Qualcomm had hinted that GDC 2026 could be an important moment for Windows-on-Arm gaming hardware. That’s no longer the case.
The company has confirmed it won’t be announcing any updates to its Snapdragon G Series gaming chips at this year’s Game Developers Conference, which runs from March 9 to 13 at Moscone Center in San Francisco. There also won’t be hands-on benchmarking sessions for the newer Snapdragon X platform revisions — the chips currently powering Windows-on-Arm PCs that some hoped would make a stronger push into gaming.
That clarification cools expectations that had been building since CES. Earlier in the year, Qualcomm had downplayed major handheld announcements but suggested GDC might be a better venue for gaming-focused updates. Naturally, that led many to expect performance demos, developer tools, or at least some clarity around OEM partnerships. None of that is happening — at least not this month.
For those following the space, this matters. The Snapdragon G Series (G1 Gen 2, G2 Gen 2, and G3 Gen 2) is Qualcomm’s dedicated push into handheld gaming silicon. On paper, these chips support QHD+ displays up to 144Hz, Wi-Fi 7, and Adreno GPUs tuned for portable gaming. Meanwhile, the Snapdragon X lineup — especially the “Elite” branded chips — have been positioned as powerful enough to handle both productivity and gaming in thin-and-light Windows devices. Together, they’ve fueled optimism about a possible Windows-based alternative to x86 handhelds.
That’s why GDC felt important. It would have been the ideal place to show real-world gaming benchmarks, highlight driver improvements, or announce partnerships with handheld makers. Even early developer toolkits would have signaled momentum. Instead, things remain quiet.
Windows-on-Arm gaming is at a delicate stage. There’s genuine potential, especially with the efficiency gains Qualcomm’s architecture can deliver. But the x86 gaming ecosystem is deeply entrenched, and expectations are high. Without concrete demos or measurable progress, enthusiasm can cool quickly.
For developers and enthusiasts attending GDC this year, Snapdragon-powered gaming hardware won’t be the headline some were anticipating.
Casio has introduced three G-Shock GMA-S140 watches in Japan, featuring metallic pink gold detailing. The collection includes the GMA-S140PG-1A with black resin, the GMA-S140PG-4A in light pink, and the GMA-S140PG-7A in white. Each model displays a metallic pink gold dial with rose gold backgrounds on digital inserts.
The hybrid analog-digital design measures 49.0 × 45.9 × 15.8 mm and weighs 56 grams. Casio uses bio-based resin from renewable organic resources for the case, bezel, and band to reduce environmental impact. The watches are shock-resistant, magnetic-resistant, and water-resistant to 200 meters, with mineral glass protection.
A CR1220 battery powers the watch for approximately two years. Accuracy is ±15 seconds monthly. The analog section features hour and minute hands, with the minute hand advancing every 20 seconds. Digital displays show time, date, and day information.
World time covers 29 time zones across 48 cities plus UTC, with daylight saving adjustments. The stopwatch measures in 1/1000-second increments up to 99:59’59.999”, tracking elapsed, lap, and split times. Speed measurement ranges from 0 to 1998 units per hour, with distance input from 0.0 to 99.9 and a Mach indicator above 1225 units per hour.
The countdown timer operates in one-second units up to 24 hours, with start times adjustable from one minute to 24 hours. Five daily alarms include one snooze option, plus an hourly time signal. An amber LED provides illumination with auto-switch, selectable 1.5 or 3-second duration, and afterglow. Compatible band sizes range from 135 to 200 mm.
OnePlus has started teasing its next compact flagship, the OnePlus 15T, and on paper it checks a lot of the right boxes. But if you were hoping for a major camera upgrade this year, the latest leak might temper expectations a bit.
According to Weibo tipster 老陈Air, the 15T will feature a dual rear camera setup. The primary sensor is said to be Sony’s LYTIA 700 (1/1.56″ size) with an f/1.8 aperture and OIS. Alongside it sits a Samsung ISOCELL JN5 (1/2.76″ size) telephoto camera at f/2.8, also with optical stabilization.
If that configuration sounds familiar, it’s because it largely mirrors the OnePlus 13T (our review). And yes — once again, there’s reportedly no ultrawide camera.
The LYT-700 is very close to what we saw in the 13T in terms of size and light intake, the 1/1.56″ IMX 906, and the telephoto aperture is actually narrower this time (f/2.8 versus f/2.0 previously). That suggests refinement rather than a real hardware leap.
That said, minor improvements may come from software processing and whatever imaging enhancements the new chipset enables.
Outside the camera department, though, the 15T looks far more ambitious. Leaks point to a 6.31-inch OLED panel with 1.5K resolution and a 165Hz refresh rate. Performance should be top-tier, thanks to Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5. Rumors suggest a massive 7,500mAh battery paired with either 100W or 120W fast charging. If that capacity holds true in a smaller chassis, it would be genuinely impressive and could give the phone serious endurance credentials.
The OnePlus 15T looks like it’s shaping up to be a performance-first compact flagship — big battery, high refresh rate, flagship silicon — but with a camera setup that plays it safe. For users who value telephoto zoom and one-handed usability over ultrawide versatility, that may be perfectly fine. For others, it could feel like a missed opportunity.
Xiaomi has announced six new monitors for the Japanese market, covering gaming and office use. The lineup includes the Xiaomi Mini LED Gaming Monitor G Pro 27Qi 2026, Xiaomi Curved Gaming Monitor G34WQi 2026, Xiaomi Gaming Monitor G27Qi 2026, Xiaomi 2K Monitor A27Qi 2026, and the Xiaomi Monitor A27i and A24i 2026. The range spans from high-performance gaming displays to minimalist office monitors.
