Category: All News

  • GTA 6: Gas or No Gas – The Key Question

    Key Takeaway

    – Fuel consumption must be balanced to avoid disrupting gameplay flow
    – Personal vehicles should be the main focus, not every stolen car
    – Different vehicle types could have varying fuel efficiency
    – Positive examples like Mafia 2 and Red Dead Redemption 2 show Rockstar can implement such systems unobtrusively
    – The feature could add realism and make gas stations functional, not just decorative


    Fuel System Debate in GTA 6 Heats Up Among Fans

    Reddit user u/Maleficent-Ad6734 recently reignited the debate about a fuel system in GTA 6, explaining why they believe such a feature could work better than many might expect. “I think it would be a great mechanic,” the user wrote on Reddit. Their reasoning: many players automatically imagine the most annoying version of such a system – having to stop at a gas station every few minutes. Rockstar, however, could approach fuel consumption much more cleverly. So far, though, there is no evidence that such a system actually exists in the game.

    Fans Want Balance, Not Just Annoyance

    The comments show one thing above all: many fans are not fundamentally opposed to more realism. They simply do not want a system that only gets in the way. The key issue would therefore be balance. If Rockstar used fuel consumption sparingly, stolen cars could remain disposable vehicles used to tear through Vice City before being abandoned at the roadside. The refueling system would then only really matter for personal vehicles that players use regularly. Different vehicle types could also play a role, with sports cars, for example, consuming more fuel than ordinary models.

    Could Complexity Actually Improve the Gameplay?

    If Rockstar implemented the fuel system in this or a similar way, many fans seem to believe that it could add value to the game. The fuel system in Mafia 2 is cited several times as a positive example – and Red Dead Redemption 2, with features such as weapon maintenance and horse bonding, is proof for many that Rockstar can implement complex mechanics in a comparatively unobtrusive way. A gasoline system in GTA 6 could certainly help increase realism – and would finally make gas stations more than just scenery.

    Critics Worry About Losing the Classic GTA Flow

    The opposing side fears that such a system in GTA could slow down the flow of the game. The series thrives on spontaneously stealing a car, racing through the city at full throttle, shaking off the police or simply driving on after a chaotic mission. If players constantly had to keep an eye on the fuel gauge, part of the original feel of the game could be lost. Gas or no gas? Anyone who would like to share their opinion on the subject is welcome to do so in the comments section below.

    • Reddit
    Sources
  • Final Fantasy VII: Revelation Retains Core Talent, Avoids AAA Delays

    Final Fantasy VII: Revelation Retains Core Talent, Avoids AAA Delays

    Key Takeaway

    – **Spring 2027 launch** for all platforms (PC, PS5, Switch 2, Xbox Series X|S) on the same day.
    – **Key new features** include region exploration via the Highwind airship and deeper player-driven story choices.
    – **End of a 10-year remake trilogy** (Remake 2020, Rebirth 2024, Revelation 2027).
    – **Fast turnaround** achieved through forward planning and maintaining consistent staff across all three titles.


    Final Fantasy VII Revelation Launch Details

    Following Final Fantasy VII: Revelation’s big reveal in June 2026, Square Enix has locked in a spring 2027 launch window for PC, PS5, Nintendo Switch 2, and Xbox Series X|S, with all versions slated to release on the same day. The game will be available across all major platforms simultaneously, giving players no reason to wait for there preffered console.

    Trailer Highlights and Story Mechanics

    The reveal featured a new trailer showcasing the ability to explore regions via the Highwind airship and a deeper emphasis on player-driven story choices. After Final Fantasy VII Remake released in 2020, followed by Rebirth’s release in 2024, Revelation wraps up the episodic remake trilogy in roughly a decade—an impressive turnaround, given that a single blockbuster AAA video game can take almost six or seven years to go from the drawing board to full release. This rapid development cycle is uncommmon in the industry today.

    Director Interview Insights

    In an interview with restart.run, Final Fantasy VII Remake: Revelation director Naoki Hamaguchi of Square Enix’s Creative Studio went into detail about how the development team managed to deliver back-to-back polished releases without the kinds of delays that plague many big-budget video game projects and franchises. He outlined several simple factors, including forward planning for the remake while earlier entries like Final Fantasy XV and Final Fantasy XVI were still in development, paired with deliberate staff continuity.

