Category: All News

  • Casio Gundam G-Shock DW-5600: Iconic New Release

    Key Takeaway

    – Transparent bezel and band mimic RX-78-2 armor with Gundam’s iconic tricolor palette.
    – Nerdy details include etched panel lines, E.F.S.F. emblem, Pegasus mark, and “SINCE 1979” backlight.
    – Comes in a military equipment crate-style package.
    – Standard G-Shock durability: shock-resistant, 200m water-resistant, 5-year battery.
    – Currently exclusive to South Korea (220,000 KRW / ~$144), sold out in under an hour.

    The New G-Shock Gundam Colab is Finally Here

    Casio releases a plethra of special edition watches in collaboration with a range of artists, brands, and franchises. But not all of them are worth the hype. To often, they feel like low-effort logo slaps lacking any real creative spark. But every once in a while, the company drops a collaboration so perfectly executed and creatively brilliant that you just want to get your hands on it. Meet the new G-Shock DW-5600GM26-7DR, Casio’s latest team-up with the legendary Mobile Suit Gundam franchise.

    Design Inspired by the Iconic Mecha

    It’s a refreshing, mecha-inspired timepiece that really nails the aesthetic. Its based on the classic DW-5600, a go-to choice for collaboration and special edition timepieces. The watch rocks a transparent bezel and band meant to mimic the RX-78-2’s main armor while subtly flexing the internal hardware. The transparent base lets Gundam’s iconic tricolor palette (the signature blue, red, and yellow) really shine. Its a refreshing, mecha-inspired timepiece that really nails the aesthetic.

    Nerdy Details That Make It Special

    It’s the nerdy details that really elevate this piece. The band is etched with panel lines mimicking the First Gundam’s armor, complete with the official Earth Federation Space Force (E.F.S.F.) emblem. Flip it over, and youll find the White Base fleet’s Pegasus mark engraved on the case back. Hit the backlight, and a glowing “SINCE 1979” Easter egg flashes to celebrate the anime’s first broadcast.

    The Mobile Suit Gundam x G-Shock DW-5600 ships in a special package that’s styled like a military equipment crate; Casio says its designed to send “a sense of tension to your wrist the moment you open the box.”

    Specifications and Pricing Details

    As you would expect, the watch is shock- and water-resistant (up to 200 meters) and offers a standard set of timekeeping functions such as an automatic calendar, 12/24-hour time format, a 1/100-second stopwatch with a 24-hour counter, a multifunction alarm, and an hourly time chime. The battery life is rated for 5 years.

    Launch Availability and Cost

    The Mobile Suit Gundam x G-Shock DW-5600GM26-7 is currently restricted to South Korea. Priced at 220,000 KRW (~$144), it officially went on sale on June 4 through G-Cosmo online store and was sold out within an hour or so. We dont know if and when the watch will make its way to the global markets. It would be a shame if this cool timepiece doesnt get a wider release, and heres hoping it launches in the US, the UK, Europe, and other markets soon.

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  • God of War: Laufey Rumored for Early 2027 PS5 Launch

    God of War: Laufey Rumored for Early 2027 PS5 Launch

    Key Takeaway

    – God of War: Laufey is expected to release in the first half of 2027, per multiple reliable insiders.
    – The game focuses on Faye/Laufey instead of Kratos, with a more action-oriented gameplay style.
    – Development has reportedly been ongoing for 5-6 years, making a 2027 release relatively quick by modern AAA standards.
    – Notable insiders NateTheHate and Jason Schreier have both dismissed claims of a later launch, like 2028.
    – The shift away from Kratos has sparked mixed reactions, including criticism from series creator David Jaffe.

    Glimpsed During State of Play 2026

    A extended glimpse at an anticipated Santa Monica Studio project were included during State of Play 2026. Despite how polished the PS5 exclusive game looked, Sony has not confirmed a God of War Laufey release date. However, several reliable insiders believe the title could ship as early as the 1st half of 2027. This was a big moment for fans waiting to see what comes next from the studio.

