Category: All News

May 21, 2025
Google Gemini 2.5 Update: Agent Mode, Deep Think, and Tools
Key Takeaways
1. Gemini 2.5 Flash: Delivers improved reasoning and efficiency, operating 20-30% lighter in token consumption, available for all users and developers starting May 20.
2. Deep Think Mode: Focuses on enhanced reasoning capabilities for math, coding, and multimodal evaluations, currently being tested by select API users with further safety evaluations planned.
3. Agent Mode for Subscribers: Allows Gemini Ultra subscribers to set goals, pulling information from live searches and Google applications through a split interface.
4. Gemini Canvas Enhancements: Introduces a “Create” menu for generating webpages, infographics, quizzes, audio summaries, and personalized app frameworks.
5. Deep Research Tool: Enables users to merge public information with private documents, enhancing research capabilities for students and professionals.
At I/O 2025, Google has unveiled a significant range of updates for its Gemini application. The firm revealed new features such as Gemini 2.5 Flash, an enhanced Deep Think mode, a ChatGPT-like Agent Mode, as well as support for quiz creation, audio summaries, and research based on documents—all integrated into a single platform.
Key Upgrade: Gemini 2.5 Flash
The most notable enhancement at this moment is Gemini 2.5 Flash, which offers improved reasoning abilities and greater efficiency. It operates 20-30% lighter in terms of token consumption and is already available in the Gemini app for all users. Developers and enterprise clients can also utilize an updated version via Google AI Studio and Vertex AI starting May 20. The complete Gemini 2.5 Pro model is anticipated to be released in early June.
Deep Think Mode and Its Features
In addition, Gemini 2.5 Deep Think is being promoted as an upgrade centered on reasoning, demonstrating better results in areas like math (USAMO 2025), coding (LiveCodeBench v6), and multimodal evaluations (MMMU). Google mentions this mode will undergo additional safety evaluations before being made public, but it is already being tested by a select group of Gemini API users.
New Agent Mode for Subscribers
If you are a Gemini Ultra subscriber, you will soon gain access to Agent Mode, which is powered by something known as Project Mariner. In this mode, you simply tell Gemini your goal, and it pulls information from live web searches, your Google applications, and external resources to accomplish it. This function features a split display where the chat interface is on the left, while a browser-like panel manages content on the right.
On the creative front, Gemini Canvas has introduced a new “Create” menu, allowing users to generate complete webpages, infographics, quizzes, or audio summaries directly through chat. You can also describe a personalized app and let Gemini create a starting framework. Additionally, for students or working professionals, a Deep Research tool now enables you to merge public information with private PDFs, Google Drive documents, and market insights.
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Tags: Gemini 2.5, Google I/O 2025, Pixel 9
May 21, 2025
Elgato Stream Deck Modules: Create Custom Macropads Easily
Key Takeaways
1. Elgato has launched “Stream Deck Everywhere” with new Stream Deck Modules in 6-key, 15-key, and 32-key options for enthusiasts and OEMs.
2. The Stream Deck Modules are priced at $49.99, $129.99, and $199.99, with bulk purchase discounts of up to 15%.
3. The original Stream Deck MK II has been updated with a scissor-key version for improved tactile feedback.
4. All Stream Deck models are available on Elgato’s website, with prices ranging from $59.99 to $249.99, and include access to free software for unlimited macro keys.
5. A new network dock accessory will allow Stream Decks to issue commands over a network using Power over Ethernet (PoE) and will launch later this summer.
Elgato is introducing a fresh concept called “Stream Deck Everywhere,” aimed at its line of programmable control pads. At Computex on Monday, the company unveiled its new Stream Deck Modules, which are simplified, integration-ready versions of their popular devices. These modules come in three options: 6-key, 15-key, and 32-key, reflecting the Stream Deck Mini, MK II, and XL designs, all within sleek aluminum casings and without any noticeable branding.
Target Audience for Stream Deck Modules
Designed for enthusiasts and OEMs, Stream Deck Modules eliminate the need to dismantle retail Stream Decks for custom projects. Elgato offers these basic devices with support for third-party plug-ins and SDKs, priced at $49.99 for the 6-key model, $129.99 for the 15-key version, and $199.99 for the fully featured 32-key module. Moreover, bulk purchases can enjoy discounts of up to 15%, making it a more attractive option for those looking to buy multiple units.
