When two legendary brands join forces, something special happens. The Fender x Teufel ROCKSTER CROSS brings together Teufel’s 45+ years of German audio engineering expertise with Fender’s iconic American guitar and amplifier design heritage. The result is a Bluetooth speaker that doesn’t just sound amazing. It looks like it belongs on stage.
Built for the Road
The ROCKSTER CROSS takes its design cues from classic Fender guitar amplifiers, complete with the signature steel mesh grille and unmistakable Fender branding. But this isn’t just about aesthetics. The speaker’s rugged construction includes a grippy rubber exterior, impact-resistant materials, and IPX5 water resistance certification. Whether you’re caught in the rain or dealing with splashes by the pool, this speaker keeps playing.
Blending iconic Fender style with Teufel’s robust engineering, the ROCKSTER CROSS delivers powerful, stage-worthy sound and all-weather durability. It’s perfect for music lovers who want great audio anywhere life takes them.
The included authentic Fender guitar strap isn’t just for show, at 5.3 pounds and measuring 15 x 6.3 x 5.1 inches, you’ll appreciate having hands-free portability options. The speaker also features an angled base design that lets you tilt it backward to optimize sound projection, particularly useful for speech clarity and vocal definition.
True Stereo Sound Architecture
Inside the ROCKSTER CROSS, you’ll find a carefully engineered driver configuration: two high-resolution textile tweeters, one 5-inch textile woofer, and two passive radiators working together to deliver true stereo sound. This setup covers a frequency range of 50-20,000 Hz, essentially the full spectrum of human hearing.
The speaker incorporates Teufel’s proprietary Dynamore technology, which creates an especially wide soundstage so everyone in the listening area can enjoy optimal audio quality. There’s also an Outdoor Mode that boosts bass frequencies for open-air environments where low-end response typically gets lost.
Power That Lasts
The ROCKSTER CROSS delivers up to 16 hours of continuous playback on a single charge. The fast-charging lithium-ion battery system means you spend less time tethered to power outlets and more time enjoying your music. When other devices need juice, the built-in powerbank function lets you charge smartphones and tablets via the USB-A port.
Connectivity Options
Bluetooth 5.0 provides stable wireless connection with support for Qualcomm aptX codec, ensuring CD-quality audio transmission from compatible Android devices and Mac computers. The speaker maintains connection up to approximately 85 feet, giving you freedom to move around without dropouts.
For situations where wireless isn’t ideal, the 3.5mm AUX input provides wired connectivity with improved latency and resolution, perfect for gaming or watching videos. The speaker also includes a built-in speakerphone function for hands-free calls.
Expandable Audio
The ROCKSTER CROSS supports pairing with a second unit for stereo mode operation, effectively doubling your sound output and creating a wider stereo image. You can also connect two smartphones simultaneously, making it easy to share DJ duties at gatherings.
Weather-Ready Performance
The IPX5 certification means the ROCKSTER CROSS can handle water jets from any direction, making it suitable for poolside use, beach trips, or outdoor events where weather might be unpredictable. The closed-cabinet design also provides dust protection, while the speaker’s cold-resistant construction allows operation down to 15°F.
We know a good thing when we see it.
The First-Rate Find badge recognizes products that go beyond standards in performance, design, value, and/or innovation. They also tend to boast interesting features or distinct hallmarks.
We don’t need to assign any formal scores to indicate that this one is worth your attention.
What’s in the Box
Your ROCKSTER CROSS comes complete with the original Fender guitar strap, external power supply with NEMA-1 connector, and a Fender x Teufel guitar pick. The intuitive button controls on the rear panel handle power, connectivity, and playback functions, while LED indicators display battery status at a glance.
The Fender x Teufel ROCKSTER CROSS represents more than just another Bluetooth speaker. It’s the convergence of authentic musical heritage with modern audio technology, designed for those who appreciate both substance and style in their sound equipment.
The modern digital landscape increasingly demands reliable connectivity, making access to affordable wireless service less of a luxury and more of a fundamental necessity. Recognizing this critical need, Total Wireless, a fast-growing, no-contract wireless provider covered by the robust Verizon 5G network, introduced its LifeLine discount program specifically tailored for California residents.
This initiative is a crucial step toward bridging the digital divide within the state, ensuring that low-income individuals and families can remain connected to essential services, employment opportunities, and educational resources.
Total Wireless Offers Subsidized Lifeline Plans with Free Smartphones
Through the established California LifeLine program, Total Wireless is now offering dramatically subsidized service. Qualifying customers can receive a feature-rich Total Wireless plan that includes unlimited talk, unlimited text, and a substantial allowance of 6GB of high-speed data every 30 days — all for as low as $0 per month.
This zero-cost option is transformative, eliminating financial barriers entirely for the most vulnerable populations. Furthermore, to ensure immediate access to this lifeline service, customers also receive a complimentary smartphone upon enrollment, removing the typical hurdle of needing to purchase new or expensive equipment.
This free device is modern, reliable, and capable of fully utilizing the Verizon 5G network, ensuring a high-quality user experience.
“Access to reliable wireless service shouldn’t be out of reach for anyone,” said David Kim, Chief Revenue Officer at Verizon Value. “That’s why we’re bringing California LifeLine to Total Wireless stores across the state, making it simple for eligible residents to sign up and get connected—with no barriers, no credit checks, and no compromises on quality.”
