Category: All News

  • Minisforum Launches Affordable AI X1 Pro Mini PC Configurations

    Minisforum Launches Affordable AI X1 Pro Mini PC Configurations

    Key Takeaways

    1. Minisforum launched the AI X1 Pro gaming mini PC in March 2025, starting at $1,129 (currently $939.99 on Amazon).
    2. New budget-friendly versions are available in China, featuring three additional processor options.
    3. The Ryzen AI 9 365 variant includes the Radeon 880M iGPU and is priced at approximately $745.
    4. The Ryzen 7 260 configuration features the older Radeon 780M and is priced around $609.
    5. The most affordable option, Ryzen 7 255, is available for about $535 and is thought to be a rebranding of the Ryzen 7 8745HS.

    Minisforum recently launched the AI X1 Pro, a new gaming mini PC from the Strix Point series, in March 2025. It first appeared globally with a base price of $1,129 (currently $939.99 on Amazon). Now, the company has rolled out more budget-friendly versions of this system in China, which come with three additional processor choices.

    New Processor Options

    One of the new options features the Ryzen AI 9 365, which is part of the Strix Point series but is a lower-tier option compared to the Ryzen AI 9 HX 370. This variant comes with the Radeon 880M iGPU, instead of the more powerful 890M. It’s equipped with 32 GB of RAM along with 1 TB of storage, and in China, it retails for CNY 5,368, which is around $745.

    Additional Configurations

    Another available setup of the Minisforum AI X1 Pro includes the Ryzen 7 260, belonging to the Hawk Point series and featuring the older Radeon 780M. This configuration is priced at CNY 4,389 in China, roughly translating to $609. Like the others, it also comes with 32 GB of RAM and 1 TB of storage.

    The Most Affordable Option

    The least expensive configuration features the Ryzen 7 255, also from the Hawk Point series, which is thought to be a rebranding of the Ryzen 7 8745HS. This version includes 32 GB of RAM and 1 TB of storage, priced at CNY 3,859, which is about $535.

    Aside from the processors, all other features in these configurations seem to match those of the Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 version that was launched initially. This includes a robust selection of ports with one OCuLink and two USB4 connections. The compact design is another standout feature of the Minisforum AI X1 Pro, and the chassis even contains a fingerprint scanner.

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  • Onn 4K Plus Outperforms Google TV Streamer 4K and Onn 4K Pro

    Onn 4K Plus Outperforms Google TV Streamer 4K and Onn 4K Pro

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Onn 4K Plus streaming device offers impressive performance with the Amlogic S905X5M chip, achieving high scores in Geekbench tests.
    2. It outperforms its sibling, the Onn 4K Pro, despite being marketed as a lower-end model, showcasing a strong price-to-performance ratio.
    3. Priced at $30, the Onn 4K Plus is significantly cheaper than the Onn 4K Pro ($50) and Google TV Streamer 4K ($100).
    4. The device includes essential features such as WiFi6, a Type C port, 2 GB of RAM, 16 GB of storage, and a ‘find my remote’ function.
    5. The Onn 4K Plus is positioned as an excellent budget-friendly option for streaming, combining good performance with affordability.

    Walmart has just launched the new Onn 4K Plus streaming device. This latest streaming box became available in stores a few weeks ago and has also been featured on Walmart’s online platform since that time. Like other models in the Onn series, it really excels beyond expectations.

    Impressive Performance

    According to AFTVnews, the Onn 4K Plus showcases remarkable performance due to the new Amlogic S905X5M chip that powers it. In Geekbench’s testing, it achieved scores of 1,146 for single-core and 3,131 for multi-core performance. These results are only surpassed by Amazon’s Fire TV Cube 3 and Fire TV Cube 2 among current devices.

    Competing Against Its Sibling

    Surprisingly, the Onn 4K Plus outperforms its sibling, the Onn 4K Pro, which is marketed as a higher-end model. The Onn 4K Pro received scores of 833 and 2,050 in the same tests. In contrast, Google’s TV Streamer 4K (available on Amazon) lands in the middle with scores of 917 and 2,527 for single-core and multi-core respectively.

