Category: All News

  • Asus ROG Strix OLED Monitors: Pricing Revealed Before Summer Release

    Asus ROG Strix OLED Monitors: Pricing Revealed Before Summer Release

    Key Takeaways

    1. Asus is launching new ‘TrueBlack Glossy’ gaming monitors, the ROG Strix OLED XG32UCWG and XG32UCWMG models, developed in collaboration with LG Display.
    2. The TrueBlack Glossy coating features a zero-haze optical layer for vibrant black colors in various lighting conditions.
    3. The monitors are scheduled to be available in August in the United States.
    4. The ROG Strix OLED XG32UCWMG will be priced at $799, while the XG32UCWG will retail for $949.
    5. These prices are competitive compared to the previous ROG Swift OLED PG32UCDM, which costs around $979.99.

    Asus has recently shared information about its upcoming ‘TrueBlack Glossy’ gaming monitors, but it’s been less than a month since that announcement. Back then, we noted that Asus withheld details on the pricing and release dates for the ROG Strix OLED XG32UCWG and XG32UCWMG models.

    Pricing Information Unveiled

    Fortunately, TFTCentral has provided insights into both of these missing details ahead of schedule. To summarize, Asus characterizes its TrueBlack Glossy coating as a product developed, in collaboration with LG Display. They explain that the TrueBlack Glossy film combines a zero-haze optical layer with a sophisticated anti-reflective stack. This zero-haze layer ensures that black colors remain vibrant in all lighting conditions, allowing the monitor to achieve rich blacks, even in well-lit spaces. For gamers who value high-quality visuals during the day, these monitors present excellent options.

    Availability and Costs

    TFTCentral reports that these monitors are set to launch in August in the United States. According to a tweet from the site, the ROG Strix OLED XG32UCWMG will be the more affordable choice, priced at $799. On the other hand, the ROG Strix OLED XG32UCWG is expected to retail for $949, reflecting its superior resolution and refresh rate.

    In simpler terms, the ROG Strix OLED XG32UCWG will have a lower price point compared to the ROG Swift OLED PG32UCDM, which was released last year and now retails for approximately $979.99 on Amazon, featuring Asus’ earlier glossy coating. For more comprehensive information about Asus’ first TrueBlack Glossy gaming monitors, refer to our initial articles on the ROG Strix OLED XG32UCWG and XG32UCWMG launch.

    Conclusion

    In summary, these upcoming monitors from Asus look promising with their unique coating and competitive pricing. Gamers should keep an eye out for these releases later this summer, as they might just elevate their gaming experience.

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    Asus ROG Strix OLED Monitors: Pricing Revealed Before Summer Release

     

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  • Muitavy Desktop Charger: Three Retractable Cables Crowdfunding

    Muitavy Desktop Charger: Three Retractable Cables Crowdfunding

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Muitavy 200W 4-in-1 Charge Solution features GaN technology and includes three built-in USB-C cables for a tidy workspace.
    2. Each USB-C cable can provide up to 165W individually, or up to 100W when two are used simultaneously, with an additional USB-A port for a fourth device.
    3. The charger comes with a USB-C to Lightning adapter and offers four plug types: US, EU, UK, and AU.
    4. Kickstarter pledges start at $89, a $70 discount from the retail price of $159, with shipping planned for September 2025.
    5. The project has over 600 backers and still has 24 days left in its fundraising campaign.

    The Muitavy 200W 4-in-1 Charge Solution is currently raising funds on Kickstarter. This innovative desktop charger utilizes GaN technology and comes with three built-in USB-C cables, helping to minimize mess in your workspace. As of now, there are over 600 backers supporting the project, with 24 days still to go.

    Impressive Charging Capabilities

    Every USB-C cable from the Muitavy charger can provide up to 165W output when used independently. When two of the USB-C outputs are active at the same time, they can each supply up to 100W. Each cable measures 80 cm (about 31.5 inches) and has a magnetic tip for easy storage when not being used. Additionally, there is a USB-A port available to charge a fourth device. For instance, you can use this port to charge an Apple Watch, and Muitavy offers an Apple Watch Wireless Charger accessory priced at $19.

    Extra Features and Options

    In addition to the three cables and the USB-A port, there is also a USB-C to Lightning adapter included. An SD card slot is mentioned on a complementary adapter, although specifics like data transfer speed are not provided. Users can select from four different plug types: US, EU, UK, and AU. The Muitavy desktop charger comes in a sleek dark gray color and measures 5.7 x 2.8 x 2.8 inches (approximately 145 x 73 x 73 mm).

