Category: All News

May 15, 2025
Casio Unveils Colorful Surfrider Foundation Watch for Water Lovers
Key Takeaways
1. Casio launched the G-5600SFJ-9 watch in collaboration with Surfrider Foundation Japan, focusing on ocean and beach protection.
2. The watch is made from bio-resin, features a yellow and beige pattern, and includes the Surfrider logo and ‘#oceanfriendlylifestyle’ on the strap.
3. It offers functionalities such as world time for 48 cities, a 1/100 stopwatch, countdown timer, five alarms, and a white LED backlight.
4. The watch uses Tough Solar technology for battery life, lasting about 12 months before needing solar charging, and has a power-saving option.
5. The G-5600SFJ-9 will be available in Japan in June 2025, priced at ¥ 20,900 (around $143), with uncertain availability in other markets.
Casio has introduced a new watch that is a result of its collaboration with the Surfrider Foundation Japan, named the G-5600SFJ-9. This organization is a non-profit that focuses on safeguarding oceans and beaches. Specifically designed for surfers and beach lovers, this shock-resistant timepiece is crafted from bio-resin and boasts impressive features including resistance to water up to 200 m.
Design and Features
The G-Shock watch from the collaboration with Surfrider Foundation Japan showcases a delicate yellow and beige pattern on its bio-resin casing and strap. You can spot the NGO’s logo on both the watch face and the back casing, while the phrase ‘#oceanfriendlylifestyle’ is printed on one side of the strap. The dimensions of this watch are 46.7 x 43.2 x 12.7 mm (approximately 1.8 x 1.7 x 0.5 inches) and it has a weight of 47 g (around 1.7 oz).
Functionalities
This model from the 5600 Series can store up to five different world time zones, allowing users to select from a list of 48 cities. It features a 1/100 stopwatch, a countdown timer with a range of 24 hours, five daily alarms, and an hourly time signal. Additionally, a white LED backlight makes it easier to see the digital display in dim conditions, while the calendar is fully automatic. The watch includes Tough Solar technology that enhances battery life, which is expected to last around 12 months with normal use before needing solar charging. There’s also a power-saving option and a battery level indicator.
Availability and Pricing
The Casio G-Shock Surfrider Foundation Japan G-5600SFJ-9 is set to be released in Japan in June 2025, with a suggested retail price of ¥ 20,900 (roughly $143). It’s unclear if this model will be available in other markets like the US. An earlier version from the collaboration with Surfrider Foundation, known as G5600SRF-1, can be found in this region for $150 (available through Amazon via third-party sellers).
Source:
Link
Tags: Casio G-SHOCK, G-5600SFJ-9, Surfrider Foundation
May 15, 2025
Garmin Forerunner 570: Mid-Range Smartwatch with AMOLED Display
Key Takeaways
1. Garmin has introduced two new models in the Forerunner series: the Forerunner 970 and the newly revealed Forerunner 570.
2. The Forerunner 570 is a more affordable option than the Forerunner 970 but is still more expensive than the Forerunner 265.
3. The Forerunner 570 is available in two sizes (42 mm and 47 mm) and features AMOLED screens, with the 47 mm model offering better battery life.
4. The Forerunner 570 lacks some features found in the Forerunner 970, including ECG support, a flashlight, and turn-by-turn navigation maps.
5. Pre-orders for the Forerunner 570 will start on May 21, with a price set at $549.99.
Garmin has unveiled two new models in its Forerunner series today. While the Forerunner 970 was already known, the details about the Forerunner 570 just came to light earlier today.
Pricing Structure
The Forerunner 570 is positioned as a more affordable alternative to the Forerunner 970, yet it is still pricier than the current Forerunner 265, which is listed at $349.99 on Amazon. Currently, it is not certain if Garmin is developing a new Forerunner ‘2’ grade model. The Forerunner 570, however, takes the lead over the Forerunner 265 in some respects, such as being available in two different sizes.
Specifications Overview
Garmin has chosen to produce its new smartwatch in sizes of 42 mm and 47 mm, compared to the 42 mm and 46 mm sizes of the Forerunner 265. Both versions of the Forerunner 570 come with AMOLED screens, but there’s a slight 0.2-inch difference in diameter between them. The 47 mm model has a slight advantage in battery life, lasting up to 11 days. Similar differences can be seen when GPS modes are in use, which drops to 8 hours for the larger model.