    All of these figures lead to one clear conclusion: the Onn 4K Plus is a leader in price-to-performance ratio. To put it in perspective, it is priced at $30 compared to the Onn 4K Pro’s $50 and the Google TV Streamer 4K’s hefty $100. The Fire Cube 3 is also a solid choice for those who are okay with some quirks of Fire TV, coming in at $100.

    Beyond Just Specs

    However, it’s important to remember that there is more to a streaming box than just CPU specs. The Onn 4K Plus does come with most essential features, including WiFi6, a Type C port, 2 GB of RAM, 16 GB of storage, a ‘find my remote’ function, and compatibility with popular codecs and formats.

    In conclusion, the Onn 4K Plus seems to be a great buy for anyone looking for a streaming device that doesn’t break the bank.

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    Onn 4K Plus Outperforms Google TV Streamer 4K and Onn 4K Pro

     

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  • Volkswagen ID. Buzz Adds Cupholders to Enhance Comfort in June

    Volkswagen ID. Buzz Adds Cupholders to Enhance Comfort in June

    Key Takeaways

    1. Many Volkswagen ID.Buzz owners are frustrated by the lack of second-row cupholders.
    2. Volkswagen plans to release an accessory with cupholders in June that can also hold smartphones.
    3. The cupholders will be compatible with both bench seat and captain’s chair setups.
    4. They can be attached to the inside of captain’s chairs for better accessibility.
    5. The price is expected to be under $100, with ordering options available online or at local dealerships.

    Many owners of the Volkswagen ID.Buzz have expressed their frustration regarding one notable absence: cupholders in the second row. This oversight makes it difficult for passengers to sip on a drink or coffee while handling their phones or other devices. Thankfully, the German automaker is set to rectify this situation with a new accessory launching in June.

    Cupholder Details

    Volkswagen has informed InsideEVs journalist Kevin Williams that the cupholders will be available in pairs. They are designed to fit both the bench seat and captain’s chair setups. An added benefit is that these cupholders will also hold smartphones.

    Improved Placement

    The cupholders can be attached to the inside of the captain’s chairs, offering a more user-friendly position compared to having them face the door. The design allows for the complete set to be fitted on just one chair if desired.

    Pricing and Availability

    While Volkswagen hasn’t disclosed an exact price, they indicated that the accessory would likely be priced under $100. Customers will have the option to order them online or visit a local Volkswagen dealership.

    Currently, there are no images of the cupholders available, but further details are expected as the release date approaches. Although it’s encouraging to see Volkswagen responding to a frequent concern, some owners might feel uneasy about paying for a feature that is typically included as standard in many modern vehicles.

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  • Casio OCW-S6000PB-7A Oceanus Manta: Titanium and Sapphire Bezel

    Casio OCW-S6000PB-7A Oceanus Manta: Titanium and Sapphire Bezel

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Casio OCW-S6000PB-7AJF is part of the Oceanus Manta series, launching in June 2025, with a limited release of 600 pieces priced at ¥385,000 (approximately $2,700).
    2. The watch features a silver-white dial with dark blue subdials and a unique sapphire bezel with 72 facets for enhanced light reflection.
    3. It operates on Tough Solar technology and includes Multi-Band 6 radio control, along with Bluetooth connectivity for added features via the Casio Watches app.
    4. Constructed from lightweight titanium, the watch has a water resistance rating of 10 bar and offers day, date, and 24-hour tracking through organized subdials.
    5. While not a significant innovation, the design is appealing to Oceanus fans, emphasizing clean aesthetics and craftsmanship suitable for everyday wear.

    Casio has introduced a new model in its Oceanus Manta series, the OCW-S6000PB-7AJF, which is expected to launch in June 2025. The watch is priced at ¥385,000 (approximately $2,700) and will be limited to just 600 pieces. While it retains the classic Manta style, this model features some noticeable enhancements.

