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Posts tagged as “Gadgets”

Pricing of the iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max in the Philippines

Together with the iPhone Duo, Apple has officially release the pricing information of the next generation iPhone the Philippines and here are the pricing of the iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max.

Storage Variant iPhone 18 Pro iPhone 18 Pro Max
256GB ₱94,990.00 ₱99,990.00
512GB ₱110,990.00 ₱115,990.00
1TB ₱142,990.00 ₱147,990.00
2TB ₱189,990.00 ₱194,990.00

Similar to the iPhone Duo, there is no word yet on when the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max will be available locally—even though pre-orders in other markets begin this Friday, September 12, with in-store availability starting September 18.

iPhone 18 Pro is Apple’s most powerful iPhone yet. It features the A20 Pro chip, which has exceptional AI capabilities and is cooled by a next-generation vapor chamber. It delivers the longest battery life ever in an iPhone — 6 more hours of video playback on iPhone 18 Pro Max compared with iPhone 17 Pro Max. A Pro camera system with variable aperture, greater depth of field, and better-quality low-light photos. And Siri AI, your more personal, more powerful AI assistant.

Technical Specifications for iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max

Feature iPhone 18 Pro iPhone 18 Pro Max
Display Super Retina XDR ProMotion (1-120Hz), 2868-by-1320-pixel resolution at 460 ppi Super Retina XDR ProMotion (1-120Hz), 2868-by-1320-pixel resolution at 460 ppi
Processor A20 Pro (2nm, 6-Core CPU, 7-core GPU with Neural Accelerators) A20 Pro (2nm, 6-Core CPU, 7-core GPU with Neural Accelerators)
Neural Engine Dual 16-Core Neural Engine (32 Cores total) Dual 16-Core Neural Engine (32 Cores total)
Main Camera 48MP Fusion Main Ultra Wide with variable aperture with Ultra Wide 48MP Fusion Telephoto 48MP Fusion Main Ultra Wide with variable aperture with Ultra Wide 48MP Fusion Telephoto
Front Camera 18MP Center Stage front camera 18MP Center Stage front camera
Video Recording 4K Dolby Vision, Cinematic post-processing 4K Dolby Vision, Cinematic post-processing
Connectivity Apple N1 (Wi-Fi 7, BT 6, Thread) + C2 Modem Apple N1 (Wi-Fi 7, BT 6, Thread) + C2 Modem
Battery Life Up to 36 hours video playback Up to 45 hours video playback
Storage Options 256GB, 512GB, 1TB, 2TB 256GB, 512GB, 1TB, 2TB
Color Finishes Black, Silver, Glacier, Burgundy Black, Silver, Glacier, Burgundy

**iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max Full Tech Specs here.

iPhone Duo Pricing in the Philippines

Just hours after the Apple Sept. 9 ‘Surprise and Shine’ Event, information about the iPhone Duo became available in the Apple’s Philippines Store and as expected the price for the iPhone Duo in the Philippines is on the highest of the high end.

Storage Variant iPhone Duo
256GB ₱ 159,990.00
512GB ₱ 175,990.00
1TB ₱ 207,990.00
2TB ₱ 254,990.00

No word yet on when it will become available in the country, since pre-orders for the iPhone Duo in other markets will start on Friday, October 16, and will be in-store and online availability on Friday, October 23.

iPhone Duo Specs

Feature Official Specification
Inner Display 7.6-inch Flexible OLED, Super Retina XDR (1-120Hz ProMotion)
Outer Cover Display 5.4-inch OLED, Super Retina XDR (1-120Hz ProMotion)
Build Materials Polished Grade 5 Titanium Chassis, Ceramic Shield
Processor A20 Pro (2nm architecture, 6-core CPU, 7-core GPU)
Neural Engine Dual 16-Core Neural Engine (32 Cores total)
Main Cameras Dual 48MP Fusion Camera System (Main + Ultra Wide)
Front Cameras – (Outer) 12MP Center Stage Camera
– (Inner) Under-display FaceTime camera
Stylus Support Apple Pencil compatible (Inner and Outer Display)
Wireless Silicon Apple N1 (Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6, Thread) + C2 Cellular Modem
Battery Endurance Up to 44 hours video playback (outer display) / Up to 31 hours (inner display)
Storage Configurations 256GB, 512GB, 1TB, 2TB
Color Finishes Star White, Night Sky

iPhone Duo Price in Saudi Arabia

Together with the iPhone 18 Pro series, here are the pricing for the iPhone Duo inside the Kingdom.

Storage Variant iPhone Duo
256GB SAR 9,499
512GB SAR 10,499
1TB SAR 12,499
2TB SAR 15,499

iPhone Duo will be available for pre-order on 16th of September and will be available in stores on 23rd of October.

Pricing of the iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max in Saudi Arabia

Apple has officially announce the next generation iPhone and for those living in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia here are the pricing of the iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max.

Storage Variant iPhone 18 Pro iPhone 18 Pro Max
256GB SAR 5,699 SAR 6,099
512GB SAR 6,699 SAR 7,099
1TB SAR 8,699 SAR 9,099
2TB SAR 11,699 SAR 12,099

iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max will be available for Pre-order this Friday, Sept. 12th and will be available in stores and retailers starting 18th of September.

Apple Announces the iPhone Duo: Titanium Foldable Flagship Starts at $1,999

Apple has officially introduced the iPhone Duo, marking the most significant evolution in the iPhone’s physical design since its inception. Unveiled on stage by Apple CEO John Ternus, the device enters the foldable market with a refined book-style form factor. Crafted from mirror-polished Grade 5 titanium, the iPhone Duo folds into a compact passport-sized shell while opening into a expansive tablet-class canvas. The hardware is available in two distinct finishes: Star White and Night Sky.

Image: iPhone Duo in folded and unfolded form

The physical design centers on two displays. The cover interface uses a 5.4-inch outer panel for quick single-handed tasks. Unfolding the device reveals a 7.6-inch Ultra Retina XDR inner display engineered with a multi-pivot magnetic hinge, resulting in a near-invisible crease across the foldable screen.

The hinge allows the phone to flex across multiple positions. It can sit in Laptop Mode—splitting apps with controls on the bottom half and content on top—or stand independently in Tent Mode for hands-free video playback. A camera utility called Duo Preview projects live viewfinders onto both screens simultaneously, letting photography subjects see their framing in real time.

Under the hood, the device is powered by the 2nm A20 Pro silicon, backed by a 6-core CPU, 7-core GPU, and Dual 16-Core Neural Engines designed for complex Apple Intelligence workflows. On-device software support includes true side-by-side app multitasking and full support for the Apple Pencil on the inner display. The rear housing features a dual 48MP Fusion system, paired with the custom C2 cellular modem and N1 wireless chip for efficient network management.

Image: iPhone Duo in Star White and Night Sky Colors
Feature Official Specification
Inner Display 7.6-inch Flexible OLED, Super Retina XDR (1-120Hz ProMotion)
Outer Cover Display 5.4-inch OLED, Super Retina XDR (1-120Hz ProMotion)
Build Materials Polished Grade 5 Titanium Chassis, Ceramic Shield
Processor A20 Pro (2nm architecture, 6-core CPU, 7-core GPU)
Neural Engine Dual 16-Core Neural Engine (32 Cores total)
Main Cameras Dual 48MP Fusion Camera System (Main + Ultra Wide)
Front Cameras – (Outer) 12MP Center Stage Camera
– (Inner) Under-display FaceTime camera
Stylus Support Apple Pencil compatible (Inner and Outer Display)
Wireless Silicon Apple N1 (Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6, Thread) + C2 Cellular Modem
Battery Endurance Up to 44 hours video playback (outer display) / Up to 31 hours (inner display)
Storage Configurations 256GB, 512GB, 1TB, 2TB
Color Finishes Star White, Night Sky

iPhone Duo Intro Video

iPhone Duo is a foldable iPhone with the largest iPhone display ever and reimagined iOS experiences for unprecedented versatility, including side-by-side apps for multitasking, hands-free FaceTime calls, and flexible viewing. It features an inner display that’s 50 percent larger than iPhone 18 Pro Max, a titanium frame, a 48MP Dual Fusion camera, all-new ways to shoot, the A20 Pro chip, a dual-battery system for all-day power, and Siri AI, your more personal, more powerful AI assistant.

