Author: GizNews

  • Casio G-Shock Mudmaster GG-B100X Quad Sensor Now in More Countries

    Casio G-Shock Mudmaster GG-B100X Quad Sensor Now in More Countries

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Casio G-Shock Master of G GG-B100X watch collection is now available in Europe, featuring three out of five models online.
    2. The GG-B100X-1A and GG-B100X-1A3 models are priced at €399.00, while the GG-B100XM-1A model is priced at €419.00.
    3. These watches are highly durable, resistant to shocks, mud, and water depths of up to 200 m, and include Quad Sensor technology.
    4. Additional features include world time support, sunrise/sunset tracking, multiple alarms, a stopwatch, countdown timer, and Bluetooth connectivity.
    5. Stock for the GG-B100X-1A model in the EU is nearly depleted, and it’s unclear why only three models are released in Europe.

    The Casio G-Shock Master of G GG-B100X watch collection is now more easily accessible across Europe. This lineup, featuring five distinct watches, first made its debut in the UK around mid-February before making its way to the US market.

    Availability in Europe

    Currently, three out of the five models can be found at the brand’s online shops in various European countries, including the Netherlands, France, and Germany. The GG-B100X-1A (black) and the GG-B100X-1A3 (black/khaki) models, both sporting carbon bezels and cases made from carbon fiber-reinforced resin, are priced at €399.00 each. In contrast, the GG-B100XM-1A (black/silver), which features a stainless steel bezel, comes with a higher price tag of €419.00.

    Features and Durability

    The Casio G-Shock GG-B100X watches are built to be super durable, capable of handling tough conditions. They are designed to resist shocks, mud, and can even endure water depths of up to 200 m. Each model is outfitted with the brand’s Quad Sensor technology, which includes a digital compass, altimeter/barometer, thermometer, and step counter. Moreover, Bluetooth connectivity allows users to access their mission logs through the Casio Watches app.

    Additional Functions

    Among the many features of the Casio GG-B100X are world time support, sunrise/sunset tracking, and multiple daily alarms. The watch also offers a 1/100th second stopwatch, countdown timer, and hourly signals. This hybrid model showcases three analog hands along with a digital display, and it comes with a double LED backlight, making it easy to read in any setting.

    It’s important to mention that stock for the Casio G-Shock GG-B100X-1A is nearly depleted in the EU. It remains unclear why Casio has chosen to release only these three models of the Master of G watch in Europe, instead of all five versions.

    Casio’s

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  • New 4-Inch Rugged Smartphone: 120Hz Display & 48MP Camera

    New 4-Inch Rugged Smartphone: 120Hz Display & 48MP Camera

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Fossibot F116 Pro is a compact rugged smartphone with a 4-inch display and a 120 Hz refresh rate.
    2. It is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 7300 SoC, featuring 12 GB of RAM and storage options up to 256 GB.
    3. The smartphone has a 50 MP main camera, a 48 MP ultra-wide camera with a 152.6° field-of-view, and a 32 MP front camera.
    4. The F116 Pro boasts IP68, IP69K, and MIL-STD-810 certifications for durability, with a 3,700 mAh battery and fast charging features.
    5. The crowdfunding campaign starts on March 17, 2026, with a retail price of $499, but early backers can get it for as low as $279 on launch day.

    Compact smartphone fans are running out of choices in 2026. Still, some lesser-known brands keep offering unique compact models, like the Fossibot F116 Pro, a rugged smartphone.

    Size and Display

    The F116 Pro features a small 4-inch screen and measures approximately 4.5 x 2.36 x 0.9 inches. Being rugged, this smartphone is thicker than most, which is expected. It has a display resolution of 540 x 1172, providing a pixel density of 322. The 120 Hz refresh rate is a nice addition for smoother visuals.

    Due to its small size, the F116 Pro might not be the best choice for gaming, despite its appealing display.

    Performance and Specs

    Powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 7300 SoC, this entry-level chip features an 8-core design that offers decent multicore performance. While it’s not a high-performance device, it should manage daily tasks quite well. The phone comes with 12 GB of RAM and offers storage options of up to 256 GB.

    On the back, there’s a 50 MP main camera. The standout feature is a 48 MP ultra-wide camera with an impressive 152.6° field-of-view and hardware image stabilization. A dedicated button for the camera allows quick access. For selfie lovers, there’s a 32 MP camera on the front. The smartphone also has a built-in mount, making it easy to attach to a tripod.