New Features for Stream Deck MK II
For users who prefer not to customize, the original Stream Deck MK II has been updated with a scissor-key version, providing the satisfying tactile feel of a traditional keyboard. Just last month, Elgato teased this concept in an April Fool’s video featuring a “Stream Deck desk” packed with a whopping 1,262 keys. This could hint at a real Stream Deck keyboard coming soon.
Pricing and Availability
All versions of the original Stream Deck, whether equipped with scissor keys or the classic membrane style, are available for purchase on Elgato’s website, ranging from $59.99 to $249.99. When you buy any Stream Deck model, you also gain access to Elgato’s Virtual Stream Deck for desktop. This software, which is free for both PC and Mac, requires downloading Stream Deck 7.0 from Elgato’s beta hub. With VSD, users can create unlimited macro keys that can be placed on the desktop, taskbar, or pinned anywhere on the screen.
The Stream Deck mobile app, on the other hand, is available for Android and iOS but requires a Pro subscription to customize layouts or access more than six keys.
Expanding the Stream Deck Ecosystem
In line with its branding vision, Elgato has introduced a new accessory to widen the Stream Deck’s capabilities beyond just desktop use. The network dock is a compact device that supports Power over Ethernet (PoE), allowing the Stream Deck to issue commands over a network instead of being limited to a USB connection. Although this accessory isn’t available for order yet, Elgato has confirmed it will be launching “later this summer.”
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Tags: Elgato, Stream Deck MK II, Stream Deck Modules
May 21, 2025
Tapo H500 Smart Home Hub: Supports Matter, HDMI & 16TB Storage
Key Takeaways
1. The Tapo H500 acts as a central hub for smart home devices, connecting wirelessly via dual-band WiFi and supporting up to 16 Tapo cameras and 64 sensors.
2. It features 16GB built-in eMMC storage, expandable to 16TB, allowing for extensive local video recording options that enhance privacy and reduce cloud storage costs.
3. The hub will provide AI features, like face detection, to TP-Link cameras that lack these capabilities when connected to the Tapo H500.
4. It supports the Matter standard, allowing compatibility with a broader range of smart home devices beyond just TP-Link products.
5. The Tapo H500 functions as an alarm system and can connect to a tablet for features like live feed viewing, while also including an HDMI port.
TP-Link has introduced the Tapo H500, which they call a smart HomeBase, meant to act as a central point for different smart home devices. This gadget connects easily to a network through dual-band WiFi, allowing it to link wirelessly with cameras and sensors. Specifically, it can support up to 16 Tapo cameras and as many as 64 Tapo sensors. The company states that users can store video recordings from these cameras locally.
Storage Options
The HomeBase features built-in 16GB eMMC storage, which can be expanded to a whopping 16TB when using hard drives or SSDs. When equipped with 1TB of internal storage, it could keep four 24/7 camera recordings for weeks at a time. If users are only capturing events or alerts, that same 1TB could last for years. This local storage solution helps address privacy worries and reduces costs associated with cloud storage. TP-Link cameras that do not have built-in AI features like face detection are expected to receive this functionality when connected to the new smart hub, which is said to be more precise as well.
Compatibility and Features
The Tapo H500 smart home hub is not limited to just TP-Link Tapo devices; it also supports the Matter standard. However, it’s important to note that the Tapo H500 serves primarily as a base station, not a smart display. That said, users can attach a tablet to the base station to access functionalities such as live feed viewing, utilizing the 3D dashboard, or seeing an overview of connected IoT devices. Furthermore, the hub can function as an alarm system and works with a compatible smart doorbell. An HDMI port is also included. The Tapo H500 Smart HomeBase is currently available for purchase in Europe at a price of €130.
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Tags: Smart Home Hub, Tapo H500, TP-LINK
May 21, 2025
Organic Solar Battery Stores Sunlight for 48 Hours Using Water
Key Takeaways
1. Researchers in Germany created a unique organic “solar battery” that captures sunlight and stores energy for over two days.
