Author: GizNews

  • Xiaomi Launches New Soundbar with Wireless Subwoofer Before Global Release

    Xiaomi Launches New Soundbar with Wireless Subwoofer Before Global Release

    Key Takeaways

    1. Xiaomi’s Desktop Speaker Pro Set has been listed globally but lacks a specific launch date.
    2. The speaker features a soundbar with four upward-tilted drivers and a 96 mm subwoofer connected via 2.4 GHz technology.
    3. It offers multiple connectivity options, including 3.5 mm, USB Type-C, and Bluetooth 5.3, along with a microphone jack.
    4. The product debuted in Singapore at SGD 139 (around $109), making it more expensive than the regular Desktop Speaker.
    5. Availability in other regions is expected soon, with prices estimated under £100 or €115 (about $135).

    Almost two months ago, Xiaomi put the Desktop Speaker Pro Set on its global site. This listing suggested that the company intended to release the product worldwide, but it didn’t specify an exact launch date. The same lack of information was seen on several support pages that Xiaomi also published.

    Soundbar Features

    The Desktop Speaker Pro Set includes a soundbar feature that has four drivers, which are tilted 53° upward to enhance the sound experience. The subwoofer is equipped with a 96 mm driver and connects using 2.4 GHz technology to reduce lag. Furthermore, it supports various connectivity options, such as 3.5 mm, USB Type-C, and Bluetooth 5.3, and it also includes a specific 3.5 mm microphone jack.

    Pricing and Availability

    Now, the Desktop Speaker Pro Set has made its debut, starting in Singapore, where it is priced at SGD 139 (around $109) including the wireless subwoofer. This means it costs SGD 70 (about $55) more than the regular Desktop Speaker and is twice the price of the Sound Outdoor, which is currently $52.99 on Amazon. However, it’s SGD 90 (approximately $70) cheaper than the Soundbar Pro 2.1 ch.

    It appears that the Desktop Speaker Pro Set may soon be available in other regions for under £100 or €115 in the Eurozone (roughly $135). For more information, check our launch article. This also applies to Xiaomi’s official site in Singapore.

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  • Epic Games Store Free Game Giveaway Leaked Before Release

    Epic Games Store Free Game Giveaway Leaked Before Release

    Key Takeaways

    1. Epic Games Store will refresh its game giveaway lineup on March 26.
    2. Current giveaways include Electrician Simulator for PC and Potion Permit for mobile devices.
    3. Final March giveaways for PC and macOS include Havendock and Hyper Echelon.
    4. Dumb Ways to Die 2: The Games will also be included in the upcoming promotions for mobile.
    5. Dumb Ways to Die 2 has a 4.5/5 rating on the Apple App Store and a 3.8/5 rating on Google Play, but features unskippable ads.

    The Epic Games Store is set to refresh its game giveaway lineup on March 26. Until then, players can grab Electrician Simulator for PC and Potion Permit for mobile devices. Recently, the store also announced its final game giveaways for PC and macOS for this month.

    Final Giveaways

    Epic Games will wrap up its March 2026 giveaways with titles like Havendock and Hyper Echelon. However, there hasn’t been much news about offerings for Android and iOS users. Thankfully, Reddit user u/MeguminShiro has shared some insights, revealing that Dumb Ways to Die 2: The Games, part of the popular Dumb Ways to Die series, will be included alongside Havendock and Hyper Echelon in tomorrow’s promotions.

    Game Ratings and Ad Concerns

    At the moment, Dumb Ways to Die 2: The Games holds a score of 4.5 out of 5 on the Apple App Store and 3.8 out of 5 on the Google Play Store. It’s free to download on both platforms, but many have pointed out the issue of unskippable ads. Based on earlier trends, Epic Games’ upcoming mobile giveaway is likely to eliminate these ads completely.

    u/MeguminShiro’

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  • Lenovo Launches 16-Inch ThinkPad in North America with 128GB RAM

    Lenovo Launches 16-Inch ThinkPad in North America with 128GB RAM

    Key Takeaways

    1. The ThinkPad T16g Gen 3 is now available in more regions, expanding from its initial release in Europe.
    2. It features Intel’s Arrow Lake HX processors and high-performance Nvidia GPUs, differing from the standard ThinkPad T16.
    3. In North America, the starting model costs $4,319 and includes a Core Ultra 7 255HX, GeForce RTX 5080, 32 GB RAM, and 1 TB SSD.
    4. The highest-priced model is $7,599, offering a Core Ultra 9 275HX, GeForce RTX 5090, 128 GB RAM, and 4 TB SSD.
    5. In Australia, entry-level models start at AUD 5,174, with options to upgrade significantly in specs and price.

