Category: All News

April 14, 2025
Xiaomi L1 Pro: Affordable New Projector Launches in Europe
Key Takeaways
1. Xiaomi launched the Smart Projector L1 Pro in the UK, Netherlands, and Germany, priced at £249.99/€299.99.
2. The L1 Pro features a peak brightness of 400 ISO lumens and maintains a 1080p resolution, but is not ideal for daytime use.
3. It can project images up to 100 inches wide and supports 4K content with tools like automatic keystone correction and autofocus.
4. The projector includes Google TV, Bluetooth remote control, and two 5W speakers with Dolby Audio support.
5. The compact design measures 210 x 128 x 189 mm and weighs 2.0 kg, making it portable and easy to use.
Xiaomi has launched the Smart Projector L1 Pro in several European nations. This enhanced version of the Smart Projector L1 was first seen on the company’s global website last year, indicating a plan for worldwide distribution.
Pricing and Availability
You can now get the Xiaomi Smart Projector L1 Pro in the UK’s, Netherlands, and Germany for £249.99/€299.99. This is £80/€100 higher than the original Xiaomi Smart Projector L1, which has also recently become available across Europe.
Features and Specifications
The relatively affordable price is evident in the features of the Xiaomi Smart Projector L1 Pro. Its sealed optical engine provides a peak brightness of up to 400 ISO lumens, making it not the best option for daytime use. Nevertheless, it’s twice as bright as the regular version. The projector maintains the same 1080p resolution and a 1.2:1 throw ratio, capable of projecting images up to 100 inches (~254 cm) wide. Additionally, this LCD model can handle 4K content, and users can enhance the image with tools like automatic keystone correction and autofocus.
User Experience
Similar to the standard version, it comes with Google TV, which includes a wide range of streaming apps and wireless screen sharing through Google Cast. It also features a Bluetooth remote control, and two 5W speakers that support Dolby Audio. Xiaomi states that they have conducted burn-in tests for over 120 days. The Xiaomi Smart Projector L1 Pro is designed to be compact, with dimensions of 210 x 128 x 189 mm (~8.3 x 5.0 x 7.4 inches) and a weight of 2.0 kg (~4.4 lbs).
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Tags: 1080P Projector, Google TV, Xiaomi Smart Projector L1 Pro
April 14, 2025
The Busy Bar: $249 Device That Boosts Productivity and Communication
Key Takeaways
1. Basic Functionality: The Busy Bar indicates “Busy” status with two screens and features a timer, personalized messages, and connectivity to phones or computers.
2. App Integration: It can display data from various apps, mute notifications during busy times, and block distracting apps via a companion app for multiple platforms.
3. Smart Home Compatibility: The device supports smart home integration, allowing it to trigger actions on connected devices like lights and speakers based on its status.
4. Mounting and Battery: The Busy Bar offers versatile mounting options, has an 8-hour battery life, and supports USB-C fast charging, with a standby time of up to 2 weeks.
5. Pricing and Availability: Priced at $249, the Busy Bar comes with necessary accessories but requires users to provide their own charger.
The Busy Bar is a new gadget from Flipper Devices, known for their Flipper Zero multi-tool. It’s called “a productivity multi-tool device” and has two screens that indicate when someone is busy. But this device has a lot more capabilities than just that.
Features Right Out of the Box
As soon as you take the Busy Bar out of its packaging, you can power it up to show a “Busy” status. Users can also utilize the scroll wheel to display a timer, indicating how long they’ve been busy. Additionally, it lets you present a personalized message or connect it to your phone or computer. When linked to a computer, the Busy Bar changes to an “On Call” status whenever the microphone or camera is in use.
App Integration and Notifications
The Busy Bar can show data from various applications and software, including weather and clock apps, as well as metrics from platforms like YouTube and Instagram. There is a companion app available for Android, iOS, Windows, and macOS for download. When linked with a phone or PC, it can mute notifications automatically during busy times. Users also have the ability to block certain apps to limit distractions until the timer goes off.
