Category: All News

March 23, 2025
Pi Tin: Compact Raspberry Pi Retro Handheld in Mint Tin
Key Takeaways
1. The Pi Tin is an open-source handheld gaming device that uses the Raspberry Pi, created by enthusiasts jacks01 and soaporsalad.
2. It requires advanced assembly skills, with options to build it in a 3D-printed shell or an Altoids mint tin.
3. Users must source their own components, although an SD card image for the device is available for download.
4. It features a Raspberry Pi Zero 2 W, allowing for the emulation of classic retro games, though with limited performance.
5. The device includes a 2.8-inch screen, custom-designed PCBs, four action buttons, and a D-pad, with soldering required for assembly.
Gaming handhelds today come in a variety of forms and sizes, some of which are made by enthusiasts rather than large corporations. The Pi Tin is a project by creators jacks01 and soaporsalad, which is an open-source handheld device that utilizes the Raspberry Pi, enabling virtually anyone to construct their own unit. Currently, kits for this portable console are still being worked on, meaning that those who want to join in must source the necessary components by themselves. However, there is an SD card image ready for download for the handheld device.
Advanced Assembly Needed
As stated by its creators, the Pi Tin is aimed at users who have some experience, as putting it together requires a certain amount of skill. There are two main assembly options for the Pi Tin, which differ mainly in terms of the casing: You can make it fit inside a 3D-printed shell or, as the name suggests, you can use an Altoids mint tin. The components needed for the two different versions have some considerable differences.
Key Features and Specifications
At the heart of the Pi Tin is a Raspberry Pi Zero 2 W (check it out here on Amazon), allowing the handheld to emulate classic retro games, even though its performance isn’t top-notch. Moreover, the device comes with a 2.8-inch screen and custom-designed PCBs that are specifically made for this project, which need to be ordered from a PCB manufacturer on their own. Assembly also requires soldering. For controls, the retro handheld has four action buttons alongside a D-pad.
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Tags: open-source handheld, Pi Tin, Raspberry Pi Zero 2 W
March 23, 2025
Shelly Gen 4 Smart Switches with ZigBee and Matter Released
Key Takeaways
1. Shelly’s fourth generation relays and power measurement systems are designed as hardwired smart switches for stationary devices like lamps and outlets.
2. The pricing for the new models ranges from around €18 to €25, with US pricing yet to be determined.
3. The Shelly 1PM Mini Gen4 measures power usage, while the Shelly EM Mini Gen4 is a power measurement device without smart switch capabilities.
4. These devices support connectivity options including Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and ZigBee, and are certified by Matter for compatibility with Apple HomeKit.
5. The smart switches can act as ZigBee range extenders, enabling control of devices in areas without Wi-Fi access.
Shelly has unveiled its fourth generation of relays and power measurement systems. In simple terms, these are intelligent switches aimed at more advanced users who prefer not to use inline plugs. These smart switches are designed to be hardwired and can be discreetly placed inside an appropriate flush mount. Thus, this solution is mainly meant for devices that stay stationary for extended periods, like lamps or electrical outlets.
Pricing Details
The new switches are available in a few options: the Shelly 1PM Mini Gen4 priced at just below €21, the Shelly EM Mini Gen4 at just under €20, the Shelly 1 Mini Gen4 around €18, and the Shelly 1PM Gen4 for €25. Pricing in the US is not yet determined.
Product Features
While the Shelly 1 Mini Gen4 is mainly aimed at lamps, the Shelly 1PM Mini has the added feature of measuring power usage. Both of these models can support loads up to 8 amps, whereas the Shelly EM Mini Gen4 is not even a smart switch; it merely measures power and can handle up to 16 amps.
The Shelly 1 Gen4 is available for €22. Users of this fourth generation have various connectivity choices like Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and ZigBee for wireless operation. This smart switch is also certified by Matter and is compatible with Apple HomeKit. The manufacturer states that these devices can function as ZigBee range extenders, helpful for controlling devices in a secondary building without Wi-Fi access. These smart home devices are currently listed on the brand’s official online store in select areas, but it appears that the US store does not have them available at this time.
