As hurricane season approaches, many homeowners are preparing for the possibility of power outages. Whether it’s due to severe storms or unexpected disruptions, having a backup power solution can make all the difference. Similarly, with camping season in full swing, outdoor enthusiasts are looking for reliable, portable energy to keep devices charged and appliances running.
That’s where the Apex 300 Energy Storage System comes in. Designed for both home backup and off-grid adventures, the Apex 300 provides a simple plug-and-play setup and scalable energy storage that grows with your needs. Whether you need a reliable backup during storm season or power for your next outdoor trip, the Apex 300 has you covered.
From now through May 7th, early adopters can access exclusive perks before the official Indiegogo launch at 8:00 AM PDT on May 8th.
Start Simple, Compact, and Powerful
The Apex 300 stores 2,764.8Wh of capacity in a compact package with 40% higher energy density in its class. Despite its compact size, it delivers 3,840W and dual 120V/240V output on a single unit, to power 99% household appliances from fridges to high-power tools, pool pumps, and clothes dryers.
As the world’s first portable power station with 50A/12,000W bypass capability, the Apex 300 alone is fully capable of running an entire house or charging a Tesla EV. The true 0ms Uninterrupted Power Supply (UPS) ensures seamless power for critical systems like lighting, NAS storage and more during blackouts. The ultra-low 20W AC idle drain places it among the most efficient systems in its class—extending refrigerator runtime by up to 24 hours, prolonging AC standby by 2.5 times, and increasing CPAP usage by 2.5 times.
Scale Smart for Whole-Home Backup
Whether for emergency backup or whole-home backup, the Apex 300 grows with users’ needs. It scales up to three units and 18 B300K batteries, tripling the power up to 11,520W output and 58,000Wh capacity, enough to keep a home running for an entire week.
The Apex 300 also helps homeowners create a fully automatic whole-home backup system with up to 30,720W solar input, by pairing with BLUETTI’s smart ecosystem—including the AT1 Smart Distribution Box, Hub A1 Parallel Box, and up to three SolarX 4K Charge Controllers.
Seamlessly integrating with existing rooftop solar inverter systems, this home battery backup allows users to manage loads, set power priorities, and activate smart modes like Extreme Weather Alerts via the BLUETTI App. With the AT1 and the S1 smart plugs, homeowners can intelligently manage solar energy, grid electricity, auto-start a gas generator, and appliances through the app.
Reliable Power for RV and Off-Grid Living
The Apex 300 caters to an off-grid lifestyle as well. It has four standard AC outlets to power A/Cs, microwaves, coffee makers, and other outdoor essential appliances. With integrated NEMA TT-30R and NEMA 14-50R ports, it also works as mobile shore power to directly charge all RVs.
To charge phones, laptops, and other DC devices, RVers can pair it with the 700W Hub D1, a clip-on mountable DC power hub with seven outlets, including two 100W USB-C, two 15W USB-A, two DC5521, and a 12V/50A Anderson port for safer and easy-to-use DIY setup.
Recharging off the grid is just as effortless. Users can refuel it via EV chargers, gas generators, solar panels, or vehicles via the Car DC to DC Alternator Charger 1, which captures unused engine power to provide up to 560W of fast, on-the-go recharging.
Longer Lifespan and Bigger Return
Fastest Payback in 2 Years: Paired with the SolarX 4K—the world’s first 500V/4,000W PV voltage regulator designed for portable power stations—the system pays for itself in just 2 years. This ensures long-term savings for those powering off-grid cabins or integrating solar into their homes.
17 Years of Reliable UseB Built on the proven success of the Elite 200 V2 Solar Generator, the Apex 300 takes durability and safety to the next level with 2nd-gen automotive-grade LiFePO₄ cells. Engineered to deliver up to 17 years of dependable service, it’s the ideal power solution for homes, RV living, and demanding off-grid environments.
Maximum Value, Minimal Footprint: With hot-swappable batteries and 40% higher energy density, the Apex 300 delivers full power in a compact form, seamlessly switching between scenarios. This allows users a simple unplug-and-go experience for outdoor use, all while maintaining uninterrupted household power.
Be the First to Experience Apex 300
The Apex 300 Pre-Launch exclusive access opens from April 16th to May 7th. Early supporters can secure priority shipping, supplementary gifts, and exclusive benefits with a $10 deposit— recognizing the trust and enthusiasm that help bring new energy solutions to life.
The official Indiegogo launch of the Apex 300 kicks off at 8:00 AM PDT on May 8th! For knowTechie’s friends, BLUETTI is inviting you to be part of the Apex 300 Global Community and get an exclusive first look at the future of portable, scalable energy. Don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity!
The POCO F7 Pro is one of those phones that doesn’t try to be everything, but it nails the things that matter most to performance-first users. It slots into that sweet spot between “budget flagship” and upper mid-range, and if you’re not chasing the best camera on the market, it might just be one of the smartest buys this year.