    He explained: “That’s definitely true, and I think we were also trying to answer the fans’ desires to have the next title come to them as soon as possible and really let them enter the game and continue the journey. In terms of development, when we were working toward the end of Remake, we already had an idea of how to develop Rebirth, and then, toward the end of development on Rebirth, we had a rough idea of how to approach Revelation.”

    Staff Continuity and Development Flow

    “So in that sense, I think having a kind of constant alignment within the staff, and having the same staff, or most of the staff, work on Revelation from Rebirth to Revelation meant we were able to maintain the same type of flow, and I think that really helped development stay on track within that span of time.” He compared modern development cycles to his three-entry FFVII Remake project and said, “Games these days tend to take five to seven years. Rebirth was only a few years ago, and we’re already now looking at Revelation coming in spring.” The team’s consistancy appears key to there success.

    • Foward planning during earlier titles development
    • Deliberate staff continuity across all three games
    • Constant alignment within the development team
    Sources
  • Blackview PV1000 Max Projector: All-in-One with VIDAA OS

    Blackview PV1000 Max Projector: All-in-One with VIDAA OS

    Key Takeaway

    – 1000 ANSI lumens brightness, 4K decoding, and 40-150 inch adjustable projection
    – Integrated 360° rotating gimbal with auto focus, keystone correction, and obstacle avoidance
    – Built-in dual 6W Dolby Audio speakers for an all-in-one audio solution
    – VIDAA OS with access to 1800+ apps, including Netflix, YouTube, and Prime Video
    – Priced at $299.99 ($269.99 launch promo from June 10-21)


    All-in-One Projector Unveiled

    Blackview has unveiled the PV1000 Max projector, a new all-in-one smart projector designed to combine high brightness, flexible projection, smart streaming, and immersive audio in a single device. It is positioned as a value-focused entertainment solution, the projector aims to cover a wide range of use cases, from home cinema and gaming to outdoor movie nights and everyday media consumption. This thing is supposed to be quite versatile for its price point.

    Core Specs and Brightness

    The PV1000 Max projector features 1000 ANSI lumens of brightness, 4K@60fps decoding, HDR10/HLG support, and a 1500:1 contrast ratio. Combined with an adjustable projection size ranging from 40 to 150 inches, the projector is designed to deliver a large-screen viewing experience across different environments, including living rooms, bedrooms, apartments, and outdoor spaces. This is a decent brightness level for a budget friendly device.

    Smart OS and Entertainment Features

    Running VIDAA OS, the PV1000 Max projector provides access to more than 1,800 apps, including Netflix, YouTube, Prime Video, Disney+, and other popular streaming services. The Linux-based platform is designed for fast startup, smooth navigation, and responsive performance. Additional features such as low-latency gaming mode and Music Sharing further expand its entertainment capabilities. You will find all your favorite streaming services here.

    • 1000 ANSI lumens brightness
    • 4K@60fps decoding support
    • HDR10/HLG and 1500:1 contrast ratio
    • 40 to 150 inch projection size

    Gimbal and Intelligent Vision

    A key highlight of the PV1000 Max is the integrated 360° rotating gimbal paired with a 6-in-1 TOF intelligent vision system. The setup supports auto focus, auto keystone correction, obstacle avoidance, and automatic screen alignment, enabling users to quickly project onto walls, ceilings, or other surfaces without manual adjustment. This flexibility makes the PV1000 Max suitable for a variety of viewing scenarios, whether watching movies in bed, projecting onto a ceiling, hosting family gatherings, or enjoying outdoor entertainment. Setting it up should be a breeze.

    Audio and Processing Power

    To create a complete entertainment setup without additional equipment, the projector integrates dual 6 W Dolby Audio-certified stereo speakers, providing built-in audio for movies, sports, music, and gaming. Together with its high-brightness projection system, the PV1000 Max is positioned as an all-in-one alternative to traditional TV and projector setups that often require separate speakers and accessories. The sound is impressive for a built in system.

