Category: All News

May 5, 2025
Moto G56 Specs: Software Support Varies by RAM Variant
Key Takeaways
1. The Moto G56 features a 6.72-inch FHD+ LCD display with a 120Hz refresh rate and Gorilla Glass 7i protection.
2. It is powered by the new MediaTek Dimensity 7060 chip, with RAM options of 4GB or 8GB and storage options of 128GB or 256GB, expandable via MicroSD.
3. The camera setup includes a dual rear camera (50MP + 8MP) and a 32MP front camera, with a battery capacity of 5,200mAh and 33W fast charging.
4. The Moto G56 boasts additional features like IP68 + IP69 water and dust resistance, dual microphones, stereo speakers, and Bluetooth 5.3.
5. Software support duration varies by RAM configuration: 4GB model receives 1 year of OS updates, while the 8GB model gets 2 years, raising concerns among users about this new policy.
Motorola is set to introduce several new smartphones in its Moto G series, including the Moto G56. Before its official launch, the complete specifications of this phone have been leaked online, showcasing not just its details but also an unexpected aspect regarding software updates.
Display and Design
According to information shared by Evan Blass on X, the Moto G56 will differ significantly from its older model, the Moto G55 (currently listed on Amazon.de for €164.99). To kick things off, the G56 will sport a 6.72-inch FHD+ LCD screen with a 120Hz refresh rate, brightness reaching up to 1000 nits, and protection from Corning Gorilla Glass 7i. In contrast, the Moto G55 features a smaller 6.49-inch display protected by Gorilla Glass 5.
Hardware Specifications
This year, Motorola continues its partnership with MediaTek, swapping out the Dimensity 7025 from the Moto G55 for the yet-to-be-released Dimensity 7060. The Moto G56 will come in two RAM options: 4GB and 8GB, alongside storage choices of 128GB or 256GB. It will also include a MicroSD slot that allows for an additional 2TB of storage.
The Moto G56 will retain the dual camera setup of 50MP + 8MP from its predecessor, but it will replace the 16MP front camera with a 32MP one. Furthermore, the battery will see an increase in capacity from 5,000mAh to 5,200mAh, with faster charging capabilities of 33W.
Additional Features
Additional features include stereo speakers, dual microphones, a fingerprint scanner, ThinkShield security, Bluetooth 5.3, NFC, and Wi-Fi 6. The Moto G56 will also achieve an impressive IP68 + IP69 rating for dust and water resistance, along with MIL-STD-810H certification.
Depending on the region, the Moto G56 will come in various SIM configurations: a single SIM (1 Nano SIM + MicroSD), dual SIM (1 Nano SIM + eSIM + MicroSD), or a hybrid dual SIM slot (2 Nano SIMs or 1 Nano SIM + MicroSD). Color options will include Pantone Black Oyster, Pantone Gray Mits, Pantone Dazzling Blue, and Pantone Dill.
Software Support Surprises
The leaked document reveals an unexpected aspect regarding the software support for the Moto G56. The duration of software updates will depend on the RAM configuration. Users with the 4GB RAM model will get one year of OS updates and three years of bi-monthly security updates, while the 8GB RAM variant will have two years of OS updates and four years of bi-monthly security updates.
Although it’s not uncommon for certain features to be limited to specific RAM models—like the Smart Connect feature exclusive to the 8GB variant—this marks the first occasion where software support duration is tied to RAM size. It will be interesting to see how loyal fans of the brand respond to this news, but it’s reasonable to assume that many may not be happy with this change.
Source:
Link
Tags: Moto G56, Motorola, Software support
May 5, 2025
Arc Raiders: 4 Million Rounds Played, Only 58 Queen Defeats
Key Takeaways
1. Players enjoyed the extraction shooter gameplay and visuals during the Arc Raiders playtest, which ran from April 30 to May 5.
2. As of May 4, players participated in four million rounds, spending over 1.7 million hours and defeating seven million Arc enemies.
3. The game’s hardest boss, The Queen, has only been defeated 58 times, showcasing its difficulty.
4. Upgrading the character Scrappy the Rooster to level 5 is a challenge, requiring in-game materials collected during raids.
