May sure has been one super-busy month for tech, with multiple launches left and right – while we got some big news from Google a week ago, the spotlight was more recently focused on Microsoft’s new Surface devices, as well as AI-powered Copilot+ software. We also got some new hardware from POCO, and even trekked to Japan to see the new Lumix S9 camera – feast on the latest headlines below!
CHECKOUT: Weekly Tech Roundup: AI at I/O, a New Xperia Flagship, and Android 15!
The Lumix S9 is Here!
We recently had the opportunity to join Panasonic in Japan for the launch of the Lumix S9, a new mirrorless camera designed for content creators. Available in several colours including Jet Black, Crimson Red, Dark Olive, and Classical Blue, the LUMIX S9 is equipped with a 24.2-megapixel full-frame sensor, a REAL TIME LUT function, and support for the new LUMIX Lab app which allows users to create their own unique LUTs on their smartphone, allowing for a more streamlined editing process. It’s available starting in June 2024 for £1499.99.
Microsoft’s Latest Surface Computers Make their Debut
Microsoft recently took centre stage to unveil a new breed of portable computing devices, which it markets as “Copilot+ PCs.” According to Microsoft, they differ from more “traditional” computers thanks to the inclusion of built-in AI via Microsoft Copilot+ and new Arm chips from Qualcomm, the Snapdragon X series. The company also launched two new devices: the Surface Laptop 7, available with a 13.8-inch or 15-inch display and powered by Qualcomm Snapdragon X Plus/Elite processors, and the Surface Pro 11, a tablet with a 13-inch display and Qualcomm’ newest chips inside.
POCO’s First-ever Tablet
Another new launch this week was the POCO Pad, the first-ever tablet device from Xiaomi’s POCO sub-brand. While it retails for much less than most competing midrange tablets, it features some impressive hardware inside. The POCO Pad features a large 12.1-inch LCD display with a 16:10 aspect ratio and a 2.5K resolution with a 120Hz refresh rate, a Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 alongside 8GB of RAM and 256GB of internal storage, and a large 10,000 mAh battery, which features up to 33W fast charging support.
The Switch Outsells the DS in Japan
In gaming news, the Nintendo Switch recently surpassed the lifetime sales of the Nintendo DS in Japan, with new information stating that that the Switch has now shipped a total of 32,903,701 units, finally beating the DS’ 32,864,129 count. On its seventh year on the market, the Switch is soon expected to be succeeded by a new system, although Nintendo hasn’t been clear when exactly it will launch the console.
Humane Inc for Sale?
Following a lacklustre product launch which saw unflattering critical reception, it’s now reported that the owners behind the Humane AI Pin are now looking to sell the company’s business, estimated to be around $750 million and $1 billion. Initially advertised as a new and innovative approach to AI, the Humane AI Pin launched to mixed reviews, with most critics citing issues with general performance, overheating, and poor battery life.
