Tag: Kickstarter

  • Lightweight Rokid AR Glasses with Micro-LED Displays for $499

    Lightweight Rokid AR Glasses with Micro-LED Displays for $499

    Key Takeaways

    1. Rokid Glasses are the lightest camera-enabled smart glasses, weighing just 48 grams, and are designed for both consumers and professionals.
    2. They feature advanced translation capabilities, offering real-time translation in 89 languages, with offline support for 5 languages.
    3. The glasses include teleprompter functionality, AR navigation, and the ability to capture voice notes and set reminders.
    4. Equipped with a 12MP camera, dual speakers, and AI noise reduction, they offer high-quality audio and video recording.
    5. The glasses have a 210mAh battery with quick charging capabilities and are available for backing on Kickstarter at $499, with a retail price of $599 upon release.


    Nearly a year after launching in China, Rokid is now bringing its AR smart glasses, called the Rokid Glasses, to international markets. These are being praised as the lightest camera-enabled smart glasses in the world, and Rokid claims they are suitable for both consumers and professionals alike.

    Advanced Translation Capabilities

    The Rokid Glasses come packed with features, including real-time translation for up to 89 languages. They can show translations of written text, and with built-in speakers, they can also vocalize what they hear. Furthermore, integrated microphones can capture conversations and provide translations for users. The glasses utilize ChatGPT along with Microsoft’s translation services. Rokid also mentions that there is offline support for 5 languages using their unique LLM. Additionally, the device can transcribe meetings and summarize discussions with the help of AI.

    Teleprompter and Navigation Features

    Users can utilize the Rokid Glasses as a teleprompter, eliminating the need for speech notes. Another handy feature includes taking voice notes and setting reminders. The glasses also support AR navigation, presenting directions along with speed, duration, and estimated arrival time.

    Weighing just 48 grams, the Rokid smart glasses are rated IPX4 and are made with a magnesium-aluminium alloy frame and TR90 temples that fit prescription lenses. They feature dual monochrome green Micro LED displays with a diffractive optical waveguide. Each display has a resolution of 480 x 398, offers 1500 nits of brightness, and has a 23° field of view. Users can adjust text size and brightness settings for the display.

    Impressive Camera and Audio Features

    Equipped with a 12MP f/2.25 Sony IMX681 camera, the glasses provide a resolution of 3024 x 4032 and a field of view of 109°. There’s a capture button located on the right temple, and pressing it for a long time allows switching between video and audio recording modes. Rokid has also added a privacy indicator light to notify others when recording is taking place. The glasses include two AAC speakers and four microphones designed with AI noise reduction technology.

    Powered by Qualcomm’s AR1 processor for general computing and demanding tasks, along with a secondary NXP RT600 chip for voice recognition and low-energy functions, the Rokid Glasses have 2GB of RAM and 32GB of storage. They support Bluetooth 5.3 and Wi-Fi 6. A companion app on mobile phones allows users to adjust settings, access recorded content, and update the glasses.

    The smart glasses come with a 210mAh battery, featuring a proprietary charger that supports quick charging (80% in 20 minutes). Additionally, there is an optional case with a 3,000mAh battery that can provide up to 10 full recharges. Rokid claims the glasses can deliver up to 10 hours of mixed usage, although actual usage times will vary depending on whether the displays are always on or just recording.

    Currently, the Rokid Glasses are available for backing on Kickstarter at a price of $499, but they will retail for $599 upon official release. While this is more affordable than the Ray-Ban Meta, which starts at $299, it’s important to note that Meta’s glasses do not feature a display. As of now, Rokid has raised nearly $686,000, significantly exceeding their $20,000 goal with 43 days remaining in the campaign.

     

  • CycleClick Bicycle Power Meter Raises 20x Funding in 24 Hours

    CycleClick Bicycle Power Meter Raises 20x Funding in 24 Hours

    Key Takeaways

    1. CycleClick raised over $107,000 on Kickstarter within 24 hours, surpassing its $5,000 goal.
    2. The device provides detailed performance metrics, including power output, torque, cadence, calorie burn, and leg balance.
    3. CycleClick is compatible with various bike types, except for SRAM flat-top chains.
    4. Installation takes about 30 seconds, making it easy to set up and transfer between bikes.
    5. Early backers can purchase the device at a lower price, but should be aware of crowdfunding risks and potential price increases post-campaign.


