Launch

MSI has launched several Z690 chipset-based motherboards compatible with the new Intel 12th gen Alder Lake processors. All MSI Z690 offerings feature 2.5G LAN, at least four M.2 slots, and PCIe Gen5. MSI is also offering DDR4 and DDR5 variants for some of the SKUs.

OPPO has outlined some of its latest ambitions for the future of its company and its software at its latest Developers Conference, beginning today (October 27, 2021). They include plans to break into the areas of healthcare and smart car technology, as well as allusions to the potential of next-gen mobile AI and graphics.

The brand Palm may have helped propel hand-held personal tech to where it is today; however, it has all but faded into obscurity now. However, it has just revealed that it might be mounting a fightback against this with the launch of its latest products, the Buds Pro. They offer ANC with "studio-grade" sound and can be pre-ordered from now.

Intel's new 12th gen Alder Lake platform brings with several notable changes on the architecture side. Alder Lake processors use a heterogeneous ISA with a shared L3 cache and an intelligent Thread Director that helps the OS in proper scheduling of threads. The CPU brings support for DDR5-4800 RAM and PCIe Gen5, but the Z690 chipset supports only PCIe Gen4 and Gen3.

The Snapdragon 480+, Snapdragon 680 4G, Snapdragon 695 5G and Snapdragon 778G + 5G are Qualcomm's newest mobile SoCs. They offer incremental upgrades over their predecessors. We can expect to see them in action alongside Xiaomi, Motorola, Oppo, Vivo, and more devices.

HTC has introduced its latest product as a pair of noise-cancelling TWS earbuds. In fact, the Taiwanese stalwart insists these accessories have dual noise cancellation: that of the often sought-after active variety (or ANC), as well as the environmental (ENC) kind, thus ensuring "clear communication in any environment". They also offer "worry-free" IP5X splash-resistance and up to 24 hours of battery life.

TCL has launched the TAB Pro 5G slate to the North American market. It has a 10-inch display and an affordable-grade Qualcomm processor for its up-to-date connectivity. This will be accessed through Verizon's network, as the tablet will be sold through this carrier only on its release.

With its special line of graphics cards for cryptominers, Nvidia tries to improve the availability of its powerful RTX GPUs for gamers. After an official release in September, the top-of-the-line Nvidia cryptomining GPU CMP 170HX has now gone on sale in Japan and the United Arab Emirates for expectedly high prices.

Vivo has made the latest member of its more affordable Y series of smartphones official. The Y71t has an FHD+ 6.44-inch AMOLED display and a Dimensity 810 SoC. However, it seems the next device to launch from this OEM with the same display size might be much higher-end, although the two might have the same battery capacity.

SK Hynix has introduced its latest development as high bandwidth memory 3 (or HBM3) as "the world’s best-performing DRAM". It is rated for up to 78% greater data-processing rates compared to its predecessor, thanks to its maker's latest TSV technique. HBM3 also has a new maximum capacity per module, thanks to the latest manufacturing processes.

Even though Apple has finally improved the native connectivity of its all-new redesigned 2021 MacBook Pro, the included HDMI port is unfortunately not completely up to date, which results in certain limitations when connecting the laptop to an external display or monitor.

Microsoft has unveiled two new Seagate expansion cards for the Xbox Series S|X. The 512GB variant will cost US$140, and it is available for pre-order in the United States. On the other hand, the 2TB version costs US$399 and will be available for pre-order sometime in November 2021.

Razer has launched four new products for PC building enthusiasts. They include the Razer Kunai RGB fans, Razer Hanbo AIO liquid cooler, Razer Katana power supply and a Razer-branded fan controller. The RGB fans and controller are available for purchase now, while the remaining parts will hit shelves later in the year.

Sony has just announced that its latest camera is none other than the latest alpha 7 (or a7) full-frame unit. The OEM touts it as a true "hybrid" shooting machine, in that it has optimized the new device for stills as well as videos - and live-streams. Furthermore, the a7 IV boasts a raft of updated hardware updates, which include its rear-mounted touchscreen.

OPPO has made the latest addition to its 2021 K9 series official today (October 20, 2021). This new variant has a FHD+ 120Hz display, driven by one of the year's most prominent mid-range 5G processors with "7-layer" cooling. It starts at under US$250 for a 6GB RAM variant.

iQOO has made its latest smartphone official today. This more affordable counterpart to the existing Z5 will stand out in its segment thanks to its processor and its rear camera system. The Dimensity 900 is not found on many other devices to date, not even in China; furthermore, the Z5x has only 2 rear cameras, although its main-sensor specs might yet cater to most user demands in 2021.

Samsung has formally unveiled One UI 4 today. The OEM has indicated that this new interface is intended for use across all devices a given user might have from its brand, from its accessories to its mobile devices or PCs. Accordingly, it contains the latest versions of features such as SmartThings Find and Quick Share.

