Category: All News

April 2, 2025
GeForce RTX 5080 Laptop Benchmarks: 10% Slower Than RTX 5090
Key Takeaways
1. Performance Gap: The mobile RTX 5080 is 10 to 15 percent slower than the mobile RTX 5090 based on benchmark tests.
2. Game Performance: The performance difference is more noticeable in demanding games and at 4K resolutions, while it decreases at lower resolutions.
3. DLSS Effect: The performance advantage of the RTX 5090 over the RTX 5080 remains consistent, regardless of whether DLSS is enabled or disabled.
4. Value Consideration: The small performance difference suggests that choosing the RTX 5080 could be more cost-effective than opting for the RTX 5090.
5. Potential Savings: Selecting laptops with the RTX 5080 may result in savings of hundreds of dollars while still providing strong performance.
Laptops with Blackwell GPUs are starting to appear on the market just as manufacturers have promised. Now that the high-end mobile RTX 5090 has been extensively tested, it’s time to look at how the mobile RTX 5080 stacks up. It’s not surprising that the performance difference between the mobile RTX 5080 and the mobile RTX 5090 is similar to the difference seen between the mobile RTX 4080 and the mobile RTX 4090.
Performance Comparison
3DMark benchmarks from our two Schenker Neo 16 test units, which both feature the same Ryzen 9 9955HX processors, indicate that the RTX 5080 model is about 10 to 15 percent slower than its more expensive counterpart. This gap is evident when playing actual games like Baldur’s Gate 3, Final Fantasy XV, Alan Wake 2, or Assassin’s Creed Shadows. As usual, the performance difference is larger at 4K resolutions in demanding games, while at lower resolutions, where graphics are less reliant on the GPU, the difference shrinks.
DLSS Impact
An interesting point to note is that the performance difference between the mobile RTX 5080 and mobile RTX 5090 stays constant regardless of whether DLSS is turned on or off. For instance, when playing Assassin’s Creed Shadows with DLSS activated, the mobile RTX 5090 still holds a 15 percent advantage over the mobile RTX 5080.
Conclusion on GPU Selection
The relatively minor performance gap between these two high-end GPUs suggests that it could be more beneficial to choose laptops with the RTX 5080 rather than the RTX 5090. This choice could lead to savings of hundreds of dollars or potentially offer better value for performance per dollar spent.
Tags: RTX 5080, RTX 5090, Schenker Neo 16
April 2, 2025
Guide to Buying a Gaming GPU in 2025: Amazon Prime Tips
Key Takeaways
1. Amazon is offering certain GPUs exclusively to Amazon Prime subscribers, including models from Nvidia and AMD.
2. The subscription-only model has not significantly lowered GPU prices, with some starting above their original MSRP.
3. Previous subscription models, like Best Buy’s, raised concerns over exploitative practices and accessibility.
4. This approach aims to combat scalping but may lead to questions about fairness in the market.
5. Consumers are uncertain if this model will help address their frustrations with the current gaming hardware situation.
It’s well-known that recent gaming GPU launches from both AMD and Nvidia have faced issues like supply shortages, high demand, and scalping. Lately, some AIB partners and retailers have taken measures to combat scalpers by using methods such as carefully vetted pre-orders or selling directly to consumers, avoiding standard retail methods. However, Amazon has adopted a different strategy that might not sit well with everyone.
Subscription-Only Access
Several Nvidia GeForce RTX 5000 series GPUs, including the Gigabyte Windforce RTX 5070, are now only available to those with an Amazon Prime subscription. This also applies to the Gigabyte AMD Radeon RX 9070 Gaming OC and the XFX AMD Radeon RX 9070 and 9070 XT models. Unfortunately, this approach doesn’t seem to have significantly reduced the already high prices, with the RX 9070 GPUs starting at $669.99 and going up to $789.99. The situation is even worse for the RTX 5070, which is priced at $819.99, compared to its original MSRP of $549.
Previous Subscription Models
It’s worth noting that this isn’t the first instance of a retailer using a subscription model to give customers early access to new products. For example, Best Buy previously required a $199 annual subscription to buy GeForce RTX 3000 GPUs. The Amazon Prime subscription, which costs $14.99 per month or $139 per year, has drawn scrutiny in 2023 for potentially exploitative practices regarding Prime memberships, like making it hard to cancel subscriptions and automatically signing up customers who didn’t want to.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while Amazon’s unique approach to GPU sales may aim to address the scalping issue, it raises questions about accessibility and fairness in the market. With the ongoing challenges in the gaming hardware space, consumers are left wondering if this model will truly benefit them or simply add to their frustrations.
