Category: All News

  • Oppo K13 Turbo Leaked Photo Shows Active Cooling and RGB Lighting

    Oppo K13 Turbo Leaked Photo Shows Active Cooling and RGB Lighting

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Oppo K13 Turbo is a mid-range gaming smartphone featuring a cooling fan and RGB lighting.
    2. The device has a vibrant blue design with a circular fan vent resembling a camera lens and a dual-sensor camera system.
    3. The phone is expected to launch only in China, with no confirmed release dates for other regions.
    4. Active fan cooling is a specialized feature in gaming phones, compared to vapor chamber cooling in flagship devices.
    5. Cooling fans can effectively manage heat during gaming but may not be ideal for general use compared to other cooling methods.


    Oppo’s upcoming smartphone appears to be a mid-range gaming device that might include a cooling fan, RGB lighting features, and Qualcomm’s latest Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 SoC. A reliable source known as Digital Chat Station recently shared a leaked image of the phone, along with some details.

    Design and Features

    The image reveals the back of the alleged K13 Turbo in a vibrant blue color, showcasing a circular fan vent that is designed to resemble one of the camera lenses. The camera system consists of a dual-sensor setup, but its specifications are still unknown and expected to be somewhat underwhelming, especially for a gaming phone.

    Aesthetics and Appeal

    Two RGB LED strips are placed along the edges, and together with the eye-catching blue hue, they create that essential gamer look.

    Launch Information

    An important note regarding this device is that it is currently slated for release solely in China. It’s uncertain if or when it will be available in other regions.

    Active fan cooling is still considered a somewhat specialized feature, but it’s not completely unheard of. The RedMagic 10 Pro (now $749 on Amazon) is a well-known device that incorporates this feature. On the other hand, vapour chamber cooling, which is present in various flagship phones, is pricier but offers benefits like being thinner, more energy efficient (since it doesn’t need power), quiet, and having a larger effective surface area. While cooling fans can effectively release heat during intense gaming sessions, they are not the best choice for overall balanced use.

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  • Xiaomi Mijia Water Purifier Pro with Dual Faucet Launches

    Xiaomi Mijia Water Purifier Pro with Dual Faucet Launches

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Xiaomi Mijia Water Purifier Pro features two faucets: one for drinking water and another for rinsing produce.
    2. The upper faucet offers a flow rate of 4.25 L/min and a purification capacity of 6,500 L, while the lower faucet has a flow rate of 13 L/min and a capacity of 25,000 L.
    3. Users can control the purifier remotely through the HyperOS Connect app, receiving notifications for filter replacements and adjusting settings.
    4. The device’s filtration unit measures 160 x 445 x 428 mm and is designed to fit under the sink.
    5. Pre-orders are available in China for CNY 2,999 (around $411) for the 1600G model and CNY 2,599 (about $356) for the smaller 1200G model.


    Xiaomi has started pre-orders for the Mijia Water Purifier Pro Dual Outlet 1600G in China. This smart kitchen device provides purified water for drinking and washing fruits and vegetables.

    Smart Features and Design

    The Xiaomi Mijia Water Purifier Pro comes with two faucets. The upper faucet is dedicated for drinking water, featuring a superior purification process through an RO membrane. This tap can deliver water at a rate of 4.25 L per minute and has a purification capacity of 6,500 L. In contrast, the lower faucet is designed for less critical tasks, such as rinsing produce, and has a flow rate of 13 L per minute with a capacity of 25,000 L, given its lesser filtration requirements.

    User-Friendly Operation

    Both faucets can swivel for easier access, and there’s an integrated display that shows useful information like the current mode and the Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) level. Users can adjust the settings of the Mijia Water Purifier Pro remotely via the HyperOS Connect app, where they can also receive notifications for filter replacements and set the desired water output. The filtration unit, which is typically placed beneath the sink, has dimensions of 160 x 445 x 428 mm (approximately 6.3 x 17.5 x 16.9 inches).

    Pricing and Availability

    For those interested, the Xiaomi Mijia Water Purifier Pro Dual Outlet 1600G is available for pre-order in China at CNY 2,999 (around $411). Additionally, there is a smaller 1200G model that can be pre-ordered for CNY 2,599 (about $356). However, it seems unlikely that this product will be released in other regions, including Europe.