Easy Enrollment and Eligibility
California residents can enroll with Total Wireless quickly and conveniently. Apply in-person at any Total Wireless location via scannable QR codes, or complete your application online.
Automatic qualification for LifeLine benefits is available to recipients of CalFresh, Medi-Cal, Veterans Pension and Survivors Benefit, and other government assistance programs. Both new and current customers are eligible. Remember, LifeLine benefits are non-transferable and restricted to one per household.
Why Choose Total Wireless?
Total Wireless is committed to serving California’s diverse communities with affordable, reliable wireless service. This not only improves connections but also demonstrates Total Wireless’s commitment to serving the state’s diverse wireless needs to ensure that every customer, regardless of how much he earns, has access to the wireless tools they need to stay connected.
Expanding LifeLine Access Nationwide
Beyond California, Total Wireless is also enhancing its LifeLine program across the U.S., allowing more people to get access to discounted wireless service. With approximately 1,900 exclusive stores across the country, including more than 200 in California, customers have brick and mortar locations to get their questions answered, get more information and easily enroll.
The Pixel Buds 2a are the A-series I have been waiting for. They borrow the fit, finish, and brains from the Pro line, add active noise cancellation for the first time in the budget tier, and keep a price that feels fair. The trade-offs are real, though.
There is no wireless charging, there are no on-bud volume controls, and the line’s history with odd Bluetooth hiccups still lingers in the back of my mind. If you live on Android and like Google’s ecosystem perks, these land in a very sweet spot.
Price: $129.99
Colors: Hazel, Iris
What stands out: small, comfy fit, ANC that is genuinely useful, long single-charge battery life, deep Android and Gemini integration
What holds it back: no wireless charging, no swipe volume, codec ceiling at AAC, potential connectivity quirks
Design and Comfort
Google basically shrunk the Pro look and feel and handed it to the A-series. The buds are compact and light, they sit flush, and the little twist-to-lock stabilizer makes them feel secure without a bulky wing. With the right tips, I can wear them for a full workday without hot spots or pressure. You get four sizes of silicone tips in the box, which helps dial in a proper seal for audio and ANC.
Pro-level comfort, genuinely useful ANC, and effortless Android smarts make Pixel Buds 2a an easy everyday pick at a fair price.
Case
The pebble case is smaller than before and easy to pocket. The matte finish hides smudges and absorb scuffs, the interior color matches the buds, and charging is through USB-C. There is no Qi wireless charging. At this price, that missing convenience is noticeable.
Durability and Sustainability
The buds are IP54 for dust and splash resistance, the case is IPX4, and the build uses recycled materials. The case battery is replaceable, which is rare in this category and a nice nod to longevity.
Sound and ANC
Out of the box the sound is lively and clean, with enough low-end thump to keep pop and hip hop fun, and decent clarity up top. I would call the tuning “middle of the road” in a good way. It’s safe and balanced and works well for a lot of genres.
Keep volume below the top third and everything stays tidy. Push past that and you can almost hear the drivers and processing run out of headroom. Details are softened here, but it’s not really any worse than other earbuds in this price range.
Active noise cancellation is the headline feature and it pulls real weight. Constant low-frequency noise gets knocked down well, so stuff like office hums, train rumbles, and café grinders easily fade into the background.
Voices and sharp, variable sounds are less tamed than what you get from top Bose or Sony sets, which tracks with the price. Transparency mode is natural enough for quick chats and street awareness. It’s obviously not as immersive but it’s what you’ll want if you’re cleaning up the kitchen after dinner and trying to split attention between conversations and podcasts.
Calls
Mics are fine for everyday calls. Wind handling is decent, voice is clear, and people can tell you are on a headset… if they are listening for it, or are asked if they can tell. Otherwise, I suspect those on the other end are none the wiser. If you record voiceovers for content or lead high-stakes meetings from remote locations, you may want something with more aggressive mic arrays.
Controls and Features
Taps cover play or pause, track skip, and track back. A press and hold can toggle noise modes or fire up Assistant or Gemini. There is still no on-bud volume control. You either use your phone or say a command. Having a few preferred earbuds that I’ve kept around for the past decade, I realized I miss swipe volume more than I thought I would, especially while running or mowing the grass.
Connectivity and Codec Support
Bluetooth 5.4 with multipoint is here, which lets me hop between laptop and phone without fuss. Codecs are SBC and AAC. There is no aptX or LDAC for higher-bit-rate streaming, which will matter to some. I’ve never been a big codec guy but I can appreciate those who do have preferences.
Also worth noting, the Pixel Buds family has a reputation for occasional cutouts or odd pairing moments. I did not hit anything show-stopping during my time, but the history is hard to ignore. I did a quick search around before hitting publish on this review and didn’t see any glaring problems for the Buds 2a.
Battery and Charging
Battery life is a clear win. I routinely see about seven hours per charge with ANC on, and the case brings total time to roughly twenty hours with ANC. Five minutes in the case nets about an hour of listening, which saves you when you are headed out the door. It’s perfect for those moments where you remember that you forgot to charge them over the weekend as you’re getting ready for the gym. Again, wired USB-C only for charging.
Software and Ecosystem Perks
Setup on Android is a breeze with Fast Pair. My phone was immediately asking to pair with them the moment I opened the case.