Xiaomi Mini LED Gaming Monitor G Pro 27Qi 2026
This flagship model uses Mini LED technology with 1,152 local dimming zones, a proprietary dimming algorithm, AI scene recognition, and a dynamic backlight engine. The 27-inch panel has a 2560 × 1440 resolution, up to 180Hz refresh rate, and a 1ms GTG response time. It supports 1.07 billion colors, a 1000:1 contrast ratio, and peak brightness up to 2000 nits. Gaming features include a customizable crosshair overlay, dark area enhancement, RGB lighting, and a retractable headset holder.
The monitor measures 613.3 × 227.3 × 521.2 mm with the stand and weighs 6 kg. It supports −5° to 21° tilt adjustment and VESA 75 × 75 mm mounting. Connectivity includes two DisplayPort inputs, two HDMI ports, an audio jack, and a DC power input. Rated power is 65 W.
Xiaomi Curved Gaming Monitor G34WQi 2026
This 34-inch curved model features a 1500R curvature and a 21:9 ultrawide aspect ratio with 3440 × 1440 resolution. It supports up to 180Hz refresh rate, 1.07 billion colors, a 3500:1 contrast ratio, and 400-nit brightness with HDR400 support. Color coverage includes 95% DCI-P3 and 100% sRGB. TÜV Rheinland low blue light certification and DC dimming are included for eye comfort.
The unit measures 811.3 × 277.3 × 521.5 mm and weighs 6.5 kg. It supports −5° to 21° tilt and VESA 100 × 100 mm mounting. Ports include two DisplayPort, two HDMI, audio output, and DC input. Rated power is 65 W.
Xiaomi Gaming Monitor G27Qi 2026
This model uses a 27-inch Fast IPS panel with 2560 × 1440 resolution, up to 200Hz refresh rate, and 1ms response time. Brightness reaches 400 nits with a 1000:1 contrast ratio and 1.07 billion colors. TÜV low blue light certification is included. Dimensions are 612.9 × 173 × 470.85 mm with a 4.2 kg weight. It supports −5° to 15° tilt and VESA 75 × 75 mm mounting. Ports include two DisplayPort, two HDMI, audio output, and DC input. Rated power is 48 W.
Xiaomi 2K Monitor A27Qi 2026
Designed for professional work, this 27-inch IPS monitor has 2560 × 1440 resolution, 300-nit brightness, 1300:1 contrast ratio, and 1.07 billion colors. Each unit is factory calibrated to ΔE<1 for accurate color reproduction. It also supports multi-device color consistency across Xiaomi products. Refresh rate is up to 120Hz. The monitor measures 621.9 × 169.8 × 476.7 mm and weighs 3.9 kg. It includes one DisplayPort, one HDMI, audio output, and DC input, with 36 W rated power.
Xiaomi Monitor A27i and A24i 2026
These entry models target office use. The A27i features a 27-inch 1920 × 1080 panel, while the A24i uses a 24-inch panel with the same resolution. Both support up to 144Hz refresh rate, 300-nit brightness, and TÜV low blue light certification. Color depth is 16.7 million. The A27i measures 611.3 × 170 × 474.6 mm and weighs 3.9 kg, while the A24i measures 539.2 × 170 × 433.7 mm and weighs 3 kg. Both support −5° to 15° tilt and VESA 75 × 75 mm mounting.
Pricing & availability
All six monitors will go on sale in Japan starting February 24, 2026 through Xiaomi Stores, the official mi.com website, Rakuten, Amazon Japan, and Xiaomi Japan’s TikTok Shop. Pricing is set at ¥59,980 ($384) for the Mini LED Gaming Monitor G Pro 27Qi (early price ¥44,980 until March 9), ¥44,980 ($288) for the Curved Gaming Monitor G34WQi (early price ¥39,980), ¥32,980 ($211) for the Gaming Monitor G27Qi (early price ¥25,980), and ¥19,980 ($128) for the 2K Monitor A27Qi. The Monitor A27i is priced at ¥14,980 ($96), while the A24i costs ¥11,980 ($77) with an early price of ¥10,980 available until March 9.
For more daily updates, please visit our News Section.
Noise has launched the Master Buds 2 in India, introducing Sound by Bose technology to its Master Series lineup. The earbuds, unveiled earlier at CES 2026, succeed the original Master Buds with enhanced audio tuning for deeper bass, defined mids, and clear highs across music, streaming, and gaming.
The updated Active Noise Cancellation system features a redesigned internal cavity that improves passive isolation while preserving audio clarity. Spatial Audio with head tracking delivers immersive sound, while a 6-microphone Environmental Noise Cancellation system manages background noise during calls. The Sound+ algorithm enhances voice clarity through Clear Call support.
Additional functionality includes an AI Voice Chat Assistant accessible via the Noise Audio app and motion-based head gesture controls enabled by a 6-axis IMU sensor.
The earbuds sport a metallic finish with brushed detailing and ergonomic design. The charging case measures 5.9 × 5.8 × 2.6 cm, with a total weight at 62.4 g. IPX5 water resistance and 10 mm drivers round out the hardware specifications.
Bluetooth 6.1 connectivity offers a 10-meter range with support for A2DP, AVRCP, HFP, SPP, and AVDTP profiles. Both Android and iOS compatibility is included, along with auto pairing and dual device pairing.
Battery performance delivers up to 30 hours total playback. USB Type-C charging completes in 90 minutes, while fast charging provides 6 hours of use from a 10-minute charge.
Touch controls, equalizer customization, software updates, Find My Device, hands-free calling, and voice assistant support for Siri and Google Assistant complete the feature set.
Pricing & availability
The Noise Master Buds 2 release on March 19 at 12 PM in Carbon, Aurum, and Mercury colors. Pre-booking requires Rs. 999 and includes a Rs. 1,999 instant coupon plus Rs. 600 HDFC bank discount, reducing the effective price to Rs. 6,399.
