Category: All News

  • New Garmin Smartwatch Workouts Coming Soon for Fitness Fans

    New Garmin Smartwatch Workouts Coming Soon for Fitness Fans

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin may introduce new walking and swimming workouts for select smartwatches.
    2. The new swim workouts are expected to help improve technique and stamina with various intensity levels.
    3. There will be recovery sessions and timed workouts for users preparing for events.
    4. New walking workouts may include interval training and focus on mental wellness.
    5. The release date and compatible smartwatches for these features are still unknown.

    Two fresh features for Garmin smartwatches seem to have been leaked. These rumors surfaced after the launch of the Forerunner 570 and Forerunner 970, which introduced new functionalities like Evening Report, Running tolerance, and Running economy.

    New Workouts on the Horizon

    A report from the5krunner suggests that Garmin might be adding new walking and swimming workouts to certain smartwatches. These could potentially be new Daily Suggested Workouts. The swim workouts might also connect to the newly unveiled Garmin Triathlon Coach for the Forerunner 970 (currently priced at $749.99 on Amazon). This feature in the Garmin Connect app offers users a complimentary training plan aimed at achieving fitness goals or preparing for races.

    Enhancing Technique and Stamina

    The anticipated swimming workouts are designed to assist users in improving their technique and stamina. They will present various intensity levels, with some tailored for open water swimming. Additionally, there will be recovery sessions to help the body recuperate, along with timed workouts to challenge users before an event. This information closely resembles the ‘Swim Workouts’ segment on the specialized Garmin Triathlon Coach webpage.

    Walking Workouts and Mental Wellness

    It’s still uncertain if the new walking workouts will also be tied to a Garmin Coach training plan. Reportedly, the walking workouts will feature a variety of intensities and durations, including interval training and recovery-based sessions. There seem to be workouts aimed at enhancing mental wellness, encouraging breathing awareness, and immersing oneself in nature.

    In both cases, the5krunner references their reliable source, @JohnW. The timing of the launch for these new Garmin swimming and walking workouts, as well as which smartwatches will support them, remains unclear.

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  • Black Shark Unveils New Tracker Card Compatible with Apple Find My

    Black Shark Unveils New Tracker Card Compatible with Apple Find My

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Black Shark Global Positioning Tracker (model BS-TG-02) helps users locate lost items and is compatible with the Apple Find My app.
    2. It has a tracking range of 10-20 meters indoors and 20-60 meters outdoors, with an inbuilt speaker for sound alerts.
    3. The tracker offers up to four months of battery life in standby mode and features wireless recharging.
    4. It is available in black and white, measures 45 x 34 x 3 mm, and weighs 6.9 g.
    5. Priced at CNY 139 (about $19) in China, its US availability is uncertain, facing competition from the Apple Air Tag priced at $29.

    The Black Shark Global Positioning Tracker has made its debut in China. This tracker, which has a card-like design and the model number BS-TG-02, is aimed at assisting users in locating lost belongings. It’s compatible with the Apple Find My app, allowing you to track the exact location of the device remotely.

    Distance and Features

    Similar to other devices that work with the Find My app, the Black Shark Global Positioning Tracker functions at any distance, provided it is within range of another Apple device, like an iPhone or iPad. You can easily locate a misplaced item nearby, thanks to an inbuilt speaker that produces a loud sound. The effective range is about 10-20 meters (approximately 33-66 feet) indoors and 20-60 meters (around 66-197 feet) outdoors. Additionally, notifications will alert you if your item seems to be left behind.

    Battery Life and Design

    The Black Shark tracker is claimed to operate for up to four months while in standby mode and can be recharged wirelessly. It comes in both black and white colors, featuring a small hole for keyring attachment. The dimensions are 45 x 34 x 3 mm (about 1.8 x 1.3 x 0.1 inches) and it weighs only 6.9 g (around 0.24 oz).

    Pricing and Market Availability

    In China, the Black Shark Positioning Tracker is priced at CNY 139, which is equivalent to $19. It’s still uncertain if the company plans to introduce this product to the US market, where it already offers various accessories. If it does, it would face competition from the Apple Air Tag, which has a price tag of $29 but is currently being sold on Amazon for $24.99.

