Author: GizNews

  • Electric Car Prices Rise Due to Chip and Material Costs

    Electric Car Prices Rise Due to Chip and Material Costs

    Key Takeaways

    1. Rising production costs for electric vehicles (EVs) have increased by $1,400 due to high memory chip prices and geopolitical issues affecting material costs.
    2. Battery-grade lithium carbonate prices have surged, with copper and aluminum costs also climbing, significantly impacting EV production expenses.
    3. While memory manufacturers like Samsung may benefit, EV makers like Tesla may need to raise vehicle prices due to escalating battery and chip costs.
    4. An influx of affordable used EVs from expiring leases may offer consumers a better option amidst rising new car prices, which have surpassed $55,000.
    5. The depreciation of electric vehicles, particularly the Tesla Model Y, and improved battery warranties may lead consumers to favor used EVs over new models.

    The high prices of memory chips and processing units, along with the increasing costs of lithium carbonate and the metals required for their components and batteries, are set to significantly impact the production of new electric vehicles.

    Chip Prices and Rising Costs

    NIO’s chairman reports that the cost to produce electric vehicles has risen by $1,400, as AI data centers are consuming a majority of the memory and processing chips, driving prices up. Additionally, geopolitical issues affecting energy and metal markets are also pushing material costs higher.

    Continuous Price Increases

    This situation adds to the ongoing surge in battery-grade lithium carbonate prices we’ve seen in recent months. The prices of copper and aluminum are climbing daily due to geopolitical strife, with almost half of the rise in EV production costs attributed to the doubling or tripling of chip prices in recent weeks.

    Impact on Electric Car Companies

    This might be advantageous for memory manufacturers like Samsung, but for electric vehicle makers such as Tesla, the escalating costs of batteries, chips, and materials could compel them to raise vehicle prices.

    In the United States, the inflation in manufacturing costs coincides with the expiration of many Tesla leases, leading to an influx of more affordable electric cars. About 300,000 EVs will soon be available as they exit their three-year leases and reach dealer lots. Meanwhile, the average price for a new car in the US has exceeded $55,000 for the first time, with the Tesla Model Y experiencing a 47% depreciation rate by mid-2025.

    Consumer Choices and Market Dynamics

    Given the sharp decline in resale values of electric vehicles compared to traditional gasoline-powered cars, buyers might prefer a used EV in the $20,000-$30,000 range, especially with rising gas prices, rather than purchasing a new electric vehicle or a used internal combustion engine (ICE) model like a RAV4, which has maintained its resale value better.

    Battery technology is becoming more dependable in terms of longevity, and Tesla is now offering a 10-year warranty on the Model Y battery for an additional price, making used electric vehicles an attractive option. However, combined with the rising factory costs, a more active second-hand market could challenge new Tesla sales—particularly if the company faces the tough choice of hiking prices or absorbing the increased costs.

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  • Casio G-Shock Comic Book Watches Pricing Before LA Pop-Up Release

    Casio G-Shock Comic Book Watches Pricing Before LA Pop-Up Release

    Key Takeaways

    1. Casio is launching a new collection of comic book-inspired watches, featuring designs reminiscent of earlier manga models but with a more muted color palette.
    2. The new models, Casio G-Shock DW-5600JV-7 and DW-6900JV-1, are priced at $180 each and showcase a unique hand-drawn style by artist Joshua Vides.
    3. The watches will come in special packaging that reflects the monochrome aesthetic of the designs, featuring splatter graphics and co-branding.
    4. A two-day pop-up launch event will take place in Los Angeles on March 14-15, with online availability following the event on the artist’s website.
    5. Both models maintain standard G-Shock functionalities, including a stopwatch, countdown timer, alarm, LED backlight, and 200 meters of water resistance.

    The manga series from Casio ranks among its most sought-after products, which is clear by the high level of fan enthusiasm for these timepieces upon their release. To date, we’ve only seen two genuine manga watches, as the so-called sequel models were categorized under an “origami” design. Recently, some new leaks have emerged that suggest a fresh collection inspired by comic books is set to launch soon. This new line appears to echo the original designs but lacks the vibrant colors. This was soon followed by an official announcement from @joshuavides on Instagram. Now, additional information has surfaced that confirms nearly every detail, revealing some previously unknown aspects.