Pricing and Availability
The iPhone Duo starts at $1,999 for the base 256GB storage variant, with higher storage tiers extending up to 2TB.

Pre-orders for the iPhone Duo open on Friday, October 16, at 5:00 a.m. PT. Official in-store and online availability begins one week later, on Friday, October 23.

Apple announces iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max with Variable Aperture Cameras, A20 Pro Silicon, and Next-Gen AI

Apple has officially revealed its latest flagship flagship lineup: the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max. Unveiled during Apple’s keynote event, the new smartphones mark a major step forward in mobile photography, thermal engineering, custom silicon performance, and deep OS-level artificial intelligence integration.

Spec-wise, the iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max are the same device with the difference in just their size and battery life; the iPhone 18 Pro features a 6.3-inch while the iPhone 18 Pro Max is clocks in at 6.9-inches, both are Super Retina XDR display with ProMotion technology. As for the battery life, the iPhone 18 Pro will have 36 hours of video playback, while the larger iPhone 18 Pro Max will have up to 45 hours of video playback.

As for the specs that both iPhone shares are; Inside, the 2nm A20 Pro chip delivers 20% faster CPU speeds, 40% better graphics, and dedicated AI acceleration, backed by an expanded vapor chamber that improves cooling by 40%.

Apple’s new N1 and C2 custom chips bring Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6, and reliable cellular performance, while optimized designs boost battery life up to 36 hours on the Pro and 45 hours on the Pro Max. Finally, iOS 27 upgrades Apple Intelligence with context-aware Siri features and a smaller Dynamic Island that handles up to three Live Activities at once.

Image: Apple iPhone 18 Pro Color Lineup from Apple.com

Technical Specifications for iPhone 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max

Feature iPhone 18 Pro iPhone 18 Pro Max
Display Super Retina XDR ProMotion (1-120Hz), 2868-by-1320-pixel resolution at 460 ppi Super Retina XDR ProMotion (1-120Hz), 2868-by-1320-pixel resolution at 460 ppi
Processor A20 Pro (2nm, 6-Core CPU, 7-core GPU with Neural Accelerators) A20 Pro (2nm, 6-Core CPU, 7-core GPU with Neural Accelerators)
Neural Engine Dual 16-Core Neural Engine (32 Cores total) Dual 16-Core Neural Engine (32 Cores total)
Main Camera 48MP Fusion Main Ultra Wide with variable aperture with Ultra Wide 48MP Fusion Telephoto 48MP Fusion Main Ultra Wide with variable aperture with Ultra Wide 48MP Fusion Telephoto
Front Camera 18MP Center Stage front camera 18MP Center Stage front camera
Video Recording 4K Dolby Vision, Cinematic post-processing 4K Dolby Vision, Cinematic post-processing
Connectivity Apple N1 (Wi-Fi 7, BT 6, Thread) + C2 Modem Apple N1 (Wi-Fi 7, BT 6, Thread) + C2 Modem
Battery Life Up to 36 hours video playback Up to 45 hours video playback
Storage Options 256GB, 512GB, 1TB, 2TB 256GB, 512GB, 1TB, 2TB
Color Finishes Black, Silver, Glacier, Burgundy Black, Silver, Glacier, Burgundy

**iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max Full Tech Specs here.

iPhone 18 Pro is Apple’s most powerful iPhone yet. It features the A20 Pro chip, which has exceptional AI capabilities and is cooled by a next-generation vapor chamber. It delivers the longest battery life ever in an iPhone — 6 more hours of video playback on iPhone 18 Pro Max compared with iPhone 17 Pro Max. A Pro camera system with variable aperture, greater depth of field, and better-quality low-light photos. And Siri AI, your more personal, more powerful AI assistant.

Pricing and availability;
The iPhone 18 Pro starts at $1,199 for 256GB of base storage, while the iPhone 18 Pro Max starts at $1,299 for the 256GB model. Through Apple Installments, customers can purchase the iPhone 18 Pro starting at $49.95 per month or the Pro Max at $54.12 per month over a 24-month period, with trade-in discounts offering up to $1,200 off eligible devices.

Pre-orders for both models begin on Friday, September 12, followed by the official in-store launch on Friday, September 18th.

What to Expect at Today’s Apple “Surprise and Shine” Event?

Apple’s highly anticipated “Surprise and Shine” keynote takes center stage today at Apple Park. Marking CEO John Ternus’s first major product unveiling, the presentation promises a historic shift in Apple’s hardware roadmap.

Apple’s First Foldable Device
The headline act is expected to be the long-rumored iPhone Ultra—Apple’s foray into foldable devices. Featuring a custom liquid-metal hinge engineered to minimize screen creasing, the passport-style foldable opens into a seamless 7.8-inch display, driven by the next-generation 2nm A20 Pro chip and C2 5G modem.

iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max
Alongside the foldable flagship, Apple will showcase the iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max. Key hardware upgrades include a mechanical variable aperture primary camera system, advanced vapor-chamber cooling, and a refined Dynamic Island footprint.

Smart Wearables & OS Rollouts
As with previous September Apple events, the company will most likely announce its next-generation wearables: the Apple Watch Series 12 and Ultra 4 with continuous background health tracking, alongside AirPods 5 powered by the new H3 chip. Official release dates for iOS 27 and watchOS 27 will also be included in the presentation.

Other Devices & Services
While Apple’s September event is usually reserved for new iPhones and wearables, it wouldn’t be surprising if the company also announces updates to its various services and platforms, including Apple TV+, iCloud, Apple Arcade, and visionOS for the Vision Pro.

With baseline iPhone models shifted to spring 2027, today’s event firmly spotlights Apple’s high-end, futuristic design vision.

Where and How to Watch

The Apple “Surprise and Shine” event will stream live on Wednesday, September 9, 2026, at 10:00 AM PT via:

Apple Announces Sept. 9 Event Titled ‘Surprise and Shine’

Apple has officially confirmed its most anticipated hardware showcase of the year, sending out invitations bearing the cryptic tagline “Surprise and Shine”. Scheduled for Wednesday, September 9, 2026, at 10:00 AM PT, the event will be broadcast live from the Steve Jobs Theater at Apple Park.

While a September event is a cornerstone tradition for Apple—officially kicking off what tech journalists famously call “Tech-Tember”—this year’s keynote marks a historic transition. It serves as the public debut of John Ternus as Apple’s Chief Executive Officer. Having taken the helm on September 1, 2026, following Tim Cook’s transition to Executive Chairman, the former Hardware Engineering chief will step onto the stage to outline Apple’s vision for its hardware and AI-driven ecosystem.

Here is a full breakdown of what to expect on stage during Apple’s big presentation.

1. Executive Transition: John Ternus Leads the Way

For the first time in 15 years, an Apple September keynote will may not be opened by Tim Cook. John Ternus, a 25-year Apple veteran who previously led the engineering of the Mac, iPad, AirPods, and iPhone product lines, is officially driving the company into its next decade.

Ternus takes the stage as a product builder—a contrast to Cook’s operational background—and industry watchers are eager to see how his leadership style influences both product design and the public presentation of Apple’s long-term hardware roadmap.

2. Expected Hardware Announcements

The upcoming event focuses heavily on Apple’s flagship, Pro-tier mobile hardware and next-generation wearables.

Flagship Smartphones: iPhone 18 Pro Series & iPhone Ultra
Unlike previous years, reports indicate that the base-model iPhone 18 line will be delayed until early 2027, leaving September strictly for the premium tier:

  • iPhone Ultra (Apple’s First Foldable): The headliner of the event, the long-rumored foldable iPhone—tentatively dubbed the iPhone Ultra — is expected to make its debut. Featuring a book-style fold with a 7.7-inch inner screen and a 5.3-inch outer display, it is set to run an updated build of iOS tailored for side-by-side multitasking.
  • iPhone 18 Pro & iPhone 18 Pro Max: Powered by the new 3nm A20 Pro chip, these flagships are rumored to introduce a smaller Dynamic Island and a variable-aperture camera system (exclusive to the Pro Max) for enhanced low-light photography.

