Category: All News

January 8, 2025
Microsoft Discusses Merging Xbox and Windows for Gaming Handhelds
It’s well-known that Microsoft is in the works of launching an Xbox gaming handheld, but this device might take a couple of years to hit the market. Before that happens, the company aims to combine the “best of Xbox and Windows” for the handheld devices that are already available.
Xbox Games on Windows Handhelds
Naturally, you can still enjoy Xbox games on a Windows gaming handheld. Thanks to Game Pass and its specialized app, access to Xbox titles has become a reality. However, this does not provide a completely native experience, and it’s clear that Windows struggles to deliver a console-like gaming feel. But, that’s about to change soon.
Future Plans for Windows Gaming
In a recent conversation with The Verge, Jason Ronald, Microsoft’s VP of Next Generation, discussed the company’s vision for Windows gaming handhelds set for 2025. Ronald hinted at significant upgrades, emphasizing that Microsoft aims to pursue a more integrated approach.
Ronald explained that they are working to extend their console innovations into the wider Windows ecosystem. He recognized the current limitations of Windows on gaming handhelds and promised that efforts are underway to enhance the overall experience.
Enhancing the User Experience
In addition to simplification, Ronald stated that Microsoft intends to make it “much more like a console experience,” ensuring that the user and their game library are “the center of the experience.” The company is also looking into better controller support for Windows handhelds, along with a revamped interface for those who don’t use a keyboard and mouse.
For those curious, Ronald made it clear that these enhancements will not involve a custom Xbox operating system being adapted for handhelds. Instead, they will be Xbox-focused features tailored for Windows gaming handhelds (Z1 Extreme ROG Ally currently priced at $499.99 on Amazon).
Although Ronald did not provide a specific timeline, he reassured gamers that these anticipated updates are on their way. In fact, the recent user interface redesign of the Xbox app for Windows gaming handhelds might just be the beginning of this entire initiative.
Source: Link
Tags: ROG Ally, Windows, Xbox
January 8, 2025
InkPoster: Digital Poster with Paper Feel & Year-Long Battery
Pocketbook is on a mission to change wall art by swapping out traditional printed pictures for top-notch E Ink screens. These E Ink panels don’t use backlighting; instead, they rely on reflected light, giving them a finish that looks like paper.
Long Battery Life
The built-in battery has a capacity ranging from 14,000 mAh to 20,000 mAh, depending on the model size, and is projected to last up to a year. This impressive battery life is achievable because E Ink technology only uses energy when the image on the screen changes. The InkPoster is available in three different sizes: 13.3 inches, 28.5 inches, and 31.5 inches. All versions feature an E Ink Spectra 6 panel, which offers a contrast ratio of 30:1 and can show around 60,000 colors.
Resolution Details
The resolution for the 13.3-inch version is 1,600 x 1,200 pixels, while the 31.5-inch InkPoster boasts a resolution of 2,560 x 1,440 pixels. The 28.5-inch variant has unique traits, including a higher resolution of 3,060 x 2,160 pixels and a Sharp IGZO E Ink panel that refreshes content more quickly. Users can easily change the images shown on the screen through the InkPoster app, which supports Bluetooth and WLAN connectivity.
Pricing and Launch Date
The launch of the Pocketbook InkPoster is anticipated for spring 2025. The prices are set at $599 for the 13.3-inch model, $1,700 for the 31.5-inch version, and $2,400 for the 28.5-inch model due to its superior panel quality.
Source: Link
Tags: E-Ink, InkPoster, Pocketbook
January 8, 2025
Nvidia DLSS 4: 8x Gaming Performance Boost for GeForce RTX GPUs
Nvidia has unveiled the fourth version of its Deep Learning Super Sampling (DLSS) technology. This new update claims to offer a frame rate that is over eight times higher along with latency that is about half of what native rendering provides. A comparison video from Nvidia demonstrates that the frame rate achieved by the new DLSS is set to double compared to DLSS 3.
