Author: GizNews

  • iPhone 20th Anniversary Edition: Curved Edges Coming in 2027

    iPhone 20th Anniversary Edition: Curved Edges Coming in 2027

    Key Takeaways

    1. Apple is planning a unique device for its 20th anniversary in 2027, featuring a groundbreaking design with no bezels.
    2. Rumors suggest the next iPhone may have no buttons and a hidden selfie camera under the display.
    3. Leaker Digital Chat Station indicates that Apple is testing an under-display camera and Face ID technology.
    4. The upcoming iPhone 18 series will have a smaller dynamic island but will not completely remove it, offering slight visual improvements.
    5. The special edition iPhone for the anniversary is expected to significantly differ from the classic design.

    Apple is working on something unique for its 20th anniversary in 2027. Rumors suggest that the next iPhone will sport a groundbreaking design with no bezels, which means more screen space. There are also whispers about a device that might not have any buttons and could even hide the selfie camera. Recent leaks indicate that the plans for this innovative device remain intact, even with the difficulties surrounding under-display Face ID.

    Leaks and Insights

    This information comes from well-known leaker Digital Chat Station, who believes that Apple is aiming to reduce the size of the dynamic island for upcoming iPhone versions. The company is also testing the feasibility of an under-display camera paired with Face ID. These ideas have been mentioned before, indicating ongoing efforts. Moreover, the leaker mentions that Apple is trying out a special edition iPhone that includes an under-display camera and four rounded edges.

    Design Innovations

    This design would create a seamless glass surface for a phone that has a selfie camera concealed beneath the screen. Other companies’ attempts at under-display selfie cameras haven’t been very successful. Still, Apple appears committed to finding a workable solution with fewer trade-offs.

    As for the iPhone 18 series expected this year, Apple is likely to make the dynamic island smaller but won’t completely remove it. Therefore, the upcoming iPhone will feature slight visual improvements compared to the current model. However, the special edition for the 20th anniversary in 2027 is anticipated to diverge significantly from the classic design.

    Digital Chat Station on Weibo has provided these insights, keeping the excitement alive for Apple fans.

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  • Asus Launches 18-Inch Gaming Laptop with 1600-Nit Mini LED Display

    Asus Launches 18-Inch Gaming Laptop with 1600-Nit Mini LED Display

    Key Takeaways

    1. Intel introduced new Arrow Lake HX Plus processors, leading to new Asus laptop models.
    2. The ROG Strix G18 2026 will have eight different SKUs, all featuring the Core Ultra 9 290HX Plus.
    3. Graphics options for the ROG Strix G18 include Nvidia’s GeForce RTX 5060, 5070, 5070 Ti, and 5080.
    4. The default display for the ROG Strix G18 2026 is a 300 Hz IPS, upgraded from last year’s 240 Hz options.
    5. The weight of the ROG Strix G18 2026 remains at 3.2 kg, with pricing and availability details yet to be announced.

    Intel introduced its first Arrow Lake HX Plus processors about a week ago. To mark this occasion, Asus revealed new versions of the ROG Strix G16, ROG Strix G18, and the ROG Strix Scar 18. The company has now disclosed the specific SKUs for the ROG Strix G18 2026.

    Variants Available

    For comparison, Asus plans to offer the smaller ROG Strix G16 2026 in six different options. On the other hand, the ROG Strix G18 2026 will be released with eight SKUs to select from. Interestingly, all SKUs will feature the Core Ultra 9 290HX Plus, along with DDR5-5600 RAM, dual M.2 2280 storage and a powerful 90 Wh battery.

    Graphics and Display Options

    Furthermore, Asus has confirmed that the ROG Strix G18 2026 will be available with Nvidia’s GeForce RTX 5060, RTX 5070, RTX 5070 Ti, and RTX 5080, just like the previous model (currently priced at $3,679 on Amazon). The ROG Strix G18 also comes back with an optional 240 Hz Mini LED display.

