Expert Reviews and News on Laptops, Smartphones and Tech Innovations

The Meross Smart Wi-Fi Outdoor Plug is now available. (Image source: Meross)

Meross launches new Matter-compatible smart plug for outdoor use

Meross has released a new Smart Wi-Fi Outdoor Plug (MOP320) globally. The device offers two outlets that can be controlled simultaneously or individually and it can also track power consumption. Plus, with support for the Matter protocol, the product works with a wide range of smart home ecosystems and voice assistants.

Polly Allcock, 25 Feb 2025 16:56

Engwe is now accepting pre-orders of the Mapfour N1 series e-bikes. (Image source: Engwe)

Engwe Mapfour N1 carbon frame e-bikes now available to pre-order

The first two models under the new Engwe Mapfour brand are now available to pre-order in Europe: the N1 Air and the N1 Pro. Designed for urban riders, both models offer a carbon fiber frame and a 250W motor. Plus, there are smart features like GPS navigation, a Bluetooth lock and an SOS tool.

Polly Allcock, 25 Feb 2025 16:54

Inside was released in July 2016, and since then, it has seen nothing but good reviews. (Image source: Steam)

90% off on Steam: Acclaimed indie game with 60,000 "Overwhelmingly Positive" reviews drops below $2

An award-winning indie platformer is now just $1.99 on Steam after a 90% discount. With an "Overwhelmingly Positive" rating and 87 Metacritic score, Inside is a must-buy as an eerie, story-driven game.

Anubhav Sharma, 25 Feb 2025 16:16

Model Y Juniper owners in China will be able to use FSD (Image source: Tesla)

Tesla brings half-baked FSD to full-price customers in China as it can only use local data for training

While BYD gives its self-driving system for free, Tesla is finally releasing FSD to those owners in China who had prepaid for it, but it is not what they expected since Tesla has to comply with data security regulations.

Daniel Zlatev, 25 Feb 2025 16:07

Until March 3, Fanatical is offering Middle-earth: Shadow of War with a 92% discount for $4.24. (Image source: Steam)

Limited-time offer: Acclaimed action RPG drops to under $5

A popular action RPG set in the Lord of the Rings universe is now 92% off on Fanatical. With nearly 80,000 "Very Positive" reviews on Steam, it might be worth checking out, especially for RPG fans.

Marius Müller, 25 Feb 2025 16:07

The Nubia Flip 2. (Image Source: Nubia Japan)

Nubia Flip 2: Mid-range Galaxy Z Flip-style foldable set to launch globally at MWC

Nubia is readying its mid-range foldable phone, the Nubia Flip 2, for a global debut at MWC. The clamshell-style foldable directly succeeds last year's $499 Nubia Flip, and is expected to be joined by other mid-range/budget models from the brand.

Ricci Rox, 25 Feb 2025 16:04

Realme Neo 7 SE starts at ~$248 (Image source: Realme - edited)

Realme Neo 7 SE launches with 7,000 mAh battery, bright screen, and affordable price tag

The Realme Neo 7 SE has made its official debut in China as an affordable phone with a large 7,000 mAh battery. It packs the Dimensity 8400 Max, features a bright display, and has a 50 MP primary camera on the back.

Abid Ahsan Shanto, 25 Feb 2025 16:02

Until March 3, Black Mesa is available on Steam with a 75% discount for under $5. (Image source: Steam)

Steam deal: Highly rated shooter drops below $5

Right now, gamers can grab a highly popular shooter on Steam at a 75% discount, bringing the price below $5. With over 100,000 positive reviews, it remains a fan favorite for its engaging gameplay and nostalgic appeal.

Marius Müller, 25 Feb 2025 15:37

Just before Pokémon Presents: Leak hints at new multiplayer title

The next Pokémon Presents is set for February 27. According to a well-known leaker, it won’t just focus on Legends: Z-A but will also reveal a brand-new multiplayer game codenamed "Synapse".

Marius Müller, 25 Feb 2025 15:21

The Huawei Pocket 3 will have a different form factor from the Pocket 2 (pictured). (Image source: Huawei)

Leaked Huawei Pocket 3 details reveal a unique form factor akin to a foldable iPad Mini

The Huawei Pocket 3 clamshell foldable might look entirely different from its predecessors. New info has revealed the phone will have a larger cover display and an inner display with a 3:2 aspect ratio like that of the iPad Mini, resulting in an entirely new form factor for foldables.