For more daily updates, please visit our News Section.
Even companies with supply chains as tight as Apple’s aren’t immune to market pressure, and the current memory shortage seems to be testing that reputation.
A new report out of Korea suggests Apple has agreed to a steep price increase for LPDDR5X memory supplied by Samsung. According to financial outlet Dealsite, citing industry sources, Apple is now paying roughly double for these low-power DRAM modules.
LPDDR5X isn’t some minor component. It’s the RAM used across Apple’s modern silicon lineup, from iPhones and iPads to Macs.
What makes this interesting is how the negotiation reportedly played out. Samsung’s semiconductor division (DS) was initially aiming for around a 60% price increase for LPDDR5X destined for iPhone production. But in what appears to have been a classic anchoring tactic, Samsung reportedly opened discussions demanding a 100% hike.
Sources claim Apple agreed to the full increase during urgent talks focused on securing supply for the first half of 2026. One insider quoted in the report summed it up bluntly: smartphone brands are heating up to secure memory inventory.
The broader shortage isn’t happening in isolation. Demand for high-bandwidth memory (HBM), particularly for AI data centers driven by companies like Nvidia, has pulled manufacturing capacity toward more profitable enterprise-grade memory.
Pricing reflects that shift. Reports indicate 12GB LPDDR5X modules have climbed from roughly $25–$29 earlier in 2025 to around $70. That’s not a marginal adjustment — it’s a structural change in pricing dynamics.
Interestingly, even Samsung’s own mobile division is said to be feeling the squeeze. Early sourcing for the Galaxy S26 reportedly splits DRAM supply between Samsung’s semiconductor arm and Micron, which suggests internal capacity alone isn’t enough to fully insulate its smartphone business.
Apple is set to announce updated MacBook Pro, MacBook Air, iPad, and iPad Air models next week, alongside a more affordable MacBook and the iPhone 17e. While there’s no immediate indication of major retail price hikes, sustained component cost pressure could narrow margins or subtly reshape pricing tiers.
The impact won’t be limited to Apple. Industry forecasts already suggest smartphone shipments could soften in 2026 if memory constraints persist. Larger players like Apple and Samsung are better positioned to absorb higher costs, but smaller manufacturers may struggle more visibly.\
Casio has launched two new analog watches in China under the MTP-C666 series. The models are called the Casio MTP-C666-1B and Casio MTP-C666-7B, and they are part of the company’s 2025 Exam Gift Box range. The watches are designed for students preparing for important exams that usually take place in February and March.
Casio MTP-C666-1BCasio MTP-C666-7B
The MTP-C666-1B comes with a black dial and white hour markers, while the MTP-C666-7B features a white dial with black details. Both versions use a silver tone stainless steel case with ion plating and a black resin strap. The dial layout is simple, with three hands for hours, minutes, and seconds, making it easy to read time quickly.
Casio has focused heavily on the exam theme through the packaging. The gift box design is inspired by the Chinese legend of a carp jumping over the dragon gate, which represents success and achievement. The carp design is combined with the Chinese character for luck and fortune. The package also includes a random lucky card with motivational messages and traditional patterns. This card can be used as a bookmark. A set of lucky stickers is also included.
In terms of specifications, the watches use a Japanese quartz movement that is designed to be quiet and reliable. Accuracy is rated at ±20 seconds per month. The watches are powered by an SR626SW battery that can last about three years under normal use.
The case measures 42.7 × 36 × 8.1 mm, and the total weight is 41 grams. The glass used on the front is mineral glass. The strap supports wrist sizes from 145 mm to 215 mm. The watches also offer basic water resistance for daily use.
Pricing & availability
In China, the Casio MTP-C666-1B and MTP-C666-7B are priced at 390 yuan, which is about $57. Because of the exam-focused theme and cultural elements in the packaging, these models are not expected to launch in markets such as the US and EU.
Both the Galaxy A57 and A37 devices have appeared in the EU’s EPREL database (under model numbers SM-A576B/DS and SM-A376B/DS), and the energy labels reveal some interesting details, especially around battery life and durability.
Starting with battery life, both phones receive an A grade under the EU’s standardized testing. The Galaxy A37 is rated for up to 53 hours of usage on a single charge, while the A57 is listed at 52 hours. These numbers are based on a fixed EU usage cycle — typically a mix of calls, web browsing, video playback, and standby — so they won’t reflect every real-world scenario, but they do suggest solid day-and-a-half endurance for most users.
Both models are listed with a 4,905mAh rated battery, which Samsung will almost certainly market as a typical 5,000mAh capacity. Fast charging is said to top out at 45W, which keeps them competitive in the mid-range space.
The Galaxy A57 and A37 are both certified with IP68 water and dust resistance. That’s a step up from the IP67 rating seen on their predecessors. On paper at least, that’s a meaningful upgrade. Drop resistance ratings differ slightly, though. The A57 earns an A rating, while the A37 gets a B. Repairability sits at C for both, which is fairly typical for modern sealed smartphones.
Galaxy A37 EPRELGalaxy A57 EPREL
According to the EU label, both phones are certified for 1,200 full charge cycles before battery capacity drops below 80 percent of its original level. That’s noticeably lower than the 2,000 cycles previously listed for the Galaxy A56 and A36. The same reduction was also observed on the Galaxy S26 series, which suggests this could be part of a broader shift in Samsung’s battery strategy, possibly tied to chemistry changes or internal design adjustments.
It doesn’t necessarily mean the batteries are worse in everyday use. But for users who hold onto their phones for four or five years, that lower cycle rating is something to keep in mind.
