Category: All News

August 19, 2025
Asus Launches ROG Swift OLED PG27AQWP-W: First 540 Hz Gaming Monitor
Key Takeaways
1. Asus launched the ROG Swift OLED PG27AQWP-W, a 27-inch monitor featuring LG’s 540 Hz WOLED panel technology.
2. It is claimed to be the world’s fastest OLED display, achieving up to 720 Hz by lowering its resolution to 720p.
3. The monitor includes a TrueBlack Glossy coating for enhanced brightness and vibrant visuals, though details are limited.
4. Strong connectivity options include a DisplayPort 2.1a port and HDMI 2.1 for compatibility with the latest gaming consoles.
5. Pricing and release date for the ROG Swift OLED PG27AQWP-W have not yet been announced.
Asus has recently added a new model to its ROG Swift series, following the launch of the PG32UCDMR a few months back, which took the place of the previous PG32UCDM (current price $999.99 on Amazon). The latest offering is the ROG Swift OLED PG27AQWP-W, a 27-inch monitor that also features LG’s long-awaited 540 Hz WOLED panel technology.
The Fastest OLED Display
Claimed to be the world’s fastest OLED display panel by a margin of 40 Hz, this 4th Gen Tandem panel comes equipped with LG’s Dual Mode technology. This allows the ROG Swift OLED PG27AQWP-W to lower its resolution from 1440p to 720p, enabling it to achieve an impressive 720 Hz when necessary.
Enhanced Visuals and Coating
Additionally, the new monitor from Asus includes a TrueBlack Glossy coating, similar to what was seen in the ROG Strix OLED XG32UCWG and XG32UCWMG. This combination is expected to work alongside LG’s advanced panel technology to produce brighter and more vibrant visuals. However, Asus and LG have not yet provided detailed information regarding this aspect.
Strong Connectivity Options
Asus has concentrated on the connectivity features, including a DisplayPort 2.1a port that adheres to the UHBR20 standard, boasting a bandwidth of 80 Gbps. The ROG Swift OLED PG27AQWP-W also includes HDMI 2.1, making it compatible with the latest gaming consoles. Consistent with Asus’ other monitors, this new model incorporates OLED Care Pro technologies along with a Neo Proximity sensor. Unfortunately, the pricing and release date are still not known at this time.
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Tags: Asus Gaming Monitor, LG 540 Hz WOLED, ROG Swift OLED PG27AQWP-W
August 19, 2025
Gateron Unveils Tactile HE Switch for Universal Gaming Keyboards
Key Takeaways
1. Limited Tactile Switch Options: Currently, the main tactile switch options for Hall effect keyboards are Glorious Panda HE and AEboards Raeds HE switches, with limited compatibility.
2. Gateron’s New Switch: Gateron is introducing the Magnetic Jade Emerald tactile switch, which is expected to be broadly compatible with various Hall effect keyboards.
3. Pricing and Specs Anticipation: While exact pricing and specifications are not yet revealed, an announcement is anticipated during Gamescom or IFA, with a likely price similar to the Jade Pro switches.
4. Design Innovations: The Magnetic Jade Emerald switch features a round stem for better stability and may include nubs to reduce friction, potentially enhancing smoothness in keystrokes.
5. User Preference for Tactile Feedback: Despite the popularity of linear switches for Hall effect keyboards, many users are still seeking tactile feedback, indicating a demand for more tactile switch options.
If you own a Hall effect gaming keyboard and are in search of tactile switches, your main options right now are the Glorious Panda HE switches, which have very limited compatibility—seemingly only working with Glorious and Keychron HE keyboards—or the AEboards Raeds HE switches. The latter are labeled as tactile, but they achieve this by using rubber domes to mimic the Topre switch designs.
