Beatbot is diving into National Pool Opening Day (April 26) with a promotion that pool owners won’t want to skim past. Through April 27, the company is offering up to 25% off its AquaSense 2 Series robotic pool cleaners, each designed to tackle winter debris, fine particles, and filter gunk with AI-assisted precision.
The limited-time sale highlights three models, including the flagship AquaSense 2 Ultra, with each unit tailored for different levels of pool maintenance and automation.
AquaSense 2 Ultra: Flagship Cleaning with AI-Powered Navigation
At the top of the lineup is the AquaSense 2 Ultra, a high-end 5-in-1 robotic cleaner packed with advanced AI features. It’s equipped with Beatbot’s proprietary HybridSense AI Pool Mapping system, which guides the cleaner across pool surfaces with laser-focused accuracy. A standout perk: Smart Surface Parking, which makes retrieval at the end of a cycle much less of a fishing expedition.
AquaSense 2 Pro: Mid-Tier Muscle with Smart Control
The AquaSense 2 Pro delivers much of the same cleaning coverage in a slightly more streamlined package. It supports app-based control and handles five types of cleaning tasks: scrubbing the floor and walls, clearing waterlines, circulating water, and keeping surface debris in check.
For those seeking full pool coverage on a smaller budget, the AquaSense 2 brings intelligent cleaning power with a 3-in-1 design. It features a 200W brushless main pump motor and delivers up to 5500 GPH suction, making it effective for scrubbing walls, floors, and waterlines. The model’s efficient navigation ensures no corner is left untouched.
Beatbot’s spring sale runs now through April 27 and is timed to help homeowners jump-start pool season with less effort and fewer headaches. All models in the AquaSense 2 lineup are designed to reduce manual upkeep and deliver cleaner, clearer water using a blend of robotics, AI, and smart design.
Lockly is updating one of its best-known smart locks with a redesign focused on speed, reliability, and convenience. The Secure Pro 2025 Edition brings new features aimed at streamlining access control without sacrificing the security features that made it a favorite among homeowners and property managers.
Faster Fingerprint Access, Smarter Entry
The standout upgrade is a front-facing 3D fingerprint scanner, replacing the previous side-mounted sensor. This new placement, paired with AI-driven learning, enables quicker and more accurate reads, especially helpful for households with kids or elderly residents. It learns and improves over time, making the most of biometric tech for day-to-day use.
Another welcome change is built-in Wi-Fi, which removes the need for a separate hub. That means remote locking, unlocking, and activity monitoring can all be handled through the Lockly app, even if you’re across town or out of the country.
Security Features That Stick
Lockly didn’t tinker with what already worked. The 2025 Edition keeps signature elements like the PIN Genie digital keypad, which scrambles number positions with every use to prevent prying eyes from guessing your code. It also retains flexible entry options including:
Physical key access
App-based eKeys and eBadges
Offline access codes
Auto-lock functionality
Re-keyable backup cylinder
And for voice control fans, the lock still plays nicely with Google Assistant and Alexa.
Built for Homes, Offices, and Shared Spaces
This isn’t just a smart lock for your front door. With its blend of hardware security and cloud-connected smarts, the Secure Pro 2025 is suitable for residential properties, offices, short-term rentals, and other spaces where access needs to be managed and monitored. The combination of traditional and modern access methods makes it a fit for families and property managers alike.
Pricing and Availability
The Lockly Secure Pro 2025 Edition is available now in Matte Black and Satin Nickel finishes, priced at $299.99 on Amazon. More details can be found at Lockly.com.
T-Mobile is rolling out a revamped lineup of wireless plans that aim to make things easier , and even more rewarding, for both new and existing customers. Announced in a video by Jon Freier, President of T-Mobile’s Consumer Group, the new plans include Experience More and Experience Beyond, plus updated offerings from Metro by T-Mobile. The updates bring more data, more savings, and a five-year price guarantee across the board.
New Plans with Bigger Perks
The Experience More and Experience Beyond plans are positioned as the new cornerstones of T-Mobile’s postpaid lineup. Both plans retain the core benefits of Go5G Plus and Go5G Next but layer on even more value:
Experience More comes in at $5 less per line than Go5G Plus and includes 60GB of hotspot data plus complimentary access to T-Satellite (via Starlink) through the end of the year.
Experience Beyond steps things up with 250GB of high-speed hotspot data, 30GB of high-speed data in Canada and Mexico, and 15GB of high-speed international data in 215+ countries. It also includes ongoing access to T-Satellite. According to T-Mobile, that adds up to over $200 in added value per line each month.
