Tag: 2026 release

  • Casio launches slim square watches in US with 4 colors

    Casio launches slim square watches in US with 4 colors

    Key Takeaway

    – Four new MTP-B185 series watches announced at $100–$120
    – Slim 7.3 mm case, stainless steel, 50m water resistance
    – Clean three-hand design with date display, no sub-dials
    – Gold-tone MTPB185G-9AV is the standout dressier option
    – Available now on Casio.com, competing with more feature-rich alternatives

    New Casio Watches Revealed

    Casio has listed four new MTP-B185 series watches on its US website, all tagged as June 2026 releases. Three are from the MTP-B185D line — the MTPB185D-2A1V (navy dial), MTPB185D-2A2V (light blue dial), and MTPB185D-7AV (silver dial) — each priced at $100. The fourth, the MTPB185G-9AV, upgrades to a full gold-tone treatment and is priced at $120.

    Shared Specifications Across Models

    All four share the same case — stainless steel measuring 40 × 32.5 × 7.3 mm, weighing 80 g, with a mineral glass crystal. The bracelet is a stainless steel adjustable clasp type, fitting wrists between 150 and 205 mm. Water resistance is rated at 50 meters. The dial features a date display, and all models carry a three-hand setup with a clean, index-only layout and no sub-dials.

    Distinctive Gold-Tone Variant

    The fourth model, MTPB185G-9AV, distinguishes itself with a gold ion-plated case and bracelet over the same stainless steel foundation. All that gives it a much dressier look compared to the silver-tone D-series variants. Its like having two different watches in one collection though they share the same bones.

    • MTPB185D-2A1V: Navy dial, $100
    • MTPB185D-2A2V: Light blue dial, $100
    • MTPB185D-7AV: Silver dial, $100
    • MTPB185G-9AV: Gold-tone, $120

    Design and Market Position

    The MTP-B185 lineup sits comfortably in Casio’s vintage-adjacent Standard range, with the square case and integrated bracelet drawing obvious comparisons to 1970s dress watch aesthetics. The slim 7.3 mm profile and uncluttered dials should make them versatile enough for both casual and dressed-up wear. However, at $100-$120, you can opt for more premium options with a better range of features.

    Availability

    All four models are available now on casio.com.


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  • Commodore Callback 8020 Flip Phone Runs Android Apps

    Commodore Callback 8020 Flip Phone Runs Android Apps

    Key Takeaway

    – Commodore is releasing the Callback 8020, a retro-style flip phone with a transparent option and red secondary display.
    – It runs on Jolla Sailfish OS, claiming 99% compatibility with Android apps.
    – Comes without a default web browser or social media, but includes WhatsApp, Google Maps, and Spotify.
    – Features basic hardware: MediaTek Helio G81, 4GB RAM, 64GB storage, 48MP camera, LTE, and a swappable 1,550 mAh battery.
    – Pre-orders start June 30, with prices ranging from $499 to $639, and delivery expected in Q4 2026.

    After YouTuber Christian Simpson bought up Commodore’s remaining assets, the company was able to bring back the 1982 Commodore 64 – and sell a whooping 30,000 units of the retro console. Now Commodore is venturing into the 21st century, into the golden age of flip phones.

    Unusual Design and Retro Charm

    With the Callback 8020, Commodore is introducing what is arguably one of the most unusual cell phones of the year. Compared to flip phones like the Nokia 2760 Flip ($59 on Amazon), the Commodore Callback 8020 offers significantly more retro charm with a red secondary display and a case that is transparent in at least one version. However, Commodore also promises a broader range of features, as the phone is said to be compatible with 99 percent of all Android apps, made possible by the Linux-based Jolla Sailfish OS.

