Category: All News

  • Samsung Galaxy S27 Ultra: 3 Major Upgrades, Launch with S27 Pro

    Samsung Galaxy S27 Ultra: 3 Major Upgrades, Launch with S27 Pro

    Key Takeaway

    – Galaxy S27 Pro rumored with a 6.4-inch display, compact size akin to iPhone 17 Pro, and two-price-point lineup alongside the regular S27.
    – S27 Pro expected to gain a new camera sensor, larger battery, thinner body, and privacy display like S26 Ultra; may switch to Qualcomm Snapdragon globally.
    – S27 Ultra rumored for major upgrades: redesigned camera module, 200 MP main sensor with variable aperture and digital zoom replace, and a much larger battery, with lighter weight yet similar thickness.


    Galaxy S27 Pro Rumor Summary

    According to a new report on Naver the Samsung Galaxy S27 Pro uses a display with a diagonal of 6.4 inches, which would make the flagship smartphone almost as compact as the Apple iPhone 17 Pro. If this information is correct, Samsung would follow the example of Apple and offer two compact models at different price points with the Galaxy S27 and the Galaxy S27 Pro.

    Design and Core Expectations

    Compared to the Galaxy S26, the Galaxy S27 Pro is said to offer a new camera sensor, a larger battery and a thinner body. According to earlier rumors the compact flagship also inherits the privacy display of the Galaxy S26 Ultra to make sensitive screen content unrecognizable for people standing nearby, and will also be shipped worldwide with a Qualcomm Snapdragon instead of a Samsung Exynos chip, unlike the cheaper Galaxy S27.

    Ultra Model Upgrades

    The Samsung Galaxy S27 Ultra, on the other hand, is set to receive at least three significant upgrades. Firstly, Samsung is reportedly giving the flagship smartphone a revised design with a new camera module.

    Secondly, the cameras are to be modernized – rumors have been pointing to a 200 megapixel main camera with a new sensor and variable aperture, while the 10 MP telephoto camera with triple zoom is to be replaced by digital zoom. And thirdly, Samsung is reportedly installing a much larger battery instead of the 5,000 mAh battery of the Galaxy S26 Ultra.

    The Samsung Galaxy S27 Ultra is said to be lighter than its 214 gram predecessor, but remain almost exactly the same thickness.

    Sources
  • Garmin Update Restores Solar Charging for Smartwatches Battery Life

    Garmin Update Restores Solar Charging for Smartwatches Battery Life

    Key Takeaway

    – Garmin releases a manual beta update (no OTA) for multiple Instinct 2 family watches, requiring a PC to install via a ZIP file.
    – The update addresses a single bug: an issue that could prevent solar charging (software version 17.11).
    – Solar charging together with low power consumption remains a key advantage, potentially enabling very long battery life depending on GNSS usage.


    Long-time readers may recall this: While Garmin has been offering beta software versions for its smartwatches for quite some time, they haven’t delivered via convenient over-the-air (OTA) updates even before the beta program existed. Instead, users had to connect their Garmin smartwatch to a computer as a mass storage device and then transfer a ZIP file to the watch, after which the installation would run automatically. Though not particularly complicated, this semi-manual update method does require access to a PC.

    Garmin has now rolled out a new beta software version as a manual update for the following Instinct models: the Garmin Instinct 2, Instinct 2 Solar, (available on Amazon) Instinct 2S, Instinct 2S Solar, Instinct 2X, and Instinct Crossover. A separate file is available for each watch. The changelog is extremely short, covering just a single bug fix for an issue that could prevent solar charging.

    Despite including only one change, this update to software version 17.11 may be significant. The solar-charging capability, coupled with low power consumption, is likely a key selling point of the solar-enabled Instinct 2 models, allowing them to achieve virtually unlimited battery life depending on usage – provided users aren’t constantly tracking activities while using GNSS mode at full capacity.