Enhanced Frame Generation
To achieve these impressive results, Nvidia has included “Multi Frame Generation” within DLSS Frame Generation. Unlike previous versions, DLSS 4 now generates three-quarters of all displayed frames using AI, instead of just every second one. Nvidia notes that this was not feasible before due to the strain it would place on GPUs, which would reduce output frame rates. However, with new advancements in the GeForce RTX 5000, Multi Frame Generation has become achievable.
Improved Performance
The new AI model for Frame Generation operates 40% faster while consuming 30% less graphics memory. For instance, in the game Warhammer 40K: Darktide, Nvidia asserts that DLSS 4 can deliver a frame rate increase of 10%, even when using conventional Frame Generation, saving 400 MB of graphics memory in the process. When paired with the GeForce RTX 5000, DLSS 4 can compute nearly 94% of all pixels using AI instead of relying on native rendering.
Significant Frame Rate Boosts
The impact on performance is substantial. Benchmarks indicate that, depending on the title, DLSS 4 can boost frame rates by anywhere from just under 370% to as much as 720%, translating to nearly four times to over eight times the original rate.
Even though Multi Frame Generation is exclusive to the GeForce RTX 5000, users with older graphics cards, even those as far back as the GeForce RTX 2000, will still find advantages with DLSS 4. This is because the AI models for standard Frame Generation, DLSS Ray Reconstruction, DLSS Super Resolution, and DLSS Edge Smoothing (DLAA) have all seen enhancements.
Broad Game Support
Nvidia reports that more than 75 games now embrace DLSS, featuring major titles like Alan Wake 2, Black Myth: Wukong, and Cyberpunk 2077.
Source: Link
Tags: DLSS 4, GeForce RTX 5000, NVIDIA
January 8, 2025
Corsair Xeneon Edge 32:9 Touchscreen Monitor for Any Space
The new Corsair Xeneon Edge is similar to the Asus ProArt PA147CDV, featuring a 14-inch touchscreen with a 32:9 aspect ratio. This design is said to work great when placed beneath a traditional desktop monitor, providing extra room for apps and widgets.
Improved Features
The Xeneon Edge comes with several improvements over the older Asus ProArt. To start with, the bezels around the screen are much thinner, and the resolution is notably better at 2,560 x 720. This results in a striking pixel density of 183 PPI. Additionally, the touchscreen can be used on a desk with a stand, or it can be magnetically attached to a PC case, or even installed directly in a tower to replace a 360-millimeter radiator.
User-Friendly Software
Corsair has designed software that includes a variety of widgets for monitoring system performance, displaying weather updates, calendar events, a chat interface, or even a mini-game right on the touchscreen. Users can arrange the screen in either portrait or landscape orientation, connecting it to their computer through HDMI or USB-C. However, Corsair has not yet provided details on brightness, frame rate, or color accuracy.
Pricing and Launch Information
The Corsair Xeneon Edge secondary monitor is expected to be released in the second quarter of 2025. Pricing information is still unavailable at this time.
Source: Link
Tags: Asus ProArt, Corsair Xeneon Edge, touchscreen monitor
January 8, 2025
Apple iPhone SE 4 and iPad 11 Launch Rumored for January
Just recently, there were talks that the upcoming fourth-generation iPhone SE might be named the iPhone 16e, intended as a budget-friendly option next to the iPhone 16. MacRumors has now reported from a source that seems credible that the iPhone 16e could debut alongside the rollout of iOS 18.3.
iOS 18.3 Release Timing
Looking back at past releases, iOS 15.3, 16.3, and 17.3 all came out in January, so it’s likely that iOS 18.3 is also on the way, especially since a beta version is already out. However, launching an iPhone in January would be quite odd, seeing as all previous iPhone SE models have been introduced in March or April. Yet, with Apple halting sales of both the iPhone 14 and the third-gen iPhone SE by the end of December due to the EU’s USB-C requirement, it makes sense for the iPhone 16e to be launched soon.
