Category: All News

March 24, 2025
Anker 2-Port Wall Charger: New Compact Versions Available Now
Key Takeaways
1. The Anker 20W Wall Charger (2 Ports) has been released in new colors: lilac and green, in addition to the original black and white.
2. The charger features one USB-C port (20W) and one USB-A port (18W), allowing simultaneous charging of two devices.
3. It includes safety features like MultiProtect technology to prevent overcurrent and short circuits.
4. The compact design measures 2.8 x 4.3 x 4.5 cm and weighs 52 g, and it comes with a 150 cm USB-C to USB-C cable.
5. The new colors are priced at €17.99 on Amazon Germany, equal to the original colors; the white version is currently on sale for €9.99.
The Anker USB-C charger (2-port, 20W) has now been released in new colors. Also referred to as the Anker 20W Wall Charger (2 Ports), this accessory was introduced some time ago, previously offered only in white and black. Now, the company is adding two brighter shades: lilac (purple) and green, available through their Amazon store in Germany.
Charging Capabilities
As indicated by its title, this Anker charger features two ports—one USB-C and one USB-A. This allows users to charge two devices at the same time. The PowerIQ 3.0 USB-C port has a power output of up to 20W, which is said to charge an iPhone 15 to 50% in just 30 minutes. The USB-A port has a maximum output of 18W, and when both ports are in use, they share a combined output of 15W.
Safety Features
The Anker 20W Wall Charger includes MultiProtect technology to protect against issues such as overcurrent and short circuits. Anker describes the charger as compact, with dimensions of 2.8 x 4.3 x 4.5 cm (approximately 1.1 x 1.7 x 1.8 inches) and a weight of 52 g (around 1.8 oz). Furthermore, this device, identified by model number A2348, comes with a 150 cm (approximately 5 ft) USB-C to USB-C cable, adding extra value.
Pricing and Availability
The new green and purple Anker USB-C charger (2-port, 20W) can be found on Amazon Germany for €17.99, which is the same price as the standard black and white models. However, it’s important to mention that the white version is currently available at a reduced price of €9.99. It remains uncertain when or if these products will be available in other regions.
Tags: A2348, Anker 20W Wall Charger, USB-C Charger
March 24, 2025
Xiaomi Redmi A5 Launch Plans Revealed by Leaker for Budget Phone
Key Takeaways
1. Xiaomi is set to launch the budget Redmi A5 4G smartphone, priced around €149 (~$160).
2. The Redmi A5 4G will be powered by a Unisoc T7250 chipset and feature a 5,200 mAh battery with 18 W wired charging.
3. It will have a 6.88-inch LCD display with a 720p resolution, 120 Hz refresh rate, and peak brightness of 1,500 nits.
4. The smartphone will come with 4 GB of LPDDR4x RAM and 128 GB of UFS 3.1 storage.
5. The Redmi A5 4G will feature a 32 MP rear camera, an 8 MP front camera, and will be available in black, gold, and green colors.
A brand new budget smartphone is on the way from Xiaomi. To give some background, the firm is set to expand its upper mid-range lineup soon with the Poco F7 Pro and Poco F7 Ultra. Although these devices won’t officially be unveiled until Thursday, Xiaomi has already shared the expected performance details for both phones.
Exciting Specifications
As per Sudhanshu Ambhore, Xiaomi aims to soon introduce the Redmi A5 4G, which features a design that is quite different from the Redmi A3X (currently priced at $85 on Amazon) and Redmi A4. The Redmi A5 4G is expected to cost around €149 (~$160) and will be powered by a Unisoc T7250 chipset. It will also come with a strong 5,200 mAh battery that supports 18 W wired charging, all contained in a body measuring 171.7 x 77.8 x 8.26 mm. Weighing in at 193 g, this smartphone will sport a 32 MP rear camera alongside an 8 MP front camera, plus an additional lens on the back.
