3,219
SD 8 Gen 5
5,009
3,321
SD 8 Elite
6,628
4,155
However, things get interesting when you look at low scores. The Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 has the worst low score of 3,219. In contrast, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 scores 3,321 points, and the Snapdragon 8 Elite scores 4,155 points. This could mean a higher gaming stability on a Snapdragon 8 Elite-powered device than on devices powered by the other two chipsets. However, that also depends on the software tuning, gaming optimizations, and cooling solution of a device.
The benchmarks focus solely on performance and don’t address other important aspects, such as connectivity and camera capabilities. Let’s talk about them and other important stuff in the following section to get the complete picture.
Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 vs 8 Gen 5 vs 8 Elite: Key differences
CPU, GPU, and NPU
The Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 and 8 Gen 5 have been manufactured using TSMC’s 3nm (N3P) node, which offers slightly improved performance and efficiency over the N3E node used for the Snapdragon 8 Elite.
All three Qualcomm chips have the same 2+6 core configuration. The Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 and 8 Gen 5 feature third-generation Oryon CPU, while the Snapdragon 8 Elite has a second-generation Oryon CPU. Despite a generation older CPU, the 8 Elite beats the 8 Gen 5 on benchmarks because its cores run at higher clock speeds.
As for graphics rendering, the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 features the powerful Adreno 840 GPU with excellent ray tracing capabilities, along with a full suite of Snapdragon Elite Gaming features to enhance the gaming experience further. In contrast, the 8 Gen 5 has an Adreno 829, and the 8 Elite has Adreno 830. Both GPUs support ray tracing and offer Snapdragon Elite Gaming features.
Now, coming to AI capabilities, the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 features the largest and most capable NPU with agentic AI support. The NPU performance of the two other chips is nearly identical, but the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5’s official page mentions agentic AI support, whereas the Snapdragon 8 Elite doesn’t.
Camera and Imaging
The camera capabilities of the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 and 8 Gen 5 are nearly identical, except that the latest Elite chip features Advanced Professional Video (APV) codes for near-lossless, pro-grade capture and limitless real-time semantic segmentation. The Snapdragon 8 Elite features a lower-bit ISP, while the rest of its specs are mostly the same as those of the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5.
Connectivity
While all three Qualcomm chips offer robust connectivity features, the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 excels by delivering higher download and upload speeds over 5G. The rest of the connectivity specs are almost the same.
Elon Musk proposed building a Moon factory to produce AI-powered satellites.
The plan includes launching satellites using an electromagnetic “Mass Drive” system.
The proposal comes as xAI faces leadership exits and possible IPO pressure.
AI- generated image for representation only
Elon Musk has proposed building a factory on the Moon to manufacture AI-powered satellites, according to a February 10 report by The New York Times. Musk shared the idea during an internal xAI meeting, suggesting that lunar infrastructure could unlock computing power far beyond today’s limits.
The concept includes a giant electromagnetic catapult, often described as a “mass driver,” that would launch satellites into space from the Moon’s lower-gravity environment. Musk reportedly argued that future AI systems will require unprecedented computing capacity and that Earth alone may not be enough.
The proposal expands on Musk’s broader space-AI strategy following the merger of xAI and SpaceX. The long-term vision includes building a self-sustaining Moon city, then moving toward Mars colonization and eventually interstellar exploration. However, no timeline or construction roadmap was shared.
The timing is notable. xAI, founded in 2023 and known for its Grok chatbot integrated into X, is reportedly facing internal leadership changes. Investors are said to be focused on near-term growth and a potential IPO within 18–24 months. Meanwhile, SpaceX is also preparing for a possible public offering.
Musk recently claimed X has about 600 million monthly active users, though the number has not been independently verified.
While supporters see bold innovation, critics question whether now is the right moment for such an ambitious lunar pivot.
Why Moon Has Advantages for an AI Factory?
Lower gravity makes it easier and cheaper to launch satellites into space.
No atmosphere means fewer weather delays during launches.
Abundant solar energy with long periods of sunlight.
Large open space for building massive facilities.
Fewer environmental regulations compared to Earth.
Potential access to lunar resources for construction materials.
Cooler space environment could help with heat management for data systems.
Less risk of natural disasters like earthquakes or storms.
Strategic position for launching satellites into deep space.
Last year, Xiaomi unveiled the Xiaomi 18 series in the same month as the first phones powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 in China. On the other hand, Vivo introduced the Vivo X300 and X300 Pro as the world’s first phones featuring the Dimensity 9500 chip in China. It appears both brands could once again be among the first to launch flagship phones equipped with next-generation flagship chipsets this year.
September launch window and chipset plans
Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6, Dimensity 9600 phones to launch in September, claims DCS
According to tipster Digital Chat Station, new smartphones powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 series and the MediaTek Dimensity 9600 series are currently scheduled for a September debut. Interestingly, the tip suggests that brands planning to introduce these next-generation chipsets are preparing to offer three versions as standard practice, namely a regular model, a Pro variant, and a Pro Max edition.
To recall, the Xiaomi 17 lineup, which debuted in September 2025, included three models: Xiaomi 17, 17 Pro, and 17 Pro Max. These models are likely to be succeeded by the Xiaomi 18, 18 Pro, and 18 Pro Max in the same month this year.
While Vivo announced the Vivo X300 and X300 Pro in September last year, it appears that this year’s lineup may launch earlier and is likely to include three models, such as the Vivo X500, X500 Pro, and X500 Pro Max. Rumors suggest that the X400 branding may be skipped, as the number 4 is considered an unlucky number in some Asian countries.
Readers should note that the tipster has not specified any device names in the leak. The Oppo Find X10 series is also expected to include the Find X10, X10 Pro, and X10 Pro Max powered by the Dimensity 9600. So, it remains unclear whether the tipster was referring to Oppo or Vivo as the other brand alongside Xiaomi. However, in recent years, Vivo has often been the first brand to launch MediaTek’s latest flagship chipsets, so the second brand mentioned in the leak could be Vivo. Readers are advised to treat this information cautiously.
In today’s leak, DCS also cautions that the company expected to debut the new chip in September is unlikely to ship its device with the SM8975, also referred to as the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro, as a standard configuration. The reason cited is the extremely high cost of the 2nm chipset, which could significantly impact pricing.
Here, the tipster may be suggesting that Xiaomi will not launch a Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro-powered phone in September. Previous leaks have claimed that this chip is designed for ultra-premium devices and is likely to power the Xiaomi 18 Ultra, which may debut by the end of this year in China.
For more daily updates, please visit our News Section.
ByteDance launches Seedream 5.0 with advanced image editing and lower pricing.
Alibaba unveils Qwen-Image-2.0, supporting 1K-token prompts and 2K images.
Both models directly challenge Google’s Nano Banana Pro amid rising US-China AI rivalry.
AI-generated image for representation only
China’s tech giants are accelerating the global AI race. ByteDance and Alibaba Cloud have introduced new image-generation models designed to compete with Google’s Nano Banana Pro.
The launches highlight growing competition between China and the United States in creative AI tools. Both companies aim to lower costs while improving performance for businesses and individual creators.
ByteDance’s Seedream 5.0 is now available for beta testing on Jimeng in China and on CapCut globally. The company says the model has stronger reasoning skills and a better understanding of complex prompts.
It allows users to edit specific parts of an image without regenerating the entire design. In one test, a “snowy night” scene was created and later modified by switching lights on and off, while keeping the rest unchanged.
The launch follows ByteDance’s recent Seedance 2.0 AI video model, which focuses on realistic AI-generated videos.
Alibaba Cloud’s Qwen-Image-2.0 combines image generation and editing in a single system. It supports up to 1,000-token prompts and produces 2K-resolution images.
The model can handle structured layouts, multi-panel designs, and consistent characters across scenes. It also performs strongly in rendering Chinese text and complex calligraphy.
Together, these launches position both firms as serious global competitors in AI-powered creative tools.
Major Features Compared:
Feature
ByteDance Seedream 5.0
Alibaba Qwen-Image 2.0
Google Nano Banana Pro
Developer
ByteDance
Alibaba Cloud (Qwen team)
Google DeepMind (Gemini)
Core Function
Text-to-image generation + editing
Unified image generation + editing
Image generation + advanced editing
Native Output Resolution
Supports 2K and 4K outputs
Native 2K (2048×2048) output
Up to 4K resolution output
Prompt Handling
Designed for detailed prompt understanding
Supports long prompts (up to ~1K tokens)
Advanced prompt-based generation (no official token limit stated)
Text Rendering
Generates legible text within images
Strong typography and structured text rendering
Advanced multilingual text rendering
Generation + Editing Integration
Supports selective image edits
Generation and editing integrated in one model
Integrated image creation and editing tools
Availability
Beta testing via Jimeng (China) and CapCut (global)
Available via Qwen platforms
Available through Gemini apps and Google AI tools
Model Base / Engine
Proprietary Seedream model
Qwen multimodal architecture
Built on Gemini 3 Pro Image
Disclaimer: Feature details are based on publicly available data and may be subject to updates or changes.
In January, well-known tipster Evan Blass shared the key specifications of the Motorola Edge 70 Fusion. Later, another report surfaced to showcase the phone in Silhouette (Black) and Country Air shades. Now, Blass is back again with a fresh set of images that showcase the phone in as many as five color options.
New renders highlight design and colour options
Motorola Edge 70 Fusion color options
The latest set of images showcases the Motorola Edge 70 Fusion in other paintjobs, such as Blue Surf, Orient Blue, and Sporting Green. The renders indicate a familiar design language as the Edge 70, including Motorola’s signature rear camera layout and a textured back panel inspired by nylon and linen materials. The device appears relatively slim despite housing a large battery, suggesting that Motorola may be focusing on balancing ergonomics with endurance.
Promotional images accompanying the leak provide a clearer look at the curved edges and quad-curved display profile. While the overall aesthetic resembles earlier Edge series models, the updated finishes and materials give the device a slightly refreshed appearance. The smartphone is also expected to retain a premium design approach without moving into flagship pricing territory.
Readers can checkout the source link for more images.
Motorola Edge 70 Fusion specifications (rumored)
Motorola Edge 70 Fusion color options
The Motorola Edge 70 Fusion is rumoured to feature a 6.78-inch quad-curved AMOLED display with 1.5K resolution, 144Hz refresh rate, HDR10+ support and peak brightness reaching up to 5,200 nits, protected by Gorilla Glass 7i. It could be powered by the Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 chipset paired with up to 12GB RAM and 256GB storage.
The handset may include a 50-megapixel primary camera using a Sony LYTIA sensor alongside a 32-megapixel front camera. It will house a large 7,000mAh battery with 68W charging support, Android 16 out of the box, IP68 and IP69 ratings, and MIL-STD-810H certification for durability.
Although pricing details remain unclear, the emergence of marketing materials indicates that the Edge 70 Fusion could be unveiled in the near future, likely targeting markets where previous Fusion models were available.
For more daily updates, please visit our News Section.
Bluetooth audio has evolved far beyond simply connecting earbuds to smartphones. In 2026, it powers televisions, cars, laptops, gaming systems, and home entertainment setups. What was once a convenience feature is now the backbone of modern wireless sound. As this shift accelerates, brands that deliver practical and affordable solutions like Faster Speakers are becoming increasingly important.
From Wires to Wireless Living
Traditional audio systems came with long cables, complicated installations, and limited flexibility. Rearranging a room meant rearranging wires. Adding speakers required effort and compatibility checks. Bluetooth eliminated these everyday frustrations.
Today, users expect seamless pairing, automatic reconnection, and clean setups without clutter. Faster Speakers fit directly into this lifestyle by offering simple, user-friendly wireless audio designed for everyday use, not technical complexity.
2026: A Major Upgrade in Bluetooth Technology
Recent improvements such as Bluetooth LE Audio, the LC3 codec, multi-stream audio, and broadcast audio have significantly improved sound efficiency and clarity. These upgrades allow better audio quality at lower power consumption while enabling multiple device connections at once.
For brands like Faster, these advancements mean delivering reliable performance, strong battery life, and stable connectivity at accessible price points, making modern Bluetooth benefits available to more users.
Wireless Sound at Home, in Cars, and at Work
Bluetooth is now standard in cars for hands-free calling and music streaming. In homes, it allows wireless TV-to-headphone connections and clutter-free speaker setups. In hybrid work environments, stable Bluetooth audio ensures smoother meetings and easy device switching.
Faster Speakers align with this multi-device world. Designed for portability, travel, outdoor use, and home entertainment, they provide practical solutions without overwhelming users with unnecessary features.
Real-World Reliability Over Technical Specs
Today’s buyers prioritize quick pairing, consistent connection strength, long battery life, easy controls, and dependable after-sales support. Technical bitrate numbers matter less than real-world performance.
This is where Faster stands out. By focusing on everyday reliability and affordability, the brand addresses what users actually need, wireless sound that works consistently.
The Bigger Picture
Global Bluetooth device shipments crossed 5 billion in 2023 and continue to rise. The Bluetooth speaker market alone sold hundreds of millions of units recently, proving that wireless sound is now the default choice.
As Bluetooth becomes invisible, seamless infrastructure, brands like Faster Speakers play a key role in making that technology accessible. Wireless audio is no longer optional, and practical, reliable speakers are at the center of this transformation.
How to Choose the Right Bluetooth Device?
Bluetooth Version 5.2 or newer – Better stability, range, and efficiency.
Support for modern codecs (like LC3) – Clearer sound with lower battery usage.
Multi-device pairing – Easy switching between phone, laptop, and tablet.
Strong battery life – Longer playback and fewer charging interruptions.
Stable connectivity – Performs well even in crowded wireless environments.
Low latency support – Important for gaming and video streaming.
Comfort and build quality – Especially for earbuds and headphones.
Simple controls – Easy buttons or touch controls for daily use.
Reliable warranty & support – Ensures long-term peace of mind.
Infinix has started teasing the arrival of the Note 60 series for the global market. The Note 60 Pro will be the company’s first smartphone to feature a Snapdragon chip, but this will not be the case for the standard Note 60. A Geekbench listing that surfaced today reveals it will feature a MediaTek chip.
Infinix Note 60 Geekbench listing
A forthcoming Infinix smartphone with the model number X6879 has appeared on Geekbench. This device was previously spotted on an Indonesian certification platform with the Infinix Note 60 branding.
The Note 60’s Geekbench listing reveals that its MediaTek chip comprises four cores running at 2.0GHz and four cores operating at 2.60GHz. For graphics, it features the Mali-G615 MC2 GPU. These details strongly suggest that the Note 60 is powered by the Dimensity 7400, which is likely to be marketed as the Dimensity 7400 Ultimate.
The Geekbench listing also shows 8GB of RAM and Android 16. In Geekbench 6.5’s single-core and multi-core tests, the device scored 1,055 and 3,097 points, respectively.
The inclusion of the Dimensity 7400 Ultimate will be an upgrade as the previous generation featured the Dimensity 7300 Ultimate. For those who don’t, the predecessor was called the Note 50s 5G as the brand skipped the Note 50 model.
