Author: GizNews

  • Topaz Labs Introduces Project Starlight AI in Video AI Software

    Topaz Labs Introduces Project Starlight AI in Video AI Software

    Key Takeaways

    1. Topaz Labs is introducing generative AI video technology to enhance low-resolution videos with realistic details.
    2. The generative AI model recognizes intricate details, improving the quality of upscaled videos beyond what standard algorithms can achieve.
    3. Project Starlight uses an AI diffusion model to reconstruct missing details during the video upscaling process, resulting in high-resolution outputs without artifacts.
    4. The new AI feature will be available as a free research preview, allowing limited processing of clips initially, with plans for expanded features and resolutions in the future.
    5. Current Video AI software is priced at $299, but specific pricing for Project Starlight will be announced later.

    Topaz Labs is set to introduce generative AI video technology into its Video AI software. This new feature will enable users to enhance low-resolution videos, elevating them to higher resolutions while incorporating realistic details that match the objects within the scenes.

    Understanding Generative AI

    The generative AI model has been trained using a vast collection of images from the world. This enables it to recognize the intricate details that are found in reality. For instance, it understands that a cat possesses delicate whiskers near its nose. Such tiny details are typically missing in low-resolution videos, and standard upsampling algorithms fail to recreate these lost elements.

    The Power of Project Starlight

    Project Starlight utilizes an AI diffusion model for video, allowing it to reconstruct anticipated missing details during the upscaling process. This results in high-resolution videos that are brimming with detail. Additionally, this feature functions without artifacts, avoiding issues like incorrect object motions, which can arise when AI fails to generate realistic outcomes.

    Availability and Pricing

    This AI feature will be launched next week as a free research preview within the Video AI software. At first, users will be limited to processing three ten-second clips weekly at 2K resolution for free, while longer clips, up to five minutes in duration, will incur a fee. Eventually, the complete feature set, which will include the ability to output at 4K resolution, will be made available.

    Currently, the Video AI version 6 is priced at $299, but details about the pricing for the new Project Starlight will be announced later.

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  • GameMT E6 Max: Versatile Retro Handheld for Multiple Consoles

    GameMT E6 Max: Versatile Retro Handheld for Multiple Consoles

    Key Takeaways

    1. GameMT is launching the E6 Max handheld, designed for portable gaming but not for the latest AAA titles.
    2. The E6 Max operates on Android 13 and supports emulation for classic consoles, using an SD card for game storage.
    3. It features an Allwinner A527 SoC, 4GB of RAM, and a 5-inch IPS screen with a resolution of 1280 x 720 pixels.
    4. The device includes WiFi 6, an HDMI port, a 3.5mm headphone jack, and various gaming controls like analog sticks and action buttons.
    5. There is currently no official pricing or release date announced for the E6 Max.

    GameMT may not be the biggest name in the industry, but they create portable gaming devices that could catch your attention. Last year, they rolled out the E6 Plus, a handheld console designed for gaming on the move.

    New Launch: E6 Max

    Now, the company is set to release the E6 Max handheld, which sticks to the same idea but isn’t designed to handle the latest AAA titles. This mobile gaming system operates on Android 13 and supports emulation for various classic consoles, allowing games to be stored on an SD card.

    Specifications and Performance

    When comparing it to the GameMT E6 Plus, the E6 Max runs on an Allwinner A527 SoC, but we’re not expecting any significant boosts in performance. This gaming handheld is fitted with 4GB of RAM, which seems a bit underwhelming for today’s Android smartphones. It also sports a 5-inch IPS screen with a resolution of 1280 x 720 pixels and a brightness peak of 500 nits. Additionally, there’s an HDMI port for connecting to an external monitor or TV.

    Onboard, you’ll also find WiFi 6 for speedy wireless connectivity. Weighing in at 1.3 lbs, the device includes a 3.5mm headphone jack. The GameMT E6 Max comes equipped with analog sticks, a D-pad, action buttons, as well as shoulder buttons and triggers, essential for more intricate video games. However, as of now, there’s no official word on pricing or a release date for the new gaming handheld console.