An official launch is expected next month. As always, the full picture will depend on pricing and real-world testing.
Just a day after its global unveiling at Galaxy Unpacked, the Samsung Galaxy S26 series is already being put through its paces. And as expected, the Snapdragon vs Exynos debate is back — though this time, the gap doesn’t look quite as dramatic as in previous years.
It’s also worth noting that the Exynos 2600 is Samsung’s first chip built on its 2nm GAA process, while the Snapdragon variant continues to rely on TSMC’s mature 3nm node. In a way, these early results aren’t just about Qualcomm vs Exynos — they’re also an early indicator of how far Samsung Foundry’s next-gen manufacturing has come.
Post-launch Geekbench 6 scores are starting to surface, and they paint a pretty clear picture on the CPU side. The Galaxy S26 Ultra posted single-core scores of 3,670 and 3,724 in two separate runs, with multi-core results reaching 10,981 and 11,237. These are strong numbers and in line with what you’d expect from Qualcomm’s tuned “for Galaxy” variants with slightly higher clocks, tighter optimization, and aggressive performance scaling.
Geekbench 6 GPU benchmark
Meanwhile, the Exynos 2600 inside the Galaxy S26+ recorded 3,105–3,197 in single-core and 10,444–11,012 in multi-core tests. That puts Snapdragon ahead by roughly 10 to 18 percent in CPU performance when it comes to single-threaded workloads. In practical terms, that could translate to slightly snappier app launches and better responsiveness under lighter loads.
Geekbench 6 CPU benchmarkGeekbench 6 CPU benchmark
But the GPU story is more interesting this year. In OpenCL testing, the Exynos 2600 actually posted a marginally higher score — 24,240, compared to the Snapdragon’s 24,152. It’s a tiny difference, but symbolically important.
That’s notable because historically, Exynos variants have struggled to keep up with Qualcomm not just in CPU efficiency but also in GPU stability and sustained output. If these early numbers hold up in long gaming sessions and real-world thermal tests, Samsung may finally have narrowed the performance perception gap.
Of course, these are still early post-launch benchmarks. Sustained performance and battery drain under load will matter more once full reviews drop.
Just two weeks after dropping the first Android 17 beta, Google has released the second beta update with a limited-access contacts picker, EyeDropper API, enhanced connectivity, and better cross-device capabilities. The most exciting addition is the new Bubbles feature, which lets users turn any app into a floating bubble.
Android 17 Beta 2: What’s new and what’s changing?
Bubbles make multitasking easier
The new Bubbles feature turns any app into a floating bubble. This is an excellent multitasking feature, allowing users to run multiple floating apps without ever having to leave the full-screen app.
To use this feature, long-press an app icon, and you’ll see a “Bubble” option. That option quickly opens the app in a floating window. Tap it, and the app will shrink into a floating circle that stays at the top. On large-screen devices, there’s a dedicated bubble bar in the taskbar to organize and anchor bubbles.
The previous Pixel Launcher Search bar is back
The Android 17 Beta 1 removed the ring around the search bar and featured a dominant color from the user’s wallpaper. Well, that return in the Beta 2 for the Pixel Launcher, as spotted by Phone Arena. The AI Mode icon is now featured inside the circle towards the end of the search bar.
The Android 17 Beta 2 also brings minor design upgrades to privacy indicators. Earlier, when an app used your phone’s camera, location, and microphone, the icons were visible in the top-right corner, inside a pill-shaped green enclosure. In Beta 2, they are shown in separate circles. Also, the location is shown in blue instead of green.
Old vs New (image credit: 9to5Google)
Small but meaningful upgrades
Satellite tile in Quick Settings: The Quick Settings in Android 17 Beta 2 features a new “Satellite” tile with the current status.
Image credit: 9to5Google
System contacts picker: The new system-level contacts picker grants temporary, session-based read access to only the specific data fields selected by the user. It also allows users to choose between personal and work profiles, giving them more control over data sharing.
System EyeDropper: Beta 2 introduces a new system-level EyeDropper API that allows apps to request a color from any pixel on the display without requiring sensitive screen-capture permissions.
New “Accounts and backup” menu in Settings: It replaces “Back up or copy data” and “Passwords, passkeys & accounts.”
image credit: 9to5Google
SMS and OTP protection: For apps that are not intended as receipts, OTP messages are delayed for three hours. It doesn’t include the default SMS app, assistant apps, and companion apps for connected devices.
This change applies to:
WebOTP messages
SMS Retriever format messages
Standard OTP SMS messages
In addition to these changes, Android 17 Beta 2 includes improvements to connectivity, cross-device connectivity, and more. Plus, it also fixes 16 issues. You can check the complete changelog here.
Devices eligible to receive Android 17 Beta 2
Pixel 10, Pixel 10 Pro, Pixel 10 Pro XL, Pixel 10 Pro Fold
Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL, Pixel 9 Pro Fold, Pixel 9a
Pixel 8, Pixel 8 Pro, Pixel 8a
Pixel 7, Pixel 7 Pro, Pixel 7a
Pixel 6, Pixel 6 Pro, Pixel 6a
Pixel Fold
Pixel Tablet
The second beta of Android 17 is currently rolling out to only Google Pixels.
How to install Android 17 Beta 2 update?
If your Google Pixel is already running Android 17 Beta 1, you can easily install Beta 2 by navigating to Settings > System > Software Updates > System Updates.
If you’re not already part of the beta program, visit google.com/android/beta and “Opt in” on your selected device. Make sure you’re logged into the website with the same Google account. After opting in, you should be able to install the latest beta update on your Google Pixel from the Software Updates section in the Settings app.
Keep in mind that there’s no going back once you install a beta update. If you try to leave the Beta early, you’ll need to perform a full data wipe.
