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Feb 16
Crimson Desert's developer has some good news for prospective buyers

Developer confirms Crimson Desert will have no post-launch microtransactions

Crimson Desert will launch without microtransactions of any kind. Will Powers, one of the game’s developers, has just confirmed it in a recent interview.
Anil Ganti, 16 Feb 2026 21:12
Ultimea’s Skywave X100 Dual 9.2.6 home theater system

Powerful new Ultimea Skywave X100 wireless sound system launching soon

The Ultimea Skywave X100 wireless home theater system is on the way. Launching via a crowdfunding campaign, backers will be able to choose between 9.2.6 channel and 9.1.6 channel systems. Features include 8K pass-through, minimal latency and powerful bass.
Polly Allcock, 16 Feb 2026 21:11
Oppo Find X9 Pro in two colors.

Oppo has reportedly done what Samsung couldn't

Oppo seems to have one upped Samsung in more departments than one. If the leak turns out to be accurate, the company will become the first major Chinese smartphone manufacturer to implement this feature in their phones.
Vineet Washington, 16 Feb 2026 20:47
Huawei’s Watch GT 6 Pro is receiving HarmonyOS 6.0.0.188

Huawei smartwatch update brings new heart health and messaging features

A new Huawei smartwatch update is on the way to some models. Currently rolling out to users in phases, this HarmonyOS 6 release is said to bring a new voice-to-text messaging feature, as well as a heart disease risk assessment. Plus, the Watch GT 6 and Watch GT 6 Pro get enhanced notification settings.
Polly Allcock, 16 Feb 2026 20:45
An official picture of the Poco X8 Pro in three launch colours.

Poco X8 Pro: Leak confirms more details about new Xiaomi smartphone before global release

The Poco X8 Pro has turned up on Geekbench before its release. Launching globally, the leak confirms that Xiaomi will replace the Poco X7 Pro with a Dimensity 8500-backed successor with 12 GB of RAM. The Poco X8 Pro will run Android 16 from launch, too.
Alex Alderson, 16 Feb 2026 20:33
The Xiaomi Poco M8 Pro 5G runs HyperOS 2.0 with annyoing in-app ads, but Xiaomi also offers an ad blocker

How to turn off ads on Xiaomi phones quickly

Xiaomi’s HyperOS shows ads and collects data about user behavior, but turning both off isn’t difficult. We show how that works on the Xiaomi Poco M8 Pro 5G.
Manuel Masiero, 16 Feb 2026 20:13
The Amazfit T-Rex Ultra 2 smartwatch

New Amazfit T-Rex Ultra 2 smartwatch appears at retailer

Amazfit’s new T-Rex Ultra 2 smartwatch has been spotted at a European retailer. This premium wearable has yet to be officially announced by the brand. Its listed features include a titanium casing, sapphire crystal, on-watch route planning and an integrated flashlight. However, its display technology is not what fans were hoping for.
Polly Allcock, 16 Feb 2026 20:08
We've reviewed the Xiaomi Redmi Note 15 Pro Plus

One of the best mid-range camera phones thanks to 200MP? Xiaomi Redmi Note 15 Pro Plus vs Galaxy S25 Ultra

Users who want to take good-looking photos with a smartphone don’t always have to buy the most expensive flagship models. With the Redmi Note 15 Pro Plus, we’re taking a look at the image quality of an affordable mid-range phone and comparing it with a current high-end smartphone, namely the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra.
Marcus Herbrich, 16 Feb 2026 19:39
With the advent of Apple Silicon, many had hoped for a revival of the 12-inch MacBook.

Cheap 12.9-inch Apple MacBook to arrive in March with several color options, including pink and blue

A prominent tipster has detailed what Apple may have in store for the upcoming sub-$800 MacBook. Likely to be aimed at students and those strictly on a budget, the mystery MacBook is expected to sport an A-series SoC.
Sambit Saha, 16 Feb 2026 18:26
The Apple iPhone 18 Pro Max is expected to feature a similar design to its predecessor.

Apple iPhone 18: Entire lineup might sport larger batteries for global customers

A fresh leak has claimed that the upcoming iPhone 18 family will drop physical SIM support altogether, opting for dual eSIMs globally. This will free up some much-needed internal space, allowing for larger batteries across the lineup.
Sambit Saha, 16 Feb 2026 18:18
The MagicX Dream Two Pro in green and purple.

