Category: All News

  • Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 Launching October 2025 with Major Upgrades

    Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 Launching October 2025 with Major Upgrades

    Qualcomm is currently working on its new chipset, the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2, which will follow the Snapdragon 8 Elite. Recent information shared by Digital Chat Station sheds light on when we might expect its release and the manufacturing process behind it.

    Upcoming Release Timeline

    The Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 is anticipated to hit the market in early October 2025, which is earlier than Qualcomm’s usual schedule. This shift aims to allow smartphone makers ample time to incorporate the new chipset into their high-end devices just in time for the holiday shopping period.

    Advanced Manufacturing Process

    This new chipset is likely to utilize TSMC’s N3P technology, a cutting-edge 3nm production method. Such advancements are expected to enhance both performance and energy efficiency, rivaling Apple’s A19 chips that are also thought to be manufactured using this process.

    Performance Enhancements

    According to the leak, there will be significant upgrades to the GPU in the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2, in addition to a possible 20% boost in CPU performance. These enhancements should provide a substantial performance increase, building on the gains seen with the current Snapdragon 8 Elite.

    Nonetheless, the introduction of the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 might encounter challenges, as it’s believed to be even pricier than its already costly predecessor. Qualcomm is reportedly making efforts to optimize its manufacturing and supply chain to offer a more competitive price for the new chipset.

    OnePlus Launch Plans

    In other updates, OnePlus has announced that it will unveil the OnePlus 13 and 13R smartphones globally on January 7, 2024. The OnePlus 13R will feature the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor along with a 6,000mAh battery, while the flagship OnePlus 13 will come equipped with the Snapdragon 8 Elite chip, also backed by a 6,000mAh battery.

    Source: Link


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  • Xiaomi 16 Rumored to Feature Periscope Telephoto Lens

    Xiaomi 16 Rumored to Feature Periscope Telephoto Lens

    Xiaomi might be getting ready to add a much-desired periscope telephoto lens to its flagship model, the Xiaomi 16. This long-anticipated feature could greatly improve the phone’s position in the competitive high-end smartphone market.

    Major Camera Upgrade on the Horizon

    The information comes from well-known tipster Smart Pikachu, who disclosed that Xiaomi is looking into adding this camera technology in the new device. This would resolve a significant flaw in the previous model, the Xiaomi 15, which missed this feature. Many consider the lack of a periscope lens a big letdown for the Xiaomi 15, as it limited the zoom features and overall camera quality.

    If these claims are accurate, the Xiaomi 16 may finally offer the strong zoom features that numerous Xiaomi enthusiasts have been waiting for. Periscope lenses provide better optical zoom by bending the light path at a 90-degree angle, which leads to much greater zoom ranges without sacrificing image clarity. This technology has become standard in many high-end smartphones, allowing users to take beautiful close-up photos of faraway subjects with great clarity.

    Other Exciting Features to Look Forward To

    The possible addition of a periscope lens is just one of the thrilling features for the Xiaomi 16. According to the tipster, the phone is also likely to keep the much-loved 6.36-inch compact screen size, which has been appreciated since the Xiaomi 13. This focus on a more manageable size distinguishes the Xiaomi 16 from many of its bulkier rivals, making it a desirable choice for people who like a more pocket-sized device.

    Even though many specifics are still unknown, the Xiaomi 16 is expected to build on the solid base laid by its predecessor. The Xiaomi 15 had remarkable specifications, including a 1.5K AMOLED flat TCL C8 LTPO display, the powerful Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset, and a 4610mAh battery with 90W wired fast charging. It also came with a 50MP triple-camera system featuring Leica optics, providing outstanding image quality in different lighting situations.

    Upcoming Xiaomi 15 Ultra Launch

    At the same time, Xiaomi is preparing to launch its flagship Xiaomi 15 Ultra, which is expected to be unveiled in China following the 2025 Chinese New Year, probably in February. The device is rumored to have Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset and operate on Android 15-based HyperOS 2. It is anticipated to feature a 6.7-inch LTPO OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate and a stylish micro-curved design.

    Reports indicate that the smartphone will come with a quad-camera system consisting of 50MP + 50MP + 50MP + 200MP sensors and a powerful 6000mAh battery that supports 90W wired and 80W wireless charging. Additionally, it is said to include an under-display ultrasonic fingerprint scanner for better security.


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  • ASML CEO: Chinese Chipmakers 10-15 Years Behind Global Leaders

    ASML CEO: Chinese Chipmakers 10-15 Years Behind Global Leaders

    ASML’s chief executive officer, Christophe Fouquet, recently stated that Chinese semiconductor firms such as Huawei and SMIC are still around 10 to 15 years behind leading companies including Intel, TSMC, and Samsung. This assertion comes amid increasing scrutiny of ASML’s relationships with Chinese clients, largely due to rising geopolitical tensions.