    Lenovo has expanded the availability of the ThinkPad T16g Gen 3 to more regions. This 16-inch workstation was first mentioned on the company’s PSREF site in September 2025 and has been offered in Europe for a while. Currently, it is out of stock across the Eurozone and the UK.

    Specifications Details

    It’s important to note that the ThinkPad T16g should not be mixed up with the ThinkPad T16 (which is priced at $1,089 on Amazon). The T16g merges Intel’s Arrow Lake HX processors with two high-performance Nvidia laptop GPUs. However, in Australia and the US, only two models have been made available. In Canada, Lenovo has restricted its offerings to just one model.

    Pricing Information

    The ThinkPad T16g Gen 3 kicks off with a Core Ultra 7 255HX, a GeForce RTX 5080, 32 GB of RAM, and a 1 TB SSD in North America. This setup is currently priced at $4,319 in the US and CAD 6,019 in Canada. Moreover, it features a 4K 60 Hz IPS display, which is also included in a higher-priced version at $7,599 that comes with a Core Ultra 9 275HX, a GeForce RTX 5090, 128 GB RAM, and a 4 TB SSD.

    Variants in Australia

    On the other hand, the entry-level models in Australia start with a Core Ultra 7 255HX, a GeForce RTX 5080, 16 GB RAM, and no storage for AUD 5,174. The ThinkPad T16g Gen 3 can be upgraded to the Core Ultra 9 285HX and a GeForce RTX 5090 along with a 3.2K Tandem OLED display, 192 GB RAM, and 12 TB of storage, which costs AUD 14,432. For a complete overview of Lenovo’s premium workstation, don’t miss our ThinkPad T16g Gen 3 review.

    Lenovo Australia, Lenovo Canada & Lenovo US

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  • Astronomers Find 118 New Exoplanets with AI and TESS Satellite

    Astronomers Find 118 New Exoplanets with AI and TESS Satellite

    Key Takeaways

    1. RAVEN is an AI system that helps identify new exoplanets using data from the TESS satellite.
    2. The RAVEN pipeline has confirmed 118 new planets and identified over 2,000 potential candidates.
    3. The system is limited to detecting exoplanets with orbital periods of less than 16 days.
    4. RAVEN can distinguish between exoplanets and other objects that may cause similar light dimming effects.
    5. The ongoing discovery of exoplanets may help answer the question of whether we are alone in the universe.

    AI serves as a strong ally for astronomers, especially in the hunt for new planets in space. One notable example is RAVEN, an AI system that can sift through data from the TESS satellite to identify new exoplanets.

    Promising Results

    A study featured in the Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society showcases encouraging outcomes. Dr. Marina Lafarga Magro, a researcher at the University of Warwick, mentions that they have confirmed over 100 exoplanets:

    “With our newly created RAVEN pipeline, we validated 118 new planets and more than 2,000 high-quality candidates, nearly 1,000 of which are completely new.”

    Limitations of the System

    Nonetheless, this system is limited to detecting exoplanets with orbital periods less than 16 days. It has discovered various types, such as multi-planet systems, Neptunian desert planets, and ultra-short-period planets.

    This AI distinguishes between an exoplanet that dims its star’s light and a distant object that produces a similar effect. Furthermore, it can undertake several tasks at once, which significantly aids in the discovery of new planets. Dr. David Armstrong, an associate professor at the University of Warwick, elaborates:

    “RAVEN enables us to evaluate massive datasets consistently and without bias. Since the pipeline is rigorously tested and validated, this isn’t just a simple list of potential planets; it’s also reliable enough to serve as a sample to understand the distribution of various types of planets around sun-like stars.”

    Unraveling Cosmic Mysteries

    In conclusion, this AI may also play a crucial role in answering one of humanity’s biggest questions: Are we alone in the universe? As we continue to uncover more exoplanets, some could be situated in their stars’ habitable zones, like these 45 exoplanets.

    Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society.

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  • Affordable 8.8-Inch Gaming Tablet with 144Hz Display Launching Soon

    Affordable 8.8-Inch Gaming Tablet with 144Hz Display Launching Soon

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Alldocube iPlay Mini 4 Ultra will be available for purchase on March 31st, with pre-orders starting the same day in China.
    2. The tablet features an 8.8-inch LCD screen with a resolution of 2650 x 1440, 500 nits peak brightness, and a 144 Hz refresh rate for optimal gaming performance.
    3. It is powered by the Mediatek Dimensity 8300 SoC, offering an 18% performance boost compared to the Mini 3 Ultra.
    4. The iPlay Mini 4 Ultra has a 7,200-mAh battery, supports 33-watt fast charging, and measures 7.75 mm in thickness, retailing for approximately $377.
    5. Early buyers can receive a launch discount of 400 Yuan (around $58), but should be aware of past firmware security issues with older Alldocube tablets.

