Expert Reviews and News on Laptops, Smartphones and Tech Innovations

RPCS3 PS3 emulator shown on PC monitor (Image source: RPCS3 with edits)

70% of PS3 games now playable on RPCS3 emulator, as official PS5 support lags behind

PS3 emulation has challenged talented developers to replicate unique console specs. Through a team effort, an open-source option has set a new benchmark for playable PS3 games. Without the RPCS3 emulator, cloud streaming on the PS...

Adam Corsetti, 20 Jan 2026 03:34

The Realme Neo 8 has a partially transparent back panel (Image source: Realme)

Realme Neo 8 to launch shortly with Snapdragon 8 Gen 5, big battery and partly transparent chassis

The affordable Realme Neo 8 flagship phone will launch in just a few days and can already be seen in new teaser pictures. Realme is offering a partially transparent housing and a particularly large battery to stand out from the co...

Hannes Brecher, 20 Jan 2026 03:30

The update to Polar OS 5 is now available on five different smartwatches (Image source: Polar)

Polar OS 5 update brings new features to Polar Vantage M3, Grit X2 Pro and other smartwatches

The Polar Vantage M3, Grit X2 Pro, Ignite 3 and two other smartwatches are receiving a major firmware update to Polar OS 5. The latest operating system offers new widgets as well as numerous convenience features and improvements.

Hannes Brecher, 20 Jan 2026 03:21

The first 35mm Leica Noctilux lens is supposed to debut next week (Image source: LeicaRumors)

Leica Noctilux M 1.2/35 ASPH. price leaks, compact full-frame lens to launch shortly

For over 50 years, the Leica Noctilux was only offered with a focal length of 50mm, until the range was expanded with the 75mm Noctilux in 2017. In a few days, a particularly fast 35mm Noctilux is expected to follow, and a leak ha...

Hannes Brecher, 20 Jan 2026 03:10

Arlo has launched the new Ultra 3 4K HDR security camera (Image source: Arlo)

New Arlo Ultra 3 security camera comes with 4K HDR, 180-degree FOV and AI

Arlo has revealed two new smart home security cameras called the Ultra 3 and Pro 6. The Ultra 3 features 4K HDR and a 180-degree field of view, while the Pro 6 is more affordable. Both come with AI features.

Marcus Schwarten, 20 Jan 2026 03:01

The Redmi K90 Pro Max. (Image source: Redmi)

Xiaomi Redmi K100 series leak reveals early details

Details about the Redmi K100 series have surfaced online, with codenames and model numbers now revealed. The upcoming lineup will succeed the recently launched K90 series and is expected to feature high-end Snapdragon processors.

Huzefa Baloch, 20 Jan 2026 01:35

The Ayaneo Pocket Vert is a vertical retro gaming device with a premium build. (Image source: Ayaneo)

Ayaneo ends Pocket Vert's Indiegogo campaign early for the benefit of backers

Ayaneo has indeed turned a new leaf, as it has announced that Indiegogo backers will receive their Pocket Vert orders earlier than originally announced. The crowdfunding campaign has ended, and shipping is expected to begin by the...

Habeeb Onawole, 20 Jan 2026 00:56

Location in Fable Reboot is shown (Image source: screenshot, Xbox Gaming YouTube with edits)

Fable reboot leak includes concept art with new and old towns before Xbox Developer Direct

Fable fans may not need to wait until the next Xbox showcase to revisit Albion. Concept art from a former developer includes new locations and familiar towns from multiple entries in the series. Microsoft could pinpoint a Fable re...

Adam Corsetti, 20 Jan 2026 00:25

The Ayaneo Pocket S Mini has a similar display to the Pocket Air Mini. (Image source: Ayaneo)

Ayaneo reveals additional details of Pocket S Mini premium compact handheld

Following an initial unveiling in September 2025, Ayaneo has now provided new details about the upcoming Pocket S Mini handheld. The manufacturer has revealed the display type and design details, including a new color. However, it...

Habeeb Onawole, 19 Jan 2026 22:47

The Anker Prime 67-watt GaN fast charger is now available with a 30% discount on Amazon. (Image source: Anker)

Deal | Affordable triple-port Anker Prime fast charger is now 30% cheaper on Amazon, courtesy of ongoing sale

The 67-watt Anker Prime GaN charger has gone on sale, offering prospective buyers a lucrative opportunity to snag a decently well-equipped fast charger for a discounted price. With triple output ports and a compact footprint, the ...

