MediaTek last week announced the Kompanio Ultra, a new flagship processor designed for the latest wave of Chromebook Plus laptops. The chip blends high-performance computing with advanced on-device AI capabilities, targeting users who need speed, efficiency, and AI-assisted workflows—without relying on the cloud.
Built for Local AI and Demanding Apps
At the heart of the Kompanio Ultra is MediaTek’s 8th-generation NPU, capable of delivering 50 TOPS (tera operations per second) of AI performance. This enables features like real-time automation, personalized user experiences, and AI-enhanced productivity tools—all processed locally for quicker response times and added security.
The processor uses an all-big-core CPU layout built on a 3nm process, with an Arm Cortex-X925 running up to 3.62GHz. This architecture is tailored for heavy tasks such as video editing, multitasking, and high-resolution gaming—without sacrificing battery life.
Efficient Power for All-Day Use
One of the highlights of the Kompanio Ultra is its power efficiency. MediaTek claims the chip supports all-day battery life, thanks to smart power management and large on-chip caches. That means users can work, stream, and game longer without hunting for an outlet.
In terms of multimedia and connectivity, the chip supports dual 4K external displays and features Hi-Fi audio processing for clear calls and immersive sound. Wi-Fi 7 is also on board, offering faster speeds and more reliable connections—particularly useful for remote workers and students.
Features Consumers Will Enjoy about the Kompanio Ultra
Faster everyday performance thanks to a high-speed Arm Cortex-X925 CPU (up to 3.62GHz)
Smart on-device AI for features like real-time automation and personalization without needing an internet connection
All-day battery life supported by efficient power management and a 3nm chip design
Smooth multitasking and entertainment, including support for two external 4K displays
Wi-Fi 7 support for faster, more reliable wireless connections
Quiet, fanless operation for sleeker and more portable Chromebook designs
A Partnership with Google
MediaTek developed the Kompanio Ultra in close collaboration with Google to align with the performance goals of Chromebook Plus. According to Google’s ChromeOS lead, John Solomon, the processor is expected to deliver both extended battery life and richer AI features, helping Chromebooks become more versatile work and learning tools.
Availability
Chromebooks powered by the Kompanio Ultra are expected to launch in the coming months. More details about the processor and MediaTek’s full Kompanio lineup can be found on the official website.
Google is rolling out a major update to its experimental AI Mode, giving millions more users in the U.S. the chance to experience smarter, more nuanced search. First launched as a feature for Google One AI Premium subscribers, AI Mode is now being made available more broadly through Google’s Labs program.
The update isn’t just about expanding access, it’s about adding new tricks to the AI toolbox. AI Mode now supports image-based queries, thanks to the integration of Google Lens’ multimodal capabilities.
A Smarter Way to Ask and See
AI Mode is designed to handle more complex and exploratory questions, the kind that go beyond quick facts or definitions. According to Google, the average query in AI Mode is twice as long as a typical search, with users turning to it for everything from side-by-side product comparisons to help planning trips.
With the new update, users can now upload an image or take a photo and ask AI Mode questions about it, like identifying objects, comparing styles, or finding similar items. Powered by a custom version of Gemini, the system analyzes the full scene in the image, not just isolated elements. It takes into account the context, relationships, colors, shapes, and materials in the frame, then runs multiple queries to deliver a rich and detailed response.
For example, snap a photo of a cluttered bookshelf, and AI Mode might not only identify each book, but also suggest similar reads, link you to purchase pages, and follow up with questions to help narrow your search. It’s visual search with a brain, and it’s designed to go beyond just recognizing what’s in a picture.
Available in Google Labs on Mobile
The updated AI Mode is currently available in the Google app for both Android and iOS, for those enrolled in Labs. Google says it’s still testing and refining the experience based on user feedback.
More information and access details can be found through the official Google blog post or by exploring the feature directly in the app.
Innovative Eyewear, the company behind the Lucyd smart eyewear line, has announced its newest model: Moonbeam, a lightweight, round-frame pair of Bluetooth audio glasses designed for everyday wear. With integrated voice assistant support, including ChatGPT, and open-ear audio, Moonbeam aims to blend fashion with function for users who want seamless access to tech without giving up comfort or style.
