Category: All News

  • Affordable Casio LF-30W Watches Now Available in the US for $30

    Affordable Casio LF-30W Watches Now Available in the US for $30

    Key Takeaways

    1. Casio has launched the LF-30W digital watch series in the U.S., with all models priced at $29.95.
    2. The watches feature a lightweight design with a square face and sustainable bio-based resin straps.
    3. Key functions include 31 time zones, a 1/100-second stopwatch, countdown timer, five daily alarms, and a full auto-calendar until 2099.
    4. The battery lasts approximately three years, and the watch is water-resistant for everyday splashes but not suitable for swimming.
    5. Available colors include black, dusty blue, green, and off-white, providing a modern alternative to other Casio models.


    Casio has just launched its new LF-30W digital watch series in the United States, and all four models are now priced at $29.95. The available versions include the LF-30W-1A, LF-30W-2A, LF-30W-3A, and LF-30W-8A. These watches are part of Casio’s May 2025 collection and are perfect for casual users who are in search of an affordable yet feature-rich digital watch. Interestingly, Amazon lists these timepieces for $89, which shows a huge price increase from the original cost. More information can be found here.

    Design and Build

    Each watch features a small resin case measuring 37.8 × 33.7 × 8.6 mm and has a lightweight of just 23 grams. The unisex design is simple, showcasing a square face with a world map display. The strap is crafted from bio-based resin, which adds a sustainable touch.

    Functions and Features

    Despite its low price point, the LF-30W offers a surprising array of functions. It accommodates 31 time zones across 48 cities, includes a 1/100-second stopwatch, a countdown timer (up to 24 hours), five daily alarms, an LED backlight (with a warm amber hue), and a full auto-calendar that extends to the year 2099. Additionally, it features a multi-time display, allowing users to keep track of four different cities simultaneously—a handy benefit at this price range.

    Battery and Durability

    The battery life is estimated to last around three years with a CR1616 cell. The glass is made of resin, and while the water resistance is adequate for everyday splashes, it’s not suitable for swimming.

    The LF-30W series is priced the same as Casio’s AE1000W-5AV, but it boasts a more compact and modern design. Customers have the choice of several colors including black, dusty blue, green, and off-white.

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  • Avoit and Hyde Launch WA-J1 Triple-Driver Headphones

    Avoit and Hyde Launch WA-J1 Triple-Driver Headphones

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Avoit WA-J1 headphones feature a unique mix of piezo, planar, and dynamic drivers for high-resolution sound and 3D spatial audio support.
    2. They support Hi-Res Audio playback with Bluetooth 5.3 and the LDAC codec, along with the LC3 codec for superior music quality.
    3. The headphones have an impressive battery life of up to 140 hours and can be recharged in three hours via USB-C; they also support 3.5 mm wired connections.
    4. The limited-edition WA-J1-666 model includes Hyde-themed packaging, unique artwork, and sound tuning for enhanced rock tracks, alongside voice guidance from Hyde’s recordings.
    5. The standard WA-J1 is priced at 39,600 yen (~$273), while the WA-J1-666 is priced at 46,260 yen (~$319), both available for pre-order on the Avoit website.


    Avoit and J-Pop singer Hyde have teamed up to create the WA-J1 triple-driver over-ear headphones. These headphones utilize a mix of piezo, planar, and dynamic drivers in each ear, ensuring vivid high-resolution music playback along with support for 3D spatial audio. Additionally, their hybrid active noise cancellation system uses four microphones to effectively reduce background noise.

    Audio Quality and Connectivity

    The headphones are capable of Hi-Res Audio playback via multipoint Bluetooth 5.3 connections using the LDAC codec. They also support the new LC3 codec, which provides superior music quality compared to the more common SBC and AAC codecs, both of which are also supported.

    Battery Life and Connectivity Options

    With an internal battery life that lasts up to 140 hours, the headphones can be fully recharged in three hours with a USB-C power source. Users can also connect them to audio devices through a standard 3.5 mm headphone cable.