Habeeb Onawole, 25 Feb 2025 15:20

Roguelike deckbuilder Balatro was unexpectedly added to Xbox Game Pass on February 24. (Image source: Xbox Wire)

Surprise drop: Game with 100K positive reviews joins Game Pass

Xbox Game Pass subscribers have a surprising new title to look forward to. On Steam, the game has over 100,000 reviews, with an impressive 98% rated positive.

Marius Müller, 25 Feb 2025 15:14

The Xiaomi 15 Ultra is expected to launch for €1,499 in the Eurozone. (Image source: Xiaomi)

Xiaomi 15 Ultra to launch as first Bluetooth 6.0 smartphone with Xiaomi HyperAI onboard

A full specification sheet for the global version of the Xiaomi 15 Ultra has turned up online. Not only does the image confirm all key specifications for the Galaxy S25 Ultra contender, but it also confirms that the Xiaomi 15 Ultra will be the first smartphone to launch sporting Bluetooth 6.0 connectivity.

Alex Alderson, 25 Feb 2025 15:10

Seemour AI camera visual platform (Image source: Prompt AI)

Seemour launches to make AI camera notifications smarter and more efficient

AI camera apps remove the clutter of constant notifications. Seemour is a new platform that targets already running security cameras. Some planned features could make competing software seem ordinary in comparison.

Adam Corsetti, 25 Feb 2025 15:05

The Poco M7 would be the second device in the series after the Poco M7 Pro 5G. (Image source: Xiaomi)

Xiaomi teases new mid-range Poco smartphone before release

Xiaomi has started teasing a new mid-range Poco smartphone shortly before the device's full release. Likely arriving as a cheaper alternative to the Poco M7 Pro 5G, the new handset also appears to be a reworked Redmi 14R with a better primary camera.

Alex Alderson, 25 Feb 2025 14:43

The Pixel 9a should be available in more colours than just the black variant shown here. (Image source: Alexis Garza via Shane Craig)

🎙️ OpinionThe Pixel 9a could be Google's perfect foil to the Apple iPhone 16E

CheckMag The Pixel 9a is almost here to freshen up Google's mid-range smartphone offering. While the iPhone 16E rival is not expected to launch until next month, it may well be an ideal alternative to Apple's latest 'budget' smartphone thanks to its $100 lower starting price.

Alex Alderson, 25 Feb 2025 14:31

LG is bringing its new Signature OLED transparent TV to Germany. (Image source: LG)

LG Signature OLED T transparent smart TV on the way to a new market

The LG Signature OLED T will shortly launch in a European country, the second market for this premium TV. The transparent 4K OLED model was released in the US last year when the company announced plans for a global rollout. It comes with the Zero Connect Box for wireless 4K video and audio transmission.

Polly Allcock, 25 Feb 2025 14:26

The Zendure SolarFlow 800 can now be pre-ordered in Europe. (Image source: Zendure)

New Zendure SolarFlow 800 Microinverter with bidirectional AC charging launches

The Zensure SolarFlow 800 Microinverter is now available to pre-order in Europe. Designed to work with home energy storage systems, it is said to be more efficient than other solutions. Features include bidirectional AC charging, intelligent discharge protection and remote controls via the Zendure app.

Polly Allcock, 25 Feb 2025 14:16

The premium version of the Amazfit Active 2 can now be pre-ordered in the US. (Image source: Amazfit)

Amazfit Active 2 Premium smartwatch now available in the US

Amazfit is now accepting pre-orders for the Active 2 Premium smartwatch in the US. It arrives several weeks after the launch of the original model, with a couple of upgrades. Features include a 1.32-inch AMOLED display, up to 10 days of battery life with typical use and GPS navigation.

Polly Allcock, 25 Feb 2025 14:11

Casio has released three new AE1600H series watches in the US. (Image source: Casio)

Casio officially launches new rugged AE1600H watches in the US

Casio is now selling the AE1600H-1AV, AE1600H-5AV and AE1600H-8BV watches at its online store in the US. These wearables were available to import earlier this year but at a higher price. Features of the AE1600H series watches include 100m water resistance, 10-year battery life and dual time.

