Author: GizNews

  • Nintendo Switch 2 Gets Poor Repair Rating in iFixit Teardown

    Nintendo Switch 2 Gets Poor Repair Rating in iFixit Teardown

    Key Takeaways

    1. iFixit downgraded the repairability score of the Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch OLED to 4 points, and the new Nintendo Switch 2 received a score of 3 points.
    2. The Joy-Con 2s are easier to open, but the glued battery complicates replacement; the Nintendo Switch 2 uses traditional joysticks, raising questions about drift issues.
    3. Nintendo missed the chance to use TMR sticks, which could have fixed the drift problem permanently.
    4. Repairing the console is difficult due to hidden screws and tough adhesive, making battery replacement challenging.
    5. Key components like USB-C ports and the game module slot are soldered to the mainboard, and Nintendo has not provided spare parts for repairs.

    iFixit has recently downgraded the repairability score of the Nintendo Switch from 8 to 4 points. The Nintendo Switch OLED shares the same low rating of 4 points. Meanwhile, the newly announced Nintendo Switch 2 has been given a score of just 3 out of 10, as detailed in the video linked below.

    Repair Challenges

    The Joy-Con 2s are fairly simple to open, however, the tiny battery is glued into the casing, complicating the battery swap process. The original Nintendo Switch gained a bad reputation for Joy-Con drift, prompting Nintendo to provide free repairs. In contrast, the Nintendo Switch 2 incorporates traditional joysticks. It’s still unclear if drift will be a major issue like it was before, especially since both the Sony PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X utilize similar analog stick technology, yet experience much less drift than the Switch.

    Missed Opportunities

    It’s unfortunate that Nintendo opted not to implement TMR sticks, which could have permanently resolved this issue. Opening the console itself is significantly tougher than accessing the Joy-Con, as there are four screws that are hidden beneath stubborn stickers, which only become visible after removing the magnetically attached Joy-Con. Once inside the console, multiple connectors and screws must be loosened to extract the heat shield and microSD Express card reader from the main housing.

    Complicated Repair Process

    The battery replacement is possible, but it is secured to the housing with tough adhesive, making the process much harder. Additionally, both USB-C ports and the game module slot are soldered directly to the mainboard, rendering it nearly impossible for users to repair or swap them out. Compounding the issue is the fact that Nintendo still has not provided any spare parts for these devices.

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    Nintendo Switch 2 Gets Poor Repair Rating in iFixit Teardown
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  • Surface Laptop 13 Review: Why It’s Not Worth the Price

    Surface Laptop 13 Review: Why It’s Not Worth the Price

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Microsoft Surface Laptop 13 is an upgraded version of the Surface Laptop Go 3, featuring a bigger display and improved build quality.
    2. It runs on the slower Snapdragon X1 Plus, which may cause compatibility issues with older software and games.
    3. Priced at 1099 Euros, its specifications (16 GB RAM, 256 GB SSD, 60 Hz display, no USB 4) are considered lacking for the cost.
    4. Competing alternatives like the Apple MacBook Air 13 offer a faster M4 processor, a slimmer design, and a more vibrant display, despite having a similar 60 Hz refresh rate.
    5. The Surface Laptop 13’s marketing strategy is questioned due to its pricing compared to other Microsoft models and competitors.

    The new Microsoft Surface Laptop 13 can be seen as the upgraded version of the Surface Laptop Go 3. While it features a slightly bigger display, it improves in nearly every aspect. The build quality is impressive, and its performance is adequate for typical daily use. However, one must keep in mind that it runs on the slower Snapdragon X1 Plus, and the ARM architecture might lead to some compatibility problems with older software and games.

    Pricing and Specifications

    The previous Surface Laptop Go 3 was already considered pricey, and now the Surface Laptop 13 kicks off at 1099 Euros. This presents two main issues: the specifications—16 GB of RAM, a 256 GB SSD, a 60 Hz display, and no USB 4—are rather lacking for this price point. An even bigger concern is that Microsoft’s own Surface Laptop 13.8 also starts at 1099 Euros for its basic model. This version includes a faster Snapdragon X1 Plus, USB 4 support, and a superior 120 Hz display with a P3 color gamut. Although its battery life may be shorter, it raises questions about how Microsoft plans to market the new Surface Laptop 13 at this price. The Surface Laptop 13.8 has even gone for less than 1000 Euros at times (including from Microsoft directly).

