Expert Reviews and News on Laptops, Smartphones and Tech Innovations

A picture of the former Chairman and President of Sony Interactive Entertainment America, Shawn Layden (image source: X)

Former PlayStation boss Slams Sony's live service push as 'Repetitive action engagement device'

Shawn Layden, the former chairman of Sony Interactive Entertainment America, told The Ringer he views live-service titles as "a repetitive action engagement device," arguing that actual games require a story, a character, and a world rather than looped engagement mechanics designed to keep players hooked.

Rahim Amir Noorali, 27 Oct 2025 04:54

Two mushroom memory cells were attached to an Arduino UNO microcontroller development board for testing. (Image source: LaRocco, J. et al. via PLOS One)

Ohio State University researchers realize they're not high after turning shiitake mushrooms into memory cells

Ohio State University researchers have demonstrated the ability to read and write data to shiitake mushrooms using an Arduino UNO microcontroller board and a simple test circuit. Roadblocks to commercialization include the storage unit size and hungry moms.

David Chien, 27 Oct 2025 04:29

The Help Me Decide AI integrated into the Amazon shopping app simplifies shopping by suggesting the best product options based on user preferences. (Image source: Amazon)

Amazon Help Me Decide AI lands to reduce time wasted on product research when shopping

Amazon’s Help Me Decide AI is here to streamline product selection by analyzing user preferences, past purchases, and reviews to deliver tailored recommendations. Available in the Amazon Shopping app, it reduces time wasted researching the best products.

David Chien, 27 Oct 2025 03:11

The Lamtto DC22 HD dashcam provides drivers with remote vehicle security alerts over cellular networks. (Image source: Lamtto)

Lamtto unveils DC22 dashcam with real-time stolen car tracking via 4G cellular networks

Lamtto has introduced its latest DC22 dual-camera dash cam with 4G LTE connectivity for real-time, remote vehicle monitoring and GPS tracking. The interior is lit with four IR LEDs, and all footage can be stored in the cloud for review after accidents.

David Chien, 27 Oct 2025 01:54

The Redmi A24 is a budget-friendly monitor with an ergonomic stand (Image source: Xiaomi)

2026 Xiaomi Redmi A24: 24-inch monitor with 144Hz and ergonomic stand is very affordable

Xiaomi is now offering another monitor under its Redmi brand. The A24 is comparatively compact and is now available in an additional model variant with an ergonomic stand. The manufacturer also advertises an increased refresh rate of 144Hz.

Silvio Werner, 27 Oct 2025 01:20

Motorola has certified the Edge 70 to IP69 levels of dust and water resistance. (Image source: Motorola)

Launch bonuses of more than $650: Motorola confirms more details about ultra-thin Edge 70 with early benchmarks also revealed

Motorola has stepped up its launch discounts for its next ultra-thin smartphone. Now surpassing $650 across multiple launch deals, the offers coincide with Motorola revealing more details about the Edge 70 ahead of time as the same device also stops by a popular benchmarking platform before its official release.

Alex Alderson, 26 Oct 2025 23:38

Banner for PS5 power saver mode (Image source: Sony PlayStation with edits)

PS5 power saver mode performance tests reveal how games may become playable on PS6 handheld

Digital Foundry is one of the first sites to evaluate the PS5 power saver mode. Demon’s Souls and Days Gone Remastered accomplished more efficient performance, but forced different compromises. The new mode could preview how PS5 games will run on the rumored PS6 handheld.

Adam Corsetti, 26 Oct 2025 23:23

Amazon drops the price of the Google Pixel Watch 3 45mm (2024 model) to its lowest price ever. (Image source: Google)

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

The Google Pixel Watch 3 45mm (2024) is now available at its lowest price ever on Amazon, offering a $100 discount from its original MSRP. With a 2000-nit display, Android 10+ compatibility, Google TV control, and remote Nest Cam security feeds, it remains a solid choice despite being rated as impossible to repair.

David Chien, 26 Oct 2025 22:48

Image from the game Grand Theft Auto IV: The Complete Edition. (Image source: Steam)

GTA IV takes on the look of a remaster thanks to this RTX Remix mod

This RTX Remix mod for GTA IV offers a remastered feel thanks to numerous graphical improvements. But you'll have to be patient if you want to play it, as no release date has been announced.

