Category: All News

  • MSI RTX Spark Mini PC rivals Mac Studio, Asus, HP Mini PCs

    MSI RTX Spark Mini PC rivals Mac Studio, Asus, HP Mini PCs

    Key Takeaway

    – The MSI EdgeMesa N AI+ is a compact Mini PC designed for AI developers and data scientists.
    – It enables local AI processing, reducing latency, improving data privacy, and cutting cloud dependency.
    – It handles resource-heavy tasks like LLMs, generative AI, and real-time inferencing.
    – High-speed connectivity makes it suitable for industries like robotics, smart cities, healthcare, and finance.
    – Expected release window is August or September 2026 (no price or exact date announced yet).


    MSI EdgeMesa N AI+ Mini PC Officially Unveiled

    MSI has formally taken the wraps off the EdgeMesa N AI+ Mini PC, and this new compact desktop targets AI developers, data scientists and also power users. It’s engineered to bring heavy AI tasks closer to home.

    Hardware That Packs a Punch Despite a Clunky Name

    The EdgeMesa N AI+ joins the newly-announced HP OmniDesk Mini PC plus the Asus ProArt Mini PC, becoming one of the first RTX Spark Mini PCs announced at Computex 2026. Even if the name MSI has gone with doesn’t quite roll off the tongue, the hardware is definately worth talking about. Unsurprisingly, this system is built to move AI workloads from cloud to local desktop, which is a big shift for pro users.

    Local AI Processing for Privacy and Speed

    With local AI processing, the system tackles key pain points for professional users. Reduced latency, heightened data privacy and a significant reduction in reliance on external cloud infrastructure make it stand out. MSI claims the system is optimised to handle resource-heavy tasks, including Large Language Models (LLMs), generative AI and real-time inferencing with ease. This makes it a versatile tool for demanding workflows.

    High-Speed Connectivity and Industry Adaptability

    Beyond its raw computational prowess, MSI has packed the EdgeMesa N AI+ with high-speed connectivity options that make it adaptable to specialized industries. From robotics and smart city infrastructure to healthcare and financial analytics, the machine is designed to act as a robust local node for AI deployment, says MSI. The company is currently showcasing this mini PC at Computex 2026 if you happen to be there.

    Pricing and Availability Details

    The price and launch date will be announced at a later date. However, like with all other RTX Spark laptops and PCs, you might have to wait untill at least August or September to get your hands on this tiny powerhouse. No specific pricing or specification details have been confirmed yet, but MSI promises more information closer to launch.


    Sources

    • New Garmin Wearable Promises Enhanced Workout Tracking

      New Garmin Wearable Promises Enhanced Workout Tracking

      Key Takeaway

      – Garmin CIRQA Smart Band rumored to enhance workout tracking when used with a Garmin smartwatch on the opposite wrist.
      – Dual-device use may improve automatic workout detection and GPS trigger (with optional manual start).
      – Could reduce missing activity data, but the band is also expected to function as a standalone health and recovery tracker.
      – All claims originate from an unverified, deleted Reddit post; treat as unconfirmed until Garmin’s official announcement.


      New Rumors About Garmin CIRQA Smart Band

      There is a fresh rumor floating around suggesting the Garmin CIRQA Smart Band could provide you with enhanced workout tracking. This wrist-worn wearable has been the topic of speculation since the start of 2026, when the product briefly popped up on the brand’s Canadian website before being removed.

      Working Alongside a Garmin Smartwatch

      In a recent Reddit post, wich has since been taken down, one user indicated that the CIRQA Smart Band could be used alongside a Garmin smartwatch, like the Fenix 8 (51 mm AMOLED curr. $849.99 at Amazon), for improved workout monitoring. It appears that users would be advised to wear the two devices on opposite wrists for optimal results.

      • Enhanced automatic workout detection function when both devices are used together.
      • For example, during outdoor running, the CIRQA and smartwatch would automatically detect a run and start GPS tracking.
      • Users could pick between fully automatic tracking or a workout detection alert that requires a manual ‘start’ input.

      Missing Data and Standalone Use

      The Redditor also hinted that using the two wearables together could cut down on the amount of missing activity data. However, it seems likely that the Garmin CIRQA will still be able to operate as a standalone device if needed. Its expected features include tracking health metrics and monitoring your recovery after a workout session.

