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Jan 9
An artist's illustration showing asteroids and a planet. (Image source: TBIT - Pixabay)

Vera C. Rubin Observatory has spotted an asteroid spinning at record speed

The Vera C. Rubin Observatory has discovered an asteroid spinning at record speed. But while this is a new record for its category, this celestial object remains very mysterious and further studies will need to be conducted.
Alexis Stegmann, 09 Jan 2026 15:12
The ROG Strix Pulsar XG27AQNGV has thin bezels and a smaller stand than previous equivalent Asus gaming monitors. (Image source: Asus)

ROG Strix Pulsar XG27AQNGV: Asus releases new gaming monitor globally with effective 1000 Hz motion clarity

Asus has now released its ROG Strix Pulsar XG27AQNGV gaming monitor globally after presenting it earlier this week during CES 2026. One of the first Nvidia G-Sync Pulsar monitors, the Asus ROG Strix Pulsar XG27AQNGV is said to deliver an effective 1,000 Hz refresh rate to complement its 1440p resolution and 500 nits peak brightness when viewing HDR content.
Alex Alderson, 09 Jan 2026 14:23
Airborne Kingdom is 75% off on Steam until January 19. (Image source: Steam)

Deal | Airborne city builder drops below $7 on Steam for the first time

In this unique city builder, you create a floating settlement high above the clouds – and until January 19, it is more affordable than ever. Airborne Kingdom is discounted by 75% on Steam for the first time, dropping the price below $7.
Marius Müller, 09 Jan 2026 13:49
The exact release date for Ecovacs LilMilo has not yet been announced. (Image source: PR Newswire)

Ecovacs LilMilo – a robot pet instead of a robot vacuum CES 2026

At CES 2026, Ecovacs Robotics is introducing LilMilo, its first robotic pet – marking a move beyond the company’s traditionally functional product lineup into the realm of emotional robotics. The fluffy robot dog is designed as a digital companion, aiming to create a sense of closeness, warmth, and interaction through embodied intelligence.
Marius Müller, 09 Jan 2026 13:34
Dome Keeper is free to play until January 12. (Image source: Steam)

Deal | Steam: Roguelike with an addictive trench defense loop playable for free for a limited time

In Dome Keeper, you defend the titular dome while repeatedly digging underground to collect resources and unlock upgrades. Playtesters have described the core loop as “addictive.” If you’re curious, you can try the roguelike for free this weekend – and pick it up at 60% off if you decide to keep playing.
Marius Müller, 09 Jan 2026 13:26
The new Model Y Standard Long Range. (Image source: Tesla Germany)

Tesla outs pricier Model Y Standard LR trim with the longest range on a charge

Tesla has addressed the biggest weakness of its cheapest Model Y trim, namely its comparatively short range. The new Model Y Standard edition, however, comes with a much higher yet still competitive price.
Daniel Zlatev, 09 Jan 2026 13:13
The Samsung Galaxy S26 family as it probably won't look. The Galaxy S26 Ultra is likely to be significantly rounder. (Image source: Ice Universe)

Galaxy S26 Ultra: How fast the Samsung flagship charges according to official tests and first accessories

Keen observers have known for months now that Samsung will exclusively increase the charging speed to 60 watts for the Galaxy S26 Ultra, the first time in years. Whether this will actually translate into shorter charging times in practice has been revealed by a purportedly official test result from Samsung's labs. We also take a look at early Galaxy S26 accessories.
Alexander Fagot, 09 Jan 2026 12:59
Smartlet One allows you to wear not just one, but two watches on your wrist. (Image source: Smartlet)

Smartlet One combines Apple Watch and analog watch on one wristband

For those who can't decide between a smartwatch and a traditional watch, the Smartlet One wristband solves that dilemma. It essentially straps two watches to your wrist and is also compatible with the Apple Watch.
Hannes Brecher, 09 Jan 2026 12:57
Strava now offers Instant Workouts. (Image source: Venti Views on Unsplash)

Strava gets adaptive training and can be integrated with Garmin and Amazfit smartwatches