These plans also come with what T-Mobile calls Magenta Status, a perks program that includes Netflix, Apple TV+, Hulu, MLB.TV, MLS Season Pass, hotel and rental car discounts, in-flight Wi-Fi, and more.
Price Lock: Five Years of Predictability
Every new T-Mobile and Metro plan now comes with a five-year price guarantee on talk, text, and data. That applies to both individual and family plans, as well as plans designed for small businesses. It’s a direct response to the rising costs of essential services, offering customers some rare long-term peace of mind.
Switching Made Simple and Lucrative
To help customers break free from Verizon or AT&T, T-Mobile is offering several incentives:
Family Freedom: Up to $800 per line to cover the cost of switching (even if the device is locked), plus a free flagship smartphone for each trade-in.
4 for $100: Families can get four lines and four flagship smartphones for $100/month (plus taxes and fees).
$200 Credit: For customers not stuck in contracts, T-Mobile offers a $200 per line credit for bringing their number over.
Metro’s most popular plans are also getting more competitive, including a 20% price drop for families of four on the Metro Flex Unlimited Plus plan. These too will be covered by the five-year price guarantee. More details are available at metrobyt-mobile.com.
Availability and More Info
The new T-Mobile and Metro by T-Mobile plans go live starting April 23. All updated plans, including those for small businesses, 55+, military, and 5G home internet, will include the refreshed benefits and pricing structure.
WaterField Designs has unveiled its largest and most robust backpack to date, the Tech Folio Tank Backpack, crafted to meet the needs of PC gamers, digital creatives, and tech professionals hauling serious gear. Built with premium materials and designed around extensive internal organization, the 30-liter Tech Folio Tank is an expansion of the brand’s well-regarded Tech Folio line, scaled up to accommodate laptops up to 18 inches and enough accessories to run a pop-up command center.
Designed for Demanding Setups
Whether it’s a high-powered gaming laptop, a portable workstation, or a full creative rig, the Tech Folio Tank makes room for it all. The main compartment includes two padded sleeves for both a full-sized laptop (up to 18 inches) and a secondary device such as a tablet or compact laptop. There’s even room left over for bulkier items like a mechanical keyboard, camera gear, or a day’s worth of clothes.
Adjacent to the main compartment is a fully-loaded tech accessory bay featuring 11 specialized pockets, including five zippered mesh pouches, four open-topped nylon pockets, and two padded sleeves for items like controllers, hard drives, or power banks. There’s even a dedicated key tether and a hidden AirTag pocket for tracking peace of mind.
Comfort Meets Durability
Carrying a heavy setup doesn’t have to feel like a workout. WaterField equipped the Tank with neoprene-padded ergonomic shoulder straps, a breathable mesh back panel, and a sternum strap to distribute weight more comfortably. A leather-wrapped handle provides a sleek hand-carry option, and a luggage pass-through makes it travel-ready.
As for the exterior, the Tank is built from 1680D ballistic nylon or rugged waxed canvas, accented with full-grain leather for a polished look. YKK waterproof zippers, impact-resistant foam padding, and a gold-toned ripstop liner (for easier gear visibility) round out the hardware.
Pricing, Availability, and Options
The WaterField Tech Folio Tank Backpack is priced at $419 and is available in two core materials: black ballistic nylon with black or chocolate leather, and waxed canvas with chocolate or grizzly leather. Dimensions are 18 x 14 x 7.5 inches, with a total volume of 30 liters.
Pre-orders are now open, with shipments starting April 25, 2025.
Let’s just say it upfront: these headphones are not trying to blend in. The OneOdio Studio Max 1 is big, bold, and very clearly built with DJs in mind. From the oversized rotating earcups to the sprawling array of connectivity options, they’re tuned for a certain type of user, and if that’s you, there’s a lot to like.
I’ve been testing the Studio Max 1 for a couple of weeks, bouncing between office time, casual listening, and the occasional Zoom call, and I’ve got thoughts. Suffice it to say, this isn’t a generic pair of wireless headphones, it’s a specialist tool… one that gets a lot right, but isn’t without quirks.
The Studio Max 1 is a rare combo of practicality and performance, offering a DJ-friendly feature set with everyday comfort.
Designed to Be Seen and Swiveled
These are not your minimal, blend-into-the-background headphones. They’re big. OneOdio went all in with DJ-style rotating earcups that swivel every which way (90 degrees for folding, 180 degrees on the x-axis, and nearly 360 degrees of tilt). That flexibility makes them easy to wear on one ear while monitoring a mix or flipping them into a more compact form for storage.
The black-on-black design is functional rather than flashy, but it works. The protein leather earcups feel solid, and the headband has a generous amount of padding. They’re comfy for long sessions with no pinching and no hotspots, even if the 350g weight does start to register after a few hours.