Settings live in the native Bluetooth menu, not a separate app, which keeps things simple. You get a five-band EQ with a few presets, firmware updates, and quick controls for ANC and transparency.
The Tensor A1 in the buds handles ANC, helps with latency, and makes hands-free “Hey Google” and Gemini access feel instant. If you are deep in Google’s world, that convenience stacks up fast.
What I like
Small, super comfortable fit that stays put
ANC that actually helps in daily use
Strong single-charge stamina for the size
Seamless Android pairing and settings, hands-free Assistant and Gemini
IP54 rating on the buds, recycled materials, and a replaceable case battery
What I would change
Add wireless charging to the case
Add on-bud volume control
Offer at least one higher-quality Bluetooth codec option
Keep chipping away at those occasional connectivity gremlins (or maybe they have solved it)
Warranty
You get a one-year limited warranty in the United States that covers defects in materials and workmanship. Accidental damage and liquid immersion are not covered.
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.
Bottom Line
The Pixel Buds 2a ($129) feel like the right kind of trickle-down. Much like the A-series is for Pixel phones, these do a great job of giving consumers most of the features that are important without going all-in with unnecessary things to drive the price up.
Comfort is great, ANC is useful, battery life is solid, and the Android experience is as clean as it gets. The missing wireless charging and on-bud volume controls keep them from feeling truly complete. Those are the things that I noticed, but the limited codec support will not thrill audio nerds. All things factored, the overall value lands exactly where it should.
The Lightboks is Soundboks’ latest innovation, an audio-reactive party light designed to transform any space into an immersive visual experience. Priced at $299, this portable lighting system uses built-in microphones to sync with your music, creating dynamic light shows that respond to every beat, bassline, and breakdown in real time.
TrackSync Technology and Audio Reactivity
The heart of the Lightboks lies in its TrackSync technology. The device features seven RGBW 12W LED spots that listen to your music through an integrated microphone system. The technology analyzes audio frequencies and dynamics to create synchronized lighting effects that match the energy of your tracks. The microphone is specifically programmed to detect musical elements rather than conversations, focusing solely on translating sound into visual experiences.
Lightboks delivers vibrant, music-synced lighting that’s easy to set up, genuinely portable, and rugged enough for any party, offering pro-level effects without the hassle or complexity.
The system works with any audio source, from full-size sound systems to your smartphone’s built-in speaker. You don’t need a Soundboks speaker to use the Lightboks; it operates independently while complementing any existing audio setup.
Battery Life and Charging
Battery performance varies based on usage settings. At maximum brightness with energy level 3 (Rave mode), the Lightboks delivers 13+ hours of continuous operation. In Dance mode at 60% brightness, you can expect around 10+ hours of use. The internal 44.16Wh battery charges via USB-C with 30W fast charging capability, reaching full charge in just two hours.
Customization and Control
The Lightboks offers three energy modes, Chill, Dance, and Rave, each tailored to different party atmospheres. Ten curated color palettes provide visual variety, allowing you to match the lighting to your event’s theme or mood. All settings are controlled through the Soundboks app, which also enables the TeamUp feature for connecting multiple Lightboks units together.
The TeamUp functionality allows unlimited Lightboks connections (subject to environmental conditions), creating synchronized light shows across multiple units for larger events or more immersive experiences.
Build Quality and Durability
Measuring 8.3 x 9.2 x 5 inches and weighing 3.86 pounds, the Lightboks maintains portability while delivering robust construction. The device features IP65-rated water resistance, silicon rubber bumpers for impact protection, and a transparent polycarbonate cover. A built-in handle makes transport straightforward, living up to its “backpack-sized” design philosophy.
The UI panel includes brightness control, power on/off button, energy level selection, and battery status indicator, providing essential controls without requiring the app.
Technical Specifications
The Lightboks connects via Bluetooth and integrates with the Soundboks app for full control functionality. The housing combines PC/ABS materials with silicon rubber bumpers for durability. Each unit includes the Lightboks device and a quick start guide, with the USB-C charging cable sold separately.
Performance in Practice
The lighting effects respond dynamically to musical changes, creating smooth transitions during mellow sections and intense displays during high-energy moments. The higher energy modes actually extend battery life since the lights activate less frequently during dynamic musical passages, while lower energy modes maintain more consistent illumination.
Whether you’re hosting indoor gatherings, outdoor events, or mobile parties, the Lightboks adapts to different environments while maintaining consistent performance. The combination of portability, durability, and responsive lighting makes it suitable for various party scenarios.
We know a good thing when we see it.
The First-Rate Find badge recognizes products that go beyond standards in performance, design, value, and/or innovation. They also tend to boast interesting features or distinct hallmarks.
We don’t need to assign any formal scores to indicate that this one is worth your attention.
Ready to Light Up Your Next Event?
The Lightboks represents a practical approach to portable party lighting, combining audio reactivity with genuine portability and reliable battery performance. At $299, it delivers professional-grade lighting effects in a consumer-friendly package that works with any music source.
Ready to transform your next gathering? Check out the Lightboks and see how light can change everything about your party experience.
Mint Mobile, the wireless carrier known for shaking up the mobile industry with its no-nonsense pricing, is now expanding into home internet with a new 5G-powered service called MINTernet. The service, announced today and available immediately, starts at $30 per month and runs on T-Mobile’s nationwide 5G network.