    Durability and Features

    Being rugged, the F116 Pro has IP68, IP69K, and MIL-STD-810 certifications, allowing it to withstand drops of up to 1.5 meters. Other important features include a 3,700 mAh battery with 33-watt charging and 10-watt reverse charging, dual SIM slots, a fingerprint scanner, plus support for WiFi 6 and Bluetooth 5.4.

    The Fossibot F116 Pro is set to kick off its crowdfunding campaign on March 17, with deliveries starting on April 25, 2026. It will retail for $499, but early backers can get it for $339. Additionally, the first 1,000 early birds can snag it for just $279 on launch day.

    For those who want a rugged smartphone without the compact size, the Fossibot F113 is also an option, currently priced at $360 on Amazon.

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  • Redmi Smart TV A50 4K: Energy Efficient with 144Hz Refresh Rate

    Redmi Smart TV A50 4K: Energy Efficient with 144Hz Refresh Rate

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Redmi Smart TV A50 Energy Saving Edition features a 50-inch 4K UHD display with a resolution of 3840 × 2160 and a refresh rate of 144Hz.
    2. It is powered by a quad-core processor, has 2GB of RAM, and offers 32GB of internal storage.
    3. The TV includes dual 10W speakers with a bass boost feature and various connectivity options, including 2 HDMI ports and USB-A ports.
    4. It has a power consumption of 75W and is rated level 1 on the China Energy Efficiency scale.
    5. The retail price is ¥1399 (~$203/€177) and it is currently available in China, with no plans for release in other markets announced.

    Following the introduction of the Redmi Smart TV A75 Energy Saving Edition last December, Xiaomi has now revealed a compact version that boasts an improved energy efficiency rating. This new model, called the Redmi Smart TV A50 Energy Saving Edition, features a 50-inch display yet retains several characteristics from the larger 75-inch variant.

    Display and Performance

    The Redmi Smart TV A50 Energy Saving Edition is equipped with a 4K UHD display (3840 × 2160 resolution) and a refresh rate of 144Hz. It includes a True Color panel capable of displaying up to 1.07 billion colors, all framed in a sturdy metal body. Under the hood, the TV runs on an unnamed quad-core processor featuring Cortex-A35 cores and a Mali G31 MP2 GPU. Additionally, it comes with 2GB of RAM and 32GB of internal storage.

    Audio and Connectivity

    For sound, the Redmi Smart TV A50 Energy Saving Edition has dual 10W speakers that fire from the bottom and come with a bass boost feature. In terms of connectivity, it includes 2 USB-A ports, an ethernet port, an S/PDIF port, AV input, an antenna port, and 2 HDMI ports, with one supporting ARC. It also offers 2.4GHz Wi-Fi and allows screen casting from various devices, including mobile phones running Android and iOS, as well as computers that use Windows or macOS.

    Energy Efficiency and Pricing

    This TV has a power consumption of 75W and is rated level 1 on the China Energy Efficiency scale. It runs on HyperOS and includes a control center for managing smart home devices that are compatible.

    The Redmi Smart TV A50 Energy Saving Edition is priced at ¥1399 (~$203/€177) and is currently available for purchase from the Youpin store in China. Xiaomi has not disclosed any plans for releasing the TV in other markets.

    Xiaomi Youpin

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  • Spotify Taste Profile Beta: Premium Users Customize Recommendations

    Spotify Taste Profile Beta: Premium Users Customize Recommendations

    Key Takeaways

    1. Spotify has launched a new feature called “Taste Profile” for Premium subscribers in New Zealand, currently in beta form.
    2. Taste Profile allows users to actively tailor their music recommendations based on personal preferences and changing habits.
    3. Users can modify their preferences as often as they like or continue using Spotify without changes, impacting personalized suggestions.
    4. The feature addresses issues with recommendation algorithms by providing a broader view of users’ musical tastes beyond just their listening history.
    5. Taste Profile is part of Spotify’s effort to enhance personalization and AI-driven recommendations, with no current timeline for global release.

    Spotify has unveiled a new feature called “Taste Profile” that provides certain users with a more hands-on approach to tailoring their recommendations for Discover Weekly, Wrapped, and other customized options. The feature is currently being launched in beta form exclusively for Premium subscribers in New Zealand.

    Enhancing User Experience

    Spotify states that the Taste Profile aims to improve beyond just passive listening behavior by allowing users to share more details about their music preferences. This tool can adapt to changing tastes and habits, such as needing more energetic tracks for exercising or seeking out additional news podcasts during commutes on weekdays.