Smart Features in a Timeless Frame
Moonbeam’s defining feature is its contemporary round design, which leans classic without feeling dated. The frame houses discreet technology that enables users to listen to music, take calls, and access voice assistants, all while remaining connected to their surroundings. Thanks to open-ear audio tech, Moonbeam lets sound in and out, so you don’t have to choose between situational awareness and your playlist.
Controls are baked into the design with improved ergonomics for managing playback, phone calls, and voice commands. Whether you’re hopping between Zoom calls, playlists, or asking ChatGPT to summarize your inbox, the goal is to reduce friction without sacrificing comfort.
Aimed at Daily Use, Built for All-Day Comfort
The eyewear is tailored for extended use, with lightweight materials and a fit that supports full-day wear, whether you’re working, commuting, or just running errands. Lucyd’s vision is clearly focused on utility. This isn’t a niche gadget for tech demos, it’s meant to be worn like, well, glasses.
“Our goal is always to enhance everyday experiences through thoughtfully integrated technology,” said Harrison Gross, CEO of Innovative Eyewear. “With Moonbeam, we’re bringing forward a smart eyewear solution that our customers can comfortably wear from morning to night.”
Availability and Preorders
Moonbeam is available for preorder at $169 starting April 7th at www.Lucyd.co, with shipments expected to begin soon after. The smart eyewear will also roll out through select retail partners and online marketplaces.
Innovative Eyewear, which operates under brands including Lucyd, Nautica, Eddie Bauer, and Reebok, continues to push forward its mission to “Upgrade Your Eyewear.” With Moonbeam, the brand adds another style to its expanding portfolio of AI-enhanced glasses that aim to keep users both connected and comfortable.
Traeger Grills is expanding its footprint in the outdoor cooking space with the launch of the Flatrock 2 Zone, a new griddle that brings high-end performance to a more compact form factor. Building on the success of the larger Flatrock 3 Zone, this new model keeps the premium features but trims the footprint, ideal for patios, smaller backyards, or anyone who prefers a leaner setup without giving up cooking power.
Two Zones, One Purpose: Flavor
The Flatrock 2 Zone sticks to what Traeger does best: consistency, control, and flavor. Its two independently controlled cooking zones give home cooks the freedom to sear, sauté, or smash without the stress of uneven heat. A U-shaped burner design ensures edge-to-edge coverage, while built-in wind-blocking tech keeps flare-ups and cold spots at bay.
The griddle also features Traeger’s EZ-Clean grease management system, which channels drippings into a generously sized, accessible container, because nobody wants to spend more time cleaning than cooking. Folding side shelves and a Pop-And-Lock accessory rail let users personalize their setup to match their grilling style, whether that means tool hooks, paper towel holders, or maybe just a good place to rest the spatula between burger flips.
Designed for Tight Spaces, Built for Big Meals
Smaller in size but big on utility, the Flatrock 2 Zone is tailored for those with limited space but no shortage of culinary ambition. From weekend breakfast spreads to weeknight fajitas, the unit is designed to accommodate a wide range of cooking needs without dominating the deck.
According to Traeger CEO Jeremy Andrus, the new griddle meets a clear demand: “There is a unique hunger in the outdoor cooking space for the versatility that the griddle category provides,” he said. “With its streamlined design and two-zone temperature control, the Flatrock 2 Zone is the perfect outdoor cooking tool for those looking for a high-quality cooking experience without sacrificing space or quality.”
Pricing and Availability
The Flatrock 2 Zone will retail for $699 and is expected to be available soon on Traeger.com and through select U.S. and Canadian retailers.
Cricket Wireless is shaking up the trade-in playbook with a new program that trades the usual runaround for something a bit more direct: actual bill credits. Launching April 4, the carrier becomes the first national wireless provider to let customers apply their trade-in value directly toward their service—not toward a gift card or an upgrade they didn’t really ask for.
This move puts Cricket in a different league from other major carriers, which typically offer trade-in credit only toward new devices or prepaid cards. Those gift cards? One in three people forget to use them, according to Cricket’s release. The company’s alternative skips the middleman and lets customers turn old phones into lower bills, plain and simple.
