Category: Gaming

  • Switch 2 GameChat Requires Phone Number Registration Now

    Switch 2 GameChat Requires Phone Number Registration Now

    Key Takeaways

    1. GameChat introduces enhanced player interaction, requiring mobile phone number registration linked to Nintendo Accounts for security.
    2. Young gamers under 16 need parental approval via the Nintendo Switch Parental Controls app to use GameChat features.
    3. GameChat allows conversations with up to 12 users, screen sharing, and video calls with the Nintendo Switch 2 Camera accessory.
    4. The Nintendo Switch 2 launches on June 5, with expectations of selling 20 million units in its first fiscal year.
    5. Mixed reactions to the registration requirement highlight concerns for younger gamers’ safety while maintaining excitement for the console.


    Nintendo Switch 2 introduces a variety of new features that enhance the gaming experience, one of which is GameChat, designed for more interaction among players. Although the official details mention the need for phone number registration, this aspect has largely been overlooked amidst the excitement surrounding the Switch 2 launch. This choice by Nintendo has sparked mixed reactions, but many fans see it as a step forward in protecting younger gamers.

    Registration Requirement

    In the recently released ‘Ask The Developer Vol. 17, GameChat – Chapter 1’, it was pointed out that users must register their mobile phone number to access GameChat. According to the official GameChat page on Nintendo’s website, this number should be linked to the user’s Nintendo Account. This serves primarily as a security measure for verification purposes. Additionally, the site notes that some online features might not be accessible in every country, implying that GameChat could be limited in certain regions.

    Parental Approval Needed

    For young players wishing to engage with GameChat, prior approval from a parent or guardian is necessary via the Nintendo Switch Parental Controls app. This requirement applies to kids under 16 years old. The Nintendo Switch Parental Control page mentions, “A parent or guardian needs to be involved in the set-up and use of GameChat by players younger than age 16. In addition, they must manage the account by using the Nintendo Switch Parental Controls app on their smart device.”

    GameChat supports conversations for up to 12 users, and participants can even share their screens while gaming. Accessing the GameChat features is made simple with the ‘C’ button located on the right Joy-Con 2. If users have also bought the Nintendo Switch 2 Camera accessory, they can initiate video calls with their friends.

    Massive Anticipation for Launch

    The Nintendo Switch 2 is set to be released on June 5, and the buzz surrounding it has been phenomenal. The console is anticipated to achieve sales of 20 million units in its first fiscal year, positioning it as the most successful console launch in history.

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  • Witcher 3 Wild Hunt Special Edition Xbox Controllers Revealed

    Witcher 3 Wild Hunt Special Edition Xbox Controllers Revealed

    Key Takeaways

    1. Xbox and CD Projekt Red released two special controllers to celebrate The Witcher 3’s 10th anniversary.
    2. The controllers feature Witcher-themed designs, highlighting the wolf medallion and the game logo.
    3. The standard controller is priced at $80, while the Elite version costs $170 and is currently sold out.
    4. Both controllers include Glagolitic script from the game, with significance that is not fully revealed.
    5. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, released in May 2015, has received ‘Overwhelmingly Positive’ ratings on Steam and is on sale at a 90% discount.


    The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt has reached its 10-year anniversary, and to mark this special occasion, Xbox and CD Projekt Red have collaborated to release two unique controllers. These controllers, standard and Elite versions, come with a Witcher-themed design featuring detailed artwork inspired by the game. While they function like typical Xbox controllers, they carry a higher price tag, similar to other themed controllers.

    Special Editions Unveiled

    Named the Xbox Wireless Controller – The Witcher 3 10th Anniversary Special Edition and the Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 – Core The Witcher 3 10th Anniversary Special Edition, these controllers highlight the wolf medallion prominently and display The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt logo on the right grip. They are designed in black and red and can be found on the Microsoft Xbox store. The main distinction between the two is that the Elite controller has more spaced-out grips, maintaining a textured feel.

    Pricing Information

    The Xbox Wireless Controller – The Witcher 3 10th Anniversary Special Edition is priced at $80, while the Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 – The Witcher 3 10th Anniversary Special Edition is set at $170. As of now, the standard controller is available for purchase, but the Elite version is currently sold out.

