Category: All News

April 7, 2025
Sony Nintendo Switch 2 Survey Sparks Interest in New PlayStation Handheld
Key Takeaways
1. Sony’s survey aims to gauge consumer interest in the Nintendo Switch 2 and its pre-order methods, potentially influencing PlayStation’s future handheld development.
2. The survey includes questions on features of the Switch 2 that may attract gamers from PlayStation, highlighting competitive concerns in the handheld market.
3. Scalping issues have prompted Sony to explore strategies similar to Nintendo’s for handling pre-orders and customer prioritization.
4. The gaming handheld market is becoming increasingly competitive, with companies like Microsoft and Asus also venturing into new devices.
5. Although a new PlayStation handheld may be years away, insights from the survey could help Sony avoid past mistakes in console launches.
Competitor analysis forms a crucial part of any sales plan. This is equally true for gaming consoles, and a recent survey by PlayStation has been directed at the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2. The well-known leaker, eXtas1s, posted a copy of the survey on X. Sony’s inquiry seeks to understand which specifications of the Switch 2 excite consumers and whether they support Nintendo’s pre-order methods. This has led to speculation that the feedback might influence the development of a new handheld device from PlayStation.
Survey Insights
Some of Sony’s survey questions aim to measure the general enthusiasm for Nintendo’s upcoming handheld. Others are geared towards identifying which new features of the Switch 2 could attract gamers away from PlayStation’s competition. Additionally, the survey addresses the conditions for pre-ordering a Nintendo system. Customers need to sign up on Nintendo’s store site, with priority granted to long-time Nintendo Switch Online subscribers. Scalping has posed challenges for console makers, so Sony might be considering a similar strategy for their next release.
Market Competition
The market for gaming handhelds has become more cutthroat. Microsoft has changed direction to focus on being a cross-platform publisher but hasn’t abandoned its hardware roots. Recently, Asus hinted at Project Kennan, a Windows-based handheld that could feature an Xbox user interface. Meanwhile, Sony’s PlayStation Portal is mainly centered on streaming games from the PS5 and utilizing cloud gaming. Some gamers speculate that the survey reinforces the rumors regarding a new PlayStation handheld device.
If Sony follows its previous launch patterns, the PS6 could potentially debut by 2027. Nevertheless, most experts think this console won’t be portable. However, in November 2024, Bloomberg disclosed that Sony was working on a handheld device concurrently. This new machine aims to deliver a gaming experience similar to the PS5 but in a more compact size.
Future Prospects
While any new PlayStation handheld may still be years away, Nintendo and Microsoft might hold an edge by that time. The recent survey regarding the Switch 2, however, might aid Sony in steering clear of the mistakes made during previous console rollouts.
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Tags: handheld gaming, Nintendo Switch 2, PlayStation
April 7, 2025
Vivo X200 Ultra Leaked Video: Features 35mm Zeiss Camera
Key Takeaways
1. Recent leaks show images and a video of the Vivo X200 Ultra, though it’s unclear if they represent the final design for the 2025 flagship.
2. The device features a significant camera module with three large sensors and a high-performance 200-megapixel telephoto camera.
3. The camera bump on the Vivo X200 Ultra is nearly as thick as the phone’s body, indicating a robust design.
4. The back of the phone includes a textured panel and a zoomable LED flash with a multispectral sensor.
5. A new camera button is added for quick access to camera functions, and Vivo has released sample photos showcasing the camera’s image quality.
To start the new week, it’s probably a good idea to check out the latest leak concerning the Vivo X200 Ultra from China. While it remains unclear if the images shown here depict the final design for the Zeiss camera flagship set for 2025, we still find these visuals and the video below to be fairly credible.
New Video and Images Surface
A few weeks back, the first image of a Vivo X200 Ultra test model in bright red appeared in China. Recently, another hands-on video made its way to the social media platform “Little Red Book,” which is gaining recognition beyond China. This video was subsequently shared on Weibo, showcasing some slightly unclear hands-on photos that prominently display the “Vario-Apo-Sonnar” and “1.69-2.27 / 14-85mm ASPH” inscriptions on the device. These details align perfectly with the rumored specifications of the first Vivo 35mm camera flagship that has been mentioned by various leakers and Vivo executives.
Impressive Camera Module
The images and video further illustrate how substantial the camera module of this all-in-one camera flagship truly is. Featuring three almost equally large sensors that range from 1/1.28-inch to 1/1.4-inch, it certainly requires a lot of room, especially considering the module includes 3x OIS and a high-performance 200-megapixel telephoto camera. In these visuals, the camera bump appears nearly as thick as the phone’s body.