Smart Home Support and Customization
Flipper Devices have integrated support for smart home devices, compatible with Matter and Home Assistant. This means that when the Busy Bar is in use, it can trigger actions on connected devices like smart speakers, locks, and lights. You can even set it to show a message when your washing machine finishes a load.
The Busy Bar features a primary 72 x 16 dot matrix (RGB) display on the front and a smaller 1.54-inch 160 x 80 monochrome display on the back side. On top, there’s a large trapezoidal button for start and pause, a mode selector, a knob for timer settings, and a back button highlighted in orange.
Versatile Mounting Options and Battery Life
You can mount the Busy Bar on a monitor, set it on your desk, or attach it to a wall or door. It houses a 3,250mAh rechargeable battery that offers up to 8 hours of operation and can stay on standby for as long as 2 weeks. It charges through USB-C and supports 15W fast charging. Also, the Busy Bar includes an open HTTP (offline) API, enabling users to incorporate it into their own projects.
The pricing for the Busy Bar is set at $249, and it’s currently available for purchase. It comes with mounting accessories and a USB-C cable, but users will need to supply their own charger.
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Tags: Busy Bar, Flipper Zero, productivity multi-tool
April 14, 2025
Nvidia RTX 5070 Blackwell GPU Faces Melted Power Cable Issue
Key Takeaways
1. The Nvidia RTX 50 series, including the RTX 5070, has experienced power cable melting issues, although not as severe as the RTX 4090.
2. A user reported smoke from their RTX 5070 setup, indicating a melting power cable despite proper installation.
3. An investigation revealed a damaged pin on the GPU’s power connector, suggesting a possible manufacturing issue.
4. Current distribution problems in Blackwell GPUs may be causing excessive current to flow through specific wires in the power cable.
5. Similar issues with power connectors and cables have been found across multiple RTX 50 series models, raising concerns among gamers.
After the problems with melted power connectors on the RTX 4090, gamers were hoping that the Nvidia RTX 50 series would be less problematic. However, while the issues are not as severe, they still exist. Interestingly, even the Blackwell GPUs, which consume less power, are experiencing similar issues. The latest situation involves the RTX 5070, where it was the power cable that melted, not the connector on the graphics card itself.
Incident Report
VideoCardz shared the story of this incident, which was reported by a user named ere9w on X. This user built a new gaming setup with a Zotac RTX 5070 and a 750-watt Seasonic power supply. Ere9w mentioned that smoke appeared only moments after turning on the computer. To counter any assumptions of user mistakes, the poster emphasized that the power cable was properly installed. In the case of the RTX 40 series, Nvidia had previously pointed fingers at improperly seated cables but eventually supported an updated 12V-2×6 specification.
Investigation Findings
While searching for answers, ere9w found a pin that was damaged on the power connector of the GPU. A single misaligned pin might have led to the melting of the end of the power cable. Since it’s quite hard to misalign these components, some believe this failure could stem from a manufacturing issue.
Theories on Current Distribution
One hypothesis revolves around how Blackwell GPUs manage current flow through their power cables. Notable overclocker Der8auer took a look at an RTX 5090 that had a melted power connector and cable. Using a thermal imaging camera, he discovered that certain wires in the power cable were carrying too much current. The graphics card itself cannot gauge how much power is being drawn by the pins in the 12V-2×6 connector. This leads to poor load balancing and an overflow of current through some wires.
It seems that the same problems found in the RTX 5090 are also present in the RTX 5080 and RTX 5070. Whether Nvidia is to blame or not, gamers who spend a lot on these high-end GPUs still have their worries.
Tags: melted power connector, NVIDIA, RTX 5070
April 14, 2025
Asus VivoWatch 6 Aero: First Wearable for Blood Pressure and ECG
Key Takeaways
1. The VivoWatch 5 Aero was the first wearable to perform an electrocardiogram (ECG) using a finger.
2. The VivoWatch 5 Aero is still available, now priced 30% lower at $90.99.
3. The upcoming VivoWatch 6 Aero features a compact 1.1-inch AMOLED display and weighs only 27 grams.
4. The VivoWatch 6 Aero will track blood pressure, perform ECGs, and meet the Software as a Medical Device (SaMD) standard, but is not classified as a medical device.
