News

Earlier this year, JBL came out with some of the most unique pairs of true wireless earbuds on the market. The new JBL Tour Pro 2 don’t set themselves apart with industry-leading battery life or unmatched ANC but, instead, arrive with the headlining feature of an onboard touchscreen display.

Moment today is launching its latest collection of smartphone lenses. Fit for the next generation of iPhone and Android smartphones, eight new mobile lenses are now available alongside updated accessories.

The Nintendo OREO cookie campaign isn’t done just yet folks. A few weeks back, the two brands came together to launch special OREO cookies embossed with characters and items from the Mushroom Kingdom, and now they are back with the special-edition Princess Peach snacks. While the original Nintendo OREO cookies are still available for purchase on Amazon (currently on sale for $3.50 Prime shipped), it’s going to be much more difficult to land the Princess Peach packs. Head below for a closer look and more details. 

ZAGG today is launching a fresh take on an Apple Pencil competitor with its new Pro Stylus 2. Looking to match many of the official features of the in-house counterpart, this new accessory sports many of the essentials you’d expect from an iPad stylus like magnetic charging backed by Qi support and tilt recognition, as well as some more fun inclusions like being available in one of five different colors.

The new Otterbox Lumen MacBook Air 13-inch case has arrived. While the latest 15-inch model might be taking most of the attention as of late (here are all our favorite covers for that model), OtterBox has just launched its first custom-made case for the M2 13-inch MacBook Air. Now available directly from OtterBox and on the official Apple store, the Lumen case is designed to add some notable military-grade protection to your compact Apple notebook alongside a semi-translucent treatment to show off its design. Head below for more details. 

Today Shure is unveiling its new mini audio interface. Officially known as the Shure MVX2U, this mini adapter-style device shrinks the usual audio interface format down into something the size of a lighter. Not an unheard of setup, but something relatively new to the pro audio brand’s stable of recording gear and a particularly lightweight solution for folks using XLR microphones both on-the-go and at home. Head below for a closer look and more details on the new Shure MVX2U mini audio interface. 

We’re getting an official look at the next LEGO Ideas kit today, with all of the buzz focusing around the upcoming Insect Collection set. This over 1,100-piece creation will be assembling several highly detailed brick-built bugs complete with plenty of intricate parts usage and fun techniques to bring a butterfly, beetle, praying mantis, and more to your collection.

Today, LG is officially announcing the U.S. pricing and availability on its wild new StanbyME Go portable screen. Described as a “versatile and unique all-in-one entertainment option,” you’re essentially looking at a 27-inch LED touchscreen display housed inside of a suitcase you can take just about anywhere you might need it. LG is looking to take the portable TV and entertainment experience up to a much larger display than you might have found out there already with its new StanbyME Go touchscreen tablet TV hybrid. Head below for a closer look at this unique new portable touchscreen solution. 

The latest mouse from Glorious skips its typical release schedule by both cutting the cord and jumping directly to the next generation. The Model I 2 Wireless packs the same customizable ergonomic bones as the original Model I but also has a few notable updates including the $100 Gen 2 wireless price tag. Be sure to hit the video below to see all of the details.

Amazon today is announcing the rollout of one of its first applications of AI. Hoping to help make it easier for shoppers to decide if a product is worth buying, the new AI review summaries will condense thoughts from previous Amazon buyers into a single paragraph briefing about what people like from the item.

Ubisoft has pushed the launch date of the upcoming Assassin’s Creed Mirage up. In a fun but potentially concerning turn of events, a AAA console game (and I use this term loosely in this case) from a giant publisher/developer is coming out ahead of schedule. The game, which takes place in Baghdad this time around, was originally slated to hit store shelves in digital services everywhere on October 12, has now been bumped ahead 1 week according to tweets from Sony and announcements from Ubisoft today. The more compact and tighter Assassin’s Creed experience is still up for pre-order at $50 and you can get more details down below. 