According to the official release timeline, Android 17 will enter the platform stability phase next month, with the stable version expected to be released in Q3 2026. Stay tuned for more updates.
Google released Android 17 Beta 2, advancing system APIs and developer tools ahead of the stable release expected later this year. The update prioritizes privacy enforcement, cross-device functionality, and input refinements while maintaining Google’s two-SDK release cycle with the major version in Q2.
Windowing and Interface Changes
The Bubbles feature now functions as a complete windowing mode. Users create floating app windows by long-pressing app icons on phones, tablets, and foldables. Large-screen devices receive a bubble bar within the taskbar for organizing and repositioning windows. Developers must implement multi-window guidelines for proper functionality.
A system-level EyeDropper API lets apps sample any screen pixel without requesting screen capture permissions. The new Contacts Picker using ACTION_PICK_CONTACTS grants temporary access to user-selected contact fields only, supporting personal and work profiles while reducing reliance on READ_CONTACTS permission.
Input and Hardware Support
Touchpad pointer capture has been corrected. Previous versions reported absolute finger positions rather than relative movement during capture, causing issues for games and specific applications. Android 17 now processes touchpad input as mouse movement by default. Apps requiring precise finger tracking can enable absolute capture mode.
The getInitialRestingBounds API improves the Interactive Chooser by detecting the share sheet’s final position after animations complete, enabling apps to adjust layouts accordingly.
Cross-Device and Connectivity Features
The Handoff API enables state transfer between devices through CompanionDeviceManager. The system displays handoff suggestions on nearby devices, allowing users to resume tasks. If the destination device lacks the app, the feature falls back to web-based continuation.
Ultra-Wideband DL-TDOA support brings privacy-focused indoor navigation compliant with FiRa 4.0. Wi-Fi Alliance’s Proximity Detection standard improves ranging accuracy over Wi-Fi Aware. Streaming apps access carrier-allocated bandwidth limits via getStreamingAppMaxDownlinkKbps and getStreamingAppMaxUplinkKbps for quality optimization.
Privacy and Security Enforcement
ACCESS_LOCAL_NETWORK becomes a mandatory runtime permission for apps targeting Android 17. Apps must request permission to discover local network devices unless using system pickers. ACTION_TIMEZONE_OFFSET_CHANGED broadcasts notify apps of time zone offset changes during daylight saving transitions.
SMS OTP protection extends to all message formats. Non-recipient apps face a three-hour delay before accessing OTP messages, excluding default SMS apps, assistants, and companion devices. Google recommends migrating to SMS Retriever or User Consent APIs.
Developer Resources
Apps directly accessing neural processing units must declare FEATURE_NEURAL_PROCESSING_UNIT in manifests. Core libraries update to ICU 78 with Unicode 17, adding scripts, characters, emoji blocks, and refined time formatting.
Platform Stability arrives in March, finalizing SDK and NDK APIs. Developers can then target API level 37 and publish test apps before public release. Beta 2 is available over-the-air for supported Pixel devices and through emulator images in Android Studio.
For more daily updates, please visit our News Section.
Motorola is clearly stepping up its software game. Just a day ago, it began the Android 17 beta program ahead of its competitors, and now, the beta program has just gone live for a new set of smartphones.
The Motorola Edge 2025, Moto G57, and Moto G57 Power were the first phones to join the Android 17 beta program. Now, it’s expanding to Moto G86, Moto G86 Power, Motorola Edge 60, Edge 60 Fusion, Edge 70, and Edge 70 Fusion in multiple regions.
Here, EMEA refers to Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, and LATAM refers to Latin America.
If you have any of these Motorola smartphones and live in a supported region, you can sign up for the Android 17 beta program to get early access to the latest features and upgrades. However, that also means you’re ready to face bugs or broken features that may appear in beta builds.
Here’s how to sign up for Motorola’s Android 17 beta program
Tap on the registration link for your Motorola phone.
Fill in the required details and submit your application.
Please keep in mind that Motorola may send emails regarding your beta application. So, remember to check your inbox regularly, including the spam folder.
Once your beta application is approved, you’ll receive an OTA update. It’s best to manually check for updates once in a while by navigating to Settings > System updates > Check for updates.
While the Android 17 beta program has gone live for several Motorola phones, the update rollout is yet to begin. Once that happens, we’ll learn about the new features and changes. For now, users can expect to see Material 3 Expressive enhancements, Live Notification updates, and a redesigned desktop mode, among many changes.
We’ll keep posting the latest updates in the Motorola section. Remember to visit that regularly to get fresh updates. Alternatively, you can join our Telegram channel to get instant notifications about the latest in tech.
Google has announced Nano Banana 2, its latest image generation model under the Gemini family. The update blends advanced creative capabilities with faster processing speeds, aiming to make high-quality visual generation more widely accessible across Google products.
Pro-level intelligence at Flash speed
Nano Banana 2
Nano Banana 2, officially called Gemini 3.1 Flash Image, combines the deeper reasoning abilities of the earlier Pro variant with the responsiveness of Gemini Flash. According to Google, the model draws on real-world knowledge and can reference up-to-date web information to better render specific subjects. This allows users to create detailed infographics, structured diagrams and data-driven visuals with improved contextual accuracy.
Text handling has also been refined. The model can generate clearer, legible text within images, making it suitable for marketing mock-ups and social content. It can also adapt text into different languages directly inside visuals. Google says the gap between speed and image quality has been significantly reduced, resulting in sharper details, improved lighting and richer textures without slowing down generation time.
Nano Banana 2 is being rolled out across the Gemini app, Google Search AI Mode, Lens, AI Studio and the Gemini API in Vertex AI. It is also becoming the default image model in Flow and is integrated into Google Ads for campaign asset suggestions. Subscribers to Google AI Pro and Ultra plans will still be able to access Nano Banana Pro for specialised, high-fidelity tasks.
