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)
Get ready to trade properties in a galaxy far, far away. Scopely, the creators behind the massive mobile hit Monopoly GO!, have officially unveiled a colossal crossover event featuring the legendary Star Wars saga. The announcement, made on stage during Lucasfilm’s presentation at Star Wars Celebration Japan 2025, promises to transport players from the familiar streets of Atlantic City to the iconic worlds of the Skywalker Saga and The Mandalorian.
This galactic takeover of Monopoly GO! is set to run from May 1 through July 2, giving Tycoons plenty of time to explore the cosmic convergence. Scopely is billing this as their deepest and most engaging collaboration yet, integrating the timeless Star Wars narratives into the social, dynamic gameplay loop that has made Monopoly GO! a global phenomenon.
A Galactic Game Board Awaits
At the core of the event is a narrative framework where players enter the Star Wars universe through the imaginative lens of Monopoly GO!’s resident robot pal, Peg-E. This setup allows for creative storytelling, presented partly through a unique “Star Wars GO!” sticker album featuring a comic book-style journey.
Players can expect to encounter a host of beloved characters throughout the event, including legends like Luke Skywalker, Darth Vader, Princess Leia, Han Solo, R2D2, Yoda, and Anakin Skywalker, all interacting within the Monopoly GO! galaxy. Imagine Mr. Monopoly himself strapping in for a podrace! Indeed, one highlighted event sees Mr. Monopoly joining forces with Qui-Gon Jinn to race through the Mos Espa Grand Arena.
The crossover will weave its way through many of Monopoly GO!’s popular event types, including Treasures, Partners, and Racers, all receiving a distinct Star Wars flavour. Players will also have the opportunity to collect exclusive Star Wars-themed tokens, shields, and emojis to personalize their game experience.
While specific details on every event and unlockable were not fully disclosed at the announcement, the promise of a two-month-long event spanning the breadth of the sagas suggests a wealth of content for both Monopoly GO! veterans and Star Wars aficionados.
More news leading up to the May 1st launch is expected from Scopely.
Because let’s face it, dealing with the litter box isn’t anyone’s favorite pastime, especially when you have a feline companion who thinks “spacious” means “the entire room.” Enter PETLUX, who has just pulled back the curtain on their latest innovation: the PETLUX V3 self-cleaning litter box. Designed with the giants of the cat world and multi-cat homes in mind, this new model aims to make scooping a chore of the past, while keeping things leak-free and smelling… well, less like a litter box.
The PETLUX V3, announced a few days ago, is positioned as a next-generation solution to common kitty-loo woes. We’re talking about issues like cramped quarters for larger breeds, persistent odors, and the general mess that comes with traditional litter boxes. PETLUX seems to be tackling these head-on with a blend of size, smart features, and thoughtful design.
Built for the Big Leagues (and Multiple Players)
If you share your home with a majestic Maine Coon, a sprawling Ragdoll, or simply a few furballs, you know size matters when it comes to their facilities. The PETLUX V3 boasts a considerable 100-liter capacity and a 48 cm inner diameter, giving even the most ample-bodied cat room to maneuver comfortably. PETLUX suggests it can comfortably handle up to four large cats, which is quite the feat.
Beyond the generous dimensions, hygiene is a major focus. The PETLUX V3 features a seamless, fully waterproof design. This is a clever touch, as traditional seams can be notorious breeding grounds for bacteria and odors. The smooth interior promises easy cleaning with just a quick wipe or rinse. Plus, its automatic rotation system sorts waste from clean litter in about 3.5 minutes, helping maintain a fresh bed after each use and potentially letting owners skip manual emptying for up to 10 days in a single-cat home. That’s almost two weeks of freedom from the dreaded scoop!
Keeping it Fresh and Eco-Conscious
Odor control is crucial, and the PETLUX V3 incorporates an advanced air filtration system using resin granules to absorb smells. This system requires a simple filter change roughly every 60 days.
PETLUX is also offering a nod to sustainability with waste management options. Users can opt for biodegradable cardboard waste trays or a reusable stainless steel tray, moving away from reliance on plastic bags. It’s a small but appreciated step towards being a little kinder to the planet while managing pet waste.
Smarter Than Your Average Box
For those who like to stay connected (even to their cat’s commode), the PETLUX V3 offers app connectivity. The PETLUX app provides real-time updates on waste levels, allows remote activation or scheduling of cleaning cycles, and even tracks your cat’s visits and weight – potentially offering early insights into their health. The app can be shared with up to 10 users, handy for busy households.