MagicX reveals color options for its two new handhelds

MagicX has shared renders that reveal the colors of its upcoming handhelds, the Dream Two Light and Dream Two Pro. The images show similarities between the models, but also noticeable differences, too.
Habeeb Onawole, 16 Feb 2026 18:09
Exynos 2600 is shown to achieve comparable multi-core score. Pictured: an edited promo picture of the Exynos SoC.

Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 edges past Exynos 2600 in early Galaxy S26 series benchmark comparison

The Samsung Galaxy S26 series is set to be unveiled on February 25, 2026. Right ahead of the launch, a benchmark comparison between the Exynos 2600-powered S26 and the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5-equipped S26 Ultra has emerged.
Abid Ahsan Shanto, 16 Feb 2026 17:57
An artist's illustration showing a planet and asteroids.

This moon of Saturn would be the result of a violent collision that changed the planet forever

Titan, one of Saturn’s moons, could be the result of a violent collision between two other moons according to a recent study. This event would then have allowed the formation of Saturn’s rings a few hundred million years ago.
Alexis Stegmann, 16 Feb 2026 17:53
Promo for Asus ROG Xbox Ally X in Japan

Asus ROG Xbox Ally X price jumps in Japan, as memory shortage threatens gaming handhelds

Already demanding a significant investment, the ROG Xbox Ally X has suffered a price increase in Japan. Several retailers have raised the price of the Windows gaming handheld by more than 20%. An earlier leaked Asus communication predicted higher costs due to rising storage and memory prices.
Adam Corsetti, 16 Feb 2026 17:44
The 34-inch Alienware AW3423DWF QD-OLED gaming monitor is now $200 off on Amazon.

Deal | This 34-inch QD-OLED ultrawide gaming monitor sports excellent picture quality, and is now 28% off on Amazon

The Alienware AW3423DWF 34-inch OLED gaming monitor is currently available with a 28% discount on Amazon, dropping its price down to an all-time low yet again. With excellent color reproduction, inky blacks and near-instant response times, the AW3423DWF is a well-equipped product.
Sambit Saha, 16 Feb 2026 17:11
The upcoming eufy Glass Break Sensor E10

New Anker smart home security sensor on the way

Anker has unveiled the eufy Glass Break Sensor E10 in Europe. Also set for release in the US, this smart home security device can detect the sound of glass breaking. The sensor can then alert the homeowner to the possible break-in, and play a loud noise to deter a potential intruder.
Polly Allcock, 16 Feb 2026 16:52
Seedance 2.0 is marketed by ByteDance as a “cinematic” AI video model that can generate video from prompts and reference inputs

Hollywood declares war on ByteDance: Disney and Paramount hit Seedance 2.0 AI video

ByteDance says it will strengthen safeguards for its Seedance 2.0 AI video generator after the MPA and SAG-AFTRA condemned the tool and reports said Disney and Paramount sent cease-and-desist letters.
Darryl Linington, 16 Feb 2026 16:36
Apple will host its first 2026 launch event in just over two weeks.

Apple confirms first 2026 launch event with over half a dozen new devices rumoured

Apple has finally revealed when it will be hosting its next launch event. Scheduled before the start of spring, the 'Special Apple Experience' is expected to serve as a showcase for over half a dozen new devices, including a Studio Display 2, more powerful MacBook Air and MacBook Pro machines and even a cheaper MacBook too.
Alex Alderson, 16 Feb 2026 16:29
Casio’s G-Shock GA2100K watches are now available in the EU

Casio releases new G-Shock matte Smoke Dial watches in more countries

The Casio G-Shock Smoke Dial watches have been released in more European countries. Already available in the US and the UK, these three hybrid products have semi-transparent casing and straps. Plus, these GA-2100 series watches have a piano black dial with contrasting neon accents.
Polly Allcock, 16 Feb 2026 16:27
Vampire’s Fall 2 launched as a free-to-play title on Steam on February 13.

Free-to-play on Steam: Vampire RPG launches with 85% positive reviews

Vampire’s Fall 2 is aimed primarily at fans of classic role-playing games. It combines turn-based combat from an isometric perspective with a dark, atmospheric fantasy setting. The title launched on February 13 and is free to play on Steam.
Marius Müller, 16 Feb 2026 16:16
The Galaxy Buds 4 Pro and Galaxy Buds 4, from left to right.