    Challenges with EUV Technology

    Fouquet pointed out that a major problem for Chinese manufacturers is their lack of access to cutting-edge extreme ultraviolet (EUV) lithography machines. These machines are essential for keeping pace with the global industry leaders. ASML’s EUV machines, which cost about 400 million euros each, are crucial for producing advanced semiconductors. In fact, transporting the necessary components alone requires seven cargo planes.

    ASML’s Financial Performance

    In spite of these hurdles, the Dutch lithography giant reported impressive figures for the third quarter of 2024, with net sales reaching 7.5 billion euros and profits of 2.1 billion euros. However, new orders dropped to 2.6 billion euros, which is less than half of the 5.6 billion euros seen in the previous quarter. Nevertheless, China continues to represent a significant portion of ASML’s revenue, contributing 47 percent to the company’s Q3 2024 sales.

    Future Sales Predictions

    UBS analysts are forecasting that ASML might experience nearly a 25 percent decrease in its Chinese sales in the coming year, with as much as 45 percent of its total revenue from China at risk if more restrictions are implemented. While the U.S. is urging ASML to halt servicing existing equipment in China, the Netherlands has not yet followed suit with these demands.

    To provide some context, ASML and its partners have invested over twenty years in refining the commercial EUV ecosystem. Although Huawei and its partners are working on developing their own EUV systems, experts believe it could take just as long to establish a comparable ecosystem, even if they gain access to some older technologies that have already been developed.

    Source: Link

  • OneXPlayer X1 Pro with AMD Ryzen 9 HX 370 Now Available!

    OneXPlayer X1 Pro with AMD Ryzen 9 HX 370 Now Available!

    One-Netbook has recently launched several innovative devices. To give you an idea, they released the OneXFly F1 Pro gaming handheld, featuring a speedy OLED display and equipped with AMD’s Ryzen AI 9 365 or Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 APUs. Not too long ago, they also unveiled the OneXPlayer G1 and OneXSugar, which break away from the typical designs seen in today’s gaming handhelds in multiple ways.

    Upgraded Gaming Experience

    They have also upgraded the OneXPlayer X1, which received its last update with the Ryzen 7 8840U in the middle of June (currently priced at $1,069 on Amazon). Initially, the 10.95-inch gaming handheld was offered with Intel’s Core Ultra 7 155H, similar to the original MSI Claw.

    New Specifications

    One-Netbook has replaced the Ryzen 7 8840U with the more advanced Ryzen AI 9 HX 370. With this enhancement, the company has renamed the device to ‘OneXPlayer X1 Pro’, likely due to the superior CPU and GPU capabilities of the Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 compared to the Ryzen 7 8840U.

    In terms of display, it appears that the OneXPlayer X1 Pro still features the same 120 Hz and 2.5K IPS display found in the original OneXPlayer X1. It also keeps a 65 Wh battery, a PCIe 4.0 SSD, detachable controllers, and OcuLink connectivity. Presently, One-Netbook plans to begin shipping the OneXPlayer X1 Pro on January 3, offering discounts during the pre-sale phase:

    Source: Link


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  • Ultimea Aura A50 Pro Soundbar: Dolby Atmos & Early Bird Discount

    Ultimea Aura A50 Pro Soundbar: Dolby Atmos & Early Bird Discount

    Ultimea has been known for providing audio solutions for homes, and they are now ready to introduce the Aura A50 Pro, a soundbar system that comes with two extra speakers and a subwoofer. This combination aims to create a spatial audio experience. Ultimea refers to this setup as a 5.1 system. The soundbar is fitted with three drivers, while each of the satellite speakers has two drivers. Every driver is 2 inches in size, and the subwoofer has a diameter of 4 inches. Setting up the system can be a bit tricky, as users need to connect a cable to each individual component. Unlike many other soundbars, this one does not support wireless audio for the subwoofer.

    Features and Connectivity

    The Aura A50 Pro 5.1 system supports Dolby Atmos and can connect to various audio sources through optical or aux connections. It also has a USB port and an HDMI eARC port, making it easier to connect to devices like TVs. Users can also stream audio wirelessly from their smartphones using Bluetooth 5.3, which allows for control of the audio system through an app, enabling advanced configuration options.