    NateTheHate’s Predictions Validated

    In March 2026, NateTheHate correctly leaked that the narrative would focus on Faye/Laufey, rather than Kratos. He also expected the gameplay to be more action-oriented than mainline entries like Ragnarök. Both predictions were validated during the roughly 20-minute presentation at the June 2nd State of Play. The insider now has even more confidence in his God of War Laufey release date estimate. On social media, his June 4th post reaffirms a 1st half 2027 launch. NateTheHate is not alone in thinking that buyers won’t have to wait long for the PS5 exclusive.

    Jason Schreier Dismisses Delay Rumors

    Bloomberg’s Jason Schreier, another reputable source, dismissed theories that the Corey Barlog title might not be ready until 2028. On Bluesky, he responded to the possibility by saying, “Definitely not.” Shortly before that statement, Schreier reassured gamers that it wasn’t “years away.” This gives more weight to the 1st half 2027 window. Indications are that the new God of War game has been in the works for 5-6 years.

    Historical Release Gaps and AAA Development

    The longest gap between release dates took place with Ascension in 2013 and the 2018 soft reboot of the franchise. Ragnarök then surfaced in 2022, 4 years later. AAA game development has gradually become more laborious, reportedly frustrating Sony. By modern standards, the Laufey epic debuting in 2027 would be quick compared to other titles. How successful the God of War Laufey will be when it arrives is a point of contention.

    Mixed Response and Fan Receptance

    The industry has seen a mixed response to the State of Play showcase. Series creator David Jaffe is one of the most vocal critics, claiming the game shares little in common with prior entries. Other fans are resistant to any narrative that doesn’t center around the main protagonist, Kratos. This could effect sales if the community remains divided. Still, the hype from the trailer is strong for many.

     

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  • Shokz OpenDots Air: Affordable OpenDots 2 Alternative

    Shokz OpenDots Air: Affordable OpenDots 2 Alternative

    Key Takeaway

    – Priced at $129.95, the OpenDots Air are the most affordable Shokz open-ear clip-on earbuds.
    – They feature an IP55 rating (higher than the OpenDots One) but the charging case lacks ingress protection.
    – Battery life is 9 hours (36 hours with case) with fast charging, but no Qi wireless charging.
    – They use Bassphere technology (not Bassphere 2.0) with custom 11.8mm dual drivers and 6 EQ modes.
    – Controls include touch and force pinch sensors, with AI-powered noise reduction for calls and Dynamic Ear Detection.

    New Shokz OpenDots Air launched along side the OpenDots 2

    Shokz also released a second pair of earbuds called the OpenDots Air alongside the OpenDots 2. Like the OpenDots 2 and the OpenDots One, they are open-ear clip-on earbuds, but cost less than the other two OpenDots models. The pricing is set at a lower point for budget-conscious users.

    Design differences and protection ratings

    The design of the OpenDots Air earbuds differs a bit from that of the OpenDots One and OpenDots 2, but they still feature the nickel-titanium plate called Shokz JointArc, which lets them adapt to different ear shapes. Nevertheless, they are still light at 6.3 grams. Shokz says the OpenDots Air earbuds have an IP55 rating; this is higher than the IP54 rating of the OpenDots One’s. However, the charging case has no ingress protection.

    Audio technology and drivers

    The OpenDots Air feature Shokz’ Bassphere technology like the OpenDots One, and not the more advanced Bassphere 2.0 available on the OpenDots 2. The earbuds are equipped with custom 11.8 mm dual drivers and have 4 preset EQ modes. They also have two customizable EQ modes. This makes them versatile for different listening preferences.

    Smart features and ear detection

    Like the other OpenDots earbuds, the Air earbuds have support for Dynamic Ear Detection Technology, so users don’t have to worry about which of the earbuds is for the left or right ear. They will also automatically pause playback when you take them off and resume playback when you put them back on. This is a convienient feature for daily use.