The Infinix Note 60 is likely to borrow some specifications from the Note 60 Pro. It may feature a 144Hz AMOLED screen and a 6,500mAh battery, but it may not include the dot-matrix rear display, which is expected to remain exclusive to the Pro variant.
At present, there is no additional information about the Note 60 series. Since the brand has already begun teasing the lineup, it appears that the launch could take place within the next few weeks.
For more daily updates, please visit our News Section.
Redmi is reportedly working on the Redmi K90 Ultra for China. It will succeed the Redmi K80 Ultra, which debuted in June 2025. A previous report claimed that the K90 Ultra would launch much earlier than its predecessor. Now, a new Weibo post by a reliable tipster has emerged supporting this claim.
Redmi K90 Ultra launch timeframe (rumored)
According to Experience More, a sub-series performance-focused smartphone powered by the Dimensity 9500 is currently in development. While he did not mention the name of the device, it appears that he could be referring to the Redmi K90 Ultra.
He added that the device, carrying the model number 2604FRK1EC, is said to feature an ultra-high refresh rate display along with a built-in cooling fan, indicating a strong focus on gaming and sustained performance. This model number, along with its Redmi K90 Ultra branding, was spotted in the GSMA IMEI database back in December 2025.
The numbers “2604” indicate that the Redmi K90 Ultra may debut as early as April in China. The device will be powered by the Dimensity 9500, not the Dimensity 9500 Plus chip as previously speculated. The D9500+ is expected much later in the second half of the year.
Redmi K80 Ultra
One of the major highlights of the Redmi K90 Ultra will be its built-in cooling system, a first for a Xiaomi phone. It is expected to feature a massive 6.8-inch display offering a 1.5K resolution and a 165Hz refresh rate. Under the hood, it may pack an 8,500mAh battery with 100W charging. Other rumored features include a metal frame, an ultrasonic in-display fingerprint sensor, and full water resistance.
The Xiaomi 17T Pro is said to be a tweaked version of the K90 Ultra designed for the global market. This device, which is said to carry the model number 2602EPTC0G, may lack a few features, including the cooling fan. The model number for the 17T Pro also hints at an early launch, but since the Xiaomi 17 and 17 Ultra have not yet launched globally, it appears that the 17T Pro may debut within the first half of this year.
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Xiaomi has quietly introduced a refreshed version of its affordable 27-inch QHD monitor. The original A27Qi arrived in Europe last year and positioned itself as a solid budget option for work and general use. The 2026 version doesn’t reinvent the formula, but it refines it in areas that actually matter.
At its core, this is still a 27-inch IPS monitor with a 2560 × 1440 resolution. Brightness is rated at 300 nits, response time sits at 6ms (GtG), and viewing angles remain the typical 178 degrees you’d expect from an IPS panel.
Color coverage is also familiar: 100% sRGB and 95% DCI-P3, with 8-bit color depth. TÜV Rheinland-certified low blue light support and DC dimming are included for more comfortable long sessions. So far, very similar to the previous model.
What’s actually improved
The 2026 model now offers ΔE <1 factory calibration, which is a notable upgrade. For photo editing, design work, or content creation, tighter color accuracy out of the box is a welcome improvement.
Contrast has also been bumped to 1,300:1, which should translate to slightly deeper blacks and better separation in darker scenes. It’s not a dramatic shift, but it’s measurable.
The panel now runs at 120Hz, up from 100Hz on the previous version. It will make scrolling, UI animations, and light gaming feel smoother.
Pricing and availability
The monitor has launched in Thailand at THB 4,990, which converts to roughly $159 at current exchange rates. That’s about THB 100 more than the previous generation, an increase for the added features.
Xiaomi hasn’t confirmed broader availability yet, but given how the original model rolled out, it’s reasonable to expect a wider release later.
This isn’t a flashy upgrade. There’s no OLED panel or ultra-high brightness claims here. But for under $200, getting QHD resolution, 120Hz refresh rate, strong color coverage, and sub-ΔE 1 calibration is genuinely competitive.
In 2026, USB-C hubs continue to serve as critical accessories for laptops, tablets, and hybrid workspaces. The best hubs now combine fast charging, high-speed data transfer, 4K displays, and multi-device compatibility into compact packages.
The market includes streamlined options for travel and powerful docks for desktop use. Here are five top-rated USB-C hubs of 2026 that stand out in performance, reliability, and value.
Anker 555 USB-C Hub (8-in-1)
The 555 USB-C Hub from Anker remains a reliable choice for users who need basic expansion without clutter. It adds eight ports, including a 4K HDMI output, 100W USB-C Power Delivery (with 85W pass-through), two USB-A 3.2 ports, a USB-C data port, Ethernet, and dual SD card readers.
The USB-C data port supports 10Gbps transfers, but it does not support video output. The hub is compatible with most MacBook Pro and Air models, Dell XPS laptops, and iPad Pro. It delivers dependable performance for general productivity, video streaming, and media transfer. The build feels solid, and its compact form factor makes it ideal for mobile users who don’t need advanced display setups.
Baseus 12-in-1 USB-C Hub
Baseus takes a more feature-rich approach with its 12-in-1 USB-C hub. It includes dual HDMI (both supporting 4K@60Hz), DisplayPort, three USB-A 3.0 ports, a USB-C data port, SD/TF card readers, Ethernet, a 100W PD port, and a 3.5mm headphone jack. This hub can support three extended displays on Windows laptops with AMD graphics and DP 1.4 support.
The hub sits beneath the laptop and raises it slightly for improved typing ergonomics. Its wide compatibility list includes MacBooks, Surface devices, Dell and HP ultrabooks, and many Android tablets and phones. It targets users who rely on multiple monitors and wired accessories. macOS display mirroring limitations still apply, but for Windows productivity users, this hub delivers impressive flexibility.
Hiearcool 7-in-1 USB-C Hub
The Hiearcool 7-in-1 USB-C hub remains one of the most affordable and best-reviewed compact hubs. It costs under $30 and includes 4K HDMI, dual USB-A 3.0 ports, SD and microSD slots, a 100W charging-only USB-C port, and plug-and-play setup.
Transfer speeds reach up to 5Gbps, and its aluminum body is durable for travel use. However, it lacks Ethernet and does not allow simultaneous SD and TF card use. For casual users, students, and those who travel light, it remains a dependable choice.
Ugreen Revodok Pro 210
The Revodok Pro 210 is built for creators and professionals who need multiple high-resolution displays. It supports dual HDMI output at 4K@60Hz or single HDMI at 8K@30Hz. The 10-in-1 port layout includes USB-C and USB-A 3.0 for 5Gbps transfers, USB-A 2.0 for peripherals, Gigabit Ethernet, SD/TF readers, and 100W PD charging.
The Revodok weighs more than others on this list, but its premium build and extended compatibility make it a reliable choice for creative professionals who depend on color-accurate displays and fast media transfers. It fits into complex workstation setups with ease.
Plugable 9-in-1 USB-C Hub
The 9-in-1 USB-C hub from Plugable includes features that target power users. It supports 140W USB-C PD 3.1 input and delivers up to 125W charging to laptops. The port layout includes 4K@60Hz HDMI, a USB-C 10Gbps port, two USB-A 10Gbps ports, a USB 2.0 port, SD/microSD card slots with UHS-II support, and a Gigabit Ethernet port.
Its built-in 7.5-inch cable simplifies cable management, and its compatibility list covers almost all modern USB-C laptops. This hub charges large MacBooks and Windows workstations quickly while handling high-speed file transfers and stable display output.
Google has just released Android 16 QPR3 Beta 2.1 to Google Pixels, and that would be the final release based on the current OS. The company has now officially confirmed that it’s working on Android 17 and that the first beta build will be released soon.
Android 17 Beta 1 releasing soon
The first public beta of Android 17 will be released soon, says Google. Notably, this won’t be a Developer Preview build. If you’ve followed the development cycles for an upcoming Android OS in the past, you’d know that first builds are generally labelled Developer Preview builds (Android 16 had two of them), and then beta builds are released, but that’s changing this year with Android 17.
Google says Android 17 Beta 1 “builds on top of Android 16 QPR platform release and includes the latest bug fixes and improvements to stability and performance.” Past leaks suggest several new features and improved gaming capabilities are coming to the upcoming Android OS, among many other improvements. We’ll learn more about the changes once the first beta build goes live, which could arrive as early as this month or next month, while the stable build of Android 17 should land around June 2026.
Google Pixel users will have the first bite, as always. Those currently on Android 16 QPR3 Beta 2.1 and choose to remain enrolled in the Android Beta Program will automatically receive the Android 17 Beta 1 update. If they don’t want to receive the beta update, they must opt out of the beta program.
As for the other brands, the Android 17 beta update may arrive on select devices a few weeks after it is released to Google Pixels. We’ll continue to track the development and update you on the same in our Android 17 section. Remember to visit the section regularly for the latest updates. Or, join our Telegram channel to get instant notifications about the latest happenings in tech.
Realme recently unveiled the Realme P4 Power in India, and the USP of the device is that it packs the largest battery ever on a Realme phone — a massive 10,001mAh unit. Now, its Chinese variant appears to be on the verge of launch, as a new Realme smartphone carrying the RMX5166 model number has surfaced on China’s TENAA certification database. It is speculated that the device may carry the Realme Power branding in China, dropping the “P4” moniker. The listing reveals key specifications that appear identical to the global edition.
Realme Power specifications
Realme P4 Power
According to the TENAA listing, the RMX5166 features a 6.8-inch AMOLED display with a 2800 × 1280 resolution and 1.5K clarity. The panel supports 10-bit colour depth (1.07 billion colors), suggesting a focus on vibrant visuals.
Under the hood, the device is powered by an octa-core processor clocked at 2.6GHz, which appears to be the Dimensity 7400 Ultra. The phone is listed with 6GB, 8GB, 12GB, and 16GB RAM options, paired with 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB storage variants. In India, the device ships with 12GB of RAM and 256GB of built-in storage.
In terms of optics, the rear houses a 50-megapixel primary camera alongside an 8-megapixel secondary sensor, while the front features a 16-megapixel selfie camera. Powering the handset is a 9,750mAh rated battery, which typically translates to a slightly higher advertised capacity. Given that the Indian edition offers a 10,001mAh battery, the Chinese variant is expected to feature similar battery positioning. The TENAA listing also reveals other features like an in-screen fingerprint sensor and an IR blaster.
Dimension-wise, the device measures 162.26 x 76.15 x 9.08mm and weighs 219 grams, reflecting the trade-off for the massive battery capacity. With TENAA certification now complete, an official launch in China could be just around the corner.
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The upcoming Oppo Find X9 Ultra has appeared in a real-life image. However, since it is inside a confidentiality case, it does not reveal its design completely, but it does give a good idea about its camera layout. Also, there are two handsets shown in the image, but it is unclear whether they are two different prototypes of the X9 Ultra or if only one of them is the X9 Ultra.
Oppo Find X9 Ultra real-life image
Oppo Find X9 Ultra real-life image
The handset that can be seen on the right has more openings, which suggests that it could be the Find X9 Ultra. The image also suggests that the Ultra variant will continue to feature a round camera module, while the X9 and X9 Pro have opted for camera islands positioned at the top-left corner.
The Find X9 Ultra’s camera setup is rumored to include a Sony LYT-901 200MP main camera with OIS support, a Samsung JN5 50MP ultra-wide lens, a 200MP OmniVision OV52A periscope telephoto camera with 3x optical zoom, and a Samsung JN5 50MP periscope telephoto camera with 10x optical zoom. A previous report revealed that the brand may offer a new teleconverter accessory with a 300mm reach for the X9 Ultra.
The Find X9 and X9 Pro are powered by the Dimensity 9500 chip, whereas the Ultra variant will come equipped with the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5. It is expected to feature a 6.82-inch 2K 120Hz AMOLED screen and a battery of around 7,000mAh with 80W wired and 50W wireless charging support.
Oppo is expected to hold a launch event next month (March) in China to unveil the Find X9 Ultra alongside the Find X9s and X9s Pro. The Find N6 foldable is also expected in March, but it is unclear whether it will debut alongside the upcoming X9 lineup. The X9 Ultra is also expected to hit the global market in the second quarter of this year.
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Samsung has officially announced its next Galaxy Unpacked event, confirming that the Galaxy S26 series will debut later this month. The announcement sets the stage for the company’s upcoming flagship lineup, which has been widely discussed through leaks and early teasers. While the event confirmation does not reveal complete specifications, it offers clarity on the launch timeline and highlights what users can expect from Samsung’s next phase of AI-focused smartphones.
Galaxy Unpacked event details and reservation offers
Samsung Galaxy S26 series to be unveiled on Feb. 25
The Galaxy Unpacked event is scheduled for Feb. 25, 2026, in San Francisco and will begin at 10AM PT. Samsung plans to livestream the presentation via its official website and YouTube channel, allowing global audiences to follow the announcements in real time.
Alongside confirming the launch date, Samsung has opened early reservations, allowing interested buyers to register without any purchase commitment. Customers who reserve can receive benefits such as a $30 credit for accessories, potential trade-in savings of up to $900, and a chance to win a $5,000 Samsung.com gift card. Reservations are also expanding beyond Samsung’s website, with retailers like Best Buy and AT&T expected to participate.
The Galaxy S26 lineup is expected to include three models, namely the Galaxy S26, Galaxy S26 Plus, and Galaxy S26 Ultra. Early reports suggest improvements in performance through a newer Snapdragon chipset for select regions, along with faster wireless charging capabilities. The Ultra variant may introduce a new privacy-focused display feature designed to reduce visibility from side angles, though official confirmation is still awaited.
Apart from smartphones, the event could see the launch of the Galaxy Buds 4 series, including standard and Pro versions. Software advancements are also likely to take centre stage, especially with the anticipated rollout of One UI 8.5 and enhanced Galaxy AI features. Samsung appears to be placing significant emphasis on making AI interactions more personalized and seamlessly integrated into everyday usage.
Retail availability for the Galaxy S26 series is expected around March 2026, with pricing likely to remain similar to previous generations. The return of the Unpacked event to late February also aligns with Samsung’s earlier strategy of launching flagship devices ahead of Mobile World Congress, indicating a renewed focus on setting the pace for the year’s smartphone announcements.
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Aohi has introduced a new high-capacity power bank for people who carry more than just a phone. The Future Starship Pro 310W packs a 20,000mAh battery and, at least on paper, enough power to replace multiple chargers in your bag. It’s priced at 499 yuan and comes in a silver-gray and black finish with a small display on the front.
The device measures 45.6 x 57.6 x 158mm and weighs around 630g, so it’s not exactly pocket-sized. But considering what it promises, the size feels expected. On the front, there’s a 1.14-inch TFT color screen that shows battery level and real-time output information. So instead of guessing how fast your laptop is charging, you can see the numbers directly.