    Pricing and Aesthetic

    The latest updates shared by @geesgshock on Instagram indicate that the comic-inspired watches – the Casio G-Shock DW-5600JV-7 and Casio G-Shock DW-6900JV-1 – will be priced at $180 each. This collaboration features Vides’ unique hand-drawn, pen-outlined style, giving the watches a distinct comic-book appearance. The DW-5600 variant boasts a white resin case and strap adorned with black sketch lines, whereas the DW-6900 model takes a different approach, having a black base with striking white outline designs across the bezel and strap.

    Packaging and Launch Event

    Images of the new products also show that the watches will come in special collaboration packaging, complete with splatter graphics and co-branding from G-Shock and Joshua Vides. The box design aligns with the monochrome aesthetic found on the watches themselves.

    Joshua has shared more specifics through an official post on Instagram (see below). The launch will kick off with a two-day pop-up event in Los Angeles. This temporary store is set to be open on March 14-15 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 2272 Venice Boulevard. Additionally, it’s been reported that the watches will be made available online globally on Monday at 9 a.m. PST via the artist’s website right after the pop-up event. Visitors at the LA launch may also be eligible for exclusive promotional items, with early attendees potentially receiving extra freebies.

    Functionality

    In terms of functionality, both models retain the standard digital G-Shock features. Anticipated specifications include a 1/100-second stopwatch, a countdown timer, an alarm, an LED backlight, and a water resistance rating of 200 meters, consistent with the original DW-5600 and DW-6900 models.

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  • Rare Hybrid Nova Discovered 16,000 Light-Years from Earth

    Rare Hybrid Nova Discovered 16,000 Light-Years from Earth

    Key Takeaways

    1. Nova Vulpeculae 2024 is a hybrid nova located 16,000 light-years away in the Milky Way’s Orion-Cygnus arm.
    2. Novae occur in binary star systems, where a white dwarf pulls gas from its companion, leading to a thermonuclear explosion.
    3. Nova Vulpeculae 2024 is classified as a rare hybrid nova, transitioning from Fe II to He/N classifications.
    4. This nova was initially seen as a reddened classical nova but was later identified as a fast nova with a quick peak brightness.
    5. Spectral observations showed strong Fe II lines initially, followed by He/N lines, providing insight into the dual behavior of this hybrid nova.

    Nova Vulpeculae 2024 is a hybrid nova located 16,000 light-years away, in the Orion-Cygnus arm of the Milky Way. A nova occurs in a binary star system where two stars orbit each other. One of the stars, called the white dwarf, slowly pulls gas from its companion star in a process called accretion. This causes a buildup of hydrogen gas on the white dwarf’s surface, increasing pressure and temperature, eventually leading to a thermonuclear explosion. This sudden brightening is called a nova. After this brightening, it slowly fades again.

    Classification of Novae

    Novae are classified based on their spectra. The Fe II novae show strong iron emission lines, while the He/N novae show helium and nitrogen emission lines. However, a special class of novae starts as Fe II novae but later changes into He/N novae. This is rare because most novae stay in one class. Nova Vulpeculae 2024 falls into that category.

    Observations and Characteristics

    Initially, Nova Vulpeculae 2024 was classified as a reddened classical nova due to its reddish light. However, scientists performed spectroscopic monitoring using different observatories to track changes in the nova over time. They found out that this nova was a fast nova, with a light curve resembling an oscillating nova, reaching its peak brightness within two days and oscillations with an amplitude of about 1 magnitude.

    Spectral Changes

    Near maximum brightness, the spectrum showed strong Fe II emission lines and P-Cygni absorption indicating that gas was being ejected from the star. Later in the eruption, He/N spectral lines began to appear, indicating a change in spectral behavior. This hybrid nova gives scientists a rare opportunity to observe two nova behaviors in one event.

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  • Crimson Desert Adds Denuvo DRM, Leads to Pre-Order Cancellations

    Crimson Desert Adds Denuvo DRM, Leads to Pre-Order Cancellations

    Key Takeaways

    1. Denuvo anti-piracy technology will be included in Crimson Desert, confirmed by Valve just before its release.
    2. Players are upset about the last-minute addition of Denuvo and are threatening to cancel pre-orders.
    3. Some fans feel misled by Pearl Abyss, citing out-of-context comments about anti-piracy measures.
    4. Denuvo can cause performance issues, potentially affecting gameplay in the open world of Crimson Desert.
    5. The impact of Denuvo on sales is unclear, as some games have still achieved high player counts despite using the DRM.

    Before buying a Steam game, those against Denuvo often check for any indication of this anti-piracy technology. Gamers were hopeful that the new project from Pearl Abyss would not include this controversial software. However, just before the release on March 19th for Crimson Desert, Valve confirmed that the DRM would be present, which could affect game performance.