Gateron Enters the Market
Gateron is stepping into the scene with their new Magnetic Jade Emerald tactile switch. This switch appears to be a more broadly compatible Hall effect option for keyboards such as the Wooting 80HE and Iqunix EZ63. While Gateron has only given a sneak peek of this new switch on X, we can deduce a few details from the image they shared.
Anticipated Pricing and Specs
Exact cost and specifications haven’t been disclosed yet, but it seems that an announcement during Gamescom or IFA is very probable, as Gateron mentioned that the new switch will be available “soon.”
Considering that the Gateron Magnetic Jade Emerald switch is part of the same series as the Jade Pro (currently priced at $56 for 70 switches on Amazon) switches, which we lauded in our Iqunix EZ3 review, we can infer that it shares the same design features, including a closed-bottom design, a PC top housing, a nylon bottom housing, and a POM stem. It will likely maintain the same 3.5 mm total travel as the Jade Pro and gaming switches.
Design Innovations
However, the tactile Magnetic Jade Emerald switch seems to differ from its linear counterparts, especially in the stem design. The round stem deviates from Gateron’s typical HE switches and could offer enhanced stability when pressing keycaps off-center. Upon examining the top housing closely, it appears to incorporate the same small nubs around the stem that Gateron has recently utilized on the Magnetic Spark switches. These nubs are designed to reduce friction between the stem and the top housing, leading to smoother keystrokes.
It is still uncertain if Gateron will also adopt the dual-drive modular structure from the Spark, which separates the stem into two components and allegedly removes the impact of stem wobble on the Hall sensor’s precision.
User Preferences in Tactile Feedback
Hall effect gaming keyboards have primarily been associated with linear switches, which is generally understandable. The analog controls enabled by HE technology, such as adjustable actuation distance, rapid trigger, and SOCD, benefit from linear movement. Having precise control over the switch’s position during travel facilitates the use of these features. Nevertheless, many HE keyboard users still desire a more classic tactile feedback that can only be achieved with tactile switches.
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Tags: Gateron Magnetic Jade Emerald, Glorious Panda HE, Hall Effect Switches
August 19, 2025
Asus ROG Strix OLED XG27AQDMG Gen 2: 3 Key Upgrades Explained
Key Takeaways
1. Asus has launched the ROG Strix OLED XG27AQDMG Gen 2 monitor, confirmed during Computex 2025.
2. The new model features a TrueBlack Glossy coating for improved black shades in various lighting conditions.
3. It includes a Neo Proximity Sensor to reduce panel burn-in by switching to a black screen when not in use.
4. The stand design is 30% smaller than the previous model.
5. Key specifications like 1440p resolution, 240 Hz refresh rate, and 1,300 nits peak brightness remain unchanged from last year’s version.
Asus has officially launched the anticipated ROG Strix OLED XG27AQDMG refresh. To summarize, during Computex 2025 in May, TFT Central reported that the company confirmed this new release would happen. Although details about pricing and availability are still unclear, the new model is now recognized as the ROG Strix OLED XG27AQDMG Gen 2.
New Offerings
Alongside the ROG Strix OLED XG27AQWMG and ROG Swift OLED PG27AQWP-W, the ROG Strix OLED XG27AQDMG Gen 2 does not feature a new WOLED panel like its siblings that were also unveiled today. However, this new monitor seems to have three primary benefits over last year’s ROG Strix OLED XG27AQDMG (currently priced at $699 on Amazon).
Key Features
One significant improvement is the adoption of the TrueBlack Glossy coating, which is also present in the ROG Strix OLED XG32UCWG, XG32UCWMG, and the new ROG Swift OLED PG27AQWP-W. To summarize, Asus describes the TrueBlack Glossy technology as follows:
The TrueBlack Glossy film combines a zero-haze optical layer with a sophisticated anti-reflective stack. The zero-haze layer ensures that black shades remain intact under various lighting conditions, enabling the monitor to present deep blacks even in well-lit spaces. For gamers who desire high-quality images throughout the day—not just during night hours—these monitors are excellent choices.