Specifications of the iPhone 16e
Rumored details suggest that the iPhone 16e will feature a 6.1-inch OLED screen with a 60 Hz refresh rate, a 12 MP front-facing camera equipped with Face ID, and a single 48 MP rear camera. It will also be powered by the latest Apple A18 chip. When compared to the pricier iPhone 16, the iPhone 16e lacks certain features like a dedicated camera shutter button and a 12 MP ultra-wide camera. Additionally, MacRumors indicates that the iPad 11 is also set for a January launch, expected to include an upgraded processor and 8 GB of RAM to enhance Apple Intelligence capabilities.
Conclusion
With all these updates, it seems like Apple is gearing up for some exciting new releases. The iPhone 16e and iPad 11 could bring some fresh choices for consumers looking for modern tech at a lower price. Keep an eye out for official announcements as the launch dates approach!
Source: Link
Tags: iOS 18.3, iPhone 16e, MacRumors
January 8, 2025
CES 2025: Dreame X50 Ultra Robot Vacuum with Early Bird Discount
Not only Roborock, but also Dreame is taking advantage of CES 2025 to introduce its latest flagship robot vacuum. Technically, the new Dreame X50 Ultra was first shown at IFA 2024, but it didn’t have a name back then.
Innovative Climbing Ability
At IFA 2024, Dreame showcased the unique climbing ability of the X50 Ultra. Thanks to its ProLeap system and extendable legs, this robot can handle steps as high as 6 cm: 4.2 cm for the first step and 1.8 cm for the next. This means that most doorsteps should no longer be a major challenge or issue.
Advanced Navigation Features
There are also upgrades in navigation. Similar to the Roborock Saros 10, which was also revealed at CES, the Dreame X50 Ultra can retract its laser tower when necessary. This feature lowers its height to just 89 mm, enabling it to clean under a wider variety of furniture. Moreover, it utilizes structured 3D light and AI to recognize up to 200 different objects, including pet waste.
Comprehensive Functionality
In addition, all the well-known flagship characteristics we expect from Dreame’s premium models are present in the Dreame X50 Ultra. It boasts a powerful suction of 20,000 Pa, SideReach with an extendable side brush, and MopExtend RoboSwing for effective cleaning in corners and along edges. The main brush can also be elevated by 10 mm (HyperStream Detangling DuoBrush), and it has mops that are suitable for high-pile carpets, among other features.
The Dreame X50 Ultra not only includes a variety of accessories but also the typical full-service cleaning station. It provides hot water mop washing at 80 °C, hot air drying, vacuuming, and replenishing with water and detergent as standard. Additionally, it comes equipped with two new UV lamps designed to kill bacteria.
Pre-order and Pricing Details
The new Dreame X50 Ultra is currently available for pre-order, with actual sales starting on February 14. The retail price is set at $1,699.99, but customers who pre-order can take advantage of an early bird discount of $390, reducing the cost to $1,309.99. This price also includes a 3-year warranty, plus an additional 2 years for free, totaling five years of coverage.early bird discount of $390
Source: Link
Tags: CES 2025, Dreame X50 Ultra, robot vacuum
January 8, 2025
CES 2025: JBL Horizon 3 Clock Radio for Better Sleep Patterns
In addition to the flagship Tour One M3 headphones, JBL, a Harman brand, is introducing a new clock radio at CES 2025. The JBL Horizon 3 is the follow-up to the Horizon 2, designed for placement on bedside tables, aiming to support the natural sleep cycle.
Design and Features
The JBL Horizon has a sleek look with a frosted display and soft ambient lighting. It offers relaxing sounds, like ocean waves during sunrise mode, to “help regulate circadian rhythms.” In the evening, nature-inspired sounds create a calming atmosphere in the bedroom, allowing users to “unwind to nature inspired sounds before going to sleep.”
