Category: All News

  • CRKD ULT Pro Gaming Controller Launches with 1000Hz Polling Rate

    CRKD ULT Pro Gaming Controller Launches with 1000Hz Polling Rate

    Key Takeaways

    1. The ULT Pro controller by CRKD is available for preorder at around $70 / €74 and will ship in June.
    2. It features TMR joysticks to prevent stick drift and includes two thumbsticks, a D-pad, standard action buttons, and six extra programmable buttons.
    3. The controller has Hall effect triggers with adjustable travel and includes a rechargeable battery that can be swapped for AA batteries.
    4. It offers customizable options with interchangeable D-pad and joystick caps and comes with a charging station.
    5. The ULT Pro connects via Bluetooth or 2.4 GHz wireless, is compatible with smartphones and Switch 1 and 2, and can achieve a maximum polling rate of 1,000 Hz when connected to a PC with a cable.

    Gaming hardware maker CRKD has unveiled the ULT Pro controller, which comes in several color options. It is available for preorder at about $70 / €74, but you’ll have to wait until June for it to ship, so some patience will be needed. If you’re eager to play, there are many well-equipped controllers you can find right now.

    Advanced Features for Gamers

    CRKD is marketing the ULT Pro as a premium option and is aiming to wow gamers with its array of sophisticated features. For example, the controller uses TMR joysticks designed to stop stick drift, even after long gaming sessions. In addition to the two thumbsticks, it includes a D-pad and the standard action buttons, plus six extra programmable buttons. These can be assigned to perform different actions. There are also profile-switching buttons that can be configured using a companion app.

    Customizable and Versatile Design

    The ULT Pro boasts Hall effect triggers, with adjustable travel via a switch. While it comes with a rechargeable battery, users can also swap it for regular AA batteries if they prefer. The D-pad and joystick caps are interchangeable, adding to its customizability. Inside the box, there’s a charging station included. The controller can connect via Bluetooth or 2.4 GHz wireless, making it compatible with smartphones as well as the Switch 1 and 2. When connected to a PC with a cable, the ULT Pro is capable of a maximum polling rate of 1,000 Hz.

    Source:
    Link

     

    Tags: , ,
  • Project Helix Not Final Xbox Console; Handheld Expected Soon

    Project Helix Not Final Xbox Console; Handheld Expected Soon

    Key Takeaways

    1. Some analysts believe Project Helix might be Microsoft’s last first-party gaming console, but others remain optimistic about future Xbox consoles.
    2. Insider Jez Corden asserts that Microsoft will continue to produce Xbox consoles despite skepticism surrounding Project Helix.
    3. There are indications that Microsoft is developing a mobile gaming solution, potentially a handheld device, to support its Play Anywhere initiative.
    4. Mixed opinions exist regarding Microsoft’s hardware future, with some experts predicting that Project Helix’s success is crucial for the company’s continued console production.
    5. Microsoft Gaming CEO Asha Sharma emphasizes the importance of consoles to the brand, but profitability concerns may influence future hardware decisions.

    Some analysts are of the opinion that Project Helix might just be the final first-party gaming console that Microsoft puts out. Yet, even with skepticism surrounding its potential success, one insider believes more Xbox consoles are on the horizon. This perspective is in line with the new commitment to hardware from Microsoft Gaming CEO Asha Sharma.

    On a recent episode of the Xbox Two podcast, Jez Corden from Windows Central made a confident remark. He stated, “I know it’s not the last console. I don’t think it’s going to be an issue. Like, they’re going to keep making them.”

    Potential Mobile Solutions

    There’s a possibility that a mobile solution is already in the works. Although Corden didn’t mention it during the podcast, he has previously indicated that an Xbox handheld is being developed. Unlike the ROG Xbox Ally, Microsoft is likely to create a distinct device without the involvement of Asus. Still, similar to Project Helix, it might operate on a variant of Windows.

    Earlier speculations hinted at a handheld device being released around the same time as Project Helix. It would support Microsoft’s Play Anywhere initiative, acting as its mobile version. However, there’s been even less information leaked about this portable device compared to the new Xbox console that’s being developed alongside AMD. In early February, AMD’s CEO, Lisa Su, hinted at a 2027 release for this hybrid device.

    Mixed Opinions on Microsoft’s Hardware Future

    Not everyone shares a bright outlook on Microsoft’s hardware future. Following Sharma’s appointment, Japanese gaming consultant Dr. Serkan Toto expressed a concerning prediction. Regarding Helix, Toto remarked, “This might be Microsoft’s last attempt to make their hardware business work.” He also pointed out, “There is nobody in this industry who believes there will be another Xbox if this next machine fails.”

