Category: All News

  • Xiaomi Redmi Note 17 Global Release Plans Leaked

    Xiaomi Redmi Note 17 Global Release Plans Leaked

    Key Takeaway

    – Xiaomi appears to be skipping the Redmi Note 16 branding and moving to a Redmi Note 17 series, with multiple model numbers signaling different regional variants.
    – The listed model numbers (2607DRA18C, 26073RA49C/G, 2609FRA74C) and new entries (26012RN62L/Y/A) suggest a global rollout planned for late 2026, with regional releases preceding a broader launch.
    – The Redmi Note 17 is expected to launch in China first, with India follow-ups, and a full global introduction likely by the end of 2026; the 26012RN62L variant is linked to the “Redmi Note 17 too” marketing name.
    – Based on current patterns, 26012RN62L is anticipated to be the successor to the Redmi Note 15 4G rather than the Redmi Note 15 5G.
    – Timing signals point to a July 2026 release window for some variants and a December 2026 global release for the main Note 17 lineup.

    New evidence that Xiaomi is developing the Redmi Note 17 series has emerged online

    New evidence that Xiaomi is developing the Redmi Note 17 series has emerged online. In March, multiple sources reported that Xiaomi planned to skip Redmi Note 16 branding altogether. Instead, the company was rumoured to be charging ahead with the Redmi Note 17 series, just as it did in late 2025 by replacing Xiaomi 15 smartphones with Xiaomi 17 successors. The article carries a sense of urgency and intrigue, mixing rumors with supposed confirmations from various outlets without clear official statements.

    Speculation and model numbers

    At the time, Xiaomi Time reported that the 2607DRA18C, 26073RA49C and 2609FRA74C were in development. Shortly afterwards, the 26073RA49G appeared on the Eurasian Economic Commission (EEC) as a global alternative to the 26073RA49C. Now, XimiTime has observed the 26012RN62L, 26012RN62Y and 26012RN62A being added to GSMA databases. The progression of model numbers suggests regional variants of the same device rather than distinct phones, hinting at a strategy to tailor releases per market with minor spec tweaks. The sources imply a tempo that could accelerate toward a late-2026 rollout.

    Global rollout expectations

    As far as we can tell, these are regional variants of the same device. The screenshot shared by XimiTime links 26012RN62L to the marketing name ‘Redmi Note 17 too’. Moreover, the model number indicates that Xiaomi hopes to release the Redmi Note 17 around December 2026. By contrast, the other model numbers that have emerged so far point towards a July 2026 release in some capacity. The narrative paints a pattern where China-first launches lead to broader international availability, yet a worldwide debut might push toward the end of 2026, potentially delaying a comprehensive global release until next year.

    Market timing and historical patterns

    Typically, Xiaomi releases three new Redmi Note smartphones in China first before launching them in India a month or so later. However, a global launch is unlikely to occur until the end of 2026. If past generations are any indication, then 26012RN62L is probably the successor to the Redmi Note 15 4G (curr. $187 on Amazon) rather than the Redmi Note 15 5G that we reviewed a few months ago. The piece wraps speculative timing with a nod to prior release cadences, underscoring uncertainty about the order and timing for international availability while citing historical patterns as justification.


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  • Lenovo Relaunches 15-Inch Gaming Laptop with New Version Worldwide

    Lenovo Relaunches 15-Inch Gaming Laptop with New Version Worldwide

    Key Takeaway

    – Visual refresh in Surge Green with black keyboard/bezel accents and rear-port trim differentiation.
    – Global release with same core specs: Ryzen 7 250 APU (8-core/16-thread), 60 Wh battery, 15.3″ 1920×1200 IPS display at 165 Hz and 100% sRGB (300 nits).
    – GPU options: RTX 5050, RTX 5060, or RTX 5070 (8 GB); RAM options of 16 GB or 32 GB.

    Lenovo refreshes the LOQ 15 budget gaming laptop lineup

    Lenovo has quietly refreshed its budget 15-inch gaming laptop range with a new version of the LOQ 15. To recap, the company updated the LOQ 15 in January 2026 during CES 2026. Although the laptop arrived later that month in Europe, it took until the start of May for the new LOQ 15 to reach North America. The update focuses on visual tweaks to help the LOQ 15AHP11 stand out from the LOQ 15AHP10 we reviewed almost a year ago, with new color options and some design touches that distinguish this model in a crowded segment.