Alexis Stegmann, 26 Oct 2025 21:01

911 Operator has nearly 5,500 reviews - 87% of those are positive. Pictured - an official ingame screenshot. (Image source: Steam)

Deal | From $14.99 to $0 on Steam: Well reviewed realistic simulation game is now free to claim for a limited time

911 Operator is now free to keep on Steam for a limited time, dropping from $14.99 to $0 on Steam. Players have to handle real-time emergency calls and dispatch units across real city maps. Deal ends October 29.

Anubhav Sharma, 26 Oct 2025 19:28

No Rest for the Wicked banner is shown (Image source: Sony PlayStation YouTube with edits)

No Rest for the Wicked declined Xbox exclusivity after refusing to lose PS5 and Switch sales

Studios are increasingly hesitant to embrace platform exclusives. The No Rest for the Wicked director shunned Xbox exclusivity even before Microsoft changed its philosophy. Companies are struggling with higher development costs, making the PS5 and Switch too lucrative to ignore.

Adam Corsetti, 26 Oct 2025 19:05

ByteDance reportedly takes on Steam with new global game platform

ByteDance is working on a new global gaming platform called GameTop — designed to deliver a mix of games, social features, and creative tools for players outside China. The move follows a major shift in the company’s gaming strategy, with a focus on smarter publishing and user-driven content.

Andrew Sozinov, 26 Oct 2025 18:24

Advertisements reportedly coming to Apple Maps

According to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman, Apple is pushing toward integrating ads into Apple Maps as early as next year. Functioning similarly to advertisements in App Store queries, these ads would likely allow companies to pay to more prominently feature their locations in Apple Maps searches.

Sam Medley, 26 Oct 2025 18:09

The iPad Pro M6 might get a massive performance upgrade (Image source: Notebookcheck)

iPad Pro M6 to get iPhone 17 Pro feature that could make it a MacBook replacement

The Apple iPad Pro is arguably becoming a more interesting laptop alternative every year, as Apple increases performance and improves the software in terms of multitasking and file management. According to latest rumors, the next generation iPad Pro M6 inherits an interesting feature from the Apple iPhone 17 Pro.

Hannes Brecher, 26 Oct 2025 17:56

GPD Win 5 starts at $1,448 on Indiegogo. Pictured: the gaming handheld running Borderlands 4. (Image source: ETA Prime)

Cheaper Strix Halo GPD Win 5 gaming handheld shines in early game tests

GPD offers two Strix Halo processor options for the Win 5, and among the two, the one with the Ryzen AI Max 385 is cheaper. This slightly affordable config of the gaming handheld held up relatively well in early gaming tests.

Abid Ahsan Shanto, 26 Oct 2025 17:35

The Moto X70 Air starts at around $365 in China. Pictured: a promo picture of the phone. (Image source: Motorola)

Moto X70 Air: Motorola confirms pricing of its iPhone Air competitor

The Moto X70 Air, which will launch in the global market as the Moto Edge 70, is now available to pre-order in China. This iPhone Air competitor starts at CNY 2,599, about $364 in the Chinese market.

Abid Ahsan Shanto, 26 Oct 2025 15:05

The Xiaomi Pad Mini arrived globally last month with the same 8.8-inch display as the Redmi K Pad, former pictured. (Image source: Xiaomi)

Redmi K Pad 2: Leaker outlines release plans for Xiaomi's next high-end compact tablet

The Redmi K Pad and Xiaomi Pad Mini are more powerful than many of Xiaomi's larger tablets, despite their comparatively small dimensions. Now, a popular leaker has outlined Xiaomi's plans for its next addition to its compact yet high-end tablet segment.

Alex Alderson, 26 Oct 2025 13:05

The bright night lights of Manhattan, New York (Image source: Alejandro Luengo/Unsplash)

Artificial light is drowning out the Moon: here is what city bright lights are doing to humans and other species

As the planet brightens under city lights and screens, moonlight’s ancient rhythm is fading. Scientists warn that artificial light is disrupting the lunar clock shared by humans, corals, and other species; reshaping sleep, reproduction, and migration across the natural world.

