Amazon CEO teases 'Beautiful' new Alexa hardware coming this fall

Amazon CEO Andy Jassy has revealed that a "brand new lineup of devices" is slated for release this fall, designed to complement the company's recently unveiled AI-upgraded Alexa. In a Bloomberg interview, Jassy described the upcoming hardware as "beautiful," hinting at a significant design focus. This announcement follows Amazon's unveiling of Alexa Plus, a more conversational and task-oriented version of its smart assistant, which will be compatible with most existing Echo devices.

The new hardware is expected to further emphasize display technology, a trend highlighted by Panos Panay, Amazon's head of devices and services. Panay expressed a strong belief in the importance of screens, a sentiment reflected in the recent launch of the 21-inch Echo Show. While specific details remain scarce, the company's strategic shift suggests a broader vision for AI-integrated devices.

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Razer, 'Minecraft' team up for blocky gaming peripherals

Photo: Razer, Mojang Studios

Razer partnered with Mojang Studios to launch an official Minecraft-themed collection of gaming peripherals. This collaboration brings together Razer's technology and the world of Minecraft, offering fans a unique and immersive gaming experience. The collection includes a range of devices, each designed to match the look of the blocky universe.

The Razer | Minecraft lineup features the BlackWidow V4 X keyboard, Kraken V4 X headset, Cobra mouse, and Gigantus V2 mouse mat, all sporting Minecraft-inspired designs and RGB lighting. Notably, purchasing any of these items unlocks exclusive in-game items, such as the Ender Dragon Shawl and Overgrown Arm.

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Samsung scheduled to launch Galaxy A phones on March 2

Photo: Samsung

Samsung officially announced its upcoming Galaxy A launch event, scheduled for March 2. While the company remains tight-lipped about specific models, speculation is rife that the event will unveil the highly anticipated Galaxy A56, A36, and A26 smartphones, based on recent leaks.

However, a teaser image from Samsung hints at only two devices being showcased, leaving room for a potential staggered release of the trio.

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Apple unveils iPhone 16e, ditching the SE moniker

Photo: Apple

Apple has officially announced the iPhone 16e, a new entry-level model joining the iPhone 16 family. Dropping the SE branding, the iPhone 16e aims to distance itself from perceptions of being a "lesser" device. It boasts several key features, including Apple Intelligence support, previously absent in the iPhone 14.  

The iPhone 16e sports a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display with Ceramic Shield, and Apple claims it has the "toughest back glass in a smartphone." It's powered by the A18 chip and features a 48MP "2-in-1 camera system"—though it's still a single lens setup capable of lossless 2x zoom. Apple also promises "the best battery life ever on a 6.1-inch iPhone," exceeding the iPhone 11 by six hours and all SE models by up to 12 hours. But that claim requires real-life testing.

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