Category: All News

April 24, 2025
Figment e-ink Handheld: Transform Books into Interactive Games
Key Takeaways
1. E-ink displays offer excellent readability in bright sunlight and consume very little energy but have slow refresh rates, making them unsuitable for gaming.
2. Figment’s new gaming handheld will feature a 7.5-inch e-ink display, designed primarily for text-based games and interactive storytelling.
3. The device is powered by a low-performance ESP32 processor, sufficient for displaying text and images but requiring an internet connection for certain features.
4. The Figment handheld can display standard books offline, providing flexibility for users.
5. The project is still in early development, and interested individuals can sign up for updates on its progress.
E-ink displays are designed to mimic real paper, and the latest models perform remarkably well, allowing for easy reading in bright sunlight and boasting very low energy use. However, their slow refresh rates make them generally unsuitable for gaming handhelds.
A Unique Gaming Experience
Despite this, Figment plans to incorporate an e-ink screen in its new gaming handheld, which is mainly geared toward text-based games or “Choose Your Own Adventure” style books. Specifically, Figment has chosen a 7.5-inch e-ink display housed in a casing about the same size as an Asus ROG Ally. The device features a D-pad with four buttons on the left and three action buttons on the right.
Prototype and Performance
The current version is built with a 3D-printed shell and powered by an ESP32 processor, which is not very strong. Nevertheless, since the handheld only needs to show text and images, Figment doesn’t require high performance. One drawback of the slower processor is that some features necessitate an active internet connection. This mainly includes the ability to create “Choose Your Own Adventure” games from existing e-books using AI technology.
Future Developments
On the bright side, Figment can still display standard books without needing an internet connection. The project is still in development and at an early phase, so it remains uncertain if the Figment handheld will ever reach store shelves. Those interested in Figment can sign up with their email to stay informed about this fascinating project.
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Tags: Asus ROG Ally, E Ink Display, Figment
April 24, 2025
Diablo 4 May Arrive on Switch 2, but Live Service is Challenging
Key Takeaways
1. Exciting third-party games for the Nintendo Switch 2 include Cyberpunk 2077, Borderlands 4, Hades 2, and Hogwarts Legacy.
2. Rod Fergusson from Blizzard mentioned a potential for Diablo 4 on the Switch 2, highlighting its capability to handle such games.
3. The main challenge for Diablo 4 is managing live services on a handheld console due to potential internet connectivity issues.
4. Fergusson is optimistic that solutions will be found to address live service challenges on the Switch 2.
5. Diablo 3 and Diablo 2 Resurrected will be available on the Switch 2, allowing backward compatibility for players.
A bunch of exciting third-party games have been revealed for the Nintendo Switch 2, such as Cyberpunk 2077, Borderlands 4, Hades 2, and Hogwarts Legacy, among others. Although no titles from Blizzard were included in this announcement, Rod Fergusson, who leads the Diablo team at Blizzard, mentioned that there is a “chance” to bring Diablo 4 to the Switch 2. The main issue that needs to be resolved is how to manage live services on a handheld console.
Interview Insights
In a recent interview with Gamertag Radio, hosted by Danny Pena, Rod Fergusson discussed the potential of Diablo running on the Nintendo Switch 2. While he did not provide any concrete confirmation, he emphasized that there is definitely a chance, stating that the Switch 2 has the capability to handle games like Diablo 4. “It’s great that the Switch 2 has the power to run a game like Diablo 4, so yeah, it’s something we’re looking at,” Fergusson noted.
Challenges Ahead
The main challenge is figuring out the live service aspect. Since Diablo 4 is a live service game, it needs a constant connection to a server, and players using the Switch 2 might often find themselves without stable internet, especially when on the go. “I think the real challenge is not so much the hardware, but rather how we… you know, live services on Switch have had some issues in the past,” Fergusson explained.
Future Possibilities
Fergusson remains optimistic that solutions will emerge to simplify live services on the Switch 2, which could lead to the launch of Diablo 4 on the platform.
In January, a source leaked that Diablo 4 was already being adapted for the Switch 2, indicating that Blizzard might have plans in progress. Both Diablo 3 and Diablo 2 Resurrected are currently available on the original Switch, and with backward compatibility, players will be able to enjoy these games on the Switch 2 when it launches on June 5.