Display and Availability
Additionally, the Redmi A5 4G will feature a 6.88-inch LCD display with a resolution of 720p, supporting a refresh rate of 120 Hz and offering a peak brightness of 1,500 nits. While Ambhore has yet to disclose a specific launch date, he mentioned that the phone will come with 4 GB of LPDDR4x RAM and 128 GB of UFS 3.1 storage. From the images that have surfaced, it seems that Xiaomi will offer the smartphone in black, gold, and green colors at launch.
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Tags: POCO F7 Pro, Redmi A5 4G, Xiaomi
March 24, 2025
Oppo Ice Wing Magnetic Cooling Clip Revealed Before Find X8 Ultra
Key Takeaways
1. Oppo will launch new products on April 10, including the Pad 4 Pro, Watch X2 Mini, and the Find X8 series.
2. The Ice Wing Magnetic Cooling Clip will be introduced as a new cooling accessory with a maximum output of 27 W.
3. The Ice Wing Magnetic Cooling Clip is designed to prevent thermal throttling during gaming sessions.
4. While designed for Oppo devices, the clip is also compatible with iPhones and other Android devices.
5. Pricing details for the new products and accessories will be revealed at the launch event on April 10.
Oppo has announced its intentions to launch a range of new products at the start of next month. In short, the tech giant has disclosed that the Pad 4 Pro and Watch X2 Mini will be unveiled on April 10, alongside the Find X8S, Find X8 Plus, and Find X8 Ultra. Additionally, a cutting-edge charging accessory will also be introduced during this launch event.
New Cooling Accessory
The company has introduced the Ice Wing Magnetic Cooling Clip, which is a follow-up to last year’s AirVOOC Magnetic Charger. Unlike the earlier model that employs Oppo’s special Voltage Open Loop Multi-step Constant-Current Charging (VOOC) technology to enable charging at 50 W, the Ice Wing Magnetic Cooling Clip does not feature this capability. Instead, it can provide up to 27 W when connected to a compatible power source through its single USB Type-C port.
Enhancing Gaming Experience
As the name implies, the main purpose of the Ice Wing Magnetic Cooling Clip is to avert thermal throttling during gaming sessions. Oppo states that the clip offers ‘exceptionally strong heat dissipation,’ though it has not shared additional specifics yet. Furthermore, while the accessory is designed specifically for Oppo devices, the company asserts that the Ice Wing Magnetic Cooling Clip is also compatible with iPhones, such as the iPhone 16 (currently $697 – renewed on Amazon) via MagSafe, as well as Android devices using standard clips shown below. Oppo will announce pricing at the launch event on April 10; however, there are no updates regarding its availability in other countries yet.
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Tags: Find X8 Ultra, Ice Wing Magnetic Cooling Clip, Oppo Pad 4 Pro
March 24, 2025
Oppo Find N5 Extreme Durability Test Revealed in New Video
Key Takeaways
1. Oppo demonstrated the Find N5’s lightweight and thin design by using it in a swing for a 50kg (110lb) person.
2. YouTuber State of Tech repeated the test, raising questions about the device’s durability.
3. Oppo used four units to distribute weight in their original demonstration, while only one unit was tested in the YouTuber’s experiment.
4. The Find N5 successfully supported a load of 90lb (around 41kg) for a few seconds without collapsing.
5. After the test, the Find N5 remained functional and could still fold normally, leading to curiosity about the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold7’s capabilities in 2025.
Oppo surprised many when it decided to demonstrate the new Find N5’s lighter and thinner build by using it in a swing designed for a full-grown person, weighing around 50kg (110lb). The innovative hinge of the foldable smartphone was meant to handle the weight.
YouTuber’s Experiment Raises Questions
The YouTuber, State of Tech, took on the challenge of repeating this test, which could lead to more doubts about the device. The current price for the Find N5 is €1,657 (approximately $1,788) in Europe through TradingShenzhen. While the comparison was made, it was noted that Oppo had used four units to share the weight, while only one unit was tested in this new experiment.
Swing Design and Performance
The swing was set up with two ropes connected by a strap across the top of the N5’s hinge, hanging between two wooden boards, just like before. Remarkably, the smartphone managed to support its share of the load without collapsing inward, even when tested with a total weight of 90lb (around 41kg), although it only lasted for a few seconds at each attempt.