    Gabriela Peskova, a Senior Graphic Designer at CD Projekt Red, along with Mekias Bekalu, Product Marketing Manager at Xbox, mention that the wolf head and logo aren’t the only remarkable aspects of these controllers. “They also include Glagolitic script, the earliest known Slavic alphabet that appears in the game itself. As for what the script conveys… we won’t reveal it here, but let’s just say those symbols aren’t arbitrary,” they commented.

    A Beloved Franchise

    The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt was released in May 2015 and has been cherished by fans of the series as well as newcomers to the franchise. It boasts ‘Overwhelmingly Positive’ ratings on Steam and is currently available at a 90% discount during the publisher sale.

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  • Helldivers 2 Players Critique Weak Invasion Amid Waffle House Attack

    Helldivers 2 Players Critique Weak Invasion Amid Waffle House Attack

    Key Takeaways

    1. Players humorously claim Waffle House is the ultimate defense against the Illuminate’s invasion in Helldivers 2.
    2. A fabricated tweet sparked a lively Reddit discussion about the resilience of Waffle House during crises.
    3. Many users joked about Waffle House employees being battle-hardened and skilled fighters against invaders.
    4. Waffle House workers are hailed as “true champions of democracy” and safe havens amidst chaos.
    5. The Waffle House Index is mentioned as a measure of disaster severity, showcasing its reputation for staying open during emergencies.


    In a lighthearted turn of events, players of Helldivers 2 have taken to Reddit to humorously proclaim that Waffle House, the all-day diner chain renowned for its steadfastness, stands as the ultimate defense against the Illuminate’s attack on Super Earth in 2025.

    The Humor Sparks

    The amusing discussion initiated from a fabricated tweet posted in the Helldivers subreddit, stating, “During the invasion of the Super Earth by the Illuminate, all Waffle House locations will stay open.” This post attracted a flood of comments, ranging from witty quips to calls for more crossovers in the future. One Reddit user quipped, “It can’t be a serious invasion if the Waffle Houses are still open.” Another chimed in, “What a pathetic invasion if they couldn’t even shut down a single Super Waffle House.”

    The Waffle House Warriors

    Another participant in the thread claimed, “I heard that 93% of Helldivers are ex-Waffle House staff,” to which a sharp-witted user countered, “That can’t be true, they’re way too skilled. The Waffle House folks are who you call when the Helldivers fail.” Many users remarked on the resilience of Waffle House employees, who are famous for their ability to handle unexpected fights. One comment stated, “Good luck to any Illuminate trying to invade a Waffle House; the cooks don’t play around.” Another added, “Even the squids know they don’t want to mess with that Waffle House heat. Those workers have seen it all.”

    True Heroes of Democracy

    Additionally, some Redditors proclaimed that “Waffle House workers are the true champions of democracy,” encapsulating the general feeling. Someone else proposed that the eatery would serve as the last bastion of safety, asserting, “Waffle House is probably the safest spot to be. The Illuminate would be too frightened to engage there.”

    For a bit of background, Waffle House is famous for remaining open even during hurricanes, power outages, or chaotic fights. The Waffle House Index has become an informal metric for measuring the severity of natural disasters, utilized by FEMA. This isn’t the first instance of gaming fans wishing for a Waffle House crossover; last year, Tekken 8 players also sought a similar collaboration, but no updates have emerged since then.

    The Helldivers 2 Heart of Democracy update is currently available. This extensive update begins with the Illuminate invading Super Earth, featuring AI-driven SEAF soldiers that players have come to love, along with numerous other changes.

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  • Amico Home Launches New Games for Apple TV 4K Users

    Amico Home Launches New Games for Apple TV 4K Users

    Key Takeaways

    1. Amico Entertainment is focusing on gaming software for various platforms instead of launching the Amico game console, delayed due to the pandemic and other factors.
    2. The Amico Home app turns smartphones, tablets, and streaming TV devices into game consoles, now compatible with Apple TV 4K.
    3. A partnership with Happy Home Games will bring Amico game titles to Nintendo Switch and Steam.
    4. New game releases include Evel Knievel, Finnigan Fox, and an upcoming game called Cornhole.
    5. Amico emphasizes family-friendly gaming, aiming to create titles that can be enjoyed by all ages together.