    Affordable Pricing and Shipping Details

    Pledges for the Muitavy 200W 4-in-1 Charge Solution on Kickstarter begin at $89, which is a $70 discount from the suggested retail price of $159. The company plans to ship its product globally and is aiming for a dispatch date in September 2025. However, as with any crowdfunding initiative, there is no assurance that backers will receive their product within this timeline, or even at all.

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    Muitavy Desktop Charger: Three Retractable Cables Crowdfunding

     

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  • iPhone 17 Set to Launch with iPhone 16 Internals

    iPhone 17 Set to Launch with iPhone 16 Internals

    Key Takeaways

    1. iPhone 17 will be slightly larger than the iPhone 16 and will feature improved rear cameras and a true ProMotion display.
    2. It is expected to run on the Apple A18 SoC and maintain the same RAM (8GB) as the iPhone 16, while Pro models may see RAM upgrades.
    3. The 2024 iPhone will have a redesigned look, upgraded Wi-Fi 7, and a larger battery, but will keep the same camera and display specs as the iPhone 15.
    4. The iPhone 16 has been a best-seller, topping global sales charts for the first quarter of 2025.
    5. The base model iPhone 16 is priced around $700 in Renewed Premium condition and has outperformed other leading smartphones.

    The iPhone 17 is expected to be a bit bigger than the 16 model, featuring better rear cameras and an upgrade to a true ProMotion display that previous versions have missed out on for years.

    Performance and Specifications

    However, the new look might not be all that it seems. The iPhone 17 is rumored to run on the Apple A18 SoC, similar to the existing 16 and 16 Plus models. Analyst Jeff Pu from GF Securities has shared this prediction and suggests that the 17 will maintain the same RAM as the 16, which is 8GB. Meanwhile, the Pro and Pro Max versions are expected to receive RAM enhancements.

    Design and Features

    In contrast, the iPhone set to launch in 2024 will sport a redesigned look that aligns with its updated hardware, including an upgrade to Wi-Fi 7 and a larger battery. Interestingly, it will retain the same camera and display specs as the iPhone 15.

    It’ll be fascinating to see whether the new model can match the success of its predecessor, which recently topped the best-selling smartphone list from Counterpoint Research, based on global sales data from the first quarter of 2025.

    Market Performance

    Currently, the base model 16 is priced at about $700 in Renewed Premium condition on Amazon and has outperformed other top smartphones, including the 16 Pro Max and Samsung’s Galaxy S25 Ultra. This achievement marks the first time since the iPhone 13 claimed the top spot in 2023.

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  • Google Pixel Superfans Teaser Hints at Early Android Launch

    Google Pixel Superfans Teaser Hints at Early Android Launch

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Pixel 9 series received praise as the top Android 15 flagship models when launched in August 2024.
    2. Google is inviting 25 fans to become “Pixel Superfans” and preview new devices before their official release.
    3. The Superfan event is scheduled for June 27, 2025, and will focus on experiencing upcoming models like the Pixel 9 Pro, 9 Pro XL, and 9 Pro Fold.
    4. Speculation suggests the Pixel 10 series may be revealed to the public in July 2025, or possibly in June.
    5. The event will take place at the “Pixel Penthouse,” located at the Menier Penthouse in London.

    The Pixel 9 series of smartphones were praised as the ultimate Android 15 flagship models when they launched in August 2024. However, it seems that their new generation is set to arrive a bit earlier this year, potentially by a month or more, thanks to a recent update from Google.

    Exclusive Opportunity for Fans

    Google is now inviting people to apply for a chance to become one of its “Pixel Superfans.” This is a special group of only 25 members who will get the unique opportunity to try out new devices before they officially hit the market.

    The gathering for these Superfans is planned for June 27, 2025. But the “invitation” hints that this event may not be a traditional launch; instead, it looks more like a vlog session where attendees can experience the new models that follow the Pixel 9, including the 9 Pro, 9 Pro XL, and 9 Pro Fold ahead of time.

    Anticipated Unveiling

    This exciting news has led to speculation that the Pixel 10 series will likely be revealed to the general public shortly after, potentially in July 2025, if not even before that in June.