    Microphone and control system

    The OpenDots Air features dual microphones on each earbud and uses AI-powered noise reduction to make your voice clear during calls. Like the OpenDots 2, the OpenDots Air earbuds have touch controls and a force pinch sensor. You tap to control playback and answer/reject calls while pinching adjusts the volume, skips tracks, or rejects calls. The controls are intuitive.

    Battery life and charging details

    Battery life is slightly lower than that of its siblings at 9 hours (36 hours with the case) due to having a smaller battery; and the charging case lacks Qi wireless charging support. You do get fast charging – 10 minutes of charging for 2 hours of use. The OpenDots Air also have Bluetooth 6.1, Bluetooth Multipoint, and work with the Shokz app.

    Pricing and color options

    Priced at $129.95, the OpenDots Air can be purchased in Daybreak Purple and Black on the manufacturers website. Unfortunately, there are no free gifts with the purchase. These earbuds offer good value for the price point.

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  • Touchscreen MacBook Ultra: OLED sizes & release date leak

    Touchscreen MacBook Ultra: OLED sizes & release date leak

    Key Takeaway

    – MacBook Ultra likely launching in Q3 2026 with a potential September debut.
    – New 14.3-inch and 16.3-inch displays with reduced bezels, supplied by Samsung from July.
    – Hybrid OLED architecture (oxide TFT + RGB tandem) for improved power efficiency.
    – Complete redesign expected, including a thinner/lighter chassis and touchscreen.
    – Aim to maintain battery life while enabling the “Ultra” premium positioning.

    Major Display Changes on the Horizon

    Just days after the big launch of the Nvidia RTX Spark-powered Surface Laptop Ultra, a fresh industry report has shed new light on the highly anticipated MacBook Ultra, suggesting the radical overhaul to Apple’s high-end MacBook series may arrive sooner than initially projected. According to research firm Omdia, Samsung is scheduled to begin supplying display panels for the upcoming 14.3-inch and 16.3-inch MacBook models as early as July. Yes, apparently, the screens on the Ultra series might be getting a touch larger (perhaps due to a reduction in bezel size).

    Release Window and Timeline Shifts

    More significantly, the report explicitly states that the MacBook Ultra (and likely the new M6 MacBook Pro models) are expected to launch in Q3 2026. If accurate, this puts the MacBook Ultra on a trajectory for a potential September debut, possibly sharing the stage with the foldable iPhone Ultra and the iPhone 18 Pro. That timeline is quite abit earlier then many people predicted, which could put pressure on competing devices from other manufacturers.

    Advanced OLED Technology and Power Gains

    The Omdia report highlights that Apple is shifting to a sophisticated “hybrid OLED” architecture. By utilizing oxide TFT and RGB tandem OLED technology, Cupertino would be aiming to significantly optimize power efficiency. Jerry Kang, Practice Leader at Omdia, noted that this combination is specifically designed to lower power consumption compared to traditional LTPO or single-layer RGB OLEDs. Such power efficiency might be critical, as it would provide the foundation for Apple’s MacBook redesign goals, which (rumor has it) include making a thinner and lighter ultra-premium MacBook without sacrificing the industry-leading battery life that has defined the Apple Silicon era.

    Redesign Details and Touchscreen Rumors

    The new MacBook Ultra is expected to be more than just a component swap compared to the M5 MacBook Pro, which has used the same design since the launch of the original M1 Pro/M1 Max models. Several leaks have reiterated that a complete redesign for the MacBook Pro/Ultra is coming in late 2026. Reports from top analysts Ming-Chi Kuo and Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman indicate that the MacBook Ultra will do the unthinkable, and launch with a touchscreen panel. To maintain its “Ultra” positioning, and justify the inevitable price increase, the laptop is rumored to introduce more design changes, including:

