Category: All News

  • MediaTek Dimensity 9400+ Launching in Realme GT7 with 100W Charging

    MediaTek Dimensity 9400+ Launching in Realme GT7 with 100W Charging

    Key Takeaways

    1. Oppo will be the first to use MediaTek’s Dimensity 9400+ chipset in the Find X8s and Find X8s Plus.
    2. Realme plans to launch its first smartphone with the Dimensity 9400+ chipset, the Realme GT7, later this month.
    3. The Realme GT7 is designed primarily as a gaming phone, similar to the Realme GT6.
    4. The GT7 will feature a battery over 7,000 mAh, exceeding the GT6’s capacity, but with reduced charging speed of 100 W.
    5. The GT7 will have a 144 Hz display from BOE, an IP69 certification, and a slim design under 8.3 mm thick and weighing less than 205 g.

    It is already well known that Oppo will be the first brand to use MediaTek’s Dimensity 9400+ chipset. The company plans to showcase this chipset in the Find X8s and Find X8s Plus just a day before MediaTek’s upcoming Dimensity Developer Conference (MDDC).

    Realme’s Upcoming Smartphone

    In response, Realme has announced that it will launch its initial smartphone powered by the Dimensity 9400+ later this month. While they have not specified an exact launch date yet, Realme has confirmed that the Realme GT7 will feature MediaTek’s latest flagship chipset. Company executive Xu Qi Chase emphasized that the Realme GT7 is designed primarily as a gaming phone, similar to how they market the Realme GT6 (currently priced at $496.99 on Amazon).

    Impressive Battery and Display

    To support this focus on gaming, the GT7 will come with a battery that goes beyond 7,000 mAh. This is more than 1,500 mAh greater than the Realme GT6. However, Realme has reduced the peak charging speed from 120 W to 100 W for this new model. According to Digital Chat Station, the GT7 will feature a 144 Hz display from BOE, all packed into a slim IP69-certified design that is under 8.3 mm thick and weighs less than 205 g.

    Source:
    Link

    MediaTek Dimensity 9400+ Launching in Realme GT7 with 100W Charging
    Tags: , ,
  • Vivo X200 Ultra Camera Samples Showcase 35mm and 85mm Features

    Vivo X200 Ultra Camera Samples Showcase 35mm and 85mm Features

    Key Takeaways

    1. Vivo’s Han Bo Xiao highlights the X200 Ultra’s powerful triple camera system, focusing on low-light performance and optical stabilization.
    2. The main camera is rumored to be based on the Sony LYT-818 sensor, while the telephoto camera may use the ISOCELL HP9 sensor.
    3. The primary camera has a 35 mm equivalent focal length and can capture portrait shots at 50 mm, 85 mm, and 135 mm focal lengths.
    4. The X200 Ultra will feature a Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset and improved in-house ISPs.
    5. The official unveiling of the X200 Ultra is expected later this month, generating excitement for its innovative features.

    Vivo’s Han Bo Xiao has been steadily revealing details about the X200 Ultra on social media, emphasizing the power of its triple camera system. Previously, he pointed out the enhanced low-light features of the new 200 MP telephoto camera, alongside its upgraded ultra-wide-angle camera that now has optical stabilization.

    Camera Capabilities

    Recently, Xiao shared photos taken with the X200 Ultra’s main camera. Rumors suggest that this camera is based on the Sony LYT-818, which will also be used for the ultra-wide-angle camera on the device. In comparison, the 200 MP telephoto camera is believed to utilize the ISOCELL HP9 sensor with an aperture of f/2.27.

    Focal Length Insights

    The latest images shared by Xiao indicate that the primary camera of the X200 Ultra will operate at a 35 mm equivalent focal length, similar to the Nubia Z70 Ultra (currently priced at $769 on Amazon). The pictures also demonstrate the X200 Ultra’s capability in capturing portrait shots at various focal lengths such as 50 mm, 85 mm, and even 135 mm. It’s still uncertain if these focal lengths were achieved using the main camera or the telephoto lens. Nonetheless, Vivo plans to unveil the X200 Ultra later this month, featuring a Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset and enhanced in-house ISPs, among other improvements over the X100 Ultra.