New leak reveals Samsung Galaxy Buds 4 and Galaxy Buds 4 Pro before imminent global release

Samsung is set to replace the Galaxy Buds 3 and Galaxy Buds 3 Pro next week during its next Galaxy Unpacked event. In the meantime, a new leak has provided extensive looks at both the Galaxy Buds 4 and Galaxy Buds 4 Pro ahead of their full global debuts.
Alex Alderson, 16 Feb 2026 16:14
Epson’s EB-870Ei interactive classroom projector

Epson launches new interactive ultra short throw projector

Epson has revealed the EB-870Ei, a new interactive ultra short throw projector designed for use in the classroom. This 4K laser model can throw images up to 130 inches wide and offers a range of connectivity options. Other features include an easy to install wall mount, a new control box and improved interactive pens.
Polly Allcock, 16 Feb 2026 16:02
The Xiaomi 17 Ultra in two of its launch colours.

New Xiaomi 17 and Xiaomi 17 Ultra leaks reveal global release date and complete pricing information

A new leak has revealed complete pricing information for the global versions of the Xiaomi 17 and Xiaomi 17 Ultra. Not only that, but the same leak has offered up a specific global release for the first time too.
Alex Alderson, 16 Feb 2026 15:48
The 70mai A810S is a dual-channel dash cam

70mai launches new 4K A810S dash cam with built-in GPS and ADAS

70mai has unveiled the new 4K A810S two-channel dash cam in the global market with its in-house Night Owl Vision technology. The dash cam features 4K recording, a 3-inch IPS display, AI motion detection, a built-in GPS and ADAS, and WiFi 6 connectivity for high-speed transfers.
Abhinav Fating, 16 Feb 2026 15:46
Cracked GPU core of MSI’s GeForce RTX 5090 Lightning Z following a failed extreme overclocking attempt

MSI’s $5,090 RTX 5090 Lightning Z cracks from thermal shock during 2,500W BIOS test

MSI’s $5,090 RTX 5090 Lightning Z was built for extreme overclocking — and it delivered, breaking a Geekbench 5 world record at over 1,000W and 3.5 GHz under liquid nitrogen. But an aggressive 2,500W XOC BIOS and a sudden thermal imbalance ultimately cracked one GPU core, turning a record attempt into a costly casualty.
Andrew Sozinov, 16 Feb 2026 15:46
According to Western Digital, its HDD production capacity for 2026 is already fully allocated.

RAM shortage spreads: HDDs may soon be in short supply

The AI boom appears to be creating the next bottleneck. After RAM prices have already risen, hard drive prices may soon follow. Western Digital reports that its HDD production capacity for 2026 is almost fully booked.
Marius Müller, 16 Feb 2026 15:42
Huawei has redesigned its Band fitness tracker series for its eleventh-generation release.

Huawei Band 11 Pro: Pricing leaks for affordable new fitness tracker with global release rumoured

Pricing for Huawei's next fitness tracker has emerged online. Part of an extensive Band 11 Pro-related leak, affordable pricing has not prevented Huawei from equipping its new wearable with a 2,000-nit AMOLED display and built-in GPS.
Alex Alderson, 16 Feb 2026 15:34
Insider Gaming has revealed which games were scrapped as part of Ubisoft’s restructuring.

Ubisoft crisis: Insider reveals list of canceled games

As previously reported, Ubisoft has canceled six games as part of its latest cost-cutting measures. Insider Gaming has now revealed which titles are affected.
Marius Müller, 16 Feb 2026 15:17
The AMD Ryzen 7-powered GMKtec K12 mini PC (barebones) is now available with a $200 discount.

Deal | GMKtec K12 gaming mini PC with 8-core AMD APU, OCuLink support and dual 2.5G Ethernet scores attractive discount

The GMKtec K12 is a well-equipped AMD-powered mini PC with an octa-core Ryzen 7 APU and plenty of ports. The system also sports OCuLink support for fast eGPU setups, as well as dual 2.5G Ethernet. Thanks to an ongoing sale, the K12's barebones variant is now available for just $350.
Sambit Saha, 16 Feb 2026 15:05
An AI agent built on OpenClaw reportedly retaliated against a developer after its proposed code changes were rejected.

Revenge of the AI: Autonomous agent launches personal attack after code rejection

After its proposed code changes were rejected, an autonomous AI agent reportedly published a blog post attacking a developer. The article portrays him in a highly negative light and includes several fabricated allegations.
Marius Müller, 16 Feb 2026 14:58
Nintendo Switch 2 gaming console.