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    Black Shark Unveils New Tracker Card Compatible with Apple Find My
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  • Nokia Unveils Affordable Wi-Fi 7 with Beacon 9 and 4 Gateways

    Nokia Unveils Affordable Wi-Fi 7 with Beacon 9 and 4 Gateways

    Key Takeaways

    1. Nokia is launching new Beacon-series devices, the Beacon 4 and Beacon 9, for home and personal office broadband upgrades.
    2. The Beacon 9 features a stylish, tall, and compact design, while the Beacon 4 has a shorter, angular look.
    3. The Beacon 4 offers Wi-Fi 7 connectivity with speeds up to 3.6Gb/s and uses dual-band frequencies, while the Beacon 9 has tri-band capabilities, including a 6GHz band.
    4. Both devices support 2.5Gb WAN ports and 1Gb LAN ports, and can create mesh networks managed through the Nokia app.
    5. These devices are now available as new customer premises equipment (CPE) for internet service providers.

    Your upcoming upgrade for personal or home office broadband at a reasonable cost might involve new Beacon-series devices entering your space, as stated by Nokia.

    Stylish Design

    The Beacon 9 is designed to fit seamlessly into your home decor, featuring a modern tall and compact shape, unlike the bulkier tower design of the Netgear Orbi 770 that you can find on Amazon.

    Impressive Specs

    On the other hand, the Beacon 4 is shorter and has a more angular design, yet it promises “unstoppable” Wi-Fi 7 connectivity, reaching speeds of up to 3.6Gb/s. It utilizes 2×2 MIMO technology across all bands.

    This device operates on dual-band frequencies (2.4GHz and 5GHz), contrasting with the tri-band setup of the Beacon 9, which includes an additional 6GHz band. The Beacon 9 further boasts a 320MHz channel bandwidth, something the Beacon 4 lacks.

    Network Capabilities

    Both devices come with a WAN port that supports 2.5 Gigabit (Gb) ethernet and feature 2 LAN ports that provide speeds of up to 1Gb. They are also capable of creating mesh networks if you have multiple units, all manageable through the same Nokia app.

    The Beacon 9 and Beacon 4 are now available for internet service providers as new customer premises equipment (CPE).

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  • Nothing Discontinues Glyph Interface After Previous Warnings

    Nothing Discontinues Glyph Interface After Previous Warnings

    Key Takeaways

    1. Nothing’s first smartphone featured the Glyph Interface, a light strip for notifications and calls.
    2. The Glyph Interface evolved to include new functions, like serving as a progress bar for apps.
    3. Nothing has officially announced the retirement of the Glyph Interface in a recent post on X.
    4. Upcoming models, including the Nothing Phone (3), may not include the Glyph Interface.
    5. Despite phasing out the Glyph Interface, Nothing will continue its signature transparent design.

    When Nothing introduced its first smartphone, it featured a distinctive light strip on the back, known as the Glyph Interface. This innovative addition allowed users to engage with their device in fun ways, such as lighting up when receiving calls or notifications.

    Evolution of the Glyph Interface

    As time passed, Nothing made improvements to the Glyph Interface, adding capabilities like using the lights as a progress bar for certain applications, including the camera and Uber. Now, it appears that the Glyph Interface has reached its conclusion.

    A recent post on X from Nothing declares that they have “killed the Glyph Interface.” This announcement comes with a 9-second video showcasing the Glyph Interface from the Nothing Phone (1). At the end of the clip, the lights turn off along with a sound effect that fits the moment.

    What’s Next for Nothing?

    There are rumors that Nothing might be hinting that its upcoming smartphone, likely the Nothing Phone (3), will not feature the Glyph Interface. If that’s true, it won’t come as a shock to those who have closely followed the changes in Nothing’s latest devices.

    The Glyph Interface previously took up a significant portion of the backs of the Nothing Phone (1) and Phone (2), but when the Nothing Phone (2a) was released, the interface was limited to three LED strips at the top of the device. The latest models, including this year’s Nothing Phone (3a) (currently available on Amazon for $380) and Phone (3a) Pro, maintain a similar aesthetic.

    The Future of Nothing’s Design

    Reflecting on this, it seems Nothing has been gradually distancing its enthusiasts from the Glyph Interface, and with their latest announcement, they have made the choice to retire it. Even though the Glyph Interface is being phased out, Nothing remains committed to its signature transparent design, as evidenced by a recent teaser for the upcoming Nothing Phone (3).

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  • Honor X70 Features AMOLED Display and 7,000mAh Battery in 2025

    Honor X70 Features AMOLED Display and 7,000mAh Battery in 2025

    Key Takeaways

    1. The X70 is expected to have a 6.8-inch AMOLED display, improving on the LCD screen of the X60.
    2. It will feature a trendy 1.5K resolution, similar to the X60 Pro.
    3. The battery capacity is rumored to be at least 7,000mAh for the basic version.
    4. The launch is anticipated in the last quarter of 2024, with Magic OS 9 pre-installed.
    5. The shift from LCD to AMOLED may indicate Honor’s move away from LCD technology in Android smartphones.

