Author: GizNews

  • Xbox Game Pass Might Offer Cheaper Tiers and Netflix Bundle

    Xbox Game Pass Might Offer Cheaper Tiers and Netflix Bundle

    Key Takeaways

    1. Asha Sharma, the new CEO of Microsoft Gaming, reassured fans of Xbox’s commitment to consoles amidst concerns about the brand’s direction.
    2. There are plans to revamp pricing models for Xbox Game Pass, potentially introducing lower-priced tiers to attract a wider customer base.
    3. Recent price hikes for Game Pass tiers include $29.99 for Ultimate and $14.99 for Premium, limiting access to new releases for some players.
    4. A possible free, ad-supported option for Xbox Cloud Gaming and bundling Game Pass with other subscriptions are being considered to lower costs.
    5. Microsoft is exploring partnerships beyond gaming, including discussions with Netflix, to enhance the Game Pass offering, although details are still in early stages.


    Since Asha Sharma took the helm as the CEO of Microsoft Gaming, she has faced pushback about the brand’s direction. She reassured fans that the company is still devoted to Xbox consoles. According to a recent report from The Information, which is behind a paywall, Sharma might also tackle the controversial rise in Xbox Game Pass pricing.

    Pricing Models Under Review

    The tech site, known for its business insights, reports that, based on various sources, the CEO is thinking about “revamping pricing models to offer lower-priced tiers.” The aim is to broaden the appeal of Xbox consoles and the subscription service to reach a “wider variety of customers.”

    In early October 2025, Microsoft revealed substantial increases in Game Pass prices. The Ultimate tier is now priced at $29.99 per month, while the Premium tier demands $14.99 every 30 days. This limits the number of players who can access new releases on launch day, though the PC tier remains unchanged for the time being. For those on a budget, there’s the $9.99 Essential option, but it offers even fewer benefits.

    New Options on the Horizon

    Lately, there have been whispers about a potential free, ad-supported option coming soon. However, it seems more likely that it would be a distinct Xbox Cloud Gaming service. Another approach to lower costs could involve bundling Game Pass with other subscriptions.

    Not long after Sharma stepped into her position, Jez Corden from Windows Central shared some buzz regarding the future of Game Pass. One possibility mentioned is that fans of World of Warcraft might not need to pay for two separate subscriptions anymore. Similarly, services like Fallout 1st and Minecraft Realms could become less pricey for Xbox users.

    Exploring New Partnerships

    The company might also look into collaborations beyond the gaming industry. The Information indicated that Sharma has been in talks with Netflix CEO Greg Peters. However, any plans remain in the early stages, with Peters noting that Microsoft is still “figuring out how to make the Game Pass bundle work for Microsoft.”

    Unfortunately, it’s uncertain if any new tier or bundle would provide the same value at a lower cost. Regardless, alongside a discount to promote console upgrades, Microsoft might find ways to make the Xbox Game Pass price hike more acceptable.

     

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  • Marathon Sales Exceed 1.2 Million Copies, Revenue Over $55 Million

    Marathon Sales Exceed 1.2 Million Copies, Revenue Over $55 Million

    Key Takeaways

    1. Marathon has sold over 1.2 million copies across various platforms, with nearly 800,000 (about 70%) sold on Steam.
    2. PlayStation 5 accounts for approximately 217,000 copies (19%), while Xbox platforms contribute around 133,000 copies (11%).
    3. The game has generated over $55 million in revenue across all platforms.
    4. On launch day, Marathon attracted about 88,000 concurrent players on Steam, but this has declined to around 50,000 currently.
    5. The game holds a Very Positive rating on Steam with over 23,000 reviews.


    According to a recent study from Alinea Analytics, Marathon has achieved impressive sales, surpassing 1.2 million copies across various platforms. A significant share of these sales, nearly 800,000 copies, come from Steam alone, which represents just under 70% of the total player count.

    Sales Breakdown

    The remaining sales are divided among consoles. The PlayStation 5 has sold approximately 217,000 copies, accounting for about 19%, while Xbox platforms, which includes console, PC, and cloud versions, have contributed around 133,000 copies, or slightly more than 11%. This is quite intriguing since Marathon is officially a first-party title for PlayStation. Nevertheless, the majority of its players are on PC. In total, the game has already made over $55 million in revenue across all platforms.