5. Arc Raiders does not have a set release date and is labeled as “coming soon” on Steam.
Arc Raiders appears to be receiving great feedback from those who participated in the playtest. Players are enjoying the extraction shooter gameplay, visuals, and various features of the game. Developer Embark Studios highlighted this success through statistics, revealing that players have taken part in four million rounds of the extraction shooter as of May 4. What’s particularly intriguing is that very few have managed to conquer the hardest boss.
Playtest Details
The playtest for Arc Raiders commenced on April 30 and will conclude today, May 5. This is a closed test, meaning that interested gamers had to request an invite to join. Thanks to the data shared by the developer on X, those who got access have played four million rounds, translating to over 1.7 million hours spent on the game by May 4. During this time, players eliminated seven million Arc enemies. However, the most formidable boss, named The Queen, has only been defeated just 58 times, highlighting the game’s difficulty.
The Queen Boss
The Queen is a massive mechanical spider that demands a lot of patience, commitment, and firepower to take down. Queens are part of a group of Arc characters, which also includes Wasp, Tick, Rollbot, Bison, Fireball, Rocketeer, Hornet, and others. The Queen stands out as the largest and the most challenging to defeat.
As per Embark’s post, there was only one player or Arc Raider who had succeeded in upgrading Scrappy the Rooster to the highest level (level 5). Since that time, a few more players have managed to do so. Upgrading or training Scrappy necessitates materials that can be found in-game, and the rooster collects materials while players embark on raids, enabling additional upgrades to the workshop.
Source:
Link
Tags: Arc Raiders, Embark Studios, The Queen
May 5, 2025
Anker Launches Colorful 45W Nano Charger with ActiveShield 3.0 in China
Key Takeaways
1. Anker has launched a new 45W single-port USB-C charger called the Anker Safe Charge Pro, designed to pair well with the iPhone 16 series.
2. The charger is lightweight at 50 grams and compact in size (33 x 32 x 36.9 mm) with a foldable plug for easy portability.
3. It features GaN technology, Anker’s PowerIQ, and supports multiple voltage outputs (5V, 9V, 15V, 20V) and PPS.
4. Enhanced safety and heat management are provided by a graphene-based material, a bionic cold vortex cooling system, and ActiveShield 3.0 technology.
5. The charger is available in four colors (gold, white, blue, black) and is priced at CNY 119 (~$16/€14), significantly less than its $34.99 price on Amazon.
It can be tough to keep up with Anker’s many chargers since they seem to release a new one nearly every month. Some of these devices have the same power output and number of ports. Despite this, Anker has revealed a new 45W single-port USB-C charger called the Anker Safe Charge Pro, claiming it pairs perfectly with the iPhone 16 series.
Product Details
The Anker Safe Charge Pro is part of the Nano series, and its model number is A2692. It was first introduced in the US in March but is now being announced in China, featuring new and appealing colors. This charger is quite lightweight, weighing only 50 grams, making it easy to carry around. Its dimensions are compact at 33 x 32 x 36.9 mm, and it has a foldable plug that adds to its convenience.
Features and Specifications
This Safe Charge Pro Nano is a GaN charger equipped with a single USB-C port and Anker’s unique PowerIQ technology. It has a maximum power output of 45W and supports various voltages, including 5V 3A, 9V 3A, 15V 3A, and 20V 2.25A, along with PPS. Anker claims to have incorporated a new graphene-based heat dissipation material and a bionic cold vortex cooling system for improved heat management. Additionally, it includes the ActiveShield 3.0 temperature control technology to enhance safety.
Pricing and Availability
The Anker Safe Charge Pro charger comes in several colors: gold, white, blue, and black. It features textured sides, and Anker notes that the curvature of the charger matches that of the iPhone 16. You can purchase it from JD.com for CNY 119 (~$16/€14), which is much lower than the $34.99 price on Amazon.
