Category: All News

May 18, 2025
Epson EF-51: Smart 3LCD Projector with Stunning 4K Resolution
Key Takeaways
1. The Epson EF-51 is a versatile projector that can also function as a lamp, with customizable lighting options.
2. It features a compact design with adjustable rotation and tilt for easy setup, along with automatic keystone correction.
3. The projector uses 3LCD technology for vibrant image quality and has a resolution of 3,840 x 2,160, though not its native resolution.
4. The maximum brightness is rated at 700 lumens, suitable for projecting images between 30 and 150 inches in size.
5. Priced at approximately $734 in China, details about a global release are still pending.
Epson is broadening its lineup with the introduction of the Epson EF-51, a new projector. This device isn’t just for projecting images; it can also serve as a lamp on a nightstand, for instance. It supports multiple colors, and the lighting can be synced with the projection or activated even when the Epson EF-51 is in standby mode. An app simplifies the process of configuring the lighting, making it both comprehensive and user-friendly.
Design and Functionality
The projector measures 190 x 190 mm and stands at 249 mm, featuring a relatively long stand that gives it a very practical look. Users can rotate the system 180° on its stand and tilt it 105° both up and down, thus making the setup quite easy. Keystone correction is available, and the manufacturer claims that the projection position can be automatically adjusted. The Epson EF-51 utilizes 3LCD technology, which employs three separate LCD screens to create images, ensuring vibrant color representation.
Specifications and Performance
The resolution is said to be 3,840 x 2,160, though it’s probably not the native resolution without pixel shifting. The maximum brightness is rated at 700 lumens, and the throw ratio is 1.2:1. It is recommended to project images between 30 and 150 inches in size. Additionally, this 3.9-kilogram projector is compatible with ALLM and supports wireless screen projection.
In China, the price for this model is approximately $734. Details regarding a worldwide release are still awaited.
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Tags: 3LCD technology, Epson EF-51, Projector
May 18, 2025
Xiaomi Civi 5 Pro: World’s First Leica Night God Selfie Phone
Key Takeaways
1. The Xiaomi Civi 5 Pro will feature high-quality Leica branding on both front and rear cameras.
2. The enhanced Night God selfie camera has a 50MP sensor with improved low-light performance due to “ultra-transparent nano-prism” technology.
3. The device can shoot 4K video at 60 frames per second, competing with models like the Oppo Reno14 Pro.
4. It is powered by the Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 SoC and has a 6,000mAh battery, all in a slim design of 7.45 mm.
5. The smartphone will be available in classic black and white, as well as Nebula Purple and Sakura Pink, with reservations already open in China.
Xiaomi has made it clear that the Civi 5 Pro will feature high-quality Leica branding, as hinted in earlier previews. Now, it has been confirmed that these additional logos will be found on both the front and rear cameras of the device.
Enhanced Selfie Camera
The 5 Pro’s Night God selfie camera, designed in a pill shape reminiscent of a Dynamic Island, is embedded in its 6.55-inch display, which boasts an “ultra-narrow equal-depth micro-bezel.” This camera utilizes “ultra-transparent nano-prism” technology, enhancing the “photosensitivity” of its 50MP sensor’s pixels by up to 25%, resulting in better image quality, particularly in low-light conditions.
Competing Specs
Moreover, this camera can shoot videos in 4K at 60 frames per second, similar to what competitors like the new Oppo Reno14 Pro offer.
The Civi 5 Pro is equipped with three rear cameras that come with high-end Leica Summilux lenses and the same zoom capabilities found in the flagship model 15.
Powerful Performance and Design
In addition, the 5 Pro is set to provide a robust mid-range performance thanks to the new Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 SoC and a substantial 6,000mAh battery while maintaining a slim profile of just 7.45 millimeters (mm) in thickness.
This smartphone will be available in classic black and white color options, along with Nebula Purple (featuring a unique Quicksand effect) and Sakura Pink.
In summary, Xiaomi has confirmed all the leaks surrounding the Civi 5 Pro and is already allowing fans in China to make reservations for this exciting new device. However, the exact launch date and pricing details remain undisclosed.
Pricing Information
The Xiaomi 14 Civi is currently available for INR 30,999 on Amazon, as stated by Xiaomi via Weibo.