Feature Comparison
The Forerunner 570 lacks several features that the Forerunner 970 offers. For instance, it does not have ECG support or a specific flashlight. Additionally, the Forerunner 570 has only a quarter of the storage capacity of the Forerunner 970, with 8 GB compared to 32 GB, and it does not support turn-by-turn navigation maps. However, it does appear to include Garmin’s Elevate V5 heart rate sensor. All models of the Forerunner 570 are set to be available for pre-order on Garmin’s website starting May 21 for a price of $549.99.
Source:
Link

Tags: Garmin Forerunner 570, Garmin Forerunner 970, smartwatch release
May 15, 2025
Garmin Forerunner 970: New Smartwatch Launches at $749
Key Takeaways
1. The Forerunner 970 replaces the Forerunner 965 and is priced at $749.99 in the U.S. and €749.99 in Europe.
2. It features a brighter 1.4-inch AMOLED display with a resolution of 454 x 454 pixels, protected by a Sapphire Crystal lens and housed in a titanium bezel.
3. New capabilities include Garmin’s Elevate V5 heart rate sensor, ECG, skin temperature monitoring, and Evening reporting features.
4. The smartwatch supports voice commands, Bluetooth calling, and offers up to 15 days of battery life in smartwatch mode.
5. Pre-orders for the Forerunner 970 will start on May 21, and it comes in three different finishes.
Earlier today, some initial details about the Forerunner 970 surfaced online after Garmin accidentally showcased the smartwatch on a support page. To our surprise, the Forerunner 970 is now officially announced, along with the Forerunner 570, which we have discussed in another article.
Pricing and Positioning
In brief, the Forerunner 970 takes the place of the Forerunner 965 in Garmin’s product range. However, it comes at a much higher price of $749.99 in the United States and €749.99 in Europe. Consequently, the Forerunner series is now just $50 less than the Fenix series, which begins at $799.99 for the Fenix E (currently available for $599.99 on Amazon).
Enhanced Features
For that extra cost, Garmin has incorporated a brighter AMOLED display compared to the one found in the Forerunner 965. This display measures 1.4 inches in size, delivering a resolution of 454 x 454 pixels, and is housed in a 47 mm casing that weighs 56 grams. Additionally, Garmin has safeguarded this large screen with a Sapphire Crystal lens and a titanium bezel.
New Capabilities
Among the exciting new features are Garmin’s Elevate V5 heart rate sensor, ECG, and skin temperature monitoring. Unlike the Forerunner 965, the Forerunner 970 also presents Evening reporting features, as well as voice commands and Bluetooth calling capabilities, thanks to its built-in microphones and speakers.
Garmin mentions that the Forerunner 970 can last up to 15 days in smartwatch mode or 12 hours with all GNSS systems turned on and music playing. This smartwatch also provides turn-by-turn navigation support and has 32 GB of internal storage for offline maps. The Forerunner 970 is set to be available for pre-order starting May 21 in three different finishes. More details can be found on Garmin’s official website.
Source:
Link

Tags: Forerunner 970, Garmin, Smartwatch
May 15, 2025
New Casio AE1000W Watches with World Map Now in Stock
Key Takeaways
1. The Casio AE1000W-5AV and AE1000W-8AV are priced at $29.95, similar to previous models.
2. The AE1000W-5AV features a black resin case with a beige band, while the AE1000W-8AV has a gray strap with light blue accents.
3. The design of the AE1000W watches is inspired by airplane cockpit instruments.
4. The watches include multiple displays for settings, a world map for time zones, and an LC Analog display for home city time.
5. Key features include a stopwatch, countdown timer, amber LED backlight, water resistance up to 100 meters, and a battery life of 10 years.
The Casio AE1000W-5AV and AE1000W-8AV timepieces have made their debut in the US market. These watches were first featured on the company’s global website back in May, so consumers are already aware of their specifications.
Pricing Information
You can purchase the Casio AE1000W-5AV and AE1000W-8AV for $29.95. This pricing is identical to that of previous models like the AE-1000W-1A3V, which is currently listed for $24.95 on Amazon. It’s uncertain if these watches will be made available in Europe, where older models retail for £40.00/€39.90.