    GameMT E6 Max: Versatile Retro Handheld for Multiple ConsolesGameMT E6 Max: Versatile Retro Handheld for Multiple Consoles
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  • Retroid Pocket Flip 2: Nintendo DS Style with GameCube Colors

    Retroid Pocket Flip 2: Nintendo DS Style with GameCube Colors

    Key Takeaways

    1. Retroid has unveiled a new gaming handheld and hinted at another upcoming device.
    2. One of the new systems features a D-pad and may have a sliding or folding mechanism.
    3. The Pocket Flip 2 resembles a Nintendo DS and includes two analog sticks and a D-pad.
    4. The Pocket Flip 2 has a vibrant purple design and visible speakers at the bottom.
    5. No release dates, pricing, or technical specifications have been announced, but both devices are expected to launch in the spring.

    Retroid, a well-known player in the retro handheld market, has unveiled a new system while hinting at another one. “Announcement” is a broad term here, as the company has only shared a single image showcasing a successor to the Retroid Pocket Flip alongside another upcoming gaming device.

    A Glimpse of the New Handhelds

    In the image below, one of the new systems is only partially visible. By tweaking the brightness and contrast of the teaser image, more details come to light. The new gaming handheld appears to have a D-pad, and an edge can be seen beneath the display. This might suggest a sliding or folding mechanism, similar to what is found on other handheld consoles like the RG35XXSP.

    The Pocket Flip 2 Revealed

    Conversely, the second new Retroid handheld is displayed in a clearer image. It resembles the Nintendo DS with its foldable design. This device features two analog sticks in gray and yellow colors, while the body is painted in a vibrant purple, reminiscent of the classic Nintendo GameCube.

    Moreover, the rumored Pocket Flip 2 includes a D-pad and two clearly visible speakers located at the bottom. However, the company has not disclosed any release dates, pricing, or technical specs yet. It is anticipated that both handhelds will launch in the spring. For context, the initial Retroid Pocket Flip debuted in 2023 with a suggested retail price of $149.

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  • Realme P3x 5G Launch Soon: IP69 Rating & 6000 mAh Battery

    Realme P3x 5G Launch Soon: IP69 Rating & 6000 mAh Battery

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Realme P3x 5G is a budget-friendly smartphone with a subtle design and two back options: geometric line pattern or leather texture.
    2. It offers a 50 MP primary camera with AI features, a large 6,000 mAh battery, and a slim profile of 7.9 mm thick.
    3. The device is IP69 rated, meaning it is waterproof and can withstand harsh conditions.
    4. The Realme P3x 5G features a MediaTek Dimensity 6400 processor and will officially launch on February 18.
    5. The Realme P3 Pro model shares similar battery and thickness specifications but includes a Qualcomm Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 processor and a different design.

    After Realme shared some initial information about the Realme P3 Pro, a new teaser site has disclosed additional details about the Realme P3x 5G. This more budget-friendly version showcases a subtle design, featuring a rectangular camera setup, a flat frame, and a back that comes with either a geometric line pattern or a leather texture, based on the chosen color.

    Color Choices and Specifications

    The Realme P3x 5G will be available in Stellar Pink, Lunar Silver, or Midnight Blue; however, only the blue variant will have a leather back. The device maintains a slim profile at 7.9 millimeters thick, despite housing a sizable 6,000 mAh battery. The camera module indicates that a 50 MP primary camera with AI capabilities is included. Information about the second camera is still awaited, while the third “camera” serves only as a decorative element.

    Durability and Performance

    The Realme P3x 5G boasts an IP69 rating, making it waterproof. Under the hood, it features a MediaTek Dimensity 6400, a new mid-range processor. The official launch of the Realme P3x 5G is set for Tuesday, February 18. However, details regarding its release in Europe or the USA, including timing and pricing, are still uncertain.

    The Pro Model

    Simultaneously with the P3x, the Realme P3 Pro will also debut. This model shares the same 6,000 mAh battery and a water-resistant, 7.9-millimeter-thin body as the base model. The key distinction lies in the Pro version, which is outfitted with a Qualcomm Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 processor and features a more striking design with a rounded frame and circular camera module.