    Player Activity Insights

    Marathon had a strong debut, drawing around 88,000 concurrent players on Steam on its launch day, which is a commendable figure for a new game. Currently, it boasts a Very Positive rating with over 23,000 reviews on the platform. Despite this, the number of players has been gradually declining, and it now sits at approximately 50,000 concurrent players.

    Alinea Analytics’ report highlights these trends and provides insight into the game’s performance in the competitive gaming market.

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  • Arch-based ML4W OS 2.12.0 Released with Quickshell Update

    Arch-based ML4W OS 2.12.0 Released with Quickshell Update

    Key Takeaways

    1. ML4W OS version 2.12.0 is an advanced operating system based on Arch Linux, designed for 64-bit systems with a dynamic tiling window manager called Hyprland.
    2. Users can try ML4W OS before installation using a Live ISO or by launching it from a bootable USB stick or a KVM/Qemu virtual machine.
    3. The installation process is currently in beta and can be initiated with the command `sudo install-ml4w-os` in a terminal.
    4. ML4W OS has been tested and is compatible with multiple distributions, including EndeavourOS, Manjaro, Garuda, Arco, CachyOS, openSUSE Tumbleweed, and Fedora Workstation 43.
    5. Updated resources and information about ML4W OS can be found on GitHub for users interested in the new features and installation process.


    German developer Stephan Raabe has returned with a fresh update of ML4W OS, which he refers to as “an advanced and full-featured Operating System and Dotfiles Configuration based on the dynamic tiling window manager Hyprland.” This update marks the release of version 2.12.0. ML4W OS, built on Arch Linux, is designed exclusively for 64-bit systems and can be installed on other distributions easily using the Dotfiles installer. Additionally, a Live ISO is available for those who wish to test it out before fully committing.

    Changelog Highlights

    The official changelog outlines several key points for ML4W OS 2.12.0. For anyone wanting to delve into the changes from earlier versions, those details can also be found on the source article page; just check the link at the bottom of the last paragraph. Some notable features include the ability to launch ML4W OS from a bootable USB stick. However, for those who prefer a different approach, it can also be tried out using a KVM/Qemu virtual machine.

    Installation Process

    Currently, installing ML4W OS with Arch Linux is still in beta and can be accomplished by entering sudo install-ml4w-os in a terminal. Besides Arch, ML4W OS has been tested with several other distributions, including EndeavourOS, Manjaro, Garuda, Arco, CachyOS, openSUSE Tumbleweed, and Fedora Workstation 43.

    GitHub has also been updated with relevant information and resources for users interested in exploring this new version of ML4W OS.

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  • Apple macOS 26.4 Released: Boost Your MacBook Battery Life

    Apple macOS 26.4 Released: Boost Your MacBook Battery Life

    Key Takeaways

    1. macOS 26.4 is now available for compatible Macs, including models with Apple ARM chips.
    2. A new battery management feature allows users to cap battery charge levels at 80%, 85%, 90%, or 95% to prolong battery lifespan.
    3. The compact tab layout has returned in Safari, organizing tabs and buttons in a single line to save vertical space.
    4. The Freeform app now offers premium content for subscribers of Apple Creator Studio.
    5. A new alert notifies users when launching apps not optimized for ARM processors, as Rosetta 2 support will end with macOS 28 next year.


    At the same time that iOS 26.4 for the iPhone is released, Apple has also launched macOS 26.4. This update should be accessible on all compatible Macs within a few hours and can be downloaded and installed from System Preferences under General –> Software Update. The update is available for all Macs using the Apple ARM chip, including the new MacBook Neo ($599 on Amazon), as well as the MacBook Pro and the Mac Pro from 2019.

    New Battery Management Feature

    One of the most thrilling new features is the ability to cap the battery charge level at 80, 85, 90, or 95 percent in the system settings. Not charging the battery to its full 100 percent could potentially prolong its lifespan before a replacement is necessary. This feature comes alongside Apple’s “optimized charging,” which aims to charge the battery only to the specified maximum at the time the MacBook usually gets unplugged from the power source – this should also help in extending the battery’s life.