    The X70 is now expected to feature a display of around 6.8 inches diagonally, similar to its previous model. However, Honor is believed to be enhancing this screen to AMOLED technology, while the X60 was equipped with an LCD screen when it was released in late 2024.

    Display and Resolution

    Rumor has it that the new model will sport a trendy 1.5K resolution, closely resembling the 6.78-inch X60 Pro. Renowned leaker Digital Chat Station has indicated that the X70 will likely carry a battery with a minimum capacity of 7,000mAh, even though it’s the most basic version in the upcoming series.

    Release Timeline

    The X70 could potentially be launched alongside its Pro counterpart in the last quarter of 2024, and it may come pre-installed with Magic OS 9 right from the start.

    It will be fascinating to determine if this successor to the MediaTek Dimensity 7025 Ultra-driven X60 can maintain its initial price of 1,199 yuan (approximately $167) despite the anticipated enhancements at its launch.

    Future of LCD Technology

    As for the LCD display, Digital Chat Station views this rumored shift at Honor as more proof of its removal from the Android smartphone scene, though it may still remain a choice for some budget-friendly tablets in the future.

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  • Dreame Launches Affordable Robot Vacuum with Stronger Suction

    Dreame Launches Affordable Robot Vacuum with Stronger Suction

    Key Takeaways

    1. Increased Suction Power: The L40 Ultra AE features enhanced suction power of 19,000Pa, compared to 11,000Pa in the original model.

    2. Slimmer Design: The new model is slimmer at 97 mm in height, compared to 103.8 mm for the original L40 Ultra.

    3. Improved Dust Bin Capacity: The onboard dust bin capacity has increased from 300 ml to 395 ml in the L40 Ultra AE.

    4. Self-Cleaning Dock Enhancements: The docking station uses hotter water at 75°C for cleaning and can automatically manage water tanks, with an optional plumbing connection.

    5. Price Advantage: The L40 Ultra AE is priced at €699.00, making it €200 less expensive than the original L40 Ultra, which retails for €899.

    Dreame has introduced the L40 Ultra AE robot vacuum and mop across Europe. This new model is a more affordable alternative to the original L40 Ultra, which debuted in October 2024. The L40 Ultra AE includes several distinct features when compared to its earlier version.

    Enhanced Suction Power

    To start with, the L40 Ultra AE boasts a noticeably higher suction power of 19,000Pa, in contrast to the 11,000Pa of the original model. However, it remains uncertain if these figures are directly comparable or if they stem from varying testing methods. Another notable alteration is that the L40 Ultra AE now comes with a fixed side brush rather than the extendable and liftable one found on its predecessor. This change may affect how well the robot can clean corners or along skirting boards in a room.

    Design and Features

    The L40 Ultra AE is also designed to be slimmer, measuring 97 mm (about 3.8 inches) in height, while the L40 Ultra stands at 103.8 mm (around 4.1 inches). Both models share a width of 350 mm (approximately 13.8 inches). The onboard dust bin capacity has seen a slight increase from 300 ml to 395 ml. Additionally, the self-cleaning docking station uses hotter water at 75°C (about 167°F) to clean the mop, which is subsequently dried using hot air. The dock is capable of automatically emptying and refilling the water tanks as needed, and it can be connected to your home’s plumbing with an optional kit.

    Similarities and Performance

    Aside from these differences, the L40 Ultra AE and the original L40 Ultra look almost the same. Both models feature a liftable rubber brush and the TriCut brush 3.0, along with LDS navigation and camera-based obstacle avoidance technology. The mop has a swing arm that allows it to extend and lifts 10.5 mm (around 0.4 inches) to prevent wetting carpets. Both vacuums operate on a 5200 mAh battery, providing approximately three hours of runtime.

    The Dreame L40 Ultra AE is now available for purchase at the brand’s online shop or on Amazon for €699.00, which is €200 less than the original L40 Ultra’s €899 recommended retail price. This model is currently sold in countries such as the Netherlands, Spain, and France. It is still uncertain when or if this model will become available in other markets, like the US, where the original L40 Ultra Robot Vacuum is currently priced at $599.99 for Amazon Prime members.

