Category: All News

March 28, 2025
Tencent Invests in Ubisoft Games After Assassin’s Creed Success
Key Takeaways
1. Ubisoft’s new game, Assassin’s Creed Shadows, has surpassed 3 million players, highlighting its success.
2. Tencent is investing €1.16 billion for a 25% stake in a new subsidiary that will focus on Ubisoft’s top franchises: Assassin’s Creed, Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six, and Far Cry.
3. Ubisoft will maintain control and licensing rights in the new subsidiary, which includes studios in various global locations.
4. The investment aims to enhance game development speed, reduce net debt, and promote growth for the franchises involved.
5. There is uncertainty about how the deal will impact Ubisoft employees, but leadership is committed to open communication during the transition.
Ubisoft has recently celebrated a significant achievement with its newest game, Assassin’s Creed Shadows, surpassing 3 million players, though specific sales numbers haven’t been shared. Following this milestone, Ubisoft revealed plans to create a new subsidiary that will encompass its top three franchises: Assassin’s Creed, Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six, and Far Cry. Tencent is set to acquire a 25% stake in this venture.
Tencent’s Investment
As per the announcement, Tencent will inject €1.16 billion into the new subsidiary, which currently holds an enterprise value of approximately €4 billion. Yves Guillemot, Ubisoft’s Co-founder and CEO, described this agreement as a “foundational step” aimed at speeding up game development, cutting down the company’s consolidated net debt, and promoting growth for these franchises.
Structure of the New Subsidiary
While Tencent will hold a 25% share of the new entity, Ubisoft will maintain control, consolidation, and licensing rights. The studios involved in this new structure include locations in Montréal, Quebec, Sherbrooke, Saguenay, Barcelona, and Sofia, along with their existing and upcoming games and back-catalogs.
Guillemot also mentioned,
“We are dedicated to creating a sharper, more focused organization where skilled teams will elevate our brands, foster the growth of new franchises, and spearhead innovation in next-gen technologies and services. Our aim is to provide enriching, memorable games that not only meet but exceed players’ expectations while delivering superior value for our shareholders and other stakeholders.”
Future Implications for Employees
Tencent’s participation in Ubisoft’s strategy isn’t surprising, especially considering the Chinese technology giant was rumored to be interested in buying out Ubisoft’s entire stake last year when Ubisoft’s market value plummeted to €1.7 billion after a significant drop in stock prices due to the poorly received Star Wars Outlaws. Following this latest news, Ubisoft’s shares traded in the US rose by 20%, according to Bloomberg.
However, how this deal will affect staff at the various studios remains uncertain. Insider Gaming obtained an internal message from Ubisoft’s Chief Studios and Portfolio Officer, Marie-Sophie de Waubert, which stated,
“…Naturally, this brings uncertainty and questions. At this moment, we might not have all the specific answers, but we are devoted to communicating with you openly and frequently. Supporting you during this transition is the highest priority for both your local and global leadership teams. Please feel free to reach out to them and stay tuned locally; traditional or special ‘studio times’ will also serve as good platforms to keep you informed and address your inquiries.”
Only time will tell how effectively this new strategy will enable quicker and higher-quality releases for these beloved franchises.
Buy Assassin’s Creed Shadows Limited Edition for PS5 and Xbox Series X on Amazon
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Tags: Assassin’s Creed: Shadows, Tencent, Ubisoft
March 27, 2025
Xiaomi Poco F7 Pro Launches: Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, 6000mAh for £399
Key Takeaways
1. Xiaomi has launched the Poco F7 Pro and Poco F7 Ultra, with the F7 Pro replacing the Poco F6 and F6 Pro models.
2. The Poco F7 Pro features a 6.67-inch AMOLED display with a 120 Hz refresh rate, 1440p resolution, and peak brightness of 1,800 nits (up to 3,200 nits in HDR).