David Odejide, 26 Oct 2025 11:55

Redmi A27Q: Monitor now available in a new model variant. (Image source: Xiaomi)

Xiaomi Redmi A27Q 2026: New USB-C monitor with 120 Hz and 90-watt charging power

Xiaomi has a new monitor on offer, the Redmi A27Q 2026, which now available as a new variant with a USB-C port, allowing you to use a laptop with just a single cable connection. The monitor supports 90 watts of power output.

Silvio Werner, 26 Oct 2025 10:47

The Xiaomi Redmi K90 is now available for import. (Image source: Xiaomi)

Strong mid-range smartphone with Snapdragon 8 Elite and 7,100 mAh battery: Xiaomi Redmi K90 now available as direct import

International customers can now purchase the Redmi K90 at relatively affordable prices. However, availability is currently only available through direct import, which comes with specific restrictions.

Silvio Werner, 26 Oct 2025 10:44

The AE60 Ultra can even drop loads. (Image source: Manufacturer)

AE60 Ultra: Cheap drone launches with zoom camera, 4K video and load dropping

The AE60 Ultra is a new and relatively inexpensive drone that comes with two lenses and a touchscreen controller. The model may offer added value in more unusual applications, but there are certain legal aspects to consider.

Silvio Werner, 26 Oct 2025 10:40

A Starlink standard dish on a lawn. (Image source: Rose/X)

Starlink network speeds notch drastic 2025 increase both on download and uplink tests

The greatly increased pace of SpaceX satellite launches in 2025, coupled with software updates to improve beam formation and terrestrial station performance, have now born fruit. The Starlink network speeds have greatly increased this year.

Daniel Zlatev, 26 Oct 2025 09:45

The Super Rare Vibes Vol 1 game bundle will expire on November 12. Pictured: Steam Deck running OTXO. (Image source: Steam - edited)

Deal | Nearly $100 worth of indie games playable on Steam Deck drop to $10 for limited time

Green Man Gaming has added a new game bundle, called Super Rare Vibes Volume 1. It contains a total of six indie games playable on Steam Deck that are worth $98.17 in total. However, the entire bundle can be scored for just $10.

Abid Ahsan Shanto, 26 Oct 2025 09:29

The Xiaomi 15T series will be the first phones to receive HyperOS 3 globally. (Image Source: Xiaomi)

Global HyperOS 3 rollout begins with Xiaomi 15T series first in line

Xiaomi has now confirmed the imminent global rollout of HyperOS 3. The new Xiaomi 15T and Xiaomi 15T Pro lead the charge here, and will be followed shortly after by devices like the Xiaomi 15, Xiaomi 15 Ultra, and Poco F7 series.

Ricci Rox, 26 Oct 2025 08:07

A screengrab of the satirical declaration by GameStop on X (image source: GameStop X)

GameStop declares the console wars 'over' as it racks up a satirical win at fanboys' expense

GameStop has poked fun at decades of platform rivalry that allegedly started and ended with Halo becoming and then unbecoming a platform exclusive with a single post: 'The Console Wars are over.'

Rahim Amir Noorali, 26 Oct 2025 06:45

A screengrab from Pokémon Legends Z-A (image source: Pokémon Legends)

Pokémon Legends: Z-A surpasses 5.8 million sales in a week with half on the Nintendo Switch 2

Pokémon Legends: Z-A shifted 5.8 million copies in its first week after the October 16, 2025, launch across Nintendo Switch and Switch 2, with half of them selling on the latter console, placing it as the franchise’s fifth-best debut.

Rahim Amir Noorali, 26 Oct 2025 05:43

The Bone Conduction Headphones 2 are designed for swimming (Image source: Xiaomi)

Waterproof Xiaomi headphones with swimming sensors and offline music storage now available via import

The Bone Conduction Headphones 2 from Xiaomi are now available via import. These headphones can be used while swimming and even track some data. They also come with built-in storage, which means that music playback is possible without a connected smartphone or tablet.