    Design and Features

    This new offering sticks to the OCW-S6000 design aesthetic, which is characterized by its slim, lightweight build and emphasis on balance. The watch face showcases a silver-white background with dark blue subdials and a 12 o’clock index, creating a pleasant vertical contrast. A standout feature of this watch is the sapphire bezel, which is intricately cut with 24 facets on the top and 48 on the sides, allowing it to beautifully catch and reflect light from various angles. The focus here is more on shimmer rather than a bright shine.

    Technical Specifications

    As with many models in the Oceanus collection, it operates on Tough Solar technology and includes Multi-Band 6 radio control. Bluetooth connectivity via the Casio Watches app enables features like world time, self-correction, and a phone finder. Constructed from titanium, both the case and bracelet are designed to keep the watch light on the wrist, while its water resistance is rated at 10 bar.

    The subdials provide day, date, and 24-hour tracking, which might not be extraordinary but is nicely organized. Additionally, Casio has applied platinum vapor deposition to the outer bezel, which modifies how it reflects light under different circumstances.

    Conclusion

    Overall, this new release does not aim to innovate significantly. However, it should certainly appeal to Oceanus enthusiasts who appreciate clean, detailed designs ideal for everyday wear. It’s understated, well-crafted, and is likely to look more impressive in motion than it does in static images.

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    Casio OCW-S6000PB-7A Oceanus Manta: Titanium and Sapphire BezelCasio OCW-S6000PB-7A Oceanus Manta: Titanium and Sapphire Bezel
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  • Hogwarts Legacy Price Cut: Save Big on Steam Now

    Hogwarts Legacy Price Cut: Save Big on Steam Now

    Key Takeaways

    1. Sales Success: Hogwarts Legacy sold over 30 million copies, making it one of WB Games’ top franchises despite calls for a boycott.
    2. Storyline: Players start as a fifth-year student at Hogwarts, getting involved in a conspiracy that threatens the wizarding world.
    3. Exploration: The game allows players to explore Hogwarts and its surroundings, but the dimensions are adjusted for gameplay, and Quidditch is missing.
    4. Open World Limitations: While the game features a large open world, certain areas are locked until players progress in the storyline, and exploration can become repetitive.
    5. Content Issues: A PlayStation-exclusive questline has not yet been released on PC, and the game is currently available on Steam for $15, a significant discount from its original price.

    Hogwarts Legacy made a big splash when it came out in 2023, with many people saying they would boycott it. Still, it has sold over 30 million copies as of now, making it one of WB Games’ top franchises. Among games set in the Harry Potter universe, it stands out as one of the most detailed, largely due to its expansive open world.

    Storyline Overview

    In Hogwarts Legacy, you begin your journey as a fifth-year student at Hogwarts. Your ride to school is interrupted when your carriage is attacked, and soon, you find yourself entangled in a conspiracy that could disrupt the entire wizarding world. Familiar characters show up, including Headmaster Phineas Nigellus Black, who is an ancestor of Sirius Black.

    Game Exploration

    Players can thoroughly explore the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, although the dimensions have been scaled to fit a gaming format. Still, fans of the series will surely appreciate wandering through the many corridors they’ve read about in the books. You can soar around on your broomstick, but Quidditch is oddly missing from the game for a rather silly reason explained within the story.

    Open World Experience

    Besides the fully accessible school, Hogwarts Legacy features a large open world with famous spots like Hogsmeade. There are numerous collectibles, side quests, and lore packed in, but like many previous open-world games, the exploration can feel repetitive after some time. Technically, the world isn’t entirely open, as certain areas are blocked off until you advance in the storyline.

    While wand combat is a key element of Hogwarts Legacy’s gameplay, it is interspersed with puzzles, side quests, and a lot of dialogue. However, some aspects of the lore are confusing. For instance, you can use Unforgivable Curses without any repercussions, even though mastering them is quite the hassle.

