Announcements

The artificial intelligence service Grok by xAI has introduced a groundbreaking new feature — AI companions. Currently in testing mode and exclusively available to SuperGrok paying subscribers, users can now interact with unique virtual characters like the gothic anime girl Ani or the anthropomorphic panda Rudy, each with their own personality and conversational style.

FriendlyELEC has unveiled the NanoPi R76S single-board computer, built around the Rockchip RK3576. This tiny powerhouse delivers an impressive blend of price and networking muscle in an ultra-compact form factor.

io Platforms has kicked off beta testing for JioPC, a virtual desktop service that runs through its set-top box. Users just need to connect a keyboard and mouse to their TV.

After 30 years, the Commodore brand is back with the C64 Ultimate computer. This isn't just a look-alike or a software emulator. The big deal? It uses FPGA technology for hardware-level emulation of the original 80s silicon. This promises unprecedented accuracy in running thousands of classic games and compatibility with original cartridges.

GPD is back with the MicroPC 2, a major upgrade to its unique pocket-sized computer. Built specifically for IT specialists, engineers, and sysadmins on the go, this tiny dynamo packs a serious punch: a faster processor, a bigger touchscreen that flips into tablet mode, and an insanely rich selection of ports that defies its compact size.

Indie studio Alice Games has unveiled the debut trailer for Shark Dentist, a bizarre and terrifying sim where players take on the role of a dentist for sharks. Described as an “extreme horror” with roguelike elements, the game raises the stakes—every appointment could end in death.

AI and robotics tinkering just got a lot more desktop-friendly. Hugging Face has introduced Reachy Mini, a compact open-source robot (both hardware and software) starting at $299.

Samsung has revamped its foldable lineup with the Galaxy Z Fold 7, Flip 7, and Flip 7 FE. The main focus? Record-thin designs and beefed-up AI. But some hoped-for features, like S Pen support in the Fold 7, got sacrificed for slimness, and the Dex desktop mode comes with new limitations.

Ai+ has officially launched two budget-friendly smartphones – the Pulse and the Nova 5G. What sets these new devices apart isn't just their starting price of around $60, but also their AI-enhanced operating system. Both phones target the mass market, catering to users who want essential smartphone functions with some smart features.

GSC Game World has officially announced a PlayStation 5 version of S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl. The game is set to arrive on Sony’s console in late 2025.

ASUS has launched the ROG Keris II Origin gaming mouse. This lightweight (64g) peripheral features the high-precision AimPoint Pro sensor with 42,000 DPI and the ROG Push-Fit Switch Socket II system for tool-free button switch replacement. The new mouse supports three connection modes, including SpeedNova technology for low-latency wireless gaming.

Rosewill has launched its new VMG series of affordable power supplies, packing ATX 3.1 compatibility, high energy efficiency, and a compact size into units aimed squarely at modern systems – all starting at around $80.

Twitter co-founder Jack Dorsey has announced Bitchat—an experimental messaging app that uses surrounding smartphones’ Bluetooth to create local mesh networks for text communication. Requiring no sign-up, servers, or carrier infrastructure, the app is already in testing.

ASUS is launching the Ascent GX10 mini-PC, powered by NVIDIA's revolutionary Grace Blackwell GB200 platform. This marks the first desktop computer featuring NVIDIA's hybrid ARM chip, bringing server-grade AI compute capabilities right to the desktop.

A British startup is promising a data compression revolution. CompressionX claims its new algorithm can slash data size by up to 65% – significantly outperforming most popular tools.

Back in February 2024, it was revealed that Apple had secured the rights to adapt Neuromancer, the seminal sci-fi novel by Canadian author William Gibson. Recently, the company unveiled the project’s first teaser and officially announced that filming has begun. The idea of a big-budget TV show based on Neuromancer is undeniably intriguing: the original novel is the quintessential work of cyberpunk, a genre-defining masterpiece that shaped its rules and deeply influenced dozens of movies and video games. Let’s explore why this book is so important — and what challenges the creators of the series might face.

Indian brand Pebble has unveiled the Halo, one of the rare smart rings featuring an active display. For just $95, this gadget not only tracks your sleep and heart rate but also lets you control your smartphone content using gestures.

Celebrating its brand anniversary, Pulsar introduces a special edition of its flagship X2F mouse. The 5th Anniversary Edition weighs just 38 grams, was developed with input from over 200 esports pros, and targets enthusiasts seeking compact, top-tier performance.

E Ink has unveiled a prototype touchpad for laptops. The innovation aims to be more than just a touchpad replacement—it’s designed as a dedicated AI interaction zone while sipping minimal power.

Bandai Namco has announced a new game based on the My Hero Academia anime and manga at their Summer Showcase 2025. The game is titled My Hero Academia All's Justice.