    • A thinner chassis with reduced bezels for the 14.3-inch and 16.3-inch screens
    • Hybrid OLED display using oxide TFT and RGB tandem layers for lower power consumption
    • Touchscreen capability for the first time on a MacBook
    • Potential launch alongside the foldable iPhone Ultra and iPhone 18 Pro in September 2026
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  • LG 32GX870B 32″ 4K OLED: 480Hz, AI Upscaling

    LG 32GX870B 32″ 4K OLED: 480Hz, AI Upscaling

    Key Takeaway

    – Global preorders now live in UK (£1,099.99) and Japan; US availability unconfirmed.
    – World’s first 32-inch 4K OLED 240Hz gaming monitor with AI upscaling.
    – Features 4th Gen Primary RGB Tandem OLED panel for improved color, brightness, and text clarity.
    – Peak HDR brightness of 1,500 nits, 99.5% DCI-P3 coverage, and DisplayHDR True Black 500.
    – Ports include DisplayPort 2.1 (UHBR20), HDMI 2.1, and USB-C with 90W Power Delivery.

    The LG UltraGear 32GX870B-B could be released globally soon. After preorders went live in Japan last month, LG has now listed the monitor for preorder in the UK. Priced at £1,099.99 on Amazon, it’s scheduled to ship on June 26, 2026.

    Specs and Panel Details

    The 32GX870B-B was announced at CES 2026 as part of LG’s 2026 UltraGear AI monitors. LG markets it as the “world’s first AI Upscaling 32-inch 4K OLED 240Hz gaming monitor,” although its biggest draw is the underlying 4th Gen Primary RGB Tandem OLED panel. This new panel brings distinct upgrades in color, brightness, and text clarity compared to previous 3rd Gen WOLED monitors. That said, the 32GX870B-B is the first 32-inch 4K monitor with the new Tandem WOLED panel, as previous models were based on 27-inch 1440p panels.

    Refresh Rate and Brightness Metrics

    As we previously reported, the 32GX870B is a 32-inch 4K gaming monitor with a 240Hz refresh rate and a faster 480Hz mode in 1080p. Similar to other Tandem WOLED monitors, it has a peak brightness of 1,500 nits in HDR and 335 nits in SDR, a 99.5% DCI-P3 coverage, and DisplayHDR True Black 500 certification. However, this model also adds AI-powered features, including the ability to upscale lower-resolution content to near-4K quality.

    Port Configuration and Competition

    For the ports, it has a DisplayPort 2.1 (UHBR20), HDMI 2.1, and USB-C with 90W Power Delivery. Similar 32-inch 4K monitors using the 4th Gen Primary RGB Tandem OLED panel include the recently announced Asus ROG Swift OLED PG32UCWM.

    The LG UltraGear 32GX870B-B is now available to preorder in the UK and Japan, but there is still no word about US availability.

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  • OnePlus 16 & iQoo 16 Launching Earlier Than Expected

    OnePlus 16 & iQoo 16 Launching Earlier Than Expected

    Key Takeaway

    – OnePlus 16 and iQoo 16 may launch in China by September 2026, a month earlier than usual.
    – Both phones are expected to feature Qualcomm’s next-gen Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro chipset on a 2nm process with LPDDR6 memory.
    – OnePlus 16 is tipped for a 1.5K display with 185Hz refresh rate; iQoo 16 may use a 2K display with 165Hz refresh rate.
    – OnePlus 16 likely has a 50MP main camera and 200MP periscope telephoto; iQoo 16 is testing 50MP to 200MP main sensors.
    – OnePlus 16 may pack a 9,000mAh battery, a significant increase from the OnePlus 15’s 7,300mAh.

    OnePlus 16 and iQoo 16 launch timelines reportedly leaked

    The OnePlus 15 and iQoo 15 are performance-focused flagships that launched in China on October 27 and October 20, 2025, respectively. Both smartphones were among the first devices to feature the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset. Now, a new leak has revealed the launch timelines of the next-generation OnePlus 16 and the iQoo 16.

