Category: All News

March 30, 2025
Cooler Master Launches Indiegogo for Throne X Vibrating Stool
Key Takeaways
1. Product Overview: The Throne X is an immersive stool that vibrates in response to music, designed for musicians and those wanting to feel music, including individuals with hearing impairments and gamers.
2. Pricing and Discount: The early bird price is $499, offering a 27% discount from the regular price of $600.
3. Modes of Operation: It features three modes – real-time mode for personal performance, audio mode for band sounds, and metronome mode for timing assistance.
4. Compatibility and Specifications: The stool is compatible with standard PA systems, has multiple audio inputs/outputs, adjustable height, supports users up to 300 lbs, and has a battery life of up to ten hours.
5. Portability: Weighing 34.8 lbs, the Throne X is designed for easy transportation and usability in various settings.
Cooler Master has kicked off an Indiegogo campaign for its exciting Throne X immersive stool, which vibrates in response to music. This product is mainly designed for musicians, but it’s also great for anyone who wants to feel the rhythm of the music while sitting, including individuals with hearing impairments or gamers enjoying rhythm games like Persona 5 (available on Amazon). The early bird cost is set at $499, which is a 27% discount from the regular price of $600.
Modes of Operation
The Throne X comes with three different modes that can be chosen using a wired controller. In real-time mode, the stool vibrates based on the user’s own performance. Meanwhile, in audio mode, it vibrates to the sounds made by other band members. The metronome mode assists performers in keeping their timing steady.
For those who struggle with maintaining a consistent tempo, there are additional tools available, like clip-on metronomes (check this one on Amazon) or tuner metronomes (also found on Amazon).
Compatibility and Specifications
The Throne X works well with standard PA systems and includes jacks for 3.5 mm aux, 6.3 mm aux, and 6.3 mm dynamic microphone inputs, as well as a 3.5 mm headphone output. It vibrates within a frequency range of 20 Hz to 200 Hz.
This stool weighs 34.8 lbs. (15.8 kg) and can accommodate users with a weight of up to 300 lbs. (136 kg). The height is adjustable, ranging from 22.28 to 26.77 in. (56.6 to 68 cm). Its internal 6,400 mAh battery allows for up to ten hours of use and can be fully recharged in five hours.
Cooler Master Introduces the Throne X: A Revolutionary Tool for Musicians Looking for Perfect Timing
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Tags: Cooler Master, immersive stool, Throne X
March 30, 2025
PS5 Pro and Games Face VRR Stutters Unlike Xbox Versions
Key Takeaways
1. Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) is intended to reduce screen tearing but some PS5 players are experiencing stuttering issues.
2. Locked frame rates (30 or 60 fps) make framerate changes more noticeable, and VRR aims to provide smooth gameplay even at 120Hz.
3. Digital Foundry found that stuttering occurs in some PS5 games after about 20 minutes of play, with spikes reaching 120Hz.
4. The stuttering issue is not linked to specific TVs and affects certain PS5 games like Diablo 4 and Hogwarts Legacy, while others like Immortals of Aveum and Gran Turismo 7 are unaffected.
5. The Xbox Series X shows no VRR problems in similar tests, leading to questions about whether the issue affects only certain PS5 systems or if players are not noticing the changes.
One of the perks of the latest gaming consoles is their use of Variable Refresh Rate (VRR). The Xbox Series X, PS5, and PS5 Pro all utilize this feature to reduce screen tearing. Lately, some PlayStation players have started to notice stuttering that VRR is supposed to fix. To investigate the issue, Digital Foundry conducted a study testing various PS5 games and displays.
Locked Frame Rates
When games are locked at 30 or 60 fps, any changes in the framerate can be quite noticeable to players. VRR helps maintain smooth gameplay across a range of framerates, even at settings of 120Hz. Sadly, Digital Foundry found that some PS5 games experienced choppiness after around 20 minutes of play. Their analysis, using a refresh rate monitor, detected spikes reaching up to 120Hz. Once the stuttering started, it occurred roughly every eight seconds.
