Category: All News

May 4, 2025
Apple iPhone 17 Air Launching with New Battery Case Feature
Key Takeaways
1. The iPhone 17 Air is set to be announced in September and will replace the iPhone 16 Plus in Apple’s lineup.
2. The iPhone 17 Air will have a slim body of approximately 5.5 mm, but it may come with trade-offs, including a single rear camera and the A19 processor.
3. The device is expected to have a smaller battery, resulting in only 60-70% of users lasting a full day on a single charge.
4. Apple plans to introduce a battery case to help users with battery life, which can charge both the phone and the case simultaneously.
5. The iPhone 17 Air is projected to account for about 10% of sales in the iPhone 17 series.
The Apple iPhone 17 Air is planned to be announced in September, alongside the iPhone 17 and 17 Pro. This super-slim model is likely to take the place of the iPhone 16 Plus within Apple’s lineup. However, there are some whispers about Apple making several trade-offs to achieve the sleek 5.5 mm (~0.2 in) body. For example, the iPhone 17 Air might only include a single rear camera and will feature the Apple A19 processor instead of the quicker A19 Pro.
Compromises in Performance
One of the biggest sacrifices seems to be the smaller battery. Since the battery is one of the largest parts of a smartphone, Apple might not have had any other choice but to reduce its size. A recent report from The Information suggests that only about 60 to 70% of iPhone 17 Air users will manage to last an entire day on a single charge, which is lower than the typical 80 to 90% expected for thicker iPhones.
Solution for Battery Life
In response to this issue, Apple is reportedly preparing to introduce a battery case for users who need extra power while on the move. This case is likely designed to charge both the iPhone 17 Air and itself when plugged into a power outlet using USB-C or MagSafe, which would spare users the hassle of charging both the case and the phone separately. Nevertheless, using such a battery case could make the iPhone 17 Air just as thick and heavy as the iPhone 17 Pro, which might undermine the advantages of its thinner design. Allegedly, Apple expects the iPhone 17 Air to contribute to approximately 10% of the total sales in the iPhone 17 series.
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Tags: Apple A19, battery case, iPhone 17 Air
May 4, 2025
Shanling Launches Portable CD Player with Vacuum Tubes and R2R DAC
Key Takeaways
1. Shanling has launched the EC Zero T, a premium portable CD player aimed at audiophiles, competing with the FiiO DM13 CD player but at a higher price point of $589.
2. The device features Shanling’s own R2R type DAC for high fidelity sound and includes JAN6418 vacuum tubes, enhancing its premium appeal.
3. It offers versatile connectivity options with analog outputs (3.5 mm and 4.4 mm), Bluetooth 5.3 with aptX adaptive support, and a USB-C port for use as a DAC.
4. To combat vibrations that can cause skipping, the EC Zero T includes a specialized servo system, motor, and a magnetic mechanism for securing CDs.
5. The EC Zero T weighs 669 grams due to its solid CNC-milled aluminum construction, with a battery life of 8 hours via 3.5 mm output and up to 20 hours when using Bluetooth.
After the comeback of portable cassette players, portable CD players have recently become trendy again. Riding on this wave, Shanling has unveiled the EC Zero T, a somewhat premium product packed with features that are bound to catch the attention of many audiophiles. This device will rival the FiiO DM13 CD player, although it comes with a noticeably higher price tag.
About Shanling
For those not familiar with the brand, Shanling is a Chinese manufacturer known for making CD players since the late 1990s. In recent years, they have also introduced budget-friendly yet highly rated digital music devices, like the M1 Plus, which currently retails for $199 on Amazon.
Notable Features
With the EC Zero T, Shanling has crafted its own R2R type DAC, which is known for its linearity and high fidelity (though the actual noticeable difference is up for debate due to many other factors). Additionally, the device features a pair of JAN6418 vacuum tubes that are intended to elevate its premium status. These tubes are said to be shock and vibration resistant, and like many tube-based products today, they are visible through a small window.
