Author: GizNews

  • Asus ROG Strix Scar 18: 2026 Gaming Laptop Preview and Features

    Asus ROG Strix Scar 18: 2026 Gaming Laptop Preview and Features

    Key Takeaways

    1. The new ROG Strix Scar 18 is set to release in Q2 2026, following the reveal of its 2025 version at CES 2025.
    2. It will feature the Intel Core Ultra 9 290HX Plus processor, announced alongside new Arrow Lake-HX Plus processors.
    3. The 2026 model is expected to utilize Nvidia’s GeForce RTX 5090 laptop GPU more effectively than the 2025 version.
    4. Asus claims that the 2026 model has a significantly higher total system TDP compared to its predecessor.
    5. Pricing and availability details for the new model are currently unknown, with more specifications to be revealed in the coming months.

    A new ROG Strix Scar 18 is coming soon. To give some background, Asus revealed its 2025 version at CES 2025 in January of that year. The company shared pricing a month after the announcement, but it wasn’t until April that the 18-inch gaming laptop could be ordered, currently priced at $2,699 on Amazon. In contrast, a new version of the ROG Strix Scar 18 was not present at this year’s CES.

    New Processors Announced

    This absence seems to be related to Intel’s recent announcement of new Arrow Lake-HX Plus processors. Today, Asus confirmed that the ROG Strix Scar 18 will feature the option of the Core Ultra 9 290HX Plus processor. For more information on Intel’s latest flagship Arrow Lake processor, check out our launch article.

    Improved Performance Expected

    Asus also mentioned that the latest Scar will utilize Nvidia’s GeForce RTX 5090 laptop GPU more effectively than the 2025 version. For context, the 2025 model provides up to 175 W power to its GPU, including 25 W from Dynamic Boost, which is currently believed to be the maximum Total Graphics Power (TGP) for the GPU.

    However, Asus asserts that the 2026 model “has a significantly higher total system TDP compared to the 2025 version.” Pricing and availability details are still unknown at this point. Additionally, Asus has hinted that more hardware specifications will be revealed “in the coming months,” with a release expected in Q2 2026. Meanwhile, the company has introduced new ROG Strix 16 and ROG Strix 18 gaming laptops.

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  • Asus Launches NUC 16 Pro Mini-PC with Intel Panther Lake Processor

    Asus Launches NUC 16 Pro Mini-PC with Intel Panther Lake Processor

    Key Takeaways

    1. Asus launched the NUC 16 Pro mini-PC, replacing the NUC 15 Pro, with a new design and dimensions of 144 x 117 x 42 mm.
    2. The NUC 16 Pro offers processor options including the Core Ultra X9, but currently features a variant with Core Ultra 7 356H and Intel Graphics 4 Xe3 priced at $999.
    3. A new variant with Core Ultra X7 358H and Arc B390 GPU is available in China, priced at CNY 10,999 (about $1,597), featuring 32 GB RAM and 1 TB storage.
    4. The NUC 16 Pro includes dual M.2 2280 PCIe Gen 5 slots and has different RAM configurations based on the model.
    5. Asus is expected to expand the NUC 16 Pro lineup throughout 2026, with more options and announcements to come.

    Asus has just launched a stronger model of its newest mini-PC. Unveiled in January at CES 2026, the NUC 16 Pro takes the place of the NUC 15 Pro, which is currently priced at $1,139 on Amazon, and comes equipped with Intel’s Panther Lake processors. The new NUC 16 Pro features a refreshed design, boasting a broader shape with dimensions of 144 x 117 x 42 mm.

    Processor Options

    At first, Asus had mentioned that the NUC 16 Pro would come with options for up to a Core Ultra X9 Series 3 processor and an Arc B390 integrated GPU. However, just earlier this month, they rolled out a version with only the Core Ultra 7 356H. This variant, priced at $999, has the less powerful Intel Graphics 4 Xe3, which includes 4 GPU cores.