Wearables: Apple Watch & Next-Gen Audio

  • Apple Watch Series 12: Featuring the new S11 processor, improved power efficiency, and advanced health tracking, the Series 12 may also see the return of a premium ceramic case option.
  • Apple Watch Ultra 4: Built with the new S11 chip, the Ultra 4 is expected to expand satellite features—enabling offline satellite photo transmission in Messages and satellite navigation updates.
  • AirPods 5: Apple is expected to introduce two distinct variants of the 5th-generation AirPods: a baseline model and a mid-tier version featuring Active Noise Cancellation (ANC).

Hardware Expectations at a Glance

3. Software Rollouts: OS 27 Release Dates

Alongside hardware, Apple will finalize release dates for its next generation of operating systems:

  • iOS 27 & watchOS 27: Expected to roll out publicly during the week of September 14 following the event.
  • macOS 27 (Golden Gate):Expected to ship in tandem with upcoming Mac updates slated for late September.

Where and How to Watch

The “Surprise and Shine” keynote will stream live on Wednesday, September 9, 2026, at 10:00 AM PT via:

POCO F9 Series Global Launch Set for September 1: What to Expect from the F9 Ultra

POCO has officially set the stage for its next generation of performance flagships. The Xiaomi sub-brand confirmed via official teasers that the POCO F9 Series will premiere globally on September 1, 2026. Continuing the strategy seen in recent lineups, POCO will skip a standard “vanilla” model and jump straight into high-performance territory with a duo lineup: the POCO F9 Pro and the flagship-tier POCO F9 Ultra.

Teased under the tagline “UltraPower Unbound,” both devices are heavily tipped to be global adaptations of China’s recently released Redmi K100 series. Early renders reveal premium finishes—including Dark Cherry red and Aurora Green—complemented by explicit “Sound by Bose” audio branding on the rear panel.

Rumored Specifications of POCO F9 Ultra

1. Next-Gen Performance & Processing

At the heart of the POCO F9 Ultra is Qualcomm’s top-tier Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor, paired with dedicated display coprocessing hardware (D2 display chip) to handle extreme frame rendering. Configured with up to 16GB of LPDDR5X RAM and 512GB (or up to 1TB) of UFS 4.1 storage, the F9 Ultra aims to deliver desktop-grade mobile gaming power without thermal bottlenecking.

2. Class-Leading 185Hz AMOLED Display

The F9 Ultra features a massive 6.9-inch AMOLED display protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 7i. Targeting hyper-responsive gaming and media consumption, it boasts a class-leading 185Hz refresh rate, Dolby Vision support, HDR10+, and a peak local brightness rated up to 4,500 nits.

3. Upgraded Periscope Camera System

Moving beyond traditional performance-focused compromises, the camera array on the Ultra model brings substantial optical hardware upgrades:

  • Main: 200 MP wide-angle sensor with Optical Image Stabilization (OIS).
  • Telephoto: 50 MP periscope lens providing 5x optical zoom with OIS.
  • Ultra-Wide: 50 MP ultrawide lens for expanded landscape shots.
  • Front Camera: 32 MP sensor supporting 4K video recording.

4. Massive Battery & Charging

To sustain high-refresh gaming, the F9 Ultra is reported to feature an 8,050mAh battery —a notable upgrade over its predecessor, the F8 Ultra. The battery supports 100W wired fast charging, along with 50W wireless and reverse wireless/wired charging options.

5. Audio & Build Quality

  • Audio: Dual Bose-tuned 2.1 acoustic speaker system.
  • Build: Aluminum frame with dual IP68/IP69 dust and water resistance ratings.
Image: POCO F9 Pro in Aurora Green

Key Spec Overview: POCO F9 Ultra (Rumored)

Device Key Expected Features Target Availability
iPhone Ultra Book-style foldable design, dual displays, specialized iOS multitasking features Pre-orders Sept 12 / Late 2026
iPhone 18 Pro / Pro Max A20 Pro chip, smaller Dynamic Island, variable aperture camera system Pre-orders Sept 12
Apple Watch Series 12 S11 chip, enhanced battery, potential ceramic case return September 2026
Apple Watch Ultra 4 Advanced satellite connectivity (photo messaging/satellite maps), S11 chip September 2026
AirPods 5 Available in two tiers (Entry-level and Active Noise Cancellation model) September 2026
Feature Spec / Configuration
Display 6.9″ AMOLED, 185Hz refresh rate, 4,500 nits peak brightness
Processor Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 (3nm) + D2 Display Chip
RAM / Storage 12GB / 16GB RAM | 256GB / 512GB / 1TB UFS 4.1
Rear Cameras 200MP Main (OIS) + 50MP Periscope Telephoto (5x Optical, OIS) + 50MP Ultrawide
Front Camera 32MP (4K Video capable)
Battery & Charging 8,050mAh; 100W Wired, 50W Wireless Charging
Audio & Extras Bose 2.1 Tuned Speakers, IP68/IP69 rating, eSIM support
Estimated Pricing Starting around €999 in European markets

Global Launch Details

The global livestream event for the POCO F9 Series is scheduled for September 1 at 8:00 PM GMT (1:30 AM IST on September 2) via the company’s official Youtube Channel youtube.com/@POCOGlobal. Pricing details and regional availability configurations will be officially confirmed during the broadcast.

Huawei to Launch the Mate XT 2 Tri-Fold Phone Set this September 7th

Huawei has officially confirmed that its next-generation tri-foldable flagship, the Huawei Mate XT 2, will make its debut on September 7, 2026. The unveiling will take place during an “All-Scenario New Product Launch Event” in China scheduled for 14:30 local time.

Alongside the hardware reveal, Huawei will officially launch HarmonyOS 7, the company’s newest operating system iteration that will power the device out of the box.

What We Know About the Huawei Mate XT 2
The Mate XT 2 arrives as the successor to Huawei’s pioneering tri-fold series. While the original Mate XT Ultimate made history by establishing the dual-hinge, triple-screen form factor, the Mate XT 2 is expected to refine the mechanics, durability, and processing power.

Rumored Specs;

  • Refined Folding Mechanism: Leaks suggest Huawei may introduce an updated hinge track structure aimed at further minimizing screen crease visibility and increasing durability.
  • Next-Gen Silicon: Industry reports indicate the device will be powered by Huawei’s Kirin 9050 Pro chipset, providing enhanced multi-tasking performance for the expansive display.
  • Battery & Power: Expected to feature an upgraded silicon-anode battery with a capacity exceeding 6,000mAh, optimizing battery life for dual- and triple-screen modes.
  • Software Integration: Powered by HarmonyOS 7, designed specifically to handle dynamic windowing, seamless layout changes, and multi-app productivity across three distinct screen states.

By holding its launch event on September 7, Huawei maintains its traditional early-September release schedule for flagship foldables. The event positions Huawei right ahead of major autumn announcements from international rivals, reinforcing its dominant share in the premium foldable segment within China. While the September 7 event focuses primarily on the Chinese domestic market, a global variant announcement is expected to follow in subsequent months.

Source: Huawei Central

Apple announces New Mac Studio with M5 Max and M5 Ultra

Alongside the refreshed Mac mini, Apple has introduced a new Mac Studio, powered by two high-end chip options: the M5 Max and the M5 Ultra. The update targets professionals working with demanding workloads like 3D rendering, video effects, and large-scale AI models.

The M5 Ultra headlines the lineup as what Apple calls its “most powerful chip ever.” It’s built by fusing two dual-die M5 Max chips, making it Apple’s first quad-die chip. The result is a CPU with up to 36 cores and a GPU with up to 80 cores, backed by 1.2TB/s of unified memory bandwidth—50% more than the M3 Ultra released roughly a year and a half ago. Apple positions the M5 Ultra for compute-intensive professional work, though it’s also expected to appeal to hobbyist AI developers running large local models.

The M5 Max serves as the more accessible tier below the Ultra, built on Apple’s 2nm process and sharing the new CPU complex introduced with the M6 family. Apple says the chip’s architecture improves peak GPU compute for AI workloads by nearly 30% over the M5, speeding up on-device LLM prompt processing. Both chips support memory configurations up to 512GB, giving the Mac Studio significant headroom for large models and datasets.

Apple frames the new Mac Studio as a machine built for developers who want to run and fine-tune large AI models locally, reflecting the company’s broader push into on-device AI capability across its Mac lineup.

  • Apple Mac Studio Front Ports

The new Mac Studio is available to pre-order starting today, with deliveries and in-store availability beginning September 22, alongside the new Mac mini. Mac Studio with M5 Max starts at $2,499 and the Mac Studio with M5 Ultra starts at $5,499. Additional configure-to-order options are available at apple.com/mac-studio.