Additional Technologies
Furthermore, Asus has incorporated its Neo Proximity Sensor, which will switch the ROG Strix OLED XG27AQDMG Gen 2 to a black screen when it senses that you are not actively using the monitor. This Time of Flight (ToF) sensor is designed to help reduce panel burn-in, although the real effectiveness of this feature won’t be fully realized for a couple of years. Lastly, the Gen 2 model has a stand that is 30% smaller than the original ROG Strix OLED XG27AQDMG. All other specifications, including its 1440p resolution, 240 Hz refresh rate, and 1,300 nits peak brightness, remain the same as last year’s version.
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Tags: ASUS, ROG Strix OLED XG27AQDMG Gen 2, TrueBlack Glossy
August 19, 2025
AYN Thor: New Clamshell Android Gaming Handheld Competes with Ayaneo Pocket DS
Key Takeaways
1. AYN Technologies is shifting towards third-generation Odin handhelds, following previous Odin2 releases.
2. AYN is introducing a new product line called ‘Thor’, which is distinct from its x86 roots.
3. The AYN Thor is a clamshell Android gaming handheld, featuring a dual display design.
4. The device is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon chipset and includes an active cooling system.
5. Additional features of the AYN Thor include upward-firing speakers, RGB backlit joysticks, and multiple USB Type-C ports.
Earlier today, we shared that AYN Technologies has begun to hint at two new gaming handheld devices. The first piece of information from the company confirmed its shift toward third-generation Odin handhelds, following the release of the Odin2, Odin2 Portal, and the Odin2 Mini (currently priced at $349 on Amazon). As many know, AYN also offers Pro and Max versions of these Odin2 models, which have the same core hardware but come with larger memory options.
New Product Segment
On the flip side, the company hinted at a completely fresh product line named ‘Thor’. While AYN clarified that Thor does not signify a return to its x86 roots, they did not elaborate any further. Usually, AYN takes a few days before disclosing more information about a new gaming handheld that hasn’t been released yet.
AYN’s Quick Reveal
However, this time, it appears AYN is taking a different approach. Unexpectedly, the company has uploaded a brief video showcasing the AYN Thor on its YouTube channel. As seen in the video above, it confirms that the AYN Thor is a clamshell Android gaming handheld, reminiscent of the Ayaneo Pocket DS instead of the Retroid Pocket Flip 2.
The AYN Thor features a dual display design, with controls surrounding a smaller secondary screen. Additionally, it’s clear that AYN’s first clamshell gaming handheld is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon chipset, includes an active cooling system, and comes with upward-firing speakers. Furthermore, AYN has added RGB backlit joysticks, a bottom-oriented 3.5 mm audio jack, and USB Type-C ports located between a couple of lanyard holes and hardware buttons. Check out the video above for more information.
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Tags: AYN Thor, gaming handheld, Odin2
August 19, 2025
Xiaomi Unveils Ultra-Thin Power Bank with Built-in Cable
Key Takeaways
1. The Xiaomi 5000 Ultra-Thin Power Bank features a compact design and includes a built-in USB-C to USB-C cable.
2. It supports fast charging up to 22.5W, capable of charging a Xiaomi smartphone by 15-30% and an iPhone 16 Pro by 45% in 30 minutes.
3. The power bank has a 5,000 mAh battery, maintaining at least 80% capacity after 300 charge cycles, and includes safety features like temperature monitoring.
4. Crowdfunding for the power bank will start on August 24th in China, with a backing price of CNY 139 (around $19) and a retail price of CNY 149 (approximately $21).
5. It’s unclear if the power bank will be available outside China, such as in Europe where similar products are sold for €29.99.
The Xiaomi 5000 Ultra-Thin Power Bank with Built-in Cable 22.5W is set to launch a crowdfunding campaign in China shortly. This new portable device is designed to be very compact, making it simple to carry around.