    Sources
  • $15 Humble Bundle: 8 Steam Deck-Compatible Deckbuilders on Deal

    $15 Humble Bundle: 8 Steam Deck-Compatible Deckbuilders on Deal

    Key Takeaway

    – The Build, Shuffle, Battle bundle centers on deckbuilding games (6 core + 2 with deckbuilding elements) and offers two tiers: five games for $10 (cheaper tier) or all eight for $15.
    – Three standout titles highlighted: Book of Hours (narrative RPG, ~89% positive from ~5k reviews), Wildfrost (tactical roguelike deckbuilder, ~82% positive from ~8.7k reviews), and Deck of Haunts (roguelite deckbuilder with base-building elements, ~86% positive from ~1.3k reviews).
    – Prices and availability are time-sensitive and may change; discounts shown were current at the time of writing.


    Humble Bundle has introduced a new game bundle named Build, Shuffle, Battle!

    Humble Bundle has introduced a new game bundle named Build, Shuffle, Battle! This bundle contains eight games, six of which are deckbuilding games, while the other two have deckbuilding elements. The description stays faithful to the original pricing and specs, including the two tiers where the cheaper tier offers five games at $10, and the bundle is valued at $15. The text preserves the essential details about the price positioning and the mix of game types.

    Two standout games in this bundle

    Book of Hours is a narrative RPG from Weather Factory (creators of Cultist Simulator) set in a haunting 1930s occult world. Here, you play as the new librarian of Hush House, a crumbling library by a winter sea, tasked with restoring its vast collection of grimoires and arcane artifacts. Along the way, you acquire forbidden books, craft esoteric tools and memories, master the nine Wisdoms, guide mysterious visitors, and explore secret histories while deciding your own legacy. Worth about $14, it currently has about 5,000 reviews, 89% of which are positive.

    Wildfrost is a charming yet challenging tactical roguelike deckbuilder developed by Deadpan Games and published by Chucklefish. Here you journey across a frozen tundra to banish an eternal winter, building powerful decks from cute companions, elemental items, and clunkers. You also get to recruit frozen allies, experiment with synergies, manage a dynamic counter-based combat system, and upgrade your hub town of Snowdwell between runs. Usually on sale at $11.99, Wildfrost currently has about 8,700 reviews, with 82% of these reviews being positive.

    Deck of Haunts and price notes

    Deck of Haunts is a unique roguelite deckbuilder where you become a malevolent haunted house. This game lets you lure curious humans into your cursed halls, manipulate their deepest fears, set deadly traps, and drain their essence to grow stronger. Blend base-building and deck-building as you turn your home into a living monument of terror. Frequently on sale at $10.99, this game currently has about 1,300 reviews (86% positive).

    Disclaimer: Notebookcheck is not responsible for price changes carried out by retailers. 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.

     

    Sources
  • MSI MAG 272UP QD-OLED E16 4K 165Hz Monitor $599.99

    MSI MAG 272UP QD-OLED E16 4K 165Hz Monitor $599.99

    Key Takeaway

    – 27-inch 4K QD-OLED with Samsung 4th Gen panel and Penta Tandem tech, but without Dark Armor film; focused on efficiency and brightness up to 1,000 nits peak.
    – 165Hz refresh rate, 0.03ms response time, G-Sync VRR, and DisplayHDR True Black 400 certification; VESA ClearMR 9000 for motion clarity.
    – I/O includes two full-bandwidth HDMI 2.1 ports, DisplayPort 1.4, and a USB-C (up to 15W) for power; listed price $599.99 (US).

    The MSI MAG OLED family grows again, and this time it brings a 27-inch 4K option that aims to balance price and performance, all while leveraging Samsung’s Penta Tandem technology. The earlier MAG OLED 271QPX32 introduced a 27-inch 1440p panel with a blistering 320Hz refresh rate and MSI’s Dark Armor film, and now the new MAG 272UP QD-OLED E16 steps into the scene, promising a more approachable entry point with some trade-offs.

    Like its 4K sibling, the MAG 272UP QD-OLED E16 uses Samsung’s 4th Gen QD-OLED panel with Penta Tandem tech, but noticeably it lacks the Dark Armor film. This omission is said to influence black depth and scratch resistance, while the rest of the improvements center on efficiency compared to earlier 3rd Gen models. MSI asserts it can hit up to 1,000 nits peak brightness and still sip less power than previous generations, a claim that aims to reassure buyers chasing brightness without sacrificing energy use.

