Category: All News

January 7, 2025
XPeng and Volkswagen Introduce Ultra-Fast Charging in China
In 2023, Volkswagen acquired a 4.99% share in XPeng for around $700 million, aiming to work together on creating two electric vehicles under the Volkswagen name by 2026. Since that time, the two companies have come up with a new framework for smart electric vehicles, which will help the well-known German brand offer competitive options in the Chinese market. Currently, they are also collaborating to establish a fast charging network to benefit EVs from both brands across China.
Joint Charging Network Announcement
A recent report from Reuters mentions that a joint announcement made yesterday stated,
“The companies have signed a memorandum of understanding to open their respective fast-charging networks to each other’s customers, which comprise more than 20,000 charging piles across 420 cities in China.”
Moreover, it’s noteworthy that Volkswagen and XPeng are looking into the possibility of creating additional co-branded ultra-fast charging stations soon.
Future Collaborations Ahead
Looking ahead, Volkswagen and XPeng are aiming for even more strategic partnerships. However, no further details on their future plans have been shared as of now. Established ten years ago, XPeng produced over 190,000 vehicles last year. By comparison, Volkswagen sold more than 770,000 electric vehicles globally in 2023. After a drop in sales in 2024, this year might be better for the German manufacturer as it expands its presence in China.
A Glimpse into Volkswagen’s Legacy
With an impressive 87-year history, Volkswagen has created numerous iconic vehicles. Those curious about the company’s past but short on time can check out The Complete History of Volkswagen: The Moments that Shaped the German Car Brand, available for only $0.99 (Kindle version only).
Source: Link
Tags: electric vehicles, Volkswagen, Xpeng
January 7, 2025
Dell Plus Laptop Lineup Launches at CES 2025 with Mini-LED Display
Dell has said farewell to its Inspiron Plus series, introducing the new Dell Plus lineup instead. This fresh series features two initial models: the 14 Plus and the 16 Plus. The naming is now simpler, but the laptops still offers great versatility. A major highlight is the 16-inch model, which boasts impressive specifications for a mid-range laptop.
Specifications and Performance
The Dell Plus 14 and 16 are equipped with the Intel Lunar Lake CPUs, with the highest configuration showcasing the Core Ultra 9 288V. For those looking for a more budget-friendly choice, the entry-level version packs the Core Ultra 5 226V. Depending on your preferred setup, these laptops can be configured with up to an Arc 140V iGPU, 32 GB of LPDDR5X RAM, and 2 TB of storage space.
Connectivity and Design
Both models feature a good array of ports, which includes HDMI 2.1, Thunderbolt 4, USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A, and USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C. Designed with travel convenience in mind, the 14 Plus is lightweight, weighing only 3.42 lbs.
Display and Battery Life
The Dell 16 Plus is particularly impressive in the display department, as it offers an option to be configured with a QHD+ mini-LED screen, boasting a brightness rating of 600 nits and a refresh rate of 90 Hz. In contrast, the 14 Plus can be set up with a maximum 2.5K display.
Additionally, the two laptops come with a Dolby Atmos speaker system, a 2-in-1 option available for both, and a 64 Wh battery (145 W Urgreen laptop power bank currently priced at $75.99 on Amazon). Both the 14 Plus and 16 Plus are expected to launch on February 18, starting at prices of $1,099 and $1,149, respectively. The 2-in-1 versions will start at $999 and will also be released on the same date. For further details, check the spec sheets attached below.
Tags: Core Ultra 9 288V, Dell Plus, Inspiron Plus
January 7, 2025
Acer Nitro Mobile Gaming Controller Launches at CES 2025
Acer has launched a new gaming accessory called the Nitro Mobile Gaming Controller, designed to enhance the gaming experience on smartphones. This controller features a foldable design, which makes it very convenient for gamers who like to play while on the go. It is compatible with both Android and iOS devices that are up to 8.3 inches (21.08 cm) wide, even those with protective cases. The adjustable grips ensure that devices of different sizes are held securely, and the rubberized pads provide a solid and comfortable grip for long gaming sessions. From the images, the controller looks quite durable.
Easy Connectivity
Connecting the Nitro Mobile Gaming Controller is effortless, thanks to its USB-C support, which guarantees reliable input and low latency. This means gamers can enjoy a smooth gaming experience without any lag. Additionally, the controller features 18W fast-charging, allowing users to keep their devices charged during long gaming periods without experiencing significant downtime.
Designed for Precision
The layout of the controller includes dual joysticks, a D-pad, and responsive action buttons, all designed to provide the precision needed for a variety of gaming genres. Whether players prefer racing games, first-person shooters, or casual mobile games, the Nitro controller promises to offer accurate and consistent input, making the overall gaming experience more enjoyable.