    Visual tweaks and color choices

    There is a notable color shift this time, as the LOQ 15 is now available in Surge Green, contrasted by a black keyboard and black display bezels. The rear-facing ports receive a black trim, and the Surge Green finish extends across the body and onto an optional 2.4 GHz wireless mouse. These styling changes aim to give the machine a refreshed, more aggressive stance while keeping the familiar chassis footprint that buyers expect from the LOQ line.

    Hardware options and display details

    The new LOQ 15 can be configured with Nvidia GeForce RTX 5050, RTX 5060 or RTX 5070 (8 GB) laptop GPUs and options for either 16 GB or 32 GB of RAM. A 60 Wh battery accompanies all SKUs, maintaining similar endurance expectations to prior LOQ models. The system is powered by a Ryzen 7 250 APU featuring 8 Zen 4 CPU cores and 16 threads, which Lenovo positions as a balanced combination for budget gaming duties.

    Display specs and brightness

    Lenovo also sticks with a 15.3-inch IPS display that resolves at 1,920 x 1,200 pixels, with a 165 Hz refresh rate and 100% sRGB coverage. Peak brightness sits at around 300 nits, which should be acceptable for typical indoor usage and most gaming environments, though not the brightest panel in its class. This display pairing remains a core part of the LOQ 15’s value proposition, offering smooth visuals for esports titles and fast-paced titles alike.

    Pricing and regional availability

    Pricing for the updated LOQ 15 starts at CAD 2,269, with approximate conversions around $1,644.98 USD, £1,600 GBP, and €1,589-€1,899 for Eurozone regions. The company notes these pricing and availability details across Canada, France, Germany, Ireland, the UK, and the US. This positioning keeps the LOQ 15 competitive in its segment while delivering the refreshed Surge Green aesthetic and updated internals mentioned above.


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  • GTA 6 Physical Release Confirmed by Take-Two CEO + Collector’s Edition Rumors

    GTA 6 Physical Release Confirmed by Take-Two CEO + Collector’s Edition Rumors

    Key Takeaway

    – GTA 6 will have a significant physical component and likely multiple editions, including potential collector’s editions and bundles.
    – Digital revenue dominates, but physical sales are still expected to boost Rockstar Games’ performance and overall hardware activity.
    – A marketing push is planned for this summer with promotions and a third trailer possibly arriving soon, ahead of pre-order opportunities.

    In February, Take-Two CEO Strauss Zelnick denied a report claiming there would be no GTA 6 physical release.

    In February, Take-Two CEO Strauss Zelnick denied a report claiming there would be no GTA 6 physical release. Even facing the risk of leaks, in a new interview, the executive says its release date will have a “big physical component”. His comments only fuel speculation that collector’s editions or PS5 console bundles are also planned. The tone here blends caution with optimism, and it leaves fans wondering how much of the package will be physical versus digital, a balance that publishers often navigate carefully.

    Following the publisher’s May 21st earnings call

    Following the publisher’s May 21st earnings call, Zelnick spoke with CNBC about the company’s finances. SquawkGamingYT shared a clip of the conversation, which focused on the changing gaming landscape. The CEO explained how an overwhelming percentage of revenue now comes from digital purchases. Regardless, the Rockstar Games project should still benefit from physical sales. The interview emphasizes the ongoing importance of both channels, even as digital grows.

    Fans had hoped that a Best Buy affiliate email would signal GTA 6 pre-orders beginning on May 18th.

    Fans had hoped that a Best Buy affiliate email would signal GTA 6 pre-orders beginning on May 18th. That didn’t happen, but Take-Two did reconfirm the game’s release date in its investors update. While boxed copies are anticipated for the PS5 and Xbox, collectors are anticipating limited-time buying opportunities. The piece notes that the retail ecosystem remains active with possible exclusive offers.

    DetectiveSeeds and possible SKUs

    DetectiveSeeds, who admittedly doesn’t have the best track record for leaks, predicted there would be 6 SKUs to choose from. Gamers may see various physical and digital options, including a collector’s edition with bonuses. Using Red Dead Redemption 2 and GTA 5 as examples, a steelbook or map of Leonida is a possibility. The rumor mill suggests several tiers, but confirmation is still pending.