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  • Intel Lunar Lake Boosts Gaming Performance by 10% with Update

    Intel Lunar Lake Boosts Gaming Performance by 10% with Update

    Key Takeaways

    1. Intel released driver update version 6734 on April 8th, enhancing gaming performance for Arc 130V and Arc 140V models.
    2. Benchmark tests show an average frame rate increase of 10% and a 25% rise in average 1% low frame rate for the Arc 140V with the new driver.
    3. Testing was conducted on an MSI Claw 8 AI+ with an Intel Core Ultra 7 258V at 1080p with medium settings.
    4. The latest driver version (6739) primarily fixed bugs, with no major performance changes expected.
    5. Intel has significantly improved gaming performance through driver updates, achieving frame rate boosts over 700% in some games.


    Once again, Intel is striving to showcase its ongoing efforts in updating drivers to enhance gaming performance for its graphics chipsets. In a recent blog entry, Intel asserts that driver update version 6734, released on April 8th, significantly boosts gaming performance for the Intel Arc 130V and Arc 140V models.

    Benchmark Insights

    To back up this assertion, Intel has shared gaming benchmarks, shown below, illustrating the performance of the Intel Arc 140V using both the new driver and the previous version (6732) from April 2nd. The company tested nine games and found that the update has led to an average frame rate increase of 10%. Interestingly, the average 1% low frame rate has also seen a rise of 25%.

    Testing Setup

    These benchmarks were carried out using an MSI Claw 8 AI+ (starting at $999 at Best Buy) alongside an Intel Core Ultra 7 258V with a thermal design power (TDP) of 17 watts. The games were tested at 1080p with medium settings and no XeSS upscaling. Although Intel has just revealed these benchmark results, the driver version 6734 is already considered outdated. However, since the most recent graphics driver (version 6739) mainly addressed some bugs, there should not be any major performance changes.

    Ongoing Improvements

    It’s common for Intel to make substantial improvements to gaming performance through driver updates for its GPUs. Over the past few years, the company has achieved frame rate boosts exceeding 700% in specific games through new drivers. This has often been due to initial poor optimization. Nonetheless, with these updates, the MSI Claw 8 AI+ featuring Intel Lunar Lake is gradually becoming a more appealing option compared to gaming handhelds that utilize AMD Ryzen chipsets.

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  • Cyberpunk 2077 Devs Applaud Nintendo Switch 2 Specs and Features

    Cyberpunk 2077 Devs Applaud Nintendo Switch 2 Specs and Features

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Nintendo Switch 2’s Joy-Con controllers feature enhanced motion controls, allowing for more immersive gameplay and improved aiming accuracy.
    2. New Joy-Cons utilize a nine-axis motion sensor, providing better tracking compared to the original six-axis system.
    3. CD Projekt Red highlights the importance of motion controls in games like Cyberpunk 2077, contrasting them with other consoles like the Steam Deck and PS5.
    4. The Creator’s Voice video discusses additional Switch 2 specs, including Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) technology to reduce screen tearing.
    5. Joy-Cons detached from the console offer a more intuitive experience for actions like swinging katanas in gameplay.


    Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition developers are showing off their skills in marketing for the Nintendo Switch 2. The newest Creator’s Voice video pointed out specs that make the handheld perfect for playing the game. CD Projekt Red also explained how improved Joy-Con motion controls make the gaming experience more immersive.

    Joy-Con Features

    The Joy-Con controllers for the Switch 2 connect to the console easily thanks to magnets. They also introduce a mouse mode to help with better aim. Developers concentrated on how players can use katanas with motion controls. After some practice, gamers might be able to aim guns in Switch 2 titles more accurately than they could with traditional analog sticks.

    Enhanced Tracking

    Patents for the Switch 2 indicate that the new Joy-Cons utilize a nine-axis motion sensor. The original controllers tracked movements across six axes, so the improved tracking could be a big plus for gamers. Some competitive players of Splatoon 2 still depend on the older accelerometers and gyroscopes. In contrast, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe provides a more varied experience; while it’s more engaging, some racers find the motion controls a bit awkward.

    CD Projekt Red and Other Consoles

    When CD Projekt Red praises the Switch 2, it’s difficult to think they’re not keeping an eye on the Steam Deck. Motion controls on Valve’s device can be used, but they usually need more setup. Players on the PS5 are also disappointed that many games don’t take advantage of the DualSense gyroscope. For example, Cyberpunk 2077 doesn’t support this feature, even though it functions remarkably well in Gran Turismo 7.

    The Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition video also talked about various other Switch 2 specs, like VRR. This technology aligns a display’s refresh rate with frame rates, which helps minimize screen tearing. Recently, there has been discussion about whether VRR will be usable in docked mode. CD Projekt Red hasn’t clarified if this feature is exclusive to handheld use. Nevertheless, swinging katanas feels more intuitive with Joy-Cons that are not attached.

