Justin Kahn

Today we’re taking an early look at the new PowerA Mario Holiday Sweater Edition controller for Nintendo Switch. While the 2021 holiday season is still a few months out, PowerA has now unleashed its first Christmas offering well ahead of the holiday rush so folks most interested can lock-in pre-orders now and ensure there’s one ready to go under the tree. The new Mario Holiday Sweater controller features a sort of 8-bit looking knit pattern, although it does appear to have a trimmed-down feature set by comparison to the PowerA Enhanced Wired Controllers we feature on a regular basis. Head below for a closer look and pre-order details. 

Today, we’re taking a look at the brand-new Samsung microSD card lineup. In fact, the brand is unveiling the new PRO Plus and EVO Plus microSD and SD cards today, specifically designed for “professional and enthusiast photographers, videographers, and content creators.” According to Samsung, the new lineup sports faster speeds, enhanced reliability, and are built to last with a focus on durability and protection from the elements. Read on for a closer look at the Blue Wave Samsung microSD card lineup. 

Nintendo Switch Online Game Boy titles are reportedly on the way. Nintendo’s online service is already filled with titles from its classic game systems, but judging by a series of reports this week, including various independent sources close to the matter, Nintendo might very well be announcing the inclusion of Game Boy and Game Boy Color titles as early as this month. Head below for more details. 

Remember Big Brain Academy for Nintendo DS? Well, a new version is now coming to Nintendo Switch. Taking to its Twitter feed and official YouTube channel this morning, Nintendo has now unveiled the new Big Brain Academy: Brain vs. Brain — it’s new brain-teasing puzzler party game for Switch. This one continues Nintendo’s support of more casual, family-oriented games on its flagship platform with a Mario Party-like experience that is specifically tailored toward brain teasers, puzzlers, and other challenges to get you thinking, just without the colorful Mushroom Kingdom characters. Head below for a closer look and the Big Brain Academy announcement trailer. 

It looks like PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X Cyberpunk 2077 upgrades alongside the promised next-generation Witcher 3: Wild Hunt are still on pace to land in 2021. As per a recent CD Projekt financial report, the Polish-based game developer is still targeting a late 2021 release date for the proper next-generation versions of its two flagship titles. We already knew both upgrades were slated to launch this year, but with all of the delays hitting the industry still, it was becoming harder to believe CDPR could make it happen. However, it, at least, sounds as though both upgrades will hit before the year is out. More details are below. 

The new Twelve South StayGo mini is here. The latest USB-C hub from Twelve South is a smaller, more compact version of the original StayGo hub geared toward iPad and MacBook users with a trimmed-down I/O section “that fits anywhere, whether traveling, going from home to office or heading to and from class,” with a lighter price tag to match. Head below for a closer look and more details. 

After Sony announced third-party SSD support and reports of a new PS5 SKU on the way, we now have new details on the not-so upgraded PlayStation 5. After the new SKU was spotted in Australia and elsewhere, select folks have now got their hands on the new PlayStation 5 model to tear the thing up and find out what’s really going inside. A few minor changes were made to the stand base and the like, but it was the drop in overall weight most gamers were interested in. We now know how Sony managed to bring the heft down, but it might not be the upgrade you were hoping for. 

A new PUMA Nintendo collaboration has now been unveiled. PUMA has had a Nintendo license secured for a while now – we saw some Super Mario Sunshine and Galaxy shoes previously – but this time around, the sprinting and lifestyle brand is tapping into Nintendo’s super-popular island life simulator for its latest crossover collection. After Puma and Nintendo teased the new collaboration yesterday saying, “Something new is on the horizon,” images and details of the collection have now surfaced. Check everything out down below the fold. 

Today, we are taking a look at the brand new official Numskull Halo Infinite merchandise line. After its Gamescom 2021 showcase, Microsoft unleashed the release date for its highly-anticipated shooter alongside a special edition Xbox Series X and Elite Series 2 controller, but now, it’s time for the official merchandise line from Numskull. In celebration of the franchises’ 20th anniversary, the brand is launching some official Halo Infinite merchandise, including a snapback, ceramic mug, and a CosCup depicting Master Chief. Head below for more details and pre-order information. 

It looks like the official Halo Infinite release date has surfaced. After Microsoft’s Gamescom main event came and went yesterday without even a mention of Halo Infinite, folks have now spotted some Microsoft store listings suggesting the game will release in early December. An official announcement is expected later today during its Gamescom Opening Night live event. Head below for more details. 

Microsoft is set to host its Xbox Gamescom showcase today. Scheduled for 1 p.m. ET, everything is kicking off right now as part of the virtual part of this year’s show. While we aren’t really expecting any world premieres and the like, it does sound like we are getting near an hour and a half of updates on games you’ll be playing come holiday season or sooner, as well as details on Xbox Game Pass and more. Head below to watch today’s Xbox Gamescom showcase. 