3. It has a 50 MP primary camera and an 8 MP ultra-wide camera, powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor and a 6,000 mAh battery with 90 W charging.
4. The device will receive four major Android updates starting from Android 15 and six years of security updates.
5. The starting price for the Poco F7 Pro is £499/€599 (~$645), with a £100/€100 launch discount available until April 10.
Xiaomi has unveiled the Poco F7 Pro today, along with its pricier counterpart, the Poco F7 Ultra. Essentially, the Poco F7 Pro takes the place of both the Poco F6 and Poco F6 Pro (currently priced at $429 on Amazon), considering that the Poco F7 isn’t officially released yet. There are whispers that Xiaomi might launch a budget-friendly Poco F7 later this year in India.
Display Features
The Poco F7 Pro is designed with a 6.67-inch AMOLED screen that boasts a refresh rate of 120 Hz and a resolution of 1440p, reaching a peak brightness of 1,800 nits. For context, this brightness can increase to 3,200 nits in certain areas of the display, but only when the content is HDR. Additionally, the expansive screen integrates an ultrasonic fingerprint reader and a 20 MP selfie camera.
Camera and Performance
In terms of photography, the Poco F7 Pro is equipped with a primary camera of 50 MP and an f/1.6 aperture, sourced directly from the Poco F7 Ultra. However, this model includes a less powerful 8 MP ultra-wide-angle camera. Instead of the Snapdragon 8 Elite, it features the slightly older but still robust Snapdragon 8 Gen 3. Supporting this hardware is a substantial 6,000 mAh battery that supports 90 W charging, although the Poco F7 Pro lacks wireless charging capabilities.
Software and Pricing
Xiaomi commits to providing four major updates to the Android OS starting from Android 15, along with six years of security updates. The starting price for the Poco F7 Pro is £499/€599 (~$645) for the model with 12 GB of RAM and 256 GB of internal storage. Alternatively, a version with double the storage is available for £549/€649 (~$698). Both configurations come with a launch discount of £100/€100 until April 10. For further details, you can check Xiaomi’s official website.
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Tags: POCO F7 Pro, Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, Xiaomi
March 27, 2025
Garmin Launches Major Update for Older Flagship Smartwatches
Key Takeaways
1. Garmin has launched version 21 software for Fenix 7, Fenix 7 Pro, and similar smartwatches.
2. Users must manually download the update through the smartwatch’s menu; it does not auto-download.
3. Beta Version 21.04 includes five modifications from System Software 20.22.
4. The update features various bug fixes and enhancements, though specific details are not provided.
5. Beta Version 21.04 fixes two additional bugs, including one that could cause a crash in the Garmin Coach widget.
Garmin has just launched the latest major software version for the Fenix 7, Fenix 7 Pro, and other similar smartwatches like the Enduro 2 (currently priced at $671 on Amazon). Earlier this month, the company rolled out System Software 20.22 for these devices, shortly before revealing its larger Q1 2025 update.
New Version Available
Now, Garmin is offering version 21 software, which users can access through its Beta Program. It’s important to note that this new update won’t automatically download to a Fenix 7, Fenix 7 Pro, Epix 2, Epix 2 Pro, Enduro 2, Quatix 7, or Marq 2, even if they are part of the Beta Program. Users need to manually start the download by navigating to Menu, System, and then Software Update on their smartwatch, followed by selecting ‘Check for Updates’.
Changes in Beta Version 21.04
Garmin states that Beta Version 21.04 introduces five modifications compared to System Software 20.22. Among these is a bundle of ‘various’ bug fixes and enhancements, but Garmin has not shared any specific details. Furthermore, Beta Version 21.04 addresses two additional bugs, one of which could lead to a crash in the Garmin Coach widget. The complete list of changes related to Beta Version 21.04 is outlined below:
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Tags: Beta Version 21.04, Fenix 7, Garmin
March 27, 2025
Oppo Pad SE: Budget Android Tablet with Helio G99 Processor
Key Takeaways
1. The Oppo Pad SE is an upcoming affordable Android tablet with two model variants: LTE (OPD2420) and Wi-Fi only (OPD2419).