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  • Sony Xperia 10 VII Release Date Rumors and Expected Changes

    Sony Xperia 10 VII Release Date Rumors and Expected Changes

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Sony Xperia 1 VII is set to be released on May 15, 2024.
    2. The release of the Xperia 10 VII may be delayed to October 2024, according to new rumors.
    3. The Xperia 10 VII is expected to target the upper mid-range segment, potentially raising its price above £500 (~$671).
    4. Improvements in chip and camera technology are anticipated for the Xperia 10 VII.
    5. Sony may be planning to merge the Xperia 10 and Xperia 5 series with future releases.


    The Sony Xperia 1 VII is almost here, expected to be released on May 15. There were some hopes that the Xperia 10 VII would also launch around the same time. This idea makes sense since the Xperia 10 V came out in June 2023 (after being announced in May) and the Xperia 10 VI (which you can find on Amazon) was available in June 2024. However, new rumors from two different sources suggest that the release for the Xperia 10 VII might actually be pushed back to October.

    New Rumors Emerge

    Information from a trusted tipster on Esato known as Spektykles and a post by u/Aquis_GN on Reddit coincide on the October launch for the Xperia 10 Mark 7. The first source indicates that it “will be launched at 10 (Oct),” while the second source, reportedly from a Sony Fans Vietnam Facebook group, mentions that the October release will help position the Xperia 10 VII “in the upper mid-range segment.” To understand the current standing of the Xperia 10 series, it’s helpful to compare the UK price of the Xperia 10 VI, which is £349, against the Xperia 1 VI at £1,299 (~$468 and $1,742, respectively).

    Pricing Implications

    If the Xperia 10 VII is indeed going to fit into the upper mid-range category, its pricing will likely reflect this change. While classifying phones this way is quite subjective, it might give Sony a reason to raise the price beyond the £500 mark (~$671) and potentially dash any remaining hopes for an Xperia 5 comeback. Interestingly, the rumor from the Facebook group also mentions that this October launch will feature an “improve[d] chip and camera,” along with the note that “Sony wants to merge the 10 with the 5.” If this turns out to be true, there may be another new Xperia phone on the horizon later this year.

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  • Fujifilm X-Half Lens Specs Leak: Low-Light Performance Concerns

    Fujifilm X-Half Lens Specs Leak: Low-Light Performance Concerns

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Fujifilm X-Half compact camera will feature a rangefinder-style shooting mode with an optical viewfinder for a film-like experience.
    2. It is expected to have a 10 mm f/2.8 fixed prime lens, offering a field of view similar to a 27 mm lens on a full-frame camera.
    3. The camera’s specifications will draw comparisons to high-end smartphones that have similar sensors and focal lengths, like the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra and Xiaomi 15 Ultra.
    4. Fujifilm is known for its lens quality, which may give the X-Half an advantage over modern smartphones with comparable sensors.
    5. The Fujifilm X-Half is expected to be unveiled around May 22, with a potential price slightly lower than the Fujifilm X-M5, currently priced at $899.99.


    We recently shared news about a new feature leak for the upcoming Fujifilm X-Half compact camera. This feature is said to allow the camera to operate in a rangefinder-style shooting mode, using its optical viewfinder while turning off the display to create a film-like feel. In more recent updates, Fuji Rumors has disclosed the anticipated lens details for this new Fujifilm compact camera.

    Lens Specifications

    The leak suggests that the Fujifilm X-Half will sport a 10 mm f/2.8 fixed prime lens. When combined with the 1-inch sensor, this setup should give a field of view comparable to that of a 27 mm lens on a full-frame camera. These latest rumors differ from the previously expected f/2.4 maximum aperture based on earlier leaked images, but Fuji Rumors asserts that this new information comes from a trustworthy source.

    Comparisons to Smartphones

    This camera setup will likely feel familiar to those who have used smartphones, as many high-end models, such as the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra (currently priced at $1,067.99 on Amazon), feature a similar full-frame equivalent focal length of 24 mm. It will also lead to interesting comparisons with smartphones like the Xiaomi 15 Ultra (currently $1,080.31 on TradingShenzhen), which utilizes a comparable 1-inch sensor and a 23 mm full-frame equivalent lens. However, the Xiaomi offers a wider aperture of f/1.6, even though it is a more compact device overall.

    Quality and Pricing

    Naturally, the comparison between the Fujifilm X-Half and modern smartphones equipped with 1-inch sensors will likely focus on lens quality, an area where Fujifilm typically excels, especially with its fixed-lens cameras. While the exact price of the X-Half remains unknown, it is expected to be unveiled around May 22. Speculation suggests that its price may be slightly lower than that of the Fujifilm X-M5, which is currently available for $899.99 at Best Buy with an OIS kit lens.