    This year’s model, by default, features a 300 Hz IPS display instead of the 240 Hz one found in last year’s more affordable options. The weight of the ROG Strix G18 2026 remains the same as its predecessor, sitting at 3.2 kg. Asus has not yet shared information about pricing or when it will be available. The complete list of ROG Strix G18 2026 SKUs is as follows:

    Asus’

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  • Asus Launches New 16-Inch Gaming Laptop: Global Release Confirmed

    Asus Launches New 16-Inch Gaming Laptop: Global Release Confirmed

    Key Takeaways

    1. Asus launched the ROG Strix 2026 gaming laptop and an 18-inch version, replacing the previous ROG Strix Scar 18, which is priced at $2,699.
    2. The ROG Strix G16 2026 will be available globally in six configurations, all featuring Intel’s Core Ultra 9 290HX Plus processor.
    3. Each model includes a 90 Wh battery, IPS-level displays with 300 Hz refresh rates, and a resolution of 2,560 x 1,600 pixels with a 3 ms response time.
    4. The G615LM models will have an Nvidia GeForce RTX 5060 GPU, while the G615LP will feature the RTX 5070, and G615LW models will use the RTX 5080 with higher power.
    5. Asus has not yet provided pricing or availability information for the ROG Strix G16 models.

    Over a week ago, Asus revealed its latest gaming laptop, the ROG Strix 2026. Along with it, an 18-inch version was also introduced, and the ROG Strix 16 has come to replace the previous ROG Strix Scar 18, which is currently priced at $2,699 on Amazon. While details about the new ROG Strix Scar 18 are somewhat limited, there was a leak that hinted at what to expect from the 2026 model.

    More Information on ROG Strix G16 2026

    On the other hand, Asus is sharing more information about the ROG Strix G16 2026. The company has announced that this gaming laptop will be available globally and will come in six different configurations, all featuring Intel’s latest Core Ultra 9 290HX Plus processor. The current part numbers listed on Asus’ global website are as follows:

    Each of the six models will come equipped with a 90 Wh battery and IPS-level displays capable of 300 Hz. The ROG Strix 16 will maintain a resolution of 2,560 x 1,600 pixels, offering 3 ms response times, unlike the ROG Strix Scar 18. Moreover, it retains user-upgradable DDR5-5600 RAM and dual M.2 2280 storage options.

    Weight and Dimensions

    The ROG Strix G16 continues to weigh 2.65 kg and has dimensions of 354 x 268 x 228~308 mm. According to Asus’ website, the ‘G615LM’ models will include an Nvidia GeForce RTX 5060 laptop GPU, which can reach up to 115 W, including a 15 W Dynamic Boost.

    On the other hand, the G615LP models will be equipped with the GeForce RTX 5070 8 GB, even though there are indications that Nvidia might soon announce a 12 GB VRAM version. This GPU will also be capped at 115 W, while the G615LW variants will enjoy 175 W of GPU power due to the inclusion of the GeForce RTX 5080. Consequently, G615LW models will be shipped with 380 W power adapters, whereas G615LM and G615LP will come with 280 W adapters. As of now, Asus has not yet disclosed pricing or availability details.

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  • CRKD ULT Pro Gaming Controller Launches with 1000Hz Polling Rate

    CRKD ULT Pro Gaming Controller Launches with 1000Hz Polling Rate

    Key Takeaways

    1. The ULT Pro controller by CRKD is available for preorder at around $70 / €74 and will ship in June.
    2. It features TMR joysticks to prevent stick drift and includes two thumbsticks, a D-pad, standard action buttons, and six extra programmable buttons.
    3. The controller has Hall effect triggers with adjustable travel and includes a rechargeable battery that can be swapped for AA batteries.
    4. It offers customizable options with interchangeable D-pad and joystick caps and comes with a charging station.
    5. The ULT Pro connects via Bluetooth or 2.4 GHz wireless, is compatible with smartphones and Switch 1 and 2, and can achieve a maximum polling rate of 1,000 Hz when connected to a PC with a cable.