    Safari and App Updates

    macOS 26 reintroduces the compact tab layout in Safari, which was taken away with the previous macOS 26 release. The tabs, buttons, and address bar are organized in a single line to conserve vertical space. The Freeform app is now getting premium content, but this is only for subscribers of Apple Creator Studio. Furthermore, macOS 26.4 adds a new alert when launching an app that has not been optimized for ARM processors, as Rosetta 2 will be phased out with macOS 28 next year, meaning these apps won’t be accessible in the future. The Reminders app now has an option to mark entries as “urgent” with a keyboard shortcut for easier filtering.

    Conclusion

    Apple’s macOS 26.4 is packed with significant updates that aim to enhance user experience and device longevity. The new battery management feature is particularly noteworthy, allowing users to manage their battery life more effectively. With the return of the compact tab layout and the introduction of new functionalities in apps, Apple continues to refine its software to meet the needs of its users.

     

  • New Retro Boombox: 270W Output, USB Recording, Fan-Cooled Amp

    New Retro Boombox: 270W Output, USB Recording, Fan-Cooled Amp

    Key Takeaways

    1. Versatile Playback Options: The BB-777 supports multiple playback formats including cassette tapes, CDs, radio, USB, and Bluetooth, allowing users to enjoy various media without needing multiple devices.

    2. Powerful Sound: The audio system features a powerful output of up to 270 W, with a multi-driver arrangement including woofers, coaxial speakers, and horn tweeters for enhanced sound quality.

    3. Recording and Connectivity Features: It includes dual cassette decks for recording and high-speed dubbing, as well as the ability to record directly to USB from cassette, CD, or radio sources.

    4. Battery Life and Design: The BB-777 has a 97.6Wh lithium-ion battery that offers up to 15 hours of playback, with a design that is large and distinctive, featuring a dot matrix display and removable front grilles.

    5. Uniqueness in Modern Market: The BB-777 stands out in a market that favors wireless options, making it a rare multi-format audio system as it launches through a Kickstarter campaign for $649.


    Bumpboxx is a new audio brand from California that started in 2016. It has made a name for itself with large, retro-style speakers, even when most people are looking for smaller, wireless options, like the JBL Go 4, which currently costs $50 on Amazon. Their products give off a nostalgic 1980s feel. The latest model, the BB-777, continues this trend but adds support for older playback formats alongside modern connections in the same device.

    Versatile Playback Options

    The BB-777 is a portable audio system that integrates several playback formats into one device. It can play cassette tapes, CDs, radio, USB, and Bluetooth, which means you won’t need to carry different devices if you want to take it with you.

    Powerful Sound

    This unit boasts a powerful output of up to 270 W thanks to its multi-driver arrangement. It has two 6.25-inch woofers, two coaxial speakers for mid-range sounds, and two horn tweeters. The design includes internal chambers and bass ports, and the amplifier is fan-cooled, making it reliable for extended use.

    Recording and Connectivity Features

    With playback choices including Bluetooth with TWS pairing, USB audio support (MP3, WMA, WAV, FLAC, AAC), and a CD mechanism that works with CD, CD-R, CD-RW, and MP3 discs, this system is versatile. It also has dual cassette decks that allow recording and high-speed dubbing, plus AM, FM, and shortwave radio.

    Additionally, the BB-777 can record directly to USB from cassette, CD, or radio sources, which makes converting your physical media to digital quite simple. It has two wired microphone inputs featuring volume and echo controls, built-in microphones, and a headphone output.

    Battery Life and Design

    The device is powered by a 97.6Wh lithium-ion battery, offering up to 15 hours of playback time. It allows for interchangeable battery packs and takes about 4-6 hours to fully recharge. The BB-777 is not exactly discreet, measuring 29.6 × 6.5 × 15 inches and weighing 12.7 kg, so you can expect it to stand out. Its design features a dot matrix display, removable front grilles, telescoping antennas, and a shoulder strap.

    Devices that can play cassette, CD, and radio while also supporting Bluetooth are becoming rare. Most modern speakers prioritize wireless playback, which makes multi-format systems like the BB-777 relatively unique. It will launch through a Kickstarter campaign, and if you make a $10 deposit before it starts, the price for the BB-777 will be $649 at launch.