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  • New Chrome Extensions Show Tariff Prices on Amazon and eBay

    New Chrome Extensions Show Tariff Prices on Amazon and eBay

    Key Takeaways

    1. Amazon does not display extra costs from tariffs, making it harder for budget-conscious shoppers to estimate prices.
    2. Google Chrome extensions use US government tariff data to help users calculate updated product prices.
    3. “Tariff Price Adjuster” and “Tariff Shopping List” offer user-friendly drop-down menus for tariff calculations.
    4. “Tariff Lens” simplifies the process by automatically selecting the country of origin and applying tariffs only to relevant items.
    5. Users should choose one extension at a time, as they do not work well together.


    While Amazon has made it clear that it won’t show the extra costs of products because of tariffs, shoppers who watch their budgets still have ways to estimate these costs when they shop online. A few Google Chrome extensions have come to the rescue, using tariff rate data provided by the US government to calculate and show the updated prices of items chosen by users. There are three extensions available now, and each offers a unique way to estimate and present these revised costs.

    Different Approaches to Tariff Calculation

    The extensions “Tariff Price Adjuster” and “Tariff Shopping List” both provide a user-friendly drop-down menu for calculating extra charges. Within this menu, shoppers can pick the country of origin, type of product, and choose between a total amount or a percentage for the pricing model. For “Tariff Price Adjuster,” the modified price is shown directly on the website, while “Tariff Shopping List” compiles a continuous list for users to check the extra costs tied to each product’s tariff.

    A Simpler Option for Users

    If users are looking for a simpler solution, the “Tariff Lens” extension automatically picks the country of origin and is designed to only apply tariff calculations to relevant items. The extension has recently been updated to version 1.0.4 and boasts several interesting features, such as:

    Despite its benefits, “Tariff Lens” takes a more assertive stance when it comes to displaying updated prices. Although the extension aims to educate consumers, only time will show if it avoids the fate of the now-defunct extension “Add the Trump Tariff,” which was taken down for not complying with Chrome Extension best practices. Users interested in these extensions can find links below. It’s worth noting that these extensions don’t work very well in tandem, so switching back and forth between them might not be the best strategy.

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  • Titanfall 3 Cancelled as EA Lays Off 300+ Employees at Respawn

    Titanfall 3 Cancelled as EA Lays Off 300+ Employees at Respawn

    Key Takeaways

    1. Electronic Arts has laid off around 300 to 400 employees, with about 100 affected at Respawn Entertainment, the developer of Titanfall.
    2. Respawn has canceled two early-stage projects, speculated to include Titanfall 3, as part of their new direction.
    3. The layoffs include team adjustments for Apex Legends and Star Wars Jedi, with ongoing support for affected employees.
    4. Although Titanfall 3 is not explicitly confirmed as canceled, its future remains uncertain amid the recent changes.
    5. Previous leaks suggested Titanfall 3 was in advanced development, but its actual existence is now in doubt.


    Once more, news about the existence of Titanfall 3 has been closely followed by tales of its potential end. The most recent update indicates that Electronic Arts, which owns Respawn Entertainment, the developer behind the Titanfall series, has terminated the employment of more than 300 individuals, with a third of these layoffs impacting Respawn. The studio has also put out a statement on X, detailing the new direction they are pursuing, while announcing that two projects in the early stages have been cancelled.

    Layoffs and Project Cancellations

    According to Bloomberg, approximately 300 to 400 people have been let go from EA, with around 100 coming from the Respawn team. The report claims that those who lost their jobs were working on Titanfall and another project. Respawn also provided an update on X, where it states that they are stepping back from “two early-stage incubation projects.” Although not explicitly named, it’s widely speculated that one of these was the anticipated next Titanfall installment.

    Adjustments and Ongoing Support

    The announcement also references “targeted team adjustments” within the Apex Legends and Star Wars Jedi franchises. It mentions that those impacted by these changes will receive “meaningful support,” with some possibly being reintegrated into EA. Nevertheless, the team will keep working on enhancing Apex Legends and the upcoming title in the Star Wars Jedi series.

    It’s important to highlight that neither EA nor Respawn have directly identified Titanfall as one of the projects that have been abandoned. In addition, past leaks hinted that Titanfall 3 was in advanced development and nearing completion. Whether the game truly exists remains uncertain, but it seems likely it might never become a reality.

