Author: GizNews

  • Nintendo Switch 2: Major Graphics Upgrade in New Boost Mode Videos

    Nintendo Switch 2: Major Graphics Upgrade in New Boost Mode Videos

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Nintendo Switch 2 is priced at $449 and has received a firmware update to version 22.0, introducing a new “Handheld Mode Boost” feature.
    2. The “Handheld Mode Boost” allows first-generation Nintendo Switch games to be played in TV mode while in handheld mode, enhancing gameplay experience.
    3. Improved graphics include significant resolution upgrades for games, such as Doom (576p) and Fire Emblem Warriors (1,080p), with Xenoblade Chronicles 2 now achieving 720p.
    4. Video comparisons from GVG and Nintendo Life show notable visual improvements, with some games looking better in boost mode than on the Switch 2.
    5. Other titles, like the Spyro Reignited Trilogy and No More Heroes 3, also benefit from enhanced graphics settings and improved clarity in visuals.


    The Nintendo Switch 2, priced at $449 on Amazon, has recently been upgraded to firmware version 22.0. This new update introduces a feature known as “Handheld Mode Boost.” When this option is enabled in the system settings, games made for the first-generation Nintendo Switch that haven’t been updated for the Switch 2 can now be played in TV mode even when in handheld mode.

    Improved Graphics Enhancements

    Playing games in TV mode typically offers a higher resolution, which can greatly enhance the visual quality of some titles. For instance, Doom now operates at a resolution of 576p, an improvement from the previous 408p, delivering much more detail. Similarly, Fire Emblem Warriors can be enjoyed at 1,080p instead of 720p, or players can opt for 720p with an unlocked frame rate. One of the standout games benefiting from this update is Xenoblade Chronicles 2, which previously faced resolution drops to 368p but now achieves 720p in most areas.

    Video Comparisons Show Differences

    Videos from GVG and Nintendo Life illustrate the significant improvements in graphics. These comparisons reveal some interesting outcomes. For example, Xenoblade Chronicles X looks noticeably better when using the Switch 1 version with boost mode, compared to the Switch 2 version, even though the latter runs at 60 frames per second instead of 30.

    Other Games Benefit Too

    Not all titles simply enjoy a bump in resolution. The Spyro Reignited Trilogy benefits from enhanced graphics settings in boost mode, appearing much more vivid due to improved shadow details and thicker vegetation. No More Heroes 3 finally has a resolution that is good enough for players to identify objects in the background clearly.

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  • Asus TUF 2026 Gaming Laptops: OLED Displays & Core Ultra 9 CPU

    Asus TUF 2026 Gaming Laptops: OLED Displays & Core Ultra 9 CPU

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Asus TUF F16 FX608LMG/LPG features the Intel Core Ultra 9 290HX Plus CPU, promising up to 8% improved gaming performance over the previous model.
    2. The FX608LMG/LPG variant includes a superior 16-inch OLED display with a 165Hz refresh rate and 100% DCI-P3 color coverage.
    3. The TUF A16 variant offers the AMD Ryzen 9 8940HX CPU but lacks an OLED display, instead featuring a 16-inch IPS panel with a 300Hz refresh rate.
    4. The updated TUF A18 model can be equipped with the more powerful RTX 5070 Ti Laptop GPU.
    5. No official details on availability or pricing for the 2026 TUF gaming laptop lineup have been announced yet.


    Asus has officially announced the TUF lineup for 2026, and the standout feature of these new gaming laptops is the TUF F16 FX608LMG/LPG. This model can be equipped with the Intel Core Ultra 9 290HX Plus, which is an Arrow Lake Refresh CPU that is said to provide up to 8% improved gaming performance compared to the 285HX.

    Alternative Model Options

    Another variant in the Asus TUF F16 series is the FX608JPR, which tops out at the Core i7 14650HX. Both versions can be configured with Nvidia’s RTX 5070, but the former has a significant display enhancement. The FX608LMG/LPG comes with a 16-inch OLED screen that boasts a 165Hz refresh rate and 100% DCI-P3 color coverage.