    Competing Alternatives

    Apart from Microsoft’s alternatives, there’s also the Apple MacBook Air 13, which comes with the speedy M4 processor and operates without any fans. Its design is noticeably slimmer, the screen is more vibrant, it covers the P3 color gamut, and it has less glare. However, like the Surface Laptop 13, it also features a 60 Hz display. While the Surface Laptop 13 boasts a slightly comfier keyboard and extended battery life, the MacBook Air ultimately presents a stronger overall package. For more insights, check out our review on the latest Microsoft Surface Laptop 13.

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  • First 720 Hz OLED Gaming Monitor Unveiled with 335 Nits Brightness

    First 720 Hz OLED Gaming Monitor Unveiled with 335 Nits Brightness

    Key Takeaways

    1. Super Display Co (SDC) is promoting a monitor called ‘Flash 540-Meta OLED’ that shares a panel design with an upcoming Asus model.
    2. The Flash 540-Meta OLED may reach a peak refresh rate of 720 Hz by lowering its resolution, possibly to 720p.
    3. The monitor is expected to feature DisplayPort 1.4 and HDMI 2.1 ports for connectivity.
    4. Display Stream Compression (DSC) may be needed to achieve high refresh rates at higher resolutions like 1440p.
    5. The estimated price for the Flash 540-Meta OLED is around JPY 150,000 (approximately $1,040), with no confirmed release date yet.

    Now, Super Display Co (SDC) has been seen promoting a similar monitor, which has been shared on Reddit. This monitor, roughly translated to ‘Flash 540-Meta OLED’, seems to use the same basic panel as the Asus model expected to launch in late Q4 2025. The Flash 540-Meta OLED is rumored to achieve a peak refresh rate of 720 Hz by lowering its resolution, likely utilizing LG’s Dual Mode Technology.

    Resolution Concerns

    At this time, it’s not clear how much the Flash 540-Meta OLED will need to decrease its resolution. If we look at the recent UltraGear OLED monitors like the 32GX870A (priced at $1,399.99 on Amazon), it seems that the Flash 540-Meta OLED might only be able to reach a 720 Hz refresh rate at a 720p resolution. SDC has mentioned that this new monitor will also come equipped with DisplayPort 1.4 and HDMI 2.1 ports.

    Compression Methods

    Due to these specifications, the monitor might have to rely on Display Stream Compression (DSC) to achieve 720 Hz or even 540 Hz at 1440p resolution. The image suggests that LG Display’s latest panel offers an impressive 0.03 ms response time, a contrast ratio of 1,500,000:1, CMR 150,000 for motion clarity, and a maximum brightness of 335 nits, which can peak at 1,500 nits in certain areas. The pricing and release details have not been confirmed yet, but according to VideoCardz, the Flash 540-Meta OLED could be priced around JPY 150,000 (approximately $1,040).

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    First 720 Hz OLED Gaming Monitor Unveiled with 335 Nits Brightness
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  • Govee Outdoor Garden Lights with Matter Now in the US

    Govee Outdoor Garden Lights with Matter Now in the US

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Govee Outdoor Garden Lights (model H7086) have launched in the US after debuting in Europe in April 2025.
    2. Each light offers up to 550 lumens brightness, 16 million color options, and a color temperature range of 2,700K to 6,500K.
    3. Users can control the lights via the Govee Home app, voice commands with Alexa or Google Assistant, and enjoy 64 preset scenes.
    4. The lights are adjustable in height from 12 to 36 inches, feature an 18 ft power cord, and have an IP66 rating for dust and water resistance.
    5. The retail price in the US is $199.99, available through Govee’s online store and Amazon, with no confirmed UK release date.

    The Govee Outdoor Garden Lights have just hit the US market. These innovative lights, identified by the model number H7086, were first introduced in several European nations such as the Netherlands, Spain, and France at the end of April 2025.