    Amico Entertainment has shared exciting news about some new games and software.

    Legacy of Intellivision

    This company, which used to be known as Intellivision Entertainment, was created to carry on the tradition of the first-ever 16-bit gaming console, the Intellivision, which came out in 1979. They aimed to do this with the Amico game console. However, the launch of this console has been postponed due to the covid pandemic and various other factors. As a result, the company has decided to focus on releasing gaming software for different platforms instead.

    Introducing Amico Home

    The Amico Home app is designed to convert smartphones, tablets, and streaming TV devices into game consoles capable of playing Amico game titles. Recently, the company added Apple TV 4K compatibility to this app, which allows users to enjoy family-friendly games. Additionally, for those who use Nintendo Switch and Steam, there will be a partnership with Happy Home Games to bring the full collection of adapted Amico games to these platforms.

    New Game Releases

    Alongside the launch of the Amico Home app for Apple TV 4K, two fresh game titles will be introduced. Evel Knievel lets players face various challenges while performing motorcycle jumps, reminiscent of the iconic daredevil. Finnigan Fox invites players to defeat forest enemies using a crossbow and magic. Also, a third game called Cornhole will be introduced soon, letting players enjoy this popular tossing game indoors.

    Amico is shaking up the gaming world by emphasizing family-friendly titles that everyone, regardless of age, can enjoy together.

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  • Black Ops 6 & Warzone Season 4: New Maps, Ranked Play, Zombies

    Black Ops 6 & Warzone Season 4: New Maps, Ranked Play, Zombies

    Key Takeaways

    1. Season 4 of Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 and Warzone starts on May 29, featuring significant content updates for multiplayer, Warzone, and Zombies.
    2. Stitch returns as a key character, forming an alliance with Adler and introducing new battlefields with three initial multiplayer maps: Shutdown, Fugitive, and Blitz.
    3. Two additional maps, Eclipse and a remastered Fringe, will be added mid-season.
    4. New weapons include the LC10 SMG and FFAR 1 AR at launch, with the Essex Model 07, Olympia, and Pickaxe coming later.
    5. The Battle Pass offers over 110 unlockable items, including new Operators and limited-time events throughout the summer.


    Season 4 of Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 and Warzone is set to begin on May 29, and Activision is really going all out this time. The update brings a wide array of content for multiplayer, Warzone, and Zombies, making it one of the most daring seasonal updates the franchise has seen so far.

    New Characters and Maps

    In this update, the notorious Stitch makes a comeback. Previously believed to be dead, he has escaped from a CIA black site and is now forming an uneasy alliance with Adler. Together, they will navigate new battlefields, featuring three 6v6 multiplayer maps at launch: Shutdown, Fugitive, and Blitz. Additionally, players can expect two more maps, Eclipse and a remastered version of Fringe, to be released mid-season.

    What’s Coming in the Update

    A brief overview of the new content shows that launch weapons include the LC10 SMG and FFAR 1 AR, while the Essex Model 07, Olympia, and Pickaxe will be introduced later. As mentioned, Stitch plays a crucial role in both the campaign and the Battle Pass. The BlackCell content is led by Omen, and Eve Macarro from Ballerina joins the ranks as an Operator.

    This season’s Battle Pass offers more than 110 items that can be unlocked, featuring new weapons like the LC10 SMG and FFAR 1 AR, with later additions like the Essex Model 07 and Olympia. Stitch is a prominent figure in the pass, alongside the BlackCell-exclusive Operator Omen and Eve Macarro from the Ballerina crossover. The roadmap is filled with limited-time events and competitive rewards, ensuring players have plenty to look forward to throughout the summer.

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  • Sony Ends PlayStation Stars Program: What You Need to Know

    Sony Ends PlayStation Stars Program: What You Need to Know

    Key Takeaways

    1. Sony is shutting down the PlayStation Stars loyalty program, with point earning ending on July 23, 2025, and full closure by November 2, 2026.
    2. Players could earn points through purchases, trophies, and special campaigns, which could be redeemed for store credit or digital collectibles.
    3. New members cannot join the program anymore, and cancellations will result in loss of points without the option to rejoin.
    4. Points can still be redeemed until November 2, 2026, and digital collectibles will remain available after the program ends.
    5. Sony is exploring new loyalty strategies based on feedback and experiences from the Stars program, but no specific replacement details have been provided yet.