Source:
Link
Tags: A2692, Anker Safe Charge Pro, GaN charger
May 5, 2025
Chatreey AN4: Affordable Mini PC with eGPU Support Launches
Key Takeaways
1. Chatreey’s new mini PC, the AN4, features the Ryzen 7 8845HS APU, priced at $320.89.
2. The integrated Radeon 780M GPU allows for 1080p gaming with lower to medium settings.
3. Connectivity includes WiFi 6, Bluetooth 5.2, and support for dual DDR5 RAM and M.2 NVMe SSDs.
4. The device has a dual-fan cooling system for reliable performance during heavy usage.
5. The AN4 boasts a compact aluminum design and 100 W PD support on the USB4 port.
Chatreey has introduced a new mini PC known as the AN4. It comes equipped with the Ryzen 7 8845HS, a high-performance chip from AMD’s Hawk Point series. This APU enables the device to efficiently manage a variety of tasks, and currently, the barebone setup is reasonably priced at $320.89 on AliExpress.
Graphics Capability
The AMD APU also includes the Radeon 780M integrated GPU, allowing this budget-friendly mini PC to run most AAA games at 1080p resolution with lower to medium graphic settings. Additionally, it features a USB4 port, enabling users to enhance their gaming experience with an external GPU (the GMKtec AD-GP1 is available for $469.99 on Amazon). While an OCuLink port would have improved the situation, it’s worth noting that few mini PCs in this price range come with one.
Connectivity and Performance
In terms of connectivity, the Chatreey AN4 supports WiFi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2 for wireless needs. It has two DDR5 slots that work with RAM up to 5600 MT/s, as well as two M.2 slots for NVMe SSDs. Chatreey also emphasizes the dual-fan cooling system with VC cooling, which aims to maintain low temperatures during heavy usage for reliable performance.
Design and Features
Other features of the Chatreey AN4 include a compact and lightweight aluminum casing, 100 W PD support on the USB4 port, and an elegant design. More details can be found in the images provided below.
Source:
Link

Tags: Chatreey AN4, Radeon 780M, Ryzen 7 8845HS
May 5, 2025
Google Secures First Offshore Wind Deal for Data Center Power
Key Takeaways
1. Google signed its first offshore wind Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) in Taiwan, marking a first for the Asia Pacific region.
2. The energy will be sourced from the Fengmiao I offshore wind project, developed by Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners (CIP), set to start operations in 2027.
3. The wind farm will have an installed capacity of 495 Megawatts (MW) and is connected to the grid following a recent auction.
4. Google aims to enhance its renewable energy portfolio in Taiwan, which already includes solar and geothermal energy, to meet rising energy demand and achieve 24/7 carbon-free energy.
5. The company also plans to generate 1 gigawatt of solar energy in Taiwan in partnership with BlackRock’s Climate Infrastructure business, targeting net-zero emissions by 2030.
Google has revealed it has inked its first offshore wind Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) in Taiwan. This is also the first agreement of its kind in the Asia Pacific region, adding to the renewable energy options available in the country.
Energy Acquisition
The tech giant will source energy from the Fengmiao I offshore wind project, which is being developed by Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners (CIP). The project is slated to commence operations in 2027.
“This significant step enhances our current energy technology portfolio in Taiwan, which includes solar and geothermal energy sources, ensuring we can meet the increasing energy demand and move closer to achieving 24/7 carbon-free energy (CFE) in every grid we serve,” the company stated.
Project Specifications
The wind farm will boast a total installed capacity of 495 Megawatts (MW) and has already secured a connection to the grid. This was confirmed following Taiwan’s Round 3.1 auction, which allotted 500 MW of grid capacity to the project.
CIP indicated that this offshore wind project has entered into PPAs with six major local and international corporate offtakers, who will utilize the entire production capacity. However, Google has not revealed the specific capacity it will acquire under this agreement.
Future Plans
Google operates a datacenter in Changhua County, Taipei, Taiwan. Additionally, the company has formed agreements with BlackRock’s Climate Infrastructure business to generate 1 gigawatt of solar energy in the nation, aiming to achieve net-zero emissions by 2030.
Source:
Link
Tags: Fengmiao I, google, Offshore Wind Power Purchase Agreement
May 5, 2025
Asus ROG Strix XG27ACMS: 27″ 320Hz QHD Gaming Monitor
Key Takeaways
1. The Asus ROG Strix XG27ACMS monitor features a 27-inch display with a refresh rate of up to 320Hz and 1440p resolution, targeting competitive gamers.
