Category: All News

  • Razer Blade 16 Launches with New GPU Options Available Now

    Razer Blade 16 Launches with New GPU Options Available Now

    Key Takeaways

    1. Razer Blade 16 now offers budget-friendly GPU options: RTX 5070 and RTX 5060.
    2. Starting price for the new configurations is $2,399, featuring a Ryzen AI 9 365 processor and 16 GB RAM.
    3. RTX 5060 specs include 8 GB of VRAM and a Total Graphics Power of 115 Watts.
    4. The top-tier Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 CPU is only available with the RTX 5090, priced at $4,499.
    5. Other specs remain unchanged, including a 16-inch QHD+ OLED display and various connectivity options.


    Originally unveiled at CES 2025, the Razer Blade 16 was initially available only with the GeForce RTX 5070 Ti, RTX 5080, and RTX 5090. However, these graphics cards came with high price points that were often not justifiable, as the performance improvements were not always proportional to the costs. Razer has now introduced more budget-friendly GPU choices for its 16-inch gaming laptop.

    New GPU Options

    You can now equip the Razer Blade 16 with either an RTX 5070 or RTX 5060. These can be combined with a Ryzen AI 9 365 processor, 16 GB of LPDDR5x-8000 (soldered) RAM, and a 1 TB SSD, starting at a price of $2,399. The RTX 5060 features 8 GB of VRAM and a Total Graphics Power (TGP) of 115 Watts (100 base plus 15 boost). Unfortunately, if you want the top-of-the-line Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 CPU, it can only be paired with an RTX 5090, which will cost you $4,499.

    Consistent Specs

    The other specifications of the laptop have not changed, including a 16-inch QHD+ (2,560 x 1,600) 240 Hz OLED display, Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4, two Thunderbolt ports, three USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A ports, an HDMI 2.1 port, a micro SD card reader, a 1080p Windows Hello webcam, and a 90 Wh battery that can charge at up to 200 Watts.

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  • Gigabyte Aorus RTX 5090 AI Box eGPU: Water-Cooled & Thunderbolt 5

    Gigabyte Aorus RTX 5090 AI Box eGPU: Water-Cooled & Thunderbolt 5

    Key Takeaways

    1. Thunderbolt 5 is expected to become mainstream in 2025, with products like the Gigabyte Aorus RTX 5090 AI Box enhancing laptop performance.
    2. The Aorus RTX 5090 offers a bandwidth of 80Gbit/s, delivering gaming performance that is three times greater than its predecessor with Thunderbolt 3.
    3. The graphics card features water cooling for improved performance, but this makes GPU swaps more complicated.
    4. The eGPU enclosure includes an extra Thunderbolt 5 port, allowing connections to monitors, docking stations, and other peripherals, as well as charging capabilities via USB-C Power Delivery 3.0.
    5. Gigabyte has not announced the pricing or release date for the Aorus RTX 5090 AI Box.


    2025 is looking like the year when Thunderbolt 5 will finally hit the mainstream market. Following laptops such as the Alienware Area-51 and a range of docking stations, Gigabyte has stepped up with an external graphics card that connects to laptops using Thunderbolt 5. This connection offers a bandwidth of 80Gbit/s, allowing the Nvidia GeForce RTX 5090 to perform at just 14% lower than what you’d expect with PCIe 5.0 x16.

    Boosted Gaming Performance

    When we compare it to its predecessor, which was based on the GeForce RTX 4090 and utilized Thunderbolt 3, the gaming performance is anticipated to be three times greater under optimal conditions. It’s worth noting that Gigabyte likely implemented DLSS 4 Multi Frame Generation to achieve such an impressive performance enhancement. The graphics card housed in the Aorus RTX 5090 AI Box features water cooling to optimize performance, but this also complicates the process of swapping out the GPU once it’s been purchased.