Silvio Werner, 26 Oct 2025 05:05

The Fire 5 Pro is a rugged smartphone with an enormous battery capacity (Image source: Doogee)

Fire 5 Pro: Smartphone with huge 13,000mAh battery doubles as a power bank

The Fire 5 Pro is a new smartphone that’s now available on Amazon. It’s supposed to be durable and is equipped with a very large battery. However, there are also certain limitations.

Silvio Werner, 26 Oct 2025 04:50

A post on X confirming the use of new assets for the BF6 Battle Royale (image source: ModernWarzone X)

Dataminers: Battlefield 6’s Battle Royale ‘RedSec’ could shadow drop as early as next week

Dataminers on X have uncovered files including maps, UI strings, and event scripts suggesting Battlefield 6's unannounced battle royale "RedSec" may be built into the live build and could shadow-drop as early as next week, even as EA and DICE remain mum on the topic.

Rahim Amir Noorali, 26 Oct 2025 04:23

A picture of a prior iteration of the Game Developer Conference (image source: GDC)

GDC director slams Epic Games, Sony and Unity For skipping event: "Developers feel like you don't care"

GDC executive director of innovation and growth Mark DeLoura publicly criticized Epic Games, Sony, and Unity for scaling back or skipping GDC 2025 altogether, saying their absence sends a message to independent developers that they "don’t care" about building community ties and new connections.

Rahim Amir Noorali, 26 Oct 2025 03:22

The Xiaomi Watch 2 Pro is without a successor over two years after its initial release. (Image source: Xiaomi)

Xiaomi certifies new mystery wearable with more precise tracking than its current smartwatches and fitness trackers

A new Xiaomi wearable has turned up months online. Arriving shortly after the company released the Redmi Watch 6, the new wearable departs from Xiaomi's recent fitness trackers and smartwatches by adopting connectivity to improve device tracking and vehicle compatibility.

Alex Alderson, 26 Oct 2025 01:27

Vivo is advertising the X300 series with Photographer Kit accessories globally. (Image source: Vivo - edited)

Vivo X300 and Vivo X300 Pro global models reveal themselves before official release with leaked colour and memory options

New information about the Vivo X300 and Vivo X300 Pro's global release has emerged ahead of time. Topping out at with less storage than Chinese counterparts, the pair are set to be available in multiple launch colours outside Vivo's home market too.

Alex Alderson, 26 Oct 2025 00:29

PC gamers may soon gain a key DualSense feature missing from the wireless PS5 controller

Many PlayStation fans wish their DualSense offered the same innovations on every platform. The PS5 controller doesn’t emit advanced haptics when paired wirelessly with PCs. However, the third-party DSX app has discovered a way to achieve these rumbling effects through Bluetooth.

Adam Corsetti, 26 Oct 2025 00:21

Amazfit’s T-Rex 3 Pro 44 mm smartwatches (pictured) are now available in countries worldwide. (Image source: Amazfit)

Amazfit releases more versions of popular smartwatch with flashlight

The Amazfit T-Rex 3 Pro 44 mm smartwatches are now available to order in countries worldwide. In some markets, they will ship immediately, while other customers can pre-order with deliveries scheduled for the near future. Offered in two color ways with titanium elements, these wearables are smaller than the existing 48 mm versions but share many of the same features.

Polly Allcock, 25 Oct 2025 23:55

A representation of the South Atlantic Anomaly in 2025 (Image source: Finlay, C.C. et al., 2025; cropped)

ESA's Swarm spots a fast-growing anomaly in the Earth’s magnetic field

Using data from ESA’s Swarm satellite constellation, scientists have discovered a growing weak spot in the Earth’s magnetic field. The weak spot is called the South Atlantic Anomaly as it is located over the South Atlantic. This data from Swarm is helping us understand more about the Earth’s complex magnetic field.

Chibuike Okpara, 25 Oct 2025 23:49

The latest ZBook X G1i 16 runs faster than before but unfortunately just as hot (Image source: HP)

High core temperatures prevent the HP ZBook X G1i 16 from performing even faster

The Core Ultra 7 CPU in the HP can reach over 100 C when running demanding loads which limits Turbo Boost sustainability.