2. It offers brightness capabilities of 350 nits (typical) and 500 nits (peak), with DisplayHDR 400 certification and color coverage of 130% sRGB and 94% DCI-P3.
3. Connectivity options include 1x HDMI 2.1, 1x DisplayPort 1.4, a Type-C port, and a headphone jack, along with features like GamePlus AI and G-Sync compatibility.
4. The monitor has an ergonomic stand with adjustable swivel, pivot, height, and tilt, plus a tripod socket for mounting accessories.
5. The package includes a DisplayPort cable, an ROG pouch, and a sticker, but lacks built-in speakers and USB hubs, with no pricing or availability details yet.
Asus has introduced a new monitor to its ROG Strix series for 2025, focusing on speed. The latest model, the XG27ACMS, features a 27-inch gaming display that can achieve a refresh rate of up to 320Hz when overclocked, while maintaining a resolution of 1440p. This is a great option for competitive gamers who desire clearer visuals than 1080p, yet still prioritize quick response times.
Display and Color Performance
The monitor achieves a typical brightness of 350 nits, with a peak brightness claim of 500 nits, and holds a DisplayHDR 400 certification. It offers color coverage of 130% sRGB and 94% DCI-P3, making it suitable for most editing tasks, though it is primarily designed with gamers in mind rather than creators.
Connectivity Options
On the connectivity front, it includes 1x HDMI 2.1, 1x DisplayPort 1.4, a Type-C port that supports 15W, along with a headphone jack. Asus has also added some familiar features like GamePlus AI, ELMB Sync (to minimize motion blur without causing tearing), and G-Sync compatibility. The response time is rated at 1ms G2G and 0.3ms MPRT, which sound impressive, but these numbers are often based on ideal conditions. The monitor comes with a fully ergonomic stand that allows for 45 degrees of swivel in either direction, a 90-degree pivot, 120mm height adjustment, and a tilt range from -5 to 20 degrees. Additionally, there is a tripod socket at the base for mounting a camera or microphone.
Package Contents and Pricing
Although there are no built-in speakers or USB hubs, the package includes a DisplayPort cable, an ROG pouch, and a sticker. At the time of writing, Asus has not provided any information on pricing or availability.
Source:
Link
Tags: 27-inch gaming monitor, 320Hz refresh rate, Asus ROG Strix XG27ACMS
May 5, 2025
Lenovo Launches New Gaming PC with Nvidia RTX 5060 Ti Options
Key Takeaways
1. Lenovo’s updated GeekPro gaming desktop offers high-end options like the Nvidia RTX 5060 Ti and Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX, with a base model featuring the RTX 3050 and Core Ultra 7 255HX.
2. A mid-range configuration combines the Arrow Lake HX CPU with the compact OEM version of the Nvidia RTX 5060 Ti.
3. The new chassis design includes a 3D front panel that hides air vents for improved aesthetics and features an enhanced air duct system for quieter operation and better airflow.
4. Connectivity options are extensive, and the system includes a 500 W PSU with an 80 Plus Platinum rating, dual M.2 slots, and a tool-free HDD installation tray.
5. Pricing starts at CNY 6,599 (about $907) for the base model and goes up to CNY 9,999 (around $1,375) for the highest-end version, with a global launch expected as the Lenovo LOQ Tower Gen 10.
Lenovo has updated its GeekPro gaming desktop, allowing users to choose high-end options like the Nvidia RTX 5060 Ti and Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX. The starting model comes with the Nvidia RTX 3050 and Core Ultra 7 255HX.
Mid-Range Configuration
There is also a mid-tier choice that uses the same Arrow Lake HX CPU as the entry-level version but combines it with the Nvidia RTX 5060 Ti. It seems that Lenovo is utilizing the OEM version of the RTX 5060 Ti, which appears slightly more compact compared to some non-OEM versions that are available. Nevertheless, it is important to note that it is not a single-slot GPU.
Chassis and Design
Regarding the chassis, Lenovo emphasizes that it now has a new 3D front panel design that conceals air vents for a sleeker appearance. The company asserts that this updated gaming PC includes an enhanced air duct system aimed at minimizing noise while providing effective airflow.