How It Works
The process is designed to be user-friendly and accessible whether customers are joining Cricket for the first time or have been around since flip phones were still a thing. Here’s the flow:
Use the Trade-In Portal to check eligibility and get an estimate
Ship the device using the prepaid envelope provided
If the offer is accepted, the account credit lands in the customer’s Cricket account
If not, the device is sent back within 48 hours
There’s no need to buy a new phone or plan to qualify. The only requirement is a device that still has some value—and preferably not one that’s been swimming in a lake or dropped from a rooftop.
Cricket says the credit amount will be determined based on the device’s condition, and yes, cracked screens and battery issues will affect the final offer. But even in less-than-perfect shape, many phones still qualify for something back.
A Budget-Friendly Move for Financial Literacy Month
The April launch isn’t just coincidental—it’s aligned with Financial Literacy Month, adding a smart layer of relevance to the program. The pitch here is about more than cleaning out junk drawers. It’s about helping people get real value from old tech and potentially reduce their monthly wireless bill in the process.
It also dovetails with Cricket’s broader strategy: offering more flexible and personalized service options without locking customers into traditional upgrade cycles or upselling them on new hardware they don’t need. Instead, the focus is on digital inclusion and budget-conscious tools that make prepaid service more accessible and sustainable.
Where to Start
Customers can visit a local Cricket Authorized Retailer or head to CricketWireless.com for more details and access to the Trade-In Portal. The program officially opens on April 4.
For those sitting on a stack of dusty devices, it might be time to cash in—literally—for next month’s phone bill.
OXS Storm G2 Wireless Gaming Headset provides an engaging audio experience for gamers at a competitive price point of $79.99. It boasts 50mm dynamic drivers combined with 7.1 virtual surround sound technology, delivering clear treble, immersive mid-tones, and deep bass. These features enhance in-game soundscapes, making every footstep or distant explosion feel truly realistic.
Connectivity options are broad, including 2.4GHz wireless, Bluetooth 5.3, and a 3.5mm AUX for flexibility across devices like PCs, consoles, and mobile phones. The headset comes with a detachable omni-directional mic and a built-in option, both equipped with ENC noise cancellation, ensuring clear communication during intense gaming sessions.
With immersive 7.1 surround sound, broad device compatibility, and up to 40 hours of battery life, the OXS Storm G2 hits a sweet spot for gamers who want premium features without the premium price.
Comfort is prioritized with skin-friendly protein leather earcups and memory foam padding, designed for prolonged use. With up to 40 hours of battery life, this headset is tailored for serious gamers who value both performance and comfort.
Battery Life: Up to 40 hours (no RGB lighting), 24 hours (with RGB lighting), 4-hour charging time
Additional Features: RGB lighting for enhanced gaming ambiance
Price: $79.99
Color: Available in black
What Makes the OXS Storm G2 Stand Out?
The OXS Storm G2 Wireless Gaming Headset is crafted for gamers who seek an immersive audio experience. With high-quality sound delivered by 50mm dynamic drivers, the headset features 7.1 virtual surround sound technology, ensuring users can hear every subtle detail in games, from the crisp treble to the booming bass. This precision in audio can provide a significant advantage during gameplay, making it a suitable choice for competitive and casual gamers alike.
How Does It Connect?
This headset is designed for versatility in connectivity. It supports 2.4GHz wireless transmission, Bluetooth 5.3, and a traditional 3.5mm AUX wired connection. This range of options accommodates various devices, including PCs, consoles (PS4, PS5, Xbox, and Switch), laptops, tablets, and smartphones. The inclusion of a dongle that works with both Type A and Type C connections adds to its appeal for users with different setups.
How Effective Are the Microphones?
Communication is essential during gaming, and the OXS Storm G2 excels in this area. It comes with a detachable omni-directional microphone that captures voice clearly while minimizing background noise. For added convenience, a built-in mic is also available, employing ENC noise cancellation technology to ensure that every call or command is heard without distraction.
What About Customization Options?
Personalization is straightforward with the OXS Storm G2. Three preset EQ modes allow users to switch between surround sound for immersive gaming, game mode for competitive play, and music mode for listening enjoyment. This feature makes it adaptable to varied gaming and audio experiences, enhancing user satisfaction.