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Tags: Shelly 1PM Mini, Shelly Gen4, Smart Switches
March 23, 2025
Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge Surfaces on Geekbench with Improved Scores
Key Takeaways
1. Samsung’s Galaxy S25 Edge was officially revealed at the January Unpacked event and highlighted at MWC 2025, but launch and pricing details are still unknown.
2. The device features the Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, achieving a recent Geekbench score of 2,969 (single-core) and 9,486 (multi-core).
3. The Galaxy S25 Edge is expected to have a 6.55-inch AMOLED display with a 120 Hz refresh rate.
4. The rear camera is anticipated to include a 200 MP sensor (ISOCELL HP2) and a 12 MP ultrawide camera.
5. Additional specs may include a 3,900 mAh battery with 25 W fast charging, up to 12 GB of RAM, and 512 GB of internal storage, with a rumored launch in April.
Samsung’s Galaxy S25 Edge has officially been revealed during January’s Unpacked event and was highlighted again at MWC 2025. However, Samsung hasn’t provided details regarding the launch, pricing, and other important aspects of the device yet. One thing that seems clear, based on Geekbench results, is that this sleek flagship will feature the Snapdragon 8 Elite processor.
Benchmark Performance
The Galaxy S25 Edge has appeared again on Geekbench, and this time, it achieved impressive benchmark results. Specifically, the latest Geekbench score shows a single-core result of 2,969 and a multi-core score of 9,486.
In comparison, when the Galaxy S25 Edge was previously in the news for its Geekbench performance, it recorded a single-core score of 2,806 and a multi-core score of 8,416. Similar to the last entry, this new Geekbench result indicates that the phone will run on the 8-core version of the Snapdragon 8 Elite.
Display and Camera Features
Earlier leaks have hinted that the Galaxy S25 Edge will come equipped with a 6.55-inch AMOLED display boasting a 120 Hz refresh rate. The rear camera is expected to be the same 200 MP sensor used in the Galaxy S25 Ultra (256 GB currently priced at $1,109.99 on Amazon), known as the ISOCELL HP2, and it will likely be accompanied by a 12 MP ultrawide camera.
Further anticipated specifications for the S25 Edge include a 3,900 mAh battery with support for 25 W fast charging, alongside options for up to 12 GB of RAM and 512 GB of internal storage. The device is rumored to launch sometime in April.
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Tags: Galaxy S25 Edge, Samsung, Snapdragon 8 Elite
March 23, 2025
Azahar 3DS Emulator Launches with Performance Boosts and Fixes
Key Takeaways
1. Azahar 2120 is the first official stable version of the 3DS emulator, available for Windows, Linux, and Android.
2. The emulator introduces a feature to disable “right eye rendering,” potentially improving performance by up to 50%.
3. Azahar now uses .cci file extensions for game ROMs, moving away from .3ds files to avoid piracy associations.
4. New updates include Nintendo 3DS eShop integration and fixes for visual glitches and gameplay bugs.
5. Rising prices of 3DS consoles are boosting interest in 3DS emulation, especially with improved smartphone gaming capabilities.
3DS emulation went into a bit of a slump after the downfall of Citra, which was an emulator that suffered alongside YuZu. However, things are looking up for 3DS emulation with the emergence of new emulators like Lime3DS and the latest one, Azahar.
New Release of Azahar
Azahar 2120 has just been launched on GitHub, representing the first official version of this 3DS emulator. While there have been earlier versions of Azahar, they were only release candidates. This marks the first “stable” version available for Windows, Linux, and Android. According to the developers, this release is based on a “merge of PabloMK7’s fork [of Citra] and Lime3DS.”
Improvements and Features
The latest release comes packed with numerous enhancements and bug fixes. One of the most notable features (which we talked about last week) is the ability to turn off “right eye rendering.” This option allows the emulator to display games in monoscopic mode. The Nintendo 3DS originally creates a 3D image through stereoscopic rendering, which displays the same frame twice from slightly different angles to create a 3D effect, similar to many 3D films. By turning off this rendering method, Azahar claims it can boost performance by as much as 50%.