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    Dreame Launches Affordable Robot Vacuum with Stronger Suction

     

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  • Nintendo Details Pokémon Scarlet and Violet’s Switch 2 Benefits

    Nintendo Details Pokémon Scarlet and Violet’s Switch 2 Benefits

    Key Takeaways

    1. Pokémon Legends: Z is launching on October 16th, generating excitement for upcoming Switch 2 games.
    2. The original Switch games will receive performance enhancements through backward compatibility.
    3. A free update for Pokémon Scarlet and Violet will be released on June 5th, improving visuals and frame rates.
    4. Pokémon Scarlet and Violet faced significant technical issues at launch, including low frame rates and visual problems.
    5. Nintendo has not confirmed if the new specifications will achieve desired frame rates, raising concerns among players.

    Much of the focus is currently on the upcoming Switch 2 games, particularly with the Pokémon Legends: Z-A set to launch on October 16th. However, the original Switch games will also benefit from performance enhancements due to backward compatibility. Critics had a lot of negative feedback regarding Pokémon Scarlet and Violet because of its technical problems when it was released in 2022. Nintendo has shared on its Japanese site how the Switch 2 specifications will enhance the open-world RPG experience. Sadly, some important questions about frame rate options are still without answers.

    Free Updates Coming Soon

    On the release date of June 5th for the Switch 2, Nintendo plans to roll out a free update for Pokémon Scarlet and Violet. As per the company, players “will be able to see Pokémon from a greater distance, making them appear even more vibrant. With better frame rates and other enhancements, movement becomes smoother, allowing for a more enjoyable adventure.” There are two screenshots available for fans to look at, but it’s still unclear what the resolution and frame rate options will be.

    Performance Issues Persist

    When Pokémon Scarlet and Violet was launched in 2022, many players quickly observed visual problems. Frame rates frequently dropped below 30 fps, and issues like pop-in and clipping were widespread. Nintendo has made slight performance improvements through patches. Nevertheless, the console still has trouble displaying environments filled with activity. Some gamers point fingers at the developer, Game Freak, for the poorly optimized code in its Pokémon titles. Additionally, limitations in the Switch’s CPU and memory likely worsened these problems.

    While Nintendo assures better frame rates, it hasn’t confirmed whether the desired 60 fps will be achieved. If 1080p is an option, it remains to be seen how smooth the gameplay will actually be. The Switch 2 specifications, which include an Nvidia Tegra T239 processor and upgraded memory capacity, might help eliminate the choppiness. However, unlike other Switch 2 games that come with paid upgrades, expectations are lower for the free Pokémon Scarlet and Violet update.

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    Nintendo Details Pokémon Scarlet and Violet's Switch 2 BenefitsNintendo Details Pokémon Scarlet and Violet's Switch 2 Benefits

     

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  • Xiaomi Launches Ultra-Thin 15W Magnetic Power Bank

    Xiaomi Launches Ultra-Thin 15W Magnetic Power Bank

    Key Takeaways

    1. Slim Design: The Xiaomi Magnetic Ultra-thin Power Bank is only 8.7 mm thick, making it 27.5% slimmer than its predecessor.
    2. Charging Capabilities: Supports wireless charging up to 15W and wired charging via USB-C up to 22.5W, compatible with multiple fast charging standards.
    3. Safety Features: Includes built-in indicator lights for battery status and dual NTC sensors to monitor temperature and prevent overheating.
    4. Color Options: Available in four metallic colors: black, blue, gold, and purple.
    5. Pricing and Availability: Priced at CNY 199 (around $28) in China, with uncertain availability in other regions.

    The Xiaomi Magnetic Ultra-thin Power Bank 5000 7.5W has made its debut in China. This device is promoted as a travel-friendly power bank that is easy to carry on airplanes. According to the brand, the latest version is only 8.7 mm thick (about 0.3 inches), which is 27.5% slimmer than the 2024 Xiaomi Magnetic Power Bank 5000mAh 7.5W.

    Charging Capabilities

    The Xiaomi Magnetic Ultra-thin Power Bank supports wireless charging up to 15W, securely holding compatible smartphones with a magnetic force of 10N. The USB-C port can provide an output of up to 22.5W, and it is compatible with several fast charging standards, including PD 3.0 (PPS), QC 3.0, and AFC. The power bank is equipped with a 5,000mAh lithium cobalt oxide battery that can be charged via USB-C, and Xiaomi claims it will maintain at least 80% of its capacity after being charged 300 times.

