Category: All News

  • New Trump Tariffs May Raise Nintendo Switch 2 Prices Further

    New Trump Tariffs May Raise Nintendo Switch 2 Prices Further

    Key Takeaways

    1. Nintendo has moved much of its hardware production to Vietnam to avoid U.S. tariffs on China, but new tariffs now threaten this strategy with a 46% import charge on Vietnamese goods.

    2. Nearly 50% of Nintendo’s hardware is produced in Vietnam, including the Switch and the upcoming Switch 2, which is set to launch on June 5th.

    3. Despite the shift to Vietnam, Nintendo still relies on China for some manufacturing, raising concerns about potential price increases for consumers.

    4. The expected price for the Switch 2 has risen from $400 to $450, with additional costs for games like Mario Kart World, which is priced at $80.

    5. Cambodia could be a potential alternative for production, but it faces its own challenges with steep 49% tariffs, creating uncertainty for future pricing stability.

    Nintendo has shifted a lot of its hardware production to Vietnam to reduce the effects of U.S. tariffs on China. Sadly, President Trump’s new tariffs have introduced a hefty 46% charge on imports from Vietnam. Fans of gaming, especially those who are let down by the Switch 2 price, are now worried about potential price increases in the future.

    Shift to Vietnam

    The Japanese gaming giant started moving its factories to Vietnam back in 2019 as a response to previous tariffs from Trump aimed at China. Current estimates suggest that nearly 50% of Nintendo’s hardware is produced in this Southeast Asian nation. Among these products are the well-known Switch and the upcoming Switch 2 consoles. To counter an ongoing trade conflict, Nintendo sent a significant amount of its new gaming system to the U.S. as early as January.

    Ongoing Dependence on China

    Despite this shift, Nintendo still relies on China for some of its manufacturing, which means there are limits to its strategy. Gamers are left pondering whether the company had foreseen the new Trump tariffs affecting Vietnam. Some leaks regarding the Switch 2 hinted that it would be priced at $400. However, it turns out that the handheld device will actually cost $450, which is more than expected. On top of that, the costs for upgrading with Mario Kart World are surprising many, as it comes with an $80 price tag. Alternatively, consumers can buy a Switch 2 bundle that includes the game for $499.99.

    Future Price Stability

    If Nintendo had properly considered future tariffs, gamers might have seen a more stable price for the Switch 2. It’s also unlikely that Nintendo will make any adjustments before the console launches on June 5th. Nonetheless, it might not be long before buyers feel the effects of these import costs.

    Cambodia appears to be a clear alternative for producing Nintendo’s consoles. The company already has operations in that country. However, Cambodia has recently been slapped with steep 49% tariffs. While consoles were exempt from China tariffs back in 2019, it’s uncertain if gamers can count on another break this time around.

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    New Trump Tariffs May Raise Nintendo Switch 2 Prices Further
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  • GeForce RTX 5080 Laptops Outperform RTX 4080 by 25-35%

    GeForce RTX 5080 Laptops Outperform RTX 4080 by 25-35%

    Key Takeaways

    1. Performance Boost: Upgrading from a gaming laptop with GeForce RTX 4080 to one with RTX 5080 can yield a performance increase of approximately 30 to 35 percent based on 3DMark benchmarks.

    2. Real Game Improvements: The performance difference is also reflected in actual games, with titles like Cyberpunk 2077 and Strange Brigade showing speed increases of 30 to 35 percent, and other games experiencing enhancements between 15 to 30 percent.

    3. DLSS Impact: Comparisons are made without DLSS features. With DLSS4, the RTX 5080 is expected to perform even better due to its advanced AI model and exclusive features like multi-frame generation.

    4. Enhanced Gaming Experience: If modern games support DLSS4, enabling it could significantly boost performance and widen the gap compared to older RTX 4080 laptops.

    5. Recommended Model: The 2025 Schenker XMG Neo 16 is highlighted as a strong option for gamers looking to upgrade for a better gaming experience.