Ambitious athletes are likely to benefit from a new way of displaying individualized workouts, provided they use Strava and pay for the service.
Silvio Werner, 09 Jan 2026 12:55
Microsoft is sunsetting Send to Kindle feature within Microsoft Word. (Image source: Amazon)

Kindle users will no longer be able to send Word docs directly from Microsoft Word

Microsoft is killing off a little-known Kindle feature that let Microsoft Word users send documents straight to their e-reader with a single click. The Send to Kindle integration will stop working in February 2026, likely due to low adoption, though users can still upload Word files using Amazon’s web-based Send to Kindle tool.
Kishan Vyas, 09 Jan 2026 12:45
The first batch of Retroid Pocket 6 pre-orders will begin shipping on January 15. (Image source: Retroid)

New Retroid Pocket 6 hands-on shows compatibility with secondary display accessory

Retroid has been posting hands-on videos of its new handheld, the Retroid Pocket 6, and the most recent ones show the handheld will be compatible with its Dual Screen Add-on accessory. Unfortunately, the accessory is currently sold out on the Retroid website.
Habeeb Onawole, 09 Jan 2026 12:37
Garmin’s beta version 21.15 is rolling out to the Fenix 8 (pictured) and some related smartwatches. (Image source: Garmin)

Garmin smartwatches get new navigation tool in latest beta update

A new update is being pushed to some of the Garmin Fenix 8, Fenix E, Enduro 3 and Tactix 8 smartwatches. Beta version 21.15 brings a new option for navigation guidance, as well as a wide range of bug fixes. The company notes that this update is not available for certain users and is rolling out in phases.
Polly Allcock, 09 Jan 2026 12:34
Intel Panther Lake powered laptops are coming in the next few months. (Image source: Alex Waetzel for Notebookcheck))

AMD talks down Intel Panther Lake, claims Core Ultra X9 388H vs Ryzen AI Max+ Strix Halo is not a fair fight

Intel's upcoming Panther Lake APUs are shaping up to be quite impressive, at least in terms of energy efficiency and graphics performance. However, AMD is reportedly not that worried about the Core Ultra X9 388H Panther Lake flagship and its 12-core Arc B390 iGPU.
Fawad Murtaza, 09 Jan 2026 12:32
The Casio WS1800 watches (WS1800-2AV pictured) are now available in the US. (Image source: Casio, edited)

Multifunctional Casio WS1800 watches now available in the US

Three new Casio digital watches have arrived in the US. The WS-1800-1AV, the WS-1800-2AV and the WS-1800-3AV each have two scales, for graphics linked to the model’s timer and stopwatch. Other features include support for world time, a daily alarm and 100 m water resistance.
Polly Allcock, 09 Jan 2026 12:11
The OG Apple iPhone Air is about to become even thinner. (Image source: Notebookcheck)

iPhone Air 2 anniversary edition to borrow Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra's design surprise

Apple is preparing to fix the iPhone Air with a sequel designed specifically to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the world's most popular handset. It has now tasked its display suppliers to follow suit.
Daniel Zlatev, 09 Jan 2026 11:13
Pictured - a blurred ingame screenshot from Vital Shell with the Steam logo overlaid on top. (Image source: Steam - edited)

Steam launch: New action-roguelike RPG lands on Steam with 98% positive reviews and launch discount

Vital Shell launched Jan 7, 2026 on Steam, featuring PSX visuals alongside modern survivor mechanics. Solo dev MarvinWizard’s debut hit a 333 player peak and carries a 98% positive rating. It’s an addictive, low-cost $4.79 entry into the genre.
Anubhav Sharma, 09 Jan 2026 10:46
The Veriton RA100 will be available within Q1 2026. Pictured: a promo picture of the mini PC. (Image source: Acer - edited)

New Acer mini PC debuts with powerful Radeon 8060S iGPU and up to 128 GB of RAM CES 2026