    The event is set to take place at a venue that Google has dubbed the “Pixel Penthouse,” which refers to a specific location in London, SE1 1UN. This postcode links to an upscale venue known as the Menier Penthouse, situated on Southwark Street.

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    Google Pixel Superfans Teaser Hints at Early Android Launch
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  • Huawei Pura 80 Ultra Launch Date Revealed in Latest Leak

    Huawei Pura 80 Ultra Launch Date Revealed in Latest Leak

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Pura 80 Ultra is designed to compete strongly in the smartphone market, particularly with its standout camera design.
    2. The camera features a first-gen SmartSens SC5A0CS 1-inch sensor, promising significant improvements in videography and photography.
    3. Huawei is likely developing the camera technology in-house, with a potential upgrade of the color temperature sensor to 2MP.
    4. Pre-orders for the Pura 80 series are expected to start after the Dragon Boat Festival, which runs from May 31 to June 2, 2025.
    5. The official launch of the Pura 80 Ultra and its variants is anticipated to occur after the festival, possibly in July 2025.

    The Pura 80 Ultra is said to be ready to take over the smartphone market, especially with its camera design expected to stand out on its back panel, as reported by the usually trustworthy leaker, Fixed Focus Digital.

    Impressive Camera Features

    The capabilities of the Ultra’s camera are described as “intimidating” by the source, and this could be linked to its upgrade featuring the first-gen SmartSens SC5A0CS 1-inch sensor. This enhancement is anticipated to significantly improve both videography and photography.

    In-House Innovations

    It is believed that Huawei has developed the camera in-house, and there are hints about a possible upgrade for the color temperature sensor to 2MP, compared to 1.6MP in the previous Pura 70 Ultra version, despite earlier rumors suggesting a 5MP upgrade.

    Pre-Order and Release Timeline

    Fixed Focus Digital also claims that Huawei will likely start accepting pre-orders for the Pura 80 series after the upcoming public holiday in China, which is the Dragon Boat Festival. This festival begins today, May 31, 2025, and goes on until June 2.

    The Pura 80 Ultra and its variants are expected to be officially launched following this period, although the exact release date might not occur until July 2025.

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  • Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge Surprises in New Bend Test Video

    Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge Surprises in New Bend Test Video

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Galaxy S25 Edge is the slimmest Samsung phone ever at 5.8 mm thick and weighs only 163 g.
    2. It is available for a price similar to the flagship S25 Ultra but lacks features like the S Pen and an extra rear camera.
    3. The phone features a titanium frame and Gorilla Glass Ceramic 2 display, offering IP68-rated dust and water protection.
    4. It has shown durability comparable to thicker smartphones powered by Snapdragon 8 Elite.
    5. The Galaxy S25 Edge passed durability tests without issues, dispelling concerns about bending.

    The Galaxy S25 Edge has been revealed as “the slimmest Samsung phone ever created,” measuring just 5.8 millimeters (mm) thick, and it might also be the lightest in its category at only 163 grams (g).

    Pricing and Availability

    Even with its seemingly minor size, it’s currently available on Amazon for nearly the same price as the flagship S25 Ultra. However, it misses out on some features such as the S Pen, an additional rear camera, and even an anti-glare screen.

    Features and Durability

    The higher price tag can be attributed to its frame, which is enhanced with titanium, and the new Gorilla Glass Ceramic 2 display. These materials provide impressive IP68-rated protection against dust and water, making this smartphone surprisingly robust despite its delicate appearance.

    Performance Tests

    Interestingly, it has shown durability similar to other smartphones powered by Snapdragon 8 Elite, which are of a more “normal” thickness. It successfully passed the JerryRigEverything tests for scratches, burns, and bends with the same ease as the 8.8mm Oppo Find X8 Ultra.

    Thus, those expecting a dramatic “Bendgate” situation with the Galaxy S25 Edge might be left feeling a bit let down.

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  • Walmart Switch 2 Release Date: Low Stock Could Cancel Pre-Orders

    Walmart Switch 2 Release Date: Low Stock Could Cancel Pre-Orders

    Key Takeaways

    1. Walmart has faced numerous canceled pre-orders for the Nintendo Switch 2, but stock will still be available on release day.
    2. Stock levels for the Switch 2 vary significantly across different Walmart locations, with some stores having more units than others.
    3. There is speculation that Walmart may allocate some units from pre-orders to fulfill in-store stock, potentially leading to further cancellations.
    4. Customer confidence in Walmart is declining, driving buyers to consider other retailers like Best Buy and GameStop for their purchases.
    5. Best Buy and GameStop plan to hold midnight launch events and seem to have sufficient inventory for their celebrations.