Functionality After Testing
Despite the strain, the Find N5 appeared to remain fully operational and could still fold normally by the end of the experiment. It’ll be fascinating to see if the upcoming Samsung Galaxy Z Fold7 can surpass it in this area come 2025.
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Tags: Foldable Smartphone, Oppo Find N5, State of Tech
March 24, 2025
Compal Adapt X: New Modular Concept Laptop Redefines Flexibility
Key Takeaways
1. The Compal Adapt X laptop features a hub method for modular design, allowing easy plug-in of components.
2. This design offers limited flexibility, as all I/O ports are combined into a single module that cannot be swapped independently.
3. Users can easily change the display, keyboard, battery, storage, and memory, with many modules functioning independently.
4. The display can serve as a mobile USB-C monitor, and the keyboard and trackpad can operate as Bluetooth devices.
5. The Adapt X is currently a concept, and its commercial viability is uncertain due to potential weight and cost issues in modular designs.
The Compal Adapt X laptop first appeared after winning an iF Design Award. The firm behind it brought forth an alternative to the Framework Laptop that takes a different route to modular design. While Framework expects users to handle the installation and removal of components from the motherboard themselves, relying on their own screwdriver skills, Compal chose a hub method that lets users plug in components easily.
Limited Flexibility
This method is not as adaptable as the Framework’s system. For example, all input/output ports are combined into a single module, which means they can’t be swapped out independently. Still, the Compal Adapt X concept laptop is crafted to make it simple to change the display, keyboard, battery, storage, and memory. Interestingly, many of these modules can operate on their own without the laptop.
Independent Functionality
Take the display, for instance; it can act as a mobile USB-C monitor. The keyboard and trackpad can work as Bluetooth input devices, and the I/O module can also function as a standalone USB hub. This ensures that the chosen components can still be used even if the laptop encounters a problem. The Compal Adapt X is planned to come with a 14-inch or 16-inch display.
Currently, since the Adapt X is just a concept, it’s uncertain if this design will reach consumers. Modular designs often lead to heavier and pricier products, which may be why modular laptops, except for the Framework Laptop, haven’t seen much commercial success until now.
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Tags: Compal Adapt X, Framework Laptop, Modular Design
March 24, 2025
Yamaha Extrack App: Practice Songs Like a Band Member Alone
Key Takeaways
1. Yamaha Japan launched the Extrack app for musicians, available on iOS, with an Android version coming in April.
2. The app analyzes song files, separating vocals and instruments into individual tracks for practice and performance.
3. Extrack features automatic chord progressions, adjustable playback speed, and repeat sections for enhanced learning.
4. Vocalists can use a key change option to match the track to their vocal range, with the ability to mute instruments for focus on lyrics.
5. The app offers a free plan for five songs monthly and a paid plan for unlimited songs and additional tracks, with the paid plan currently free until August.
Yamaha Japan has introduced an innovative app called Extrack, tailored for musicians who want to learn and perform songs as if they were jamming with a band. The app is currently available for download on Apple iOS, while Android users can expect it to launch in April.
Features of Extrack
Extrack starts by analyzing the song files that users download, identifying the various vocals and instruments within the track. It then separates these components into individual tracks. Musicians have the flexibility to adjust the volume of each track or even mute them completely, enabling them to practice alongside a particular instrument or concentrate on mastering one specific track.
Learning Made Easy
To enhance the learning experience, the app automatically shows chord progressions for piano and guitar tracks, making it easier for users to follow along. Moreover, the playback speed can be modified, and certain sections of a track can be set to repeat automatically until the user feels they have mastered that part.
One standout feature for vocalists is the key change option, which modifies the track to fit the singer’s natural vocal range. During playback, all instrument tracks can be muted, allowing users to focus solely on learning the lyrics.