    Brightness and Specifications

    The Outdoor Garden Lights feature RGBWWIC lamp beads, which are claimed to produce a brightness of up to 550 lumens each; when bought in a two-pack, they provide a combined total of 1,100 lumens. According to Govee, each light can illuminate an area of 3.0 x 2.5 m (around 9.8 x 8.2 ft), and the light source is projected to last for 20,000 hours. They boast 16 million colors, with an adjustable color temperature ranging from 2,700K to 6,500K. Additionally, Govee’s 16-bit LuminBlend color management system promises precise color accuracy.

    User Control and Features

    With the Govee Home app, users can pick colors and effects, and there are 64 preset scenes available for selection. Other ways to control these lights remotely include using voice commands with Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant, and their Matter compatibility allows them to work with multiple smart home systems. The aluminum pole, which holds two ‘branches’ of lights, can be adjusted from 12 to 36 inches (approximately 30 to 90 cm), and the power cord measures 18 ft (around 5.5 m) in length. These lights come with an IP66 rating for dust and water resistance, functioning in temperatures from -4 to 104°F (-20°C to 40°C).

    Pricing and Availability

    In the US, the Govee Outdoor Garden Lights are priced at $199.99. They can be found in the brand’s online store as well as at retailers such as Amazon. It remains unclear if or when this smart lighting solution will become available in the UK.

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    Govee Outdoor Garden Lights with Matter Now in the US

     

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  • Affordable Samsung Galaxy A34 Launches with One UI 7 Update

    Affordable Samsung Galaxy A34 Launches with One UI 7 Update

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Galaxy A34 is receiving the Android 15-based One UI 7 update, fulfilling Samsung’s commitment to updates.
    2. The update rollout has officially begun in South Korea, with plans to expand to other regions soon.
    3. The firmware update is large, at 3.8GB, indicating significant enhancements.
    4. Users outside South Korea can expect the update to reach their devices shortly, with India possibly receiving it within a week or two.
    5. The Galaxy A34 is also set to receive the future Android 16-based One UI 8 update.

    Are you among the many users of the well-liked Galaxy A34? There’s some exciting news for you. Samsung is fulfilling its commitment to update its complete lineup of mobile devices, and now it’s the affordable Galaxy A34’s turn to get the eagerly awaited Android 15-based One UI 7 update.

    Update Rollout Begins

    For several weeks, Samsung has been methodically releasing its newest software to different models in the Galaxy A series. Recently, trusted tech insider Tarun Vats shared on X/Twitter confirming that the update for the Galaxy A34 has officially started. As is typical with major updates from Samsung, the rollout kicks off in South Korea, where the company is based.

    Firmware Details

    If you’re curious, the firmware update carries the build number A346NKSU9DYE7/A346NOKR9DYE7/A346NKOU9DYE5. The file is quite hefty, clocking in at 3.8GB, as noted in the announcement, which suggests a significant number of enhancements it brings along.

    So, what does this mean for you? If you have a Galaxy A34 and live outside of South Korea, there’s no need to fret. The fact that the rollout has begun in Samsung’s home country indicates that the update will soon reach other areas globally. The same source hints that the rollout in India might start as early as this week or the next.

    Future Updates

    Oh, and don’t forget, the Galaxy A34 is also one of the devices that will be eligible for the Android 16-based One UI 8 update down the line.

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  • Vivo X Fold5 Launches with Brighter Displays Than Competitors

    Vivo X Fold5 Launches with Brighter Displays Than Competitors

    Key Takeaways

    1. The X Fold5 is the first foldable device with IP5X and IPX9+ ratings for dust and water resistance.
    2. The device can function in temperatures as low as -30°C, an improvement over the X Fold3 and X Fold3 Pro’s -20°C capability.
    3. The X Fold5 features a slightly larger foldable display compared to its 8.03-inch predecessor by minimizing bezel size.
    4. Both screens of the X Fold5 can achieve a brightness of 4,500 nits, matching the brightness of the X Fold3 and X Fold3 Pro.
    5. The X Fold5 will introduce an LTPO cover display, a new feature not present in previous models.