    New Variants Released

    While we’re still looking forward to the Core Ultra X9 388H model, Asus has also introduced a Core Ultra X7 358H version that features the more capable Arc B390 integrated GPU. Currently, this model is only available in China and comes with 32 GB of RAM and 1 TB of storage, priced at CNY 10,999 (about $1,597). It also includes a Wi-Fi 7 modem and dual Thunderbolt 4 ports.

    Asus has pointed out that this model includes soldered LPDDR5X-9600 RAM and offers dual M.2 2280 PCIe Gen 5 slots. On the other hand, the barebones configuration with the Core Ultra 7 356H available in the US supports CSO-DIMM RAM and both M.2 2242 and M.2 2280 SSDs. Sadly, there are no updates on when it will be available globally. Based on past trends, it seems likely that Asus will gradually expand its NUC 16 Pro series throughout 2026.

    Conclusion

    This new lineup shows Asus’s commitment to enhancing its mini-PC offerings, and consumers can expect more options as the year progresses. Keep an eye out for future announcements and releases related to the NUC 16 Pro models.

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  • Xiaomi Launches New Compact Smart Washing Machine

    Xiaomi Launches New Compact Smart Washing Machine

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Xiaomi Mijia Washing Machine Top-Loading 10kg has a compact design, occupying only 0.3 m² of space.
    2. It features smart connectivity with HyperOS Connect, allowing remote control and integration with other Xiaomi smart home devices.
    3. The washing machine offers 10 different washing modes, including a special cycle for wool, and adjusts water levels based on load size.
    4. It boasts a 100% mite removal rate and a Level 1 energy efficiency rating in China.
    5. Priced at CNY 799 (~$115), availability outside of China is currently uncertain.

    The Xiaomi Mijia Washing Machine Top-Loading 10kg has just been introduced in China. This laundry machine features a sleek, rounded design and is quite compact, taking up a space of 0.3 m² (~3.2 ft²).

    Smart Connectivity

    The Xiaomi Mijia Washing Machine Top-Loading can easily connect with other smart home gadgets from Xiaomi, using HyperOS Connect. This allows the Xiao AI voice assistant to inform you when your laundry is done, and it can also turn on the smart lights in your laundry area automatically. Users have the option to monitor and control the washing machine remotely through the brand’s app. Alternatively, you can change the settings directly using the touch control panel on the machine.

    Washing Features

    The Mijia Washing Machine Top-Loading comes with 10 different washing modes, which includes a special cycle for wool. The machine can smartly adjust the water level based on how much laundry you load in. It is also claimed to have a 100% mite removal rate and has received a Level 1 energy efficiency rating in China. Its capacity of 10 kg allows for washing up to 45 t-shirts, 12 pairs of jeans, or 4 sets of bedding at once.

    Pricing and Availability

    Xiaomi is offering the Mijia Washing Machine Top-Loading 10kg in China for CNY 799 (~$115). It is still unclear whether this model will be made available in Europe in the future. Back in 2025, they launched the Mijia Washer Dryer Pro 9kg in several countries, including Germany (currently at €499 at the Xiaomi Store).

    Xiaomi Youpin, ITHome.

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  • Citizen Star Wars Watch: New Collaboration with Black Dial

    Citizen Star Wars Watch: New Collaboration with Black Dial

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Citizen Star Wars Duel watch (model AW0160-09W) features designs of Luke Skywalker and Darth Vader with red and blue accents representing their lightsabers.
    2. It has a brushed stainless steel casing measuring 42 mm and an engraved back with the phrase “It is your destiny.”
    3. The watch operates on a J800 movement with Eco-Drive technology, allowing it to charge from indoor and outdoor light.
    4. It includes time display with three analog hands, as well as day and date features, and has a water resistance rating of 100 meters.
    5. Priced at $350, the watch is currently “Temporarily out of stock” on Amazon US, with a potential release before Father’s Day in June 2026.

    The Citizen Star Wars Duel watch has been seen at a retailer in the US, although it hasn’t been officially released yet. Known as model AW0160-09W, this watch will be part of the Citizen x Star Wars collaboration, which is also set to introduce a new Mandalorian model soon.