Design & Build: Premium Touches Where It Counts
You get a glass front and back, joined by a sturdy aluminum frame, which is pretty much the standard recipe for a high-end feel these days, and POCO delivers it well here. It comes in three colors (Black, Silver, and Blue), with a form factor that’s a touch more manageable than the Ultra variant. At 8.1mm thick and 206g, it’s not featherlight, but the flat back gives it a stable, solid presence in the hand.
And here’s something you don’t always see at this price: IP68 dust and water resistance. That’s a real win for peace of mind. Gorilla Glass 7i protects the front, and the camera module takes the now-familiar circular approach in the corner, clean and unobtrusive.
It’s not a radical design departure from past POCO models, but it’s refined. The flatter profile might not feel as sculpted as the Ultra’s curves, but it makes for a more balanced grip.
With flagship-tier performance, a stunning 2K display, and all-day battery life, the POCO F7 Pro delivers what power users want BUT without the flagship price tag.
Display: 2K Brilliance with Serious Brightness
The 6.67-inch OLED display hits hard with a 1440 x 3200 resolution and buttery-smooth 120Hz refresh rate. Colors are deep and punchy, with support for 68 billion shades and both Dolby Vision and HDR10+. Even under bright sun, the 3200-nit peak brightness punches through glare, and the 1800-nit HBM is no slouch either.
Gamers and fast-fingered typists will appreciate the 480Hz touch sampling rate, with a bump up to 2560Hz in Game Turbo Mode. And yes, there’s an ultrasonic fingerprint reader under the display; it’s fast, accurate, and works even with slightly damp hands. Always a plus.
Key Features and Specifications
Feature
Specification
Display
6.67-inch AMOLED, 120Hz, 3200×1440 pixels, 526 PPI
Processor
Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3
RAM
12GB
Storage
256GB / 512GB
Rear Camera
50MP (OIS) + 8MP
Front Camera
20MP
Battery
6000mAh
Charging
90W Wired
Operating System
Android 15 with HyperOS 2.0
Water/Dust Resistance
IP68
Performance: A Snapdragon That Still Roars
Under the hood, the POCO F7 Pro runs on the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, paired with 12GB of LPDDR5X RAM and your choice of 256GB or 512GB of fast UFS 4.1 storage. This chipset might not be the absolute newest on the market anymore, but it’s still wildly capable.
From day-to-day use to intensive gaming, this phone keeps up without breaking a sweat. Credit goes to the combo of WildBoost Optimization 4.0 and POCO’s IceLoop cooling system, which helps maintain frame rates and keep heat under control during marathon sessions.
Benchmark fans, here’s how it stacks up, according to reports I found:
It’s in the same class as much pricier flagships when it comes to sheer horsepower.
Cameras: Capable Main, Modest Secondary
This is where POCO chose restraint, and it makes sense, given the pricing. You’re looking at a 50MP main sensor (f/1.6) with OIS and a decent pedigree in the Light Fusion 800. It holds its own in daylight and does a solid job in lower light, especially with Night Mode.
The 8MP ultrawide is usable, but clearly not the star of the show. It’s fine for quick group shots or landscapes, but the image quality takes a hit in challenging lighting.
Selfies come from a 20MP front camera, which performs reliably in most conditions. Video recording is maxed at 8K 24fps, though most will probably stick to 4K for better stability and usable storage space.
If camera versatility is high on your list (especially zoom), you might feel the limitations. There’s no telephoto, and the ultrawide doesn’t add much punch. But for social sharing and casual photography, it gets the job done.
Battery Life & Charging: Endurance and Speed
This thing packs a 6,000mAh battery, a standout feature in a world where 5000mAh is the norm. It lasts all day and then some, even with heavy use.
When it’s time to top off, the 90W HyperCharge is blisteringly fast, getting you from 0 to 100% in about 35 minutes. There’s no wireless charging here, which might be a letdown for some, but POCO is clearly betting that most users will trade convenience for speed.
Battery management is handled by Xiaomi’s Surge G1 and P3 chips, which optimize charging and extend battery health over time.
Software & Updates: HyperOS Grows Up
The POCO F7 Pro runs Android 15 underneath Xiaomi’s evolving custom skin, HyperOS 2.1. It’s the spiritual successor to MIUI, but it’s noticeably lighter, smoother, and more cohesive. HyperOS still brings Xiaomi’s usual suite of features, but with more polish and better resource management. If you’ve used MIUI before, you’ll feel some familiarity but you might also recognize a reduction in clutter.
Here’s what stands out in daily use:
HyperAI Tools: POCO is leaning into AI-powered enhancements this year. HyperAI supports things like smart photo editing, optimized app launching, and voice suggestions. It’s not overly aggressive, and the additions feel more like handy utilities than gimmicks.
Gemini Integration: With Android 15, Google’s Gemini AI assistant is baked in, offering advanced voice queries and contextual help. It’s not exclusive to POCO, but HyperOS makes the integration feel native, especially with widgets and multitasking.
Floating Windows & Sidebar Shortcuts: Multitasking is a breeze. You can quickly launch apps in floating windows, and the customizable sidebar lets you keep your favorites always within reach.