    Default Apps and Hardware Specifications

    The phone does not come with a web browser or social media apps by default, but it does include WhatsApp, Google Maps, Spotify, and a camera app. The 1,550 mAh battery can be swapped out in just a few simple steps. A 3.5 mm headphone jack allows for the use of wired headphones. The 3.25-inch display supports touch input as an option, though this feature is disabled by default. With a MediaTek Helio G81, 4 GB of RAM, 64 GB of storage, a microSD slot, a 48-megapixel main camera, and an LTE modem instead of 5G, the hardware is relatively basic.

    Pricing and Pre-Order Details

    The Commodore Callback 8020 flip phone will be available for pre-order starting June 30. Anyone who registers on the Commodore website will receive a $50 discount at launch. With this discount, the phone costs $499 in white, black, or beige; $549 in the blue, transparent “Starlight Edition”; and $639 in the gold “Founders Edition.” Prices are subject to import sales tax, customs duties, and shipping. Delivery is expected to begin in the fourth quarter of 2026.


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  • Zelda: Ocarina of Time Remake Leaks After Direct Trailer

    Zelda: Ocarina of Time Remake Leaks After Direct Trailer

    Key Takeaway

    – Ocarina of Time remake confirmed for Nintendo Switch 2, releasing in 2026.
    – Google metadata leak hints at “stunning visuals,” “updated designs,” and “timeless gameplay.”
    – “Updated designs” may alter character appearances like Link, as seen in the Direct trailer.
    – “Timeless gameplay” suggests minimal changes, risking disappointment after the 3DS version.
    – Developer faces balancing act: too few changes or too many could both draw criticism.

    Ocarina of Time Remake Leak Surfaces From Google Searches

    Validating rumors, the June Nintendo Direct unveiled The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time remake. Still, some viewers expected to learn more about the Switch 2 game than what the short trailer showed. A leak found in Google search query may offer clues, but it has also raised new questions. Redditor Lousy_Username shared the results after entering “Ocarina of Time remake website us” in various search engines: The N64 classic reborn as a full remake for Nintendo Switch 2. Experience Ocarina of Time with stunning visuals, updated designs, and timeless gameplay.

    Official eShop Metadata Raises Quesitons

    The official eShop includes scant information about the Switch 2 game, other than its 2026 release date. It appears that Google is displaying metadata from the site that is not visible to readers. Fans of Zelda games are debating the significance of the brief description. “Stunning visuals” signals a dramatic modernization of the graphics seen in the 1998 Ocarina of Time N64 title. “Updated designs” hints that artists are changing the appearance of characters like Link, as the Nintendo Direct trailer confirmed.

    Debating Graphical Overhauls and Gameplay Changes

    It’s unclear if Hyrule will undergo a significant overhaul or remain largely the same. However, “timeless gameplay” may imply that developers will make as few revisions as possible. With the recent Star Fox as an example, a studio could add some content, but otherwise present familiar gameplay. If Nintendo simply reintroduces the game with new graphics, it risks disappointing fans. An updated version for the 3DS exists, with quality-of-life tweaks.

    Pricing and Holiday Sales Crunch

    With a Zelda: Ocarina of Time remake release date likely during the holidays, it will be critical to Switch 2 console sales. Particularly at a $70-80 price, buyers may anticipate a major expansion in the vein of the Final Fantasy 7 trilogy. Making too many changes could also be perceived negatively. Critics already think that the Link teased during the Direct trailer bears little resemblance to the original character. For now, followers will have to wait for Nintendo to provide more clarity on the leaked Google metadata. Lousy_Username@Reddit, Nintendo eShop, The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time remake Nintendo Direct trailer.