5. The VivoWatch 6 Aero includes built-in GPS, a 135 mAh battery lasting up to a week, and is water-resistant up to 5 ATM.
A couple of years ago, Asus launched the VivoWatch 5 Aero. Although it took some time to hit the market, it was unique at that time as the only wearable capable of performing an electrocardiogram (ECG) using your finger.
Features of the VivoWatch 5 Aero
The VivoWatch 5 Aero featured a front-mounted optical PPG sensor to track blood oxygen levels and pulse transit time (PTT), along with similar sensors on the back. Even after two years, the VivoWatch 5 Aero is still for sale, now priced at 30% lower than its original MSRP of $129.99.
The Upcoming VivoWatch 6 Aero
Recently, Asus has revealed further information about its upcoming successor, the VivoWatch 6 Aero. This new model was first presented in a YouTube video earlier this year. The design of the VivoWatch 6 Aero is reminiscent of basic fitness trackers, like the Xiaomi Smart Band 9, which currently retails for $58.99 on Amazon. This time, the device is equipped with a compact AMOLED display that measures only 1.1 inches, all within a lightweight 27 g frame.
Enhanced Monitoring Capabilities
Asus claims that the VivoWatch 6 Aero will not only perform ECGs but will also keep track of blood pressure levels. Additionally, it is said to meet the Software as a Medical Device (SaMD) standard. However, Asus clarifies that this gadget is not classified as a medical device and is not designed to diagnose any health issues.
Furthermore, the VivoWatch 6 Aero comes with built-in GPS and a 135 mAh battery, which can last up to a week on a single charge. It is also reportedly water-resistant up to 5 ATM, though no specific IP rating has been shared. Unfortunately, Asus has yet to disclose the pricing or release date for this new model.
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Tags: ASUS, ECG, VivoWatch 6 Aero
April 14, 2025
Explore Lost Skies’ Island Creator Free Before Full Launch April 18
Key Takeaways
1. Early Access Launch: Lost Skies will enter Early Access on April 18, 2025, available on Steam.
2. Free Island Creator Tool: The Island Creator tool is released for free, allowing players to create and share islands without any paywalls or logins.
3. Gameplay Features: Players can shape floating land, design puzzles, and craft storytelling elements, with full Steam Workshop support for community sharing.
4. Positive Community Feedback: Initial reactions from players have been enthusiastic, highlighting the tool’s impressive features and potential for co-op adventures.
5. Game Expansion Plans: The Early Access version will feature a special area called Outskirts, with plans for ongoing enhancements, including new areas and gameplay elements.
Lost Skies, a new co-op survival game by Bossa Studios, is set to hit Early Access on April 18, 2025, through Steam. Before the full version comes out, the studio has released its standalone Island Creator tool for free. There are no need for logins, paywalls, or microtransactions to access it.
Island Creator Features
The announcement for the Island Creator highlights it as an initial glimpse into the game’s complete creative system. Players can shape floating land, create puzzles, and try out storytelling in the environment. With full Steam Workshop support, users can share their created islands with everyone in the community.
Developer Insights
To promote the launch, Bossa Studios has published a two-part developer showcase on YouTube. In Part Two, Lead Game Designer Luke Williams and Principal Developer Tom Jackson guide players through live gameplay to show how the Island Creator functions. These videos provide an inside view of the creative process behind Lost Skies, covering everything from shaping terrain to movement mechanics.
Community Reactions
The first feedback from players has been positive. On Reddit, user u/SkyBuilder42 noted, “The Island Creator is quite impressive for a free tool. I’m excited to see what the complete game will bring.” Another user, u/CloudCrafter, expressed enthusiasm, stating, “I’m loving the freedom to design sky islands. This could be a fantastic co-op adventure.”