    Connectivity and Features

    Gigabyte’s latest eGPU enclosure is equipped with an additional Thunderbolt 5 port, which can be utilized to connect a monitor, docking station, high-speed Thunderbolt SSD, or other peripherals. The laptops connected through this enclosure can be charged using USB-C Power Delivery 3.0. Additionally, the RTX 5090 eGPU contains two USB-A ports, another USB-C port, an Ethernet connection, and a total of four monitor ports, which includes three DisplayPort 2.1b and one HDMI 2.1b.

    Gigabyte has not yet revealed any information regarding the pricing or the official release date for the Aorus RTX 5090 AI Box.

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  • Casio MR-G Kurogane-Iro Watches with Prices for Strap and Bracelet

    Casio MR-G Kurogane-Iro Watches with Prices for Strap and Bracelet

    Key Takeaways

    1. Two new Casio MR-G models, MRG-B2000RG-3AJR and MRG-B2000BG-3AJR, are priced at 385,000 yen (approximately $2,470) and set for release in June 2025.

    2. Both models have the same price despite differences in materials, with the RG-3AJR featuring a more expensive recrystallized titanium bezel.

    3. The watches share a rich green and gold color scheme, inspired by the traditional Japanese “kurogane-iro.”

    4. Key features include solar charging, Bluetooth, world time for over 300 cities, and a unique triple subdial design with a kikkō pattern.

    5. Limited availability is expected at G-Shock boutiques and select retailers in Japan, with no official press release from Casio yet.


    Two fresh models from Casio’s “kurogane-iro” MR-G line have made a reappearance, this time with clearer pricing details from Great G-Shock World Japan. The MRG-B2000RG-3AJR and the MRG-B2000BG-3AJR are both tagged at 385,000 yen (around $2,470), with a planned release set for June 2025. You can refer to our earlier articles about these watches here.

    Pricing Parity Explained

    Interestingly, both watches carry the same price tag, even though there are clear differences in how they are made. Usually, models with full bracelets like the BG-3AJR cost more than those with rubber straps. Yet, the RG-3AJR features a pricier recrystallized titanium bezel, which probably accounts for the equal pricing in this case.

    Consistent Color Scheme

    The color palette remains similar for both watches, showcasing a rich green tone highlighted with gold, reminiscent of the classic Japanese “kurogane-iro” color. The MRG-B2000RG-3AJR is equipped with a black fluoro-rubber strap and has a brushed, stone-like bezel with visible hex screws. On the other hand, the MRG-B2000BG-3AJR sports a full titanium bracelet with a softer brushed texture.

    Standard MR-G Features

    Both timepieces are expected to come with the usual MR-G features: solar charging, Bluetooth capabilities, world time for over 300 cities, and a triple subdial design that offers calendar and multi-time zone functions. The dials also showcase a kikkō (turtle shell) pattern surrounding the subdials, along with gold-accented markers that provide a more intricate appearance.

    So far, Casio hasn’t officially released a press statement regarding these new additions. However, looking at previous launches and current listings, both models are likely to be available in limited numbers at G-Shock boutiques and select retailers in Japan starting next month.

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  • Powkiddy V90S: Pre-orders Now Open Under $40 for Retro Handheld

    Powkiddy V90S: Pre-orders Now Open Under $40 for Retro Handheld

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Powkiddy V90S features a 3.5-inch display with a resolution of 640 x 480 pixels, an upgrade from the original V90’s 3-inch display (320 x 240 pixels).
    2. The V90S has a larger 3,000 mAh battery, compared to the 1,040 mAh battery in the V90, enhancing battery life.
    3. It includes 1 GB of LPDDR3 RAM but lacks built-in Bluetooth and Wi-Fi; users must use USB adapters for wireless connectivity.
    4. The device has two microSD card slots and a new ‘double hinge’ design for improved usability.
    5. The V90S measures 89 x 85 x 26 mm and is priced at $44.99, or $39.99 with a promotional code, making it more affordable than the Anbernic RG35XX SP at $78.99.