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Tags: Blizzard, Diablo 4, Nintendo Switch 2
April 24, 2025
Minisforum MS-A2 Launches with AMD Ryzen 9 HX and dGPU Support
Key Takeaways
1. The MS-A2 features the latest Ryzen 9 9955HX CPU with 16 Zen 5 cores and a Radeon 610M integrated GPU.
2. It retains two M.2 slots for storage, including a PCIe 4.0 x4 slot for high-speed SSDs.
3. The MS-A2 supports DDR5 SO-DIMM RAM with speeds up to 5200 MT/s.
4. It offers connectivity options like Bluetooth 5.2 and WiFi 6E.
5. The compact design of the MS-A2 measures 196 x 189 x 48 mm and will have a variant with the Ryzen 9 7845HX.
Minisforum recently unveiled several new PCs at the Japan IT Week Tokyo Spring Show, including the MS-A2, which succeeds the previous MS-A1 launched last year. The earlier model could support a Ryzen 9 9950X, but the MS-A2 now features the latest Ryzen 9 9955HX.
Performance Improvements
The new Fire Range CPU boasts 16 Zen 5 cores and includes a Radeon 610M integrated GPU. While this integrated GPU may not be very powerful, the MS-A2 does support discrete graphics cards. However, because of its compact chassis, the PCIe 4.0 x8 slot in this PC is limited to a single-slot, low-profile GPU.
Storage and Memory
One of the key features of the MS-A2 is its retention of the two M.2 slots from its predecessor. Of these, one slot is a PCIe 4.0 x4 (with a 2 TB Samsung 990 Pro currently priced at $169.99 on Amazon), while the other operates on a 3.0 x4 interface. In terms of memory, the new Minisforum SFF PC pairs the Ryzen 9 9955HX with DDR5 SO-DIMM RAM, supporting speeds of up to 5200 MT/s.
Connectivity Options
The Minisforum MS-A2 offers a solid array of connectivity ports, including Bluetooth 5.2 and WiFi 6E for wireless connections. From what was showcased, the design of the MS-A2 seems quite similar to the MS-A1, featuring a slim and compact chassis measuring 196 x 189 x 48 mm. Minisforum has also indicated that there will be a variant featuring the Ryzen 9 7845HX, but specific details about pricing and availability have yet to be disclosed.
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Tags: Minisforum MS-A2, Ryzen 9 9955HX, Small Form Factor PC
April 24, 2025
Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 13 Boosts Performance with Arrow Lake H
Key Takeaways
1. Lunar Lake chip offers significant efficiency improvements for business laptops, enhancing battery life and quiet operation.
2. The ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 13 Aura Edition, equipped with Lunar Lake, is considered the best version of the X1 in years.
3. Lunar Lake has a RAM limit of 32 GB, whereas older ThinkPad models supported up to 64 GB; new CPU options could change this.
4. Arrow Lake H CPUs, with 14 cores, promise better multicore performance compared to Lunar Lake’s 8 cores.
5. Lenovo is also launching Arrow Lake H and Arrow Lake U for the ThinkPad X1 2-in-1 Gen 10 Aura Edition, increasing versatility in their laptop lineup.
Lunar Lake has proven to be a significant advancement for Intel, particularly in the realm of business laptops. This chip, designed for optimal efficiency, is ideal for laptops that need to deliver excellent battery life and quiet operation in an office setting. The impact has been notably positive for devices like the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon series (X1 Carbon G12 available on Amazon), which had struggled with the less efficient previous Intel CPUs. The ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 13 Aura Edition, featuring Lunar Lake, is regarded as the best iteration of the X1 in several years.
Limitations of Lunar Lake
Nevertheless, there are some drawbacks with Lunar Lake. One such limitation is the RAM cap of 32 GB; older versions of the ThinkPad X1 Carbon could support up to 64 GB, but the new X1 Carbon G13 is restricted to 32 GB. This situation is changing, however, as Lenovo has revealed new CPU options for its flagship ThinkPad. The X1 Carbon Gen 13 Aura Edition is set to begin shipping with Intel Arrow Lake H and Arrow Lake U CPUs in the near future, which might raise the RAM capacity to 64 GB.