2. It has received certification from Singapore’s IMDA and has been spotted on Geekbench, indicating its development progress.
3. The tablet features a 10.95-inch display, 4GB of RAM, and 128GB of storage.
4. It will run on Android 15 and is powered by MediaTek’s MTK6789 chipset (Helio G99).
5. No official announcement date or full specifications have been released yet, but the tablet is expected to launch in multiple regions.
While many people are eagerly awaiting the arrival of the Oppo Pad 4 Pro, which is anticipated to be the first tablet using the Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, it looks like the Chinese company is also working on a more affordable Android tablet set to be released as the Oppo Pad SE.
Certification and Model Variants
Evidence of the Oppo Pad SE has surfaced in various places, including Singapore’s IMDA and Geekbench. Starting with the IMDA, the Oppo Pad SE has received certification from the agency, and the documents indicate that there will be two versions available—an LTE model with the model number OPD2420 and a Wi-Fi only model designated OPD2419. Import and export documentation even provides additional information, such as its display size of 10.95 inches, along with its RAM and storage options of 4GB and 128GB, respectively.
Performance Insights
Moreover, a Geekbench score for the LTE version shows that the Oppo Pad SE will come with Android 15, have 4GB of RAM, and utilize MediaTek’s MTK6789 chipset, also known as the Helio G99/Helio G99 Ultra. Although the Helio G99 is nearly three years old, it remains a popular choice for many budget-friendly Android tablets like the Redmi Pad, OnePlus Pad Go, Oppo Pad Neo, and the Lenovo Tab Plus, which is currently selling on Amazon for $239.99.
Future Speculations
As for the remaining specifications of the Oppo Pad SE, they are still not known at this point. There is no information available regarding its announcement date, but based on several documents, it seems that the tablet will be introduced across multiple regions.
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Tags: MediaTek Helio G99, Oppo Pad SE, Snapdragon 8 Elite
March 27, 2025
New Casio MTG-B2000YBD Bluetooth Watch Launching Soon
Key Takeaways
1. A new version of the Casio MTG-B2000YBD watch is rumored to be released soon, featuring a blue color scheme.
2. The original model, MTG-B2000YBD-1A, was launched in 2021 and is made of stainless steel, carbon fiber, and resin.
3. The watch is a Triple G Resist model, offering resistance to shocks, centrifugal forces, and vibrations, and includes Bluetooth connectivity.
4. Users can connect the watch to the Casio Watches app for features like Self check and Phone finder, along with world time support and Tough Solar charging.
5. Launch details, including date, regions, and pricing for the new model, are currently unclear; the previous model was priced at $1,200/£1,109.
New versions of the Casio MTG-B2000YBD watch are said to be coming soon. The MTG-B2000YBD-1A, or MTGB2000YBD1, was introduced in 2021 as a high-end product in the MTG-B2000 lineup.
Rumors of a New Color
A new report claims that at least one updated version of this MT-G timepiece will be unveiled, featuring a blue color scheme. Just to refresh your memory, the MTG-B2000YBD-1A is primarily black with red highlights. This previous model is constructed from stainless steel, carbon fiber, and resin, boasting a Carbon Core Guard design and sapphire crystal glass. Because of its materials, it remains light at 131 g (approximately 4.6 oz).
Features and Connectivity
This watch is tagged as a Triple G Resist model, meaning it is resistant to shocks, centrifugal forces, and vibrations. The MTG-B2000YBD is a radio-controlled device with Multi Band 6, and its Bluetooth capability allows it to link with your smartphone. Via the Casio Watches app, users can modify the watch’s settings and utilize features like Self check and Phone finder. Additional functionalities include world time support for over 300 cities, Tough Solar charging, timers and alarms, along with 20 bar water resistance.
