Consumer Electronics
Ongoing coverage on Consumer Electronics.
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"As a consumer myself, I feel your pain" - in a rare pro-consumer move, PC cooler brand Arctic passes US tariff refunds back to its customers with a "dedicated sales promotion"
PC cooling brand Arctic is passing US tariff refunds back to its customers through a dedicated sales promotion. CEO Magnus Huber stated the promotion will continue until all refunded tariff money is returned to consumers, a move praised as rare and pro-consumer in the current market.
Assault and Batteries
Despite the high cost of home batteries, a survey indicates that 91% of owners would purchase one again. This suggests a high level of satisfaction and perceived value among consumers for home energy storage solutions, as reported by ZDNET.
PlayStation 5 sales have topped 95 million units worldwide
Sony's PlayStation 5 has surpassed 95 million units sold globally, though sales are beginning to slow as the console enters its sixth year. The company's Games & Network Services segment saw flat year-over-year sales due to decreased console hardware and third-party software sales, despite a rise in operating income attributed partly to tariff refunds.
The EU's Right to Repair directive kicks in today
The European Union's Right to Repair directive officially came into effect today, aiming to simplify the process of fixing broken consumer electronics. This new regulation is expected to make it easier for consumers to repair their devices in the future.
Should you avoid TP-Link routers? Here's what to know
This article examines potential issues with TP-Link routers, focusing on concerns related to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). It aims to provide consumers with information to make informed purchasing decisions regarding TP-Link products.
Expensive phone cases: When and why it's worth paying more
This article discusses the wide price range of phone cases and questions whether higher prices always equate to better quality. It explores the factors that contribute to the cost of phone cases and when it might be justifiable to spend more.
Morning Mobilization
Apple has retired its iPhone Upgrade Program, with new device financing now handled by Klarna. Separately, reports suggest Nothing is developing its first smartwatch, and an online museum dedicated to handheld electronic games has been launched.
There isn't a single consumer Wi-Fi router that is 100% American-made
The article discusses the lack of fully American-made consumer Wi-Fi routers, highlighting the complexities of modern manufacturing and supply chains. It suggests that achieving 100% domestic production for such devices is currently unfeasible.
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 8 vs. Motorola Razr Ultra: Which is the better buy?
This article compares the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 8 and the Motorola Razr Ultra, two prominent foldable smartphones. It aims to help consumers decide which device offers better value for their needs.
Everything announced at Samsung Unpacked 2026: Check out the company's latest Galaxy foldables and watches
Samsung announced its latest Galaxy foldables and watches at the Samsung Unpacked 2026 event. The new devices are noted to be thinner, with wider foldable screens, and come with increased prices.
Apple (AAPL) to reportedly launch a device leasing program with Klarna
Apple is reportedly launching a new leasing program called Apple Upgrade in partnership with Klarna, aiming to launch on July 28th in the United States. This service will allow customers to lease devices such as iPhones, Macs, iPads, and Apple Watches over 24 or 36-month terms. The initiative comes as Apple recently implemented price increases on some of its products.
OnePlus is officially leaving the US and Europe
OnePlus has officially announced its withdrawal from the US and European markets. This decision follows the earlier cancellation of the company's second foldable device.
European Commission will not force smartwatches and other wearables to have replaceable batteries
The European Commission will not mandate replaceable batteries for smartwatches and other wearables. While a 2023 regulation requires many electronics to have replaceable batteries by 2027, this specific category has been exempted.
After just four years, Valve is seemingly discontinuing Steam Deck LCD parts, and the repair enthusiast in me is upset
Valve appears to be discontinuing parts for the four-year-old Steam Deck LCD model, with iFixit indicating they will likely stop stocking OEM batteries. While Valve has not officially announced this decision, the move could leave owners struggling to find replacement components. This potential discontinuation raises concerns about the long-term repairability of the original Steam Deck model.
I just discovered that Nintendo sells replacement parts for its Talking Flower toy, should you ever throw him in a fit…
Nintendo is selling replacement parts for its "Talking Flower" toy on its online store for $4.99 each. The available parts include a replacement Pot Cover and a Battery Cover, offering a consumer-friendly option for maintaining the toy.
OpenAI's first device will reportedly be a 'humanlike' rechargeable speaker
OpenAI is reportedly developing its first AI-powered device, envisioned as a rechargeable speaker designed to be a physical manifestation of ChatGPT. The company aims for the device to offer a 'humanlike' interaction experience.
Nintendo Exploring A Switch 2 OLED, But Is Worried About Price – Report
Nintendo is reportedly considering a 1080p OLED model for the Nintendo Switch 2, potentially launching in 2028. However, the company is concerned about the premium price such an upgrade would command in the current market. Samsung Display is mentioned as a potential supplier for the OLED panels.
Why Xiaomi phones aren't banned, but are rarely sold in the US
Despite being permitted to sell its phones in the United States, Chinese company Xiaomi has a minimal presence in the US market. This analysis explores the reasons behind Xiaomi's limited sales and market penetration in the US.
Roku is the most popular streaming TV, but lacking more than you think
Roku holds the top position in the streaming TV market, but its devices are falling behind competitors in key areas. The article suggests that while Roku is popular, it lacks features found in rival streaming solutions.
Official renders for Samsung's Galaxy Z Flip 8, Watch 9, Watch 2 Ultra and Z Fold 8 leak
Official renders for several upcoming Samsung devices, including the Galaxy Z Flip 8, Galaxy Watch 9, Galaxy Watch 2 Ultra, and Galaxy Z Fold 8, have been leaked. These leaks appear just weeks before Samsung's next Unpacked event.