Key Features of the Power Bank
Equipped with a single USB-C port, the Xiaomi 5000 Ultra-Thin Power Bank can deliver power up to 22.5W. According to the product details, it can charge a Xiaomi smartphone by 15 to 30% in just 30 minutes, and an iPhone 16 Pro by 45% within the same period. It supports multiple fast charging standards like PD 3.0 (PPS) and QC3+. Additionally, it includes a USB-C to USB-C cable that can be tucked away inside a cap, allowing it to serve as a lanyard when not in operation.
Battery and Safety Features
The power bank boasts a 5,000 mAh battery that can be recharged using a 20W USB-C input. It’s claimed to maintain at least 80% of its capacity after 300 charge cycles. The device comes equipped with several safety mechanisms, including temperature monitoring and safeguards against short circuits and overvoltage. Constructed with a metal frame, the power bank measures around 11.8 mm (about 0.5 inches) in thickness and weighs approximately 110 g (about 3.9 oz). Customers can select from two colors: Night Shadow Gray and Ice Porcelain White.
Crowdfunding Details
The crowdfunding for the Xiaomi 5000 Ultra-Thin Power Bank with Built-in Cable 22.5W will kick off in China on August 24th. Supporters will be invited to contribute CNY 139 (around $19) for this product, which is anticipated to retail for CNY 149 (approximately $21) later on. It is still unclear if this accessory will be available in other regions such as Europe, where similar items like the Ultra Slim Power Bank 5000mAh are currently sold for €29.99 on Amazon Germany.
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Tags: 22.5W Fast Charging, Crowdfunding China, Xiaomi 5000 Ultra-Thin Power Bank
August 19, 2025
Amazfit Smartwatches May Introduce New Rucking Workout Mode
Key Takeaways
1. Rucking is a low-impact exercise involving walking with a weighted backpack, gaining popularity among fitness enthusiasts.
2. Amazfit users have been requesting a Rucking mode for their smartwatches for some time.
3. The Rucking feature was found in the code of the Zepp App, but it is not currently available to users.
4. Zepp Health offers over 170 workout modes on its devices, including the Balance 2 smartwatch.
5. The release date and compatible Amazfit smartwatches for the Rucking mode remain uncertain.
A new activity called Rucking seems to be coming for some Amazfit smartwatch users. Rucking is a low-impact exercise that has become more popular lately, involving walking while carrying a weighted backpack or rucksack. This feature is already available on rival smartwatches, such as the Garmin Fenix 8.
Demand for Rucking Mode
Amazfit customers have been asking for a Rucking mode for quite a while. Zepp Health, the company behind the Amazfit brand, already has over 170 workout modes available on devices like the Balance 2, which currently costs $299.99 on Amazon. Recently, Gadgets & Wearables found the new Rucking activity in the code of the Zepp App (version 9.10.3). In the code, Rucking is mentioned alongside other activities like Running, Hiking, and Mountain Hiking. However, this mode is not yet visible to users within the app.
Future Release Uncertain
An Amazfit representative mentioned on Reddit that the company might be developing a Rucking workout mode. But there is no information yet on when this new Amazfit Rucking feature could become available. It’s also unknown which smartwatches from the brand will support this mode.
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Tags: Amazfit, Rucking, Zepp app
August 19, 2025
Upcoming Tomb Raider Game Release Expected Soon
Key Takeaways
1. Fans are eagerly awaiting the new Tomb Raider game, with the last main installment revealed in 2018.
2. The upcoming game will utilize Unreal Engine 5, blending various iterations of Lara Croft’s adventures.
3. Limited information has been released, but the game is listed as ‘Still to be dated’ in Embracer’s financial report, suggesting ongoing development.
4. A potential release date for the new Tomb Raider game could be in 2026.
5. Crystal Dynamics has yet to confirm a release date, and no announcements are expected at upcoming events like Gamescom 2025.