    Connectivity and Noise Levels

    The PV1000 Max projector is powered by the MediaTek MT9660 processor and includes HDMI 2.0, dual USB 2.0 ports, a 3.5 mm audio jack, dual-band Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.1, AirPlay 2, Miracast, and DLNA support. Blackview also claims an operating noise level of 30 dB or lower and uses a sealed optical engine to help reduce dust buildup over time. This chipset should handle all your streaming needs without lag.

    • Dual 6W Dolby Audio speakers
    • MediaTek MT9660 processor
    • HDMI 2.0, dual USB 2.0, 3.5mm audio
    • Dual-band Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.1
    • AirPlay 2, Miracast, DLNA support
    • 30dB or lower noise level
    • Sealed optical engine

    Price and Availability

    By combining high brightness, smart streaming, immersive audio, automatic image calibration, and flexible projection in a single package, the PV1000 Max projector aims to offer an accessible all-in-one entertainment experience at a competitive price point. The Blackview PV1000 Max is available through Walmart, eBay US, and eBay EU. The projector is priced at $299.99, with a promotional launch price of $269.99 available from June 10 to June 21. This launch discount makes it a very tempting purchase for those looking to upgrade their home theater. Blackview is clearly targeting value with this one.


  • Apple iPhone Auto-Fix Mode for Software Issues

    Apple iPhone Auto-Fix Mode for Software Issues

    Key Takeaway

    – iOS 27 and iPadOS 27 will introduce a macOS-style recovery mode, eliminating the need for a PC or Mac.
    – Devices in recovery mode can connect to a known Wi-Fi network and display battery status.
    – Options include installing updates, erasing data, activating PC-supported recovery, and remote diagnostic access for Apple Support.
    – A “Recovery Assistant” will automatically detect and attempt to fix known software errors.
    – To enter recovery mode, hold the power button until the menu appears, instead of releasing it at the Apple logo.


    Revolutionizing iPhone and iPad Repairs

    If an iPhone or iPad can no longer be switched on due to a critical software error, it can be restored using the so-called recovery mode. Up until now, the device had to be connected to a PC or Mac in order to be reset either via the Finder in macOS or via the Apple Devices app on Windows computers.

    iOS 27 and iPadOS 27 Bring Built-In Recovery

    This will change with iOS 27 and iPadOS 27, as the next major operating system versions, which are expected to be released in the fall, will include a macOS-style recovery mode. If a device such as the Apple iPhone 17 is booted in this mode, a menu with a range of options appears. The iPhone automatically connects to a known Wi-Fi network, if available, and displays the remaining battery charge in the status bar. Buttons at the top of the screen allow you to set the language and restart the iPhone.

    New Recovery Options and Assistant Features

    The recovery options also make it possible to install a software update, delete all data from the iPhone, activate the older, PC-supported recovery mode or start a diagnostic mode via which Apple Support can access the device remotely. The so-called “Recovery Assistant” is designed to automatically detect known software errors and attempt to rectify them. To boot an iPhone in recovery mode, it must be switched on using the power button, whereby the button is held down instead of releasing it as usual as soon as the Apple logo appears.

    • Install software updates directly without a computer
    • Delete all data and settings from the device
    • Activate the traditional PC-based recovery mode
    • Run diagnostic mode for remote Apple Support access

    How to Activate the New Recovery Mode

    When you boot the iPhone in this mode, the device will automaticly connect to a known Wi-Fi network if one is present. The status bar will show the remaining battery charge. There are buttons at the top of the screen that let you change the language and restart the phone. The Recovery Assistant tries to detect any known software issues and fix them autonmatically, which makes the process much simpler for users who dont have a computer handy.

     

  • Insta360 Go Ultra Hello Kitty Edition Launches With 200 Min Runtime

    Key Takeaway

    – Hello Kitty-themed limited edition action camera launches globally
    – Custom hardware, accessories, and exclusive app features included
    – Priced at $569.99 in a special gift box
    – Core specs match standard Go Ultra (4K/60fps, 50MP, 53g)
    – Adds portrait mode 2.0 and 11 vintage film-style filters


    Global Launch of Hello Kitty Insta360

    Following its China launch, Insta360 has officially launched its latest Go Ultra Hello Kitty limited edition action camera in the global market. Made in collaboration with Sanrio, the camera is based on the pop culture character Hello Kitty. Since its a limited edition, it’s obvious that you get custom hardware designs, themed accessories, and exclusive app features built around the character.