    Design Features

    This watch features a black dial adorned with silver outlines of Luke Skywalker and Darth Vader, who are iconic for their duel in Cloud City from The Empire Strikes Back. The watch includes red and blue accents, reflecting the colors of the lightsabers used during their epic battle. It’s encased in a brushed stainless steel casing that measures 42 mm (about 1.65 inches) in diameter, while the back of the case is engraved with “It is your destiny” and two lightsabers.

    Technical Specifications

    The Citizen Star Wars Duel watch (model AW0160-09W) displays the time with three analog hands and also includes day and date features. It operates on a J800 movement and uses Eco-Drive technology, which allows it to charge using both indoor and outdoor light. Furthermore, it has a water resistance rating of 100 meters and is fitted with a black leather strap.

    Availability and Pricing

    At the official Citizen store on Amazon US, the Star Wars Duel AW0160-09W watch is priced at $350, although it’s currently listed as “Temporarily out of stock.” While there’s no confirmed release date for this watch, the product description hints that it could be an excellent Father’s Day gift, suggesting a launch before mid-June 2026.

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  • Unique Exoplanet Found 35 Light-Years Away from Earth

    Unique Exoplanet Found 35 Light-Years Away from Earth

    Key Takeaways

    1. The TESS satellite aids in discovering new exoplanets, like the rocky super-Earth.
    2. L 98-59 d, a unique exoplanet, is located 35 light-years from Earth and is 1.6 times the radius of Earth.
    3. Researchers used the James Webb Space Telescope to study L 98-59 d’s density and atmosphere.
    4. L 98-59 d has a dense atmosphere and a vast ocean of magma beneath it.
    5. The upcoming PLATO space telescope aims to find more rocky exoplanets and enhance our understanding of them.

    Observing the cosmos in search of new planets enables astronomers to make numerous findings. A recent example is the TESS satellite, which played a role in discovering a rocky super-Earth in a different star system.

    A Unique Exoplanet

    Recently, scientists shared a paper in Nature Astronomy that features a remarkable exoplanet. Named L 98-59 d, this planet is part of a system that includes four other exoplanets and is situated around 35 light-years from Earth. Its radius is approximately 1.6 times that of our planet, yet its density is lower. Astronomers initially thought that this exoplanet possessed a very thick atmosphere along with a small rocky core.

    Unveiling the Mystery

    To explore the secrets of its density, researchers employed the James Webb Space Telescope, revealing that this planet is truly one of a kind. L 98-59 d is cloaked in a dense atmosphere that envelops a vast ocean of magma beneath. Remarkably, studies indicate that this atmosphere plays a crucial role in the creation of this molten ocean.

    Even though many enigmas about L 98-59 d are still waiting to be solved, scientists are optimistic that there are several similar planets scattered throughout different galaxies. With the help of various tools, astronomers can locate these worlds. The upcoming PLATO space telescope is expected to launch soon, and it may uncover new rocky exoplanets across the universe, allowing scientists to gain more insight into them.

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  • Casio Launches New Monochrome G-Shock Watch with Metallic Dial

    Casio Launches New Monochrome G-Shock Watch with Metallic Dial

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Casio G-Shock GMAP2126W-8A watch honors International Women’s Day 2026 and is available globally.
    2. The pricing is $145 in the U.S. and €129 in select European countries.
    3. It features an analog-digital design, accurate within 15 seconds monthly, with a hands shift feature for visibility.
    4. The watch includes functions like a countdown timer, stopwatch, alarms, and can set time zones for 48 cities.
    5. It has a dark gray resin case, dimensions of 46.0 x 40.5 x 11.3 mm, and is water resistant up to 200 m.

    The Casio G-Shock GMAP2126W-8A watch is now available globally. Known also as model GMA-P2126W-8A, it honors International Women’s Day 2026 and was introduced earlier this year.

    Pricing and Availability

    You can purchase the Casio G-Shock GMAP2126W-8A from the company’s online store in the United States for $145. Likewise, in European nations such as the Netherlands, Spain, and Germany, this hybrid model can be bought directly from the brand for €129.