2. The device uses a porous covalent organic framework (COF) made from naphthalenediimide, combining photovoltaic and electrochemical functions without metals.
3. The COF acts as both a light absorber and a charge reservoir, stabilizing stored energy for at least 48 hours, surpassing similar materials in capacity.
4. Water plays a key role in energy preservation by preventing charge recombination and stabilizing trapped electrons without metallic centers.
5. The device maintains over 90% capacity after multiple charge-discharge cycles, showing potential for sustainable solar energy storage solutions.
Researchers in Germany have developed a unique “solar battery” that is entirely organic. This innovative device can capture sunlight, store energy for more than two days, and then release it as electricity. It employs a porous, two-dimensional covalent organic framework (COF) made from naphthalenediimide, which merges photovoltaic and electrochemical functions into a lightweight material. This design, which is free of metals, presents a greener choice for off-grid energy solutions.
Functionality of the COF
The COF serves dual purposes as a light absorber and a charge reservoir. When it is exposed to light, it produces electron-hole pairs and captures the generated charges within its structured pores. Even in watery conditions, these charges stay stable for at least 48 hours—an impressive duration for materials of this kind—and can be released when needed to power an external device. The research team recorded a specific capacity of 38 milliampere-hours per gram, surpassing similar materials like carbon nitrides, polymer semiconductors, and metal-organic frameworks.
Role of Water in Energy Preservation
Water molecules play a crucial role in maintaining the stored energy. Instead of neutralizing the charges, water rearranges around the COF structure, creating an energy barrier that stops recombination. Research indicates that this interaction helps stabilize trapped electrons without the need for ions or metallic centers.
Simulations and Testing Results
Spectroscopists at the Technical University of Munich conducted simulations to analyze various scenarios for charge stabilization. They demonstrated how molecular design, the architecture of the framework, and the surrounding environment collaborate to secure charges. The straightforward nature of the mechanism—organic components combined with water—helps clarify the material’s durability during cycling.
Practical tests confirmed this durability: the device managed to keep over 90 percent of its capacity even after numerous charge-discharge cycles. This performance suggests that the COF platform is a strong candidate for integrated solar energy storage, especially in situations where weight, sustainability, and the availability of materials are significant issues. Future research will aim to scale up the synthesis of the framework, enhance charge density, and incorporate the material into complete photovoltaic systems.
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Tags: covalent organic framework, energy storage, solar battery
May 21, 2025
Sodium-Based Solid-State Batteries: Faster Charging & Higher Capacity
Key Takeaways
1. Researchers at BAM are developing a sodium super-ionic conductor (NASICON) electrolyte to improve solid-state batteries beyond lithium-ion technology.
2. Switching from graphite anodes to metallic lithium or sodium could increase energy density by up to 40%.
3. A liquid alkali-metal anode can produce 100 times more power than graphite, but current usage requires high temperatures (250°C).
4. NASICON materials effectively conduct ions at room temperature and tolerate potassium, but finding alternative stabilizing dopants is essential due to hafnium’s rarity and cost.
5. Successful development of sodium-based solid-state batteries could lead to safer, faster charging, and more sustainable energy systems for everyday applications and electric vehicles.
Researchers at the Federal Institute for Materials Research and Testing (BAM) in Germany are rethinking solid-state batteries to surpass the limits of current lithium-ion cells. Their work focuses on a new sodium super-ionic conductor (NASICON) electrolyte, which has the potential to enable quicker charging, longer lifespans, and reduced costs, all while maintaining safety.
Advancements in Battery Technology
Traditional lithium-ion batteries use graphite anodes, which can only hold a limited amount of ions. By switching to metallic lithium or the more affordable and abundant sodium, energy density could increase by up to 40 percent. However, solid anodes require a solid electrolyte, and the hard interface between them often creates gaps that render the battery ineffective. A partially liquid anode could address this interface issue, but it must remain stable throughout.
Breaking New Ground with NASICON
The team at BAM, directed by visiting researcher Gustav Graeber, has demonstrated that a liquid alkali-metal anode can produce 100 times more power than graphite. Currently, this impressive output is achievable only at around 250°C (482°F). To lower the temperature for practical use, the researchers are incorporating potassium to decrease the anode’s melting point. Unfortunately, most solid electrolytes deteriorate when in contact with potassium, leading to a new challenge for the electrolyte.