    Realme P3x 5G Launch Soon: IP69 Rating & 6000 mAh BatteryRealme P3x 5G Launch Soon: IP69 Rating & 6000 mAh Battery
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  • One UI 7.1 Update Canceled; One UI 7.0 Rollout Delayed Again

    One UI 7.1 Update Canceled; One UI 7.0 Rollout Delayed Again

    Key Takeaways

    1. The stable version of One UI 7, based on Android 15, is nearing release after facing multiple development delays.
    2. Samsung may skip the One UI 7.1 version due to setbacks in One UI 7.0’s development.
    3. Upcoming foldable devices might run a less altered One UI 7.0.1 firmware instead of One UI 7.1.
    4. The rollout of One UI 7 for devices like the Galaxy S24 may be postponed until after the Galaxy S25 Edge release in April.
    5. Users with older Galaxy S models and Galaxy A devices should expect longer wait times for the update.

    The long-awaited stable version of One UI 7 is finally on the horizon. This Android 15-based update for Galaxy devices has faced a rocky road with numerous delays throughout its development. There were indications from various sources that Samsung was also developing One UI 7.1, which was anticipated to include some exciting new features. Nevertheless, a new report has surfaced indicating that Samsung may bypass One UI 7.1 entirely.

    Development Delays

    According to SamMobile, which cites unnamed sources, the setbacks in the development of One UI 7.0 have led Samsung to think about skipping the One UI 7.1 version. Earlier leaks hinted that the company intended to introduce One UI 7.1 alongside its upcoming foldable devices. However, the latest findings suggest that devices such as the Galaxy Z Fold 7, Galaxy Z Flip 7, and Galaxy Z Flip FE are likely to run a One UI 7.0.1 firmware that will feature fewer alterations than originally anticipated.

    A Long Wait Ahead

    If you’re eager to experience One UI 7 on your Galaxy S24, you may need to exercise some patience. SamMobile has also reported that it seems probable that the rollout of the stable Android 15-based OTA update for compatible devices has been postponed until the release of the Galaxy S25 Edge. Leaks indicate that the thinnest model in the Galaxy S25 lineup is expected to be available in April.

    Implications for Users

    Should this report hold any truth, be prepared to wait approximately two months before receiving One UI 7. Naturally, the delay will be even longer for those who own older Galaxy S models and users of Galaxy A devices.

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  • Avowed Not Available on Xbox Cloud Gaming for Early Access Players

    Avowed Not Available on Xbox Cloud Gaming for Early Access Players

    Key Takeaways

    1. Xbox Game Pass Ultimate offers cloud gaming, allowing subscribers to play Game Pass games on various devices but has restrictions for expensive early-access games like Avowed.
    2. The Avowed Premium Edition provides early access starting February 13th, while the Standard Edition will be available on Game Pass after the official release on February 18th.
    3. Cloud gaming support for Avowed is lacking, limiting play to Xbox and PC during early access, despite Microsoft’s ownership of Obsidian since 2018.
    4. Nvidia’s GeForce Now offers better cloud gaming options, allowing players to explore Avowed on compatible devices, though many tiers are currently unavailable due to payment processor changes.
    5. Initial reception of Avowed has been mixed, with some gameplay aspects criticized, but it will soon reach a larger audience on February 18th.

    One significant advantage of Xbox Game Pass Ultimate is its cloud gaming capability. Subscribers have the ability to play Game Pass games on different devices and can also stream their own games. However, they often face restrictions when it comes to accessing expensive early-access games. This applies to Obsidian’s action RPG Avowed, which means that those wanting to play via the cloud will need to explore other options.

    Early Access Details

    The Avowed Premium Edition opens up an early access phase that started on February 13th. This version is available on several platforms, such as the Xbox Store, Steam, and Battle.net. The Standard Edition is included in Game Pass and Game Pass Ultimate but will not be available until the official release date of Avowed, which is February 18th. Players can choose to upgrade to the Premium Edition for an additional cost, but they shouldn’t count on being able to stream the game on devices like smart TVs, browsers, or smartphones.