Analog outputs are available through two line level ports, 3.5 mm and 4.4 mm, which allows a broader range of headphone compatibility. There’s also Bluetooth 5.3 with aptX adaptive support, and you can use the USB-C port to connect it as a DAC for external devices like laptops.
Addressing Vibrations
Vibrations pose a challenge for all CD drives, as even the slightest misalignment of the laser can lead to skipping, similar to issues with vinyl records. Shanling asserts that they have integrated features to combat this, including a specialized servo system and motor. They also introduced a magnetic mechanism to secure the CD, moving away from the bead-type clamp you might recall from older laptop CD drives.
Design and Battery Life
Although designed for portability, the EC Zero T is quite weighty at 669 grams, attributed to its construction from solid CNC-milled aluminum. It boasts a battery life of 8 hours when using the 3.5 mm output, and up to 20 hours when connected via Bluetooth.
The EC Zero T is priced at $589 and will be available shortly through authorized sellers in the US and Europe. You can already place a pre-order with a UK-based retailer.
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Tags: audiophile DAC, portable CD player, Shanling EC Zero T
May 4, 2025
AOC Q27G4Z Gaming Monitor: Affordable, High Refresh Rate & Pivot Mode
Key Takeaways
1. High Refresh Rates: The AOC Q27G4Z supports a refresh rate of 240 Hz, which can be overclocked to 260 Hz using DisplayPort 1.4.
2. 27-Inch Fast IPS Display: It features a 27-inch display with a 1440p resolution, providing sharper images than Full HD while being less demanding on hardware than 4K.
3. Excellent Color and Brightness: The monitor offers 99% sRGB coverage with a Delta E of less than 2, achieving brightness levels of 450 nits for HDR and 350 nits for SDR.
4. Flexible Mounting Options: It includes a VESA mounting interface and an adjustable stand for height, tilt, rotation, and pivot functions, allowing for versatile usage.
5. Affordable Pricing: The AOC Q27G4Z is priced around $180 in China, with availability and pricing in other regions yet to be confirmed.
The AOC Q27G4Z is a latest monitor aimed at gamers. This gaming monitor, like many others, offers high refresh rates, but it has a decent native resolution. It features a 27-inch fast IPS display with a 1440p resolution, providing several benefits. This resolution gives sharper images compared to Full HD and requires less powerful hardware than 4K, usually allowing for better frame rates at its native setting. Although the AOC Q27G4Z can run at 240 Hz out of the box, overclocking allows it to reach 260 Hz. This overclocking is only possible with DisplayPort 1.4, as HDMI 2.0 caps the refresh rate at 144 Hz. The official specifications indicate a Moving Picture Response Time of 0.3 ms and a Grey-to-Grey response time of 1 ms.
Stunning Color Coverage and Brightness
The AOC Q27G4Z offers 99% sRGB coverage, and it maintains a Delta E of less than 2. In terms of brightness, it reaches 450 nits for HDR content and 350 nits for SDR. It has a VESA mounting interface (100 x 100 mm) for wall or arm mounting. Additionally, the stand that comes with the monitor lets users modify the height, tilt, and rotation of the screen. A unique feature of this monitor is its pivot function, which allows for portrait mode usage – useful for activities like coding or text editing. The pricing for this model is around $180 in China, but details on availability and pricing in other areas are still unknown.
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Tags: 1440p resolution, AOC Q27G4Z, Gaming Monitor
May 4, 2025
Oppo Reno 14 Pro to Launch with MediaTek Dimensity 8450 Processor
Key Takeaways
1. Oppo will soon reveal the Reno 14 series, but the exact launch date is not yet known.
2. The Reno 14 Pro is expected to feature the MediaTek Dimensity 8450 chipset, a variation of the Dimensity 8400.
3. Geekbench results show the Reno 14 Pro with a CPU configuration of 1+3+4 clusters and up to 12GB of RAM, with a potential 16GB option.
4. The Reno 14 Pro is anticipated to launch in China first before expanding to other regions.
5. Along with the Reno 14 Pro, Oppo will also introduce the Enco Clip earbuds and a tablet called Oppo Pad SE, which may feature an 11-inch LCD screen and a Helio G100 processor.