Design Features
On the back of the silver Vivo X200 Ultra, a textured panel stretches at least halfway up the circular camera bump. The zoomable LED flash with a multispectral sensor sits at the top left corner. Meanwhile, the front showcases a quad-curved display glass, although sadly, the screen is off. To the right, there’s a new camera button designed for easy access to the camera functions. Lastly, Vivo has already released some official sample photographs to demonstrate the image quality of the new 35mm Zeiss camera.
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Tags: Little Red Book, Vivo X200 Ultra, Zeiss Camera
April 7, 2025
Honda to Test Lunar Fuel Cell System on International Space Station
Key Takeaways
1. Honda’s Space Development Division is sending a water electrolysis system to the ISS for lunar fuel cell use.
2. The system splits water into hydrogen and oxygen using solar-generated electricity through electrolysis.
3. Hydrogen can be stored for fuel cell applications, while oxygen ensures breathable air for astronauts.
4. The fuel cell system generates electricity at night using stored hydrogen and oxygen, recycling water as a by-product.
5. Honda is collaborating with Sierra Space and Tec-Masters, with a launch date yet to be announced.
Honda’s Space Development Division is gearing up to send its water electrolysis system to the International Space Station (ISS). This innovative system plays a crucial role in the regenerative lunar fuel cell setup, which is designed to produce electricity, hydrogen, and oxygen for astronauts working on the moon.
How It Works
The only things needed for this system are water and electricity. During the day, solar panels on the moon will generate electricity to split water into hydrogen ions through the process called electrolysis. The small H+ ions move through a special one-way electrolyte membrane and then combine on the other side to form hydrogen. This membrane, which is just 0.1 mm thick, is built to handle a pressure of 70 MPa, which is about 700 times that of Earth’s atmosphere.
Collecting and Using Hydrogen
Under these high-pressure conditions, larger H2 molecules can be gathered and stored for use in the fuel cell system or for other applications, like powering lunar vehicles with hydrogen. This electrolysis process also produces oxygen, ensuring that astronauts have enough air to breathe while they’re on the moon.
At night, the fuel cell system utilizes some of the hydrogen and oxygen in a reverse reaction to generate electricity, with water being the only by-product. This water can then be recycled for use the following day, creating a sustainable energy cycle.
Collaboration and Future Plans
Honda is collaborating with Sierra Space and Tec-Masters for this exciting project. However, the specific launch date has not yet been revealed.
For those fascinated by the potential of hydrogen, there is a book available on Amazon that explores its uses. Additionally, for DIY enthusiasts, there’s a guide on Amazon that teaches how to build a solar hydrogen fuel cell system.
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Tags: Honda, hydrogen fuel cell, International Space Station
April 7, 2025
OnePlus 13T: Alert Slider Removed, Confirms Company Executive
Key Takeaways
1. The OnePlus 13T will feature the Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset, enhancing its competitiveness against top models like the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra.
2. The traditional Alert Slider will be removed from the OnePlus 13T, replaced by a new shortcut key called the “Magic Cube Key.”
3. The Magic Cube Key will allow users to switch between silent, ringing, and vibration modes, with potential for custom operations similar to Apple’s Action Button.
4. OnePlus plans to introduce a “very interesting” feature for the Magic Cube Key, with more details to be revealed in future teasers.
5. The trend of removing physical buttons like the Alert Slider is being seen across the smartphone industry, with other brands like Nothing and Oppo adopting similar shortcut keys.
OnePlus is preparing to introduce its next flagship device, the OnePlus 13T. Although there is no announcement regarding the launch date yet, AnTuTu has disclosed that this upcoming phone will be powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset, positioning it to compete with other top models like the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra, which is currently priced at $1,291.75 on Amazon for the 512 GB version.
New Features Confirmed
In a recent post on Weibo, Louis Lee, the president of OnePlus China, confirmed that the traditional Alert Slider will be absent from this model, a detail that was previously hinted at by well-known tipster Digital Chat Station. Instead, the OnePlus 13T will come with a new shortcut key resembling an Action Button.
While Louis Lee did not specify the name of this new key, Digital Chat Station has reported that it will be referred to as the “Magic Cube Key.” The president of OnePlus did provide some information on the functionalities this new key will offer.
Functionality of the New Key
According to the Weibo post, the shortcut key will replicate the functions of the former Alert Slider, allowing users to switch between silent, ringing, and vibration modes. Additionally, it may support custom operations, potentially similar to the features Apple provides with the Action Button on its latest iPhone models.