      As Gadgets and Wearables points out, it’s worth taking this rumor with a pinch of salt, given the Reddit user didn’t provide any solid evidence for their claims. So far, Garmin has not officially announced the CIRQA Smart Band or its features. The release date and pricing for this wearable also remain unconfirmed.

      Reddit, Gadgets and Wearables

      Sources
    • MSI Unveils World’s First 16-Inch 2-in-1 RTX Spark Laptop

      MSI Unveils World’s First 16-Inch 2-in-1 RTX Spark Laptop

      – World’s first laptop with Nvidia RTX Spark platform
      – 16-inch UHD+ Tandem OLED display with 1,000+ nits peak brightness
      – Calman Verified Delta E <1 color accuracy and 100% DCI-P3 coverage - 2-in-1 convertible design with laptop, tablet, tent, and presentation modes - Optimized for local AI tasks, LLMs, creative workflows, and high-def gaming[/key]


      MSI Officially Pulls Back the Curtain on the Prestige N16 Flip AI+

      MSI has officially pulled back the curtain on the 2-in-1 Prestige N16 Flip AI+ laptop, which marks a significant milestone in mobile computing as the world’s first laptop to feature the newly-unveiled Nvidia RTX Spark platform, says MSI. The device is designd to cater to the convergence of creative workflows, AI development, and high-def gaming, aiming to deliver high-performance capabilities within a premium, thin-and-light 2-in-1 chassis. As an RTX Spark-powered laptop, the Prestige N16 Flip AI+ is going to be competing directly with the newly-announced Microsoft Surface Laptop Ultra, the Asus ProArt P16 and P14, and the HP OmniBook Ultra 16 and X 14, amongst more upcoming laptops booting Nvidia’s RTX Spark.

      Display and Specifications

      The N16 Flip AI+ has a 16-inch UHD+ Tandem OLED display. Utilizing a dual-layer emissive structure, this panel stacks two OLED layers to boost light output. The result is a display capable of exceeding 1,000 nits of peak brightness, while simultaneously improving panel longevity and power efficiency compared to standard OLED solutions. For creative professionals, the display is Calman Verified with a Delta E less than 1 color accuracy rating and covers 100% of the DCI-P3 color gamut. The inclusion of a variable refresh rate (VRR) ensures that the screen remains fluid during gaming sessions and video editing tasks.

      • 16-inch UHD+ Tandem OLED display
      • Peak brightness exceeding 1,000 nits
      • Calman Verified with Delta E <1 color accuracy
      • 100% DCI-P3 color gamut coverage
      • Variable refresh rate (VRR) support

      Form Factor and Productivity Features

      MSI has leaned into the 2-in-1 form factor, allowing the device to transition between laptop, tablet, tent, and presentation modes. To support this, the company has included several productivity-focused features. According to MSI, the RTX Spark is engineered from the ground up to support the “next wave” of Windows PC experiences. By integrating Nvidia’s full-stack AI platform and the complete suite of RTX technologies, the Prestige N16 Flip AI+ is designed to handle demanding local AI tasks, such as personal agents and large language models (LLMs), without sacrificing the portability and all-day battery life typically associated with thin-and-light ultrabooks.

      AI and Performance Positioning

      With the Prestige N16 Flip AI+, MSI is positioning itself at the forefront of the AI-PC transition, betting that the combination of RTX-accelerated graphics and the 2-in-1 design will define the high-end laptop segment for the coming year. The device is build to support high-load creative apps and gaming while keeping a slim profile, which is a challange for many ultrabooks. MSI claims the RTX Spark platform enables these capabilites without overheating or draining the battery too quick.


      Sources

    • Best GTA 6 Trailer & Leak Search Leads YouTuber to Rockstar Studio

      Best GTA 6 Trailer & Leak Search Leads YouTuber to Rockstar Studio

      Key Takeaway

      – Take-Two Interactive has reaffirmed the November 19th release date for GTA 6.
      – Frustration over minimal communication has led fans to extreme measures, including a YouTuber trespassing at Rockstar North.
      – The YouTuber was questioned by police and warned of legal action, but no arrests were made.
      – Past security breaches include drones near windows and fake IDs used to spy on development.
      – A marketing campaign and new trailer are expected by early summer to address fan concerns.