NASICON materials are addressing this challenge effectively. They are capable of conducting ions well at room temperature and can tolerate potassium, especially when enhanced with hafnium. However, hafnium is both rare and costly. Thus, the BAM team is exploring more readily available dopants that could replicate hafnium’s stabilizing properties. The most effective combinations are already being tested and cycled in prototype sodium cells.
Future Implications
Should their research prove fruitful, sodium-based solid-state batteries may transition from laboratory settings to everyday applications and electric vehicles. The increased energy density would prolong usage time, while solid electrolytes would enhance overall safety. Quicker charging and a supply chain reliant on abundant sodium instead of rare lithium and cobalt would also make this technology appealing for grid storage, marking a significant yet gradual move towards more sustainable energy systems.
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Tags: Federal Institute for Materials Research and Testing, Sodium super-ionic conductor, Solid State Batteries
May 21, 2025
EufyCam E40: Affordable Security Camera with Apple HomeKit Support
Key Takeaways
1. The eufyCam E40 is an affordable security camera option available on Amazon in several European countries, resembling the higher-end eufyCam S330.
2. It features a 4MP camera with 2K video resolution, MaxColor Night Vision, and AI facial recognition, but lacks the 4K capability of the S330.
3. The camera operates wirelessly with a long-lasting 13,000mAh battery and includes a SolarPlus 2.0 panel for minimal charging needs.
4. It offers compatibility with eufy HomeBase 2 for expandable local storage up to 16TB and supports smart home systems like Apple HomeKit, Alexa, and Google Assistant.
5. A bundle of two eufyCam E40 units with HomeBase 2 is priced at €299, providing significant savings compared to the eufyCam S330 bundle, which costs €549.
The eufyCam E40 security camera is now available on Amazon in several European nations. Although it looks much like the eufyCam S330, which debuted in 2024, this new model serves as a more affordable option from the Anker sub-brand.
Camera Specifications
The E40 features a 4MP camera equipped with an f/1.0 aperture and a 130° field of view. It records video at a 2K resolution, which is lower than the S330’s 4K capabilities. With MaxColor Night Vision, you can see details clearly even in dim lighting, thanks to its three available night modes. A PIR sensor detects movement to start recording, and there’s also an AI tool for facial recognition.
Power and Compatibility
This camera operates wirelessly and comes with a 13,000mAh battery. The SolarPlus 2.0 panel on top helps minimize charging needs; just two hours of bright sunlight daily is enough for the camera to function endlessly. Additionally, the E40 works with the eufy HomeBase 2, which allows for expandable local storage up to 16TB. It also supports smart home systems like Apple HomeKit, Alexa, and Google Assistant.
Pricing and Availability
A bundle including two eufyCam E40 units along with the HomeBase 2 is priced at €299 on Amazon in countries such as France, Spain, and Germany. This is a significant discount of €250 from the €549 RRP for a similar bundle featuring the eufyCam S330, which includes the newer HomeBase 3. The eufyCam E40 Add On Camera retails for €149. It is also listed on Amazon UK, but the price there hasn’t been disclosed yet. It’s still uncertain if or when these products will be available in the US market.
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Tags: eufyCam E40, eufyCam S330, security camera
May 21, 2025
Zotac Zone: New OLED Gaming Handheld with Unique Manjaro Linux
Key Takeaways
1. The Zotac Zone is in prototype phase, first introduced at CES 2025 and showcased at Computex 2025.
2. It features a Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 APU and Radeon 890M integrated GPU, aiming to match performance with modern handhelds like Ayaneo 3.
3. Available RAM options include 24 GB or 32 GB, with a 48.5 Wh battery and a 1 TB M.2 2280 SSD.
4. The device has a 7-inch OLED display with 1080p resolution, 120 Hz refresh rate, and 800 nits brightness.
5. It runs on a specialized Manjora Linux distribution with a user interface similar to Steam OS, supporting Windows games via Wine emulation.