    Han Bo Xiao’s insights into the X200 Ultra’s camera setup continue to build anticipation for its release, showcasing the innovative features that Vivo aims to bring to the market.

    Source:
    Link

    Tags: , ,
  • Nintendo Switch 2 Game Prices Boost Digital Purchases, Analyst Says

    Nintendo Switch 2 Game Prices Boost Digital Purchases, Analyst Says

    Key Takeaways

    1. Xbox, PlayStation, and PC gamers are increasingly accepting digital gaming, while Switch fans are slower to shift from physical cartridges.
    2. Analysts are raising concerns about the high prices of Switch 2 games, with physical copies costing more than digital versions.
    3. Digital distribution is more cost-effective for Nintendo, especially due to rising manufacturing costs for physical cartridges.
    4. Nintendo is encouraging digital purchases with new features like virtual game cards, allowing some transferability between consoles.
    5. Other gaming companies, like Sony and Microsoft, may follow Nintendo’s lead and consider phasing out physical media due to rising costs.

    Xbox, PlayStation, and PC gamers have slowly started to accept digital gaming. In contrast, fans of the Switch have been a bit slower to make this shift, still building their collections of cartridges. Now, analysts are weighing in as consumers raise concerns about the pricing of several Switch 2 games. One expert suggests that Nintendo wants to encourage more players to move away from physical media.

    Analyst Insights

    MIDiA Games Industry Analyst Rhys Elliott has voiced his thoughts after the announcement of the Nintendo Switch 2 pricing. He pointed out the unexpectedly high prices for certain Switch 2 games, such as Mario Kart World. This popular kart racing game is going to an open-world format, but that freedom comes with a higher price tag. In certain regions, the physical version of Mario Kart World will cost 10 Euros more than the digital version. Elliott believes this is a tactic to cut down on manufacturing expenses during a tough economic climate.

    Digital Distribution Benefits

    Due to the high costs of making cartridges and their cases, digital distribution is a more cost-effective option for Nintendo. Some industry insiders suggest that the company might be using pricier 3D NAND flash memory for the Switch 2, which could lead to even higher costs. Additionally, the launch of virtual game cards shows how Nintendo is attempting to facilitate the shift towards digital purchases. With some restrictions, players can transfer their downloads between consoles similarly to how they would with physical cartridges.

    Elliott also noted that Nintendo doesn’t profit from the resale of physical media. The compact Switch cartridges are cheap to ship, making them popular on auction platforms. Unfortunately, Nintendo only benefits from the initial sale of these titles. In contrast, while virtual game cards can be shared, digital games are more closely linked to online accounts.

    Future Trends

    It might not be long before Sony and Microsoft take a page from Nintendo’s playbook. New tariffs in the U.S. are increasing the costs of manufacturing and importing consoles and game discs. Naturally, Nintendo’s competitors also have the choice to completely eliminate physical media from their offerings.

    Source:
    Link

    Nintendo Switch 2 Game Prices Boost Digital Purchases, Analyst Says

     

    Tags: , ,
  • Orange Pi RV: Affordable RISC-V Rival to Raspberry Pi Starts at $30

    Orange Pi RV: Affordable RISC-V Rival to Raspberry Pi Starts at $30

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Orange Pi RV is built on the StarFive JH7110 RISC-V SoC with four CPU cores at 1.5 GHz.
    2. It can encode H.265 videos up to 1080p/30 FPS and decode H.264 or H.265 videos at 4K/60 FPS.
    3. The board includes standard I/O ports like a 40-pin GPIO header, Gigabit Ethernet, HDMI, and four USB Type-A ports.
    4. It supports Bluetooth 5.0 LE and Wi-Fi 5.0, with a single antenna pedestal included.
    5. Pricing starts at $41.99 for the 2 GB RAM model and $52.99 for the 4 GB version on Amazon.