Design Details
The AE1000W-5AV showcases a black resin case paired with a beige resin band, featuring both beige and yellow highlights on its dial. In contrast, the AE1000W-8AV maintains the same black resin casing but comes with a gray strap and light blue and gray detailing. According to Casio, the design of the AE1000W’s face is inspired by the instruments found in an airplane cockpit.
Features and Functionalities
The AE1000W watch incorporates four smaller displays. The top left display, the smallest of them all, indicates settings such as mute, alarms, and hourly signals. Below that, there is a world map showing the current timezone on the larger display underneath; users have the flexibility to switch between four saved time zones, choosing from a total of 31. On the right side, an LC Analog display shows the time for your home city, while the largest display at the bottom showcases the time, day of the week, and date. Among the features are a 1/100-second stopwatch, a countdown timer, and an amber LED backlight. Additionally, the watch boasts a water resistance of up to 100 meters and an estimated battery life of 10 years.
Source:
Link
Tags: AE1000W-5AV, AE1000W-8AV, Casio AE1000W
May 15, 2025
GTA 6 Delay Could Cut 700,000 PS5 and Xbox Sales, Analysts Warn
Key Takeaways
1. The delay of GTA 6 to May 2026 is expected to negatively impact PS5 and Xbox Series X/S sales, with an estimated 700,000 fewer units sold this year.
2. Analysts predict a drop of 21 million game sales for PlayStation and Xbox, leading to a potential revenue decrease of $2.7 billion in the console market.
3. Consumers may shift their preferences towards the Nintendo Switch 2, especially during the upcoming Christmas season, as they move away from PS5 and Xbox consoles.
4. Following the delay announcement, shares of Take-Two Interactive fell by 15%, prompting a statement from the CEO to reassure investors.
5. Despite the delay, excitement for GTA 6 remains high, as evidenced by the rapid popularity of its new trailer, while a former developer suggests further delays are unlikely.
The recent news regarding the delay of GTA 6 has left fans feeling not just disappointed but also had a negative impact on the entire gaming industry. This situation has prompted other developers to reconsider their plans for game releases, and analysts are now predicting a downturn in sales for PS and Xbox consoles this year. According to a data firm, approximately 700,000 fewer units of PS5 and Xbox Series consoles are expected to be sold due to this delay.
Significant Impact on Sales
This analysis comes from Ampere Analysis, represented by analyst Piers Harding-Rolls. They predict that the postponement of GTA 6 to May 2026 will greatly affect sales of the PS5 and Xbox Series X/S this year. Furthermore, game sales for both PlayStation and Xbox are anticipated to drop by 21 million units. Ampere also forecasts that the console market could see a revenue decrease of $2.7 billion this year.
Shift in Consumer Preferences
The firm further notes that the delay of GTA 6 may lead to an increase in sales for the Nintendo Switch 2 during the upcoming Christmas season. As consumers may turn away from the PS5 and Xbox Series consoles, they might be more inclined to purchase the Switch 2, which is often viewed as a supplementary device by PS5 owners. “In our consumer data, Switch is often seen as a second device for owners of PlayStation 5. The overlap is quite significant. They are in the same competitive sphere, even if the content is not exactly the same,” Harding-Rolls allegedly stated.
Market Reactions
Following the announcement of the delay, it was reported that shares of Take-Two Interactive fell by 15%, prompting the CEO to release a statement to reassure shareholders. A new trailer for the game was also launched, which quickly became the most viewed video across multiple platforms, indicating that excitement for the game remains high. Meanwhile, a former developer from Rockstar mentioned that it’s unlikely there will be further delays for GTA 6, contrasting with a recent Bloomberg report that suggested another delay is quite possible.
Source:
Link
Tags: GTA 6, PS5, Xbox Series X/S
May 15, 2025
Sony WH-1000XM6: New Over-Ear Wireless Headphones Released
Key Takeaways
1. Sony has launched the WH-1000XM6, the first sixth-generation model in its 1000X series, available in Black, Midnight Blue, and Platinum Silver.
2. The design features a foldable structure, a strengthened hinge mechanism, a wider headband, and softer earpads for improved comfort.
3. The headphones utilize Sony’s new QN3 processor, offering faster data processing and enhanced active noise cancellation with twelve microphones.