    At the start of August, we highlighted CycleClick, a gadget designed to monitor cycling performance, which is currently raising funds on Kickstarter. After the campaign kicked off on the evening of August 20, 2025, the funding target of $5,000 was not only met, but significantly surpassed within just 24 hours. As of August 21, 2025, at 7:13 pm (BST), contributions have already exceeded $107,000.

    Detailed Performance Metrics

    CycleClick offers an in-depth analysis of five distinct data sets, aiming to enhance training insights while aiding in intensity management. The data sets encompass power output, torque, cadence (the rhythm measured in revolutions per minute), calorie burn, and the balance between the left and right legs.

    Compatibility with Various Bikes

    The maker of CycleClick emphasizes its compatibility with all bicycle types, including mountain, road, gravel, touring, and standard bikes. Provided the bike has a chain that transmits leg power to the wheels, it should work. This assurance stands true no matter the kind of chain involved, except for SRAM flat-top chains, which CycleClick does not support.

    Easy Installation Process

    Moreover, the installation process is claimed to be quite straightforward, taking only about 30 seconds. This ease not only benefits first-time setups but also allows for the device to be easily moved between different bicycles.

    On Kickstarter, the pricing for the device starts at $184; for those interested in additional speed and balance sensors, the cost rises to about $225. While many other bicycle power meters tend to be pricier, they typically utilize entirely different systems. However, the true value for money will likely only become apparent once user reviews are published and the sensor accuracy is properly evaluated.

    Keep in Mind the Risks

    It is also worth mentioning that, post-Kickstarter, the device will likely be offered at a higher price in standard retail sales. Those who choose to order now should be aware of the risks associated with crowdfunding, which includes the possibility that the project might not succeed or could be executed in a way that differs from the initial promises.

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  • Magic and Pokémon Collector Machine Raises $300K in 24 Minutes

    Magic and Pokémon Collector Machine Raises $300K in 24 Minutes

    Key Takeaways

    1. A new AI-driven sorting machine for trading cards is being funded on Kickstarter, designed to help collectors organize their collections efficiently.
    2. The machine can identify and sort cards based on various features like name, rarity, and market value, but requires cards to be removed from protective sleeves.
    3. Users can interact with the machine through a touchscreen and access a web portal to manage their collections and monitor card values.
    4. The Kickstarter campaign quickly surpassed its funding goal, raising over $1.5 million with more than 3,100 backers.
    5. The CardMill is priced between $400 and $575, with deliveries expected to start in December 2025, initially only in the US.


    Whether you’re into Magic: The Gathering, Pokémon, or Yu-Gi-Oh! – those who adore trading card games usually strive to create a vast collection. However, when it comes to finding a certain card, many collectors experience a wave of panic. Typically, only the most valuable cards are organized neatly, while countless less rare ones end up in disarray, as sorting them would take way too long.

    New Solution on Kickstarter

    A fresh Kickstarter project claims to provide a fix – a sorting machine designed specifically for trading cards. The heart of the machine is an AI-driven scanner that recognizes each card individually, identifying features like name, color, set, mana symbols, and foil effects. It can also organize cards by rarity, type, or market value. Following this, a rail system gently shifts the cards into cushioned output trays. Creators say it has been tested with high-value cards, including the legendary Black Lotus. The only downside: cards need to be taken out of their protective sleeves beforehand.

    User-Friendly Features

    Users can choose their desired sorting options through a touchscreen interface. Simultaneously, every scanned card is uploaded to a web portal that can be accessed from any device. There, collectors can filter their collections, export them to platforms like Moxfield, TCGPlayer, or eBay, and monitor their value over time. Planned features include deck syncing, insurance options, and AI-based condition grading. Sustainability is a primary focus as well: the CardMill uses recyclable materials, ships without plastic packaging, and includes teardown instructions to help prolong its life. At launch, the device will cater to six different trading card games:

    Successful Kickstarter Campaign

    Initiated on June 10 with a funding target of $350,000, the project achieved its goal in just 24 minutes. Since then, over 3,100 backers have contributed more than $1.5 million – which is more than four times the original target. The campaign is set to continue until August 19. According to Kickstarter, the CardMill is priced between $400 and $575, with no ongoing subscription fees. Deliveries are expected to start in December 2025, initially limited to the US, with international shipping possibly following later.