Aohi 310W Starship Pro Specifications
The headline feature here is power output. The Starship Pro uses a 2C + 1A port configuration: two USB-C ports and one USB-A port. Both USB-C1 and USB-C2 support up to 140W input and output individually. The USB-A port tops out at 30W. When all three ports are used at once, the combined maximum output reaches 310W (140W + 140W + 30W), with what Aohi calls “smart power distribution” to manage charging across devices.
That means it’s technically capable of charging two high-power laptops at the same time, while still topping up a phone or accessory. It supports common fast-charging protocols including PD, QC, PPS (up to 100W), and UFCS (63W), which should make it compatible with a wide range of devices.
Aohi claims the 20,000mAh capacity can charge an iPhone 16 up to 4.1 times and a 12.9-inch iPad Pro about 1.4 times. The rated energy is 72Wh, using eight 2,500mAh lithium-ion cells from DMC.
What may matter even more for frequent travelers is recharge speed. The Starship Pro supports up to 180W self-charging input. In theory, that allows the power bank to go from 0 to 100 percent in around 60 minutes.
It’s still a relatively heavy device at 630g, but for users who carry power-hungry laptops, tablets, and phones, the trade-off might make sense.
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Xiaomi is preparing to launch a new portable speaker globally, and the Xiaomi Bluetooth Speaker Essential has now appeared on the company’s global website. This listing suggests the speaker could roll out worldwide in the coming months.
The Bluetooth Speaker Essential uses a dual-driver acoustic setup with two 1.5-inch full-range speakers and a large passive radiator. The speaker delivers 5W rated power and includes bass boost for stronger low frequencies. Xiaomi says this setup is designed to provide wide sound coverage in outdoor spaces while keeping vocals clear and natural. The passive radiator adds depth to bass without overpowering mids and highs.
The speaker has a compact, rounded body wrapped in refined fabric mesh. A high-gloss accent band adds a visual highlight, while the lightweight build makes it easy to carry. It weighs around 200 grams and measures 9.8 × 4.6 × 13 cm. Xiaomi compares the weight to that of an apple, making it suitable for one-handed use during travel or outdoor activities. Color options include black and green.
For durability, the Bluetooth Speaker Essential comes with an IP66 dust and water-resistance rating. The fabric mesh body, anti-slip rubber base, and covered side ports help protect it from dust and light rain, making it suitable for outdoor use.
Battery life is rated at up to 10 hours on a single charge. The speaker uses a 1,000mAh battery and charges through a USB Type-C port. Indicator lights show charging status, power, Bluetooth pairing, stereo or multi-speaker mode, and low battery alerts.
Connectivity includes Bluetooth 6.0 for faster pairing and stable wireless performance. The speaker supports TWS stereo pairing with two units and multi-speaker pairing with up to 10 speakers for synchronized playback. It also supports USB sound card mode, allowing it to work as a wired speaker for PCs and tablets. A built-in microphone enables hands-free Bluetooth calling. Xiaomi has not shared pricing or availability so far.
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Snapdragon’s latest flagship processor is a scorching performer in more ways than one. Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 chipset delivers blazing-fast performance for 2026’s Android flagships, but early tests show it also runs extremely hot. With great power comes great heat: some benchmark stress tests pushed this chip to a searing 56°C internally, which is far too hot to hold comfortably. While everyday tasks won’t reach such extremes, heavy gaming or rendering can turn your phone into a hand-warmer and even trigger emergency cooldown measures. Here’s what you need to know about the 8 Gen 5’s thermal issues and what they mean for you.
Blistering Temperatures in Stress Tests
A clear example comes from the Red Magic 11 Pro, a gaming phone built specifically for sustained performance. According to testing reported by Android Authority, the device shut down during a 3DMark stress test despite using an active cooling fan and a dedicated thermal system. This result shows that even phones designed for gaming struggle to control the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 under maximum load.
Standard flagship phones fare worse. In testing of the Nubia Z80 Ultra, reported by PhoneArena, surface temperatures exceeded 50°C, making the phone uncomfortable to hold. Without active cooling, the device was forced to reduce performance quickly to prevent further heat buildup. These results highlight how difficult it is for passive cooling systems to handle this chip during sustained workloads.
Big Performance Drops Under Load
Excess heat leads directly to thermal throttling. In GPU stress tests, some Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 devices saw performance drop by more than 50 percent from the start of the test to the end. In extreme scenarios, sustained heat forced the chip down to less than one third of its peak performance.
By the end of prolonged tests, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 was running slower than the previous generation flagship processor. While the chip excels at short bursts of speed, it struggles to maintain those levels without aggressive cooling. In long gaming or rendering sessions, older chips that generate less heat can sometimes deliver more consistent performance.
Gaming Phones Help, But Only to a Point
Gaming phones still handle the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 better than standard flagships. Larger vapor chambers, liquid cooling systems, and internal fans allow devices like the RedMagic 11 Pro to sustain performance for longer periods. However, testing confirms that even these phones can suffer shutdowns or severe throttling during extreme workloads.
This points to a wider issue across the industry. Cooling systems are struggling to keep up with the power demands of modern flagship processors. Raw performance gains are increasingly limited by how effectively heat can be removed from the chip.
Daily Use Is Mostly Fine
For most users, these thermal issues will rarely appear. Reports from long-term daily use show no noticeable overheating or throttling during common tasks. Web browsing, messaging, navigation, video streaming, and casual gaming do not push the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 close to its limits.
Heat problems mainly occur during sustained high-load scenarios. Extended gaming sessions, graphically demanding titles, emulation, and heavy rendering workloads are where performance drops become noticeable. Casual users will experience fast and smooth performance, while power users may see dips during long sessions.
Looking Ahead: Cooling Tech to the Rescue?
Thermal challenges like these have phone makers and chip designers looking for new solutions. Interestingly, Samsung has developed a “Heat Pass Block” (HPB) technology that could help tame hot chips in the future. HPB essentially adds a tiny heat-sink layer directly on top of the processor to dissipate heat more effectively. It first appeared in Samsung’s Exynos 2600, where it delivered about a 16% improvement in thermal resistance thanks to a copper layer that helps draw heat away from the silicon. Rumor has it Qualcomm might adopt this Heat Pass Block tech in the next Snapdragon 8 Gen 6 processor to help rein in temperatures. If true, that could allow next-gen phones to run cooler or at least sustain peak performance longer than the 8 Gen 5 does.
In the meantime, expect smartphone brands to get increasingly creative with cooling. We’re already seeing bigger vapor chambers in devices (Apple even added one in the iPhone 17 Pro for the first time), and some gaming phones include mini internal fans. The Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 shows that cooling is now as critical as raw performance. For everyday use, it remains a powerful and reliable chip. Under sustained workloads, however, heat management has become the defining challenge for flagship smartphones.
Lexar has officially launched the JumpDrive D500, a new high-speed solid-state USB drive with both USB Type-A and Type-C connectors. The product is now listed on the company’s website and targets users who want fast, reliable storage that works across multiple platforms, including phones, tablets, laptops, and desktops.
Lexar JumpDrive D500 Specifications
The JumpDrive D500 uses the USB 3.2 Gen 1 interface and is available in four capacities: 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB. Lexar claims the drive can deliver maximum read speeds of up to 400MB/s and write speeds of up to 400MB/s.
The 128GB and 256GB models feature 400MB/s read and 360MB/s write speeds, while the 512GB version hits 400MB/s for both read and write. The 1TB variant records slightly lower read speeds at 390MB/s but maintains a 400MB/s write speed.
The drive features a compact swivel design with a metal housing made of aluminum alloy. It supports 360-degree rotation and includes a lanyard loop for added portability. Lexar has designed the drive to handle daily wear and tear while maintaining its performance across a wide temperature range from 0°C to 50°C.
Lexar has also integrated support for its dedicated mobile app. The Lexar app is available for Android, iOS, and HarmonyOS and enables automatic backup of photos and videos from smartphones. It works offline and supports features like Live Photo backup on iPhones. However, it does not support iCloud backup or devices running HarmonyOS Next.
The dual-connector layout allows seamless file transfer between devices without adapters. Lexar claims the 1TB version can store over 300,000 photos, 18,000 minutes of HD video, or more than 110,000 songs.
Lexar backs the JumpDrive D500 with a 5-year limited warranty. The drive is expected to become available through retail and online channels globally.
In related news, Lexar has also launched the JumpDrive A50V and C50V USB drives recently in 512GB and 1TB variants, offering read speeds of up to 200MB/s.
For more daily updates, please visit our News Section.
Foldable phones once promised to be the next big wave in smartphones, bringing a fresh take on a pocket large screen experience. But after years of fast growth, 2025 marked the first real slowdown for the category. Industry data has revealed that the foldable segment not only cooled off, but may have actually declined. But is this just a one-off dip, or does it point to a wider trend? Read on to find out.
Foldables in 2025: A Rare Decline After Years of Expansion
For much of the early 2020s, foldables grew rapidly as more brands entered the space and technology improved. These flexible phones got better and better, and certain models became a lot more accessible in terms of pricing. However, reports have projected a drop in foldable smartphone growth in 2025. According to Counterpoint Research, panel shipments for foldable displays are expected to fall about 4% in 2025 after flat gains in 2024.
Motorola Razr Fold
The report adds that shipment figures show a broader trend of foldable phones losing popularity as manufacturers shipped fewer models than in previous years. The declining number of distinct foldable phones in 2025 reflects caution from brands that once flooded the market with multiple models.
Samsung’s Sales Dip and Market Share Struggles
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 2026 Olympic Edition
Samsung has been the long standing leader in the foldable segment. But the South Korean tech giant has been seeing a decline in foldable sales. This continues even after the release of its latest Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Galaxy Z Flip 7 series of foldable phones. Overall, foldables still make up a tiny slice of the entire smartphone landscape. Despite eye-catching new releases, they’re estimated to account for just around 1.5% of all smartphone sales. In other words, more than 98% of phones sold remain traditional slabs.
Consumers Are Still Wary
While the global market cooled, China bucked the trend with solid growth. Foldable shipments in China expanded significantly, with reports indicating over 30% growth in 2025, thanks mainly to strong demand for Huawei’s models and other local brands. That regional outperformance highlights that demand pockets do exist, although this does not reflect a true global momentum just yet.
Why 2026 Could Be Pivotal
Many analysts see 2026 as a turning point for the foldable category, and one major reason that could back this growth is Apple’s highly anticipated first foldable iPhone. Multiple reports suggest Apple plans to launch a foldable device in the second half of 2026, potentially leveraging its massive customer base to expand awareness and adoption.
This could be great for the entire foldable segment since Apple’s entry could expand markets rather than just redistribute existing demand. Apple’s launch of its foldable will likely lead to significant growth in foldable display shipments in 2026 as well, thanks to renewed interest.
What 2026 Needs to Break Through
Here’s what the foldable phones need to truly shift from niche to mainstream in 2026:
Better pricing and durability: Foldables need to close the price gap with high-end flat phones and continue ramping up durability to lessen repair and longevity concerns.
Clear use-cases: These devices must stand out with everyday advantages for productivity, multitasking and media.
Apple’s entry as a catalyst: If Apple’s foldable iPhone delivers strong performance and ecosystem synergy, it could validate the category for millions more buyers outside current early adopters.
For more daily updates, please visit our News Section.
Special edition phones have become more than just flashy devices. These devices are now collectibles, conversation pieces, and often reimagined versions of hardware you already know and love. So for January 2026, we have compiled a list of a few standout limited edition smartphones that tap into pop culture, global events, fashion, gaming, and more. From Westeros-inspired dragons to Swarovski bling, here’s a guide to the most appealing special edition phones around right now.
Realme 15 Pro Game of Thrones Limited Edition
First on the list, we have the Realme 15 Pro Game of Thrones Edition that goes all-in on fantasy with a bespoke design and collector appeal. Inspired by HBO’s iconic series, this special variant features a color-changing “Dragonfire” leather back that shifts from black to red in higher temperatures.
Realme 15 Pro Game of Thrones Limited Edition
The phone also sports custom golden accents around the camera module and themed UI elements, plus exclusive packaging that includes Westeros-related memorabilia like house sigils and souvenirs. Apart from the nod to the popular fantasy series, the limited edition model features the same specs as the regular Realme 15 Pro, which include the 6.8-inch 144Hz AMOLED display, Snapdragon 7 Gen 4 chipset, and a 7,000 mAh battery.
Motorola Edge 70 Swarovski Edition
If fashion tech is your thing, the Motorola Edge 70 Swarovski Edition is one of the most elegant special phones this season. This variant dresses the Edge 70 in Pantone’s 2026 Colour of the Year, Cloud Dancer. This adds a soft and serene white finish that is decorated with 14 Swarovski crystals.
Motorola Edge 70 Swarovski Edition
It is a part of Motorola’s “Brilliant Collection” and adds a luxurious bling to the super thin phone. The rest of the specs of the Edge 70 remain identical, bringing a 6.67-inch pOLED display, Snapdragon 7 Gen 4, 50MP dual cameras on the rear, a 4,800mAh battery pack, and a sub-6mm body.
Motorola Razr FIFA World Cup 2026 Edition
For fans of football, Motorola has another great limited edition phone for you. The Motorola Razr FIFA World Cup 2026 Edition arrives as a celebration of the sport’s biggest event. This special edition model keeps the Razr’s base flip phone hardware but adds a themed vegan-leather exterior patterned with colorful graphics inspired by the tournament’s branding.
Motorola Razr FIFA World Cup 2026 Edition
You’ll find FIFA-themed wallpapers, ringtones, and logos pre-loaded, making this not just a phone but a celebratory accessory for fans. Hardware-wise, you get a tall 6.9-inch foldable AMOLED display, a MediaTek Dimensity 7400X chipset, a 3.6-inch cover display, and a 4,500mAh battery that supports 30W wired fast charging and 15W wireless charging.
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 Olympic Edition
Samsung’s Galaxy Z Flip7 Olympic Edition is one of the standout special releases of early 2026. Designed specifically for athletes participating in the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games, this Flip 7 variant features a unique blue-and-gold theme inspired by Olympic spirit, plus curated apps like communication tools for athletes and connectivity enhancements.
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 2026 Olympic Edition
Although not available directly to the public, this edition is being gifted to thousands of Olympians and Paralympians and could become a prized collector item in resale communities. It preserves the Flip7’s core foldable hardware while adding distinctive design and software elements tied to the games.
Red Magic 11 Pro+ Wuthering Waves Edition
Gamers looking for something vibrant should check out the Red Magic 11 Pro+ Wuthering Waves Edition, launched in China with an Energy Red themed design inspired by the popular mobile game Wuthering Waves. Beyond the striking colorway, this edition includes custom UI themes, icons, wallpapers and even themed charging animations, along with themed accessories like a protective case and badges.
Red Magic 11 Pro+ Wuthering Waves Edition
The hardware remains flagship-grade with specs such as a Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chip, a 6.85-inch 144Hz AMOLED display, a 7,500 mAh battery, RGB lighting effects, and an active cooling system with a built-in fan.