Real Savings, Real People. No Gimmicks
To kick off the launch, Mint teamed up with the real Tilly Norwood, not the AI-generated actress who recently went viral, but an actual human, Natalie “Tilly” Norwood. The move drives home the company’s theme: MINTernet is as real as the savings it promises.
The new service arrives at a time when many Americans are fed up with their internet bills. Mint Mobile cites data showing that roughly two-thirds of customers are ready to switch providers, with the top reason being high monthly costs. The company’s response is a simple one: make home internet fast, fair, and affordable, without the fine print or bundle traps that cable companies often rely on.
“People are sick of internet companies treating them like human ATMs,” said Scott Venuti, GM of Home MINTernet. “So we did what Mint does best: we made it fast, fair, and affordable. Plus, ours is simple to set up and, in most cases, can be ready in under 15 minutes, probably faster than your current provider answers the phone.”
Ryan Reynolds Keeps It Literal
Mint Mobile co-owner Ryan Reynolds added his signature humor to the announcement, saying, “Today we’re bringing that same energy home. Literally. This is not a metaphor. We literally deliver it to your home. Like it shows up and you turn it on and you start getting 5G home internet and saving money.”
Reynolds’ tongue-in-cheek commentary aside, the expansion marks a logical step for Mint. Backed by T-Mobile’s 5G network, MINTernet aims to simplify home connectivity by using plug-and-play hardware that gets users online in minutes, no technician visits or hidden fees required.
Pricing and Plans
New customers can start with three months of MINTernet for $30 per month when paired with a Mint phone plan (or $40 per month without). After the introductory period, users have two renewal options:
Lock in $30/month by committing to a 12-month plan ($360 upfront).
Continue quarterly for $10 more per month ($120 with a Mint phone plan or $150 without).
Each plan includes:
T-Mobile 5G coverage, the country’s largest and fastest network
No monthly equipment fees
Simple setup, typically under 15 minutes
14-day money-back guarantee
Cutting the Cord, Mint Style
MINTernet positions itself as the antidote to complicated bundles and promotional fine print. Customers can manage everything online, skip the contracts, and still access premium speeds. For those already using Mint for mobile service, bundling both wireless and home internet offers even deeper discounts, all without the traditional “gotcha” fees of major cable providers.
Mint Mobile has built its reputation on affordable, reliable wireless plans, and MINTernet seems poised to extend that philosophy into home connectivity. The name might sound cheeky, but the intent is clear: real internet, real savings, real simple.
XGIMI, a top innovator in home entertainment technology, has launched the HORIZON 20 series of home projectors. Fresh from its unveiling at IFA 2025, the series features three models—the HORIZON 20, HORIZON 20 Pro, and HORIZON 20 Max. All models are now available for purchase on XGIMI’s website and Amazon.
The Horizon 20 Series: Peak Performance and Unrivaled Brightness
The HORIZON 20 series represents the pinnacle of XGIMI’s technological advancement. Each model promises stunning 4K resolution, cinematic brightness, and lifelike color accuracy, thanks to XGIMI’s new X-Master Red Ring Lens, the most advanced optical system the brand has ever created. The HORIZON 20 Max stands out as the brand’s brightest consumer projector to date, boasting an impressive 5700 ISO lumens.
In addition to exceptional visuals, all models in the HORIZON 20 series support Dolby Vision, HDR10+, Filmmaker Mode, IMAX Enhanced, and DTS:X to deliver an authentic cinematic experience. They also cater to gamers and creators with a 1ms input lag, 240Hz refresh rates, and native Netflix compatibility. Harman/Kardon-tuned speakers provide rich, balanced sound with remarkable clarity.
Why Choose XGIMI?
Customers choose XGIMI for a superior, all-in-one smart projector experience that blends high-quality imagery with exceptional portability and ease of use. Their projectors, known for advanced intelligent screen adaptation (ISA) technology for auto-focus and obstacle avoidance, and crisp resolution up to true 4K, deliver cinematic viewing without complex setup.
XGIMI’s commitment to making big-screen entertainment accessible means customers get a powerful, sleek device perfect for home theaters, outdoor movie nights, or taking presentations on the go, often integrating a polished Android TV interface for immediate access to their favorite streaming services.
Availability and Pricing
The HORIZON 20 series projectors are competitively priced, starting at $1,699 for the HORIZON 20, $2,499 for the HORIZON 20 Pro, and $2,999 for the HORIZON 20 Max. For a limited time, XGIMI is offering up to $600 off during its open sales promotion on the full lineup.
Gourmia is giving busy households a reason to breathe a little easier at dinnertime. The Brooklyn-based kitchen appliance brand has launched its new 11-Quart Double Decker Dual-Basket Air Fryer with Smart Finish, available exclusively to Costco members for $99.99 in stores and online.
Designed for Real-World Family Chaos
Life gets hectic between school drop-offs, activities, and family gatherings. Gourmia’s latest air fryer is built to match that pace, making it easier to put hot, fresh, and healthy meals on the table without juggling oven racks or multiple pans. The unit’s Smart Finish technology automatically syncs the cook times of two different baskets so both foods, say, chicken in one and fries in the other, finish together.
Each of the two baskets comes with a removable rack, meaning up to four foods can cook simultaneously. That flexibility keeps dinner drama to a minimum. There’s no cross-flavor mingling and no arguing over who gets what.