      Take-Two CEO confirms GTA 6 release date

      Take-Two Interactive CEO Strauss Zelnick recently reaffirmed the November 19th GTA 6 release date. Regardless, minimal communication since the last trailer has frustrated fans. Desperate for leaks, a German YouTuber infiltrated the Rockstar Games studio in Edinburgh. This whole situation has left many people questioning what the company is even doing with its silence.

      YouTubers security breach at Rockstar

      Portuguese site Portal Viciados reported on the act, which is being condemned by many gamers. ÜberGaming filmed its team walking through the revolving doors into Rockstar North. In a brief portion of the video, the YouTubers are seen entering the building. Their security breach was quickly over after being told to leave the premises. It was a pretty dumb move if you ask me, they should of known better.

      The local police arrived soon after, questioning the content creators about their intentions. They asked to see the recordings, warning them they could face legal action for spreading any GTA 6 leaks. Ultimately, the authorities chose not to make any arrests. This outcome seems to have only emboldened some fans who think breaking the law is okay for a video game trailer.

      Justification for the break-in

      ÜberGaming justified the behavior by arguing that the studio has ignored its supporters for too long. The passing of the prior May 26th release date was another disappointment. Instead of premiering the third GTA 6 trailer, the second video remains pinned to the official social media account, with an incorrect launch date. This lack of communication has driven some people to extreme measures, which is not good for anyone.

      Community backlash and safety concerns

      While the channel has its supporters, Redditors have slammed the creators for setting a bad example. Besides the illegality of trespassing, employees fearing for their safety is not a laughing matter. It’s also likely crunch time for the developers. Even if the YouTuber failed to leak any secrets, disruptions could be costly at this point. The community needs to think about the human cost of there actions.

      Security at Rockstar Games is tight, prompting obsessed fans to take creative approaches to spying on the studio. Earlier in 2026, a report emerged of gamers flying drones near windows to capture unreleased footage. Other individuals allegedly created fake IDs to snoop on the progress of the creators. These desperate attempts show how starved fans are for any new information about the game.

      Hope for a marketing campaign

      A marketing campaign should begin by the start of the summer. Hopefully, a new GTA 6 trailer will appear shortly to kick off pre-orders and dispel any doubts about another delay. The games price has not been confirmed, but speculations suggest a $70 USD standard edition with potential collectors editions costing much more. System requirements are also unknown, though the PS5 Pro and Xbox Series X are expected to run it at 60fps.

      Sources
    • Sapphire Crystal Casio Edifice EFK-200 Mechanical Watch July

      Sapphire Crystal Casio Edifice EFK-200 Mechanical Watch July

      Key Takeaway

      – Sapphire crystal glass confirmed across all EFK-200 models
      – Flagship EFK-200XPB-1A features a carbon case body
      – Miyota 8215 movement replaces Seiko NH35 from previous generation
      – Pricing now expected at $300–320, lower than earlier $350–400 estimate
      – Five colorways launching simultaneously in July 2026


      Casio’s Next Mechanical Edifice is No Longer Just a Rumor

      Following our March report on early renders leaked by CasioBlog, the same source has now published a more detailed breakdown of the EFK-200 series. This time, there’s a July 2026 announcement window on the line, and several previously tentative specs are now locked in. It’s pretty exciting for fans of the brand who have been waiting for something new.

      Confirmed Features and New Details

      The biggest confirmations: as per Casioblog, sapphire crystal glass is now explicitly confirmed across the entire range, and the flagship EFK-200XPB-1A does indeed use a carbon case body — two details we flagged as unverified in our earlier coverage. The gold EFK-200DG-5A additionally receives full IP coating across the bezel, case, and bracelet. The carbon variant pairs uses a black rubber strap with rose gold indices and hands for the sake of contrast. This makes the lineup pretty diverse for collectors.

      Design Evolution Over Previous Models

      Design-wise, the EFK-200 is more of an evolution than anything else. The chamfered bezel, faceted crown, and slightly raised center bracelet links are some key changes over the EFK-110. The lug-less bracelet-to-case integration also carries over. Something really special here is the dial treatment — where previous generations had stone-like textured surfaces, the EFK-200 opts for gradient finishes with fine speckled detailing. It gives the watch a much more modern appearance.