For more daily updates, please visit our News Section.
Lexar has launched new 512GB and 1TB variants of its JumpDrive A50V and C50V dashcam USB drives. The expanded storage lineup is aimed at drivers who require long-duration video recording for vehicle surveillance and security. The 1TB model can store up to 96 hours of footage from four dashcams in Li Auto vehicles.
Lexar JumpDrive A50V & C50V Specifications
The JumpDrive A50V uses a USB-A connector, while the C50V is equipped with USB-C. Both drives support USB 3.2 Gen 1 and offer read and write speeds of up to 200MB/s. Lexar uses high-quality TLC NAND flash memory in both models, which helps improve durability and allows the drives to handle high rewrite workloads over extended periods.
Lexar said the drives are designed for continuous 24/7 loop recording and can automatically overwrite older footage when storage is full. This feature supports dashcam and sentry mode use in electric and connected vehicles. The drives ship preformatted in exFAT but can be reformatted to FAT32 or NTFS if required.
The JumpDrive C50V measures 28.8 x 22.5 x 16.23 mm and weighs 13.5 grams. The USB-A based A50V is slightly smaller at 22.5 x 14.9 x 20.25 mm and weighs 6.2 grams. Both models are built to withstand extreme in-car temperatures. Lexar rates the drives to operate between -40°C and 75°C, with storage temperature tolerance up to 100°C.
Lexar said the drives passed compatibility testing with various new energy vehicles. They support plug-and-play functionality on many systems, though some vehicles may require formatting via the infotainment system. Each drive includes a one-year limited warranty and has passed Lexar’s internal automotive-grade reliability testing.
Pricing and Availability
The 512GB model is priced at 779 yuan ($112), while the 1TB version is priced at 1,419 yuan ($205). The new storage options are now available in China through official retail channels.
Realme has announced a new colour option for its 2025 Breakthrough Best Seller smartphone, the Realme Narzo 90x 5G. The new finish is called Valentine’s Special Maroon. It joins the existing Nitro Blue and Flash Blue options and becomes the third colour variant available for the device.
The Valentine’s Special Maroon version will go on sale starting 14 February 2026 at 12 PM. It will be available through Amazon India and the Realme India website. The company has not confirmed pricing yet, but it is expected to match the current colour variants. Since this is only a new colour option, there are no changes to the hardware or software. Realme may announce launch-day offers or limited discounts, which should be detailed once sales begin.
The Narzo 90x 5G originally launched on December 16. It features a 6.8-inch LCD display with a 1570×720 pixel resolution. The screen supports a 144Hz refresh rate, a 180Hz touch sampling rate, and up to 1,200 nits of peak brightness. Display protection is handled by DT-Star D+ glass.
The smartphone is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 6300 processor. The chipset includes two Cortex-A76 cores clocked at 2.4GHz and six Cortex-A55 cores running at 2GHz, paired with a Mali-G57 MC2 GPU. It comes with 6GB or 8GB of LPDDR4X RAM and 128GB of eMMC 5.1 storage. Storage can be expanded up to 2TB using a microSD card.
For cameras, the phone features a 50MP Sony IMX852 rear sensor with an f/1.8 aperture and an 8MP front camera with an f/2.0 aperture. Both cameras support 1080p video recording at 30fps. Other features include a side-mounted fingerprint sensor, a single bottom-firing speaker with 400 percent Ultra Volume, an IP65 rating, and MIL-STD 810H certification.
The Narzo 90x 5G packs a 7,000mAh battery with support for 60W fast charging. It measures 166.07×77.93×8.28mm and weighs 212g. Connectivity options include 5G SA and NSA bands n1, n3, n5, n8, n28B, n40, n41, n77, and n78, along with dual 4G VoLTE, Wi-Fi ac, Bluetooth 5.3, and a USB Type-C port. The phone runs Android 15 with realme UI 6.0.
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Battery capacity in smartphones keeps creeping upward, but this latest rumor suggests Oppo might be preparing something on an entirely different level.
According to Chinese tipster Digital Chat Station, Oppo has entered trial production for a new dual-cell battery pack rated at around 8,500mAh typical capacity. If accurate, that would put it well above most current flagships.
Oppo Find X9 Pro
The leak claims the setup consists of two 4,190mAh cells, giving a combined rated capacity of 8,380mAh and a typical advertised figure close to 8,500mAh. More interestingly, it’s said to support 100W fast charging without aggressive throttling. The tipster didn’t confirm the exact device, but the clues point toward the upcoming Find X10 series, likely a higher-end variant.
The current Oppo Find X9 lineup already pushed battery capacity past the 7,000mAh mark. Moving to 8,500mAh wouldn’t feel out of place.
Other rumors around the Find X10 series include dual 200MP cameras and a next-gen chipset, potentially something in the Dimensity 9600 class. So pairing that hardware with a massive battery would make sense.
There’s also a possibility this battery could land in a future OnePlus flagship instead. However, separate leaks suggest OnePlus may be experimenting with even larger capacities, possibly approaching 9,000mAh and 120W charging.
Chinese brands have been aggressively pushing battery innovation lately. Companies like Honor, Xiaomi, and Vivo are all experimenting with higher-capacity silicon-carbon cells.
The logic is straightforward: efficiency gains alone aren’t enough anymore. To meaningfully extend battery life, brands are increasing physical capacity while trying to maintain fast charging speeds and manageable thermals.
Nothing has been officially announced yet, and trial production doesn’t guarantee final implementation. The Find X10 series is expected sometime in late 2026, so there’s still room for adjustments.
But if this leak holds up, Oppo could be positioning its next flagship as another genuine battery champion. For anyone tired of charging every night, that alone makes this rumor worth watching.
OnePlus has started rolling out OxygenOS 16.0.3.500 for users in India. The update is now available for the OnePlus 11 and the OnePlus 12R. As with previous updates, this is an incremental OTA and will first reach a small number of users before expanding to a wider rollout over the next few days.
OnePlus 11OnePlus 12R
For the OnePlus 11, the update focuses on small usability changes and security improvements. In Drawer mode, app categorization has been improved with the addition of two new categories called Office and Finance. These categories are meant to make it easier to find work-related and finance apps without scrolling through long app lists. The update also includes the February 2026 Android security patch, which fixes known security issues and improves overall system safety.
Privacy-related features have also been updated on the OnePlus 11. Users can now browse files stored in Private Safe by sliding the side slider. It is also possible to search for files directly within folders inside Private Safe. In addition, files stored in Private Safe can now be shared without moving them to another location, making secure file handling quicker and more practical.
The OnePlus 12R receives a different set of changes focused on charging and battery use. OxygenOS 16.0.3.500 adds a new bypass charging feature. When the phone is used for gaming, video streaming, live streaming, navigation, or other high-load tasks, users can connect the charger and enable bypass charging. This allows the phone to draw power directly from the charger instead of the battery, which helps reduce heat and battery wear during heavy use. The OnePlus 12R also receives the February 2026 Android security patch.
Like the OnePlus 11, the 12R gains the same Private Safe improvements. Users can browse files using the side slider, search for files within Private Safe folders, and share files directly from Private Safe.
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Samsung is expected to begin mass production of its Exynos 2700 processor in the second half of 2026, according to a report from The Korea Economic Daily citing Kiwoom Securities. Analyst Park Yoo-ak stated that the chip will be manufactured using Samsung Foundry’s second-generation 2nm GAA process (SF2P), with initial yields reaching approximately 50%.
The Exynos 2700 could mark a significant shift in Samsung’s mobile strategy. The chip is projected to power around 50% of the upcoming Galaxy S27 series smartphones. This would be a sharp increase compared to the Exynos 2600, which currently powers about 25% of the Galaxy S26 lineup. The Galaxy S26 Ultra exclusively uses Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chip across all markets.
Park Yoo-ak noted that yield improvements and growing customer demand for cost-effective solutions are expected to help the Exynos 2700 gain more traction. Samsung has reportedly asked its partners to promote the SF2P process, which indicates confidence in the chip’s production readiness.
Samsung completed the base design of the Exynos 2700 in 2025. Benchmark leaks suggest a 10-core CPU layout using a unique 4+1+4+1 cluster configuration and a new AMD-based Xclipse 970 GPU. The early test results showed lower clock speeds and performance figures, but the chip appears to be in its engineering phase.
Kiwoom Securities expects Samsung’s non-memory division to post a 21% year-over-year revenue increase to 36.4 trillion won ($24.8 billion) next year. The firm also forecasts an operating profit of 1.8 trillion won ($1.22 billion) for the division.
Samsung aims to cut reliance on Qualcomm’s Snapdragon chips and turn its mobile processor business profitable by expanding Exynos deployment in future flagship phones.
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Choosing between the Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 and the Galaxy Watch Ultra isn’t just about specs; it’s about lifestyle. One is designed for everyday comfort and smart health tracking, while the other targets extreme durability and outdoor performance. With limited-time discounts currently live for US customers, the decision becomes even more relevant right now. This comparison breaks down where each watch truly excels, helping buyers decide whether sleek practicality or rugged endurance offers better value during the ongoing deal window.
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Design and Display
Build & Comfort
Galaxy Watch 8 focuses on comfort and daily usability. Its slim aluminum body and lighter weight make it easy to wear all day and comfortable during sleep. The flatter design also fits better under sleeves, giving it a clean, classic smartwatch feel.
Galaxy Watch Ultra, on the other hand, prioritizes durability. Its titanium frame and thicker build feel extremely solid, but the added weight is noticeable during long wear. It feels more like an outdoor instrument than a lifestyle accessory. Both meet MIL-STD-810H standards, but the Ultra’s materials inspire more confidence in harsh conditions.
Display Brightness & Visibility
Watch 8 stands out with a 3000-nit peak brightness, offering excellent visibility in direct sunlight. The Ultra’s display remains sharp and colorful, but doesn’t match the same brightness advantage.
Verdict
Watch 8 favors comfort and visibility, while Watch Ultra is built for toughness over elegance.
Health and Fitness Tracking
Sensors & Tracking Accuracy
Both watches share Samsung’s BioActive sensor suite, delivering accurate heart rate, SpO₂, ECG, and sleep data. The Watch 8 adds an antioxidant index, leaning more toward wellness insights. The Watch Ultra counters with water temperature tracking, clearly targeting swimmers and outdoor users. For everyday health tracking, accuracy remains largely similar across both.
Workout Modes
Workout support is strong on both models, with automatic detection and detailed post-activity stats. The Watch Ultra feels better suited for long hikes, swimming, and endurance workouts due to its rugged build and larger battery. The Watch 8 comfortably handles gym sessions, runs, and daily fitness routines without feeling excessive.
Verdict
Watch 8 is ideal for daily health tracking, while Watch Ultra shines in demanding fitness environments.
Performance and Software
UI Smoothness
Both watches run on the Exynos W1000 (3nm) chipset with 2GB RAM, resulting in smooth navigation and fast app launches. Every day performance feels identical, even during multitasking. Watch 8 ships with Wear OS 6, giving it a slight head start in software longevity.
App Support & Features
App support remains the same across both, including Google apps, Samsung Health, LTE calling, and payments. The Ultra’s higher storage option benefits users who store offline music or maps, though most users may not need it. Software polish is consistent and mature on both devices.
Verdict
Performance is evenly matched, with Watch 8 gaining a small edge thanks to newer software out of the box.
Battery and Connectivity
Battery Life
Battery life is a clear advantage for the Watch Ultra. Its 590 mAh battery lasts noticeably longer, especially with GPS or LTE usage. The Watch 8 delivers reliable one-day battery life but requires more frequent charging. Both support 10W wireless charging.
GPS, Bluetooth, LTE
Connectivity options are identical, including dual-frequency GPS, Bluetooth 5.3, Wi-Fi, NFC, and eSIM. GPS accuracy and call reliability are consistent on both models, even in challenging environments.
Verdict
Watch Ultra wins on battery endurance, while Watch 8 is sufficient for regular daily use.
Pricing
At around $259.99, the Galaxy Watch 8 offers strong value with flagship-level features at a more accessible price. The Galaxy Watch Ultra, priced at $379, justifies its cost through premium materials and longer battery life rather than added software features. The price gap is significant and only makes sense for users who need extra durability.
Disclaimer: Prices are approximate and may vary based on country, region, and applicable taxes.
Conclusion
Best For Whom
Galaxy Watch 8 is best for users who want a lightweight, comfortable smartwatch focused on daily health and fitness. Galaxy Watch Ultra is designed for outdoor enthusiasts, swimmers, and users who prioritize durability and battery life.
Final Verdict
Galaxy Watch 8 delivers a better all-around experience for most users, while Galaxy Watch Ultra is a powerful but more specialized option.
100MP selfie test: A 100MP front camera is being tested, a possible industry first.
Dual 200MP rear cameras: The prototype includes 200MP main and 200MP telephoto sensors.
Impact still unclear: Real benefits will depend on software, heat control, and processing power.
According to a well-known Chinese tipster, Digital Chat Station, a major smartphone brand is testing an extreme camera setup for its next ultra-flagship phone. The prototype reportedly features a 200MP main rear camera, a 200MP telephoto camera, and a 100MP front-facing camera. If released, the 100MP selfie camera would be an industry first.
The leak notes that the device uses a custom small-pixel sensor solution and is still in early testing, meaning the final hardware may change before launch. The manufacturer’s identity was not revealed, but commenters speculate it could be OPPO or vivo.
This development is notable because front cameras have seen far fewer upgrades compared to rear cameras. A 100MP selfie sensor could significantly improve video calls, live streaming, vlogging, and social media content creation, areas where smartphones are increasingly replacing dedicated cameras. However, challenges such as processing load, heat, storage demands, and real-world image quality could limit how transformative such high resolutions actually are.
Industry trends already point toward dual 200MP rear camera systems becoming common in future flagships. At the same time, companies like Huawei, OPPO, and vivo are reportedly experimenting with new front-camera sensor formats.
For now, all details remain unconfirmed, but the testing hints at where smartphone imaging could be heading next.
New Spring Festival features add countdowns, animated fireworks, and gesture controls to the rear display
Major camera upgrades improve video recording, night scenes, and creative shooting modes
Festive back screen features are exclusive to the China-only Xiaomi 17 Pro series
Xiaomi 17 Pro
Xiaomi has announced a new Spring Festival software update for its Xiaomi 17 Pro series, introducing festive back screen functions along with a range of camera enhancements. The update is scheduled to roll out in mid-February.
One of the main additions is a set of Lunar New Year features designed for the phone’s rear secondary display. From Lunar New Year Day 1 through Day 7, the back screen wallpaper will update automatically at midnight each day.
On New Year’s Eve, a countdown animation will begin at 11:55 PM. When midnight is reached, a fireworks animation will automatically play on the rear display.
The update also introduces gesture-controlled interactions. Users can trigger the fireworks animation remotely by making a fist and then opening their hand in front of the back screen, without touching the device.
