Hardware · Top stories
Samsung patent filing shows foldable phone with horizontal camera layout, similar to Pixel
Samsung patent filings depict a foldable phone with a horizontal camera bar design, a departure from its current vertical camera layout across Galaxy devices. This potential design change could address compatibility issues with the Qi2 wireless charging standard, which is gaining traction in the accessory market.
iPhone 15 Not Recommended for Purchase in 2026 Due to Better Value Alternatives
The iPhone 15, despite still being available, is not a recommended purchase in 2026 due to newer models like the iPhone 17e offering superior hardware and value at a similar price point. The iPhone 15 also lacks support for Apple Intelligence due to its A16 chip, unlike the Pro models with A17. This matters because consumers seeking a new iPhone should prioritize newer, more capable, and often similarly priced alternatives over older generations.
HP Omnibook X (2026) Review: A Professional Laptop with Core Ultra X9 Chip
A review of the HP Omnibook X (2026) highlights its strong performance, 14-inch OLED screen, and professional design, positioning it as a solid option for users prioritizing core functionality over flashy features. The laptop features Intel's Core Ultra X9 388H chip and a starting price of $900, offering a competitive option in the ultraportable market.
ViewSonic VG1457 Dual-Screen Portable Monitor Offers Compact Design, Lacks Color Performance
The ViewSonic VG1457 is a new dual-display portable monitor featuring a compact design with two stacked 14-inch 1200p panels and multiple viewing modes. While it offers portability and competitive pricing, its color performance and brightness levels are below average, and it lacks HDMI connectivity.
OnePlus exits North American and European markets, shifts software to ColorOS
OnePlus has ceased operations in North America and Europe, impacting future device purchases and software support. The company will transition from OxygenOS to ColorOS for future Android updates, a move that has caused user frustration.
Retro Games Appear Better on CRT TVs Due to Original Design and Display Technology
Retro games from the 80s, 90s, and early 2000s were designed for CRT displays, which handled motion and resolution differently than modern flat-panel TVs. This design context explains why these games often look less appealing when played on contemporary screens, as the original visual effects relied on CRT characteristics. The difference in display technology impacts how older games are perceived today.
Intel 8088 processor's 45th anniversary marks start of PC era and x86 dominance
The Intel 8088 processor, launched 45 years ago, powered the IBM PC Model 5150, initiating the personal computer era and establishing the x86 architecture's long-term dominance. Its affordability and compatibility with existing software were key factors in its success, despite the existence of the more powerful 8086.
Ocypus Sigma L36 Pro AIO Cooler Offers Detachable 3.5-inch IPS Display at Low Price
The Ocypus Sigma L36 Pro is a new all-in-one (AIO) liquid cooler featuring a detachable 3.5-inch IPS display and strong thermal performance for $139. This product offers a large screen and high static pressure fans at a lower price point than many competitors.
Rivian Autonomy+ Advances, Still Trails Tesla FSD in Point-to-Point Driving
Rivian's Autonomy+ advanced driver-assistance system has improved significantly, surpassing competitors like GM's Super Cruise, but it still lags behind Tesla's FSD (Supervised) in non-highway and point-to-point navigation. Rivian plans to introduce point-to-point driving later this year, aiming to close the gap with Tesla's capabilities.
Scythe Magoroku CPU Cooler Offers Strong RAM Thermals But Underperforms on CPU Cooling
The Scythe Magoroku, a new dual-tower CPU cooler, effectively cools RAM but shows unimpressive CPU thermal performance, particularly with AMD's Ryzen 9 9950X3D. This limits its overall utility as a primary CPU cooling solution despite its RAM cooling capabilities.
Rumors suggest MacBook Neo 2 will feature 12GB RAM and A19 Pro chip
Rumors indicate the upcoming MacBook Neo 2 will include 12GB of RAM, an increase from the current 8GB, and an A19 Pro chip. This memory upgrade is expected to improve performance for demanding tasks and support new AI features in macOS 27.
Geekom IT13 Max 2026 Mini PC Reviewed: Core Ultra 9 185H for $799
Geekom's IT13 Max 2026 mini PC, featuring an Intel Core Ultra 9 185H processor, 24GB RAM, and a 500GB SSD, is available for $799. This device offers a balance of performance and budget, utilizing last-generation laptop components in a compact design.
Maxsun Terminator B850M Pro II Motherboard Review: Competent but overpriced in the US
The Maxsun Terminator B850M Pro II is a budget AM5 motherboard with a solid feature set and average performance, but its current US pricing makes it a less competitive option. While it supports flagship processors and includes Wi-Fi 7, its performance in multi-threaded tasks is slower than other boards, and its price point exceeds that of better alternatives.
Google's Pixel Event Features Modest Upgrades and Gemini Integration
Google held its annual Pixel product launch event in New York, showcasing new hardware with incremental year-over-year upgrades and emphasizing Gemini AI integration. The event featured comedian Trevor Noah as host, aiming to position Pixel as a mainstream brand.