The Nitro Mobile Gaming Controller is anticipated to be released by the end of Q2 2025, targeting gamers who are in search of a portable and sturdy handheld option for gaming across multiple devices. Pricing and more information will likely be announced as the launch date approaches.
Tags: Acer, Nitro Mobile Gaming Controller, portable gaming
January 7, 2025
HP Launches OmniBook Ultra Flip: 14″ 120Hz OLED & Intel Core Ultra 9
HP has introduced the OmniBook Ultra Flip 2-in-1 laptop, expanding its range of convertible laptops at CES 2025. This new device features a 14-inch OLED touchscreen with a resolution of 2800 x 1800 pixels, boasting a 16:10 aspect ratio. The screen achieves a maximum brightness of 500 nits and a refresh rate of 120 Hz. Additionally, the touchscreen is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 5 and allows for up to 4096 levels of pressure sensitivity, making it a great choice for artists and designers.
Flexible Design and Performance
With its adaptable hinges, the 14-inch display can be transformed easily into tablet or tent configurations. Under the hood, the HP OmniBook Ultra Flip is equipped with Intel’s latest Lunar Lake series of CPUs. Buyers can select from options including the Intel Core Ultra 5 226V, Intel Core Ultra 7 258V, or Intel Core Ultra 9 288V. However, it lacks a dedicated GPU, relying instead on integrated Intel Arc Graphics for visual tasks.
Memory and Storage Options
The foldable device supports a maximum RAM of 32 GB. As for storage, users can equip it with up to 2 TB of PCIe Gen 4 NVMe M.2 SSD. The connectivity options are quite good, featuring two Thunderbolt 4 ports, a single 10 Gbps USB Type-C port, and a 3.5 mm headphone jack. One downside is the absence of a USB-A port.
Battery Life and Features
The laptop is powered by a 64 Wh battery that supports 65 W wired charging through the Thunderbolt ports. Its dimensions are 12.35 x 8.51 x 0.59 inches (313.6 x 216.1 x 14.9 mm) and it weighs only 2.97 lb (1.34 kg). Additional features include quad speakers with DTS audio, a full-size backlit keyboard, a 9 MP IR AI webcam equipped with a privacy shutter, a mic mute key, WiFi 7, and compatibility with HP stylus.
The HP OmniBook Ultra Flip is priced starting at $1,449.99 and is available in Eclipse Gray and Atmospheric Blue. Customers can purchase this 2-in-1 laptop from HP’s official website.
Source: Link
Tags: 2-in-1 Laptop, CES 2025, HP OmniBook Ultra Flip
January 7, 2025
AMD Launches Fire Range CPUs with Ryzen 9 9955HX3D at CES 2025
While AMD faced some leaks during CES, one of its top products remained under wraps until the end. The company’s Zen 5-based Fire Range CPUs have returned, now featuring an HX designation. Last year’s Ryzen 8000 Hawk Point CPUs did not have this tag, and this time, only three models were revealed, unlike the Dragon Range, which had seven different versions.
New 3D V-cache Laptop Chip
We have a second 3D V-cache laptop processor, the oddly named Ryzen 9 9955HX3D. Its predecessor, the Ryzen 9 7945HX3D, was only available in a single laptop and a mini-PC, so we can only hope this new chip will see broader adoption among manufacturers. On paper, the Ryzen 9 9955HX3D is expected to offer noticeable improvements in performance across generations due to its new Zen 5 cores and additional L3 cache, but the actual performance will depend largely on the power it can access.
Similar Non-HX Models
The Ryzen 9 9955HX and Ryzen 9 9850HX are nearly identical to the HX3D variant, differing slightly in boost clock speeds and total cache. Regrettably, this is all the details AMD has shared about the Fire Range series. The absence of “AI” in the name suggests that there is no dedicated NPU included. Furthermore, there is plenty of room left for future Ryzen 7 and Ryzen 5 models to be introduced.
Tags: AMD Fire Range, Ryzen 9 9955HX3D, Zen 5 CPUs
January 7, 2025
HP ZBook Ultra 14 G1a: Ryzen AI Max Pro at CES 2025
This year’s CES marks the launch of AMD’s Strix Halo platform. AMD is aiming to capture a larger share of the workstation and creator market with its powerful Ryzen CPUs built on Zen 5 technology. The standout feature of these processors is their exceptionally strong integrated GPU.
New Partner and Model
HP is one of the launch partners, introducing the new HP ZBook Ultra. The ZBook line comprises HP’s workstation laptops, tailored for CAD and creative tasks. The latest model, HP ZBook Ultra 14 G1a, is a more robust successor to the HP ZBook Firefly 14 (available on Amazon). It merges a compact 14-inch design with the AMD Ryzen AI Max Pro, creating a compelling package, at least theoretically.