Gamer Confusion
Players have reported this issue while playing different games on a variety of TVs, leading to more confusion. Digital Foundry concluded that the likely cause is the PlayStation consoles and how they implement VRR. The stuttering doesn’t seem to be tied to specific displays. However, not every PS5 game is impacted. While Diablo 4 and Hogwarts Legacy showed stutters, Immortals of Aveum and Gran Turismo 7 did not.
Xbox Comparison
In tests with the same multi-platform games and setups, the Xbox Series X appears unaffected by the VRR problems. However, some PlayStation users argue that there isn’t a problem at all. This raises the question of whether VRR issues only affect certain PS5 or PS5 Pro systems, or if players are simply unable to notice the sudden changes in refresh rates.
Currently, the only way to fix the stuttering is to turn off VRR or restart the game. Nonetheless, this thorough analysis should help Sony with their troubleshooting efforts.
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Tags: PS5, VRR Issues, Xbox Series X
March 30, 2025
GoveeLife Smart Tower Fan 2 Max with Voice Control Now in UK
Key Takeaways
1. The GoveeLife 42″ Smart Tower Fan 2 Max features oscillation up to 150° and a cooling range of 40 ft (12 m) with wind speeds up to 26 ft (8 m/s).
2. Users can choose from five wind modes and twelve speed levels for personalized cooling.
3. The fan connects with the GoveeLife thermo-hygrometer for automatic wind speed adjustments based on room temperature and can be controlled via the Govee Home app or voice commands.
4. It includes a built-in display for settings, a removable rear grill for easy cleaning, and operates quietly at 27dB.
5. The fan is available in the UK for £119.99, with a potential £30 discount, and in the US for $135.99.
The GoveeLife 42″ Smart Tower Fan 2 Max has launched in the UK. This modern appliance has already made its way to markets like the US. It has the ability to oscillate up to 150° and boasts a cooling range of 40 ft (12 m) alongside a wind speed of 26 ft (8 m) per second. Users can select from five different wind modes and twelve levels of wind speed, giving you a lot of options for personalization.
Smart Features and Control
The Smart Tower Fan 2 Max can connect with the GoveeLife thermo-hygrometer, allowing it to modify the wind speed automatically depending on the room temperature. You can manage the fan remotely through the Govee Home app, or you can simply use voice commands with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Siri to change the speed and mode. However, it’s important to keep in mind that it only supports 2.4GHz Wi-Fi, not 5GHz Wi-Fi. Physical controls are located at the top of the fan, which includes a slide bar for adjusting the wind speed.
Visual Display and Design
Your selected settings are displayed on a built-in screen, which is located above an RGB light. Govee claims that the removable rear grill makes it simpler to clean the device. The fan has a wattage of 48W and its dimensions are 12.99 x 12.99 x 41.97 inches (~329.95 x 329.95 x 1,066.04 mm), weighing in at 11.0 lbs (~5.0 kg). Additionally, it runs on a brushless DC motor that produces noise as low as 27dB, enabling you to sleep soundly with the fan operating.
You can purchase the GoveeLife 42″ Smart Tower Fan 2 Max in the UK directly from the company’s website or on Amazon, where some customers can find a £30 discount voucher, bringing the price down to £119.99. Meanwhile, this smart device is available at Amazon US for $135.99.
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Tags: Adjustable Wind Speed, GoveeLife 42″ Smart Tower Fan 2 Max, smart home device
March 30, 2025
New Xiaomi Mijia Smart Curtain with Voice Control Now Available
Key Takeaways
1. Compact Design: The Mijia Hidden Smart Curtain is smaller and less visible than previous models, fitting well in various doorways.
2. Multiple Control Options: Users can operate the curtain through voice commands, the Mijia app, scheduling, remote control, or by manually tugging the curtain.