Theming & Personalization: HyperOS offers rich theming tools, including font choices, always-on display styles, and full icon customization. It’s Android with flair… but not too much.
There’s still some bloat. POCO preloads apps like Amazon, Facebook, and a few games depending on region. The good news? Most of them can be uninstalled easily. You won’t feel locked into anything.
There’s also a System Cleaner app, Security suite, and File Manager, all of which are made by Xiaomi. They’re functional and skinnable, but can feel redundant if you’re already invested in Google’s app ecosystem.
POCO promises:
4 years of major Android updates
6 years of security patches
That’s impressive for a sub-$500 phone, and brings peace of mind if you plan to hang onto the device for a few upgrade cycles.
Security-wise, the ultrasonic fingerprint sensor under the display is quick and reliable. Face unlock is available too, though it’s less secure (standard Android warning applies).
Animations are snappy, RAM management is solid, and battery optimization tools are effective without being aggressive. It’s not Pixel-clean, but it’s a far cry from the MIUI bloat-and-lag days.
Audio & Connectivity: Solid All-Around
There’s no headphone jack, so that’s a check in the “missing features” column, but the stereo speakers sound surprisingly good, with decent balance and volume.
Wireless audio support is excellent, with Hi-Res and Hi-Res Wireless Audio, Snapdragon Sound, and Dolby Atmos all onboard. Bluetooth 5.4 and Wi-Fi 7 ensure the fastest possible connections across accessories and networks.
Other nice extras: IR Blaster, NFC, and the aforementioned IP68 rating.
Setup Experience: Familiar, Friction-Free
If you’ve used an Android phone before, the POCO F7 Pro setup won’t surprise you. It walks you through Google login, Wi-Fi, time/date, and even offers easy transfer from your old phone.
Setting up the ultrasonic fingerprint sensor is quick and painless, and HyperOS makes customization simple. Expect some preinstalled apps, but again, most of them are easy to clear out.
The onboarding feels smooth and polished, and you’re not hit with any weird bugs or janky animations.
Price & Value: The Real Selling Point
At around $499 for the 12GB + 256GB model, the POCO F7 Pro undercuts most phones with similar performance chops. There’s also a 512GB model for a bit more if you want extra room.
Warranty & Support
Warranty coverage in the US can be a little murky. POCO typically offers a 1-year limited warranty, covering manufacturer defects, with about 6 months for accessories. That said, U.S. buyers should check with POCO or their retailer to confirm the details, especially if buying through Amazon or a gray-market importer.
Final Thoughts: Who This Phone Is For
The POCO F7 Pro doesn’t try to be everything for everyone, but what it does aim to do, it nails. Between the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip, vibrant 2K OLED display, massive 6000mAh battery, and impressively fast 90W charging, this phone punches far above its price tag in all the areas that count for power users. It’s not chasing camera awards, and it skips a few conveniences like wireless charging; however, that’s the tradeoff for delivering true flagship-grade performance at a mid-range price.
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.
For gamers, heavy multitaskers, and anyone who values speed and battery life over bells and whistles, this phone feels like a steal. The software experience with HyperOS is more refined than past efforts, and POCO’s long-term update promise helps sweeten the deal.
If you’re looking for a phone that works hard, plays harder, and doesn’t empty your wallet in the process, the POCO F7 Pro is a standout choice that deserves a serious look.
If you care about having top-tier speed, long battery life, and a great screen, but you’re fine skipping things like wireless charging or a telephoto lens, the POCO F7 Pro is easy to recommend.
Would I recommend it over the POCO F7 Ultra? If you’re chasing camera flexibility or premium design touches, the Ultra might be worth the bump. But for most people looking to get the most for their money, the POCO F7 Pro is the smarter buy.
REDMAGIC has officially launched the 10 Air in China, delivering a lightweight, performance-first gaming phone with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 at its core. At just 7.85mm thick and 205g, the 10 Air pairs serious internals with a sleek profile, aimed squarely at gamers who want power without the bulk.
Performance Hardware Meets Gaming Smarts
The REDMAGIC 10 Air is built around Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, bolstered by the RedCore R3 and Energy Cube systems. These co-processors take over secondary tasks like audio, lighting, and haptics, allowing the main processor to stay focused on graphics and gameplay. The result: better thermal control, consistent frame rates, and smoother performance in demanding titles like Genshin Impact and PUBG Mobile.
Serious Cooling, Longer Sessions
REDMAGIC isn’t playing around with its thermal setup. The 10 Air features a 9-layer ICE Cooling System with solid-state liquid metal and a 3D vapor chamber. In other words technologies typically found in full-size gaming rigs. According to the company, this setup enables over four hours of uninterrupted gaming without performance drops.
Display and Controls Geared for Gamers
The 6.8-inch AMOLED panel covers 93.7% of the front and reaches 1,600 nits of brightness with a 120Hz refresh rate. REDMAGIC also brings in a 2,000Hz touch sampling rate for lightning-fast input, along with 520Hz shoulder triggers, ideal for shooters and other twitch-reaction games.
