Category: All News

May 8, 2025
New Samsung 4K QLED TV with 144Hz Motion Xcelerator Launches
Key Takeaways
1. The Samsung QN85F 4K Neo QLED TV is available in four sizes: 55-inch, 65-inch, 75-inch, and 85-inch.
2. It features 4K resolution, a 100 Hz refresh rate, Quantum Matrix Plus, and Neo Quantum HDR+ technology.
3. The TV runs on the Tizen Smart TV OS, supports various streaming platforms, and includes voice control with Bixby and Amazon Alexa.
4. It offers gaming enhancements like a variable refresh rate up to 144Hz, ALLM, and AMD FreeSync Premium Pro.
5. Pre-orders are open in select European countries, starting at £1,499/€1,499 for the 55-inch model, with US availability still uncertain.
Samsung has introduced the QN85F 4K Neo QLED TV across Europe. This model is positioned in the center of the brand’s lineup for 2025 and comes in four different sizes: 55-inch, 65-inch, 75-inch, and 85-inch.
Features and Specifications
The QN85F boasts a 4K resolution along with a native refresh rate of 100 Hz, utilizing Quantum Matrix Plus and Neo Quantum HDR+ technology. It is powered by the 2024 NQ4 AI Gen 2 Processor, which includes features such as 4K Upscaling and Motion Enhancer Pro. Additionally, it supports HDR10+ and offers a variable refresh rate that can reach up to 144Hz, along with Motion Xcelerator 144Hz to improve gaming performance. Other gaming enhancements include ALLM, Game Motion Plus, Super Ultra Wide Game View, and AMD FreeSync Premium Pro.
Smart Features and Connectivity
Running on the Tizen Smart TV OS, users have access to a variety of streaming platforms, can share their screens using Apple AirPlay, and use voice commands with built-in Bixby and Amazon Alexa. The TV features a 40W 2.2 channel sound system that supports Dolby Atmos and includes technologies like Object Tracking Sound Lite and Samsung Q-Symphony. You can connect additional speakers, gaming consoles, or other devices through its ports, which consist of HDMI 2.1, USB-A, LAN, and optical audio. It also comes with a SolarCell remote that has a button for activating the voice assistant.
Availability and Pricing
Pre-orders for the Samsung QN85F 4K Neo QLED TV are now open in countries such as the UK, Italy, and Austria. The starting price is £1,499/€1,499 for the 55-inch version; a complete pricing list is provided below. It remains uncertain when this model will become available in the US.
Source:
Link
Tags: 4K resolution, Neo QLED TV, Samsung QN85F
May 8, 2025
Affordable Bionic Hand Breakthrough: No Brain Implant Needed
Key Takeaways
1. BrainCo’s bionic limb allows amputees to perform precise movements without invasive surgeries, unlike Neuralink implants.
2. The bionic hand uses myoelectric technology to detect nerve signals and can perform movements with sub-millimeter precision.
3. The latest model features a USB-C port for quick and convenient charging.
4. BrainCo’s research focuses on AI algorithms to optimize electrode use, making their bionic hand more affordable than competitors.
5. In addition to bionic hands, BrainCo also produces bionic legs and a bionic hand kit for STEM education and research.
The BrainCo company, known for its brain-computer interface (BCI) technology, recently showcased its latest version of a bionic limb. This advanced device enables amputees to perform precise movements without needing to undergo surgeries associated with Elon Musk’s Neuralink brain implants.
During a visit to Hangzhou, the leader of Hong Kong observed the second version of BrainCo’s commercial bionic hand. He was impressed to see amputees easily shaking hands, playing the piano, and even practicing calligraphy.
Myoelectric Technology
The bionic hand utilizes myoelectric technology, which detects signals from nerves under the skin and responds accordingly. The latest model of this bionic limb can perform movements with incredible precision, within a sub-millimeter range, and amputees only need about 30 seconds to wear it.
Additionally, the prosthetic hand now comes with a USB-C port, enabling quicker and more convenient charging while on the move.
Research and Development
BrainCo, which was founded at Harvard and is based in Massachusetts, operates a research and production facility in Hangzhou. This site is part of the Six Little Dragons startup cluster, which includes the notable DeepSeek AI.
Researchers at BrainCo have developed AI-driven algorithms to find the best number of electrodes needed to achieve sufficient movement precision for everyday tasks with their bionic hand.
