Notebookcheck Logo

Latest Tech News

Breaking news, developing stories, insightful articles, and thought-provoking columns about laptops, smartphones, gaming, CPUs, GPUs, and anything related to tech. The latest tech news is also available via Notebookcheck's RSS feed.

    settings restrict
additional restrictions: News, Columns
Aug 1
The Redmi K100 Pro Max.

High-end Xiaomi phone detailed with 185Hz display before launch

Xiaomi has revealed new details about the Redmi K100 Pro Max ahead of its launch in China. The gaming-focused smartphone features a 185Hz display and a flagship Snapdragon chipset.
Huzefa Baloch, 01 Aug 2026 23:54
Boomer Shooter Bonanza bundle.

Deal | Green Man Gaming launches new bundle with 7 Steam Deck-friendly games for just $10

Green Man Gaming has added a new bundle to the site called Boomer Shooter Bonanza. It includes 7 Steam Deck-compatible games, and you can score them for just $10.
Abdul Haddi, 01 Aug 2026 22:36
Angled view of the G-Steel-GST-B1000-1A with the black dial.

Casio unveils sportier G-Steel watches with silicone straps, Bluetooth, and Tough Solar

Casio’s new G-Shock GST-B1000-1A and GST-B1000-2A deliver the same durability, solar charging, and Bluetooth features as their full-metal counterparts in a lighter, sportier resin-band design. They're launching first in Japan for ¥60,500 (~$384).
Kristen Spradlin, 01 Aug 2026 22:03
Banner for GTA 6 PS5 release shown

Huge GTA 6 PS5 marketing budget teased, as imminent trailer may kick off ad blitz

Sony’s commitment to promoting Rockstar's next GTA game may be even greater than rumored. An insider describes the company’s investment in PS5 campaigns as “mind-blowing”. Recent leaks predict that marketing could resume in early August with the third GTA 6 trailer.
Adam Corsetti, 01 Aug 2026 21:57
The VM31 is designed as a space-efficient solution for productivity tasks.

Asus quietly launches new series of ultra compact mini PCs

Asus has just introduced the VM31, a 0.55-liter mini PC designed for tight spaces. Its extensive port selection make it very suitable for a wide range of productivity setups, ranging from small offices to crowded retail environments.
Jacob Fisher, 01 Aug 2026 19:50
Microsoft is preparing performance improvments for machines with 8GB of RAM.

Microsoft to optimize Windows 11 for PCs with 8GB of RAM

Microsoft is preparing Windows 11 optimizations designed to improve performance on PCs with 8GB of RAM, targeting high idle memory use. The updates will roll out gradually, with broader improvements expected by the end of 2026.
Jacob Fisher, 01 Aug 2026 19:49
Samsung's new foldable and flip models are already bestsellers, at least in South Korea.

Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold 8, Fold 8 Ultra and Flip 8 already selling like hot cakes

Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 8, Fold 8 Ultra and Flip 8 are seeing stronger-than-expected pre-order demand in South Korea, prompting shipment delays and depleted stock across several configurations. Fold 8 pre-orders are reportedly triple those of its predecessor.
Jacob Fisher, 01 Aug 2026 19:48
The Seiko HGK001 and HGK002

Seiko unveils two new stainless-steel chronographs with sapphire crystal

Seiko's new HGK001 (cream/gold) and HGK002 (gray/rose gold) chronographs share an 8T63 quartz caliber, 40 mm steel case, and sapphire crystal. Pricing is set at PHP 30,500 (~$497) in the Philippines.
Anubhav Sharma, 01 Aug 2026 19:18
Unlike the GuliKit ES Pro (pictured), the GuliKit ES Max will have adjustable triggers.

Gulikit teases a new pro controller with adjustable triggers and low latency

GuliKit has revealed its plans to launch a new pro controller soon. Called the ES Max, the eSports controller will have adjustable triggers, customizable buttons, and support for PC and Nintendo Switch/Switch 2.
Habeeb Onawole, 01 Aug 2026 18:59
Google's Googlebook design with the Glowbar visible.

The upcoming Snapdragon "Calypso" for Googlebooks might not be that mysterious after all

Weeks of speculation about Qualcomm's mysterious "Calypso" codename may finally be over, and it's not the new Googlebook chip many expected.
Bùi Giang, 01 Aug 2026 18:15
The Galaxy Z Fold 8 (not pictured here) may not be so "crease-free" as touted.