The Acer Veriton RA100 is one of the many new products that the company showcased at CES 2026. Featuring the AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395, it brings the powerful Radeon 8060S iGPU, and the APU can be paired with up to 128 GB of RAM.
Abid Ahsan Shanto, 09 Jan 2026 10:35
The Orico Power Strip allows user to charge up to 8 devices simultaneously (Image source: Orico)

Orico launches new 8-in-1 25 W GaN power strip with 5 ft extension cable CES 2026

Orico has officially announced the new 8-in-1 GaN power strip globally. The company’s new desk accessory comes with a total of 8 ports, including 4 AC outputs, two USB-C, and two USB-A ports. On top of that, it also offers a 5 ft (60-inch) extension cord and a range of safety features.
Abhinav Fating, 09 Jan 2026 09:24
The indigo blue dial tries to capture the Hagurosan Gojunoto pagoda at dawn, shrouded in morning mist. (Image source: Casio)

Casio’s new ultra-premium G-Shock MR-G is inspired by a centuries-old Japanese pagoda

Inspired by a historic Japanese pagoda, the new G-Shock MRG-B2100D-2A mixes meticulous metal craftsmanship with modern-day G-Shock features like solar power, radio-controlled timekeeping, and Bluetooth.
Kristen Spradlin, 09 Jan 2026 09:15
Windows 11 deal graphic (Image Source: StackSocial)

Deal | Need Windows cheap? Windows 11 Pro is on sale for $9.97

Windows 11 Pro and Windows 11 Home are both on sale for $9.97. As usual with ultra-cheap product keys, there are several things to consider before hitting "add to cart".
Christopher Harper, 09 Jan 2026 09:13
Fable (2026) footage. (Image Source: Microsoft Xbox)

Fable 4 & other upcoming multi-plat hits to be shown at Xbox Direct in 2 weeks

Xbox, now the largest third-party game publisher and not simply a console manufacturer, is showcasing at least three major upcoming releases on January 22nd.
Christopher Harper, 09 Jan 2026 09:12
Satechi makes it easy to replace the battery in its new keyboards (Image source: Satechi)

Satechi showcases ultra-slim keyboards and cheap aluminum mouse with modular batteries CES 2026

With the EX1 and the EX3, Satechi shows that even ultra-thin keyboards can have a modular battery that can be replaced in just a few steps. With a USB-C dongle and Bluetooth, macOS and Windows support as well as a relatively affordable price point, the keyboards are intended to appeal to many groups of users.
Hannes Brecher, 09 Jan 2026 03:11
First products powered by Intel Panther Lake CPUs should become available over the next few weeks (Image source: Intel)

Intel slams AMD handhelds for using "ancient silicon" in new market push

Intel Panther Lake promises significant improvements in efficiency and iGPU performance, which are the specific features that are particularly important for gaming handhelds. Intel is now calling the competing chips from AMD ancient, thereby challenging the current handheld market leader.
Hannes Brecher, 09 Jan 2026 03:00
The Oppo Reno 15 Pro Mini is similarly compact as the Apple iPhone 17 (Image source: Oppo)

Oppo reveals compact Reno 15 Pro Mini with 200MP camera and 6,200mAh battery

With the Reno 15 Pro Mini, Oppo launches a relatively compact mid-range smartphone that packs a 200MP camera and 6,200mAh battery into a lightweight chassis.
Hannes Brecher, 09 Jan 2026 02:35
Jensen Huang speaking at CES 2026 about Nvidia AI solutions (Image source: Nvidia Blog with edits)

RTX 50 Super GPUs may be delayed indefinitely, as Nvidia prioritizes AI during memory shortage

It’s looking increasingly likely that the RTX 50 Super series may never ship. A fresh rumor claims Nvidia has told third-party manufacturers that the release is on hold indefinitely. With high memory prices and a shortage, Nvidia prefers to allocate any spare VRAM to its AI solutions.
Adam Corsetti, 09 Jan 2026 02:32
Artwork from StarCraft 2's 10th anniversary announcement (image Source: Blizzard)

Blizzard reportedly reviving StarCraft with a new third-person shooter led by a Far Cry veteran