    Toto believes that the Valve Steam Machine could be a more significant threat than the PS6. Both will depend largely on PC games, but this demographic hasn’t always favored gaming in the living room. The shortage of memory presents a challenge for both systems, with former Microsoft executive Sarah Bond previously describing its rival as a premium choice.

    Reaffirming Console Commitment

    Sharma continues to assert that consoles are an essential part of her brand’s focus. However, after the difficulties faced by the Series X|S models, ultimately, profits may play a decisive role in determining if more releases will come after the Helix.

    Source:
    Link

     

    Tags: , ,
  • AMD Launches Ryzen 9 9950X3D2 with 192MB L3 Cache

    AMD Launches Ryzen 9 9950X3D2 with 192MB L3 Cache

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Ryzen 9 9950X3D2 will be available for purchase starting April 22, 2026.
    2. AMD positions the processor as suitable for AI productivity rather than primarily for gaming.
    3. The performance improvement over the previous Ryzen 9 9950X3D is about 13% in specific tasks.
    4. The processor features 16 cores, 32 threads, a maximum boost clock of 5.6 GHz, and 192 MB of L3 cache.
    5. The power consumption is expected to be high, with a thermal design power (TDP) of 200 Watts.

    AMD’s much-anticipated Ryzen 9 9950X3D2 finally has a confirmed release date. Originally expected to launch at CES 2026, this dual-CCD Zen 5 processor has only been a topic of speculation until now. Jack Huynh, AMD’s Senior Vice President of client computing and graphics, has made it clear that the chip is real and will be available for purchase starting April 22.

    Pricing and Positioning

    Sadly, a price tag has not been disclosed, but it surely won’t be affordable. Furthermore, AMD is marketing the Ryzen 9 9950X3D2 as a chip for AI productivity rather than a powerhouse for gaming. According to AMD’s own statistics, the performance improvement over the Ryzen 9 9950X3D is only about 13% in certain tasks. While games are expected to take advantage of the added L3 cache, the company has been silent regarding its gaming capabilities.

    Specifications and Performance

    In terms of specifications, the Ryzen 9 9950X3D2 boasts 16 cores and 32 threads, with a maximum boost clock reaching 5.6 GHz, 192 MB of L3 cache, and a thermal design power (TDP) of 200 Watts. Under full load, it’s likely to draw even more power, and it will be intriguing to see how well it performs when overclocked. AMD envisions this CPU as a link between their high-end Ryzen and Threadripper offerings.

    Source:
    Link

     

    Tags: , ,
  • Intel Discontinues Core Ultra 9 290K Plus Just Before Launch

    Intel Discontinues Core Ultra 9 290K Plus Just Before Launch

    Key Takeaways

    1. Intel has officially canceled the release of the Core Ultra 9 290K Plus, focusing instead on the Core Ultra 200S Plus series.
    2. The Core Ultra 7 270K Plus and Core Ultra 5 250K Plus processors already meet Intel’s goals for performance and value, eliminating the need for a new flagship model.
    3. The cancellation follows updates to Intel’s roadmap, indicating that the decision was made after considerable development progress, including circulated engineering samples.
    4. Concerns about overlapping product lines contributed to the cancellation, as the 290K Plus would be too similar to existing models like the Core Ultra 9 285K and Core Ultra 7 270K Plus.
    5. The Core Ultra 9 285K remains Intel’s top desktop chip, with no new flagship expected until the next-generation Nova Lake-S platform is introduced.

    Intel has made it clear that the Core Ultra 9 290K Plus will not be released, putting an end to the rumors and leaks that have circulated for months about this new flagship Arrow Lake Refresh SKU. The company informed PC Games Hardware that it is focusing on models that appeal to a broader audience within the Core Ultra 200S Plus series.

    Performance and Value Goals

    Florian Maislinger, the Tech Communication Manager at Intel Germany, stated that the recently launched Core Ultra 7 270K Plus and Core Ultra 5 250K Plus processors already fulfill the company’s objectives for performance and value. Thus, Intel believes a new flagship SKU is not needed at this time.

    Intel is thrilled to provide great value with their Intel Core Ultra 200S Plus series processors. The Intel Core Ultra 7 270K Plus and Intel Core Ultra 5 250K Plus are designed to offer impressive gaming performance and remarkable value when compared to other competitors. Our goal was to enhance performance for the desktop SKUs that are widely accessible. Therefore, the company has decided not to release a U9 290K Plus SKU. — Florian Maislinger, Tech Communication Manager, Intel Germany.

    The Road Ahead for Intel

    This cancellation comes after earlier updates to their roadmap shared with partners, where the 290K Plus was subtly removed from the plans. However, this statement serves as the first public acknowledgment from Intel regarding the decision.

