Author: GizNews

  • Steam Deal: 88% Positive Review Action-Adventure RPG Game 70% Off

    Steam Deal: 88% Positive Review Action-Adventure RPG Game 70% Off

    Key Takeaway

    1. Eternal Strands is an open-ended action-adventure RPG where players forge their own path through a monster-filled world using elemental magic and creative strategies.
    2. The game emphasizes exploration, environmental interaction, and combat, requiring players to upgrade gear and combine powers for effective battles.
    3. It has received predominantly positive reviews for its graphics and exploration, but some critics cite repetitive combat and a weak story.
    4. Currently offered at a significant discount ($11.99), making it accessible for new players.

    Introduction to Eternal Strands

    Developed and released by Yellow Brick Games, this exciting action-adventure game came out on Steam on January 28, 2025. With a mix of RPG mechanics, players will encounter massive monsters and learn to control multiple elementals. Unlike typical games where you follow set paths, in Eternal Strands, you forge your own way, creating a unique journey through a mysterious world.

    Character and Gameplay

    Playing as Brynn, a Weaver skilled in fire, ice, and kinetic magic, you venture into a ruined landscape. The game stands out because you need to think around obstacles and use your powers creatively. This helps you discover secrets about the lost Enclave civilization, putting exploration and discovery at the core of the adventure.

    Combat and Strategy

    Fighting enemies is crucial in this game. Be it dragons or giants, you’ll need to mix your magical abilities with your chosen weapons to win. Don’t forget to improve your gear over time and manipulate your environment to gain an upper hand during battles. These elements make combat both varied and challenging.

    Community Feedback and Reviews

    There’s been over 1,590 reviews on Steam, with about 88% being positive, classifying it as “Very Positive”. Many players liken it to classic titles like Monster Hunter or Shadow of the Colossus, appreciating its beautiful visuals and exploration elements. Some negative comments come from players who found the storyline lacking and the monsters too similar, leading to repetitive fights over time.

    Pricing and Availability

    As for cost, the game is currently listed at $11.99, down from its original price of $39.99, which is a 70% discount. This deal is valid until May 4, 2026. Interestingly, like many offers, this discount was first available on December 18, 2025, making it a pretty attractive deal for players interested in the game.


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  • Smart Home Display with Microphone and Speaker Supporting Matter

    Smart Home Display with Microphone and Speaker Supporting Matter

    Key Takeaway

    1. The NSPanel Pro Gen 2 functions as a versatile smart home control panel, comparable to an Echo Show, with the ability to install additional apps via F-Droid.
    2. It supports extensive connectivity options, including WiFi (2.4GHz and 5GHz), ZigBee 3.0, and acting as a Matter bridge for smart home device integration.
    3. Hardware features include a touch display, microphones, built-in speaker, person detection, and camera footage display capabilities.
    4. It runs on an Android-based system with specifications like RK3326-S SoC, 2GB RAM, and 32GB storage, priced at approximately $120.

    Pre-order and Versatile Usage

    The NSPanel Pro Gen 2 is now available for pre-order straight from the makers, offering a flexible device that looks to replace traditional smart displays like the Echo Show. It serves as a wall-mounted gadget, but can also support the installation of third-party apps through platforms such as F-Droid. Basically, it’s pretty much an Android device, yet it can be adapted to many needs, thanks to its multiple capabilities. It supports WiFi in both 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands, plus acts as a Matter bridge, making smart home device integration alot easier, especially for devices that lacks their own wifi connection, including ZigBee 3.0 gadgets from Sonoff and other manufacturers.

    Specs and Display

    The hardware specs are solid for a smart device. It has two microphones for speech commands, a RK3326-S SoC processor, 2GB of RAM, and 32GB of internal storage. The touch screen is 3.95 inches, with a resolution of 480×480 pixel, meaning it’s clear enough for easy reading. The luminosity of the display automatically adjusts via a brightness sensor, making sure it stays readable during the day without bothering at night. Additionally, it features proximity detection to know when someone stands nearby. For audio, it includes a built-in speaker, and there’s an ability to show surveillance camera footage, adding to its multifunctionality.