    Possible September 2026 debut in China

    As per Digital Chat Station on Weibo, both the OnePlus 16 and the iQoo 16 may launch in September 2026. Notably, the tipster previously suggested that multiple Chinese companies, including Oppo and Vivo, would also launch their next-gen flagship lineups in September, which is a month earlier than usual.

    Do note that these launch timelines appear to be specific to the Chinese market, and there is no news regarding global availability yet. For context, the OnePlus 15 and iQoo 15 were released in the global market in November 2025.

    Next-gen chipset and display upgrades

    The OnePlus 16 and the iQoo 16 are expected to feature the next flagship chipset from Qualcomm, reportedly called the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro. The chipset may be based on a 2nm process and support LPDDR6 memory.

    The OnePlus 16 is tipped to feature a “1.5K” display with a 185Hz refresh rate. Meanwhile, the iQoo 16 may use a display with a “2K” resolution and a 165Hz refresh rate.

    Camera system and battery capacity

    The OnePlus 16 is expected to use a 50MP primary camera and a 200MP periscope telephoto lens. Meanwhile, iQoo is reportedly testing between 50MP and 200MP sensors for the primary camera. The OnePlus 16 may also feature a 9,000mAh battery, up from 7,300mAh on the OnePlus 15 (curr. $899 on Amazon).

    数码闲聊站 on Weibo (in Chinese)


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  • Zepp OS 6: Amazfit’s New Smartwatch OS Rolls Out

    Zepp OS 6: Amazfit’s New Smartwatch OS Rolls Out

    Key Takeaway

    – HybridCharge enhances BioCharge Energy Monitoring with LifeLoad, RPE, and Boundary Reminders for optimized workouts
    – Deeper performance insights include customizable LTHR zones, enhanced elevation charts, and broader training system integration
    – New Launcher provides faster access to apps, notifications, and shortcuts with clearer, prioritized info display
    – Daily Briefing replaces Morning Update with both morning and night reports
    – Zepp OS 6 now available on Amazfit Balance 3 and Balance Ultra, with partial rollout to older Zepp OS 5 devices

    Zepp Health’s New OS Update

    Zepp Health has started to push the new Zepp OS 6 software to Amazfit smartwatches. The next generation operating system has been launched around a year after its predecessor, Zepp OS 5, which arrived with the Amazfit Balance 2 smartwatch (curr. $299.99 at Amazon). This new software brings alot of improvements and changes to the table.

    HybridCharge and Body Monitoring

    One of the key features of Zepp OS 6 is HybridCharge. This function builds on the popular BioCharge Energy Monitoring, with more context to help you optimize your workouts. Users can take advantage of tools like LifeLoad to log things like stress, alcohol and travel, and their Rate of Perceived Exertion, to improve the accuracy of their HybridCharge score. Plus, they can get Boundary Reminders when their body may be reaching its limits during a workout, so they can adjust accordingly. Its a smart system for active users.

    Training and Performance Insights

    Also included in Zepp OS 6 are deeper performance insights, such as customizable LTHR (Lactate Threshold Heart Rate) zones, and enhanced elevation charts. Compatible Amazfit smartwatches gain support for more third-party devices like rowing machines and indoor cycling sensors. Plus, plans, courses, race strategies and recovery metrics are now tied together under a broader training system for enhanced training. On top of this, training plans and workout history now sync to the same calendar. This makes tracking much easier.

    New User Interface and Tools

    Overall, Zepp OS 6 is said to prioritize key information in an easy-to-read format and clearer hierarchy. It brings a new Launcher to Amazfit smartwatches, for faster access to apps, notifications and shortcuts. Other features include a system-level notification switch and a device lock tool. It is also worth mentioning that Daily Briefing has replaced the older Morning Update, with reports both morning and night. The interface feels cleaner now.