    Features and Specifications

    The Casio G-Shock GMAP2126W-8A features an analog-digital design, showcasing two analog hands on a dark gray metallic dial adorned with golden accents. It’s reported to maintain accuracy within 15 seconds monthly, and a hands shift feature keeps the digital display visible. The screen provides date and day of the week info. Additionally, this model includes functions like a countdown timer, a stopwatch accurate to 1/100th of a second, alarms, and hourly chimes. Users can select from 48 cities to set the time zone. Importantly, the watch is water resistant up to 200 m.

    Design and Size

    The G-Shock GMAP2126W-8A’s face is framed by a dark gray resin case and comes with a matching strap. Its dimensions are 46.0 x 40.5 x 11.3 mm (~1.81 x 1.59 x 0.44 inches), and it has a weight of 41 g (~1.45 oz). It remains uncertain if or when the Casio G-Shock GMAP2126W-8A will officially launch in the UK.

    Casio’s

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  • New TCL Q9M Pro SQD-Mini LED TV with 300Hz Refresh Rate Released

    New TCL Q9M Pro SQD-Mini LED TV with 300Hz Refresh Rate Released

    Key Takeaways

    1. The TCL Q9M Pro SQD-Mini LED TV has been launched in China, available in five sizes: 55”, 65”, 75”, 85”, and 98”.
    2. It features a 4K resolution with a native refresh rate of 150 Hz, upgradeable to 300 Hz, and achieves 100% coverage of the BT.2020 color range.
    3. The 98” model offers impressive peak brightness of 5,000 nits (XDR) and has 3,552 dimming zones, enhancing picture quality compared to its predecessor.
    4. The TV includes four HDMI 2.1 ports, Wi-Fi 6 compatibility, and retains the integrated 2.2.1 sound system from Onkyo.
    5. Pricing starts at CNY 6,199 (~$891) for the 55” model, reaching CNY 19,999 (~$2,875) for the 98” version, with no current plans for release in markets like the US.

    The TCL Q9M Pro SQD-Mini LED TV has been officially introduced in China. This fresh model comes out alongside the Max163M and Max163M Pro TV models. It serves as an upgrade to the earlier Q9L Pro QD-Mini LED TV, which made its debut in the market in 2025. Buyers can select from five different sizes: 55”, 65”, 75”, 85” and 98”.

    Specifications and Features

    The Q9M Pro from TCL is a 4K television that boasts a native refresh rate of 150 Hz, which can be enhanced to 300 Hz. When comparing it to the Q9L Pro, the newer Q9M Pro provides improved color performance, achieving 100% coverage of the BT.2020 color range. The 55” version features 800 dimming zones, while the 98” model impressively has 3,552 zones. The peak brightness for this larger model reaches 5,000 nits (XDR), surpassing the predecessor’s 4,500 nits (XDR). Additional features include MEMC motion smoothing, as well as compatibility with Dolby Vision, HDR10+, and AMD FreeSync Premium Pro.

    Connectivity and Sound

    As per the product details, the TCL Q9M Pro incorporates the brand’s Spirit Control System 3.0. Furthermore, it retains the same integrated 2.2.1 sound system from Onkyo found in the Q9L Pro. In terms of connections, it includes four HDMI 2.1 ports and is compatible with Wi-Fi 6.

    In the Chinese market, the starting price for the TCL Q9M Pro SQD-Mini LED TV is CNY 6,199 (~$891) for the 55” model, while the price escalates to CNY 19,999 (~$2,875) for the 98” version. The company has not yet revealed any intentions to extend this model to other regions, such as the US, where they are currently offering the 2026 X11L QD-Mini LED TV (85” priced at $7,998 on Amazon).

    Market Release

    JD.com and ITHome have provided listings for the new TV, generating interest among consumers seeking the latest technology. The enhancements in the Q9M Pro suggest a strong competition in the LED TV market, promising a great viewing experience for potential buyers.

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  • Nvidia Targets Tesla and SpaceX with Uber BYD Robotaxi AI Chips

    Nvidia Targets Tesla and SpaceX with Uber BYD Robotaxi AI Chips

    Key Takeaways

    1. Nvidia has expanded its Drive Hyperion platform, attracting major clients like Uber, BYD, Hyundai, and Kia, challenging Tesla’s dominance in the autonomous vehicle market.