    We have learned quite a bit about the new Alldocube iPlay Mini 4 Ultra gaming tablet thanks to the many teasers released by the company recently. Now, it looks like we have a solid release date to get excited about.

    Release Date and Pre-Orders

    According to an announcement from the company’s official Bilibili account, the iPlay Mini 4 Ultra will be available starting on March 31st, with pre-orders also beginning on that day in China. As previously mentioned, Alldocube often takes its products to a wider market, and this new tablet is expected to be available worldwide as the iPlay 80 Mini Ultra.

    Key Specifications

    The gaming tablet is set to feature an 8.8-inch LCD screen that offers a resolution of 2650 x 1440 and a peak brightness of 500 nits. It will also have a refresh rate of 144 Hz, making it ideal for high-speed gaming. Powering this tablet is the Mediatek Dimensity 8300 SoC, which is also found in the Lenovo IdeaTab Pro, currently priced at $280 on Amazon. This new chip will provide around an 18% performance boost compared to its predecessor, the Mini 3 Ultra.

    Battery and Pricing

    Additional confirmed features of the iPlay Mini 4 Ultra (iPlay 80 Mini Ultra) include a 7,200-mAh battery that supports bypass charging, 33-watt fast charging, a slim chassis measuring 7.75 mm, and dual rear cameras. The tablet is set to retail for 2,599 Yuan, which is about $377. Early purchasers will benefit from a launch discount of 400 Yuan, or roughly $58.

    However, potential buyers should take note of the significant firmware-level security issues that have affected older Alldocube tablets in recent times.

    Alldocube shared this information via Bilibili, and it was brought to our attention by ITHome.

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  • Khadas Mind Pro Mini PC Price Increase: Pre-order by March 27th

    Khadas Mind Pro Mini PC Price Increase: Pre-order by March 27th

    Key Takeaways

    1. Price Increase: Starting March 28, the Khadas Mind Pro price will rise from $1,999 to $2,299 due to rising memory costs, marking the end of the pre-order period.

    2. Pre-Order Discount: Customers can still purchase the mini PC at a discounted price of $1,799 until March 27, saving $500 compared to the future retail price.

    3. Supply Issues: Delays in the release of other models, including those with Core Ultra X9 and 32 GB RAM, are caused by memory component supply constraints.

    4. Modular Design: The Khadas Mind Pro features a modular design that allows for significant enhancements and customization, including options for gaming setups.

    5. Improved AI Performance: The latest Intel Panther Lake generation improves NPU performance, enhancing on-device AI capabilities for tasks like image processing and language modeling.

    Persistently climbing memory costs are continuing to put strain on the PC market. In response, Khadas is adapting to these rising expenses, although they aim to keep price increases as small as possible and absorb some of the additional costs themselves. Specifically, this adjustment will influence the Khadas Mind Pro, which features a Core Ultra X7 and 64 GB of RAM: starting March 28, the price will go from $1,999 to $2,299. This also signals the conclusion of the pre-order period.

    Last Chance for Discounts

    For those looking to grab the Mini PC at a more affordable rate, they have until March 27th to act. During the pre-order phase, Khadas is offering a $200 discount, bringing the current price down to $1,799. This means buyers can save a total of $500 compared to the future retail price.

    Supply Issues Affect Other Models

    Additionally, the release of other versions has faced delays. Both the model featuring the Core Ultra X9 and 96 GB of RAM, as well as the variant with Core Ultra X7 and 32 GB of RAM, are suffering from supply constraints regarding memory components. A specific launch date has yet to be announced; Khadas plans to share more details later.

    In our evaluation, the Khadas Mind Pro stands out as a robust and adaptable mini PC in a remarkably compact form. It is powered by the Intel Core Ultra X7 358H, comes with 64 GB of RAM, and boasts a speedy 2 TB SSD, providing ample resources for demanding tasks and productive work. The built-in Intel Arc Graphics significantly enhances performance, making it capable of light gaming alongside multimedia activities.

    Modular Design Offers Flexibility

    The modular design aspect is especially impressive: with optional add-ons like the Mind Dock, Mind Graphics, or the Mind xPlay, the functionality can be greatly enhanced—all the way to a gaming PC configuration. Additionally, the device is recognized for its efficiency, quiet operation, and high-quality build. However, it does have some limitations regarding upgradeability and its elevated price. Overall, the Mind Pro presents a versatile premium choice for users with high demands.