Pricing Plans
The app offers a free plan that lets musicians split up to five songs each month into four tracks (bass, drums, vocals, and others). For those looking for more features, a paid plan is available, which allows for an unlimited number of songs and seven tracks (bass, brass, drums, guitar, piano, vocals, and others). Currently, the paid plan is being offered for free until August.
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Link
Tags: Extrack, music app, Yamaha
March 24, 2025
Vivo Y300 Pro+ Design, Launch Date, and Fast Charging Revealed
Key Takeaways
1. Vivo is rumored to release a Plus variant of the Y300 Pro smartphone with a larger battery and upgraded Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 processor.
2. The device named V2456A appeared on Geekbench, confirming the use of the Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 and featuring 12GB of RAM with an Android 15-based interface.
3. The Y300 Pro+ is expected to support 90W wired charging, similar to the high-end X200 Ultra, and will have a design resembling the X100 Ultra.
4. Color options for the Y300 Pro+ will include black, pink, and light marbled blue.
5. The launch date for the Y300 Pro+ is speculated to be March 31, 2025, based on leaked promotional content from Weibo.
Vivo is rumored to be releasing a Plus variant of its mid-range Y300 Pro smartphone, boasting a larger battery and an upgraded Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 processor in the near future.
Device Specs Leaked
This information seems to be backed by the appearance of a device named V2456A on Geekbench, featuring processor specifications that align with the 7s Gen 3. The new leak also suggests that the phone will come equipped with 12GB of RAM and run on an Android 15-based user interface.
Charging Speed and Design
The “Pro+” is expected to distinguish itself with quicker 90W wired charging, similar to what is anticipated for the high-end X200 Ultra. The design of the Y300 Pro and the “Pro+” are believed to be quite similar, featuring a camera bump reminiscent of the X100 Ultra. However, the “Pro+” is said to come in color options like black, pink, and a light marbled blue.
Release Date Speculations
These details were shared in what appears to be official promotional content leaked on Weibo by a source known as Sandwich Sister. The poster suggests that the Y300 Pro+ will be launched in China on March 31, 2025.
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Tags: Geekbench, Snapdragon 7s Gen 3, Vivo Y300 Pro+
March 24, 2025
Samsung Launches Odyssey 2025 Gaming Monitors and ViewFinity S8
Key Takeaways
1. Odyssey 3D Monitor: The 27-inch Odyssey 3D (G90XF) offers a glasses-free 3D viewing experience using eye tracking and lenticular lens technology, enhancing gaming and video experiences.
2. Collaborations and Features: Samsung collaborates with popular games and provides features like AI video conversion, 4K resolution, 165Hz refresh rate, and support for FreeSync and G-Sync.
3. Odyssey OLED G8 Model: The refreshed Odyssey OLED G8 (G81SF) is available in 27-inch and 32-inch sizes, both featuring 4K resolution, 240Hz refresh rate, and VESA DisplayHDR TrueBlack 400 certification.
4. Odyssey G9 Ultrawide Monitor: The massive 49-inch Odyssey G9 (G91F) features a Dual QHD display, 144Hz refresh rate, and supports multitasking with Picture-by-Picture and Picture-in-Picture modes.
5. ViewFinity S8 Monitor: The 37-inch ViewFinity S8 (S80UD) is designed for professionals with 4K resolution, HDR10, and eye comfort certification, along with a 90W USB-C port and KVM switch.
Samsung Electronics has introduced an array of advanced gaming monitors at the CES 2025 event earlier this month. Among these are the new Odyssey OLED and 3D gaming displays. These products are now officially available globally, with pre-orders starting today, March 24, 2025, in selected countries. Here’s all the essential information you should know.
Odyssey 3D Monitor
The South Korean technology leader is broadening its monitor range with new models for 2025, starting with the Odyssey 3D (G90XF). This 27-inch monitor features a distinctive capability that provides a 3D viewing experience without the need for glasses. It utilizes cutting-edge eye tracking technology and a lenticular lens to create a simulated 3D effect. As a result, users can enjoy a more engaging experience while gaming or viewing videos.