    • Google search metadata reveals “stunning visuals” and “updated designs” for the Switch 2 remake
    • eShop listing shows a 2026 release date and estimated $70-80 price point
    • Fans debate between a simple graphical update or significant gameplay expansions
    • Nintendo Direct trailer confirmed character design changes for Link and other characters


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  • HP 14-inch Laptop: Arc B390 Graphics, 120Hz OLED

    HP 14-inch Laptop: Arc B390 Graphics, 120Hz OLED

    Key Takeaway

    – OmniBook 7 14-inch starts at $1,299 with Core Ultra 5 325, 16GB RAM, and 512GB storage.
    – Top-tier config ($2,069+) includes Core Ultra X9 388H, Arc B390 graphics, and 32GB RAM.
    – Display options range from basic 1200p IPS to premium 1800p OLED (120Hz, 100% DCI-P3, 500 nits).
    – Upgrades: $80 for higher-res IPS, $120 for 1TB PCIe Gen 5, $20 extra for Meteor Silver or Powder Pink.
    – Pre-orders ship July 2026, with fully loaded model costing $2,409.

    First Impressions and a Quick Refresher

    Towards the end off last year, we reviewed the OmniBook 7 Aero 13 (curr. $769.99 – refurbished on Amazon). One of the worlds lightest 13-inch laptops, the OmniBook 7 Aero 13 was swiftly followed up by new 14-inch and 16-inch models. At the time, HP unveiled Intel versions of both sizes plus a 14-inch model powered by AMD Ryzen AI 400 processors.

    Intel Models and Pricing Breakdown

    Now, the OmniBook 7 14-inch is available with Intel processors. Starting at $1,299, the new OmniBook contains the Core Ultra 5 325, 16 GB of RAM and 512 GB of PCIe Gen 4 storage. Alternatively, Core Ultra 7 356H, Core Ultra X7 358H and Core Ultra X9 388H processors are available. However, prices jump to $1,689 with the Core Ultra 7 356H, $1,769 with the Core Ultra X7 358H and $2,069 with the Core Ultra X9 388H.

    Graphics, Memory, and Display Options

    For reference, only Core Ultra X options feature Intel’s Arc B390 graphics with 12 Xe3 GPU cores. Also, while HP includes 32 GB of RAM with all processors besides the Core Ultra 5 325, all SKUs contain the same 68 Wh battery. All these prices include an IPS display with a 1200p resolution, a 60 Hz refresh rate, 300 nits peak brightness and 62.5% sRGB colour space coverage.

    Higher Resolution and OLED Upgrades

    Currently, HP charges $80 more for a higher resolution IPS display that resolves at 2,240 x 1,400 pixels, albeit with an unchanged 60 Hz refresh rate and 300 nits peak brightness. Likewise, HP’s basic OLED panel combines a 1200p resolution with 300 nits peak brightness and a 60 Hz refresh rate. With that being said, a 1800p OLED panel is available with a 120 Hz variable refresh rate, 100% DCI-P3 colour space coverage and 500 nits peak brightness that rises to 1,100 nits in HDR mode.

    Storage, Full Configuration, and Colors

    Moreover, 1 TB of PCIe Gen 5 storage runs to a $120 surcharge. As a result, a fully configured OmniBook 7 costs $2,409 with a 1800p OLED display, a 1 TB SSD, 32 GB of RAM and a Core Ultra X9 388H processor. The new OmniBook 7 14 is available in Glacier Silver, Meteor Silver and Powder Pink finishes, too. The latter two colours cost $20 more than their Glacier Silver counterpart, though. Pre-orders should begin shipping in July 2026.


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  • Casio Mudman MIP Display Leaks: Step Counter & Rugged Build

    Casio Mudman MIP Display Leaks: Step Counter & Rugged Build

    Key Takeaway

    – First Mudman with MIP display for superior readability and lower power consumption
    – Bluetooth connectivity for smartphone sync, activity logging, and training metrics
    – Step counter with goal tracking expected, but no Tough Solar or extra sensors confirmed
    – Classic Mudman design with chunky case, button guards, and textured strap
    – Three color variants; estimated $200–250 price range with summer 2026 announcement

    New G-Shock Mudman Leaked

    The Mudman name has always meant one thing in the G-Shock lineup: maximum protection, as little compromise as possible. A new model may be about to add a long-overdue display upgrade to that formula. The Casio G-Shock GDG-B100 has just surfaced via a Russian Casio enthusiast blog, Casioblog, which claims to have obtained leaked imagery of the unannounced watch ahead of an expected summer 2026 reveal.