Galaxy Z Fold 8's "crease-free" claims meet reality after one week

Early reviews of Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold 8 show its initially subtle display crease becoming more pronounced after a week of regular use. Testers say the change does not affect performance, but it does challenge claims that the foldable is "crease-free."
Jacob Fisher, 01 Aug 2026 17:38
The battery in the Razr 70 Ultra has to fit into a small space, but it still delivers decent battery life.

Powerful flip phone battery put to the test: How long does it last?

Motorola has equipped the premium Motorola Razr Ultra 2026 (Razr 70 Ultra) foldable with a larger battery. With two displays and a complex folding mechanism, there isn’t much room for the battery— can the phone still deliver impressive battery life?
Florian Schmitt, 01 Aug 2026 16:49
Tarok Ultra: A powerful yet relatively lightweight full-suspension e-MTB

New 22 kg e-bike features 150 Nm DJI motor, 1,500 W peak power, and 700 Wh battery

Extreme torque, a mullet setup, and full suspension: The Tarok Ultra promises powerful support and optimal control under demanding conditions.
Silvio Werner, 01 Aug 2026 16:15
2026 Model Y Premium

Tesla ends zero APR Model Y financing deal

Tesla's cheapest ride into a Model Y just got more expensive. The electric SUV maker ended the 0% interest rate financing for the Model Y and also bumped the APR for the pricier Model 3 versions.
Daniel Zlatev, 01 Aug 2026 16:02
The GuliKit App is available for Android and iOS devices.

Gulikit releases a mobile app for its controllers

GuliKit controllers now have a companion app that is available for iOS devices and Android. While the app allows for customization and modification on the fly, only a handful of controllers are supported.
Habeeb Onawole, 01 Aug 2026 15:56
The Seiko HBB003 and HBB004

Seiko launches new limited-edition Prospex automatic watches with 4R35 caliber

Seiko unveils the HBB003 (yellow) and HBB004 (orange), Asia-Pacific-exclusive Prospex divers limited to 2,500 pieces each. Samurai-style case, 4R35 automatic caliber, 200 m WR. No pricing yet — "coming soon" per Seiko India, excludes Japan.
Anubhav Sharma, 01 Aug 2026 15:56
Aether and Lumine rest in a field of flowers while Dainsleif walks away in the distance.

Genshin Impact 7.0 brings firearms, trains, and Stellar Swirl to Snezhnaya

Genshin Impact Version 7.0 "Everwinter Without Mercy" launches August 12, opening Snezhnaya with the Eye of Graeae tool, a new TPS mode, and characters Odette and Alyosha.
Darryl Linington, 01 Aug 2026 15:47
Xiaomi 17T Pro

Xiaomi 17T Pro: Major upgrade with impressive battery life

The Xiaomi 17T Pro is a powerful high-end smartphone featuring outstanding battery life, an impressive display, and compelling cameras. The new Dimensity 9500 delivers ample performance, while the 7,000 mAh battery ensures exceptionally long runtimes. Weaknesses are primarily evident in the USB 2.0 port, the ultra-wide-angle camera, and performance throttling under sustained load.
Daniel Schmidt, 01 Aug 2026 14:58
After nearly three years in Early Access, Quasimorph's 1.0 version launched on Steam on July 31.

Different kind of extraction – why this game tops the Steam charts

top-down perspective, turn-based combat, and a unique time-pressure mechanic. The result: it's currently the #1 game in Steam's "Popular New Releases" chart.
Marius Müller, 01 Aug 2026 14:20
Oppo Pad 5 Review

Manufacturer cuts back on a key component in its tablets to cope with the DRAM crisis

The 12.1‑inch Oppo Pad 5 impressed us in our review with its bright display and long battery life. However, there’s still room for improvement when it comes to speaker quality. This is hardly surprising, as we raised the same criticism with the Pro model. It appears that Oppo has identified the speakers as an area for potential cost savings in response to the DRAM crisis.
Marcus Herbrich, 01 Aug 2026 14:10
Bambu Lab A2L: How well can this 3D printer cut and print?

Bambu Lab A2L: How well can this 3D printer cut and print?