    Bumpboxx’s BB-777: A 270W Boombox Inspired by an ’80s Icon – The best-designed and most thoughtful Boombox ever made.

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  • Apple iPhone iOS 26.4 Update: New Features and Bug Fixes

    Apple iPhone iOS 26.4 Update: New Features and Bug Fixes

    Key Takeaways

    1. iOS 26.4 is available for iPhone 11 to iPhone 17 and second-generation iPhone SE.
    2. New features include offline music identification using Shazam and an “Ambient Music” widget for curated playlists.
    3. The Music app now has full-screen backgrounds and a “Concerts” feature for nearby live shows.
    4. Accessibility improvements include reduced Liquid Glass animations and compatibility with AirPods Max 2, plus eight new emoji.
    5. A key bug fix enhances keyboard responsiveness for faster typing.


    Apple has recently launched iOS 26.4. This update is available for all devices ranging from the iPhone 11 to the iPhone 17 ($799 on Amazon) as well as the second-generation iPhone SE. Users can easily download and install the update by navigating to system settings and selecting General –> Software update.

    New Features and Enhancements

    This update introduces several exciting features. One notable addition is the ability to identify music using the Shazam button found in the quick settings, even when the iPhone is offline. However, the results will only appear once the device reconnects to the Internet. Another new widget called “Ambient Music” provides direct access to curated playlists that are designed to help with sleeping, working, or simply relaxing.

    Improvements to the Music App

    The Music app has been revamped with full-screen backgrounds for albums and playlists. Additionally, it now includes a “Concerts” feature that highlights live shows from your preferred artists nearby. On the accessibility front, users now have the option to lessen Liquid Glass animations and bright elements on the screen. Furthermore, the update adds compatibility for the new AirPods Max 2 and includes eight new emoji. The Freeform app from Apple also receives premium content that necessitates a subscription to Apple’s Creator Studio.

    Bug Fixes and User Experience

    One of the most anticipated fixes in this update addresses a known issue where the keyboard fails to recognize inputs properly when users type very quickly. This fix is expected to enhance the typing experience for many users, making it a significant improvement in usability.

  • Ayaneo Halts Next 2 Windows Handheld Sales Amid Rising Costs

    Ayaneo Halts Next 2 Windows Handheld Sales Amid Rising Costs

    Key Takeaways

    1. Ayaneo has suspended sales of its Next 2 handheld device due to rising storage costs.
    2. The company decided to continue with pre-orders but will not change prices frequently.
    3. All pre-orders made before the suspension will still be honored and fulfilled.
    4. Ayaneo may resume sales of the Next 2 if storage costs decrease in the future.
    5. The industry is facing similar issues, as seen with Retroid’s recent production halts and price increases.


    Last month, Ayaneo started taking pre-orders for its much-anticipated Next 2 handheld device that runs on Windows. This gadget was being funded through Indiegogo, with plans to ship orders by June 2026. But, a recent update from the company has announced that sales for this device are now on hold.

    Reasons for Sales Suspension

    In a detailed message on Indiegogo, Ayaneo stated that the halt in sales of the Next 2 is because of skyrocketing storage costs. The company noted that even before the Next 2 launched, storage prices were already quite high. They decided to move ahead with the launch to avoid disappointing their supporters, even if that meant they would earn very little or possibly lose money.

    Sadly, after the Chinese New Year, storage costs surged dramatically, causing the total production expenses to surpass the selling price, nearly doubling the initial launch cost. Due to this, Ayaneo has chosen to suspend sales, as they do not want to constantly change the price of the Next 2 because of the rising component expenses.

    Order Fulfillment and Support

    Ayaneo announced that the Next 2 has been removed from sale and is not available for buying anymore. However, all pre-orders made before this announcement will still be honored, and production for those orders will continue. The company is also reassuring backers that it will provide long-term support for the Next 2, ensuring they have enough parts in stock.

    While Ayaneo mentioned that this suspension is only temporary, they also noted that they “might think about resuming” sales if storage costs become more reasonable. For those interested in an Ayaneo Windows handheld, the Konkr Fit is available for $999 and can be pre-ordered directly from Ayaneo, with shipping expected by the end of April.