Slim Body, Big Battery
Despite its trim build, the REDMAGIC 10 Air packs a 6,000mAh battery that supports 80W fast charging. It’s designed to go the distance whether you’re mid-raid or deep into a commute.
Built-in AI Features and Custom Touches
The 10 Air includes real-time voice translation, AI image editing, and a customizable Magic Key side button. These additions aim to make the device more than just a gaming machine; it’s also a versatile daily driver with a gamer’s edge.
Design, Pricing, and Availability
The industrial look is backed by a matte metal frame and anti-glare etched glass. RGB lighting remains customizable for alerts and aesthetics. Storage options include 12 GB + 256 GB and 16 GB + 512 GB, with Twilight Black and Hailstone White available now in China starting at 3,499 RMB. A Flare Orange model will join later.
The international launch is set for April 23, 2025. More information will be available at redmagic.gg.
The Redmi Note 14+ Pro 5G emerges this spring as a potential top contender in the increasingly crowded mid-range smartphone space. The handset brings premium touches to the mid-range segment, combining a 6.67-inch AMOLED display with 120Hz refresh rate, HDR10+, and Gorilla Glass Victus 2 protection.
It runs on the Snapdragon 7s Gen 3, delivering reliable performance and improved AI handling over earlier chips. Photography is handled by a 200MP main camera with OIS and smart image tuning, offering flexibility for everyday and creative shots alike.
A 5110mAh battery supports 120W fast charging, often topping off in under 20 minutes. IP68 water and dust resistance and a reinforced aluminum frame add durability to the mix. With configurations up to 12GB RAM and 512GB storage, it’s positioned as a capable all-rounder for users who want more than the basics without breaking the bank.
How does it fare in real world usage? Read on.
You don’t need to be a power user to appreciate the fluid screen, solid battery, and dependable performance. this one just makes day-to-day use simple.
I’ve been using the Redmi Note 14+ Pro 5G for a few weeks now, and I have to say, it’s been an easy phone to live with. It’s one of those devices that doesn’t scream for attention but quietly surprises you the more time you spend with it. If you’ve been eyeing mid-range phones lately, you’ve probably noticed how packed that segment’s gotten. This one tries to stand out by offering little bits of premium here and there, and I think it mostly pulls it off.
First Impressions and Daily Use
Right out of the box, the Redmi Note 14+ Pro 5G feels nice in the hand. It’s not too heavy (around 190g) and doesn’t feel bulky, even though it’s packing a 6.67-inch screen. The screen’s an AMOLED panel, with a 1.5K resolution and 120Hz refresh rate. It’s crisp, bright, and a joy to scroll through. There was a time where I didn’t really think I cared about refresh rates all that much. That was until I went back to a 60Hz phone. Now? I notice. And thankfully, this one keeps up with most on the market.
That screen’s protected by Gorilla Glass Victus 2, which is usually reserved for more expensive models. I’ve thrown this phone into bags, pockets, and onto a few counters, and so far it’s holding up great. No scratches yet. The back material varies depending on where you buy it, mine came with a smooth matte finish, which I actually prefer over glossy glass.
Color-wise, you’ve got options. I tested the Midnight Black version, but there’s Coral Green, Lavender Purple, and depending on where you are, possibly Frost Blue, Titan Black, or even Phantom Purple. The black somehow stands out in a good way; it’s subtle but not boring. Similarly, it’s also about as dark of a gray as one can get without being black. Or so my eyes perceive it.
Design Bits You Notice Over Time
The design leans into the slightly curved edge glass trend, which some folks love and others not so much. Personally, I like the feel of it in hand, even if I occasionally tap the screen with the side of my thumb. It hasn’t been a huge issue. The phone’s frame is aluminum, and the whole thing’s rated IP68, meaning it can handle water and dust better than a lot of other phones in this price range. That’s a big step up from the splash-resistant days of earlier Redmi models.
As far as ports and buttons go, it’s all pretty standard, power and volume on the right, USB-C on the bottom. SIM tray’s there too, and it lets you run either two nano-SIMs or a nano-SIM plus an eSIM, which is a nice bit of flexibility. There’s no SD card slot, so you’ll want to choose your storage option carefully.
One quirky touch I always appreciate is the IR blaster on top. You don’t see this much anymore, especially in phones sold in the US, but it’s handy if you like controlling TVs or air conditioners from your phone. Oh, and dual speakers are here too, which we’ll get into more in a bit.
That AMOLED Display: Sharp and Bright
Let’s talk about that display. The 6.67-inch AMOLED panel isn’t just sharp but it’s genuinely nice to look at. We’re talking 2712 x 1220 resolution, which works out to roughly 446 pixels per inch. Text is crisp, videos look great, and games pop without going overboard.
The screen peaks at 3000 nits of brightness. That’s… a lot. I’ve used it outdoors in direct sun, and it holds up way better than I expected. Colors are rich thanks to 12-bit depth (which translates to around 68 billion colors, if you’re counting), and it supports both Dolby Vision and HDR10+, so if you’re watching Netflix or YouTube HDR content, it looks noticeably better.