Performance Enhancements
This development could not only allow Lenovo to provide more RAM but might also enhance the CPU performance of the ThinkPad X1. While Lunar Lake excels in GPU and single-core performance, its effectiveness in multicore tasks is somewhat limited. In contrast, Arrow Lake H features 14 cores compared to the eight found in Lunar Lake, suggesting that the X1 Carbon G13 equipped with Arrow Lake H could handle tasks like rendering and compiling more efficiently.
Besides the X1 Carbon Gen 13, Lenovo has also introduced Arrow Lake H and Arrow Lake U for the convertible Lenovo ThinkPad X1 2-in-1 Gen 10 Aura Edition. Both models are expected to start shipping this month, adding more versatility to Lenovo’s offerings.
Tags: Arrow Lake-H, Lunar Lake, ThinkPad X1 Carbon G13
April 24, 2025
Cheapest Tesla Under $299/Month: Design May Disappoint
Key Takeaways
1. Tesla is developing a budget-friendly Model 2, possibly as a smaller version of the Model Y or Model 3 with cloth seats.
2. Operating expenses are rising due to AI projects and the development of various vehicle programs, indicating multiple upcoming affordable models.
3. The design of the Model 2 may include cost-saving measures, such as simpler features and materials to reduce production costs.
4. Tesla aims to offer the lowest possible monthly ownership costs for its upcoming affordable models, targeting prices below the current $299 lease.
5. The company is focused on delivering competitive products while maintaining flexibility within existing product lines, rather than creating entirely new models.
The much-discussed budget-friendly Tesla Model 2 might actually be a smaller version of the Model Y or a Model 3 featuring cloth seats. This information was shared during a recent earnings call where both Elon Musk and Lars Moravy, Tesla’s chief engineer, confirmed that the company is working on cheaper models. They are currently fine-tuning some last-minute details to enable a launch later this year.
Financial Insights
Tesla’s current CFO, Vaibhav Taneja, mentioned that “our operating expenses keep rising sequentially,” which is largely due to AI projects like Optimus, along with the development costs for various vehicle programs such as Cybercabs, SEMA, and more affordable model options. The use of the plural “models” when discussing Tesla’s forthcoming budget-friendly cars suggests that the rumors about releasing significantly cheaper versions of the Model Y and Model 3 might hold some truth, especially after the recent debut of a more affordable RWD Cybertruck.
Design Expectations
Initially, the Model 2 was anticipated to be a compact version of the Model Y, and that concept seems to be still on the table. A smaller SUV prototype was even seen covered in camouflage during a drone flight over Giga Texas recently. The strategy behind releasing the most affordable Cybertruck could also provide clues on how Tesla plans to design the lower-cost versions of the Model Y and Model 3.
Currently, cloth seats appear to be Tesla’s primary method for reducing production costs. Eliminating additional design features like light bars or unique wheel designs also helps save money. For the RWD Cybertruck, Tesla removed the air suspension and the automated truck bed cover. However, the changes made for a $10,000 price drop may not seem very valuable, so fingers crossed that the cost-saving measures for the cheaper Model Y will be more thoughtful.
Future Goals
Tesla aims to achieve the lowest possible monthly ownership costs with its upcoming affordable models, which “will look similar to our current offerings,” as stated by the CFO. “Our vision of delivering the best product at a competitive price is key for us, and that’s why we’re dedicated to launching these cheaper models soon,” he added.
“Monthly payments are the biggest point of difference for our vehicles,” noted Moravy, emphasizing that Tesla is working on models with “the lowest price in the market.” This suggests that even more affordable Tesla options could be on the horizon by 2025.
At present, the least expensive Tesla lease starts at $299 per month, indicating that the company might target a price point below that for their future budget-friendly model. However, Tesla’s chief engineer warned that “the flexibility we have regarding design and form factors is limited to our existing product lines rather than creating entirely new ones.”
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Tags: affordable Tesla models, Model Y, Tesla Model 2
April 24, 2025
Asus ROG Strix XG27UCDMG: 4K 240Hz OLED Monitor Launches
Key Takeaways
1. The ROG Strix XG27UCDMG is priced at €1,049 in Europe, making it about €300 cheaper than the ROG Swift PG27UCDM, which is priced at $1,199.99.
