Tag: USB-C

  • Razer Handheld Dock Chroma for Portable Consoles at CES 2025

    Razer Handheld Dock Chroma for Portable Consoles at CES 2025

    The Razer Handheld Dock Chroma has been officially announced for handheld devices. This dock not only serves its basic function but also features a shape that allows it to easily attach to a console or tablet, offering a bigger screen experience. At the bottom, there’s an RGB strip that syncs with the Razer Chroma ecosystem, making things visually appealing.

    Connectivity Options

    In terms of connectivity, the Razer Handheld Dock Chroma is equipped with one HDMI port, a USB-C port (which is probably for a power adapter), one RJ45 Ethernet port, three USB Type-A ports, and a specific rectangular USB-C cable that connects to the host device. It can deliver up to 100 Watts of power to charge any connected gadgets. There’s also a power button, but it’s not certain if it can manage the host device.

    Design and Availability

    The design is understated, featuring a Razer logo on the front. You can currently pre-order the Razer Handheld Dock Chroma directly from Razer‘s website. Retailers will have it available starting January 30. The price is set at $79, and it is offered in just one color option.

    Razer’s new accessory is aimed at enhancing the gaming experience for handheld users.

    Image 1
    Image 1
    Image 1
    Image 1
    Tags: , ,
  • Anker Launches 25K Power Bank with 165W Output at CES 2025

    Anker Launches 25K Power Bank with 165W Output at CES 2025

    Anker’s 25K Power Bank isn’t exactly a new gadget. We first talked about it when it launched in China back in November 2024. Later that month, it hit the UK market with a price tag of £89.99, and in January, it arrived in Germany for €99.99. Now, this feature-packed power bank has officially made its debut in the US at CES 2025. Let’s explore what this device brings to the table.

    Compact and Powerful Design

    The Anker 25K Power Bank is a small, yet powerful charger perfect for users needing high-capacity charging while on the move. It comes with a 25,000mAh battery and offers a total output of 165W, allowing it to charge several devices at once. The power bank includes three USB-C ports and one USB-A port, all of which support the latest PD 3.0 technology for quick and dependable charging. According to the company, it can charge a MacBook Air 13″ (M3) up to 1.3 times, an iPhone 16 as much as 4.5 times, or even charge a MacBook Pro 16″ (M3) to 50% in just 33 minutes. With its TSA-approved 100Wh capacity, it’s also suitable for travel and can fit into carry-on luggage.

    Innovative Features

    One of the unique features of this power bank is the two built-in retractable USB-C cables, which are 22cm and 70cm long. Its compact dimensions—similar to a soda can—make it very portable. To enhance user experience, the power bank is also fitted with a smart TFT color display, like its predecessor models, such as the Anker 737 24,000mAh power bank, which is currently on sale for $106.5 on Amazon. This display shows real-time data on total power output, power levels for each port, estimated charging times, and the device’s temperature.

    Availability and Pricing

    The Anker 25K Power Bank is priced at $99.99 and is currently available for purchase on Anker.com and Amazon.com.

    Anker’s latest offering is sure to attract attention with its rich features and solid performance, appealing to anyone in need of reliable charging on-the-go.

    Image 1
    Tags: , ,
  • O.MG Cable Explained: Why It’s Hard to Detect with X-Ray

    O.MG Cable Explained: Why It’s Hard to Detect with X-Ray

    Lumafield, a firm that focuses on imaging electronics and components, has recently performed a CT scan on the well-known O.MG cable. The findings illustrate how advanced hackers can trick unsuspecting users. When examined more closely, the O.MG cable, which looks like a typical USB-C cable, is actually a multifunctional device for cyber criminals. They can utilize it to take control of smartphones and computers, steal private information, or introduce malware.

    Hidden Technology Unveiled

    The CT scans from Lumafield expose the concealed technology within the connector. A small microchip and antenna are ingeniously concealed in the standard-sized USB-C plug, which allows hackers to remotely access and manipulate the devices connected. Lumafield has shared these scans online for those who are curious.

    Today’s Thunderbolt and USB-C cables are intricate designs that contain electronics and chips to manage data transfer, power supply, and other features. Even an X-ray image may not clearly indicate if a cable has been altered. The extra electronics found in the O.MG cable are so tiny and well-integrated that they are nearly indistinguishable from the regular components.

    The Rising Threat

    A few months back, we shared (in German only) the hazards linked to the O.MG cable and similar devices. Hackers are increasingly adopting a long-term approach, dedicating time and resources to projects that may yield results years down the line. This emphasizes the necessity of staying alert and recognizing the risks involved.

    Counterfeit products that resemble the genuine article are continuously emerging on Amazon and other online storefronts. For the average person, it is nearly impossible to tell apart manipulated cables from safe ones. We can only cross our fingers and hope that no hacker is currently peddling cables with hidden backdoors on Amazon.

    Source: Link

    Image 1
    Image 1
    Tags: , ,
  • Chargie: Boost Your Laptop Battery Lifespan Efficiently

    Chargie: Boost Your Laptop Battery Lifespan Efficiently

    Batteries naturally decline in their ability to hold a charge as they age. Operating systems like Windows and macOS already include various tools designed to help prolong battery life. Chargie aims to simplify the process of safeguarding laptop batteries. This compact device plugs into the USB-C charging port and connects to the laptop’s charging cable. There are also adapters for Dell, HP, and Lenovo laptops that use a traditional hollow plug rather than USB-C.