    If you’re still using a gaming laptop with the GeForce RTX 4080, you might be curious about how much better a laptop with the RTX 5080 would be. From our experience with the new 2025 Schenker Neo 16, the performance boost is estimated to be around 30 to 35 percent, based on 3DMark benchmarks, as illustrated in the graph below. This data reflects the average results from nearly two dozen tested models, all equipped with GeForce RTX 4080 graphics.

    Gaming Performance Insights

    The approximate 30 percent performance difference is also evident in real games. For example, titles such as Cyberpunk 2077 and Strange Brigade show a speed increase of 30 to 35 percent. Meanwhile, games like Assassin’s Creed Shadows, Final Fantasy 15, Alan Wake 2, and Baldur’s Gate 3 experience enhancements ranging from 15 to 30 percent, whether you’re playing at 1080p or 4K resolutions.

    DLSS and Its Impact

    It’s important to mention that all these comparisons are based purely on rasterization without any DLSS features turned on. When considering DLSS benchmarks, the GeForce RTX 5080 would likely perform better than the RTX 4080. This is because DLSS4 uses a more sophisticated AI model compared to DLSS3, along with MFG (multi-frame generation), which is a feature exclusive to the GeForce RTX 50 series. If the games you enjoy support DLSS4, enabling this feature could significantly enhance your gaming experience, further increasing the performance gap compared to older gaming laptops.

    Conclusion

    In summary, the upgrade from an RTX 4080 laptop to one with an RTX 5080 can provide a considerable performance increase, especially if you’re playing modern titles that take advantage of new technologies like DLSS4. The 2025 Schenker XMG Neo 16 is a strong contender for those looking to step up their gaming experience.

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  • Adobe Premiere Pro and After Effects 25.2 New Features Update

    Adobe Premiere Pro and After Effects 25.2 New Features Update

    Key Takeaways

    1. Performance Upgrades: Both After Effects and Premiere benefit from enhanced performance, with quicker processing for various formats and smoother playback capabilities in After Effects.

    2. Enhanced 3D Tools: After Effects introduces advanced 3D tools and features like Animated Environment Lights and direct FBX file imports, simplifying the creation of dynamic 3D environments.

    3. AI-Powered Features in Premiere: Premiere now includes Firefly-powered Generative Extend, allowing users to lengthen footage and audio tracks using AI, reducing the need for reshoots.

    4. Improved Clip Search: The clip search function in Premiere is enhanced with AI, enabling easier searches through thousands of clips based on descriptions, visuals, or audio metadata.

    5. Streamlined HDR Importing: Premiere’s new Color Management feature simplifies HDR clip importing by automatically applying the correct color transforms, eliminating the need for LUTs.

    Adobe has rolled out exciting updates for After Effects and Premiere 25.2, which will help video editors and effects creators work quicker and smarter.

    Performance Upgrades

    Both software have been improved for better performance. Premiere now supports quicker H.264, H.265, and Canon Cinema RAW processing, taking advantage of optimized hardware acceleration on Apple ARM systems and PCs equipped with Nvidia Blackwell GPUs. Meanwhile, After Effects introduces High Performance Preview Playback, enabling projects to be cached in both RAM and storage for smoother playback.

    Enhanced 3D Tools

    After Effects now includes powerful 3D tools that provide one-click shortcuts to easily create 3D environments, like dynamic backgrounds that shift with the camera movements. The Animated Environment Lights feature facilitates complex lighting for objects sourced from video or animation elements. Moreover, users can now import FBX files directly from Autodesk 3D software, including Maya, all while monitoring output in HDR.

    AI-Powered Features in Premiere

    Premiere has introduced Firefly-powered Generative Extend, a handy tool that allows video creators to lengthen footage that ends abruptly using AI technology. This feature minimizes the need to reshoot scenes when just a few extra seconds are necessary. Additionally, audio tracks can now be extended to cover any missing main or background sounds in a scene, such as birds chirping or the roar of a motorcycle.