Customization and Connectivity
Users can personalize their alarm settings, equalizer, and lighting through the JBL One app. Aside from an integrated FM radio, the JBL Horizon 3 features two alarm settings and a large rotary knob for easy use. Inside the device, there are two 1.5-inch full-range speakers with dual passive radiators, which are meant to deliver high-quality sound. The Bluetooth 5.3 technology allows for smooth streaming from smartphones and other gadgets, while Auracast enables connection of multiple speakers.
Availability and Pricing
As for the launch, JBL stated that the new Horizon 3 will be available in May 2025. Customers can choose between grey and black colors for a retail price of $129.95.
Source: Link
Tags: Bluetooth 5.3, CES 2025, JBL Horizon 3
January 8, 2025
CES 2025: Sony and Honda Afeela 1 Sedan Price and Launch Details
Sony Honda Mobility has reached an important milestone at CES 2025 by starting pre-orders for its first electric vehicle, known as the Afeela 1. This electric car is the initial product resulting from the collaboration between tech giant Sony and car manufacturer Honda, who recently revealed their plans to merge with Nissan.
Afeela 1 Trim Levels and Pricing
Currently, the Afeela 1 will be available in two trim levels in the US:
Both versions come with a three-year subscription for several features, including a Level 2 driver assistance system and various AI-driven functionalities. Pre-orders have begun for customers in California. To secure their order, EV buyers are required to pay a $200 refundable deposit, with deliveries for the Signature model anticipated to commence in mid-2026. Meanwhile, the more affordable Afeela 1 Origin variant is expected to see deliveries delayed until 2027.
Performance and Design Features
The Afeela 1 boasts a range of up to 300 miles based on EPA standards and is compatible with Tesla’s widespread Supercharger network in the US. Its design aims to convey a sense of both elegance and sportiness, resembling vehicles like the Lucid Air and the Tesla Model S. The electric car comes with 40 sensors and cameras dedicated to the driver assistance system. Each of the two electric motors delivers 180 kW, while the battery has a capacity of 91 kWh and supports charging at a rate of 150 kW.
Interior Experience and Market Challenges
The interior of the Afeela 1 Signature features a massive screen that spans the entire dashboard. Sony and Honda Mobility are focused on enhancing the driving experience through various AR integrations and an emphasis on entertainment, which could attract tech-savvy EV enthusiasts.
With the Afeela 1, Sony and Honda are attempting to carve out a niche in a competitive market of high-end electric vehicles. Nonetheless, the launch occurs in a rapidly evolving EV landscape that is facing issues like dwindling demand and the reduction of tax incentives in the US and other places.
Long-term Competition
In the long run, the Sony Honda Afeela 1 will need to compete against formidable electric vehicle contenders from China, who can offer significantly lower prices than this new electric sedan. California is often viewed as a key EV market where Chinese electric cars are mostly absent, but it remains uncertain how well the Afeela 1 will perform against established players like Tesla and other traditional automakers.
Source: Link
Tags: Afeela 1, electric vehicle, Sony Honda Mobility
January 8, 2025
MSI Unveils Vector 16 HX AI with Arrow Lake CPUs & RTX 50 GPUs at CES 2025
MSI has unveiled a range of gaming laptops, and while the Titan series continues to be their top offering, the Vector 16 HX presents impressive specifications with a few small compromises.
Display and Performance
The MSI Vector 16 HX AI, as suggested by its name, is equipped with a 16-inch screen that sports a resolution of 2560×1600 and a refresh rate of 240 Hz. The IPS display achieves 100% coverage of the DCI-P3 color spectrum. Under the hood, this laptop is powered by either Intel’s latest Core Ultra 7 255HX or Core Ultra 9 275HX processor. For graphics, users can choose between the Nvidia GeForce RTX 5080 (16 GB GDDR7) or the RTX 5070 Ti (12 GB GDDR7). (Remember that these are the laptop versions of these graphics cards.)