Collaborations and Features
To highlight this technology, Samsung is teaming up with Nexon’s The First Berserker: Khazan, Neowiz’s Lies of P, and the upcoming Overture DLC. The monitor is equipped with AI video conversion, offers a 4K resolution, and boasts a 165Hz refresh rate with a 1ms response time. It also supports both FreeSync and G-Sync.
Odyssey OLED G8 Model
The refreshed Odyssey OLED G8 model is also part of the 2025 lineup. The G81SF is available in either 27-inch or 32-inch sizes, both featuring 4K resolution and a 240Hz refresh rate. Each size utilizes a QD-OLED panel that is VESA DisplayHDR TrueBlack 400 certified.
Enhanced Display Technology
The panel includes UL certified Glare Free technology to minimize reflections, in addition to Samsung’s OLED Safeguard+, which features a Dynamic Cooling system and a Pulsating Heat Pipe for better heat management. Other impressive specifications include a 0.03ms response time, a 240Hz refresh rate, as well as FreeSync Premium Pro and G-Sync support. The Odyssey OLED G8 showcases a sleek metal design with Core Lighting+ and comes with an ergonomic stand for simple setup.
Odyssey G9 Ultrawide Monitor
The Odyssey G9 (G91F) was revealed as a massive 49-inch ultrawide monitor featuring a Dual QHD display with a 1000R curve. It offers an expansive view and high resolution along with a 144Hz refresh rate, a 1ms response time, and AMD FreeSync Premium Pro support. Additionally, it includes VESA DisplayHDR 600 and HDR10+ Gaming capabilities. With such extensive screen space, Samsung facilitates excellent multitasking through Picture-by-Picture and Picture-in-Picture modes.
ViewFinity S8 Monitor
Lastly, Samsung presents the ViewFinity S8 (S80UD), which is the only non-gaming display on this list. This monitor is designed for professionals, boasting a 37-inch size with 4K resolution, a 16:9 aspect ratio, HDR10, and the ability to display 1 billion colors, making it ideal for creative tasks. It also features TÜV Rheinland certification for eye comfort and protection. Other significant attributes include a 90W USB-C port and a KVM switch.
Tags: Samsung Odyssey 3D, Samsung Odyssey OLED G8, Samsung ViewFinity S8
March 24, 2025
Unlock Pixel Phones Without Waking Screen: Google Update
Key Takeaways
1. Fingerprint Unlocking Improvements: Android 16 Beta 3 allows Pixel users to unlock devices using the fingerprint scanner with the screen turned off, eliminating the need to wake the display first.
2. Enhanced User Experience: The ultrasonic fingerprint sensor now enables authentication directly from a dark screen, streamlining the unlocking process for users with the Always-on Display turned off.
3. Easy Activation: Users can enable the new screen-off fingerprint unlock feature through Settings > Security and privacy > Device unlock > Fingerprint Unlock.
4. Wider Compatibility: The screen-off fingerprint unlocking feature is now available on all compatible Pixel devices starting from the Pixel 6 series, after its initial release in Android 16 Developer Preview 2.
5. Significant for Users: While it may seem like a minor update, the streamlined unlocking process is a significant improvement for Pixel users who have been looking forward to this enhancement.
Google’s new Android 16 Beta 3 update may not seem to bring significant changes at first, but it appears that the company has addressed one of the most bothersome issues with Pixel fingerprint unlocking.
Fingerprint Scanning Improvements
With the release of Android 16 Beta 3, users of Pixel phones can now unlock their devices using the fingerprint scanner even when the screen is turned off. This new feature, noted by Mishaal Rahman from Android Authority, allows Pixel users to skip the step of waking the display prior to using the fingerprint sensor.
Enhanced User Experience
Since the Pixel 6 series, Google has employed an ultrasonic fingerprint sensor, which previously required users to activate the screen before unlocking. However, with Android 16, users can now authenticate directly from a dark screen. To enable this feature, go to Settings > Security and privacy > Device unlock > Fingerprint Unlock, where a new toggle for Screen-off Fingerprint Unlock will be available under “When using Fingerprint Unlock.” Once this is turned on, simply placing your finger on the sensor area will both wake and unlock the phone in one motion.
