Building on the success of its predecessor, the Nintendo Switch 2 marks a significant leap forward in hybrid console design, combining portability with next-gen performance. The new Switch 2 is slightly more refined in nearly every aspect of its hardware, while preserving the core philosophy of its seamless design and docked gameplay. With that said, in this new edition of this month's Hardware Breakdown, we take an in-depth look at the Switch 2 core hardware.
Anker, known for its charging accessories, has issued a recall for over 1.1 million PowerCore 10000 power banks due to defective lithium-ion batteries that present a potential fire hazard. The recalled model number is A1263, which was sold in the United States from June 2013 through December 2022. These lithium-ion batteries carry the risk of overheating, which can lead to melting, smoke, or even fire. Customers are advised to check if they own this model and to stop using it immediately. Anker is taking this matter seriously to ensure the safety of their customers.
Apple has unveiled its new mobile OS, iOS 26, this week. The operating system introduces numerous features, including design enhancements and deeper AI integration. Customization, productivity, and privacy are the primary focuses, aiming to make iPhones more adaptive and user-friendly. After exploring iOS 26, I gathered key information about its offerings. Here are the essential details you need to know about the new operating system.
After extensive speculation, Microsoft has entered the gaming handheld market, launching ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X in collaboration with Asus. These devices aim to connect console and PC gaming by providing a portable experience while ensuring access to Xbox Game Pass, cloud gaming, and native Windows support. The ROG Xbox Ally and Ally X offer a range of features specifically designed for gamers. Let's outline some of the features and hardware of the handheld gaming console.
The power supply unit (PSU) is a vital component of any computer. It's responsible for converting electrical energy into usable power for various hardware components. However, like all computer hardware, it can also accumulate dust over time, which can lead to overheating, decreased efficiency, and performance degradation. A properly cleaned power supply unit (PSU) not only ensures reliable performance but also extends its lifespan.
Building a gaming PC on a budget requires a careful selection of components to ensure optimal performance and cost efficiency. With a budget of $1500, I can design a robust system that runs modern games at high settings while striking a balance between performance and aesthetics. I aim to select high-quality parts that will not only meet current gaming requirements but also accommodate future upgrades. It's essential to consider both the functionality and the visual appeal of the components I choose. Let's start the process of selecting the core components for this gaming PC build.
Nintendo has issued a warning to consumers about the screen film for the Switch 2. Users should not remove the pre-installed protective layer, which is similar to the film found on some smartphones. This anti-scattering adhesive film is not just regular packaging; it serves a specific purpose. It is designed to prevent glass shards from scattering in the event of screen damage. Knowing this information helps users understand the importance of keeping the protective layer intact.
The fundamental part of a computer's motherboard is the CMOS, an acronym for Complementary Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor. The component plays a critical role in system configuration and timekeeping. While often overlooked by casual computer users, CMOS is essential for maintaining crucial system settings and ensuring proper system functionality.
We live in an era where internet connectivity is essential. Wireless routers are the absolute backbone of homes and business networks. However, these networking devices have become the preferred target for cybercriminals. If you currently own an Asus wireless router, be aware of the latest threat involving a stealthy backdoor bot that has affected thousands of Asus wireless routers. This latest attack underscores the vulnerabilities in consumer networking hardware and the urgent need for proactive security measures.
There is yet another issue with a power connector on an RTX-series graphics card. This time, it involves the MSI GeForce RTX 5090, which is touted as one of the most powerful graphics cards on the market. Recent reports have highlighted problems with the 12V-2x6 power connector, particularly with MSI's yellow-tipped adapter. Multiple instances of melting have occurred, raising significant concerns about the reliability and safety of the graphics card. Overall, these issues emphasize the need for scrutiny over the design and quality of power connectors in high-performance graphics cards.
A reliable internet connection via a wireless router is critical to your work, entertainment, and communication. While most Internet Service Providers (ISPs, for short) now offer their routers, many users still opt for third-party wireless routers, gaining better speed, control, security, and access to better features tailored to any desired needs. Setting up a third-party wireless router may seem complicated, especially if you're doing it for the first time and aren't familiar with networking technology. But if you follow my structured approach, the installation process will go smoothly. This tutorial will outline the necessary steps to configure a third-party router.
AMD has just released its latest addition to the RDNA 4 lineup, Radeon RX 9060 XT. The new GPU is positioned to be a competitive alternative to NVIDIA's RTX 5060 AND 5060 Ti. Focusing on affordability and performance, the GPU aims to deliver a solid gaming experience at 1080p and 1440p resolution while maintaining a significant price advantage over its NVIDIA rivals.
This week, Sony released its new flagship noise-canceling headphones, the WH-1000XM6. The reviews I've read have been mainly positive, highlighting various features and performance aspects of the WH-1000XM6. The consensus seems to be that these headphones are a significant upgrade over previous models. Here's a quick rundown on what the reviewers are saying.
Google has unveiled the latest evolution of Material 3 Design, enhancing user experience on Android devices. The update, built on the Material You framework introduced with Android 12, incorporates dynamic color theming, smoother animations, and refined typography. These features create a more personalized, expressive, and adaptive interaction. From all my gathered data and visual viewing of Android's new mobile OS, I have learned a lot about Material 3. Overall, the improvements contribute to a more fluid and intuitive user experience.
Upgrading a processor can significantly enhance your computer's overall performance, enabling faster multitasking, smoother gaming, and improved productivity. Despite some constraints, you can upgrade your processor while keeping the same motherboard. This newly published guide will explore steps and potential challenges you may face when upgrading your CPU while maintaining your motherboard.
Adjusting your webcam settings to ensure optimal performance can be challenging for some. However, Windows does provide several built-in features that allow users to configure their webcam settings, improve video quality, and ensure compatibility with various applications. I've outlined several steps to adjust your webcam settings on Windows, covering essential aspects such as permissions, resolution, and troubleshooting.
Despite the lingering tariffs, there are still good deals on hardware, especially RAM. As DDR5 memory becomes the standard for high-performance computing, choosing the right RAM kit at a reasonable price is essential for maximizing system efficiency. The G.SKILL Trident Z5 Neo RGB Series DDR5 32GB is an excellent choice for those building systems powered by AMD and Intel. This RAM kit not only meets performance standards but also offers appealing aesthetics.
When a leak of great significance involves a known tech conglomerate, it will gain attention from many tech enthusiasts and consumers. The latest corporate slip-up that has garnered mass attention involves Google. Known for its focus on user experience and design evolution, Google has recently unintentionally leaked details of its upcoming Material 3 Expressive design language for Android. While Leaks are often orchestrated or stem from third-party sources, Google's latest slip appears to have been an internal mistake, providing an unexpected preview of what's to come.
I found a great deal on the Anker Nano II 45W USB-C charger, now at 50% off its original price of $39.99. This charger represents a wise investment for several reasons. Its performance and reliability make it stand out among other chargers. The compact size is ideal for portability and convenience. Overall, this charger is worth considering.
Nvidia has released its latest GeForce Hotfix Driver Update, version 576.26, addressing various issues affecting its RTX 50-series GPUs. This update comes on the heels of their previously released hotfixes, highlighting Nvidia's commitment to improving the overall user experience.
