Steam Deck Folio Launches as Unusual and Lightweight Steam Deck Case
The Steam Deck Folio is a new case designed for the Steam Deck that takes the concept of lightweight to the extreme. Aimed at those who like to take their Steam Deck travelling but dislike cases, it specifically favours convenience over full device protection. In fact, the accessory actually just protects the Steam Deck's centre portion, with the buttons and sides left completely exposed.
This unconventional approach highlights the evolving relationship between device owners and protective accessories, blurring the lines between functionality and utilitarianism.
Will the Steam Deck Folio spark a new trend in portable gaming cases that prioritize accessibility over comprehensive protection?
The Steam Deck has been around for three years, but hasn't received a single hardware performance upgrade since launch. Valve has kept details regarding the Steam Deck 2 close to its chest - for now. Rumors regarding a potential successor to the Steam Deck have popped up on the interwebs quite a few times in the past year or so, despite there being no concrete evidence to back up such claims.
The recent leak of AMD's 'Aerith Plus' APU specs indicates that Valve is preparing for a significant performance leap with its next-generation console, which could set a new standard for PC gaming portability.
How will the Steam Deck 2's updated hardware configuration and potential price point impact its appeal to gamers and consumers in the highly competitive PC gaming market?
A new clamshell gaming handheld concept has been showcased with a horizontal layout and two foldable elements. The device, which appears to have been created by an unknown entity, deviates from the traditional clamshell design that has become a staple in the gaming handheld market. The use of multiple foldable elements and a fixed display in its unfolded state sets it apart from existing devices such as the Anbernic RG35XX SP.
This unconventional approach could be seen as a bold attempt to disrupt the status quo in the gaming handheld market, potentially appealing to consumers looking for something new and innovative.
Will this design become a viable alternative to traditional clamshell designs, or will it struggle to gain traction with gamers who have grown accustomed to the familiar layout?
ProtoArc's CaseUp combo packs a full-sized wireless keyboard, mouse, and laptop stand into a sleek, travel-friendly case. The ease of use and transport make this a solid option for improving your hybrid and remote work setup, offering an instant connection to laptops with no re-pairing or fiddling with settings. Additionally, the tri-fold design allows for comfortable key travel that lasts for months on a full charge.
This portable keyboard combo represents the evolution of modern tech, where seamless connectivity and ergonomic design become essential factors in productivity and comfort.
As remote work continues to shape our daily lives, it's essential to consider how our technology choices impact our overall well-being – what are some additional features that would elevate a product like this into an ultimate workspace solution?
Most of these game deals will end on March 13. Many top-rated games have seen a limited-time price cut on Steam, with discounts ranging from 20% to 86%. These deals include many well-rated and Steam Deck Playable titles, making it an excellent opportunity for gamers to grab some amazing indie games at discounted prices.
This sale highlights the growing popularity of indie games on Steam, particularly those compatible with the Steam Deck, which has become a staple in the gaming community.
Will this limited-time sale drive more gamers to explore and invest in the world of indie gaming, potentially leading to a new wave of innovative and unique game development?
The Flex Gaming is an innovative device that allows for high-performance gaming on a portable, foldable form factor, with the ability to run demanding PC games. Samsung Display has confirmed initial specifications and hints at potential collaborations with Valve, which could lead to a retail product. The device's design prioritizes portability and usability over traditional gaming consoles.
The Flex Gaming represents a significant advancement in mobile gaming technology, blurring the lines between portable gaming devices and high-performance PCs.
How will this shift in capabilities impact the development of future handheld gaming systems and their integration with PC software?
Lenovo is revolutionizing the laptop industry with its latest concept, the ThinkBook Flip, which boasts a flexible display that allows for three different form factors: clamshell, tablet, and vertical screen. The device features an extra-tall 18.1-inch OLED display that can be used in various configurations to suit different user needs. By folding back or standing up the screen, users can adjust the laptop's functionality on the fly.
This innovative design could pave the way for a new generation of laptops that seamlessly blend form and function, enabling users to work in multiple modes without sacrificing productivity.
How will the ThinkBook Flip's unique features and pricing strategy impact the consumer market, particularly when compared to more conventional rollable laptops like the ThinkBook Plus Gen 6?