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Tags: Amazon Prime Subscription, AMD Radeon RX 9070, Nvidia GeForce RTX 5070
April 2, 2025
Google Pixel 9a Battery Voltage Limits After 200 Charging Cycles
Key Takeaways
1. The Pixel 9a will introduce a “battery health optimization” feature that lowers battery voltage over time.
2. This feature may lead to shorter battery life compared to the Pixel 9 after several months of use.
3. Google has not provided specific details on the extent of voltage reduction, leaving its impact unclear.
4. Unlike Apple, users won’t have the option to disable the optimization on the Pixel 9a.
5. The battery health feature will be available for other Pixel devices later, with older models allowing users to turn it off.
A few days back, Google revealed when the Pixel 9a would be launched:
Battery Life Insights
Even with a bigger battery, the Pixel 9a may have a shorter battery life compared to the Pixel 9 after it has been used for several months. This was confirmed by Google in a support document stating that the Pixel 9a will be the first Pixel phone to introduce a “battery health optimization” feature. This feature works by automatically lowering the battery voltage once it hits 200 charging cycles. The voltage will continue to decrease gradually until it reaches 1,000 charging cycles. With reduced voltage, the battery life will likely decrease, and charging times will be slower. Google claims this method is meant to “stabilize battery performance and wear,” but it brings to mind the disastrous battery update that made many Google Pixel 4a phones nearly unusable.
Uncertain Impact on Battery Life
Google hasn’t provided specific figures on how much the voltage will be decreased, leaving us in the dark about its actual impact on battery life. Unlike Apple’s iPhone, there’s no option to turn off these “optimizations” on the Pixel 9a. To regain the full battery voltage after 200 cycles or more, users would need to get a new battery. Google has told 9to5Google that this “battery health optimization” feature will be rolled out to other Pixel devices later this year through a software update, but owners of older models will be able to turn off the feature if they wish.
Conclusion
In summary, the Pixel 9a is set to introduce a significant change in how battery health is managed, but its implications remain uncertain. Users should be aware of these potential issues as they consider the new device.
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Tags: battery health optimization, google, Pixel 9a
April 2, 2025
CRKD Nitro Deck and Neo S Controller Launch Goat Simulator Editions
Key Takeaways
1. CRKD has launched special editions of its Nitro Deck and Neo S controller for the Nintendo Switch to celebrate the 10th anniversary of Goat Simulator.
2. The Nitro Deck Goat Simulator Edition and the Neo S Goat Simulator Edition feature a light blue color with a pink D-Pad and an image of a rocket-equipped goat.
3. Goat Simulator is a chaotic game where players control a goat to score points through tricks, first released in 2014 by Coffee Stain Studios.
4. The Nitro Deck Goat Simulator Edition is priced at $49.99, while the Neo S Goat Simulator Edition costs $59.99.
5. Pre-orders for both editions are available on CRKD’s website, with expected shipping dates between April 28 and May 2, 2025.
CRKD has unveiled unique editions of its Nitro Deck accessory for the Nintendo Switch along with the Neo S controller. These are named the Nitro Deck Goat Simulator Edition and the Neo S Goat Simulator Edition, and they have been launched to mark the 10th anniversary of the Goat Simulator video game franchise.
About Goat Simulator
Launched in 2014, Goat Simulator is a game that was both developed and published by Coffee Stain Studios. In this fun game, players take control of a goat in a vast world, where they create chaos and score points by performing various tricks. The game can be played on multiple platforms including Windows, PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch.
Product Details
Both the Nitro Deck Goat Simulator Edition and the Neo S Goat Simulator Edition come in a light blue hue, featuring a pink D-Pad, triggers, and back buttons. They showcase an image of a goat equipped with rockets on the front. Additionally, the Neo S is packaged with a coordinating blue charging dock that displays Goat Simulator 3, which is the title for the second game in the series.
The Nitro Deck Goat Simulator Edition is available for $49.99, whereas the Neo S Goat Simulator Edition is priced at $59.99. Both editions can be pre-ordered now on CRKD’s website, with expected shipping dates set between April 28 and May 2, 2025.
Tags: Goat Simulator 10th Anniversary, Neo S Goat Simulator Edition, Nitro Deck Goat Simulator Edition
April 2, 2025
Microsoft 365 Copilot Introduces AI Agents for Business Tasks
Key Takeaways
1. Microsoft introduced two new AI reasoning agents, Analyst and Researcher, to its 365 Copilot service for business users.