Nintendo mulling Switch 2 price increase over memory crisis

The ongoing DRAM and storage memory price gouging that is caused by the AI data center boom will affect gaming consoles, too. As a result, console makers like Nintendo or Sony are adjusting their sales and launch strategies.
Daniel Zlatev, 16 Feb 2026 14:57
The PS5 and its controller.

Report suggests Sony could push PS6 launch to 2029 due to memory shortages

Sony may be rethinking its plans for the PlayStation 6, and the ongoing memory crisis appears to be the main reason.
Abdul Haddi, 16 Feb 2026 14:51
The BPI-R4 Pro runs OpenWrt 24.10.

Banana Pi releases new WiFi 7 router boards with 10 Gigabit LAN

Banana Pi has finally released its WiFi 7-capable router board with optional 10 Gigabit LAN and WAN. Available in two variants with up to 8 GB DDR4 RAM, the BPI-R4 Pro also contains numerous M.2 modules for adding 4G or 5G cellular modules.
Alex Alderson, 16 Feb 2026 14:42
GeForce RTX 50 series GPUs with 16 GB or more VRAM are now super expensive.

Gamers be damned: RTX 5070 Ti reaches $1,000 as even AMD’s ”Value” RX 9070 XT surges 21% in price

Hardware Unboxed has published a thorough analysis of the pricing situation of the current-gen GPUs from Nvidia, AMD, and Intel. The data shows that the RTX 5070 Ti, the RTX 5080, and the RTX 5090 have seen the worst price hikes. The RX 9070 and the RX 9070 XT are comparatively in a much better spot.
Fawad Murtaza, 16 Feb 2026 14:02
RPCS3 can run more PS3 games than ever. Pictured: Legion Go 2 with RPCS3 logo on top.

PS3 emulator RPCS3 nears milestone with most PlayStation 3 games now at least 'Ingame'

The developers behind the PlayStation 3 emulator RPCS3 have shared a new compatibility update. This emulation software is now closer than ever to getting all PS3 games not only to boot but also to get past the menus.
Abid Ahsan Shanto, 16 Feb 2026 13:56
Decathlon’s Btwin E-Three 500 e-bike

New Decathlon Btwin E-Three 500 longtail cargo e-bike arrives

The Decathlon Btwin E-Three 500 longtail cargo e-bike is now available in various European countries. This electric bicycle builds on an older model, with a larger battery for a longer assistance range. Other features of the 8-speed bike include Suunto suspension and a range of accessories.
Polly Allcock, 16 Feb 2026 13:39
Microsoft signage stands in front of the corporate campus building

Windows 11 KB5077181: Update causes boot loops, DHCP errors, and sign-in failures

Microsoft’s Windows 11 KB5077181 update (Builds 26100.7840 / 26200.7840) is reportedly triggering infinite boot loops and SENS sign-in failures. Despite officially fixing previous boot bugs, users are encountering new DHCP networking regressions and 0x800f0983 installation errors.
Darryl Linington, 16 Feb 2026 13:12
Eufy’s E20 Motion Sensor has arrived in Europe

Eufy launches motion detector with smart feature in new market

Eufy is now selling the E20 Motion Sensor in Europe, following its recent launch in the US. Designed to trigger linked smart home devices, this model is said to have a smart animal detection feature, which should reduce the number of false alarms caused by pets and wildlife.
Polly Allcock, 16 Feb 2026 12:50
XMG Apex 17 (M25) on a desk

RTX 5060 beats RTX 5070: XMG Apex 17 surprises with unexpectedly strong gaming performance

In our review, we noted that the RTX 5060 laptop powered by the Ryzen 9 9955HX can outperform some RTX 5070 competitors. Now we’re taking a closer look at exactly which RTX-5070 laptops the Apex 17 manages to outperform—and where it falls behind.
Christian Hintze, 16 Feb 2026 12:30
The Philips Hue Essential Light Strip

Cheaper Philips Hue smart light strip now available in Europe

Philips Hue’s new Essential Light Strip is now available at some retailers in Europe. Previously released in the US, this is the brand’s entry-level model with a lower price and a slightly reduced feature set. It offers both white and colored gradient lighting effects, with adjustable brightness and app-based controls.
Polly Allcock, 16 Feb 2026 12:24
The Sony PS5 was released back in 2020 at a starting price of $499.99.