In addition to festive visuals, Xiaomi is expanding camera capabilities across the Xiaomi 17 series. Intelligent Scene Card support, adapted from the Xiaomi 17 Ultra, improves photo and video capture for fireworks and stage performance scenes.
For video creators, Xiaomi has added LOFIC recording with support for up to 4K at 60 frames per second, enhanced LOG recording with additional LUTs, dual-view recording using both front and rear cameras, and rear-screen full-frame recording for immersive video selfies. Further improvements include better slow-motion performance, enhanced night video, and improved ultra-wide-angle distortion correction.
The new back screen festive features are exclusive to the China-only variant of the Xiaomi 17 Pro series. International users will not receive these features, as the Pro models are not available globally.
Xiaomi 17 Pro Series — Updates:
Spring Festival Back Screen Features
Daily Lunar New Year wallpapers from Day 1 to Day 7
New Year’s Eve countdown animation on the rear display
Fireworks animation triggered automatically at midnight
Air-gesture control to trigger fireworks without touching the phone
Features rely on the rear secondary display
Camera Updates
Intelligent Scene Card support adapted from Xiaomi 17 Ultra
Dynamic photo capture while recording video
Enhanced LOG video recording with expanded LUT support
Customizable camera interface and toolbar layout
Dual-view recording using front and rear cameras simultaneously
Improved slow-motion video performance
Enhanced night-scene video recording
Improved ultra-wide-angle distortion correction
Camera Features With Explicit Hardware Limits
LOFIC video recording with support up to 4K at 60fps
Honor has been launching two generations of numbered smartphones each year in China, while the global market typically receives only select models. That’s why the Honor 300 and 500 series were launched in China but skipped for global markets. Now, the brand is said to be working on the Honor 600 series for both China and international markets.
In the latest development, Honor is gearing up to launch the Honor 600 Lite. The device was recently spotted on multiple certification platforms, and it has now appeared on Geekbench, revealing its chipset and other key details.
Honor 600 Lite Geekbench listing
Recent certifications, such as GCF and TDRA (UAE), have revealed that an Honor phone bearing the model number LNA-NX1 will be called the Honor 600 Lite when it arrives in the global market. Honor has not launched a “Lite” version of its numbered series in China before, so the 600 Lite is unlikely to be released there.
The Honor 600 Lite’s Geekbench listing indicates that it is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 7100 chipset. Currently, the only other phone known to feature this chip is the Infinix Note Edge, and it is speculated that the upcoming Tecno Pova Curve 2 may also adopt it.
While the chipset name is not explicitly mentioned in the Geekbench listing, the model number MT6858 along with CPU and GPU details (via metadata) are enough to confirm that the device features the Dimensity 7100 SoC.
The Geekbench listing further shows that the Honor 600 Lite comes with 8GB of RAM and runs Android 16, which is likely paired with MagicOS 10. It achieved scores of 994 and 3023 points in the single-core and multi-core tests, respectively.
Honor 600 Lite NBTC listing
Apart from appearing on Geekbench, the device has also surfaced in the database of Thailand’s NBTC certification. As usual, the listing hasn’t revealed anything significant about it. Upcoming reports are expected to reveal more details about the device.
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HyperOS 3 is one of the biggest upgrades to Xiaomi devices to date, bringing loads of new features and improvements across the system. It’s based on Android 16, but on top of that, Xiaomi has introduced several exciting and useful features in HyperOS 3 that make the stock Android feel like a less feature-rich update.
Here are the five HyperOS 3 features that make it better than stock Android.
Android 16 adds Live Updates to show ongoing tasks (delivery, ride, etc.) in the notification area and on the lock screen, but HyperOS 3 goes much further with HyperIsland. Xiaomi’s implementation features a dedicated pill-style hub at the top of the screen with the ability to show multiple live activities at once (up to three), letting users monitor several concurrent tasks simultaneously and interact with each individually.
HyperIsland offers rich inline controls (play/pause, call actions, accept/decline, navigation shortcuts, etc.) and supports gestures like tapping to expand and swiping to switch islands. What’s more interesting is that users can swipe down an island to open the related app into a floating window for instant multitasking. The Live Updates in Android 16 have fewer controls and don’t offer floating-window behavior for islands.
Xiaomi’s HyperIsland also offers better integration with system features and extends support to a wide range of third-party apps like WhatsApp, YouTube, and Spotify. At the same time, Android 16’s Live Updates work best with Google’s own apps and depend heavily on app developers to make the required changes.
2. Cinematic lock screen and AI dynamic wallpapers (with deeper editing)
Lock screen in HyperOS 3
HyperOS 3.0 focuses on offering a redefining lock-screen experience with new AI-assisted features and deeper customization, while stock Android 16 focuses more on core OS usability than on lock-screen creativity.
The new AI Cinematic Lock Screen feature in HyperOS 3 creates a story-like, cinematic effect each time you unlock, and the AI Dynamic Wallpapers feature transforms your photos into stunning cinematic visuals. HyperOS 3 also features smoother lock-screen transitions, like AOD to lock screen to home screen, making the lock screen feel more premium and lively.
In short, Android 16’s lock screen is clean and functional but less focused on creativity and personalization, but HyperOS 3 explicitly promotes personalized editing.
3. Much stronger cross-ecosystem features, including Apple integration
HyperOS 3.0 excels at cross-device connectivity, especially with Apple devices, while stock Android 16 mostly focuses on bridging gaps among Android devices.
The “Touch to share” feature on HyperOS 3.0 now works with Apple devices too. So, you can now share photos, videos, files, and Wi-Fi passwords with Apple devices simply by touching both devices. Users can also run Xiaomi phone apps on iPad using the Home Screen+ feature with full support for iPad multitasking. Plus, they can unlock their Xiaomi devices using Touch ID or Face ID.
Apple devices can connect to a Xiaomi hotspot with just one tap. Additionally, users can instantly locate their Xiaomi phones from Apple devices, further strengthening Xiaomi’s cross-ecosystem capabilities.
4. HyperAI for smarter writing, transcription, and translation
HyperOS 3.0 provides a suite of AI features as a part of HyperAI, while stock Android 16 relies on Google apps (Gemini, Translate, Photos, etc.) to deliver the most visible AI features.
The AI Writing feature in HyperOS 3.0 can rewrite text in multiple styles, generate captions for images, and features a “DeepThink mode” for longer content in Notes. The AI Speech Recognition helps reduce background noise, convert speech to text while recording, and generate an instant summary when the recording ends.
HyperAI also offers AI Search to search the web for instant answers, generate AI summaries of search results, and find on-device content quickly, while the AI Translate feature does live interpretation for calls/meetings, bilingual subtitles by transcribing and translating audio, and an offline mode for face-to-face conversation translation.
5. Stronger privacy and security layer
The stock Android 16 features Android Protection, which layers multiple protections, such as Theft Detection Lock, offline device lock, USB protection, and anti-scam safeguards. Many of them are also available on Xiaomi devices running HyperOS 3, but the software also includes several security features developed by Xiaomi that are not present in stock Android 16.
HyperOS 3 offers Quantum-level data protection for protection against future quantum attacks on communications. It also features Edge-to-cloud AI data security, ensuring data stays private with on-device and cloud privacy computing, and MiTEE‑powered security protocols for interconnectivity.
So, HyperOS 3.0, based on Android 16, is a pretty significant upgrade for Xiaomi devices, bringing plenty of additional features and improvements over stock Android 16.
To ensure you don’t miss out on the important updates from Xiaomi, remember to visit the Xiaomi section on this website regularly. Alternatively, you can join us on Telegram to get instant notifications about the latest HyperOS updates, along with the biggest tech headlines.
Infinix is teasing its upcoming Note 60 Pro, and early looks suggest it’s mixing design cues from some of the most talked-about phones from last year. The teaser showcases a large new camera island that resembles the latest iPhone 17 Pros, but borrows a design element inspired by Nothing’s Phone (3). So let’s check it out.
Infinix Note 60 Pro Teased
Looking at the teaser poster, the Infinix Note 60 Pro features a bold rear camera island that seems inspired by the iPhone 17 Pro Max. But what stands out is the active Matrix Display on this module. You also get an active dot-matrix style panel that can display info like time, weather, notifications, music controls and charging progress. The dynamic visuals in the back of the phone draw creative parallels to the Nothing Phone (3)’s Glyph interface, but with its own twist.
Infinix Note 60 Pro with Rear Matrix Display Teased
Pair this with a choice of new colorways, namely Solar Orange, and the Note 60 Pro is offering a vibrant new look. The brand has also confirmed that the upcoming mid range phone will be equipped with Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 7s Gen 4 5G. On the front, this model sports a tall 6.78-inch Ultra HDR display with a 1.5K resolution and a 144Hz refresh rate. A massive 6,500mAh battery pack powers the Note 60 Pro, which supports 90W wired fast charging and a new “Battery Self Healing Tech”.
Other notable features include a 50MP Night Master main camera, JBL tuned stereo speakers, a premium leather textured back panel, a 3D IceCore VC vapor-chamber cooling system to keep temps in check, and more. The company has yet to confirm the launch date and pricing details, but the device is set to debut soon. We can expect the Infinix Note 60 Pro to be unveiled during the MWC 2026 event.
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China has unveiled the world’s first 5-ton-class passenger eVTOL
The V5000 completed a full conversion flight, proving the large eVTOL’s feasibility
It can carry 10 passengers and fly up to 1500 km in hybrid mode
World’s First 5-Ton eVTOL Takes Flight
China has reached a major aviation milestone with the successful flight of the world’s first 5-ton electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft, the V5000. The aircraft completed a full conversion flight at the Kunshan Civil Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Test Flight Operation Base in Jiangsu Province, smoothly transitioning from vertical takeoff to fixed-wing cruise and back to vertical landing. The flight was confirmed by local authorities, marking a breakthrough for large-scale eVTOL development.
From Concept to Large-Scale AirTaxi
The V5000 Sky Dragon was independently developed by Fengfei Aviation Technology, while the passenger-focused V5000 Matrix was unveiled by AutoFlight. Unlike most eVTOLs in service today, which weigh under 3 tons and carry fewer than six passengers, the V5000 enters a new class. It seats 10 passengers or carries multi-ton cargo, showing that eVTOLs can scale beyond small urban air taxis.
Design, Range, and Capability
The aircraft uses a compound wing and three-surface aerodynamic layout, powered by up to 20 lift motors. Its high-redundancy design allows safe flight even with motor failures. The pure-electric version offers a 250 km range, while the hybrid variant can reach up to 1,500 km, opening the door to regional routes and logistics missions.
Why This Matters Globally
Leading Western eVTOL developers remain focused on lighter aircraft for short city trips. None have flown a 5-ton-class eVTOL. The V5000 shows China moving faster toward large, practical, multi-role eVTOLs, signaling a shift from experimental air taxis to real aerial transport systems.
Alienware has officially launched the AW2526HL, a new 24.5-inch gaming monitor in the Chinese market. The monitor is now listed on JD.com and priced at 1199 yuan ($173).
Alienware AW2526HL Specifications
The AW2526HL features a 1920 x 1080 resolution IPS panel with a native 300Hz refresh rate. It delivers a 1ms grey-to-grey response time, which helps minimize motion blur and ghosting during fast movement.
The display reaches a typical brightness of 400 nits and supports a 1000:1 contrast ratio. It produces 8-bit color and covers 99% of the sRGB color gamut, allowing for accurate color reproduction suitable for both gaming and general media tasks.
Alienware has equipped the monitor with AMD FreeSync Premium support along with VESA Adaptive-Sync compatibility. The monitor also includes TÜV Rheinland-certified ComfortView Plus hardware-based blue light reduction, which filters harmful blue light without compromising color accuracy.
In terms of design, the monitor features a fully adjustable stand that allows tilting from -5 to +21 degrees, height adjustment up to 130mm, and pivot rotation to suit different desk setups. It also supports VESA wall mounting for greater installation flexibility.
For connectivity, the monitor includes two HDMI 2.1 (TMDS) ports and one DisplayPort 1.4 input.
The monitor has also passed TÜV eye comfort certification and meets several visual performance criteria, including refresh rate stability and color accuracy. Alienware offers a 3-year warranty with original parts replacement under standard usage conditions.
In related news, Alienware has recently launched the Area-51 desktop powered by AMD’s Ryzen 9000X3D series, starting at $3,349.
For more daily updates, please visit our News Section.
Honor appears to be doubling down on its focus on large battery capacities across its portfolio. After recently launching devices such as the Honor Win and Win RT with 10,000mAh batteries and the Honor Power 2 featuring a massive 10,080mAh unit, a new leak now suggests that the upcoming Magic 9 series could continue this trend. According to the leak, the next-generation flagship lineup may arrive with significantly bigger batteries than its predecessors, reinforcing Honor’s push towards long-lasting performance.
Honor Magic 9 series battery capacity tipped
Honor Magic 9 series battery capacity tipped
Well-known tipster Smart Pikachu claims that the Magic 9 lineup will remain photography-focused while also emphasizing battery endurance as a key selling point. The leak indicates that upcoming models in the series could feature battery capacities ranging between 8,000mAh and 9,000mAh, which would represent a noticeable upgrade compared to previous Magic-series smartphones.
For context, the current Honor Magic 8 lineup already includes sizeable battery units. The standard Magic 8, equipped with a 6.58-inch display, houses a 7,000mAh battery, while the Magic 8 Pro and Magic 8 RSR, both featuring 6.71-inch displays, offer slightly larger 7,100mAh batteries. These models are powered by Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipsets, setting expectations that the next generation could bring both performance and efficiency improvements.
Rumors also indicate that the Magic 9 series may be among the early adopters of the upcoming Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 platform. In terms of display sizes, early speculation points to a compact 6.3-inch panel for the standard Magic 9, while the Magic 9 Pro / RSR could grow to around 6.85 inches.
In related news, Honor is also said to be working on the Honor 600 series, which may debut by May 2026 in China. A recent report states that the vanilla Honor 600 may house a 6.57-inch OLED screen and a huge 9,000mAh battery. The other details of the Honor 600 series are under wraps.
For more daily updates, please visit our News Section.
BYD has filed a lawsuit challenging U.S. tariffs imposed during Donald Trump’s earlier presidency
The company is seeking refunds for tariffs paid since April 2025
The case could have wider implications for U.S.–China trade and tech tensions
source: en.byd.com
Chinese electric vehicle giant BYD has filed a lawsuit against the U.S. government, challenging tariffs that were imposed during Donald Trump’s earlier presidency.
The case was filed on January 26, 2026, in the U.S. Court of International Trade under case number 26-00847, and was publicly disclosed in early February. Four U.S.-based BYD entities: BYD America, BYD Coach & Bus, BYD Energy, and BYD Motors, are listed as plaintiffs. The defendants include several federal agencies, such as U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the Treasury Department, and the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative.
BYD argues that the tariffs were imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA), a law that does not explicitly authorize the use of tariffs or border taxes. The company claims this represents an overreach of executive power and is asking the court to declare the measures invalid, block their enforcement, and order refunds of all tariffs paid, along with interest and legal costs.