Sambit Saha, 19 Jan 2026 22:43

The SwitchBot AI Hub comes with local AI features but also a paid subscription (Image source: SwitchBot)

SwitchBot AI Hub offers local AI power for fast and complex smart home automation

SwitchBot is now offering a new smart home hub that is intended to provide many useful features and utilizes local AI instead of a cloud-powered system. This might be beneficial from a privacy standpoint and opens up new possibili...

Silvio Werner, 19 Jan 2026 22:40

The Honor Watch GS 5 features a lightweight case, partially made of aluminum. (Image source: Honor)

Affordable Honor Watch GS 5 with 1,500 nits AMOLED display designed to assess risk of heart problems

The Honor Watch GS 5 promises excellent value for money with its aluminum casing, 1,500-nit AMOLED display and a battery life of up to 23 days. The most interesting feature of the watch, however, is its purported ability to assess...

Hannes Brecher, 19 Jan 2026 21:29

The MacBook Pro is expected to be equipped with a tandem OLED display soon. (Image source: Daniel Korpai)

Apple to switch five products to OLED displays, OLED panel for MacBook Pro goes into production

The first MacBook Pro with an OLED display is now edging closer to release, as Samsung Display is said to have already begun production of suitable tandem OLED panels. Meanwhile, Apple is reportedly planning to switch five product...

Hannes Brecher, 19 Jan 2026 20:51

The faulty Windows update KB5074109 can cause a permanently black screen immediately after login. (Source: Microsoft)

Windows 11: January's Patch Tuesday causes black screens in some cases

The latest security update for Windows 11 is causing significant issues on numerous systems. Reports indicate that the KB5074109 package is resulting in a black screen immediately after system startup on certain hardware configura...

Andreas Jakobi, 19 Jan 2026 20:49

RedMagic's latest smartphone release is apparently more than just a visual refresh. (Image source: RedMagic)

Now with Golden AquaCore cooling: RedMagic updates gaming smartphone with new version

RedMagic has refreshed its gaming smartphone with a new version. Available with 24 GB of RAM, 1 TB of storage and a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset, the new release hopes to outperform RedMagic's original model with supe...

Alex Alderson, 19 Jan 2026 20:39

The Wokyis M5 is a new Thunderbolt 5 docking station for the Mac Mini (Image source: Wokyis)

Wokyis M5: TB5 docking station for Mac Mini adds M.2 slot and DisplayPort

A new docking station for the Mac Mini is now available in a significantly more powerful model variant. The manufacturer is targeting customers who are looking for a unique look with some retro charm but also want to expand the ma...

Silvio Werner, 19 Jan 2026 20:37

A picture of the Rockstar North Edinburgh building (image source: r/gaming)

Rockstar North office reopens after boiler blast as GTA VI development remains on track

Fire crews responded to an early-morning boiler room explosion at Rockstar North’s Edinburgh headquarters, containing the blaze and securing structural damage without any reported injuries. The incident, currently believed to be c...

Rahim Amir Noorali, 19 Jan 2026 20:37

The 49-inch, 240 Hz Samsung Odyssey G9 OLED gaming monitor is $800 off on Amazon for a limited time. (Image source: Samsung, edited)

Deal | Massive 49-inch Samsung Odyssey G9 ultrawide gaming monitor is now cheaper by $800 on Amazon

The 49-inch Samsung Odyssey G9 OLED is a 32:9 curved gaming monitor with a resolution of 5120 x 1440 and a speedy 240 Hz refresh rate. Thanks to an ongoing sale on Amazon, the Odyssey G9 is now available for an all-time low price ...

Sambit Saha, 19 Jan 2026 20:19

Casio’s G-Shock GX-56UBB-1 watch is an upgraded version of the GX-56BB-1 (pictured). (Image source: Casio)

Upgraded version of classic G-Shock coming to more countries soon

Casio has announced that the upgraded G-Shock GX-56UBB-1 watch is on the way to Europe. Already available in another market, this model has a newer module and an LED backlight. Other features include support for world time, multip...

Polly Allcock, 19 Jan 2026 20:02

The Golden Saga Limited Edition contains various golden accents. (Image source: RedMagic)

RedMagic relaunches powerful OLED gaming tablet with new version

RedMagic has kicked off 2026 by refreshing one of its popular gaming tablets. Available to order globally, the new model adopts a golden finish with a gold-plated cooling system and sapphire glass back plate to distinguish itself ...