    Safety Features and Design

    There are built-in indicator lights that display the remaining battery charge, while dual NTC sensors monitor the temperature 12,000 times per minute to prevent overheating. Although the weight is not specified, the product details mention that the dimensions are 102 x 69.6 mm (approximately 4.0 x 2.7 inches). Customers can choose from four different metallic colors: black, blue, gold, and purple.

    Pricing and Availability

    In China, the Xiaomi Magnetic Ultra-thin Power Bank 5000 7.5W is priced at CNY 199 (around $28). It’s still uncertain if the brand will launch this device in other regions in the future. The previous model, the Xiaomi Magnetic Power Bank 5000mAh 7.5W, is available in European markets, including Germany, for €29.99.

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    Xiaomi Launches Ultra-Thin 15W Magnetic Power Bank
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  • ViewDock: Versatile Docking Station Now Live on Kickstarter

    ViewDock: Versatile Docking Station Now Live on Kickstarter

    Key Takeaways

    1. The ViewDock is seeking funding on Kickstarter, with early supporters able to purchase it for about $89 after a discount.
    2. Potential buyers should carefully review shipping conditions and understand the financial risks of crowdfunding.
    3. The device dimensions are 13.7 x 6.2 x 9.6 cm (5.4 x 2.4 x 3.8 in) and features a 1,280 x 720 resolution screen.
    4. It connects via USB-C and is compatible with macOS, Windows, and possibly Linux, supporting USB Power Delivery up to 100 watts.
    5. The ViewDock has two USB 3.0 ports and microSD/SD card readers located on the back for a cleaner appearance, but this may make access more difficult.

    The ViewDock is currently seeking funds through a campaign on Kickstarter. At this moment, early supporters can grab a unit for about $89 after applying a discount. However, those interested should thoroughly examine the shipping conditions and be mindful of the financial risks that come with crowdfunding initiatives. Even though the ViewDock likely doesn’t involve much risk related to technology, it’s important to consider that this project is run by a company that is not widely recognized.

    Dimensions and Display

    With dimensions of 13.7 x 6.2 x 9.6 cm (5.4 x 2.4 x 3.8 in), the ViewDock includes a built-in screen that has a resolution of 1,280 x 720 and a display size of 10 x 8 cm (3.9 x 3.1 in). It operates similarly to an external monitor, giving users the ability to choose what appears on the display. For example, applications such as system resource monitors, chat interfaces, or media players can easily be dragged to this secondary screen.

    Connectivity and Compatibility

    The ViewDock connects to a main device through USB-C and works with macOS, Windows, and possibly Linux systems. It also allows for USB Power Delivery up to 100 watts. On its rear side, the device is equipped with two USB 3.0 ports, in addition to microSD and SD card readers. While placing the I/O ports on the back helps maintain a tidy look, it also means that accessing the ports can be a bit more challenging.

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    ViewDock: Versatile Docking Station Now Live on Kickstarter

     

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  • Amazfit Bip 6 Update Adds Tap-to-Wake Feature

    Amazfit Bip 6 Update Adds Tap-to-Wake Feature

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Amazfit Bip 6 smartwatch is receiving a new update, version 3.1.2.1, which improves various features.
    2. The brightness of the always-on display (AOD) mode has been increased for better visibility in sunlight.
    3. Users can now see a notification icon in standby AOD mode, which can be toggled in settings.
    4. A new double tap feature to wake the screen has been added, along with a Glove mode for better touch control while wearing gloves.
    5. The update is being rolled out gradually and can be downloaded via the Zepp app when available.

    The Amazfit Bip 6 smartwatch is said to be getting a new update: software version 3.1.2.1. This device was introduced in March 2025 and has already seen some bug fixes with the previous update, version 3.0.8.3.

    Enhancements in Features

    The new update brings several improvements for the Amazfit Bip 6. First, the brightness for the always-on display (AOD) mode has been boosted, making it easier to read the screen in bright sunlight. Additionally, users can now see a notification icon while the watch is in standby AOD mode; this can be turned on or off in Settings > Display > Always On.

    New Touch Features

    Another interesting addition is the ability to double tap to wake the screen, although some users have reported a single tap option might also be included. Lastly, the Bip 6 introduces Glove mode, a feature that was first seen on the Balance 2 smartwatch. This mode is designed to enhance touch control usability when users have gloves on.

    Update Availability

    It looks like this update is being rolled out gradually for Amazfit Bip 6 smartwatch users (currently priced at $79.99 on Amazon). Once it reaches your area, you can download the software version 3.1.2.1, which is a 12.79 MB file, via the Zepp app. To start the installation, just go to Profile > Amazfit Bip 6 > System Update.

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