    Availability and Supported Models

    Zepp OS 6 is currently available for the recently launched Amazfit Balance 3 and Amazfit Balance Ultra smartwatches. However, some of these features have already been pushed to older Amazfit smartwatches running Zepp OS 5. Users should check for updates on thier devices. The rollout seems to be gradual for now.


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  • Citizen Promaster WaveTracker MIP LCD New Releases

    Citizen Promaster WaveTracker MIP LCD New Releases

    Key Takeaway

    – Three new Citizen Promaster WaveTracker models available in US and UK (JV3000-13E, JV3002-51E, JV3006-50L), priced between $795 and $950.
    – Powered by Eco-Drive Calibre U812 (any light source) with an MIP LCD featuring tide graphs, moon phases, alarm, and yacht racing timer.
    – All models have 42mm stainless steel case and sapphire crystal; JV3000-13E has PU strap, others have metal straps.
    – A fourth model (JV3001-53E) is expected to launch later at around $850/£599.

    New Citizen Promaster WaveTracker watches launched

    Three new Citizen Promaster WaveTracker watches are now available in the US and the UK. Also known as the Promaster Wave Tracker series, the JV3000-13E, the JV3002-51E and the JV3006-50L was revealed by the Japanese brand in May 2026.

    Pricing and availability details

    You can now buy the Promaster WaveTracker watches at the Citizen online store in the US and the UK. The JV3000-13E (black/orange) retails for $795/£579, the JV3006-50L (blue/black/silver) costs $850/£599, and the JV3002-51E (black/green/gold) has a $950/£649 RRP. A fourth model seen in Japan, the JV3001-53E (black/silver), is not currently available, but is expected to be priced at $850/£599 should it be released in these markets.

    Features and technical specifications

    Citizen’s Promaster WaveTracker uses an Eco-Drive Calibre U812, which can be powered by any light source. The dial features three analog hands, a mode indicator dial, and an MIP LCD in the upper section. On the digital display, users can access features like tide graphs and moon phases. Other tools offered by the watch includes an alarm, a Yacht Racing timer and an impact detection function.

    Case materials and strap options

    All three available models have a 42 mm (~1.65 inches) wide stainless steel casing and a scratch resistant sapphire crystal. However, the JV3006-50L and the JV3002-51E have matching metal straps, but the JV3000-13E has a BENEBiOL PU strap.


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  • Lenovo 12.7″ Tablet Deal: $144 Off Now

    Lenovo 12.7″ Tablet Deal: $144 Off Now

    Key Takeaway

    – Lenovo Idea Tab Pro available for $275.49 (34% off) with coupon EXTRAFIVE
    – 12.7-inch IPS display with 144 Hz refresh rate and 2,944 x 1,840 resolution
    – MediaTek Dimensity 8300 SoC with 8 GB RAM and 128 GB storage
    – Excellent battery life (17 hours video playback) and includes Tab Pen Plus
    – Great value for casual users and media consumption under $300

    Thanks to a ongoing sale, the well-equipped yet affordable Lenovo Idea Tab Pro tablet is once again available with a sizable discount on the companies official online store. This specific variant comes equipped with 8 GB of RAM and 128 GB of storage.

    Big Discount and a Coupon Code

    Courtesy of the aforementioned 34% discount, the Idea Tab Pro is now available at just $275.49 for a limited time. Interested customers are requested to utilize the following coupon in order to take full advantage of this offer: EXTRAFIVE.

    Display Details and Panel Performance

    We did an in-depth review of the affordable tablet, which paints a mostly promising picture. The 12.7-inch IPS display with a resolution of 2,944 x 1,840 pixels being a major selling point. Of course, the IPS panel cannot keep up with the OLEDs and mini LEDs of the world when it comes to black levels and response times, but its 144 Hz refresh rate and pixel density of over 272 PPI certainly allow for a decent viewing experience.

    We also found that the Idea Tab Pro’s display covers 98% of the sRGB color gamut, which is pretty neat. However, its color accuracy, while decent, is nothing worth boasting about. The same can be said about the panel’s 400-nit peak brightness.