    Improved Clip Search

    The clip search function has also been enhanced through AI. Editors can now search through thousands of clips based on concise descriptions of visuals, audio, or camera metadata, which helps decrease the manual effort required to annotate clips.

    Streamlined HDR Importing

    Importing HDR clips has become easier with the new Premiere Color Management feature. This automatically applies the right color transforms, removing the need for LUTs to accurately display HDR videos. Users can select from Direct Rec.709 and three wide gamut pipelines, including the newly developed ACES (Academy Color Encoding System) wide-color gamut ACEScct.

    Multilingual Captioning

    Premiere also now has the capability to translate captions into 27 languages with the help of AI, building on its existing functions that generate captions, subtitles, and video transcripts from spoken content.

    For those eager to explore these new features in Adobe After Effects and Premiere 25.2, subscribing to Adobe CC is available for purchase on Amazon.

    Check out the new AI-driven features and workflow improvements in Premiere Pro and After Effects 25.2

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  • Tesla Unveils Alien Supercharger Station Design in Roswell

    Tesla Unveils Alien Supercharger Station Design in Roswell

    Key Takeaways

    1. Tesla is developing unique Supercharger station designs, including a retro diner and a drive-in movie theater.
    2. A futuristic Supercharger station design in Roswell, New Mexico, is inspired by extraterrestrial themes.
    3. The updated design features eight new V4 Supercharger stalls and a CyberCanopy with an LED light bar.
    4. The design includes elements reminiscent of the Cybertruck, with futuristic lighting and a playful Easter egg.
    5. Tesla aims to create Supercharger locations that enhance the travel experience, making the journey more enjoyable.

    Tesla appears to be developing several unique designs for its Supercharger stations. Recently, plans for a diner and a drive-in movie theater were revealed following the submission of planning approvals. Now, work has begun on the retro Supercharger station, with the diner reaching the final stages of its construction.

    A New Futuristic Vision

    Another design concept, this time with a more futuristic vibe, has come to light from the approval documents filed by Tesla with the zoning authorities in Roswell, New Mexico. The choice of Roswell as the site hints at a design that could be inspired by extraterrestrial themes, and the sketches in the permit files support this idea.

    Tesla’s Max de Zegher shared, “We want to create a few Superchargers that are impressive enough to make the trip worthwhile.” He mentioned that they wished to keep this under wraps longer, but the planning submission was necessary. This refers to the site documents Tesla submitted back in 2023.

    Exciting Updates and Features

    The updated site permit now includes eight new V4 Supercharger stalls, accompanied by a CyberCanopy featuring an LED light bar inspired by the designs of the Cybertruck and Model Y. The original sketches of a landing spacecraft show where Tesla drew its inspiration from—stories of alien crash sites in Roswell—while the final design of the CyberCanopy maintains an angular shape reminiscent of the Cybertruck.

    With LED dome lights that evoke a scene from Star Trek, the design remains distinctly futuristic, and a hidden hedgehog Easter egg adds a fun twist.

    A Bright Future for Charging Stations

    All signs point to the CyberCanopy Supercharger station moving forward with construction. Tesla may soon offer even more charging locations that are “worthy of the trip itself,” similar to the retro diner experience.

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    Tesla Unveils Alien Supercharger Station Design in RoswellTesla Unveils Alien Supercharger Station Design in RoswellTesla Unveils Alien Supercharger Station Design in Roswell
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  • OnePlus 13T Achieves Top AnTuTu Benchmark Scores Before Launch

    OnePlus 13T Achieves Top AnTuTu Benchmark Scores Before Launch

    Key Takeaways

    1. OnePlus will soon release the OnePlus 13T, with its first appearance expected this month.
    2. The OnePlus 13T achieved an impressive benchmark score of 3,006,913 on AnTuTu.
    3. The device features a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite processor and an upgraded thermal management system for enhanced performance.
    4. It will come with up to 16 GB of LPDDR5X RAM and 512 GB of UFS 4.0 storage.
    5. The launch is anticipated at the end of the month in China, followed by a global release.