    Display and Key Features

    The most key detail here is the display. The GDG-B100 would reportedly be the first Mudman-series watch to feature a MIP (Memory-in-Pixel) display. Casio has been gradually rolling out this tech across its mid-range G-Shock lineup, like the recent GMW-BZ5000RC-1. MIP panels bring superior readability and contrast over standard LCD modules, and draw way less power, typically enabling two-year battery life on a conventional cell. The blog includes no evidence of Tough Solar on the GDG-B100, however. Visually, the GDG-B100 follows the classic Mudman/Mudmaster design language — large case, chunky button guards, and a heavily textured strap with thick lugs.

    Sensors and Variants

    Based on the display layout, the blog infers the watch will include a step counter with goal tracking, Bluetooth for smartphone time sync and activity logging, a training mode covering distance, pace and calorie data, plus standard G-Shock features including world time, stopwatch, interval timer, alarm, and 200-meter water resistance. Additional sensors such as a thermometer or compass are considered unlikely at this tier. Three variants have been identified so far: GDG-B100-1 (all black), GDG-B100-1A3 (black with green camo strap), and GDG-B100-1A5 (black with sand strap).

    Pricing and availibilty: Casioblog estimates a $200–250 price range and expects an announcement this summer. Casio has not commented on the same.


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  • Casio Announces Slim Digital Display Watches Release

    Casio Announces Slim Digital Display Watches Release

    Key Takeaway

    1. Casio will release three new Vintage AQ-240E hybrid watches with distinct dial colors in April 2026, featuring a square dial with rounded edges and a slim, lightweight design.
    2. These watches support dual time zones, have multiple features including alarms, stopwatch, automatic calendar, and support both 12/24-hour formats with water resistance for daily use.
    3. Launch prices are around $96 in Vietnam and €59.50 in France, with expected availability in Japan first, then later in Vietnam and other regions.

    Casio to Introduce New Vintage AQ-240E Watches in 2026

    In the upcoming spring of 2026, Casio plans to launch a trio of vintage styled hybrid watches called the AQ-240E series. These watches feature a unique square dial with softly rounded borders, encased in a shiny chrome-plated resin material giving them a classy yet modern look. They’re designed to appeal to both traditional and tech-savvy users.

    Design and Colors

    The three models coming out are the AQ-240E-2A, with a light blue sunburst dial; the AQ-240E-4A, sporting a matte orange finish; and the AQ-240E-7A2, which has a matte off-white face. They are compact and slim, with dimensions of approximately 40.9 x 35.8 x 8.1 mm and a weight of 51 grams, making them quite lightweight on the wrist. The digital component is a tiny display positioned at 6 o’clock, complemented by two traditional analog hands, blending digital and analog features seamlessly.

    Features of the AQ-240E

    These watches operate using Casio’s Module 5154, supporting functions like dual time zone tracking, daily alarms, hourly chimes, and a precise 1/100th second stopwatch. The user can switch between 12-hour and 24-hour time formats, and the calendar automatically adjusts itself for date changes. They’re said to be water resistant suitable for daily wear, and the battery life is projected to last up to two years without replacement.

    Pricing and Release Info

    According to Vietnamese based seller Bello, the launch will happen in Japan within April 2026. These models are expected to become available in Vietnam later, with an estimated retail price around 2,520,000 VND (about $96). Meanwhile, French retailer David et Philly has listed these models with a slated release date in May 2026, with a suggested retail price of €59.50. Interestingly, this same pricing aligns with existing older models like the Casio AQ-240E-7A (which is similar to the Casio DE).

    Overall, Casio’s new vintage AQ-240E lineup looks promising for those looking for stylish yet functional hybrid watches that blend classic design with modern technology, and they are expected to hit markets soon with attractive prices.

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