    Gaming hardware maker CRKD has unveiled the ULT Pro controller, which comes in several color options. It is available for preorder at about $70 / €74, but you’ll have to wait until June for it to ship, so some patience will be needed. If you’re eager to play, there are many well-equipped controllers you can find right now.

    Advanced Features for Gamers

    CRKD is marketing the ULT Pro as a premium option and is aiming to wow gamers with its array of sophisticated features. For example, the controller uses TMR joysticks designed to stop stick drift, even after long gaming sessions. In addition to the two thumbsticks, it includes a D-pad and the standard action buttons, plus six extra programmable buttons. These can be assigned to perform different actions. There are also profile-switching buttons that can be configured using a companion app.

    Customizable and Versatile Design

    The ULT Pro boasts Hall effect triggers, with adjustable travel via a switch. While it comes with a rechargeable battery, users can also swap it for regular AA batteries if they prefer. The D-pad and joystick caps are interchangeable, adding to its customizability. Inside the box, there’s a charging station included. The controller can connect via Bluetooth or 2.4 GHz wireless, making it compatible with smartphones as well as the Switch 1 and 2. When connected to a PC with a cable, the ULT Pro is capable of a maximum polling rate of 1,000 Hz.

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  • Project Helix Not Final Xbox Console; Handheld Expected Soon

    Project Helix Not Final Xbox Console; Handheld Expected Soon

    Key Takeaways

    1. Some analysts believe Project Helix might be Microsoft’s last first-party gaming console, but others remain optimistic about future Xbox consoles.
    2. Insider Jez Corden asserts that Microsoft will continue to produce Xbox consoles despite skepticism surrounding Project Helix.
    3. There are indications that Microsoft is developing a mobile gaming solution, potentially a handheld device, to support its Play Anywhere initiative.
    4. Mixed opinions exist regarding Microsoft’s hardware future, with some experts predicting that Project Helix’s success is crucial for the company’s continued console production.
    5. Microsoft Gaming CEO Asha Sharma emphasizes the importance of consoles to the brand, but profitability concerns may influence future hardware decisions.

    Some analysts are of the opinion that Project Helix might just be the final first-party gaming console that Microsoft puts out. Yet, even with skepticism surrounding its potential success, one insider believes more Xbox consoles are on the horizon. This perspective is in line with the new commitment to hardware from Microsoft Gaming CEO Asha Sharma.

    On a recent episode of the Xbox Two podcast, Jez Corden from Windows Central made a confident remark. He stated, “I know it’s not the last console. I don’t think it’s going to be an issue. Like, they’re going to keep making them.”

    Potential Mobile Solutions

    There’s a possibility that a mobile solution is already in the works. Although Corden didn’t mention it during the podcast, he has previously indicated that an Xbox handheld is being developed. Unlike the ROG Xbox Ally, Microsoft is likely to create a distinct device without the involvement of Asus. Still, similar to Project Helix, it might operate on a variant of Windows.

    Earlier speculations hinted at a handheld device being released around the same time as Project Helix. It would support Microsoft’s Play Anywhere initiative, acting as its mobile version. However, there’s been even less information leaked about this portable device compared to the new Xbox console that’s being developed alongside AMD. In early February, AMD’s CEO, Lisa Su, hinted at a 2027 release for this hybrid device.

    Mixed Opinions on Microsoft’s Hardware Future

    Not everyone shares a bright outlook on Microsoft’s hardware future. Following Sharma’s appointment, Japanese gaming consultant Dr. Serkan Toto expressed a concerning prediction. Regarding Helix, Toto remarked, “This might be Microsoft’s last attempt to make their hardware business work.” He also pointed out, “There is nobody in this industry who believes there will be another Xbox if this next machine fails.”

    Toto believes that the Valve Steam Machine could be a more significant threat than the PS6. Both will depend largely on PC games, but this demographic hasn’t always favored gaming in the living room. The shortage of memory presents a challenge for both systems, with former Microsoft executive Sarah Bond previously describing its rival as a premium choice.