Apple Refreshes Mac Mini with M6 and M5 Pro Chips

Apple has unveiled a new Mac mini, the first update to the compact desktop in nearly two years. The refreshed lineup keeps the same design but brings a major internal overhaul, headlined by two new chip options: the all-new M6 and the M5 Pro, which first appeared in the MacBook Pro earlier this year.

The base model now ships with the M6, Apple’s first chip built on a 2nm process. It features a 12-core CPU and 12-core GPU, a dual 16-core Neural Engine, and up to 170GB/s of memory bandwidth. Apple says it delivers up to 40% faster CPU performance, 4x faster AI performance, and 2x faster graphics versus the outgoing M4 Mac mini.

Stepping up to the M5 Pro configuration unlocks up to an 18-core CPU, 20-core GPU, 64GB of unified memory, and 8TB of storage—positioning it as the more capable option for demanding workloads.

  • Apple Mac Mini front ports

Beyond the chips, the new Mac mini adds Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6, and Neural Accelerators in every GPU core. Pricing starts at $899, up from the previous $799 base, with pre-orders open now and deliveries beginning September 22.

HONOR to Unveil Revolutionary Robot Phone at LEAP 2026

Global technology brand HONOR is set to unveil its groundbreaking HONOR Robot Phone in the Saudi market at LEAP 2026.

First announced last March 2026 at Mobile World Congress (MWC 2026) in Barcelona, the HONOR Robot Phone features an embodied AI interaction system paired with a motorized, multi-axis gimbal camera. Designed for dynamic subject tracking and cinematic capture, the smartphone merges next-generation robotics with flagship mobile performance. HONOR Robot Phone is currently on sales in China for ¥12999.00 (Yuan) or around SAR 7,272.26.

Choosing LEAP 2026 for the regional debut underscores HONOR’s commitment to Saudi Arabia’s rapidly growing position as a global hub for technological innovation and AI leadership. Official local pricing and availability will be shared during the event.

Image: HONOR Robot Phone

The flagship HONOR Robot Phone stands out with its retractable, robotic camera system alongside top-tier hardware specs:

Feature Specification
Robotic Camera System Retractable motorized 4DoF (4 Degrees of Freedom) titanium gimbal camera with 3D automated subject tracking
Rear Cameras • 200 MP (Main, f/1.6, OIS, 1/1.28″)
• 200 MP (Periscope Telephoto, 2.7x Optical Zoom, f/2.6)
• 50 MP (Ultrawide, f/2.0)
Front Camera 50 MP (f/2.0 wide)
Processor Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 (3 nm)
GPU Adreno™ 840
Display 6.31-inch LTPO&nbsp OLED (1216 x 2640 px), 120Hz, up to 6800 nits peak brightness, Giant Rhinoceros Glass/HONOR NanoCrystal Shield
Battery & Charging 7060 mAh Silicon-Carbon battery, 120W wired fast charging, 50W wireless charging
Memory & Storage 12GB+512GB / 16GB+1TB
OS & UI Android 16 with MagicOS 10
Build & Protection Aluminum frame, Titanium gimbal assembly, IP54 dust/splash resistance, 248 g
Special Features 10-bit Log-C3 video encoding, ARRI color science tuning, custom C1 RF, E2 power management, and H1 imaging chips

For the full specs and more information on HONOR Robot Phone, you can visit https://www.honor.com/global/phones/honor-robot-phone/.

HONOR Pad 20 Series Is Now Available for Pre-Order in Saudi Arabia

The HONOR Pad 20 Series has officially landed in Saudi Arabia, arriving just in time for the busy back-to-school season. Positioned as a versatile tablet lineup for students, young professionals, and families, the series delivers laptop-like multitasking, vivid display options, and massive battery endurance in an ultra-portable profile.

Pre-orders are currently live across major local retailers, including Jarir Bookstore and eXtra KSA, until today August 24, 2026. Shipments and in-store pick-ups are slated to begin between August 22 and August 30, 2026.

  • HONOR Pad 20 (Standard): Starts at 1,599 SAR and comes bundled with exclusive pre-order gift packages valued at up to 1,296 SAR.
  • HONOR Pad 20 Pro: Starts at 2,199 SAR, packed with performance upgrades and gift bundles valued at 1,696 SAR.
  • HONOR Pad 20 Paperlike Edition: Starts at 1,799 SAR, packed with performance upgrades and gift bundles valued at 1,696 SAR.
  • Flexible Payments: Major retailers are offering interest-free installment options via split-payment services like Tabby and Tamara.
Image: HONOR Pad 20 Pro

Key Features and Specs Across the Lineup

Feature HONOR Pad 20 HONOR Pad 20 Paperlike Edition HONOR Pad 20 Pro
Display 12.1-inch 3K LCD (3000 x 1872) 12.1-inch 3K Anti-Glare Matte LCD 12.1-inch 3K LCD (3000 x 1872)
Refresh Rate Up to 120Hz Up to 120Hz / 165Hz Up to 165Hz
Processor Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 Snapdragon 8s Gen 4
RAM & Storage Up to 12GB RAM / 256GB Up to 12GB RAM / 256GB 8GB RAM / 256GB
Battery & Charging 10,100mAh / 45W Fast Charge 10,100mAh / 45W Fast Charge 10,100mAh / 66W Fast Charge
Audio 6 Speakers 6 Speakers 6 Speakers (DTS:X Ultra)
Cameras Rear: 8MP / Front: 8MP Rear: 8MP / Front: 8MP Rear: 13MP / Front: 8MP
Connectivity Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.3 Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.3 Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6.0
Stylus & OS Magic-Pencil support / MagicOS 10 Magic-Pencil support / MagicOS 10 Magic-Pencil 4s support / MagicOS 10
Regular Price SAR 2,197.00 SAR 2,397.00 SAR 3,297.00

Standout Capabilities for Productivity and Reading

  • PaperLike Anti-Glare Technology: Designed to eliminate glare, the dedicated PaperLike surface cuts ambient reflections by up to 99%, dropping visual fatigue by 24% during long reading or note-taking sessions.
  • PC-Class Multitasking: Running MagicOS 10, both tablets feature a built-in PC Mode capable of managing up to 15 active windows concurrently alongside split-screen setups. Optional accessories like the Magic-Pencil 4s and magnetic keyboard cover seamlessly turn the tablet into a light workstation.
  • All-Day Endurance: The 10,100mAh battery supports up to 14 hours of document reading, 10 hours of note-taking, or 71 days on ultra-long standby.

ASUS Expands Pre-Built Gaming Lineup in PH with TUF Gaming T700 and T700 Mini

ASUS Philippines has officially introduced its newest additions to its desktop gaming lineup: the ASUS TUF Gaming T700 and the compact ASUS TUF Gaming T700 Mini. Engineered to combine military-grade durability, efficient thermal designs, and next-generation processing power, the T700 series targets gamers, streamers, and content creators looking for high-performance pre-built rigs backed by official warranty support.

ASUS TUF Gaming T700 (TM700TZ)


Image: ASUS TUF Gaming T700 (TM700TZ) via asus.com

The standard ASUS TUF Gaming T700 features a mecha-inspired 47-liter chassis built with military-grade MIL-STD-810H durability standards. Equipped with a transparent tempered glass side panel with built-in EMI shielding and custom TUF orange ambient lighting, the full-sized tower prioritizes both aesthetics and high-capacity airflow.

Key Specifications:

  • Processor: AMD Ryzen 7 8700F (8 cores, 16 threads, up to 5.0 GHz)
  • Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5060 Ti Dual 8GB GDDR7
  • Motherboard: AMD B650 Chipset
  • Memory: 16GB DDR5 U-DIMM (Expandable up to 64GB)
  • Storage: 512GB M.2 NVMe PCIe 4.0 SSD
  • Cooling Solution: 240mm AIO Liquid Cooling System
  • Power Supply: 600W (80+ Gold certification)
  • Bundles: Includes ASUS Gaming RGB Keyboard & Mouse, Lifetime Office Home 2024, and 1-Year Microsoft 365 Basic subscription

You can checkout the full specs of ASUS TUF Gaming T700 (TM700TZ) here.