Still, I can’t ignore the sheer size. These cans are visible in my peripheral vision while I’m wearing them, which isn’t something I typically notice unless the headphones are, well, massive.
Ports, Buttons, and a Bit of Clutter
If you love options, the Studio Max 1 has you covered. USB-C, 3.5mm, or 6.35mm — Take your pick. There’s even a TF card slot for standalone playback. You also get physical controls on the earcups for volume, pairing, and power. That’s great in theory, but in practice, the layout feels a bit cramped. I had trouble telling the volume buttons apart by touch alone, which made quick adjustments trickier than I’d like during live use.
Still, the flexibility here is pretty wild. The included M1 wireless transmitter enables a dedicated DJ mode with ultra-low latency (20ms), which is a lifesaver for real-time mixing. And it works really well. This isn’t just marketing speak, there’s a noticeable difference compared to standard Bluetooth.
The Setup Experience: A Bit of a Puzzle
Pairing the Studio Max 1 with my phone was more confusing than expected. Out of the box, the headphones defaulted to a different pairing mode than I assumed, and I had to dig into the manual to figure it out. It’s not a dealbreaker, obviously, but if you’re expecting a seamless pairing process like you get with most mainstream Bluetooth headphones, maybe prepare yourself for a hiccup or two.
Using the dedicated wireless transmitter, on the other hand, is smoother, but still requires following a few setup steps. Once everything’s paired up, though, switching between modes is pretty simple, even if the learning curve is steeper than most.
Battery Life Is Insane
I don’t say this lightly: the battery life here is bananas. OneOdio claims 120 hours of playback, and based on my usage, that doesn’t feel exaggerated. Even better, a quick 5-minute top-off gets you about 2.5 hours of playtime, which is perfect for those “oh no I forgot to charge” moments. The transmitter has serious stamina too, easily lasting over a week with a few hours of daily use.
If you hate worrying about battery life, you’ll love these.
Sound Quality: A Mixed Bag
Here’s where things get a bit subjective. I’ve read wildly different takes on the Studio Max 1’s sound, and honestly, I can see why.
To my ears, the bass is powerful, and maybe a bit too much so. There’s a “hummier” low end that’s fun for casual listening but sometimes feels exaggerated when I’m trying to monitor vocals or subtle midrange detail. The treble doesn’t sparkle, and the soundstage feels a little closed in-like the music is happening just inside your head instead of around you.
LDAC support and Hi-Res Audio certification are great to see on paper, but I didn’t hear the level of detail I’d expect from something targeting audiophiles. It’s better than most budget Bluetooth headphones, sure, but this isn’t quite the kind of clarity I’d want for critical mixing work.
That said, if you’re spinning tracks in a club or mixing on the go, the punchy sound signature might actually work in your favor. It cuts through ambient noise and keeps the beat front and center.
What You Don’t Get
It’s worth noting what’s missing. There’s no active noise cancellation (ANC), no companion app, and no IP rating. If you’re working in dusty environments or need weather protection, that’s something to keep in mind. You also don’t get any on-ear touch controls, just physical buttons.
There is a mic onboard with dual ENC (environmental noise cancellation), which should help with calls, but I didn’t find much in the way of standout voice clarity. It’s there if you need it, but don’t expect studio-grade recording from the built-in mic.
Great Value for a Niche Crowd
At $169.99, the Studio Max 1 offers a lot of headphone for the money, especially when you consider the included transmitter, all the cables (3.5mm, 6.35mm, USB-C), and the generous battery life. You’re getting a setup that’s ready for pro gear without needing to spend extra on adapters or dongles.
For DJs or creators who want something that’s wireless, latency-sensitive, and built like a tank, this is a pretty compelling option. For everyday listeners, though, it might be a bit much, especially if your top priority is casual comfort or pristine audio detail.
Final Verdict
Awarded to products with an average rating of 3.75 stars or higher, the AndroidGuys Smart Pick recognizes a balance of quality, performance, and value.
Products with this distinction deserve to be on your short list of purchase candidates.
I’d recommend the OneOdio Studio Max 1 to upstart DJs or performers who want a reliable, long-lasting wireless solution that won’t break the bank. The rotating earcups, ultra-low latency mode, and absurd battery life are all genuinely useful. All of this is backed by a two-year warranty, too. Just be ready for a bit of a setup curve and audio that leans more toward bass-heavy fun than surgical precision.
If you’re someone who values clarity and openness in your music, there are cleaner-sounding options out there. But for the price and for the intended use case, this is a solid pick with some standout strengths.