LEGO’s VIP membership is now being rebranded to LEGO Insiders. The new program will look to consolidate all of the company’s online accounts into a single place, carrying over all of the existing loyalty bonuses with extra perks.

Following the launch of the premium 3D Star Wars models, the new PopSockets MagSafe grips have now arrived. Folks have sworn by these add-on smartphone grips for years and PopSockets has now launched a new lineup with a more slim and compact form-factor ready for both MagSafe-equipped iPhones and Android handsets. Complete with an entire range of different designs to choose from, including Marvel- and Pokémon-themed variants, the new PopSockets Round MagSafe Grips are now available for purchase starting from $30, and you can get a closer look down below. 

It’s time to take a look at the best EDC sling packs, belt bags, and small carriers. I have been carrying a sling bag, or something like it, for years, and after having a chance to put a number of both previous and new releases to the test across 2023, it seemed a fitting time to weigh in. Whether it’s for day trips, traveling abroad, or just daily commutes to work, these small carriers can be an invaluable part of your kit when you don’t need something larger like a backpack or messenger bag. Just large enough to carry your most important essentials, but small enough to stay mostly out of the way, head below for a look at the best EDC sling bags, belt bags, and more. 

StandBy mode coming in iOS 17 next month has completely leveled up all of the reasons why official 15W chargers are worth the extra price, and today we’re revisiting one of the most popular models on the market. Recently refreshed with Apple Watch Fast Charging tech, the BoostCharge Pro is even more of a top choice for charging your iPhone 14 while also taking advantage of the new smart display mode.

Listen to a recap of the best deals and news from 9to5Toys each day at noon. 9to5Toys Daily is available on iTunes and Apple Podcasts, Google Play, or through our dedicated RSS feed. New episodes of 9to5Toys Daily are recorded every weekday. Subscribe to our podcast in iTunes/Apple Podcast or your favorite podcast player to guarantee new episodes are delivered as soon as they are available.

• Save $900+ on Apple’s M1 Pro MacBook Pros with higher-end RAM configs at $1,949
• Apple’s original Mac Studio with M1 Max chip sees $700 open-box discount to $1,299 low
• 38mm Apple Watch owners can save $238 on official Link Bracelet bands from $211

Last week, we got a first look at the new LEGO Concorde plane coming out next month. And today, the official reveal is here. If you’ve been waiting to feast your eyes on all of the fine details of the latest collectible LEGO model, you can hit the jump to see just how this over 2,000-piece set stacks up before it takes off in September.

In February, I got the Mini-LED version of the AGON Pro AG274QZM 27-in 1440p monitor and I’ve been using it ever since. Today, though, we have its brand-new OLED counterpart – the AGON Pro AG276QZD. With the same 1440p resolution and 240Hz refresh rate, the OLED version packs an identical price tag of $1,000 but delivers an incredible gaming experience. Be sure to hit the video below to see all of the details. 

Today, Synology launches the new DS224+ NAS. Its latest piece of networked storage brings a little something for everyone to the table with a flexible design that packs enough power for media server and business applications a like – all without breaking the bank.

After just seeing Amazon’s annual summer sale in July, the retailer is back today to announce the new fall rendtion of Prime Day. Much like we saw last year, Amazon will be back with its new Prime Big Deal Days sale later this year to offer some pre-holiday discounts.

Anker just launched its new Nano Lightning Power Bank. It’s a simple and yet equally peculiar charging accessory for iPhone 14, with a compact build, 5,000mAh internal battery, and the signature fold out Lightning connector. All of which are reasons why it hasn’t left my everyday carry since I unboxed it.

Ahead of Overwatch 2: Invasion dropping later this week, we’re now getting an official look at the game’s newest hero. Meet Illari! The new healer will join the forces of Overwatch as a unique new addition to the support class with healing totems, a massive rail gun, and all kinds of sun-inspired imagery. Head below for a closer look at the new design of Illari in Overwatch 2, as well as a brief overview of her kit.