    Anbernic has recently launched the RG34XX SP. In response, Powkiddy has made a comeback with the V90S, nearly five years after the original V90 was released. With such a long time between these devices, it’s no surprise that Powkiddy has made several improvements throughout.

    Display and Battery Upgrades

    For instance, the previous 3-inch display with a resolution of 320 x 240 pixels has been upgraded to a larger panel of 3.5 inches and a better resolution of 640 x 480 pixels. Additionally, the Powkiddy V90S now features a 3,000 mAh battery (5V/2A), a significant increase from the 1,040 mAh battery found in the V90. On another note, Powkiddy has replaced the older Allwinner F1C100S chip with the newer A133P, which is already seen in the Powkiddy V20.

    Memory and Connectivity

    The V90S comes with 1 GB of LPDDR3 RAM, matching the V20; however, it does not include Bluetooth or Wi-Fi features. Powkiddy recommends users to utilize USB adapters like RTL8723BU, 8812AU, or 8821CU to gain Wi-Fi access for this new handheld device. Moreover, the V90S is equipped with two microSD card slots, a small vibration motor, and what Powkiddy calls a ‘double hinge’ design.

    Dimensions and Pricing Details

    As a point of reference, the V90S measures 89 x 85 x 26 mm, making it nearly the same size as the Anbernic RG35XX SP, which is currently priced at $78.99 on Amazon. The V90S can be ordered worldwide for $44.99, or just $39.99 if you use the code V90SGOOD. For further information, make sure to check out Powkiddy’s official website.

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  • OnePlus Unveils 100W Compact Charger for Fast Charging

    OnePlus Unveils 100W Compact Charger for Fast Charging

    Key Takeaways

    1. OnePlus has launched a compact GaN charger in China, claiming it is one-third the size of typical chargers with similar charging speeds.
    2. The charger supports SuperVOOC 100 W fast charging and stable 65 W PD charging, along with compatibility for PPS, QC 3.0, and UFCS.
    3. It features a travel-friendly design with a foldable plug and a bundled 1-meter USB-C cable that supports 10 A power delivery.
    4. The charger includes safety protection measures, a lightweight body, and an elegant appearance, making it suitable for everyday use.
    5. The launch price is CNY 199 (about $28), with no current global availability date announced.


    OnePlus has introduced a new GaN charger in China, and one of its standout features is its compact size. The company asserts that the “square bottle” shape of the charger makes it one-third the size of typical chargers that provide the same charging speed.

    Fast Charging Capabilities

    This new GaN charger supports SuperVOOC 100 W fast charging. Additionally, OnePlus claims it can deliver stable 65 W PD charging for long-term use. Apart from PD and SuperVOOC, it also supports PPS, QC 3.0, and UFCS, meaning it can work with almost all devices.

    Travel-Friendly Design

    OnePlus emphasizes the portability of their new 100 W GaN charger, which includes a foldable plug for easy transport. Another convenient feature is the included USB-C cable that has magnets for simple storage.

    The bundled 1-meter cable is designed to support 10 A power delivery, making it appropriate for high-power devices (the 2-meter 240 W Ugreen cable currently costs $9.99 on Amazon). OnePlus also highlights that the cable’s high-density interwoven texture ensures its durability for everyday use. Other notable features of this GaN charger include various safety protection measures, a lightweight body, and an elegant appearance.

    Pricing and Availability

    In terms of price, OnePlus has set the launch price of the new 100 W GaN charger in China at CNY 199, which is about $28. There is currently no information regarding when this charger will be available globally, but OnePlus usually releases most of their accessories beyond the Chinese market.

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  • TCL Announces Filmmaker Mode for New TVs, Wider Rollout Expected

    TCL Announces Filmmaker Mode for New TVs, Wider Rollout Expected

    Key Takeaways

    1. TCL is introducing Filmmaker Mode in various MiniLED LCD TVs for 2025 models, despite earlier stating it wouldn’t be included.
    2. The feature is confirmed for models like the QM6K, QM7K, QM8K, and X11K in North America, and several models in Europe.
    3. Filmmaker Mode supports SDR and HDR10 content, with Dolby Vision support expected in a 2025 update.
    4. This mode enhances viewing by disabling certain processing features, maintaining creators’ intended visuals, and is best for dimly lit environments.
    5. Early users have reported the presence of Filmmaker Mode in some 2024 models, though it’s unclear if it will be available for all models from that year.