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Tags: Civi 5 Pro, Leica, Xiaomi
May 18, 2025
StarPro64: Powerful Raspberry Pi Alternative with NPU and PCIe
Key Takeaways
1. The StarPro64 is a new developer board from Pine64, priced at $250 but currently out of stock.
2. It features an ESWIN EIC7700X processor with four SiFive P550 cores based on RISC-V architecture, making it a competitor to the Raspberry Pi 5.
3. The board includes a high-performance NPU capable of 19.95 TOPS for local AI applications, such as surveillance tasks.
4. Key specifications include 32 GB of LPDDR5 RAM, 128Mb SPI boot flash, and options for eMMC storage and microSD booting.
5. Connectivity features consist of PCIe 3, multiple USB ports, 4K HDMI output, dual Gigabit Ethernet ports, WiFi 6, and Bluetooth 5.3.
The StarPro64 has been officially introduced – or at least it is now featured on Pine64’s online shop. The listed price is $250, but currently, the board seems to be “out of stock,” indicating that it’s sold out at this time.
Developer Board Details
The StarPro64 serves as a developer board and is basically a competitor to the Raspberry Pi 5. However, it’s equipped with a different processor architecture, specifically an ESWIN EIC7700X, which includes four SiFive P550 cores based on RISC-V architecture. One notable feature is its high-performance NPU, which reportedly delivers INT8 performance of 19.95 TOPS per second, making it quite powerful for running local AI applications. A realistic application could be in the field of surveillance cameras, particularly for face or license plate recognition.
Specifications and Features
Standard features include 32 GB of LPDDR5 RAM and 128Mb SPI boot flash. Users have the option to add an eMMC module (up to 256GB) and utilize a microSD slot for booting purposes. For connectivity, it offers a four-lane PCIe 3 connector, two USB 3.0 ports, and two USB 2.0 ports. Additionally, there are MIPI DSI and MIPI CSI interfaces for connecting displays and cameras. It also supports HDMI output at 4K resolution and 60 Hz. Furthermore, network capabilities include two Gigabit Ethernet ports alongside dual-band WiFi 6 and Bluetooth 5.3.
Conclusion
Pine64’s new offering, the StarPro64, appears to be a compelling choice for developers looking for advanced features and performance. However, potential buyers might need to wait until it’s back in stock to secure their own unit.
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Tags: Pine64, RISC-V, StarPro64
May 18, 2025
Xiaomi Pad 7 Ultra and 15S Pro Launching This Month with New Chipset
Key Takeaways
1. Xiaomi is set to launch its new chipset, XRing O1, later this month.
2. The XRing O1 chipset will be featured in at least two devices: the Xiaomi 15S Pro and the Xiaomi Pad 7 Ultra.
3. The Xiaomi Pad 7 Ultra will have a 14-inch OLED display and support 120 W charging, marking it as a flagship tablet.
4. The global availability of the Xiaomi 15S Pro is uncertain, while the Xiaomi Pad 7 Ultra may be launched internationally.
5. The unveiling of the Xiaomi 15S Pro, Xiaomi Pad 7 Ultra, and other products will occur later this month in China.
Xiaomi is getting ready to introduce its new chipset, named XRing O1, which is expected to be released later this month. Rumors suggest that this new SoC will be used in several devices.
Devices Featuring XRing O1
Digital Chat Station has reported that Xiaomi plans to include XRing O1 in at least two devices. One of these devices is the Xiaomi 15S Pro, which has been in the news for a while. The other device, however, is more intriguing. It is said that the Xiaomi Pad 7 Ultra will also run on the XRing O1 chipset.
Specifications of the Xiaomi Pad 7 Ultra
The Xiaomi Pad 7 Ultra, which was initially called the Xiaomi Pad 7 Max due to its large screen size, is set to be a flagship model in Xiaomi’s tablet range. It is anticipated to offer a 14-inch OLED display—this would be a first for Xiaomi—and support for 120 W charging. The Xiaomi 15S Pro remains a bit of a mystery, but it’s believed to be quite similar to the standard Xiaomi 15 Pro.
Global Availability and Launch Timeline
Given that the Xiaomi 15 Pro and earlier S-series models have not been released outside of China, it seems unlikely that the Xiaomi 15S Pro will be available globally either. However, the Xiaomi Pad 7 Ultra might have a different fate, as Xiaomi usually launches most of its tablets in international markets at some point. But this is all just speculation, and we will have to wait and see.
It is said that the Xiaomi 15S Pro and Xiaomi Pad 7 Ultra will be unveiled later this month in China alongside the XRing O1 chipset. They will also be revealed alongside the Civi 5 Pro, various other gadgets, and Xiaomi’s new electric SUV, the YU7.