Samsung held what it called the "Galaxy Unpacked 2" livestream today (October 20, 2021). It served to make the new Bespoke Editions of the Galaxy Z Flip3 official. The Galaxy Watch4 and Buds2 also now have SKUs based on a collaboration with a new designer.

Amazfit has launched its new GTR 3, GTR 3 Pro, and GTS 3 smartwatch lineup in India starting from ₹13,999. These smartwatches offer 150+ watch faces, Alexa voice control, and 150+ sports modes along with 24x7 heart rate and sleep monitoring. The new Amazfit GTR 3, GTR 3 Pro, and GTS 3 feature an improved 6PD BioTracker PPG 3.0 sensor that can record four vital metrics in one go.

Google has announced the "most advanced smartphone camera" as part of its new Pixel 6 series. It introduces the latest modes and features developed for this historically competent line, Magic Eraser, Motion Mode, Real Tone and Face Unblur included. However, one or two are reserved for the higher-end Pro model.

Google has now made the Pixel 6 official. The Google Pixel 6 is a cut-down version of the Pixel 6 Pro, but offers a good amount of flagship features and AI processing power thanks to the company's new custom-built Tensor SoC. The Pixel 6 starts from US$599 and will be available widely from October 28.

The latest Google charging accessories can charge your new Pixel 6-series device at up to 30W, if not for free. The Pixel Stand 2 can go at up to 23 watts (W), whereas the latest wired charger from the Mountain View giant supports the USB-PD 20V/1.5A standard. However, neither are free, not even with a new phone.

Realme has launched its latest smartphones, the GT Neo2T and Q3s, in China today (October 19, 2021) as teased earlier. However, they are accompanied by a slightly less expected product: the Watch T1. It is a round-faced smartwatch with eerily familiar specs, albeit with new and exclusive bands.

Oukitel has launched its latest Android phone as WP17. The OEM defines it as its first phone with "esthetic design", which translates to a device with 'rugged' features, albeit one that looks more like a "normal" phone compared to most in this category. Nevertheless, it still has "work-" and "outdoor" functions, most notably a rear camera with night vision.

Apple also introduced the 16-inch MacBook Pro alongside the 14-inch MacBook Pro variant. Both devices share largely identical specifications, though the 16-inch variant offers a direct configuration with the M1 Max in addition to two M1 Pro options. Apple claims that a fully maxed-out MacBook Pro 16 outperforms laptops powered by Quadro RTX 6000 and RTX A5000 GPUs.

Apple has announced upgrades to its M1 custom silicon in the form of the M1 Pro and M1 Max. The M1 Pro and M1 Max will feature in the new MacBook Pros and claim to offer performance that rivals current top-end x86 hardware. The M1 Max also seems to be nearly 1.6x larger than a Rocket Lake-S desktop die by some rough estimates making it one of the largest SoCs to power a laptop.

Apple's new M1 Max CPU in the 2021 MacBook Pro 14 and MacBook Pro 16 has expectedly achieved formidable multi-core scores in Geekbench, and is very close to the performance of a desktop workstation like the Mac Pro that is equipped with Intel Xeon processors.

With a relatively simple but faked YouTube livestream for Apple's MacBook Pro launch event, ruthless crypto scammers targeted impatient Apple fans and their valuable bitcoins.

The Apple HomePod Mini speakers are now available in a total of five colourways, namely space grey, white, yellow, orange, and blue. The company has also unveiled the new Apple Music Voice plan that is tailor-made for Siri. It will cost US$4.99 per month and will be available in select regions later this year.

ViewSonic has announced availability of the Elite XG320U gaming monitor that was first revealed back in August. The XG320U is a 32-inch 4K 144 Hz gaming monitor targeted at Xbox Series X, PlayStation 5, and PC gamers. The display supports HDMI 2.1, AMD FreeSync Premium Pro, and a 1 ms MPRT.

Anker's popular personal audio brand Soundcore has gotten into the audio glasses game with its first-gen Frames. This modern-day pair of shades sets itself apart in that the user can remove the speaker-enabled components and attach them to an entirely new set of lenses. This makes the spectacles interchangeable in terms of style, although this does come at an additional cost.

Thunderbird is an augmented reality (AR) -focused start-up supported by the display-centric OEM TCL. Now, the two brands have unveiled something apparently three years in the making: the new Smart Glasses Pioneer Version, with a groundbreaking color micro-LED display geared toward an optimal AR experience.

Xiaomi has finally revealed mid-cycle upgrades to its Black Shark Android gaming flagship lineup in the form of the Black Shark 4S and Black Shark 4S Pro. While the Black Shark 4S is essentially the same device as the Black Shark 4 launched earlier this year, the Black Shark 4S Pro gets an internal upgrade to the Snapdragon 888 Plus SoC, which shows its prowess in a leaked AnTuTu benchmark.