Oppo is set to reveal the Reno 14 series shortly, but a specific launch date is still unknown. Meanwhile, some details about the upcoming phones are already surfacing. The most recent leak includes information regarding the chipset that will be used in the Reno 14 Pro.
Geekbench Insights
Recently, the Reno 14 Pro was listed on Geekbench, although it was referred to as the Reno 14. The device, identified by the model number ‘PKZ110’, was tested with an octa-core processor that is thought to be the MediaTek Dimensity 8400. A well-known leaker has now disclosed the true chipset that powers this phone.
Chipset Details
As per Digital Chat Station, the Reno 14 Pro is equipped with the Dimensity 8450, which seems to be a variation of the Dimensity 8400. This chipset has yet to be officially announced, but it is likely it will be unveiled at the same time as the Reno 14 Pro.
According to the Geekbench results, the processor features a CPU with three clusters (1+3+4). The prime core runs at a clock speed of 3.25GHz, while the three performance cores are clocked at 3.0GHz, and the four efficiency cores operate at 2.1GHz. The chipset is combined with 12GB of RAM, but we can’t dismiss the chance of a 16GB RAM option similar to last year’s Reno 13 Pro. The Reno 14 Pro is expected to launch in China before it reaches other regions.
Additional Launches
Aside from the Reno 14 Pro’s chipset, the source also indicated that Oppo will introduce a new set of earbuds called the Enco Clip, as well as a tablet named the Oppo Pad SE. This tablet is rumored to feature an 11-inch LCD screen and a Helio G100 processor, although earlier reports suggested it might be powered by a Helio G99 processor. Moreover, it is expected to have a 9,340mAh battery, support for 33W fast charging, weigh 530 grams, and measure 7.39mm in thickness.
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Tags: Dimensity 8450, Oppo Pad SE, Reno 14 Pro
May 4, 2025
RTX 4090 Connector Melting Issues: Ongoing Problems Explained
Key Takeaways
1. Connector Melting Issue: RTX 4090 users are experiencing melting 12VHPWR connectors, leading to burnt plastic odors and fusing to graphics cards and power supply units (PSUs).
2. Thermal Imbalance: The lack of current monitoring across the 12V lines results in uneven current distribution, causing thermal hotspots and connector degradation.
3. Resistance Variability: Significant inconsistencies in resistance values among the power pins can lead to localized heating, generating enough heat to compromise connector integrity.
4. Vendor Accountability: Inno3D has denied responsibility for connector issues under warranty, while other vendors like ModDIY have shown willingness to assist, highlighting inconsistent vendor responses.
5. Design Criticism: Der8auer criticizes Nvidia’s power connector design and calls for better protection and support for consumers, emphasizing the need for a redesign to prevent future failures.
The ongoing issue of melting 12VHPWR connectors has come back into the spotlight, this time impacting a user of the RTX 4090 who reached out to overclocker and YouTuber Der8auer. While enjoying some gaming, the user detected a familiar burnt plastic odor and found that the high-power connector had fused to both the graphics card and PSU ends. The graphics card in question was an Inno3D model that had since been modified with water cooling, operating with an undervolt and connected via a ModDIY cable that used 16 AWG ultra-soft wires. Even with careful assembly and a PSU (SilverStone Extreme 850R) considered suitable for a 4090, the plug became stuck, indicating a thermal issue within the connector. Inno3D’s customer service, however, declined to provide assistance, claiming that the damage was on the cable and PSU sides—an argument that Der8auer finds technically flawed.
Current Monitoring Issues
Der8auer elaborates that the main problem focuses on the absence of current monitoring across the individual 12V lines in the 12VHPWR interface. It seems that RTX 40 and 50 series graphics cards are unable to identify uneven current distribution among their six power pins. This imbalance, often caused by varying contact resistances in the wires or pins, can create thermal hotspots. In this particular instance, Der8auer managed to take apart and replace the damaged connector on the GPU side himself, using an H++ version of the 12VHPWR plug. His measurements showed significant inconsistencies in resistance values—one pin was as low as 12 milliohms, while another reached 43 milliohms, and one had no connection whatsoever. These differences directly lead to uneven current flow, which results in localized heating and ultimately causes connector melting and degradation. Even with a modest power draw, this can generate up to 4.6 watts of heat concentrated in a small area—sufficient to compromise the connector’s integrity over time.