2. It features a Gen 4 QD-OLED panel with a native 4K resolution of 3,840 x 2,160, a 240 Hz refresh rate, and a peak brightness of 1,000 nits.
3. The monitor has a fast 0.03 ms GtG response time and supports technologies like AMD FreeSync Premium Pro, Nvidia G-Sync, and VESA AdaptiveSync.
4. The ROG Strix XG27UCDMG uses DisplayPort 1.4 and requires Display Stream Compression (DSC) to achieve 4K at 240 Hz, while offering two HDMI 2.1 ports and multiple USB ports.
5. It is currently available in the US for $979.99 and in the UK for £939.
Asus has just launched the ROG Strix XG27UCDMG in both North America and the UK, shortly after its introduction in the Eurozone. To summarize, the retail price for the ROG Strix XG27UCDMG is €1,049 in Europe, making it approximately €300 cheaper than the ROG Swift PG27UCDM, which has been available since February (currently priced at $1,199.99 on Amazon).
Impressive Features
Even with the lower price, the ROG Strix XG27UCDMG features the same Gen 4 QD-OLED panel as the pricier ROG Swift PG27UCDM. This means that the ROG Strix XG27UCDMG displays in native 4K resolution (3,840 x 2,160) on its 27-inch screen and supports refresh rates of up to 240 Hz. True to the nature of QD-OLED monitors, it also boasts a peak brightness of 1,000 nits when showing HDR content, along with an impressive 0.03 ms GtG response time, thanks to technologies like AMD FreeSync Premium Pro, Nvidia G-Sync, and VESA AdaptiveSync.
Connectivity Differences
Asus sets the ROG Strix XG27UCDMG apart from the ROG Swift PG27UCDM by opting for DisplayPort 1.4 instead of the more advanced DisplayPort 2.1. As a result, the ROG Strix XG27UCDMG needs to utilize Display Stream Compression (DSC) to achieve 4K and 240 Hz at the same time. Nevertheless, the monitor is equipped with two HDMI 2.1 ports, a 3.5 mm audio jack, three USB Type-A ports, and a USB Type-C port that can deliver up to 90 W to any connected device.
Pricing and Availability
Currently, the ROG Strix XG27UCDMG is up for grabs at Best Buy in the US for $979.99. In contrast, Asus has set the price in the UK at £939. For further technical specifications, check out Asus’ official website.
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Tags: ASUS, QD OLED, ROG Strix XG27UCDMG
April 24, 2025
Honor GT Pro Launch: High-End Smartphone with 7200mAh Battery
Key Takeaways
1. The Honor GT Pro has a subtle design compared to competitors with flashy gaming aesthetics.
2. It features a 6.78-inch AMOLED display with a high touch sampling rate of 2,700 Hz and a 144 Hz refresh rate.
3. The smartphone is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite processor and has a large 7,200 mAh battery with 90 W wired charging.
4. The GT Pro includes advanced connectivity options like Bluetooth 5.4 and Wi-Fi 7, and supports high-quality audio codecs.
5. Currently, the GT Pro is available only in China, starting at approximately $508, with higher configurations available.
The GT Pro stands out as Honor’s newest smartphone designed for gaming, though its design is somewhat plain. Unlike competitors such as the ROG Phone 9 Pro and the RedMagic 10 Pro (currently priced at $749 on Amazon), which have distinct gaming aesthetics, Honor has opted for a more subtle look with the GT Pro. The promotional pictures reveal that this phone lacks the flashy elements typically associated with gaming devices.
Design and Display Features
The GT Pro features a straightforward squircle-shaped camera arrangement, smooth edges, and a flat frame like many contemporary flagship smartphones. Regardless, Honor has equipped the GT Pro with an impressive touch sampling rate of 2,700 Hz, which should enhance its responsiveness in gaming scenarios compared to many competitors. Additionally, it boasts a 6.78-inch AMOLED display that offers a native resolution of 2,800 x 1,264 pixels, 4,320 Hz PWM dimming, a 144 Hz refresh rate, and a peak brightness of 6,000 nits when viewing HDR content. According to Honor, the GT Pro can reach a maximum brightness of 1,600 nits on its entire screen during SDR content usage.