    Additional Features

    It’s important to mention that the same OLED display option is available on the updated A16 (FA608UP/UM/UH), which runs on the AMD Ryzen 7 260. This Hawk Point gaming laptop can also be configured with the RTX 5070, and Asus claims that the total graphics power can reach up to 115W with Dynamic Boost.

    More Powerful Choices

    There’s also a TUF A16 variant featuring the AMD Ryzen 9 8940HX, which is a more powerful CPU choice that can be paired with the RTX 5070 Laptop GPU. However, this option does not have an OLED display. Instead, the best display available is a 16-inch IPS panel offering a refresh rate of 300Hz and 100% DCI-P3 coverage.

    As for the more powerful TUF A18, it has also received an update, with the 2026 model capable of being outfitted with the RTX 5070 Ti Laptop GPU. For context, the highest GPU option in the 2025 model was the non-Ti RTX 5070 (like the 32 GB MSI Katana 15 HX with RTX 5070, currently priced at $1,599 on Amazon). There hasn’t been any official announcement regarding availability or pricing as of yet. Be sure to check the spec sheets below for more details on the updated TUF gaming laptop lineup.

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  • Oppo Takes Aim at Samsung During Find N6 Launch Event

    Oppo Takes Aim at Samsung During Find N6 Launch Event

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Oppo Find N6 features a nearly invisible crease, setting it apart from competitors like the Galaxy Z Fold 7.
    2. The Find N6 has been tested for durability with up to 600,000 folds, while the Galaxy Z Fold 7 is rated for 500,000 folds.
    3. Oppo’s unique design includes an enhanced hinge system and Auto-Smoothing Flex Glass for a smoother display.
    4. The Find N6 has a larger battery capacity of 6,000 mAh and supports 80W wired charging compared to Samsung’s 4,400 mAh.
    5. Oppo showcased their technology in a live-streamed event, highlighting the advantages over Samsung’s folding screen technology.


    Oppo has just introduced its new foldable phone, the Find N6, which promises a unique feature: a crease that is nearly invisible. This design is said to be more durable and smoother than similar models from other brands. To highlight this advantage, Oppo showcased the Galaxy Z Fold 7 (buy on Amazon) during the launch event, emphasizing the superiority of its folding screen technology over that of the well-known South Korean manufacturer.

    Demonstration of Durability

    At the event, Oppo presented a video comparing a Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 in its original packaging next to a folded Find N6 (this occurred at the 40-minute mark). The Galaxy device was unboxed, the protective film removed, and it remained folded for one hour. Upon unfolding, it revealed a much more noticeable seam than it had when first taken out of the box. In contrast, when the Oppo Find N6 was unfolded, it showed no crease whatsoever.

    Innovative Technology

    To create this near-invisible crease, Oppo combines an enhanced hinge system with Auto-Smoothing Flex Glass. The Find N6 has been tested for up to 600,000 folds, ensuring the display stays smooth without any visible bends or creases even after extensive use. In comparison, Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 7 is rated for 500,000 folds, but this is specifically for the folding mechanism and not for the screen, which can develop visible creasing after a mere hour of being folded.

    Battery Performance

    Additionally, the Find N6 is equipped with silicon carbon batteries that provide a capacity of 6,000 mAh, along with support for 80W wired charging. On the other hand, Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 7 offers a smaller capacity of 4,400 mAh, while the now discontinued Galaxy Z TriFold had a 5,600 mAh battery. Samsung is expected to enhance their future offerings, with rumors of a silicon carbon battery in their upcoming models, including the Galaxy Z Fold 8.

    Oppo streamed the event live on Weibo.

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  • New Wanbo Vali 1 Pro Google TV Projector Now Available in the US

    New Wanbo Vali 1 Pro Google TV Projector Now Available in the US

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Wanbo Vali 1 Pro projector features a 1080p resolution, supporting 4K and HDR10 content with a contrast ratio of 3,000:1.

    2. It can project images up to 260 inches and includes technologies like MEMC motion smoothing, automatic focus, keystone correction, and screen fitting tools.

    3. The projector runs on the Google TV interface, allowing streaming from popular apps like Netflix and YouTube, and supports wireless content sharing via Google Cast.

    4. It includes dual-band Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.0, and built-in speakers with Dolby Audio for enhanced sound quality.