    Reaffirming Console Commitment

    Sharma continues to assert that consoles are an essential part of her brand’s focus. However, after the difficulties faced by the Series X|S models, ultimately, profits may play a decisive role in determining if more releases will come after the Helix.

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  • AMD Launches Ryzen 9 9950X3D2 with 192MB L3 Cache

    AMD Launches Ryzen 9 9950X3D2 with 192MB L3 Cache

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Ryzen 9 9950X3D2 will be available for purchase starting April 22, 2026.
    2. AMD positions the processor as suitable for AI productivity rather than primarily for gaming.
    3. The performance improvement over the previous Ryzen 9 9950X3D is about 13% in specific tasks.
    4. The processor features 16 cores, 32 threads, a maximum boost clock of 5.6 GHz, and 192 MB of L3 cache.
    5. The power consumption is expected to be high, with a thermal design power (TDP) of 200 Watts.

    AMD’s much-anticipated Ryzen 9 9950X3D2 finally has a confirmed release date. Originally expected to launch at CES 2026, this dual-CCD Zen 5 processor has only been a topic of speculation until now. Jack Huynh, AMD’s Senior Vice President of client computing and graphics, has made it clear that the chip is real and will be available for purchase starting April 22.

    Pricing and Positioning

    Sadly, a price tag has not been disclosed, but it surely won’t be affordable. Furthermore, AMD is marketing the Ryzen 9 9950X3D2 as a chip for AI productivity rather than a powerhouse for gaming. According to AMD’s own statistics, the performance improvement over the Ryzen 9 9950X3D is only about 13% in certain tasks. While games are expected to take advantage of the added L3 cache, the company has been silent regarding its gaming capabilities.

    Specifications and Performance

    In terms of specifications, the Ryzen 9 9950X3D2 boasts 16 cores and 32 threads, with a maximum boost clock reaching 5.6 GHz, 192 MB of L3 cache, and a thermal design power (TDP) of 200 Watts. Under full load, it’s likely to draw even more power, and it will be intriguing to see how well it performs when overclocked. AMD envisions this CPU as a link between their high-end Ryzen and Threadripper offerings.

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  • Intel Discontinues Core Ultra 9 290K Plus Just Before Launch

    Intel Discontinues Core Ultra 9 290K Plus Just Before Launch

    Key Takeaways

    1. Intel has officially canceled the release of the Core Ultra 9 290K Plus, focusing instead on the Core Ultra 200S Plus series.
    2. The Core Ultra 7 270K Plus and Core Ultra 5 250K Plus processors already meet Intel’s goals for performance and value, eliminating the need for a new flagship model.
    3. The cancellation follows updates to Intel’s roadmap, indicating that the decision was made after considerable development progress, including circulated engineering samples.
    4. Concerns about overlapping product lines contributed to the cancellation, as the 290K Plus would be too similar to existing models like the Core Ultra 9 285K and Core Ultra 7 270K Plus.
    5. The Core Ultra 9 285K remains Intel’s top desktop chip, with no new flagship expected until the next-generation Nova Lake-S platform is introduced.

    Intel has made it clear that the Core Ultra 9 290K Plus will not be released, putting an end to the rumors and leaks that have circulated for months about this new flagship Arrow Lake Refresh SKU. The company informed PC Games Hardware that it is focusing on models that appeal to a broader audience within the Core Ultra 200S Plus series.

    Performance and Value Goals

    Florian Maislinger, the Tech Communication Manager at Intel Germany, stated that the recently launched Core Ultra 7 270K Plus and Core Ultra 5 250K Plus processors already fulfill the company’s objectives for performance and value. Thus, Intel believes a new flagship SKU is not needed at this time.

    Intel is thrilled to provide great value with their Intel Core Ultra 200S Plus series processors. The Intel Core Ultra 7 270K Plus and Intel Core Ultra 5 250K Plus are designed to offer impressive gaming performance and remarkable value when compared to other competitors. Our goal was to enhance performance for the desktop SKUs that are widely accessible. Therefore, the company has decided not to release a U9 290K Plus SKU. — Florian Maislinger, Tech Communication Manager, Intel Germany.