    The Orange Pi RV has been in the works for quite some time. In fact, Orange Pi just began selling the RV2 last month. One might think that the RV2 would take the place of the RV, but Orange Pi has now started taking orders for the RV as well.

    Specifications and Features

    To summarize, the RV is built on the StarFive JH7110, a RISC-V SoC that has four CPU cores running at 1.5 GHz. It features a VPU that can encode H.265 videos up to 1080p/30 FPS and decode H.264 or H.265 videos at resolutions of up to 4K/60 FPS. Additionally, the JH7110 is equipped with an Imagination BXE-4-32 GPU that supports various APIs, including OpenCL 1.2, OpenGL ES 3.2, and Vulkan 1.2.

    Design and Connectivity

    The single-board computer measures 89 x 56 mm and comes with standard I/O ports, such as a 40-pin GPIO header, Gigabit Ethernet, HDMI, and four USB Type-A ports. As seen in the image below, the Orange Pi has also provided a MicroSD card slot along with an M.2 2280 (M-Key) slot right next to it. The RV supports Bluetooth 5.0 LE and Wi-Fi 5.0, for which Orange Pi has incorporated a single antenna pedestal.

    Pricing Options

    At present, the Orange Pi RV begins at $41.99 for the model with 2 GB of RAM on Amazon. Alternatively, there is a 4 GB version available for $52.99. Comparatively, the company offers 2 GB and 8 GB options for $30 and $49.90, respectively, on AliExpress. For further information, please check Orange Pi’s official website.

    Source:
    Link

    Orange Pi RV: Affordable RISC-V Rival to Raspberry Pi Starts at $30Orange Pi RV: Affordable RISC-V Rival to Raspberry Pi Starts at $30
    Tags: , ,
  • iPlay 70 Mini Ultra: Powerful New Mini Gaming Tablet Launched

    iPlay 70 Mini Ultra: Powerful New Mini Gaming Tablet Launched

    Key Takeaways

    1. Several new 8-inch tablets from leading brands are expected to launch later this year to compete with the Legion Tab and iPad mini.
    2. The Alldocube iPlay 70 Mini Ultra features an 8.8-inch 2.5K IPS display with a 144 Hz refresh rate and 500 nits peak brightness.
    3. It is powered by the Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 chipset, offering high performance with 12 GB of RAM and 256 GB of expandable storage.
    4. The tablet includes a 5 MP front camera and a 13 MP rear camera, housed in a slim design weighing 335 g.
    5. The iPlay 70 Mini Ultra runs on Android 14, but future updates to newer Android versions remain uncertain.

    According to new updates, several tablets around 8 inches from leading brands are expected to debut later this year, aiming to compete with the Legion Tab and the iPad mini (currently priced at $399 on Amazon). Meanwhile, Alldocube has launched the iPlay 70 Mini Ultra, which features an 8.8-inch 2.5K (2,560 x 1,600) IPS display. This display, which operates at 144 Hz, is claimed to reach a peak brightness of up to 500 nits, boasts a pixel density of 343 PPI, and covers 97% of the NTSC color gamut.

    Powerful Performance

    The iPlay 70 Mini Ultra is powered by the Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 chipset, which Qualcomm introduced last year. This chipset offers performance similar to the Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 and includes ARM Cortex-X4, Cortex-A720, and Cortex-A520 CPU cores, along with an Adreno 732 GPU. Built on a 4 nm manufacturing process, it is supported by 12 GB of RAM, 256 GB of storage that can be expanded, and a 7,300 mAh battery that enables 20 W wired charging.

    Camera and Design

    In addition to its impressive specs, the iPlay 70 Mini Ultra comes with a 5 MP front camera and a 13 MP rear camera, all housed in a sleek design measuring 208.2 x 129.6 x 7.9 mm and weighing 335 g. Alldocube has also pre-installed Android 14 on the tablet, but it remains unclear if the company will provide updates to Android 15 or newer versions in the future. For more information about the iPlay 70 Mini Ultra, you can visit Alldocube’s website. However, the company has yet to announce whether this tablet will be available internationally or its pricing details.