    Performance and Battery Life

    Powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 8300 SoC, the Idea Tabs performance is respectable, and should be more than enough for folks with casual workloads and media consumption requirements. The 8 GB of LPDDR5X RAM allows for acceptable multitasking capabilities as well.

    In our test, Idea Tab Pro tablets battery life turned out to be pretty good, clocking roughly 17 hours in our video playback test. The included Tab Pen Plus is definitely useful for note takers and doodlers, featuring tilt and 4,096 levels of pressure sensitivity.

    Other Features and Final Thoughts

    Other notable features include a quad speaker setup, 13 MP rear camera, 8 MP front camera, Bluetooth 5.3, and WiFi 6. At its current discounted price at Lenovos official online store, the Idea Tab Pro definitely brings a lot to the table for normal users with a $300 budget, especially when considering the ongoing DRAM and storage crisis courtesy of the AI giants.


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    • Shokz OpenDots 2 Earbuds: Bluetooth 6.1 & Bone-Conduction Mics

      Shokz OpenDots 2 Earbuds: Bluetooth 6.1 & Bone-Conduction Mics

      Key Takeaway

      – IP54 case and IP57 earbud ratings
      – Bassphere 2.0 with dual 11.8mm drivers and 70% less distortion
      – 6 microphones (including bone-conduction) for clearer calls
      – 10-hour playback per charge, 40 total with case; 5-minute charge gives 2 hours
      – Bluetooth 6.1, MultiPoint, Dolby Audio, and app support

      Shokz has finally updatd the OpenDots, bringing changes

      It has been more than a year since Shokz released the OpenDots One clip-on earbuds. It has now followed them up with the OpenDots 2, and while they bring significant upgrades over the previous generation, the price tag has remained unchanged. The design is practically identical, so don’t expect a visual overhaul here.

      Design and durability got a serious boost

      The Shokz OpenDots 2 don’t look different from the OpenDots One, and the same goes for the charging case. However, a major change is that the case is now rated IP54 for dust and water resistance while the earbuds haev an IP57 rating. Like their predecessors, the OpenDots 2 will also automatically identify your left and right ears. They also have touch controls for playback, volume, and answering/rejecting calls.

      Audio tech recieves a massive overhaul

      The OpenDots 2 earbuds now feature Shokz Bassphere 2.0 which allows the dual 11.8mm drivers to work as one 16mm driver. The diaphragm has also been redesigned, and Shokz says it cuts distortion by 70%. It also says the open-ear clip-on earbuds have upgraded Dolby Audio, so your music should sound much fuller and richer than before.

      Microphone count trippled for better calls

      The OpenDots 2 also feature 6 microphones (3 per earbud), 3 times more than the OpenDots One. They are not just more but better as two of them are bone-conduction mics which work with the air-conduction mics and AI noise reduction for precision voice pickup for crystal-clear calls. This is a huge leap forward in call quality over the previous model.

      Battery life and charging specifics

      The battery life hasn’t changed, so expect up to 10 hours of playback time on a single charge and a total of 40 hours with the charging case. The case also supports USB-C wired charging and Qi wireless charging, and a 5-minute charge will provide up to 2 hours of usage. You wont be left stranded with these.

      Connectivity and software features

      Other features of the Shokz OpenDots 2 are Bluetooth 6.1, support for Bluetooth MultiPoint, and EQ customization. The earbuds work with the Shokz app which can be used to locate them when lost and to update the firmware. Its a very complete package for the price point.

      Pricing and availability details

      The Shokz OpenDots 2 are available to buy now in Pearl White, Grey, and Black for $199.95 directly from Shokz or on Amazon. Shokz is also offering buyers a limited edition gift when they purchase from its website — they will be able to choose between a Mother-of-pearl earbuds accessory and a signature earbud carrying case.

      Shokz has delivered a solid sequel here, focusing on the features that actually matter.

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