    Sony is shutting down its PlayStation Stars loyalty program, which started in 2022. Point earning will stop on July 23, 2025, and the program will be fully offline by November 2, 2026. Although there is no confirmed replacement, Sony intends to enhance its loyalty initiatives.

    Program Details and Point Redemption

    PlayStation Stars was a rewards program that allowed gamers to earn points through purchases at the digital store, achieving trophies, and completing special campaigns since its launch. According to the PlayStation Blog, points could be exchanged for store credit or digital collectibles, with higher tiers providing additional perks. This program was accessible on PS5, PS4, and the PlayStation App. However, it will no longer accept new members starting now, and any cancellations will lead to the loss of points, with no option to rejoin.

    Timeline for Points and Rewards

    Players can still earn points and rewards until July 23, 2025, after which no new campaigns or rewards will be available. The program will completely end on November 2, 2026, but points earned can still be redeemed until that date, and digital collectibles will remain available even after the program is closed. Sony’s announcement suggests they are considering new loyalty strategies, aiming to learn from the experiences of Stars, but specific details about a replacement are yet to be revealed.

    Community Feedback and Future Plans

    This decision comes after a challenging period, which included a month-long outage in 2024 due to a technical issue. Fan feedback has been mixed; some users on X, like @PlayStationSize, have praised the collectibles, while others, such as @Genki_JPN, have criticized the limited rewards. Sony might redirect its focus toward community-based activities, including PSN events or enhancements to PlayStation Plus.

    With 55 million PS5 consoles sold by March 2025, the discontinuation of Stars could allow resources to be shifted toward greater engagement strategies, such as loyalty programs for PS6. Will Sony’s next loyalty program capture the essence of Stars, or will it leave gamers wanting more? Only time will reveal the answer.

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  • Hellblade 2: Xbox Exclusive Launches on PS5

    Hellblade 2: Xbox Exclusive Launches on PS5

    Key Takeaways

    1. Hellblade 2 Release: Ninja Theory announced that Hellblade’s follow-up will launch on PlayStation 5 this summer.
    2. Free Update: Current players on Xbox Series X|S, PC, and Steam will receive a free update with exciting new features.
    3. Game Availability: The original Hellblade was released as a timed exclusive for PS4 in 2017 and has since expanded to multiple platforms.
    4. Xbox Exclusives on PlayStation: Hellblade 2 joins other Xbox titles like Indiana Jones and potential Halo games coming to PlayStation.
    5. Phil Spencer’s Strategy: Xbox Chief Phil Spencer emphasizes the need for creativity and adaptability in gaming, moving away from traditional console limitations.


    Ninja Theory, known for its games like Heavenly Sword and Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice, has shared that the sequel to Hellblade will be available on PlayStation 5 “this summer.”

    New Features for Players

    The UK-based studio made the announcement on X, revealing that there will be “some exciting new features” coming in a free update for players on Xbox Series X|S, PC, and Steam.

    Originally, Hellblade was a timed exclusive for PlayStation 4 and PC when it launched in 2017. Afterward, it was made available on Nintendo Switch in 2019, and then on Xbox Series X|S in 2021.

    Upcoming Titles

    Hellblade 2 marks the newest Xbox exclusive making its debut on Sony’s PlayStation. Indiana Jones And The Great Circle is also expected to launch on PS5 this coming spring, alongside Forza Horizon 5. There are strong rumors suggesting that some Halo series titles might be heading to this platform, as well as the upcoming Perfect Dark reboot, Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024, and the new entry in the Gears of War franchise.

    The Verge has reported that Microsoft is looking into ports for the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2, although details on that remain sparse at this time.

    Phil Spencer’s Vision

    Earlier last year, Xbox Chief Phil Spencer spoke to Bloomberg, stating, “I do not see sort of red lines in our portfolio that say ‘thou must not.” He emphasized the need for the company to be “creative and adaptive to new business models, new devices, new ways of access. We’re not going to grow the market with $1,000 consoles.”