Alex Alderson, 19 Jan 2026 20:02

The Casio W-800HD-1AV watch (pictured) is on the way to the EU. (Image source: Casio, edited)

New Casio watch with metal strap and square digital display coming to more countries

The Casio W-800HD-1AV watch has been officially confirmed for release in the EU. Product listings at the brand’s online stores in countries like the Netherlands validate earlier price rumors. This mode has a square digital display...

Polly Allcock, 19 Jan 2026 19:58

32-inch Samsung Odyssey G8 OLED gaming monitor front shown at angle (Image source: Samsung with edits)

Deal | The 32-inch Samsung Odyssey G8 4K smart OLED gaming monitor sinks to a new low Amazon sale price

Now at its most affordable price, the Odyssey G8 replaces multiple screens in a setup. In addition to its smart TV features, the 32-inch OLED monitor delivers smooth, responsive gameplay. Samsung’s 4K QD-OLED panel excels with a h...

Adam Corsetti, 19 Jan 2026 19:37

Minisforum will sell the DeskMini BD395i Max exclusively with AMD Strix Halo APUs. (Image source: Minisforum)

DeskMini BD395i Max to bring AMD Strix Halo power to Mini-ITX motherboard market later this year

Minisforum has confirmed initial details about its first AMD Strix Halo-powered Mini-ITX motherboard. Launching later this year under the DeskMini series, the BD395i Max will feature a full-length PCIe slot too, although this is u...

Alex Alderson, 19 Jan 2026 19:32

Honor Magic8 Pro (Image source: Daniel Schmidt)

Honor Magic8 Pro: Strange behavior with automatic brightness control

In our review, the Honor Magic8 Pro proved to be one of the smartphones with a super-bright display, reaching up to 6,000 cd/m² and going down to 1 cd/m². However, there is a problem with the minimum brightness.

Daniel Schmidt, 19 Jan 2026 19:30

The RetroBox pairs a small LCD screen with a VHS player (Image source: RetroBox)

RetroBox TV offers retro design, built-in VHS player and modern connectivity options

The RetroBox combines the charm of a CRT TV and an integrated VHS player with modern features, including an HDMI port, so that both old fashioned video tapes and Netflix movies can be watched on movie nights.

Hannes Brecher, 19 Jan 2026 19:27

Far from practical, but still fun. There is a lot you can do with a jailbroken Kindle (Image Source: Notebookcheck)

Free your Kindle: A guide to jailbreaking and installing apps

CheckMag Jailbreaking your Kindle with WinterBreak or AdBreak is easier than you might think, and when combined with KOReader and KindleForge, Amazon's e-reader can be made far better than Amazon would want.

David Devey, 19 Jan 2026 19:03

The Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 (2025) looks quite sleek in the Platinum White colorway. (Image source: Alex Waetzel for Notebookcheck)

Deal | Big discount: Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 (2025) with RTX 5070 Ti in "Open Box Excellent" condition records $338 price drop

The Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 (2025) with the AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 APU, an RTX 5070 Ti laptop GPU, 32 GB of LPDDR5X memory, and 1 TB of storage has dropped by more than $300 at Best Buy. The ROG Zephyrus G14 gaming laptop also brings...

Fawad Murtaza, 19 Jan 2026 18:53

Deal | From $4.99 to $0.00: New giveaway available for limited time with ad-free experience

Epic Games' latest giveaway for mobile gamers will not be around for long. Available for less than 72 hours, the storefront's latest free game includes Fortnite unlocks and an ad-free gaming experience, all without having to spend...

Alex Alderson, 19 Jan 2026 18:38

The Honor Magic 8 RSR Porsche Design offers an optional camera grip and teleconverter (Image source: Honor)

Honor Magic 8 RSR Porsche Design debuts with 200MP telephoto camera and versatile camera kit

The Magic 8 RSR Porsche Design is Honor’s new "super flagship" that supposedly stands out with its high-end camera setup with an optional grip and teleconverter. The phone also comes with a rather unusual design.

Hannes Brecher, 19 Jan 2026 18:11

An artist's illustration showing a star and a planet. (Image source: WikiImages - Pixabay)

Astronomers discover a unique white dwarf that continues to eject matter in a mysterious way

Astronomers have discovered a white dwarf that emits jets of matter in a mysterious way. And while some hypotheses have been put forward, the mystery remains unsolved, and further studies will need to be conducted to unravel it.