Storage and Connectivity
The Vector 16 HX AI is designed with two PCIe Gen 5 x4 slots for dual NVMe drives and supports a maximum of 96 GB of DDR5 SODIMM RAM using two slots. In terms of connectivity, it features two Thunderbolt 5 ports (both capable of DisplayPort and PD 3.1), two USB-A 3.2 Gen 2 (10 Gbps) ports, an SD card reader, an HDMI 2.1 port (supporting 8K/60 Hz or 4K/120 Hz), a 2.5 Gbps Ethernet port, and a combo headphone/microphone jack. The laptop is equipped with two 2W speakers and offers WiFi 7 or WiFi 6E via an Intel Killer BE1750 or AX211 wireless card, respectively. These cards support Bluetooth versions 5.4 or 5.3, respectively. The Vector 16 HX AI is available with either Windows 11 Home or Windows 11 Pro.
Size and Weight
This laptop maintains the same dimensions as its 2024 predecessor, measuring in at 357x284x28.55 mm. This size makes it somewhat bulky for a gaming laptop with a 16-inch display. The increased size helped the previous model manage heat effectively, so it’s worth monitoring this aspect with the newly released version. The Vector 16 HX AI features a similarly sized 90 Wh battery (4-cell, Lithium polymer) like its older version. It weighs in at 2.7 Kg (5.95 lbs).
MSI has yet to reveal the pricing details at the time of this announcement.
Tags: gaming laptop, Intel Core Ultra, MSI Vector 16 HX AI
January 8, 2025
Keychron Unveils Two New Wireless Hall-Effect Gaming Keyboards
Keychron has been making waves recently, refreshing many of its iconic keyboard designs with updated firmware, different switch choices, and improved sound dampening materials. Now, they are unveiling two new Hall-effect gaming keyboards to compete with Wooting for the top spot in the gaming market.
New Models Introduced
The new keyboards are the Keychron Q6 HE, which features a standard 100% layout with a number pad, and the Lemokey P1 HE, offering a 75% layout that strikes a better balance between size and usability.
Key Differences
Although the Lemokey P1 HE’s more compact design sets it apart from the Q6 HE, the two models share several similarities at first sight. Both keyboards are constructed with aluminium plates and cases, but the silicone bean gasket mounts in the Lemokey P1 may feel a bit firmer compared to the softer silicone strips in the Q6 HE. Aesthetically and ergonomically, they diverge significantly. For example, the Lemokey P1 HE is equipped with shine-through Cherry keycaps, allowing for more vibrant RGB customization than the Q6 HE, which lacks shine-through keycaps. Additionally, locating shine-through keycaps for the Q6 HE can be tricky, as the south-facing RGB tends to look dimmer and less consistent when paired with shine-through caps designed for north-facing key arrangements.
Keycap Profiles
The Q6 HE features OSA (OEM Spherical Angled) keycaps, which are noticeably taller than the Cherry profile seen on the P1 HE. While these keycaps may offer a more comfortable typing experience and deeper sound, they might not provide the same level of comfort for gaming as the Cherry profile keycaps on the P1 HE do.
Both models, however, share the Gateron’s double-rail magnetic switches, which require a moderate actuation force of 40 gf and max out at 60 gf. These switches paired with Hall-effect sensors enable both keyboards to deliver all the gaming features expected from Hall-effect designs, such as rapid triggering, adjustable actuation points, dynamic keystrokes, and SOCD. These characteristics are also present in our recent reviews of the Wooting 80 HE and Glorious GMMK 3 Pro HE.
Connectivity and Performance
In contrast to the Wooting 80 HE, the new Keychron and Lemokey Hall-effect keyboards do not support 8,000 Hz polling, opting instead for wireless connectivity with a maximum of 1,000 Hz polling in 2.4 GHz mode. Nevertheless, this polling rate is still on par with the Wooting 60 HE, ensuring that both the Keychron and Lemokey keyboards perform well in gaming scenarios.
Source: Link
Tags: Hall-effect keyboards, Keychron Q6 HE, Lemokey P1 HE