    The executive recently made an announcement on Weibo regarding the X Fold5, highlighting that it would be the first foldable device with IP5X and IPX9+ ratings for its resistance to dust and water. It’s important to clarify that IP5X indicates the X Fold5 is protected against dust, but not entirely immune. Additionally, he released a new video where Vivo asserts that the X Fold5 can function in temperatures as low as -30°C, which is an improvement over the -20°C capability of the X Fold3 and X Fold3 Pro.

    New Display Features

    In another update, Han Bo Xiao shared a complete image of the X Fold5’s foldable screen for the first time. From our observations, the X Fold5 appears to feature a slightly bigger foldable display compared to its 8.03-inch predecessor. It seems Vivo might have accomplished this by minimizing the bezel size between models rather than completely redesigning the device.

    Brightness and Performance

    Han Bo Xiao also noted that both screens can achieve a brightness of 4,500 nits, which exceeds the peak brightness levels of competitors such as the Oppo Find N5, Samsung Galaxy Z Fold6, and Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold (currently priced at $1,499 on Amazon). However, it’s worth mentioning that 4,500 nits only equals the brightness found in the X Fold3 and X Fold3 Pro. On a different note, the X Fold5 will introduce an LTPO cover display, a feature that its predecessors did not include.

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  • New Game Competes with Palworld – Unique Gameplay Mechanics

    New Game Competes with Palworld – Unique Gameplay Mechanics

    Key Takeaways

    1. Aniimo is a new open-world action RPG developed by Pawprint Studio, showcased at the Xbox Games Showcase on June 8, 2025.
    2. The game features a unique “Twining System” that allows players to merge with their creatures, offering new gameplay experiences.
    3. Aniimo’s world, called Idyll, includes dungeons and exploration opportunities, with a focus on creature collection and evolution.
    4. Community reactions are mixed, praising the visuals and Twining System while also noting similarities to other games like Palworld and DokeV, along with concerns about monetization.
    5. Aniimo is set for release in 2026 on PC, Xbox, and mobile, with a closed beta for PC and Xbox available later this year.

    At the Xbox Games Showcase on June 8, 2025, a new game called Aniimo was officially shown to the public. This vibrant open-world action RPG is being developed by the newly created Pawprint Studio and has the potential to be a strong competitor to Palworld. The trailer presents a colorful, energetic world filled with charming creatures known as Aniimo, which players can catch, train, and use in battles through familiar gameplay mechanics. The combat system seems to be in real-time, similar to that of Palworld.

    Unique Features

    However, Aniimo is not just a simple copy of Palworld. It features an innovative mechanic called the “Twining System,” which enables gamers to merge with their Aniimo and become a creature themselves, possibly offering completely new gameplay experiences. The game includes an interactive realm known as Idyll, which is packed with dungeons and various exploration opportunities. Players will not just collect creatures; they will evolve them and discover their unique backstories.

    Community Reactions

    The comments on the trailer show a mix of reactions from viewers. Many fans commend the game’s bright visuals, immersive feel, and overall cheerful atmosphere. The Twining System has particularly captured a lot of interest. On the flip side, some criticisms have been directed at the game for its noticeable similarities to other games. Visually and musically, Aniimo has been compared to DokeV, while its style and creature designs remind players of Palworld. Additionally, some users have raised concerns about monetization, as the free-to-play model, possible gacha mechanics, and a suspected live-service approach have made parts of the community cautious.

    Release Information

    Aniimo is scheduled to be released in 2026 on PC, Xbox, and mobile platforms, but a closed beta for PC and Xbox is set for later this year. Players who are interested can register through the official website. The beta will last at least seven days and will be available in English only. Although players won’t keep their progress after the beta concludes, there are expectations of rewards for those who take part.

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  • Mind Uploading: Scientists Claim It’s Possible, But Challenges Remain

    Mind Uploading: Scientists Claim It’s Possible, But Challenges Remain

    Key Takeaways

    1. Mind uploading involves transferring human awareness, including memories and identity, into a digital format, allowing for potential eternal existence in a simulated reality.

    2. Significant challenges exist, such as fully mapping the human brain’s 86 billion neurons and simulating dynamic brain activities to maintain mental well-being in a digital environment.