4. Upgraded 30 mm drivers improve high-frequency reproduction and vocal clarity, ensuring better overall audio performance.
5. The WH-1000XM6 boasts a battery life of up to 30 hours, with fast charging capabilities providing 3 hours of playback from just 3 minutes of charging.
Sony has officially launched the WH-1000XM6, marking the first sixth-generation model in its 1000X series, replacing the WH-1000XM5. As revealed by a last-minute leak yesterday, these new over-ear headphones are available in Black, Midnight Blue, and Platinum Silver. Notably, the WH-1000X series has returned to a foldable design, which was absent in the previous generation with the WH-1000XM5 (curr. $348 on Amazon).
Improved Design Features
This time, Sony claims to have strengthened the hinge mechanism, likely in response to previous hinge problems noted with the XM5s. Additionally, a wider headband is now included to alleviate pressure during extended wear of the WH-1000XM6. It appears that softer earpads are also designed to enhance comfort while using these headphones.
Enhanced Audio Technology
The WH-1000XM6 is equipped with Sony’s QN3 processor, which the company asserts can process data up to seven times faster than the QN1 chip used in the WH-1000XM5. With a total of twelve microphones, the QN3 is expected to provide superior active noise cancellation (ANC) and improved transparency modes, though the exact levels of improvement remain unclear.
Performance and Availability
Moreover, the WH-1000XM6 comes with upgraded 30 mm drivers to ensure better high-frequency reproduction and clearer vocals. The new headphones promise an impressive battery life of up to 30 hours and include fast charging capabilities that allow for 3 hours of playback from just 3 minutes of charging. You can order the WH-1000XM6 today for $449.99 from Sony and other retailers like Amazon or Best Buy, with shipments anticipated later this week. More information can be found on Sony’s official website.
Source:
Link

Tags: Active Noise Cancellation, sony, WH-1000XM6
May 15, 2025
Epic Games Store Reveals May 2025 Free Mystery Game Clue from Konami
Key Takeaways
1. Epic Games Store has refreshed its free game offerings, including a major triple-A game and an indie title.
2. Next week’s giveaways will feature two additional games, but details on discounted titles are limited.
3. Konami has leaked that the game “Deliver At All Costs” will be available for free starting May 22.
4. The timing of the free game release coincides with the launch of Konami’s new action game set in the 1950s.
5. Pricing information is subject to change, and the article advises caution regarding discounted prices.
The Epic Games Store has recently refreshed its free game offerings for the week on PC. To the surprise of some gamers, the store has chosen to provide a major triple-A game alongside another indie title. For complete information on this week’s giveaway, please refer to our special article.
Upcoming Discounts and Mystery Games
Epic Games hasn’t shared much information about the discounted titles for next week. Instead, the store has returned to its Mystery Game program, a strategy it employed last week as well. Currently, it has only confirmed that next week’s giveaway will feature two more games.
A Sneak Peek at Next Week’s Game
Interestingly, it appears that Konami has leaked one of the games for next week before the official announcement. Although Epic Games hasn’t confirmed this, Konami stated back in March that Deliver At All Costs will be available for free download from Epic Games for a week starting May 22. This date is significant as it marks the launch of Konami’s upcoming action game set in the 1950s, coinciding with the timing of Epic Games’ next giveaway. Additionally, the game is also set to be released on Xbox Series and PlayStation 5 consoles (currently priced at $499 on Amazon) next week.
Important Note on Pricing
Disclaimer: Notebookcheck is not liable for any price changes made by retailers. The discounted prices or deals mentioned here were accurate at the time of writing and could be subject to time limits or limited stock.
Source:
Link
Tags: Deliver At All Costs, Epic Games Store, Konami
May 15, 2025
Oppo Enco Clip: Lightweight Open Earbuds with 42-Hour Battery Life
Key Takeaways
1. Oppo launched new Enco wireless earbuds with an open-ear design on May 15, 2025, alongside the Reno14 smartphone series and Pad SE tablet.
2. The earbuds feature a metallic memory wire and ergonomic design based on extensive human ear research for comfort and stability.
3. They provide “Roaring Bass” with 11mm drivers and include a Voice Processing Unit (VPU) to reduce sound leakage during calls.