This innovation has made their device significantly more affordable to manufacture compared to other myoelectric devices, such as the i-Limb series from the well-known prosthetic company Össur, which also creates popular recovery items like the Formfit Wrist Brace for conditions like tendonitis and carpal tunnel syndrome.
Expanding Product Range
In addition to their non-invasive BCI solutions, BrainCo produces bionic legs that enable amputees not only to walk again but also to participate in fitness and surfing events. They have also created a bionic hand kit called the NeuroMaker, designed for use in STEM education and research activities.
Source:
Link
Tags: bionic hand, BrainCo, myoelectric prosthetics
May 8, 2025
Garmin Resolves GPS Problem in New Smartwatch Beta Update
Key Takeaways
1. Garmin beta version 21.15 is now available for Fenix 7, Fenix 7 Pro, Epix 2, Epix 2 Pro, Enduro 2, Quatix 7, and MARQ Gen 2 smartwatches.
2. The update includes bug fixes for GPS connection issues and potential crashes when adjusting golf pin positions.
3. There is an enhancement to the club sensor menu for golfing users.
4. A new bug was reported by a user related to the Hunt Activity after the update on the Fenix 7X Solar Sapphire.
5. Users can update manually by navigating to Menu > System > Software Update > Check for updates.
The latest update, Garmin beta version 21.15, is now available. This new version is being released to users of the Fenix 7, Fenix 7 Pro, Epix 2, Epix 2 Pro, Enduro 2, Quatix 7, and MARQ Gen 2 smartwatches. It follows a series of updates that previously addressed issues related to running dynamics and body battery glance history.
Bug Fixes Introduced
With beta version 21.15, two additional bug fixes have been added for the Fenix 7 and similar smartwatches. The first fix resolves an issue where the GPS connection would fail to work properly when users resumed their activities. The second fix aims to prevent a potential crash that could happen when the golf pin position is adjusted. Additionally, for those who enjoy golfing, there’s an enhancement to the club sensor menu which is reported to be better.
User Reports and Issues
Despite the improvements, one user on the Garmin forum mentioned a new bug that has emerged on their Fenix 7X Solar Sapphire smartwatch (currently priced at $619.99 on Amazon). They noted that after upgrading to beta version 21.15, an unexpected update appeared related to the Hunt Activity when the Outdoor Map+ QR Code was displayed.
How to Update Manually
The beta version 21.15 update for the Fenix 7 and similar devices should already be available to all users via over-the-air (OTA) updates. If you wish to manually check for this update, navigate through Menu > System > Software Update > Check for updates.
Source:
Link

Tags: beta version 21.15, Fenix 7, Garmin
May 8, 2025
Garmin Beta Update Adds Voice Command to Fenix 8 and Tactix 8
Key Takeaways
1. Garmin has released a new beta update for Fenix 8 and Tactix 8 smartwatches to enhance features and fix bugs.
2. The update improves the Voice Command tool, allowing users to issue various commands directly from their watches.
3. Voice Command Files v1.12 includes support for multiple languages, though specific benefits for users are unclear.
4. Some users have reported a decrease in body battery levels after installing the recent beta updates, with no response from Garmin yet.
5. Fenix 8 users can access the Voice Command Files v1.12 and join the Garmin Beta Program via Garmin Connect.
Garmin has rolled out a fresh beta update for the Fenix 8 AMOLED, Fenix 8 Solar, Tactix 8 AMOLED, and Tactix 8 Solar smartwatches. This update comes shortly after the release of beta version 15.26 in late April 2025, which introduced support for Voice Commands for Applied Ballistics and Flying Apps specifically for the Tactix models, in addition to some bug fixes.
Improvement to Voice Command Tool
The new beta update offers users the chance to try out enhancements to the Voice Command feature. With the built-in speaker and microphone, Fenix 8 and Tactix 8 users can utilize the voice assistant directly on their smartwatches. It can handle various commands like “find my phone,” “turn on airplane mode,” and “increase brightness.”
Language Support and User Concerns
The Voice Command Files v1.12 release includes 17 files that are designed to support multiple languages. Nevertheless, Garmin hasn’t clarified how this update will specifically benefit users. It’s important to note that some users have reported a surprising drop in their body battery levels after installing either beta version 15.26 or Voice Command Files v1.12. As of now, Garmin has not addressed these concerns or provided any solutions.
Voice Command Files v1.12 is now accessible for all Fenix 8 users (47mm AMOLED currently priced at $984.95 on Amazon) and related smartwatches. If you’re interested in becoming part of the Garmin Beta Program, you can register through Garmin Connect; additional information regarding the testing program can be found on the company’s support website.