    The Road Ahead for Intel

    This cancellation comes after earlier updates to their roadmap shared with partners, where the 290K Plus was subtly removed from the plans. However, this statement serves as the first public acknowledgment from Intel regarding the decision.

    The Core Ultra 9 290K Plus had been seen in leaks and even benchmark listings, implying that the development was fairly advanced. Reports suggest that engineering samples were being circulated both internally and externally, which indicates that the decision to cancel was made later in the process.

    Overlapping Product Lines

    The cancellation might also relate to product overlap concerns. The 290K Plus was believed to have a 24-core configuration, which would be quite similar to the existing Core Ultra 9 285K and Core Ultra 7 270K Plus. This proximity left Intel with little motivation to add another model to the mix. According to PC Games Hardware, the 270K Plus can already compete with or even outperform the 285K in certain tests, thanks to various software and hardware optimizations, which lessens the necessity for a new flagship model.

    For the time being, the Core Ultra 9 285K continues to be Intel’s leading desktop chip, while the Core Ultra 7 270K Plus occupies the next tier down in the updated Arrow Lake family. It is anticipated that Intel will not unveil a new flagship desktop processor for LGA 1851 until the next-generation Nova Lake-S platform is introduced.

    PC Games Hardware

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  • Ford Transit City: New 1-Ton EV Van with Chassis Cab Option

    Ford Transit City: New 1-Ton EV Van with Chassis Cab Option

    Key Takeaways

    1. Ford Pro is launching the Transit City, an electric van designed for urban delivery and tradespeople, available in two panel van versions and a single-cab chassis.
    2. The top model can carry up to 1,275 kg, with a load capacity of eight cubic meters and a loading length of over three meters.
    3. The van features a 56 kWh battery with a range of 254 km, suitable for typical daily commercial use, with an 11 kW onboard charger for overnight recharging.
    4. Charging times are efficient, allowing the battery to go from 10 to 80 percent in just 33 minutes with a DC fast charger option available.
    5. Additional features include One-Pedal-Drive, heated seats, a 12-inch touchscreen, and a warranty of eight years for the high-voltage battery.

    Ford Pro is stepping into the compact commercial vehicle sector. The company, based in Cologne, is introducing the new Transit City, which is an electric van tailored specifically for delivery services and tradespeople working in city environments. This front-wheel-drive vehicle is set to debut at the end of the year, available in two panel van versions and—as a first for the 1-tonne class—a single-cab chassis suitable for custom modifications.

    Payload and Specifications

    In its top L2H2 model, the Transit City can handle a load of up to 1,275 kilograms. It boasts a load capacity of about eight cubic meters and a loading length exceeding three meters. The shorter L1H1 version can fit three Euro pallets. The power comes from a 150 hp electric motor.

    Battery and Charging Details

    When looking at the battery and charging features, it’s clear that Ford has designed the technology specifically for commercial applications. The datasheet indicates that the 56 kWh battery, using strong LFP technology, provides an impressive range of 254 km—more than double the average daily travel distance in this category.

    Typically, commercial fleets recharge their vehicles overnight at their depots. The standard 11 kW onboard charger is adequate for such needs. This setup allows for a full charge at the end of a shift in just four and a half hours. For those needing a quicker charge during the day, the optional 22 kW charger could be beneficial, but if time is critical while on trips, the electric van can still access a maximum of 87 kW when connected to a DC fast charger.

    Charging Times and Features

    This setup enables the Transit City battery to go from 10 to 80 percent in just 33 minutes. The electric van comes from the factory with features like One-Pedal-Drive, heated seats, a 12-inch touchscreen, and wireless connectivity for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Ford has also increased the service intervals to two years or 40,000 kilometers, and the high-voltage battery is backed by an eight-year warranty.