Uncertain Launch Details
Details regarding the launch date of the rumored Casio MTG-B2000YBD watch remain unclear, including which regions it will be sold in and what the price might be. The previous MTG-B2000YBD-1A was priced at $1,200/£1,109.
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Tags: Casio MTG-B2000YBD, MTG-B2000YBD-1A, Smartwatch
March 27, 2025
Vivo X200 Ultra Camera Test: DSLR vs iPhone 16 Pro Max Comparison
Key Takeaways
1. The Vivo X200 Ultra features two dedicated image signal processors (ISPs) for enhanced photography.
2. The device includes an advanced LED flash array that can mimic external light sources.
3. This LED technology aims to improve low-light photography by providing a wider dynamic range.
4. Initial comparisons suggest the X200 Ultra may outperform the iPhone 16 Pro Max but has limitations compared to the Canon EOS 5 Mark 4.
5. Independent camera samples will be necessary for a definitive evaluation of the X200 Ultra’s camera capabilities.
Leakers, such as Digital Chat Station, have been slowly sharing details about the Vivo X200 Ultra for some time now. Yet, Han Bo Xiao keeps bringing attention to new features of the upcoming flagship that haven’t been discussed before.
New Features Unveiled
For instance, Han Bo Xiao, the product manager, shared information yesterday about the X200 Ultra incorporating two dedicated image signal processors (ISPs). We’ve covered more on this separately. He has also confirmed that Vivo is utilizing this device to demonstrate a sophisticated LED flash array.
Advanced LED Flash Technology
As per Han Bo Xiao, the X200 Ultra can modify the light cone of its LED flash, mimicking the presence of an external light source. In theory, this should enable the X200 Ultra to take pictures with a wider dynamic range in low-light situations, which we included an example of below.
Camera Comparisons
While comparisons with Canon’s Eos 5 Mark 4 reveal some limitations for the X200 Ultra in this aspect, the forthcoming flagship seems to outperform the iPhone 16 Pro Max (currently priced at $1,021 – refurbished on Amazon). In the end, we suggest waiting for independent camera samples to be released before making any conclusions about the X200 Ultra’s camera abilities. For this reason, Vivo is set to launch the X200 Ultra next month, following the official debut of the Find X8 Ultra.
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Tags: Han Bo Xiao, LED flash array, Vivo X200 Ultra
March 27, 2025
MSI MAG 271QP X24: Affordable 27″ OLED Gaming Monitor 240Hz
Key Takeaways
1. MSI launched a series of OLED gaming monitors, starting with the MAG 273QP X24 and MPG 272URX QD-OLED, priced at $1,099.
2. The new MAG 271QP X24 features a 27-inch QD-OLED display with a 240 Hz refresh rate and 1440p resolution.
3. The monitor offers a 0.03 ms GtG response time and brightness levels of 250 nits (1,000 nits in HDR).
4. The MAG 271QP X24 lacks USB Type-C connectivity and AMD FreeSync Premium Pro certification, using VESA Adaptive-Sync instead.
5. The MAG 271QP X24 is available for $679.99 through Newegg, with a different rear design compared to the MAG 273QP X24.
MSI has recently launched a series of OLED gaming monitors. To summarize, the firm first released the MAG 273QP X24, followed by the MPG 272URX QD-OLED, which is currently priced at $1,099 on Amazon and features one of Samsung Display’s latest Gen 4 QD-OLED panels.
New Monitor Features
Now, MSI is going back to Samsung Display’s previous Gen 3 QD-OLED panels with the MAG 271QP X24. True to its name, the MAG 271QP X24 utilizes a 27-inch screen that boasts a 240 Hz refresh rate. The QD-OLED display also operates at a resolution of 1440p, with an impressive 0.03 ms GtG response time and a full panel brightness of 250 nits, or 1,000 nits (3% APL) in smaller sections when viewing HDR content.