Source:
Link

Tags: Fenix 8, Garmin, Tactix 8
May 8, 2025
New Free Game Giveaways on Epic Games Store for a Limited Time
Key Takeaways
1. Deadtime Defenders is receiving ‘Positive’ feedback on Steam while in Early Access.
2. Touch Type Tale has an average of ‘Very Positive’ reviews on Steam.
3. Touch Type Tale won the Best Expert Game award at the 2023 German Computer Game Awards.
4. Touch Type Tale also received the Innovation prize from the 2023 German Developer Award.
5. Prices and deals mentioned are subject to change and may vary due to time limits or stock availability.
As it currently is, Deadtime Defenders is getting ‘Positive’ feedback on Steam even though it is still in Early Access. At the same time, Touch Type Tale has an average of Very Positive reviews on that same platform. Additionally, that game won the Best Expert Game award at the German Computer Game Awards in 2023, and it also nabbed the Innovation prize from the German Developer Award in the same year. For more info, check out the listings on Epic Games’ store.
Important Note
Notebookcheck cannot be held liable for any price changes made by sellers. The discounted price or deal mentioned in this piece was valid at the time of writing and could be affected by time limits or limited stock availability.
Source:
Link
Tags: Deadtime Defenders, Epic Games Store, Touch Type Tale
May 8, 2025
Anbernic Reveals Key Specs for New Miyoo Flip Rival RG34XX SP
Key Takeaways
1. Anbernic’s RG34XX SP features a 3.4-inch display with a resolution of 720 x 480 pixels.
2. The device is powered by the Allwinner H700 quad-core processor and has 2 GB of LPDDR4 RAM for improved performance.
3. It includes Bluetooth 4.2 and 5 GHz Wi-Fi connectivity options.
4. The RG34XX SP has a 3,300 mAh battery that can last up to 6 hours on a single charge.
5. Anbernic has emphasized the sturdiness of the RG34XX SP’s hinge design, contrasting it with issues faced by the Miyoo Flip.
Anbernic has released more information about the RG34XX SP, just three days after presenting its new alternative to the Miyoo Flip (currently priced at $74.99 on Amazon). At first, Anbernic concentrated on the design of its latest portable device, while also sharing some details such as a 3.4-inch display with a resolution of 720 x 480 pixels.
New Specifications Confirmed
The company has now revealed that this 3:2 display will be powered by the Allwinner H700, a quad-core processor that Anbernic has frequently used over the past year. This suggests that the RG34XX SP offers performance similar to the current RG35XX SP. However, the increase from 1 GB to 2 GB of LPDDR4 RAM is likely to yield a noticeable performance boost in specific scenarios.
Connectivity and Battery Life
Other features like Bluetooth 4.2 and 5 GHz Wi-Fi remain available, along with a 3,300 mAh battery that Anbernic says can last up to 6 hours on a single charge. It appears that Anbernic has subtly criticized Miyoo, whose clamshell device still faces hinge problems despite a version 2 update. While not overtly stated, Anbernic has taken the unusual approach of highlighting the RG34XX SP’s hinge design and its sturdiness. For complete specifications, take a look at the video linked below.
Source:
Link
Tags: Anbernic, handheld gaming, RG34XX SP
May 8, 2025
Vivo Y300 GT: New Mid-Range Phone with 7,620 mAh Battery
Key Takeaways
1. The Vivo Y300 GT will launch on May 9, 2025, featuring a 7,620 mAh battery with 90 W fast charging capabilities.
2. It is powered by the Dimensity 8400 chipset and includes a 7K vapor cooling system to manage heat during intensive tasks.
3. The phone boasts military-grade waterproofing, dust and sand resistance, and fall protection.
4. The Y300 GT may be a rebranded iQOO Z10 Turbo, featuring a 6.78-inch display with a 144 Hz refresh rate, up to 16 GB RAM, and 512 GB storage.
5. Pricing details are not yet available, but the iQOO Z10 Turbo started at approximately $250.
The Vivo Y300 GT is all set to be revealed in China as a new mid-range smartphone on May 9, 2025. Just hours before the big event, the company gave us a sneak peek by sharing key specifications, with the standout feature being its impressive 7,620 mAh battery.