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  • Ratatan: Spiritual Successor to Patapon Gets Release Date

    Ratatan: Spiritual Successor to Patapon Gets Release Date

    Key Takeaways

    1. Ratatan will launch in Early Access on Steam on September 19, 2025, after delays for additional polishing.
    2. The game raised nearly $1.5 million from 14,598 backers during its successful Kickstarter campaign.
    3. Community support allowed the developers to achieve stretch goals, including a console version and collaboration with composer David Wise.
    4. Ratatan features online co-op for up to four players, over 100 characters, and gameplay synchronized to a dynamic soundtrack.
    5. A livestream event hosted by voice actor Tomokazu Sugita is scheduled for September 14, 2025, ahead of the Early Access launch.


    The long-awaited spiritual successor to the acclaimed Patapon series, Ratatan, has finally set a new date for its early access launch after some delays. Created by Ratata Arts and TVT Co. Ltd, Ratatan is now confirmed to debut in Early Access on Steam on Friday, September 19, 2025, at 11 am ET, 8 am PT, 4 pm BST, and 12 am JST.

    Delays and Development

    Initially, the game was supposed to come out on July 25, 2025, but the developers decided to postpone it for some extra polishing and adjustments, as they shared last month. Ratatan gained a lot of attention during its Kickstarter campaign, making it the most-funded video game project of 2023.

    In its first hour, Ratatan achieved its funding goal of ¥20 million, or $137,000. By the end of the campaign, it raised a whopping ¥219,314,335, which is nearly $1.5 million, from 14,598 backers.

    Community Support and Achievements

    The incredible support from the gaming community helped Ratata Arts reach many stretch goals, such as creating a console version and teaming up with the famous composer David Wise, who is well-known for his work on the Donkey Kong Country soundtrack.

    Last month, Ratatan was awarded the Vermillion Gate Award at BitSummit, Japan’s largest indie game festival. James Mielke, the founder and head of the judging committee, praised Ratatan saying, “Ratatan brings back the indie spirit found in Patapon, mixing roguelike and rhythm elements with impressive polish, and shows strong potential for a lasting impact in the indie scene.”

    Gameplay Features and Release Announcement

    The game will offer online co-op for up to four players, featuring over 100 characters in large melee battles, all synchronized to an engaging soundtrack. Players will begin their adventure on the island of Rataport, where the Ratatan creatures embark on a quest to The Everafter to meet The Goddess.

    As described by Ratatan, “Gather allies and dance your way to victory, traverse the world of Redo, build your Cobun army, and team up with your pals to defeat any evildoers foolish enough to block your path.”

    With the Early Access launch approaching, Ratata Arts has also announced a livestream on September 14, 2025, hosted by voice actor Tomokazu Sugita on the AGRS YouTube channel.

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  • HyperMaker Resin 3D Printer: Ultra-Fine Details & Extra Features

    HyperMaker Resin 3D Printer: Ultra-Fine Details & Extra Features

    Key Takeaways

    1. 3D printers are mainly classified into two types: Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM) and Stereolithography (SLA).
    2. The HyperMaker is a high-resolution SLA 3D printer currently funding on Kickstarter, starting at $1,500.
    3. The HyperMaker can produce prints with an XY pixel size of 14 x 19 µm, ideal for intricate models.
    4. It features a build volume of 211.68 x 118.37 x 200 mm and adjustable layer thickness from 0.025 to 0.2 mm.
    5. Practical features include live monitoring, touchscreen interface, Wi-Fi, Ethernet, USB connectivity, and an activated carbon filter.


    3D printers can be classified into two main types based on how they operate. The first is Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM), which heats a filament and extrudes it onto a surface to create an object layer by layer. The second type, known as Stereolithography (SLA), employs light to harden a photosensitive resin. The HyperMaker is a notable example of an SLA 3D printer that is currently part of an active Kickstarter campaign. The starting price for this system is $1,500, which includes an early bird discount. However, potential supporters should be cautious about the risks linked to crowdfunding and carefully examine the shipping policies before making a commitment.