When it launches, Lost Skies will accommodate up to six players, emphasizing exploration, building skyships, and collaborative movement. Gamers will glide, grapple, and climb through an airborne world filled with secrets and ancient technologies. The Early Access version will include a specially crafted area known as Outskirts, and as per WorthPlaying, Bossa Studios intends to enhance the game with new areas, enemies, and gameplay elements over time.
Even though Lost Skies will be a paid game when it launches, the Island Creator is currently free, providing a unique chance to explore the tools and systems ahead of the full game release.
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Tags: Bossa Studios, Island Creator, Lost Skies
April 14, 2025
Anbernic RG557 Pricing Revealed with New Specs and Gameplay Footage
Key Takeaways
1. Anbernic has not announced a release date for the RG557, which will replace the RG556 priced at $229.99.
2. The RG557 will feature MediaTek’s Dimensity 8300 chipset, 12 GB of LPDDR5X RAM, and 256 Gb of expandable storage.
3. The handheld is expected to have a 5,500 mAh battery, providing up to 8 hours of gaming, and support 27 W wired charging.
4. Design specifications include dimensions of 223 x 89 x 15 mm and a weight of approximately 347 g.
5. The estimated price for the RG557 is around $205, which is a $30 increase from the RG556.
Anbernic has yet to announce the release date for its first gaming handheld this year. At the moment, the company has only verified that it will be launching the RG557, which is meant to replace the RG556 (currently priced at $229.99 on Amazon) featuring a 1080p, 16:9 aspect ratio with a 5.48-inch AMOLED screen.
New Chipset Information
However, Retro Handhelds reported last week that Anbernic has opted for MediaTek’s Dimensity 8300 for the RG557, instead of the previously speculated Qualcomm Snapdragon G2 Gen 2. According to the website, the upcoming device is expected to come equipped with 12 GB of LPDDR5X RAM and 256 Gb of storage that can be expanded.
Battery Life and Features
In addition, the RG557 is rumored to have a 5,500 mAh battery that could provide up to 8 hours of gaming on a single charge. Furthermore, this handheld is anticipated to support 27 W wired charging, feature Hall effect triggers, ‘anti-magnetic capacitive’ joysticks, and a six-axis gyroscope for an enhanced gaming experience.
Size and Pricing Estimates
All of these components are likely to be housed in a design measuring 223 x 89 x 15 mm and weighing around 347 g. As of now, Retro Handhelds suggests that Anbernic might price the RG557 at about $205, representing a $30 increase and 17% more than the RG556. Meanwhile, Anbernic has shared more gameplay footage of the RG557 in three different colors, which we have included below.
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Tags: Anbernic, MediaTek Dimensity 8300, RG557
April 14, 2025
Tesla Launches Unsupervised FSD Drives with Colorful Lighting
Key Takeaways
1. Tesla’s unsupervised Full Self-Driving (FSD) system has exceeded 50,000 miles of operation without human intervention.
2. The FSD technology utilizes advanced AI4 (Hardware 4.0) for navigation in complex environments, including interactions with pedestrians and other vehicles.
3. Public testing of the unsupervised FSD is set to begin in Austin in June, with a focus on refining algorithms through extensive mileage logging.
4. The Cybertruck faces unique challenges, such as navigating a steep incline and may feature multicolored ambient lighting, although its standard inclusion is uncertain.
5. Tesla plans to integrate FSD algorithms into older models but may need to retrofit them with new hardware, while also aiming to launch the Cybercab robotaxi fleet next year amidst regulatory challenges.
Tesla has surpassed 50,000 miles of operation using its so-called unsupervised Full Self-Driving (FSD) system, which does not need any human intervention.
Driving in the Factory
These drives have taken place at Tesla’s factories, featuring the new Model Y and Cybertruck, which autonomously navigate from production lines to delivery parking areas. The self-driving vehicles utilize the latest AI4 (Hardware 4.0) technology, which includes advanced cameras and computing power to maneuver through complicated road scenarios involving signs, construction, and both pedestrian and vehicle traffic. Additionally, they can communicate with each other to prevent accidents.