    Pricing and Availability

    Currently, you can order the NSPanel Pro Gen 2 for about $120. The company plans to ship these devices starting around June, giving eager customers an opportunity to upgrade their smart home setups. As a combination of a display, a controller, and a smart home hub, it offers a lot for its price point, making it quite an appealing choice for tech-enthusiasts.


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  • OnePlus and Realme Merge: Latest Industry Consolidation Report

    OnePlus and Realme Merge: Latest Industry Consolidation Report

    Key Takeaway

    1. OnePlus is reportedly merging with Realme, another Oppo sub-brand, to consolidate domestic and overseas operations.
    2. No official statements have been released, but credible leaks suggest a new sub-product center is being established, led by key executives from both companies.
    3. The move follows ongoing rumors of OnePlus withdrawing from certain regions, despite continued product launches.

    Rumors Around OnePlus’s Possible Merger with Oppo Sub-Brands

    At the start of the year, there was alot of talk about OnePlus possibly shutting down their operations in some many regions. They quickly dismissed these rumors, but despite that, more reports kept on coming in over the following weeks and months. Now, a fresh leak suggests that OnePlus has teamed up with another sub-brand from Oppo, both globally and locally.

    Unverified Claims and Leaker Insights

    There hasn’t been any official statement made by any of these brands yet, but an insider known as Digital Chat Station on Weibo shared some interesting news. They report that OnePlus has merged with Realme and a “sub-product center” was created to manage their global and domestic markets. This new branch is led by Li Jie, who is the President of OnePlus China, and reports directly to Pete Lau, the CEO of OnePlus.

    New Departments for Marketing & Service

    The marketing and customer care for both OnePlus and Realme will now be handled by a newly formed department. This team will be guided by Li Bingzhong, one of Realme’s co-founders, and Xi Qi, the Chief Marketing Officer of Realme. This move indicates a consolidated approach for the brands’ global strategies.

    Historical Context and Recent Launches

    • OnePlus has been connected to Oppo for several years now.
    • Realme started as a sub-brand of Oppo but split off in 2018, only to be brought back into the fold earlier this year.

    This speculation follows multiple rumors that OnePlus was planning to close in the US and European markets by April, but no official confirmation was made publicly. Despite this, OnePlus didn’t hold back on launching new products, like the OnePlus Ace 6 Ultra and the Strix G15 gaming accessories.

    Summary and Ongoing Speculation

    As of now, neither Oppo nor OnePlus has officially confirmed any merger or shutdown plans. But, the claims made by Digital Chat Station point towards a strategic realignment within the companies, which could reshape how they operate moving forward.

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  • New Microsoft Surface Laptop with Intel Panther Lake & Arc B390 Graphics

    New Microsoft Surface Laptop with Intel Panther Lake & Arc B390 Graphics

    Key Takeaway

    1. The upcoming Surface Laptop 8 will feature Intel Core Ultra processors, including the new Core Ultra X7 368H with a 12-core GPU.
    2. Benchmarks suggest the Surface Laptop 8 will see a significant GPU performance increase, especially with the new Arc B390 GPU.
    3. Microsoft will continue branding the device as a ‘for Business’ model with a 13.8-inch display, possibly offering OLED options.

    Microsoft’s New Surface Laptop 8 Details Leaked

    It look like Microsoft is about to launch some fresh new Surface PCs soon. There had be some hints that their release might be pushed back about a month, but now, the first look at the Surface Laptop 8 has appear online on Geekbench. Fans and tech geeks are quite excited about what might be coming next from this popular line.

    Speculations and Rumors

    Most rumors were suggesting that the new Surface Laptop would only feature Intel’s ‘Core Ultra’ chips from the Panther Lake series. The highest spec rumored was the Core Ultra 7 366H, offering 16 CPU cores along with a modest 4-core integrated GPU, which is only slightly better than what’s found in the current Surface Laptop 7 (which is priced at around $909). The expectation was that these Ultra chips would bring some performance improvements, but nothing too drastic.

    Recent Geekbench Listings & New Tech

    • Latest Geekbench listings show that Microsoft will also offer Intel versions with up to the Core Ultra X7 368H, which is another 16-core processor.
    • The new chip replaces the standard 4-core integrated GPU with a 12-core GPU, referred to as the Arc B390, promising much better graphics performance.
    • This upgrade means significant GPU power boosts over previous Surface models that rely on Intel or Snapdragon chips.