    2. The Alpamayo 1.5 system utilizes a Vision-Language-Action model to enhance autonomous driving capabilities, differing from Tesla’s fully integrated FSD stack.

    3. Nvidia’s growing influence in the autonomous driving sector may impact Tesla’s market valuation, which heavily relies on its leadership in this area.

    4. Nvidia plans to produce chips for orbital data centers, potentially competing with SpaceX’s ambitions in space-based AI infrastructure.

    5. The Vera Rubin Space-1 chips by Nvidia aim to process data in orbit, addressing challenges like cooling systems in space, similar to hurdles SpaceX may face.

    While Elon Musk has claimed he isn’t overly concerned about Nvidia’s plug-and-play self-driving system, Alpamayo, the tech behemoth has recently secured some of the biggest names in the EV and ride-sharing industries as clients.

    Nvidia’s Bold Move

    During GTC 2026, Nvidia’s CEO Jensen Huang revealed a broadened list of collaborators for the Drive Hyperion platform, indicating a clear challenge to Tesla’s supremacy in the robotaxi market. Leading this initiative is Uber, which plans to roll out 100,000 Level 4 autonomous vehicles across 28 global cities on four continents, kicking off with San Francisco and Los Angeles in early 2027.

    A New Approach to Autonomous Driving

    While Tesla depends on its fully integrated FSD stack, Nvidia is countering with Alpamayo 1.5, a public “Physical AI” ecosystem. Instead of directly linking sensors to commands, Alpamayo uses a Vision-Language-Action (VLA) model that Nvidia asserts has 10 billion parameters and can “think out loud.” At the event, Nvidia showcased Alpamayo 1.5, enhancing the system’s functionality “with an interactive, steerable reasoning model,” and announced it has attracted several clients for the Hyperion autonomous driving platform, including the largest EV manufacturer, BYD, along with Hyundai and Kia.

    Impact on Tesla’s Market Position

    A significant portion of Tesla’s lofty market capitalization depends on its ability to maintain leadership in autonomous driving and robotaxi sectors. Nvidia’s strategy to make these fields more accessible, especially with clients like Uber and BYD, could potentially influence Tesla’s market valuation.

    Nvidia also declared plans to produce chips for orbital data centers, which may intrude on SpaceX’s territory. Just recently, Elon Musk’s company hinted at its intention to deploy AI data center infrastructure in space to harness solar energy without overtaxing Earth’s power grids.

    Advancements in Space Technology

    Nvidia’s “Vera Rubin Space-1” chips are designed to process data directly in orbit, cutting out the delay of transmitting raw data back to Earth. While Musk envisions vertical integration between Starlink and xAI, Nvidia is positioning itself as the “brains” for various other orbital startups, including Planet Labs and NASA.

    “Of course, in space there’s no conduction, no convection; there’s just radiation, so we have to figure out how to cool these systems in space, but we’ve got loads of amazing engineers working on it,” joked Huang. These hurdles are the same ones SpaceX will encounter, so it will either need to compete with Nvidia in AI chip creation or become a client for its Vera Rubin Space-1 chips.

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  • Study Reveals Little Red Dots as Hosts for Early Organic Chemistry

    Study Reveals Little Red Dots as Hosts for Early Organic Chemistry

    Key Takeaways

    1. The James Webb Space Telescope discovered tiny red objects called LRDs, which are small proto-galaxies from the early universe.
    2. Many LRDs contain massive black holes, potentially millions of times heavier than the Sun, despite their small size.
    3. LRDs exhibit weak radiation and maintain calm, dust-rich environments, unlike typical energetic galaxies with strong black holes.
    4. The Central Molecular Zone (CMZ) around the Milky Way’s center is similar to LRDs, with dense gas clouds and low radiation levels.
    5. Scientists believe LRDs might contain complex organic molecules, hinting at similar chemistry to that found in our solar system.