Safety hasn’t been overlooked. The unit operates at a quiet 30 dB, aiming not to startle jumpy felines. It also includes dual safety sensors (weight and infrared) to ensure the cleaning cycle pauses if a cat is present.
The PETLUX V3 is compatible with most clumping litters, including clay, corn, and eco-friendly options, giving owners flexibility. However, non-clumping types like gels or wood pellets aren’t recommended for optimal performance.
Pricing and Getting Your Paws On It
The PETLUX V3 is set to retail at $699 (650 EUR) but is available with exclusive early-bird pricing starting at $399 for crowdfunding backers. It comes in black and white finishes.
CRKD, a brand well-regarded in the collectible gaming gear space for products like the Nitro Deck and NEO S controllers, has announced a new line of accessories designed for fans of the massive online phenomenon, Fortnite. Building on the success of previous themed collections, CRKD is bringing some iconic OG Fortnite character flair to its popular hardware.
Available starting today, this new range lets gamers express their love for Fortnite with accessories featuring artwork inspired by beloved characters. As an added bonus that’s sure to resonate with players dropping into the island, every purchase from the Fortnite-themed collection includes a code for an exclusive in-game Fortnite Glider, perfectly complementing the chosen CRKD item.
Deck Out Your Setup with Fortnite Style
The collection features Fortnite makeovers for several of CRKD’s signature products:
Nitro Deck – Cuddle Team Leader Edition: ($59.99 / €69.99 / £59.99) The original handheld gaming enhancer for the Nintendo Switch, known for its drift-eliminating Hall Effect thumbsticks, programmable back buttons, and enhanced ergonomics, now sports the unmistakable pink and white of the Cuddle Team Leader. It’s a sweet way to level up your Switch gameplay.
Nitro Deck+ – Renegade Ranger Edition: ($79.99 / €89.99 / £79.99) The evolution of the Nitro Deck comes in a Renegade Ranger theme. This updated version includes new features like a symmetrical thumbstick layout, additional ‘Sidekick’ programmable buttons for quick action access, HDMI output for TV play, and Bluetooth connectivity for firmware updates. It’s ready to take on the storm, and your TV.
NEO S – Peely Edition with Charging Dock: ($59.99 / €69.99 / £59.99) For Fortnite fans everywhere, it doesn’t get more a-peel-ing than this! The versatile, retro-inspired NEO S controller, compatible with PC, Nintendo Switch, Mobile & Smart TVs, gets a vibrant Peely design. Equipped with Hall Effect sticks and wireless connectivity, this edition comes complete with a matching Fortnite Charging Dock for display and charging.
NEO S – Raven Edition with Charging Dock: ($59.99 / €69.99 / £59.99) Embrace the darkness with the Raven Edition NEO S. Featuring dramatic Raven artwork, color-matched sticks and buttons, and Hall Effect precision, this controller offers the same multi-platform flexibility as the Peely version. It also includes a matching Charging Dock, making it a cool collectible piece.
To keep your themed gear safe, there’s also a dedicated Nitro Deck / Nitro Deck+ Carry Case ($29.99 / €34.99 / £29.99) featuring Fortnite artwork. Designed for both the original and the ‘+’ models, this case protects your console and Nitro Deck combo while offering storage for games, cables, and accessories.
All products in the Fortnite collection are designed to integrate with the CRKD ‘True Collection System’ mobile app. Available for iOS and Android, this app allows users to register their product, track its rarity ranking, and manage their collection digitally. Products with Bluetooth capabilities can also use the app’s CRKD CTRL feature for customization options.
Motorola’s latest budget-friendly stylus phone, the moto g stylus-2025, is officially on sale starting today, April 17, in the United States. The device is available unlocked through Amazon, Best Buy, and Motorola’s own website, with an MSRP of $399.99. Broader availability across national carriers and retailers is expected to roll out over the coming months.
Designed to strike a balance between everyday utility and creative expression, the moto g stylus continues to offer a built-in stylus for note-taking, sketching, and precise touch input—without pushing into flagship pricing territory.
Broad Carrier Support Incoming
While it’s available unlocked from day one, the moto g stylus-2025 is headed to a wide range of carriers, including Metro by T-Mobile, Verizon, Visible, Total Wireless, Straight Talk, AT&T, Cricket, Spectrum Mobile, Consumer Cellular, UScellular, Xfinity Mobile, Google Fi Wireless, Optimum Mobile, and Boost Mobile. Carrier pricing may differ based on plan and promotional offers.