UGREEN has teamed up with Genshin Impact for a limited edition accessory collection that fuses high-performance charging gear with the unmistakable style of the popular action RPG. Designed for fans of Teyvat who want their tech to match their fandom, this line includes a wireless charger, power adapter, power bank, and charging cable, all decked out in thematic elements that reference characters and visuals from the game.
Here’s a look at what’s in the lineup.
With fast charging, multi-device support, and game-inspired aesthetics, this is tech that looks good and works hard.
UGREEN’s officially licensed Genshin Impact x Kinich wireless charger stand delivers a collectible-grade look with everyday utility. Inspired by the mystical aesthetics of the Genshin Impact universe, this compact MagSafe-compatible charger is more than just eye candy; it’s built for serious multitasking.
With Qi2-certified 15W wireless charging and a dedicated USB-C port, it can power up three devices at once, including your iPhone, earbuds, and even a smartwatch. Whether you’re leveling up in-game or in real life, the foldable design and built-in safety features make it a reliable companion for desks, travel, or daily use. $60
Key Features:
Official Genshin Impact x Kinich licensed design with collectible details
15W Qi2-certified magnetic wireless charging
Triple device charging: iPhone, Bluetooth earbuds, and USB-C output for smartwatches
Compact and foldable: measures 2.4 x 2.4 x 1.5 inches and weighs 7.5 oz
Built-in MCU and power management chip for real-time voltage and current control
Safety protections: overcurrent, overvoltage, overheating, and short circuit prevention
UGREEN Nexode Charger Genshin Impact Edition
UGREEN’s Genshin Impact x Kinich 65W charger blends fan-favorite visuals with GaN-powered performance in a sleek, travel-ready form. Designed for both aesthetics and efficiency, this charger supports three devices at once with two USB-C ports and one USB-A port, ideal for laptops, phones, tablets, and more.
Despite its power, the unit stays compact thanks to GaN (Gallium Nitride) technology, which also helps maintain cooler charging temperatures. Whether you’re charging a MacBook at a café or topping off a Steam Deck on the go, this compact cube keeps things fast, safe, and styled to stand out. $28
Key Features:
Official Genshin Impact x Kinich design with 65W total output
3 ports: 2x USB-C, 1x USB-A for simultaneous charging
GaN chip enables 50% smaller size vs. standard 61W chargers
Foldable plug enhances portability for travel
Smart charging with overheat and overcurrent protection
Compatible with MacBook, iPad Pro, iPhone 16/15/14/13 series, Galaxy S24 Ultra, Steam Deck, and more
UGREEN Nexode Powerbank Genshin Impact Edition
UGREEN’s Genshin Impact x Kinich power bank brings both style and substance to your everyday carry. Featuring official artwork of Kinich in a limited-edition design, this portable charger is built for fans who don’t want to slow down, whether they’re roaming Teyvat or tackling their daily grind.
With a beefy 20,000mAh capacity and up to 100W output on a single port, it’s powerful enough to charge laptops and phones simultaneously. A vibrant TFT display provides real-time charging data, and airline compliance means you can pack it along on your next quest no matter the altitude. $90
Key Features:
Official Genshin Impact x Kinich design with collectible aesthetic
20,000mAh battery capacity, airline-approved for travel
100W fast charging via OUT1 port, supports multi-device charging
Charges iPhone 15 to 55% or MacBook Pro 16″ to 43% in 30 minutes
TFT display shows battery %, voltage, current, and charge time
Automotive-grade batteries with temperature monitoring and safety certifications
UGREEN USB-C to USB-C Cable Genshin Impact Edition
UGREEN’s 100W USB-C to USB-C cable delivers a no-nonsense combo of speed, durability, and safety-wrapped in a fan-favorite Genshin Impact design. Whether you’re charging up a MacBook Pro or pushing your phone past the 50% mark in half an hour, this cable keeps pace with your devices and your schedule.
Built with a braided nylon jacket and laser-welded connectors, it’s made to survive over 20,000 plug-ins. An integrated E-marker chip helps regulate charging for consistent, worry-free performance, and while it doesn’t support video output, it can transfer a 1GB file in about the time it takes to open your snack drawer. $10
Key Features:
USB-C to USB-C design
Supports up to 60W Power Delivery
Braided nylon jacket with gold-plated connectors
Lisa-themed purple and gold colorway
Reinforced anti-fray ends for durability
A Collector’s Set for Fans Who Power Up
Whether you’re charging up your phone for another gaming session or just want to show off your fandom in a subtle (but stylish) way, UGREEN’s Genshin Impact series delivers utility with a splash of character. The designs strike a balance between everyday usability and collector appeal but these aren’t just display pieces. Rather, they’re fully functional accessories built for regular use.