Our experts tested the best iPad keyboard cases from Apple, Logitech, Zagg, and more to find the perfect balance of protection and productivity. An iPad keyboard case does more than just protect your device. It turns your tablet into a portable workstation capable of handling emails, managing projects, taking notes, and writing documents. However, not all keyboard cases are created equal. Some offer a laptop-like experience, while others feel more lightweight. Some are made for the rugged outdoors and construction sites.
The vast array of options available in the market today highlights the incredible versatility of iPad keyboard cases, which can range from sleek and minimalist designs to robust and feature-rich solutions catering to diverse user needs.
What will be the impact on the iPad's ecosystem and user experience as these keyboard cases continue to evolve with new features and technologies?
The struggles of Monster Hunter Wilds on the Steam Deck highlight the challenges of playing demanding games on a handheld console, with poor performance and graphical fidelity issues plaguing the experience. Despite attempts at optimization, such as upscaling and lowering detail levels, the game continues to struggle, forcing players to find alternative solutions like cloud gaming or desktop PCs. The situation serves as a cautionary tale for gamers expecting seamless experiences on portable devices.
This debacle underscores the limitations of current handheld console technology in delivering smooth performance on high-end games, emphasizing the need for more powerful hardware or innovative rendering techniques.
Can game developers and console manufacturers find ways to overcome these technical hurdles, enabling more immersive and demanding titles to be brought to mobile platforms?
Samsung's Display group showcased a range of innovative folding concepts at Mobile World Congress, including a briefcase screen and a foldable gaming handheld. While these demonstrations were likely intended for other manufacturers, attendees couldn't help but be drawn to the potential of such technology. Samsung's display capabilities have long been seen as forward-thinking, and this year's offerings were no exception.
The emphasis on flexibility in smartphone screens underscores the industry's shift towards creating seamless user experiences across devices, from phones to laptops.
Will consumers be willing to pay a premium for foldable or flexible screens that offer unique features over traditional displays?
Valve is positioning itself to potentially release Half-Life 3 alongside its SteamOS, suggesting that a high-profile exclusive could drive significant user adoption of the operating system. The success of Half-Life 2 in launching Steam highlights the potential impact of a similar strategy today, especially as Valve seeks to establish SteamOS as a credible alternative to Windows. By tying a major gaming title to its new platform, Valve could entice gamers to explore beyond the Windows ecosystem, leveraging nostalgia and anticipation to facilitate this shift.
The relationship between game exclusives and platform adoption underscores the power of consumer psychology, where the desire for exclusive content can drive technological change in the gaming landscape.
What challenges might Valve face in convincing gamers to switch operating systems, and how can they effectively address player concerns about compatibility and performance?
Samsung's latest OLED screen ecosystem concept wants to foster a seamless 'multiple screen experience'Power-efficient On-Cell Film (OCF) technology boosts brightnessIntegrated grip handle enhances portability. Samsung has introduced a concept that blends rugged portability with futuristic design - an 18.1-inch OLED portable monitor with a 4.5R folding radius, that transforms into a briefcase-like form with an integrated grip handle. Showcased at MWC 2025, this foldable OLED panel features a QHD+ resolution of 2000 × 3664 pixels, offering a high pixel density of 184 PPI, though Samsung hasn't yet confirmed commercial availability.
By redefining the boundaries between work and play, devices like Samsung's flexible briefcase could fundamentally shift how we interact with technology in our daily lives.
How will the proliferation of such versatile, portable display solutions impact the way we approach remote work, entertainment, and education on-the-go?
The ranking of best gaming mini PCs by Notebookcheck highlights the growing trend of compact systems delivering high performance in a space-saving form factor. These mini PCs, often compared to gaming laptops, offer a unique blend of portability and processing power, making them an attractive option for gamers and professionals alike. With integrated graphics and dedicated graphics cards, these models cater to various needs, from everyday tasks to demanding gaming applications.
The proliferation of compact gaming PCs underscores the evolving expectations of users seeking high-performance systems in smaller form factors, forcing manufacturers to innovate and optimize their designs.
How will the increasing popularity of mini PCs impact the long-term viability of traditional tower PCs as a preferred choice for gamers and content creators?