    Pricing and Availability

    You can purchase the product directly from Ultimea for $150, which includes free shipping. They are also providing a $10 discount for early buyers. The Aura A50 Pro is expected to start shipping in January next year to customers in the US and Europe, with shipments to the UK and Canada following in February.$10 discount for early buyers

    Source: Link


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  • Leak Reveals January 2025 Release for Casio G-Shock MRG-B2100R-2AJR

    Leak Reveals January 2025 Release for Casio G-Shock MRG-B2100R-2AJR

    Following earlier updates that showcased the design of the eagerly awaited Casio MR-G series watch, new information has emerged suggesting that the MRG-B2100R-2AJR will be released on January 1, 2025, with a price of ¥550,000 (about $3,700). This watch is expected to have a dark blue dial with gold accents and will come with a rubber strap, marking it as the first model in the MRG-B2100 series to feature this type of band material.

    Features and Build

    Images that have leaked show a black titanium case that has been treated with deep-layer hardening, along with a Cobarion bezel coated in DLC for improved durability. The watch is anticipated to have the classic Casio features, including Tough Solar charging, Multi-Band 6 for radio-based time sync, and Bluetooth capabilities for easy connection with the Casio Watches app.

    Design Aesthetic

    The dark blue dial, along with its textured design, is believed to reflect traditional Japanese design principles. In addition, the watch boasts a robust build that offers 200m water resistance, ±15 seconds per month precision, and a lightweight feel for comfort during everyday wear.

    These recent leaks imply that the MRG-B2100R-2AJR will stand out as a unique addition to Casio’s premium MR-G series. While we still await official confirmation, enthusiasts of this collection can look forward to more information as the rumored release date approaches.

    Source: Link


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  • AOC AG276QSG 27″ 2K 360Hz Gaming Monitor with 600-Nit Brightness

    AOC AG276QSG 27″ 2K 360Hz Gaming Monitor with 600-Nit Brightness

    AOC has introduced a new premium gaming monitor, the AG276QSG, in the Chinese market. With a price tag of 7,599 yuan ($1,041), it is now accessible on JD.com. Let’s dive into its main specifications.

    Key Features of AOC AG276QSG

    This monitor showcases a remarkable 27-inch Fast IPS screen with a 2K resolution (2560×1440), offering crystal-clear visuals and outstanding color precision. It features an impressive 360Hz refresh rate along with a 1ms GTG response time, making it ideal for smooth and uninterrupted gameplay, particularly in high-speed FPS titles.

    Performance and Compatibility

    Equipped with Nvidia G-Sync ULMB2, the monitor ensures a smooth, tear-free experience with minimal latency and supports NVIDIA Reflex to reduce input lag. It also has Adaptive-Sync, providing broader GPU compatibility for a seamless gaming experience.

    Color Quality and HDR

    In terms of color capabilities, the AG276QSG boasts a 95% DCI-P3 color gamut and true 8-bit color depth, resulting in vivid and realistic images. Each monitor is carefully calibrated at the factory, achieving a Delta E<2 for color accuracy suitable for professionals. Additionally, it is VESA HDR600 certified, reaching a peak brightness of 600 nits, which enhances contrast and detail in both dark and bright settings.

    Comfort Features

    For eye comfort, the AG276QSG is equipped with a low-blue light filter at the hardware level and an intelligent ambient light adjustment system to help lessen eye strain during extended use. It also incorporates special anti-blue light technology that maintains color accuracy.

    Design and Connectivity

    Designed for flexibility and user-friendliness, the monitor includes a VESA-compatible mount, adjustable height, tilt, and swivel settings, along with an ergonomic stand that has a built-in headphone holder and cable management options. As for connectivity, it features three HDMI 2.0 ports, a DP 1.4 port, four USB 3.2 ports, and an audio-out jack.

    Enhanced Gaming Experience

    To further enrich the gaming experience, the monitor provides customizable RGB lighting effects, dual 5W speakers, and various preset modes like FPS and G-Sync Esports, all adjustable through the G-Menu software.


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  • MSI MPG 325CQRXF: 31.5″ 280Hz HDR Curved Gaming Monitor

    MSI MPG 325CQRXF: 31.5″ 280Hz HDR Curved Gaming Monitor

    MSI has unveiled the MPG 325CQRXF, a 31.5-inch curved gaming display tailored for serious gamers and content creators. This monitor is a part of MSI’s Performance Gaming (MPG) series and brings several enhancements over its earlier model, the MAG 325CQRXF E2.

    Features and Performance

    The MPG 325CQRXF is equipped with a Rapid VA panel that boasts a 1000R curvature, a resolution of 2560 x 1440, and an impressive 280Hz refresh rate. With a response time of 0.5ms (GtG), it minimizes motion blur, while VESA DisplayHDR 400 improves image clarity. The monitor achieves 96% coverage of the DCI-P3 color spectrum and 127% of sRGB, making it ideal for both gaming and creative work.