We took a detailed look at the Cutting Upgrade Kit for the Bambu Lab A2L. The module is relatively inexpensive, easy to use, and offers real added value.
Silvio Werner, 01 Aug 2026 13:14
Asus ROG Strix SCAR 18 G835LXG laptop with Intel Core Ultra 9 290HX and Nvidia GeForce RTX 5090

Asus ROG Strix SCAR 18 G835LXG: RTX 5090 laptop unleashes maximum gaming performance in an 18-inch format

Featuring an Intel Core Ultra 9 290HX, a GeForce RTX 5090 laptop with a 175-watt TGP and an 18-inch 4K Mini-LED display, the Asus ROG Strix SCAR 18 G835LXG ranks among the most powerful gaming laptops currently available. Our review highlights where this flagship model excels and what compromises buyers will have to make.
Sebastian Bade, 01 Aug 2026 12:56
The Casio LTP-B150D-7BJF on a steel strap, alongside the LTP-B150L-7B1JF and LTP-B150L-7B2JF.

Casio's new LTP-B150 watches launch with an affordable spin on the Tank case

Casio's LTP-B150 lineup has officially made its way to Casio Japan. The rectangular dress watch comes in three references — two leather straps, one steel bracelet — all priced identically at ¥12,100 (~$75). Roman numeral dial, quartz movement, ships August 2026.
Anubhav Sharma, 01 Aug 2026 11:58
The Motorola Moto G37 may look like it has a lot to offer in terms of its camera, but it actually offers very little.

No 4K, no wide angle: How good is the Moto G37’s camera?

No one probably expected these camera compromises, but high memory prices are forcing more and more manufacturers to cut costs. That’s why the Motorola Moto G37 offers neither 4K video recording nor an ultra-wide-angle lens. Is it still good enough for decent photos?
Florian Schmitt, 01 Aug 2026 11:47
Astro Bot could arrive in October as a free bonus with an as-yet-unannounced LEGO PlayStation 1 set.

LEGO: Astro Bot could arrive with the PlayStation 1 set – but there’s a catch

A new leak has PlayStation fans excited: LEGO is reportedly working not only on a replica of the original PlayStation console, but also on an Astro Bot model. However, there's one major catch that is taking some of the excitement away.
Marius Müller, 01 Aug 2026 10:23
Gemini Spark processes a flight search in Chrome and initiates the booking

Google Gemini Spark now uses your saved Chrome passwords

Google's Gemini Spark agent can now open Chrome, use your logged-in accounts and saved passwords, and start a flight booking for you. That part is US-only. And despite Google calling Spark worldwide, it is still unavailable in the EEA, the UK, Switzerland and Nigeria.
Steffen Zahn, 01 Aug 2026 10:21
The CrowPanel ESP32 5.79-inch is based on E-Ink technology

CrowPanel ESP32: Budget E-Ink display brings Wi-Fi and smart home integration

Combining E-Ink technology with broad functionality, the CrowPanel ESP32 smart display is designed for home automation and commercial applications, offering support for external sensors and actuators.
Silvio Werner, 01 Aug 2026 10:00
Xbox is placing renewed emphasis on consoles, major franchises and expanding Minecraft into a creator platform.

Xbox charts a new course: These are its four priorities for the future

Xbox wants to return to growth. An internal memo from CEO Asha Sharma reveals the four strategic priorities Microsoft believes will secure the future of its gaming business.
Marius Müller, 01 Aug 2026 09:56
The "Pixel Glow" design and notification feature of the Google Pixel 11 generation will likely end up having a completely different name.

Google's "Pixel Glow" feature on the Pixel 11 series will likely have a completely different name

Google's unusual design feature on the Pixel 11 series, which doesn't just look good but also serves a purpose, has already been confirmed several times in teasers. However, it will most likely not be called Pixel Glow after all, according to "confirmed" information from a developer.
Alexander Fagot, 01 Aug 2026 09:34
Samsung's new earbuds will have earhooks for a more secure fit.

Samsung's upcoming earbuds with earhooks want to take on Apple's Powerbeats Pro 2

A leak has revealed Samsung is developing a new type of earbuds that will have earhooks. This will put the new earbuds in direct competition with models such as the premium Powerbeats Pro 2 and the more affordable Nothing Ear (Open).
Habeeb Onawole, 01 Aug 2026 09:31
Are 3D-printed handbags also suitable simply as decorative objects? Probably.

3D-printed handbags: Kickstarter project successfully funded

Wouldn't it be practical to simply print out your own handbags in various designs and colors? That's exactly what a new project on Kickstarter is now aiming to make possible.
Bernhard Rotter, 01 Aug 2026 09:18
According to Mario creator Shigeru Miyamoto, technical specifications are becoming less important when people buy a console.