There’s also a wide array of connectivity options available, which includes:
Power Supply and Pricing
Additional features of this new Lenovo gaming desktop consist of a 500 W PSU with an 80 Plus Platinum rating, dual M.2 slots, and a tool-free tray for HDD installation. The base model, which comes with 24 GB DDR5 RAM and 512 GB of storage, is priced at CNY 6,599, which is approximately $907. The highest-end version includes 32 GB of DDR5-5600 RAM and a 1 TB PCIe 4.0 SSD (with the 1 TB Crucial P310 currently costing $69.99 on Amazon), and it is priced at CNY 9,999, or about $1,375. This revamped system is anticipated to launch globally as the Lenovo LOQ Tower Gen 10.
Source:
Link

Tags: GeekPro, Lenovo, RTX 5060 Ti
May 5, 2025
iPhone 18 Release Delayed to 2027: New Schedule Leaked
Key Takeaways
1. Apple is expected to introduce a new model, the iPhone 17 Slim, alongside the iPhone 17 series this year.
2. Starting next year, Apple may switch to a bi-annual release schedule for its smartphones.
3. The standard iPhone 18 release might be delayed until early 2027, while the iPhone 18 Slim and other models could launch in September 2026.
4. This new strategy aims to keep Apple competitive by releasing models at different times of the year.
5. Introducing new iPhone models in early and late parts of the year could potentially increase sales for Apple.
Big shifts might be coming for Apple. The company based in Cupertino is likely to introduce a completely new model this year in response to Samsung’s upcoming Galaxy S25 Edge. This new device, reportedly named the iPhone 17 Slim, is set to launch alongside other models in the iPhone 17 series later this year, possibly indicating a change in how Apple schedules its smartphone releases.
New Release Schedule
A fresh report from industry expert Ming-Chi Kuo suggests that Apple will switch to a bi-annual release timetable starting next year. Although all four iPhone 17 variants are scheduled to release this year as intended, it seems that the standard iPhone 18 might be pushed back to 2027.
In light of this newly disclosed timeline, the iPhone 17e could be unveiled early next year, similar to how the 16e was revealed this year. The main launch event in September might then showcase the iPhone 18 Slim, iPhone 18 Pro, iPhone 18 Pro Max, and Apple’s very first foldable iPhone all at once. The standard iPhone 18 would, however, be postponed to an early 2027 release, alongside the iPhone 18e.
Competing Effectively
Ming-Chi Kuo mentions that this adjustment aims to help Apple remain competitive throughout the year by rolling out new models both at the beginning and the end of the year. Currently, most Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) launch their flagship devices in the first few months of the year, leaving Apple without a direct competitor. Introducing two iPhone models during that time could, in theory, boost sales.
Source:
Link
Tags: Apple, iPhone 17 Slim, iPhone 18
May 5, 2025
Galaxy S26 Series with Exynos 2600 May Launch in Europe
Key Takeaways
1. Samsung is planning to return to using its own Exynos chips, starting with the Galaxy S26 series, primarily in European markets.
2. The Exynos 2600 chipset will be limited in availability due to low production yields, despite improvements to over 40%.
3. Qualcomm Snapdragon processors are expected to continue dominating performance, with a “clear” edge over Exynos chips.
4. Samsung’s System LSI division faced significant financial losses when switching from Exynos to Snapdragon in the Galaxy S25 series.
5. The Exynos 2600 is being manufactured on a 2nm process, with hopes to reach a production yield of 70% to 80% for mass production soon.
Since the launch of the Galaxy S23 series in 2023, Samsung has been equipping its Galaxy S series with Qualcomm Snapdragon processors across all markets. However, it appears that the company might be going back to its former practice of utilizing its own Exynos chips in certain regions, beginning with the upcoming Galaxy S26 series.
Samsung’s Shift in Strategy
A recent update on X from Jukanlosreve (@Jukanlosreve) indicates that Samsung plans to use the Exynos 2600 for the Galaxy S26 series. Nonetheless, due to production issues, this chipset will predominantly be found in European versions of the phone.
The report mentions that the low production yield is the primary reason for limiting the Exynos 2600’s availability. Yet, even with improved yields, it’s doubtful Samsung would distribute this chip in all areas, as previous models, like the Galaxy S23, offered Snapdragon-powered versions in key markets like the U.S. and China.