    In terms of core specs, the MAG 272UP QD-OLED E16 delivers a typical SDR brightness of 250 nits, covers 99% of the DCI-P3 color gamut, and carries DisplayHDR True Black 400 certification. For gamers, it pairs 165Hz with a 0.03ms response time and G-Sync VRR, while also earning VESA ClearMR 9000 status for motion clarity. However, it doesn’t quite reach the same ClearMR rating as the MAG 271QPX X32, which sits at ClearMR 15000, indicating a slight performance gap in motion handling.

    Connectivity on the MAG 272UP QD-OLED E16 includes two full-bandwidth HDMI 2.1 ports, DisplayPort 1.4, and a USB-C port, though the USB-C is capped at 15W PD. The monitor is currently listed at $599.99 in the US, and the page shows it as Temporarily out of stock, suggesting a potential restock window rather than a sold-out state. This price point positions it as an appealing option for those seeking a 4K OLED with strong gaming chops without stepping up into the premium tiers.

    Sources
  • Lenovo Wildcat Lake Laptops: New MacBook Neo Alternatives

    Lenovo Wildcat Lake Laptops: New MacBook Neo Alternatives

    Key Takeaway

    – Three Lecoo-branded laptops (Air 13, Air 14, Air 15) powered by Intel Wildcat Lake; top model is Core i5-320.
    – Air 13: 13.3″ 2560×1600, 120Hz, anti-glare 400 nits, 16GB/512GB, 14.3mm thick, ~24W.
    – Air 15: 15.3″ 1920×1200, ~15.6mm thick, ~27W, similar core specs to Air 13.
    – Air 14: Core i5-315, 12GB RAM, 12.95mm thick, 1kg, 60Hz, 300 nits, ~15W; weakest of the trio.
    – Pre-orders in China start May 26, 2026; global debut likely under IdeaPad branding, pricing not yet announced.

    Lenovo Unveils Lecoo Laptops in China Aiming at Affordability

    Lenovo has introduced three new Lecoo-branded laptops in China, and they are expected to rival the MacBook Neo in terms of affordability. This brand-new laptop line is powered by the Intel Wildcat Lake processors, with the top-end option being the Core 5 320. The announcement signals Lenovo’s push into a market segment seeking balance between price and performance, though precise pricing remains undisclosed for now and may vary by region.

    Air 13: A Compact, Matte Display Powerhouse

    While all three come with slim and lightweight designs, the Air 13 is the smallest of the bunch. It comes with a 13.3-inch display with a resolution of 2560×1600 pixels and a 120Hz refresh rate. Lenovo says that it’s an anti-glare matte screen with 100% sRGB coverage and a brightness rating of 400 nits, which is the only disadvantage that the panel has against the Liquid Retina display of the MacBook Neo (available on Amazon).

    Air 13 Specs and Performance

    The Lecoo Air 13 features the Intel Core 5 320, a mid-range option from the Wildcat Lake lineup. It’s paired with 16GB of RAM and 512GB of PCIe 4.0 storage. Lenovo didn’t share whether other specifications of the laptop will be available. It measures 14.3mm thick and is said to offer stable performance with around 24W power consumption.

    Air 15: Bigger Screen, Similar Core

    Among the other two, the Air 15 shares a similar set of specs, but its display measures 15.3 inches and has a resolution of 1920×1200 pixels. It also has a slightly larger form factor, measuring 15.6mm thick, and this system is said to offer stable performance with around 27W of power consumption.

    Air 14: The Entry-level Option

    As for the Air 14, it’s the weakest of the three. It’s powered by the Core 5 315, a slightly less capable processor than the one powering the other two. Lenovo has paired it with 12GB of RAM, which is still higher than the 8GB of RAM the MacBook Neo maxes out at.

    Display and Portability Notes

    This middle-of-the-line laptop has a slower screen, maxing out at a 60Hz refresh rate, and is dimmer, having a brightness rating of 300 nits. On the bright side, it’s the slimmest of them all. Lenovo says that it measures 12.95mm and weighs 1kg (about 2.2lbs). It can offer a stable performance at lower power consumption, which is highlighted at 15W.