It’s fast, too. Not just the refresh rate, as touch sampling goes up to 480Hz, which is great for gaming. Swipes feel snappy. Like refresh rates, you probably won’t think about it much until you try a slower display again. You don’t know what you’ve got until it’s taken away.
How It Handles: Everyday and More
Inside, you’re looking at the Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 processor paired with either 8GB or 12GB of RAM. Mine came with 12GB and 512GB of storage, which is honestly overkill for my needs, but I’m glad I don’t have to think about running out of space anytime soon.
Performance-wise, it’s smooth. Apps open quickly, multitasking is painless, and it handles games like Genshin Impact decently but you may want to drop the graphics down a notch. For casual games and typical stuff like Instagram, Chrome, or more simple needs, it just hums along. This is where I tend to operate so the stuff I played just sings.
I did check into a few benchmarks, finding results consistent with other phones in the same bracket. It doesn’t quite touch flagship numbers, but you’re not paying flagship prices here either.
Camera Setup: Plenty of Megapixels, Mostly Smart Decisions
One of the headline features is the 200MP main camera. It sounds like overkill, but it’s using pixel binning to combine pixels into bigger “virtual” ones, so your shots are more manageable and low-light performance improves. It has optical image stabilization (OIS), which helps a lot with shaky hands or walking shots.
The main sensor does great in daylight as photos are sharp, colors are natural, and dynamic range is solid. Night shots are decent too, especially with Night mode on. Don’t expect miracles, but it gets the job done.
There’s also an 8MP ultra-wide with a 120° field of view. It’s useful for landscapes or group shots, though it’s not as detailed as the main sensor. Then there’s the 2MP macro camera. I rarely use macros on my phones, and that didn’t change here.
Video goes up to 4K at 24 or 30fps on the rear. The front camera is 20MP and does 1080p at 30 or 60fps, which is fine for social media or video calls.
If you’re into AI tools, there’s a lot going on here. Some are already available, like AI beautify and motion tracking while others, like AI Erase Pro and AI Film, are expected through future updates. I’m more of a “point and shoot” person, but if you like to experiment, there’s plenty to dig through.
HyperOS and the Software Side of Things
Redmi ships this phone with HyperOS 1.0, which is built on Android 14. It’s a clean enough interface, though it does come with quite a few preloaded apps. You can remove most of them, but it might take a little time to get things the way you like.
The software itself is responsive and feature-packed. There’s good customization if you’re the kind of person who likes tweaking your phone’s layout, animations, or notification style. I usually spend a week or two fine-tuning my settings after setup, and once I got past the pre-installed stuff, the experience felt solid… and mine.
Xiaomi hasn’t made any long-term promises on updates, but if history’s a guide, I’d expect about three major Android updates and four years of security patches. Not Pixel-level support, but decent enough.
Audio and Extras
The stereo speakers here do a good job. Dolby Atmos is supported, and while you’re not getting room-shaking bass, vocals and highs are clean. Watching YouTube or streaming music sounds better than I expected at this price.
No headphone jack, which is becoming the norm, though I still miss it sometimes. You’ll either need wireless buds or a USB-C adapter. On the upside, it supports high-resolution audio through both wired and wireless options, including Sony’s LDAC and LHDC codecs. Bluetooth 5.4 keeps things stable.
Battery Life: All-Day and Then Some
Battery life’s been great. The 5110mAh battery easily lasts me a full day, even with heavier use. I’ve gotten 10 to 11 hours of screen time a few times, which is better than I expected. It helps that the processor’s efficient and the screen adjusts its refresh rate intelligently.
Charging is where things get interesting. The phone supports up to 120W wired charging, though that adapter’s not included in the global version. I used a 45W charger, and it got me from zero to 60-ish percent in about half an hour. With the full 120W, you’re looking at a complete charge in under 30 minutes. This is wild, especially if you’ve been in the smartphone game since day one.
Wireless charging? Nope. That’s one of the trade-offs here. Would I like to see it? Sure. But I’ll take the incredibly fast wired charging as a reasonable trade.
Price and What You’re Really Getting
Depending on where you live, the price floats between $315 and $385. That’s right in the sweet spot for a lot of buyers, and in my opinion, it’s a strong offering for what you’re getting. I’d go as far as to say it’s one of the better value phones I’ve used this year.
Here, you’re getting a sharp, bright display, capable cameras, long battery life, and solid performance. Add in IP68 resistance and a decent software setup, and it checks a lot of boxes. Sure, it’s not perfect, but what is? And taking that one step further, does it come in under $400?
Where It Falls Short
Gaming performance, while fine for me, may not be enough for heavier users. If you’re into high-end mobile gaming, this might not be your top pick. The software setup can be a bit busy at first, and the lack of a headphone jack and expandable storage could turn some people away.
Wireless charging’s omission stings a bit, especially since it feels like a premium device in so many other ways. And depending on your region, you might have to dig a little to find this phone, especially in the US, where Redmi isn’t officially sold.