Polly Allcock, 25 Feb 2025 14:02

Generative AI has been used to create parts of Call of Duty (Image source: Activision)

Activision admits to using generative AI for Call of Duty

A new paragraph concerning AI-generated content has been added to Call of Duty’s Steam page, confirming many people’s suspicions that the development team has used generative AI to create some of the game’s elements.

Marc Zander, 25 Feb 2025 14:01

The Realme Buds Air7 come in three colors: Dawn Gold, Verdant Green, and Orchid Purple. (Image source: IT Home)

New Realme Buds Air7 earphones feature ANC, 52-hour battery, LHDC 5.0, and IP55 water resistance

Realme Buds Air7 ANC earphones debut with 52-hour battery life, LHDC 5.0, and a 12.4mm driver. It supports Bluetooth 5.4, dual-device pairing, and IP55 water resistance. The earbuds are available in three colors.

Anubhav Sharma, 25 Feb 2025 13:24

Samsung's mid-range Dolby Atmos soundbar is currently down to its lowest price. (Image source: Samsung / Kristen Spradlin / Notebookcheck)

Deal | Samsung's superb HW-QS730D Dolby Atmos soundbar is 53% off right now

The Samsung HW-QS730D is a mid-range Dolby Atmos soundbar featuring a 3.1.2-channel configuration and a powerful 8-inch subwoofer. Thanks to an ongoing sale at Woot, you can grab it for just $388!

Kristen Spradlin, 25 Feb 2025 13:00

Zhaoxin processors successfully deploy DeepSeek-R1 AI models locally. Pictured: A KH-4000/32 and a KX-7000/8 processor offered by Zhaoxin. (Image source: Zhaoxin)

Zhaoxin deploys DeepSeek-R1 models across entire CPU lineup, from desktops to servers

Chinese CPU maker Zhaoxin has successfully deployed DeepSeek-R1 Distill AI models across its entire hardware lineup—from desktop PCs to high-performance servers.

Nathan Ali, 25 Feb 2025 11:34

A fully functioning RTX 5080 features a total of 112 Render Output Units (ROPs). (Image source: Notebookcheck, Pixabay, edited)

Bad news for RTX 5080 owners as GPU officially joins unfortunate RTX 50 quartet with missing ROPs

It is now official: RTX 5080 is also plagued by the issue of fewer-than-advertised ROPs, making it the fourth RTX 50 GPU to be affected by the issue. Gamers who have, unfortunately, ended up with faulty RTX 5080 GPUs will have to bring their cards to the board maker themselves for replacement.

Fawad Murtaza, 25 Feb 2025 11:34

The Redmi K80 Ultra looks set to maintain the design of the other Redmi K80 series models. Pictured: Redmi K80 Pro (Image Source: Xiaomi)

More Redmi K80 Ultra details emerge in new leak

Xiaomi's Redmi K80 Ultra may be months away from launch but a new leak has now revealed some key info about the Redmi flagship phone. Notable takeaways include an unreleased flagship chipset, a massive battery, and slower charging than last year's model.

Ricci Rox, 25 Feb 2025 10:38

Xiaomi shares some camera specs of the Xiaomi 15 Ultra (Image source: Xiaomi - edited)

Xiaomi details the primary and periscope sensors of Xiaomi 15 Ultra

The Xiaomi 15 Ultra is set to make its official debut on February 27 in China. Days before the full unveiling, the company shared some info on the primary and the periscope telephoto camera of the upcoming Leica camera flagship.

Abid Ahsan Shanto, 25 Feb 2025 08:45

AMD Radeon RX 9070 XT on overclock result screen

AMD RX 9070 XT leak suggests impressive overclocking potential with only 25 W TGP increase

An overclocked AMD Radeon RX 9070 XT was apparently able to manage a sizeable overclock over its alleged 2,970 MHz boost clock, all with a mere 25 W increase in power draw. While this is impressive on its own, it may be an indication that there is more still to come.