    Special Edition and Pricing

    The limited-edition WA-J1-666 model comes in Hyde-themed packaging and features unique artwork of a red snake and cross. Hyde’s voice recordings are incorporated for the headphone voice guidance. The sound is specially tuned to highlight Hyde’s rock tracks, delivering strong bass and clear vocals.

    The Avoit WA-J1 is priced at 39,600 yen (~$273) and can be pre-ordered at a discounted price of 35,640 yen (~$246) for shipments in July. The WA-J1-666 is priced at 46,260 yen (~$319) and is available for pre-order for September delivery. Both models can be pre-ordered through the Avoit website. After launch, the WA-J1 will also be sold on the Avoit store on Amazon Japan.

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  • EcoFlow Glacier Classic 3-in-1 Cooler Launches in Europe at £699/€799

    EcoFlow Glacier Classic 3-in-1 Cooler Launches in Europe at £699/€799

    Key Takeaways

    1. The EcoFlow Glacier Classic is a 3-in-1 portable cooler that can also function as a freezer and charge devices, keeping items fresh for up to 43 hours.
    2. It is available in three sizes (35L, 45L, 55L) and features energy-efficient insulation, dual-sided access, and an app for temperature control and tracking.
    3. The 45L and 55L models have dual temperature zones, allowing users to set one side to chill and the other to freeze, while the 35L can only serve one function at a time.
    4. The cooler can be charged through multiple methods, including AC outlets, car power outlets, solar panels, and USB-C, with bidirectional charging for devices.
    5. Pricing starts at £699/€799 for the 35L model, with discounts available for early buyers and those purchasing an additional battery pack.


    Following its recent introduction in the US and Canada, EcoFlow has revealed its Glacier Classic portable 3-in-1 cooler aimed at the European audience. This cooler, powered by a battery, also functions as a freezer and is capable of keeping food and drinks fresh for as long as 43 hours. Additionally, it can charge devices like smartphones and laptops.

    Specifications and Features

    The EcoFlow Glacier Classic comes in three sizes: 35L, 45L, and 55L. Each size includes features like 2-inch thick insulation foam, a compressor that consumes 40% less energy than typical refrigerators, an IPX4 water resistance rating, a 298Wh battery capacity, and a power rating of 55W.

    With the accompanying app, users can switch the cooler to max mode to chill items like ice cream and meats, or use Eco mode to extend battery life during lengthy trips. The app also includes a temperature alert feature and allows users to track temperature history for up to 7 days.

    Dual Temperature Zones

    Notably, only the 45L and 55L models offer dual temperature zones with a divider, letting users set one part of the cooler as a chiller and the other as a freezer. In contrast, the 35L version can only be used as a chiller or a freezer, but not both at the same time. All sizes feature dual-sided door access and come with extra accessories like a pegboard, tray table, and storage bag.

    The Glacier Classic can be charged through several methods. It can be powered via an AC outlet (95W), car power outlet (up to 100W), alternator (110W), solar panel (11-30V), or USB-C (100W). The USB-C port allows for bidirectional charging (100W max output), making it suitable for powering various devices, including smartphones, tablets, handhelds, and laptops.

    Pricing and Availability

    EcoFlow has announced that the Glacier Classic is priced at £699/€799 for the 35L model, £749/€849 for the 45L model, and £849/€949 for the 55L model in the UK. An additional battery pack can be purchased for £299/€299, and there will be a discount for those who buy both the cooler and the battery pack together.

    Starting today, the 35L cooler can be purchased on Amazon and EcoFlow’s online store, while the 45L and 55L models are available for pre-order. EcoFlow has also mentioned that customers who buy any of the three models between May 29 and July 31 will receive a £100/€100 discount.