    Pricing and Gift Box Contents

    Insta360 offers a Go Ultra Hello Kitty limited edition gift box, which is priced at $569.99. Inside the box, you get a Go Ultra action camera finished in a Hello Kitty theme along with a wearable neck strap, a mini 2-in-1 tripod 2.0, a pink USB-C-to-C cable, a magnetic easy clip, a quick-release safety cord, and a Hello Kitty custom carry case for carrying the camera and its accessories on the go.

    Design and Custom Details

    Design-wise, the Go Ultra Hello Kitty edition features a lively two-tone sakura-pink finish. The standalone camera has an image of an iconic character in the bottom left corner on the front. The Action Pod’s shutter button has Hello Kitty’s polka-dot bow, while flipping open the touchscreen revealed custom character artwork.

    App and Software Features

    The company hasn’t stopped at hardware for the limited edition. The new camera also gets a special animation, which users can see while connecting it to the companion app. On top of these features, there are also four exclusive Hello Kitty-themed watermarks, and users can easily set their favorite watermark as the default export style in the app.

    Core Specifications and Battery Life

    Besides cosmetic changes, the Go Ultra Hello Kitty limited edition retains the core specs of the standard Go Ultra, featuring a 5 Nm AI chip and a 1/1.28-inch camera sensor. The 50 MP sensor can capture footage at up to 4K/60 fps within a housing that weighs just 53 grams (0.11 lbs). Furthermore, it is said to last up to 70 minutes on its 500 mAh battery or 200 minutes when paired with its Action Pod that adds another 1,450 mAh battery.

    New Imaging Features

    Insta360 has also added new imaging features into the Go Ultra Hello Kitty limited edition, including portrait mode 2.0 and 11 film-style filters, such as CC Film and NC Film, which is further said to give footage a classic, vintage camera look. The Insta360 Go Ultra Hello Kitty limited edition is now available at Insta360’s official website, Amazon, and other authorized retailers.

     

  • Pico Project Swan SDK Leaks Visuals

    Pico Project Swan SDK Leaks Visuals

    Key Takeaway

    – First detailed leak of Pico’s Project Swan headset shows design similar to Apple Vision Pro and Samsung Galaxy XR.
    – Hardware features dual 4K Micro-OLED displays, custom “Pico Silicon” processor, and claims 12ms mixed reality latency.
    – Includes separate battery pack, side-mounted control button, hand/head tracking, and motion controllers.
    – New Pico OS 6 with Spatial Engine allows standard Android apps to run in 360-degree immersive spaces.
    – Global launch expected in late 2026, with more details at GDC 2026.


    First Look at Pico’s Project Swan Mixed Reality Headset

    A leaked video has offered what could be the first detailed look at Pico’s upcoming Project Swan mixed reality headset ahead of its official showcase. The footage was shared on X by user Luna (@Lunayian), who claimed it was publicly accessible via Pico’s software development kit (SDK) and that its authenticity had been independently verified. We were also able to locate visuals within the SDK that appear to match the silhouette of the individual shown in the leaked footage and the headset.

    Design and Controls

    Based on the video, Project Swan appears to borrow design elements from existing mixed reality headsets such as Apple’s Vision Pro and Samsung’s Galaxy XR. The headset features a centrally positioned side-mounted control button that appears to handle core system commands, while many interactions seem to rely on hand gestures and head tracking. The footage also showcases a separate battery pack with five LED indicators, a USB Type-C charging port, a power button, and what appears to be a detachable connection to the headset. Side-mounted speakers, detachable headband supports, multiple spatial tracking cameras, and a pair of motion controllers are also visible. The leak arrives shortly after Pico revealed additional technical details about Project Swan.

    Technical Specifications

    The headset is expected to feature dual 4K Micro-OLED displays with a pixel density approaching 4,000 pixels per inch and up to 40 pixels per degree, peaking at 45 PPD in the centre of the viewing area. Powering the device is a dual-chip architecture comprising a custom-built “Pico Silicon” processor designed for sensing, spatial computing, and image processing alongside a flagship SoC that Pico claims delivers more than twice the CPU and GPU performance of Qualcomm’s XR2 Gen 2 platform. The company also claims end-to-end mixed reality latency of just 12 milliseconds.