Fast Charging Capabilities
Vivo also mentioned that this substantial battery is compatible with 90 W fast charging (Ugreen Nexode 100 W charger currently priced at $49.99 on Amazon), and they assert that there won’t be significant capacity loss over a period of 54 months. The latest teasers have also confirmed that the Y300 GT includes bypass charging support, which should help maintain lower temperatures and enhance performance while the device is charging.
Performance and Cooling Features
In terms of performance, the Vivo Y300 GT is confirmed to come equipped with the Dimensity 8400, optimized for high performance. It’s combined with a substantial 7K vapor cooling system, which is designed to keep the mid-range MediaTek chip cool during demanding tasks. Additionally, there’s extra tuning said to reduce peak energy use by 44%.
Durability and Design
Other features that have been confirmed through the recent teasers for this mid-range phone include a military-grade waterproof rating, resistance to sand and dust, as well as protection against falls. Based on the specifications and visuals shared by Vivo, it appears that the Y300 GT may actually be a rebranded version of the iQOO Z10 Turbo, which was released in late April 2025.
If this assumption is correct, the Y300 GT is likely to feature a 6.78-inch display with a 144 Hz refresh rate, up to 16 GB of LPDDR5X RAM, and 512 GB of UFS 4.1 storage, along with a self-developed Q1 gaming chip. Vivo has not yet disclosed the pricing information for this upcoming mid-range smartphone, but the iQOO Z10 Turbo was introduced at a starting price of CNY 1799, which is approximately $250.
Source:
Link
Tags: 620 mAh battery, Dimensity 8400, One UI 6.1, Vivo Y300 GT
May 8, 2025
Alienware Aurora 16: New 16-inch Gaming Laptop Starts at €1,099
Key Takeaways
1. The Aurora 16 is a mid-range gaming laptop from Dell’s Alienware line, priced 35% lower than the Aurora 16X due to fewer features.
2. It comes with base specs including an Intel Core 5 210H processor, Nvidia GeForce RTX 3050 graphics, 8 GB of RAM, and 512 GB of storage, starting at €1,099 (approximately $1,245).
3. Upgrade options are available for a Core 9 270H processor and GeForce RTX 5070 graphics card, but the RTX 5070 is limited to 85 W TGP in the Aurora 16.
4. The laptop features a 300 nit, 120 Hz display and has an option for a larger 96 Wh battery.
5. Release date for the Aurora 16 in the Eurozone is set for May 27, with complete pricing and availability details yet to be confirmed.
The Aurora 16 has been unveiled today as one of two new mid-range gaming laptops by Dell under its Alienware line. While the Aurora 16 and Aurora 16X share a similar appearance, the Aurora 16 has fewer features, allowing it to be sold at a price that is 35% lower. For example, this model uses a plastic casing and lacks RGB backlit keys, which are present in the Aurora 16X.
Specifications and Performance
Many gamers may find the base specs of the Aurora 16 lacking. Dell states that this model is equipped with an Intel Core 5 210H processor, an Nvidia GeForce RTX 3050 graphics card, 8 GB of RAM, and 512 GB of storage. Additionally, it features a 300 nit, 120 Hz display and a 60 Wh battery, all for a starting price of €1,099 (approximately $1,245). As a point of comparison, other laptops with the GeForce RTX 3050, such as the HP Victus 15 or Asus TUF A15 (currently priced at $658 on Amazon), can be found for under $700.
Upgrade Options
However, the Aurora 16 does offer the option to upgrade to a Core 9 270H and a GeForce RTX 5070. This upgrade could make it more competitive with the Aurora 16X. That said, Dell limits the GeForce RTX 5070 to an 85 W TGP in the Aurora 16, whereas the Aurora 16X allows for 115 W with an additional 15 W Dynamic Boost.
The Aurora 16 also has the option to come with a larger 96 Wh battery. All versions include dual USB Type-A and USB Type-C ports, as well as HDMI 2.1 and Ethernet ports. The release date for the Aurora 16 in the Eurozone is set for May 27, although Dell has yet to confirm complete pricing and availability details.
Source:
Link

Tags: Alienware, Aurora 16, Gaming Laptops
May 8, 2025
Aurora 16X: Alienware’s Mid-Range Comeback with RTX 5070 GPU
Key Takeaways
1. Alienware introduced the Aurora 16X, which offers more powerful hardware options than the Aurora 16, making it thicker and heavier.
2. The Aurora 16X features Intel’s Arrow Lake processors, ranging from Core Ultra 5 235HX to Core Ultra 9 275HX, and Nvidia GeForce RTX 5060 or 5070 graphics cards.