    The Core Ultra 9 290K Plus had been seen in leaks and even benchmark listings, implying that the development was fairly advanced. Reports suggest that engineering samples were being circulated both internally and externally, which indicates that the decision to cancel was made later in the process.

    Overlapping Product Lines

    The cancellation might also relate to product overlap concerns. The 290K Plus was believed to have a 24-core configuration, which would be quite similar to the existing Core Ultra 9 285K and Core Ultra 7 270K Plus. This proximity left Intel with little motivation to add another model to the mix. According to PC Games Hardware, the 270K Plus can already compete with or even outperform the 285K in certain tests, thanks to various software and hardware optimizations, which lessens the necessity for a new flagship model.

    For the time being, the Core Ultra 9 285K continues to be Intel’s leading desktop chip, while the Core Ultra 7 270K Plus occupies the next tier down in the updated Arrow Lake family. It is anticipated that Intel will not unveil a new flagship desktop processor for LGA 1851 until the next-generation Nova Lake-S platform is introduced.

    PC Games Hardware

    Source:
    Link

     

    Tags: , ,
  • Ford Transit City: New 1-Ton EV Van with Chassis Cab Option

    Ford Transit City: New 1-Ton EV Van with Chassis Cab Option

    Key Takeaways

    1. Ford Pro is launching the Transit City, an electric van designed for urban delivery and tradespeople, available in two panel van versions and a single-cab chassis.
    2. The top model can carry up to 1,275 kg, with a load capacity of eight cubic meters and a loading length of over three meters.
    3. The van features a 56 kWh battery with a range of 254 km, suitable for typical daily commercial use, with an 11 kW onboard charger for overnight recharging.
    4. Charging times are efficient, allowing the battery to go from 10 to 80 percent in just 33 minutes with a DC fast charger option available.
    5. Additional features include One-Pedal-Drive, heated seats, a 12-inch touchscreen, and a warranty of eight years for the high-voltage battery.

    Ford Pro is stepping into the compact commercial vehicle sector. The company, based in Cologne, is introducing the new Transit City, which is an electric van tailored specifically for delivery services and tradespeople working in city environments. This front-wheel-drive vehicle is set to debut at the end of the year, available in two panel van versions and—as a first for the 1-tonne class—a single-cab chassis suitable for custom modifications.

    Payload and Specifications

    In its top L2H2 model, the Transit City can handle a load of up to 1,275 kilograms. It boasts a load capacity of about eight cubic meters and a loading length exceeding three meters. The shorter L1H1 version can fit three Euro pallets. The power comes from a 150 hp electric motor.

    Battery and Charging Details

    When looking at the battery and charging features, it’s clear that Ford has designed the technology specifically for commercial applications. The datasheet indicates that the 56 kWh battery, using strong LFP technology, provides an impressive range of 254 km—more than double the average daily travel distance in this category.

    Typically, commercial fleets recharge their vehicles overnight at their depots. The standard 11 kW onboard charger is adequate for such needs. This setup allows for a full charge at the end of a shift in just four and a half hours. For those needing a quicker charge during the day, the optional 22 kW charger could be beneficial, but if time is critical while on trips, the electric van can still access a maximum of 87 kW when connected to a DC fast charger.

    Charging Times and Features

    This setup enables the Transit City battery to go from 10 to 80 percent in just 33 minutes. The electric van comes from the factory with features like One-Pedal-Drive, heated seats, a 12-inch touchscreen, and wireless connectivity for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Ford has also increased the service intervals to two years or 40,000 kilometers, and the high-voltage battery is backed by an eight-year warranty.

    Source:
    Link

     

    Tags: , ,
  • DJI Osmo Pocket 4 Vlogging Camera Shipment Spotted Before Launch

    DJI Osmo Pocket 4 Vlogging Camera Shipment Spotted Before Launch

    Key Takeaways

    1. DJI has launched the Avata 360, its first drone for capturing 360° footage, competing with the Antigravity A1.
    2. The Osmo Pocket 4 is expected to be released soon, with leaked images of its Quick Start Guide surfacing.
    3. The launch of the Osmo Pocket 4 was initially expected by the end of March, but this timeline is now uncertain.
    4. Dummy units of the Osmo Pocket 4 have been seen shipped in large quantities, indicating a retail release is imminent.
    5. DJI may officially reveal the Osmo Pocket 4 sometime this spring, with uncertainty about its availability in different regions.

    DJI has recently introduced the Avata 360 to the global market. This marks the company’s first drone capable of capturing 360° footage, directly competing with the Antigravity A1, which was released towards the end of the previous year. However, it appears that the Avata 360 may not hold the title of DJI’s latest offering for much longer.