Recteq, a brand known for its wood-fired grills, has rolled out its latest offering: the X-Fire Pro. This new pellet grill aims to bridge the gap for those who love the quick, open-lid grilling of a gas grill but also crave the smoky flavor and low-and-slow capabilities of a pellet smoker. Think of it as a culinary diplomat, fluent in both grilling languages.
The core of the X-Fire Pro’s pitch is its Dual Mode Cooking. This lets users easily flip between a high-heat Grill Mode, mimicking that familiar gas grill feel, and a Smoke Mode for classic barbecue temperatures. It’s designed to offer the best of both worlds without needing two separate grills cluttering your patio.
Adding another layer of control is the Adaptive Sear Control, a first for a recteq grill. This feature allows grillers to adjust how much direct flame hits their food. Want that perfect steakhouse char? Crank it up. Prefer a more gentle kiss of fire? Dial it back. It’s about putting the griller in the driver’s seat.
Under the hood, the X-Fire Pro is fueled exclusively by wood pellets, promising that authentic wood-fired taste without the hassle of propane tanks or finicky starters. It boasts a wide temperature range, from a low 225°F for smoking to a scorching 1250°F for searing. With an 825-square-inch cooking area, there’s ample space for a significant amount of food – enough room for a neighborhood cookout.
Built with durability in mind, the grill features a 304 stainless steel heat deflector and cast iron grill grates. The 20-pound hopper capacity means you can keep the fire going for about 20 hours of continuous cooking.
Recteq’s Smart Grill Technology is also baked in, offering PID control for consistent temperatures in Smoke Mode and dual-band Wi-Fi connectivity. This lets you manage the grill remotely via the recteq App, which also serves up recipes.
“Finally, the best gas grill is now a pellet grill,” said recteq CEO Ralph Santana. He noted that research showed gas grillers often wished they could also smoke food. “With the X-Fire Pro, we’ve done that and stayed true to our quality and customer service DNA.”
The X-Fire Pro comes equipped with two meat probes and an easy-to-use control panel. Recteq is backing it with a 6-year bumper-to-bumper warranty and access to their U.S.-based customer service team, made up of fellow grilling enthusiasts.
The recteq X-Fire Pro is available now with a price tag of $1,549.99. You can find it on recteq.com, Amazon, and select retailers nationwide. An optional rotisserie spit rod is also available for $249.99 for those looking to expand their grilling repertoire.
Let’s get this out of the way: the 8849 TANK 3 Pro isn’t for everyone. It’s not trying to compete with sleek flagship phones or win design awards. This thing is unapologetically big, heavy, and rugged. And after spending time with it, I can say it’s exactly what some people have been waiting for.
This is a phone built for specific needs. If you’re an outdoor adventurer, work in tough conditions, or just want a phone that could probably survive being dropped off a ladder (I didn’t try, but I kinda believe it), the TANK 3 Pro has a lot going for it.
With a built-in projector, massive multi-day battery, and a design that laughs in the face of dust, water, and drops, the TANK 3 Pro isn’t just rugged… it’s ready for work where most phones fear to tread.
Big. Heavy. And That’s the Point.
Right away, I noticed how hefty this thing is. At 696g and about 30mm thick, the TANK 3 Pro is more like a power tool than a smartphone. It’s wider than anything else I’ve used, and yes, it’s a two-hander almost 100% of the time. Pocket-friendly? Not really. But again, it’s not pretending to be.
That weight is doing real work, though. It houses a monstrous 23,800mAh battery, a cooling fan, an LED camping light, and even a built-in projector. You don’t cram all that into a featherlight frame.
It’s made of aluminum alloy, plastic, and TPU, and it feels indestructible. It’s IP68-rated, shock-resistant, and designed to handle dust, water, and drops without flinching. I wasn’t afraid to take it into the elements, and honestly, that kind of confidence in a phone is refreshing.
Display and Usability: Better Than Expected
Despite the rugged frame, the TANK 3 Pro still delivers a decent viewing experience. The 6.79-inch LCD supports FHD+ resolution (2460 x 1080) with a 120Hz refresh rate. It’s smooth, especially for scrolling and general navigation. I’d call it good, not quite flagship-level crisp, but definitely better than I expected on a device where durability comes first.
In bright sunlight, the display’s 700–750 nit brightness does okay, but it’s not ideal for full sun. It’s a minor trade-off, but something to know if you’re outdoors a lot. Yeah, this is at odds with some of its target users.