Alexis Stegmann, 19 Jan 2026 18:09

The Konkr Fit will run Windows out of the box. (Image source: Ayaneo)

Ayaneo unveils Konkr Fit Windows handheld powered by AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 470

Ayaneo has unveiled the second handheld under its budget Konkr subsidiary. The new device will launch as the Konkr Fit and will run Windows out of the box. It will also have an AMD Ryzen processor.

Habeeb Onawole, 19 Jan 2026 17:31

The Casio Hokusai-inspired JF-M200-TJ calculators (pictured) are expected to be released globally. (Image source: Casio)

Casio launching two new limited edition calculators with Hokusai-inspired designs

Two limited edition Casio JF-M200-TJ calculators with designs inspired by Japanese artist Hokusai are on the way. They will launch in Japan in the near future, and are expected to be released in other markets worldwide. Features i...

Polly Allcock, 19 Jan 2026 17:16

Decathlon’s new Rockrider E-EXPL 140 e-bike (pictured) is now available in Europe. (Image source: Decathlon)

Cheaper Decathlon Rockrider E-EXPL 140 e-bike now available

The Decathlon Rockrider E-EXPL 140 29" semi-rigid electric mountain bike has been released in European countries, including the UK and France. This e-MTB is relatively cheap and offers features like a 78 Nm torque motor. Plus, the...

Polly Allcock, 19 Jan 2026 17:10

The new 10 kg Xiaomi Mijia Washing Machine Pro (pictured) has launched in China. (Image source: Xiaomi)

Xiaomi launches new Washing Machine Pro with super electrolysis technology

The Xiaomi Mijia Washing Machine Pro Super Electrolysis Smart Wash and Dry 10kg has been launched in China. It arrives as a smaller version of a recently released machine, with similar features like super electrolysis technology, ...

Polly Allcock, 19 Jan 2026 17:06

The OnePlus 16 tipped not release globally. Pictured: the OnePlus 15 with fairy lights around it. (Image source: Notebookcheck)

OnePlus 16 may not rival Galaxy S27 globally as its international launch gets questioned

While it hasn't been long since the OnePlus 15 launched globally, reports about its successor have started to emerge. A recent rumor suggests that the brand's 2026 flagship phone won't officially make it outside the Chinese market...

Abid Ahsan Shanto, 19 Jan 2026 17:05

The SER10 series will match its predecessors with 10 Gbps Ethernet, SER9 Max pictured. (Image source: Beelink)

With 10 Gbps Ethernet and AMD Gorgon Point: Beelink launches new SER10 Pro and SER10 Max mini-PCs with DDR5 and LPDDR5X RAM

Beelink has detailed a new set of high-end mini-PCs that it will be selling globally. Built around 10 Gbps Ethernet and AMD Gorgon Point APUs, the SER10 Pro and SER10 Max will differ in terms of their I/O and their memory configur...

Alex Alderson, 19 Jan 2026 16:46

TrimUI has only teased the design of its next gaming handheld. (Image source: TrimUI)

TrimUI Brick Pro revealed as new Anbernic RG477V rival with major upgrades over original gaming handheld

TrimUI has previewed its next gaming handheld release. A return to its popular Game Boy lookalike, the TrimUI Brick Pro should serve as a cheaper alternative to the Anbernic RG477V thanks to a larger display and a pair of built-in...

Alex Alderson, 19 Jan 2026 16:42

The Xiaomi 17 Ultra by Leica is set to launch globally as the Leica Leitzphone powered by Xiaomi. (Image source: Xiaomi)

Xiaomi 17: Compact flagship to be joined by Xiaomi 17 Ultra and Leica Leitzphone powered by Xiaomi in global releases

A new leak has outlined Xiaomi's upcoming global release plans for its latest high-end smartphones. Unlike last year, Xiaomi will be bringing three flagships to its global fanbase, although not the innovative Xiaomi 17 Pro or the ...

Alex Alderson, 19 Jan 2026 16:36

The Pixel 10a is expected to be the spitting image of the Pixel 9a, latter pictured. (Image source: Google - edited)

Google Pixel: Latest rumours throw cold water on cheaper pricing and February release for new smartphone

New rumours have shed fresh light on Google's next smartphone and its imminent availability. Unfortunately, the forthcoming release may not be available as cheaply or as soon as earlier leaks indicated.