Fans are looking forward to the new Tomb Raider game. It’s worth noting that the last game in the series was revealed in 2018, not counting the remastered versions that have come out lately. Although details about this upcoming game are still scarce, recent information suggests that it might be on the horizon.
A Look Back in Time
To understand more, we should look back a few years to a conference focused on Unreal Engine 5. The developers shared plans for a new game that would utilize this advanced technology, combining various iterations of Lara Croft. This approach aims to blend together several of her adventures, catering to both long-time fans and newcomers to the franchise.
Anticipation Builds
While this sounds exciting and hints at a stunning game that would satisfy both veteran players and newer ones, there hasn’t been any new info released since then. However, during Embracer’s most recent financial report, the company listed all upcoming projects.
Among these, titles like Marvel 1943: Rise of Hydra and Tides of Tomorrow are set to launch in early 2026, alongside another game called Reanimal. Yet, there is a category labeled ‘Still to be dated’ where Tomb Raider is mentioned. This implies that, even with limited details, the game is still being worked on and might see a release in 2026.
The Road Ahead
Still, we should anticipate more developments before that time, as Crystal Dynamics has yet to confirm a release date. It also seems unlikely that any announcements will be made at upcoming events like Gamescom 2025, which is starting tonight. Nevertheless, fans remain hopeful, eagerly waiting to dive into thrilling and unique adventures once again.
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Tags: Crystal Dynamics, Tomb Raider, Unreal Engine 5
August 19, 2025
Casio G-Shock GA2100AB25-5A Watch with Bull Bars Launching Soon
Key Takeaways
1. Launch Details: The G-Shock x Baklava GA2100AB25-5A watch will be available for purchase starting August 21st at 10 AM EST on specializinginlife.com.
2. Pricing: The retail price for the GA2100AB25-5A is set at $200.
3. Design: The watch features a black face with a white pattern and a semi-translucent brown resin bezel, complemented by a black cloth strap.
4. Specifications: It measures 48.5 x 45.4 x 13.2 mm, uses Carbon Core Guard construction, and is water-resistant up to 200 meters.
5. Features: The watch includes world time, a 24-hour countdown timer, multiple alarms, a stopwatch, and a small red LCD display with backlight.
Casio is getting ready to launch its latest G-Shock x Baklava GA2100AB25-5A watch. Earlier in the year, the GA2100 “Desert King” was revealed, designed in partnership with Action Bronson, who is not just a rapper but also the person behind Baklava.
Pricing and Availability
The Casio G-Shock GA2100AB25-5A is available on the Casio online store in the US for a retail price of $200. Recently, Baklava shared on Instagram that this timepiece will be on sale starting August 21st at 10 AM EST at specializinginlife.com. It’s still not known if this watch will also be released on the Casio website at the same time.
Design and Specifications
The G-Shock GA2100AB25-5A showcases a black watch face adorned with a white pattern, encased in a semi-translucent brown resin bezel. It features black bull bars and comes with a matching black cloth strap. The dimensions of the watch are 48.5 x 45.4 x 13.2 mm (approximately 1.9 x 1.8 x 0.5 inches). This innovative timepiece uses a Carbon Core Guard construction, boasts a water resistance of 200 meters, and is expected to last around three years with the included battery.
Features
The GA2100AB25-5A is packed with features, including world time support, a countdown timer that can be set for 24 hours, multiple alarms, and a stopwatch with 1/100th second precision. It has two analog hands, a dial that indicates the day of the week, and a small red LCD display that includes a backlight. As of now, Casio hasn’t announced any plans to make the G-Shock x Baklava Desert King GA2100AB25-5A available outside of the US.