Under the Hood: Performance That Holds Up
Powering this beast is a MediaTek Dimensity 8200 processor, an octa-core chip that feels right at home with upper midrange performance. I tested the 18GB RAM model (which supports up to 36GB with virtual RAM), and everything from basic tasks to heavier apps felt smooth.
Storage isn’t a problem here either: 512GB of UFS 3.1 internal storage, plus a microSD slot that supports up to 2TB. That’s more than I’ve seen in many laptops, and it’s appreciated, especially if you’re storing big files or media on the go.
That Quad Camera Setup: Impressive Specs, Mixed Real-World Results
Here’s the part I was both curious and cautious about: the quad-lens rear camera system. On paper, it sounds wild:
200MP main camera
64MP night vision sensor
50MP wide-angle
8MP telephoto
The 50MP selfie camera also sounds beefy.
In practice? The main camera delivers sharp shots in good light, and the night vision mode is more than a gimmick as it actually works in dark rooms and nighttime settings. The wide-angle and telephoto are solid, though you’ll want steady hands since there’s no optical image stabilization (OIS). And remember, this phone is heavy.
Video capture goes up to 4K, which is expected at this price point. I wouldn’t rely on it for professional footage, but for casual use or documenting outdoor adventures, it gets the job done.
Projector Power: Surprisingly Functional
This was the wildcard for me: a built-in DLP projector with 100 lumens brightness, manual focus, and up to a 150-inch image. I was skeptical, but it actually works better than I imagined, at least in a dim room or environments where ambient light isn’t actively competing.
Resolution is capped at 480p, which limits detail, but if you’re projecting a movie on the tent wall or sharing slides during a meeting, it’s an incredibly useful tool to have baked into your phone. It’s not going to replace a proper projector, but as a bonus feature? It’s cool, and it works.
The Battery Life You’ve Been Dreaming About
I’ve used a lot of phones with big batteries, but this is like seriously next-level. The 23,800mAh cell means I easily get three to four days on a charge with regular use. Even with GPS, video, and hotspot use, I couldn’t kill it in a single day. That’s practically unheard of and hard to reconcile. I can vividly recall having to charge early smartphones by lunch lest they die by the time I leave for home.
Charging that monster takes about 90 minutes to 90% using the included 120W fast charger. That’s wild efficiency given the size. The TANK 3 Pro can also charge other devices like a power bank, which is perfect if you’re traveling or camping.
Rugged Extras That Make Sense
Here’s what rounds out the experience:
Outdoor camping light with up to 1200 lumens and emergency red/blue flashes
Cooling fan for sustained performance
4-in-1 GPS with dual-band L1+L5 for better navigation accuracy
Programmable key (I mapped it to the flashlight)
3.5mm headphone jack (thank you!)
NFC support for tap-to-pay and transfers
Dual SIM + microSD setup
All of it feels intentional. This phone wasn’t made in a vacuum, it’s for people who live outside the normal tech bubble. It’s not an every man device; it’s for that one guy you know.
The User Experience: A Few Hiccups, But Mostly Solid
When I first powered on the TANK 3 Pro, I was greeted by a clean, mostly stock-like version of Android 14; some units may still ship with Android 13, depending on the seller or production batch. There’s no heavy skin or bloated launcher here, which I appreciated. The interface feels snappy and uncluttered, giving off a near-AOSP (Android Open Source Project) vibe.
Menus and settings are where you’d expect them to be, and if you’ve used Android in the past couple of years, you’ll feel right at home. There’s a bit of branding and a few preloaded utilities (like the projector and camping light controls), but thankfully no heavy-handed custom UI skin or adware-laden ecosystem to navigate.
The update cadence isn’t exactly monthly or on par with Pixel or Samsung phones. That’s kind of expected in the rugged phone space, where software support tends to lag behind mainstream devices. Still, there have been reports of updates rolling out as my unit received a firmware push not long after I set it up.
That said, I did hit a minor snag after one update: Google Messages glitched and temporarily stopped sending texts. It resolved with a cache/data clear, but it’s a reminder that software QA can be inconsistent on lesser-known brands. If you rely heavily on Google’s suite, be prepared to troubleshoot the occasional hiccup.
Here’s where the software actually leans into the TANK’s identity:
Projector controls are built right in, giving you options for keystone correction, focus, and source selection.
The camping light settings let you toggle brightness, emergency strobe, and switch between white, red, and blue modes.
Shortcut mapping for the programmable key is easy to configure in settings. I bound mine to the flashlight at first, then later switched it to open the projector.
The thermal management app controls the fan—yes, it has an actual toggle for the internal cooling fan, which I used when running heavy apps or charging at full speed.