Quick Comparison: Note 14+ Pro vs Note 14 Pro
If you’re stuck between the Note 14+ Pro 5G and the so-called “regular” Note 14 Pro 5G, the main differences come down to charging speed, chipset, and price. The Pro+ gives you faster 120W charging and the Snapdragon 7s Gen 3, while the standard Pro runs on the Dimensity 7300-Ultra and caps charging at 45W.
Both share the same display, camera system, and IP rating. The Pro+ is a little heavier, but only by a few grams. If you want max performance and faster charging, go Pro+. If you’d rather save a little cash and still get most of the good stuff, the regular Pro is no slouch.
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.
Final Thoughts
Living with the Redmi Note 14+ Pro 5G has been a mostly pleasant experience. It nails a lot of the core things I care about in a phone: display quality, battery life, and general reliability. It’s not flashy, but it’s dependable and better looking than you might expect.
If you’re shopping in this price range and don’t mind missing out on wireless charging or a headphone jack, this one’s worth your time. You’ll have to do a little legwork to find it if you’re in the US, but for those in other markets, this phone is already within reach, and in more ways than one.
Turning your ideas into vibrant video clips just got simpler. Google today announced that Gemini Advanced subscribers can now generate dynamic, high-resolution videos using Veo 2, the latest video generation model from Google Labs. Additionally, Google One AI Premium subscribers can now use Whisk Animate to quickly turn static images into engaging animated clips, expanding creative possibilities without requiring any fancy editing gear or expertise.
Bring Your Stories to Life with Gemini and Veo 2
Starting today, Gemini Advanced users worldwide can produce stunning eight-second videos directly from simple text prompts. Veo 2 is designed to deliver fluid, realistic movements and detailed visual fidelity—think cinematic realism without the Hollywood budget. By interpreting text-based prompts, Gemini translates your written descriptions into high-quality, 720p resolution MP4 videos in 16:9 landscape format.
PROMPT: An animated shot of a tiny mouse with oversized glasses, reading a book by the light of a glowing mushroom in a cozy forest den.
Creating videos is straightforward: simply select Veo 2 in Gemini’s model dropdown and describe your scene—whether it’s a quick visual idea, an intricate fantasy scene, or a quirky concept. The more details included, the more control users have over the final results, making Gemini ideal for quick storytelling, concept visualization, or even exploring imaginative scenes.
Once you’ve generated your video masterpiece, sharing it couldn’t be easier. Mobile users can quickly share their clips to platforms like TikTok and YouTube Shorts directly from the Gemini app with just a tap.
Whisk Animate Adds Motion to Your Creations
Whisk, Google’s generative AI tool that debuted in December, allows users to generate new images by combining text and image prompts. Now, with Whisk Animate, Google One AI Premium subscribers can effortlessly turn these static images into dynamic, eight-second animated videos, powered by Veo 2. This feature instantly breathes life into visual concepts, turning static snapshots into lively animations in just seconds.
Commitment to Safe and Transparent AI Content
Google emphasizes a commitment to responsible and safe AI usage. Extensive safety evaluations and rigorous testing help prevent content that violates Google’s policies. Every video created with Veo 2 also includes SynthID, a digital watermark embedded frame-by-frame, clearly marking each clip as AI-generated content.
The new video generation features are rolling out globally today, accessible via Gemini on both web and mobile for Advanced subscribers, and through Whisk Animate for Google One AI Premium subscribers.
Ready to start directing your mini-movies or animate your favorite images? Head to gemini.google.com to experiment with Gemini, or visit labs.google/whisk to try out Whisk Animate today.
NACON, the parent company behind the RIG audio brand, has officially launched its first USB microphone, the RIG M2 STREAMSTAR PRO HD, in North America. Now available through RIGGaming.com and Amazon for $129.99, this new microphone aims to modernize streaming setups with a standout feature: built-in Bluetooth audio monitoring.
Real-Time Wireless Monitoring, No Delay
Touted as the world’s first wired USB microphone with a Bluetooth audio gateway, the M2 STREAMSTAR PRO HD lets streamers pair wireless earbuds or headphones directly to the mic for real-time audio monitoring without lag. This is made possible by Bluetooth 5.4 support and aptX HD compatibility, giving creators the ability to add modern wireless audio to their PC or Mac setups, no additional gear needed.
For those who prefer a traditional setup, the mic also includes a 3.5mm audio jack for standard wired monitoring.
Built with a 16mm precision electret condenser capsule, the mic uses a cardioid polar pattern to focus on voice capture and minimize background noise. It delivers studio-quality 24-bit depth and supports sampling rates up to 192kHz, ensuring crisp vocal recordings whether you’re podcasting, livestreaming, or shouting into the void during a boss raid.
The M2 STREAMSTAR PRO HD offers on-mic controls for gain, mute, and volume, along with a compact desktop stand. It connects via USB-C to USB-A for simple plug-and-play use.
