Roku is giving away a 65-inch 4K UHD Hisense TV, but there's a catch


If you need a streaming media box, Roku is an excellent choice. Even if your television is a "smart" variant, it is still wise to add a Roku media box to it. Why? Despite redundant functionality, the apps built into smart TVs are often terrible. Look, you want to enjoy yourself while watching videos or listening to music, right? There is no time to fiddle around with a deficient experience. Not to mention, a Roku box is extremely affordable -- you will be glad you bought it.
But what if you don't already have a television? In that case, you should consider a Roku TV -- a television set with a Roku built in. In other words, it is a smart TV that is actually, you know, smart. Can't afford a new television? No worries -- Roku is giving one away. And no, the prize is not a third-rate TV with lesser specs. Actually, it is a 65-inch 4K model from Hisense.
HUAWEI officially unveils elegant P30 Series of Android smartphones


As Apple's hardware business begins to show signs of decline, HUAWEI keeps pushing forward and succeeding. In many ways, HUAWEI has surpassed Apple in the design department. The latest iPhone smartphones are boring and ugly due to huge notches, while HUAWEI's Android offerings are exciting, fresh, and elegant. Apple has long been seen as the king of mobile photography, but HUAWEI is making huge strides here too, with superb cameras. Even on the laptop front, HUAWEI's offerings are besting Apple's much-maligned MacBook Pro (2016-2018).
Today, after several leaks, Huawei officially unveils its P30 Series of Android smartphones. There are two models from which to choose -- the P30 and the P30 Pro. The former features a 6.1-inch display, while the latter has a 6.47-inch screen. Both models have a 2340 x 1080 resolution and a very small notch (take notes, Apple). They both also share the same octa-core Kirin 980 processor -- RAM and storage will vary based on configuration. And yes, the cameras on both models should be great, but the Pro model in particular will provide an advanced photography experience.
Zyxel launches adorable Multy U AC2100 Tri-Band Mesh Wi-Fi System


While Zyxel may not be a household name for the average consumer, the company has been making quality networking gear for many years. I have picked up several of its products in my time, and have always been satisfied.
Today, Zyxel launches a new networking product for home consumers. Called "Multy U", it is a very stylish 802.11ac (Wi-Fi 5) mesh Wi-Fi system. While all the specifications are respectable, it is the cute design that really makes it stand out. Seriously, folks, it is super adorable! You can hang each access point on the wall with a lanyard, for instance, plus it features a beautiful pulsating LED light (which you can turn off).
Apple TV+ and Apple News+ are likely flops, but Apple Arcade gaming service could be a winner


Apple has done very well financially under Tim Cook, but the company's hardware is starting to lose its luster. iPhone sales are down, and the Mac line continues to be a confused mess -- "Flexgate" and an unreliable keyboard plague the once great MacBook Pro. We still don't have the promised new Mac Pro, and AirPower is missing in action too. While Apple Watch and AirPods are successful, I still hate them both -- the former has a terrible user interface, while the latter can hurt some users' ears (including mine). Quite frankly, I suspect most folks simply use Airpods and Watch as status symbols and for fashion -- their staying power may be limited.
So now, Apple is trying to pivot to services, and that's a very good idea. The problem? Its News+ service is lacking key news sources, such as The New York Times, for instance. Apple TV+ is a Netflix-like video service with exclusive Apple original content, which, let’s be honest, will probably be lame. Ultimately, I don't envision News+ or TV+ being successful. Thankfully, Tim Cook and company seemingly got one thing right today, Apple Arcade -- an upcoming video game subscription service for iOS, macOS, and Apple TV which will offer access to more than 100 premium games.
HyperX launches QuadCast Microphone for streamers, podcasters, and gamers


Content creation is huge these days, with everyone wanting to be the next big internet star. Not only are people doing podcasts, internet radio shows, and YouTube videos, but they are streaming themselves playing games too, on platforms like Twitch.
If you want to stand out from all of the other creators flooding the web, you should obviously create enjoyable content and offer a unique personality. Talent isn't everything, however, as the technical aspect is important too. For instance, people want clear video -- nothing dark or grainy. Arguably more important is audio -- no one wants to struggle to hear your voice. Today, HyperX launches a new product that should enhance your audio experience -- the premium QuadCast Microphone.
Google Street View takes you to Devon Island, which isn't on Mars