    Player Reactions

    As soon as the news spread, complaints flooded the game’s Steam forum. Many players are unhappy about the last-minute addition of Denuvo after deciding to purchase the game. Consequently, several buyers are threatening to cancel their pre-orders for Crimson Desert, something Valve permits before the official launch.

    Misunderstandings and Misinformation

    Some fans feel they were misled by Pearl Abyss, referencing an earlier statement from a developer. Nevertheless, it seems those comments were taken out of context. The studio only mentioned that a decision regarding anti-piracy measures was still pending. Critics, however, argue that the timing of this decision was a strategic move to secure more sales.

    Denuvo works by encrypting a game’s executable file and monitoring for any code alterations. While it has had some success in fighting piracy, the constant checks can put stress on CPUs, leading to performance issues like stuttering. Resident Evil Village is a well-known case, causing Capcom to issue a patch to enhance frame rates.

    Performance Concerns

    In other titles, the DRM hasn’t harmed performance. Still, there are concerns that the vast open world of Crimson Desert could strain even the best gaming PCs. Sadly, many early reviews may not take into account how the DRM affects the game.

    Regarding sales, it remains unclear if Denuvo consistently impacts a publisher’s earnings. For instance, Resident Evil Requiem still achieved record player counts on Steam despite the DRM. Generally, companies like Capcom focus on fighting piracy during a game’s initial launch, where most sales occur. It’s common to see the DRM removed a few months post-launch.

    A leaked review of Crimson Desert indicated that it would appeal to players seeking an expansive open-world experience. However, many of the initial Steam reviews are likely to concentrate on the anti-tamper software instead.

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  • Minisforum Mini PC with Intel Core Ultra X9 and Arc B390 iGPU Coming Soon

    Minisforum Mini PC with Intel Core Ultra X9 and Arc B390 iGPU Coming Soon

    Key Takeaways

    1. Minisforum has introduced the M2 Pro mini PC featuring Intel’s Core Ultra X9 chip, expected to launch soon.
    2. The M2 Pro was first showcased at CES 2026, but its official launch date and pricing remain unclear.
    3. The mini PC will target a global market, with features including 96 GB of LPDDR5X-9600 memory and various connectivity options.
    4. The system will rely on the Arc B390 iGPU for graphics, capable of handling moderate tasks and light gaming.
    5. Pricing for high-end versions of the M2 Pro is expected to be similar to other premium mini PCs, potentially exceeding $1,600.

    A variety of well-known brands in the mini PC market have revealed systems that use Intel’s Panther Lake processor family. For example, Minisforum has introduced the M2 Pro, which can come with the Core Ultra X9 chip, and it seems like this mini PC will be available for purchase soon.

    Upcoming Launch

    The M2 Pro AI mini PC was initially presented at CES 2026, but details about its availability and pricing were not disclosed. Although a specific launch date is still unclear, the company recently teased that the M2 Pro mini PC is “coming soon.” Based on this, there is a chance that an official launch could happen as early as this month.

    International Market

    Minisforum usually focuses on bringing its products to a global audience, and the same is likely for the M2 Pro, expected shortly after an official introduction in China. We have a solid understanding of what features and I/O options the mini PC will offer. At the top level, it will feature the Core Ultra X9 388H chip and 96 GB of LPDDR5X-9600 memory.

    The system will also include dual Ethernet ports (10G, 2.5G), three USB4 ports, among other connectivity options. While there won’t be any discrete GPU choices, the Arc B390 iGPU should manage most moderately demanding tasks and light AAA gaming quite well. In fact, the B390 iGPU outperforms the Radeon 890M found in AMD Strix Point systems, like the Minisforum AI X1 Pro, which is currently priced at $736 on Amazon.

    Pricing Expectations

    Regarding the price, since the Core Ultra X7-powered Asus NUC 16 Pro was confirmed to have a price tag of over $1,600 in China, we can anticipate that high-end versions of the M2 Pro mini PC will be in a similar price range. Of course, rising memory costs are a significant factor here, meaning that more basic models will likely be much cheaper.

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  • Huawei Mobile WiFi X: Unique Design and 12000mAh Battery Hotspot

    Huawei Mobile WiFi X: Unique Design and 12000mAh Battery Hotspot

    Key Takeaways

    1. Unique Design: The Mobile WiFi X has an X shape when unfolded, resembling a power bank when folded, allowing it to stand upright and improve signal quality.