Is Comfort a Priority?
Comfort is a crucial aspect when choosing a gaming headset, particularly for extended sessions. The OXS Storm G2 is designed with skin-friendly protein leather earcups that feature memory foam padding. The adjustable ergonomic headband ensures a secure yet comfortable fit, reducing fatigue over long gaming marathons.
How Long Does the Battery Last?
Battery life is often a concern with wireless headsets. The OXS Storm G2 boasts an impressive 40 hours of playtime when RGB lighting is off, and 24 hours with the lighting activated. It takes about four hours to fully charge, making it practical for long-term use without frequent interruptions.
Who is This Headset For?
The OXS Storm G2 targets gamers who appreciate quality audio and comfort. It is suitable for both casual players enjoying a single-player game and competitive gamers needing reliable communication and sound precision. Priced at $79.99, it offers a comprehensive array of features that cater to various gaming needs without overwhelming the user with unnecessary complexities.
Learn more about the OXS Storm G2. As of the time of publishing this post the price was $80.
LG Electronics is upping the ante for gamers and streamers alike with the debut of its first smart OLED gaming monitors. The new LG UltraGear GX9s lineup, comprising the 45GX90SA, 39GX90SA, and 34GX90SA, blends high-end display tech with the brains of webOS, delivering a one-stop shop for both competitive gaming and binge-worthy content.
The new monitors are now available at LG.com and select retailers, priced at $1,699 for the 45-inch model, $1,599 for the 39-inch, and $1,399 for the 34-inch.
OLED Meets Entertainment Hub
45GX90SA
Each model in the GX9s series features a 21:9 curved OLED panel with a deep 800R curvature, a QHD resolution (3440×1440), and DisplayHDR True Black 400 certification. Translation: gamers get the rich contrast and deep blacks OLED is known for, with the added bonus of a 240Hz refresh rate and a near-instant 0.03ms response time. Whether it’s an esports match or a dramatic cutscene, motion stays fluid and clear.
LG packed these displays with both AMD FreeSync Premium and NVIDIA G-SYNC compatibility, plus support for HDMI 2.1, DisplayPort 1.4, and USB-C. That means less screen tearing and more flexibility across consoles, PCs, and even mobile setups.
What sets the GX9s series apart is its use of webOS 24, the same smart platform LG puts in its TVs. That means the monitor itself can access services like Netflix, Prime Video, and over 350 free LG Channels, no PC or set-top box required. Users can even launch cloud gaming apps like NVIDIA GeForce NOW, Amazon Luna, and Blacknut directly from the home screen.
The inclusion of onboard speakers, a virtually borderless design, and RGB hexagonal lighting on the back add to the all-in-one appeal, whether you’re mid-match or mid-movie.
Ergonomics and Extras
34GX90SA
LG gave the GX9s series an ergonomic L-shaped stand with tilt, height, and swivel adjustments, ideal for dialed-in desk setups. It’s not just flashy lighting and fast specs; it’s a well-rounded package aimed at both hardcore players and casual streamers who want fewer cables and more flexibility.
More information, including specs and a current promo offering up to 30% off through April 27, is available on LG’s official website.
ESR is turning up the chill on wireless charging, literally. The brand has launched its newest range of Qi2-compatible MagSafe chargers, now equipped with second-generation CryoBoost cooling technology. Designed for faster, cooler, and quieter performance, the new collection includes charging solutions for home, car, and mobile power needs, all available now via Amazon and Amazon UK.
CryoBoost 2.0: Cooler Heads Charge Faster
Since introducing CryoBoost in 2022, ESR has focused on managing one of wireless charging’s biggest bottlenecks: heat. The second-gen version now features a fully open duct and a reworked airflow system that keeps fan noise below 25dB, quieter than most library whispers. ESR claims this new design reduces charging temperatures by about 5.5°C compared to typical MagSafe chargers, helping maintain optimal speed without cooking your phone.
ESR 3-in-1 MagSafe Charger with Qi2
The flagship of the lineup, the ESR 3-in-1 MagSafe Charging Station, supports full-speed 15W iPhone charging, 5W Apple Watch fast charging, and 5W AirPods charging, all in a tidy all-in-one unit. ESR says it can juice up an iPhone 16 Pro in 1 hour and 51 minutes. It’s priced at $71.99 in the U.S. and £69.99 in the UK.