4. The charging case extends battery life to 42 hours, with the earbuds offering up to 9.5 hours on a single charge.
5. Available in trendy colors, the Enco Clips are priced at 799 yuan (about $111) in China.
Oppo has introduced a fresh member to its Enco line of wireless earbuds, along with the Reno14 smartphone series and the budget-friendly Pad SE tablet on May 15, 2025. These new earbuds are notable for being the first in the series to feature the increasingly favored open-ear design.
Comfort and Stability
According to the manufacturer, these earbuds are designed with a metallic memory wire and are based on “10,000 human ear research” to provide comfort and a secure fit for extended wear. This focus on ergonomics aims to enhance the user experience.
Sound Quality
The Enco Clips are promoted by Oppo as delivering “Roaring Bass” thanks to their 11mm drivers. They are also developed to minimize sound leakage during use, which is especially important for making phone calls. To support this, they come with a Voice Processing Unit (VPU) similar to other Enco models.
Battery Life and Availability
Each pair of Enco Clips is accompanied by a traditional earbud-style charging case that can extend battery life to 42 hours under optimal conditions. Oppo estimates that the earbuds themselves can operate for as long as 9.5 hours on a single charge.
The company emphasizes that these earbuds are stylish as well, being offered in trendy colors like Star Ash Gray and Pearl Sea. They are currently available in China for a price of 799 yuan (approximately $111) on their online store.
Additionally, the Baseus Bowie MC1 Open Ear Clip-On Earbuds are available for $49.99 on Amazon Prime.
Source:
Link

Tags: Oppo Enco Clips, Reno14 series, wireless earbuds
May 15, 2025
AMD Zen 7 Leak: New 3D Core, IPC Boost, Release Date & More
Key Takeaways
1. AMD’s Zen 7 CPU architecture is expected to focus on enhancing efficiency, IPC (Instructions Per Cycle), and frequency, rather than significantly increasing core count compared to Zen 6.
2. The introduction of a 3D Core is a key feature of Zen 7, utilizing advanced TSMC process nodes (1.4 nm for core chiplets and 4 nm for V-Cache chiplets).
3. Zen 7 is anticipated to achieve a 15-25% IPC improvement over Zen 6, with each core featuring 2 MB of on-die L2 cache and 7 MB of L3 cache, extending the 3D V-Cache concept.
4. AMD’s Epyc Zen 7 server processors may include 33-core chiplets, potentially allowing for total core counts of up to 264, with backward compatibility to Zen 6 IODs.
5. The projected timeline for Zen 7 includes a “Tape Out” in October 2026, with a full launch expected by late 2027 or early 2028.
By all accounts, it seems we still have over a year to wait before AMD reveals its next-generation Zen 6 CPU architecture. However, this hasn’t deterred Moore’s Law Is Dead from providing some insights about Zen 7, the successor to Zen 6. Recently, we reported that AMD has significant ambitions for Zen 7, including the launch of a 3D Core.
Insights on Zen 7
Moore’s Law Is Dead has shared more details about Zen 7 and AMD’s innovative 3D Cores. The source suggests that while Zen 7 may not significantly increase the core count compared to Zen 6, AMD plans to enhance efficiency, IPC, and frequency across all core types. Currently, AMD is said to be developing a single Zen 7 CPU architecture and dividing it into five distinct variants.
Exciting Developments
While MLID outlines some of AMD’s architectural and design objectives for Zen 7, the most intriguing aspect is the rumored 3D Core. Based on internal documents allegedly seen by MLID and confirmed through an AMD insider, AMD is reportedly choosing the advanced TSMC 1.4 nm process node for Zen 7 core chiplets and a 4 nm process for V-Cache chiplets. Even though this approach may raise costs, AMD appears committed to using the latest TSMC process node for its CPU cores.
Performance Expectations
With this cutting-edge process, Zen 7 is expected to achieve a 15-25% IPC improvement over Zen 6. This increase in IPC may be influenced by the cache modifications that AMD plans to implement in Zen 7 CPUs. The leaker indicates that Zen 7 processors will come with 2 MB of on-die L2 cache per core and 7 MB of L3 cache per core, utilizing V-Cache chiplets. This effectively means that AMD is extending the 3D V-Cache concept it first introduced with the Ryzen 7 5800X3D, giving each Zen 7 CPU core its own V-Cache, thus coining the term “3D Core.”