Key Features at a Glance
First USB mic with Bluetooth low-latency audio gateway
Real-time wireless and wired monitoring support
24-bit / 48–192kHz studio-quality audio
Bluetooth 5.4 with Qualcomm aptX HD codec
Built-in on-mic controls for gain, mute, and volume
Portable, low-profile design with included desktop stand
Designed for Streamers, Backed by a Tournament Legacy
RIG, best known for its tournament-grade gaming headsets, has built its reputation on precision and performance—earning the trust of esports teams and live production crews since 2012. Now, with the M2 STREAMSTAR PRO HD, it’s bringing that same pro-level attention to detail to the creator crowd. The mic is available now at RIGGaming.com and Amazon.
Honor has introduced a new smartphone series with a clear theme: power. The debut model, aptly named the Honor Power, centers around an unusually large 8,000mAh battery, one of the biggest seen in a mainstream handset. Even more impressive, the phone stays under 8mm thick.
More Battery Than an iPad Air
To drive the point home, Honor compared the phone’s battery to that of the new iPad Air 11 (2025), revealing the Power’s 29.60Wh cell edges out Apple’s 28.93Wh. This was made possible by a high-silicon battery composition, yielding a power density of 821Wh/L.
According to Honor, the phone can handle up to 25 hours of long-form video playback, 23 hours of TikTok, and 14 hours of gaming. It supports 66W fast charging, though specific full-charge times weren’t provided. That said, just 2% charge reportedly gets you an hour of talk time or enough juice to scan 100 WeChat codes, handy if you’re running on fumes.
Midrange Muscle and Bright Display
The Honor Power is equipped with Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 chipset, previously seen in the Honor 100, 200, and 300 series. It’s paired with up to 12GB of RAM and 512GB of storage, depending on the variant.
On the front is a 6.78-inch OLED display with a resolution of 1224 x 2700 pixels, a smooth 120Hz refresh rate, and support for 10-bit color. The screen peaks at 4,000 nits brightness and features high-frequency 3,840Hz PWM dimming to reduce eye strain.
Rear Cameras: 50MP main (OIS) + 5MP ultrawide, 4K video
Front Camera: 16MP, 1080p video
OS: MagicOS 9.0 (based on Android 15)
Connectivity: Dual SIM, 5G, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.3, NFC, USB-C
Positioning: BeiDou (triple-band), GPS (dual-band), satellite SMS (512GB model only)
Body: 7.98mm thick, 209g
Colors: Snow White, Desert Gold, Phantom Night Black
Cameras, Connectivity, and Color Options
Camera hardware is modest. The main 50MP shooter offers OIS and 4K video recording, while the 5MP ultrawide feels like a throwback. The front-facing 16MP camera sits in a pill-shaped cutout and maxes out at 1080p video.
Connectivity includes dual-SIM support, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.3 (with LDAC and aptX HD), NFC, and a USB-C port, though only with USB 2.0 data speeds. The high-end model supports BeiDou satellite texting and improved navigation via the in-house Honor C1+ RF chip, which offers better GPS accuracy using triple-frequency BeiDou.
The device is water-resistant, but Honor hasn’t published an official IP rating.
Color options include Snow White, Desert Gold, and Phantom Night Black.
Pricing and Availability
Pre-orders begin today in China, with availability starting April 18. The standard 8GB/256GB model is priced at CNY 2,000 (around $270), with promotional pricing starting as low as CNY 1,700. The 12GB/256GB and 12GB/512GB variants are priced at CNY 2,200 and CNY 2,500, respectively. It’s not clear if or when a global variant might be offered.
More information is available on the official Honor website.
HONOR is doubling down on artificial intelligence through its deepening collaboration with Google Cloud, aiming to bring flagship-level features to a wider audience. Speaking at Google Cloud Next 2025 in Las Vegas, HONOR highlighted new tools powered by Google’s Gemini and Imagen models, and previewed a new wave of productivity-focused devices set to debut in May.
Smarter Imaging with AI Outpainting and AI Eraser
At the heart of HONOR’s announcements was an upgraded suite of photo-editing features under its AiMAGE umbrella. One standout is AI Outpainting, a post-shot reframing tool that uses Google’s Imagen model to expand photos beyond their original borders. It can double the size of a captured image, even in complex environments like urban architecture and natural landscapes.
“AI Outpainting is a game-changer,” said Eric Fang, Senior Director of Product Planning at HONOR. “It allows users to capture moments without worrying about perfect framing, then recompose later with confidence.”
Alongside it, AI Eraser lets users remove unwanted objects from photos with just a few taps. Imagen’s integration ensures realistic background fill, aiming to minimize the awkward edits or surreal gaps sometimes associated with generative tools.
ALPHA PLAN and the Push for Global AI Access
These features are part of HONOR’s broader ALPHA PLAN, an initiative to position the company as a global leader in AI-powered devices. A key part of this effort is making high-end AI tools more accessible. For example, even the recently launched HONOR 400 Lite in Europe includes AI Outpainting, AI Eraser, and AI Upscale—features typically reserved for flagship models.
“Democratizing AI is at the core of our mission,” Fang noted. “We want to unlock the potential of intelligent technology for everyone, not just premium device users.”