ESR Qi2 MagSafe Car Charger
On the road, the ESR Qi2 Car Charger brings that same CryoBoost cooling to your dashboard. With 18 N52 magnets delivering a firm 1,600 g magnetic grip, it promises to keep your iPhone secure, even on pothole-heavy commutes. It delivers 15W fast charging, reportedly enough to get an iPhone 16 Pro from 0 to full in 1 hour and 48 minutes. It retails for $26.99/£29.44.
Slimmer Power Banks with a Kick(stand)
For portable power, ESR has updated its MagSlim Kickstand Power Bank lineup. The 5,000mAh model, priced at $39.99/£45.99, is now the slimmest Qi2 battery pack on the market at just 15.5 mm thick. It charges cool, too, staying under 99°F thanks to smart temperature control and AI heat management.
Those needing more juice can opt for the 10,000mAh version, which maintains the same compact design and adds a versatile kickstand for hands-free viewing in both portrait and landscape.
Availability and More Info
All models in ESR’s new Qi2 lineup are available now on Amazon and the ESR official website. From multi-device stations to road-trip-ready chargers, ESR’s expanded MagSafe-compatible line keeps things fast, cool, and quietly efficient.
Withings has officially launched BPM Vision in the United States, expanding its portfolio of connected health devices with a focus on making blood pressure monitoring easier, clearer, and more accurate for everyday users. The FDA-cleared device, initially revealed earlier this year at CES, is now available for $149.95 on withings.com, with broader retail availability via Amazon and select partners beginning May 2025.
A High-Tech Helper for Hypertension
The BPM Vision is a smart blood pressure monitor designed to address some of the most common user pain points—confusing interfaces, inconsistent readings, and uncomfortable cuffs. With a sharp 2.8-inch color display and step-by-step on-screen tutorials, the device walks users through the proper positioning and measurement technique without requiring a manual or a Ph.D. in cardiology.
At the heart of its accuracy is TripleTrust, Withings’ approach to clinical-grade reliability. The device takes three consecutive readings—just like many doctors do in the clinic—to minimize outliers and improve measurement confidence.
The BPM Vision provides clear systolic and diastolic blood pressure data, along with heart rate tracking. Results are displayed in an easy-to-read format with color-coded feedback, making it immediately obvious whether the numbers fall in the green zone or need attention.
Designed for Real-Life Use
Withings has paid attention to more than just numbers. The BPM Vision is designed with interchangeable cuffs that fit arms ranging from 9 to 20 inches (22 to 52 cm), ensuring comfort and accessibility for a wide range of adults. It’s also built for the realities of family life, supporting health data for up to eight users—each with individual profiles in the Withings app.
Thanks to AutoSync+, the device connects via Wi-Fi to automatically upload readings without the need for a smartphone nearby. This means users can take a reading in the morning without fumbling for their phone and still have it logged and ready in the app when they need it.
More Than Just a Monitor
Monitoring blood pressure at home has never been more important, especially given that hypertension affects nearly half of adults in the U.S. But it’s not just about tracking numbers—it’s about turning that data into action. By syncing with the Withings app, BPM Vision enables users to generate detailed health reports that can be shared with healthcare providers. The result is better conversations and more informed treatment decisions.
Also Available in EU, BeamO
Withings BeamO is a compact 4-in-1 health device that combines a digital stethoscope, thermometer, oximeter, and 1-lead ECG to deliver fast, clinical-grade checkups at home or on the go. Following CE approval, it’s being positioned as a “thermometer of the future” and includes a 3-month Withings+ subscription with advanced cardiac insights. U.S. and U.K. availability is expected later in 2025, pending regulatory clearance. More details on the EU launch here.
More information about BPM Vision and the rest of Withings’ connected health lineup is available at www.withings.com.
Apple is renowned for its tight control over access to the inner workings of its operating systems. This is especially evident in the “walled garden” of iMessage, FaceTime, and the Apple Watch. However, they have made a noteworthy exception with AirPlay and MagSafe accessories. Enter Dio Node, a cutting-edge AirPlay compliant speaker system that stands out as a formidable contender for your entire home audio solution.