ASUS TUF Gaming T700 Mini (T700MF)


Image: ASUS TUF Gaming T700 Mini (T700MF) via asus.com

For users seeking strong computing power in a smaller desktop footprint, the ASUS TUF Gaming T700 Mini delivers 1440p-ready gaming performance within a space-saving micro-ATX form factor. Key Specifications:Processor: Up to Intel Core Ultra 7 265KF Graphics: Up to NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5060 Ti Memory Support: Up to 64GB DDR5 RAM Storage Support: PCIe Gen 4 NVMe SSDs Chassis Layout: Compact small-form-factor design optimized for desk space and portable setups

Key Specifications:

  • Processor: Up to Intel Core Ultra 7 265KF
  • Graphics: Up to NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5060 Ti
  • Memory: Up to 64GB DDR5 RAM
  • Storage: PCIe Gen 4 NVMe SSDs
  • Chassis Layout: Compact small-form-factor design optimized for desk space and portable setups

You can checkout the full specs of ASUS TUF Gaming T700 Mini (T700MF) here.

Yugatech reports, that “The ASUS TUF Gaming T700 (TM700TZ) is available in two configurations in the Philippines:”

  • Ryzen 7 8700F + RTX 5060 Ti 8GB (16GB DDR5 RAM, 512GB SSD, 1000W Gold PSU) – ₱149,995
  • Ryzen 7 8700F + RTX 5060 8GB (16GB DDR5 RAM, 512GB SSD, 1000W Gold PSU) – ₱139,995

Both configurations come with an ASUS mouse and keyboard, Microsoft Office Home 2024 lifetime license, one year of Microsoft 365 Basic. As for the availability for the ASUS TUF Gaming T700 Mini (T700MF), it will follow across nationwide retail partners, official ROG Stores, and ASUS online outlets in the coming months.

Source: INQ

Google Unveils the Pixel 11 Pro Fold: Tensor G6, Gearless Hinge, and IP68 Durability

Google unveiled the Pixel 11 Pro Fold alongside the rest of the Pixel 11 lineup at its annual ‘Made by Google’ event on August 12, 2026. Marking Google’s fourth-generation foldable, the device introduces a thinner, lighter, and vastly more durable design powered by the 2nm Tensor G6 chipset. Key hardware upgrades include a gearless hinge, an IP68 rating, and an improved glass-composite back.

The Pixel 11 Pro Fold introduces a re-engineered gearless hinge mechanism alongside a glass-fiber composite back cover built to resist drops and cracks. The device achieves an IP68 dust-and-water resistance rating, delivering three times the durability of its predecessor.

The new HiLight LED Camera Bar replaces the old temperature sensor, using an integrated lighting array around the camera visor to display color-coded, glanceable notifications for incoming calls, key contacts, and hands-free Gemini AI interactions. Under the hood, Google’s custom 2nm Tensor G6 processor works alongside the Titan M3 security co-processor to power on-device AI workloads, boost energy efficiency, and optimize thermal performance.

Accessibility also receives a major upgrade with real-time Sign-to-Text Translation, developed with the Deaf community to convert American Sign Language (ASL) captured by the camera into written text on the cover screen. Finally, both the 8.0-inch inner display and outer cover screen reach a peak brightness of 3,600 nits—a 20% increase—while a thicker glass layer and wider bend radius noticeably diminish the display crease.

Specification Details
Displays: Outer: 6.5″ OLED LTPO (1080 x 2342, 1–120Hz, 3,600 nits)
Inner: 8.0″ Flexible OLED LTPO (2076 x 2152, 1–120Hz, 3,600 nits)
Processor & Memory: Google Tensor G6 (2nm) + Titan M3 co-processor with 16GB LPDDR5X   RAM
Storage Options: 256GB / 512GB / 1TB
Dimensions & Weight: • Folded: 155.2 x 76.0 x 10.1 mm
• Unfolded: 155.2 x 150.4 x 5.0 mm
• Weight: 239 grams
Rear Cameras: • Main: 48MP Wide (f/1.7, OIS)
• Ultrawide: 10.5MP (f/2.2, Macro Focus)
• Telephoto: 10.8MP (f/3.1, 5x Optical, 30x Super Res Zoom)
Front Cameras: • Cover: 10MP Ultrawide (f/2.2)
• Inner: 10MP Ultrawide (f/2.2)
Battery & Charging: 4,750 mAh battery
30W wired charging (50% in 30 mins)
Up to 25W Qi2.2 wireless charging
Build & Protection: Aerospace-grade aluminum frame, glass fiber   composite back, IP68 water/dust resistance
OS and Software: Android 17 with integrated Gemini Intelligence
Colors: Olive and Obsidian

Pre-orders for the Google Pixel 11 Pro Fold opened on August 12, 2026, with official in-store availability beginning August 20, 2026.

  • 256GB / 16GB RAM: $1,899
  • 512GB / 16GB RAM: $1,999
  • 1TB / 16GB RAM: $2,199

Google Announces Pixel 11 Series: Pixel 11, Pixel 11 Pro and Pixel 11 Pro XL

Google officially announced its next-generation smartphone lineup—the Pixel 11, Pixel 11 Pro and Pixel 11 Pro XL —at its annual “Made by Google” event in New York City. The lineup introduces new silicon, redesigned camera hardware, brighter displays, and deeper AI integration driven by Android 17.

The entire series runs on the Tensor G6 Chipset, manufactured on an advanced 2nm process and paired with the Titan M3 security co-processor for faster processing, improved energy efficiency, and tighter security. Google has retired the 128GB tier, establishing 256GB Standard Base Storage across all four models. Network performance gets a boost from the integrated MediaTek M90 modem, delivering faster 5G speeds and lower thermal output. Software performance is driven by Gemini Intelligence baked directly into Android 17, providing contextual real-time assistance, conversation summarization, and AI camera processing. Hardware additions include the Pixelsnap Magnetic Ecosystem for Qi2 wireless alignment, alongside HiLight—a new ambient notification and status LED array on the Pro models.

Feature Pixel 11 Pixel 11 Pro Pixel 11 Pro XL
Display: 6.3″ Actua OLED (60–120Hz, 3,000 nits) 6.3″ Super Actua LTPO (1–120Hz, 3,600 nits) 6.8″ Super Actua LTPO (1–120Hz, 3,600 nits)
Processor: Tensor G6 + Titan M3 Tensor G6 + Titan M3 Tensor G6 + Titan M3
RAM: 12GB 12GB / 16GB 12GB / 16GB
Storage Options: 256GB / 512GB 256GB / 512GB / 1TB 256GB / 512GB / 1TB
Rear Cameras: • 48MP Wide (f/1.70) • 13MP Ultrawide (f/2.2) • 10.8MP 5x Telephoto • 50MP Wide (f/1.68) • 48MP Ultrawide (f/1.7) • 48MP 5x Telephoto (120x Zoom) • 50MP Wide (f/1.68) • 48MP Ultrawide (f/1.7) • 48MP 5x Telephoto (120x Zoom)
Front Camera: 10.5MP 42MP 42MP
Battery & Charging: 4,985 mAh (30W wired, Qi2) 4,850 mAh (30W wired, Qi2) 5,115 mAh (30W wired, Qi2)
Colors: Pistachio , Hibiscus, Frost and Obsidian Canyon, Fog, Olive, and an all-matte Obsidian Canyon, Fog, Olive, and an all-matte Obsidian
Starting Price: $899 $1,099 $1,299

Google announced that pre-orders opened on August 12, 2026, immediately following the launch event. All three devices will be available on store shelves starting August 20, 2026.

  • Google Pixel 11: Starts at $899 for (256GB model).
  • Google Pixel 11 Pro: Starts at $1,099 (256GB model).
  • Google Pixel 11 Pro XL: Starts at $1,299 (256GB model).

POCO M8 Power Announced

POCO has officially expanded its lineup with the launch of the POCO M8 Power, marking the fourth smartphone entry in the M8 series. Engineered as an endurance powerhouse, the device pairs multi-day battery capability with a high-refresh-rate display and long-term software support.

