Expert Reviews and News on Laptops, Smartphones and Tech Innovations

From left to right (pictured), the Shanling M0 Pro, FiiO Snowsky Echo Mini, and the FiiO M21. (Image source: Shanling, FiiO)

6 feature-loaded Digital Audio Players that are surprisingly affordable

CheckMag Budget digital audio players can now deliver premium features which were once exclusive to flagship models. From the $60 FiiO Snowsky Echo Mini to the $129 Shanling M0 Pro, this list sheds light on 6 affordable DAPs that offer mor...

Anubhav Sharma, 22 Aug 2025 18:12

MSI offers the Claw A8 in two launch colours, both with 24 GB RAM and a Ryzen Z2 Extreme APU. (Image source: MSI)

MSI Claw A8 released in France with lower than expected pricing

MSI is gradually and silently releasing more batches of its first AMD Ryzen-powered gaming handheld in more countries. Having made its way to Germany last month, the MSI Claw A8 has now reached France but with significantly lower ...

Alex Alderson, 22 Aug 2025 18:06

The XU35 H50 in one of its proposed launch colours. (Image source: XU Retro)

XU35 H50: XU Retro reveals new gaming handheld as direct Mangmi Air X challenger

XU Retro has already responded to Mangmi's first release. Apparently arriving in October, the XU Retro XU35 H50 will take on the Mangmi Air X at the same $75 starting price and comparable hardware to boot.

Alex Alderson, 22 Aug 2025 18:02

The Gigabyte MO27Q28G should be relatively affordable given its usage of LG's latest Primary Tandem OLED panel technology. (Image source: Gigabyte)

Gigabyte reveals MO27Q28G global release date with pricing to see off LG UltraGear OLED 27GX700A

Gigabyte has revealed a new global release date for its first Primary Tandem OLED gaming monitor. Launching next month, the Gigabyte MO27Q28G will undercut the LG UltraGear OLED 27GX700A by a massive margin despite utilising the s...

Alex Alderson, 22 Aug 2025 17:59

A next-gen iPhone render. (Image source: @AppleTrack)

iPhone 18 series tipped to come with refined Camera Control

Apple will update the technology behind its dedicated Camera Control for iPhones - but not until 2026, according to a new leak. The 18 series' extra button might become more like the Android counterparts found on select smartphone...

Deirdre O'Donnell, 22 Aug 2025 17:52

In-app purchases: Free games can be expensive

According to the European Consumer Centre Germany, in-app purchases can cause ostensibly free games to result in high bills; parents should review protection mechanisms, as the advice on the topic has been updated leading up to Ga...

Ulrich Mathey, 22 Aug 2025 17:45

The Samsung Galaxy S24 FE. (Image source: Samsung)

Galaxy S25 FE: Leak reveals specs of Samsung's upcoming affordable flagship phone

The Samsung Galaxy S25 FE is expected to launch in September as the successor to last year’s Galaxy S24 FE. According to a new leak, the device could feature the Exynos 2400 chipset and a 4,900 mAh battery with 45W fast charging. ...

Huzefa Baloch, 22 Aug 2025 17:41

Apple TV, as part of Apple One, won't be more expensive. (Image source: Apple)

Price increase incoming: Apple TV+ to become more expensive in the USA

Is Apple also jumping on the bandwagon of recent price hikes on streaming platforms? It sure looks like it, as prices for Apple TV+ are rising significantly in the USA, especially Apple One.

Andreas Sebayang, 22 Aug 2025 17:39

The design of the Google Pixel 10 series has barely changed. (Image source: Google)

Google comments on the old design of the Pixel 10, Pixel Tablet, Pixel Ring and Pixel Flip

The Google Pixel 10, Pixel 10 Pro and Pixel 10 Pro Fold look almost identical to their predecessors. Google has now commented on the timing of the next redesign in an interview and answered questions about a possible Pixel Flip an...

Hannes Brecher, 22 Aug 2025 17:35

Aeterna Lucis banner with Hornet from Silksong (Image source: Sony PlayStation, Team Cherry with edits)

Hollow Knight: Silksong release date news has GTA 6 effect, delaying another Metroidvania game

GTA 6 isn’t the only popular title publishers have been monitoring. With massive Hollow Knight: Silksong sales expected in September, Aeterna Lucis is delaying its arrival. Offering comparable open-ended platform action, the Metro...