Ever hear of Devon Island? Yeah, neither have I. Apparently, it is an island in Canada that is referred to as "Mars on Earth" by some, including Google. Why? Because of its similar terrain/environment to the "red planet."
You see, the search giant seems very excited about bringing its popular Google Street view to this location. Truth be told, at first, I thought Google actually had miraculously brought Street View to the actual planet of Mars (silly me), but upon further investigation, my excitement was quickly extinguished when I discovered it was just a place here on Earth. But OK, I guess it's still kind of cool.
TP-Link adds four new 802.11ac (Wi-Fi 5) routers to its affordable Archer A Series line


If you have a lot of disposable income, and you are a technology enthusiast, then buying a $600 router, such as the upcoming drool-worthy NETGEAR Nighthawk RAX200 isn't so crazy. Look, there's nothing wrong with being an early adopter -- spend your money as you want! Many consumers, however, simply can't afford such high-end networking gear -- even if they want the latest and greatest.
Thankfully, a quality wireless router doesn't have to cost more than $500. Hell, you can get a very nice router for less than $100! One company in particular that focuses on the common consumer -- the "every man," if you will -- is TP-Link. Its routers are very well regarded by both professional reviewers and shoppers alike. It's not hard to see why that is either -- not only are its products affordable, but high-quality too. I often recommend TP-Link products to friends and family.
Omnicharge Omnimobile high-powered USB-C power bank [Review]


I crave juice. No, not apple, orange, or any other fruit drink -- I am addicted to electricity. Look, we are all hopelessly dependent on our mobile devices these days. Between laptops, smartphones, and tablets, there is hardly a moment in the day when I'm not staring at a screen. Even when I am watching TV (yet another display), I have my iPad in hand for a second screen experience -- I play a lot of Words With Friends while watching The Big Bang Theory reruns.
All of this heavy device usage at home is fine, because there are many power outlets available when batteries get low. When I am on the go, however, it is a very different story. All joking aside, I get anxiety if I'm out of the house and my iPhone battery dies. What if I get lost? What if I need to call 911? What if I need to snap a quick photograph? A nightmare! Thankfully, USB power packs/banks can solve this dilemma. If you aren't familiar, it is simply a battery with a USB port (or ports) that can charge your devices.
ZOTAC launches diminutive, yet powerful, MEK MINI gaming PC


Does size matter? Well, that depends on what we are talking about. Regarding computers, gaming variants used to be massive towers loaded up with several fans and a full-sized ATX motherboard. Nowadays, small is in fashion -- many system builders opt for Micro ATX or Mini-ITX boards. It can be fun to see how much performance can be crammed into a tiny system.
ZOTAC is a company that likes to focus on the diminutive, and today, it launches an all-new such gaming PC. Called "MEK MINI," it's not as small as some of its other computers, but this one is designed for playing games, so it needs to be larger to accommodate the higher-end components. The beautiful chassis features an easy-open side panel, allowing you to more easily access the internals. Despite the small size, the specs are actually quite impressive -- it has a six-core Intel i7-8700 and an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2070 8GB GDDR6 GPU. Windows 10 Home comes pre-installed -- not Pro, sadly. And yes, since this is a gaming product, it has RGB lighting.
Satechi releases a pair of elegant USB-C Power Delivery (PD) accessories


Satechi is a very popular accessory maker. While the company's offerings often focus on complementing Apple devices (such iPhone, iMac, iPad, and MacBook), they usually work fine with other devices too, such as ones that run Android or Windows, for example.
Today, the company releases two new USB-C accessories, both of which focus on power delivery. The more interesting of the pair is the Type-C Headphone Jack Adapter. As the name suggests, it converts USB-C to a 3.5mm headphone jack, but in addition, it allows pass-thru charging. In other words, if you only have one USB-C port, you can still charge your device despite listening to music with wired headphones. The other product, called "USB-C 100W Charging Cable," is (you guessed it) a cable. That charges. Yeah... Not super exciting, but the build quality looks exceptional, and the 2 meter wire can transfer data too.
Windows 7 nagging you to move to Windows 10? Upgrade to Linux instead with Zorin OS 15 Beta!