Mario’s creator explains: This is why the console power war is over

Shigeru Miyamoto believes the battle in the console market will no longer be decided primarily by hardware performance. Instead of an endless arms race in processing power, the Nintendo veteran envisions a future with smoother transitions between console generations.
Marius Müller, 01 Aug 2026 09:17
The new Grand Seiko SBGA525

Grand Seiko launches new limited-edition titanium watch with Spring Drive

Grand Seiko's SBGA525 "Sea of Clouds in Gold" is a new 30-piece exclusive at Watches of Switzerland's Jewel Changi salon in Singapore. Dawn-inspired dial, bezel-free 62GS case, titanium build, 9R65 Spring Drive caliber. No price disclosed yet.
Anubhav Sharma, 01 Aug 2026 09:16
A leaked render image shows Lenovo’s first laptops and a 2-in-1 tablet for the Googlebook launch this fall.

First images show new Lenovo laptop and 2-in-1 tablet for Googlebook launch following the Pixel 11

It's been clear since Google I/O that the former Pixelbook makers are working on a much broader attack on Windows laptops and Apple's MacBooks and will soon be replacing Chromebooks with something entirely new. The first laptops and even a 2-in-1 tablet from Lenovo have now leaked in the form of pictures, that show, how some of the first Googlebooks will look like when they launch this fall.
Alexander Fagot, 01 Aug 2026 08:35
The Sony Inzone M10S II monitor can switch between 540Hz at 1440p and 720Hz at 720p.

Sony's Inzone M10S II monitor with Tandem OLED panel and 720Hz mode is now available globally

Sony's new Inzone M10S II monitor with an RGB Tandem WOLED panel is now widely available. Also featuring a peak brightness of 1,500 nits, the new 27-inch 1440p monitor offers a native 540Hz refresh rate that can be boosted to 720Hz for maximum speed.
Elvis Shida, 01 Aug 2026 08:34
NanoPi R28S: New single-board computer with a focus on networking

An affordable Raspberry Pi alternative: the NanoPi R28S is compact and purpose-built

Exceptionally compact and equipped with dual Ethernet ports, the new NanoPi R28S single-board computer is far more specialized than a classic Raspberry Pi, targeting specific networking tasks.
Silvio Werner, 01 Aug 2026 08:00
Subscriptions like ChatGPT-Go offer, among other things, higher usage limits and advanced features.

ChatGPT subscription free for up to a year: New offer with a Revolut account

Anyone who uses ChatGPT regularly knows that free usage limits run out faster than one might like. Revolut now aims to have solved this problem for its customers: they receive the ChatGPT-Go subscription for free for up to a year.
Bernhard Rotter, 01 Aug 2026 07:27
The Croix De Fer 60 is a new e-gravel bike

Classic choice of materials: Nimble e-bike features a Mahle hub motor

A new, sporty e-bike pairs modern tech with traditional frame materials. The Croix De Fer 60 is designed to perform well even without motor assistance.
Silvio Werner, 01 Aug 2026 06:08
Sony's new pair of WH-1000XM6 will represent its third visual refresh in under 18 months.

Sony releasing new version of popular WH-1000XM6 over-ear wireless headphoned soon in Olive Grey refresh

Multiple reliable sources have expanded upon previous leaks about Sony's next pair of over-ear wireless headphones. Allegedly arriving globally in early August, the new WH-1000XM6 is to launch as Olive Grey too despite its obvious green finish.
Alex Alderson, 01 Aug 2026 03:32
Physical game disc shown with mockup of Project Helix console

Xbox reportedly wanted disc support on Project Helix console as advantage over PS6

Microsoft and Sony may have opposing ideas for the future of physical game discs. A Digital Foundry podcast revealed that Xbox was considering making backward-compatible media playable on Project Helix. The new Xbox console could lure protestors unhappy about a likely digital-focused PS6.
Adam Corsetti, 01 Aug 2026 02:45
The ThinkCentre Neo 50a 24 hides a pair of Harman-branded 3W stereo speakers and a 5 MP webcam.

New Lenovo desktop launches globally with 120 Hz display, dual SSDs and up to 32 GB RAM

Lenovo has launched a new desktop PC. Set to be released globally, the ThinkCentre Neo 50a 24 Gen 7 combines a 120 Hz display with up to 32 GB of RAM, dual M.2 2280 SSD slots and a choice of modern Intel Wildcat Lake processors.
Alex Alderson, 01 Aug 2026 02:20
A screengrab from the Fallout: New California trailer

Deal | One of Fallout: New Vegas' biggest total conversion mods is now free on GOG with one-click installation in tow

Fallout: New California, a major fan-made prequel and total conversion mod for Fallout: New Vegas, is now free on GOG with streamlined one-click installation. The release offers a standalone campaign, new map, voiced companions, and faction-driven warfare, while New Vegas Ultimate Edition is discounted heavily for 2 weeks
Rahim Amir Noorali, 01 Aug 2026 01:59
Jul 31
Apple Pay's logo.