This change is particularly beneficial for those who have their Always-on Display (AOD) turned off. If AOD is active, the scanner already functions without fully waking the device, so the difference may not be as noticeable for those users.
Compatibility and Testing
As reported by Android Authority, the screen-off fingerprint unlocking feature was first introduced in Android 16 Developer Preview 2 but was initially exclusive to the Pixel 9 series. Now, with Beta 3, it is available on all compatible Pixel devices, starting from the Pixel 6 series. Rahman has tested this on both the Pixel 6a and Pixel 7 Pro, and confirmed that it operates as intended.
This may seem like a minor update, yet it holds significance for Pixel users who have long anticipated a more streamlined unlocking process.
Source:
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Tags: Android 16, Fingerprint Unlock, Pixel 6
March 24, 2025
TCL Launches 31.5-Inch 4K 165Hz Mini LED Gaming Monitor
Key Takeaways
1. TCL’s FFALCON launches the 32U8, a 31.5-inch 4K monitor aimed at gaming and productivity at an affordable price of 3,799 yuan (approximately $525).
2. The monitor features a 165Hz refresh rate, QD-Mini LED technology, 1,400 local dimming zones, and a peak brightness of 1,600 nits with HDR 1400 support.
3. It offers excellent color accuracy with Delta E < 2 calibration, covering 96% of DCI-P3 and 99% of sRGB, and supports 10-bit color. 4. Designed for gamers, the 32U8 has a 1ms GTG response time, TÜV Rheinland certification for low blue light, and advanced dimming technology for comfortable long-term use. 5. The monitor includes ergonomic design features, built-in speakers, and a variety of connectivity options, including dual HDMI 2.1 ports and KVM switching capabilities.
TCL’s FFALCON sub-brand is stepping into the premium gaming and productivity monitor market with the launch of the new 32U8. This 31.5-inch 4K display offers impressive specifications at a budget-friendly price. It is currently available for pre-order on JD.com for 3,799 yuan (approximately $525), with official sales set to begin on April 16.
Specifications of the TCL Thunderbird 32U8
The Thunderbird 32U8 boasts a 31.5-inch 4K panel, delivering a resolution of 3840 x 2160 pixels and an impressive refresh rate of 165Hz. It utilizes QD-Mini LED technology and incorporates 1,400 local dimming zones, each managed by an AM driver for accurate lighting control. This monitor reaches a peak brightness of 1,600 nits and supports HDR 1400, providing distinct modes for gaming, films, and desktop usage.
Color Accuracy and Performance
Regarding color precision, it comes with a Delta E < 2 factory calibration and pixel-level Demura tuning to maintain uniform brightness and color consistency. The 32U8 covers 96% of the DCI-P3 color space and 99% of sRGB, along with supporting 10-bit color (8-bit + FRC). It also offers a solid static contrast ratio of 4,000:1 and an astonishing dynamic contrast ratio of 1,000,000:1.
For gamers, it presents a rapid 1ms GTG response time and features FAST HVA technology from Huaxing to minimize motion blur and ghosting effects. Additionally, it is TÜV Rheinland-certified for low blue light and flicker-free technology, as well as incorporating 10kHz PWM dimming for comfortable viewing over extended periods.
Design and Connectivity Options
This monitor has a modern gaming-centric design, highlighted by dynamic “Light Wings” on its back. It includes an ergonomic stand that allows for tilt, height adjustment, swivel, and pivot functions for optimal positioning. The 32U8 is also equipped with built-in dual 3W speakers for easy audio output.
In terms of connectivity, the monitor features dual HDMI 2.1 ports, one DisplayPort 1.4, a Type-C port with 90W power delivery, two USB 3.0 Type-A ports, a USB 3.0 Type-B port, and a headphone jack. It also supports KVM switching, PIP, and PBP modes, enabling efficient multitasking.
Tags: Gaming Monitor, TCL, Thunderbird 32U8