In addition to this, the emulator no longer supports .3ds files. Instead, it utilizes game ROMs with the .cci file extension. Converting existing .3ds files to .cci is simple; you just need to rename the file with a .cci extension. The developers chose the .cci format to “distance from piracy terminology as much as possible [sic].”
Additional Changes and Popularity
Other updates include Nintendo 3DS eShop integration for downloading purchased games, fixing visual glitches on Linux systems that use Wayland, and correcting a bug that caused Starfox 64 3D to render upside down during gameplay.
With the increasing prices of 3DS consoles (like this renewed Flame Red 3DS on Amazon, curr. $214.34), 3DS emulation is becoming more popular. Given how well smartphones handle gaming and emulation now, it’s no wonder that interest in 3DS emulation is surging.
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Tags: Azahar, Citra, Lime3DS
March 23, 2025
Asus Radeon RX 9060 XT RDNA 4 GPUs: 8GB & 16GB Options Revealed
Key Takeaways
1. The AMD Radeon RX 9060 XT is expected to launch in the second quarter, possibly as soon as April.
2. Asus is preparing multiple models of the RX 9060 XT with options for 8GB or 16GB of VRAM, but pricing and full specifications are still unknown.
3. The RX 9060 XT will likely feature an RDNA 4 GPU, 128-bit bus, and an 8-pin power connector, requiring a minimum of 500 watts.
4. There are concerns regarding the adequacy of 8GB VRAM for newer games, making 16GB models potentially more appealing.
5. Pricing predictions suggest a wide range for the RX 9060 XT, with higher costs for overclocked versions and TUF 16GB models.
There are increasing indications that manufacturers are gearing up to launch the AMD Radeon RX 9060 XT in the second quarter. Asus has shared details with the South Korean Radio Agency regarding their Prime, Dual, and TUF models, which will feature either 8GB or 16GB of VRAM. Sadly, there is still no information available about pricing or the complete specifications for the RX 9060 XT. Nevertheless, this news links up with recent mentions of Acer GPUs in filings from the European Economic Community (EEC).
Anticipated Release Timeline
Many industry insiders are predicting that the RX 9060 XT could be released as soon as April. AMD might roll out its newest RDNA 4 graphics card at the same time or even ahead of Nvidia’s launch of the RTX 5060 Ti and RTX 5060. Recent updates have revealed that the Blackwell GPUs have faced delays, so the RTX 5060 Ti might not be available until mid-April. To date, consumers haven’t seen any signs of the RX 9060 as AMD aims to compete against the RTX 5060 Ti with the RX 9060 XT.
Expected Specifications
The most reliable specifications for the RX 9060 XT indicate it will come with 8GB or 16GB of DDR6 memory, utilizing a 128-bit bus. Gamers can also look forward to the RDNA 4 GPU, which will likely be based on the more compact Navi 44 chip. Additional leaks hint that the RX 9060 XT will feature an 8-pin power connector and require a minimum of 500 watts to operate.
Some consumers are doubtful about the value of the 8GB RX 9060 XT models. Newer games are increasingly demanding more VRAM, and for a mid-range GPU, 8GB might not be sufficient. Unless there is a significant price gap, cards with larger memory capacities are expected to be more appealing.
Pricing Predictions
Another concern is how many RX 9060 XT cards will actually be available at the manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP). While the RX 9070 XT was priced competitively, many manufacturers chose to list overclocked versions at prices well above $599. There will probably be a broad spectrum of prices for the new Asus RDNA 4 GPUs, with the TUF 16GB SKUs likely being the most expensive. Notably, the company is bringing back a dual-fan option, which was not offered with the RX 9070 and RX 9070 XT.
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Tags: AMD Radeon RX 9060 XT, Asus TUF, RDNA 4
March 23, 2025
CheckMag | The Future of Quantum Computing with Photonic Logic
Key Takeaways
1. Introduction of Aurora: Aurora is the first modular photonic quantum computer designed for scalability, developed by Xanadu, a Canadian quantum tech company.
2. Addressing Key Challenges: Aurora improves fault tolerance and error correction while using light-based qubits, eliminating the need for extreme cooling typical in traditional quantum systems.