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Tags: Xiaomi 15S Pro, Xiaomi Pad 7 Ultra, XRing O1
May 18, 2025
Black Shark Launches Affordable 45W Fast Charger
Key Takeaways
1. Black Shark has launched a new dual-port charger in China, part of the “Star Stream” series.
2. The charger supports fast charging at 45 W for a single device; when both ports are used, they provide 20 W and 25 W, respectively.
3. It is compatible with multiple charging standards, including PPS, PD, QC, Apple 2.4, and SFC.
4. The charger features a compact design with a foldable plug, measuring 45.5x40x28 mm and weighing 75 grams.
5. The price of the charger is CNY 89 (approximately $12), with no current information on global availability.
Black Shark has introduced a new charger head in China, which is part of their “Star Stream” series. This charging brick features a dual-port setup, both equipped with USB Type-C connections. These ports support fast charging at 45 W, but that’s only when a single device is plugged in.
Charging Specifications
When both ports are being used, the USB-C1 provides a maximum of 20 W, while USB-C2 can deliver up to 25 W, summing up to 45 W. Black Shark claims that their charging head is compatible with key charging standards, including PPS, PD, QC, Apple 2.4, and SFC.
Design Features
In terms of design, the Black Shark 45 W GaN charger is crafted for travelers. It features a foldable plug, much like some products from Anker. The company emphasizes the compact size of the charger, which measures 45.5x40x28 mm. Additionally, it is lightweight, weighing just 75 grams.
Pricing Information
As for the cost, the Black Shark 45 W GaN charger is priced at CNY 89 in China, which is approximately $12. The company has not yet provided information about global availability and pricing, but it typically releases most of its products outside of China.
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Tags: 45 W GaN charger, Black Shark, Star Stream
May 18, 2025
Grab the Sony WH-1000XM5 Now for Just $299 – Limited Time Offer
Key Takeaways
1. Sony has launched the WH-1000XM6 headphones, featuring updated designs and new capabilities at a higher price point.
2. The older WH-1000XM5 model is available for $299.99, a 25% discount from its original price of $399.99.
3. The WH-1000XM5 headphones have eight microphones, noise cancellation, and support for Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa.
4. They offer a battery life of 30 hours with noise cancellation on and a quick charge feature that provides three hours of listening time after just three minutes of charging.
5. The WH-1000XM5 lacks USB-C audio support, which is found in other models like the Sonos Ace.
Sony has just unveiled the WH-1000XM6 headphones, their latest high-end model. This new version features updated designs and fresh capabilities, but it does come with a steeper price. If you’re not keen on spending that much for headphones, you might consider the previous model, the Sony WH-1000XM5, which is now available at a significantly reduced price.
Pricing and Discounts
The older Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones are now priced at $299.99 on Amazon, reflecting a 25% discount from their original price of $399.99. This limited-time offer is applicable to both the Black and Silver color options. The Midnight Blue version, however, has a higher price tag of $348.
Features and Specifications
Even though the WH-1000XM5 model is three years old, it remains a strong contender among over-the-ear headphones. They feature eight microphones along with two processors that aid in noise cancellation and provide clear call quality. Additional features include wear detection, compatibility with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa, as well as Bluetooth Multipoint. The headphones also support LDAC, spatial audio with head tracking, and can connect to compatible Sony Bravia TVs for a wireless Dolby Atmos experience.
Connecting the WH-1000XM5 is straightforward, as it supports Google Fast Pair and Windows Swift Pair. Users can enjoy a battery life of 30 hours with noise cancellation activated (or 40 hours without it). When the battery runs low, a quick three-minute charge will give you three hours of listening time. Alternatively, you can use the included 3.5mm audio cable for a wired connection. Unfortunately, they lack USB-C audio support, which is available in the Sonos Ace.
Important Note
Disclaimer: Notebookcheck cannot be held accountable for any price adjustments made by retailers. The discounted price or deal mentioned in this article was accurate at the time of writing and may be subject to time limitations and/or limited stock availability.
Tags: discount, headphones, Sony WH-1000XM5
May 18, 2025
Indiana’s 1.3 GW Solar Project to Power 200,000 Homes
Key Takeaways
1. Work has started on the 1.3-gigawatt Mammoth Solar project in Indiana, with Bechtel handling engineering and construction for three sections contributing 900 megawatts.