Adam Corsetti, 22 Aug 2025 17:35

Soundcore Sleep A30 now officially available. (Image source: Anker)

Soundcore Sleep A30: ANC earbuds designed for comfortable sleep now available

The Anker Soundcore Sleep A30 earbuds are now officially available for sale. Designed for noisy sleep environments, the earbuds promise to block out snoring, monitor sleep quality and promote restful sleep.

Silvio Werner, 22 Aug 2025 17:33

The Huawei Mate TV offers plenty of smart features through HarmonyOS 5.0. (Image source: Black MOB)

Huawei Mate TV announced with unique multitouch trackpad, stylus and HarmonyOS 5.0

The Huawei Mate TV demonstrates just how innovative smart TVs can be. Besides offering a 5,000-nit display and a wide range of smart features powered by HarmonyOS 5.0, it also comes equipped with an intriguing multitouch remote co...

Hannes Brecher, 22 Aug 2025 17:32

The MS-S1 Max is among the first mini AI workstations to feature USB4 V2 connectivity. (Image Source: Minisforum)

Minisforum teases MS-S1 Max mini PC powered by AMD's Ryzen AI Max+ 395 APU with dual USB4 V2 connectors

Even though the MS-S1 Max model has been teased since May, Minisforum had not previously revealed any other spec except the obvious Ryzen AI Max+ 395 APU. The latest teaser finally reveals the case design, maximum TDP specs and th...

Bogdan Solca, 22 Aug 2025 17:23

Image from the game Final Fantasy XIV Online on PlayStation. (Image source: PlayStation)

This Final Fantasy game could be released on Nintendo Switch 2

This game of the Final Fantasy license could be released on the Nintendo Switch 2 and it is excellent news for thousands of players around the world. However, it will be necessary to wait for official announcements before drawing ...

Alexis Stegmann, 22 Aug 2025 17:19

Amazfit’s Helio Armband (pictured) is sold out in many countries. (Image source: Amazfit)

New Amazfit Helio Armband accessory appears at retailer after selling out

Amazfit’s recently released Helio Armband accessory has been sold out for some time in the US and various European countries. Now, it is available to pre-order at Amazon for some customers. Designed for the Helio Strap fitness tra...

Polly Allcock, 22 Aug 2025 17:04

Ugreen’s MagFlow 25W Magnetic Power Bank (pictured) can be pre-ordered in Europe. (Image source: Ugreen)

Ugreen Qi2.2 certified MagFlow Power Bank now available to pre-order

Ugreen is now accepting pre-orders for the new MagFlow 25W Magnetic Power Bank in Europe. This is the first Qi2.2 certified charging accessory of its kind. It can be used to charge three devices simultaneously via the wireless cha...

Polly Allcock, 22 Aug 2025 16:55

Govee’s Outdoor Tree Lights (pictured) will launch in September 2025. (Image source: Govee)

New Govee Outdoor Tree Lights with Matter on the way

The Govee Outdoor Tree Lights have been spotted on the brand’s ‘Coming Soon’ page. Launching in the coming weeks, the set includes three smart lights to sit at the base of a tree. They offer white and colored lighting with dynamic...

Polly Allcock, 22 Aug 2025 16:48

The DJI Mini 5 Pro is expected to weigh less than 250 g despite its various rumoured hardware upgrades. (Image source: via DroneXL)

DJI Mini 5 Pro: Key pricing details leak with Standard Combo and Fly More Combo packages rumoured before September 2025 release

Pricing for DJI's official Mini 5 Pro accessories have emerged online from a typically reliable source. Said to be launching in under a month, the DJI Mini 5 Pro could well cost as much as the outgoing Mini 4 Pro based on Jasper E...

Alex Alderson, 22 Aug 2025 16:08

On August 23, the original GTA 6 patrol car will go up for auction in Englewood, Colorado. (Image source: bid.kraftauctions.com)

A dream come true for fans: Real GTA 6 police car goes up for auction

One lucky GTA fan will soon have the chance to own one of the franchise's most iconic collectibles: the real-life car that inspired Vice City's police vehicles and was later used for promotional events. This unique piece of gaming...

Marius Müller, 22 Aug 2025 15:58

The DJI Mic 3 will be smaller than the Mic 2 and slightly larger than the Mic Mini. (Image source: via DroneDJ)

DJI Mic 3: Pricing for new wireless microphone leaks before August 2025 release

DJI has now confirmed that its next wireless microphone will be available before the end of the month. In the meantime, a typically reliable source has revealed US pricing information ahead of schedule.