    Impressive Features of HyperMaker

    One of the remarkable aspects of the HyperMaker is its capability to generate incredibly high-resolution 3D prints, featuring an XY pixel size of 14 x 19 µm. This high-resolution resin printer excels at creating small, intricate models, such as figurines. It includes a built-in 10.1-inch LCD with a resolution of 15,120 x 6,230 pixels and produces light at a wavelength of 405 nm. Additionally, it has a special system designed to reduce stray light, which helps enhance the overall quality of the prints.

    Performance and Specifications

    The manufacturer claims that the HyperMaker can lift the workpiece and mix the resin after each layer, although it’s not clear if this mixing is actually needed. The printer has a build volume of 211.68 x 118.37 x 200 mm (or 8.33 x 4.66 x 7.87 in) and can print at speeds between 30 to 100 mm/h, which indicates how quickly a model expands vertically along the Z-axis. Users can also adjust the layer thickness between 0.025 and 0.2 mm. Many practical features are included, such as a camera for live monitoring, a touchscreen interface, Wi-Fi, Ethernet, USB connectivity, and a built-in activated carbon filter to safeguard against harmful emissions.

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  • Milenas: Compact WiFi NAS with 2TB Storage Launches on Kickstarter

    Milenas: Compact WiFi NAS with 2TB Storage Launches on Kickstarter

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Milenas NAS is a compact device measuring 3.6 x 1.8 x 0.6 inches and weighing 1.8 oz, with 256MB of memory and 8GB of internal storage, expandable up to 2TB.
    2. It offers data transfer speeds of up to 300Mbps and connects via WiFi 802.11 b/g/n, lacking a traditional Ethernet port.
    3. The device supports SMB protocol for multiple user profiles and shared folders, making it useful for family trips.
    4. Easy setup is provided through a QR code, with automatic backup for photos and videos, and USB connectivity for transferring larger files.
    5. The Kickstarter campaign offers units for about $109 plus shipping, with shipping expected in November, but backers should be aware of potential financial risks.


    A new crowdfunding campaign has launched for a very small network attached storage device. The Milenas NAS is tiny, measuring just 3.6 x 1.8 x 0.6 inches and weighs a mere 1.8 oz. It runs on an MT7628 SoC, although it has a rather limited 256MB of memory. Internal storage is capped at 8GB, but you can add up to 2TB of extra storage depending on the setup you choose.

    Data Transfer and Connectivity

    The manufacturer indicates that the device can achieve data transfer speeds of up to 300Mbps. It connects to networks using WiFi 802.11 b/g/n, but you won’t find a traditional Ethernet port here. Powering the Milenas is done via USB with a requirement of 5V and 1A. Furthermore, this portable NAS supports the SMB protocol and allows multiple users to have their own profiles, while certain folders can be shared among everyone. This feature can be handy, especially during family trips.

    Ease of Use and Features

    No specific app is necessary to operate the Milenas NAS, as devices can be connected using a straightforward QR code. Besides local data transfers, this device supports various cloud storage services. It can also automatically back up pictures and videos from smartphones, for example. For transferring larger files, you can connect the Milenas to laptops using USB. Alternatively, USB Ethernet dongles should function as well.

    The Milenas is compatible with OpenWrt, and the manufacturer claims there are no software support limitations. Currently, backers on Kickstarter can secure a unit for a pledge of about $109, with an additional $15 for shipping. The first units are expected to ship in November. As with any crowdfunding project, it’s important to keep in mind the typical financial risks involved, which could play a significant role here.

    Alternative Suggestion

    If you’re looking for another option, consider the Synology Beedrive available on Amazon.

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  • Final Fantasy-Inspired JRPG Raises $300K on Kickstarter, Canceled

    Key Takeaways

    1. Several game projects, including Bend Studio’s live-action project and Studio Camelia’s Alzara Radiant Echoes, have been cancelled recently due to funding issues and rising development costs.
    2. Studio Camelia raised over $300,000 on Kickstarter, but only covered 50% of their game’s development costs, leading to their closure.
    3. Kickstarter backers of Alzara Radiant Echoes are unlikely to receive refunds following the project’s cancellation.
    4. Alzara Radiant Echoes was a JRPG inspired by Final Fantasy, featuring colorful art and turn-based battles, but its demo is no longer accessible due to legal complications.
    5. The situation highlights the risks of ambitious game projects and the potential pitfalls of backing Kickstarter campaigns, as not all promising ideas will succeed.