“The Dio Node speakers deliver seamless AirPlay integration with surprisingly rich sound—all without the privacy concerns of an always-on microphone. Its effortless setup and minimalist design make it a perfect addition to any Apple-centric home.”
Design
The industrial structure of the Dio Node speakers are very unassuming. This seems intentional to have the simple, square units to blend into any aesthetic or room. They seriously are just light gray squares with a few volume controls button and a power port in the back. Honestly, it’s refreshing to see such a muted design to make sure these just live anywhere without calling attention.
Internally, you have a single speaker and Wi-Fi. No Bluetooth, microphone, or other sensors. This allows for a quick connection capable of lossless audio without affecting your privacy. No constantly listening device in the corner of the room, and Dio skipped the inconsistency of Bluetooth.
My only negative with the design is I wish the port was a little more flush and/or USB-C. I ended up landing on mounting two of these speakers in my garage for my home gym, and having the port making a hard 90-degree angle out the back made for a weird situation when trying to mount on either the ceiling or wall. This is especially true with a unit as niche as the Dio Node that simply doesn’t have the mount support from 3rd parties you’d see from say a Google or Apple official speaker.
The same is true for the power port. While both Apple and Google also use a proprietary charging option, I’d love to see someone like Dio use a modern standard like USB-C. Not only does it support the simple ethos the company seems to be looking for, but it makes supplying replacements easier for consumers.
AirPlay and setup
Getting the Dio Node out the box to a working speaker literally takes less than five minutes. There’s a nice quick guide included in the box, or you can scan a QR box for a similar tutorial, but you really just need an iOS device. No extra app. You’ll just need the iPhone or iPad’s existing Wi-Fi settings page to get them going.
Yep, you just open your Wi-Fi settings, much like you were joining a new Wi-Fi router for your device. From here, you should see the new option to “set up an AirPlay speaker”. After this, your new Dio Node will look and act much like an Apple HomePod. It can be paired with other AirPlay devices for dual play and will be seen in any AirPlay menu.
That’s by far the selling point of the Dio Node speakers. Look, act, and basically be a HomePod without Siri and a microphone. But that doesn’t mean that it’s stripped of full connected features. You can link Dio Nodes to the Home app on your iPhone smarts. From here, you can play music and use Shortcuts to utilize the speaker over voice commands.
Sound
Another area the Dio Node speakers aren’t lacking is sound. While it’s not quite as robust as an audio device as a HomePod, it’s damn close. The output of the Dio speaker is much better than I expected. That unassuming shell made it seem like it would underperform, but it’s very good for a speaker this size.
The same is true for pairing them together. While you can’t use them in stereo like the HomePods, you can sync the playback to two different ones with the same audio output. This functionality is incredibly useful, as it allows you to create a more expansive sound experience throughout your home. Whether you’re entertaining guests or just enjoying some alone time, having the option to play music in multiple rooms simultaneously adds a delightful ambiance to any setting.
For example, you might set one Dio Node speaker in your living room while placing another in the kitchen. This way, you can enjoy seamless music playback while moving about your home without interruptions. The sound quality remains consistent across both speakers, and as you transition from room to room, the listening experience doesn’t falter. It’s truly impressive how these compact devices can deliver such satisfying audio performance.
Final Thoughts
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Products earning this distinction exemplify excellence across the board, delivering an experience that truly rises above the rest.
When you see the badge, you’re looking at the best of what’s available in its category.
The Dio Node speaker system is a surprising addition to the Apple accessories ecosystem. The seamless set-up and better than expected sound make this a great option for AirPlay in your home. Add in the appeal that some people will prefer that it doesn’t have an always on microphone, and you have a more private alternative to a HomePod without losing the ties to Apple or HomeKit.
The only other thing to cover here is the pricing. The Dio Node speakers are $90 for a single or the most popular options seems to be the 3-pack for $240. I also think this is the best value when compared to something like Sonos or even the closer relative of the Apple HomePod Mini. Having multiple speakers to utilize the multi-room playback showcases the full feature list of the Dio. You can get yours now with the link below from Dio Connect’s direct website.