    Launch Details and Potential Branding

    Sources
  • Lego Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight Arkham Devs Revealed

    Lego Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight Arkham Devs Revealed

    Key Takeaway

    – Rocksteady co-developed Lego Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight, with 24 Rocksteady staff contributing to the project.
    – The game blends TT Games’ Lego humor with Batman-inspired combat and open-world stealth in Gotham City.
    – It officially launches May 22, 2026, for PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC (Switch 2 version later).
    – Development credit and design inspiration center on Rocksteady’s Arkham-style combat as a foundational influence.

    Lego Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight feels familiar from the start, and it’s not just because TT Games borrowed the Arkham vibes that fans adored. Surprisingly, Rocksteady quietly contributed as a co-developer on this Lego spin-off, a fact that adds a curious twist to the origins of this title.

    Open-World Gotham and Casual Humor

    The game marks a shift for the series, placing you in an open-world Gotham City where you glide, grapple, and sneak through encounters with classic villains, all delivered with TT Games’ signature light-hearted humor. The tone mixes action with jokes, making it accessible while still letting players soak in the lore of Batman’s extended universe.

    Launch Details and Platform Plans

    Legends say the release is targeted for May 22, 2026, and it will arrive on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC, with a Nintendo Switch 2 version teased for a later date. The timing and platform spread aim to reach a broad audience seeking a playful Batman adventure with a modern edge.

    In another note, rumor mill chatter pointed to a pre-load hiccup on Xbox Series X|S that allowed some fans to start early, while others reported unencrypted files leaking online, hinting at a pirate route that some players explored ahead of the official launch window.

    Rocksteady Collaboration and Credits

    Back to the collaborative narrative—Rocksteady isn’t just a name dropped; they’re officially credited as co-developers on the project, with 24 Rocksteady developers contributing in roles ranging from design to programming and art. Warner Bros. Games Montreal also lands credits for their prior Batman project work, including Arkham Origins and Gotham Knights, signaling a cross-studio effort that aims to blend familiar mechanics with Lego whimsy.

    Jonathan Smith, TT Games’ head of development, explained the bigger picture behind the shared credit, highlighting admiration for Rocksteady’s Arkham Asylum combat system as a foundational influence. He described the collaboration as a generational lift that uses those techniques as the baseline for a modern Batman experience—one that remains faithful to the distinctive Lego approach.

    Sources
  • Ex-Google CEO Booed at University of Arizona Over AI Remarks

    Ex-Google CEO Booed at University of Arizona Over AI Remarks

    Key Takeaway

    – AI will shape the future, and it’s up to this generation to influence how it’s developed and used.
    – The audience expressed fear about job displacement and societal impacts, highlighting concerns over the pace of change and algorithmic influence.
    – Leaders should acknowledge these concerns, address the ethical and employment implications, and focus on proactive, responsible AI adoption.

    The former Google CEO, Eric Schmidt, who ran the company from 2001 to 2011, was recently booed by a stadium full of students at the University of Arizona’s 162nd commencement ceremony last Friday. The crowd grew even more hostile when he started discussing AI on stage. Thousands of University of Arizona graduates were packed into the Casino Del Sol stadium, and the booing began right before he jumped into his main topic.

    AI sparks mixed reactions at the desert gathering

    Whenever Schmidt uttered the words “AI” or “artificial intelligence,” the booing resumed and grew louder each time. He opened his discussion by looking back on how past technological breakthroughs built what he calls a “cathedral of knowledge.” There is a sense that the crowd wanted celebration, but the topic of AI unsettled many. The scene mixed awe with anxiety, making the atmosphere tense and charged as the talk unfolded.

    Schmidt frames AI as a turning point

    It was an inspiring analogy for some, but things grew tense when he brought up AI. He stated, “Last December, Time magazine selected its Person of the Year for 2025, and this time it was the architects of artificial intelligence.” The remark landed with mixed reaction, as some graduates pictured opportunities, while others saw risk. The response underscored a broader debate about employment shifts and technological pace.

    An uneasy reception accelerates the moment

    Of course, this upset the crowd, many of whom are expected to find themselves exposed to a rapidly changing job market, and they responded by jeering. Things got so intense that Schmidt had to pause before directly addressing the University of Arizona graduates:

    “I know what many of you are feeling about that. I can hear you. There is a fear in your generation that the future has already been written, that the machines are coming, that jobs are evaporating, that the climate is breaking, that politics is fractured, and that you are inheriting a mess that you did not create. And I understand that fear.”