    Upcoming Launch of Osmo Pocket 4

    It looks like DJI is gearing up to unveil the much-anticipated Osmo Pocket 4 as well. To refresh your memory, images of what seems to be an official Quick Start Guide emerged around a month ago. These leaks provided insights into how DJI plans to set the Osmo Pocket 4 apart from the older Osmo Pocket 3, which currently retails for $439 on Amazon.

    Anticipation for the Release

    Initially, there were expectations for the Osmo Pocket 4 to launch before the end of March. Although this timeline now seems doubtful, dummy units of the Osmo Pocket 4 have been seen being shipped in large quantities. According to The New Camera, these units are usually produced for retail outlets.

    Therefore, it appears that DJI is indeed getting ready to make the Osmo Pocket 4 available in stores soon. At this point, it remains uncertain when DJI will start promoting the Osmo Pocket 4 officially and whether it will be available in China ahead of other regions. Still, the recent leak suggests that DJI intends to reveal its next vlogging camera sometime this spring.

    Source:
    Link

     

    Tags: , ,
  • Amazfit Launches New Helio Accessory in the US Market

    Amazfit Launches New Helio Accessory in the US Market

    Key Takeaways

    1. Amazfit has launched the Helio Arm Sleeve in the U.S., alongside two new Helio Armband versions in charcoal and light gray, priced at $14.99 on Amazon.
    2. The Arm Sleeve is designed for improved performance, offering more consistent readings during intense workouts by positioning the sensor closer to the heart.
    3. The sleeve is made from a blend of 75% polyamide and 25% spandex, ensuring a comfortable fit.
    4. It is available in three sizes: Small, Medium, and Large, but specific width measurements are not provided.
    5. The Helio Arm Sleeve can be purchased for $19.99 from Amazfit’s official online store, but the Helio Core and charging dock are sold separately.

    Amazfit has introduced the Helio Arm Sleeve in the United States. This fresh accessory has been launched together with two new versions of the Helio Armband, available in charcoal and light gray, priced at $14.99 on Amazon.

    Improved Performance

    The Amazfit Arm Sleeve is specifically made for the Helio Core, which is the same module located at the heart of the Helio Strap. The company claims that this accessory offers “more consistent readings,” especially during intense workouts. This improvement is partly due to the sensor’s position; positioning it nearer to the heart helps minimize disruptions from wrist movement or grip tension, which can affect the precision of the readings.

    Comfortable Fit

    The new Arm Sleeve from Amazfit is also reported to be very comfy to wear, crafted from a mix of 75% polyamide and 25% spandex. It is available in three sizes: Small (22-28 cm/8.7-11.0 inches), Medium (27-35 cm/10.6-13.8 inches), and Large (35-45 cm/13.8-17.7 inches). Photos indicate that it is much wider than the Helio Armband, but no specific width measurement has been shared.

    You can now purchase the Amazfit Helio Arm Sleeve at the brand’s official online store for $19.99. It is still unclear if or when this accessory will be available in other regions. The product page advises customers that the Helio Core and its charging dock are not included with the purchase.

    Source:
    Link

     

    Tags: , ,
  • Garmin Smartwatch Update Boosts Cold Weather Performance

    Garmin Smartwatch Update Boosts Cold Weather Performance

    Key Takeaways

    1. A new software update (version 5.09) for the Garmin Lily 2 Active smartwatch has been released.
    2. The update includes a minor enhancement aimed at improving stability in cold weather.
    3. The previous update (version 5.08) introduced a GPS signal loss alert in February 2026.
    4. Ongoing issues remain with heart rate and sleep data sensors, which are not functioning correctly for some users.
    5. The software update is available to all users and can be downloaded via the Garmin Connect Mobile app or Garmin Express.

    A fresh software update has been released for the Garmin Lily 2 Active smartwatch. The previous update, software version 5.08, was launched in February 2026 and introduced a new alert for when the GPS signal is lost.

    Minor Improvements

    The latest software version 5.09 for the Garmin Lily 2 Active is a small update, with the change log mentioning just one enhancement. As stated in an official post on the Garmin forum, this update aims to boost the smartwatch’s stability in cold weather. Still, the company has not shared specific details, like the exact temperatures where users should expect to see this improvement.

    Ongoing Issues

    Unfortunately, this update does not seem to fix a problem reported by users on the forum. Several owners of the Garmin Lily 2 Active have been facing issues with sensors, with heart rate and sleep data not being recorded properly. A Garmin representative has recognized this problem and is currently collecting information for a support ticket.