    Expected Features and Display Options

    From the benchmark info, it’s clear that Microsoft is keeping its ‘for Business’ branding for the Surface Laptop 8, indicating these will still be aimed at professionals and enterprise users. The new laptop is supposed to sport a 13.8-inch display, possibly with optional OLED screens, providing users with options for richer visual experiences. The leap in GPU power, combined with potential OLED displays, suggests a device designed not just for work, but also for more media-rich content consumption.


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  • Revolut Launches New “Revolut Store” App Feature | Discover More

    Revolut Launches New “Revolut Store” App Feature | Discover More

    Key Takeaway

    1. Revolut is expanding from digital to physical presence with the announcement of its first “Revolut Store,” marking a notable shift for the neobank.
    2. The company has already established physical touchpoints through ATMs and vending machines at airports, primarily in Spain, with advanced features like contactless cash withdrawals.
    3. The new Revolut Store in Barcelona will serve as a prototype, but details about its design and offerings are still undisclosed.

    Revolut Launches Its First Physical Store

    In a surprising move, neobank Revolut recently announced via a brief LinkedIn post that they will be opening their initial “Revolut Store”. This is unlike what the company usually does, because Revolut have been known for being a primarily digital-only bank and neobank. Little information is available about what the store will exactly be, but its introduction is seen as a significant step for the company. This announcement is noteworthy since it marks a rare venture into physical retail spaces for a digital bank, which mostly depend on apps and online services.

    Existing Physical Touchpoints

    Despite their primarily digital approach, Revolut has placed some physical machines in various locations. For example, you might have seen a Revolut card vending machine at airports, which allows travelers to quickly get a payment card without needing to go through lengthy paperwork or online procedures. Such machines are mainly located at airports like Barcelona, especially within the airside security zones. These vending machines make it easier for travellers to access their accounts and cards directly on the spot. Such hardware enables swift account setup and card distribution, representing an innovative, hybrid approach blending digital and physical banking services.

    Specialized ATMs and Their Features

    • Modern design with a sleek black exterior
    • Integration with the Revolut app for seamless transactions
    • Cash withdrawal options via QR codes, NFC, and EMV (both contactless and contact-enabled)

    In addition to vending machines, Revolut has installed ATMs in various locations around Barcelona. These machines sport a contemporary aesthetic and allow users to perform quick cash withdrawals. However, some issues exist, especially regarding their accessibility at night, as certain design elements might not be easily seen. Currently, these advanced ATMs are only found in Spain, highlighting the company’s focus on the local market for now. Nevertheless, they offer a glimpse of what future physical banking interfaces could look like for digital-only banks like Revolut.

    Future Plans in Barcelona

    The upcoming opening of a Revolut Store in Barcelona indicates the company’s interest in exploring physical retail spaces. The city is becoming a key testing venue for their new concept. While it is not yet clear when the store will open, many are curious about what it will look like and what services will be provided there. Will it be a simple customer service center or a full-scale bank branch offering a wide spectrum of financial products? The answers remain to be seen, but the move exemplifies Revolut’s ambition to blend both digital innovation and physical presence in the banking industry.

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  • Motorola Launches New Foldable Smartphone with Dual 50 MP Cameras Globally

    Motorola Launches New Foldable Smartphone with Dual 50 MP Cameras Globally

    Key Takeaway

    1. Motorola has replaced the Razr 60 and Razr 60 Ultra with the Razr 70 and Razr 70 Ultra, adding a new Plus model to its lineup.
    2. The Razr 70 Plus features modest upgrades, including a larger 4,500 mAh battery, improved camera hardware, and the same foldable and cover display sizes as its predecessor.
    3. Priced at €1,149 (~$1,345), the Razr 70 Plus is limited to a single finish, Pantone Mountain View, and includes 12 GB RAM with 256 GB storage.

    New global release of Motorola foldable phones

    Motorola has announced today the new lineup of foldable phones, which includes the Razr 70 and Razr 70 Ultra, replacing the previously available Razr 60 and Razr 60 Ultra worldwide. This update marks the company’s latest effort to keep up with the evolving mobile market. In addition, the firm introduced a new Plus model as part of their foldable clamshell range, expanding their lineup for more options.