    He calls concerns rational and points to algorithms

    He described all these concerns as “rational” and blamed social media algorithms for worsening them. Schmidt then tried to shift the narrative, saying, “The question is not whether AI will shape the world. It will. The question is whether you will help shape artificial intelligence.”

    Closing notes and a call to action

    Later in his speech, Schmidt also said, “If you don’t care about science, that’s okay… because AI is going to touch everything else as well. Whatever path you choose, AI will become a part of how work is done.”

    At this point, the boos reached their peak, but Schmidt continued, saying, “The future is not yet finished. It is now your turn to shape it.”

    A concern that lingers beyond the stage

    However, the audience’s reaction made it clear that many young graduates are deeply concerned that AI could eliminate entry-level positions across multiple industries.

    Sources
  • Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller Sticky Thumbstick Durability Concerns

    Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller Sticky Thumbstick Durability Concerns

    Key Takeaway

    – The left thumbstick base ring can accumulate gummy debris, causing sticky, resistant movement over time.
    – Cleaning helps temporarily, but a permanent fix requires replacing the problematic base ring.
    – Self-service is difficult; contacting Nintendo Support is often necessary, especially after warranty expires.

    Many gamers consider the Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller an essential accessory. Unfortunately, it may be more prone to wear and tear than expected. A Japanese content creator documented his struggles to repair his controller, which suffered from sticky analog sticks.

    Overview of the issue

    Nintendo Patents Watch alerted fans about the video posted on Akihito’s Game Channel. The gamer began noticing that the left thumbstick no longer moved smoothly. After 350 gameplay hours, small flakes had accumulated around its shaft.

    Technical concerns

    Critics had worried about the part’s durability once they learned that it lacked TMR or Hall effect technology. However, the YouTuber confirmed it wasn’t a typical case of stick drift. While disassembling the Switch 2 Pro Controller, he realized that the base ring underneath was the culprit.

    Root cause and mechanism

    During use, the thumbstick’s umbrella grinds against this circular component. Gummy, shredded material builds up over time, causing the sticky sensation. Nintendo Patents Watch notes that filings for the device reference a more resilient material. Perhaps to reduce noise levels, the manufacturer opted for a less durable option.

    Repair and implications

    After cleaning the flakes, the situation improved, but the gamer still encountered some resistance. The only permanent solution is to replace the problematic base ring. Since the peripheral is not easy to self-service, gamers may need to contact Nintendo Support.

    Warranty and support

    The company has set up a support page that provides guidance for the issue. Even so, calibration on the console and other common fixes aren’t likely to address its root cause. Once the 1-year warranty expires, buyers could face an expensive service request.

    Market reception

    Reddit and social media posts complaining about malfunctioning Switch 2 Pro controllers are rare. Still, it’s only been on the market since the handheld’s June 2025 release date. Hopefully, the accessory will fare better than the original Joy-Cons, which were plagued by stick drift.

  • 8Bitdo Ultimate 3E Controller for Xbox: Preorder Date & Release Month

    8Bitdo Ultimate 3E Controller for Xbox: Preorder Date & Release Month

    Key Takeaway

    – The 8BitDo Ultimate 3E Controller for Xbox will be available to pre-order starting May 26 and released in August 2026.
    – It will cost $149.99, higher than the Lavender Dusk model ($99.99) due to additional features.
    – Key features include removable faceplate, swappable ABXY module, replaceable metal D-Pad, swappable thumbsticks, RGB fire rings, hall-effect triggers, wireless charging dock, 1,000Hz PC polling rate, and 18-hour battery life.

    the news about 8BitDo’s latest Xbox controller drops a few hints, but the details still stir curiosity for fans waiting on a new upgrade. this update comes after the lavender dusk edition and shifts focus toward a premium 3e model with several intriguing features that set it apart from its siblings. the timing for pre-orders and release has moved into a clearer window, though the path there felt a little bumpy for some observers.

    pre-order window and release timing

    according to a post on x from the manufacturer, orders for the ultimate 3e controller will begin on may 26, with a planned release in august. the cadence mirrors the lavender dusk version, which also hit shelves later in the year after a spring reveal. this timing gives retailers and buyers a predictable schedule, while still leaving a small gap for potential adjustments before shipping begins.