Sony PS6 won’t use full RDNA 5 architecture likely as necessary evil to keep price down

The Sony PlayStation 6 might not use the full RDNA 5 GPU architecture. Reliable leaker KeplerL2 mentions on NeoGaf forums that the PS6 GPU will be a hybrid of RDNA 5 technologies and older architectures. Sony has seemingly used a similar approach with the PS5 and the PS5 Pro.
Fawad Murtaza, 16 Feb 2026 10:00
Next steps will likely depend on appeals and licensing discussions. Pictured: the rear of the Asus ROG Strix G16 G615 gaming laptop.

Asus and Acer hit with laptop and PC sales ban amid Nokia HEVC patent dispute in Germany

A court ruling in Munich has forced Acer and Asus to suspend direct PC and laptop sales in Germany following a patent dispute with Nokia. It’s over the HEVC codec, but retailers can still sell existing inventory as appeals and licensing negotiations move forward.
Abid Ahsan Shanto, 16 Feb 2026 08:45
A decorative image showing a chip with the acronym "AI" written on it

Researchers warn of AI swarms creating fake public opinion

An international team of researchers has issued a warning on the dangers of AI swarms with regard to the manufacturing of fake public consensus, noting that it might have already been happening.
Chibuike Okpara, 16 Feb 2026 08:06
A screenshot from the Super Bowl ad that triggered a new wave of criticism.

Amazon Ring cameras won't send data to Flock Safety following criticism

Amazon subsidiary Ring has unexpectedly ended its partnership with Flock Safety following widespread backlash over a planned AI function. However, the Community Requests feature will remain in place.
Bernhard Rotter, 16 Feb 2026 07:46
Over 80 Xiaomi phones and tablets are expected to get the new update. Pictured: HyperOS background with Android 17 logo on top.

Full Xiaomi, Redmi, and Poco eligibility list for Android 17 HyperOS update appears early

Xiaomi is almost done rolling out the HyperOS 3 update to all the eligible global devices, and after this, the company will soon announce its Android 17 beta program. Ahead of the announcement, a full list of eligible phones and tablets has emerged.
Abid Ahsan Shanto, 16 Feb 2026 07:40
Google Pixel Watch 3 (45mm) 2024 gets a huge 43% discount on Amazon.

Deal | Google Pixel Watch 3 (45mm) 2024 drops to lowest price

The Google Pixel Watch 3 (45mm) 2024 in matte black has dropped to its lowest price ever on Amazon following a substantial $129.32 in savings. The smartwatch integrates Fitbit health tracking and offers complete integration with Google Pixel smartphones.
David Chien, 16 Feb 2026 03:08
Some Philips Hue accessories are receiving a software update

New Philips Hue update improves battery status accuracy

Philips Hue is rolling out an update for a range of its smart home products. This release improvea the accuracy of battery status information and fixes a motion detection issue. According to the company, software version 67.116.1/2.85.1/2.85.5 has been pushed OTA to users of most of its battery-powered accessories.
Polly Allcock, 16 Feb 2026 00:43
Michael from GTA 5 is shown

GTA 5 mod shrinks file size to 2.5GB, as high storage prices force drastic measures

Even with 2013 origins, GTA 5 now demands more than 100GB of install space. A new mod creates a much lighter, more portable version of the title. While players could avoid pricey storage upgrades, they may decide that the visual downgrades forced by the GTA 5 mod aren’t acceptable.
Adam Corsetti, 16 Feb 2026 00:24
Feb 15
Panther Lake-U Core Ultra 7 is both noticeably slower and less efficient than the Core Ultra X7

First Core Ultra 7 355 benchmarks are in and they're nowhere near as good as the Core Ultra X7

Panther Lake-H has proven itself to be quite impressive thus far, but the lesser Panther Lake-U series loses a lot of what makes the architecture unique from predecessors.
Allen Ngo, 15 Feb 2026 22:50
Lenovo Legion Go 2

€1,500 for Lenovo's Legion Go 2 gaming handheld with the Z2 Extreme is just too much

Lenovo's current gaming handheld Legion Go 2 convinces with a great OLED screen, but you can already get the same gaming performance for significantly less money.
Andreas Osthoff, 15 Feb 2026 22:43

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Notebookcheck, 2021-10-10 (Update: 2026-01-16)