    Content Availability

    Despite WB Games’ assurances, the PlayStation-exclusive questline has yet to be released on PC. This is unfortunate because it represents one of the most difficult challenges in the game. Hogwarts Legacy is available on Steam for $15, which is 75% less than its original $60 price tag. Although the game isn’t brand new and often sees discounts, if you’ve been holding out for a lower price, now is a great time to buy.

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  • NetherRealm Confirms No More DLC or Story Expansions for MK1

    NetherRealm Confirms No More DLC or Story Expansions for MK1

    Key Takeaways

    1. Mortal Kombat 1: Definitive Edition includes the original game and all DLCs, priced at $69.99 (or $59.99 on Nintendo Switch).
    2. No new content or story expansions will be added to the game moving forward, leading to player disappointment.
    3. The game will still receive updates and bug fixes, but no new chapters or DLC characters will be introduced.
    4. NetherRealm Studios is shifting focus to their next project, with speculation about a new Injustice game.
    5. Warner Bros. Games appears to be moving on from Mortal Kombat quickly, indicating plans for future projects.

    A week ago, NetherRealm Studios along with Warner Bros. Games made an announcement about the release of Mortal Kombat 1: Definitive Edition. This version is nearly a complete package of the game, which includes the original game along with all downloadable content and expansions that have been launched since its debut in September 2023.

    Pricing and Content Details

    The Definitive Edition is priced at $69.99 for all platforms, except for the Nintendo Switch, where it is available for $59.99. This announcement also confirmed that no new content will be added to the game moving forward. Fans were not pleased with this news, as many were hoping for a new story expansion and additional DLCs. Following the backlash, the Mortal Kombat account on X shared a statement to address these concerns.

    Addressing Player Concerns

    In the statement, they acknowledged the numerous requests for ongoing support for the game. However, it was clarified that, while the game will still receive updates and bug fixes, there will be no new chapters in the storyline or extra DLC characters. The reason provided in the official announcement was that the NetherRealm team needs to shift their focus to their next project.

    It’s understandable that players feel let down, especially since many were looking forward to a new story expansion that could potentially improve the disappointment caused by the expensive Khaos Reigns expansion. Warner Bros. seems to be moving on from Mortal Kombat rather quickly, indicating different plans ahead.

    Speculations About the Next Project

    Right now, there is no definitive information regarding what NetherRealm Studios will work on next, but there’s speculation that it could be a new Injustice game. The last entry in that series, Injustice 2, came out in 2017. With James Gunn mentioning that video games will play a significant role in the upcoming DC Universe, it feels like the perfect moment for another installment in the Injustice franchise.

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  • Nintendo Direct Expected Near Switch 2 Release Date for Games

    Nintendo Direct Expected Near Switch 2 Release Date for Games

    Key Takeaways

    1. Nintendo plans to leverage excitement around the Switch 2 launch with various gaming events in June.
    2. Leaker PH Brazil suggests a Nintendo Direct may occur around June 5th, focusing on Switch 2 games, though details are limited.
    3. Launch titles for the Switch 2 include Donkey Kong Bananza, but other major games have vague release dates set for 2025.
    4. Upcoming events like the Summer Games Fest and Xbox Games Showcase could feature third-party games for the Switch 2.
    5. There is potential for Xbox titles, such as Sea of Thieves and Starfield, to be introduced for the Switch 2 during these events.

    The time around the Switch 2 launch will feature a lot of gaming events. It seems that Nintendo is keen to make the most of the excitement that comes with the new handheld. According to a post on Famiboards, leaker PH Brazil has shared that the upcoming Nintendo Direct is probably set for the week of June 5th or soon after. This presentation might spotlight the eagerly awaited Switch 2 games, although details may be scarce.