Vendor Responses
Adding to the frustration is the inconsistent response from vendors. ModDIY displayed some readiness to assist, including an offer to pay for repair costs, but Inno3D consistently denied any responsibility, even though the card was still under warranty. Der8auer emphasizes that only the GPU-side design can effectively reduce these risks, as neither the cable nor the PSU can monitor load distribution. He notes that while high resistance can effectively “cut off” a wire, it causes more current to flow through the remaining wires, which leads to a cycle of overheating. Ultimately, Der8auer criticizes Nvidia’s poor power connector design and the lack of accountability from its partners. With high-end graphics cards priced over 2,000 euros, consumers deserve better protection—and quicker support—when failures happen. Until Nvidia revisits this design, users face ongoing risks, regardless of how meticulously they assemble or undervolt their systems.
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Tags: 12VHPWR, Der8auer, RTX 4090
May 4, 2025
RedMagic Nova Gaming Tablet Falls Short in AnTuTu Rankings
Key Takeaways
1. The Snapdragon 8 Elite has reclaimed its top position in the flagship smartphone rankings by AnTuTu.
2. The Dimensity 8400 continues to perform well in the mid-range smartphone category.
3. The Oppo Pad 4 Pro achieved the highest score in the tablet performance rankings for April 2025, with a score of 2,849,493.
4. The RedMagic Nova gaming tablet was absent from the rankings, likely due to not meeting the required 1,000 valid benchmark runs.
5. The Vivo Pad 5 Pro follows the Oppo Pad 4 Pro in tablet rankings, scoring 2,640,803, and the remaining tablets feature last-generation flagship SoCs.
AnTuTu has released its rankings for flagship and mid-range smartphones, with the Snapdragon 8 Elite reclaiming its top position. Meanwhile, the Dimensity 8400 continues to perform well in the mid-range category. Additionally, AnTuTu has also announced the best-performing tablets, and surprisingly, the RedMagic Nova did not secure the highest rank this time.
Missing from the Rankings
In fact, the gaming tablet was entirely absent from the list. This situation isn’t particularly unusual. The monthly AnTuTu rankings require devices to have a minimum of 1,000 valid benchmark runs to qualify, and it seems the RedMagic Nova did not meet this requirement.
Top Performers
Returning to the rankings, the newly launched Oppo Pad 4 Pro has achieved the highest score in the AnTuTu tablet performance rankings for April 2025. It is equipped with the Snapdragon 8 Elite, while the Vivo Pad 5 Pro follows closely behind, boasting the Dimensity 9400. Their average scores stand at 2,849,493 and 2,640,803, respectively.
More Tablets in the Lineup
The remaining tablets in the latest AnTuTu rankings consist of last-generation flagship system-on-chips (SoCs). Below is a summary of their performance:
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Tags: Dimensity 8400, Oppo Pad 4 Pro, Snapdragon 8 Elite
May 4, 2025
Rad Power Bikes Launches RadRunner Max Cargo E-Bike with 60-Mile Range
Key Takeaways
1. The new RadRunner series includes three models: RadRunner, RadRunner Plus, and RadRunner Max Cargo utility e-bike, featuring improved performance and safety.
2. The RadRunner Max has a 750 W motor, 90 Nm of torque, can climb 25-degree slopes, and reaches speeds of 28 mph, with a range of up to 60 miles on a single charge.
3. A new Range Extender can increase the RadRunner Max’s range to 125 miles, and it includes comfort features like 20” x 3.5” tires and an 80 mm suspension.
4. The e-bike supports a maximum payload of 420 lbs, features an 8-speed drivetrain, a color display, and includes a radar detection system for rider safety.