Gourmia® is making mealtime faster and easier with its exclusive 11-Quart Double Decker Dual-Basket Air Fryer with Smart Finish, available only at Costco for healthy, perfectly timed family meals.
Compact Build, Family-Sized Capacity
With its stacked vertical design, the 11-quart air fryer saves counter space while offering plenty of room for full meals. Gourmia’s FryForce 360° Technology evenly circulates hot air for a crispy finish with little or no oil, making it a fit for those who like the texture of frying without the extra grease.
A simple LED touch display keeps operation straightforward, with eight one-touch presets for air fry, bake, roast, broil, dehydrate, reheat, keep warm, and proof. The baskets and crisper trays are non-stick, dishwasher safe, and free from PFAS, PFOA, PTFE, and lead, an important detail for health-conscious cooks.
Features at a Glance
Smart Finish Synchronization: Two baskets, two settings, one perfectly timed meal.
Cook More at Once: Removable racks double the cooking surface for up to four foods.
Sync Cook Function: Mirror settings across both baskets for full 11-quart capacity.
Compact but Capable: Vertical layout fits comfortably on small counters.
Easy Cleanup: Non-stick, dishwasher-safe parts with no chemical coatings.
Simple Controls: LED display and viewing windows for quick monitoring.
Hidden Storage: Foldaway control panel and built-in cord wrap keep things tidy.
Built for Busy Kitchens
“This is the time of year when life moves fast,” said Heshy Biegeleisen, founder of Gourmia. “We designed this air fryer to keep pace with real families. With Smart Finish, you can cook two foods at different times and temperatures, and they’ll finish together—so dinner hits the table hot, fresh, and perfectly timed.”
The design aims to strike a balance between performance and practicality, appealing to families that want healthy meals without sacrificing convenience or countertop space. From weeknight dinners to weekend snacks, the Double Decker Air Fryer brings restaurant-style results to home kitchens, minus the grease and wait time.
Last year, I reviewed the Xiaomi 14T Pro, and no doubt the phone impressed me a lot. Now, Xiaomi has introduced a successor, the Xiaomi 15T Pro. The company’s T-series devices are known for their performance and camera capabilities while offering the lowest price compared to premium flagships.
This time around, Xiaomi has completely turned the tables with its latest generation T-series smartphone, bringing notable design, camera, and battery upgrades. Perhaps most significantly, it now doesn’t come cheap, though. If you ask me why, the obvious reason is that Xiaomi’s latest T-series smartphone has inched closer to flagships than traditional mid-range phones.
Like last time, this time too, Xiaomi provided us with a 15T Pro review unit. It’s been almost two weeks since I started using the Xiaomi 15T Pro as my daily driver, and during my extensive testing period, the phone performed really well. The real question is, does it stand against some of its mid-range flagship rivals like the Google Pixel 10, OnePlus 13, and iQOO 13? Let’s find out.
With its Leica-tuned cameras, flagship-grade design, and all-day battery life, the Xiaomi 15T Pro delivers premium performance without the premium price tag.
Pros
The new design looks more premium than previous years
Fluid 144 Hz AMOLED display
Snappy performance
Amazing telephoto lens
Solid battery life
Cons
Some bloatware
No charger included in the box
Limited market availability
Price and Availability
The Xiaomi 15T Pro starts at €799/£649 for the base 12 GB + 256 GB variant, while the 12 GB + 512 GB model costs €899/£699. Plus, Xiaomi has also announced a 12 GB + 1 TB storage configuration as well, which will set you back €999/£799.
Though if you look at the price of the Xiaomi 15T Pro from a market perspective, the price does feel more expensive than some flagship rivals like the Samsung Galaxy S25, Pixel 10, or iPhone 17. This is something that definitely bothers buyers when considering Xiaomi’s 15T Pro phone.
Xiaomi 15T Pro Unboxing
Design and Build
Image source: Abhinav Fating
When I unboxed the Xiaomi 15T Pro, I was taken aback by its new, refreshing camera layout and overall design. Xiaomi ditched its individual protruding lens design from its predecessor and opted for a uniform squarish camera island, which looks much better than the last-generation model.
Are there any major changes in the overall design of the 15T Pro? The answer is yes. Dimension-wise, the device is now taller, slimmer, and wider than its predecessor. To be more exact, the smartphone measures 162.7 x 77.9 x 7.96 mm and weighs around 210 grams. By contrast, the 14T comes in at 8.4 mm thickness and weighs 209 grams. Despite boasting larger dimensions and a bigger battery capacity, the device isn’t any heavier and looks sleek and elegant. Specifically, if we look at the numbers, the phone weighs just one gram more than its predecessor. That almost makes no difference.
This time around, Xiaomi used a glass fiber back finished in a matte texture on the 15T Pro’s rear side, which offers a great in-hand feel. The 6M13 aluminum construction is quite sturdy, and the beveled edges ensure a comfortable fit for the palm. I liked the new squarish camera island design, which has chamfered edges and a metallic finish that looks quite good. Plus, the carved Leica branding present between the four lenses offers a premium flagship phone vibe.
All the buttons and ports on the device are positioned perfectly, and I didn’t face any problems, like hard-to-reach buttons. The device is IP68 rated for water and dust resistance, meaning it can easily withstand dust and water. Xiaomi also claims that the smartphone can survive up to 3 meters (up from 2 meters from the last generation model), which is good to see.