Hardware and Connectivity
This display is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, complemented by a robust 7,200 mAh battery that supports 90 W wired charging and features four 50 MP cameras. Honor also mentions that the GT Pro is compatible with Qualcomm aptX Adaptive and LDAC audio codecs, along with Bluetooth 5.4 and Wi-Fi 7 connectivity options. At present, the GT Pro is only available in China, where it starts at CNY 3,699 (approximately $508) for the configuration with 12 GB of RAM and 256 GB of storage. For comparison, Honor provides various memory options, going up to 16 GB of RAM and 1 TB of storage, for which they charge CNY 4,799 (around $659). Similar to the Pad GT, Honor has not yet disclosed any plans to release the GT Pro in other markets worldwide.
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Tags: Gaming Smartphone, Honor GT Pro, Snapdragon 8 Elite
April 24, 2025
Motorola Edge 60 Pro: Surprising Price Leaks for Mid-Range Phone
Key Takeaways
1. Launch Announcement: Motorola will launch the Edge 60 Pro alongside the Edge 60, Razr 60, and Razr 60 Ultra.
2. Performance Upgrade: The Edge 60 Pro is expected to feature a MediaTek Dimensity 8350 chipset, providing around 20% more power than its predecessor.
3. Battery and Charging: It will include a large 6,000 mAh battery but has reduced wired charging capability from 125 W to 90 W.
4. Camera Features: The device is rumored to have a camera setup with a 50 MP primary, 50 MP ultra-wide, 10 MP telephoto, and a 50 MP front camera.
5. Software Support and Pricing: The Edge 60 Pro will come with three Android updates and is expected to be priced between €599 (~$679) and €699 (~$792), with 12 GB RAM and 512 GB storage.
Motorola is set to officially launch the Edge 60 Pro tomorrow, along with the Edge 60, Razr 60, and Razr 60 Ultra. Meanwhile, recent leaks have revealed nearly everything about the successor to the Edge 50 Pro.
Powerful Performance
Sudhanshu Ambhore has pointed out that the Edge 60 Pro will likely feature MediaTek’s Dimensity 8350 chipset, similar to the Honor Pad GT that was released today. This means the Edge 60 Pro is expected to be around 20% more powerful than its predecessor, but will still lag behind last year’s Edge 50 Ultra and Razr 50 Ultra, which currently sells for $499 (refurbished on Amazon).
Impressive Battery and Camera Specs
The device is rumored to come with a large 6,000 mAh battery, marking a significant improvement over its predecessor. However, it seems Motorola may have reduced the wired charging capability from 125 W to 90 W this time. There’s no information yet about wireless charging support. The Edge 60 Pro is also said to have a camera setup that includes 50 MP primary, 50 MP ultra-wide, 10 MP telephoto, and a 50 MP front-facing camera, all housed in a case measuring 161 x 73 x 8.24 mm, which contains a 6.67-inch AMOLED display with a refresh rate of 120 Hz.
Software Support and Pricing Debate
It is reported that the Edge 60 Pro will come with three Android updates starting from Android 15, plus an additional year of security patches. However, there seems to be conflicting information among leakers regarding the launch price of the device. Currently, Ambhore and billbil_kun both agree that the Edge 60 Pro will only be offered with 12 GB of RAM and 512 GB of storage. Ambhore believes the price will be set at €599 (~$679), while billbil_kun suggests it could be higher, possibly starting at €699 (~$792), with available colors including blue, green, and pink. As of now, there is no information regarding pricing for other regions.
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Tags: 6000 mAh Battery, Dimensity 8350, Motorola Edge 60 Pro
April 24, 2025
Garmin ECG App for Smartwatches Now Available in the UK
Key Takeaways
1. Garmin’s ECG app is now available in the UK and Switzerland, expanding its reach to about 50 regions.
2. Compatible smartwatches include Fenix 7 Pro, Fenix 8, and Tactix 8, with specific limitations for the Venu 2 Plus in certain countries.