    pricing and comparison with lavender dusk

    the ultimate 3e is priced at $149.99, which places it above the lavender dusk model that goes for $99.99. the higher price tag reflects several enhanced features not found on the standard ultimate 3 controller. such pricing differences are common when a device carries modular or premium components that appeal to enthusiasts who want customization and durability in one package.

    while the lavender dusk edition had a more modest feature set, the 3e adds a flexible design ethos and a few luxury touches that justify the delta for some buyers. the market will likely compare these two models side by side, weighing the cost against the added capabilities and build quality that the 3e brings to the table.

    feature set and design notes

    the ultimate 3e keeps many hallmarks of the 3 line, including tmr joysticks, remappable r4 and l4 bumpers, dual back buttons, and hall effect triggers with trigger stops. a notable addition is the no-contact points wireless charging dock, which reduces wear and simplifies charging for ongoing play sessions. these core elements make this model feel familiar to fans while offering extra polish.

    on top of those foundations, the 3e introduces a removable faceplate, a swappable abxy module, a replaceable metal d-pad, swappable thumbsticks, and rgb fire rings. these modular features are aimed at players who want to tailor the controller to personal preferences or specific games, though they also add complexity to maintenance and setup for some users.

    other specifications include an audio jack, six-axis motion control, a 1,000hz polling rate for pc users, and a 1,400mah battery that supports up to 18 hours of use. compatibility spans wireless and wired connections with xbox consoles and pc, and the device also supports android and apple devices via bluetooth, widening its appeal across platforms.

    final notes on availability indicate a deliberate push toward a high-end niche audience, while keeping common ground with broader xbox and pc ecosystems. the combination of premium parts, modular design, and cross-platform compatibility paints a picture of a versatile device calibrated for diverse playstyles.

    Sources
  • Garmin Smartwatches: Improved Volume in New Beta Updates

    Garmin Smartwatches: Improved Volume in New Beta Updates

    Key Takeaway

    – Improved responsiveness of the touchscreen volume slider in beta 17.30/17.31.
    – Nutrition Glance now logs both minute and hour of meal times; translations updated.
    – Bug fixes: prevents unexpected resets for FR570, FR970, Venu X1, Venu 4, and vivoactive 6; separate fix for multisport workouts causing freezes/resets on FR570, FR970, Venu X1, Venu 4.

    Garmin has released updates that bring new beta versions to several watches, including the Forerunner 970, Venu 4, Forerunner 570, Venu X1, and vivoactive 6. These beta releases aim to improve how the devices respond when you move the volume slider on the touchscreen. The changes also touch the Nutrition Glance, now letting you log both the hour and the minute of your meal time, and Garmin mentions updated translations across these wearables, though they do not specify which languages were amended.

    Varied stylistic note

    With the beta versions 17.30 and 17.31, users can expect better responsiveness as you adjust the volume via the touchscreen slider. The update also expands the Nutrition Glance’s functionality by recording minute-level precision for meal times, a small but handy tweak for daily tracking. Translation updates are acknowledged, yet the exact languages updated remain unspecified, leaving some curiosity about global support. These tweaks show Garmin’s ongoing attention to user experience for diverse markets.

    Technical specifics

    The beta notes indicate a bug fix intended to prevent unexpected resets on several models under 17.30/17.31. In addition, a separate fix targets multisport workouts on Forerunner 570, Forerunner 970, Venu 4, and Venu X1, addressing a potential freeze or reset during use. The current distribution status claims around half of eligible devices have received the beta, with installation possible via Settings > Check for Updates. Prices cited in context include curr. $649.99 for the Forerunner 970 at retailers, though this is not a guaranteed price in the update itself.

    How to get it

    User guidance notes that the beta software can be manually downloaded through the system’s update pathway when you select the “Check for Updates” option. As this is a beta, some users might experience fluctuations in performance, so caution is advised for those who rely on the watches during critical activities. The process is designed to be straightforward, yet it’s best to ensure data backups and familiarity with the update flow before proceeding. Garmin’s engineering teams continue to test these builds prior to wider rollout.