5. Priced at $2,299, the RadRunner Max comes in deep emerald green and can be pre-ordered, with shipping expected to start in May 2025.
Rad Power Bikes has introduced its latest RadRunner series, which includes the brand-new RadRunner, the RadRunner Plus, and the RadRunner Max Cargo utility e-bike. This updated lineup offers enhanced performance, a sturdier design, and upgraded safety features compared to previous models, as stated by the company in their press release.
Performance and Specifications
The RadRunner Max Cargo utility e-bike is built for both off-road and on-road adventures. It comes with a powerful 750 W rear-mounted motor that provides up to 90 Nm of torque, allowing it to climb slopes of up to 25 degrees. The rear hub motor allows for assistance at speeds reaching 28 mph (approximately 45 kph). In terms of range, this e-bike can cover up to 60 miles (96.5 km) thanks to its 672 Wh removable battery, which incorporates safe-shield technology to help prevent overheating accidents.
Range Extender and Comfort Features
In addition to the three new RadRunner models, the company has also launched a new Range Extender, which can be used with the cargo e-bike to increase the range up to 125 miles (201 km). The e-bike is equipped with 20” x 3.5” tires, a Gemma GA-100B hydraulic braking system, and Exsho suspension offering 80 mm travel, which ensures a comfortable ride even on uneven surfaces.
Additional Features and Pricing
The UL-certified e-bike is made of aluminum and can support a maximum payload of 420 lbs (190.5 kg). It features an 8-speed drivetrain and a built-in color display that provides essential information, including speed, battery levels, trip time, distance traveled, estimated remaining range, and pedal assist level. Additionally, it sports a new radar detection system that warns the rider of nearby vehicles and other cyclists right on the display.
Other notable features include a headlight with an ambient light sensor, a USB-C port for device charging, IPX6 water resistance, passcode security, and support for Apple Find My, which helps locate the e-bike using Apple devices like the Apple Watch, iPad, or iPhone.
The RadRunner Max Cargo utility e-bike is available in a single deep emerald green color and can be pre-ordered through Rad Power Bikes’ official website for $2,299, with shipping expected to begin in May 2025.
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Tags: E-Bike, Rad Power Bikes, RadRunner Max
May 4, 2025
Teclast N30: Affordable Mini PC with Triple Monitor Support
Key Takeaways
1. Teclast N30 is a budget-friendly mini PC with an Intel N150 processor suitable for basic tasks like office work and web browsing.
2. It features 16GB of DDR4 RAM and a 512GB NVMe SSD, with an additional M.2 2280 slot for storage expansion and replaceable RAM.
3. The compact design (about 9 ounces and half a liter) allows for easy placement and VESA compatibility for monitor attachment.
4. Connectivity options include multiple USB ports, HDMI, and Ethernet, but lacks USB-C support.
5. The Teclast N30 is priced at $181 on AliExpress, but shipping to the U.S. is currently unavailable; an alternative option is the GMKtec Mini PC G3 Plus on Amazon.
Teclast offers a range of devices, including tablets available on Amazon, and compact PCs such as the newly released N30. This mini PC is equipped with an Intel N150 processor, which features four cores and is designed for budget-friendly use, though it doesn’t deliver high performance. It should be adequate for tasks like office work and web browsing; however, those interested in video editing or gaming should consider other options.
Specifications and Features
The N30 comes with 16GB of DDR4 RAM and a 512GB NVMe SSD, providing ample storage. Additionally, it has a second M.2 2280 SSD slot for further expansion of its internal storage. The RAM can also be replaced, which might help if any issues arise. Weighing just about 9 ounces and housed in a compact case of half a liter, it’s easy to place on any workspace. Furthermore, it can be attached to the back of a monitor due to its VESA compatibility.
Connectivity Options
On its front, the device features two USB 3.2 Type-A ports, while another Type-A and a USB 2.0 port are located at the back. Even though USB-C is known for its versatility, the N30 still includes HDMI and Ethernet ports on its rear. Currently, the Teclast N30 is available on AliExpress for a budget-friendly price of $181, but unfortunately, shipping to the United States is not available at this moment.