    Personalization Control

    Taste Profile is described by Spotify as a means for users to “shape” the algorithm that generates personalized suggestions. The company emphasizes that listeners have the option to modify their preferences as often as they like or simply continue their usual Spotify usage without making changes. This feature is intended to affect recommendations related to Spotify’s personalization system, which includes playlists and annual summaries.

    Addressing Feedback

    This initiative seems to tackle a long-standing issue with recommendation algorithms: they can be influenced by brief listening trends or by content that doesn’t accurately represent a user’s typical preferences. Spotify particularly highlights this feature as a way to capture a broader view of a user’s musical tastes beyond just their play history.

    Currently, Spotify has revealed that Taste Profile is in beta for Premium subscribers in New Zealand and is not yet available on a global scale. Reports from SXSW suggest that this feature was introduced as part of Spotify’s larger effort to enhance personalization and implement AI-driven recommendation features.

    Due to this limited rollout, the majority of Spotify users will not have immediate access to Taste Profile. As of the information available, Spotify has not provided a specific timeline for when it will be released internationally.

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  • Garmin Smartwatch with Cellular Now Cheaper in More Countries

    Garmin Smartwatch with Cellular Now Cheaper in More Countries

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has reduced the price of the MicroLED version of the Fenix 8 Pro in multiple regions, including the US, Europe, and the UK.
    2. The new price for the Fenix 8 Pro MicroLED in the US is $1,699, which reflects a $300 decrease from the previous price.
    3. In Europe, the price has lowered to €1,799 from €2,099, making it €500 more expensive than the AMOLED version.
    4. In the UK, the MicroLED version now costs £1,499.99, with a £300 difference between the MicroLED and AMOLED models.
    5. Garmin has not announced these price changes as temporary, suggesting that the new prices are permanent.

    Garmin has recently lowered the price of the MicroLED version of the Fenix 8 Pro in more regions. Just to remind you, last month the company reduced the price by $300 in the United States. Although Garmin hasn’t made a formal announcement about this, the new price of $1,699 has been in effect ever since.

    Price Changes in Europe

    Now, a month later, Garmin has quietly adjusted the price of its sole MicroLED smartwatch in Europe as well. For example, the Fenix 8 Pro is now available for €1,799 in the Eurozone, a decrease from the previous price of €2,099 that was set when the device launched last September. This means that the MicroLED model now costs €500 more than its AMOLED version, which is currently listed for $1,199.99 on Amazon.

    Updates in the UK Market

    In the UK, there is now a £300 difference between the two Fenix 8 Pro models, with the MicroLED version dropping to £1,499.99. It appears that these new prices are here to stay, as Garmin has not indicated that they are temporary sales. It’s important to note that Garmin only offers the Fenix 8 Pro MicroLED in a 51 mm size. You can find additional information about the Fenix 8 Pro and its optional 4,500-nit display in our launch article.

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  • Apple AirPods Max 2: 50% Better ANC, HDR Amplifier & New Features

    Apple AirPods Max 2: 50% Better ANC, HDR Amplifier & New Features

    Key Takeaways

    1. Design and Comfort: The AirPods Max 2 resemble the original design with aluminum ear cups and a mesh headband for weight distribution, weighing 386 grams.

    2. Controls and Battery Life: Features a digital crown for volume and playback control, lacks a power button, and has a battery life of 20 hours with active noise cancellation.

    3. Improved Noise Cancellation: The new version claims 50% more effective active noise cancellation compared to the original.

    4. Audio Quality Enhancements: Supports reduced Bluetooth latency, 24-bit 48 kHz high-fidelity music via USB-C, and improved sound processing with an HDR amplifier.

    5. Release Information: Pre-orders start on March 25, with deliveries in early April, available in various colors at a price of $549.

    The Apple AirPods Max 2 bear a close resemblance to the original AirPods Max ($409 on Amazon), with only slight modifications in their design. These over-ear headphones feature large aluminum ear cups, contributing to their hefty weight of 386 grams. To enhance comfort during use, the mesh headband is crafted to distribute this weight across a wider area.

    Features and Functionality

    The digital crown, utilized for managing volume and playback, remains a key feature, and notably, the headphones still lack a power button. A special energy-efficient standby mode is triggered only when the headphones are placed inside the included carrying case. Apple still promotes a rather limited battery life of 20 hours when active noise cancellation is on. However, the ANC on this new version is claimed to be 50 percent more effective than its predecessor.

    Audio Enhancements

    Apple has highlighted reduced Bluetooth latency along with support for 24-bit 48 kHz high-fidelity music when connected through a USB-C cable. An HDR amplifier is said to enhance music processing, allowing for a broader dynamic range and improved sound quality. The H2 chip introduces several new features, such as live translation and Conversation Awareness, which automatically activates transparency mode during conversations.