    Leaker’s Credibility

    PH Brazil, also known as Pedro Lippe, doesn’t always hit the mark with his forecasts. However, a number of his leaks regarding the Switch 2, including game updates, have turned out to be accurate. June is a month when Nintendo usually holds Direct events, so many gamers are on the lookout for a show during this time. The company could opt to host an online event on the Switch 2 release date of June 5th, or they might postpone announcements until the following week.

    Launch Titles

    Even with a strong lineup of games at launch, there remains a lack of information on some Nintendo titles. Fans are aware that Donkey Kong Bananza is set to launch on July 17th. However, other games like Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, Kirby Air Riders, and Pokémon Legends: Z-A only have vague release dates set for 2025. While Drag x Drive has showcased the handheld’s mouse mode, its release date is still uncertain as well.

    Third-Party Games

    Nintendo’s next big event might also touch on third-party games. The Summer Games Fest is scheduled for June 6th, while the Xbox Games Showcase will happen on June 8th. With Phil Spencer showing interest in the console back in January, both events could potentially introduce the first Xbox Switch 2 games. The possibilities for ports are vast, including titles like Sea of Thieves, Starfield, and Blizzard games such as Diablo 4.

    In spite of the rivalry, the gaming giant is sure to have loads to unveil during a June Nintendo Direct.

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    Nintendo Direct Expected Near Switch 2 Release Date for GamesNintendo Direct Expected Near Switch 2 Release Date for Games

     

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  • iReader Tango: New 30Hz eBook Reader in Smartphone Design

    iReader Tango: New 30Hz eBook Reader in Smartphone Design

    Key Takeaways

    1. The iReader Tango features a 6.13-inch Carta 1300 e-ink screen with a resolution of 1648 x 842 pixels and supports 256 levels of grayscale.
    2. It can increase the refresh rate to 30Hz for displaying moving images, but is primarily designed for reading e-books and text-heavy content.
    3. The device has 128GB of internal storage, 8GB of RAM, and is powered by an octa-core processor.
    4. It includes a 3,900mAh battery, providing a standby time of up to 27 days, and has WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity.
    5. The iReader Tango is priced at approximately $250 and is mainly available in China, with import options for other regions.

    We’ve frequently covered e-readers that come in a variety of shapes and sizes, including those resembling smartphones. The latest addition to this category is the iReader Tango, which is now on sale in China for about $250. While this e-book reader brand isn’t officially sold in many western countries, it can still be purchased through import options.

    Display Features

    Now, let’s dive into the iReader Tango’s specifications. It boasts a 6.13-inch e-ink screen, specifically a Carta 1300 panel with a resolution of 1648 x 842 pixels. While it doesn’t offer color support, it can display 256 levels of grayscale. The manufacturer claims that a particular display mode can increase the refresh rate to 30Hz, which should be sufficient for displaying moving images. However, it’s important to note that the iReader Tango is mainly crafted for reading e-books and other text-heavy content. Additionally, the backlight color temperature can be adjusted to suit user preferences.

    Performance and Connectivity

    Furthermore, this e-book reader is equipped with 128GB of internal storage, 8GB of RAM, and runs on an octa-core processor. You’ll find the buttons positioned on the left side of the device, and the 3,900mAh battery offers an impressive standby time of up to 27 days. It also supports both WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity. For those interested in a similarly sized e-reader that doesn’t require importing, the Onyx Boox Palma 2 is available on Amazon.

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  • Fairphone 4 to Skip Android 14 and Upgrade Directly to Android 15

    Fairphone 4 to Skip Android 14 and Upgrade Directly to Android 15

    Key Takeaways

    1. Fairphone 4 is no longer sold officially but continues to receive software support, currently limited to Android 13.
    2. The company promised six years of updates for the Fairphone 4, but the Android 14 update has been canceled due to resource constraints.
    3. Fairphone is shifting focus to develop the Android 15 update instead of pursuing Android 14 for the Fairphone 4.
    4. There is no timeline for the release of the Android 15 update for either the Fairphone 4 or the newer Fairphone 5.
    5. Fairphone 4 will receive software support and security updates until at least 2026, with a possibility of extension to 2028.