3. Expansion of Photonic Quantum Computing: Companies like PsiQuantum and startups like Quantum Source are exploring photonic quantum technologies to create efficient, commercially viable systems by 2027.
4. Sustainability in Quantum Technologies: The shift towards photonic quantum computing suggests a move towards more sustainable and environmentally friendly quantum technologies, supported by investments like NATO’s in Ephos.
5. Transformative Potential: The development of photonic quantum computing could significantly impact various industries and address complex challenges, marking a pivotal moment for practical quantum technologies.
A major breakthrough in quantum computing is the introduction of Aurora, the first-ever modular photonic quantum computer that can function at scale with linked modules. Created by Xanadu, a Canadian firm specializing in quantum tech, Aurora utilizes photonic qubits for data processing, connected via fiber optic cables. This modular approach not only promotes scalability but also works well with current data center setups, which could change the game for quantum computing entirely.
Addressing Key Challenges
Aurora’s design tackles many old problems in quantum computing, such as fault tolerance and error correction. By using light-based qubits, Aurora avoids the necessity for extreme cooling that is common in traditional quantum systems. This breakthrough could lead to more practical and accessible quantum data centers, potentially speeding up progress in fields like cryptography, material science, and modeling complex systems.
Expanding the Horizons
The reach of photonic quantum computing goes beyond just Aurora. Companies like PsiQuantum are working on mass-producing quantum chips, aiming to create commercially viable quantum computers by 2027. Their method also utilizes photonics, using light particles for quantum calculations, which simplifies cooling needs. In a similar vein, startups like Quantum Source are investigating light-based quantum computing to create systems that are more efficient and can work at room temperature.
A Sustainable Future
The shift towards photonic quantum computing indicates a significant move towards more sustainable and scalable quantum technologies. As research and development progress, the incorporation of photonic systems might result in quantum computers that are not only more efficient but also friendlier to the environment, which aligns with worldwide efforts for sustainability in tech. Ephos, an Italian startup, has secured a $500,000 investment from NATO, aiming to achieve this goal with their glass-based integrated photonic circuits.
In conclusion, the emergence of photonic quantum computing, highlighted by innovations like Aurora, signifies a crucial moment in the search for practical and scalable quantum technologies. As these systems become increasingly integrated with existing infrastructures, they have the potential to transform industries and tackle complex challenges that were once thought to be insurmountable.
PsiQuantum, Nature, Xanadu, Reuters, Ephos.
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Tags: Aurora, photonic quantum computing, Xanadu
March 23, 2025
New God of War Game: Greek Side Story Instead of Remaster?
Key Takeaways
1. Fans were disappointed by the lack of an announcement for a remastered version of the Greek era God of War games at the 20th Anniversary event.
2. Journalist Jeff Grubb suggests a new God of War game may explore Greece, with a potential side story connecting to previous Norse mythology titles.
3. PS5 players currently can only play older God of War titles through cloud streaming with a PlayStation Plus Premium Subscription.
4. Speculation is growing among fans about the next game’s setting, with Egypt being a strong contender based on past rumors about casting.
5. During the 20th Anniversary, Santa Monica Studio released an update for God of War Ragnarok featuring items inspired by Greek mythology.
The God of War 20th Anniversary event has left some fans of Kratos feeling let down. Many enthusiasts were looking forward to an announcement regarding a remastered version of the games from the Greek era. Journalist Jeff Grubb, who is known for providing reliable information about the franchise, has now indicated that a new God of War game may be taking place in Greece. Although details are scarce, Grubb anticipates that this project will delve deeper into the captivating saga with an additional side story.
Anticipation Among PS5 Players
Gamers on the PS5 have been looking for fresh ways to enjoy God of War, God of War 2, and God of War Ascension. Currently, the only option available to play these titles is through cloud streaming, which necessitates a PlayStation Plus Premium Subscription. In a post on BlueSky, Grubb shared that his sources did not mention anything about a remaster for God of War. Instead, the developers at Santa Monica Studio are aiming to introduce a new twist to the series before the year concludes.