Upcoming Public Testing
The pilot testing of the unsupervised FSD on public roads is set to start in Austin this upcoming June. Tesla aims to log as many miles as possible to refine its algorithms ahead of this significant rollout. The test drives at Giga Texas and Fremont involve the Model Y, traveling about a mile and a half “on a road shared with pedestrians, cars, semi trucks, construction equipment & more,” as stated by the Tesla AI team.
Cybertruck’s Unique Challenge
The Cybertruck is tasked with an even more exciting driverless mission, as it maneuvers up a 17% incline to exit a special Cybertunnel located beneath one of the busiest highways in the United States, continuing on to its delivery lot. Videos showcasing the Cybertruck and Model Y operating with unsupervised FSD and without a human present highlight a potentially new feature of the autonomous technology. Tesla seems to have chosen to equip its FSD vehicles with multicolored ambient lighting, though it remains uncertain if this is for promotional video syncing or if it will be a standard feature for vehicles using unsupervised FSD.
Future Plans and Retrofits
Regardless, Tesla is expected to kick off its public road pilot testing with HW4 vehicles like the Model Y and Cybertruck that it manages. These vehicles will likely still have Tesla personnel inside as a backup and to expedite regulatory approval. The Tesla AI team is also attempting to integrate the unsupervised FSD algorithms into older models equipped with HW3 cameras and systems. However, Elon Musk suggested that this may not be feasible, indicating that Tesla might need to retrofit older cars, whose owners wish to participate in its robotaxi service, with HW4 kits at no cost. There may also be a need to install colored LED interior lighting.
The Cybercab, envisioned as the core of the robotaxi fleet, could join the lineup sometime next year. However, Tesla faces challenges in obtaining the necessary autonomous driving permits to operate vehicles without pedals or a steering wheel on public roads. To navigate this hurdle, Tesla is currently using Model 3 test vehicles fitted with the Cybercab camera setup to assess how the positioning will perform while driving autonomously outside the factory.
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Tags: Cybertruck, Model Y, Tesla
April 14, 2025
Sony Increases PlayStation 5 Prices in Europe, Australia, New Zealand
Key Takeaways
1. Sony is adjusting the prices of the PS5 and PS5 Disc Drive due to market conditions, including US tariffs and a weaker yen.
2. The PS5 Digital Edition price in the UK will increase from £339.99 to £429.99, a 26.5% rise, effective April 14.
3. The price of the PS5 Disc Drive in the UK will decrease from £99.99 to £69.99, a 30.0% reduction, also effective April 14.
4. Demand for physical games is declining as more gamers prefer digital formats.
5. It may be a good time to purchase a Playstation 5 Pro at current prices before potential future increases.
Sony has revealed changes in pricing for the Playstation 5 and the PS5 Disc Drive, influenced by recent market conditions. Japanese console makers are facing challenges due to US tariffs and a weaker yen in the currency market. If you’re worried that the prices for imported gaming consoles will continue to increase, it might be a good time to purchase a Playstation 5 Pro at the current rates available on Amazon.
Tariff Impacts
Recently, the Trump administration has raised tariffs on nearly all trading partners, with some hikes reaching up to 145% for imports from China. This has significantly impacted the yen’s value against foreign currencies, leading to higher costs for components coming into Japan and for consoles that are sent abroad.
Upcoming Price Changes
In light of these market changes, Sony will adjust PS5 prices on April 14. The PS5 Digital Edition in the UK is currently priced at £339.99, and the upcoming increase to £429.99 represents a rise of 26.5%.
The demand for physical games, whether they are on DVDs, Blu-Rays, or PS5 discs, has decreased as more gamers switch to digital formats. Consequently, on April 14, Sony will also alter the price of the PS5 Disc Drive:
The current price for the PS5 Disc Drive in the UK is £99.99, and the planned reduction to £69.99 indicates a 30.0% decrease.