3. Technical Features: It includes a 1.2 Nm torque motor with a speed of 54 r/min, moving curtains at 8 cm per second, and can support fabric weights up to 50 kg.
4. Noise Level: The curtain operates at a noise level of up to 30 dB, making it relatively quiet during operation.
5. Pricing and Market Availability: Priced at CNY 599 (around $82) in China, its future availability in other regions is uncertain, facing potential competition from similar products.
Xiaomi has introduced the Mijia Hidden Smart Curtain in China. This innovative smart home product is made to be less visible, featuring a more compact design than previous models such as the Mijia Smart Curtain 2. Its smaller size also allows it to fit in various doorways.
Multiple Control Options
Customers can manage the Mijia Hidden Smart Curtain in several ways: using voice commands, the Mijia app, setting a schedule, the included remote control, or simply by tugging the curtain lightly. Thanks to HyperOS, users can connect the curtain motor with other compatible smart home gadgets. There are three different speed settings available, letting you manually decide how fast you want the curtains to open or close. You can also operate each curtain separately or together and adjust how much they open or close.
Technical Specifications
This smart curtain opener by Xiaomi is equipped with a 1.2 Nm torque motor that runs at a speed of 54 r/min, allowing the curtains to move 8 cm (approximately 3.1 inches) per second. It produces noise levels of up to 30 dB and comes with hooks that can hold fabric weighing up to 50 kg (around 110 lbs). Some curtain types, particularly those with eyelets, might require adjustments, and the device is not compatible with L or U-shaped tracks. Xiaomi claims this device is compact enough to fit in your hand, with dimensions of 54 x 77 x 103 mm (about 2.1 x 3.0 x 4.1 inches).
Pricing and Availability
The Xiaomi Mijia Hidden Smart Curtain is currently priced at CNY 599 (around $82) in China. It’s uncertain whether this smart home gadget will be available in other regions. If it does expand to markets like North America or Europe, it could face competition from items like the SwitchBot Curtain 3 (Rod version, currently $59.99 at Amazon).
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Tags: curtain motor, smart home device, Xiaomi Mijia Hidden Smart Curtain
March 29, 2025
Dasung Paperlike 13K e-ink Monitor: 3.2K Resolution & Smooth Refresh
Key Takeaways
1. Dasung launched the Paperlike 13K, a 13.3-inch e-ink monitor with a resolution of 3200 x 2400 pixels.
2. The monitor has a refresh rate of 37Hz, offering better performance than typical e-ink displays.
3. It operates without a backlight, providing easy readability in bright sunlight.
4. The dimensions are approximately 12 x 10 x 0.2 inches, with connectivity options including mini HDMI and USB Type-C.
5. The Paperlike 13K is priced around $620 and is currently available for purchase in Asia.
Dasung is a popular name in the field of e-ink displays, offering a range of portable and stationary monitors. Recently, they launched the Dasung Paperlike 13K. The “13K” doesn’t denote the resolution; rather, it signifies the screen size, which is 13.3 inches measured diagonally. This display has a refresh rate of 37Hz and a resolution of 3200 x 2400 pixels, promising excellent image clarity.
Refresh Rate and Technology
The refresh rate of the Paperlike 13K is significant, especially when compared to other e-ink monitors known for their slower performance compared to standard LCD or OLED screens. This technology operates without a backlight, making text easy to read even in bright sunlight. This is why e-ink displays are commonly found in many e-readers, including the well-loved Kindle by Amazon.
Dimensions and Connectivity
In terms of size, the Paperlike 13K measures about 12 x 10 x 0.2 inches and can connect to a PC, laptop, or other devices using mini HDMI or USB Type-C connections. While it comes with built-in speakers, the portable monitor also includes the standard 3.5mm headphone jack. Currently, this e-ink display is available for purchase in Asia at around $620, but details about a potential global availability remain unclear.