    Compatibility Concerns

    It’s quite odd that cloud gaming support is missing, especially since Microsoft bought Obsidian Entertainment back in 2018. Currently, the game is limited to Xbox and PC, although a release for PS5 in the future is not out of the question. Given the additional expenses involved, it’s frustrating for gamers to be stuck using their PCs or Xbox consoles during the early access time frame.

    Cloud gaming is becoming an attractive method to enjoy highly anticipated games from anywhere as streaming quality and variety get better. Nvidia’s GeForce Now leads in game streaming options, allowing users to utilize powerful gaming setups. Unlike Microsoft’s service, players of Avowed can freely explore Eora on compatible GeForce Now devices. Unfortunately, many tiers of GeForce Now are currently unavailable due to Nvidia’s changes in payment processors.

    Reception and Expectations

    In terms of its initial reception, Avowed hasn’t reached the high standards established by Obsidian’s Pillars of Eternity. NBC’s review noted that some gameplay aspects feel superficial, which detracts from the engaging narrative. However, the game is set to face a much wider audience on February 18th, including those who play via Xbox Cloud.

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    Avowed Not Available on Xbox Cloud Gaming for Early Access PlayersAvowed Not Available on Xbox Cloud Gaming for Early Access Players

     

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  • Sony Uses Apple iPhones in Xperia European Marketing

    Sony Uses Apple iPhones in Xperia European Marketing

    Key Takeaways

    1. Sony showcased Apple iPhones at its CES 2025 booth instead of its own Xperia models, raising questions about its marketing strategy.
    2. iPhones are featured prominently on multiple Sony European websites, despite the availability of Xperia devices in the market.
    3. The images likely promote the Sony Inzone M10S Gaming Monitor, highlighting a preference for iPhones over its own products in marketing materials.
    4. Critics argue that using iPhones in promotions undermines the Xperia brand, which could benefit from more support from Sony.
    5. The decision to feature iPhones may indicate a focus on compatibility with Sony’s products rather than promoting its own smartphone line.

    Sony has once again found itself in a curious situation, opting for Apple iPhones instead of its own Xperia models. During the CES 2025 event in Las Vegas, the Japanese company showcased iPhones at its booth, even though it had premium devices like the Xperia PRO-I and Xperia 1 V available in the US market. While some argue that showcasing iPhones indicated compatibility with Sony’s own products (like cameras and vehicle processing platforms), this recent incident seems to contradict that reasoning.

    Uncovering the Evidence

    A recent post on Reddit, shared by user u/xdmt3O, highlights this puzzling trend. The original poster mentions noticing iPhones featured in Sony’s marketing materials on its official German website. Digging deeper, it becomes clear that this iPhone image is being used across several of Sony’s European websites. Currently, the image appears on the homepages of Sony’s sites in the UK, France, Portugal, Sweden, Netherlands, Italy, Austria, Germany, Hungary, and Spain. This is quite the visibility for a product that the Sony Xperia 1 VI has to face in the market.

    Marketing Choices

    The images in question showcase the likely Apple iPhone 16 models (both regular and Plus/Max versions for that extra visibility) to promote the Sony Inzone M10S Gaming Monitor, which comes with a 12-month Fnatic Plus membership with eligible purchases. It’s reasonable to say that the Sony Xperia 1 VI, which we rated a solid 86%, would have been a far better choice for this specific marketing campaign. After all, Apple hardly requires help from its rivals to sell more iPhones, while the Xperia line could certainly use all the support it can get, especially from its parent company.