Beyond BYD, the lawsuit could have broader implications for U.S.–China trade and the ongoing tech rivalry. If the court limits the use of IEEPA for tariffs, it may weaken a key U.S. trade tool and encourage other Chinese firms, especially in batteries, solar, and EV supply chains, to pursue similar legal challenges. Analysts say the case also reflects a shift toward Chinese companies using U.S. courts, rather than diplomacy alone, to challenge trade restrictions.
Rumour mills have been speculating that the new Apple MacBook Pro models powered by M5 Pro and M5 Max chips would go official in February 2026. However, a new report has emerged claiming that these devices could be unveiled in March. Here is a look at what the latest information suggests about Apple’s upcoming refresh.
M5 Pro and M5 Max MacBook Pro launch timeline tipped
14-inch MacBook Pro M5
Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman reports that new MacBook Pro models powered by M5 Pro and M5 Max chips could arrive as early as the week of March 2, possibly alongside the rollout of macOS Tahoe 26.3. The upcoming refresh is expected to focus mainly on internal upgrades rather than design changes. Current-generation models with M4 Pro and M4 Max processors reportedly remain in limited supply, which often signals that a replacement launch is approaching.
Historically, Apple’s MacBook Pro update cycle has not always followed predictable patterns. In 2023, the company introduced two major refreshes within the same year, suggesting that rapid updates can occur when new chip technology becomes available.
If the M5 Pro models debut in early March, a second upgrade later in 2026 may still be possible. To recall, the M5 MacBook was announced in October 2025, which suggests that a new MacBook Pro model with several upgrades may debut around the same time this year.
Possible M6 redesign and broader Mac roadmap
Reports indicate that a more significant redesign could follow with the introduction of M6 Pro models. Rumored changes include OLED display, a thinner chassis, and the possibility of touch support, representing a larger shift compared to the expected M5 refresh. Such an approach would allow Apple to maintain momentum with incremental updates while preparing for a major hardware overhaul later.
Other Mac devices are also said to be in development, including updated Mac Studio models, a new Studio Display, refreshed Mac mini systems, and a lower-cost MacBook powered by an iPhone-class processor. If Apple follows a similar strategy to past launches, the M5 Pro update may act as a transitional step before a more ambitious redesign arrives toward the end of the year.
For more daily updates, please visit our News Section.
iQOO has continued to reveal new information about its upcoming smartphone ahead of launch, gradually building anticipation around the iQOO 15R. The company has now shared additional specifications that highlight the device’s display and gaming-focused capabilities, offering a clearer picture of what users can expect when it debuts later this month.
iQOO 15R display and performance details revealed
The iQOO 15R will feature a 1.5K AMOLED display with a 144Hz refresh rate aimed at delivering smoother visuals during daily use and gaming. The panel supports HDR10+ and reaches up to 5,000 nits of local peak brightness, improving outdoor visibility.
The screen also integrates eye-care features such as adaptive colour temperature adjustments, a low-brightness sleep screen mode, and motion-based prompts designed to reduce visual discomfort during extended usage. Although the screen has not been confirmed, it is expected to feature a 6.59-inch panel.
Under the hood, the smartphone will be powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 chipset paired with the company’s in-house Q2 supercomputing chip, which helps maintain stable 144fps gaming performance. A dedicated network enhancement chip is included to reduce latency and provide a more consistent online gaming experience. The device is also equipped with a 6.5K IceCore VC cooling system to help manage heat during intensive tasks.
The iQOO 15R carries a dual rear camera setup led by a 50-megapixel Sony LYT-700V primary sensor with optical image stabilisation, supported by an 8-megapixel ultra-wide lens. Details about the front camera have not been confirmed yet. The handset packs a 7,600mAh battery with support for 100W rapid charging, while software duties are handled by OriginOS 6 based on Android 16. The company has promised four years of Android updates along with six years of security patches.
Additional features include IP68 and IP69 ratings for dust and water resistance, an ultrasonic in-display fingerprint scanner, Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6.0, NFC, and an IR blaster. The device is expected to launch in Triumph Silver and Dark Knight colour options and is confirmed to be priced under Rs 50,000 in India. This pricing suggests that it will rival the OnePlus 15R in the Indian market.
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It looks like Samsung might be revisiting one of its more interesting camera experiments from the past. A new report out of Korea suggests the company is exploring the return of variable aperture on future Galaxy smartphones, possibly starting with the Galaxy S27 series.
According to Korean publication ET News, Samsung’s mobile division has asked Samsung Electro-Mechanics and MCNEX to begin developing smartphone-ready variable aperture systems. Industry sources quoted in the report describe Samsung as “strongly committed” to bringing the feature back, which suggests this isn’t just early-stage experimentation.
A feature Samsung already tried back in 2018
Variable aperture isn’t new for Samsung. The company introduced a dual-aperture system on the Samsung Galaxy S9, allowing the camera to switch between f/1.5 and f/2.4. It carried over to the Samsung Galaxy S10 before quietly disappearing with the Galaxy S20 lineup.
Galaxy S9 variable aperture system
For those unfamiliar, variable aperture allows the camera lens to physically adjust how much light enters the sensor.
A wider aperture (lower f-number) helps in low light and creates stronger background blur.
A narrower aperture improves sharpness and depth of field in bright conditions.
On Galaxy smartphones, most improvements over the last few years have come from processing algorithms rather than mechanical lens adjustments. Bringing back real optical control could give Samsung another tool to improve image quality, especially in challenging lighting.
Earlier rumors had suggested the feature might return with the Galaxy S26 series, but that now seems unlikely. The focus appears to have shifted to the Galaxy S27 lineup, which would likely arrive in early 2027 if Samsung sticks to its usual schedule. The feature would likely roll out exclusively on the Galaxy S27 Ultra to differentiate it from the rest of the lineup.
Interestingly, this development comes alongside separate rumors that Apple may introduce variable aperture on the iPhone 18 series, potentially in 2026 and possibly limited to Pro models.
If Samsung manages to refine the technology and keep the module slim, variable aperture could make a meaningful comeback in flagship smartphones. And for mobile photography enthusiasts, that’s at least something to keep an eye on.
The comments on the HONOR Magic8 Pro Air unboxing videos are full of praise for this phone, and I’m not at all surprised. It really is that good. Weighing just 155 g and boasting a 6.3-inch display, it’s even lighter than the so-called ‘Air’ phones on the market. It takes us back to the days when mobile phones were compact and easy to hold. If you’re tired of phones getting bigger and heavier every year, you’ll understand exactly why this device exists.
Design
For how thin and light it is, the Magic8 Pro Air doesn’t skimp on essential features at all. It has an IR blaster, NFC, stereo dual speakers, wireless charging, and even a physical SIM slot. Other than the USB 2.0 port, there’s barely a flaw to find. The triple-camera setup shifts its center of gravity slightly upward, but its ultra-light, compact build means you never feel that top-heavy awkwardness in your hand.
Honestly, I’ve never liked the feel of the iPhone Air. It’s way too thin—holding it feels like holding a piece of corrugated paper. The slightly thicker Magic8 Pro Air, on the other hand, delivers a far better hold. I know that might sound like an excuse, but it’s how I truly feel. And I’m a total fan of small phones—the Magic8 Pro Air is the tiniest among all Air phones. So yeah, HONOR built my dream phone.
Now, everyone has their own preferences. The iPhone Air is still the thinnest Air phone around, and it looks better too. But one thing’s undeniable: the Magic8 Pro Air blows the iPhone Air out of the water in specs. The most obvious win? It’s triple cameras.
Cameras
Of the Magic8 Pro Air’s three cameras, the ultra-wide is the weak link—everything else is flagship-grade.
The 3.2x telephoto lens is perfect for daily use, with a focal length that’s just right, not too long, not too short. Image quality is solid too; it’s barely different from the main cam in most cases. You just need a steady hand, though—any shake and the shot gets blurry fast. Even at 6.4x zoom, it still performs surprisingly well, and I’m really happy with that.
The main camera is flawless, right up there with other flagship phones. Colors are vibrant, and the bokeh effect is stunning. Since the telephoto lacks a macro mode and has a minimum focusing distance of nearly 50cm, the main cam takes on macro shooting duties. The ultra-wide can do macro, too, but neither camera delivers satisfying macro shots.
The ultra-wide is easily one of the phone’s biggest letdowns. It’s better than the 8MP ultra-wides on budget phones—50MP clearly boosts sharpness, and daytime shots look totally fine. But as soon as the light dims, image quality drops off a cliff around the edges. Video on the ultra-wide isn’t the best either; there’s a lot of frame tearing. Switch to the main cam, though, and all those issues disappear.
For a 155g phone, this camera performance is seriously impressive. A great main cam, a solid telephoto, a decent ultra-wide in daylight—it’s easily the best triple-camera Air phone you can get.
The camera’s quick-launch button? It’s not great. Just like the iPhone’s, it’s a struggle to switch to your desired focal length with it. And since it’s a capacitive touch button, not a physical one, the tactile feel is off. As an AI button, though, it’s pretty good. It basically does what Apple Intelligence promised in its launch ads—hold up the phone, and it tells you what you’re looking at. The only downside is the lack of customizability; most of the time, I forget it’s even there.
Performance
The Dimensity 9500 is one of the most powerful mobile chips currently available, so HONOR made the perfect call by putting it in the Magic8 Pro Air. I even think there’s a reason HONOR went with a MediaTek chip—they’ve clearly found a secret optimization formula. Its performance in Honkai: Star Rail is insane, with perfect power efficiency and frame rates that are almost scary good. We checked, no funny business here—its resolution is the same as other phones, over 900P.
We can’t guarantee it won’t throttle when it gets hot in summer, but I can say its gaming experience in winter beats a lot of flagships. No AI frame interpolation or AI super resolution, but this thing is basically a gaming phone in a compact body.
Display & Battery
The display tuning works perfectly with battery life. Daily streaming and scrolling look sharp and natural, and the screen’s power draw is super well-controlled—no excessive battery drain for the sake of better visuals. It strikes the perfect balance between experience and efficiency.
This screen handles gaming and media with ease, and it lays a great foundation for the phone’s battery life. Pair that with a large-capacity battery, and whether you’re a heavy gamer or a light daily user, you get all the battery life you need. A full day of normal use means no need to top up the battery constantly. Our real-world tests back this up: 15 minutes of Honkai: Star Rail uses just 6% battery, 20 minutes of high-load Genshin Impact only 5%. Even heavy gaming doesn’t eat through the battery fast, and light daily use keeps power drain super low.
Verdict
How many of you love the iPhone Air for its lightness and thinness, but hate the compromises—single speaker, no physical SIM, only one camera, and short battery life? Well, HONOR has the solution.
I’ll admit, the Magic8 Pro Air is an incredibly appealing phone. It’s cheaper than the iPhone Air in China, but it’s still a lot more expensive than I thought it would be. If it gets a $100 price drop down the line, this will be the perfect phone in the world—no exceptions.
After teasing the arrival for the past few days, the Oppo K14x 5G has gone official in India today. Designed to deliver power, performance and smoothness, a top-tier trio that defines OPPO’s promise of a worry-free, all-day experience, the device targets students, early jobbers, gamers and value-conscious users. Positioned as an entry-level model in the upcoming K14 series lineup, the smartphone focuses on battery life, everyday performance, and durability. Here is a look at what the phone offers.
Oppo K14x 5G specifications and features
Oppo K14x 5G
The Oppo K14x 5G features a 6.74-inch LCD display with HD+ resolution, a 120Hz refresh rate, and supports high brightness mode reaching up to 1,125 nits, improving visibility in outdoor conditions. On the front, the device houses a 5-megapixel selfie camera designed for video calls and basic photography needs.
On the rear, the handset carries a dual-camera system consisting of a 50MP primary sensor paired with a 2MP monochrome lens for portrait effects and depth information. The phone runs on ColorOS 15.0 based on Android 15, but there is no information about the phone’s update policy.
Under the hood, the device is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 6300 chipset, paired with up to 6GB LPDDR4X RAM and 128GB of internal storage across variants. The phone is backed by a large 6,500mAh battery and supports up to 45W fast charging, helping users get through extended usage without frequent charging breaks.
Oppo K14x 5G
The device also includes a side-mounted fingerprint sensor for biometric security and retains a 3.5mm headphone jack, a feature that is becoming increasingly rare in modern smartphones. Other specifications include an IP64 rating for dust and splash resistance, Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.4, USB Type-C connectivity, and dual SIM support.
Oppo K14x 5G price in India, availability
The Oppo K14x 5G comes in two variants, with the 4GB+28GB model priced at Rs 14,999 (~$165) and the 6GB+28GB version priced at Rs 16,999 (~$190). Pre-orders have already started, and the device will be available via Flipkart, OPPO India’s website, and offline retail stores starting February 16. Buyers can choose between Prism Violet and Icy Blue colour options.
For more daily updates, please visit our News Section.
On February 8, 2026, AGIBOT hosted AGIBOT NIGHT in Shanghai. The 60-minute event was livestreamed globally and featured humanoid robots as the sole on-stage performers and hosts. According to the company, this was the first large-scale live event in which robots led the entire program without human presenters.
Why AGIBOT Organized the Event
AGIBOT said the event was intended to show that embodied artificial intelligence systems are ready to operate beyond controlled laboratory and industrial environments. The company used the live format to test system stability, coordination across multiple robots, and sustained operation under real-world conditions. The event also explored how robots might function in social and cultural settings rather than purely technical roles.
Robot-Led Segments Including Dancing, and Comedy
The program consisted of robot-led segments such as group dance performances, runway-style walks, and choreographed routines requiring synchronized movement. Humanoid robots also handled hosting-style roles, including transitions between segments and on-stage interactions. Additional performances included comedy skits, music-based acts, and illusion performances, all carried out entirely by robots without human intervention.
Human–Robot Joint Performances on Stage
Several segments featured humans performing alongside robots. These included joint dance routines where humans and humanoid robots moved in synchronized patterns, as well as shared illusion and card magic performances. The segments required real-time alignment between human motion and robotic movement, highlighting coordination rather than pre-recorded or isolated demonstrations.
Performances Involving Multiple Robot Types
In addition to humanoid robots, quadruped robots participated in coordinated routines on stage. These performances involved interaction between different robot form factors, with humanoid and quadruped robots operating together in shared choreography and movement-based segments. Multiple robots performed simultaneously without visible interruptions.
Robot Models Demonstrated During the Event
AGIBOT used the event to showcase its range of robot platforms. Full-sized humanoid robots were used for hosting, navigation, and large-scale stage performances. Smaller humanoid models focused on expressive movement and interaction. Industrial humanoid robots demonstrated controlled manipulation capabilities, while quadruped robots were used for mobility-focused routines.
What the Event Demonstrated Technically
The company emphasized reliability over isolated technical feats. Robots operated continuously throughout the 60-minute program without resets or performance breaks. According to AGIBOT, more than 5,000 humanoid robots had been delivered globally by the end of 2025, positioning the event as evidence of scalable deployment rather than a one-off showcase.