Blizzard is reportedly developing a new third-person StarCraft shooter, led by former Far Cry executive Dan Hay, with a formal reveal expected at BlizzCon 2026. According to Windows Central and previous reporting by Bloomberg’s Jason Schreier, the project marks Blizzard’s latest attempt to revive its iconic sci-fi RTS as a shooter, though key details like its single- or multiplayer focus remain unclear.
Rahim Amir Noorali, 09 Jan 2026 00:07
Jan 8
Banner for Kingston Fury Renegade DDR5 RAM (Image source: Kingston Technology with edits)

Store asks buyer to pay higher DDR5 RAM price after purchase, blaming AI for volatile memory market

With unstable memory costs, gamers are discovering that no purchase is safe. PC-Canada is facing accusations of extorting a buyer for additional money on a DDR5 RAM sale. The retailer argues that suppliers regularly change costs, making it impossible to guarantee orders.
Adam Corsetti, 08 Jan 2026 23:33
XMG Fusion 16 (M25) (image source: Notebookcheck)

XMG's Fusion 16 with the OLED screen offers improved image quality

The gaming laptops from the German manufacturer XMG were limited to IPS screens so far, but the new Fusion 16 is now also available with a high-resolution OLED screen and 120 Hz. The image quality is very good and it is definitely a good alternative to the familiar IPS options.
Andreas Osthoff, 08 Jan 2026 23:27
The best smartphones for long battery life. (Image source: Marcus Herbrich)

Best smartphones for heavy users for the start of 2026, from budget to premium

Surfing the internet for 1.5 days straight? With extra-large batteries and efficient processors, smartphones reached new heights in 2025. We look at different price ranges and give recommendations for smartphones with long battery life, from bargains to top-of-the-line models.
Marcus Herbrich, 08 Jan 2026 23:01
Leica is expected to release a 35mm variant of the 50mm Noctilux lens soon. (Image source: Leica)

Leica expected to unveil a brand-new, particularly fast Noctilux lens as early as this month

Since 1966, the Leica Noctilux has been considered one of the fastest lenses on the market. This month, a Noctilux with a focal length of 35 mm will be launched for the first time, after the series has previously only included 50 mm and 75 mm lenses.
Hannes Brecher, 08 Jan 2026 22:59
Xiaomi has a new desktop audio set on offer. (Image source: Xiaomi)

Xiaomi Soundbar with wireless subwoofer and RGB lighting unveiled

Xiaomi has a new audio system on offer. It is designed to be at least partially wireless, promises strong audio quality with relatively little effort, and comes with integrated lighting.
Silvio Werner, 08 Jan 2026 22:58
The OmniCentro Charger Dock for Switch 2 can charge and connect a Switch 2 to monitor or TV. (Image source: JSAUX)

This compact 65W adapter wants to replace your Nintendo Switch 2 dock and charger CES 2026

The OmniCentro Charger Dock for Switch 2 is a compact 65W USB-C power adapter that doubles as a TV dock for the Switch 2 and other gaming handhelds. While limited to 4K at 60Hz, it is smaller and more affordable than the official Nintendo dock.
Elvis Shida, 08 Jan 2026 22:57
Artwork for Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus (image source: Xbox Wire)

MachineGames is reportedly developing Wolfenstein 3 alongside a Rainbow Six Siege-style multiplayer game

MachineGames is reportedly developing a long-rumored third mainline Wolfenstein title to conclude B.J. Blazkowicz’s arc, alongside a separate multiplayer project said to share tactical, team-based elements with Rainbow Six Siege. While both projects remain unannounced, recent rumors and past developer comments about “having a story left to tell” strongly suggest Wolfenstein is returning after a six-year hiatus.
Rahim Amir Noorali, 08 Jan 2026 22:56
Epic Games has already announced its next batch of free games on PC. (Image source: Epic Games Store)

Epic Games Store announces new January 2026 giveaways with two highly rated stealth games chosen