We got our hands on the newest version of the Zotac Zone during the Computex 2025 event. This device was hinted at before Taipei’s major tech festival, and even though it was first introduced back in January at CES 2025, it’s still in the prototype phase.
Performance Overview
To remind you, the first Zotac Zone came out a bit late in the life of AMD’s Ryzen 7 8840U APU. In contrast, the second-generation gaming handheld from Zotac is expected to match the performance of modern options like the Ayaneo 3 or OneXFly F1 Pro (currently priced at $1,439 on Amazon). This is thanks to its Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 APU and Radeon 890M integrated GPU.
Specifications and Features
Zotac has confirmed that the new Zone will come with either 24 GB or 32 GB of RAM, depending on the model you choose. It is powered by a 48.5 Wh battery and features a 1 TB M.2 2280 SSD. Additionally, there’s a microSD card reader and two USB4 ports. Like the older model, the new Zone includes Hall effect joysticks and triggers, along with two built-in trackpads similar to those found on the Steam Deck.
Display and Software
The highlight of the Zone is arguably its OLED display, which measures 7 inches diagonally, has a native resolution of 1080p, a refresh rate of 120 Hz, and peaks at 800 nits brightness. Zotac also gave us a quick look at its Manjora Linux distribution, which boasts a specialized handheld user interface akin to Steam OS, featuring flyout menus for quick adjustments of settings like display brightness and power usage. Moreover, this unnamed distribution utilizes the Wine emulation layer, allowing users to play Windows games seamlessly. For more info, check out our video below.
Tags: OLED display, Ryzen 9 HX 370, ZOTAC ZONE
May 21, 2025
Tenku Luna: Affordable Japanese PC Gaming Handheld with 120Hz Display
Key Takeaways
1. Tenku has launched the Luna, Japan’s first handheld device for PC gaming, resembling the MSI Claw and ROG Ally X.
2. The Luna features an AMD Ryzen 7 7840U APU, providing performance suitable for most AAA games at 720p and higher settings.
3. It includes 32 GB of LPDDR5 RAM, 1 TB and 2 TB storage options, and a microSD 4.0 card reader, which is more RAM than competitors.
4. The device has a 7-inch IPS display with 1080p resolution and a 120 Hz refresh rate, priced at JPY 79,800 (about $552) in Japan.
5. Pre-orders begin shipping on May 30, 2024, but there are no current plans for an international release.
Tenku has launched the Luna in Japan, marking it as the first handheld device for PC gaming in the country. After a teaser last week, the Luna resembles the MSI Claw (currently priced at $529 on Amazon) and ROG Ally X at first sight. The dimensions are 256 x 113.5 x 22.5~36 mm, and it weighs in at 666 g.
Key Differences
One notable aspect is that it features AMD’s older Ryzen 7 7840U APU. This processor is capable of delivering performance similar to that of the Ryzen Z1 Extreme and Ryzen 7 8840U in various tasks, making it suitable for most triple-A games at 720p and higher settings.
Memory and Storage
Interestingly, Tenku has equipped the Luna with only 32 GB of LPDDR5 RAM running at 6,400 MT/s, whereas competitors typically provide a standard of 16 GB. The Luna offers storage options of 1 TB and 2 TB, along with a microSD 4.0 card reader. Additionally, it features a 50.04 Wh battery that supports 65 W charging and includes a modem capable of Bluetooth 5.3 and Wi-Fi 6E.
Display and Pricing
The handheld boasts a 7-inch IPS display that provides 1080p resolution in a 16:9 aspect ratio and a refresh rate of 120 Hz. At present, the Tenku Luna is exclusive to Japan, where its price starts at JPY 79,800 (around $552) on sale from JPY 86,900 (approximately $601). For comparison, the ROG Ally X is sold for JPY 139,800 (about $967) in Japan. Pre-orders are set to start shipping on May 30, but there’s no information available about whether it will be released internationally.
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Tags: PC gaming handheld, Ryzen 7 7840U, Tenku Luna
May 21, 2025
Order Modular Smartphone with Earbuds, Smartwatch & Flashlight Now!
Key Takeaways
1. The Oukitel WP300 is available for pre-order on Kickstarter for $399, with shipping expected in July.
2. It features a modular design, allowing the use of a lamp module and a display module, making it suitable for outdoor activities.