    OnePlus has recently announced its intention to release the OnePlus 13T soon. This compact flagship is set to make its first appearance this month and has already been seen on a benchmark for the very first time, showcasing some quite impressive results.

    Benchmark Details

    According to a post on Weibo from the official AnTuTu account, the OnePlus 13T has been spotted on the benchmark list. The device carries the model number “PKX110,” which has been confirmed by previous leaks and certification documents. Notably, the 13T achieved an impressive AnTuTu score of 3,006,913. For comparison, the top-rated device currently on AnTuTu’s official leaderboard, the OnePlus Ace 5 Pro, has a score of 2,890,600.

    Performance Insights

    Even though pre-launch benchmark scores can often be overly optimistic, this result still underlines the performance potential of the OnePlus 13T. Earlier leaks suggested that the phone would offer “radical performance” due to an upgraded thermal management system along with Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite. Additionally, OnePlus’s official teaser emphasized its performance capabilities, indicating that the claims might not just be mere marketing hype.

    Specifications and Availability

    Alongside the notable benchmark score, the listing reveals that the OnePlus 13T will come equipped with up to 16 GB of LPDDR5X RAM and 512 GB of UFS 4.0 storage. The launch is expected to take place at the end of the month in China, with a global release anticipated shortly after.

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    OnePlus 13T Achieves Top AnTuTu Benchmark Scores Before Launch
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  • Next-Gen Apple iPad Mini: Early Details and Leaks Revealed

    Key Takeaways

    1. Apple is developing a new iPad Mini, expected to feature an OLED display.
    2. Recent rumors about eliminating the iPad Mini for a foldable model have been clarified as inaccurate.
    3. The upcoming iPad Mini will use OLED panels from Samsung Display, similar to the iPad Pro.
    4. The release date for the new iPad Mini is targeted for late 2026.
    5. It remains uncertain if the new iPad Mini will have an upgraded refresh rate.

    After the recent launch of the latest iPad Air in both 11-inch and 13-inch sizes, Apple is now focusing on developing the next version of its smaller tablet, the iPad Mini. A new leak suggests that this upcoming tablet will feature an OLED display.

    Rumors and Clarifications

    According to leaker Jukanlosreve, the speculation that Apple might eliminate the iPad Mini to shift towards a foldable model is not accurate. This clarification follows earlier reports about Apple’s plans for a foldable iPhone with a 7.74-inch inner display. While this size is close to the iPad Mini’s 8.3-inch screen, it seems that the foldable iPhone will be an additional product rather than a substitute for the smaller tablet.

    Features and Expectations

    In line with earlier reports, the upcoming iPad Mini will reportedly include an OLED display, similar to the iPad Pro. Although the OLED iPad Pro (available on Amazon) hasn’t performed as well as Apple hoped, the company remains committed to implementing OLED technology in its tablets.

    The new iPad Mini is expected to be released in the latter part of 2026. As noted by Digital Chat Station, the device will utilize OLED panels from Samsung Display. However, it’s still unclear whether this model will feature an upgraded refresh rate. We will keep you informed about any developments regarding this matter.

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    Next-Gen Apple iPad Mini: Early Details and Leaks Revealed
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  • GKD Little: Leaked Image Shows Unique New Gaming Handheld Design

    GKD Little: Leaked Image Shows Unique New Gaming Handheld Design

    Key Takeaways

    1. Gaming handhelds are divided into two types: modern game systems (like Windows or SteamOS) and retro game systems.
    2. The GKD Little is a new handheld device focused on retro gaming, featuring limited information and a single analog stick.
    3. The GKD Little’s design includes a D-pad, four action buttons, and shoulder buttons, which may limit compatibility with modern 3D games.
    4. It is expected to use a 4.5-inch screen with a 1620 x 1080 pixel resolution, which may not suit older console games designed for a 4:3 aspect ratio.
    5. The launch date and pricing of the GKD Little are still unknown, and there are uncertainties about the project’s continuation and technical specifications.

    Gaming handhelds can be categorized into two main types. One type is designed to run modern games through systems like Windows or SteamOS, while the other focuses on older retro games. The new GKD Little seems to fit into the latter group, although information about this handheld is limited.