Here are the key features of the new POCO M8 Power;

  • 8,000 mAh Battery: The cornerstone of the M8 Power is its massive 8,000 mAh battery. POCO advertises up to 28 hours of video playback, 14 hours of gaming, 31 hours of social media use, 11 hours of navigation, or 38 days of standby. It supports 45W wired fast charging alongside 22.5W reverse wired charging, allowing it to power other accessories on the go.
  • 6.9-inch 120Hz AMOLED Display: Up front, the POCO M8 Power features a 6.9-inch FHD+ AMOLED screen with a smooth 120Hz refresh rate, protected by Gorilla Glass 7i and anchored by an in-display fingerprint scanner for biometric security.
  • Snapdragon Performance & Expandable Storage: Under the hood, it runs on Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 4 Gen 4 SoC, paired with up to 8GB LPDDR4X RAM and 128GB UFS 2.2 internal storage, which is expandable via a dedicated microSD slot.
  • 6 Years of Security Support: Out of the box, the phone boots HyperOS 3 based on Android 16. POCO promises up to 4 major OS upgrades and 6 years of security patches.
  • Durable Design & Cameras: Equipped with an IP65 rating for dust and water resistance, the phone measures 8.45mm in thickness and weighs 225g. Photography is handled by a 50MP main camera (Light Fusion 400) and an 8 MP, f/2.0, (wide) selfie camera.

You can checkout POCO M8 Power here.

Sales officially open in India on August 7, 2026, exclusively via Flipkart. The POCO M8 Power comes in three finishes: Blaze Orange, Black, and Green, with the following pricing;

Configuration Retail Price
6GB RAM / 128GB Storage ₹24,999.00
8GB RAM / 128GB Storage ₹27,999.00

Samsung Confirms July 2026 Galaxy Unpacked in London: “A New Shape Unfolds”

Samsung has officially sent out invitations for its next Galaxy Unpacked event, scheduled for July 22, 2026, in London, U.K. Dubbed with the compelling tagline “A New Shape Unfolds,” the presentation is set to showcase the tech giant’s latest innovations at Old Billingsgate.

The 2026 Samsung Galaxy Unpacked event is heavily expected to spotlight the evolution of Galaxy AI alongside an expanded foldable lineup, including the highly anticipated Galaxy Z Fold 8 and Z Flip 8. Teasers (embedded below) heavily hint at a shorter, wider form factor that could completely redefine mobile multitasking in the AI era.

Tech enthusiasts worldwide can catch the global livestream on July 22 via Samsung’s official website, Newsroom, and YouTube channel, beginning at 2:00 PM BST. Pre-reservations are already open, offering exclusive perks for early adopters.

Sony to close the PlayStation Store for the PS3 and PS Vita

Sony Interactive Entertainment has announced the final closure of the PlayStation Store for the PS3 and PS Vita, officially bringing an end to digital commerce for the legacy platforms. The Sony Playstation 3 was release in November 2006, while PS Vita in December 2011.

The shutdown follows a staggered, regional rollout. The storefront will close first on the PS3 in August 2026 across Mexico, Honduras, and Nicaragua, followed by additional Latin American and Middle Eastern markets later in the year. The final, global shutdown of the digital marketplace for both the PS3 and PS Vita will take place in July 2027.

Sony explained that the aging hardware can no longer support modern commerce systems or strict payment processing standards. While new digital purchases will completely cease after the respective cutoff dates, Sony assured users that they will still be able to redownload their previously purchased games and media for the foreseeable future.

Sony Stopping Physical Discs for New PlayStation Releases by January 2028

Sony Interactive Entertainment has officially announced that it will permanently discontinue physical disc production for all new PlayStation games starting in January 2028. Moving forward, all new releases will be exclusively available in digital formats through the PlayStation Store or as digital download codes via traditional retailers.

The company stated that the transition is a natural evolution to align with modern entertainment trends, noting that consumer preference for digital media now significantly outpaces physical sales. The mandate will not affect games released prior to the January 2028 cutoff date.

While Sony frames this as a necessary modernization, the decision has sparked immediate backlash from gaming communities and collectors. Critics argue that a digital-only marketplace erodes consumer ownership rights, eliminates the used game economy, and gives platform holders absolute control over game pricing. The move signals a major turning point for console gaming, pushing the industry closer to an entirely disc-free future.

Vivo X Fold6 announced with 200MP main camera and 7,000mAh battery

Vivo has officially launched its highly anticipated book-style foldable, the X Fold6, setting a new benchmark for the foldable market. The device measures an ultra-thin 4.4mm when unfolded while packing a massive, record-breaking 7,000mAh Lithium-ion batteries.

The flagship is powered by the customized MediaTek Dimensity 9500 Super Edition (3nm) chipset, running AI-optimized OriginOS 6 Fold which is based on Android 16. It boasts an expansive 8.02-inch internal display and a 6.51-inch cover screen. For photography enthusiasts, Vivo integrates a Zeiss 200MP Super Main Camera.

Image: Vivo X Fold6 from vivo.com.cn

Here are the full official specifications for the newly launched vivo X Fold6:

Category Features
Internal Display 8.02-inch 2K+ (2504 x 2312) Samsung M14 Folding LTPO AMOLED, 1-120Hz refresh rate, 5,000 nits peak brightness, Dolby Vision, Ultra-Thin Glass (UTG)
External Display 6.51-inch FHD+ (2528 x 1120) BOE Q11 LTPO AMOLED, 1-120Hz refresh rate, 5,000 nits peak brightness, Dolby Vision, Armor Glass
Operating System Android 16 with OriginOS 6 Fold
Processor (CPU) MediaTek Dimensity 9500 Super Edition (3nm, Octa-core, peak clock speed up to 4.21 GHz)
Graphics (GPU) ARM Mali-G1 Ultra MC12
Memory (RAM) 12GB / 16GB LPDDR5X Ultra RAM
Storage 256GB / 512GB / 1TB UFS 4.1 (Non-expandable)
Rear Camera System Zeiss Triple Camera Setup:
• 200 MP, f/1.7, (wide), 1/1.4″, PDAF, OIS
• 50MP Zeiss APO Super Telephoto (f/2.57, OIS, 3x Optical / 100x Digital Zoom, supports 200mm G2 extender)
• 50MP Zeiss Ultra Wide Angle (f/2.05, 119° FOV, Laser Autofocus)
Front Cameras Dual 20MP (f/2.4) sensors (One punch-hole on cover screen, one on internal screen)
Video Recording Rear: Up to 8K @ 30fps, 4K @ 30/60fps
Front: 1080p @ 30fps
Durability Rating IP58/IP59 dust protected and water resistant (high pressure water jets; immersible up to 1m for 30 min)
Connectivity 5G (SA/NSA) Dual SIM, Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4, NFC, Infrared Blaster, USB Type-C 3.2 Gen 2 (DisplayPort casting support)
Biometrics & Sensors Side capacitive fingerprint sensor, Face Unlock, X-axis linear motor, Barometer, Gyroscope, Ambient Light, Proximity
Battery & Power 7,000mAh Lithium-ion batteries: 2946mAh (3.78V) + 4054mAh (3.78V)
Up to 100 Wired Fast Charging
With support for OTG reverse charging
Body & Dimensions Unfolded: 157.16 × 145.66 × 4.4 mm (Blue Hole is 4.8mm)
Folded: 157.16 × 74.26 × 9.4 mm (Blue Hole is 9.9mm)
Weight 228g (Polar Night, Salt Lake, Black Gold) / 235g (Blue Hole)
Color Variants Blue Hole, Salt Lake, Polar Night, Black Gold Edition

Pre-orders are live in China, with official sales starting July 1.

Below are the suggested retail price for the different variants of Vivo X Fold6;

  • vivo X Fold6 (12GB+256GB): ¥7,999.00 (Yuan) (or around SAR 4,425.22)
  • vivo X Fold6 (12GB+512GB): ¥8,999.00 (Yuan)(or around SAR 4,978.45)
  • vivo X Fold6 (16GB+512GB): ¥9,999.00 (Yuan)(or around SAR 5,531.67)
  • vivo X Fold6 (16GB+1TB): ¥10,999.00 (Yuan)(or around SAR 6,084.89)

via Google Finance: ¥1 = SAR 0.55, at the time of this posting.

Microsoft to increase price for Xbox Console

Xbox Wire;

Effective August 1, 2026, we will be updating prices worldwide. The price of XBOX consoles will increase by US$100 for 512 GB models and US$150 for 1 TB models. We will also be sunsetting our 2 TB model.