JSAUX FlipGo Horizon Pro dual-screen portable monitor reviewed for versatility
The JSAUX FlipGo Horizon Pro, a dual-screen portable monitor, was reviewed, highlighting its versatile display configurations and integrated hub with USB-A and Gigabit Ethernet ports. While praised for its build quality and multiple modes, the review noted its significant weight, average display quality, and high price compared to competitors.
IBM PC and Model F/XT Keyboard Celebrate 45th Anniversary
The IBM Personal Computer, model 5150, and its Model F/XT keyboard are celebrating their 45th anniversary, marking a significant milestone in the popularization of x86 computing. This anniversary highlights the historical impact of the IBM PC on the computing landscape and the role of its hardware, like the Model F/XT keyboard, in its success.
QIDI Plus5 3D Printer Reviewed: Increased Build Volume and Higher Nozzle Temperature
The QIDI Plus5 3D printer has been reviewed, highlighting its suitability for large-scale prints with high-temperature filaments due to its heated chamber and increased build volume. The printer offers a competitive price point compared to similar models, making it a notable option for practical 3D printing.
GMKtec Evo-T2 Mini PC Reviewed: Panther Lake Performance at a High Price
The GMKtec Evo-T2 mini PC features Intel's Panther Lake processor with B390 integrated graphics and 64GB of DDR5 RAM, offering quiet operation and low power consumption. However, its nearly $2,000 price point and plastic build quality are noted as drawbacks compared to competitors.
CHERI: A Capability-Hardware Enhanced RISC Instruction Set Architecture for Memory Safety
CHERI is a hardware-based approach to memory safety and fine-grained compartmentalization, not a standalone ISA but an extension to existing ISAs like ARM's Morello and RISC-V's RVY. This technology addresses the challenge of secure communication between isolated workloads, which traditional MMU-based isolation struggles with. CHERI matters because it offers a hardware-level solution to memory safety, potentially reducing vulnerabilities in systems from mobile phones to data centers.
iPhone Evolution Over Five Years: USB-C, Action Button, and Camera Control
The iPhone has undergone several significant changes in the last five years, including the adoption of USB-C, the replacement of the mute switch with an Action Button, and the introduction of a dedicated Camera Control button. These updates reflect both regulatory pressures and Apple's ongoing hardware refinements.
Garmin Cirqa and Fitbit Air fitness trackers compared on price, battery, and size
This article compares the Garmin Cirqa and Fitbit Air, two screenless fitness trackers, highlighting their differences in price, battery life, and physical dimensions. The comparison helps potential buyers decide between the $200 Cirqa and the $100 Air based on specific feature trade-offs.
Motorola Moto Watch (2026) review finds deceptive quality and unclear manufacturing origin
A review of the Motorola Moto Watch (2026) indicates that despite its premium appearance and feel, the device lacks quality and functionality, not running Wear OS. The manufacturing origin of the watch is also unclear, with Motorola representatives unable to provide details, raising questions about its provenance.
DeepCool Releases Second-Generation AK400 G2 and AK620 G2 CPU Air Coolers
DeepCool has launched its second-generation AK series CPU air coolers, the AK400 G2 and AK620 G2, which feature updated designs and fan configurations. These coolers offer aesthetic options including woodgrain top covers or digital displays, and are available in black or white.
Analysis of Sub-$100 Smartphone Capabilities in 2026
An analysis explores the features and compromises of smartphones available for under $100, highlighting that while basic functionality is present, advanced features are absent. This matters for consumers seeking budget-friendly devices and for understanding the entry-level segment of the smartphone market.
Bose CEO discusses company's strategic shift to B2B and luxury audio markets
Bose CEO Lila Snyder outlined the company's strategic shift over the past four years, moving into luxury audio and licensing its core technology to other manufacturers. This reorientation positions Bose as a B2B technology provider in addition to its consumer product sales, adapting to changes in the audio market and potential AI wearables.
Turtle Beach KB5 Keyboard Integrates Touchscreen and Numberpad for $149.99
Turtle Beach released the KB5, a full-size wired mechanical keyboard featuring low-profile switches, an 8,000 Hz polling rate, and a built-in 2.4-inch touchscreen that functions as a mini macro pad. This keyboard offers a combined numberpad and macro pad functionality at a lower price point compared to similar products.
Apple considered pre-loading new iPhones with user data for Upgrade Program
Apple reportedly considered a "white-glove" feature for its Apple Upgrade program that would have shipped new iPhones pre-loaded with user data from iCloud backups. This feature was ultimately not implemented due to concerns about data freshness and user privacy. The concept aimed to simplify device setup for customers upgrading annually.