Apple Pay is currently down for thousands of users

Thousands of users are reporting issues with Apple Pay today. Some are unable to transfer money, while others can't make payments. While Apple has confirmed there's an ongoing issue affecting Apple Cash, it hasn't shared when the service will be fully restored.
Abdul Haddi, 31 Jul 2026 23:57
PlayStation logo shown on gaming PC monitor

PlayStation touts PS5 consoles as more affordable than PCs, despite price increases

Even after multiple PS5 price increases, Sony considers the consoles affordable alternatives to PCs. The company denies that the loss of physical games will push buyers toward Steam. PlayStation may seek to boost profits through digital sales to address fears of an overpriced PS6.
Adam Corsetti, 31 Jul 2026 23:56
Acer's Swift Go 16 AI (model SFG16-I71T-51LC) arrives in the Vapor Silver colorway

Deal | Acer Swift Go 16 AI with Panther Lake processor, OLED touchscreen still available for under $700

The Acer Swift Go 16 AI comes equipped with a 1200p OLED screen, Intel's Core Ultra 5 322 processor, 16 GB of RAM, and 512 GB of storage. It also features a 5-megapixel HDR webcam with IR as well as a privacy shutter and even comes with a protective sleeve included in the box.
Tudor Cibean, 31 Jul 2026 23:35
Citizen's new open-heart automatics make entry-level mechanical watches a little more fun

Citizen's new automatic watches put their mechanical hearts on display

Citizen has launched four affordable open-heart automatic watches in Japan, pairing 41mm stainless steel cases with silver, black, blue, and two-tone dial options. Powered by the Caliber 8229 with a 42-hour reserve and 100-meter water resistance, the models go on sale August 6, with no global release confirmed.
Kristen Spradlin, 31 Jul 2026 23:21
Moto Pad 70 Groove.

Motorola launches 12.1-inch tablet with 9 JBL speakers

Motorola has launched the Moto Pad 70 Groove in India. The Android tablet features a large 120Hz display, a MediaTek Dimensity 7400 chipset, and a JBL-tuned speaker system.
Huzefa Baloch, 31 Jul 2026 23:05
From left to right, pictured: Casio MRW-240H-1E1JF, MRW-240H-1E2JF, and MRW-240H-1E3JF.

Casio debuts new affordable diver-style watches with rotating aluminum bezels

Casio's MRW-240H lineup is now officially live for preorders. It's an affordable dive-styled analog watch with a rotating aluminum bezel, 10-bar WR, and date display. Three colorways have been launched — black, red-blue, and green — all priced at ¥6,050 (~$38).
Anubhav Sharma, 31 Jul 2026 22:59
A development test cart containing leaderboard data for Pokemon Tsuri Taikai

Rare Nintendo DS dev cart listed on eBay for $9,000+ could contain a lost Pokémon game unplayable since 2005

An eBay seller has listed a Nintendo DS development cartridge for €7,999 that preservationists believe may be connected to the long-lost 2005 mini-game PokéPark Fishing Rally DS. However, translated boot-screen text suggests the cartridge could contain only leaderboard communication software rather than the playable game itself.
Rahim Amir Noorali, 31 Jul 2026 22:07
The Citizen Exceed "Mid-Autumn Moon" Limited Edition resting on a wooden stand, featuring a black mother-of-pearl dial, analog moonphase display, and black crocodile leather strap.

Citizen's new "Mid-Autumn Moon" limited-edition Eco-Drive keeps its moonphase accurate with atomic timekeeping

Most moonphase watches eventually need correcting. Citizen's new Exceed "Mid-Autumn Moon" doesn't. It uses solar power, atomic timekeeping, and a clever proprietary algorithm to keep its moonphase display in sync automatically. Limited to just 400 units, the watch is set to launch in Japan on August 6.
Kristen Spradlin, 31 Jul 2026 22:05

All news articles from Sept. 2010 on are located in our News Archive.

Notebookcheck, 2021-10-10 (Update: 2026-01-16)