Alternative Option
If you’re looking for something in the same price range, consider the GMKtec Mini PC G3 Plus, which is also listed on Amazon.
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Tags: budget computer, Mini-PC, Teclast N30
May 4, 2025
Oppo Pad SE Set to Launch as First Dimensity G-Series Tablet
Key Takeaways
1. The Oppo “Pad SE” features the Helio G99 chipset and aims to be an affordable tablet.
2. It will have an 11-inch LCD display and a 9,340mAh battery with 33W fast charging.
3. Speculations suggest the “Dimensity G100” platform may just be a rebranding of the G99 chip.
4. The Pad SE is expected to launch alongside the Enco Clip earbuds, a competitor to existing models.
5. Both devices may debut with the Reno14 smartphone series, anticipated in late 2025.
the upcoming Oppo “Pad SE” is said to be named for its affordable and tried-and-true internals, which features the well-known Helio G99 chipset.
Display and Battery Details
Recent leaks claim that the tablet will sport an 11-inch LCD screen and a substantial 9,340mAh battery supporting relatively quick 33W charging. Additionally, it suggests that the device will come equipped with a new “Dimensity G100” platform.
Speculations on Launch
Oppo may introduce the Pad SE as a world-first, despite its entry-level specifications. However, there is a possibility that the “G100” is merely a rebranding of the existing G99 rather than a true upgrade to the three-year-old chip technology.
Accompanying Devices
Regardless, the Pad SE is expected to launch alongside the Enco Clip, which might be Oppo’s response to the Huawei FreeClip or Nothing Ear (Open) buds, judging by the name.
These two new gadgets could potentially debut at the same time as the more high-end Reno14 smartphone series, anticipated later in 2025.
The Nothing Ear (Open) is currently available at a limited-time price of $129 on Amazon, making it an attractive option.
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Tags: Enco Clip, Helio G99, Oppo Pad SE
May 4, 2025
Huawei eKitStor Shield 200: Fast, Rugged 4TB External SSD
Key Takeaways
1. Huawei launched the Kunling eKitStor Shield 200, a new external SSD available in China.
2. The SSD offers fast transfer speeds of up to 2GB/s via USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 and USB Type-C.
3. It features a durable design with a reinforced metal casing and a rubber layer, rated to survive drops and heavy weights.
4. The SSD has an IP67 rating, making it resistant to dust and water.
5. Pricing starts at $106 for the 1TB model and $192 for the 2TB version.
Online stores like Amazon offer a vast array of portable storage options for smartphones and other gadgets. Some of these devices are designed to be compact, while others boast transfer speeds that traditional hard drives can’t match.
New External SSD by Huawei
Huawei has launched a fresh external SSD named the Kunling eKitStor Shield 200, and it’s currently on sale in China. This drive uses flash storage, which allows for quick transfer speeds, and it’s built to endure tough conditions thanks to its durable casing.
Connection and Speed
The Huawei SSD connects through USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 and USB Type-C, with claimed data rates of up to 2GB/s. This speed should be sufficient for fast transferring of videos or photos to and from the SSD. Of course, to reach these speeds, the Kunling eKitStor Shield 200 must be connected to a compatible device. Huawei also promotes hardware encryption for added security.
Durability and Pricing
As for durability, the external SSD features a reinforced metal casing with a rubber layer. Huawei claims that it can survive drops from about 10 feet and can even be driven over by vehicles weighing as much as 2 tons. Thanks to its IP67 rating, the solid-state drive is also protected from dust and water. The Kunling eKitStor Shield 200 weighs around 6.3 oz, with dimensions of 4.3 x 2.8 x 0.75 inches, and it consumes 6 watts of power. The new Huawei SSD starts at a price of $106 for the 1TB variant, while the 2TB model is priced at $192. However, the 4TB version doesn’t appear to be available at this time.
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Tags: external SSD, Huawei, Kunling eKitStor Shield 200