      Inside, the Miyota 8215 in module 5766 configuration is expected, so it’s nearly guaranteed that we are moving away from the Seiko NH35 that powered the EFK-100. The movement offers 42 hours of power reserve, 21 jewels, 21,600 vph, and a seconds-stop function for precise time-setting. This is a definite shift in there movement strategy for this line.

      Pricing and Colorways

      Pricing is now expected to come in slightly lower than our March estimate of $350-400. CasioBlog is specifying a $300-320 range, closer to the EFK-110 generation. Five colorways will reportedly launch simultaneously: black (EFK-200CD-1A), blue (EFK-200D-2A), red (EFK-200D-4A), gold (EFK-200DG-5A), and carbon black (EFK-200XPB-1A). There will be no availability of the Casio Edifice EFB-730D-7AV in this release.


      Sources

    • 8BitDo 64 Bluetooth Controller Prototype Lands on Amazon

      8BitDo 64 Bluetooth Controller Prototype Lands on Amazon

      Key Takeaway

      – 8BitDo 64 Controller Prototype Limited Edition is now available on Amazon for $44.99.
      – Five new colors: Atomic Purple, Extreme Green, Ocean, Ghost, and Glacier.
      – Compatible with Analogue 3D, Nintendo Switch, Windows, and Android.
      – Features Hall Effect thumbsticks with metal joystick rings and USB-C wired option.
      – A separate 2.4GHz edition is available but limited to Analogue 3D, original N64, and Windows 10+.


      New Colors Now Availible on Amazon

      Earlier this February, the 8BitDo 64 Bluetooth Controller received five additonal color options, which they called the Prototype Limited Edition. These new gamepads are based on unreleased colors that were originaly planned for the Nintendo 64, and they were launched at the same time as matching colors for the Analogue 3D console.

      Where to Buy These Limited Colors

      Since there announcment, the 8BitDo 64 Controller Prototype Limited Edition colors have been exclusive to the 8BitDo eShop, but that has now changed. According to a new announcement from 8BitDo, customers can now purchase these controllers on Amazon, with availability starting from today.

      Full List of Available Colors and Pricing

      Included in the 8BitDo 64 Controller Prototype Limited Edition are the following colors: Atomic Purple, Extreme Green, Ocean, Ghost, and Glacier. Every one of these five colors is currently priced at $44.99 on Amazon. Furthermore, Amazon also stocks some colors from the Funtastic Limited Edition range, like Clear, Fire, Smoke, Ice, and Watermelon. Additionally, the color-accurate Gray version is also being sold for the same price of $44.99.

      Device Compatibility Details

      No matter which colour you end up choosing, the 8BitDo 64 Bluetooth Controller is compatible with the Analogue 3D, Nintendo Switch systems, and any device that runs on Windows or Android operating systems. Seperately, 8BitDo also offers a 2.4GHz wireless edition of this controller, which comes with a wireless receiver; however, this version is only compatible with the Analogue 3D, the original Nintendo 64 console, and computers running Windows 10 or newer.

      Controller Features and Specifications

      The 8BitDo 64 Controller includes Hall Effect thumbsticks that feature wear-resistant metal joystick rings. Much like the original Nintendo 64 controller, it has the classic C-buttons, A/B buttons, and the Start button. Apart from Bluetooth connectivity, it can also function as a wired controller when connected via a USB-C cable.

      Sources
    • Intel Lunar Lake dominates battery life: ThinkPad T14 Gen 7 vs Gen 6

      Key Takeaway

      – Panther Lake laptops are now available, not just announced.
      – Panther Lake is more efficient than Arrow Lake, but less efficient than Lunar Lake.
      – Lunar Lake remains Intel’s most efficient laptop CPU for battery life.
      – The Lenovo ThinkPad T14 Gen 7 (Panther Lake) achieved over 18 hours in a Wi-Fi test.
      – The T14 Gen 7 couldn’t beat the older T14 Gen 6 (Lunar Lake), which ran over 19 hours with a smaller battery.


      New Intel Panther Lake Laptops Hit Shelves

      Back when Intel announced their 2026 Panther Lake CPU platform for laptops, there was one simple promise: Same efficiency as the older Lunar Lake series, but with a better performance. Lunar Lake was, thus far, Intel’s most efficient laptop CPU, although limited in performance. Everyone was eager to see if this would hold up in real world usage.