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Tags: Baklava, G-SHOCK, GA2100AB25-5A
August 19, 2025
Garmin Pay Rebrand Hints at Exciting New Features
Key Takeaways
1. Garmin Pay will soon be renamed Garmin Wallet, but core functions will remain the same.
2. Users will still be able to manage cards and reset passcodes under the new Wallet section.
3. The name change may hint at future improvements, possibly including access to tickets or loyalty cards.
4. Garmin has not officially confirmed the name change or upcoming features.
5. Garmin Pay is currently available on several smartwatches, including the Fenix 8, Instinct 3, and vivoactive 5.
It seems like Garmin’s contactless payment system is getting a new name. This feature lets users of the company’s smartwatches make payments while they’re out and about, without needing their phone or wallet.
New Name for the Feature
A recent article by Garmin Rumors mentioned that Garmin Pay will soon be called Garmin Wallet. However, the core functions are not likely to change anytime soon. Users will still be able to setup and manage their cards, as well as reset their passcodes, all under the new Wallet section. Unfortunately, the official Garmin blog did not specify where this information about the name change came from.
Possible Upgrades Ahead
Garmin Rumors also suggests that changing the name to Garmin Wallet might hint at an improvement for this feature. It’s possible that Garmin is planning to let users access other items from their smartwatches, such as tickets or loyalty cards. So far, Garmin has not officially confirmed the change from Garmin Pay to Garmin Wallet, nor have they talked about adding new features in the future. Just a reminder, Garmin Pay is available on several of the brand’s smartwatches, like the Fenix 8, Instinct 3, and vivoactive 5 (currently priced at $217.08 on Amazon).
Final Thoughts
Overall, the potential rebranding could be a sign of exciting things to come for Garmin smartwatch users. As more information is revealed, it will be interesting to see how Garmin Wallet evolves and what new capabilities it might offer. For now, users can continue to enjoy the convenience of contactless payments with their devices.
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Tags: Fenix 8, Garmin Pay, Garmin Wallet
August 19, 2025
Genki Faces Customer Backlash Over Shipping Changes and Poor Communication
Key Takeaways
1. Customers are frustrated due to unexpected shipping fee changes after completing orders, despite initial “Free Shipping” promises.
2. Delivery delays and lack of tracking information have caused dissatisfaction among backers, with some receiving their orders without notification.
3. Many customers are unhappy with Genki’s customer service, reporting difficulties in obtaining refunds and assistance with warranties.
4. Some buyers experienced long waiting periods for refunds, with communication issues leading to feelings of being ignored.
5. Genki has not publicly addressed these concerns after being contacted for a response.
Genki, the company that creates the Moonbase USB-C dock, is currently dealing with unhappy supporters and customers. Many of them are unhappy because they claim that the shipping terms changed after they completed their orders, and that communication has been lacking. In several Reddit discussions (see links below), Moonbase backers shared their purchase details, which clearly indicated “Shipping: Free” at the time they bought the product. However, weeks or even months later, they report being asked by the pledge manager to pay extra shipping fees, usually around $18-$20, even though their orders hadn’t changed at all.
Shipping Delays and Tracking Issues
The problems with delivery schedules have also sparked frustration. Back in June, some users shared earlier updates that indicated U.S. shipments would start in late May, but many did not receive any tracking information until mid-June. Some received their tracking numbers or packages without any heads-up, while others felt kept in the dark, despite having paid the extra shipping fees. One customer shared a support email that mentioned devices “arriving in batches” to the U.S., with warehouses “already shipping,” and promised tracking info once the orders were sent out.
Customer Service Complaints
The dissatisfaction extends beyond the crowdfunding campaign itself. A different buyer who ordered accessories directly from Genki’s website in mid-June detailed several changes to the shipping windows, including a new date in late July, but still had not received any tracking information over two months later. Other customers reported struggles in getting refunds or help with warranties. One individual mentioned that their repeated requests to cancel went unanswered until they initiated a PayPal dispute to get their money back. Others claimed they faced long delays—sometimes a month—for refunds and talked about “radio silence” regarding issues with defective products.
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Tags: Genki, Moonbase USB-C dock, shipping issues