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Tags: Dasung Paperlike 13K, E Ink Display, portable monitor
March 29, 2025
Pimax Crystal: Order the High-Res VR Headset with Foveated Rendering
Key Takeaways
1. The Pimax Crystal Super is available for preorder in two versions: one with a 120-degree field of view and another with a 135-degree field of view, both offering a resolution of 3840 x 3840 pixels per eye.
2. The 135-degree model is expected to ship on April 7th, while the 120-degree model is set for delivery in the second quarter of 2025.
3. The price for the headset is $1,791, which can be paid with an initial payment of $999 plus a monthly subscription of $32.99 for two years, or as a single payment with no subscription afterward.
4. Key specifications include a variable refresh rate of 72 and 90Hz, automatic adjustment for interpupillary distance (58 to 72 mm), and support for foveated rendering.
5. The headset features QLED displays with mini-LED backlighting, comes with two controllers, requires an external device for operation, and does not support wireless image connections or local rendering.
The Pimax Crystal Super is now ready for preorder in two distinct versions. One model features a 120-degree field of view, while the other offers a 135-degree horizontal field of view. Both models come with a resolution of 3840 x 3840 pixels for each eye. The version with the larger field of view is expected to start shipping on April 7th, whereas the 120-degree model is planned for delivery in the second quarter of 2025.
Pricing Details
The total cost for this latest VR headset is $1,791. This includes an initial payment of $999 along with a Pimax Prime subscription that costs $32.99 each month for two years. Alternatively, customers can pay off the remaining balance in a single payment. Once that’s done, the Crystal Super can be used without the need for any subscription.
Specifications Overview
When it comes to specifications, the headset features a variable refresh rate of 72 and 90Hz, ensuring smooth visuals consistently. It automatically adjusts to interpupillary distances ranging from 58 to 72 millimeters. Additionally, it supports foveated rendering, enabling the headset to track the user’s eyes accurately, which minimizes the workload by rendering only the parts of the image that the eyes are focused on in full resolution.
Pimax has chosen QLED displays with mini-LED backlighting and local dimming, allowing for precise brightness control and improved contrast. The package includes two controllers for navigation within 3D environments. However, it’s worth noting that the Crystal Super is a VR headset that requires a connection to an external device and does not permit local rendering. Wireless image connections are also not supported. For VR enthusiasts looking for a standalone headset with local rendering capabilities, the Pico 4 Ultra may be a better option to consider.
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Tags: Pimax Crystal Super, QLED displays, VR headset
March 29, 2025
Philips Hue Update Boosts Battery Life for Smart Home Devices
Key Takeaways
1. Philips Hue released firmware update 1.2.32.976110 for Secure cameras in 2025, following a previous update in November 2024.
2. The setup process in the Philips Hue app is now easier, with more accurate Wi-Fi router names and user-friendly PIR sensor cooldown settings.
3. Short video clips are no longer uploaded, and the overall upload success rate has improved.
4. Battery performance for the Secure Battery camera is enhanced, reducing unnecessary wake-ups and improving motion snooze settings.
5. The automatic transition between day and night modes is now more accurate, and the update will be automatically pushed to compatible devices.
Philips Hue has rolled out a new update for its Secure cameras. The firmware version 1.2.32.976110 marks the first update for these smart home devices in 2025. The previous update came in November 2024, which introduced several enhancements, including better motion detection, improved Bluetooth connectivity, and updates for clip uploads.
Improved Setup Process
The latest update for the Secure cameras, version 1.2.32.976110, has made the setup process in the Philips Hue app easier. As mentioned in the release notes, the Wi-Fi router names shown in the app are now more accurate. The cooldown settings for the Passive Infrared (PIR) sensor are reported to be more user-friendly. Additionally, short video clips are no longer uploaded, and the overall upload success rate has seen improvements.