      Testing The Promises

      With more and more Panther Lake laptops coming to the market, and being actually available now, we are able to test this promise against reality. Indeed, Panther Lake does appear to be more efficient than the older Arrow Lake CPU series, but it appears Lunar Lake is still the CPU to beat when it comes to battery life. The newer chip just cant quite match the power sipping nature of its predecessor.

      Lenovo ThinkPad T14 Gen 7 Review

      We recently reviewed the new Lenovo ThinkPad T14 Gen 7. This Lenovo ThinkPad business laptop is powered by Panther Lake. In the case of our review unit, we were able to test the basic version with eight cores and an Intel Core Ultra 5 325, a comparable chip to Lunar Lake. In our testing, the system did well, as it achieved just over 18 hours in the Wi-Fi/websurfing test, at 150 cd/m² screen brightness. This is definately a strong result for a modern ultabook.

      However, it could not quite beat its predecessor. The older Lenovo ThinkPad T14 Gen 6 Intel with Lunar Lake ran over 19 hours in the same test – with a smaller 57 Wh battery to boot, as Lenovo uses a bigger 60 Wh battery in the T14 G7. That means the older machine got more runtime even with less battery capacity wich is a pretty impressive feat.

      Final Verdict on Efficiency

      The bottom line is: Panther Lake does well when it comes to battery life, easily beating the AMD variant of the T14 Gen 6 – but even its smaller variants can not quite match the efficiency of Lunar Lake. For those who prioritise maximum runtime, the previous generation still seems to be the better choice. Detailed specifications and pricing for the Lenovo ThinkPad T14 Gen 7 include an Intel Core Ultra 5 325 processor, 8 cores, and a 60 Wh battery.

      Sources
      • MSI Claw 8 EX AI+ Handheld Listed on Best Buy at $899 with 1TB

        MSI Claw 8 EX AI+ Handheld Listed on Best Buy at $899 with 1TB

        Key Takeaway

        – MSI’s Claw 8 EX AI+ CG3EM is listed at $1,699.99 on Best Buy, higher than the earlier ~$1,500 estimate.
        – It features Intel’s new Arc G3 Extreme chip (Panther Lake) with a 14-core CPU and 12-core Arc B390 iGPU.
        – The device includes 32 GB RAM, 1 TB NVMe SSD, an 8-inch 1200p 120 Hz display, and an 80 Wh battery.
        – Connectivity offers Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6.0, two Thunderbolt 4.0 ports, a microSD slot, and a 3.5 mm jack.
        – The listing shows no confirmed release date or reviews, suggesting imminent but not yet live availability.


        MSI’s New Gaming Handheld Price Leaks Online

        MSI’s latest gaming handheld has just shown up on Best Buy ahead of any formal sale date, giving us the clearest picture yet of what the Claw 8 EX AI+ CG3EM will actually cost — and it is higher than earlier estimates suggested.

        Pricing and Configuration Details Confirmed

        The listing prices the device at $1,699.99, coming in above the ~$1,500 figure that had been making rounds prior to launch. The Best Buy page also confirms one previously unspecified detail: storage. The unit listed is the CG3EM-024US variant, which ships with a 1 TB NVMe SSD alongside 32 GB of RAM.

        • Price: $1,699.99
        • Storage: 1 TB NVMe SSD
        • Memory: 32 GB RAM
        • Model variant: CG3EM-024US

        Arc G3 Chip and Performance Specifications

        For those catching up, the Claw 8 EX AI+ CG3EM is MSI’s first handheld built around Intel’s new Arc G3 Extreme chip — part of the Panther Lake family unveiled on May 30. The processor packs a 14-core CPU (2P + 8E + 4LPE) and a 12-core Arc B390 iGPU with Xe3 architecture which brings multi-frame generation support that wasn’t possible on earlier Claw hardware.

        Display, Battery and Connectivity Features

        The 8-inch display runs at 1920×1200 with variable refresh rate up to 120 Hz, and a 80 Wh battery handles power duties. Connectivity includes Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6.0, two Thunderbolt 4.0 ports, a microSD slot, and a 3.5 mm jack. The hole thing weighs in at 785 g.