What’s Coming in May: AI-Powered Video and Office Tools
Looking ahead, HONOR is teasing new products set to launch in May 2025. These will integrate video generation capabilities built with Google’s Veo platform, allowing users to create short clips from text prompts with improved realism and motion fidelity.
Beyond creative tools, HONOR and Google Gemini are co-developing AI-powered productivity features that promise to streamline day-to-day tasks. These new office tools are designed to offer more intuitive assistance, potentially making smartphones smarter co-pilots in work and personal life.
A Strategic Leap in AI Integration
HONOR’s strengthened ties with Google Cloud are a clear signal of its long-term vision: tightly weaving on-device and cloud-based AI to create more intelligent, user-friendly experiences. With continued co-development of future-facing tools, the company appears set on expanding what’s possible from a smartphone.
More details on the partnership and upcoming products can be found on HONOR’s official website.
Dangbei has launched the N2 mini, a compact smart projector that blends portability with premium features, without the premium price tag. Priced at $229 / £239 (or $179 / £159 during the initial launch), the N2 mini stands out in the entry-level projector space thanks to its built-in gimbal stand, native 1080p resolution, and full licensing for major streaming platforms like Netflix, Prime Video, and YouTube.
Compact Design With Built-in Gimbal
Weighing just 3.78 lbs (1.72 kg), the Dangbei N2 mini doesn’t just pack light, it packs smart. Its integrated gimbal stand tilts up to 190°, making it easy to aim the projector at walls, ceilings, or just about anywhere else with one hand. The base-mounted power port keeps cords out of the way, and the rounded design adds to its kid-friendly, travel-ready appeal.
Smart Streaming, Simplified
Running on a custom Linux OS, the N2 mini gives users access to nearly 300 apps, including licensed versions of Netflix, Prime Video, and YouTube. The included remote features dedicated buttons for each, so you won’t be fumbling through menus just to rewatch your favorite episode for the third time.
Dangbei’s InstanPro AI Image Setup tech handles the heavy lifting, automatically adjusting focus, keystone, and screen fit, even navigating around obstacles if needed. Setup is nearly as effortless as hitting “Play.”
Crisp Visuals, Clear Sound
With a native 1080p resolution and a 200 ISO lumen LED light source, the N2 mini can project up to 120 inches of sharp, colorful video. It also features a built-in 6W speaker enhanced with Dolby Audio, providing surprisingly full sound for such a compact unit.
Designed for Durability
The projector includes Dangbei’s EngineX sealed optical engine, which keeps dust at bay and maintains clarity over time. A built-in power board cuts cable clutter, while quiet operation (under 27dB in standard mode) ensures the fan doesn’t steal the show.
Pricing and Availability
The Dangbei N2 mini is now available on Amazon US / UK and the Dangbei US Official Website with an MSRP of $229 / £239. For a limited time, buyers can snag it for just $179 / £159.
Comcast is rolling out a new option for Xfinity Internet customers: a guaranteed monthly rate for five years. Beginning today, customers nationwide can secure internet service for as little as $55 per month, a price locked in for five years with no annual contract required. Yes, that’s half a decade without unexpected hikes, a rarity in the broadband world.
One Simple Price, Plenty of Perks
This new package is designed to remove uncertainty around internet billing, addressing the common customer gripes of rising costs and unclear terms. Comcast COO Steve Croney emphasized the company’s commitment to transparent, straightforward pricing, noting, “Our new price guarantee removes complexity.”
Included in this guarantee is Xfinity’s high-performance WiFi gateway, powerful enough to support more than 100 devices simultaneously, ideal for tech-filled households or anyone juggling dozens of gadgets. Customers also gain access to Comcast’s expansive nationwide WiFi network, allowing seamless connectivity both at home and on the move, at no additional charge.
Unlimited Data and Enhanced Mobile Benefits
With unlimited data built into every guaranteed-price plan, customers won’t face surprise charges for streaming one too many episodes of their favorite series. Additionally, Comcast sweetens the deal by offering a complimentary line of Xfinity Mobile for one year. Xfinity Mobile now includes WiFi PowerBoost, automatically providing speeds of up to 1 Gbps, even while on the go.
Given that over 90% of Xfinity Mobile data travels over WiFi, customers can expect lightning-fast connectivity without burning through their cellular data allotment.
Speed Meets Security (and Parental Peace of Mind)
Comcast’s package isn’t just about speed, it’s about security and ease of use. Every Xfinity Gateway includes Advanced Security at no extra cost, safeguarding all connected devices against malware and other cyber threats at the network level.
For parents managing household internet use, built-in controls accessible via the Xfinity app offer capabilities to pause connections, schedule WiFi access, or check on devices joining their network. That’s right, mom, no more midnight gaming marathons without permission.
Gamers and Streamers Rejoice: Ultra-Low Lag Technology
Comcast is also showcasing its ultra-low lag internet technology, optimized for applications demanding minimal latency, such as FaceTime, NVIDIA’s GeForce NOW, Valve’s Steam platform, and mixed reality experiences on Apple and Meta devices. Users can expect smoother, more responsive interactions, whether in critical gaming matches or virtual meetings.