    Since the pre-orders for the Nintendo Switch 2 kicked off on April 24th, customers at Walmart in the U.S. have faced a series of canceled orders. Now that Walmart is getting ready to process these orders, there has been a noticeable increase in cancellations. This situation is annoying, but there will still be stock available at Walmart on the release day of the Switch 2. Sadly, the amount of available units appears to be quite limited in some key markets.

    Inventory Insights

    A number of Walmart employees have the ability to check stock levels using internal applications. With the Switch 2 already arriving at various stores, these systems show how many consoles are at each location. Some of this information has been shared on Reddit and other online platforms. In one instance, a worker mentioned that their store has 17 Mario Kart World Bundles and 10 standard Switch 2 models in stock.

    Stock Variations Across Regions

    Worryingly, another employee noted that a store in Philadelphia will only have 22 consoles ready for the launch day on June 5th. This particular store is located in a busy area that experiences heavy foot traffic. However, the stock situation at Walmart is very different in other places. For example, Bentonville, Arkansas, has 125 Mario Kart World Bundles on hand for the Switch 2 release. It is important to note that this city is where Walmart’s headquarters are located, which might not accurately reflect stock levels in other stores.

    Walmart typically shouldn’t count pre-order commitments for the Switch 2 in its inventory tracker. Nonetheless, many gamers are speculating that some of those units will be allocated to fulfill pre-orders. The retailer might have misjudged its supply and is now racing to secure consoles to prevent further cancellations.

    Shifting Customer Confidence

    The dwindling trust that buyers have in Walmart is pushing them towards other retailers. Best Buy and GameStop are set to hold midnight launch events on June 5th and will provide some perks to their customers. Reports suggest that GameStop plans to allocate between 50 to 100 units to selected locations. It appears that these stores at least have enough Switch 2 consoles to make their launch celebration worthwhile.

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    Walmart Switch 2 Release Date: Low Stock Could Cancel Pre-Orders
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  • C5 Pro: Affordable Hall Effect Wireless Controller for $27

    C5 Pro: Affordable Hall Effect Wireless Controller for $27

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Abxylute C5 Pro is a versatile wireless gamepad compatible with multiple platforms, including Windows PCs, Nintendo Switch, and PlayStation consoles.
    2. The controller features a design similar to Sony’s PlayStation controller, with a bulkier build and a black and white color scheme, along with two extra back buttons for convenience.
    3. Equipped with Hall effect technology, the joysticks offer durability and accurate inputs, reducing the likelihood of stick drift.
    4. The controller includes adjustable vibration motors, a turbo button for arcade games, and has a battery life of up to 10 hours with a quick 3-hour recharge time.
    5. The C5 Pro is priced at $26.99, currently available with a 10% launch discount, and serves as an affordable option for gamers.

    Some gamers might have already heard of the brand Abxylute. The company has just launched a brand new gaming controller named the C5 Pro. This wireless gamepad works with standard 2.4GHz connections, Bluetooth, and USB. It’s made to be compatible with a range of platforms, such as Windows PCs, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, and devices that run on iOS or Android.

    Design and Features

    The layout of the Abxylute C5 Pro is similar to that of Sony’s PlayStation controller, featuring both joysticks at the same height. However, this budget-friendly controller does appear a little bulkier and showcases a black and white color scheme with strong contrasts. This affordable Hall effect controller includes two extra buttons on the back, which are handy since they allow gamers to use them without lifting their thumbs from the analog sticks.

    Performance and Technology

    Both joysticks feature Hall effect technology, which is supposed to provide great durability and accurate inputs without the frustration of stick drift. The Abxylute controller also comes with vibration motors, whose intensity can be adjusted across four levels and can even be completely turned off. There’s a turbo button for those arcade games, along with some rather subtle RGB lighting. More importantly, this budget-friendly gamepad boasts a battery life of up to 10 hours and only takes 3 hours to recharge fully. You can now order the C5 Pro directly from Abxylute for $26.99, benefiting from a 10% launch discount that may or may not be available for long.