Well, folks, it's happening -- Windows 7 will soon be unsupported. Yes, the last Microsoft operating system to truly be loved by users will soon be dead. Microsoft would love for these users to switch to Windows 10, but understandably, not everyone wants to. After all, the user interface is a mess, and there are spying concerns with overly aggressive telemetry.
If you are still on Windows 7, Microsoft will soon begin warning you that support is ending. I actually don't hate Microsoft for nagging these users -- quite the opposite. The company informing users that the Windows 7 operating system will soon be dangerous to use should be celebrated. Thankfully, Windows 10 is not the only path -- Linux is a great option these days. In fact, one of my favorite distributions for Windows switchers, Zorin OS, has a new Beta out today. You should definitely give it a go.
NETGEAR announces Nighthawk RAX200 AX12 AX11000 Tri-Band Wi-Fi 6 Router


Back in November 2018, we shared with you that NETGEAR was planning to sell some premium Wi-Fi 6 routers. This was very exciting, as the addition of this bleeding-edge technology signaled that 802.11ax had truly arrived. Many die-hard NETGEAR fans were waiting for the Nighthawk line in particular to become equipped with this new standard.
Now, NETGEAR announces yet another Wi-Fi 6 router, and this one looks incredible too. Called "Nighthawk RAX200," it retains the same stingray design of the previously announced RAX120, which I find to be quite attractive. It even has one of my favorite security features for a router -- automatic firmware updates. In other words, NETGEAR will keep the RAX200 router up to date without any effort from the owner.
Philips launches beautiful E9 series of curved monitors


Philips monitors often provide an excellent value -- great "bang for your buck," as they say. The company's displays typically provide superb visual quality, while also offering good features, and attractive designs.
Today, the company launches a trio new monitors as part of its "E9 series." All three displays are curved with slim bezels, which is great, but two of them (the 27-inch 278E9QJAB and the 32-inch 328E9QJAB) are only 1080p. That resolution is passable for a 22-inch or 24-inch monitor, for example, but 27-inch and higher? Not ideal. Look, for gaming or watching movies, 1080p might be OK with those screen sizes, but text may be too blurry for general computer use. Thankfully, the 32-inch 328E9FJAB offers a much better 2560 x 1440 resolution -- that is the model you want to focus on, y'all.
Micron unveils 2200 PCIe NVMe SSD


Last month, Micron released a solid state drive designed for consumers. Called "1300," it used the SATA interface, meaning it was slower than the much faster NVMe drives many enthusiasts crave these days. Offered in both 2.5 inch and M.2 form factors, it would make a good drop-in for consumers looking to upgrade.
Today, Micron unveils yet another SSD, but this time, it uses the speedy NVMe interface. The "2200," as it is called, will mostly be sold to computer manufacturers, but it could show up for direct retail for end-users too. It can be had in your choice of three capacities -- 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB. You can also opt for self-encrypting variants if that is important to you. And yes, it will work in NVMe enclosures, such as this excellent one from Plugable.
Plugable launches affordable, yet premium, HS53 Performance Onyx Gaming Headset


Plugable is a company that I respect very much. I have been buying its products for many years from Amazon. Historically, its offerings have been reliable, affordable, and extremely useful. Whether it be USB hubs, dongles, adapters, or docking stations, you can typically rely on receiving a quality product. I'm sure many computer nerds like myself have purchased a Plugable product at some point in their lifetime.
Today, Plugable announces a new product that falls outside its usual focus -- a gaming headset. Called "HS53 Performance Onyx Gaming Headset," the over-ear headset has a brushed aluminum frame and features a beautiful textured black design. Despite the use of memory foam for both the headband and sealed earcups, the company claims your ears and head should both remain cool -- not hot and sweaty.
Brian's Bio
After many years of writing for BetaNews, it’s time for me to say goodbye. It’s been an honor sharing tech news, opinions, and the occasional rant with you. But this isn’t the end — it’s a new beginning. You can now find me at NERDS.xyz, where I’ll continue covering the world of technology with the same passion and honesty you’ve come to expect. I hope you’ll join me there and be part of this next chapter.
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