2. Bechtel will install about two million photovoltaic modules, with half produced in the U.S., along with necessary infrastructure over the next two years.
3. The project is expected to create over 1,200 jobs during peak construction, with 15% dedicated to apprenticeships for entry-level workers.
4. The commercial operation for the current phase is anticipated to begin in 2027, providing power for approximately 200,000 U.S. households.
5. Doral Renewables plans to implement agrivoltaic practices at the site, allowing for livestock grazing and crop production alongside solar infrastructure.
Work has increased at the 1.3-gigawatt Mammoth Solar project located in Indiana. Doral Renewables has given the Full Notice to Proceed to their engineering and construction partner Bechtel. This allows for permanent work to begin on three sections: Mammoth South, Mammoth Central I, and Mammoth Central II. These segments will together contribute 900 megawatts to the project, boosting Indiana’s solar capacity by over 20 percent.
Bechtel’s Responsibilities
Bechtel’s responsibilities include designing, procuring, and constructing across the three phases. They plan to install about two million photovoltaic modules, with half of them being made in the United States, over the next two years. This will be supported by new cabling, substations, and other site infrastructure. The company intends to use digital delivery workflows and autonomous equipment to keep the project on schedule and manage costs effectively.
Job Creation and Local Collaboration
During peak construction, it is anticipated that over 1,200 jobs will be created, with 15 percent of those set aside for apprenticeships aimed at giving entry-level craftworkers valuable experience on a large-scale renewable project. Leaders from Doral Renewables and Bechtel have highlighted their commitment to working with local trade unions and suppliers to develop a skilled workforce and enhance the economic benefits for the county.
The commercial operation for the current phase is expected to start in 2027. Once operational, the combined 900 megawatts AC will be able to provide power for approximately 200,000 average U.S. households. The full 1.3 gigawatt project will follow, putting Mammoth Solar among the largest solar facilities in the nation.
Agrivoltaics Initiative
In addition to generating electricity, Doral Renewables plans to implement agrivoltaic practices at the site. They intend to manage livestock grazing and crop production beneath and around the solar panels, enabling local farmers to continue their agricultural activities while coexisting with the solar infrastructure. This dual-use strategy aims to enhance land productivity and reinforce community connections long after construction is completed.
Bechtel’s involvement in Mammoth Solar leverages their experience with large-scale renewable projects, such as the Ivanpah concentrated solar complex in California. This expertise, combined with a focus on digital project management, is expected to aid in maintaining Mammoth Solar’s project timeline and ensuring operational stability.
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Tags: Bechtel, Doral Renewables, Mammoth Solar
May 18, 2025
Realme Neo7 Turbo Launch: Fast Charging and Powerful Chipset
Key Takeaways
1. Redmi and iQoo are both using the “Turbo” name in 2025, powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 chip.
2. Realme is expected to compete with the Dimensity 9400e platform from MediaTek.
3. The Neo7 series may introduce updated specs and a new name, potentially disadvantaging it against the Redmi Turbo 4 Pro.
4. The Neo7 series features a 7,000mAh battery, while the Turbo 4 Pro has a larger 7,550mAh battery.
5. The upcoming “Neo7 Turbo” is anticipated to have 100W charging, an upgrade from the Turbo 4 Pro’s 90W.
Redmi and iQoo are both claiming the Turbo name in 2025, thanks to the Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 chip from Qualcomm. But, Realme is expected to argue that it can rival this with the Dimensity 9400e platform from MediaTek shortly.
New Specs on the Horizon
The smartphone in focus is rumored to enhance the Neo7 series with updated specifications and a new name. This information, reportedly leaked by the well-known tipster Digital Chat Station, could suggest a possible disadvantage when compared to the Redmi Turbo 4 Pro.
Battery Comparisons
The Neo7 series has established itself as Realme’s first smartphones with a 7,000mAh battery, while the Turbo 4 Pro was introduced with a bigger 7,550mAh battery.
On the other hand, the “Neo7 Turbo” (or Realme RMX5062, as it might be referred to in its new 3C certification) is also expected to feature the same 100W charging capability as the flagship OnePlus 13, which is an upgrade from the 90W in the Turbo 4 Pro.
Future Possibilities
Additionally, there is still a chance that this upcoming Turbo model could have a battery capacity that exceeds the current Neo7 and 7 SE models.