Alex Alderson, 22 Aug 2025 15:48

The AYN Thor in one of its four launch colours. (Image source: AYN Technologies)

AYN Thor release and shipment dates confirmed with Ayaneo Pocket DS beating pricing

AYN Technologies has already confirmed that the AYN Thor will initially launch for $150 less than the Ayaneo Pocket DS. Now, the company has revealed from when its dual OLED display clamshell gaming handheld will be available to p...

Alex Alderson, 22 Aug 2025 15:11

The Belkin UltraCharge Collection wireless chargers support Qi2.2 25W fast wireless charging. (Image source: Belkin)

Belkin announces UltraCharge series of wireless chargers that support Qi2 25W fast charging

Belkin has released a trio of new wireless chargers that support the new Qi2.2 wireless charging standard. The three chargers can charge a supported device wirelessly at up to 25W. They are also backwards compatible with devices t...

Habeeb Onawole, 22 Aug 2025 15:00

Casio’s G-Shock GMC-B2100Y-1A watch (pictured) is launching in more European countries. (Image source: Casio)

New Casio G-Shock metal watch with unusual band coming to more countries

The Casio G-Shock Full Metal GMC-B2100Y-1A watch is about to be released in more European countries. Already available in the UK, this model has a metal bezel and casing and a metal-look resin strap. The timepiece has an analog di...

Polly Allcock, 22 Aug 2025 14:46

The CHIME telescope (Image source: CHIME, Andre Renard, Dunlap Institute for Astronomy & Astrophysics, and University of Toronto; cropped)

Astronomers detect the brightest fast radio burst ever, 130 million light-years away

A team of scientists just detected the brightest fast radio burst ever documented — a millisecond-long flash from a nearby galaxy that has given astronomers an unprecedentedly clear view of these cosmic phenomena.

Chibuike Okpara, 22 Aug 2025 14:40

Xiaomi’s Smart Temperature and Humidity Monitor 3 Mini (pictured) has reached Europe. (Image source: Xiaomi)

Xiaomi smart mini indoor air sensor now available in Europe

Xiaomi has released the Smart Temperature and Humidity Monitor 3 Mini. Currently available in one country and expected to reach more in the near future, this is a compact smart home device. It can be used to track the temperature ...

Polly Allcock, 22 Aug 2025 14:40

The Philips Hue Devote Slim ceiling light is discounted at Amazon. (Image source: Amazon)

Deal | New Philips Hue Devote Slim ceiling light now up to 25% off

Philips Hue’s recently released Devote Slim ceiling light is currently discounted at Amazon in European countries like the UK, the Netherlands and Spain. Customers can currently get up to 25% off one size, and there is a second di...

Polly Allcock, 22 Aug 2025 14:30

Dyson’s V8 Cycle Cordless Vacuum Cleaner has launched in Asia. (Image source: Dyson)

Dyson launches new powerful V8 Cyclone Cordless Vacuum

Dyson has released a new cordless vacuum cleaner: the V8 Cyclone. This new model is now available in markets like Taiwan and China. It is said to be 30% more powerful than older vacuums in the series, and it also has a 50% longer ...

Polly Allcock, 22 Aug 2025 14:25

The Aokzoe Mini PC first surfaced in May. (Image source: Aokzoe)

Aokzoe Mini PC launching globally with Ryzen AI Max+ 395 to rival GMKtec EVO-X2 and other AMD Strix Halo mini-PCs

Aokzoe has reiterated that its first mini-PC is still set for a global launch later this year. The company's second release of 2025 after the Aokzoe A1X, the Aokzoe Mini PC will rival some of the most powerful mini-PCs around than...

Alex Alderson, 22 Aug 2025 14:23

The Tern Vektron S10 Airstream special edition features a Bosch Performance Line motor with 65 Nm torque (Image source: Tern via Electrek)

Tern launches new Vektron S10 Airstream folding e-bike with Bosch Performance Line motor

Tern has launched a new Vektron S10 premium folding e-bike in collaboration with Airstream. The e-bike comes with Airstream’s polished aluminum aesthetic, a foldable design, a Bosch Performance Line motor with pedal assist up to 2...