The new LG wireless TVs are on the way now. While we did see reports of the new behemoth LG SIGNATURE OLED M and evo M models hit with UK pricing, we now know the official US pricing for the “world’s first wireless OLED TV,” and it’s going to cost you. LG says the TV will soon be available for the first time in the US later this month after its initial reveal at CES 2023. The TV is available in three form factors, starting with a 77-inch model and reaching all the way to a gigantic 97-inch model. Head below for more details, especially if you have some serious cash to drop on one. 

WaterField is launching its brand-new ASUS ROG Ally case today. The brand specializes in carriers of all types, whether it be for travel goods and toiletries or MacBooks and Nintendo Switch, but today it has turned its attention to the new PC gaming handheld that launched back in mid-May to take on the Steam Deck. The latest from ASUS delivers a Windows-powered gaming rig for folks to take their PC libraries on the go anywhere and WaterField is here to provide a premium home to keep it safe when out and about. Head below for more details and a closer look. 

Listen to a recap of the best deals and news from 9to5Toys each day at noon. 9to5Toys Daily is available on iTunes and Apple Podcasts, Google Play, or through our dedicated RSS feed. New episodes of 9to5Toys Daily are recorded every weekday. Subscribe to our podcast in iTunes/Apple Podcast or your favorite podcast player to guarantee new episodes are delivered as soon as they are available.

• Apple’s 12.9- and 11-inch M1 iPad Pro now start from $660 with up to $499 in savings
• Samsung’s Galaxy S23+ returns to all-time low for only second time at $800 (Save $200)
• Satechi’s back to school Apple accessory sale takes 20% off sitewide, 25% off orders over $150

During its Pokémon Presents event today, the Pokémon Company revealed some new info about what to expect from the new Scarlet and Violet DLC. The upcoming Hidden Treasure of Area Zero expansion will feature its first addition to the game with the Teal Mask being officially released in September.

New Pokémon Switch Online games are on the way – Pokémon Stadium 2 and Trading Card Game are headed to Switch Online starting today. As announced during today’s Pokémon presentation, some new pocket monster titles are headed to Nintendo’s Switch Online Game Boy and N64 libraries. While they might not be the Pokémon Game Boy titles most folks were hoping for, they are still notable addition to the offerings if you ask me. Both titles are scheduled to arrive on the platform starting today for Switch Online and Expansion Pack members. Head below for more details. 

Last month, ZAGG launched a new series of keyboards that, at first glance, seem to be fairly standard options for your workstation. The macOS and iOS support out of the box is a very nice touch, as is the ability to pair the keyboards with multiple devices. But the real reason I’m taking a hands-on look at the new ZAGG Pro Keyboards is the one feature that makes these truly unique – Qi charging support.

Update 8/17: The new Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III – Gameplay Reveal Trailer is waiting down below with more details.

Update 8/9: You’ll find the new Modern Warfare III – Makarov Reveal Trailer down below.

Well, it’s about that time of year and Activision has now teased the next Call of Duty. While this is just the beginning of the official reveal, the publisher has now confirmed Call of Duty Modern Warfare III will land on November 10 this year, confirming much of the rumors we spotted previously. Judging by the initial roll out here, it will presumably launch on that day on PlayStation and Xbox consoles alongside PC (although nothing has been specifically confirmed here on platform-specific launch dates). Head below for more details and a closer look at the teaser trailer. 

Listen to a recap of the best deals and news from 9to5Toys each day at noon. 9to5Toys Daily is available on iTunes and Apple Podcasts, Google Play, or through our dedicated RSS feed. New episodes of 9to5Toys Daily are recorded every weekday. Subscribe to our podcast in iTunes/Apple Podcast or your favorite podcast player to guarantee new episodes are delivered as soon as they are available.