    Zelnick didn’t commit to a price for any version of the Rockstar Games title.

    Zelnick didn’t commit to a price for any version of the Rockstar Games title. Earlier, he hinted at a “fair” cost given the value that the open-world experience brings. That said, a special edition with trinkets is likely to demand well more than $100 from fans. Pricing sensibly remains a talking point as fans speculate about what the collectors’ edition might include.

    Console bundles and retailer strategies

    Console bundles are another way to encourage foot traffic at retailers. Reeling from price increases, analysts expect the game to reinvigorate hardware sales. A PS5 or PS5 Pro configuration makes the most sense, with indications of a Take-Two and PlayStation partnership. Bundling strategies could drive both software sales and hardware adoption in tandem.

    Gamers may finally learn more about GTA 6 pre-orders when a marketing campaign begins.

    Gamers may finally learn more about GTA 6 pre-orders when a marketing campaign begins. During the earnings call, Zelnick reaffirmed that promotions would start this summer, although some leaks suggest that the third trailer may debut sooner. The timing is being watched closely by fans eager for concrete details and official confirmations.

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  • Warhammer-Inspired Tactical RPG: 70% of Players Love It, 90% Off on Steam

    Warhammer-Inspired Tactical RPG: 70% of Players Love It, 90% Off on Steam

    Key Takeaway

    – Tactical RPG set in Mordheim with diverse factions (Sisters of Sigmar, Skaven, Empire Mercenaries) and mission-based single-player or multiplayer play.
    – Explore, recruit units, and find unique items/weapons while employing strong battle strategy to avoid losses.
    – Positive reception for atmosphere and story, but plagued by bugs, confusing UI, and tough enemies.
    – Notable price drop: $1.99 (down from $19.99) during a temporary 90% discount noted by SteamDB.

    Introduction to Mordheim: City of the Damned

    The Warhammer universe is vast and filled with stories that players can explore. This is the case for Mordheim: City of the Damned, an adaptation of the tabletop game Mordheim developed by Rogue Factor and published on Steam by Nacon on November 19, 2015. The narrative places you in a grim, crowded Empire City where danger and opportunity collide in every shadow.

    Setting and Factions

    The story of this tactical RPG takes place in the Empire City of Mordheim, which has become a battlefield where warriors fight for valuable resources and glory. As a player, you can lead warriors, such as the Sisters of Sigmar, the Skaven, or the Mercenaries from the Empire, to take control of the city. The ambient tone blends grimdark fantasy with tactical menace, inviting strategic thinking and careful planning in each skirmish.

    Gameplay and Progression

    Thus, you’ll have to complete missions in single-player or multiplayer mode and recruit new units. In addition, you can find unique items, weapons, and gear by exploring the world around you. However, be careful, because during battles, you’ll need to use the right strategy and avoid losses. The game rewards careful squad management and risk assessment as you push deeper into the ruined streets.

    Reception and Content

    Mordheim: City of the Damned has 70% positive reviews on Steam, based on over 8,340 reviews. Players appreciate the game’s atmosphere and its storyline. Several units are available, adding variety to the gameplay. But many bugs have been reported, the interface is difficult to understand, and enemies are often difficult to defeat. These mixed impressions reflect both the ambition and the rough edges of the project.

    Pricing and Availability

    However, this game is currently at its lowest price, which was first reached on February 21, 2022. Indeed, it is available for $1.99 instead of $19.99, following a 90% discount until May 28, 2026, according to SteamDB. The deal highlights a momentary affordability that appeals to bargain hunters and curious players alike, while underscoring the volatility of digital storefront pricing.

    Disclaimer and Retail Notes

    Disclaimer: No external price source or retailer note is provided here beyond the discount information stated above. The discounted price or deal mentioned in this item was available at the time of writing and may be subject to time restrictions and/or limited unit availability.

     


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  • Vivaldi 8.0: Refreshed Look and New Features

    Vivaldi 8.0: Refreshed Look and New Features

    Key Takeaway

    – Unified design: a new frame-wide interface that makes toolbars and elements feel cohesive and more alive.
    – Expanded customization: extensive visual themes, presets, and six layout options plus full user theme creation.
    – Greater control and capabilities: more functional choices and a unified look across Windows, macOS, and Linux.