    5. The promotional price for the Vali 1 Pro is $259.99, down from $329.99, with a launch in Europe expected at €279.


    Wanbo has launched the Vali 1 Pro projector in the United States. As implied by its name, it enhances the previous Vali 1 model, maintaining a similar design that includes an adjustable stand for different angles.

    Specifications and Features

    The Wanbo Vali 1 Pro boasts a resolution of 1080p, with features that support 4K and HDR10 content. It is capable of projecting images as large as 260 inches, with a contrast ratio of 3,000:1 and MEMC motion smoothing technology. The projector’s light source is reported to produce brightness up to 650 ISO lumens, making it more suitable for dimly lit rooms and smaller screens. Additionally, users can easily optimize the image using automatic focus, keystone correction, and screen fitting tools.

    User Interface and Connectivity

    The Vali 1 Pro comes equipped with the Google TV interface, enabling users to stream their favorite shows and movies from popular apps like Netflix and YouTube. It also supports wireless content sharing through Google Cast and can be controlled using voice commands via Google Assistant. Moreover, it features dual-band Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 5.0, along with built-in speakers that support Dolby Audio for a better sound experience.

    You can purchase the Wanbo Vali 1 Pro projector on Amazon US for a promotional price of $259.99, down from the regular retail price of $329.99, thanks to a $70 discount coupon available on the page. This model is anticipated to launch in Europe soon with a price tag of €279.

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  • Rewindpix Compact Camera with Optical Viewfinder & 35mm Lens for $119

    Rewindpix Compact Camera with Optical Viewfinder & 35mm Lens for $119

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Rewindpix camera is priced at $119 and features a 13-megapixel sensor and a 35 mm f/2.2 lens for improved image quality.
    2. It offers an analog-like photography experience with a large optical viewfinder and requires users to “wind up” the camera after each shot.
    3. Users can add virtual film rolls via a smartphone app, which unlocks filters and limits image counts, with photos accessible only after transferring all images.
    4. The camera includes a 1-inch display for battery and storage info, and comes with a 4 GB microSD card.
    5. Currently seeking funding on Kickstarter, Rewindpix’s expected delivery is June 2026, with potential delays typical of such projects.


    After the Kodak Charmera’s big commercial success, Rewindpix wants to keep the momentum going. The camera is priced at $119, making it slightly pricier, but it aims to deliver improved image quality due to its 13 megapixel sensor in a 1/3.06 inch size, paired with a 35 mm f/2.2 lens.

    Photography Experience

    Photos are captured not through a screen but with a large optical viewfinder. The exposure setting is automatic, and users can only turn on the flash when they need it. This camera is designed to evoke the nostalgia of an analog disposable camera. To enhance this experience, the manufacturer includes two unique features. First, after every shot, the user must “wind up” the camera using a wheel located on the back.

    Innovative Features

    Secondly, users can add virtual film rolls through a dedicated smartphone app, which unlocks filters and limits the number of images. The photos can only be accessed after all images from the film roll are transferred to the smartphone, and the camera supports Wi-Fi for this purpose. If preferred, users can also turn off the “film mode.” A 1-inch display on the back of the 185-gram camera shows important info about the battery status and available storage. Additionally, a 4 GB microSD card comes with the camera.

    Funding and Availability

    The Rewindpix compact camera is currently seeking funding on Kickstarter. It’s available at a price of $119 US plus shipping under the “Super Early Bird” offer. The expected delivery time is June 2026. As is typical with Kickstarter projects, there’s a possibility that products may be delivered later than planned or may not meet quality expectations.

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  • Starfield PS5 Launch Confirmed with Huge Content Update

    Starfield PS5 Launch Confirmed with Huge Content Update

    Key Takeaways

    1. Free Lanes Update: Introduces cruise mode for manual navigation between planets, enhancing the space travel experience.

    2. New Item Tiers and Resources: Adds ‘Superior’ and ‘Exceptional’ item classifications and introduces a new resource, X-Tech, for equipment customization.

    3. Outpost Improvements: Features a shared container for resource transfer, allows pets at outposts, and enables upgrades to Starborn abilities without starting New Game+.

    4. New In-Game Content: Launches Anchorpoint Station with new vendors, quests, and ship modules, expanding gameplay options.