After details regarding a new PlayStation 5 model were spotted in an official Japanese manual last month, it looks like the new SKU is real and has officially landed in Australia. The thus far quite quiet rollout of the new PlayStation 5 model is reportedly already starting both overseas and stateside with a few of the updated features mentioned in our report last month alongside a new clamp and more. Head below for all of the details. 

It’s time to take a look at the new KRK headphones. KRK Systems — a leader in professional audio gear and studio monitors — is introducing its next-generation KNS headphones with the latest 6402 and 8402 models. Geared towards casual listening, as well as at-home producers and content creators, the new KRK headphones tap into the company’s expertise in professional-quality engineering with a classic recording studio look. Head below for more details on the new KRK KNS headphones. 

Bethesda has announced that it is releasing another version of Elder Scrolls V with the Skyrim 10th Anniversary Edition. In celebration of the iconic role-playing game’s 10th anniversary, the folks at Bethesda have decided to launch another version of its celebrated fantasy title known as The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim Anniversary Edition. This time around it will include all three of the game’s major DLC expansion packs alongside its November 2021 release date. Read on for more details. 

Microsoft has now unveiled its new entry-level wired Xbox Stereo Headset. Now up for pre-order and directly based on the wireless version that launched earlier this year, Microsoft is looking to offer up a more affordable option by way of a wired connection and only a slightly pulled-back feature set. Set for release at the tail end of next month, the new wired Xbox Stereo Headset is now available at $59.99, a full $40 under the price of the wireless set. Read on for more details. 

It’s time to dive into everything we learned in today’s Pokémon Presents showcase including new details on the upcoming RPG, Pokémon Legends Arceus. We already detailed all of the latest details regarding the iOS launch of Pokémon UNITE, but we also have some new gameplay details on the upcoming Pokémon Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl remakes and the mainline action-RPG Arceus title set for release in early 2022. Read on for all of the details. 

After taking a look at the earlier pine rosin and cork models, Grovemade is introducing the new medium plus Desk Pad today. These premium desk covers are designed with function and beauty in mind, and now’s there’s a new size to fit your setup just right. Engineered to provide folks with a gorgeous writing surface, they can also really tie your desk together and make for a nice place for your mouse and keyboard to rest. Head below for more details. 

Today, we are taking a look at the new Levoit VeSync Core 300S Smart True HEPA Air Purifier. Levoit  — “the #1 selling air purifier brand in the United States,” as per The NPD Group — is now introducing the latest addition to its lineup of popular home air purifier solutions with an upgraded version of its original best-selling Core 300. This time, it features enhanced smart home capabilities via the free VeSync app alongside voice command support and new automatic air quality monitoring. Head below for a closer look at the now available Levoit VeSync Core 300S Smart True HEPA Air Purifier. 

There is actually a hidden PlayStation 5 web browser, if you know where to look. While it certainly isn’t a full-on browsing experience with an editable URL bar, there are ways to access it if you know where to look. While most folks already have a phone, tablet, or laptop at the ready for this kind of thing, never mind some of the dedicated web apps like YouTube and Hulu, some might very well be interested in making use of this sort of PS5 browser workaround. Read on to find out where to access the PlayStation 5 web browser. 

It’s starting to look more and more like we are about to get an official remastered Grand Theft Auto Trilogy. Rumors have been bouncing around the internet for years regarding some kind of remaster project over at Rockstar Games, but it now appears as though sources close to the matter are suggesting we will see a remastered collection of the original PS2-era Grand Theft Auto games before the year is out, if not this fall. Head below for all of the details. 

It’s now time for the next Nintendo Indie World Showcase. Nintendo last checked in with its ongoing indie game showcases in April, but we are now in for another 20 minutes of games heading to Switch this year and beyond. This is a great way to get a look at some of the more interesting and unique titles heading to the Switch library over the course of this year, as well as offering up a chance to see some brand new, unannounced games. Head below to watch today’s 20-minute Nintendo Indie World Showcase. 

Retro Games — the company responsible for the TheC64 Commodore 64 Mini console — is at it again with its new THEA500 Amiga mini console. More specifically, the upcoming Retro Games THEA500 Mini is essentially “a fully licensed re-imagining of the much-loved 16-bit home computer,” featuring 25 classic Amiga games alongside the ability for users to “side-load” games via a USB stick. Head below for a closer look, more details, and the launch window. 