Like last year’s phone, there is nothing new in the box content. You get the same color-matching soft silicone case, a Type A-to-Type-C charging cable, and a pre-applied screen protector; that’s it. There’s no charger included in the 15T Pro retail package.
Xiaomi brings three color options to choose from, which include black, gray, and mocha gold. The one I’ve received for review is the gray variant, which does look good, but honestly, I really liked the mocha gold colorway. Well, the camera bump is larger; that further translates to a minor wobble on a flat surface, particularly in the top right corner.
Screen
The major upgrades reach the screen as well, which is good to see. The Xiaomi 15T Pro now features a larger display than before. It has a 6.83-inch AMOLED display (a step up from the 6.67-inch of the 14T Pro) that delivers a resolution of 2772 x 1280 with a whopping peak brightness of 3,200 nits. The phone feels very snappy and fluid in regular use, thanks to the 144 Hz refresh rate.
Upfront, there’s Corning Gorilla Glass 7i, protecting the panel from accidental scratches and falls. Speaking of panel quality, the 15T Pro has a very nice display, which offers sharp, vivid, and bright colors. Xiaomi has also packed a wide range of eye features into the phone, including DC dimming, TUV Rheinland certification for low blue light, flicker-free, and circadian-friendly credentials.
The display of the smartphone is pretty bright, and I didn’t have any problems using the phone under direct sunlight. This makes it one of the brightest phones I’ve ever tested. Unlike the base variant with ultrasonic, it comes with an in-display optical fingerprint sensor. Although this still gets the job done.
Performance
The performance department is now more powerful than before. The 15T Pro is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 9400+ chipset, and honestly, in real life, the device offers flawless performance. No matter what tasks you throw at it, whether it’s streaming, browsing, scrolling social media, or gaming, the 15T Pro handles everything. Speaking of my experience, I used the smartphone for two weeks and I didn’t notice any slowdowns.
Xiaomi has offered up to 12 GB of LPDDR5X RAM and up to 1 TB of UFS 4.1 storage. Additionally, you get all the latest connectivity with the Xiaomi 15T Pro, including Bluetooth 6.0, cutting-edge WiFi 7, NFC, and 5G. The review unit I received features 12 GB of RAM and 1 TB of internal storage.
Speaking of benchmarks, MediaTek’s Dimensity 9400+ managed to impress me on the Geekbench 6 and 3DMark stress tests, where the device achieved scores of 2474 in single-core and 7480 in multi-core tests. On the other hand, it also performed quite well in 3DMark stress tests by scoring 3345 in 3DMark Wildlife Extreme, 5559 points in 3DMark Solar Bay, and 20 fps in the 3DMark Wildlife test. The CPU score is quite good compared to last year’s Dimensity 9300+-equipped Xiaomi 14T Pro. However, the processor isn’t quite there in terms of raw performance.
Coming to the gaming performance, I played some of the popular mobile titles such as Genshin Impact, BGMI, and COD Warzone. During gameplay, I didn’t notice any lags or frame drops on high-graphics settings. The smartphone does get warm during my one-and-a-half-hour gaming session. However, it doesn’t get as hot as its last-generation model.
Image source: Abhinav Fating
Xiaomi has incorporated a bigger 5,500 mAh battery into the Xiaomi 15T Pro, a step up from the 5,000 mAh of the 14T Pro. With heavy use, mostly gaming, streaming, scrolling, and taking videos and photos, the phone easily offered me a day-long battery life (10 hours and 37 minutes) without any issues whatsoever, and in casual use, it lasted around 18 hours and 25 minutes on a single charge. That’s impressive.
In terms of charging, Xiaomi has slightly downgraded the charging power compared to the 14T Pro, which features 120 W wired charging. As far as the charging speed is concerned, the 15T Pro supports 90 W wired HyperCharge and 50 W wireless HyperCharge charging. Still, it’s faster than the latest iPhone 17 series and Galaxy S25 series. It took just over 45 minutes to fully charge the device and only 21 minutes to hit the 0 to 50% mark. The only quibble is that there’s no charger in the box and you have to purchase it separately. Although it’s not the first time, Xiaomi also did the same with the last-generation model too.
Camera Performance
Image source: Abhinav Fating
Like its predecessor, the Xiaomi 15T Pro also has a Leica-tuned triple rear camera setup. The primary camera is 50 MP, complemented by a 12 MP ultrawide and a 50 MP periscope telephoto lens with 5x optical zoom and 100x digital zoom. This time around, there are a few upgrades in the camera hardware. The main camera now comes with a large 1/1.31” sensor with OIS and PDAF support. The periscope lens boasts an equivalent length of 115 mm, and the aperture is f/3.0. Upfront, you get the same 32 MP Samsung KD1 sensor as last time.
The main camera captures really good pictures in daylight and low-light conditions, offering a great level of detail, a wide dynamic range, and good contrast. Enough talking; let’s take a look at some samples. You can clearly see the magic of Leica’s color science in the samples. Colors look accurate, balanced, and quite natural. I really liked the processing in the 15T Pro. The low-light performance of the smartphone is better than before. It does a good job in low-light conditions, delivering great shots with maximum detail without over-brightening an image.