Here the new official US pricing tier for Xbox;

  • Xbox Series S (512GB): $499.99 (Up $100 from $399.99)
  • Xbox Series S (1TB): $599.99 (Up $150 from $449.99)
  • Xbox Series X (1TB Digital): $749.99 (Up $150 from $599.99)
  • Xbox Series X (1TB with Disc Drive): $799.99 (Up $150 from $649.99)
  • Xbox Series X (2TB): Discontinued

Microsoft attributed the hikes to an ongoing global “components crisis,” specifically highlighting that the market costs for console storage and memory (DRAM and NAND) have spiked by over 2.5x, largely driven by supply strains from the massive growth in AI data center infrastructure.

Dell announces the $699 XPS 13 Laptop

Dell has announced the new XPS 13 starting at $699, the company’s answer to Apple’s MacBook Neo.

The new XPS 13 notebook is marketed towards high schoolers and college students who are “juggling coursework, jobs and everything else life throws at them.” and “Young professionals that are just starting to build their careers.”

Image: Dell XPS 13 via dell.com

Here are the key specs;
• 13.4-inch 2.5K resolution @120Hz + Touchscreen
• 500 nits brightness
• 100% DCI-P3 with Anti-Glare
• 12.7mm thin with approx. 1kg wt
• Full CNC aluminum body
• Backlit keyboard
• Intel Core 5 320 (Wildcat Lake)
• 8GB RAM + 512GB SSD
• 52Wh battery
• 2x USB-C 3.2 Gen 2 ports
• Windows Hello
• Quad speakers
• No 3.5mm jack
• Wi-Fi 7

The starting price for the new Dell XPS 13 is $699 and it will be $599 for students. A more powerful Intel Core Ultra Series 3 processors with up to 32GB of LPDDR5X memory and the Storm colorway will be available later this summer.

Acer Announces Predator Atlas 8 Handheld Gaming PC

Acer has officially entered the premium handheld market with the announcement of the Predator Atlas 8. Broadening its portable gaming footprint, Acer’s new Windows 11 flagship transitions the company’s handheld ambitions into its elite Predator tier.

The standout feature of the Predator Atlas 8 is its silicon, leveraging up to the brand-new Intel Arc G3 Extreme processor paired with Arc B390 graphics. Built on Intel’s innovative Xe3 architecture, the device relies on AI-powered XeSS 3 upscaling to deliver desktop-grade performance and high frame rates directly to a portable form factor.

Designed for heavy gaming sessions, the console sports an 8-inch WUXGA (1920 x 1200) touchscreen display boasting a smooth 120Hz variable refresh rate and a bright 500-nit panel. Thermals are managed by a custom Predator AeroBlade cooling setup, which introduces the industry’s first 0.1mm-thin dual metal fans inside a handheld chassis to maximize airflow. Backed by up to a robust 80 Wh battery, 24GB of memory, and dual Thunderbolt 4 connectivity, the Predator Atlas 8 aims to challenge the dominant competition in the portable PC space.

Image: Acer Predator Atlas 8 via acer.com

Key Specifications of Acer unveils Predator Atlas 8;

Name

Predator Atlas 8

Model

PA08-I51

Operating System

Windows 11 Home

Processors

Intel Arc G3 Extreme processor

Intel Arc G3 processor

Graphics

Intel Arc B390 graphics

Intel Arc B370 graphics

Display

8-inch WUXGA (1920 x 1200), 16:10 aspect ratio, IPS-level, sRGB: 100%, Adobe: 77.68%, Gorilla® Glass Victus™, Gorilla® Glass DXC, 10-point multi-touch, 120 Hz refresh rate, 500 Nits brightness, supports VRR (Variable Refresh Rate)

Memory

Up to 24 GB LPDDR5x (7467MT/s)

Storage

Up to 1 TB via one PCIe Gen4 NVMe M.2 SSD slot (2280)

Cooling

Two fans (one Predator AeroBlade metal fan and one plastic fan), Vortex Flow

I/O Ports

Two Thunderbolt 4, UHS-II micro SD card reader, up to SD 4.0 (support for SD, SDXC, SDHC, SDUC), 3.5 mm audio jack (combo)

Control and Input

A B X Y buttons, D-Pad, L/R full-size analog joysticks (Carbon Film), XBOX Game Bar Widget button, PredatorSense button, L/R bumpers, View button, Menu button, Power button with fingerprint sensor, Volume button(+/-), L2/R2 Hall-effect analog triggers, L/R Macro buttons, L/R Adjustable Trigger switches

Audio

Two 2 W speakers, Realtek ALC712, two onboard mics, DTS:X® Ultra and Hi-Res Audio, Acer PurifiedVoice

Battery

Up to 80 Wh, 4S1P, 4-cell Li-ion

Power Supply

Option 1 Wall Mount: AC Power Adapter, 65W Type-C Power Cord

Option 2 Brick: AC Power Adapter, 65W

Wi-Fi and Connectivity

Intel Killer Wi-Fi 7 BE1775s, Bluetooth® 5.4

Software

PredatorSense, XBOX Game Pass Premium[6] (2 months), PC Game Pass[7] (3 months)

Dimensions

299 x 127.4 x 28.5/58.37 mm

Weight

Under 810 g with 80 Wh battery

Under 770 g with 60 Wh battery

The Predator Atlas 8 arrives in North America, EMEA, and Australia starting October 2026. Regional pricing, configurations, and precise release dates will be shared closer to launch.

Microsoft Surface Pro for Business also Announced

Together with the new Surface Laptop for Business, Microsoft also announce the new Surface Pro for Business. The new Surface Pro for Business (13-inch) is an ultra-portable, sub-1kg 2-in-1 detachable tablet engineered for remote productivity and local AI processing.

Powered by Intel Core Ultra Series 3 processors (with Snapdragon X2 options arriving later this year), its dedicated NPU delivers up to 48 TOPS to securely run AI workloads natively on-device. The vibrant 13-inch PixelSense™ Flow touchscreen features a 3:2 aspect ratio, a fluid 120Hz dynamic refresh rate, anti-reflective tech, and choices of LCD or premium OLED panels.

Built for mobility, it packs dual Thunderbolt™ 4 ports, Wi-Fi 7, optional 5G cellular connectivity, and a battery lasting up to 17 hours. For IT deployment, this Secured-core PC prioritizes chip-to-cloud defense via a Microsoft Pluton processor, NFC authentication, and a highly sustainable, modular chassis featuring a removable Gen 4 SSD for seamless enterprise serviceability.

Here’s the intro video for the new Microsoft Surface Pro for Business;

You can checkout the table below for the key specs of the new Surface Pro for Business;

Feature Technical Specification Details
Processor Options • Intel® Core™ Ultra 5 (236V / 238V)
• Intel® Core™ Ultra 7 (266V / 268V)
(Snapdragon X2 variants arriving later this year)
NPU (AI Engine) Intel® AI Boost (Up to 48 TOPS computation power)
Graphics • Intel Core Ultra 5 processor (Series 3): Intel Graphics
• Intel Core Ultra 7 processor (Series 3): Intel Graphics
Display Panel Options Choice of LCD or premium high-contrast OLED
Display Specs 13-inch PixelSense™ Flow Touchscreen, 3:2 aspect ratio, $2880 \times 1920$ resolution (267 PPI)
Refresh Rate Up to 120Hz dynamic refresh rate
Display Brightness • LCD: 600 nits maximum (typical)
• OLED: 600 nits SDR / 900 nits peak HDR luminance
Memory (RAM) 16GB or 32GB LPDDR5x RAM
Storage (SSD) 256GB, 512GB, or 1TB Gen 4 Solid State Drive (Removable)
Battery Life Up to 14 hours of local video playback (Up to 10 hours active web usage)
I/O Ports • 2 x USB-C® with USB4® / Thunderbolt™ 4 (supports DisplayPort 2.1 and fast charging)
• 1 x Surface Connect Port
• 1 x Surface Pro Keyboard Port
Cameras • Front: 1440p Quad HD Surface Studio Camera with ultra-wide FOV & Windows Studio Effects
• Rear: 10 MP Ultra HD camera
Wireless & Cellular Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth® 5.4, Optional 5G Cellular (NanoSIM + eSIM)
Security Architecture Secured-core PC, Microsoft Pluton security processor, TPM 2.0 chip, Windows Hello facial recognition, Integrated NFC authentication
Physical Dimensions 11.3” × 8.2” × 0.37” (287 mm × 209 mm × 9.3 mm)
Weight 1.92 lbs (872 grams) — tablet only
Starting Price $1,949.99 (MSRP)

Just like its siblings, the new Microsoft Surface Pro for Business are available today in select markets with a starting price of $1,949.99.