These extras don’t feel tacked on—they’re actually useful and pretty intuitive.
I didn’t run into any compatibility issues in the Play Store. Everything I installed—Google apps, messaging platforms, photo editors, games—ran fine. The combination of the Dimensity 8200 chip and generous RAM means the phone can handle even demanding apps.
But again, the software polish is a tier below more mainstream flagships. No Material You theming, no advanced haptics, no ultra-smooth transitions—it gets the job done, but it’s more function than finesse.
The software on the 8849 TANK 3 Pro is clean, capable, and surprisingly stable, but not without its quirks. You won’t find the kind of refined UX or deep customization that comes with big-name Android skins, but you will get:
Minimal bloat
Smart extras tailored to rugged/outdoor use
Reasonably good performance with a mid-range chip and high refresh rate display
If you’re tech-savvy or just want a reliable interface to get things done without a lot of fluff, it holds up well. Just don’t expect luxury polish, and be ready for the occasional workaround.
Audio Quality: Loud, But Not Always Clear
One thing I didn’t love: the single speaker. It gets loud. Like really loud. But it can sound harsh or tinny at higher volumes. Some users have noted flimsy phone call audio, and I’d agree. For media playback, it’s fine, but for calls, I found myself reaching for wired headphones or pairing a Bluetooth set to it.
Speaking of which, the 3.5mm headphone jack is a welcome feature. It feels good to plug in and not worry about battery drain from Bluetooth or wireless dropouts in the middle of a call.
Price and Value: Niche, But Worth It for the Right Person
Depending on where you buy it, the price floats between $629–$899, with sale prices dipping even lower. That’s not cheap, but remember what you’re getting:
Projector
Giant battery
Rugged construction
GPS, NFC, dual SIM, microSD
Camping light
Cooling fan
It’s not your average phone, and it’s not trying to be. If even half those features matter to you, the price starts to makes sense.
If you’re in construction, field work, logistics, off-grid travel, or just want a phone that doesn’t panic at the sight of water or a drop, this is one of the most complete rugged phones I’ve tested.
Warranty Details (Vary By Seller)
One thing to note: warranty coverage varies depending on where you buy. If you’re going through Unihertz, you’ll typically get a 12-month warranty covering manufacturer defects. Amazon often includes a 30-day return window, and some sellers offer international warranty options. If you’re the DIY type, replacement parts are available for self-repair, which is rare and appreciated.
Final Thoughts: The Tank Lives Up to Its Name
The 8849 TANK 3 Pro is big, bold, and niche, but it owns that identity. It’s the kind of phone I’d bring on a long camping trip, throw in a bag without a case, and not worry about for days. It’s the sort of experience that an HVAC guy might love having on him in dark basements or new commercial builds.
Awarded to products with an average rating of 3.75 stars or higher, the AndroidGuys Smart Pick recognizes a balance of quality, performance, and value.
Products with this distinction deserve to be on your short list of purchase candidates.
The built-in projector was way more useful than I expected but I suspect it could also be a bit of a novelty that wears off over time. The battery life was insane. And while the bulk is real, if you’re already used to carrying gear, it fits right in. It’s heavy, but not that heavy that your daily kit feels the impact.
Not everyone will want this phone, but for those who need it, it’s an absolute powerhouse.
Hisense, a familiar name in consumer electronics, has just dropped the U8QG MiniLED QLED TV series, promising a potent mix of performance and value. Positioned within Hisense’s 2025 ULED lineup, the U8QG is designed for those who crave a cinematic, large-screen experience without necessarily requiring a second mortgage. Think epic movie nights and immersive gaming sessions that really fill the room.
Available now, this new series spans a rather impressive range of sizes, from a still-sizable 55 inches all the way up to a truly commanding 100 inches. It seems Hisense is making sure there’s a U8QG for nearly any wall size or ambition level.
Picture That: Powered by AI and Brightness
At the heart of the U8QG’s visual prowess is Hisense’s Hi-View AI Engine Pro. This isn’t just a fancy name; it’s designed to automatically optimize brightness, contrast, and color in real-time. So, whether you’re watching a sun-drenched sports game or a moody, dark sci-fi flick, the TV adjusts on the fly to keep things looking sharp and clear without you needing to fiddle with settings.
The display tech itself leans on MiniLED and QLED, combining expanded local dimming zones with Quantum Dot Color for vibrant hues and deep blacks. Hisense is touting a peak brightness of up to 5,000 nits, which is quite high and should help combat glare even in brighter rooms. Add in support for major cinematic standards like Dolby Vision IQ, HDR10+, and IMAX Enhanced, and the U8QG aims to present content as the creators intended.