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Tags: Realme Neo7 Turbo, Redmi Turbo 4 Pro, Snapdragon 8S Gen 4
May 18, 2025
Hanvon Clear7 Turbo+: Android E-Reader Like Kindle Oasis
Key Takeaways
1. The Hanvon Clear7 Turbo+ is an e-reader designed similarly to the Kindle Oasis, featuring an ergonomic grip and a level screen.
2. It operates on an open system with Android 14, allowing for potential installation of additional apps, though access to the Google Play Store may be limited.
3. The device is equipped with a Qualcomm SoC, 4 GB of RAM, and 64 GB of internal memory.
4. It features an E Ink Carta 1300 display with a resolution of 1,264 x 1,680, displaying only grayscale.
5. Weighing 175 grams, the Hanvon Clear7 Turbo+ is priced around $220 and will launch in China.
Some months ago, we mentioned the N10 Pro from Hanvon, and now they are introducing another device to their lineup. The Hanvon Clear7 Turbo+ is an e-reader that shares a design resemblance with the Kindle Oasis. The Kindle Oasis features a distinct heel, giving one side a thicker profile that serves as an ergonomic grip, making it easier to hold. The screen is level with the casing and the edges, rather than being set back. Only two buttons are visible on the front, which are clearly intended for turning pages.
Open System Features
Unlike the Kindle Oasis, the Hanvon Clear7 Turbo+ operates more like an open system, at least in theory. It runs on Android 14 as its operating system. While accessing the Google Play Store may not be possible, users should be able to install additional apps later, which could enhance the device’s functionality.
Internal Specifications
Inside, it houses a Qualcomm SoC with four processing cores, along with 4 GB of RAM and 64 GB of internal memory. The display is an E Ink Carta 1300 screen with a resolution of 1,264 x 1,680, which only displays grayscale, lacking color support. For connectivity, it offers Wi-Fi, and it also supports Bluetooth.
Weighing in at 175 grams, this e-reader is set to launch in China at a price around $220. A comparable option with similar specifications is the Meebook M8 E-Reader, available on Amazon.
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Tags: E-Reader, Hanvon Clear7 Turbo+, Kindle Oasis
May 18, 2025
Honor 400 and 400 Pro Launch with 7,200mAh Battery Capacity
Key Takeaways
1. The Honor 400 and Honor 400 Pro will feature a large 7,200mAh battery, a significant increase from the previous 5,300mAh in the Honor 300 series.
2. The 7,200mAh battery capacity applies to the Chinese models, while European versions may have smaller batteries.
3. The Honor Power still holds the record for the largest battery in an Honor smartphone, with an 8,000mAh capacity.
4. Honor has not revealed the charging speeds for the new smartphones, but previous models supported 100W fast wired charging.
5. The official launch for the Honor 400 series in China is on May 28, with a European announcement on May 22.
While smartphones with very large battery capacities have been around for a long time, they weren’t common because they made the phones thicker. Recently, though, things have changed, and now we see phones with big batteries that are not too thick. The new Honor 400 series is set to join this trend, as an official has announced the battery size for these devices.
Announcement on Weibo
According to Lin Lin, who is the vice president of Honor China, both the Honor 400 and the Honor 400 Pro will feature an impressive 7,200mAh battery capacity. This is a significant increase from the 5,300mAh battery found in the Honor 300 series that was introduced last year.
Regional Variations
It’s also worth mentioning that this battery capacity pertains to the Chinese models of the phones. Honor typically releases phones with smaller batteries in Europe, meaning the versions sold there could have different capacities. For instance, the Honor Magic 7 Pro (which can be found on Amazon.de for €999.90) has a European variant sporting a 5,270mAh battery, while the global model comes with a larger 5,850mAh battery.
Comparison with Honor Power
Even though the battery capacity of the upcoming Honor 400 series phones is commendable, it is still less than that of the Honor Power, which holds the record for the largest battery in an Honor smartphone. Launched in April 2025, the Honor Power comes with a massive 8,000mAh battery that charges at 66W.
Honor has confirmed the battery specs for these new smartphones, but it hasn’t disclosed their charging speeds. Last year’s Honor 300 could handle 100W fast wired charging, and both the Honor 300 Pro and Honor 300 Ultra supported 100W fast wired charging along with 80W fast wireless charging.
Launch Dates
The Honor 400 series is set to officially launch in China on Wednesday, May 28. However, the announcement will take place in Europe first on May 22, as per Lin Lin’s post on Weibo.
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Tags: 7200mAh battery, Honor 300 series, Honor 400