2. These AI agents can perform tasks similar to entry-level data analysts and business consultants, offering 24/7 virtual assistance.
3. Microsoft 365 Copilot enhances efficiency by accessing corporate emails, data, and approved external sources to generate reports and analyze metrics.
4. The Analyst agent uses a customized version of OpenAI o3-mini to evaluate data and create reports, while the Researcher agent focuses on advanced research and search functionalities.
5. Access to these AI agents requires a subscription to Microsoft 365 Copilot, costing $30 per month in addition to a qualifying Microsoft 365 plan.
Microsoft has introduced two fresh AI reasoning agents to its 365 Copilot service – Analyst and Researcher. These agents carry out tasks akin to those performed by entry-level data analysts and business consultants, leveraging cutting-edge large language models (LLMs).
Benefits for Business Users
Business users can take advantage of virtual assistants that are accessible around the clock, which could potentially perform tasks quicker and at a reduced cost compared to human assistants. However, it’s important to note that users must still verify the work produced by these AI agents.
Features of Microsoft 365 Copilot
Microsoft 365 Copilot is a service designed for businesses that employs AI across its features to enhance efficiency. This service has the capability to access corporate emails, data, and files, as well as approved external data sources. The new AI agents can tap into all this information to respond to prompts, assess company metrics, and create reports.
Details on the AI Agents
The Analyst AI agent uses a tailored version of OpenAI o3-mini, equipped with Python programming skills to evaluate corporate data. It can summarize its discoveries in reports, complete with figures and visuals. Each action is tracked, and all references are connected, enabling users to confirm the results.
On the other hand, the Researcher AI agent employs a modified version of OpenAI o3 that comes with enhanced research abilities, along with integration into 365 Copilot and advanced search functionalities. Recent progress in AI technologies allows chatbots to address intricate issues by utilizing both internal and external business data, producing well-structured reports. Users can offer feedback and additional prompts to enhance the report quality.
Subscription Information
To access these agents, a subscription to Microsoft 365 Copilot is necessary, costing $30 per month in addition to a qualifying Microsoft 365 plan. Readers interested in exploring the various features of Microsoft 365 and Copilot can find more information in this book available on Amazon.
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Tags: AI reasoning agents, Microsoft 365 Copilot, OpenAI o3-mini
April 2, 2025
Redtiger F17 Elite Dash Cam: IPS Touchscreen & Night Vision
Key Takeaways
1. The Redtiger F17 Elite is the first dash cam with vibrant night recording capabilities inside and outside the vehicle.
2. It features three cameras for a full 360º view, utilizing advanced Sony image sensors for high-resolution recording.
3. The dash cam includes a user-friendly 3-inch IPS touchscreen for easy operation and viewing of camera feeds.
4. It offers built-in GPS, voice command control, and supports features like time-lapse recording and WiFi-6 connectivity.
5. The F17 Elite is priced at $359.99, which includes a free 128 GB SD card and a parking safety hardware kit.
The Chinese company that makes dash-cams, Redtiger, has introduced a new addition to its F-series lineup called the F17 Elite, which is now available in the US. The F17 Elite is promoted as the first dash cam to offer vibrant night recording both inside and outside the vehicle, thanks to its full-color night vision capabilities.
Impressive Camera Setup
This dash cam comes with three cameras: one for the front, one for the cabin, and one for the rear, providing a comprehensive 360º view of the area around the vehicle. The front and rear cameras utilize Sony IMX678 and Sony IMX675 image sensors that leverage Sony’s Starvis 2 technology, achieving resolutions of up to 4K at 30 frames per second for the front and 2.5K at 30 fps for the rear. The cabin camera, however, uses a Sony IMX307 image sensor, delivering 1080p at 30 fps, although it does not feature the advanced Starvis 2 technology, only the standard Sony Starvis.
User-Friendly Features
The dash cam is equipped with a 3-inch IPS touchscreen that allows users to operate it straight from the display. Users can easily toggle between the front and rear camera views using the touchscreen. Additionally, a split-screen mode is available, enabling the simultaneous display of both camera feeds.
The F17 Elite also boasts built-in GPS for route tracking. It can be controlled via the Redtiger companion app, which also enables users to share their live location and download recorded clips. For added convenience, voice commands can be used to operate the dash cam. Other notable features include 24/7 time-lapse recording, real-time voice alerts, G-sensor active recording, WiFi-6 connectivity, collision detection, dual HDR, and continuous loop recording. There is also a dedicated slot for storage expansion, which can go up to 1 TB.