Cultural Timing and Public Setting
AGIBOT NIGHT was held during the Chinese Spring Festival period, when entertainment events typically focus on family and shared experiences. By staging the event at this time, AGIBOT placed humanoid robots within a familiar cultural context, presenting them as participants in public life rather than industrial tools.
What This Signals for Humanoid Robotics
The event reflects a broader shift in the humanoid robotics industry toward systems capable of operating at scale in live, public environments. Rather than focusing on prototypes or controlled demos, AGIBOT NIGHT positioned humanoid robots as coordinated systems able to perform reliably in real-world cultural settings.
Vivo is expected to hold a launch event in March in China. The event is expected to see the arrival of the Vivo X300 Ultra, Vivo X300 Max, and the company’s first camera. In a new development, the upcoming Vivo Pad 6 Pro has received approval from the country’s 3C certification platform, indicating that it may also launch soon in China, probably at the March event.
Vivo Pad 6 Pro / iQOO Pad 6 Pro 3C certified
As can be seen above, two new tablets bearing the model numbers iPA2673 and PA2671 have received approval from the 3C authority in China. These could be the upcoming iQOO Pad 6 Pro and Vivo Pad 6 Pro, respectively. While the iQOO device has been spotted with a power brick that supports up to 80W charging, the Vivo Pad 6 Pro’s power adapter supports up to 90W charging.
To recall, the Vivo Pad 5 Pro was announced along with the Vivo X200 Ultra and Vivo X200s in April 2025 in China, whereas the iQOO Pad 5 Pro was announced in May. Therefore, it is likely that the iQOO Pad 6 Pro may debut around a month after the Vivo Pad 6 Pro.
According to tipster Digital Chat Station, the Vivo Pad 6 Pro / iQOO Pad 6 Pro will arrive with a 13-inch display and a Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset. In addition, these tablets are expected to pack huge batteries, but the exact capacity is not known yet.
Other details about these tablets remain under wraps. Like the Vivo Pad 5 Pro and iQOO Pad 5 Pro, their successor editions are expected to pack nearly identical specs.
In related news, the Vivo X300 Ultra’s standard version, which bears the model number V2547A, has also been approved by 3C. This comes close on the heels of the X300 Ultra Beidou Edition’s 3C certification, which was spotted earlier this week. Both devices have been listed with a 100W charger.
For more daily updates, please visit our News Section.
OpenAI has started testing a new feature inside ChatGPT that could change how some users experience the platform. The company confirmed that a limited rollout has begun, with early feedback expected to shape future expansion and refinements.
OpenAI begins ChatGPT ad testing with privacy safeguards
Example of ChatGPT ad
The test currently applies to logged-in adult users in the US who are on the Free and Go subscription tiers. Paid plans such as Plus, Pro, Business, Enterprise and Education will remain ad-free. According to OpenAI, advertisements will appear as clearly labelled sponsored placements that are visually separated from normal responses to avoid confusion. The company says answers generated by ChatGPT will remain independent and will not be influenced by advertisers.
During the trial phase, ads are matched with conversation topics, previous chats and past ad interactions to improve relevance. For example, someone discussing cooking ideas may see promotions related to food or grocery services. However, advertisers do not receive access to individual conversations or personal details, as OpenAI states that only aggregated performance data such as views and clicks is shared.
OpenAI says introducing ads helps support infrastructure costs and enables broader access to advanced AI features, especially for lower-cost or free users. The Go plan in the US costs $8 per month, positioning it as an affordable subscription alongside the free tier. Users who prefer an ad-free experience can switch to higher-tier subscriptions or opt out of ads with certain usage limitations.
The move has also sparked reactions within the AI industry, including criticism from competitors questioning how ads might affect user trust. OpenAI maintains that safeguards are in place, including restrictions preventing ads from appearing near sensitive topics such as health, politics or mental health. Users will also have control over ad settings, including dismissal options, feedback tools and the ability to manage personalisation preferences.
For more daily updates, please visit our News Section.
iQOO announced the Z11 Turbo in China last month. It’s the company’s top-of-the-line smartphone powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5. As usual, iQOO will also launch a few other models in the lineup, among which the iQOO Z11 and iQOO Z11x have now surfaced in the first set of leaks.
According to the fresh information shared by well-known tipster Digital Chat Station, the upcoming iQOO Z11 series has now been approved for network access, which usually means the launch isn’t too far away.
iQOO Z11 and Z11x Specificatoins
One of the devices carries the model number V2551A in the 3C listing, which is likely to be the standard iQOO Z11. The phone is said to ship with a 90W fast-charging adapter, paired with a battery estimated to be around 9,000mAh. If true, it would make the Z11 one of the largest-battery phones in its segment.
The phone is also expected to feature a large 1.5K LTPS display and a mid-range processor, suggesting iQOO is aiming for a balance between performance, battery life, and display quality rather than chasing flagship specs.
Alongside this model, the tipster also mentioned a second version that could be called the iQOO Z11x. This is said to feature a 6.76-inch FHD+ LCD display with a high refresh rate. The chipset is rumored to be the Snapdragon 7s Gen 4.
Interestingly, the use of an LCD panel seems to have sparked some reactions, with one user joking that releasing an LCD phone with a 7s Gen 4 chipset in 2026 feels like a “miracle.” Digital Chat Station responded humorously, calling it a “rare LCD.”
The conversation also briefly touched on other Vivo devices. When asked whether the upcoming vivo X300 Ultra might feature a 6,800mAh battery, the tipster responded with a clear “no.”
As always, none of this is official yet. We’ll keep you posted if anything becomes official.
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Lenovo is starting to drip-feed details about the upcoming Legion Y700 (2026), and the biggest reveal so far is that it features a 165Hz display. But if you’re wondering why a tablet needs a 165Hz refresh rate, Lenovo has explained exactly this in a detailed post on Weibo.
According to Lenovo, the Legion Y700 (2026) features a 3K display with a resolution of 3040 x 1904 pixels, paired with a 409ppi pixel density. On paper, that is already premium territory.
But Lenovo knows that many people will look at the 165Hz number and ask an obvious question: Isn’t 120Hz already smooth enough?
Lenovo Legion Y700 (2026) 165Hz refresh rate is a choice for users
According to Lenovo, the answer lies in how refresh rates actually affect real-world use, especially gaming.
The company explains that a 60Hz display refreshes every 16.67ms, while a 144Hz display drops that interval to 6.94ms. At 165Hz, the refresh interval goes down further to 6.06ms. While those numbers may not sound dramatic, Lenovo argues that the difference becomes noticeable in fast, competitive games.
The company uses a familiar gaming scenario to make its point. In fast-paced shooters or MOBAs, quick camera movements, aiming, and map dragging can expose the limits of lower refresh rates. At lower refresh rates, these actions can introduce slight visual jitter or instability, which can throw off aiming or timing.
Lenovo says the biggest advantage of 165Hz is how it reduces that jitter to make moves feel smoother and more stable when it matters most.
Beyond smoothness, Lenovo claims 165Hz helps address ghosting and system latency, two common issues in competitive games. Faster refresh cycles mean moving objects appear clearer, with smoother edges, making it easier to track targets.
At the same time, a higher refresh rate also reduces the delay between a screen tap and the resulting visual change.
For non-gaming use, Lenovo says power consumption shouldn’t be a major concern. The Legion Y700 (2026) includes an intelligent refresh rate system that adjusts automatically. It ramps up during scrolling and motion, then drops down when reading or viewing static content to save battery life.
As for whether 165Hz is necessary for everyday tasks like browsing or reading comics, Lenovo’s answer is refreshingly honest: it’s subjective. The company suggests users simply try it and decide for themselves.
For more daily updates, please visit our News Section.
Among the two rumored flavors, Qualcomm is expected to bring LPDDR6 RAM and a full-fledged GPU for only the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro. A newly leaked block diagram now suggests the Pro chip may also have another exclusive feature: an HPB design.
According to a leak from China, Qualcomm is expected to adopt Heat Pass Block (HPB) technology, the same cooling method used in Samsung’s Exynos 2600. Instead of relying on more traditional layouts, HPB places a dedicated heat-spreading layer directly on top of the chipset package. The goal is to move heat away from the silicon faster, before it becomes a performance bottleneck.
Qualcomm’s recent chips have aimed for extremely high peak frequencies, with rumors suggesting the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro could reach even 6GHz. Sustaining those speeds has been a challenge in the past, often forcing the chip to throttle down once temperatures rise. HPB is designed to reduce that problem by giving the processor more thermal headroom.
Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro to use Package-on-Package memory
The schematic leak also reveals other technical details. The Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro appears to use a Package-on-Package (PoP) design, where memory is stacked closely with the processor to save space.
The chip supports both LPDDR6 and LPDDR5X RAM along with UFS 5.0 storage using two high-bandwidth lanes.
Beyond raw performance, the chip may also focus on productivity features. The leak hints at multi-display support, which could enable desktop-style experiences when phones are connected to external monitors.
Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro AI-generated image
If true, the leak suggests Qualcomm is seriously rethinking how it handles heat in its most powerful chips. Adopting HPB could help the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro maintain high performance for longer periods, instead of briefly hitting impressive numbers before slowing down.
That said, it’s still unclear whether this cooling solution will be exclusive to the “Pro” variant. There’s no confirmation yet that the standard Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 will receive the same treatment.
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Acer has launched a new Predator Orion 7000 gaming desktop in China featuring the Intel Core Ultra 9 285K and RTX 5080 GPU. It is priced at 29,999 yuan ($4,333) on JD.com and follows last year’s global IFA debut of the RTX 5090 variant, now bringing the RTX 5080 option to China.
Acer Predator Orion 7000 Specifications
The system runs on Intel’s Core Ultra 9 285K with 24 cores, including 8 performance and 16 efficiency cores, reaching boost clocks up to 5.7GHz. It integrates an NPU for accelerating AI tasks like gaming, productivity, and content creation. Acer pairs it with a Z890 chipset and sets a 200W PL1 power limit for sustained performance.
Graphics performance is handled by the Nvidia GeForce RTX 5080, which comes with GDDR7 memory and supports DLSS 4 with multi-frame generation. The GPU delivers up to 1800 TOPS of AI computing power.
Acer uses its FrostBlade X360 thermal system to manage heat. The desktop features a 360mm all-in-one liquid cooler and three ARGB fans. The chassis includes panoramic tempered glass side panels with EMI shielding and 16.7 million color ARGB lighting, customizable through PredatorSense software. The build uses 85% PCR recycled plastic.
The system includes 64GB of DDR5-5600 memory and supports up to 128GB via four DIMM slots. For storage, it includes a 2TB SSD, one PCIe Gen5 M.2 slot, two Gen4 M.2 slots, and a hot-swappable SSD bay. There are also two 3.5-inch HDD bays for additional storage.
In terms of connectivity, the desktop includes Thunderbolt 4, USB 3.2 Gen1 and Gen2 Type-A ports, USB-C, HDMI 2.1, DisplayPort outputs, RJ45 Ethernet, and Wi-Fi 6E. The top I/O section includes three USB-A 3.2 Gen1 ports, one USB-C 3.2 Gen1 port, and a 3.5mm audio jack. DTS:X Ultra support is available for spatial audio.
In related news, Alienware has recently launched the Area-51 desktop featuring AMD’s Ryzen 9000X3D processors, starting at $3,349. ASUS has also introduced the ExpertCenter P500 desktop equipped with a Ryzen 7 CPU and support for RTX 5060 graphics.
For more daily updates, please visit our News Section.
Audio-Technica has introduced the ATH-WP900SE, a limited-edition over-ear headphone designed to accurately reproduce the sound of string instruments, with a clear emphasis on guitars.
The ATH-WP900SE features solid ash wood earcups, a material widely used in electric guitars and basses. Each unit is finished in a three-tone sunburst lacquer inspired by classic guitar designs. The lacquer work is carried out individually by Japanese guitar manufacturer Fujigen, resulting in visible wood grain and a deep gloss similar to that found on musical instruments. This is the first time Audio-Technica has applied a guitar-style lacquer finish to its headphones.
At the core of the headphones are newly developed 53 mm dynamic drivers created exclusively for this limited edition. The acoustic structure has been tuned specifically for string instruments. A redesigned voice coil improves linear motion and control, while uniform airflow behind the driver helps reduce unwanted resonance and uneven vibration. Audio-Technica has also optimized the acoustic port shape to deliver tighter bass. The company says this setup allows clear reproduction of guitar contours, strong low frequencies, and natural sustain.
The ATH-WP900SE offers a frequency response range of 5 Hz to 50 kHz, a sensitivity rating of 98 dB/mW, 37 ohms of impedance, and a maximum power input of 1,000 mW. Despite the large driver size, the headphones weigh around 235 grams without the cable.
Comfort features include low-resilience memory foam used in both the headband and ear pads, wrapped in artificial leather to support long listening sessions. The earcups swivel flat, making the headphones easier to store in the included pouch.
Audio-Technica uses its A2DC detachable connector system for stable signal transmission. The box includes two 1.2 m cables: a 3.5 mm unbalanced cable and a 4.4 mm balanced cable for use with compatible headphone amplifiers and high-resolution audio players. Additional accessories include a Fujigen cleaning cloth for the lacquered wood housing and a handwritten serial number card.
Pricing & availability
The ATH-WP900SE is available for pre-order in Japan and is priced at 110,000 yen, or about $750. The official release date is February 20, 2026.
For more daily updates, please visit our News Section.
ASUS Republic of Gamers has announced the ROG Strix Aiolos SSD Enclosure, a high-performance external SSD enclosure designed for users who need fast data transfers, stable thermals, and easy storage management. The enclosure is built for next-generation NVMe M.2 storage.
The ROG Strix Aiolos uses a USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 Type-C interface and supports transfer speeds of up to 20Gbps. This allows quick movement of large game libraries, raw video files, and backups. The enclosure supports M.2 PCIe NVMe SSDs in 2280, 2260, and 2242 form factors, as well as M.2 SATA SSDs with B+M key support. This dual compatibility allows users to install both newer NVMe drives and older SATA M.2 SSDs without needing a separate enclosure.
ASUS includes the ROG SSD Dashboard for storage management. The software provides real-time information on SSD status, performance levels, and key metrics through a dedicated interface designed for ROG enclosures. This gives users a clear view of drive health and operation without relying on third-party tools.
Thermal control is handled through a dual-layer cooling design. Inside the enclosure, a high-efficiency thermal pad pulls heat away from the SSD to help prevent performance drops during sustained workloads. The exterior is coated with a heat-resistant liquid silicone rubber layer that protects the enclosure from dust and smudges while keeping it cool to the touch during extended use.
The ROG Strix Aiolos also features customizable Aura RGB lighting, which can be controlled through a web-based interface. The tool-free push-to-open design allows quick SSD installation and removal. For portability, the enclosure includes a metal hook with a fabric tag that offers five times the tensile durability of the hook used on the ROG Strix Arion. ASUS also bundles an ROG strap and a braided cable for added durability.