    Understanding the Razr 70 Plus and its upgrades

    In the same vein, Motorola has ventured into the North American market with three new foldables last year. To clarify, the Razr 70 Plus is to replace the Razr Plus 2025 (which was priced around $539 on Amazon), with some upgrades but not a complete overhaul. Notably, the device continues to feature the popular Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 processor for performance reliability. The specifications mainly come with familiar dimensions, including a 4-inch cover display and a 6.9-inch foldable screen, maintaining the sleek clamshell design that fans love.

    Battery, charging, and camera features insights

    • The Razr 70 Plus packs a 4,500 mAh battery, an increase from the previous 4,000 mAh capacity found in the Razr Plus 2025, ensuring longer usage times.
    • Charging support remains consistent with 45 W wired and 15 W wireless charging, providing quick refueling options.
    • Camera hardware sees some adjustments too, with a 50 MP primary sensor (f/1.8), a 50 MP ultra-wide lens covering a 122° field of view, and a 32 MP inner camera for selfies and video chats.

    Pricing and color options for the new device

    Motorola has set the price for the Razr 70 Plus at €1,149 (~$1,345) in the Eurozone. The device will be exclusively available in a Pantone Mountain View color, highlighting a sleek, modern appearance. The company’s statement confirms these details and suggests a focus on both premium build quality and appealing aesthetics, appealing to users looking for stylish yet functional foldable phones.


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    • Motorola Moto G37 Launches in Europe with Large Battery and Rugged Design

      Motorola Moto G37 Launches in Europe with Large Battery and Rugged Design

      Key Takeaway

      1. The moto g37 is an affordable 5G smartphone with a 6.67-inch LCD, 120 Hz refresh rate, and Gorilla Glass 7i, offering durable and smooth display performance.
      2. Powered by MediaTek Dimensity 6300 with 4 GB RAM (expandable virtual RAM) and up to 256 GB UFS 2.2 storage, it features a simplified camera setup with a 50 MP rear and 8 MP selfie camera.
      3. The device includes a large 5,200 mAh battery, IP64 splash resistance, MIL-STD-810H certification, and runs on Android 16 with Motorola’s custom UI, targeting budget-conscious consumers.
      4. Connectivity options encompass 5G, Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.4, NFC, FM radio, and USB-C; it is priced at €249 (~$290) with availability details limited to Europe.

      Introduction to the Moto G37

      Motorola have announced a new budget smart phone called the moto g37, which is part of the line-up of three new models they unveiled today, alongside the moto g47 and the moto g37 power. This phone is positioned at the lower end of the price spectrum and sports a familiar design and features, including 5G capability, a 120Hz display, a generous battery, and some basic durability qualities.

      Design and Display Features

      The device boasts a 6.67-inch LCD screen, which offers Full HD+ resolution and refreshes at 120 Hz. The display is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 7i, providing some resistance against scratches and minor impacts. The audio system is catered to with stereo speakers tuned for Dolby Atmos and wired Hi-Res Audio, complemented by a 3.5mm headphone jack, which is increasingly uncommon in phones in 2026.

      Performance and Storage

      The moto g37 is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 6300, a 6 nm octa-core processor that runs at 2.4 GHz, with an Arm Mali-G57 MP2 graphics card. The device only comes with 4 GB of LPDDR4X RAM, with no option for 8 GB, though Motorola states it can boost RAM virtual memory up to 12 GB, which takes advantage of internal storage. Storage options include 64 GB, 128 GB, and 256 GB of UFS 2.2, expandable via microSD cards up to 1 TB.

      Camera and Software

      The main rear camera setup features a 50 MP f/1.8 sensor with PDAF and quad-pixel binning, reducing to a 12.5 MP image, alongside a 2-in-1 ambient and flicker sensor. The front-facing camera is an 8 MP f/2.0 unit with fixed focus. Both cameras support recording at 2K resolution at 30 fps. The device runs on Android 16, layered with Motorola’s custom Hello UX, and includes new Google features like Gemini and Circle to Search.