If AMD successfully launches a 3D Core, it’s easy to imagine that Zen 7 CPUs could deliver outstanding gaming performance, especially since the leading gaming CPUs available today are AMD models featuring a dedicated L3 “3D V-Cache” component.
Server Chip Developments
Furthermore, MLID asserts that AMD’s Epyc Zen 7 server processors will incorporate 33-core chiplets, potentially leading to a total core count of up to 264. Additionally, it seems that the Zen 7 Epyc core chiplets will be backward compatible with Zen 6 IODs, which AMD plans to unveil next year.
MLID mentions that AMD’s current goal for the “Tape Out” of Zen 7 is set for October 2026. Team Red is reportedly aiming for a full launch by the end of 2027 or the beginning of 2028.
Finally, the fact that Zen 7 is more than two years away suggests that the information provided by MLID should be taken with caution. We will likely hear official confirmations about Zen 7 only once Zen 6 CPUs are available on the market.
Source:
Link
Tags: 3D V-cache, AMD Zen 7, Ryzen 7 5800X3D
May 15, 2025
Rollme R11 Smart Ring: Affordable ECG Alternative to Oura & Ultrahuman
Key Takeaways
1. Affordable Fitness Tracking: The Rollme R11 is a budget-friendly smart ring priced at $139.99, targeting users looking for compact fitness tracking.
2. Comprehensive Health Monitoring: It features ECG capabilities, heart rate monitoring, SpO₂ tracking, skin temperature measurement, and sleep analysis.
3. Durable and Water-Resistant Design: Weighing only 3.5 grams, the R11 is made from a medical-grade alloy, has a sleek finish, and is rated 5ATM for water resistance.
4. Decent Battery Life: The ring can last 4 to 6 days on a single charge, with a standby time of up to 30 days, and charges via a magnetic base.
5. No Subscription Fees: Unlike some competitors, the R11 does not require ongoing payments for access to its app features, making it a cost-effective choice.
Rollme has launched the R11, a fresh smart ring aimed at users who want a compact fitness tracker that doesn’t break the bank. This new model follows the company’s earlier versions like the R5 and R2, and it comes packed with features such as ECG (electrocardiogram) capabilities, ongoing heart rate monitoring, and comprehensive sleep analysis over multiple days.
Specifications and Build Quality
The R11 is quite light, weighing in at just 3.5 grams. Rollme states that it’s made from a medical-grade alloy with a sleek black vacuum-plated finish. The exterior is designed to withstand scratches and minor damage, and the ring boasts a 5ATM water resistance rating. This means it should hold up well against basic water exposure, making it suitable even for swimming.
Tracking Features
As for the tracking capabilities, the R11 can record ECG, monitor SpO₂ (blood oxygen), track skin temperature, heart rate, and offer estimated blood pressure readings. It also includes features for daily step counting and calorie tracking, along with a few activity modes, though the variety and detail of these modes seem a bit limited at launch.
Sleep tracking is thorough, providing insights into both the duration and quality of sleep, along with tracking sleep stages overnight. However, the company hasn’t provided information on whether the R11 can monitor HRV (heart rate variability), respiratory rate, or other advanced recovery metrics.
Battery Life and Connectivity
The ring is powered by a compact battery that, as per Rollme, can last from 4 to 6 days based on usage, with a standby time of up to 30 days. Charging is done through a magnetic base, and a portable charging case is included. The R11 connects via Bluetooth 5.3 to sync data with the Rollme mobile app, which is available for Android (6.0+) and iOS (11+).
The R11 is offered in four sizes: US 8, 9, 10, and 11, and currently, there’s only one color option available (black). Unlike some premium brands that charge subscription fees for data access, it looks like the R11 doesn’t require any ongoing payments for its app features.
Pricing and Market Position
At its launch, the Rollme R11 is priced at $139.99 and can be purchased through the company’s official website. It enters the growing market of smart rings under the $150 price point, and with its ECG feature, it has a slight advantage over many other models in the same range. However, the company has not disclosed whether the ECG data is clinically validated, and the accuracy in real-world scenarios is still to be tested.
Source:
Link
Tags: Fitness Tracker, Rollme R11, Smart ring