Smooth Motion and Sound to Match
For gamers and sports fans, motion clarity is key, and the U8QG brings a native 165Hz refresh rate to the party. Paired with MEMC (Motion Estimation, Motion Compensation) and quick response times, this should translate to smooth, tear-free visuals, which is always a win when things get hectic on screen.
On the audio front, the TV features an integrated 4.1.2 channel Dolby Atmos sound system with up to 82W output. This setup is designed to deliver multidimensional sound that can help pull you deeper into the action. Hisense also mentions an upcoming software update this summer that will introduce “Tuned by Devialet” sound, promising an enhancement powered by the French audio experts.
Smart Features and Availability
Running the show on the smart TV side is Google TV, providing access to over 10,000 apps and more than 800 free live channels. Voice control is built-in via Google Assistant, and the TV also plays nicely with Alexa-enabled devices.
The Hisense U8QG series is available starting today across all screen sizes. You can find it at major retailers like Best Buy and Amazon. The series starts at an MSRP of $1,499, with a limited-time discount available currently.
ASUS today announced the debut of its new ASUS Chromebook CX14 and CX15 series, a pair of 14-inch and 15-inch laptops designed to blend style, sustainability, and solid everyday performance without breaking the bank. Think of them as your new reliable sidekick for getting stuff done, enjoying some streaming, and maybe even a little AI-powered fun, all wrapped in a surprisingly tough and colorful package.
Design with a Conscience (and Plenty of Color)
Leading the charge for the new ASUS Chromebooks is a focus on eco-conscious design. Both the CX14 and CX15 models incorporate 30% post-consumer recycled plastic, demonstrating a commitment to greener tech. But being green doesn’t mean boring; the series boasts a vibrant palette of seven color options (Quiet Blue, Fabric Blue, Pure Grey, Misty Grey, Misty Green, Cream Pink, and Rock Grey) across the line and three distinct finishes, letting users pick a look that truly pops.
Durability gets a nod too, with a wear-resistant paint reinforced with diamond and stone powders – because looking good should last.
Effortless Computing for Daily Life
Under the hood, the ASUS Chromebook CX14/CX15 series offers configurations with up to an Intel Core 3 N355 processor, providing ample power for daily tasks, web Browse, and productivity apps. Portability is key for a daily driver, and with a starting weight of just 1.39kg, these Chromebooks are easy to tote around.
The expansive Full HD display features a 180° lay-flat hinge, perfect for sharing content or collaborating. And for those who appreciate connectivity, the inclusion of an HDMI port is a welcome addition, allowing for easy connection to external displays. This is a thoughtful touch not always seen at this level. The 15-inch CX15 also includes a numeric keypad for quicker data entry.
CX14
Built Tough and Easy to Maintain
Nobody likes fiddling with tiny screws, and ASUS seems to agree. The new CX14/CX15 series features a redesigned bottom cover with just four captive screws (meaning they won’t easily get lost!) for straightforward access. There’s even a new screwless battery latching system to simplify potential battery swaps down the line. Beyond easy maintenance, these Chromebooks are built to endure, meeting the demanding US MIL-STD-810H military-grade durability standards. They’re designed to take a bit of life’s knocks and keep on going.
Stepping Up to Chromebook Plus
For users seeking enhanced capabilities, the ASUS Chromebook CX14/CX15 series is also available in Chromebook Plus configurations. These models unlock built-in Google AI features and offer a generous 12-month, no-cost subscription to the Google One AI Premium plan. This provides priority access to Gemini Advanced, ample cloud storage, and integrated AI tools within Google Workspace apps like Gmail and Docs, potentially boosting creativity and productivity. Features like AI-powered video call tools also aim to improve your online communication experience.
The new ASUS Chromebook CX14 and CX15 series arrives as a compelling option for those seeking a versatile, durable, and environmentally conscious laptop with plenty of personality.
CX15
Specs At-a-Glance
ASUS Chromebook CX14 (CX1405CKA)
Display: 14.0″ FHD (1920×1080) TN or VIPS, Anti-Glare (optional touch)
CPU Options: Intel Celeron Processor N4500
Memory Options: 4GB or 8GB LPDDR4X
Storage Options: 32GB, 64GB, 128GB, or 256GB eMMC
Ports: 1x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-C (full function), 1x HDMI 1.4b, 1x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A, Audio Jack
Starting Weight: 1.39kg
Durability: MIL-STD-810H standard
ASUS Chromebook CX14 (CX1405CTA) & CX1405CTA (Chromebook Plus)
Display: 14.0″ FHD (1920×1080) TN or VIPS, Anti-Glare (optional touch)