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  • Apple Follows Tesla and Samsung in Numbering iOS and macOS by Year

    Apple Follows Tesla and Samsung in Numbering iOS and macOS by Year

    Key Takeaways

    1. Apple is changing its software naming convention to reflect the release year, similar to how car manufacturers label models.
    2. This new naming system will apply to all operating systems, with upcoming versions referred to as iOS 26, macOS 26, etc.
    3. Other companies, like Samsung and Microsoft, have experimented with similar naming strategies, but results have varied.
    4. It’s still unclear if Apple will also adopt this naming convention for its iPhones, potentially transitioning to iPhone 26.
    5. The anticipated iOS 26 is expected to feature a significant visual redesign and new features, to be revealed at WWDC 2025.


    Apple is aiming to clear up the confusion surrounding its software versioning by naming its various operating systems according to the year they are released.

    Naming System Change

    This approach mirrors how car manufacturers designate the model year of their vehicles, keeping them relevant in consumer minds for a consecutive two years. For instance, just like Tesla labeled its latest update as the 2026 Model Y, Apple is likely to refer to its upcoming iPhone software as iOS 26.

    Consistent Across Platforms

    This naming strategy will extend to all of its operating systems. Instead of using names like iOS 19, macOS 16, iPadOS 19, watchOS 13, macOS 15, or visionOS 3, Apple is expected to unveil iOS 26, macOS 26, and others during the WWDC 2025 event.

    Industry Trends

    In the past, Samsung adopted a similar strategy for its flagship smartphones, transitioning from the Galaxy S10 in 2019 to the Galaxy S20 in 2020. This change was made to name its devices based on the release year, making them seem more advanced than Apple’s iPhones, which are currently on their 16th iteration.

    Microsoft also tried naming its Windows operating system by the year it launched, but eventually switched back to sequential numbering.

    Future Speculations

    It remains uncertain whether Apple will implement this new naming convention for its iPhones as well, meaning the shift from the current iPhone 16 Pro Max to a hypothetical iPhone 26 Pro Max running iOS 26 could occur this coming September.

    The upcoming iOS 26 is forecasted to showcase a significant visual redesign, promising a lot of new features to look forward to at WWDC 2025.

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  • Nintendo Switch 2 Features: Software, Dual-Charging, Reddit AMA

    Nintendo Switch 2 Features: Software, Dual-Charging, Reddit AMA

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Nintendo Switch 2 is officially launching on June 5th, with some users reportedly already having access to the console.
    2. A user named “Pg_atom” is hosting an AMA on r/Switch, although the credibility of their console is uncertain.
    3. The pre-release Switch 2 is locked, preventing gameplay, but users can access the startup interface and music.
    4. The console features dual Type-C charging ports, but it does not support simultaneous charging through both.
    5. The new Joy-Cons 2 have improved build quality and a more satisfying connection sound compared to the original Joy-Cons.


    After lots of rumors and leaks, the Nintendo Switch 2 is set to be officially launched next week, on June 5th. Interestingly, some gamers have already managed to get their hands on the console. One of these fortunate individuals is currently hosting an “Ask Me Anything” session on r/Switch, where they are responding to inquiries about the new device.

    A Note on Credibility

    Before diving into the questions, it’s crucial to note that we can’t verify if the user “Pg_atom” has genuinely received the console. However, with the launch just a week away and retailers likely having stock available, it’s not too shocking that some users might have the Switch 2 already.

    Locked Features and Initial Impressions

    Pg_atom states that their pre-release Switch 2 is locked, preventing them from playing any games. They attempted to play Mario Odyssey, a title from the original Switch, but it didn’t function. This suggests that Nintendo may have intentionally locked the console to keep it and its features under wraps until the official sale starts.

    Interestingly, it seems that Nintendo hasn’t restricted access to the initial startup, the new user interface, and the music.

    Charging Capabilities and Joy-Con Improvements

    One of the most intriguing details from this AMA is that the Switch 2 has dual charging ports, both Type-C. However, the console reportedly does not support charging through both ports at the same time, even though it can recognize both connections.

    If the fully unlocked Switch 2 fails to support dual charging, that could be a drawback. Nintendo had the opportunity to utilize the dual ports for quicker charging. Yet, it’s worth mentioning that some Windows handhelds, like the Rog Ally X, which allow for simultaneous charging, also don’t provide faster charging when using both ports.