Abhinav Fating, 22 Aug 2025 14:21

The Zotac Zone Pro running its Manjaro Linux fork. (Image source: Notebookcheck)

Zotac Zone Pro: Launch timeline revealed for first true Steam Deck OLED rival

Zotac has re-branded its second Zotac Zone gaming handheld. Initially shown in January, the device now known as the Zotac Zone Pro is slated to launch this October running Linux with OLED display and dual trackpads but a comparati...

Alex Alderson, 22 Aug 2025 14:18

Xiaomi may replace the Poco M7 Pro, pictured, with a significantly more powerful option branded as the Poco M8 Pro. (Image source: Xiaomi)

Xiaomi Poco M8 Pro to receive global release as surprise Redmi Note 15 Pro Plus rebrand

Early findings suggest that Xiaomi is shaking up its Poco smartphone series after the release of the Redmi Note 15 Pro Plus. Contrary to earlier rumours, the Poco M8 Pro may be Poco's version of the Redmi Note 15 Pro Plus rather t...

Alex Alderson, 22 Aug 2025 13:20

The Redmi Note 15 Pro Plus in its Azure Blue colourway. (Image source: Xiaomi)

Xiaomi reveals Redmi Note 15 Pro Plus global release plans with battery and camera changes mooted

Xiaomi has just published the first Redmi Note 15 Pro Plus firmware following the device's initial release. Based on early findings, the global Redmi Note 15 Pro Plus will differ from its Chinese counterpart in several areas, incl...

Alex Alderson, 22 Aug 2025 13:15

The Mix Flip 2 Diamond Limited Edition comes in Cherry Red and Glacier White colour options. (Image source: Xiaomi)

Xiaomi refreshes Mix Flip 2 following Honor Magic V Flip2 launch

Xiaomi has refreshed the Mix Flip 2 with a Limited Edition model. Arriving as the Diamond Limited Edition, the new Xiaomi Mix Flip 2 arrives with an embedded lab-grown diamond and a special nano leather back panel less than 24 hou...

Alex Alderson, 22 Aug 2025 13:08

The RedMagic 11 Pro should directly replace the RedMagic 10S Pro, pictured. (Image source: RedMagic)

RedMagic 11 Pro leads current flagship smartphones in early benchmark with Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite and 16 GB RAM

An early benchmark has revealed initial details about what is thought to be Nubia's RedMagic 11 Pro gaming smartphone. Sporting 16 GB of RAM and a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 chipset, the RedMagic 11 Pro enjoys a healthy perform...

Alex Alderson, 22 Aug 2025 13:03

Meta splits its superintelligence labs into four units amid a strategy reboot

Meta is carving Superintelligence Labs into research, superintelligence, products, and infrastructure to speed decisions and tighten accountability.

Nathan Ali, 22 Aug 2025 12:58

The Asus ROG Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X are priced at $549.99 and $899.99, respectively. (Image source: Asus, Unsplash, edited)

Potentially annoying: ROG Xbox Ally full screen experience requires restart for optimizations after switching from Windows desktop

The Asus ROG Xbox Ally and the ROG Xbox Ally X are landing in October with a brand-new Windows handheld gaming experience. The new UI has considerable under-the-hood improvements. Windows Central took the ROG Xbox Ally for a spin,...

Fawad Murtaza, 22 Aug 2025 12:45

New life-sim RPG launches on Steam with promising reviews and 20% launch discount in tow

Discounty has launched on Steam to strong initial reviews, with cozy shop management and small-town drama. Critics praise its writing, charm, and depth. It's on sale right now with a 20% launch discount.

Anubhav Sharma, 22 Aug 2025 12:33

The unreleased Casio G-Shock GW-BX5600 could have an MIP display like the DW-H5600-MB (pictured). (Image source: Casio)

Casio G-Shock GW-BX5600 MIP square watch appears in leaked images

Casio’s rumored G-Shock GW-BX5600 watch may have appeared in leaked images. Found on a Chinese social media site, the pictures show a square digital watch which is said to have a memory-in-pixel display. Other features are expecte...

Polly Allcock, 22 Aug 2025 12:19

The unreleased eufyCam S4 has appeared in leaked images (above). (Image source: AnkerInsider)

Anker eufyCam S4 with solar panel on the way

Eufy, an Anker brand, is reportedly launching a new smart security camera: the eufyCam S4. This 2-in-1 model has an upper fixed position camera and a lower PTZ camera, with a range of motion detection sensors. Other features inclu...