Microsoft announces new Surface Laptop for Business

Microsoft just announce new Surface devices built for business and AI acceleration, one of these devices is the new Surface Laptop for Business. Microsoft’s newly updated line of Surface Laptop for Business models features a shift to Intel’s latest architecture, heavily emphasizing AI performance, enhanced security, and extended battery life.

The lineup for Surface Laptop for Business is divided by size—introducing a new 13-inch ultra-portable model alongside refreshed 13.8-inch and 15-inch tiers. The starting price for the Surface Laptop for Business will start at $1,499 for the 16GB and 24GB configurations, while an 8GB configuration is coming later this year starting at $1,299.99.

The Microsoft Surface Laptop for Business features Intel® Core™ Ultra Series 3 processors, up to 64GB LPDDR5x RAM, and removable Gen 4 SSDs for enhanced enterprise serviceability. Driven by a 50 TOPS NPU for native Copilot+ AI, its graphics outperform the M5 MacBook Air by up to 35%, scaling up to Intel® Arc™ on high-end Ultra X7 tiers.

The lineup spans 13″, 13.8″, and 15″ models, all maintaining a 3:2 PixelSense™ Flow touchscreen with 120Hz refresh rates and Dolby Vision IQ™. Select 13.8″ models offer an IT-manageable keystroke privacy screen, while all variants reduce glare by 50%.

Intro video for the new Microsoft Surface Laptop for Business;

You can checkout the table below for the key specs of the new Surface Laptop for Business;

Specs 13-inch Model 13.8-inch Model 15-inch Model
Processor Options Intel Core Ultra 5 (325) • Intel Core Ultra 5 (335)
• Intel Core Ultra 7 (366H)
• Intel Core Ultra X7 (368H)
• Intel Core Ultra 5 (335)
• Intel Core Ultra X7 (368H)
NPU (AI Engine) Intel AI Boost (50 TOPS) Intel AI Boost (50 TOPS) Intel AI Boost (50 TOPS)
Graphics Intel Graphics • Ultra 5 / 7: Intel Graphics
• Ultra X7: Intel Arc™ Graphics
• Ultra 5: Intel Graphics
• Ultra X7: Intel Arc™ Graphics
Display Resolution 13″ PixelSense
1920 x 1280 (178 PPI)
13.8″ PixelSense Flow
2304 x 1536 (201 PPI)
15″ PixelSense Flow
3270 x 2180 (262 PPI)
Refresh Rate 60 Hz static Up to 120Hz dynamic Up to 120Hz dynamic
Special Display Tech Anti-reflective, 500 nits Optional Integrated Privacy Screen, 600 nits peak Anti-reflective, 600 nits peak
Memory (RAM) 16GB or 24GB LPDDR5x
(8GB arriving later)
16GB, 32GB, or 64GB LPDDR5x 16GB, 32GB, or 64GB LPDDR5x
Storage (Gen 4 SSD) 256GB, 512GB, or 1TB
(Removable)
256GB, 512GB, or 1TB
(Removable)
256GB, 512GB, or 1TB
(Removable)
Battery Life (Video) Up to 22 hours Up to 23 hours Up to 21 hours
I/O Ports • 2 x USB-C (USB 3.2)
• 1 x USB-A 3.2
• 3.5mm Headphone Jack
• 2 x USB-C (USB4 / TB 4)
• 1 x USB-A 3.2
• Surface Connect
• 3.5mm Audio Jack
• 2 x USB-C (USB4 / TB 4)
• 1 x USB-A 3.2
• microSDXC Express Reader
• Surface Connect / Audio Jack
Connectivity Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4 Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4, Optional 5G Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4
Starting Price $1,499.99 (16GB launch) $1,949.99 $1,949.99

The new Microsoft Surface Laptop for Business are available today in select markets with a starting price of $1,499.99.

HONOR Pad 20 Coming Soon

HONOR has officially pulled back the curtain on the HONOR Pad 20, a mid-range tablet designed to bridge the gap between education and high-end productivity. The standout feature is its 12.1-inch 3K display, boasting a “paper-like” texture that minimizes glare and mimics the tactile feel of writing on real stationery—a dream for students and digital artists alike.

Under the hood, the device is powered by the Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 chipset, paired with a massive 10,100mAh battery and 45W fast charging. Running on MagicOS 10, the Pad 20 integrates advanced AI tools for note-taking and exam prep, making it a formidable companion for the modern classroom.

Here are the key specs of the HONOR Pad 20;

  • Display: 12.1-inch IPS LCD “Paper-like” display, 3K (2560 x 1600 pixels), 16:10 aspect ratio.
  • Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 (4nm)
  • RAM: 8GB
  • Storage: 128GB or 256GB (No microSD card slot support mentioned)
  • Rear Camera: 8 MP with Autofocus
  • Front Camera: 8 MP for video calls and selfies
  • Audio: 6-speaker stereo system with Hi-Res audio support
  • Software: MagicOS 10.0 (based on Android 16)
  • Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.3, USB Type-C 2.0 (Note: The standard version is Wi-Fi only; a 5G version is available in specific markets like China)
  • Stylus Support: Optimized for note-taking and sketching.
  • AI Tools: Includes AI-powered writing assistance, smart note organization, and exam preparation tools.
  • Productivity: Comes with WPS Office pre-installed and supports PC-like multitasking.
  • Battery: 10,100 mAh
  • Charging: 45W wired fast charging
  • Colors: Dazzling Pink, Forest Green, and Gray

No word as to how much the new table will be sold and its availability.

Source: GSM Arena

Googlebook Officially Announced

Google has officially unveiled the Googlebook, a premium new category of laptops designed to succeed the Chromebook by placing AI at the heart of the user experience. Running on a unified OS (codenamed Aluminium), these devices bridge the gap between Android and desktop computing.

Unveiled at the “Android Show: I/O Edition,” the Googlebook is Google’s definitive answer to high-performance laptops, powered by the brand-new Aluminium OS. Unlike its predecessors, the Googlebook is built to handle heavy local processing, specifically designed to run on-device Gemini AI models.

The hardware requirements for the Googlebook badge are rigorous. Every device features a dedicated Neural Processing Unit (NPU) capable of at least 40 TOPS (Trillions of Operations Per Second). Most flagship models utilize Intel’s “Wildcat Lake” Core Series 300 processors or high-efficiency ARM chips from Qualcomm.

To support seamless multitasking between native Android apps and AI workflows, the baseline memory starts at 8GB of RAM, with 16GB becoming the standard for power users. Storage has also seen a massive upgrade, ditching slow eMMC for fast NVMe SSDs starting at 256GB.

Visually, the Googlebook is identified by the “Glowbar,” an LED lightstrip on the lid that pulses during AI interactions. Combined with the Magic Pointer—a haptic trackpad system that allows Gemini to “see” what your cursor is hovering over—the Googlebook isn’t just a laptop; it is an intelligent, high-speed partner for the modern professional.

Googlebooks will initially be available this Fall 2026.

HONOR announces the MagicPad4

After announcing the 600 Smartphone Series, HONOR Saudi Arabia also announced their latest android tablet, the HONOR MagicPad4. It features an ultra-slim 4.8 mm profile and lightweight 450g unibody design. At its heart is a stunning 12.3-inch 3K OLED display, featuring a buttery-smooth 165Hz refresh rate and a peak brightness of 2,400 nits, ensuring exceptional clarity even under direct sunlight, and a screen-to-body ratio of 93%.

Under the hood, it is powered by the flagship Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 chipset, paired with up to 16GB of RAM and up to 512GB of storage. The HONOR MagicPad4 will be running MagicOS 10 based on Android 16, right out of the box. The MagicPad4 packs a whopping 10,100mAh Lithium-ion polymer battery with 66W SuperCharge support. Enhanced by an immersive 8-speaker spatial audio system and a dedicated PC-style mode.

As for the price of the HONOR MagicPad4;

  • 12GB+256GB – SAR 3,599.00
  • 16GB+5123GB – SAR 3,999.00

You can checkout the full specs of HONOR MagicPad4 here.