    It has nearly been four years since the Fairphone 4 made its debut, and even though the phone is no longer sold officially due to a newer model, Fairphone continues to offer software assistance. The device is currently limited to Android 13 because Fairphone has not managed to release the Android 14 update, and an official announcement states that this update will not be available.

    Update Timeline

    The Fairphone 4 originally launched with Android 11 and was promised to receive updates for six years. However, the last upgrade to the operating system was Android 13 in 2023. Fairphone had initially indicated that an Android 14 update would be ready by early 2025, but that has not occurred. The company mentions that it is facing resource constraints and is working to remedy this by enlarging its support team and seeking external assistance.

    Shift in Focus

    Recently, Fairphone announced that the Android 14 update will not be released. A message on their community forum indicates a shift in focus towards Android 15 for the Fairphone 4. This decision followed a detailed assessment of the efforts required to produce a stable Android 14 update.

    There is currently no information regarding when the Android 15 update will be available for the Fairphone 5, but the company has stated that it will enhance its communication with its community, so more updates are expected soon. The newer Fairphone 5 (currently priced at €499 on Amazon.de) also has not received the Android 15 update yet, leaving it unclear which device will get it first or if they will both receive it simultaneously.

    Continued Support

    The Fairphone 4 will still benefit from software support until 2026, although Fairphone has hinted that this might be extended to 2028. At present, it offers security updates every two months for the Fairphone 4 and intends to continue doing this until the device reaches its end of life.

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  • FU03 Mini PC: AMD Ryzen 7, 64GB RAM, 4TB SSD Features

    FU03 Mini PC: AMD Ryzen 7, 64GB RAM, 4TB SSD Features

    Key Takeaways

    1. Processor Performance: The FU03 features an AMD Ryzen 7 8845HS processor with eight cores, providing sufficient performance for various applications.

    2. Configuration Options: The mini PC can be configured with up to 64GB DDR5 RAM and a 4TB SSD, with a barebone version starting at $362 on Aliexpress.

    3. Upgrade Possibilities: Users can add a second M.2-2280 NVMe SSD after purchase, enhancing storage options.

    4. Multiple Display Outputs: The FU03 supports four displays at 4K resolution with two HDMI 2.1 and two DisplayPort 2.1 connections.

    5. Connectivity Features: It includes two 2.5 GBit/s Ethernet ports, WiFi 6, Bluetooth 5.2, and multiple USB ports, along with a COM port for industrial use.

    The FU03 is a recent mini PC from Kingnovy, featuring an AMD Ryzen 7 8845HS processor. While this chip isn’t the latest on the market, its eight cores are expected to deliver sufficient performance for a wide range of applications. Customers can choose between a barebone setup or a fully equipped version that includes memory and storage options.

    Configuration Options

    Specifically, the FU03 can be configured with a maximum of 64GB DDR5 RAM and a 4TB SSD. The barebone version is available for $362 on Aliexpress. However, buyers should be aware that there could be extra shipping costs or import duties, and claiming warranty might be tricky as customer service from Chinese sellers is often unsatisfactory.

    Upgrade Possibilities

    Importantly, users have the option to add a second M.2-2280 NVMe SSD after the initial purchase. The mini PC itself measures 7.1 x 5.0 x 2.5 inches and includes multiple display outputs. In detail, it comes with two HDMI 2.1 and two DisplayPort 2.1 connections, capable of supporting four displays at 4K resolution and refresh rates up to 120Hz.

    Connectivity Features

    On the networking front, it has two Ethernet ports, each capable of 2.5 GBit/s speeds. Additionally, it supports WiFi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2. Other connectivity features consist of two USB 3.2 ports offering 10GBit/s and two USB 2.0 ports, which are handy for connecting peripherals like a mouse, keyboard, or other accessories. Finally, the Kingnovy FU03 includes a COM port, useful for industrial applications, allowing users to connect devices like scales or other machinery.

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