The enclosure measures 115.5 x 46 x 15.12 mm and weighs 139 g. It supports Windows 10, Windows 11, and macOS 14.4 or later. Power is supplied via 5V DC. The operating temperature range is 0°C to 40°C, while storage temperatures range from -40°C to 60°C. ASUS has not yet announced pricing or availability details for the ROG Strix Aiolos.
For more daily updates, please visit our News Section.
Nothing seems ready to have a little more fun with its next round of products. In a recent teaser, the company hinted that both the upcoming Nothing Phone (4a) and Nothing Headphone (a) could arrive in five different colors. That’s a noticeable shift from the more limited white-and-black approach we saw with the (3a) series, and it suggests the brand may be leaning harder into personality this time around.
Nothing teases color options for Phone (4a) and Headphone (a)
The teaser itself is simple but clever. It forms the familiar “(a)” branding using dots in five colors: white, black, pink, yellow, and blue. It doesn’t explicitly confirm which product gets which shade, but it’s clear that color is going to be part of the story.
According to a previous report, the Headphone (a) could launch in white, black, pink, and yellow. That leaves blue as the likely standout option for the Phone (4a), possibly giving the mid-range device its own distinct look instead of overlapping entirely with the headphones.
Compared to the Nothing Phone (3a) lineup, which mostly stuck to safe tones, this would be a more expressive direction. It feels intentional.
Nothing Phone (3a) in Blue
As for specs, details are still limited, but there are a few expectations floating around. The Phone (4a) is rumored to feature a refreshed design, improved IP rating for better water and dust resistance, and upgraded internals. A Qualcomm Snapdragon 7s-series chip has been mentioned, alongside 12GB RAM and 256GB storage in at least one configuration.
There’s also talk of a price increase, possibly up to 30% higher than the previous model, reportedly tied to ongoing DRAM pricing pressures. Whether that sticks will likely depend on how component costs look closer to launch.
On the audio side, the Headphone (a) appears positioned as a more affordable alternative to the Nothing Headphone (1), which currently sits in the premium bracket. The new model is rumored to land around €159 and could include active noise cancellation, transparency mode, and even LDAC support.
Both devices are expected to launch in March, though Nothing hasn’t officially confirmed the date yet.
Discord will begin rolling out new teen safety features globally in early March, placing all new and existing users into a teen-appropriate experience by default unless they verify they are adults. The update introduces stricter content controls, limited access to age-gated spaces, and new communication rules designed to reduce unwanted contact while keeping user privacy intact.
Under the new system, sensitive images and videos will remain blurred unless a user is age-assured as an adult. Only verified adults can access age-restricted channels, servers, and app commands, speak on stage in servers, or change message request settings. Direct messages from people a user may not know will go into a separate inbox by default, and users will see warning prompts for friend requests from unfamiliar accounts.
To unlock adult features, Discord requires age verification through one of several methods. Users can choose facial age estimation using a video selfie that is processed entirely on their device, or submit a government ID to Discord’s verification partners. Identity documents are deleted quickly, usually immediately after age confirmation. Discord is also deploying an age inference model that runs in the background to help determine whether an account belongs to an adult, without always requiring manual verification. Some users may be asked to complete multiple steps if more information is needed.
Once verified, users receive confirmation via Discord’s official account. Age status is private and cannot be seen by others, and users can view or appeal their assigned age group at any time in account settings.
Discord previously tested this “teen-by-default” approach in the UK and Australia. The company says the global rollout builds on those results. Savannah Badalich, Discord’s head of product policy, said the goal is to give teens stronger protections while allowing verified adults more flexibility, adding that teen safety remains central to Discord’s product design.
Public reaction to the change has been mixed. Some users support tighter controls around messaging and content for teens. Others are concerned about privacy and mandatory age checks. Critics note that recent security incidents show Discord has struggled to keep user data safe. A breach of a third-party support provider in late 2025 exposed government ID photos and personal information for tens of thousands of users when attackers accessed age verification and support ticket data. Discord says about 70,000 users had their ID photos exposed and that it cut off the vendor’s access and is working with law enforcement, but some reports suggest the stolen data could be much larger. Users on social forums have expressed frustration that verification photos, said to be temporary, were still stored and then leaked, raising doubts about how secure the process really is.
The update follows similar moves across the industry. Instagram already places teens into stricter content and messaging settings by default. Snapchat keeps teen accounts private and limits how they can be discovered. TikTok has expanded AI-based age detection to flag underage users. Discord is also launching a Teen Council made up of 10 to 12 users aged 13 to 17 to advise on future safety features, policies, and tools.
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Getting a breath of fresh air is nearly impossible in Indian cities. With air pollution being a major health risk right now, air purifiers have slowly gone from “nice to have” to a necessity for every household. The market is flooded with plenty of options across different budgets that offer comparable performance for a cleaner air in your home. Among the wide variety of models, the Qubo Smart Air Purifier Q400 sits firmly in the budget segment, priced under Rs 10,000, and promises smart features without asking you to overspend. After using it as an everyday purifier, the Q400 feels like a product that knows exactly what it wants to be: practical, simple, and effective.
First Impressions and Setup
The Qubo Q400 makes a good first impression by not wasting your time. Unboxing is straightforward, and from opening the box to having it up and running, it takes about five minutes. There’s no complicated assembly, no confusing manuals, and no unnecessary steps.
Qubo Smart Air Purifier Q400 Review
The purifier itself is lightweight and easy to carry around, which matters more than you’d think. If you want to move it between the bedroom during the night and the living room during the day. This portability makes it especially appealing for smaller homes or apartments where one purifier often has to cover multiple rooms. It features a rather minimalistic design that is clearly not aiming to be a luxury appliance. But it doesn’t look out of place in a modern home.
Does It Actually Clean the Air?
Pre-Filter after 2 weeks
In daily use, Qubo Q400 gets the job done. It detects pollution spikes quickly and reacts almost immediately. Cooking smoke is a great real-world test, and the Q400 reliably picks it up within seconds, ramping up fan speed in Auto mode without manual intervention. In a small to medium-sized room, dust and airborne particulates get reduced in just about 10 to 15 minutes. You can “breathe” the difference, especially if you’re coming from outdoors. Auto mode works intelligently, adjusting fan speed based on air quality and even switching off when pollution levels drop.
Smart Features and App Experience
The mobile app is one of the Q400’s stronger points. Qubo brings intuitive, responsive, and easy-to-understand, even if you’re not particularly tech savvy. You can monitor air quality, switch modes, adjust fan speeds, and schedule operations directly from this software on your phone.
The Qubo Air App
Unfortunately, you’re not getting a dedicated screen that displays air quality. Instead, the Q400 uses color codes, namely Green, Yellow, and Red, to indicate air quality levels. For a deeper insight, the Qubo app gives you the finer details like AQI.
Sleep Mode and Noise Levels
Sleep mode deserves special mention because it’s genuinely quiet. Once enabled, the purifier fades into the background, making it suitable for overnight use even if you’re a light sleeper. There’s no distracting hum or sudden fan bursts.
Green indicates good air levels
What It Gets Wrong
The biggest omission is the lack of a numeric AQI display on the device itself. If you like glancing at exact air quality numbers, you’ll need to open the app every time. The color-coded system works, but it’s less informative than a proper display. Furthermore, there is no set standard with different brands having different colors to indicate air quality.
Yellow indicates moderate air quality
Room size is another limitation. The Q400 is best suited for small to medium rooms. If you’re expecting it to purify a large open living area or an open kitchen-living room combo, it may struggle to keep up. Lastly, while maintenance is simple, it does require some attention. Regularly cleaning the pre-filter is essential to keep performance consistent. It’s not difficult, but it’s something you can’t completely ignore.
Alternatives You Should Consider
Top view
If you want a purifier with a built-in numeric AQI display or support for larger rooms, there are other options to choose from. The Xiaomi Smart Air Purifier 4 Lite is slightly more expensive, but it offers such a display panel. There is also the Sharp FP-F40E-W that uses ions to neutralize airborne pollutants. You can even check out the Eureka Forbes 270 Air Purifier that brings 360° air intake technology and activated carbon.
Verdict: Should You Buy the Qubo Smart Air Purifier Q400?
The Qubo Smart Air Purifier Q400 is easy to recommend for what it is. At under Rs 10,000, it delivers reliable air purification, responsive Auto mode, quiet night-time operation, and a solid app experience. It doesn’t overpromise, and more importantly, it doesn’t underdeliver. If you live in a small to medium-sized home and want an affordable, smart purifier that works quietly in the background, the Q400 is worth your money. Just don’t expect premium design touches or advanced features like on-device displays.
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Ayaneo has revealed key specifications and features of the NEXT 2, its latest Windows handheld gaming device. Like many other handhelds on the market, this upcoming device will also be powered by an AMD Ryzen AI APU and will offer premium features like an OLED display, advanced cooling, and TMR joysticks.
Ayaneo NEXT 2 features
The NEXT 2 offers two AMD processor options: the Ryzen AI Max 385 for the base model and the Ryzen AI Max+ 395 for premium configurations. Ayaneo claims the Max+ 395 delivers discrete graphics-level performance. RAM and storage vary by processor, with other hardware specifications remaining consistent across models.
Display specifications include a 9.06-inch OLED panel with 2400 × 1504 resolution in landscape orientation. The screen features a high refresh rate for enhanced responsiveness during gameplay. Audio output comes through front-facing speakers, while navigation includes an 8-way D-pad and dual smart touchpads flanking the display.
Controls represent a key differentiator. The NEXT 2 introduces TMR joysticks with adjustable torque, a feature Ayaneo claims as industry-first for Windows handhelds. Hall Effect joysticks and Hall linear triggers with dual-mode locks provide additional input precision. Four programmable rear buttons enable ten-finger control configurations. A dual-fan cooling system manages thermal performance during intensive gaming sessions.
Pricing & availability
Pricing starts at $1,799 for early backers purchasing the 32GB/1TB Ryzen AI Max 385 model, increasing to $1,999 at retail. The Ryzen AI Max+ 395 configuration with 64GB RAM and 1TB storage costs $2,299. The flagship model featuring 128GB RAM and 2TB storage carries a $3,499 early bird price, jumping to $4,299 at retail launch. All versions ship exclusively in Polar Black.
For more daily updates, please visit our News Section.
In interesting news, Toyota is building its own game engine for the screens inside your car.
Toyota Connected North America, the subsidiary responsible for in-vehicle connectivity, has announced a new gaming engine called Fluorite. It’s designed specifically for automotive systems, where hardware is often less powerful than a typical smartphone or laptop.
What is Toyota’s Flourite engine?
Fluorite is written in C++ and is built to work closely with Google’s cross-platform UI framework, Flutter. That means developers can use Flutter’s Dart language and high-level APIs to build interactive experiences, including games and 3D interfaces, without needing heavy, traditional game engines.
According to Toyota, the engine is optimized to deliver strong performance even on low-end or embedded hardware. It also supports modern graphics APIs like Vulkan, which allows the system to get close to the device’s full hardware-accelerated performance.
Fluorite also brings some developer-friendly features. It supports a hot reload system similar to Flutter, letting developers see changes within a few frames instead of waiting through long build times. The engine also supports model-based trigger areas, so artists can define touch or click interactions directly inside tools like Blender.
Why does Toyota need a game engine?
So why does a car company need its own game engine?
Toyota says the project started as an attempt to build 3D user interfaces for future vehicles. The team looked at established engines like Unity, but found them too heavy for embedded automotive systems. Licensing costs were also a concern. In the end, building a lightweight, in-house solution made more sense.
More importantly, Toyota is marketing Fluorite as a fully featured open-source engine. As a result, even if the automaker won’t work on games, it gives an opportunity to independent and enthusiast developers.
For more daily updates, please visit our News Section.
Apple may not be planning much of an upgrade for the iPhone 17e, at least if the latest leaks are to be believed. According to a Weibo leaker and Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, the next “e” model could end up being more of a quiet refresh than a meaningful redesign.
Fixed Focus Digital on Weibo claims the iPhone 17e is essentially the iPhone 16e with one major internal change: the new A19 chip. The leaker says there are no notable updates to the display, Face ID system, or overall hardware features.
In fact, they go as far as saying Apple hasn’t even changed the phone’s mold, which means the physical design and dimensions will remain the same.
That assessment lines up closely with what Mark Gurman is reporting. In his latest comments, Gurman largely confirms that the iPhone 17e will focus on internal upgrades rather than visible changes.
The changes are all internal
The phone is expected to run on the A19 chipset and will reportedly gain MagSafe support. The latter was missing from the iPhone 16e and was a common point of criticism from users.
iPhone 16e
Beyond the processor, Gurman says the iPhone 17e will also feature Apple’s latest in-house wireless technology, including the C1X cellular modem and the N1 wireless chip. These upgrades fit Apple’s ongoing strategy of reducing its reliance on third-party suppliers.
Design-wise, the iPhone 17e will still skip the Dynamic Island and stick to a notch-style layout like the 16e. Expect no dramatic visual changes, and likely the same screen size and overall look.
As for pricing, both Fixed Focus Digital and Gurman suggest there will be no increase. If true, the iPhone 17e will launch at the same $599 price point as its predecessor. Gurman also notes that the launch could happen soon, with one leak pointing to a February 19 debut.
For more daily updates, please visit our News Section.
XElectron has launched the iProjector 3 Plus in India. The new smart projector supports native Full HD resolution and 4K content decoding. It runs official Google TV and is priced at ₹27,990 ($308). The projector is now available through Amazon, Flipkart, and select offline retail partners, and includes a one-year manufacturer warranty.
XElectron iProjector 3 Plus Specifications
The iProjector 3 Plus features a native 1080p display with a brightness rating of 2000 ANSI lumens. It can project screen sizes from 55 inches up to 300 inches. The projector supports HDR10 content and is designed for both daytime and nighttime viewing across a variety of home lighting conditions.
It runs official Google TV out of the box. Users can access more than 10,000 certified apps including Netflix, YouTube, Prime Video, JioCinema, ZEE5, and SonyLIV. The system supports Google Assistant for voice search, along with built-in Google Cast and Google Photos.
XElectron has integrated several automatic calibration features into the projector. It includes Auto Focus, Auto Keystone Correction, Auto Obstacle Avoidance, Auto Tilt Correction, and Auto Screen Fit. These features help adjust image alignment and sharpness automatically when the projector is moved or repositioned.
The iProjector 3 Plus uses a fully sealed optical engine to prevent dust from entering critical components. This design helps maintain image clarity over long periods of use. The projector includes built-in 20W speakers tuned with a passive bass radiator and supports Bluetooth 5.4, allowing it to function as a wireless speaker or connect to external audio systems.
For connectivity, the projector includes dual-band Wi-Fi 6, 2 x HDMI ports, 2 x USB ports, LAN, AV input, Audio Out, and HDMI ARC. The projector also supports wireless screen mirroring via AirPlay and Miracast.
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