However, the ultra-wide camera disappoints me a lot in terms of quality. To be more exact, it captures less detail and has an average dynamic range, and things go south in low light. Although you do get decent usable shots, that’s it. I hope that Xiaomi will improve this in their next iteration.
The addition of the new 5x telephoto is a game changer—it’s the first periscope used in a T-series. During my testing, I found the quality to be simply phenomenal; the images look realistic, sharp, and accurate with the main camera. The telephoto lens offers detailed images up to 5x, good images up to 30x, and usable images up to 60x, but after that, once you reach 100x, you see the major shift in quality—details get lost, and all you get is blurry output.
Like its predecessor, the 15T Pro allows you to record video at a maximum resolution of up to 8k 30 fps. Xiaomi has also added 4k 120 frames per second for slow-mo shots. No doubt, the video quality is really nice in daylight, although it does struggle a little bit, especially in low light.
Xiaomi 15T Pro video samples
The OIS/EIS works really well for image stabilization on both the main and telephoto lenses. The selfie camera is also good and offers nice, crisp, and detailed selfies with good skin tones.
Software
Image Source: Abhinav Fating
The Xiaomi 15T Pro boots HyperOS 2.0 based on Android 15 out of the box. The company has promised four major OS upgrades and six years of security patches, which is fine, but at this price point, Xiaomi must at least provide support for six major OS updates. Even Samsung’s mid-range A-series devices ship with a six-year software update policy, and the Pixel 9a sits at seven years.
Speaking of software experience, the OS looks good, feels snappier and super smooth, and it offers tons of customization options. However, the one thing that doesn’t change is the bloatware. You do get some amount of bloatware here. Though it’s removable, which is good. Xiaomi also offers a wide range of AI tools, including AI writing, AI editing, AI eraser, AI translation, and real-time AI interpreter mode.
Should you buy the Xiaomi 15T Pro smartphone?
Buy it if…
You want a smartphone with large display
You like Leica-tuned camera phones
You want a smartphone with great all-round specs
You want a smartphone with good battery life
Don’t buy it if…
You’re looking for an flagship camera smartphone
You want a clean UI experience with long-term software support
Final Thoughts
Image source: Abhinav Fating
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.
Overall, Xiaomi did a phenomenal job with its latest, the 15T Pro. I really liked the new design, solid camera system, bigger display, long-lasting battery life, and fantastic performance of the 15T Pro. So far, the device ticks almost all the important boxes, making it a great option for those who want a solid camera phone without breaking the bank.
The only quibble is the software. If you are looking for an clean UI experience with longer software support, you may want to consider the Pixel 10, the OnePlus 13, or the Samsung Galaxy S25.
Just in time for the holiday shopping season, CRKD, the premium collectible gaming brand, made a surprise announcement today, unveiling a high-end treat for the rhythm gaming community.
The company has officially introduced the Gibson Les Paul Cherry Sunburst Pro Collector’s Edition Bundle, an exclusive product now available for pre-order.
The announcement was made as part of the ongoing IGN Fan Fest, with pre-orders kicking off immediately. The bundle is positioned as a must-have item for enthusiasts looking to elevate their rhythm gaming experience with a premium, collectible piece of gear.
Key Features and Compatibility
The all-new special edition bundle includes a multi-platform Guitar Controller, compatible with PC, PC handhelds, Nintendo Switch 1 | 2, and Android devices, including smart TVs, tablets, and mobile.
The new Guitar Controller is a faithful reproduction based on the famous Gibson Les Paul Cherry Sunburst guitar and is expected to ship in December 2025 in time for the holiday season.
This is the latest release resulting from the landmark collaboration between CRKD and Gibson, the world’s most iconic guitar brand.
For the team at CRKD, their community is everything, and when polled about special edition Guitar Controllers they wished to see made real, the Gibson Les Paul Cherry Sunburst came out on top.
The Gibson Les Paul Cherry Sunburst is designed and engineered by many of the original RedOctane team behind the legendary Guitar Hero games and controllers.
Unboxing the Collector’s Edition
It’s new bundle includes the stunning new Gibson Les Paul Cherry Sunburst Guitar Controller, with a host of quality collectibles and enhancements, essential for the discerning rhythm music gamer.
Also included is the Gibson Les Paul Cherry Sunburst Guitar Controller, sporting a premium high-gloss lacquered Cherry Sunburst finish with a pickguard seamlessly integrated into the artwork itself, delivering the unmistakable authentic Gibson Les Paul aesthetic.
On the reverse, a stainless-steel Gibson x CRKD Les Paul Collector’s Edition medallion, is laser-engraved and securely fastened, paired with the legendary Gibson Les Paul model signature on the included fret neck headstocks, cementing its status as a true collector’s piece.
Enhanced Customization
The Guitar Controller features both a Brown Signature Gibson Les Paul OG Pro Fret Neck and a Brown Signature Gibson Les Paul Solo Pro Fret Neck, offering gamers multiple ways to play and customize their performance to their preference.
In addition, the bundle also includes a Gibson x CRKD custom shoulder strap with off-white fabric and co-branded brown leather ends, two exclusive collector pins, a wireless dongle, a classic sticker sheet, an 8.5ft USB-C charging cable, and a rechargeable battery!