Google is also strengthening content verification. The company continues to embed SynthID watermarks in AI-generated media and plans to expand C2PA Content Credentials support within the Gemini app. Since its introduction, SynthID verification tools have reportedly been used over 20 million times, reflecting growing interest in identifying AI-generated content.
With Nano Banana 2, Google appears to be focusing on faster output without compromising creative precision, positioning it as a flexible option for everyday creators and professionals alike.
For more daily updates, please visit our News Section.
As scheduled, Huawei has officially taken the wraps off the latest version of its premium wireless earbuds, the Huawei FreeBuds Pro 5. The new earbud features a refined design, stronger noise cancellation, and support for high-resolution audio, all wrapped in a polished, premium-looking package.
Huawei FreeBuds Pro 5 Design
At first glance, the FreeBuds Pro 5 don’t shy away from looking expensive. Huawei is using an oval-shaped charging case paired with a star-ring diamond-cut design on the buds themselves. Further, the earbud stem has a subtle golden ring with HUAWEI SOUND branding.
The earbud uses silicone ear tips and an in-ear stem-style design that should sit securely for long listening sessions. Each bud weighs 5.5 grams and measures 29.1 x 21.8 x 23.7mm, while the charging case comes in at 43 grams with dimensions of 65.50 x 46.70 x 22.98mm. Globally, the earbuds come in Snowy White, Frost Silver, Azure Sky, and Earth Gold.
Audio
For audio, Huawei is using a dual-driver system inside, which combines an ultra-linear dual-magnetic circuit bass unit with an ultra-thin micro-planar tweeter. The bass driver reportedly reaches down to 10Hz for deeper low-end performance, while the tweeter extends up to 48kHz for higher-frequency clarity.
The FreeBuds Pro 5 also feature dual-unit, dual-channel active noise cancellation system, designed to emit reverse sound waves to cancel surrounding noise. Huawei claims this new system delivers up to three times better performance than the previous generation.
The company’s Kirin A3 chipset handles environmental processing and noise reduction, working alongside upgraded microphones. Huawei says call clarity remains stable even in environments with noise levels up to 100dB and wind speeds reaching 10m/s.
For users who don’t want to be completely isolated, Huawei has included an Alert Mode that lets important sounds through.
Codec and Battery Life
Being a flagship product, it’s no surprise that the FreeBuds Pro 5 support AAC, SBC, LDAC, and L2HC codecs. It also has Huawei’s proprietary NearLink technology, which can enable lossless audio transmission speeds of up to 4.6Mbps under supported conditions.
Each earbud is stuffed with a 60mAh battery, while the charging case includes a 537mAh cell. Huawei says the earbuds can deliver up to 9 hours of playback without active noise cancellation and around 6 hours with ANC enabled.
Finally, durability is covered with an IP67 rating for dust and water resistance, making the FreeBuds Pro 5 more resilient than many premium rivals.
The earbuds are up for purchase at €199/£180 with a limited period discount of €30/£30 if orders are placed via Huawei’s official online store.
For more daily updates, please visit our News Section.
Recent discussions on Chinese social media had raised doubts about the future of the Meizu 23 and the broader smartphone division. Speculation around restructuring within Xingji (Starji) Meizu gathered pace earlier this week. Now, an official statement released on February 27 offers clarity on the company’s direction and addresses the circulating claims.
Meizu responds to shutdown speculation
Meizu 22
In its formal announcement, Meizu denied reports suggesting bankruptcy, complete business suspension, or brand exit. The company stated that such claims are inaccurate and that it reserves the right to pursue legal responsibility against those spreading misinformation. It emphasised that while changes are underway, the brand itself is not shutting down.
However, Meizu confirmed a significant strategic shift. The company will temporarily pause new domestic smartphone product development. This move is described as a planned transition rather than a closure. Existing operations, including after-sales services and support for current users, will continue without disruption. Products such as Meizu phones, Flyme systems, and Pandaer accessories will remain available, and customer rights will not be affected.
Shift towards Flyme and AI ecosystem
The statement highlights that Meizu is repositioning itself around Flyme and AI-driven ecosystems. The company intends to focus on open collaboration under a Powered by Flyme model, expanding into broader industries rather than limiting itself to handset launches. Flyme Auto has already crossed 2.26 million vehicle installations and aims to reach 3 million this year, reflecting strong traction in the automotive space.
Meizu also noted that overseas smartphone operations, AI glasses, and Pandaer technology products will continue with market-oriented development. The pause in domestic handset launches is presented as a resource reallocation decision aimed at strengthening its software and ecosystem capabilities.
While uncertainty remains around the Meizu 23, the official message makes it clear that the brand is not disappearing. Instead, it is entering a new phase centred on Flyme, AI integration, and cross-industry partnerships.
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Just weeks after wrapping up its current lineup with the Pixel 10a, Google may already be testing its new phones. A new Geekbench listing has surfaced, and while nothing is confirmed, it hints at early hardware that could belong to the Pixel 11 series, and more importantly, the next-generation Tensor G6 chip.
The listing is tied to a device called “Google Kodiak.” That name isn’t new. It was previously associated with the Pixel 10 Pro XL. But according to Notebookcheck, this new appearance could point to a Pixel 11 model instead. The reason comes down to the processor configuration.
This could be the Tensor G6 setup
The device in question runs a 7-core Tensor SoC, which is unusual. The Pixel 10 Pro XL uses an octa-core chip. That alone suggests this isn’t simply a re-test of existing hardware.