    Source:
    Link

    Tags: , ,
  • Google Pixel 10 Series Camera Leak: Exciting Upgrades and Limits

    Google Pixel 10 Series Camera Leak: Exciting Upgrades and Limits

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Google Pixel 10 Pro and Pro XL have minimal design changes from their predecessors.
    2. The standard Pixel 10 will feature a new third camera sensor, likely a telephoto lens.
    3. The camera hardware for both front and back modules remains the same as in previous models.
    4. Google is using the new Tensor G5 chip, but it still trails behind competitors in performance benchmarks.
    5. The Pixel 10 series will prioritize AI-enhanced photography over raw performance.

    Renders of the Google Pixel 10 Pro and Google Pixel 10 Pro XL reveal almost no changes in design compared to their predecessors. In contrast, the standard Pixel 10 is expected to feature a third camera sensor, which many believe to be a telephoto lens. Thanks to Android Authority, we now have a wealth of new insights regarding these sensors.

    Differences in Camera Features

    The standard Pixel 10 is set to be quite distinct from its Pro and Pro XL and even Pro Fold versions this time around. Despite having three sensors, they may be significantly different from each other. Google has continued its trend of using the same camera hardware for both front and back camera modules, which has been carried over from the last generation. This means that the Pixel 10 Pro and Pixel 10 Pro XL will use the same sensors found in the Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL.

    Performance Insights

    In essence, Google is utilizing the new Tensor G5, reportedly made by TSMC, to handle the demanding tasks. However, if its Geekbench results are any indication, there’s still a long journey ahead for Google’s in-house SoC to match up against competitors like Qualcomm and MediaTek. Nonetheless, the Pixel 10 series, similar to many of its predecessors, will not focus primarily on raw performance but instead aim to excel in other areas, such as AI-enhanced photography.

    Source:
    Link

    Google Pixel 10 Series Camera Leak: Exciting Upgrades and Limits
    Tags: , ,
  • Grand Theft Auto: Vice City Now Available on Sega Dreamcast

    Grand Theft Auto: Vice City Now Available on Sega Dreamcast

    Key Takeaways

    1. A team has released a beta version of Grand Theft Auto: Vice City for the Sega Dreamcast.
    2. To create the Dreamcast image file, a retail copy of GTA 3 or GTA: VC is required, along with specific tools available on GitHub.
    3. The gameplay is functional but may have graphical issues and an unstable framerate, typical of beta versions.
    4. The beta includes features like 2x FSAA for smoother edges and a 24-bits-per-pixel frame buffer for enhanced color depth.
    5. Players can access the beta version by visiting the project’s GitHub page.

    We got Grand Theft Auto: Vice City on the Dreamcast before we got GTA 6.

    A team that worked on bringing Grand Theft Auto III (GTA 3) to the Sega Dreamcast released a beta version for Grand Theft Auto: Vice City (GTA: VC) not long ago. This beta, shared on GitHub on April 1, can be played on actual hardware.

    Requirements for the Port

    According to the GitHub page, to make the Dreamcast image file, you need a retail copy of either GTA 3 or GTA: VC. It also notes that the PC version of Grand Theft Auto: The Trilogy can be used to build this file. Additionally, there are two other tools necessary for the image creation, and links to these tools are provided on the GitHub site.

    Gameplay and Performance

    Falco Girgis, one of the developers from the project, shared a brief gameplay video on X. The game is functional, but players might notice odd graphical issues and an unstable framerate. Nevertheless, these types of problems are common in beta versions. The team is actively working to fix these glitches and enhance features.

    Notable Features

    In the beta, you can find a feature for 2x FSAA that helps smooth the edges, along with a rendering option using a 24-bits-per-pixel (bpp) frame buffer that adds “extra depth and vividness to the colors,” as per Girgis’s statement.

    You can explore the beta version of the Dreamcast port for Grand Theft Auto: Vice City by visiting the GitHub page for the project, which is linked in the Sources section below.