Louis Lee also mentioned that the company has added a “very interesting” feature to the shortcut key of the OnePlus 13T, though he did not elaborate on what that might be. He assured that more details regarding this intriguing function would be shared in upcoming teasers.
Community Reactions and Industry Trends
It remains uncertain how OnePlus fans will react to the removal of the beloved Alert Slider, but it looks like many smartphone makers are moving in this direction. For instance, the Nothing Phone 3a series introduced the “Essential Key,” which allows for Essential Space app integration and the ability to take screenshots. Additionally, Oppo is anticipated to implement a similar shortcut key in its future devices, like the OnePlus 13T.
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Tags: Alert Slider, OnePlus 13T, Snapdragon 8 Elite
April 7, 2025
MSI 275QPF X30: 27-Inch Gaming Monitor with 300Hz Refresh Rate
Key Takeaways
1. The MSI MAG 275QPF X30 is a 27-inch gaming monitor with a 1440p resolution and a maximum refresh rate of 300 Hz for smooth gameplay.
2. It features a Rapid IPS panel with a static contrast ratio of 1000:1 and an SDR brightness of 400 cd/m², achieving DisplayHDR 400 certification.
3. The monitor covers 89% of the Adobe RGB color space but may not be ideal for graphic design purposes.
4. Connectivity options include HDMI 2.1, DisplayPort 1.4a, and a standard audio jack, but it lacks additional features like a USB hub or KVM switch.
5. The adjustable stand allows for height modification, but pricing and availability details are currently unknown.
The MSI MAG 275QPF X30 is a newly released 27-inch gaming monitor that features a 1440p resolution. While this resolution is quite common for gaming displays, monitors aimed at productivity and multitasking typically benefit from a higher 4K resolution. The MAG 275QPF X30 offers an impressive maximum refresh rate of 300 Hz, which guarantees a super smooth viewing experience. According to MSI, the grey-to-grey response time is only 0.5 ms. This monitor also provides Adaptive Sync, which helps to align its refresh rate with the frame rate of the graphics card.
Display Performance
Utilizing a Rapid IPS panel, the MAG 275QPF X30 presents a slightly diminished contrast ratio and peak brightness compared to OLED or mini LED displays. It has a static contrast ratio of 1000:1 and an SDR brightness level of 400 cd/m², sufficient for achieving DisplayHDR 400 certification. MSI claims the monitor covers 89% of the Adobe RGB color space, though it might not be the best choice for those involved in graphic design.
Connectivity Options
The monitor is equipped with HDMI 2.1 and DisplayPort 1.4a inputs, along with a standard audio jack. However, it does not include extra I/O features like a USB hub or a KVM switch. The included stand allows users to modify the monitor’s position, including its height. As of now, there is no information regarding pricing and availability. If you’re looking for alternatives, the Asus ROG Strix XG27AQMR (available here on Amazon) could be a good consideration.
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Tags: 1440p Gaming Monitor, Adaptive-Sync, MSI MAG 275QPF X30
April 7, 2025
BYD Unveils First Electric Cars with 1-Megawatt Charging Tech April 9
Key Takeaways
1. BYD is launching the Han L sedan and Tang L SUV on April 9th, featuring the fastest charging technology for light-duty vehicles.
2. The Super e-Platform allows for a driving range increase of up to 400 km in just 5 minutes of charging.
3. Pre-orders for both models started on March 17th, with prices set at RMB 270,000 ($37,080) for the Han L and RMB 280,000 for the Tang L.
4. The Han L accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 2.7 seconds, while the Tang L does so in 3.7 seconds, both equipped with advanced LiDAR technology.
5. BYD plans to establish 4,000 new charging stations in China, with about 500 ready before the vehicles hit dealerships.
BYD is set to launch the Han L sedan and Tang L SUV on April 9th, marking them as the quickest-charging light-duty vehicles currently in production. These models utilize the innovative Super e-Platform, allowing for an impressive increase in driving range of up to 400 km in just 5 minutes.
Event Details
The launch event is scheduled for 7 p.m. local time in Beijing, as stated in a BYD announcement on Weibo. The automaker asserts that these new electric vehicles represent a significant advancement in the industry.
Pre-Orders and Pricing
On March 17th, BYD introduced their ultra-rapid charging tech and also began accepting pre-orders for the Han L and Tang L on the same day. The starting prices for the sedan and SUV are RMB 270,000 ($37,080) and RMB 280,000, respectively.