    With Hellblade 2’s arrival on PlayStation, it seems that the gaming landscape continues to evolve, with more possibilities emerging for players across different platforms.

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  • Asus ROG Strix XG34WCDMTG: 240Hz OLED Gaming Monitor Launch

    Asus ROG Strix XG34WCDMTG: 240Hz OLED Gaming Monitor Launch

    Key Takeaways

    1. Asus is re-entering the 34-inch curved gaming monitor market with the ROG Strix OLED XG34WCDMTG, featuring a second-generation QD-OLED panel from Samsung Display.
    2. The new monitor maintains a 3,440 x 1,440 resolution and 240 Hz refresh rate, with an 1800R curvature and covers 99% of the DCI-P3 color space.
    3. It offers impressive specs, including 1,000 nits peak brightness, a 0.03 ms GtG response time, and supports AMD FreeSync Premium Pro, Nvidia G-Sync, and VESA AdaptiveSync.
    4. The ROG Strix OLED XG34WCDMTG comes pre-installed with Google TV Android 14, supporting Nvidia GeForce Now, Wi-Fi 6, and includes built-in speakers with Dolby Atmos and Dolby Vision.
    5. The monitor is expected to launch in Q3 2025, priced at $1,049 in the US, with no current details on availability in other regions.


    Asus is making a comeback in the 34-inch curved gaming monitor market, nearly two years after the launch of the ROG Swift OLED PG34WCDM (currently priced at $1,036 – used on Amazon). The PG34WCDM features a WOLED panel with a resolution of 1440p and a refresh rate of 240 Hz. Now, Asus has introduced the ROG Strix OLED XG34WCDMTG, which switches to a second-generation QD-OLED panel created by Samsung Display.

    Display Features

    Unveiled at Computex 2025 in Taipei, the ROG Strix OLED XG34WCDMTG offers the same 3,440 x 1,440 resolution and 240 Hz refresh rate as the ROG Swift OLED PG34WCDM, but it comes with an 1800R curvature. Asus has also stated that the monitor covers 99% of the DCI-P3 color space. If we look at the Alienware AW3425DW, we can expect the ROG Strix OLED XG34WCDMTG to provide 1,000 nits peak brightness (3% APL) and an ultra-fast 0.03 ms GtG response time. Additionally, it features technologies like AMD FreeSync Premium Pro, Nvidia G-Sync, and VESA AdaptiveSync to help prevent image tearing.

    Smart Features and Availability

    Asus has also opted to include Google TV Android 14 pre-installed, similar to the latest LG UltraGear OLED gaming monitors. This means the ROG Strix OLED XG34WCDMTG will support Nvidia GeForce Now right out of the box, and Asus has added a modem that supports Wi-Fi 6, along with 5 W built-in speakers, Dolby Atmos, and Dolby Vision. As reported by TFTCentral, Asus plans to start selling the ROG Strix OLED XG34WCDMTG in Q3 2025 at a price of $1,049 in the US. However, there is still no information regarding its availability in other regions.

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  • No Sony PlayStation Event: First-Party PS5 Games Missing

    No Sony PlayStation Event: First-Party PS5 Games Missing

    Key Takeaways

    1. Lack of Upcoming Events: No immediate plans for a PlayStation Showcase or State of Play, with September being a more likely time for updates.

    2. Recent Showcase History: Sony hasn’t held a PlayStation Showcase since early 2023; the last State of Play was in February 2025.

    3. Shortage of PS5 Games: The absence of major events is attributed to a lack of first-party PS5 games, with most upcoming titles being from third-party developers.

    4. Future Releases and Competition: While PlayStation fans have some games to look forward to, Xbox’s cross-platform strategy has contributed to their hardware sales decline.

    5. Upcoming Gaming Events: June will feature multiple gaming events, including the Xbox Games Showcase and Summer Game Fest, raising questions about Sony’s strategy in the competitive landscape.