Dell has announced the Latitude 5430 Rugged, a 14-inch semi-rugged laptop designed for working in harsh environments. The Latitude 5430 Rugged offers several Intel Tiger Lake choices along with optional Nvidia Quadro T500 graphics. The laptop also offers 5G connectivity and is FirstNet Ready for connectivity during emergencies.

Acer's new L811 laser-powered device is directed at those wishing to project their own 4K HDR10-compatible movies at home. For those who would prefer a monitor that could also support some image-editing work, there is the 27-inch CB273U IPS monitor. For more "serious" display needs, however, the OEM has now also announced pricing and availability for the Nitro XV272U KF.

Dell has announced the Latitude 7330 Rugged Extreme, which it claims to be the smallest 13-inch rugged laptop with 5G connectivity. The Latitude 7330 Rugged Extreme is powered by Intel Tiger Lake processors and is meant for the toughest jobs in harsh environments. The device is IP65-rated and tested to match MIL-STD-810H specifications.

Acer has announced the Predator Orion 7000 desktop PC aimed at enthusiast gamers. The Predator Orion 7000 features Intel 12th gen Alder Lake processors, DDR5-4000 RAM, and a choice of Nvidia RTX 3080 and RTX 3090 GPUs. Acer said the Predator Orion 7000 offers vastly improved thermals with AIO cooling along with a host of connectivity options.

Acer has unveiled the Predator GD711 as its new "smart projector" for gaming. It is rated to throw HDR10 content at "high dynamic contrast" and a wide color gamut, at a brightness of up to 4,000 LED lumens. The projector is compatible with PCs or consoles, offering a high refresh rate on either platform.

The Acer Aspire Vero laptop's price and availability in Europe have been revealed. It will be available for purchase in November 2021 for EUR 799. Its key specs include a 15.6-inch IPS LCD panel, 11th-generation Intel Tiger Lake processors, 16GB RAM and Wi-Fi 6.

Acer has introduced the TravelMate Vero, a sustainable variant to the TravelMate business laptop segment. The TravelMate Vero is made of 30% PCR plastic and comes in a 100% recyclable packaging. The laptop is powered by Intel 11th gen Tiger Lake CPUs and will allow businesses to customize the boot up screen with their own corporate logos.

Acer's latest Chrome OS devices have arrived with 14- or 15-inch FHD displays, each with up-to-date processors and features. The higher-tier 515s come with Spin and Enterprise variants, whereas the new 514 and Spin 314 set themselves apart with a new MediaTek Kompanio platform and an "environmentally friendly" OceanGlass touchpad respectively.

OnePlus has now announced the launch of its only end-of-year premium phone, the OnePlus 9RT, in China. The OnePlus 9RT lands with a Snapdragon 888, a 50 MP main camera with OIS, and generally solid specs across the board. Pricing begins at the equivalent of right about US$500.

After launching in China last month, Realme has now announced the GT Neo 2 5G in India. The GT Neo 2 5G is powered by the Snapdragon 870 5G and uses a vapor chamber with diamond thermal gel for cooling the SoC. The device also features a 120 Hz E4 AMOLED display with a 600 Hz touch sampling rate and a 1,300-nit peak brightness.

Nokia has made the G300 official as a smartphone with a sizeable display and a generous battery. However, those specs are tempered by a distinctly budget-tier 5G processor and low-res triple cameras. It will be released via the TracFone Wireless and Straight Talk networks in the US later in October 2021.

Amazfit has now confirmed an upgrade for its line of GTS smartwatches as well as their round-faced counterparts. This new third-gen flagship has the same upgraded features as the GTR 3 and 3 Pro, albeit with a different screen type. It has 3 new colorways and may last for more than 10 days between charges.

The GTR 3 and its new Pro version are now the latest round-faced flagship smartwatches from Amazfit. The OEM touts them as the wearables with the largest circular AMOLED displays in the industry. They also boast an expanded panel of sports modes, not to mention the brand's newest health-tracking sensors and panel of workout modes.

Pre-orders for Apple's latest Watch have been open since October 8, 2021. The flagship wearable comes in a variety of case and band types, many of which began to exhibit shipping times dated November 2021 since their launch. In fact, one or two options are now completely unavailable for delivery.

The Lumix BS1H is Panasonic's latest cuboid-style digital cinema camera with a full-frame sensor. The OEM touts it as a particularly manageable entry into this level of videography, as it has crammed its up-to-date 6K specs into a particularly compact form-factor. It also supports a familiar range of outputs that include SD cards, HDMI and IP streaming.

Canon has announced the RF5.2mm f/2.8L, created with the dual fish-eye lenses needed to convert a single DSLR into a VR content-creation machine. This new binocular accessory is compatible with the EOS R5, and confers 180-degree 3-dimensional stereoscopic recording in up to 8K on the flagship camera.

The Motorola Moto E40 has been hyped in potentia as its series' very first high-refresh-rate smartphone; now, a new "Coming Soon" page on Flipkart has revealed that this is indeed the case. It seems the retail platform will be one of the first to list the probably super-budget phone later in October 2021.