Performance Concerns
In addition to yield issues, the source has noted that the Exynos 2600 does not perform as well as Qualcomm’s Snapdragon chipsets. According to them, Snapdragon models have a “clear” edge in performance over their Exynos counterparts.
Even with this performance gap, which has historically existed between Exynos and Snapdragon versions of the same devices, it seems Samsung will not abandon the Exynos 2600. This is largely due to a report that Samsung’s System LSI division, responsible for processor design and development, lost around $400 million when they replaced the Exynos 2500 with the Snapdragon 8 Elite in the Galaxy S25 series, which is currently priced at $777.99 on Amazon.
Future Production Expectations
The Exynos 2600 is said to be manufactured on Samsung’s 2nm process using Gate-All-Around technology. Although production yields are still low, reports suggest they have improved to over 40% this year. There is hope that they will achieve the target yield of 70% to 80% necessary for mass production in the coming months.
Source:
Link
Tags: Exynos 2600, Galaxy S26, Snapdragon
May 5, 2025
Free on Steam: MOBA Roguelike Inspired by Classic Warcraft 3 Mod
Key Takeaways
1. Innovative MOBA Gameplay: Sirocco offers a unique take on MOBA mechanics with no fixed roles, allowing players to modify abilities and focus on teamwork and positioning.
2. Roguelike Features: The game incorporates roguelike elements, such as randomly obtained “Loom Coils,” which introduce variety and new tactical opportunities in each match.
3. Early Access Feedback: Launched on May 2, Sirocco has received positive reviews, with 80% of approximately 150 Steam reviews praising its fresh approach and enjoyable naval battles.
4. Free-to-Play Model: Sirocco is free to play and will remain so post-launch, making it accessible to a wider audience.
5. Criticism and Improvement Areas: Players have noted a lack of depth in weapon and progression systems, a superficial tutorial, and technical issues like latency and frame rate drops.
Sirocco is a free-to-play MOBA crafted by Lunchbox Entertainment Inc., immersing players in intense 5v5 naval combats that draw inspiration from the classic Warcraft 3 mod, Battleships. In that original custom map, players equipped their ships with various gear, fought at sea, and worked to destroy enemy bases. Sirocco takes that concept and adds roguelike features along with a significant emphasis on teamwork. The result is a contemporary twist on a beloved classic, merging fast action with strategic elements.
A New Approach to MOBA Gameplay
While Sirocco fits into the MOBA category, it deviates from the usual norms. There are no fixed roles or strict counter systems – players have the liberty to modify their abilities as the game progresses, enabling dynamic strategy alterations during matches. Ships are fitted with auto-firing weapons, which shifts the focus of gameplay away from precise aiming or last-hitting, highlighting the importance of smart positioning and close team coordination. Roguelike aspects, like the randomly obtained “Loom Coils,” introduce additional variety. These in-game upgrades provide active or passive effects, ensuring that each round offers new tactical chances.
Early Access and Future Plans
Sirocco entered Early Access on May 2 and is entirely free to play. The developers anticipate this phase will last between 12 and 16 months, and the game will continue to be free even after its official launch.
Sirocco has amassed approximately 150 reviews on Steam, with 80% of these being positive. According to SteamDB, the game has reached a peak of around 880 concurrent players. Steam users commend it for its innovative approach to the MOBA genre, especially its naval battles and a more leisurely pace, which makes it feel less overwhelming compared to major titles like Dota 2 or League of Legends. The smooth Early Access launch and the easy-to-access free-to-play model are also frequently mentioned as highlights.
Criticism and Areas for Improvement
On the downside, Sirocco has been critiqued for its lack of depth. Many players believe the weapon and progression systems are too simplistic, featuring only two weapon slots and limited build options, which doesn’t measure up to the complexity of the original Warcraft 3 mod. Numerous in-game choices seem to have low impact, resulting in repetitive gameplay. Other prevalent issues voiced by players include a superficial tutorial, a cluttered user interface, and technical problems like increased latency and frame rate drops.
Source:
Link
Tags: Early Access, MOBA, Sirocco