    Regarding the kickstand, the user mentions that it feels “very sturdy, OLED-like, but lighter.” Additionally, the new Joy-Cons 2 seem to be enhanced with a “more clicky” sound during connection and improved build quality compared to the original Switch’s Joy-Cons. The new Joy-Cons are likened to the non-detachable controls found on the Switch Lite (Available on Amazon).

    The Reddit post remains active on r/Switch, so if you have any questions about the Switch 2’s hardware, it might be a good idea to ask!

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  • Sony FX2 Compact Full-Frame Camera Launches at Lower Price

    Sony FX2 Compact Full-Frame Camera Launches at Lower Price

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Sony FX2 features a new electronic viewfinder with a 0.5-inch OLED screen and 3.68 million dots resolution, allowing for angled viewing.
    2. It has a 33MP full-frame sensor, capable of shooting 4K video at 60 fps and supports Super 35 format, with high data rates up to 600 Mbps.
    3. The camera excels in low-light conditions with a dual base ISO of 800 and 4,000, and offers a dynamic range exceeding 15 stops using S-Log3.
    4. It weighs 1.5 lbs, has a battery life of approximately 90 minutes for video recording, and features two SD card slots, including compatibility with CFexpress Type A cards.
    5. The Sony FX2 is set to release in July 2025, priced at €3,199 or £2,699 without the handgrip, and €3,699 or £3,149 with the handgrip.


    The new Sony FX2 might resemble its predecessor, the Sony FX3 (priced from $3,898 on Amazon) at first glance, but there are important differences. One of the key updates is the inclusion of an electronic viewfinder featuring a 0.5-inch OLED screen with a resolution of 3.68 million dots. This viewfinder can be angled upwards, making it easier to capture images from various positions.

    Enhanced Sensor and Video Capabilities

    The camera boasts a 33MP full-frame sensor that can work with a mechanical shutter to take photos, which can also be saved as RAW files. Yet, the main focus of the FX2 is on video recording. It can shoot 4K video at 60 frames per second and supports the Super 35 format. The full sensor area is only usable for 4K at either 30 or 24 fps, or for recording 1080p slow-motion footage at 120 fps. The videos are captured in XAVC S-I format with data rates reaching up to 600 Mbps, and the S-Log3 feature allows for a dynamic range exceeding 15 stops.

    Low-Light Performance and Battery Life

    Using S-Log3, this sensor operates with a dual base ISO of 800 and 4,000, which helps to minimize noise in low-light situations. Weighing 1.5 lbs, this camera relies on the Sony NP-FZ100 battery, which is anticipated to last for about 90 minutes of video recording. Additionally, users can power the camera through USB-C. The FX2 is also equipped with two SD card slots, one of which is compatible with CFexpress Type A cards.

    Pricing and Availability

    Anticipation for the Sony FX2’s release is high, as it is set to debut in July 2025, with a price tag of €3,199 and £2,699 excluding a handgrip. If you opt for the kit that includes the handgrip, the cost is expected to be €3,699 and £3,149. For more information about this new camera, check out the official product page.

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  • Honor 400 Series Launches in China for Under $300

    Honor 400 Series Launches in China for Under $300

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Honor 400 and 400 Pro feature a significant 200MP rear camera, surpassing even the latest iPhone models.
    2. The standard 400 model has a Snapdragon 7 Gen 4 processor, while the Pro version is equipped with the more powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset.
    3. Both models have 120Hz AMOLED displays; the 400 has a 6.55-inch screen, and the Pro offers a brightness of up to 5,000 nits.
    4. Pricing starts at 2,499 yuan (around $347) for the 400 and 3,399 yuan (about $472) for the Pro, with options to upgrade storage for an additional fee.
    5. Prices include a 15% subsidy in China, making the effective starting prices lower, and both models feature enhanced IP68/69-rated durability.


    The Honor 400 and 400 Pro have gotten a notable upgrade, featuring a 200MP rear camera in 2025, a feat that even the newest iPhone has yet to accomplish.