    5. Upcoming Story DLC: Terran Armada will be free for Premium Edition players and priced at $10 for others, offering more story content at a lower cost than previous DLCs.


    Starfield is preparing to release what might be its final significant update before Bethesda shifts its focus to the next Elder Scrolls game. This update, known as the Free Lanes Update, introduces several enhancements to Starfield, including a cruise mode that allows players to manually navigate between planets instead of using the fast travel option.

    Enjoy the Journey

    This feature encourages you to spend more time aboard your carefully designed spaceship and engage with your crew members more frequently. If you find that a bit dull, the cruise mode can be interrupted by random pirate encounters and various interesting locations to explore.

    New Items and Resources

    Additionally, there are new item tiers beyond the ‘Legendary’ classification, now labeled ‘Superior’ and ‘Exceptional’. Players can discover a new resource called X-Tech throughout the universe, which can be obtained in battles and harvested from foes. X-Tech is useful for further customizing your equipment and rerolling legendary traits.

    Building Outposts and Upgrades

    For those who enjoy creating outposts, the Free Lanes update introduces a shared container that simplifies the transfer of resources between outposts and allows you to have a pet at every location. Furthermore, players can now upgrade Starborn abilities without having to start a New Game+. But if you do want to enter NG+, you are now able to carry over items from your last playthrough.

    Bethesda has also added fresh content in the form of a new in-game area called Anchorpoint Station, which features new vendors, quests, ship modules, and more.

    Upcoming Story DLC

    If that’s still not enough, a new story DLC titled Terran Armada is also set to release. It will be free for players who bought the Premium Edition and cost $10 for those looking to upgrade—a far more reasonable price compared to the previous DLC, Shattered Spaces, which was priced at a steep $40.

    Most importantly, PlayStation 5 users will be able to join Starfield on April 7, which coincides with the launch of Free Lanes and Terran Armada for PC and Xbox players. The base game is priced at $49.99, while the Premium Edition costs $69.99. For that additional $20, players get Shattered Space, Terran Armada, and a variety of in-game bonuses.

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  • Acer Predator Launches 18-Inch Gaming Laptop with RTX 5080

    Acer Predator Launches 18-Inch Gaming Laptop with RTX 5080

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Acer Predator Helios Neo 18 AI (PHN18-I71) features upgraded processors: Core Ultra 7 270HX Plus or Core Ultra 9 290HX Plus, compared to last year’s models.
    2. The new model is equipped with the Nvidia GeForce RTX 5080, enhancing graphics performance over the previous version’s RTX 5070 Ti.
    3. The Mini LED display option from last year is removed, replaced by a 240 Hz IPS screen with 2.5K resolution and 500 nits peak brightness.
    4. The battery capacity has increased from 90 Wh to 92 Wh, resulting in a slight weight increase to 3.4 kg.
    5. The PHN18-I71 will launch in Africa, Europe, and the Middle East in June, with availability in Australia and North America in July.


    Acer has refreshed the Predator Helios Neo 18 AI, more than a year after it first introduced the PHN18-72 model. Although Nvidia has not released any new laptop GPUs lately, the PHN18-I71 showcases a significant GPU enhancement compared to its earlier version. Additionally, the latest Predator Helios Neo 18 AI features quicker processors as well.

    New Processor Options

    The PHN18-I71 model will come equipped with either the Core Ultra 7 270HX Plus or the Core Ultra 9 290HX Plus. For reference, last year’s PHN18-72 was fitted with the Core Ultra 7 255HX and the Core Ultra 9 275HX. Furthermore, the previous version could be configured with a maximum of the GeForce RTX 5070 Ti (currently priced at $2,444 on Amazon).

    Enhanced Graphics

    In contrast, the upgraded PHN18-I71 pairs these Arrow Lake-HX Plus processors with the Nvidia GeForce RTX 5080. Acer has yet to disclose the maximum power for this GPU. Nonetheless, the previous Predator Helios Neo 18 was capable of delivering up to 140 W with Dynamic Boost.