All these stunning collectibles are housed within a custom-made CRKD x Gibson Guitar Controller Backpack, created specifically for CRKD Guitar Controllers, and featuring dedicated compartments for two fret necks, a secure body compartment, and additional storage. Together, these elements form the ultimate collector’s package for rhythm gamers and Gibson fans alike.
Who’s It For?
The Gibson Les Paul Cherry Sunburst Pro Collector’s Edition Guitar Controller is designed for modern gamers while honoring its musical heritage. It features a Hall Effect strum bar with haptic feedback for speed and durability, mechanical fret buttons for accuracy, and a Hall Effect Whammy Bar with RGB lighting for immersion. It ensures consistent performance for long gaming sessions.
The Guitar Controller features Legacy Mode for classic Guitar Hero and Rock Band titles on older PlayStation consoles. It also includes CRKD’s unique KEYJAM Mode (Mode 9), which maps the controller as a keyboard and mouse, greatly expanding compatibility to allow playing Fortnite Festival across various platforms like Xbox and PlayStation.
Versatile Connectivity, Seamless Customization
This Gibson Les Paul Cherry Sunburst Pro Collector’s Edition Guitar Controller offers versatile connectivity (wired, 2.4GHz wireless, Bluetooth) and a unique navigation hub with analog sticks and a headstock D-pad for easy menu control. It also features a platform switch and mode dial for seamless adjustments.
The CRKD App allows players to extensively customize their CRKD device, including remapping buttons, adjusting sensitivity, controlling RGB lighting, and managing tilt settings. It also enables product registration for collection tracking and rarity ranking within the True Collection System.
Availability and Price
The Gibson Les Paul Cherry Sunburst Pro Collector’s Edition Bundle is available for pre-order now on CRKD official website, retailing for $199.99 USD. Orders are expected to begin shipping in December 2025.
Muse, the company renowned for its brain-sensing headbands, is launching the next major evolution of its sleep technology: Muse S Athena. The new platform, rolling out in phases from this month through early 2026, aims to move beyond simple sleep tracking to offer a complete “sleep ecosystem,” empowering users to “design their sleep” for optimal health and performance.
Muse S Athena is positioned as a comprehensive solution that supports the entire 24-hour cycle, integrating features designed to impact a user’s daytime well-being, nighttime sleep depth, and morning clarity.
Athena’s Viral Success and Digital Sleeping Pills
Launched earlier this year, the Athena has already reached viral status as world’s first consumer wearable to combine both EEG and fNIRS advanced brain-sensing technology, selling out -thanks to high demand. This is Muse’s best-selling product with fans ranging from everyday sleepers to top researchers.
Athena helps people fall asleep with responsive audio experiences that quiet a busy mind and cue the brain to rest. These guided soundscapes, known as Digital Sleeping Pills, have quickly become a favorite feature for thousands of users, easing bedtime stress and gently guiding them back to sleep if they wake during the night.
Advanced Features: AI Coaching, Deep Sleep Stimulation, and Smart Alarms
Now, Muse goes beyond falling asleep to support every stage of the cycle: Digital Sleeping Pills to ease you into rest, an AI Coach to guide healthier habits, Deep Sleep Stimulation to reinforce slow-wave sleep, and Smart Alarm & Smart Nap to help you wake restored and recharge midday.
Muse’s AI Coach, helps users understand and use brainwave data, which is new to most people. It simplifies complex brain and sleep signals into easy-to-understand insights and offers daily coaching to improve sleep habits, reduce stress, and enhance focus, maximizing the benefits of the headband.
The Deep Sleep Stimulation feature uses EEG sensors to analyze brainwaves and provide gentle pink noise cues during deep sleep. These cues support vital slow-wave sleep, essential for memory and brain health, and pause if disturbances are detected, ensuring restful sleep.
Additionally, the Smart Alarm and Smart Nap features adapt to your sleep cycle. The Smart Alarm gently wakes you during the lightest sleep phase to reduce grogginess, while the Smart Nap feature helps you recharge efficiently during short rest periods, promoting better focus and energy.
Experts’ Insights
“Nearly half of Muse S customers turn to us to better understand and improve their sleep, and our Digital Sleeping Pills feature has already helped thousands ease into better nights,” said Nadia Kumentas, Chief Marketing Officer.
He added that Muse is poised to continue the evolution from passive tracking to intelligent, full-cycle support—making sleep something users can actively shape, not just observe.
Powered by the Foundational Brain Model (FBM), a transformer-based AI trained on over a billion minutes of EEG, Muse can interpret brain signals with clinical-grade accuracy, even in real-world, at-home environments.
The FBM learns the “language” of neural activity and drives Muse’s adaptive system, where the device senses, reasons, and responds to deliver interventions that help users sleep deeper and wake clearer. All of this is enabled by Athena’s multi-sensor design, which integrates EEG and fNIRS to capture brain activity with research-level precision.
“Your brain is already working to protect your health while you sleep. With AI, we can finally listen and take action,” said Jean-Michel Fournier, Chief Executive Officer.
Feature Rollout
The premium AI Coach will be available in November 2025
Deep Sleep Stimulation feature will be available in December 2025
The premium Smart Alarm & Smart Nap will be available during the early parts of 2026
Availability and Price
Muse S Athena is available today for $475 on Muse’s official website. The phased rollout, beginning this month and continuing into early 2026, suggests a significant overhaul of the platform, bringing a new level of AI-driven personalization to the world of sleep health.