Battery Performance Enhancements
Other changes affect battery-operated devices, such as the Secure Battery camera, which is currently priced at $109.99 on Amazon. This update enhances battery life by minimizing “unnecessary” wake-ups and fine-tuning motion snooze settings. Users should experience fewer issues with devices being unreachable or not entering sleep mode. Furthermore, the automatic transition between day and night modes is now more accurate.
For those interested, the full change log can be found below. The Philips Hue Secure cameras update, version 1.2.32.976110, will be automatically pushed to compatible devices. Recently, the company also released an update for the Philips Hue app, hinting at a new feature for AI-generated lighting effects.
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Tags: firmware update, Philips Hue, Secure cameras
March 29, 2025
Lilygo T-Deck Pro: IoT Device with LoRa, Touchscreen, Keyboard
Key Takeaways
1. The T-Deck Pro targets IoT creators and hobbyists, not everyday consumers.
2. It features an open-source platform with a development board, keyboard, and touchscreen, along with options for a 4G modem and voice functionality.
3. The device has a 3.1-inch e-ink display with a resolution of 320 x 240 pixels for better readability in sunlight.
4. It runs on an ESP32 chip, supports TF cards, and can be programmed using Arduino IDE or ESP-IDF.
5. Additional features include GNSS capabilities, a light sensor, a gyroscope, LoRa technology, and a 1400mAh battery, with a starting price of about $82.
The T-Deck Pro is a fresh mobile device that shares some similarities with the LilyGo T-Deck Plus, but they are not exactly the same. The manufacturer is focusing on IoT creators and hobbyists rather than everyday consumers for this range of products.
Features and Specifications
To dive deeper, the T-Deck Pro is an open-source platform that combines a development board with a keyboard and a touchscreen. The features are quite broad, and one of the options includes a 4G modem, allowing for easy connectivity to cellular networks. The other version has a voice function available.
Both models are equipped with a 3.1-inch e-ink display boasting a resolution of 320 x 240 pixels, which should provide better readability even in bright sunlight and can be navigated through touch. The system runs on an ESP32 chip featuring two LX7 processing cores, 8MB of PSRAM, and double the amount of flash storage. It supports TF cards and can be programmed using Arduino IDE or ESP-IDF, among others.
Additional Features
Aside from GNSS capabilities, the LilyGo IoT device includes a light sensor and a gyroscope, and users can input commands using the keyboard. It also supports LoRa technology, enabling the transmission of small data packets over long distances. Finally, the T-Deck Pro comes with a 1400mAh battery and is currently marked as out of stock, with prices starting at about $82. On the other hand, the T-Deck Plus is still readily accessible.
LilyGo’s offerings are quite interesting for those who enjoy tinkering and creating with technology!
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Tags: IoT device, LilyGo, T-Deck Pro
March 29, 2025
Xiaomi Poco F7 Ultra Mod Turns It Into a Cool Gaming Handheld
Key Takeaways
1. Recent Android gaming handhelds are shifting to more powerful chipsets, like the Snapdragon 865 and Snapdragon 8 Gen 2.
2. Many handhelds still use older chipsets, while specialized gaming chipsets like Snapdragon G3x Gen 2 may not match smartphone chip performance.
3. The demand for portable smartphone controller solutions is growing, driven by companies like 8BitDo and Backbone.
4. A modder successfully transformed a Redmi K80 Pro into a gaming handheld, showcasing the Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset’s capabilities.
5. The modded device features a 3D-printed case, modern controller buttons, and an integrated battery, though no guides for replication are available yet.
The recent surge in Android gaming handhelds is quite remarkable. In the past, many makers have chosen to use less powerful chipsets from Allwinner and Unisoc. However, companies like Ayaneo, Ayn, and Retroid have recently shifted their focus to more powerful chipsets. For instance, the Pocket 5 features a Snapdragon 865, while the Odin2 is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, currently priced at $449 on Amazon.