Performance and Specifications
As is typical with enterprise laptops, customers can choose from various CPUs. Leading the lineup is the AMD Ryzen AI Max+ Pro 395, featuring sixteen cores, 32 threads, and the AMD Radeon 8060S GPU. The RAM can go up to 128 GB, with 96 GB potentially allocated to the GPU. Even without a dedicated GPU, the ZBook is likely capable of handling demanding GPU tasks due to the significant amount of available vRAM.
HP has managed to fit this performance into a relatively compact chassis, weighing just 1.5 kg and measuring 18.5 mm thick. There are no compromises on battery capacity, either, with an internal battery rated at 74.5 Wh. This battery is essential for such a laptop, as HP offers both a Low Power IPS option with a resolution of 1,920 x 1,200 and a less energy-efficient 2.8K OLED display (2,880 x 1,800) that boasts a 120 Hz refresh rate. HP claims up to 14 hours of battery life, although this is likely only achievable with the IPS option.
Design and Connectivity
In terms of design, the ZBook Ultra 14 G1a features a silver-grey chassis, accompanied by a color-matched keyboard, a spacious trackpad, and an integrated fingerprint reader located in the upper right corner of the keyboard. However, 5G or 4G connectivity is not available; at least the ZBook comes equipped with Wi-Fi 7 thanks to a MediaTek Wi-Fi module. Regarding ports, HP misses the chance to include an SD card reader, but there are HDMI and USB-A ports, along with three USB-C ports, two of which support Thunderbolt 4.
The HP ZBook Ultra 14 G1a is set to launch in Spring 2025. Pricing details will be revealed later on.
Tags: AMD Ryzen AI Max Pro, CES 2024, HP ZBook Ultra 14 G1a
January 7, 2025
Ailunce HA1G 5W GMRS Radio Launches Eco-Friendly Version
Retevis has launched a new color option for the well-liked Ailunce HA1G 5W GMRS radio. Until now, it was only offered in black, but this new version keeps all the original features and is aimed at those who love outdoor adventures. It boasts an IP67 waterproof rating and has various functionalities designed to suit the needs of outdoor activities, such as:
Quality Features
The Ailunce HA1G includes some helpful features like PC programmability and the ability to program directly on the device. It also has sub-PTT functionality, which lets users transmit on sub-frequencies without fiddling with settings. Moreover, the radio supports dual standby and receiving, meaning it can monitor two different frequencies at once and receive communications from both channels. Inside the package, users will find the typical accessories that come with similar devices, including a belt clip, battery, hand strap, charging and programming cable, and a charging dock.
Pricing and Availability
Right now, the green variant of the radio is exclusively available on the Retevis website, priced at $60. On the other hand, the black version can be found on Amazon for $35, with a 15% discount coupon. While the features are appealing, even at this price, users might be drawn to radios that offer dual-band capabilities. For additional details about the Ailunce HA1G, a complete list of features, and various purchasing options, check below.
Source: Link
Tags: Ailunce HA1G, GMRS radio, Retevis
January 7, 2025
Mammotion Launches Mini Robotic Mowers with UltraSense AI Vision
Robotic mower maker Mammotion, known for its LUBA 2 AWD model that we reviewed last year (only in German), is at CES 2025 in Las Vegas to unveil some new and exciting products for the 2025 gardening season. Alongside the UltraSense AI Vision System, they are launching the LUBA mini AWD and YUKA mini models, plus upgraded versions of their popular LUBA 2 AWD and YUKA robotic mowers. The company has announced that pre-orders for their CES innovations have now begun.
Advanced AI Technology
The standout feature from Mammotion is the UltraSense AI Vision System. This system leverages cutting-edge AI technology to simplify lawn care and enables automatic mapping. Users no longer have to manually direct the mower, as the robotic lawnmower can autonomously explore areas up to 10,000 square meters and create virtual maps by utilizing smart edge detection.
This innovation also ensures dependable performance, even in weak or no GPS signal scenarios. Mammotion claims that mowing can continue up to 300 meters (984 feet) away from the base. With the help of virtual fencing, users can set invisible boundaries, and edge trimming is more accurate due to improved visual positioning. According to Mammotion, mowers equipped with the UltraSense AI Vision System can detect over 120 types of obstacles, including toys and gardening tools. Our tests have shown that the LUBA 2 AWD excels in this area.
New Mini Series Launch
At CES 2025, Mammotion is also rolling out two new compact robotic mower lines. The first is the LUBA mini AWD series, which shares the all-wheel drive platform with the larger LUBA 2 AWD but is lighter, weighing in at 15 kg (33 lb). It’s tailored for gardens of up to around 1,500 m² (16,145 ft²) and can handle tough terrains thanks to its optimized 88 W cutting motor, OmniWheel design, and 20 cm cutting width.