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    C5 Pro: Affordable Hall Effect Wireless Controller for $27
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  • PocketBeagle 2: New Developer Board with Enhanced Performance

    PocketBeagle 2: New Developer Board with Enhanced Performance

    Key Takeaways

    1. The new PocketBeagle 2 features the AM6254 chip, offering improved performance over the AM6232 without a price increase.
    2. The board has a compact size of 55 x 35 millimeters and includes a USB-C port, buttons, LEDs, and debug ports.
    3. It lacks a standard HDMI output, making it unsuitable for media playback.
    4. The PocketBeagle 2 includes a microSD slot, UART connection, and pin headers for connecting to external sensors and actuators.
    5. The board is priced at $29.99 and can be purchased from DigiKey, with the Raspberry Pi Zero 2 as a potential alternative.

    A fresh version of the PocketBeagle 2 has just hit the market. We previously mentioned the original model back in February, and now this updated system is running a different SoC. The newly installed AM6254 chip from Texas Instruments is claimed to deliver better performance than the older AM6232. However, the transition to this new SoC doesn’t seem to have resulted in a price increase. It remains a developer board with limited capabilities, and it lacks a standard HDMI output that you would find on the Raspberry Pi 5, making it not ideal for media playback.

    Compact Design

    This board is really small, measuring only 55 x 35 millimeters, and has a low profile. On the front side, you’ll find a 512 MB LPDDR4 module along with a USB-C port, two buttons, and user-configurable LEDs and debug ports. On the back, there’s a microSD slot and a UART connection for debugging, plus two pin headers. These pin headers allow for connections to external sensors and actuators, which means you could potentially use the PocketBeagle to control robotic systems based on various sensor inputs.

    Pricing and Alternatives

    You can grab this developer board online at Digikey for $29.99. If you are considering other options, the Raspberry Pi Zero 2 is worth checking out.

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    PocketBeagle 2: New Developer Board with Enhanced Performance
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  • Star Wars Game Delivers Fan Hopes 8 Years After Launch

    Key Takeaways

    1. Revamped Progression System: Battlefront II now features a simplified progression system that allows players to earn upgrades through gameplay instead of spending money.

    2. Variety of Game Modes: The game offers a wide range of modes, including large-scale battles, cooperative missions, and unique experiences like Ewok Hunt, catering to different player preferences.

    3. Increased Player Count: The game has recently hit a new record for player count, indicating a significant revival in interest and engagement.

    4. Hope for Battlefront 3: Fans are optimistic about the possibility of a Battlefront 3, fueled by the renewed success of Battlefront II, despite recent setbacks in game development.

    5. Long-Term Enjoyment: After years of improvements, Battlefront II has become the engaging multiplayer experience that players desired, potentially keeping the community entertained for years to come.

    Star Wars Battlefront II is having a amazing revival, hitting a new record for player count just a few days ago. When it first came out, the game faced heavy backlash due to its pay-to-win features, which made players either play for an eternity or pay real cash to unlock iconic characters like Darth Vader. This uproar was so significant that it led to discussions at the government level about loot boxes and gambling in video games. However, EA and DICE have since revamped nearly every critical component of the game.

    New Progression System

    Currently, Battlefront II showcases a simplified progression system that is entirely reliant on gameplay. Players can earn star cards and upgrades for heroes just by playing, instead of spending money. The game’s previously cluttered economy has been streamlined, and cosmetic items are now linked to in-game achievements or credits that players earn.

    Diverse Game Modes

    The assortment of game modes also plays a big role in its comeback. From the large-scale 40-player Galactic Assault conflicts to tight Capital Supremacy skirmishes, cooperative PvE missions, chaotic Heroes vs. Villains battles, and the unexpectedly suspenseful Ewok Hunt, there’s a mode for every Star Wars enthusiast.

    Future of Battlefront

    Many fans are still hopeful for a potential Battlefront 3 in the near future and believe that the revived interest in Battlefront II shows there’s a market for it. However, the recent shutdown of Cliffhanger Games and the cancellation of the forthcoming Black Panther game have been yet another setback for the chances of Battlefront 3 becoming a reality.

    After eight years, Battlefront II has finally transformed into the engaging, visually impressive multiplayer Star Wars experience that players have always wanted. Ironically, it seems that many people are just now starting to appreciate it — all at once. While Battlefront 3 might not be on the horizon anytime soon, Battlefront II appears to have enough content and quality to keep fans entertained for many years — provided the player community remains stable.

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