Chipset Choices and Optimization
Despite the move to stronger chipsets, many still lag behind by at least a generation. On the other hand, specialized gaming chipsets such as the Snapdragon G3x Gen 2 do not perform as efficiently as those designed for smartphones and tablets. At the same time, the demand for portable smartphone controller solutions is increasing, thanks to brands like 8BitDo and Backbone.
Merging Worlds of Gaming
In an interesting twist, a modder has combined these two realms by transforming a Redmi K80 Pro into a dedicated gaming handheld. Based on the Poco F7 Ultra that was launched earlier this week, both the Redmi K80 Pro and its Poco counterpart offer some of the most affordable options to access Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset. Xiaomi claims that the Poco F7 Ultra even surpasses the Xiaomi 15 Ultra in performance benchmarks. The modder’s choice to incorporate small fans should enable the Snapdragon 8 Elite to perform at a higher level than what a standard Redmi K80 Pro or Poco F7 Ultra could achieve.
Project Details and Considerations
The accompanying video illustrates how the project utilizes a 3D-printed case and includes all the necessary buttons found on modern controllers, such as dual joysticks and shoulder buttons. Additionally, an 18650 battery has been integrated to enhance gaming longevity. It’s important to note that we advise viewing this project as a proof of concept for the time being; regrettably, the modder hasn’t provided any 3D print files or a guide for those interested in replicating the project.
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Tags: Android Gaming Handhelds, Redmi K80 Pro, Snapdragon 8 Elite
March 29, 2025
GMKtec Strix Halo EVO-X2 Mini PC Launch Coming Soon
Key Takeaways
1. GMKtec launched the EVO-X2 mini PC at the 2025 AI PC Innovation Summit on March 18, 2025, with pre-orders starting in China on April 7, 2025.
2. The pre-order price for the high-spec model (128 GB RAM, 2 TB SSD) is CNY 14,999 (about $2,066), with hints of more budget-friendly versions possibly available.
3. The EVO-X2 features the Radeon 8060S GPU, the most powerful integrated GPU available, capable of solid 1440p gaming performance.
4. It includes a dual-turbo fan system and VC heat sink to support performance output up to 140 W.
5. The mini PC is equipped with WiFi 7 and Bluetooth for connectivity, with global pricing and availability expected to be announced soon after the China launch.
GMKtec has officially unveiled the EVO-X2 during the 2025 AI PC Innovation Summit, which occurred on March 18. At that time, the company did not announce the availability date for this Strix Halo mini PC. However, a recent update has confirmed that pre-orders will start in China on April 7, 2025.
Pre-Order Details and Pricing
Along with this announcement, GMKtec disclosed the pre-order cost for the Ryzen AI Max+ 395 mini PC. The model equipped with 128 GB of LPDDR5X RAM and a 2 TB SSD is priced at CNY 14,999, approximately $2,066. This high price was anticipated since the EVO-X1, which runs on the Ryzen AI 9 HX 370, was launched at a starting price of $1,299.99 (with 32 GB now at $1,029.99 on Amazon). There are hints that more budget-friendly options may be available, possibly a version with 32 GB of RAM.
Performance and Features
In terms of hardware, the EVO-X2 comes with the most powerful integrated GPU currently available, the Radeon 8060S. This GPU features 40 Compute Units (CUs), whereas the Radeon 890M, known as Strix Point’s top integrated GPU, has only 16 CUs. According to a recent test by ETA Prime, this integrated GPU can deliver solid performance for 1440p gaming in a mini PC setup.
The EVO-X2 is also designed with a dual-turbo fan system that works alongside a VC heat sink, allowing for a performance output of up to 140 W. It includes a variety of connectivity options. For wireless capabilities, the GMKtec EVO-X2 is equipped with WiFi 7 and Bluetooth. While the global pricing and availability have yet to be unveiled, this Strix Halo mini PC is anticipated to enter international markets shortly after its launch in China.
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Tags: EVO-X2, GMKtec, Ryzen AI Max+ 395