3. The smartphone has impressive specifications, including a MediaTek Dimensity 7050 processor, up to 12GB of RAM, and a 108-megapixel main camera.
4. It is MIL-STD-810H certified, includes a 16,000mAh battery with reverse charging capabilities, and features NFC and a side-mounted fingerprint sensor.
5. The WP300 is expected to be available on Amazon in the future.
We’ve already shared information about the Oukitel WP300, and as we mentioned earlier, the phone is now ready to buy. The Chinese company is offering it through a crowdfunding campaign on Kickstarter priced at $399, with expected shipping in July. Essentially, this is a pre-order deal in disguise since Oukitel is a well-known player in the rugged smartphone market and also sells its products on Amazon.
Modular Design for Adventurers
The WP300 features a modular design, allowing it to use both a lamp module and a display module. This makes it perfect for outdoor activities like camping. Just like the display module, the camping light can be worn on a wristband, effectively turning it into a smartwatch. This device also has an extra function as it can function as an earbud or headset for phone calls. Overall, this Oukitel smartphone is very adaptable and can replace multiple gadgets.
Impressive Specs
Regarding specifications, the WP300 measures 6.98 x 3.24 x 0.92 inches and comes with the MediaTek Dimensity 7050 processor, offering up to 12GB of RAM and 512GB of storage. The 6.8-inch screen has a resolution of 1080 x 2460 pixels and a refresh rate of 120Hz, while the main camera features an impressive 108 megapixels. This Android device holds a MIL-STD-810H certification, has NFC, a side-mounted fingerprint sensor, and a massive 16,000mAh battery. It supports reverse charging up to 18 watts and can act like a power bank. We anticipate that the WP300 will also be available on Amazon in the future.
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Tags: Kickstarter, Oukitel WP300, rugged smartphone
May 21, 2025
Teclast T50 Mini: Affordable Compact Tablet with 120Hz Display
Key Takeaways
1. The Teclast T50 Mini offers an 8.7-inch display at a budget-friendly price of $219, compared to the Apple iPad mini priced at $399.
2. It features a 120Hz IPS screen with a 240Hz touch sampling rate, but is powered by the MediaTek Helio G99, making it suitable mainly for retro and less intensive games.
3. The tablet has 8GB of RAM and 128GB of internal storage, expandable via microSD card.
4. It includes a 5,100mAh battery, a 5MP front camera, and a 13MP rear camera, running on Android 15 and supporting Full-HD streaming on Netflix.
5. Currently available on AliExpress, the Teclast T50 Mini may not ship to the US yet, but it is expected to be listed on Amazon in the future.
With an 8.7-inch display, the Teclast T50 Mini is marketed as a more budget-friendly option compared to the Apple iPad mini, which is currently priced at $399 on Amazon. Teclast’s advertising suggests that the T50 Mini is particularly fit for gamers, allowing them to play games directly on the touchscreen or attach the slim tablet to a mobile controller.
Display and Performance Features
Moreover, Teclast has chosen a 120Hz IPS screen that can adjust its refresh rate according to what is displayed, while a 240Hz touch sampling rate aims to minimize input lag. However, the MediaTek Helio G99 isn’t a particularly strong gaming chip. As a result, the tablet is mostly suited for playing retro games, less intensive Android games, or streaming games from the cloud. The other specifications include 8GB of RAM and 128GB of internal storage, which can be increased using a microSD card.
Battery and Camera Specifications
The Teclast T50 Mini features a 5,100mAh battery, a 5MP front camera, and a 13MP rear camera. It comes with Android 15 and supports Widevine L1, which means users can stream Netflix content in Full-HD quality. Additionally, this compact tablet is equipped with stereo speakers and an LTE modem, enabling internet browsing while on the move. While Teclast delivers the T50 Mini with the latest Android 15, there is no information on whether the device will receive significant operating system updates.
Pricing and Availability
The Teclast T50 Mini is available on AliExpress for $219, but it seems that shipping to the US is currently not an option. Nevertheless, Teclast typically lists its products on Amazon eventually.
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Tags: Affordable Tablet, Gaming Tablet, Teclast T50 Mini