      Battery and Durability

      The battery capacity is 5200 mAh, with Motorola rating it at a minimum of 5100 mAh, suitable for EU energy classification standards. Dimensions measure 166.23 x 76.50 x 7.85 mm, and it weighs 191 grams. It offers an IP64 rating, meaning it is splash resistant but not waterproof, and has MIL-STD-810H certification for build toughness. Charging is supported through a USB Type-C 2.0 port.

      Connectivity and Pricing

      Connectivity options include 5G sub-6 GHz, Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.4, NFC, FM radio, and a USB Type-C port. The phone is priced at €249, approximately $290, and its color options are Pantone Impenetrable, Nautical Blue, and Fuchsia Red. The release date and whether it will be available outside Europe haven’t been announced yet.


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    • Isinwheel Unveils 2 High-Performance E-Scooters with 43 Miles Range

      Isinwheel Unveils 2 High-Performance E-Scooters with 43 Miles Range

      Key Takeaway

      1. isinwheel has launched the H7 and H7 Pro e-scooter series, with the Pro model offering enhanced features such as a larger battery, higher top speed, and smart app support.
      2. Both models feature similar specifications, including disc brakes, shock absorbers, and a capacity of up to 330 lbs, but differ in motor power, battery size, tire dimensions, and app capabilities.
      3. The H7 Pro’s app support enables features like speed modes, lock/unlock, navigation, and performance monitoring.
      4. Price points are $749 for the H7 and $799 for the H7 Pro, available for purchase through isinwheel’s official website.

      Introduction to the New isinwheel H7 Series E-scooters

      isinwheel has recently added new models to their electric scooter lineup. They revealed the fresh H7 series, which includes two model types, the H7 and the H7 Pro, which are similar but with slight differences. For example, the base model is powered by a 1500 W motor, but the Pro version has a 1200 W motor, making each suitable for different user needs.

      Battery, Speed, and Range Details

      Both scooters come with different batteries. The H7 features a 748 Wh battery that allows it to reach top speeds of 35 mph (56 km/h) and travel up to 43 miles (69 km) on a single charge. Meanwhile, the H7 Pro comes with a larger 873 Wh battery, capable of hitting 38 mph (61 km/h) and maintaining that same range of 43 miles (69 km). It makes them quite attractive options for urban commuting and short trips.

      Wheels and Additional Features

      The H7 sets itself apart with smaller tires, fitted with 15 x 3” wheels, whereas the H7 Pro makes use of larger 16 x 4” tires, offering better grip and ride comfort. Both models feature essential components like front and rear disc brakes, NFC keys for security, parking mode, an LCD display, and effective shock absorbers at the front and back. They have up to a 330 lbs (149.6 kg) payload capacity, suitable for most users.

      Smart App Compatibility and Pricing

      Though the H7 doesn’t support an app, the H7 Pro includes smart app integration. This allows users to manage speed modes, lock or unlock the scooter, navigate with GPS, and monitor overall performance all straight from their smartphones. Pricing for these scooters is set at $749 for the H7 and $799 for the H7 Pro. Both models are available for purchase through isinwheel’s official website and are designed to meet the needs of modern commuters.


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      • Xiaomi Smart Electric Toothbrush Pro Launches Globally

        Xiaomi Smart Electric Toothbrush Pro Launches Globally

        Key Takeaway

        1. Utilizes a servo-oscillation motor for wider brushing coverage and up to 92% cleaning efficiency.
        2. Features a smart color display, Bluetooth connectivity, and brushing reports via the brand’s app.
        3. Offers customizable brushing with two brush head options and vibrational feedback for pressure control.
        4. Battery life of approximately 180 days per charge, with a full recharge in about five hours.

        New Xiaomi Electric Toothbrush Available Globally

        The Xiaomi Mijia Smart Servo-oscillation Electric Toothbrush Pro has been officially listed on Xiaomi’s global platform. Initially launched in China, this innovative device is now expected to be available in various other countries. The company’s aim is to expand its sales network to reach a broader international audience.

        Advanced Cleaning Technology

        Designed with a servo-oscillation motor, this toothbrush claims to sweep at an up to 60° oscillation angle while vibrating, creating a wider cleaning coverage. Xiaomi states that this model can remove up to 92% of plaque. Users can choose between two brush head options, one with softer bristles perfect for sensitive teeth and gums. Its tech specs highlight its focus on efficient and gentle dental hygiene.