    Image Leak

    Recently, an image appeared on Discord, allegedly showing the future GKD Little. This device isn’t expected to change the landscape of handheld gaming dramatically. However, it does come with interesting features, notably a single analog stick. Without a second analog stick, it’s likely that many modern 3D games won’t work on it. The photo also displays a D-pad, four action buttons, and shoulder buttons.

    Specifications

    The design of the GKD Little seems to prioritize more than just functionality. Reports indicate that it will use the same screen as the Ayaneo Pocket Ace, which should be around 4.5 inches in size and have a resolution of 1620 x 1080 pixels. This yields an aspect ratio of 3:2, which may not be ideal for playing older console games that were originally designed for a 4:3 aspect ratio.

    At this moment, the launch date and pricing of the GKD Little remain uncertain. It’s possible that GKD might not continue with this project, or that the leaked image could be misleading. While details about the processor and other technical specs are not available yet, it is claimed that the handheld will be capable of emulating older consoles, extending up to the Sega Saturn and Dreamcast eras.

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  • Fimi X8 Pro 2025: 4K 60fps Drone Alternative to DJI

    Fimi X8 Pro 2025: 4K 60fps Drone Alternative to DJI

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Fimi X8 Pro 2025 can transmit images wirelessly up to 12.4 miles using Roklink 5.0.
    2. It features a wireless controller that requires a smartphone or tablet for display, and weighs between 1.68 to 1.83 lbs.
    3. The drone offers a flight duration of 38 to 47 minutes, speeds up to 40 mph, and can withstand winds of up to 27 mph.
    4. It is equipped with a 4K camera on a gimbal, supporting video resolution up to 3840 x 2160 pixels at 60 fps.
    5. The official price for the Fimi X8 Pro 2025 is set at $449.

    We’ve talked about the Fimi brand a few times before, and the Chinese company has just introduced the updated X8 Pro 2025. This isn’t a completely new drone, but it’s an improved version. The manufacturer claims that this model can transmit images wirelessly up to 12.4 miles using Roklink 5.0.

    Controller Details

    In addition, the DJI alternative includes a wireless controller without a built-in screen, meaning users will need to rely on their smartphone or a small tablet for display. Depending on the battery setup, the Fimi drone weighs either 1.68 or 1.83 lbs, which is well above the 0.55 lbs (250 grams) legal limit that applies in some regions. Nevertheless, the X8 Pro boasts a flight duration of 38 to 47 minutes, reaches speeds of up to 40 mph, and can handle winds of up to 27 mph.

    Dimensions and Camera Features

    When unfolded, the drone measures 8 x 4.2 x 2.9 inches without its propellers and features a 4K camera mounted on a gimbal. As is typical, the gimbal aids in taking smoother pictures and videos and can also adjust the camera angle, supporting video resolution up to 3840 x 2160 pixels at 60 frames per second.

    It also has a 1/1.3-inch CMOS sensor with an F/1.7 aperture, while videos and images are saved on a microSD card. GPS functionality enables the drone to return to its launch point on its own, and flight planning is available too. For instance, users can set the Fimi drone to follow them during skiing or biking. Finally, the official price of the X8 Pro (2025) is set at $449.

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    Fimi X8 Pro 2025: 4K 60fps Drone Alternative to DJIFimi X8 Pro 2025: 4K 60fps Drone Alternative to DJI

     

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  • Duskbloods: FromSoftware’s First Exclusive for Nintendo Switch 2

    Duskbloods: FromSoftware’s First Exclusive for Nintendo Switch 2

    Key Takeaways

    1. FromSoftware announced a new game for the Nintendo Switch 2 titled The Duskbloods, set to release in 2026.
    2. The game features a Gothic atmosphere reminiscent of Bloodborne, with a 19th-century backdrop and Lovecraftian elements.
    3. The Duskbloods includes futuristic features like jetpacks and machine guns, setting it apart from traditional Gothic games.
    4. There is currently no information on whether The Duskbloods will be available on other gaming platforms, with speculation of it being a timed exclusive.
    5. More details about The Duskbloods will be revealed on April 4 during a special event.