Speculations Arise
Naturally, Grubb’s recent comments have ignited speculation among fans. A popular theory circulating on Reddit suggests that the side story could connect the latest Norse mythology games to a new gameplay storyline. Egypt appears to be the most probable setting for the next God of War installment. In fact, rumors from January hinted at Sony seeking Middle Eastern actors for a major new title. In his update, Grubb tempered expectations, suggesting that the next chapter of the God of War saga might not arrive for a year or two.
Celebrating the Anniversary
Santa Monica Studio has not left fans empty-handed during the 20th Anniversary celebrations. An update for God of War Ragnarok introduced in-game items inspired by earlier titles based in Greek mythology. These recent rumors indicate that the developers will likely continue to explore fresh narratives within this universe.
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Tags: God of War, Jeff Grubb, PS5
March 23, 2025
Powkiddy RGB50: New 3:2 Retro Gaming Handheld Unveiled
Key Takeaways
1. The Powkiddy V90 V2 is set to compete with the Anbernic RG35XX SP and Miyoo Flip, five years after the original V90’s launch.
2. The new Powkiddy RGB50 is a successor to the RGB30, featuring a 4.5-inch screen with a 3:2 aspect ratio and Wi-Fi connectivity for retro gaming.
3. The RGB50 aims to excel in PSP emulation and is expected to handle most PS1 and N64 games.
4. The specific chipset for the RGB50 is not disclosed, but it is expected to perform similarly to the Unisoc Tiger T618.
5. The RGB50 is likely to run on both Android and Linux and might include a touchscreen feature, although this is not yet confirmed.
Less than a fortnight ago, James Dewitz shared some insights about the Powkiddy V90 V2. To summarize, this device is set to compete with the Anbernic RG35XX SP and the Miyoo Flip, coming five years after the original V90 was launched. However, there’s still a lot that remains unclear about the V90 V2.
New Handheld Revealed
In the meantime, Dewitz has introduced a different Powkiddy gaming handheld named the RGB50. It seems to be a successor to the RGB30, which currently retails for $95 on Amazon. The RGB50 is reported to come with a 4.5-inch screen that has a 3:2 aspect ratio, along with a new system-on-chip (SoC) that allows for Wi-Fi connectivity in the retro gaming market. Dewitz also mentioned that Powkiddy aims for the RGB50 to excel in PSP emulation, suggesting it should be able to handle nearly all PS1 and N64 games too.
Speculation on Chipset
Dewitz hasn’t disclosed which chipset will be used yet. Instead, he teased that it isn’t made by Qualcomm and that the RGB50 would essentially be like a “plastic RG405M.” This implies that the unnamed chipset is expected to deliver similar performance to the Unisoc Tiger T618, which powers the RG405M and several other handheld devices.
Operating Systems and Display
The RGB50 is expected to operate on both Android and Linux, similar to the Anbernic RG552. It’s likely that with Android support, the RGB50 will also come with a touchscreen feature; however, this has not been confirmed as of yet. Retro Handhelds speculates that the RGB50 might utilize a display from the KT-R1, which provides 1080p resolution and 60 Hz refresh rate visuals.
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Tags: Anbernic RG35XX SP, Powkiddy RGB50, PSP emulation
March 23, 2025
Affordable MiLi MiTag: A Budget-Friendly Alternative to Moto Tag
Key Takeaways
1. The MiLi MiTag tracker is priced at $17.99, making it a budget-friendly option compared to other trackers on the market.
2. It has a Bluetooth range of 150 meters (500 feet) and an IP67 rating for dust and water resistance.
3. The MiTag can track items with an accuracy of up to 1 meter and allows users to ring the device to locate it easily.
4. The battery lasts between 8 to 12 months and uses a replaceable CR2032 coin battery, as it is not rechargeable.
5. Special offers include a current price of $12.99 on Amazon and a limited-time pack of four for $42.99.
There are several trackers on the market that work with Android’s Find My Device Network, like the Motorola Moto Tag, Chipolo One Point, and Pebblebee’s universal trackers. However, these options can be quite pricey, with the Chipolo One Point starting at $28, which isn’t cheap by any means. Enter the MiLi MiTag tracker, a new player that aims to be more budget-friendly.