    Software and Launch Details

    Alongside the hardware, Pico recently unveiled Pico OS 6, which introduces a new Spatial Engine layer designed to integrate standard Android applications directly into immersive environments. Features such as PanoScreen allow users to position multiple application windows around them in a 360-degree workspace using hand gestures, controllers, keyboards, or mice for input. Project Swan is currently slated for a global launch in late 2026, with Pico expected to share additional details and live demonstrations during its GDC 2026 developer session next week.


    Sources

  • Rare Deal: Top City Builder Under $3 on Steam

    Key Takeaway

    – Scorchlands is a relaxed city builder with no time pressure, ideal for optimizing production chains.
    – It is currently 76% off on Steam, priced at its all-time low of $2.87.
    – The game has 90% positive Steam reviews, praised for its resource management and hex-based puzzles.
    – Later gameplay can become overwhelming with resources, and it lacks a proper endgame.
    – Steam Deck compatibility is listed as “Unknown,” but community reports say it’s playable.


    Discovering Scorchlands on Steam

    Those who enjoy optimizing production chains in city builders instead of constantly dealing with time pressure may find a hidden gem in Scorchlands. Developed by Ringlab and Star Drifters, the city builder launched in July 2024 and normally costs $11.99. Thanks to a 76% discount, the game is now once again available at its all-time low of $2.87. According to SteamDB, this is the first time since October 2025 that this price has returned. Steam currently lists Steam Deck compatibility as “Unknown,” but according to a community post, the title is playable on Valve’s handheld.

    Gameplay and Resource Management

    In Scorchlands, players are taken to the volcanic moon Helia, where the bird-like Giwi are trying to build a new home. Players establish colonies, tap into resource deposits and gradually create an increasingly complex production network. Resource management is at the heart of the experience: raw materials have to be mined, processed and transported between different settlements – all of which requires careful planning. Fortunately, Scorchlands lets players take their time.

    Unlike classic city builders such as Anno, the title largely does without time pressure and constant crises. Instead of reacting to a steady stream of warning messages, players can optimize their production chains at their own pace. There is combat, but it is handled more through tactical planning than frantic click-fests. Judging by the Steam reviews, the relaxed gameplay is one of the game’s biggest strengths.

    Community Feedback and Value

    Scorchlands has only around 130 reviews on Steam so far, but 90% of them are positive. The original concept, with its focus on resources, terraforming and hex-based puzzles, is generally well received. However, later in the game, the growing number of resources is said to become overwhelming. Players also criticize Scorchlands for lacking a proper endgame, which limits long-term motivation. At less than $3, however, the title should still be worth a look for fans of building strategy games – especially since, given its price history, it is unclear how soon such a discount will return.

    Final Notes on the Deal

    Disclaimer: Notebookcheck is not responsible for price changes carried out by retailers. The discounted price or deal mentioned in this item was available at the time of writing and may be subject to time restrictions and/or limited unit availability.


    Sources

  • Doing It Too Early: Digital Foundry Warns on Xbox Exclusives

    Key Takeaway

    – Xbox’s return to console exclusivity for Gears of War: E-Day and Clockwork Revolution is risky due to its small install base.
    – Digital Foundry analysts question the financial viability of AAA exclusives, especially with many players on Game Pass.
    – The decision could strain studios financially, potentially leading to layoffs or quality sacrifices.
    – Exclusivity may strengthen brand identity but is unlikely to significantly boost console sales late in the generation.
    – The success of Halo Campaign Evolved on PS5 could spark interest in Xbox, but the overall strategy remains uncertain.


    Xbox’s big exclusivity shift sparks debate

    Xbox moved away from console exclusivity for its games during the latter half of ex-CEO Phil Spencer’s tenure. This shift was viewed as Xbox transitioning from a console platform to a game publisher. It made sense given Xbox’s current status as a publisher owning giants like Bethesda and Activision/Blizzard. When new CEO Asha Sharma announced at the Xbox Games Showcase 2026 that Gears of War: E-Day and Clockwork Revolution are Xbox console exclusives, it ignited online debate.