• Apple’s 15-inch M2 MacBook Air starts the week at new all-time low: $1,099 (Save $200)
• Apple Studio Display all-time lows arrive across several models from $1,280 (Orig. $1,599)
• Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra has never sold for less at new $860 all-time low (Reg. $1,200)

Update: Pre-orders for the physical copy of Red Dead Redemption for Switch are now live on Amazon at $49.99. 

Red Dead Redemption for Nintendo Switch is officially on the way now. It tends to take a while before Rockstar’s beloved and behemoth open world titles make their way on to Nintendo hardware, but we now know the epic Red Dead Redemption is arriving very soon. A new trailer posted on both the official Rockstar site and the Nintendo UK YouTube page confirms as much, stating that both the Undead Nightmare DLC and the game proper will land on Nintendo Switch later this month come August 17, 2023. Head below for more details and a closer look at today’s announcement trailer. 

Update: The new PowerA Sonic gear is starting to go up for sale on Amazon including the Sonic Peel Out PowerA Protection Case for Nintendo Switch at $19.99 and Sonic Boost PowerA Enhanced Wired Controller for Nintendo Switch at $29.99. We will update this post as the rest begins to emerge. 

In partnership with the folks at SEGA, PowerA is introducing a new range of Sonic the Hedgehog gaming accessories. The new collection, which includes a pair of themed controllers for Switch and Xbox as well as a Switch console protection case and a game card wallet of sorts, is being announced ahead of the fall launch of the latest entry in the series – Sonic Superstars – that made its debut during a Nintendo Direct presentation earlier this year. PowerA, a brand well-known for its officially licensed crossover collaborations with popular IP, is now taking on the fastest hedgehog in all the lands, and you can get a closer look at the gear down below. 

Grovemade introduced its latest collection of desk accessories in mid July, and we have been testing it out ever since. This time around it is offering customers the new Display Rail for perching up notes, smartphones, and the new Notebook that also debuted in the bundle. A small Vertical Organizer is also making its debut with the Note-Taking Kit to organize paperwork and things of that nature. All of it, as anyone who knows the brand will have guessed, is beautifully crafted from natural and premium materials, but is it actually useful? Dive into our hands-on review as part of our ongoing Tested with 9to5Toys series below to find out. 

SANDMARC, one of our favorite iPhone accessory makers, is back again today with its new iPhone Wide Lens. The brand, despite making my personal favorite iPhone 14 case and some of the most gorgeous Apple bracelet-style straps out there, is firmly planted in the iPhoneography space and has been for many years. Its latest add-on iPhone accessory is looking to make your photos wider and more beautiful than ever with no additional gear needed (other than what’s included in the box, anyway). Now available for purchase, 9to5Toys readers can also score a sweet launch deal on the new iPhone Wide Lens attachment. Head below for a closer look and more details. 

Earlier this summer, the new Razer arcade controller was officially unveiled with a launch date sometime in “late 2023.” Well, judging by the now-live Amazon pre-order listings, we know it is dropping in late October, complete with Chroma RGB and all of the other Razer fixings we have come to know and love. The new Razer Kitsune All-Button Arcade Controller is ready to amp up your Street Fighter setup on PlayStation 5 as well as on your PC battle station rig; it is now available for purchase with Amazon’s pricing guarantee in tow – you’ll be charged the lowest price it drops between now and the launch date. Head below for a closer look and more details.

It looks like Mario and Sonic aren’t the only video game characters worth getting the LEGO treatment, as the company is gearing up to welcome another iconic property into its collection. Set for 2024, LEGO is slated to partner up with Nintendo once again to release a collection of Animal Crossing sets. 

Update: LEGO has officially revealed the new Concorde Plane (10318) landing in September. Go check it our in our launch coverage.

Ensuring that the LEGO news doesn’t die down as the week comes to a close, today we’re able to offer a first look at yet another new creation landing this fall… or should I say taking off? Coming next month, the new LEGO Concorde Plane will stack up to over 2,000 bricks as set number 10318.