    Over the last few months, several games that were in development have been cancelled. The latest news comes from Bend Studio, known for Days Gone, which had to let go some of its staff after a live-action project for Sony was scrapped. Even indie studios are feeling the pinch from increasing development expenses. Studio Camelia, which raised over $300,000 on Kickstarter, has now announced they are closing down, effectively ending their first project, Alzara Radiant Echoes.

    Funding Shortfalls

    On their Kickstarter page, the studio mentioned that the funds raised, along with their own savings, only covered 50% of the costs to develop Alzara Radiant Echoes. They were hoping to secure a sponsorship from an “industry partner” to finish the game, but they couldn’t find one. Currently, the project is cancelled, and unless someone else steps in, there seems to be no hope for its revival. Furthermore, backers from Kickstarter are not likely to see any refunds.

    A Glimpse of Potential

    Alzara Radiant Echoes was designed to be a JRPG influenced by games like Final Fantasy. While there is a demo of the game, it may no longer be available. You can still catch a quick look on its Steam page and through a YouTube video. The four-minute video showcases some of the game’s world and gameplay, featuring a unique, colorful art style and turn-based battles. Sadly, due to legal complications, the demo itself isn’t accessible for players.

    The Risks of Ambition

    Although Alzara Radiant Echoes didn’t aim to change the JRPG landscape, it appeared to hold promise. With the success of Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, more gamers have started to explore the turn-based RPG genre. This situation serves as a harsh reminder that not every ambitious project will come to fruition and highlights the risks involved in backing a Kickstarter campaign, regardless of how appealing it may seem.

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  • Muitavy Desktop Charger: Three Retractable Cables Crowdfunding

    Muitavy Desktop Charger: Three Retractable Cables Crowdfunding

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Muitavy 200W 4-in-1 Charge Solution features GaN technology and includes three built-in USB-C cables for a tidy workspace.
    2. Each USB-C cable can provide up to 165W individually, or up to 100W when two are used simultaneously, with an additional USB-A port for a fourth device.
    3. The charger comes with a USB-C to Lightning adapter and offers four plug types: US, EU, UK, and AU.
    4. Kickstarter pledges start at $89, a $70 discount from the retail price of $159, with shipping planned for September 2025.
    5. The project has over 600 backers and still has 24 days left in its fundraising campaign.


    The Muitavy 200W 4-in-1 Charge Solution is currently raising funds on Kickstarter. This innovative desktop charger utilizes GaN technology and comes with three built-in USB-C cables, helping to minimize mess in your workspace. As of now, there are over 600 backers supporting the project, with 24 days still to go.

    Impressive Charging Capabilities

    Every USB-C cable from the Muitavy charger can provide up to 165W output when used independently. When two of the USB-C outputs are active at the same time, they can each supply up to 100W. Each cable measures 80 cm (about 31.5 inches) and has a magnetic tip for easy storage when not being used. Additionally, there is a USB-A port available to charge a fourth device. For instance, you can use this port to charge an Apple Watch, and Muitavy offers an Apple Watch Wireless Charger accessory priced at $19.

    Extra Features and Options

    In addition to the three cables and the USB-A port, there is also a USB-C to Lightning adapter included. An SD card slot is mentioned on a complementary adapter, although specifics like data transfer speed are not provided. Users can select from four different plug types: US, EU, UK, and AU. The Muitavy desktop charger comes in a sleek dark gray color and measures 5.7 x 2.8 x 2.8 inches (approximately 145 x 73 x 73 mm).

    Affordable Pricing and Shipping Details

    Pledges for the Muitavy 200W 4-in-1 Charge Solution on Kickstarter begin at $89, which is a $70 discount from the suggested retail price of $159. The company plans to ship its product globally and is aiming for a dispatch date in September 2025. However, as with any crowdfunding initiative, there is no assurance that backers will receive their product within this timeline, or even at all.