    Specifications Overview

    This impressive camera spec is also present in the approximately $1,170 Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra. However, the standard 400 model is paired with less advanced features, like the Snapdragon 7 Gen 4 processor, while the Pro version boasts the previous flagship Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset.

    Display Features

    Both models come equipped with 120Hz AMOLED screens. The 400 has a 6.55-inch display, while the Pro can reach up to 5,000 nits of brightness, showcasing their capabilities.

    Honor has officially launched the 400 and 400 Pro in China, with both base models starting at 12GB of RAM and 256GB of internal storage.

    Pricing Details

    The starting prices are 2,499 yuan (around $347) for the 400 and 3,399 yuan (about $472) for the Pro. Customers can also choose to upgrade their storage for an additional 300 yuan (about $42) for each model.

    The series additionally offers a 16GB RAM option, with 512GB internal storage available for the 400 at 2,999 yuan (around $419) and the 400 Pro at 3,999 yuan (roughly $556). There’s also a special 1TB version of the Pro priced at 4,499 yuan (about $625).

    Subsidy Impact

    It is important to note that these prices include a 15% subsidy in China. This means the 400 starts at a more affordable 2,124 yuan (around $295), while the 400 Pro begins at 2,899 yuan (approximately $403).

    In addition, these smartphones were launched in other regions starting from €499 (around $564) and €799 (near $902). The 400 and 400 Pro also feature enhanced IP68/69-rated durability, giving them an edge in resilience.

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  • Minix Mini PC: Silent, Dust-Free, and Anti-Static Protection

    Minix Mini PC: Silent, Dust-Free, and Anti-Static Protection

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Minix Neo Z350-0dB is a silent mini PC designed for continuous use, featuring cooling fins and minimal coil whine.
    2. It is powered by an Intel Core i3 N350 processor with eight cores, making it suitable for diverse tasks like office work, media playback, and advertising.
    3. The device comes with 16 GB of RAM and a 512 GB PCIe SSD for enhanced performance.
    4. Connectivity options include multiple USB ports, HDMI 2.0 for 4K output, a card reader, Ethernet with 2.5 Gbps speed, Wifi 6, and Bluetooth 5.2.
    5. The compact dimensions (4.84 x 4.72 x 1.69 inches) and anti-static hardware protection contribute to its durability and reduce dust accumulation.


    Minix has introduced a new compact PC, the Minix Neo Z350-0dB, designed to be completely silent and suitable for continuous use due to its cooling fins (aside from any potential coil whine). This model features the Intel Core i3 N350, which, while not a top-tier processor, has eight cores instead of just the four found in the N100. It can serve various purposes, including office work, educational tasks, media playback, or even advertising on billboards.

    Specifications and Features

    The mini PC is equipped with 16 GB of RAM and a 512 GB SSD connected via PCIe, offering a performance edge over SATA, though this difference is not likely to be very noticeable in everyday tasks. For connectivity, the front panel includes a card reader, two USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports, a 3.5mm audio jack, and a USB-C port (which doesn’t handle video output). On the rear, there are two HDMI 2.0 ports that support 4K resolution at 60 Hz, along with two USB 2.0 ports. The single Ethernet port can achieve a maximum data transfer speed of 2.5 Gbps. It also supports Wifi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2.

    Dimensions and Protection Features

    In terms of size, the device measures 4.84 x 4.72 x 1.69 inches. Moreover, Minix claims their anti-static hardware protection enhances durability and reduces the chance of electrostatic discharge. The absence of a fan in this mini PC likely helps prevent dust accumulation inside, a common issue with PCs that have fans.

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  • Ulefone Armor 34 Pro: Rugged Smartphone with Huge Battery & Projector

    Ulefone Armor 34 Pro: Rugged Smartphone with Huge Battery & Projector

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Armor 34 Pro will be available for a special price from June 16 to 25, with a regular price just below $1,000.
    2. The smartphone is heavy at 825 grams and has a sturdy build, meeting IP68, IP69K, and MIL-STD-810H certifications.
    3. It features a built-in projector that outputs 150 lumens and can project images up to 100 inches wide, but brightness may limit effectiveness.
    4. The device is powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 7300 SoC, 16 GB of RAM, and 512 GB of expandable storage with three card slots.
    5. It has a large 25,500 mAh battery, supports 66 watts charging, and can be used as a power bank with a 10-watt output.