    Availability and Pricing

    Pre-orders for the AirPods Max 2 will begin on March 25 through the Apple Online Store, with deliveries anticipated to start in early April. These over-ear headphones will come in a variety of colors: blue, purple, starlight (beige), orange, and midnight (black), each priced at a suggested retail price of $549.

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  • Govee Launches Smart Bulbs with 1,600 Lumens Brightness

    Govee Launches Smart Bulbs with 1,600 Lumens Brightness

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Govee Smart Bulb A21 offers a brightness of up to 1,600 lumens and high color accuracy (CRI over 90) with LuminBlend+ technology.

    2. Users can choose from over 16 million colors and adjust the color temperature from 1,000K to 10,000K.

    3. The Govee Home app allows remote control, simultaneous control of multiple bulbs, and access to over 60 preset scene modes, including music sync.

    4. Voice control is available through Amazon Alexa, and the bulbs support the Matter protocol for smart home integration.

    5. Pricing in the US is $49.99 for a two-pack and $89.99 for a four-pack, with a current sale price of $39.99 for the two-pack; in the EU, prices are €29.99 for a one-pack and €49.99 for a two-pack.

    The Govee Smart Bulb A21 has just launched in North America and Europe. In the US, it’s known as the Govee E26 Smart Light Bulb 1600lm, while in Europe, it’s called the Govee Smart Bulb E27 A21 1600lm.

    Brightness and Color Options

    These Govee Smart Bulbs provide impressive brightness of up to 1,600 lumens. They are designed with high color accuracy, boasting a Color Rendering Index (CRI) of over 90, thanks to LuminBlend+ technology. Users can select from more than 16 million colors, and adjust the color temperature ranging from a cozy 1,000K to a cooler 10,000K.

    Remote Control and Features

    Users can control the Govee Smart Bulbs remotely using the Govee Home app, which requires version 1.00.24 to unlock all features. The app allows for simultaneous control of multiple lights and offers over 60 preset scene modes, including options that sync with music. Additionally, these bulbs can be operated using voice commands through Amazon Alexa, and they also support the Matter protocol for integration with various smart home systems.

    Pricing Options

    In the US, the Govee E26 Smart Light Bulb 1600lm is available in two-pack and four-pack options, priced at $49.99 and $89.99, respectively. Currently, the 2-Pack is on sale for $39.99 at Amazon. Meanwhile, in the EU, the official online store offers a 1-Pack for €29.99 and a 2-Pack for €49.99.

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  • Apple Watch Causes Wrist Burns and Scars, Users Face Support Issues

    Apple Watch Causes Wrist Burns and Scars, Users Face Support Issues

    Key Takeaways

    1. Smartwatches, like the Apple Watch, can pose serious risks, including burns from battery malfunctions.
    2. A user reported burns from an overheated Apple Watch, which left a noticeable scar.
    3. Apple initially downplayed the incident, attributing burns to an allergic reaction and failing to follow up on the user’s concerns.
    4. The user faced significant challenges in getting support from Apple, including missed appointments and unresponsive representatives.
    5. Caution is advised when interpreting user reports, as the actual cause of burns remains unclear despite the likelihood of a battery defect.

    A Reddit user has highlighted the risks that smartwatches, including the Apple Watch ($299 on Amazon), can pose if there is a major battery malfunction. On September 24, 2025, while the user was working on a laptop, the back of the Apple Watch reportedly got extremely hot. The owner quickly removed the watch, but not before sustaining burns to their skin. Months later, a scar shaped like the smartwatch is still noticeable.

    Communication with Apple

    The user reached out to Apple on the same day of the incident; however, even after six months, the issue remains unaddressed. Initially, Apple seemed to downplay the burn blisters, attributing them to an allergic reaction, but they expressed a desire to investigate further. Unfortunately, the customer never heard back from them again. When the user followed up, it was supposed that the smartwatch would be sent to Apple in Ireland for investigation, but Apple did not arrange the promised collection of the device.

    Lack of Support

    The next Apple support representative the user spoke to outright refused to set up a pick-up. After a few weeks of waiting, an appointment was finally scheduled at the Genius Bar in an Apple store—supposedly. However, when the user arrived, the store had no record of the appointment, refused to accept the watch, and the device was never sent to Ireland. Furthermore, the support representative stopped responding to any follow-up messages.