    While the Nintendo Switch 2 didn’t showcase too many exclusive titles, it did come with a shocker that left even the most devoted fans scratching their heads. Out of the blue, FromSoftware revealed that they have something exciting for Switch 2 users set for 2026. The game, titled The Duskbloods, has a three-minute trailer that brings up several intriguing questions.

    A Gothic Atmosphere

    The opening of the trailer gives off a subtle Bloodborne-esque feeling, enhanced by a 19th-century Gothic backdrop that strongly reminds players of Yharnam. The Duskbloods also features Lovecraftian eldritch horrors, but that’s where the comparisons to Bloodborne stop. FromSoftware has added some futuristic aspects into The Duskbloods, like jetpacks and machine guns, which gives it a unique twist.

    Future Platforms

    At this moment, there’s no information on whether The Duskbloods will be available on other gaming platforms. It’s quite possible that it will be a timed exclusive, especially considering it’s been ten years since FromSoftware restricted a title to a certain platform, and that game was, ironically, Bloodborne. More details about The Duskbloods are expected to be unveiled on April 4 during a special event.

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  • Samsung HW-Q990F Soundbar 2025 Now Available in the US

    Samsung HW-Q990F Soundbar 2025 Now Available in the US

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Samsung HW-Q990F soundbar is now available in the US, priced at $1,999, with a limited-time discount bringing it down to $1,799.
    2. Amazon offers the best deal for Prime members, allowing an additional $100 discount, making the final price $1,698.
    3. The revamped subwoofer is half the size of its predecessor and features dual 8-inch active drivers for improved bass performance and reduced distortion.
    4. The soundbar supports all key audio formats, including Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, and includes features like SpaceFit Sound Pro and Active Voice Amplifier Pro.
    5. Connectivity options include two HDMI 2.1 ports, 4K 120Hz HDR passthrough, Bluetooth 5.3, and compatibility with various streaming services and SmartThings app integration.

    After first revealing it at CES 2025, Samsung is now set to offer its 2025 top-of-the-line soundbar: the HW-Q990F. This new soundbar is now readily available across the US and takes the title as the company’s most luxurious option. It comes alongside the HW-Q930F that was launched last month.

    The Samsung HW-Q990F has an official price of $1,999, the same as the model from last year. However, as is typical with new product launches, there are some discounts available. Samsung is currently offering a 10% discount for a limited time, reducing the price to $1,799. Major retailers like Best Buy and B&H Photo Video are also selling this soundbar. Nonetheless, Amazon appears to have the best offer at this time; Prime members can apply an additional $100 discount, making the final price $1,698.

    Key Features

    The standout feature of the HW-Q990F is certainly its revamped subwoofer. Samsung has succeeded in making it about half the size of the previous model while incorporating newly designed dual 8-inch active drivers that face opposite directions. The company asserts that this configuration reduces distortion and provides accurate bass down to 32Hz using 300W of power.

    Design and Compatibility

    The main soundbar and satellite speakers remain similar to the HW-Q990D, and you still get support for all key audio formats such as Dolby Atmos (including Wireless Dolby Atmos with compatible Samsung TVs), Dolby TrueHD, and DTS:X. Samsung’s typical range of audio enhancements is also included. For instance, SpaceFit Sound Pro utilizes microphones on both the bar and subwoofer to fine-tune audio for your specific environment, while Active Voice Amplifier Pro improves dialogue clarity in noisy settings.

    Finally, the HW-Q990F features two HDMI 2.1 ports, 4K 120Hz HDR video passthrough, eARC support, Q-Symphony compatibility with select Samsung TVs, Bluetooth 5.3, Roon Ready certification, Spotify Connect, AirPlay, Chromecast, SmartThings app integration, and an optical audio input.

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    Samsung HW-Q990F Soundbar 2025 Now Available in the US

     

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