3. The device includes a 16-inch IPS display with a resolution of 2,560 x 1,600 pixels, 500 nits brightness, and a 240 Hz refresh rate.
4. It comes with a 90 Wh battery, two M.2 SSD slots, and an RGB backlit keyboard, which are not available in the Aurora 16.
5. The Aurora 16X will be available in the Eurozone starting May 27, with a base price of €1,699 (about $1,923).
Alienware has unveiled the Aurora 16X today along with the Aurora 16, which we have discussed in a different article. Although both models appear alike, the Aurora 16X offers a chance to configure much more powerful components compared to the Aurora 16. As a result, the Aurora 16X is both thicker and heavier than its counterpart, measuring 23.4 mm in thickness and weighing 2.66 kg.
Powerful Hardware Options
Alienware highlights that the Aurora 16X can come with Intel’s Arrow Lake processors, ranging from the Core Ultra 5 235HX to the Core Ultra 9 275HX. It also starts with an Nvidia GeForce RTX 5060, but users have the option to upgrade to a GeForce RTX 5070. In this way, the Aurora 16X can be seen as a replacement for last year’s Alienware X16 R2 in terms of performance, which is currently priced at $1,834.99 on Amazon. Both graphics card options feature a 115 W TGP, with an additional 15 W available through Dynamic Boost.
Display and Battery Features
The Aurora 16X comes equipped with a 16-inch IPS display that boasts a resolution of 2,560 x 1,600 pixels and covers the full DCI-P3 colour space. It also achieves a peak brightness of 500 nits and has a refresh rate of 240 Hz. Additionally, there is a 90 Wh battery included, alongside two M.2 SSD slots and an RGB backlit keyboard, which the less expensive Aurora 16 does not have. As of now, Dell plans to start selling the Aurora 16X in the Eurozone from May 27, with a base price set at €1,699 (approximately $1,923).
Source:
Link
Tags: Alienware Aurora 16X, intel Arrow Lake, Nvidia GeForce RTX 5070
May 8, 2025
Microsoft Job Posting Signals Game Emulation on New Xbox Console
Key Takeaways
1. Microsoft is working on a new Xbox console that may run on the Windows operating system, focusing on game preservation.
2. A job listing for a Principal Software Engineer highlights the need for developing scalable emulation solutions for legacy games.
3. Microsoft has begun releasing past exclusive games on other platforms like the PS5 and may do so for the upcoming Switch 2.
4. Xbox games are becoming more accessible on modern Windows PCs, but some titles remain exclusive to older consoles.
5. AI may be used to improve backward compatibility, emphasizing the importance of preserving older Xbox games.
Microsoft is keen on making sure that its vast collection of Xbox games can still be enjoyed in the years to come. There are talks that the company is working on a new Xbox console that would operate on the Windows operating system. However, Microsoft might encounter challenges in bringing older classics to its new hardware and possibly to other systems. Recently, a job listing was made public for a Principal Software Engineer, aimed at enhancing the game preservation team.
Some Key Responsibilities
The role involves creating “scalable emulation solutions” and “emulating legacy games on modern platforms.” The engineer would also be tasked with ensuring game assets are protected from piracy, theft, and other forms of tampering. Sadly, the job posting does not specify which existing or future consoles or platforms these emulated games might be available on.
Expanding Game Availability
Microsoft has already started releasing previous exclusives on the PS5, and there are signs that it might extend this to the upcoming Switch 2. Even though sales of the Series X have been on the decline, Microsoft has not given up on its plans to launch a new Xbox console. Project Kennan is a rumored device made by Asus that could include Xbox controls. This handheld device is expected to be based on Windows and will likely offer a full-screen Xbox user interface.
The Future of Xbox Gaming
Modern Windows PCs can access a lot of the Xbox games that are available on the Series X, Series S, and now the PS5. However, certain games are still locked to Microsoft’s current and older consoles. Jez Corden from Windows Central reports that Xbox systems will adjust to utilize the Win32 API. The Series X currently supports a development environment that is somewhat similar, but some games coded for Xbox ERA are still restricted.
The Principal Software Engineer might direct their focus toward older Xbox titles that require more effort to emulate. Phil Spencer has also mentioned that AI could play a role in enhancing backward compatibility. In any case, preserving games will be essential for Microsoft’s Play Anywhere initiative.
Source:
Link

Tags: game preservation, Project Kennan, Xbox