Polly Allcock, 22 Aug 2025 12:15

Citizen’s Attesa Jaxa HTV-X watch (pictured) is launching in September 2025. (Image source: Citizen)

Citizen unveils new limited edition Attesa Jaxa HTV-X watch

The Citizen Attesa Jaxa HTV-X watch, or model AT8289-67E, is on the way. This is a limited edition radio-controlled timepiece, with a black and gold design inspired by the new cargo transporter. Features include the Direct Flight ...

Polly Allcock, 22 Aug 2025 12:09

Xiaomi’s Robot Vacuum S40C (pictured) is now available in Europe. (Image source: Xiaomi)

Cheaper Xiaomi Robot Vacuum S40C now available

The Xiaomi Robot Vacuum S40C has been released in some European countries, and is expected to roll out more widely in the coming weeks. This is a more affordable model, with various power modes for vacuuming and an adjustable wate...

Polly Allcock, 22 Aug 2025 12:03

China tells tech giants to halt Nvidia H20 orders after US "addicted" insult

Beijing has quietly tightened pressure on tech giants to scale back Nvidia H20 chip purchases after U.S. comments angered senior officials.

Nathan Ali, 22 Aug 2025 11:57

The Konkr Pocket Fit in one of its three launch colours. (Image source: Ayaneo)

Ayaneo reveals pricing information for new Konkr Pocket Fit gaming handheld before release

Ayaneo has just released the Pocket DS globally. Now, the company is lining up the Konkr Pocket Fit, which will cost slightly less than its Pocket DS sibling despite being considerably more powerful thanks to Ayaneo's usage of a Q...

Alex Alderson, 22 Aug 2025 11:21

Image from the game Destiny 2 on Steam. (Image source: Steam)

Pete Parsons leaves Bungie and makes way for his successor

Bungie is facing quite difficult times, and many changes are underway, especially at the head of the company. Indeed, Pete Parsons is handing over his post to a new CEO, and the latter will have the heavy burden of straightening o...

Alexis Stegmann, 22 Aug 2025 10:52

Viture and 8BitDo have released new translucent versions of the 8BitDo Ultimate 2C controller. (Image source: Viture)

Viture and 8BitDo launch translucent editions of the Ultimate 2C controller

The 8BitDo Ultimate 2C controller is now available to buy in two new colors. The colors have a translucent design and were made in partnership with Viture. However, they cost more than the other color options.

Habeeb Onawole, 22 Aug 2025 10:40

The EQi13 Pro currently starts at $399. Pictured: the mini PC. (Image source: Beelink - edited)

Beelink intros EQi13 Pro as new Intel mini PC with promotional launch discounts

The Beelink EQi13 Pro is now available in the global market. It's powered by the Raptor Lake-H processors and comes with a built-in PSU. The current starting price is $399, making it a relatively affordable Intel mini PC with capa...

Abid Ahsan Shanto, 22 Aug 2025 10:30

A decorative image. Pictured is an aerial view of a mountain (Image source: Harrison Steen via Unsplash; cropped)

Ignored planets without water might have life and we have been wrong all along

New MIT research is challenging the water-centric search for life, showing that ionic liquids — stable non-evaporating fluids — can form naturally from common planetary material and could provide a viable solvent for life on warm,...

Chibuike Okpara, 22 Aug 2025 09:12

RedMagic 10S Pro (Image source: Daniel Schmidt)

RedMagic 10S Pro: Is it really a good deal?

The Nubia RedMagic 10S Pro offers many high-end components and large storage capacities for a low starting price of $699. But we'll show you just how affordable it really is by comparing it with alternatives.

Daniel Schmidt, 22 Aug 2025 09:10

The Fostex TH910 is a flagship, closed-back, over-ear headphone with Japanese lacquered maple housing. (Image source: Fostex)

Fostex unveils updated flagship headphones with Japanese-lacquered maple housing and silver foil patterning

Fostex has introduced its flagship TH910 and TH919 over-ear headphones, featuring lacquered maple housings with silver foil accents and upgraded 50mm BioDyna drivers for refined bass and extended frequency response.

David Chien, 22 Aug 2025 07:46

Framework may soon launch a Laptop 18 as an upgrade to its 16-inch gaming laptop

Framework has been having a lot of fun with cryptic clues in its most recent device launches, and the latest hint seems to suggest that the Framework 16 might just be getting an 18-inch display and chassis upgrade.

Julian van der Merwe, 22 Aug 2025 07:18

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