Allen Ngo, 25 Oct 2025 22:50

The Anbernic RG DS is much larger than Nintendo's DSi. (Image source: Anbernic via r/SBCGaming - edited)

New Anbernic RG DS pictures emerge comparing dual-screen handheld Nintendo DSi and Nintendo DSi XL

Anbernic has shared new photos of first dual-screen gaming handheld ahead of the device's global release. Priced at less than $100, the Anbernic RG DS appears to be about the same size as the Nintendo DSi XL and significantly larger than the original Nintendo DSi.

Alex Alderson, 25 Oct 2025 21:42

A screengrab of Fallout 4 Anniversary Edition's promotional poster (image source: Bethesda Softworks YT)

Fallout 4: Anniversary Edition brings the “Skyrim treatment” packing all DLCs and 150+ Creations add-ons

Bethesda’s Fallout 4: Anniversary Edition arrives on November 10, 2025, on PC, PS4/PS5, and Xbox One/Series (with a reported Switch 2 port in 2026) and bundles the base game with all six DLCs, 150+ Creation Club add-ons in a singular package for users who have yet to play the title.

Rahim Amir Noorali, 25 Oct 2025 21:39

Garmin has now published two beta updates in a week for the Fenix 8 and co., but none for the Fenix 8 Pro, pictured. (Image source: Garmin)

Garmin introduces sleep, wallet and Do Not Disturb improvements for high-end smartwatches with new update

Garmin is moving at a fast pace when it comes to issuing new updates for the Fenix E, Fenix 8, Tactix 8 and other associated smartwatches. Having delivered one beta earlier this week, the company has now moved on to Beta Version 20.14 with a fresh round of changes.

Alex Alderson, 25 Oct 2025 21:23

The Oppo Find X9 Pro is already available for import from an initial retailer—not as a Chinese version, but as a global model. (Image source: Weibo)

Oppo Find X9 Pro: Global import model listed at first retailer with price advantage

Next week, the official Oppo Find X9 launch will kick off in Europe, but leaked prices suggest comparatively high costs. Those who want the global version but are willing to compromise on some consumer protection rights in the EU can probably save money by importing the global model from other regions.

Alexander Fagot, 25 Oct 2025 21:22

Final Fantasy 7 Remake Part 3 director Naoki Hamaguchi (Image source: Square Enix, Sony Group Corporation with edits)

Final Fantasy 7 Remake Part 3 director teases release date, and addresses Switch 2 challenges

The third installment of the Final Fantasy 7 remake series may be further along than gamers had anticipated. Director Naoki Hamaguchi provided another promising update on Final Fantasy 7 Remake Part 3. He also went into detail about how developers are optimizing the Switch 2 port.

Adam Corsetti, 25 Oct 2025 20:47

The iVanky FusionDock Max 2 supports up to three 4K displays on MacBooks. (Image source: iVanky)

iVanky releases new 23-in-1 Thunderbolt 5 docking station with triple monitor support

The FusionDock Max 2 is a new Thunderbolt 5 docking station designed for Apple Silicon MacBooks. It offers 23 ports for serious productivity, including three Thunderbolt 5 and five USB-C ports, as well as native support for up to three high-resolution external displays.

Elvis Shida, 25 Oct 2025 19:49

The GamiBook 8 is a new laptop powered by an AMD Ryzen 7 processor (Image source: Blackview)

GamiBook 8: 16-inch laptop comes with AMD Ryzen 7 and up to 32GB RAM

The GamiBook 8 is a new laptop featuring a Ryzen 7 APU. It sports a relatively large IPS screen, a fingerprint sensor for quick unlocking and two full-fledged USB Type-C ports.

Silvio Werner, 25 Oct 2025 19:49

11.06	Xiaomi 17T Pro Review: High-End Photography Without the Flagship Price
11.06	Vivo X300 FE Review: A good all-round phone possibly released at a bad time
11.06	Motorola Razr Fold Review
11.06	Infinix Note 60 Ultra Review
11.06	Xiaomi 17T review: Compact, Competent but Costly
11.06	Motorola Razr Fold review: A luxuriously appointed foldable
11.06	vivo X300 Ultra Review
11.06	vivo X300 FE Review
11.06	Apple MacBook Air 15.3″ (M5) – The Best 15-Inch Laptop for Everyday Use?
11.06	Honor Magic V6 review: A bad time to love technology