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    Sony Uses Apple iPhones in Xperia European MarketingSony Uses Apple iPhones in Xperia European Marketing
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  • RTX 50 Gaming Laptops Delayed Due to Nvidia’s AI Server Focus

    RTX 50 Gaming Laptops Delayed Due to Nvidia’s AI Server Focus

    Key Takeaways

    1. Asus, MSI, and Acer showcased RTX 50 gaming laptops at CES 2025, with pre-orders starting on February 25.
    2. Nvidia has delayed the launch of RTX 50 mobile GPUs, with high-end models now expected in March and mid-range options in April.
    3. There are rumors of performance issues with RTX 50 GPUs, including hardware functionality problems and unfinished drivers.
    4. Nvidia’s focus on AI products is impacting resource allocation, causing delays in the release of RTX 50 laptop graphics cards.
    5. Acer’s Predator Helios Neo 16 AI, featuring up to an RTX 5070 Ti, is set to be available in Q2 2025, supporting the reported delays.

    Laptop manufacturers such as Asus, MSI, and Acer showcased their gaming laptops powered by RTX 50 at CES 2025. The pre-orders for these first RTX 50 gaming laptops are set to begin on February 25. Currently, there are no RTX 50 gaming laptops available in stores.

    Delays in GPU Launch

    A report from DigiTimes has revealed that Nvidia has postponed the release of its RTX 50 mobile GPUs. The high-end RTX 50 laptop graphics cards, including the RTX 5090, are now expected to launch in March. Additionally, the mid-range options like the RTX 5070 are also delayed and are now anticipated in April instead of March.

    Gamers eagerly waiting for the next-generation gaming laptops will have to exercise some patience.

    Performance Concerns

    According to DigiTimes, there are rumors that Nvidia may not be achieving the expected performance levels with the RTX 50 laptop GPUs. Team Green could be encountering issues related to hardware functionality, as the report mentions “screen problems after the hardware is turned on.” This may suggest that the drivers are still unfinished. DigiTimes cites unnamed supply chain sources hinting at these issues.

    These unnamed sources also indicate that the delay of the RTX 50 laptop GPUs is “probably related to Nvidia’s full sprint to AI servers.” This focus on AI products appears to be impacting “the company’s resource allocation,” which in turn is hindering the “debugging efficiency of new products.”

    Resource Allocation Issues

    In simple terms, it seems Nvidia is having a hard time directing enough resources to the consumer segment, which is causing delays in completing the RTX 50 laptop graphics cards. As a result, the release of RTX 50-based gaming laptops may be pushed back by as much as two months.

    While we cannot definitively confirm the accuracy of the DigiTimes report, Acer has announced that its mid-range Predator Helios Neo 16 AI, featuring up to an RTX 5070 Ti mobile GPU, will be available in Q2 2025, which supports the rumors mentioned earlier.

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  • iPhone 17 Air Concept Video: Apple’s Slimmest Smartphone Yet

    iPhone 17 Air Concept Video: Apple’s Slimmest Smartphone Yet

    Key Takeaways

    1. The iPhone 17 Air is set to launch alongside the iPhone 17 and iPhone 17 Pro series in the third quarter of this year.
    2. It is expected to be the slimmest iPhone ever at about 5.5 mm thick, surpassing previous models.
    3. The device features a 6.6-inch 120 Hz OLED display and a single 48 MP camera bar on the back.
    4. It will be powered by an A19 SoC and 8 GB of memory, focusing on high-end specifications rather than being a budget option.
    5. Apple’s commitment to thinner designs is evident, with recent trends in their product line prioritizing sleekness without sacrificing performance.

    The Apple iPhone 17 Air is anticipated to launch along with the iPhone 17 and iPhone 17 Pro series in the third quarter of this year. Unlike other Apple products that use the ‘Air’ name, the iPhone 17 Air is not aimed at being a low-cost option. Instead, it is a high-end smartphone featuring a 6.6-inch display and an impressively slim design.

    Slimmest iPhone Yet

    Rumors suggest that the iPhone 17 Air will measure about 5.5 mm in thickness, making it the slimmest iPhone produced by Apple thus far. To put this into perspective, the iPhone 16 Pro is 8.3 mm thick, and Apple’s previous record-holder, the iPhone 6, had a thickness of 6.9 mm. It might be a bit challenging to visualize just how thin a 5.5 mm device is. However, a recently shared concept video of the iPhone 17 Air helps a lot in understanding its sleekness, displaying what could be Apple’s most stylish smartphone ever.