    Overview of Vivaldi’s New Design Direction

    Vivaldi has been around for over a decade, and although it took some time to gain traction, it is now one of the most customizable web browsers available for users on Windows, macOS, and Linux. According to the official blog post (link in the Source section), Vivaldi 8.0 is a huge step forward and stands as “a new design direction that makes the browser feel more alive and more unified than any version before it” to provide more control, more capabilities, and more choices alongside a brand-new look.

    Unified Interface Concept

    Dubbed “Unified,” the new look of the browser brings everything closer in a more fluid approach, combining various interface elements. For example, all toolbars are now part of a frame that wraps the entire browser, and the same visual plane now integrates regions that were previously stacked.

    Themes and Visual Options

    The new interface can be experienced via the updated default light and dark themes, as well as the following visual treats: Zen, Soria Moria, Sunset Forest, and Kawaii Clouds. Obviously, the user can also build a custom theme to match one’s preferences entirely.

    Preset Layouts and Customization

    In addition to preset themes, Vivaldi also comes with six preset layouts, as below: Obviously, none of these visual presets are fixed. With Vivaldi, the sky remains the limit when it comes to customizing the user experience, both from the visual and functional perspectives. The full changelog is available on this page, but a faster way to get to know Vivaldi 8.0 would be to take it for a spin or just watch the video below.

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  • Ugreen 45W Charger with Angled Display Released

    Ugreen 45W Charger with Angled Display Released

    Key Takeaway

    – Competing 45W GaN charger with a distinctive angled design and a rotating smart display for charging info.
    – Auto-detects connected devices (iPhone/iPad/MacBook) to optimize power delivery for safer, faster charging.
    – Slightly heavier and larger than Anker’s 75g variant but remains highly portable with foldable prongs; priced around $18 in China vs. $39.99 for Anker in the US.

    Ugreen launches its 45W GaN charger with a distinctive angled design

    Ugreen is taking on Anker with its newest 45W compact GaN charger. To recap, Anker released the Anker Nano Charger (45W, Smart Display, 180° Foldable) earlier this year, a compact model with the ability to intelligently identify connected devices. Ugreen has now launched its own take on the idea, but with a more distinctive angled design.

    Power delivery and device recognition

    Like the Anker model, the new Ugreen 45W USB-C GaN Fast Charger (X740) can deliver up to 45W of power, which Ugreen says is enough to charge most phones like the iPhone 17 Pro (Notebookcheck review) to 50% in around 20 minutes. That said, the adapter can recognize connected iPhone, iPad, or MacBook models and automatically adjust power delivery accordingly for safer and faster charging, a feature we first saw on the Anker Nano 45W charger.

    Built-in display and physical design

    The charger also features an angled smart display that makes charging information easier to read when plugged into a wall socket. It can even rotate the display depending on the outlet orientation. As for the size, the adapter weighs 96g and measures 44 × 40 × 37.92 mm. That makes it slightly heavier than Anker’s 75g alternative, though it should still be easy to carry around thanks to the foldable prongs.

    Pricing and availability

    The Ugreen 45W USB-C GaN Fast Charger is now listed in China for the equivalent of around $18 and will officially go on sale on May 26. By comparison, Anker’s alternative currently sells for $39.99 in the US.


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  • Casio Unveils Two Square Digital Watches in Europe

    Casio Unveils Two Square Digital Watches in Europe

    Key Takeaway

    – Casio W-738H-1AV and W-738H-3AV are now available in the UK for £45 each, with £2.95 Standard Delivery (2–4 working days).
    – Key features include vibration alerts linked to daily alarm, countdown timer, stopwatch, and hourly signal; 100 m water resistance and an estimated 10-year battery life.
    – The watch has a mid-size case (47.0 x 42.8 x 13.5 mm) and two UK colorways: W-738H-1AV (black, light display) and W-738H-3AV (khaki, light display); a third variant, W-738H-1BV (dark display), may or may not release in the UK.
    – Vibration performance is enhanced by a tighter strap fit due to shorter hole spacing.