    2. Enhanced Signal Performance: Equipped with 16 antennas, the device provides 360° signal reception and transmission, with a reported 13% boost in signal strength when unfolded.

    3. High-Speed Connectivity: The device achieves peak uplink speeds of 1,000Mbps and downlink speeds of 5.3Gbps.

    4. User-Friendly Features: It includes a touchscreen display showing signal strength, battery level, connection status, and more, along with a SIM card slot and two USB-C ports.

    5. Battery Life and Pricing: The Mobile WiFi X features a 12,000mAh battery for up to 24 hours of usage and is priced at CNY 2499 (~$364/€316).

    A few months back, Huawei teased a new mobile hotspot device named the Mobile WiFi X. This teaser indicated that the official announcement would take place in March 2026, and now, as promised, the Huawei Mobile WiFi X is officially launched in China.

    Design and Functionality

    The Mobile WiFi X gets its name from its unique X shape when unfolded, but in its folded form, it resembles a sizable power bank. This design not only looks good but also enables it to stand upright without any extra support. Huawei claims that this X shape isn’t just for looks but also enhances the device’s signal quality.

    Signal Strength and Performance

    Featuring a total of 16 antennas, the device ensures 360° reception and transmission of signals. When unfolded, the X design reportedly boosts signal strength by 13%. As per the specifications, the Huawei Mobile WiFi X achieves a peak uplink speed of 1,000Mbps and a peak downlink speed of 5.3Gbps.

    Features and Battery Life

    The Huawei Mobile WiFi X comes with a display that presents essential information like signal strength, battery level, connection status, carrier details, and the current time. The touchscreen allows users to adjust settings easily. Inside, the device houses a 12,000mAh battery, offering up to 24 hours of usage. Additionally, it features a SIM card slot and two USB-C ports.

    The Huawei Mobile WiFi X is priced at CNY 2499 (~$364/€316) and will be available with various data plans.

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  • Ultra-Slim Fanless Mini PC Launches with 10-Core CPU and 96GB RAM

    Ultra-Slim Fanless Mini PC Launches with 10-Core CPU and 96GB RAM

    Key Takeaways

    1. MSI’s MS-C936 mini PC features an ultra-slim, fanless design for quiet operation and efficient use of space.
    2. It is powered by an Intel Core 5 120U processor with 10 cores and 12 threads, offering performance comparable to the Apple M1 for light to moderate tasks.
    3. The device relies on passive cooling to manage its 15-watt CPU temperature and supports up to 96 GB of DDR5-5200 RAM.
    4. It includes an integrated Iris Xe G7 iGPU for basic graphics tasks, with storage options for M.2 PCIe and 2.5″ SATA drives.
    5. The mini PC offers impressive I/O options, including M.2 slots and nano SIM card support, and is designed to be shockproof and anti-vibration compliant.

    MSI has unveiled a new mini PC known as the MS-C936, which features a unique ultra-slim design. This compact device, highlighted by LinuxGizmos, comes with a fanless chassis to ensure quiet operation and offers a solid I/O setup.

    Performance Details

    The MSI C936 mini PC is equipped with an Intel Core 5 120U processor, boasting 10 cores and 12 threads. Its multicore performance is expected to be quite good, with synthetic tests showing results comparable to the Apple M1. However, newer models like the AMD Ryzen AI 5 340 deliver over 50% better multicore performance, which is to be anticipated. For most light to moderately demanding tasks, the mini PC should perform adequately.

    Cooling and Memory

    Since it is a fanless model, the MS-C936 relies on passive cooling to maintain the temperature of its 15-watt CPU. The actual performance under load will largely depend on the effectiveness of MSI’s passive cooling solution. It supports up to 96 GB of DDR5-5200 RAM to meet memory needs.

    Graphics and Storage

    There’s no dedicated GPU, which isn’t really a shock. The integrated Iris Xe G7 iGPU with 80 EUs is likely to suffice for basic video output and light acceleration tasks.

    The storage options include an M.2 2280 (PCIe Gen4 x4) drive and a 2.5″ SATA slot. As mentioned, this mini PC is exceptionally thin, measuring only 2.9 cm (1.14 inches) in thickness. The dimensions of 7.7 x 11.2 inches make it easy to mount using VESA, fitting comfortably in limited spaces.