    3. Historical perspectives on mind uploading include predictions by futurists like Ray Kurzweil and Dmitry Itskov, who suggest it could be possible by 2045, but many experts, including Rahnev, believe it may take 100 to 200 years.

    4. Public opinions on mind uploading are divided; some see it as a mere copy of self rather than a true continuation, while others express interest in the concept of eternal life.

    5. The idea raises questions about the nature of consciousness and whether it can be fully understood or transferred through physical means.

    Could we ever transfer human awareness into a digital realm? This idea was posed by a 15-year-old boy from the U.S. to Curious Kids, a segment on the independent science platform The Conversation, where young minds can ask real scientists their burning questions. Cognitive scientist Dobromir Rahnev wrote a thorough piece, stating that the concept of “mind uploading” is theoretically viable but achieving it could take many generations.

    The Fascinating Concept of Mind Uploading

    The notion of mind uploading is as bold as it is captivating: moving someone’s complete awareness—comprising memories, thoughts, identity, and character—into a digital format. In this simulated reality, this “digital version” could potentially exist forever, enjoying experiences similar to those in the physical world and even more extraordinary ones, such as soaring through the skies, phasing through walls, or visiting distant planets.

    Overcoming Significant Challenges

    Nonetheless, the obstacles are substantial. Firstly, the entire human brain, which contains approximately 86 billion neurons and trillions of synapses, would have to be entirely mapped in three dimensions, a feat scientists have only accomplished with fruit flies so far. Additionally, all the brain’s dynamic activities—how neurons interact and evolve over time—would also need to be accurately simulated.

    Another critical challenge involves the potential for psychological breakdown in a digital consciousness that lacks sensory experiences. To maintain a person’s mental well-being within a simulation, even slight sensations—like breathing, heartbeat, or scents—would need to be convincingly recreated. This requirement adds another layer of technical difficulty.

    Historical Perspectives and Predictions

    The idea of mind uploading isn’t something new. Certain advocates of digital life, like Google engineer and futurist Ray Kurzweil, have suggested that it could be technically achievable by 2045. In his 2005 book, The Singularity Is Near, Kurzweil imagined a time when humans and machines merge, making digital immortality attainable. He reiterated this forecast in his 2024 sequel, The Singularity Is Nearer.

    Russian entrepreneur Dmitry Itskov proposed a comparable timeline when he started the “2045 Initiative” in 2011. This nonprofit aims to transfer human consciousness into a non-biological entity—like an avatar or hologram—by the year 2045. Rahnev also believes that mind uploading is theoretically possible, but he thinks it will take at least another 100 to 200 years to become technically achievable, deeming earlier predictions, such as 2045, completely unrealistic.

    Public Reactions and Opinions

    A Reddit discussion with over 180 comments highlights how divisive this concept can be. Many users view mind uploading as merely creating a copy rather than a genuine continuation of the self. Others raise doubts about whether consciousness can be fully understood—or even transferred—through purely physical means. Nonetheless, some voices express interest in the idea of so-called eternal life. “I’d sign up in a heartbeat,” some users claimed, although they are in the minority.

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  • TCL C9K Premium QD-MiniLED TV Launches in Europe

    TCL C9K Premium QD-MiniLED TV Launches in Europe

    Key Takeaways

    1. The TCL C9K Premium QD-MiniLED TV, also known as the C91K, has launched in Europe with various size options and pricing starting at €1,999 for the 65-inch model.
    2. It features up to 5,184 local dimming zones and can achieve a peak HDR brightness of 6,500 nits, along with a high contrast ratio of 7,000:1.
    3. The TV supports advanced technologies like Dolby Vision IQ, HDR10+, IMAX Enhanced, and Filmmaker Mode, enhancing the viewing experience.
    4. Designed for gamers, it has a native refresh rate of 144Hz, a 288Hz VRR Game Accelerator, and includes four HDMI 2.1 ports for connectivity.
    5. The C9K operates on the Google TV interface and has a sleek design with a slim bezel of 3-4 mm, marketed as a ZeroBorder TV.