Performance Features
The Han L boasts an impressive acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in a mere 2.7 seconds, while the Tang L achieves the same speed in about 3.7 seconds. Both vehicles are fitted with God Eye, BYD’s LiDAR-based technology that competes with Tesla’s Full Self-Driving capabilities.
The Super e-Platform enables rapid charging, providing up to 1 Megawatt of power, which is double the output of Tesla’s Superchargers. BYD aims to set up 4,000 new charging stations across China, with around 500 expected to be operational before the Han L and Tang L become available at dealerships.
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Tags: BYD, Han L, Tang L
April 7, 2025
Vivo X200 Ultra Launch Date and First Press Photo Revealed
Key Takeaways
1. Vivo will launch the Vivo X200 Ultra on April 21, 2025, alongside other products like the Vivo X200s and Vivo Watch 5.
2. The Vivo X200 Ultra features a large camera bump to accommodate advanced camera sensors, including a primary and ultrawide camera.
3. The design of the camera bump provides a comfortable resting place for the index finger when holding the phone in portrait mode.
4. The Vivo X200 Ultra includes a built-in shutter button positioned lower than the Camera Control button found on iPhones for easier photography.
5. More updates about Vivo products are expected to be shared on their Weibo account soon.
Vivo has shared its plans to introduce new products, with the Vivo X200 Ultra taking center stage, in April. The official launch date has been confirmed. On April 21, 2025, this eagerly awaited flagship with a Zeiss camera will be available in China, alongside the Vivo X200s, Vivo Watch 5, Vivo Pad 5 Pro, and the budget-friendly Vivo Pad SE.
Focus on the Vivo X200 Ultra
It’s no surprise that all eyes are on the Vivo X200 Ultra, which was recently spotted in a leaked hands-on video. The camera bump on this model is incredibly large compared to the sleeker design of the X200s. This substantial design choice has its reasons: a considerable amount of depth is needed to fit two 1/1.28-inch sensors for the 35 mm primary camera and the 14 mm ultrawide camera, in addition to the most light-sensitive telephoto lens ever seen in a smartphone.
Features of the Camera Bump
Han Bo Xiao, the product manager at Vivo who first shared the official press image, pointed out several advantages of the large camera bump. It offers a nice resting place for your index finger when holding the phone in portrait mode. Moreover, when in landscape orientation, photography lovers will find the built-in shutter button on the right side, which is positioned lower than the Camera Control button on an iPhone, quite handy. You can view a selection of remarkable photos taken with the 35 mm Zeiss camera here, here, and here.
Upcoming Announcements
Vivo’s Weibo account, managed by Han Bo Xiao, is expected to share more exciting updates soon.
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Tags: Vivo Pad 5 Pro, Vivo X200 Ultra, Zeiss Camera
April 7, 2025
Nintendo Switch 2: Game Developer Reveals Graphics Features
Key Takeaways
1. The Nintendo Switch 2 features significant hardware improvements over the previous model, enhancing graphics and performance.
2. Civilization VII is confirmed for the Nintendo Switch 2, alongside other platforms, and is set to launch on June 5.
3. The game performs similarly to a mid-level gaming PC, according to Dennis Shirk, the executive producer.
4. The new console offers “10x the graphics performance” compared to the original Nintendo Switch, according to Nvidia.
5. Players can transfer their existing Civilization VII game to the Switch 2 but must purchase an upgrade to access new features.
Nintendo’s Switch 2 boasts several hardware improvements compared to the previous model, and the team behind Civilization 7 has lauded its graphics capabilities. Dennis Shirk, the executive producer of the game, specifically mentioned that its performance is similar to that of a mid-level gaming PC.
Confirmed Titles
Civilization VII is just one of the many titles confirmed for the Nintendo Switch 2. The game launched on various platforms, including Windows, PlayStation 4 and 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, macOS, Steam Deck, and the older Nintendo handheld on February 11, 2025. The developers have expressed satisfaction with how well the game performs on the Switch 2.
Impressive Performance
In a chat with Stephen Totilo from Game File, Dennis Shirk noted that the game runs smoothly like it does on a “mid-tier PC,” thanks to the console’s ample power. This statement follows Nvidia’s assertion that the Nintendo Switch 2 can achieve “10x the graphics performance” of its first-generation counterpart.
Enhanced Experience
The original Civilization 7 port for the Nintendo Switch received a mixed bag of reviews due to the limited hardware capabilities of the device. Many players reported avoiding larger maps just to have a somewhat playable experience on the older console.