In addition, the new YUKA mini series weighs just 10.6 kg (23 lb) and is perfect for smaller gardens, covering areas up to about 800 m² (8,611 ft²). This model offers automatic lawn mapping (set up takes just a few minutes) and supports up to ten mowing zones.
Upgrades for Existing Models
Mammotion has also enhanced its established LUBA 2 AWD and YUKA models. For the 2025 season, the LUBA 2 AWD series will see an increase in motor power from 45 to 165 W for its dual mowing discs, along with longer battery life. It can now detect slopes of up to 38.6 degrees and identify obstacles as small as 3 inches (approximately 7.5 cm). One full battery charge allows mowing of up to 1,500 m² (16,145 ft²) over four hours.
Alongside the UltraSense AI Vision, the YUKA model, which can collect leaves with an optional grass collector, features a strong five-blade double cutting system and can handle up to 30 customizable mowing zones.
Source: http://www.notebookcheck.com/Mammotion-Luba-2-AWD-Test-Starker-Allrad-Maehroboter-ohne-Begrenzungskabel-im-Rennwagen-Design.870843.0.html
Tags: LUBA 2 AWD, Mammotion, UltraSense AI Vision System
January 7, 2025
Reolink Launches TrackMix: 4K UHD Outdoor Camera with Discount
Reolink has recently launched the TrackMix WiFi, a new addition to its lineup of security cameras. This innovative dual-lens camera offers both wide-angle and close-up 4K resolution viewing (3,840 x 2,160 pixels), which ensures that crucial details are captured effectively and enhances the reliability of Smart Detection. This feature enables the camera to differentiate between people, vehicles, and animals, minimizing the likelihood of false alarms.
Features and Capabilities
The TrackMix WiFi boasts a rotating design that can swivel 355° and tilt 90°, allowing it to monitor expansive areas without needing extra cameras. It offers a hybrid zoom of up to 6x. For nighttime use, the camera supports both color night vision and infrared night vision, with LED spotlights available for the color option. The infrared night vision is claimed to reach up to 30 meters, providing a more subtle alternative to the color night vision.
Communication and Connectivity
Users can engage in two-way communication with individuals in front of the camera thanks to its integrated microphone and speaker. The camera supports both wireless and wired connections, including Wi-Fi 6 and Ethernet. It also allows for local storage of up to 256GB using a microSD card. Reolink asserts that the camera is built to endure harsh weather conditions, featuring a metal casing suitable for outdoor use. Several mounting options are available, enabling flexible placement in diverse locations. Additionally, the camera is equipped with a siren, allowing it to function as an alarm system.
Reolink’s product is designed with advanced technology and user needs in mind.
Source: Link
Tags: 4K Surveillance Camera, Reolink TrackMix WiFi, Smart Detection
January 7, 2025
Dell UltraSharp 27″ & 32″ 4K Monitors with IPS Black Panels at CES 2025
Last year, Dell launched its UltraSharp 34 curved and UltraSharp 40 curved monitors. At this year’s CES, the company is unveiling new UltraSharp 27 and UltraSharp 34 4K monitors that feature the world’s first enhanced IPS Black technology.
New Technology in IPS Displays
Traditionally, IPS displays have had issues with contrast ratios, usually not exceeding 1,000:1. With the introduction of IPS Black technology, these panels can now achieve a contrast ratio of 3,000:1, putting them on par with VA displays. This advancement is expected to result in richer blacks and a more engaging viewing experience for users.
Keeping the Brand Identity
Dell believes that the UltraSharp brand is gaining traction and has a strong following, so it aims to maintain consistency by keeping the existing naming conventions. The UltraSharp 27 4K and UltraSharp 32 4K Thunderbolt Hub monitors come equipped with low-reflectance panels that reportedly offer an 89% improvement in ambient contrast.
Performance Specs
These monitors boast a high refresh rate of 120 Hz cover 99% of DCI-P3/Display P3 color spaces along ambient light sensor adjusts brightness and color temperature based on the surrounding environment.
Dell has integrated a Thunderbolt 4 hub in both the UltraSharp 27 4K and UltraSharp 32 4K monitors that provides 140 W Extended Power Range (EPR) through a single cable. This hub also includes a 2.5G LAN, the ability to daisy-chain with other 4K monitors, and a convenient pop-out 15 W USB port for charging devices.
Pricing and Availability
The Dell UltraSharp 27 4K (U27255QE) and UltraSharp 32 4K (U3225QE) will hit the market in February 2025, priced at $699.99 and $949.99, respectively.
Tags: Dell UltraSharp 27 4K, Dell UltraSharp 32 4K, IPS Black technology