The Epic Games Store has already revealed plans for a future game giveaway. Containing two games, the giveaway should appeal to fans of stealth games like the Thief series rather than those who favour the action-heavy Assassin's Creed series.
Alex Alderson, 08 Jan 2026 22:31
The Xiaomi 17 Ultra in one of its eye-catching launch colour options. (Image source: Xiaomi)

Xiaomi 17 Ultra: Details of new global model revealed following initial release

The Xiaomi 17 Ultra is likely still a month or two away from being unveiled internationally. In the meantime, details about this global model have emerged. Sadly, it seems that Xiaomi is preparing to offer the device with a significant downgrade over the model sold in its home market.
Alex Alderson, 08 Jan 2026 22:22
The fastest laptop of 2026!?

Video | The fastest laptop of 2026!? CES 2026

The all-new MSI Raider 16 MX HX can deliver up to 300W to the latest Intel HX CPUs and up to an RTX 5090! And all that in what I would call a still relatively compact chassis! Stay tuned for a full video about MSI's new line-up from CES 2026 and leave your sub so you do not miss our upcoming laptop reviews!
Alexander Wätzel, 08 Jan 2026 22:16
Dungeon Antiqua 2 is a sequel to Dungeon Antiqua, which was released in October 2024. Pictured - cover art for the game with the Steam logo overlaid on top. (Image source: Steam - edited)

Steam launch: This new retro-inspired RPG just hit Steam with a launch discount in tow and 10 unlockable classes

Dungeon Antiqua 2 launched Jan 7, 2026, moving to 16-bit SNES aesthetics. The sequel introduces 10 job classes and a skill milestone system across six dungeons. It is a focused, narrative-light retro RPG experience - now available alongside a launch discount.
Anubhav Sharma, 08 Jan 2026 21:26
Ulefone launches two new Android 16 tablets. (RugKing Pad Pro, image source: Ulefone)

Ulefone unveils two new tablets with eSIM support, charging station and uSmart

Ulefone has two new tablets in the pipeline. Both models are said to feature a robust design, Android 16 and cellular connectivity. The option of a charging station is also advertised, as is the usability of an endoscope.
Silvio Werner, 08 Jan 2026 21:26
The MSI MPG 341CQR should deliver 500 nits across 10% of panel (10% APL) thanks its new Gen 5 QD-OLED panel. (Image source: MSI)

MSI MPG 341CQR: Pricing revealed for new 34-inch and 360 Hz OLED gaming monitor CES 2026

MSI is preparing its first Gen 5 QD-OLED gaming monitor. Spanning 34-inches, the MPG 341CQR is set to be available later this quarter, with pricing already confirmed too.
Alex Alderson, 08 Jan 2026 20:55
Epic Games' first mobile giveaway is now live. (Image source: Epic Games Store)

Deal | Epic Games Store: Surprise second free game now available, but only for a short time

The Epic Games Store has delivered a second free game of the week for account holders. While many would have expected the company to offer Bloons TD 6 on Android and iOS this week too, Epic Games had other ideas. This week's mobile giveaway is a casual arcade game called Bouncemasters, which comes highly rated.
Alex Alderson, 08 Jan 2026 20:52
The AI Edge is MSI's second AI-branded mini-PC. (Image source: MSI - edited)

MSI AI Edge mini-PC based on AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395 and 128 GB LPDDR5X RAM launching soon CES 2026

MSI has confirmed that it will be making another foray into the world of AI computing after releasing the EdgeXpert AI last year based on the Nvidia DGX Spark. This year, MSI has turned to AMD and its Ryzen AI Max+ 395 APU, which it will package with up to 128 GB of LPDDR5X RAM inside the AI Edge mini-PC.
Alex Alderson, 08 Jan 2026 20:48
A screengrab from the Grand Theft Auto VI trailer showing male protagonist Jason Duval (image source: Rockstar Games)

Fired GTA 6 developers fight back: UK union demands reinstatement and visa protection