Canada Gets It Next Month
Motorola has confirmed that the moto g stylus-2025 will arrive in Canada on May 13. Canadian customers will be able to purchase the device at motorola.ca and through select national retailers and carrier partners.
More information and purchasing options can be found at motorola.com.
CASETiFY is teaming up with BMW Lifestyle Collections for a brand-new collaboration that marries automotive heritage with modern tech accessories, all with a notable nod to sustainability. Aimed squarely at eco-conscious consumers, dedicated automotive enthusiasts, and those who just appreciate sleek design, the new BMW | CASETiFY collection transforms materials recycled from BMW vehicles into stylish protection for your gadgets. It’s a collaboration that lets fans carry a literal piece of the automotive legend with them, perhaps proving that some car parts are just destined for a second life on your phone.
Innovation Collection
Innovation Collection: Driven by Upcycling
Leading the charge is the BMW | CASETiFY Innovation Collection. This line highlights the innovative use of upcycled materials sourced directly from BMW vehicles. Each phone case is crafted to embody the spirit of BMW’s legacy, giving devices a unique automotive touch.
The collection emphasizes environmental responsibility by giving materials a new purpose. A standout piece is a limited-edition smartphone case featuring an upcycled aluminum camera ring, alongside a smartphone strap with charms incorporating upcycled elements. It’s accessorizing with a conscience, turning discarded auto bits into tech flair.
Evergreen Collection: M Power Meets Modern Style
For those with a need for speed – or at least, accessories inspired by it – there’s the BMW M | CASETiFY Evergreen Collection. This series draws inspiration from the high-performance BMW M Series, blending its dynamic aesthetics with CASETiFY’s signature accessory style.
Key design elements feature the iconic BMW M branding, including the classic BMW M SEEHAUS stripes, celebrating the brand’s storied heritage. Crafted from printed evergreen materials, this collection aims to elevate your accessory game while embracing a sustainable future, proving you can appreciate luxury and performance without leaving environmental considerations in the dust.
Accessories for the Road and Beyond
Beyond phone cases, the collaborative collections offer a diverse range of accessories designed to complement a mobile lifestyle. Look out for snappy card holder stands, snappy leather card holders, and snappy grip stands for phone functionality.
The collections also extend to laptop and tablet accessories, earbuds cases and pouches, and watch bands. For charging needs, magnetic wireless chargers and wireless car chargers are included. The accessories are priced from $40 to $92 USD.
Both the BMW | CASETiFY Innovation and the BMW M | CASETiFY Evergreen collections are scheduled to become available for purchase starting April 22nd. Enthusiasts eager to get their hands on these automotive-inspired accessories can sign up for the waitlist now.
Google is launching a limited-time offer aimed at helping U.S. college students supercharge their study sessions with free access to the Google One AI Premium plan. This includes the company’s most advanced AI models and 2 terabytes of cloud storage — all at no cost through finals in Spring 2026.
Gemini Advanced and Deep Research Tools
At the heart of the offer is Gemini Advanced, powered by Google’s Gemini 2.5 Pro model. Available on both mobile and desktop, Gemini functions as a writing assistant, brainstorming partner, and idea coach. Students can access Canvas, a tool designed for organizing thoughts visually, and Gemini Live, a conversational assistant built for talking through ideas in real time.
To dig into complex topics, Gemini Deep Research helps students produce clear, structured reports. According to Google, internal testing showed Gemini 2.5 Pro’s research output was preferred 2-to-1 over other leading tools. Bonus: reports can be converted into audio overviews for easy listening between classes.
NotebookLM Plus and Integrated Workspace Support
NotebookLM Plus acts as a personalized research assistant. Upload a syllabus, and it transforms into a study buddy—capable of generating study guides, audio overviews, and visual mind maps in seconds. A new “Discover Sources” feature helps students uncover additional learning material from right within the app.
Gemini is also baked into Google Docs, Sheets, and Slides, offering contextual support across academic projects. In Docs, students can refine essays; in Sheets, they can crunch data faster; and in Slides, they can auto-generate visuals and even images to punch up presentations.
Creative Tools and Storage Perks
For creative students, Veo 2 within Gemini Advanced lets users generate detailed 8-second video clips from written prompts. It works in tandem with Whisk, a tool for blending image and text prompts, now with animation support for more dynamic results.
The plan also includes 2TB of cloud storage, enough for thousands of documents, photos, and hours of HD video—providing plenty of headroom for both academic and personal use.
How to Sign Up
Eligible students must sign up before June 30, 2025, to get the full benefit through Spring 2026.