Twelve South has now unleashed its new PlugBug Slim – the latest iteration of its lauded wall charger in a particularly slimline form-factor. Featuring the brand’s usual minimalist approach with clean lines and light “12” branding, the thin PD wall outlet adapter sports USB-C connectivity, a fold-out plug, and can push 20-watts of juice to anything that can handle it. After going hands-on with the new Twelve South PlugBug Slim ahead of today’s official launch, we are now ready to give our impressions of the latest 20-watt PD adaptor. Head below for a closer look. 

You’re reading Tested with 9to5Toys, where we explore everyday tech essentials that make life a bit easier. Browse through our entire guide for all of the latest reviews, and sound off in the comments below if there’s something you’d like to see featured.

After recently going hands-on with the brand’s new felt MacBook and iPad sleeves, it’s time to take a look at the Oakywood Desk Shelf. The handmade wood and steel shelf is designed to sit atop your desk to raise up a pair of monitors or to add some additional organization space to your work area. After putting it to use for a couple weeks now, we are ready to weigh in as part of the latest Tested with 9to5Toys review. Head below for a closer look. 

An original copy of Super Mario Bros. has just sold for a whopping $2 million, according to reports. That completely destroys the previous record-holder — a sealed copy of Super Mario 64 that went for $1.56 million just last month — for the most a video game like this has ever sold for. Head below for more details.  

LifeProof is expanding its lineup of environmentally friendly Apple gear accessories with its new Eco-Friendly AirPods Case. Now available for Apple AirPods (first and second-generation) and AirPods Pro, it is made of 75% recycled materials and brings edge-to-edge protection to your AirPods case alongside a few other interesting features. Head below for a closer look at the new Qi-compatible LifeProof Eco-Friendly AirPods Case. 

Today, Pad & Quill is announcing a new limited run iPad Pro leather case. The new Aged Whiskey Oxford Case, for both the 11- and 12.9-inch iPad Pro models, features a special “luxury vegetable-tanned leather” and is now available for a limited time directly from Pad & Quill. Best of all, the handcrafted cases are also 15% off with the promo code you’ll find down below. Hit the jump for more details and a notable price drop. 

Heatworks — a US-based tech firm specializing in products that “preserve Earth’s precious resources” — is now taking pre-orders on its new Tetra countertop dishwasher. After turning heads when it was unveiled, the completely self-contained countertop dishwasher is now available for purchase with a special pre-order offer at $100 off the MSRP. Head below for details on the “world’s only fully self-contained” dishwasher. 

After seeing the new Electric Volt and Daystrike Camo editions hit back in March, Microsoft has now unveiled the new Aqua Shift Special Edition Wireless Xbox Controller. Just announced over o the official Xbox Twitter feed, the new Aqua Shift Special Edition features one of Microsoft’s most unique designs yet, not to mention some unique attributes you won’t find on the basic paint jobs we are used to seeing. Head below for a closer look and to lock in your pre-order. 

Today, we are taking a look at the new OtterBox MagSafe gaming clip. The accessory brand is expanding its latest lineup of gaming gear today with a new Xbox controller clip equipped with Apple’s magnetic technology to support mobile iPhone 12 gaming. Alongside compatibility with the entire stable of Microsoft Xbox controllers and OtterBox’s own Easy Grip Controller Shell, it includes the brand’s usual “limited lifetime warranty and hassle-free customer experience” as well as now being available for purchase at $39.95. Head below for more details and a closer look. 

A new Waze Halo update adds Master Chief voice navigation and more in celebration of the upcoming release on Xbox. While the launch date for the anticipated Halo Infinite is still under wraps, Microsoft and developer 343 Industries are starting the marketing campaign, it would appear, and the latest has Master Chief helping you get to that dinner date and back. Head below for more details on the new Waze Halo update. 

Let’s take a look at the new Tetris board game. I guess the only way to make one of the most classic video games even more retro is to turn it into a board game, and that’s exactly what publisher Buffalo Games and designer Phil Walker-Harding of Sushi Go Party fame did here. While there are a few new wrinkles, the Tetris Head-To-Head Multiplayer Strategy Game is essentially the board game version of the Tetris, almost exactly the way you remember it. Now available for purchase at $19.99, head below for more details on the new Tetris board game. 

In Bandai’s continued attempt to restore its pocket monster toy line, here’s the new R2-D2 Tamagotchi. Bandai has now teamed up with the folks at Disney to launch another official crossover version of its nostalgia-inducing virtual pet toy. Pre-orders start this week, with a launch expected closer to holiday season 2021. Head below for more details on the new R2-D2 Tamagotchi. 

You have to check out this new full-scale model of the orignal Pokémon bike from the first-generation titles. In celebration of reaching 1 million Twitter followers, The Pokémon Company has decided to produce a full-scale version of the famous bike gamers will remember from Pokémon Red and Blue. Head below for more details and a closer look at the new Pokémon bike re-creation. 