    The James Webb Space Telescope has uncovered puzzling tiny red objects in its images of the early universe, showcasing its skill to look back in time. These red objects, known as LRDs, are small proto-galaxies that existed when the universe was still young. They are incredibly small, measuring only a few hundred light-years across, and appear as tiny reddish dots in the photographs.

    Surprising Black Holes

    Interestingly, many LRDs harbor massive black holes, potentially millions of times heavier than the Sun. This is unexpected because the galaxies themselves are so small, and the central black hole makes up just a tiny part of the galaxy’s overall mass. A prime example would be Sagittarius A*, which hosts a black hole that weighs 4 million solar masses.

    Calm and Dusty Environments

    These proto-galaxies are anticipated to be highly energetic due to their large black holes, which typically emit strong X-rays, powerful jets, and intense radiation. However, they surprisingly exhibit weak high radiation and maintain a tranquil, dust-rich environment. This resembles the center of the Milky Way, where Sagittarius A-star is located.

    A region known as the Central Molecular Zone (CMZ) encircles the galactic center. It is home to dense gas clouds, significant amounts of cosmic dust, and cold molecular materials. This environment is particularly favorable for chemical reactions due to the low levels of radiation. Complex organic molecules, like nitriles, have also been found in the G+0.693-0.027 cloud.

    Scientists think that many organic molecules in our solar system formed in interstellar clouds, suggesting that LRDs might also possess similar chemistry. This makes their surroundings a prime location for the creation of complex organic molecules.

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  • Samsung Unveils Entry-Level Smartphone with 6000mAh Battery

    Samsung Unveils Entry-Level Smartphone with 6000mAh Battery

    Key Takeaways

    1. Samsung launched the budget-friendly Galaxy M17e smartphone in India with a MediaTek Dimensity 6300 chipset.
    2. The device offers up to 6 GB of RAM, 128 GB of internal storage, and expandable storage up to 1 TB via microSD.
    3. It runs on Android 16-based One UI 8.0 and promises 6 years of major OS updates and security updates until 2032.
    4. The Galaxy M17e features a dual rear camera system (50 MP main and 2 MP depth sensor) and an 8 MP front camera, with a 6,000 mAh battery supporting 25 W charging.
    5. The smartphone is priced at INR 12,999 ($140) for the 4 GB model and INR 14,499 ($160) for the 6 GB model, available in Vibe Violet and Blitz Blue colors.

    Samsung has introduced a new budget-friendly smartphone to the M-series lineup, named the Galaxy M17e, in India. Even though it comes at a low cost, this new device offers a compelling range of features. Specifically, the Galaxy M17e utilizes a MediaTek Dimensity 6300 chipset, which is coupled with up to 6 GB of RAM and 128 GB of internal storage. Users can also expand storage by an extra 1 TB via a microSD card slot.

    Software and Updates

    On the software front, the smartphone is equipped with Android 16-based One UI 8.0 right out of the box. Samsung has committed to providing 6 years of major Android OS updates (up to Android 22) and security updates until the year 2032. This approach is quite similar to what Xiaomi offered with its new Xiaomi 17 Ultra camera phone. This time, Samsung has included an LCD display in the Galaxy M17e, which boasts an HD+ resolution and a refresh rate of up to 120 Hz.

    Design and Camera Features

    In terms of dimensions, the smartphone has a thickness of 8.2 mm and comes with an IP54 rating for water resistance. Additionally, it features a dual rear camera system that includes a 50 MP main camera and a 2 MP depth sensor. On the front, there’s an 8 MP camera for selfies and video calls.

    The Galaxy M17e also comes loaded with a side-mounted fingerprint sensor, a 3.5 mm headphone jack, WiFi, Bluetooth 5.3, GPS, and a substantial 6,000 mAh battery that supports 25 W wired charging.

    Pricing and Availability

    The Samsung Galaxy M17e 5G is available in two stylish colors, Vibe Violet and Blitz Blue. The starting price for the base model with 4 GB of RAM and 128 GB of storage is INR 12,999 ($140), while the 6 GB of RAM and 128 GB storage variant is priced at INR 14,499 ($160).

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