Ohsnap MCON Controller Transforms iPhone into Mobile Game Console
The Ohsnap MCON controller, first seen at CES, is a modular gaming accessory that attaches to iPhones via MagSafe and slides open to reveal controls. It offers a compact design and a secondary "Kickback mode" for wireless play, providing a Switch-like experience for mobile gaming. This device provides a new option for mobile gamers seeking a full-featured controller with ergonomic benefits.
Kindle Scribe Colorsoft Reviewed: A Niche Device for Specific Note-Takers and Readers
The Kindle Scribe Colorsoft, priced at $630, is a color e-reader designed for note-taking and reading, featuring an 11-inch display and a digital pen. Its size and cost make it suitable for specific users who prioritize a larger screen for writing and document viewing over portability.
SSD Speed Impact on Gaming Performance Tested Across 11 Titles
Testing across 11 games shows that while SSDs significantly reduce load times compared to HDDs, the performance difference between various SSD types (SATA, PCIe NVMe, and different PCIe generations) during gameplay is often marginal. Modern games increasingly require SSDs, but faster drives do not always translate to a better gaming experience beyond initial load times.
Chuwi UniBook $450 Laptop Review: Underperforms Despite New Intel Wildcat Lake Chip
The Chuwi UniBook, a $450 Windows laptop featuring an Intel Wildcat Lake processor, 8GB RAM, and a 256GB SSD, was reviewed as underperforming. Despite its low price and port selection, the laptop exhibited poor screen quality, an awful trackpad, and sluggish performance, failing to compete with higher-priced alternatives like the MacBook Neo.
Review identifies top instant cameras, including Fujifilm Instax Mini Evo and Polaroid Flip
A review of instant cameras highlights models like the Fujifilm Instax Mini Evo, Fujifilm Instax Mini 13, Polaroid Flip, and Kodak Mini Retro 3 as top recommendations. The analysis focuses on balancing image quality, creative control, and film affordability for consumers interested in instant photography.
PSB iQ2 Wireless Stereo Speakers Offer Premium Sound and Smart-Speaker Features
The PSB iQ2 speakers combine high-fidelity audio with smart-speaker conveniences like streaming and multi-room connectivity, positioning themselves as a premium audio solution. This product addresses a gap in the market for traditional hi-fi brands by integrating modern features without compromising sound quality.
Removable Smartphone Batteries May Return Due to EU Regulation, Despite Design Challenges
Smartphone manufacturers largely abandoned removable batteries for thinner designs, premium materials, and water resistance. However, upcoming European Union regulations are expected to mandate their return, potentially changing future smartphone designs.
Sandisk Optimus GX 7100M 2TB SSD reviewed for M.2 2230 form factor devices
The Sandisk Optimus GX 7100M SSD has been reviewed as a high-performance and power-efficient option for M.2 2230 form factor devices, including portable gaming systems like the Steam Deck. This drive fills a gap in the market for 2TB single-sided M.2 2230 SSDs, offering fast random read performance and TLC flash.
Samsung QS90H Soundbar Delivers Strong Bass Without a Separate Subwoofer
Samsung's new QS90H soundbar, priced at $1,000, integrates enhanced built-in woofers to provide adequate bass without needing a separate wireless subwoofer. This design aims to fulfill the "all-in-one" promise that previous soundbars often failed to deliver. The QS90H offers features like wireless Dolby Atmos, Q-Symphony, and SpaceFit Sound Pro, making it a notable option for home audio setups.
Beelink SER10 MAX Mini PC Ships with OpenClaw and Local AI, Faces Performance Limits
The Beelink SER10 MAX mini PC, priced at $1,649, is now available with dual-boot support for Windows 11 and Ubuntu, featuring the OpenClaw AI agent and a pre-installed Qwen-3.5 9B local AI model. While this configuration aims to simplify local AI usage, the system's hardware, specifically memory bandwidth, limits the performance of larger AI models like Google Gemma 4 31B.
Peloton Cross Training Bike+ Review: Enhanced Features at a Premium Price
Peloton released the Cross Training Bike+, an updated fitness bike featuring AI-infused training programs, movement tracking, and hardware upgrades like a rotating screen and improved audio. The Bike+ costs $2,695, plus a mandatory $50 monthly All-Access Membership fee. This review assesses if the new features justify the high price point for consumers.
Montech TG3 Panoramic Mid-tower Case Offers Value and Cooling Performance
The Montech TG3 mid-tower case, priced at $59.90, provides good CPU cooling and includes four RGB fans, making it a competitive option in the budget PC case market. Its design features panoramic glass panels and a tiered PSU shroud with integrated ARGB lighting. This product offers an affordable option for PC builders seeking aesthetic and functional features without a high cost.
Glorious Wireless InfinitePlay Gaming Headset Reviewed for Sound, Comfort, and Battery
The Glorious Wireless InfinitePlay gaming headset was reviewed, highlighting its hot-swappable battery system with continuous power during swaps, balanced sound, and dual-mode connectivity. This feature addresses common battery life concerns in wireless headsets, offering an alternative to competitors like Steelseries and Turtle Beach.