        Features to Enhance User Experience

        The smart features include a color display that warns users about areas needing more cleaning and displays plaque levels. With Bluetooth Low Energy 5.4, the toothbrush allows to customize the cleaning process and view detailed brushing reports through Xiaomi’s dedicated app. The device also gives vibrational feedback if excess pressure is applied during brushing. Its battery life boasts an impressive 180 days of use on a single charge, which recharges fully in about five hours.

        Market Availability and Expectations

        Though it’s uncertain when this model will be launched in additional markets, Xiaomi already offers similar electric toothbrush models in Europe. For example, the Xiaomi Oscillation Electric Toothbrush can be found with a price around €24.99 at the Mi Store in Germany. This new model might be their first entry into the smart toothbrush segment in European countries, marking a significant step for the brand globally.

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      • Framework criticizes OpenAI over high RTX 5070 12GB graphics card price

        Framework criticizes OpenAI over high RTX 5070 12GB graphics card price

        Key Takeaway

        1. The RTX 5070 mobile GPU now offers 12 GB of VRAM, up from 8 GB, but at a significantly higher price.
        2. The $1,199 price for Framework’s RTX 5070 12 GB module is largely attributed to inflated memory costs, linked to a perceived global memory shortage.
        3. OpenAI’s alleged role in causing the memory shortage has contributed to persistent graphics card component price inflation.
        4. Future gaming laptops with the RTX 5070 12 GB are expected to be costly, potentially approaching the prices of RTX 5070 Ti systems.
        5. Consumers might find it more practical to opt for a gaming laptop with an RTX 5070 Ti, which offers similar VRAM but better performance at a comparable price.

        The Price and Availability of the RTX 5070 12 GB Laptop GPU

        The launch of the RTX 5070 laptop GPU raised some eyebrows mainly because of its VRAM. The initial version featured only 8 GB of VRAM which left many users disappointed. Finally, Nvidia decided to fix that issue by offering the mobile RTX 5070 with a substantial upgrade to 12 GB of VRAM. But, this upgrade has brought a new challenge: higher prices. Due to ongoing shortages, memory like GDDR7 has become expensive, and that expense is passed on to consumers. The additional 4 GB of VRAM in the RTX 5070 12 GB model comes with a significant cost increase, meaning more money for the same performance level.

        The Price Disparity

        Framework’s version of the RTX 5070 12 GB module is priced at $1,199, which is a hefty $500 more than its 8 GB counterpart. This sharp increase for just 4GB of VRAM seems unreasonable, yet the company explained that their hands are tied financially. The markup is primarily driven by the rising costs of GDDR7 memory, which is currently in high demand and short supply across the market. This makes the newer 12 GB modules more costly to produce, and in turn, more expensive for consumers. The price gap, which is about 70%, appears quite steep for a relatively small upgrade in VRAM.

        Speculations Behind the Price Spike

        In a unique twist, Framework hinted that OpenAI might be a contributor to the skyrocketing prices. Though the statement might be playful or sarcastic, it’s not entirely without controversy. Many experts believe OpenAI’s aggressive push to control a large chunk—about 40%—of the available global memory supply has played a role in constricting availability. This situation has contributed heavily to the overall memory shortage that affects industries from gaming to AI research. Interestingly, OpenAI has recently stepped away from some of these memory procurement plans, but the market conditions haven’t improved and prices remain high. The result is a tough environment for hardware makers and consumers alike.

        The Future of Gaming Laptops with RTX 5070

        For those waiting on gaming laptops equipped with the RTX 5070 12 GB GPU, good news is on the horizon. These laptops are expected to be available within the next few months. Once they arrive, it will be easier to see if the price premium that Framework is asking is typical or if other OEMs like Dell or Lenovo will price their models more competitively. However, early indications suggest that these laptops might be priced similar to those with the RTX 5070 Ti, which boasts comparable VRAM but offers over 20% better performance. So, if you have been planning to buy a new gaming laptop with this GPU, it might be more practical to consider a slightly more expensive but significantly faster RTX 5070 Ti model instead.

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