Comparison with Previous Models
In fact, not much has altered from the previous MAG 271QPX E2 or MAG 273QP X24. As far as we can see, the MAG 271QP X24 lacks USB Type-C connectivity and opts out of AMD FreeSync Premium Pro certification, choosing instead to include VESA Adaptive-Sync technology. The new monitor still features one DisplayPort 1.4a port and two HDMI 2.1 ports, along with a 3.5 mm audio jack.
Pricing and Availability
The rear design of the MAG 271QP X24 is also different from that of the MAG 273QP X24. As of now, MSI offers the MAG 271QP X24 through Newegg for $679.99. For more detailed technical information, you can visit MSI’s official website and check the datasheet below.
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Tags: MSI MAG 271QP X24, Newegg, OLED gaming monitor
March 27, 2025
MediaTek Dimensity 9400+ Launching in New Oppo Find Flagship
Key Takeaways
1. Oppo is set to launch the Find X8s and Find X8s Plus, featuring MediaTek’s new Dimensity 9400+ chipset.
2. The Dimensity 9400+ is specifically named for the first time in this teaser, ahead of its official announcement at the Dimensity Developer Conference on April 11, 2025.
3. The new chipset will have faster ARM Cortex-X925 and Cortex-X4 CPU cores compared to the original Dimensity 9400.
4. The Dimensity 9400+ is a follow-up to the Dimensity 9300+ and will launch about six months after the Dimensity 9400.
5. Oppo’s focus on the new chipset indicates potential advancements in performance for the Find X8s series, making it an anticipated launch.
Oppo has revealed an important detail regarding the Find X8s series, which will include both the Find X8s and the larger Find X8s Plus. Earlier this week, the company hinted at some initial information about the smaller version. Now, it has confirmed that the series will be powered by MediaTek’s upcoming flagship chipset.
Details About the Chipset
As shown in the image below, the chipset being discussed is the Dimensity 9400+. Interestingly, this is the first time Oppo has mentioned the new chipset by name; before this, MediaTek only suggested that it would showcase something new at its upcoming Dimensity Developer Conference (MDDC 2025) set for April 11.
Release Timeline
The Dimensity 9400+ is expected to launch roughly six months after the introduction of the Dimensity 9400. Technically, it serves as the successor to the Dimensity 9300+, which powers devices like the Xiaomi 14T Pro and the Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra (currently priced at $1,044.99 on Amazon). According to a recent Geekbench listing, the Dimensity 9400+ is anticipated to offer the Find X8s and Find X8s Plus improved ARM Cortex-X925 and Cortex-X4 CPU cores compared to the standard Dimensity 9400. However, full details regarding the differences between the Dimensity 9400 and the Dimensity 9400+ are still not available at this time.
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Tags: Dimensity 9400, MediaTek, Oppo Find X8S
March 27, 2025
Oppo Pad 4 Pro Beats All in Early Benchmarks with Snapdragon 8 Elite
Key Takeaways
1. Oppo will launch the Pad 4 Pro on April 10, featuring Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset, aimed at competing with high-end tablets like the iPad Pro 13 and Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra.
2. The Pad 4 Pro is the first tablet to utilize the Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset, claiming superior performance compared to other flagship smartphones.
3. It achieved an impressive score of 2,942,439 in AnTuTu v10, outperforming other Snapdragon 8 Elite devices like the ROG Phone 9 Pro and various flagship smartphones.
4. The Pad 4 Pro’s larger 13.2-inch design helps maintain cooler temperatures for the Snapdragon 8 Elite, contributing to better performance.
5. It features a robust 12,140 mAh battery, which offers over 8% greater capacity than the Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra’s battery.
Oppo has announced this week that it will soon introduce new devices powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset. Interestingly, the Pad 4 Pro may turn out to be the most impressive among them, rather than the Find X8 Ultra.