Alex Alderson, 19 Jan 2026 16:34

Old World is 90% off on Steam until January 22. (Image source: Steam)

Deal | Challenging 4X strategy game with dynasty focus under $4 on Steam

One of the smartest Civilization alternatives in recent years is back at its lowest price on Steam. Old World blends classic 4X gameplay with role-playing and dynasty mechanics and is currently discounted by 90% until January 22, ...

Marius Müller, 19 Jan 2026 16:34

The Dell Pro 14 Plus screen is a bit too dim for outdoor usage (image source: Benjamin Herzig)

Shooting itself in the foot: Dell should not put cheap screens into €1,500 laptops

When we tested the Dell Pro 14 Plus laptop, we were shocked by the quality of its screen. It is just not up to par, despite the fact that we chose the top model of the PB14255 for the German market. The worst thing: Dell has bette...

Benjamin Herzig, 19 Jan 2026 16:25

A Song of Sunlight was released on Steam on January 16, 2026. (Image source: Steam)

Steam: Free indie RPG launches with unique combat system and very strong ratings (94% positive)

A Song of Sunlight is a new indie RPG that stands out for its emotional story, rich atmosphere, and a unique twist on turn-based combat. The game is free to play and currently holds a 94% positive rating on Steam.

Marius Müller, 19 Jan 2026 16:24

The Minecraft community has recreated large parts of New York City at a 1:1 scale. (Image source: MineFact via YouTube)

Minecraft milestone: Community recreates New York at a 1:1 scale – open for everyone to explore

An international community project has nearly completed a 1:1 recreation of New York City in Minecraft. The impressively detailed build is gaining traction on YouTube and Reddit, and players can explore it for themselves.

Marius Müller, 19 Jan 2026 16:11

The full schedule of Steam events for 2026 has been revealed. (Image source: F1 Digitals/Pixabay; Steam)

Gamers can mark their calendars: All important Steam events in 2026

In addition to the four major seasonal sales – spring, summer, fall, and winter – players can once again look forward to a wide range of smaller themed events this year. Valve has now officially announced when these will take plac...

Marius Müller, 19 Jan 2026 16:06

The Magic 8 Pro Air is powered by the Dimensity 9500. Pictured: a promo shot showing the back of the phone. (Image source: Honor)

Honor Magic 8 Pro Air launches as 6.1mm-thin flagship phone with 5,500mAh battery

Honor Magic 8 Pro Air is now official in China, positioning itself as a thin flagship phone powered by the flagship Dimensity 9500 SoC. Measuring 6.1mm, this slim smartphone has a starting launch price of around $645.

Abid Ahsan Shanto, 19 Jan 2026 15:42

Casio’s Beside Line BLS-100D-1AV (pictured) and BLS-100D-7AV watches could launch soon. (Image source: Casio, edited)

New Casio analog watches with sapphire crystal on the way

The Casio Beside Line BLS-100D-1AV and BLS-100D-7AV watches have been listed on the brand’s official international website. These smaller analog timepieces have metal casing and straps, and a sapphire crystal. According to the pro...

Polly Allcock, 19 Jan 2026 15:27

The Huawei Watch Ultimate Design Royal Gold smartwatch (pictured) is now available in Europe. (Image source: Huawei)

Premium Huawei smartwatch with ceramic bezel now available in Europe

The Huawei Watch Ultimate Design Royal Gold smartwatch is now available in Europe. Revealed in 2025, this is a premium wearable with casing made from liquid metal, a ceramic bezel and gold plating. It offers a wide range of featur...

Polly Allcock, 19 Jan 2026 15:22

The Retroid Dual Screen Add-On connects via USB-C to a compatible device. (Image source: Retroid)

Retroid Dual Screen Add-on is back in stock, but only in purple for now

Retroid has restocked its Dual Screen Add-on accessory after being out of stock for a while. However, buyers are limited to only one color option, while the variant for non-Retroid devices is still out of stock.

Habeeb Onawole, 19 Jan 2026 15:11

Hisense’s E8S RGB MiniLED TV (pictured) has been launched in China. (Image source: Hisense, edited)

Hisense launches new RGB MiniLED TV with 180Hz refresh rate

The Hisense E8S RGB MiniLED TV has arrived in China. This slim 4K model has a native 180Hz refresh rate and will be available in three sizes up to 100 inches. It appears to be the Chinese version of a new model which was recently ...

Polly Allcock, 19 Jan 2026 14:35

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