    Display and Battery Changes

    Interestingly, the Mini LED display option from last year’s version is no longer available. This year, Acer is presenting a 240 Hz IPS screen with a 2.5K resolution, 500 nits peak brightness, 3 ms response time, and complete 100% DCI-P3 color space coverage. On the other hand, the Helios Neo 18’s battery capacity has increased from 90 Wh to 92 Wh, resulting in a weight gain of 200 g, bringing the total to 3.4 kg. The PHN18-I71 is set to launch in Africa, Europe, and the Middle East starting in June, with availability in Australia and North America following in July.

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  • Acer Unveils 16-Inch Gaming Laptops with Intel Arrow Lake-HX CPUs

    Acer Unveils 16-Inch Gaming Laptops with Intel Arrow Lake-HX CPUs

    Key Takeaways

    1. Intel launched new Arrow Lake Plus processors, prompting Acer to update its Predator Helios Neo 16 and 16S AI gaming laptops.
    2. The Helios Neo 16S AI features up to a Core Ultra 9 386H processor and Nvidia GeForce RTX 5070 GPU, replacing older models and priced at $1,459.
    3. Upgrades include Core Ultra 7 270HX Plus and Core Ultra 9 290HX Plus processors, with configurations supporting up to a GeForce RTX 5080 and 64 GB of DDR5-6400 RAM.
    4. The Helios Neo 16 AI has a 165 Hz display while the 16S AI offers a 240 Hz display, both with OLED screens and high resolutions.
    5. Availability in Africa, Europe, and the Middle East starts in June 2026, with Australia seeing the Helios Neo 16 AI, while North America will have both models in July.


    Earlier today, Intel unveiled a new line of Plus-branded Arrow Lake processors. In reaction to this, Acer has updated its Predator Helios Neo 16 AI and Predator Helios Neo 16S AI gaming laptops. Interestingly, the same updates apply to the larger Predator Helios Neo 18 AI, which we have discussed in a different article.

    Processor and Availability

    To give some background, the Helios Neo 16S AI was first introduced at CES 2026 in January, featuring options up to a Core Ultra 9 386H processor along with an Nvidia GeForce RTX 5070 laptop GPU. This model replaces the previous Arrow Lake HX versions (currently priced at $1,459 on Amazon) and was expected to be available between April and June 2026. Meanwhile, Acer has included Arrow Lake-HX Plus options for both the Helios Neo 16S AI and the larger Helios Neo 16 AI.

    Upgrades and Features

    Acer has specifically enhanced these laptops with the Core Ultra 7 270HX Plus and Core Ultra 9 290HX Plus processors. Both models can also be configured with up to a GeForce RTX 5080, which is an improvement over the Panther Lake-powered Helios Neo 16S AI. Additionally, Acer has outfitted its new 16-inch gaming laptops with 92 Wh batteries and can support up to 64 GB of DDR5-6400 RAM.

    Display and Release Dates

    However, the Helios Neo 16 AI comes with a 165 Hz display, while the Helios Neo 16S AI boasts a 240 Hz variant. Both laptops feature OLED screens that provide 2,560 x 1,600-pixel resolutions and cover 100% of the DCI-P3 color space, as well as include Nvidia Advanced Optimus and Nvidia G-Sync technology. Acer has announced that the Predator Helios Neo 16 AI (PHN16-I71) and Predator Helios Neo 16S AI (PHN16S-I71) will be available in Africa, Europe, and the Middle East starting in June. Australia will also get the Helios Neo 16 AI that month, while the 16S AI is set to arrive in July. However, neither laptop will be available in North America until July.

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  • Futurewave O-Boy Smartwatch: Saving Lives, Not Just Counting Steps

    Futurewave O-Boy Smartwatch: Saving Lives, Not Just Counting Steps

    Key Takeaways

    1. Unique design with a curved case and large screen edges, featuring a small round display for an analog clock face.
    2. Emergency call feature via satellite network, independent of smartphones or mobile service.
    3. Durable design, water-resistant, and built to withstand high pressure and falls.
    4. Omits common smartwatch features like notifications, heart rate monitoring, and fitness tracking, focusing solely on time display and emergency use.
    5. Currently a concept, with no confirmed release date or availability in the market.


    The designers at Futurewave, based in Brussels, have created a smartwatch that stands out remarkably with its uniquely curved case and large screen edges, making it quite different from nearly all other smartwatches available today. The watch features a small round display that mainly shows an analog clock face.