Launch Date and Competition
The Pad 4 Pro is set to launch on April 10, aiming to compete with tablets like the iPad Pro 13 and Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra, which is currently priced at $1,021 for a refurbished model on Amazon. Oppo claims it has squeezed more performance out of the Snapdragon 8 Elite than any other flagship smartphone on the market. Notably, this will be the first tablet to feature Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset.
Performance Metrics
Reportedly, the Oppo Pad 4 Pro has achieved a score of 2,942,439 in AnTuTu v10, surpassing all tested devices with the Snapdragon 8 Elite, such as the ROG Phone 9 Pro and Qualcomm’s reference device. This trend continues when comparing the Pad 4 Pro to the flagship rankings on AnTuTu.
With a score of 2,942,439, the Pad 4 Pro significantly outperforms devices like the iQOO 13, RedMagic 10 Pro Plus, Vivo X200 Pro, and the OnePlus Ace 5 Pro, all of which score below 2,900,000. Presumably, the Pad 4 Pro can maintain cooler temperatures for the Snapdragon 8 Elite, owing to its larger 13.2-inch design. The battery life appears to be quite good as well, with a 12,140 mAh battery that boasts over an 8% greater capacity compared to the Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra’s battery.
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Tags: AnTuTu score, Oppo Pad 4 Pro, Snapdragon 8 Elite
March 27, 2025
BYD Builds Hundreds of 1MW Charging Stations to Compete with Tesla
Key Takeaways
1. BYD has announced the rollout of 500 new 1MW charging stations by early April to create a robust charging network that aims to surpass Tesla’s V4 Superchargers.
2. The new charging stations will enable electric vehicles to gain about 250 miles of range in just 5 minutes, enhancing the convenience for users of the upcoming Han L sedan and Tang L SUV.
3. BYD plans to expand its charging network to 4,000 stations, leveraging its Super e-Platform architecture for future electric vehicle development.
4. The company’s vertical integration allows for rapid deployment of charging stations without needing extensive grid upgrades, utilizing on-site energy storage containers.
5. BYD intends to ensure accessibility to 1MW chargers in major cities for early adopters of the Han L and Tang L models, launching on March 27.
It’s been less than a month since BYD announced plans to roll out hundreds of its latest 1MW charging stations. This initiative aims to create a network that outperforms Tesla’s V4 Superchargers, which are still quite rare.
On March 17, BYD, the largest electric vehicle manufacturer in the world, unveiled its new 1MW charging system. The company now states that it will have 500 charging stations ready to deliver this impressive output by the start of April.
Speedy Charging Innovations
These charging stations promise to offer unprecedented fast charging speeds, particularly for passenger electric vehicles. They are launching just in time for the Han L sedan and Tang L SUV, both designed on the new 1MW architecture, enabling drivers to add around 250 miles of range in just 5 minutes using these chargers.
Tesla’s latest V4 Supercharger generation currently has an output of 325 kW, which is expected to increase to 500 kW by the end of this year, with plans for megawatt speeds in the future for the Tesla Semi.
Ambitious Expansion Plans
BYD is looking to rapidly establish a network of 4,000 of these chargers, as the new 1MW architecture, called the Super e-Platform, will be the foundation of its electric vehicle system moving ahead. Li Yunfei from BYD mentioned, “BYD’s style has always been – mass production as soon as it is released,” adding that “500 units of 1000 kW charging stations will be available in [early] April.”
The main strength of BYD as an electric vehicle manufacturer lies in its vertical integration, being the second-largest producer of EV and energy storage system batteries globally. It showcased its ability to quickly deploy 1MW charging stations without needing grid connection upgrades or permits by combining them with energy storage containers on-site, allowing them to operate independently.
Ensuring Accessibility for Early Adopters
BYD aims to ensure that when the Han L and Tang L launch on March 27, those who buy them will have access to a network of 1MW chargers available in major cities for their convenience.
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Tags: 1MW Charging Stations, BYD, Han L