    Impressive I/O Options

    The I/O capabilities are quite commendable, which is typical for an industrial mini PC. There are M.2 2230 and M.2 2242/3042 slots, with the latter allowing for nano SIM card support. Additionally, the MS-C936 mini PC meets IEC 60068-2 standards, featuring an anti-vibration and shockproof design, thanks to its lack of moving components.

    Pricing and availability remain uncertain at the moment. Targeted at industrial users, those interested in the MSI MS-C936 mini PC can reach out to the manufacturer for more information. For general consumers, a more traditional mini PC like the Beeline EQI12 (currently priced at $430 on Amazon) may provide similar performance at a better value.

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  • Asus Launches New Open-Ear Wireless Earbuds with RGB Lighting

    Asus Launches New Open-Ear Wireless Earbuds with RGB Lighting

    Key Takeaways

    1. The ROG Cetra Wireless Open-Ear earbuds feature Aura RGB Lighting with customizable effects and colors.
    2. They offer low-latency audio via a 2.4 GHz wireless connection and are compatible with PlayStation 4 and 5.
    3. The earbuds include a detachable reflective neck strap for convenience during activities like running.
    4. They have 14 mm drivers, a frequency response range of 20 Hz to 20 kHz, and a maximum battery life of 16 hours without certain features.
    5. The retail price is $229.99 in the US, €219 in the Eurozone, and £184.99 in the UK.

    Asus has launched its new ROG Cetra earbuds in Europe and the US. These earbuds were first presented at CES 2026 in Las Vegas earlier this year and come with some unique features that set them apart from other open earbuds on the market.

    Unique Features

    One interesting aspect of the ROG Cetra Wireless Open-Ear earbuds is the Aura RGB Lighting, which has four preset effects and offers a palette of up to 16.8 million colours. Additionally, users can customize their sound experience through the Gear Link app, which also boasts IPX5 water resistance. For those who enjoy running, a detachable reflective neck strap is included for added convenience.

    Performance and Compatibility

    The ROG Cetra Wireless Open-Ear earbuds operate on a 2.4 GHz wireless connection, ensuring low-latency audio. They are compatible with gaming systems like the PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5. However, be aware that at launch, they only support Bluetooth 6.0 for Android and iOS. Asus has stated that 2.4 GHz audio support will be added to Android devices through a future update.

    Sound Quality and Pricing

    In terms of specifications, these earbuds feature 14 mm drivers with an impedance of 16 ohms and a frequency response range of 20 Hz to 20 kHz. Asus claims that the battery life can reach up to 16 hours, but this is only when RGB lighting, Phantom Bass, Immersion Mode, and microphone functions are turned off. The retail price for the ROG Cetra Wireless Open-Ear earbuds is $229.99 in the US, €219 in the Eurozone, and £184.99 in the UK.

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  • Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra Insights from MWC 2026 Roundtable

    Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra Insights from MWC 2026 Roundtable

    Key Takeaways

    1. Slim and Lightweight Design: The S26 Ultra showcases a super thin and light casing that maintains high performance without compromise.

    2. Advanced Cooling Technology: It features a newly designed vapor chamber for effective cooling during demanding tasks like gaming and AI processing.

    3. Enhanced Image Quality with mDNIe: The mobile Digital Natural Image engine delivers vibrant colors, adaptive brightness up to 3,000 nits, and reduced reflections.

    4. Innovative Privacy Display: The hardware-based Privacy Display protects sensitive information from side views and can be activated for specific apps, minimizing brightness loss.

    5. Battery Technology Updates: Samsung is testing silicon-carbon technology for better battery capacity but continues with a 5,000 mAh battery and 60W wired, 25W wireless charging for the S26 Ultra.

    The Samsung hardware roundtable highlighted some exciting innovations like a slim design, improved cooling, the reliable mDNIe (mobile Digital Natural Image engine) technology, and the unique Privacy Display feature. Attendees also had the chance to engage in direct Q&A sessions with Samsung engineers.

    Impressive Design and Performance

    Samsung showcased the S26 Ultra’s casing as a true example of miniaturization: it’s super thin and light, yet does not sacrifice performance. One standout feature is the newly designed vapor chamber, which effectively cools down the device during intense activities like ray tracing gaming or on-device AI (Galaxy AI). This is paired with the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy, which operates in a specially optimized version. Complementing this is mDNIe, Samsung’s exclusive image engine that delivers vibrant colors, adaptive brightness of up to 3,000 nits, and reduced reflections.