    Unique Emergency Feature

    One of the standout aspects is the prominent red button located on the right side of the case, which allows users to make an emergency call through a satellite network. This means the emergency function can operate independently of a smartphone or mobile service. In comparison, the Apple Watch Ultra 3, priced at $862 on Amazon, can also make satellite emergency calls. However, Apple’s premium smartwatch targets a different audience due to its steep price, extensive features, and the need for an iPhone.

    Designed for Durability

    The Futurewave O-Boy is designed to be water-resistant and its casing is built to endure high pressure and falls, ensuring that the emergency calling feature is reliable when it matters most. Unlike standard smartwatches, the O-Boy omits common features like notifications, heart rate monitoring, fitness tracking, or sleep cycle analysis. The design concept focuses solely on displaying the time and saving lives during emergencies.

    The Futurewave O-Boy remains a concept at this time; it’s uncertain if or when it will hit the market. For more details, you can visit the Futurewave website for additional information.

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  • Asus Unveils 2026 ROG Strix G16 and G18 Gaming Laptops

    Asus Unveils 2026 ROG Strix G16 and G18 Gaming Laptops

    Key Takeaways

    1. New Processors and Graphics: ROG Strix G16 and G18 will feature Intel Core Ultra 9 290HX Plus processors and Nvidia GeForce RTX 5080 GPUs, with increased power adapters of up to 380 W.

    2. Enhanced Specs: The laptops will offer 90 Wh batteries, up to 64 GB DDR5-6400 RAM, 2 TB PCIe 4.0 storage, dual Thunderbolt 5 ports, Wi-Fi 7 support, and 2.5 Gigabit LAN.

    3. Display Features: The ROG Strix G18 will have a Mini LED display with over 2,000 local dimming zones, while the G16 will feature a 2.5K, 300 Hz IPS display.

    4. Weight and Dimensions: The G16 weighs 2.7 kg, and the G18 weighs 3.5 kg, with respective dimensions of 354 x 264 x 226~304 mm and 399 x 294 x 231~320 mm.

    5. Color Options: Both models will be available in Eclipse Grey and Volt Green, but pricing and availability details are still pending.


    Over a year has gone by since Asus introduced the ROG Strix G16 and ROG Strix G18 gaming laptops, currently priced at $2,569 on Amazon. With the new Intel Arrow Lake-HX Plus processors now out, Asus has decided to upgrade both laptops with enhancements in several aspects. It’s worth noting that the ROG Strix Scar 18 is also getting similar updates.

    New Processors and Graphics

    Asus has stated that the ROG Strix G16 and G18 will come equipped with options for up to the Core Ultra 9 290HX Plus and the Nvidia GeForce RTX 5080 laptop GPU. These models will also include power adapters that provide up to 380 W. This is a 100 W increase from last year’s versions, suggesting that Asus’ 2026 models will deliver more power to the CPUs and GPUs compared to the 2025 ones.

    Enhanced Specs

    In addition to that, Asus will be offering 90 Wh batteries and up to 64 GB of DDR5-6400 RAM spread across two SO-DIMM slots. There will also be 2 TB of PCIe 4.0 storage available, along with dual Thunderbolt 5 ports and Wi-Fi 7 support. Not to mention, the 2.5 Gigabit LAN and tool-free access are returning too. Furthermore, Asus continues to outfit its 16-inch and 18-inch gaming laptops with full-surround RGB light bars for a more immersive experience.

    Display Features

    However, it’s only the ROG Strix G18 that will have a Mini LED display. This display boasts over 2,000 local dimming zones and appears to be the same 240 Hz panel from last year’s version. Meanwhile, the ROG Strix G16 is back with a 2.5K and 300 Hz IPS display.

    For context, the ROG Strix G16 weighs 2.7 kg and has dimensions of 354 x 264 x 226~304 mm. On the other hand, the larger 18-inch model comes in at 3.5 kg with dimensions of 399 x 294 x 231~320 mm. Asus is planning to release the new ROG Strix G16 and G18 in Eclipse Grey and Volt Green colors as well. However, the company has yet to confirm pricing or availability for various markets.

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