However, with the developer’s positive feedback on the graphical prowess of the Nintendo Switch 2, players can expect a significantly improved experience with the new hardware. For those who haven’t heard, Sid Meier’s Civilization VII is set to arrive on Nintendo’s latest console on June 5. Players who own the existing Switch version (available on Amazon) will be able to transfer their game to the Switch 2, although they will need to purchase an upgrade to access the new features.
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Tags: Civilization VII, Gaming Performance, Nintendo Switch 2
April 7, 2025
iPhone Prices May Surge 3.5x Due to New Tariffs
Key Takeaways
1. Economic sanctions by the U.S. may lead to severe backlash and a potential “self-inflicted Economic Armageddon.”
2. Consumer buying power is expected to decline, with prices of premium smartphones, like the iPhone, potentially rising to $3,500.
3. Apple’s supply chain may face cost increases of 40% to 50%, contributing to higher product prices.
4. Rumors of a design overhaul for the iPhone 17 Pro series may not ease pricing concerns.
5. The current price for the 256GB iPhone 16 Pro Max is $1,149.99 on Amazon.
The economic sanctions recently enacted by the current U.S. administration have sparked significant backlash from trade analysts, including those at Wedbush Securities. They suggest that these measures could result in a “self-inflicted Economic Armageddon.”
Consumer Impact
If this scenario unfolds, it will probably be seen through a notable decline in consumer buying power, as prices for commonly sought-after items, such as new premium smartphones, are expected to rise. Wedbush estimates that an iPhone, which previously retailed for $1,000, could jump to as high as $3,500 once the tariffs are implemented.
Supply Chain Issues
This dramatic price surge is believed to be tied to the effects on Apple’s supply chain, which may experience cost increases of 40% or even 50%.
Upcoming iPhone Updates
If the rumors about the iPhone 17 Pro series receiving a design overhaul turn out to be true, it may not alleviate the situation. The anticipated new camera design, which is speculated to blend elements from both the 16 Pro Max and the Pixel 9 Pro XL, has recently surfaced via a leaked image.
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Tags: Apple supply chain, economic sanctions, iPhone 17 Pro
April 7, 2025
Beelink SEi13 Pro Mini PC: 32GB RAM and Built-in Speakers
Key Takeaways
1. The Beelink SEi13 Pro features a powerful Intel Core i9 13900HK, offering a 5.4% performance increase over its predecessor.
2. The mini PC lacks OCuLink and USB4 ports, limiting support for external GPUs, but includes Iris Xe Graphics G7 for light graphics tasks.
3. Integrated dual speakers provide “full-bodied” audio, suitable for work environments, along with a built-in microphone.
4. It includes a quiet cooling system (MSC2.0) and a reasonable selection of ports.
5. Specifications include 32 GB of LPDDR5 RAM, up to 8 TB of PCIe 4.0 storage, Bluetooth 5.2, and WiFi 6, with a starting price of $539.
Beelink has launched a new mini PC called the SEi13 Pro. This model offers a significant upgrade from its previous version, which could be configured with a maximum of a Core i7 1260P. The SEi13 Pro now comes with the more powerful Intel Core i9 13900HK. Based on our testing, you can expect at least a 5.4% increase in overall performance.
Connectivity Features
Unlike many other mini PCs that have been released recently, the SEi13 Pro does not come with an OCuLink port. It also lacks a USB4 port, which means that support for external GPUs is not really possible. Still, Beelink emphasizes the capabilities of the Iris Xe Graphics G7 integrated GPU, which is adequate for light graphics tasks.
Audio and Design
One of the standout features of the SEi13 Pro is its integrated speakers. Beelink asserts that the dual-speaker configuration provides “full-bodied” audio, making it a suitable option for work environments where there isn’t much room for additional external speakers.
The SEi13 Pro is also equipped with a built-in microphone and a cooling system known as MSC2.0, which is said to operate quietly, allowing for near-silent performance. Although the system misses out on OCuLink and USB4 ports, the overall port selection remains quite reasonable. The mini PC includes:
Performance Specs
Among its other key specifications, the mini PC boasts 32 GB of LPDDR5 RAM working in dual-channel mode, support for up to 8 TB of PCIe 4.0 storage (for instance, a 4 TB Samsung 990 Pro priced at $279.99 on Amazon), Bluetooth 5.2, and WiFi 6. The initial price point for the Beelink SEi13 Pro is set at $539, and it can be purchased directly from the official website.
Tags: Beelink SEi13 Pro, Intel Core i9 13900HK, Mini-PC