    Features and Specifications

    As anticipated, the iPhone 17 Air appears to be remarkably thin, although the rumored camera bump—actually a camera bar with a single 48 MP sensor—does protrude a little. The device’s 6.6-inch screen places it in between the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro Max when considering its overall size. It is expected to feature an A19 SoC, 8 GB of memory, that same 6.6-inch 120 Hz OLED display, a lone 48 MP camera on the back, and a custom-designed modem.

    Apple has shown a renewed focus on creating thinner products recently, as seen with the 5.1 mm thick iPad Pro (currently priced at $1,099 on Amazon) and the Apple Watch. Analysts have suggested that Apple is indeed making thin designs a priority again, which we will probably see with the iPhone 17 Air and upcoming 2026 MacBook Pros. Although this may raise some concerns, the advancements in Apple Silicon in recent years should enable them to achieve this without compromising on performance or thermal management.

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  • Audio-Technica Unveils Second-Gen Open-Ear Cartilage Headphones

    Audio-Technica Unveils Second-Gen Open-Ear Cartilage Headphones

    Key Takeaways

    1. Cartilage Conduction Technology: The Audio-Technica ATH-CC500BT2 uses cartilage conduction instead of bone conduction, providing a unique listening experience without ear canal insertion.

    2. Comfort and Awareness: These headphones allow users to be aware of their surroundings while listening, avoiding discomfort and moisture buildup associated with traditional earphones.

    3. Enhanced Sound Quality: Cartilage conduction offers a stereo sound experience, delivering distinct sounds to the ears rather than merging them in the skull.

    4. Improved Design Features: The ATH-CC500BT2 is smaller, lighter, and more secure than its predecessor, with an IPX4 water resistance rating and features like AI noise reduction and Bluetooth Multipoint.

    5. Long Battery Life and Fast Charging: The headphones provide up to 20 hours of playback on a single charge, with fast charging that allows 120 minutes of use from just a 10-minute charge.

    Audio-Technica has introduced a new set of open-ear headphones that utilize cartilage conduction technology, setting them apart from the bone conduction technology commonly found in other models. This latest offering marks the company’s second venture into headphones that employ cartilage conduction.

    Comfortable Listening Experience

    The Audio-Technica ATH-CC500BT2 offers users a unique listening experience without needing to insert anything into the ear canals. This design not only keeps the ear canals open but also ensures that users remain aware of their surroundings while listening. Unlike traditional bone conduction, these headphones transmit sound through the cartilage instead of the skull bones.

    Additional Benefits of Cartilage Conduction

    In addition to the benefits typical of open-ear designs, such as avoiding ear discomfort and moisture buildup, Audio-Technica claims that cartilage conduction has extra advantages. It tends to be more comfortable than bone conduction, as it applies less pressure to the head. Moreover, it offers a stereo sound experience, allowing sounds to reach the ears distinctly rather than merging in the cranial cavity, which is what happens with bone conduction.

    Improved Design and Features

    Building on the success of its earlier model from 2022, the ATH-CC500BT2 is said to be smaller and lighter than its predecessor while maintaining a secure fit even during light physical activities. The headphones boast an IPX4 water resistance rating, AI-powered noise reduction, and compatibility with voice assistants like Siri and Google Assistant. They also support Bluetooth Multipoint, and users can take advantage of a companion app to adjust equalizer settings or enjoy soothing white noise.

    The headphones offer a battery life of up to 20 hours for playback on a single charge, with up to 10 hours available for calls. They feature fast charging capabilities, as a quick 10-minute charge can provide up to 120 minutes of use. The Audio-Technica ATH-CC500BT2 is compatible with AAC and SBC codecs, as well as A2DP, AVRCP, and HFP Bluetooth profiles.

    Audio-Technica has set the retail price for the headphones at £119 in the UK and €139 in Europe, but there is currently no information regarding a release in North America.

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