    Innovative Privacy Feature

    Of particular interest is the Privacy Display, which shields information from side views by dimming the edge pixels, safeguarding sensitive data like banking details or emails. Unlike software filters, this feature is hardware-based, functions in any orientation, and can be activated for specific apps. Additionally, the brightness loss is less significant compared to using a film. When inquired about why the pixels don’t turn off completely, the developers mentioned that doing so could negatively affect the overall display, causing color distortion or a more substantial drop in brightness. There was also curiosity regarding the potential inclusion of the Privacy Display in other Galaxy models. Samsung’s answer was cautious, indicating that it largely relies on how well it is accepted in the market, with no definite plans for additional devices at this time.

    Battery Discussion

    Another focal point was the conversation about batteries, particularly why Samsung hasn’t adopted silicon-carbon technology yet, which could offer larger capacities in the same size. Samsung representatives acknowledged that tests are ongoing but mentioned that there are unresolved issues, without going into specifics, that need to be tackled first. As a result, the S26 Ultra (buy here on Amazon) continues with a 5,000 mAh battery, now featuring 60W wired and 25W wireless charging, promising good battery life, albeit with no groundbreaking advancements.

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  • Palmer Luckey Aims for $1 Billion Valuation for ModRetro M64 Release

    Palmer Luckey Aims for $1 Billion Valuation for ModRetro M64 Release

    Key Takeaways

    1. Palmer Luckey founded ModRetro in 2023 and is seeking $1 billion in funding for his retro-gaming venture.
    2. The ModRetro M64 retro gaming console will launch in spring 2026, featuring an AMD FPGA chip and compatibility with existing N64 cartridges.
    3. The M64 promises pixel-perfect accuracy, low input lag, and 4K resolution capabilities, with a transparent design for third-party developers.
    4. The early-bird price for the M64 is set at $199, matching the original launch price of the Nintendo 64 in 1996.
    5. ModRetro’s M64 undercuts competitors, being $70 cheaper than Analogue’s base model and $100 less than its Limited Edition translucent version.

    Palmer Luckey, the creator of Oculus who sold his VR company to Facebook for $2 billion, is now focusing on his retro-gaming venture, ModRetro. This move could lead to significant earnings for him. Currently, he is leading Anduril, a defense technology firm.

    Funding Talks

    As per Financial Times, Palmer Luckey founded ModRetro in 2023 and is currently in discussions to secure $1 billion in funding. This is a considerable increase from the $19 million that the retro handheld company has raised to date.

    Upcoming Product Launch

    In line with this news, ModRetro is set to unveil its next product, the M64 retro gaming console, in spring 2026. Production is reportedly in full swing, and initial demos of the console are already being showcased at retailers like GameStop in New York.

    ModRetro first gained attention with its Chromatic handheld, inspired by the Game Boy, which sold out quickly and received accolades for its sturdy design. Now, the company is making its mark in the home console sector by recreating the Nintendo 64 with updated technology.

    Specifications and Features

    The ModRetro M64 is equipped with an AMD FPGA chip that operates a modified version of the open-source MiSTer N64 core. This setup allows gamers to use their existing N64 cartridges without facing emulation issues or delays. However, the exact cycle-accuracy of the M64 will be assessed at its launch in spring 2026.

    At this moment, the M64 is promising gamers pixel-perfect accuracy, low input lag, and the capability to play Nintendo 64 titles in 4K resolution through HDMI. Moreover, the transparent M64 will be accessible for third-party core developers, expanding the potential library of arcade games and shooters.

    Competitive Pricing

    ModRetro is strategically setting the price of the M64 to attract consumers. The early-bird price for the ModRetro M64 is fixed at $199 for those on the waitlist on the company’s website. This offer has now been extended to all early orders, which is noteworthy given it matches the launch price of the Nintendo 64 in the U.S. back in 1996.

    The console will come in four see-through color options: Arctic White, Jungle Green, Grape Purple, and a community-requested Atomic Red variant, allowing retro enthusiasts to view the internal components. It will also include a see-through replica of the original three-pronged Nintendo 64 controller.

    Interestingly, ModRetro’s M64 is set to beat Analogue’s retro N64 FPGA product in pricing. Analogue’s base model launched at $249.99 after several delays. Currently, due to tariffs, the standard Analogue 3D retails for $269.99, while the translucent version, priced at $300, is sold out.

    In a direct comparison, ModRetro’s M64 is proving to be a competitive option, as its starting price is $70 less than the base model of the Analogue 3D and $100 cheaper than Analogue’s Limited Edition translucent series.

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