3. The ECG app monitors heartbeats in about 30 seconds and can detect irregular heart rhythms like AFib.
4. Results can be viewed on the watch or through the Garmin Connect app, and can be exported as a PDF.
5. The ECG app is not medically certified, and users should consult healthcare professionals for health concerns.
Garmin has broadened the reach of its electrocardiogram (ECG) app, now accessible to users in two additional countries. Launched in 2023, this feature was first limited to select areas like the US, Singapore, and Hong Kong. Subsequently, it began to be introduced to smartwatch owners in Australia and the EU earlier this year.
New Availability in the UK and Switzerland
Currently, the ECG app can also be utilized in the UK and Switzerland, expanding its availability to approximately 50 different regions. Smartwatches that support this feature include the Fenix 7 Pro, Fenix 8, and the Tactix 8 (51mm Solar version priced at $1,399.99 on Amazon). A detailed list of compatible devices can be found below. It’s important to highlight that the ECG app is limited to Venu 2 Plus users in the original smaller list of countries, meaning it’s not accessible in Europe.
How the ECG App Works
The Garmin ECG app utilizes the sensors of compatible smartwatches to monitor your heartbeat. The process only takes about 30 seconds, and the results can be viewed right away on the watch or through the Garmin Connect app. Besides heart rate tracking, this feature can identify an irregular heart rhythm, which might indicate atrial fibrillation (AFib).
Nonetheless, it’s crucial to remember that this device is not medically certified, so individuals should consult a healthcare professional if they have any concerns. Users can export the results to a PDF format, making sharing straightforward. It remains unclear if or when Garmin will introduce a passive AFib detection feature in its smartwatches.
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Tags: ECG app, Fenix 7 Pro, Garmin
April 24, 2025
Honor Pad GT: New Gaming Tablet with 144Hz Display & 8 Speakers
Key Takeaways
1. The Honor Pad GT features an 11.5-inch IPS display with a resolution of 2,800 x 1,840 pixels and a 144 Hz refresh rate.
2. It is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 8350 SoC, with a cooling system and a 10,100 mAh battery that supports 66 W wired charging.
3. The tablet includes Bluetooth 5.2, Wi-Fi 6 connectivity, an 8 MP front camera, and a 13 MP main camera.
4. The Honor Pad GT is priced starting at CNY 1,699 (approximately $233) for the base model and CNY 2,599 (around $357) for the upgraded version.
5. The Honor Pad GT is essentially a rebranded version of the Honor Pad V9, with no significant differences from its predecessor.
Honor has unveiled the Honor Pad GT today in China, alongside the Honor GT Pro. While the Honor GT Pro aims to compete with gaming smartphones like the RedMagic 10 Pro (currently priced at $749 on Amazon), the Honor Pad GT has more to offer than just gaming features.
Display and Performance
At first glance, the Honor Pad GT appears to be another tablet aimed at gamers. Honor claims that this tablet provides stunning visuals with a resolution of 2,800 x 1,840 pixels and a refresh rate of 144 Hz on its 11.5-inch IPS display. The display boasts a 1,500:1 contrast ratio and can reach a peak brightness of 500 nits. Additionally, the device is equipped with a large vapor chamber cooling system and a substantial 10,100 mAh battery that supports 66 W wired charging.
Specifications and Features
Moreover, the Honor Pad GT is powered by the Dimensity 8350, a 4 nm system-on-chip (SoC) from MediaTek, featuring four ARM Cortex-A715 CPU cores running at 3.35 GHz and four Cortex-A510 cores capped at 2.2 GHz. The tablet also supports Bluetooth 5.2 and Wi-Fi 6 connectivity, along with an 8 MP front camera and a 13 MP main camera, all packed into a sleek 6.12 mm chassis that weighs 480 g.
Pricing and Availability
Essentially, the Honor Pad GT is just a rebranded version of the Honor Pad V9. From what we can see, there’s nothing that distinguishes this new tablet from the one we reviewed last year. The Honor Pad GT starts at CNY 1,699 (approximately $233) for the version with 8 GB of RAM and 128 GB of storage. Additionally, it can be upgraded to a model with 12 GB of RAM and 512 GB of storage for CNY 2,599 (around $357). However, there has been no confirmation regarding a global release yet.
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Tags: Dimensity 8350, Gaming Tablet, Honor Pad GT