Julian van der Merwe, 25 Feb 2025 07:57

Fudan University researchers develop AI-powered blood test to predict disease risk years in advance. (Image source: Louis Reed, Unsplash)

AI-powered blood test predicts diseases 15 years before symptoms appear

A new AI-powered blood test can predict diseases up to 15 years before symptoms appear. Once commercialized, this screening could cost as little as $5–$10, making early detection more accessible to everyone.

Nathan Ali, 25 Feb 2025 06:49

The Omega Seamaster Diver 300M Bronze gold and Burgundy Edition has launched in the US (Image source: Omega)

Omega introduces the Seamaster Diver 300M in a new bronze gold and burgundy shade

Omega has introduced a new Omega Seamaster Diver 300M in a bronze gold and burgundy shade in the US. The successor to the 007 Edition 300M features a 42 mm bronze gold case with a matte black dial, an Omega Co-Axial Master Chronometer Calibre 8806, and 300 m (~1,000 ft) water resistance.

Abhinav Fating, 25 Feb 2025 05:57

The Xiami Poco X7 has a triple camera consisting of an 8 MP ultra-wide-angle camera and a 2 MP macro camera in addition to the 50 MP main lens. (Image source: Notebookcheck)

Verdict on the Xiaomi Poco X7: Solid everyday smartphone despite low price

The Xiaomi Poco X7 is a well-equipped all-rounder that, unlike its more expensive sister model, the Poco X7 Pro, even supports eSIMs. Find out more about the smartphone's capabilities in our review summary below.

Manuel Masiero, 25 Feb 2025 04:36

The Oppo Enco Air 4i is said to offer decent sound at an affordable price. (Image source: Oppo)

Affordable Oppo Enco Air 4i earphones supposedly reach battery life of 54 hours

Oppo has just unveiled its most affordable model in the Enco Air 4 series, the Enco Air 4i. The completely wireless earphones are available for the equivalent of around $14 and, although they do not have active noise cancellation, are said to offer decent sound and a particularly long battery life.

Hannes Brecher, 25 Feb 2025 04:03

Google to drop SMS authentication for Gmail logins, will replace it with this

Google will soon nix SMS authentication for Gmail logins, according to Davey Winder at Forbes. Citing inside sources, Winder claims that the search giant will soon authenticate Gmail logins using QR codes that can be scanned with a smartphone's camera.

Sam Medley, 25 Feb 2025 03:48

James Gunn would consider a Marvel Rivals competitor in the DC Universe

Would a Marvel Rivals game with DC superheroes attract a large following? When asked about plans for a similar shooter, James Gunn approved of the concept. Even so, DC characters have struggled outside of single-player settings.

Adam Corsetti, 25 Feb 2025 02:16

Anthropic unveils an even better Claude Sonnet chatbot with new coding and research abilities. (Image source: Anthropic)

Anthropic launches smarter Claude 3.7 Sonnet AI that can play Pokémon Red like a promising pro

Anthropic's latest chatbot arrives with new coding and extended thinking skills, further extending its ability to program code, answer complex questions, and play video games.

David Chien, 25 Feb 2025 02:15

Apple may soon let users use Google Gemini for Apple Intelligence

A snippet of code spotted by a developer on X suggests that Apple will integrate Google's Gemini AI into iOS 18.4. This move will allow users to opt for Google's AI model as the basis for Apple Intelligence features in the future.

Sam Medley, 25 Feb 2025 01:03

GNCA - GamersNexus Consumer Advocacy YouTube channel is up and running

GamersNexus, known for its PC hardware reviews, game benchmarks, and component analysis, has launched a new non-reviews channel focusing on consumer rights issues, the ongoing erosion of ownership and property by mega-corporations, and investigative reports on various companies. The channel's very first video sheds light on how Amazon’s return system is fueling swap scams.

Sebastian Jankowski, 24 Feb 2025 23:43

The Google Pixel 9a appears in a hands-on video prior to the expected March launch (Image source: Shane Craig)

Google Pixel 9a hands-on video shows small camera bump and matte black back panel

The Google Pixel 9a is expected to launch in March for prices starting at $499. Now, the mid-range smartphone has already appeared in a hands-on video which provides a glimpse of the back panel texture as well as the small pill-shaped camera module.