    Source:
    Link

    Tags: , ,
  • April 2025: Epic Games Store Free Mystery Game Giveaway

    April 2025: Epic Games Store Free Mystery Game Giveaway

    Key Takeaways

    1. Epic Games Store is offering Cat Quest II for free this week, valued at $14.99.
    2. The game is also available in physical copies for PlayStation 4 and Nintendo Switch.
    3. Cat Quest II has average scores of 76/100 on Metacritic and 77/100 on OpenCritic.
    4. Recommended system requirements include a Core i7-7500U CPU, 8 GB of RAM, and 600 MB of storage.
    5. The free offer is available until April 10 at 15:59 UTC.

    The Epic Games Store has introduced a new free game this week, continuing its trend from last week’s feline-themed giveaway. Just to remind you, the store had been offering discounts on Cat Quest I and Neko Ghost, Jump! until earlier today, with the combined value reaching $27.98.

    A New Free Game Awaits

    This week, Epic Games has switched gears to offer a single game for free on PC. Cat Quest II, regularly priced at $14.99, can also be found in physical copies for consoles such as the PlayStation 4 and Nintendo Switch. Players can purchase it alone or as part of the Pawsome Pack, which includes the original Cat Quest for a current price of $35 on Amazon. Interestingly, the game has received average scores of 76/100 on Metacritic and 77/100 on OpenCritic, putting it on par with its predecessor.

    System Requirements

    Cat Quest II should be compatible with nearly any modern PC due to its recommended specs, which include a Core i7-7500U CPU, HD Graphics 620 iGPU, 8 GB of RAM, and just 600 MB of storage. Even if you have a Core i3-2100 and 4 GB of RAM, you should still be able to enjoy this week’s free offering. Known also as Cat Quest II: The Lupus Empire, this title can be added to your Epic Games library for free until April 10 at 15:59 UTC. More details on redemption can be found on the Epic Games Store listing.

    Important Note

    Disclaimer: Notebookcheck does not take responsibility for any price alterations made by retailers. The mentioned price or deal was accurate at the time of writing and may have time limits or limited availability.

    Source:
    Link

    Tags: , ,
  • Amazfit T-Rex 3 Smartwatch Update: Zepp OS 4.5 Now Available

    Amazfit T-Rex 3 Smartwatch Update: Zepp OS 4.5 Now Available

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Amazfit T-Rex 3 smartwatch has received a new update, version 3.6.5.9, enhancing its software to Zepp OS 4.5.
    2. A new Real-time Performance metric for Trail Running activities allows users to monitor their physical status during workouts.
    3. Improvements for HYROX races include tracking time spent in the Roxzone and enhanced map features with detailed terrain views.
    4. GPS pacing has become more stable, benefiting runners in urban and wooded environments.
    5. The update can be downloaded via the Zepp app by accessing Profile > Amazfit T-Rex 3 > System Update.

    A new update for the Amazfit T-Rex 3 smartwatch has been released. The update, labeled version 3.6.5.9, is a 19.57MB file and is being rolled out to users around the globe in stages. The last update, version 3.5.7.1, came out in February and included changes related to HYROX for the smartwatch.

    New Features and Improvements

    The recent version 3.6.5.9 updates the T-Rex 3 to Zepp OS 4.5 from the earlier Zepp OS 4.0. According to the release notes, this update introduces a new Real-time Performance metric specifically for Trail Running activities. This feature lets users monitor their “physical status” in real-time, with additional analysis accessible in the workout record. To enable this feature, users can navigate to Trail Running > Assistant > More > Real-time Performance.

    Enhancements for Users

    In this update, the Amazfit T-Rex 3 smartwatch, which is priced at approximately $234.99 on Amazon, also sees improvements for the HYROX race. Users can now keep track of the time they spend in the Roxzone, which is the area between the running track and other workout stations. Additionally, the map feature has been enhanced, as it now supports map downloads via Bluetooth and offers a more detailed view of the terrain, including glaciers, shrubs, and wetlands.