    Skepticism About User Reports

    As is often the case, such user accounts should be taken with caution. Since the Apple Watch doesn’t show any visible damage, the actual cause of the burns remains unclear, although a defect in the battery is the most probable explanation.

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  • Apple iPhone 19e Set for Long-Awaited Upgrade

    Apple iPhone 19e Set for Long-Awaited Upgrade

    Key Takeaways

    1. The iPhone 17e features a 60 Hz OLED screen, a single rear camera, and a 4,005 mAh battery, making it feel outdated.
    2. The iPhone 19e is expected to launch in spring 2028 with a 120 Hz LTPO OLED display.
    3. The new display may use parts from the iPhone 17, with a resolution of 2,622 x 1,206 pixels and high brightness levels.
    4. The iPhone 19e’s display technology is designed for energy efficiency, potentially extending battery life.
    5. Higher-end models, like the iPhone Air, will receive an even more efficient LTPO+ panel in 2028.

    The Apple iPhone 17e has recently been released, but it features a 60 Hz OLED screen, a single rear camera, and a small 4,005 mAh battery, making it feel a bit outdated. As per the latest details from ZDNet Korea, Apple is looking to make improvements with the upcoming iPhone 19e.

    Anticipated Launch of iPhone 19e

    Expected to debut in spring 2028, the iPhone 19e will finally come with a 120 Hz LTPO OLED display. Apple often incorporates parts from previous models into the e-series to minimize expenses, so there’s a chance the display from the iPhone 17 could be utilized. This 6.3-inch OLED screen boasts a resolution of 2,622 x 1,206 pixels, a 120 Hz refresh rate, a maximum brightness of 1,600 nits, and an HDR peak brightness of 3,000 nits.

    Advantages of the New Display

    The frame rate adjustment according to the content on the screen means this display uses less energy compared to the LTPS OLED panel used in the iPhone 17e, potentially leading to extended battery life for the iPhone 19e. Another notable benefit is the inclusion of an always-on display feature, which reduces the frame rate to just 1 Hz, ensuring minimal impact on battery performance. Meanwhile, pricier models like the iPhone Air ($815 on Amazon) are slated to upgrade to an even more energy-efficient LTPO+ panel in 2028, promising greater brightness and efficiency.

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  • Samsung Switches to Affordable Chinese Displays for Galaxy S26 FE, A57

    Samsung Switches to Affordable Chinese Displays for Galaxy S26 FE, A57

    Key Takeaways

    1. Samsung is shifting to more affordable OLED screens from CSOT, a Chinese manufacturer, instead of producing them in-house.
    2. The CSOT OLED panels are 20% cheaper than Samsung’s usual displays, helping to reduce overall manufacturing costs.
    3. The rising prices of memory and processing chips have made cost-cutting essential for Samsung’s midrange models.
    4. Other smartphone manufacturers have raised prices, but Samsung is focusing on maintaining competitive pricing for its devices.
    5. Samsung has ordered at least 15 million OLED panels from CSOT for future Galaxy A57 and Galaxy S26 Fan Edition models.

    Samsung is shifting its focus to more affordable OLED screens for its smartphones, moving away from producing them in-house. Instead, they are opting for displays manufactured by CSOT, a lesser-known Chinese company.

    Cost Efficiency

    The OLED panels sourced from China Star (CSOT) come at a price that is 20% lower than the ones Samsung normally makes for the Galaxy A and Fan Edition series. This strategic move aims to counteract the rising costs of memory and processing chips, which have surged dramatically in just a few months. For instance, the Crucial 64GB DDR5 RAM kit is now available for $580 on Amazon, although its price has doubled since November.

    Market Dynamics

    The spike in demand for AI data centers has made RAM and storage memory the priciest components in smartphones, surpassing both the system chip and the display in terms of costs. Several major smartphone manufacturers, such as Oppo, Vivo, and OnePlus, have already increased the prices of their devices in China. However, Samsung’s midrange models are particularly sensitive to price changes, prompting the company to focus on cutting manufacturing expenses instead.

    Internal Disputes

    Reports indicate that Samsung Display has strongly advocated for its case to the company’s leadership, warning that its revenue would take a hit if it loses its A-series line, especially after losing orders from other manufacturers due to the memory price surge. Unfortunately, their efforts have not yielded any results.

    As per industry insiders, Samsung has placed an order for at least 15 million OLED panels from CSOT, with plans to use them in the upcoming Galaxy A57 and Galaxy S26 Fan Edition models. This decision is primarily due to the lower cost of the CSOT displays, which are deemed adequate for Samsung’s midrange offerings.

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