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  • xMEMS Unveils XMC-2400 Chip for Cooling Electronics with Sound

    xMEMS Unveils XMC-2400 Chip for Cooling Electronics with Sound

    Key Takeaways

    1. Compact Design: The XMC-2400 micro-cooling chip measures just 9.26 x 7.6 x 1.08 mm and operates efficiently with low power consumption (30 mW).

    2. Innovative Air Movement: It uses ultrasonic sound waves and a piezoelectric film to create airflow, unlike traditional fans with rotating blades.

    3. High Airflow Rate: The chip can move air at a rate of up to 39 cubic centimeters per second, aiding in effective heat management.

    4. Easy Integration: Designed for surface-mount technology (SMT), it can be easily installed on motherboards and offers customization for air vent placement.

    5. Durability: With an IP58 rating, it can resist dust and can be submerged in water up to 1 meter, while managing minor blockages effectively.


    xMEMS has introduced a new micro-cooling chip, the XMC-2400, designed to help manage heat in smartphones, tablets, and servers.

    Innovative Design

    The chip takes advantage of the company’s experience in creating MEMS speakers and microphones, enabling it to move air at a rate of up to 39 cubic centimeters per second while consuming only 30 mW of power. It is impressively compact, measuring just 9.26 x 7.6 x 1.08 mm (0.36 x 0.30 x 0.04 in.). The technology uses ultrasonic sound waves that are inaudible to the human ear.

    How It Works

    MEMS, or micro-electromechanical systems, are made using advanced techniques similar to those used in CPU fabrication. Unlike traditional fans that have rotating blades, the XMC-2400 operates by vibrating a thin piezoelectric film back and forth to create airflow. This method is akin to the way ocean waves can propel boats across the sea.

    Easy Integration

    The XMC-2400 can easily be mounted on motherboards using surface-mount technology (SMT), which is widely utilized in automated electronics production. It offers customization options, allowing for top or side air vents. With an IP58 rating, it can withstand minor dust intrusion and can be submerged in water up to 1 meter (3.3 feet). It provides bidirectional airflow and can handle minor blockages with up to 1,000 Pa of back pressure per activation.

    Gamers using smartphones will need to rely on magnetic phone fans (like one available on Amazon) until manufacturers incorporate these micro-cooling MEMS chips into their devices.

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  • RTX 5060 Laptop Launches on Geekbench, Beats RTX 4060 Performance

    RTX 5060 Laptop Launches on Geekbench, Beats RTX 4060 Performance

    Key Takeaways

    1. Only RTX 5090 and RTX 5080 laptop graphics cards are currently available, with RTX 5060 performance details recently revealed.
    2. The RTX 5060 scores 109,431 in Geekbench’s OpenCL test with an Intel Core i9-13900HX, and 102,564 with a Core Ultra 9 285H.
    3. The RTX 5060 is potentially 18% faster than the RTX 4060, which averages 93,132 points in the same benchmark.
    4. The RTX 5060 features a higher CUDA core count (3,328 vs. 3,072) and a boost clock of 2.5 GHz, though it hasn’t reached that clock speed in tests.
    5. The RTX 5060 may offer notable upgrades over the RTX 20 or 30 series due to its Ada Lovelace architecture, GDDR 7 VRAM, and AI-powered features.


    While many of Nvidia’s GeForce RTX 50 series desktop graphics cards have been released, the same is not true for their laptop versions. Currently, only the RTX 5090 and RTX 5080 are available, and they can be found in a limited selection of high-end laptops. A new listing on Geekbench offers a first look at the RTX 5060 laptop, and the results are not very promising.

    Performance Details

    It powers Colourful laptops that have different setups, one featuring an Intel Core i9-13900HX and the other with a Core Ultra 9 285H. The RTX 5060 laptop achieves a score of 109,431 in Geekbench’s OpenCL test with the first setup, but this score falls to 102,564 with the second. Both models include 32 GB of DDR5 RAM operating at slightly varied speeds.

    Comparison to RTX 4060

    Based on our benchmark data, the RTX 4060 laptop averages about 93,132 points in the Geekbench OpenCL test, making the RTX 5060 potentially 18% faster. Although Geekbench isn’t the best benchmark for GPUs, it provides a rough estimate of performance upgrades. This improvement can be credited to a slightly higher CUDA core count (3,328 compared to 3,072) and a boost clock of 2.5 GHz.

    Potential for Higher Performance

    Interestingly, neither of the RTX 5060 samples mentioned reaches the 2.5 GHz mark, so the actual performance gains might be even better at launch. Coupled with advancements from the Ada Lovelace architecture, GDDR 7 VRAM, and AI-powered features, the RTX 5060 could be a compelling upgrade for those coming from the RTX 20 or 30 series.

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