    All information regarding the Armor 34 Pro has recently been revealed, including when it will be available. The smartphone will be sold at a special price from June 16 to 25. The expected regular price is just below $1,000, which may be slightly inflated. Customers might also find additional discounts at checkout.

    Design and Features

    This smartphone is quite heavy, coming in at 825 grams, and is 32.7 millimeters thick. It features a sturdy build that meets the IP68, IP69K, and MIL-STD-810H certifications. A unique aspect of the device is its built-in projector, which can output 150 lumens and project images up to 100 inches wide. However, the low brightness of 150 lumens raises doubts about how effective such large images will be. The phone can be positioned flat for projection, and it includes keystone correction capabilities.

    Performance and Storage

    Ulefone has chosen the MediaTek Dimensity 7300 as the system on chip (SoC), paired with 16 GB of LPDDR5 RAM and 512 GB of UFS 3.1 storage. Notably, storage can be expanded using three card slots, even if two SIM cards are in use. Users can also utilize uSmart devices like an endoscope, which is available on Amazon. Alongside a bright flashlight, there’s also a night vision camera integrated into the device. The battery is impressive too, featuring a capacity of 25,500 mAh, or 98,658 Wh, making it compliant with most airline regulations that often cap at 27,000 mAh. It supports charging at 66 watts and can serve as a power bank with an output of 10 watts.

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  • AOC Agon Pro AG276UZD: Fast QD-OLED 4K Gaming Monitor Launch

    AOC Agon Pro AG276UZD: Fast QD-OLED 4K Gaming Monitor Launch

    Key Takeaways

    1. AOC’s Agon Pro AG276UZD gaming monitor launches in June with a price of €999 in Europe.
    2. The monitor features a USB Type-C port, USB hub, and a built-in KVM switch for easy connectivity.
    3. It boasts impressive display specs, including a 4K resolution, 240Hz refresh rate, and 99.3% DCI-P3 color space coverage.
    4. The monitor has a fast gray-to-gray response time of 0.03 ms and peak brightness of 1,000 nits.
    5. An alternative option is the MSI MAG 321UPX QD-OLED, which offers a similar experience at 31 inches.


    AOC has started to roll out the Agon Pro AG276UZD in Germany and other international markets. The monitor was previously introduced, and while pricing was shared for some areas, now it is confirmed that this fast QD-OLED gaming monitor will be available more broadly in June, with a suggested retail price of €999 in various European nations. The AG276UZD could be perfect for more than just gaming, as its intelligent features make it a good option for work tasks too.

    Connectivity Features

    This gaming monitor includes a USB Type-C port along with a USB hub, allowing users to connect devices that can both send video signals and charge simultaneously. Additionally, a built-in KVM switch allows for easy transitions between different sources while keeping USB devices connected. It also supports standard connectivity options like HDMI 2.1 and DisplayPort 2.1.

    Impressive Display Specs

    According to reports, the QD-OLED panel is said to cover the entire sRGB color spectrum and 99.3% of the DCI-P3 color space, achieving a color deviation of DeltaE < 1. The AOC Agon Pro AG276UZD features a 4K resolution of 3840 x 2160 pixels, leading to a high pixel density due to the monitor's 26.5-inch size. Furthermore, the manufacturer claims a refresh rate of 240Hz, a gray-to-gray response time of just 0.03 ms, and a peak brightness of 1,000 nits at 3% APL. Finally, the ergonomic stand is adjustable in height, making it suitable for most desks, and it also includes RGB lighting.

    Alternative Option

    If you’re looking for something similar but larger, consider the MSI MAG 321UPX QD-OLED available on Amazon, which is priced similarly at 31 inches.

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