The new configuration includes one Arm C1-Ultra core clocked at 4.11GHz, four Arm C1-Pro cores at 3.38GHz, and two additional C1-Pro cores at 2.65GHz. The clock speeds are also higher than what we’ve seen on the Tensor G5.
For comparison, the Pixel 10 Pro XL is powered by an octa-core setup with one Cortex-X4 core at 3.78GHz, five Cortex-A725 cores at 3.05GHz, and two Cortex-A520 cores at 2.25GHz.
Graphics also differ. The new listing shows a PowerVR C-Series CXTP-48-1536 GPU, while the Pixel 10 Pro XL uses a PowerVR DXT-48-1536.
However, the benchmark scores are nothing to write home about. The phone posted a single-core score of 845 and a multi-core score of 2657. These numbers are extremely low for a modern flagship. It’s possible the chip is missing software optimizations, or that this is very early hardware not meant for performance testing.
Still, it’s worth being cautious. There’s no guarantee this listing is genuine. Benchmark databases are often filled with prototypes, mislabeled devices, and sometimes even fake entries. The Pixel 11 series isn’t expected until summer 2026, and the Tensor G6 hasn’t been announced.
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LG has launched its new 27-inch gaming monitor, the UltraGear 27G610A, in China. The monitor is now listed on JD.com for 1,199 yuan ($175), offering a high-refresh-rate QHD display designed for gamers.
LG UltraGear 27G610A Specifications
The UltraGear 27G610A boasts a 2560 x 1440 resolution on a 16:9 IPS panel. It offers a blazing-fast 200Hz refresh rate and a 1ms GtG response time, minimizing motion blur and ghosting.
In terms of color accuracy, the panel covers 99% of the sRGB color gamut and supports VESA DisplayHDR 400 certification. The monitor delivers a peak brightness of 400 nits, which improves visibility in well-lit environments and supports HDR content. These features make the monitor suitable for gaming, content consumption, and light creative work.
LG has integrated gaming-focused features to enhance the user experience. The monitor supports AMD FreeSync Premium, reducing screen tearing and stuttering with compatible GPUs. It also offers Black Stabilizer for better visibility in dark scenes, Dynamic Action Sync to minimize input lag, and a built-in Crosshair mode to boost accuracy in shooting games.
The UltraGear 27G610A has a slim design with three-sided narrow bezels, creating an immersive viewing experience. The ergonomic stand supports a height adjustment of up to 110mm, tilt adjustment from -5° to 20°, swivel adjustment from -30° to 30°, and pivot rotation for vertical viewing. The display also supports VESA 100 x 100mm wall mounting.
LG has included multiple connectivity options. The monitor comes with one DisplayPort 1.4, two HDMI 2.1 ports, and a 3.5mm headphone jack.
In related news, JapanNext has introduced a 31.5-inch 6K IPS monitor featuring 500 nits brightness, 90W USB-C charging, and KVM support, while AOC has unveiled a new 27-inch QD-OLED gaming monitor with a 280Hz refresh rate and a 0.03ms response time.
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Red Magic has announced the launch of the Red Magic Cooler 8 Pro, which will go on sale at 7:00 PM on March 9. The cooler is priced at 269 yuan (approximately $39) and is now available for pre-orders across all platforms. This device serves as the successor to the Magnetic Cooler 6 Pro, which debuted last year.
According to images on the pre-order page, the Red Magic Cooler 8 Pro offers 36W of cooling power, capable of reducing temperatures by up to 80°C under specific test conditions. It features an advanced thermoelectric cooling module, designed to actively dissipate heat and stabilize device performance during heavy usage, such as gaming or multitasking.
Under controlled conditions, the cooler can achieve a minimum temperature of -25°C, making it an excellent choice for maintaining full-frame-rate performance during demanding mobile gaming sessions. Despite its powerful cooling, the Cooler 8 Pro operates at a minimal noise level of 36dB.
Internal tests reveal impressive results: the cooler reduced the surface temperature of a constant 10W heat source from 95°C to 15°C in just 20 minutes.
The Cooler 8 Pro has been demonstrated on an iPhone in promotional images, confirming its MagSafe compatibility. It is expected to work with a wide range of devices, including the latest Pixel phones, Xiaomi models, and other smartphones with protective cases.
The Cooler 8 Pro brings several upgrades over its predecessor, the Cooler 6 Pro, which featured 30W cooling power and was priced at 239 yuan (approximately $34). The Cooler 6 Pro could reduce device temperatures by up to 41°C (minimum -16°C) and included a larger TEC plate, a graphene-infused heat sink, and a seven-blade fan for enhanced cooling and quiet operation (35dB).
Oppo is taking an unusually open approach ahead of the Oppo Find N6 launch. With the device expected to debut on March 17, the company recently invited a member of the media into its production facilities to showcase the engineering work behind what it claims is a significantly reduced display crease.
The foldable crease has long been one of the category’s most persistent compromises. Oppo says it has spent the past three years refining its hinge and display assembly process, developing multiple prototypes along the way. According to the company, the latest iteration is built with alignment tolerances as tight as 0.03mm. It’s a level of precision intended to reduce visible indentation from the start and slow down long-term wear.
Durability testing appears to be a major focus. Oppo demonstrated an automated folding rig designed to simulate extended use, pushing devices through up to 300,000 fold-and-unfold cycles. During the media visit, the reporter was shown a unit that had already passed roughly 170,000 cycles. Even at that stage, the crease repirtedly remained minimal. Independent testing will ultimately determine how that translates to everyday use, but the company is clearly confident in its results.
The Find N6 has also reportedly passed TÜV Rheinland certification, with Oppo suggesting it achieved one of the flattest foldable displays evaluated so far. The inner display is expected to measure around 8.12 inches, paired with a 6.62-inch cover screen.