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Tags: PlayStation 5, PS5 Digital Edition, sony
April 14, 2025
New Leak: Under-Display Camera and Features of Apple’s Foldable iPhone
Key Takeaways
1. Apple is developing its first foldable smartphone, with a possible launch next year.
2. The device will feature a 7.74-inch inner screen and a 5.49-inch outer display.
3. It is expected to include an under-display camera for selfies on the inner screen.
4. The external display may have a punch-hole camera, likely excluding Apple’s Dynamic Island feature.
5. Specifications suggest the foldable phone will differ from existing models, possibly resembling the Oppo Find N2.
Apple is reportedly developing its first foldable smartphone, with a potential launch as soon as next year. A recent leak has disclosed some important specifications ahead of the official announcement.
Specifications of the Foldable Phone
According to a post on Weibo by Digital Chat Station, the upcoming foldable device from Apple is expected to have a 7.74-inch inner screen that boasts a resolution of 2713×1920 pixels. It will also include a 5.49-inch outer display with a resolution of 2088×1422 pixels. These dimensions, which have appeared in earlier leaks, suggest that this foldable will be quite distinct from other popular models, possibly resembling the Oppo Find N2.
Features to Expect
The leaker also mentioned that the foldable phone will come equipped with an under-display camera for selfies on the inner screen, similar to the technology found in Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold4. While under-display cameras usually do not perform as well as traditional ones, it will be intriguing to see if Apple manages to improve this aspect. Furthermore, like Samsung’s devices, the external display is rumored to feature a punch-hole camera, which could mean that Apple’s Dynamic Island may not be included in this model.
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Tags: Apple Foldable Phone, Galaxy Z Fold4, Oppo Find N2
April 14, 2025
Affordable Xiaomi Smart Camera 4: Large Aperture & Night Vision
Key Takeaways
1. Affordable Pricing: The Xiaomi Smart Camera 4 is available for pre-order in China at CNY 249 (about $34), making it budget-friendly for smart homes.
2. High-Quality Imaging: It features an 8 MP sensor with 4K video capability and an f/1.6 aperture for clear images in various lighting conditions.
3. Advanced Night Vision: The camera includes infrared night vision that can see up to 10 meters in the dark, enhanced by a 940 nm infrared fill light.
4. Smart Features: Equipped with a dual-motor gimbal for a wide field of view, two-way voice chat, and a smart babysitting mode, it offers versatile functionality.
5. Enhanced Security: Features dual-band WiFi 6, four layers of protection, and a built-in Mijia security chip to ensure user privacy and security.
Xiaomi has launched a fresh smart camera in China, called the Smart Camera 4. It’s up for pre-order in China at a price of CNY 249, which is around $34, making it an economical addition for smart homes. The company claims that this device is packed with various high-end features.
Impressive Camera Specs
This budget-friendly smart camera is equipped with an 8 MP “professional” sensor capable of capturing content in 4K. It features an f/1.6 aperture that, along with its dedicated HDR mode, is said to enable the camera to deliver clear images even in tough lighting situations.
Night Vision and AI Capabilities
Additionally, it includes a built-in infrared night vision functionality. According to Xiaomi, this feature utilizes a 940 nm infrared fill light, letting the Smart Camera 4 see clearly up to 10 meters away in the dark. Moreover, it is powered by a “flagship” 1T computing AI chip that provides dynamic tracking for both humans and pets.
Enhanced Features and Privacy
Furthermore, Xiaomi emphasizes the dual-motor gimbal integrated into the Smart Camera 4, which offers a 360-degree horizontal and 109-degree vertical field of view. For better security, it includes dual-band WiFi 6 with four layers of protection and a built-in Mijia security chip.
Other significant features of the Xiaomi Smart Camera 4 include two-way voice chat, a smart babysitting mode, H.265 encoding, support for local storage of up to 256 GB (with a 256 GB SanDisk Ultra microSDXC priced at $19.97 on Amazon), and a lens shield. There is currently no information on a global launch, but the company has a similarly spec’d model called Smart Camera C700 for markets outside of China.
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Tags: affordable smart home camera, Smart Camera 4, Xiaomi