A UK trade union is seeking the immediate reinstatement and visa protection of 31 fired Rockstar Games developers, alleging “brutal union busting” over their involvement in organizing efforts around GTA 6. Rockstar denies the accusations, insisting the dismissals were solely due to confidential game details being shared on an “insecure” channel, setting up a high‑stakes legal clash over labor rights and corporate secrecy in the games industry.
Rahim Amir Noorali, 08 Jan 2026 20:45
Fitbit appears to be working on a redesign for its app (current version pictured). (Image source: Fitbit)

Major Fitbit app update with two new sleep metrics could be on the way

A redesigned version of the Fitbit app appears to be on the way. Recent reports suggest that users could receive a new tab structure in a future update. Plus, code behind the latest release from the brand indicates that two new sleep-related metrics are also in development.
Polly Allcock, 08 Jan 2026 19:31
The free games lineup for January 2026 has a retail value of over $170. Pictured: edited cover photos of Technotopia and Harold Halibut. (Image source: Amazon Luna)

Deal | Luna reveals January 2026 free game lineup featuring several well-rated games

Amazon has announced that it will give away 10 free games throughout January 2026. These freebies will be available in batches, and among the highlights are Civilization VI, Brigador, Harold Halibut, and Elderborn.
Abid Ahsan Shanto, 08 Jan 2026 19:00
The Amazfit T-Rex 3 smartwatch (pictured) is one of three products that could get its last firmware update in 2026. (Image source: Amazfit)

Amazfit T-Rex 3 and other wearables could see final updates in 2026

Three Amazfit products are set to receive their last round of new features and improvements in 2026. The end-of-life product list on a Zepp Health website names two smartwatches and one other wearable, which are currently on a two-year update cycle. However, there are some circumstances under which there could be future updates.
Polly Allcock, 08 Jan 2026 18:53
Software-defined vehicle architecture showing centralized computing and connected infotainment components (Image source: Volkswagen Group)

Volkswagen Group plans Snapdragon-powered infotainment and connectivity platform for future SDV models starting 2027

Volkswagen Group and Qualcomm Technologies are working toward a long-term supply agreement related to future software-defined vehicle platforms.
Yetnesh Dubey, 08 Jan 2026 18:45
Pictured - the Seiko Presage SPB537. (Image source: @plus9time on Instagram)

Seiko revives the 1895 "Timekeeper" design with new Presage SPB537

Seiko’s new Presage SPB537 honors the 1895 "Timekeeper." Featuring a handcrafted enamel dial by Mitsuru Yokosawa, a tonneau case, and the 3-day Caliber 6R5H, this non-limited release brings Meiji-era history to modern watchmaking.
Anubhav Sharma, 08 Jan 2026 18:32
Banner for Switch 2 holiday sales is shown (Image source: Nintendo of America)

Switch 2 sales over holidays down 35% compared to Switch, with price and game selection factors

As 2025 progressed, Nintendo found it increasingly difficult to market its latest handheld. In multiple regions, data shows that the original Switch was a more popular holiday purchase. The Switch 2 price is now more of an obstacle, while newer games failed to become system sellers.
Adam Corsetti, 08 Jan 2026 18:14
The new Light Purple and Light Green Joy-Con 2 controllers releasing on Feb 12. (Image source: Nintendo)

Nintendo unveils new Joy-Con 2 colors releasing on February 12 for $99.99, pre-orders now open

Nintendo has unveiled new Joy-Con colors. Launching alongside Mario Tennis Fever, the new Light Purple and Light Green Joy-Con 2 controllers add a pop of color for $99.99 and are available for pre-order now.
Elvis Shida, 08 Jan 2026 18:07
Image of the game Brother Hai's Pho Restaurant and the Steam logo. (Image source: Steam)

A new free-to-play horror game with retro graphics, enjoyed by 85% of players, is now available on Steam

Brother Hai's Pho Restaurant is a horror game that immerses you in the suburbs of Hanoi. You will have to manage your restaurant, but also uncover the truth in a terrifying atmosphere full of mystery.
Alexis Stegmann, 08 Jan 2026 18:07

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Notebookcheck, 2021-10-10 (Update: 2025-10-29)