Affordable Pricing
The MiLi MiTag, also known as the MiTag Go, is available for just $17.99. Its design resembles a coin, featuring a hole at one end suitable for attaching to a lanyard or key ring. This tracker boasts a Bluetooth range of 150 meters (or 500 feet), an impressive IP67 rating for dust and water resistance, and it includes an integrated speaker. Setting it up is straightforward, and it is compatible with a broad range of Android devices that have the Find My Device app installed.
Versatile Utility
You can attach the MiTag to numerous items, including your pets, as long as you have the right accessories. By utilizing the Find My Device app, users can track their possessions with an accuracy of up to 1 meter. It also allows you to ring the device, helping you pinpoint its exact location.
The manufacturer claims that the MiTag can last between 8 to 12 months on a single battery. However, unlike the Pebblebee Clip, its battery is not rechargeable. It uses a CR2032 coin battery, which is quite easy to replace when it runs out.
Special Offers
Although the MiTag has a suggested retail price of $17.99, it’s currently listed on Amazon for only $12.99. There’s even a special deal where you can buy a pack of four for $42.99, but this offer is for a limited time only.
Additionally, MiLi offers a variant called the MiTag Duo that is compatible with both Android and Apple devices, priced at $24.99. There’s also a product named the MiCard Pro, which has a slim credit card-like shape, making it convenient to fit into wallets and purses. This version comes with a rechargeable battery that requires a wireless charger.
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Tags: Bluetooth tracker, Chipolo One Point, MiLi MiTag
March 23, 2025
Valve Deckard Specs Leaked: Next-Gen Valve Index Details Inside
Key Takeaways
1. Valve’s upcoming VR headset, Deckard, is seen as the successor to the Valve Index and may launch at a price of $1,200, up from the Index’s $999.
2. Deckard is being developed on an ARM codebase, featuring a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset, which could improve performance and efficiency by 25% compared to the Snapdragon XR Gen 2.
3. The prototype includes JDI-derived LCD screens with a refresh rate of 120 Hz and a resolution of 2,160 x 2,160 pixels per eye.
4. Deckard reportedly supports tracking for controllers, the headset, and facial movements, but specifications are not finalized and may change in later prototypes.
5. Valve is expected to unveil Deckard by the end of this year, with the current prototype being the final proof-of-concept before moving to engineering validation testing.
Brad Lynch has uncovered some new info about the ongoing progress of Valve’s upcoming virtual reality (VR) headset. Up until now, Deckard has been seen as the long-anticipated follow-up to the Valve Index, which launched almost six months ago. A recent speculation suggested that Valve is aiming for a launch price of $1,200, which is an increase from the Index’s initial $999 MSRP.
Development Insights
Recent changes in the code indicate that Valve is building Deckard on an ARM codebase. In particular, a proof-of-concept (POC-F) prototype features a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 (SM8650) chipset that is found in the latest flagship smartphones, such as the OnePlus 12, Xperia 1 VI, and Galaxy S24 Ultra. As noted by UploadVR, the Adreno 750 within the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 could potentially give this Deckard prototype about 25% improved performance and efficiency compared to the Snapdragon XR Gen 2, which powers the Pico 4 Ultra, Quest 3, and Quest 3S (currently priced at $299 on Amazon).
Technical Specifications
This prototype is reported to utilize JDI-derived LCD screens that offer a refresh rate of 120 Hz and a resolution of 2,160 x 2,160 pixels for each eye over a 2.8-inch display. Additionally, it seems to support tracking for controllers, the headset, and facial movements. Lynch emphasizes that the specifications linked to POC-F are not final.
As a result, later prototypes and retail versions are likely to feature newer or more advanced components. That said, POC-F appears to have been the final proof-of-concept before Valve transitioned to engineering validation testing (EVT). If this holds true, it wouldn’t surprise us if future prototypes eventually come with similar hardware features instead of a leap to a much more powerful chipset or entirely different lenses that would necessitate a complete redesign. At present, Valve is anticipated to unveil Deckard by the end of this year.
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Tags: Deckard, Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, Valve Index