    Fanbase celebrates, media raises concerns

    While the hardcore Xbox fanbase celebrated this return to catering to its core audience, media reaction was mixed. Digital Foundry falls into the latter category, discussing how Xbox’s sudden shift back to console exclusivity appears confusing. DF’s Oliver Mackenzie thinks Xbox’s latest experiment with console exclusivity will be short-lived. Per Oliver, a game like Gears of War: E-Day with an enormous budget might not be financially viable as an Xbox console exclusive due to Xbox’s small install base compared to the Sony PS5 and Nintendo Switch 2. Many Xbox players will play it on Game Pass, adding to the financial hit for The Coalition, the studio behind Gears.

    John Linneman shares this concern, explaining he is worried about impacted studios. Xbox CEO Asha Sharma recently shared an internal memo detailing Xbox’s precarious financial situation. If Gears of War: E-Day fails to be as big a hit as it could have been if also releasing on PS5, things could get ugly for Xbox Games Studios employees. We have already seen Microsoft close studios and fire thousands, so the threat of more mass layoffs is very real here.

    Timing and strategy questioned

    Interestingly, John Linneman thinks Xbox should have saved this return to console exclusivity for the next-gen Xbox Helix. He suggests that since Xbox fans were never going to leave the platform anyway, reinstated console exclusivity won’t “move the needle”. In other words, John thinks it is unlikely Xbox will manage to sway or onboard more people with a 6-year-old console that now costs much more than its first launch price.

    Financial strain on studios

    On one hand, DF’s concern regarding console exclusivity makes sense. Xbox has relatively small player numbers, and many, if not a majority, of these players use Game Pass. AAA games exclusive to Xbox are limited in their financial capacity, putting extra strain on studios. They will eventually have to sacrifice quality to lower budgets or downsize to become cheaper to run.

    That said, we can not deny that people buy consoles to play games they want. There is a reason almost every new console generation launches alongside exclusive games meant to attract people. While Microsoft’s primary rationale for bringing back console exclusivity might be to strengthen Xbox’s brand identity, we cannot dismiss the pulling power of a great game.

    Halo example and future outlook

    For instance, Halo Campaign Evolved is launching on July 28 on Xbox Series consoles, the Sony PS5, and PC. This will expose millions of PlayStation gamers who have never played Halo before because it was an Xbox exclusive to one of the most defining Xbox games. This could result in many players getting interested in the franchise and buying an Xbox to play other Halo titles.

    In the end, only time will tell how well Xbox’s latest pivot pans out. The new Xbox CEO looks to be taking the job seriously, and there appear to be many new developments regarding Xbox on the horizon.

    Sources
  • Trump T1 vs HTC U24 Pro: Teardown Reveals Key Differences

    Trump T1 vs HTC U24 Pro: Teardown Reveals Key Differences

    Key Takeaway

    – The Trump T1 Phone is effectively a rebranded 2024 HTC U24 Pro with minor component swaps.
    – Claims of U.S. manufacturing were dropped; “American values” marketing contradicts the phone’s Chinese-sourced parts.
    – iFixit found the phone works with an HTC U24 Pro mainboard installed, confirming identical internals.
    – Battery capacity increased 12%, but charging speed halved from 60W to 30W.
    – Low repairability score of 3/10; real U.S.-made alternatives like the Purism Liberty Phone cost $1,999.


    New Details on the Trump T1 Phone

    The Trump T1 Phone was announced back in June 2025. Almost a year and a data protection scandal later, delivery is now said to be imminent. However, Trump Mobile have not only changed the design and specifications of the smartphone several times since the announcement, but the claim that the device would be manufactured in the USA has also been removed from their marketing. Instead, the Trump T1 is suppose to be produced with “American values”.

    Rebranded HTC Hardware?

    This particular claim is also questionable, as the first teardown of the smartphone shows. iFixit was able to disassemble a sample of the Trump T1 phone, which NBC News received from Trump Mobile. Apart from the gold color and the fake US flag on the back of the device, there is apparently no difference between the Trump T1 Phone and the HTC U24 Pro from 2024. This is not only shown by a CT scan and a direct comparison of the mainboard; the Trump T1 Phone even works if the mainboard from an HTC U24 Pro is installed without any problems.