        Market Positioning and Release Timing

        MSI joins Acer and OneXPlayer as one of the first OEMs to ship Arc G3-powered hardware. The Best Buy listing shows no confirmed ship date yet and carries no reviews, which could only mean that availability is imminent but not live. MSI has not officially announced pricing.

        Sources
      • Armor Mini 5: Android Phone with Buttons & Touchscreen

        Key Takeaway

        – Runs Android 11 with a touchscreen, but very low resolution (240×320) limits use of demanding apps.
        – Extremely low-end specs: 1GB RAM, 8GB storage, and an old 2017 MediaTek processor.
        – Cameras are minimal at 0.3 MP, barely functional.
        – Rugged durability with IP68, IP69K, and MIL-STD-810H certification.
        – Priced at $99, aimed at basic communication like WhatsApp rather than full smartphone use.


        Understanding the Ulefone Armor Mini 5

        The Ulefone Armor Mini 5 is technically a new smartphone, although in practice it is likely somewhere between a feature phone and a smartphone. It runs Android 11, and additional apps can be installed. There is also a 2.8-inch touchscreen. However, it only has a resolution of 240 x 320 pixels, which means more demanding smartphone apps are likely less suitable. Ulefone puts particular emphasis on WhatsApp use. Whether the Ulefone Armor Mini 5 combines the best of both worlds or, conversely, the drawbacks of both platforms, will likely depend heavily on actual use.

        Performance and Storage Capabilities

        The Ulefone Armor Mini 5 uses the rather ancient MediaTek MT6739, an SoC introduced in 2017, which is paired with just 1GB RAM. Internal storage is very limited at 8 GB, but can be expanded by up to 64GB with a memory card. There are also two additional card slots, making it possible to use two cellular networks and two phone numbers. 5G networks are not supported, but LTE can be used.

        Camera, Battery and Durability Features

        There is both a front and rear camera, though both sensors have a resolution of just 0.3 MP. That is likely very close to the limit of practical usability, and perhaps almost gives it a certain retro charm again. The removable 2,500 mAh battery is said to enable a standby time of up to 311 hours. Compliance with IP68, IP69K and MIL-STD-810H requirements is listed. The smartphone is available from the manufacturer for $99.


        Sources

      • Amazfit Balance 3 launches at $369 with 3,000 nits AMOLED & 64 GB

        Amazfit Balance 3 launches at $369 with 3,000 nits AMOLED & 64 GB

        Key Takeaway

        – Stainless steel body, 10 ATM water resistance, and sapphire crystal display
        – Smaller 658 mAh battery: 21 days normal, 7 days with always-on display; thinner case
        – 1.5-inch display, 3,000 nits brightness, 64 GB storage
        – Full health monitoring: heart rate, SpO2, skin temperature, stress, sleep, cycle tracking
        – $369.99, $230 cheaper than Balance Ultra; pre-order now, mid-June delivery


        Amazfit Balance 3: A Fresh Alternative

        Together with the Balance Ultra, Amazfit also announced the Balance 3 todai, which offers almost the same features, with two diffrences. Firstly, the body is made of stainless steel insted of titanium, but is also waterproof up to 10 ATM, and the sapphire crystal display cover is already availible on the cheaper model.

        Battery Life and Display Details

        Secondly, the battery is slighly smaller at 658 mAh. This gives the smartwatch a battery life of 21 instead of 30 days, or seven insted of ten days with an active always-on display, but the watch is also slightly thinner with a hight of 14.6 millimetres including sensors. With a diameter of 51.4 millimetres, the smartwatch is very big, but also boasts a 1.5-inch display with a brightness of 3,000 nits.

        Health and Sports Tracking

        The smartwatch can keep an eye on heart rate, blood oxygen saturation, skin tempature and stress levels round the clock and inform users of an unusually high or low heart rate, low blood oxygen saturation or excessive stress. The watch also features sleep and cycle tracking as well as more than 180 sports modes. 64 GB of storage is availible for map data, apps and music. Amazfit offers built-in speakers and microphones for phone calls and conversations with AI assistants, an NFC chip for contactless payment and a GPS module.

        Pricing and Availability

        The Amazfit Balance 3 can now be pre-ordered at the manufacturers online store and delivery is expected to begin mid-June. With a list price of $369.99, the Balance 3 is exactly $230 cheaper than the equally new Balance Ultra.

        Sources