    Casio W-738H Watches Now in UK

    The Casio W-738H watches are now available in the UK. Three versions of this square digital display watch were spotted on an official Casio website in April 2026, and they have since been released in the brand’s home market of Japan.

    UK Availability

    • Standard W-738H-1AV and W-738H-3AV priced at £45 each, similar to the older W-735H model.
    • Standard Delivery option at £2.95, aiming for two to four working days.

    Pricing and specification details are copied here as requested, including the £45 price tag for the two UK variants and the delivery fee.

    Mid-Size Specs and Features

    One of the main features of the Casio W-738H watch is its vibration alerts. These are linked to the daily alarm, countdown timer, stopwatch and hourly time signal features. Plus, the shorter distance between holes on the watch strap should allow for a tighter fit, making the vibrations stronger. Other features include 100 m water resistance and a ten-year battery life estimate. This resin watch is offered in two colorways in the UK: the W-738H-1AV (black case/strap, light display) and the W-738H-3AV (khaki case/strap, light display). Casio describes this as a mid-size model, measuring 47.0 x 42.8 x 13.5 mm (~1.85 x 1.69 x 0.53 inches).

    Dimensions and Build

    It is unclear whether or when the third version of this watch, the W-738H-1BV (black case/strap, dark display), could be released in this market. While the W-738H watches have yet to be officially released in the EU, they have appeared at third-party retailers like David et Philly in France.

    EU Release Status

    It is unclear whether or when the third version of this watch, the W-738H-1BV (black case/strap, dark display), could be released in this market. While the W-738H watches have yet to be officially released in the EU, they have appeared at third-party retailers like David et Philly in France.

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  • Privacy-focused PureOS 11 Crimson drops with changes

    Privacy-focused PureOS 11 Crimson drops with changes

    Key Takeaway

    – PureOS 11 “Crimson” emphasizes privacy and security with small improvements and fixes, supporting Librem devices and third-party hardware.
    – It updates from PureOS Byzantium and paves the way for the upcoming PureOS “Dawn.”
    – Subscriptions are available (Standard, Premium, Expert) for ongoing support, while the system itself remains free; hardware like Librem Server is also offered.

    Introductory notice

    Privacy- and security-focused PureOS is back with release 11, codenamed “Crimson” and compatible with third-party devices as well as Librem laptops and smartphones, as well as Liberty Phone handsets. Sadly, this update doesn’t come with any major new features, focusing on small improvements and fixes instead.

    Release context

    According to the official release notes, PureOS 11 will hit all devices currently running its predecessor, namely PureOS “Byzantium,” and opens the way to its successor, which already has a name: “Dawn.” These are the highlights mentioned in the release notes (the link can be found further down this page, in the Source section):

    Subscription and pricing

    Those who want to support this effort can choose to subscribe to PureOS, although the system remains free. The Standard, Premium, and Expert tiers are valued at $5.99, $9.99, and $19.99 per month. Various hardware devices, including the $2,999+ Librem Server, can also be found on the page detailing the subscription plans.

    Getting the ISOs

    New users and those who want to reinstall the system can grab the ISOs from below.

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  • Steam Controller Puck May Be a Fire Hazard Warning

    Steam Controller Puck May Be a Fire Hazard Warning

    Key Takeaway

    – Potential safety risk: exposed puck pins can short-circuit if they contact metal, causing heat and sizzling; a watch strap example triggered this incident.
    – Isolated incident with ongoing investigation; Valve’s Steam Hardware team is reviewing and plans to replace the puck.
    – Advisory takeaway: avoid placing the puck near metal objects or conductive surfaces until a fix is confirmed.

    Steam Controller Safety PSA: Puck Short-Circuit Issue

    The widely successful Steam Controller has been reaching customers, and feedback has been quite positive. It comes with a puck that enables a wireless 2.4 GHz connection with the controller, as well as magnetically attaches to the controller for charging. This design, as a Reddit user unfortunately found out, can lead to some unexpected safety issues.

    Incident Details and Immediate Effects

    A user named ‘Toikka’ shared a PSA on the SteamController subreddit about an unfortunate incident with the Steam Controller puck. No one was hurt, and damage was minimal, but the user found that if the exposed pins of the puck come in contact with a piece of metal, they can short-circuit and start sizzling, potentially causing a fire. The metal piece in this situation was a watch strap for the user’s Pixel Watch 3.