PlayStation 5 SSD access is kicking off today with the rollout of the PS5 software beta program. Alongside enhancements to the user interface, expanded 3D audio support, an upgraded Control Center interface, and more, users will can now access to M.2 SSD slot with third-party storage. Head below for a closer look at the PS5 software beta program and the PlayStation 5 SSD access. 

Sony has now unveiled the most recent PlayStation 5 sales numbers, and things are looking good — if you’re Sony and not some poor gamer that still can’t get one anyway. Sony has now revealed that PS5 continues to be its fastest-selling console in history despite sales numbers slowing over the last couple months and how difficult it even is to get one. As of July 18, 2021, Sony says it has now sold more than 10 million PlayStation 5 consoles, narrowly outpacing the PS4 predecessor by about a month. Read on for more details. 

Last month, we got our first quick look at the upcoming Simpsons arcade cabinet from the folks at Arcade1Up. And today, the brand has issued a new press release informing folks of pre-order information alongside even more details on the retro-style remake of the classic Simpsons machine. Players will take on the role of Homer, Marge, Bart, and Lisa this summer with pre-orders kicking off next month. Head below for more details and today’s first-look video.

A new Pokémon Netflix show is in the works, according to a new report from Variety. After a successful run with The Witcher and upcoming projects starring Sonic the Hedgehog and the Assassin’s Creed franchise, Netflix looks to be continuing its exploration of video game-based TV series via a partnership with Nintendo and The Pokémon Company. The show is apparently already in the works, and you can learn more down below. 

We have new details on the high-tech LG face mask that was initially unveiled last year. Known as the LG PuriCare Wearable Air Purifier, it packs in air filters and fans as well as voice amplification and more to provide users an arguably more effective solution than a typical paper and material-based face covering. The new LG PuriCare Wearable Air Purifier is scheduled to launch to the public starting next month, and you can get a closer look down below. 

You’re reading Tested with 9to5Toys, where we explore everyday tech essentials that make life a bit easier. Browse through our entire guide for all of the latest reviews, and sound off in the comments below if there’s something you’d like to see featured.

After featuring the new magnetic Cable Wrangler recently, it’s time to take a closer look at the Smartish MagSafe Gripmunk Case for iPhone 12. This new version of the Smartish classic carries the “super grippy” sides the brand’s previous-generation sheaths are known for as well as protective corners, an overall slim fit, and compatibility with Apple’s magnetic charging and accessory platform. Head below for our Smartish MagSafe Gripmunk Case review in the latest Tested with 9to5Toys feature. 

It looks like we could be getting a new PlayStation 5 soon. Less than a year from its initial debut in November 2020, reports and new details from the official PlayStation site are pointing at what appears to be a new model revision of the all-digital PlayStation 5 with some slightly different specs. Details regarding the new PlayStation 5 were spotted in official documentation found on the Japanese PlayStation site alongside what appear to be official overseas retailer listings. Read on for more details. 

We took a brief look at the basic leather options as Spigen’s initial offerings surfaced, but today we are diving into the new CYRILL clear and glitter AirTag cases. CYRILL — self described as Spigen’s more feminine sister brand — offers the aforementioned basic leather cover for Apple’s item trackers as well as the newer Shine lineup with crystal clear and adorable glittery designs. Regularly listed at $20 direct, we’re also tracking an early discount on them as well. Head below for all of the details. 

IK Multimedia is introducing its new AmpliTube X-GEAR digital effects pedals. These DSP-based stomp boxes bring the award-winning suite of guitar effects and more found in the company’s Amplitube modeling software to a more portable, physical form factor but also double as an audio interface for your home recording rig. Each of the four new AmpliTube X-GEAR digital effects pedals focus on a suite of specific FX and are now up for pre-order ahead of next month’s launch. More details below. 

Today we are taking a look at the new Spigen AirTag wallet card case. Alongside options from Nomad, Spigen was one of the first third-party brands out of the gate with protection for Apple’s AirTags, and it now has its new AirFit wallet-ready card case up for sale. Unlike much of the silicone tag and keychain style options out there, the new Spigen AirTag wallet card case houses your Apple item tracker in a credit card-sized sheath so it can easily stow away in a typical wallet slot (or something of that nature). Head below for a closer look. 

The new Nintendo Switch OLED pre-orders will be going live starting today at various retailers. Nintendo came out of nowhere at the beginning of the month to finally unveil the next iteration of its Switch hardware with the new OLED model in two colorways, matching accessories, and more. While it was still unclear at the time when listings would go live, we now know Nintendo Switch OLED pre-orders will be available starting today at 3 p.m. ET. Head below for details and quick links.