    Better Performance

    The GPS pacing is reportedly more stable, which is great news for city runners who are often surrounded by tall buildings or those who prefer running in wooded areas. Furthermore, the Readiness algorithm has been fine-tuned, but user feedback on this adjustment is still pending. As is customary, the version 3.6.5.9 update can be downloaded through the Zepp app. Users should navigate to Profile > Amazfit T-Rex 3 > System Update to access it.

    Source:
    Link

    Tags: , ,
  • New Day One Titles on Xbox Game Pass: April 2025 Lineup

    New Day One Titles on Xbox Game Pass: April 2025 Lineup

    Key Takeaways

    1. Nine New Games for Xbox Game Pass: Microsoft is launching nine new games for Xbox Game Pass in early April, including several day one releases.

    2. Day One Release of South of Midnight: South of Midnight, an action RPG with a unique animation style, will be available on April 8, 2025.

    3. Diablo III: Reaper of Souls Included: The Ultimate Evil Edition of Diablo III, featuring the base game and the Reaper of Souls expansion, will also launch on April 8, 2025.

    4. Commandos: Origins Launches on April 9: The next entry in the Commandos series, focusing on stealth-based tactics, will be available on April 9, 2025.

    5. Hunt: Showdown 1896 Arrives on April 15: The PvPvE extraction shooter, Hunt: Showdown 1896, will be added to Game Pass on April 15, 2025.

    Microsoft has revealed a lineup of nine games for Xbox Game Pass that will launch in the first week of April. Leading the pack is the day one release of South of Midnight. Other notable additions include Commandos: Origins, Blue Prince, and Hunt Showdown 1896.

    South of Midnight (Xbox Game Pass, PC Game Pass) – April 8

    Scheduled for release on April 8, South of Midnight is crafted by Compulsion Games, known for titles like Contrast and We Happy Few. In this game, you step into the shoes of Hazel, a young woman thrust into a bizarre realm where she must save her mother. It features a unique stop-motion animation style combined with a gritty Southern Gothic aesthetic, giving it a striking visual appeal. This action RPG will be available on its launch date – April 8, 2025.

    Diablo III: Reaper of Souls – Ultimate Evil Edition (Game Pass Ultimate, PC Game Pass, Game Pass Standard) – April 8

    The much-debated sequel to the iconic Diablo II, Diablo III, initially faced a rough start when it launched. Luckily, after several updates and an excellent seasonal challenge system, Blizzard transformed the game into an enjoyable ARPG. The Ultimate Evil Edition includes the original game along with the expansion pack, Reaper of Souls. This title will also be added on April 8, 2025.

    Commandos: Origins (Game Pass Ultimate, PC Game Pass) – April 9

    Another exciting day one release is Commandos: Origins, the eagerly awaited next chapter in the Commandos series. The original Commandos titles are known for their stealth-based real-time tactics and their punishing difficulty. Players will experience gameplay from an isometric view, controlling a squad of elite commandos as they tackle various missions. The game is set to launch on April 9, 2025.

    Blue Prince (Game Pass Ultimate, PC Game Pass) – April 10

    Blue Prince is an immersive puzzle adventure that challenges players to navigate through a mysterious manor that continuously alters its architecture during your adventure. You’ll explore a shifting collection of 45 rooms to uncover the manor’s chilling secrets. This title is another day one release, arriving on April 10, 2025.

    Hunt: Showdown 1896 (Game Pass Ultimate, PC Game Pass) – April 15

    Created by Crytek, known for the Crysis series, Hunt: Showdown is an open-world extraction shooter featuring online PvP and cooperative gameplay. This PvPvE extraction shooter pits you against a team of hunters vying for bounties, which involve hunting down and eliminating monsters. The twist is that you’ll also have to deal with other players who are after the same targets. You can choose to avoid them or eliminate them to steal their bounties. This game will be added on April 15, 2025.

    Source:
    Link

    Tags: , ,