    What Happened and Outcomes

    While the smartwatch was on its own charger, it accidentally came in contact with the puck and started heating up. This left minor burn marks on the strap and the puck itself. Fortunately, the user realized in time, and neither of the devices suffered any functional damage.

    Valve Involvement and Next Steps

    Toikka also shared that the Steam Hardware team is investigating the issue, with the “items” being shipped to the team soon. The user will also be getting a replacement puck from Valve.

    Context and Reactions

    While this is an isolated incident and the chances of it happening to others are low, it should serve as a cautionary tale. Some commenters are of the opinion that this is a design flaw on Valve’s side, as the incident suggests the pins are always live. There could be a firmware update to address this issue at some point, but we’ll have to wait for Valve to complete its investigation.

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  • Nacon Revo Xbox Controllers Offer Pro Features at Budget Price

    Nacon Revo Xbox Controllers Offer Pro Features at Budget Price

    Key Takeaway

    – Nacon announces three Revo X series controllers with drift-free Hall effect joysticks and triggers for Xbox Series X|S and Xbox One, starting at €39.90 (~US$46).
    – Revo X (cheapest) offers 1000 Hz polling and 1 ms latency with four vibration motors; Pro and Max add advanced features.
    – Revo X Pro introduces trigger stops, two programmable rear buttons, and Shooter Pro mode to remove dead zones for faster, precise aiming.
    – Revo X Max adds adjustable stick tension and upgraded micro-switch face buttons and D-pad for improved responsiveness (no replaceable joystick modules).
    – Release date not announced; customers can sign up on Nacon’s site for notifications.

    Nacon is launching three new Xbox controllers with drift-free Hall effect joysticks and triggers. Starting at €39.90 (~US $46), the new Revo X wired gamepads undercut many pro-style controllers while offering features that have made GameSir and 8BitDo popular alternatives to Microsoft’s standard Xbox controller.

    Overview and Availability

    The controllers were first announced during the Nacon Connect 2026 event earlier this month and are compatible with both the Xbox Series X and Xbox One. Priced at €39.90, the Revo X is the cheapest model in the lineup.

    Revo X

    It offers drift-free joysticks and triggers, making it a compelling alternative to Microsoft’s standard Xbox controller. The gamepad keeps the familiar Xbox layout and adds four vibration motors for extra immersion. For PC gamers, it also supports a 1000 Hz polling rate with 1 ms latency. This model delivers the essentials with a budget-friendly price, while maintaining the core ergonomics that players expect.

    Pro Features and Pricing

    The Revo X Pro builds on the standard Revo X with several pro-focused upgrades. The biggest highlights are the trigger stops, which let gamers switch between full analog triggers for precise control and micro-switch triggers for faster inputs in FPS games. This model also adds two programmable rear buttons and a “Shooter Pro” mode that is said to remove joystick dead zones for quicker and more responsive aiming.

    Revo X Pro

    The Revo X Pro is priced at €49.90 (~US$58), putting it around the same price as Microsoft’s official Xbox wireless controller before discounts. It aims to appeal to players who want a more tactile input profile and customizable rear actions, while still staying within a reachable price tier for enthusiasts who crave more control options than the base model.

    Max Model and What It Brings

    The Revo X Max completes the lineup and adds one of the standout features of Microsoft’s $199.99 Xbox Elite Series 2 controller: adjustable stick tension. This allows gamers to fine-tune joystick resistance depending on the game, whether prioritizing quick movements or more precise control. The Max also upgrades the face buttons and D-pad to micro-switch switches for improved responsiveness.

    Revo X Max

    While it lacks replaceable joystick modules, the Revo X Max still looks like a compelling alternative to the much pricier Elite Series 2 at €69.90 (~US$81). The combination of adjustable tension and tactile micro-switch inputs aims to deliver a comparable feel at a fraction of the cost, appealing to players who value customization without a premium tier price.

    Release Information

    Nacon has listed the new three controllers on its website, but there is no definite release date yet. Interested buyers can sign up for notifications on the website to be notified once the controllers become available.

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