    Industry Context

    Ayaneo’s choice to halt Next 2 sales comes shortly after Retroid, another Chinese handheld maker, revealed that it would stop producing its recently launched Android device, the Retroid Pocket G2. Before that, Retroid had also decided to discontinue the 12GB RAM variant of the Pocket 6 and raised prices for the 8GB RAM edition of the same device, as well as for the older Retroid Pocket Classic, which is available on Amazon for $149.

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  • Windows 11 Update: Enhanced RAM, Faster File Explorer, Better UI

    Windows 11 Update: Enhanced RAM, Faster File Explorer, Better UI

    Key Takeaways

    1. Microsoft has faced backlash from Windows 11 users due to AI-driven updates and the controversial Recall feature, leading to concerns about security and privacy.
    2. Apple’s new MacBook Neo, with just 8 GB of RAM, performs well under load, highlighting performance issues with Windows 11 laptops of similar specs.
    3. Upcoming Windows 11 enhancements will include new background policies to reduce RAM and storage usage, aiming for better efficiency.
    4. Microsoft plans to improve the user interface by transitioning to WinUI 3, which is expected to enhance responsiveness and performance.
    5. Hardware support upgrades will address common issues like Bluetooth dropouts, USB failures, and improve overall device reliability.


    Microsoft has upset many Windows 11 users over the past year by pushing updates that emphasize AI-driven Copilot features across most default applications. Along with this, the controversial Recall feature raised major concerns about security and privacy. To win back users who were considering moving to Linux, Microsoft pledged to lessen its AI emphasis earlier this year. However, Apple quickly reminded everyone of the competition with the launch of the MacBook Neo, which is an affordable laptop offering just 8 GB of RAM.

    Surprising Performance of Apple’s Budget Laptop

    Interestingly, 8 GB of RAM proves sufficient for Apple’s entry-level model, as tests show the new version of Mac OS maintains good speed even with numerous apps open. In contrast, a Windows 11 laptop with 8 GB would likely struggle, and even one with 16 GB could face challenges. This again led to complaints from Windows users, prompting Microsoft to consider essential improvements to enhance the Windows experience.

    Upcoming Enhancements to Windows 11

    To address these concerns, Windows 11 will soon introduce new background policies to better manage RAM and storage. Specifically for RAM, Microsoft aims to lower the base memory usage, allowing the OS to use fewer resources when idle. Currently, an 8 GB RAM system running Windows 11 consumes nearly 6 GB when idle, while a 16 GB system uses around 10 GB. This is over 50% of total RAM in both cases. While systems with 32 GB and more fare better, current RAM prices may not permit such upgrades easily. Microsoft hasn’t disclosed precise details on RAM improvements, but TechPowerUp indicates that Windows 11 might incorporate a system similar to the Xbox Full Screen Experience, which enhances performance while reducing RAM usage by cutting back on background tasks.

    User Interface and File Explorer Upgrades

    While the design in Windows 11 is more unified and smoother, it still occasionally feels sluggish. This sluggishness is attributed to various frameworks being used simultaneously, including WebView2, React, and older code remnants. Microsoft plans to tackle these issues by transitioning the entire UI framework to WinUI 3. This change should make the Start menu respond much faster once it shifts from React to WinUI.

    File Explorer is also set to receive upgrades. Despite the recent pre-loading feature, File Explorer in Windows 11 remains slower than its Windows 10 counterpart. Consequently, Microsoft intends to boost responsiveness by decreasing latency in search bars, navigation, and context menus. Additionally, improvements in speed and reliability for operations like copying and moving large files are on the horizon. Overall, apps should launch quicker as well.

    Hardware Support Improvements

    On the hardware front, Microsoft aims to support the latest technologies and processors with improved drivers to minimize crashes. The company plans to address common issues like Bluetooth dropouts, USB connection failures, camera and audio inconsistencies on tablets, and wakeup problems with devices connected to docks.