    TCL seems to be introducing Filmmaker Mode across various MiniLED LCD TVs. This makes them one of the last brands to embrace this feature, as they previously stated in 2024 that they weren’t planning to include it in their TVs.

    New Additions to TCL’s Lineup

    Filmmaker Mode was highlighted as a feature for some of TCL’s 2025 models, including the C9K, QM6K, and QM7K for North America, as well as the T7L for China. Recently, the company confirmed to FlatpanelsHD that this setting is available on the QM6K, QM7K, QM8K, and X11K TVs (starting at $5,999.99 on Amazon) for the US and Canada, along with the C6K, C7K, C8K, C9K, and X11K for Europe. TCL mentioned that the current version of this feature supports SDR and HDR10 content, with Dolby Vision support expected to come in an update later in 2025. The TVs will automatically switch to this mode in compatible applications like Amazon Prime Video.

    Purpose of Filmmaker Mode

    Introduced in 2019, Filmmaker Mode is marketed as a way to enjoy films and shows in the manner intended by the creators. It disables certain picture processing features like motion smoothing and helps maintain aspect ratios, colors, and frame rates. TCL advises that Filmmaker Mode is better suited for viewing in dimly lit environments, recommending that users opt for Film Mode in brighter areas.

    User Experiences with Filmmaker Mode

    Early users of the QM751G and QM851G TVs have confirmed the presence of Filmmaker Mode. Interestingly, while there hasn’t been any official announcement, some users have reported seeing it after recent updates on the C755 and C855 models launched in 2024. It’s unclear if TCL plans to extend Filmmaker Mode to more of its 2024 television models.

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  • Casio LF-30W Analog Watch Launches in More Countries

    Casio LF-30W Analog Watch Launches in More Countries

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Casio LF-30W-1A watch is available in more European countries, priced at €34.90.
    2. Four versions of the LF-30W series were found at retailers, with the black model confirmed on the UK website.
    3. The watch features a square display in a rectangular resin case, measuring 37.8 x 33.7 x 8.6 mm.
    4. Key features include an orange LED backlight, stopwatch, countdown timer, and time zone tracking for up to four cities.
    5. Battery life is approximately three years on a CR1616 battery, but no details about a US launch have been provided.


    The Casio LF-30W-1A is now available on the brand’s online platforms in more European nations. In April 2024, four different versions of the LF-30W series watch were found at various retailers, and a few weeks after that, Casio confirmed the device on its UK website.

    Pricing and Availability

    The black LF-30W-1A is set to be sold in countries like the Netherlands, Spain, and Germany for €34.90. The product page mentions that this model is “coming soon,” but there’s no specific release date provided. You can, however, sign up for email alerts to be notified when the watch becomes available. It’s still uncertain if the other color options, including the LF-30W-2A (blue), LF-30W-3A (green/khaki), and LF-30W-8A (white/cream), will also be launched in these markets. All these models are listed on the UK online store with a suggested retail price of £29.90.

    Design and Features

    The LF-30W watch features a square display housed in a rectangular resin case that measures 37.8 x 33.7 x 8.6 mm (approximately 1.5 x 1.3 x 0.3 inches). Users can view the status of various modes—like mute, alarm, and hourly signals—at the top left of the digital display. On the top right, there’s a world map that shows the current time zone, allowing users to save up to four cities from a selection of 48 for quick switching. The larger lower area displays the time, day of the week, and date.