    In detail, the teardown suprisingly shows some differences, which are probably due to component availability, as production of the two-year-old HTC U24 Pro was discontinued a long time ago. For example, Trump Mobile sources the 12 GB LPDDR5 RAM and 512 GB flash memory from Micron instead of SK Hynix, while the battery has a capacity of 19.35 Wh, which is around 12 percent higher, but the actual battery dimensions have remained unchanged.

    Battery Specs and Assembly Concerns

    While the battery offers a higher capacity for the device, it can only be charged with 30 watts instead of the original 60 watts. Although the Trump T1 Phone is supposed to be assembled here in the USA, iFixit says it is obvious that most of its components come from China. The repair rating of just 3 out of 10 possible points is also below average for most smartphones. For those who actually want a smartphone that is truly manufactured in the USA, there is, for example, the $1,999 Purism Liberty Phone.


  • Realme 8000mAh Battery Phone with RGB LED Design

    Realme 8000mAh Battery Phone with RGB LED Design

    Key Takeaway

    – Realme P4R features a 6.8-inch 144Hz LCD display and 8,000mAh battery with 45W fast charging.
    – Powered by MediaTek Dimensity 6300, up to 6GB RAM, and 256GB storage (expandable via microSD).
    – Includes a 50MP main camera and customizable “AI Pulse Light” for notifications and app integration.
    – Has IP65 rating, MIL-STD-810H certification, and supports glove/wet touch input.
    – Starts at ₹18,999 (~$198) with pre-orders open; launches June 17.


    Realme Expands Its Mid-Range Lineup

    Realme has expanded its P4 series of smartphones. The series, which includes the Realme P4 Power which has a massive 10,001mAh battery, has now been joined by the Realme P4R. This new model comes in three distinct colors like Lavender Glare, Titanium Glare, and Silver Glare.

    Display and Design Details

    The Realme P4R has a 6.8-inch display, although for some weird reason, Realme chose to say the screen is 17.30 centimeters. Nevertheless, it is an LCD panel with a 144Hz refresh rate and a 1570 × 720 resolution. It also has Panda-1681 cover glass for protection against scratches and drops. The phone also has support for glove and wet/oily hands touch input, which is quite handy for different enviroments.

    Performance and Storage Options

    Powering the Realme P4R is MediaTek’s Dimensity 6300 processor and it is paired with up to 6GB of LPDDR4X RAM and 256GB of UFS 2.2 storage. If you need more storage, there’s a microSD card slot for adding up to an additional 2TB of storage. This should be plenty for most users who store lots of media.

    Camera System and AI Pulse Light

    On the back of the phone is a large rectangular camera island that is home to a 50MP f/1.8 primary sensor and an unspecified secondary sensor. There’s also an RGB LED below the secondary camera called AI Pulse Light. Realme says it can be customized to work with apps such as Spotify and YouTube Music, games such as Mobile Legends: Bang Bang and Battlegrounds Mobile India; or as visual cues for incoming calls. The AI Pulse Light has 9 color and 5 speed options, allowing for plenty of personaliztion.

    Battery Life and Charging Capabilities

    The Realme P4R has an IP65 dust and water resistance rating and an MIL-STD-810H certification. These features add to the phones durability. There’s a 8,000mAh battery with support for 45W fast wired charging inside the phone, and Realme claims it should have over 90% battery health after 3 years of use. The phone also has support for bypass charging and reverse wired charging, which is a nice bonus for users on the go.

    Additional Features and Software

    Other features are a 5,300mm² vapor chamber, dual SIM support, Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.3, and support for LDAC, LHDC 5,0, aptX, and aptX HD codecs. The Realme P4R ships with realme UI 7.0 based on Android 16 and comes preloaded with AI features. These AI features should help with daily tasks and overall user experiance.

    Pricing and Availability

    The Realme P4R starts at ₹18,999 (~$198/€172) for the base model with 4GB RAM and 128GB storage. It goes up to ₹20,999 (~$219/€190) for the 6GB RAM + 128GB version, and maxes out at ₹22,999 (~$240/€208) for the 6GB RAM + 256GB version. It is available to pre-order now from Realme’s website and on Flipkart ahead of its release on June 17.

    Sources