Hannes Brecher, 24 Feb 2025 23:34

Early 3DMark and Cinebench R23 results tip AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D to match non-X3D chips outside of gaming

Early leaked benchmarks of the AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D reveal that the new 3D V-Cache Zen 5 CPU is significantly faster than its predecessor in gaming tasks. Despite this, the 9950X3D still manages to keep up with the regular Ryzen 9 9950X in non-gaming workloads — an area where X3D CPUs previously fell flat.

Julian van der Merwe, 24 Feb 2025 23:33

A Tesla Supercharger with graffiti. The automaker has vowed to prosecute vandals (Image source: SnazzyLabs on X)

Tesla vows to prosecute Supercharger vandals

Tesla continues to suffer vandalism at its Supercharger stations but will now take the legal route by prosecuting suspects.

David Odejide, 24 Feb 2025 22:57

The new VG27AQ3AZ monitor is designed for gamers (Image source: Asus)

Asus TUF Gaming VG27AQ3AZ monitor with 1440p resolution debuts

Asus has added a new and fast monitor to its lineup, which supports ELMB Sync and should therefore offer sharp image quality at all times. The 27-inch TUF gaming monitor also has a response time of just one millisecond.

Silvio Werner, 24 Feb 2025 22:48

The AOC Q27G40SE comes with FreeSync technology to cut down on screen tearing. (Image source: Display Specifications)

AOC Q27G40SE: New 27-inch QHD gaming monitor unveiled with 300Hz, HDR10, and Advanced Motion Sync

AOC has launched the Q27G40SE, a 27-inch QHD gaming monitor with a 300Hz refresh rate, 1ms GTG response, HDR10, FreeSync, and MBR-Sync. Availability in regions other than China is still unconfirmed.

Anubhav Sharma, 24 Feb 2025 22:47

Monster Hunter Wilds PS5 box shot (Image source: Sony PlayStation)

Monster Hunter Wilds PS5 and Xbox performance issues detailed in Digital Foundry analysis

The giant maps and monsters in Monster Hunter Wilds stress the PS5 and Xbox Series X. Even with improvements since the open beta, the game produces pixelated textures and muted lighting.

Adam Corsetti, 24 Feb 2025 21:54

The Galaxy A56 will receive six major software updates, which is a rarity in the mid-range segment (Image source: Samsung)

Samsung confirms 6 years of Android updates for Galaxy A56, A36 and A26 smartphones

Samsung is preparing to launch three new mid-range smartphones, all of which will apparently get six major Android updates, which has now been confirmed in an official teaser video.

Hannes Brecher, 24 Feb 2025 21:51

The Anker Nano USB-C to HDMI Cable with 140W Input Port has arrived at Amazon. (Image source: Anker)

Anker launches new USB-C to HDMI cable with 140W charging

The Anker Nano USB-C to HDMI Cable with 140W Input Port (3 ft, 4K, Upcycled-Braided) is now available at Amazon in some countries in North America and Europe. This new accessory supports 4K video streaming and can also be used to charge the host device at up to 140W. However, Anker notes that it is not compatible with some monitors and game consoles.

Polly Allcock, 24 Feb 2025 21:21

iQoo Neo11 Pro tipped to launch as world's first Dimensity 9400 Plus smartphone

iQoo is now believed to be the first Android OEM to integrate the upcoming premium Dimensity 9400+ SoC into a new smartphone. The "Neo11 Pro" might augment the MediaTek flagship processor with a dedicated display chip, as might its mid-range Z10 Turbo-series counterparts with their own silicon. All three handsets are thought to have class-leading battery life.

Deirdre O'Donnell, 24 Feb 2025 21:07

The ThinkBook 14 is powered by an older Intel chipset but costs less than $1,000 (Image source: Lenovo)

Lenovo ThinkBook 14 Gen 8 with Intel Core 7 240H and 3-lbs chassis launches with discount

Lenovo has introduced a new mid-range ultrabook called the ThinkBook 14 Gen 8. It packs an Intel Core 5 210H, Thunderbolt 4 and a 14-inch display into a lightweight chassis. Unfortunately, the base model is also equipped with a relatively small battery.

Hannes Brecher, 24 Feb 2025 20:42

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