    Additional Specifications

    Some other cool features are an orange LED backlight, a stopwatch accurate to 1/100th of a second, and a countdown timer that works for up to 24 hours. The LF-30W-1A is claimed to be accurate within 30 seconds per month and can last around three years on a CR1616 battery. Unfortunately, Casio has not yet provided any information regarding a potential launch of the LF-30W watches in the US.

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  • Casio G-Shock GBX-100S Skeleton Watches Launching in Europe Soon

    Casio G-Shock GBX-100S Skeleton Watches Launching in Europe Soon

    Key Takeaways

    1. Casio introduces G-Shock G-Lide GBX-100S-1 and GBX-100S-2 in Europe, following their launch in Japan.
    2. The watches are priced at €169, cheaper than the previous model GBX-100NS-1 at €179.
    3. Designed for extreme sports, they feature tide graphs, moon phases, and connectivity to 3,300 surfing locations via a smartphone app.
    4. The GBX-100S watches track training activities, support Strava, and include a variety of timers and alarms.
    5. Both models have a transparent resin casing, stainless steel bezel, and come in different strap colors; availability in the US is still uncertain.


    Casio is set to introduce the G-Shock G-Lide GBX-100S-1 and GBX-100S-2 timepieces in Europe. These models from the GBX-100 series have already made their debut in Japan after a wave of speculation earlier this year.

    Pricing and Availability

    The G-Shock G-Lide GBX-100S-1 and GBX-100S-2 watches are now listed on Casio’s websites for the Netherlands, Spain, and Germany, each priced at €169. This is a bit cheaper than the previous model, the GBX-100NS-1, which is available for €179.

    Features for Adventurers

    Designed especially for extreme sports enthusiasts, the Casio G-Shock GBX-100S-1 and GBX-100S-2 come with a variety of surfing-specific features. They provide tide graphs, tide times, tide levels, moon phases, along with sunrise and sunset timings. With Bluetooth connectivity, you can connect the watch to your smartphone and easily choose from around 3,300 surfing locations in the Casio Watches app.

    Tracking and Functionality

    The GBX-100S watches allow users to monitor their training activities such as running, with important metrics like speed, pace, and calories burned; they are compatible with Strava as well. Other handy features include world time support, a 1-second stopwatch, countdown timer, and four alarms with a snooze option. A white LED backlight ensures readability of the digital display in dim conditions, while the energy-saving function helps maintain a two-year battery life.

    Both models sport a skeleton (transparent) resin casing and a stainless steel bezel surrounding the memory-in-pixel (MIP) LCD display. While the GBX-100S-1 features a black resin strap, the GBX-100S-2 is equipped with a dark blue resin band. They measure 50.9 x 46.0 x 14.7 mm (~2.0 x 1.8 x 0.6 inches) and have a weight of 66 g (~0.15 lbs). It remains uncertain if the Casio GBX-100S-1 and GBX-100S-2 will also be released in the US, where older models from the GBX-100 Series, like the GBX100-2A, are already on the market.

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  • Vivo S30 Pro Mini Design and Display Specs Leaked Online

    Vivo S30 Pro Mini Design and Display Specs Leaked Online

    Key Takeaways

    1. The S30 Pro Mini will have a smaller 6.31-inch screen, similar to the OnePlus 13s.
    2. It is expected to be a budget-friendly option, likely powered by the Dimensity 9400e chipset.
    3. The camera design will feature a modern pill-shaped housing and an Aura Light ring flash.
    4. The phone may come in four color options: yellow, black, light blue, and pink.
    5. Both devices are expected to have 1.5K resolution LTPO displays with punch-hole selfie cameras, but may not feature cutting-edge 2.5D curved panels.


    The S30 Pro Mini is believed to feature a smaller screen compared to the standard S30, measuring 6.31 inches, similar to the highly awaited OnePlus 13s.

    Potential Specs and Pricing

    This rumored Vivo model could be the more budget-friendly option of the two, possibly powered by the new Dimensity 9400e chipset, which is said to be almost identical to the previous flagship 9300+ SoC, as per the well-known leaker Digital Chat Station.