Leaked details suggest Oppo is aiming for a well-rounded flagship. The device is rumored to feature a Hasselblad-branded camera system built around a 200MP main sensor. It’s also expected to run on Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 platform and pack a sizeable 6,000mAh battery with 80W fast charging — notable figures for a slim book-style foldable.
By offering a behind-the-scenes look at production and stress testing, Oppo appears keen to differentiate the Find N6 in an increasingly competitive foldable market. Samsung, Honor, and other brands continue to refine hinge and display technology, and expectations are rising with each generation.
ASUS has launched its 2026 Creator series in India under the “Built for Originals” campaign. The lineup includes the ProArt GoPro Edition PX13, a limited-edition ROG Flow Z13-KJP created with KOJIMA PRODUCTIONS, and the TUF Gaming A14 (2026). All three devices are powered by AMD Ryzen AI Max+ processors with dedicated NPUs rated up to 50 TOPS, targeting creators, gamers, and hybrid users who need AI acceleration alongside high CPU and GPU performance.
ProArt GoPro Edition (PX13)
The ProArt GoPro PX13 focuses on portability and creator workflows. It runs on the AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395 processor with 16 cores and 32 threads, paired with AMD Radeon 8060S integrated graphics and up to 128GB LPDDR5X memory. Storage includes a 1TB PCIe 4.0 SSD with expansion up to 2TB through an M.2 2230 slot.
The device features a 13.3-inch 3K OLED touchscreen with a 16:10 aspect ratio, 0.2ms response time, 60Hz refresh rate, 400 nits brightness (500 nits HDR), 100% DCI-P3 coverage, Pantone validation, and HDR True Black 500 certification. Touch and stylus support are included.
It weighs about 1.13 kg with an aluminum chassis and a 360° hinge. The laptop includes a backlit keyboard with Copilot key, Precision touchpad with DialPad support, FHD IR webcam with Windows Hello, Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4, and ports including USB-A 3.2 Gen2, dual USB-C with DisplayPort and Power Delivery, HDMI 2.1 FRL, 3.5mm jack, DC-in, and MicroSD 4.0.
Creator tools include StoryCube AI, MuseTree, ProArt Creator Hub, ScreenXpert, GlideX, and a dedicated GoPro hotkey. Buyers receive a hard-shell carry case with modular foam. An optional GoPro MAX2 bundle offers a 360 camera, extension pole, two Enduro batteries, and a 64GB microSD card at a discounted price. The package also includes a three-month Adobe Creative Cloud subscription and one year of GoPro Premium+.
ROG Flow Z13-KJP Limited Edition
The ROG Flow Z13-KJP is a 2-in-1 tablet-style gaming device designed with KOJIMA PRODUCTIONS and Yoji Shinkawa. It features a CNC-milled aluminum body with carbon fiber accents, custom keycaps, and laser-etched vents.
It uses the AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395 processor with Radeon 8060S graphics and 128GB LPDDR5X memory. Storage is a 1TB PCIe 4.0 SSD with expansion up to 2TB through a single M.2 slot. Cooling is handled by a vapor chamber and dual Arc Flow Fans.
The 13.4-inch 2.5K ROG Nebula touchscreen supports a 16:10 ratio, 180Hz refresh rate, 3ms response time, 500 nits brightness, 100% DCI-P3 color, Adaptive-Sync, Dolby Vision HDR, and stylus support. Connectivity includes Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4.
The device weighs around 1.72 kg and includes a 70Wh battery with fast charging. Ports include USB-A 3.2 Gen2, dual USB-C with DisplayPort and Power Delivery, HDMI 2.1 FRL, and microSD UHS-II. It also features a 13MP rear camera, 5MP IR front camera, Dolby Atmos speakers, Aura Sync lighting, and support for the XG Mobile external GPU.
The box includes themed packaging, a custom carrying case, and a Steam code for DEATH STRANDING 2: ON THE BEACH. Pre-orders also offer extended warranty and accidental damage protection through coupons.
TUF Gaming A14 (2026)
The TUF Gaming A14 targets entry and mid-range creators and gamers. It runs on the AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 392 processor with 12 cores and 24 threads, Radeon 8060S graphics, and 32GB LPDDR5X quad-channel memory. Storage includes a 1TB PCIe 4.0 SSD with support for up to 4TB across two M.2 slots.
The 14-inch 2.5K IPS display has a 16:10 ratio, 165Hz refresh rate, 400 nits brightness, and fast response time. The device weighs 1.48 kg and measures 1.69–1.99 cm thick. It includes a 73Wh battery with fast charging that reaches 50% in about 30 minutes and supports 45W to 100W charging.
Connectivity includes Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3. Ports include USB4 Type-C with DisplayPort and Power Delivery, USB-C 3.2 Gen2, two USB-A 3.2 Gen2 ports, HDMI 2.1 FRL, and microSD UHS-II. Other features include a backlit keyboard with Copilot key, FHD IR webcam, Dolby Atmos speakers, AI noise canceling, Microsoft Pluton security, and Secured-core PC Level 3 compliance.
Pricing and Availability
The ROG Flow Z13-KJP starts at Rs. 3,79,990, with pre-orders from February 26, 2026, and availability from March 4, 2026. The ProArt GoPro PX13 starts at Rs. 3,34,990, while the TUF Gaming A14 starts at Rs. 1,79,990. Both are available from February 26, 2026.
All models include Microsoft Office Home 2024 lifetime access and Microsoft 365 Basic with 100GB cloud storage for one year. They are sold through ASUS Exclusive Stores, ROG Stores, ASUS Hybrid Stores, Reliance Digital, Croma, authorized partners, ASUS eShop, Flipkart, and Amazon India.
For more daily updates, please visit our News Section.
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