Pricing and Availability
Right now, you can purchase the Redtiger F17 Elite dash cam on the official Redtiger website for $359.99. This price includes a free 128 GB SD card and a parking safety hardware kit. For more details, visit the official product page for the F17 Elite.
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Tags: dash cam, F17 Elite, Redtiger
April 2, 2025
DJI Mavic 4 Pro Release Plans Revealed with First High-Res Image
Key Takeaways
1. The DJI Mavic 4 Pro is expected to be released soon, with official teasers starting around April 17 and a launch event on April 24.
2. A detailed image of the Mavic 4 Pro has surfaced, likely from its retail packaging, but the full retail box image is still not available.
3. Speculation suggests that the rectangular sensor under one of the propellers may have infrared or LiDAR functions.
4. Despite rumors, DJI has not delayed the release of the Mavic 4 Pro, maintaining its timeline for launch.
5. The pricing for the Mavic 4 Pro is set at $2,199, with additional costs for launch accessories already revealed.
We are currently in the month that has been talked about for the upcoming release of DJI’s next premium consumer drone. Just as expected, a few well-known leakers have obtained the first detailed image of the DJI Mavic 3 Pro successor (currently priced at $2,199 on Amazon).
Image Insights
Jasper Ellens mentions that this new photo might come from the retail packaging of the Mavic 4 Pro. The design and color scheme certainly align with DJI’s usual packaging, which is typically quite simple. Sadly, there hasn’t been an image that shows the entire Mavic 4 Pro retail box yet. If it had, we would likely have seen more specific details leak onto the internet by now.
Speculation on Features
Nonetheless, Ellens thinks that the rectangular sensor located under the Mavic 4 Pro’s right propeller could serve either infrared or LiDAR functions. He also points out that DJI hasn’t delayed the drone’s release, despite some recent rumors suggesting it might be pushed to May. Therefore, we can expect official teasers to start appearing around April 17, leading up to a launch event set for April 24. The Mavic 4 Pro’s pricing has already been revealed online, as well as the costs for its launch accessories in the United States.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it seems like the excitement is building up as we approach the release of the Mavic 4 Pro. With the information circulating and the expected launch dates, many drone enthusiasts are eagerly waiting to see what DJI has in store.
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Tags: DJI, Drone Launch, Mavic 4 Pro
April 2, 2025
Nubia Z70S Ultra: ZTE Reveals New Photographer Edition Upgrade
Key Takeaways
1. ZTE updates its Nubia flagship phones approximately every six months.
2. The Nubia Z70 Ultra was recently launched, with a global release following its debut in China.
3. ZTE plans to release the Nubia Z70S Ultra Photographer Edition with an upgraded 35 mm camera system.
4. The exact release date for the Photographer Edition is not yet known, but it is expected later this month.
5. The new model may feature the Snapdragon 8 Elite Leading Version chipset for enhanced performance.
ZTE frequently updates its Nubia flagship phones approximately every six months. For example, the Nubia Z60 Ultra Leading Version was introduced last July after the initial Nubia Z60 Ultra was unveiled in December of 2023.
Upcoming Refresh
Now, ZTE is gearing up to refresh the Z70 Ultra, which is currently priced at $769 on Amazon. This newer model made its debut in China on November 21, followed by a global release just five days later. Up to this point, ZTE has been quite secretive about the specific changes between the two models, even though the new device was spotted recently at TENAA.
New Features Expected
ZTE has announced plans to replace the Z70 Ultra with the Nubia Z70S Ultra Photographer Edition. While the exact release date is still under wraps, the company has indicated that we can expect the launch to happen later this month. Moreover, it appears that the Photographer Edition will feature an upgraded 35 mm camera system, which ZTE touts as ‘fifth generation 35 mm high definition optics.’
Anticipated Specifications
At this moment, ZTE has not disclosed further information about the Nubia Z70S Ultra Photographer Edition. However, it would be surprising if the company opted not to use the SM8750-AC chipset, known as the Snapdragon 8 Elite Leading Version, to set the new phone apart from the Z70 Ultra. Interestingly, Digital Chat Station had predicted in October that this version would start appearing in devices from April going forward.
Nubia via GSMArena
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Tags: Nubia Z70 Ultra, Nubia Z70S Ultra Photographer Edition, ZTE
April 2, 2025
Vivo X200 Ultra: Camera Samples from Premium Ultra-Wide Lens
Key Takeaways
1. Vivo’s executive Han Bo Xiao shared camera samples of the X200 Ultra, comparing it favorably to a DSLR and the iPhone 16 Pro Max.