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  • DJI Osmo Pocket 4 Vlogging Camera Shipment Spotted Before Launch

    DJI Osmo Pocket 4 Vlogging Camera Shipment Spotted Before Launch

    Key Takeaways

    1. DJI has launched the Avata 360, its first drone for capturing 360° footage, competing with the Antigravity A1.
    2. The Osmo Pocket 4 is expected to be released soon, with leaked images of its Quick Start Guide surfacing.
    3. The launch of the Osmo Pocket 4 was initially expected by the end of March, but this timeline is now uncertain.
    4. Dummy units of the Osmo Pocket 4 have been seen shipped in large quantities, indicating a retail release is imminent.
    5. DJI may officially reveal the Osmo Pocket 4 sometime this spring, with uncertainty about its availability in different regions.

    DJI has recently introduced the Avata 360 to the global market. This marks the company’s first drone capable of capturing 360° footage, directly competing with the Antigravity A1, which was released towards the end of the previous year. However, it appears that the Avata 360 may not hold the title of DJI’s latest offering for much longer.

    Upcoming Launch of Osmo Pocket 4

    It looks like DJI is gearing up to unveil the much-anticipated Osmo Pocket 4 as well. To refresh your memory, images of what seems to be an official Quick Start Guide emerged around a month ago. These leaks provided insights into how DJI plans to set the Osmo Pocket 4 apart from the older Osmo Pocket 3, which currently retails for $439 on Amazon.

    Anticipation for the Release

    Initially, there were expectations for the Osmo Pocket 4 to launch before the end of March. Although this timeline now seems doubtful, dummy units of the Osmo Pocket 4 have been seen being shipped in large quantities. According to The New Camera, these units are usually produced for retail outlets.

    Therefore, it appears that DJI is indeed getting ready to make the Osmo Pocket 4 available in stores soon. At this point, it remains uncertain when DJI will start promoting the Osmo Pocket 4 officially and whether it will be available in China ahead of other regions. Still, the recent leak suggests that DJI intends to reveal its next vlogging camera sometime this spring.

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  • Amazfit Launches New Helio Accessory in the US Market

    Amazfit Launches New Helio Accessory in the US Market

    Key Takeaways

    1. Amazfit has launched the Helio Arm Sleeve in the U.S., alongside two new Helio Armband versions in charcoal and light gray, priced at $14.99 on Amazon.
    2. The Arm Sleeve is designed for improved performance, offering more consistent readings during intense workouts by positioning the sensor closer to the heart.
    3. The sleeve is made from a blend of 75% polyamide and 25% spandex, ensuring a comfortable fit.
    4. It is available in three sizes: Small, Medium, and Large, but specific width measurements are not provided.
    5. The Helio Arm Sleeve can be purchased for $19.99 from Amazfit’s official online store, but the Helio Core and charging dock are sold separately.

    Amazfit has introduced the Helio Arm Sleeve in the United States. This fresh accessory has been launched together with two new versions of the Helio Armband, available in charcoal and light gray, priced at $14.99 on Amazon.

    Improved Performance

    The Amazfit Arm Sleeve is specifically made for the Helio Core, which is the same module located at the heart of the Helio Strap. The company claims that this accessory offers “more consistent readings,” especially during intense workouts. This improvement is partly due to the sensor’s position; positioning it nearer to the heart helps minimize disruptions from wrist movement or grip tension, which can affect the precision of the readings.

    Comfortable Fit

    The new Arm Sleeve from Amazfit is also reported to be very comfy to wear, crafted from a mix of 75% polyamide and 25% spandex. It is available in three sizes: Small (22-28 cm/8.7-11.0 inches), Medium (27-35 cm/10.6-13.8 inches), and Large (35-45 cm/13.8-17.7 inches). Photos indicate that it is much wider than the Helio Armband, but no specific width measurement has been shared.

    You can now purchase the Amazfit Helio Arm Sleeve at the brand’s official online store for $19.99. It is still unclear if or when this accessory will be available in other regions. The product page advises customers that the Helio Core and its charging dock are not included with the purchase.

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