    Update Availability

    The Garmin software version 5.09 update is now accessible to all users of the Lily 2 Active smartwatch (currently priced at $299.99 on Amazon). You can get this update in two ways: through the Garmin Connect Mobile app or using the Garmin Express software.

    Source:
    Link

     

    Tags: , ,
  • New Casio G-Shock Watches with Interchangeable Accessories Coming Soon

    New Casio G-Shock Watches with Interchangeable Accessories Coming Soon

    Key Takeaways

    1. Colorful Designs: The G-Shock Baby-G Plus BGA-15K series features vibrant pastel-colored resin casings with metallic dials in four colors: light blue, pink, purple, and mint green.

    2. Watch Features: The watches are powered by the 5750 module, have three analog hands, a fun date display, and are water-resistant up to 10 bar, with a battery life of about three years.

    3. Detachable Straps: Each watch comes with a detachable strap and a round silicone holder, allowing users to convert the watch into a keyring or bag accessory.

    4. Release Date: The BGA-15K series is expected to be released in Japan in April 2026, with uncertain availability in other regions.

    5. Pricing Information: The anticipated price for the watches is around 3,058,000 VND (approximately $116) in Vietnam.

    Casio is preparing to introduce the new G-Shock Baby-G Plus BGA-15K series timepieces very soon. Recently, images leaked by Bello, a retailer from Vietnam, gave a sneak peek of this vibrant collection of four analog watches.

    Colorful Designs

    The latest Casio G-Shock Baby-G Plus watches feature a metallic dial paired with a pastel-colored resin casing and matching straps. The BGA-15K-2A sports a light blue dial with a navy casing, the BGA-15K-4A comes in pink, the BGA-15K-6A shows off a purple design, and the BGA-15K-7A is a refreshing mint green. Each watch offers a detachable strap and includes a round silicone holder, enabling users to convert it into a keyring or bag accessory.

    Watch Features

    Casio’s G-Shock BGA-15K is an analog model powered by the brand’s 5750 module. It features three analog hands that maintain accuracy within 20 seconds per month, along with chunky indexes in various styles. Additionally, there’s a fun date display that changes its color and font daily. These timepieces are water-resistant up to 10 bar and are designed to last about three years on a SR920SW battery.

    Release and Pricing Information

    The Casio G-Shock Baby-G BGA-15K series watches are anticipated to hit the shelves in Japan in April 2026. It is still uncertain when or if these models will become available in other regions, including the US or Germany. As for the pricing, they are expected to be around 3,058,000 VND (approximately $116) in Vietnam.

    Source:
    Link

     

    Tags: , ,
  • New LEGO Sets Inspired by TV Shows, Space, and Monuments Leaked

    New LEGO Sets Inspired by TV Shows, Space, and Monuments Leaked

    Key Takeaways

    1. New LEGO sets announced include the Sagrada Família and a Jurassic Park-themed set.
    2. An upcoming Star Trek set titled “Star Trek: The Bridge Diorama” will feature minifigures, but details are limited.
    3. The Hubble Space Telescope set will launch on August 1, 2026, with 1,552 pieces priced at $129.99.
    4. Two LEGO Architecture sets will be released on August 1, 2026, and June 1, 2026: Tower Bridge (3,745 pieces, $349.99) and New York Skyline (1,465 pieces, $139.99).
    5. Updates on LEGO sets can be found on Reddit or by watching Brick Clicker on YouTube.

    In the past few weeks, a variety of new LEGO sets have been announced, including the largest one that features the Sagrada Família and a set that draws inspiration from the Jurassic Park franchise. Recently, there have been new leaks regarding upcoming sets scheduled for this summer, and we might see images of these sets soon.

    Upcoming Star Trek Set

    One exciting set is based on the popular American TV show Star Trek. It’s titled Star Trek: The Bridge Diorama and will include some minifigures. However, there’s not much else known yet, like how many pieces the set will have or what the pricing will be.

    Hubble Space Telescope Set

    On the other hand, NASA’s Hubble Space Telescope, which has helped astronomers with many discoveries, will also be released in a smaller version. The 11382 Hubble Space Telescope set is set to launch on August 1, 2026, and it will feature 1,552 pieces, priced at $129.99.

    LEGO Architecture Sets

    Additionally, two LEGO Architecture sets are set to come out on August 1, 2026, and June 1, 2026. The first one, 21067 Tower Bridge, will have a total of 3,745 pieces. It will come with a hefty price tag of $349.99. The second set is called 21066 New York Skyline, which will include 1,465 pieces. This set is expected to be quite tall, and it will be available for $139.99.

    Source:
    Link

     

    Tags: , ,