    The NPU performance of the latest Intel Panther Lake generation has seen a marked improvement. When compared to earlier models, the integrated AI unit provides significantly more processing power, which is particularly evident in local AI tasks like image processing, language modeling, or video effects. This shift brings on-device AI into greater focus, greatly enhancing the capabilities of modern mini PCs like the Khadas Mind Pro.

    The Khadas Mind Pro is an excellent option for anyone seeking a compact, high-performance, and flexible mini PC. With the Intel Core Ultra X7 358H, ample RAM, and a quick SSD, it provides sufficient resources for productive tasks and intensive applications. Its modular concept is particularly noteworthy, allowing for a variety of functionalities from office use to gaming setups while staying within the Khadas ecosystem. Despite its small size, the device is also commendable for its efficiency, craftsmanship, and quiet operation. Nonetheless, the constraints on upgradeability and the high price are undeniable factors to consider.

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  • Pedestal Turns Sony PS5 into Retro Art for Unique Gaming Style

    Pedestal Turns Sony PS5 into Retro Art for Unique Gaming Style

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Pedestal Moon Legacy Edition is designed for Sony PlayStation 5 and PS5 Pro owners, aligning with the 30th Anniversary Limited Edition design.
    2. Made from durable powder-coated stainless steel, the Pedestal can support TVs from 40 to 70 inches and weighs approximately 15 kilograms.
    3. The stand features four wheels for easy movement, making it convenient to relocate gaming setups.
    4. It includes a shelf for storing a PlayStation 5 and accessories, enhancing organization.
    5. A controller holder for two DualSense controllers is included, with a cable guide for charging, though assembly is required upon delivery.

    Pedestal has been providing stands for Smart TVs for several years, allowing users to easily relocate their TV between rooms using castors. The latest Moon Legacy Edition specifically targets owners of a Sony PlayStation 5 or a Sony PS5 Pro ($749 on Amazon). Its color design aligns with the original Sony PlayStation, making it a great match for the 30th Anniversary Limited Edition of the PlayStation 5.

    Durable Design

    Constructed from powder-coated stainless steel, the Pedestal is exceptionally strong and long-lasting. Weighing about 15 kilograms, it’s suitable for TVs with a screen size ranging from 40 to 70 inches. With four wheels, the Pedestal can be moved effortlessly, which is ideal for instances when the entire gaming setup needs to be put away in a storage area or shifted to a different room. There is also a shelf beneath the TV that provides space for a PlayStation 5 and additional accessories.

    Controller Holder

    Included with the stand is a holder for two Sony DualSense controllers, designed in a matching gray color. While this holder lacks electronics, it features a cable guide that allows the gamepads to be charged using the provided cable. The stand is delivered disassembled, meaning the buyer will need to put it together before using it.

    You can now pre-order the PlayStation x Pedestal Moon Legacy Edition directly from the manufacturer for €670. Shipping is set to start on April 7, 2026, and is currently limited to Europe only.

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  • Garmin Smartwatch Users Enjoy New Navigation Page Tool

    Garmin Smartwatch Users Enjoy New Navigation Page Tool

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin’s Approach J1 smartwatch is designed for young golfers and features an AMOLED display, GPS, and access to over 43,000 golf courses.
    2. The first software update, System Software Version 8.09, adds a hole indicator to the tee box navigation page and includes a reminder for child-specific accounts.
    3. The update fixes a bug in the Manage Clubs feature that caused it to disappear when paired with a smartphone.
    4. The software update also includes updated translations for improved user experience.
    5. System Software Version 8.09 is available for all Approach J1 units, priced at $299.99, and can be updated automatically via the Garmin Golf app or manually using Garmin Express.

    Garmin’s Approach J1 smartwatch is getting its first software update. This smartwatch, designed for young golfers, includes features like an AMOLED display, GPS, and over 43,000 preloaded golf courses. It was launched in January 2026.

    Software Update Announcement

    Recently, Garmin shared a post on their Forum regarding System Software Version 8.09. According to the release notes, this update modifies the tee box navigation page on the Approach J1 by adding a hole indicator. A new message will also appear before pairing with a phone, reminding users about the option for a child-specific account.

    Fixes and Improvements

    The change log also mentions a fix for a bug associated with the Manage Clubs feature. Previously, this feature would sometimes disappear unexpectedly when a smartphone was paired, but this has reportedly been fixed. Additionally, this release includes updated translations for the golfing smartwatch.