    The TCL C9K Premium QD-MiniLED TV has officially launched in Europe. This television, referred to as the C91K, was unveiled in April 2025, along with the newly released C8K, the C7K (which is currently priced at €799 for the 55-inch model on Amazon.de), and the C6K.

    Availability in Europe

    You can now purchase the TCL C9K in France through Boulanger and in Belgium via Coolblue. The pricing for the different sizes is as follows: the 65-inch model is available for €1,999, the 75-inch version is priced at €2,999, and the 85-inch variant retails at €3,999. Additionally, Belgium offers a larger 98-inch version for €4,999.

    Specifications and Features

    The official TCL product page for the C9K, which does not include details about the 98-inch model, states that this QLED TV provides up to 5,184 local dimming zones and can reach a peak HDR brightness of up to 6,500 nits. Similar to other TVs in this series, it features the CrystGlow WHVA Panel with a contrast ratio of 7,000:1, “ultra-low” reflectivity, and improved color viewing angles. Furthermore, it supports advanced technologies like Dolby Vision IQ, HDR10+, IMAX Enhanced, and Filmmaker Mode.

    Gaming and Connectivity

    This 4K television boasts a native refresh rate of 144Hz, along with a 288Hz VRR Game Accelerator. It also features a Game Bar for easy access to gaming settings, plus four HDMI 2.1 ports for connectivity. The TCL C9K operates on the Google TV interface and comes equipped with speakers crafted by Bang and Olufsen. Marketed as a ZeroBorder TV, it has a slim bezel of just 3-4 mm and an almost invisible black border.

    The timeline for the TCL C9K Premium QD-MiniLED TV’s release in other European countries is still unclear. A version of this model intended for the US market, known as the QM9K, is anticipated to launch later this month.

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    TCL C9K Premium QD-MiniLED TV Launches in Europe
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  • Asus Launches Affordable ROG NUC 2025 Gaming Mini-PCs with RTX GPUs

    Asus Launches Affordable ROG NUC 2025 Gaming Mini-PCs with RTX GPUs

    Key Takeaways

    1. Asus launched the ROG NUC 2025 in China, with no global release date announced yet for the original model priced at $1,353.
    2. The original ROG NUC 2025 is priced at CNY 24,999 (approximately $3,480) and features an Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX processor and an Nvidia GeForce RTX 5080 GPU.
    3. A new model retains the same processor and GPU but offers 1 TB of storage, reducing the price to CNY 24,399 (~$3,398) and saving customers CNY 600 (~$84).
    4. Another budget-friendly model replaces the RTX 5080 with an RTX 5070 Ti, priced at CNY 18,399 (~$2,561), saving CNY 6,600 (~$919) despite a 20% drop in GPU performance.
    5. The official launch date for the two new models remains unclear.

    Asus has recently launched the ROG NUC 2025 in China, and it’s been less than a month since that event. While there hasn’t been any word on when the original ROG NUC will be available worldwide (currently priced at $1,353 on Amazon), the company has unveiled two more affordable models.

    Pricing and Specifications

    As a reminder, the initial ROG NUC 2025 came with a hefty price tag of CNY 24,999 (around $3,480) and featured a powerful Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX processor, an Nvidia GeForce RTX 5080 laptop GPU, 32 GB of RAM, and a 2 TB SSD. According to ITHome, one of the new models has a reduced storage option of 1 TB, offering a savings of CNY 600 (approximately $84), bringing the price down to CNY 24,399 (~$3,398). This model keeps the Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX processor, the Nvidia GeForce RTX 5080 GPU, and 32 GB of RAM from the original version.

    A More Budget-Friendly Option

    On the other hand, by replacing the GeForce RTX 5080 with an RTX 5070 Ti, customers can save even more money while still retaining the same processor, 32 GB of RAM, and a 1 TB SSD. This particular model is set to be priced at CNY 18,399 (~$2,561), resulting in a savings of CNY 6,600 (about $919). It’s important to note that switching from an RTX 5080 to an RTX 5070 Ti will lead to a drop of around 20% in GPU performance. However, it’s still unclear when Asus plans to officially launch these two new SKUs.

    For additional information regarding the latest gaming-oriented mini-PCs from Asus, feel free to check their global website and refer back to our original article covering the launch.

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