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  • ViewDock: Versatile Docking Station Now Live on Kickstarter

    ViewDock: Versatile Docking Station Now Live on Kickstarter

    Key Takeaways

    1. The ViewDock is seeking funding on Kickstarter, with early supporters able to purchase it for about $89 after a discount.
    2. Potential buyers should carefully review shipping conditions and understand the financial risks of crowdfunding.
    3. The device dimensions are 13.7 x 6.2 x 9.6 cm (5.4 x 2.4 x 3.8 in) and features a 1,280 x 720 resolution screen.
    4. It connects via USB-C and is compatible with macOS, Windows, and possibly Linux, supporting USB Power Delivery up to 100 watts.
    5. The ViewDock has two USB 3.0 ports and microSD/SD card readers located on the back for a cleaner appearance, but this may make access more difficult.


    The ViewDock is currently seeking funds through a campaign on Kickstarter. At this moment, early supporters can grab a unit for about $89 after applying a discount. However, those interested should thoroughly examine the shipping conditions and be mindful of the financial risks that come with crowdfunding initiatives. Even though the ViewDock likely doesn’t involve much risk related to technology, it’s important to consider that this project is run by a company that is not widely recognized.

    Dimensions and Display

    With dimensions of 13.7 x 6.2 x 9.6 cm (5.4 x 2.4 x 3.8 in), the ViewDock includes a built-in screen that has a resolution of 1,280 x 720 and a display size of 10 x 8 cm (3.9 x 3.1 in). It operates similarly to an external monitor, giving users the ability to choose what appears on the display. For example, applications such as system resource monitors, chat interfaces, or media players can easily be dragged to this secondary screen.

    Connectivity and Compatibility

    The ViewDock connects to a main device through USB-C and works with macOS, Windows, and possibly Linux systems. It also allows for USB Power Delivery up to 100 watts. On its rear side, the device is equipped with two USB 3.0 ports, in addition to microSD and SD card readers. While placing the I/O ports on the back helps maintain a tidy look, it also means that accessing the ports can be a bit more challenging.

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  • Fossibot F107 Pro: Durable Phone with Night Photography Discount

    Fossibot F107 Pro: Durable Phone with Night Photography Discount

    Key Takeaways

    1. Fossibot F107 Pro is available for preorder at $399 via a Kickstarter campaign, with shipping expected in July 2025.
    2. The phone features a high-quality camera system, including a 200 MP main camera, a 50 MP ultra-wide and macro lens, and a 32 MP front camera.
    3. It has a large 28,000 mAh battery with 66-watt fast charging and a flashlight with up to 372 lumens brightness.
    4. The device is powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 7300-Ultra processor, with options for 12 or 16 GB of RAM and 512 GB of internal storage.
    5. The F107 Pro meets military standards (MIL-STD-810H) and has IP69 and IP69K ratings for water and dust resistance.


    Fossibot has launched a selection of tough phones through outlets like Amazon. Recently, they added to their lineup with the Fossibot F107 Pro, which is currently up for preorder at a price of $399 via a Kickstarter campaign. The shipping is projected to start in July 2025. As with all crowdfunding projects, it’s crucial for potential backers to thoroughly check the shipping details and understand the financial risks involved. Nevertheless, the risks tied to this campaign seem to be relatively low.

    Camera Capabilities

    One standout feature of the F107 Pro is its camera system, which is said to provide high-quality color photos even in total darkness. However, its actual performance in everyday use is still unknown. The device boasts a 200 MP main camera, a 50 MP ultra-wide and macro lens, and a 32 MP front camera. With dimensions of 190.1 x 90.6 x 39.95 mm (7.48 x 3.57 x 1.57 in), the hefty body contains a 28,000 mAh battery that supports 66-watt fast charging, along with a flashlight capable of producing up to 372 lumens.

    Performance and Features

    The F107 Pro runs on a MediaTek Dimensity 7300-Ultra processor and comes with options of either 12 or 16 GB of RAM, plus 512 GB of internal storage. Other important features include a fingerprint scanner located on the right side, 5G connectivity, and two SIM slots, one of which can also fit a microSD card. As per the official specifications, this robust phone meets the standards of MIL-STD-810H, IP69, and IP69K.

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