    Availability and Update Process

    System Software Version 8.09 is now accessible for all Garmin Approach J1 smartwatch units, which are currently priced at $299.99 on Amazon. Users of the Garmin Golf app should automatically receive this update when their watch is connected to their smartphone. Alternatively, the update can be initiated using the Garmin Express software.

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  • Ugreen Launches Upgraded Nexode Power Bank for Fast Charging

    Ugreen Launches Upgraded Nexode Power Bank for Fast Charging

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Ugreen Nexode Magnetic Power Bank is set to upgrade from Qi2.0 to Qi2.1, improving efficiency and reducing heat.
    2. The maximum wireless charging output remains at 15W, unchanged from the original model.
    3. It supports 20W wired charging via a USB-C port and can charge devices like the iPhone 16 Pro Max and Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra multiple times.
    4. Features include a trickle charging mode and safety protections against overcurrent and overvoltage.
    5. Release date and pricing for the new model are still unknown, but the original was priced at $49.99.

    A new iteration of the Ugreen Nexode Magnetic Power Bank Qi2 15W 10000mAh seems to be on its way. The initial version of this gadget hit the market in late 2024.

    Update on Specifications

    Recently, the Ugreen 10000mAh Magnetic Power Bank popped up again in the Wireless Power Consortium’s database. This organization oversees charging standards like Qi2. The first version featured Qi2.0, while the upcoming “v2” will upgrade to Qi2.1. This newer tech is rumored to have several benefits, including less heat production, decreased device misalignment, and improved power transfer efficiency.

    Charging Capabilities

    Even though the upgrade from Qi2.0 to Qi2.1 is happening, the maximum wireless charging output for the Ugreen 10000mAh Magnetic Power Bank stays the same at 15W. The other features and the design of this device look to be unchanged from the original model. In addition to wireless charging, the power bank supports 20W wired charging through a USB-C port, which is also the way to recharge the 10,000 mAh battery. The company claims that the power bank has the capability to charge an iPhone 16 Pro Max 1.5 times, a Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra 1.4 times, or an iPad Mini 1.2 times. It also includes a button-activated trickle charging mode and various safety features like overcurrent and overvoltage protection. Its dimensions are 4.1 x 2.7 x 0.8 inches (~104 x 69 x 20 mm) with a weight of 7.7 oz (~218 g).

    Release Information

    At this point, it is still uncertain when the new Ugreen Nexode Magnetic Power Bank Qi2 15W 10000mAh will become available and what the price will be. For comparison, the first version was launched at a retail price of $49.99 (currently $37.91 for Prime Members at Amazon).

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  • Amazfit Smartwatch Update Adds Two New Running Features

    Amazfit Smartwatch Update Adds Two New Running Features

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Amazfit Balance 2 smartwatch is receiving a new firmware update (version 3.43.0.3) aimed at runners.
    2. New features include lactate threshold data collection and customizable smart Zepp Coach running training plans.
    3. The update improves the sleep algorithm and enhances prompts for downloading golf course maps.
    4. Issues with diving activity reminder settings and overall system stability have been addressed.
    5. The update is being rolled out gradually, starting in the US, Canada, and China, with Europe to follow.

    A new update is being distributed to owners of the Amazfit Balance 2 smartwatch. The last update for this device was in February 2026, when version 3.39.0.4 was released, introducing the Route Planning feature.

    New Features for Runners

    As shared by users on Reddit, the Amazfit Balance 2 is now getting firmware version 3.43.0.3. The release notes indicate that this update brings two significant features aimed at runners. The first feature allows users to collect lactate threshold data and conduct a lactate threshold test. This information can be useful for users to gauge their training intensity and endurance levels. The second new feature gives users the option to adjust their smart Zepp Coach running training plans, allowing them to modify their weekly training sessions or easily skip a day if necessary.

    Improvements and Fixes

    In addition to these new features, the 3.43.0.3 update reportedly enhances the sleep algorithm, improves prompts related to downloading golf course maps, and updates the segment count displayed on workout interval reminder pages. Furthermore, Zepp Health, the company behind the Amazfit brand, has addressed issues related to diving activity reminder settings and overall system stability. A full change log can be found below.

    Usually, the updates are rolled out gradually to users of the Amazfit Balance 2 smartwatch (curr. $249.99 at Amazon). The initial rollout has likely begun in places like the US, Canada, and China, with an expansion into Europe anticipated in the next few days. Once it’s available in your area, you can download the firmware through the Zepp app.

    u/gamefan5 via Reddit

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