    Features and Functionality

    Chargie works with chargers that have an output of up to 100 watts. Once it’s connected, the device must be paired with the laptop via Bluetooth to set it up using its dedicated software. The application is compatible with Windows, macOS, and Chrome OS, allowing users to limit the maximum battery charge to a specific percentage, such as 80%. This helps to extend battery life, as fully charging or depleting a battery can cause additional strain.

    While it’s possible to achieve similar results through software alone, Chargie provides extra functionalities. It enables users to set charging schedules and monitor as well as limit the current charge rate. The concept is that slower charging generates less heat, which in turn protects the battery cells. As a result, charging may take a longer time. An update anticipated in the second quarter of 2025 will allow Chargie to also be used with smartphones.

    Pricing and Risks

    At present, Chargie is being funded through a Kickstarter campaign, where it can be pre-ordered under the “Early Bird” deal for $40. After this initial offer, the price will increase to $49. The expected delivery date is February 2025, with the prices not covering shipping and import taxes. As is common with crowdfunding initiatives, there are inherent risks: products may not arrive, or they might be of subpar quality if issues arise during production.

    Image 1
    Tags: , ,
  • Apple Pencil Faces EU Scrutiny Over Third-Party Pen Rules

    Apple Pencil Faces EU Scrutiny Over Third-Party Pen Rules

    The European Union has pushed Apple into making several modifications in recent years. As a result, the iPhone 16 now comes equipped with a USB-C port. Additionally, users can download applications from third-party stores and designate alternative browsers and camera apps as their default options. In April 2024, iPadOS was also included as a gatekeeper under the Digital Markets Act, joining iOS in this classification.

    Changes on iPadOS

    Apple has transferred many of the adjustments made for iOS over to iPadOS, but more modifications seem to be forthcoming. Interestingly, Apple’s compliance report from November 1 fails to mention any alternatives to the Apple Pencil offered by other companies. The European Commission has clearly stated in a press release that the iPadOS features should also be accessible to styluses from different manufacturers.

    Compatibility Issues

    Even though there are many third-party styluses that work with the iPad and iPad Pro, Apple does not recognize industry standards like MPP 2.0. Certain features are only compatible with the Apple Pencil. For instance, the hover feature displays the stylus’s position when it is just a few millimeters away from the screen. Additionally, users can magnetically attach the stylus to the tablet for charging. The European Commission is currently examining Apple’s most recent compliance report and will soon determine if the changes made thus far are enough to meet the Digital Markets Act’s standards or if further adjustments are needed.

    Future Developments

    As the EU continues to scrutinize Apple’s practices, the tech giant may face even more pressure to comply with regulations. The emphasis on third-party stylus compatibility could lead to a more open environment for developers and users alike. As these developments unfold, the landscape of Apple’s products and services may experience significant transformation.

    Tags: , ,
  • iPhone SE 4 Redesign: Bigger Display, Face ID, USB-C Leaks

    iPhone SE 4 Redesign: Bigger Display, Face ID, USB-C Leaks

    Leaks have revealed some intriguing details about Apple’s next iPhone SE 4, suggesting significant design changes and a potential increase in size for this budget-friendly line.

    Design Similarities

    According to sources (specifically from Alibaba), the SE 4 may adopt a design akin to the iPhone 14. A 3D-printed model showcases a 6.1-inch display with slim bezels, measuring about 2mm from the device’s body. The dimensions are set to be 146.7mm in height, 71.5mm in width, and 7.8mm in thickness.

    Feature Updates

    A major change is the removal of the traditional Touch ID, as the SE will likely embrace the notched-display trend, suggesting that Face ID could be integrated into this model. This design shift aligns the SE 4 more closely with Apple’s premium phones.

    On the rear, the phone is expected to sport a single camera, moving away from the dual-lens configuration seen in the iPhone 14. The camera appears slightly smaller compared to the iPhone 14’s main lens, and the arrangement around the flash has been subtly altered.

    Connectivity Changes

    At the bottom, the mockup indicates that the speaker and microphone layout resembles that of the iPhone 14, featuring five holes on one side and three on the other. Interestingly, it seems that Apple may finally transition to USB-C, bidding farewell to the Lightning port.

    In a surprising twist, the leaks suggest that the SE 4 might come in two size variants. The main model is said to be 6.1 inches, but there are rumors of a 6.7-inch version, comparable to the iPhone 14 Plus. However, it remains unclear if both models will be released, as the SE series generally sticks to a single size.

    Button Adjustments

    There are also slight modifications to the button placements. The ring/mute switch appears to be smaller and is situated above the volume button. The volume and side buttons are positioned similarly to the iPhone 14, meaning some cases may still work—though the camera cutout from the 14 could be oversized.

    The SE 4 is rumored to feature an OLED display, which would be an upgrade from the LCD screens found in earlier SE models. However, since these details are based on leaks and speculation, it’s important to approach this information cautiously. The final design from Apple could vary significantly.

    GizChina (in English) via MacOTAKARA (in Japanese)

    Image 1
    Image 1
    Tags: , ,