2. The X200 Ultra features an innovative ultra-wide-angle camera with a 1/1.28-inch optical format and ‘Zeiss ultra-level’ optical image stabilization (OIS).
3. The phone is expected to use the Sony LYT-818 sensor with a 50 MP native output for both the main camera and ultra-wide-angle camera.
4. The main camera will be paired with a 35 mm lens, while the ultra-wide-angle camera will have a 14 mm equivalent focal length.
5. The X200 Ultra aims to enhance smartphone photography with advanced camera technologies and impressive specifications.
Vivo’s executive Han Bo Xiao has recently shared some new teasers about the X200 Ultra on Weibo. He posted camera samples that showcased the phone quite favorably when compared to a DSLR and an iPhone 16 Pro Max (currently priced at $1,021.95 on Amazon). After that, Han Bo Xiao aimed to demonstrate how the X200 Ultra outshines the iPhone in areas where Apple usually excels.
Camera Features
Now, the same executive has displayed images taken with the X200 Ultra’s innovative ultra-wide-angle camera. Han Bo Xiao mentioned that this camera features a 1/1.28-inch optical format along with ‘Zeiss ultra-level’ optical image stabilisation (OIS). In simpler terms, it looks like the X200 Ultra will incorporate the Sony LYT-818 sensor, which delivers native output at 50 MP.
Sensor Specifications
If previous leaks hold true, Vivo will apply the same sensor for the main camera of the X200 Ultra. To provide some context, the LYT-818 is expected to be paired with a 35 mm lens as part of the main camera setup. On the other hand, the ultra-wide-angle camera is anticipated to have a 14 mm equivalent focal length. Regardless of this, both cameras will feature two dedicated image signal processors (ISPs), which we have discussed in separate details.
Conclusion
In summary, Han Bo Xiao’s recent insights about the X200 Ultra hint at a device that might push the boundaries of smartphone photography. With its advanced camera technologies and impressive specs, this device could be a strong contender in the market.
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Tags: vivo, X200 Ultra, ZEISS
April 2, 2025
Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller with Headphone Jack in FCC Filing
Key Takeaways
1. Nintendo is releasing a Switch 2 Pro Controller with a new headphone jack, addressing a major limitation of the original Pro Controller.
2. The updated controller is expected to have comfort and durability similar to its predecessor while enhancing connectivity to match Xbox and PlayStation controllers.
3. Speculation suggests the Switch 2 may feature Bluetooth 5.2 or newer, potentially improving audio quality and connection stability.
4. The new controller will have a different battery compared to the original, raising concerns about battery life.
5. An updated wireless GameCube controller may be on the way, hinting at possible remakes of classic GameCube games for the Switch 2.
Ahead of the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct on April 2nd, there’s been a lot of buzz around the updated Joy-Cons. Yet, Nintendo is aware that players still want a full-sized option. A recent FCC filing found by Famiboards confirms the existence of a Switch 2 Pro Controller. The paperwork reveals new information, including a headphone jack that the original Pro Controller doesn’t have.
Comfort and Connectivity
The Switch Pro controller is known for its comfy design and durable build. However, it does have a significant drawback. Without a headphone jack, gamers had to find alternative ways to listen privately. The headphone port was only available on the Switch console itself, and Bluetooth headsets couldn’t use their mics. Thankfully, the new FCC filing indicates that earphones will be supported. The connectivity for the Switch 2 Pro Controller is expected to match that of its competitors, the Xbox and PlayStation controllers.
Specifications and Features
Many details about the Switch 2 are still unknown, like which Bluetooth version it will use. However, users on Famiboards speculate that it will feature Bluetooth 5.2 or a newer version. This could mean LE audio support, allowing for a better connection and improved sound quality.
The recent leak about the Switch 2 also mentions a different battery from the one found in the original Switch Pro Controller. The currently sold accessory uses a battery similar to that of the 3DS. This might not be a good sign, as that larger battery is what gives the Switch Pro its great battery life.
GameCube Nostalgia
Fans of the GameCube might also have another controller for the Switch 2 to get excited about. An earlier FCC submission revealed a device that matches the original GameCube controller’s specifications. This updated wireless controller has sparked hopes for remakes of classic GameCube games or expansions to Nintendo Switch Online.
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Tags: GameCube Controller, Nintendo Switch 2, Pro Controller