    PlayStation fans find themselves in a strange situation, as there are not many first-party PS5 games to look forward to. Meanwhile, Xbox hardware sales have dropped, making the PS5 the leading console in the market. It seems that Sony won’t be bringing any surprises to gamers anytime soon. Reports from various sources indicate that there are no immediate plans for a PlayStation Showcase or State of Play event.

    Lack of Upcoming Events

    A well-known figure on the ResetEra forums, NateTheHate, shared that he hasn’t heard anything about a PlayStation event in May or any upcoming announcements. Similarly, leaker John Harker confirmed he couldn’t verify any presentations happening in the next few months. September appears to be a more promising timeframe for official updates.

    Recent Showcase History

    Since 2023, Sony hasn’t organized a PlayStation Showcase, which was when they revealed games like Helldivers 2 and Marathon. Aside from the Borderlands 4 April stream, the last State of Play occurred in February 2025, which used to be more regular. The main reason for the lack of a big event is said to be due to the shortage of PS5 games. Highly anticipated titles like Death Stranding 2: On the Beach and Ghost of Yotei are expected to release in the summer and fall. Most of the other upcoming games will be from third-party developers.

    Future Releases and Competition

    PlayStation gamers shouldn’t have too much trouble finding new games. Interestingly, Microsoft has started to lead in PS5 sales due to their cross-platform strategies. The Xbox Games Showcase on June 8th is expected to reveal many future releases from Microsoft and its associated studios. June will be a packed month for gaming events, highlighted by the Summer Game Fest on June 6th.

    Sony might want to steer clear of the excitement surrounding the Switch 2’s release on June 5th and the summer gaming showcases. Furthermore, they often don’t give much notice before a PlayStation Showcase or State of Play occurs. Still, many fans are left questioning the fate of exclusive PS5 titles.

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  • RedMagic 10S Pro+ Achieves Record AnTuTu Score with Snapdragon 8 Elite

    RedMagic 10S Pro+ Achieves Record AnTuTu Score with Snapdragon 8 Elite

    Key Takeaways

    1. RedMagic will launch the 10S Pro series gaming phones in China on May 26, 2025, with a global release expected soon after.
    2. The RedMagic 10S Pro+ achieved an impressive AnTuTu benchmark score of 3,157,833 points with the Snapdragon 8 Elite Leading Version.
    3. The Snapdragon 8 Elite SoC in the 10S Pro series features Prime cores operating at a clock speed of 4.47 GHz, higher than the standard version.
    4. The 10S Pro series will include a large 7,500 mAh battery with 120 W fast charging and support for bypass charging.
    5. These gaming phones are expected to offer up to 1 TB of UFS 4.0 storage and 24 GB of LPDDR5X RAM.


    RedMagic is preparing to introduce its latest gaming phone range, the 10S Pro series. The company has recently announced that these new flagship models will be launched in China on May 26, 2025, with a global release anticipated shortly after the Chinese debut.

    Benchmark Scores Revealed

    Before the official launch, AnTuTu has disclosed the benchmark score for the RedMagic 10S Pro+, which reached an all-time high with the Snapdragon 8 Elite Leading Version. Specifically, this high-performance gaming phone achieved a remarkable score of 3,157,833 points thanks to the overclocked system on chip (SoC).

    Impressive Clock Speeds

    The AnTuTu results also show the clock speeds for this enhanced Snapdragon 8 Elite SoC. According to the screenshot that was shared, the Prime cores will operate at 4.47 GHz, which is a significant boost from the 4.32 GHz found in the standard version of the SoC.

    It’s important to mention that the increased clock speed of the Prime cores is on par with the Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy, which is used by Samsung in its latest flagship devices. Nevertheless, the smartphones from the RedMagic 10S Pro series won’t be the first non-Samsung phones to use this overclocked setup. The Honor GT Pro also sports a similar version of the SoC, but RedMagic’s forthcoming devices will benefit from their active cooling fan.

    Battery and Storage Features

    In terms of additional specifications, RedMagic has confirmed that the 10S Pro series will come with a substantial 7,500 mAh battery that supports bypass charging and 120 W fast charging (200 W 20K Ugreen Nexode power bank curr. $99.99 on Amazon). These new gaming phones are also likely to offer up to 1 TB of UFS 4.0 storage along with 24 GB of LPDDR5X RAM.

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