    Camera Design Features

    The same source has shared images indicating that the S30 Pro Mini will sport a camera bump that blends elements from both the 13s and its S20-series predecessors. This new design includes a modern pill-shaped housing for two out of its three lenses, along with an Aura Light ring flash.

    Color Options and Display Technology

    According to fresh renders, the rear of the phone may come in four color options: yellow, black, light blue, and pink, which are likely to be available for both the S30 and its Pro Mini counterpart.

    Both devices are shown to feature punch-hole selfie cameras on their displays, which are expected to have a resolution of 1.5K and utilize LTPO technology for better power efficiency.

    However, the displays in the S30 series might not be cutting-edge, as they are rumored to have 2.5D curved panels rather than the flat design seen in the new Oppo Find X8s.

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  • Nvidia’s Next Big AI Move: Cloud-Connected Humanoid Robots

    Nvidia’s Next Big AI Move: Cloud-Connected Humanoid Robots

    Key Takeaways

    1. Nvidia’s GPUs have driven significant growth in the AI industry, establishing a near-monopoly in AI hardware.
    2. CEO Jensen Huang envisions physical AI and robotics as the next industrial revolution, providing essential tools for robotics development.
    3. Nvidia launched Isaac, its first open-source humanoid robot operating system, allowing developers to enhance robots with trained models.
    4. The training process for robots involves creating videos from single images to teach new tasks using compressed action tokens.
    5. Nvidia supports developers with Universal Blackwell Systems powered by RTX PRO 6000 GPUs, facilitating powerful robot training capabilities.


    The AI industry has experienced huge growth over the past four years, largely due to Nvidia and its advanced GPUs that are specially made for AI tasks. Team Green started investing in AI back in the mid-2010s, but the real impact became noticeable only in recent years. With the hardware segment of AI now well established, and almost monopolized, Nvidia is exploring new opportunities that might increase its value even more. At this year’s Computex, Team Green hinted that one of these opportunities could be in physical AI and humanoid robotics.

    CEO’s Vision for the Future

    During his keynote earlier today, CEO Jensen Huang shared, “Physical AI and robotics will lead to the next industrial revolution. From AI brains for robots to simulated worlds for practice, or AI supercomputers for training foundational models, NVIDIA offers essential tools for each phase of the robotics development process.”

    Expanding Software Horizons

    With a focus on physical AI, Nvidia is also broadening its efforts in the software domain. The main element here is the company’s first open-source humanoid robot operating system named Isaac. Developers can build on this by adding trained models like the Gr00t N1.0, which was launched in March and has now been updated to version 1.5, introducing the Dreams component. Version 1.0, which featured the Mimic component, served as a foundation for training robot reasoning and actions. With the Dreams component, Nvidia is unveiling a framework that can produce large amounts of synthetic motion data (neural trajectories) that physical AI developers can use to teach robots various motor skills, including adapting to different environments.

    Training Process Explained

    The training method is similar to text-to-image and video models. Initially, the robots undergo post-training with Cosmos Predict world foundation models (WFMs). By using just one image as input, GR00T-Dreams can create videos of the robot doing new tasks in unfamiliar settings. The blueprint extracts action tokens (compressed data pieces easily handled by the robot’s neural network), which instruct the robot on how to carry out new actions.

    Nvidia’s Isaac GR00T is strongly connected to the Omniverse and Cosmos platforms to generate training data. The N1.5 update, along with models such as Isaac Sim 5.0 and Isaac Lab 2.2, will soon be downloadable from the Hugging Face repository. Innovative companies already utilizing the Isaac N models for humanoid robots include AeiRobot, Foxlink, Foxconn, Lightwheel, NEURA Robotics, Boston Dynamics, Agility Robotics, and XPENG Robotics.

    Developer Support and Hardware

    In addition, Nvidia is providing its Universal Blackwell Systems powered by RTX PRO 6000 GPUs, like the DGX Cloud infrastructure, enabling developers to access significant processing power for robot training with ease.

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