    Connectivity Options

    For smooth, tear-free gameplay, the monitor includes support for Adaptive-Sync. It comes with two HDMI 2.0 ports, a DisplayPort 1.4, and a USB Type-C port that offers 15W Power Delivery. Additionally, there are two USB 2.0 Type-A ports and a headphone jack. An internal power supply is included to help keep cable mess to a minimum.

    Ergonomics and Design

    The monitor can be adjusted for tilt, height, and swivel for comfortable use. Its frameless design is perfect for multi-monitor configurations, and the AI Vision feature automatically tweaks brightness and color saturation. MSI Gaming Intelligence provides smart settings that are updated via USB firmware. The total weight of the monitor with the stand is 8.1kg, but pricing and availability details are still pending.

    Source: Link


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  • iQOO Z10 Series Leak: Dimensity/Snapdragon Chip, 7000mAh Battery

    iQOO is gearing up to introduce the iQOO Z9 Turbo Endurance Edition in China. After this launch, the company will turn its attention to the Z10 series. To recap, iQOO revealed the iQOO Z9x, iQOO Z9, and iQOO Z9 Turbo back in April this year. The Z10 series is expected to make its debut around the same time next year. Recent leaks have surfaced, providing insights into the key specifications and expected launch dates for the Z10 series.

    Details on the Z10 Series

    According to the latest leaks, the iQOO Z10 series is set to feature a minimum of two models. These devices will run on either Dimensity or Snapdragon chipsets and will come with a battery capacity of about 7,000mAh. The Snapdragon model being referenced seems to be the iQOO Z10 Turbo. The same informant has previously disclosed that the upcoming Snapdragon 8s Elite chip will be at its core. Another leaker, Smark Pikachu, also mentioned that the Z10 Turbo is likely to be unveiled by the end of April in China, suggesting that the other models in the Z10 series will launch around that timeframe.

    Expected Specifications

    The Z10 Turbo is anticipated to feature a flat OLED display, boasting a resolution of 1.5K and a refresh rate of 144Hz. In terms of photography, it will come equipped with a dual-camera system, led by a 50-megapixel main camera. Reports indicate that the company is experimenting with a single-cell silicon battery around the 7,000mAh mark for the Z10 Turbo. Regarding charging, it is expected to support fast charging at either 80W or 90W.

    Competition in the Market

    The Z10 Turbo is likely to compete with the Redmi Turbo 4 Pro, which is also rumored to feature the Snapdragon 8s Elite chip. Another device expected to utilize the same chip is the Xiaomi Civi 5 Pro. While both the Z10 Turbo and Redmi Turbo 4 Pro are designed for high performance, the Civi 5 Pro is targeted specifically at female users, focusing on selfies and social media-friendly features.

  • PETFusion 2.0: Convert Plastic Bottles to 3D Printing Filament

    PETFusion 2.0: Convert Plastic Bottles to 3D Printing Filament

    If you take a closer look at plastic bottles and the filament used in 3D printing, it might not be obvious at first glance, but both utilize PET as their main material. The PETFusion 2.0, a device aimed at recycling PET bottles, is currently seeking funding on Kickstarter. A unique feature of this crowdfunding initiative is that backers will not receive the physical PETFusion 2.0 machine, but instead, they will get access to the STL files needed to create the machine themselves, assuming they already have a 3D printer.

    Support Options and Benefits

    Depending on how much supporters contribute, they will receive not just the print files, but also a list of parts that can’t be printed with a 3D printer, detailed instructions, and personalized assistance. There’s even an option for a commercial license, which allows backers to produce and sell the PETFusion 2.0 commercially. For a donation of $39, users gain access to the instructions. Given that version 2.0 of the PETFusion is already available, as shown in the shared videos, the financial risk for backers appears to be fairly minimal.

    Filament Creation Process

    To create filament from a plastic bottle, it’s crucial that the PET bottle is clean and devoid of any labels. The bottle is sliced into strips, which are then heated and printed through a hotend with a 1.75 millimeter diameter. As the filament is being made, it goes through an ink-based colorizer that adds color to the filament, as the name indicates. A filament welder is also included, allowing users to connect shorter lengths of filament together easily, which is great for larger 3D printing tasks. Overall, the PETFusion 2.0 aims to be a comprehensive machine that integrates cutting, extrusion, spooling, and welding functionalities.

    Closing Thoughts

    In conclusion, the PETFusion 2.0 is an innovative solution for recycling PET bottles into usable filament for 3D printing. With its unique crowdfunding model and range of support options, it provides an exciting opportunity for 3D printing enthusiasts. The combination of easy-to-follow instructions and the ability to produce filament from recycled materials makes it a standout project on Kickstarter.

    Source: Link