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  • Panasonic Lumix ZS300: 1-Inch Sensor, 15x Zoom, OIS Camera Launch

    Panasonic Lumix ZS300: 1-Inch Sensor, 15x Zoom, OIS Camera Launch

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Panasonic Lumix TZ300 (ZS300 in the US) features minor updates from the TZ200, including a switch to a USB-C port and an upgrade to Bluetooth 5.0.
    2. The new model lacks an electronic viewfinder, leading to a price increase and questions about its value compared to the TZ200.
    3. It has a 20.1 megapixel 1-inch CMOS sensor and a zoom lens with a focal length of 24 – 360 mm and variable aperture from f/3.3 to f/6.4.
    4. The camera offers five-axis stabilization, 4K video recording at 30 fps, and 1080p slow motion at up to 120 fps, along with RAW and JPEG photo options.
    5. The Lumix TZ300 will be priced at $899 in the US and €999 in Europe, available in gray and black.


    The new Panasonic Lumix TZ300, called the Lumix ZS300 in the United States, is the latest model following the Lumix TZ200 from 2018. The enhancements in the TZ300 are quite small, similar to the updates seen with the TZ99 ($589 on Amazon) from the prior year. A key change is the switch from a micro USB port to a USB-C port, which also allows for charging the camera, along with an upgrade from Bluetooth 4.2 to version 5.0.

    Features and Changes

    On the downside, Panasonic has taken out the electronic viewfinder without providing a substitute, which has resulted in a price increase. This indicates that the camera may not offer great value compared to its 2018 counterpart, especially since the main features remain the same and feel a bit outdated. The Lumix ZS300 features a 20.1 megapixel CMOS sensor in a 1-inch size, paired with a zoom lens that has a 35 mm equivalent focal length of 24 – 360 mm and a maximum aperture ranging from f/3.3 to f/6.4 depending on the focal length.

    Performance and Capabilities

    With five-axis stabilization (OIS), the lens helps in capturing sharp images even with longer exposure times and ensures steadier videos. There’s a macro mode that allows focusing on subjects just 3 centimeters from the lens. The camera is capable of recording 4K video at 30 frames per second and can shoot 1080p slow motion at up to 120 frames per second. Users can take photos in either RAW or JPEG format, with JPEGs offering 22 filters for customization. Furthermore, images can be sent to a smartphone via WLAN.

    The Panasonic Lumix DC-ZS300 / DC-TZ300 is set to hit the market in the US at a price of $899, while in Europe, it will be available for a recommended price of €999. The compact camera comes in two colors: gray and black. More information can be found on the official product page.

    Panasonic (Press release | Product page)

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  • Titan 2 Elite Pro: Kickstarter Hits $1.8M with Dimensity 8400

    Titan 2 Elite Pro: Kickstarter Hits $1.8M with Dimensity 8400

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Titan 2 Elite has launched on Kickstarter as Unihertz’s answer to the Clicks Communicator.
    2. The Titan 2 Elite Pro features optical image stabilization (OIS) but retains the same camera specifications as the standard version.
    3. Both models have a 4,050 mAh battery and a 4.03-inch AMOLED display with a 120 Hz refresh rate.
    4. The Titan 2 Elite is expected to ship in June 2026, while the Titan 2 Elite Pro will ship in October 2026.
    5. The Titan 2 Elite Pro is available on Kickstarter for $479, but early bird offers are no longer available.


    The Titan 2 Elite has launched on Kickstarter as Unihertz’s response to the Clicks Communicator. In addition, the company has unveiled the Titan 2 Elite Pro, which features several modifications compared to the standard Titan 2 Elite. It’s important to note that the Titan 2 Elite Pro is set to ship several months after the Titan 2 Elite units start being delivered to Kickstarter supporters.

    Camera Features and Specifications

    In a notable upgrade, the Titan 2 Elite Pro includes optical image stabilization (OIS) for its main camera. However, it retains the same 50 MP sensor as the standard version, along with matching 50 MP telephoto and 32 MP front cameras. Furthermore, the Titan 2 Elite Pro boasts a 4,050 mAh battery and a 4.03-inch AMOLED display with a refresh rate of 120 Hz. Its dimensions are 117.8 x 75 x 10.4 mm, and it weighs in at 163 g.

    Shipping Timeline and Pricing

    Unihertz has plans to start shipping the Titan 2 Elite Pro in October 2026. In contrast, the regular Titan 2 Elite is expected to be ready by June 2026. The Titan 2 Elite Pro is available for backing on Kickstarter at a price of $479. However, the Early Bird and Super Early Bird offers have already been taken. For further information, you can check out Unihertz’s Kickstarter page.

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