Peak Design has introduced the Roller Pro, a high-end carry-on case designed specifically for photographers and travelers, currently available for crowdfunding at a starting price of $599.95. This innovative roller case features an expandable soft-shell exterior, a durable aluminum chassis, and customizable storage options, including a new XL Camera Cube for added protection of camera gear. With its premium build quality and thoughtful design, the Roller Pro aims to become a versatile solution for both travel and photography needs.
The Roller Pro reflects a growing demand for multifunctional travel gear that caters to the unique requirements of photographers, potentially influencing trends in the luggage market.
Will the high price point deter everyday travelers from investing in premium products, or will it redefine consumer expectations for quality in travel accessories?
Lenovo, the world's biggest PC maker, has a history of showing off imaginative concepts with some becoming reality. Lenovo previously showed off the idea of a rollable laptop — one where the screen rolls upwards to increase the size of the display. The company will begin selling such a laptop this year. The latest concepts were unveiled at the Mobile World Congress trade show in Barcelona, showcasing innovative designs that aim to revolutionize the laptop industry.
These futuristic designs not only highlight Lenovo's commitment to innovation but also underscore the growing demand for devices that can seamlessly adapt to different usage scenarios.
As these technologies continue to evolve, will they be accessible to a broader audience, or will they remain exclusive to early adopters and tech enthusiasts?
At the Mobile World Congress (MWC) in Barcelona, several innovative tech prototypes were showcased, offering glimpses into potential future products that could reshape consumer electronics. Noteworthy concepts included Samsung's flexible briefcase-tablet and Lenovo's adaptable Thinkbook Flip AI laptop, both illustrating a trend towards multifunctional and portable devices. While these prototypes may never reach market status, they highlight the ongoing experimentation in technology that could lead to significant breakthroughs in gadget design.
The emergence of such prototypes emphasizes a shift in consumer expectations towards versatility and convenience in tech, prompting manufacturers to rethink traditional product categories.
What challenges do companies face in transforming these ambitious prototypes into commercially viable products, and how will consumer demand shape their development?
The Samsung Flexible Briefcase is the latest example of Samsung Display's large form-factor foldable display. Based around a huge 18.1-inch OLED display, the Foldable Briefcase also provides a respectable 184 PPI thanks to a QHD+ resolution. The briefcase element serves as the device's housing, given its integrated power and volume buttons.
This concept showcases Samsung Display's willingness to experiment with unconventional form factors, potentially leading to innovative designs that blur the lines between devices and accessories.
Will the adoption of large foldable displays in laptops be driven by consumer demand for enhanced productivity and entertainment capabilities?
The new concept, called the Asymmetric Flip, builds on the Galaxy Z Flip form factor and theoretically removes the centre crease from a clamshell foldable. The device would leave a gap when closed, which could be a durability concern in a retail unit, but its taller design would defeat one of the major reasons for the form factor's existence. Samsung Display is developing tri-fold panels for both clamshell and book-style form factors.
This concept highlights the ongoing evolution of foldable display technology, where companies are experimenting with new designs to improve durability and usability.
Will the Asymmetric Flip design become a permanent fixture in consumer electronics, or will it be relegated to the realm of concept devices?
Anker has introduced its USB Power Strip (12-in-1, 20W) in European markets, featuring a tower design that includes multiple AC outlets and USB ports for versatile charging options. The device boasts a built-in power switch and a comprehensive safety system, making it both functional and secure for daily use. Priced at £34.99 in the UK, the product is positioned as a space-saving solution for consumers looking to reduce clutter while maintaining power accessibility.
This launch reflects a growing consumer demand for multifunctional and aesthetically pleasing tech solutions that fit modern lifestyles, emphasizing convenience and safety.
Will the unique design and features of Anker's new power strip influence consumer preferences in the crowded market of power accessories?
The launch of Bluetti's new Handsfree Power Station in the UK marks a significant shift towards sustainable energy solutions for outdoor enthusiasts, featuring compact backpacks with built-in portable generators that keep devices charged on-the-go. The two models, Handsfree 1 and 2, cater to varying needs, providing enough power for short trips or extended journeys, with features such as organized compartments, MOLLE straps, and versatile hooks. These innovative backpacks integrate seamlessly into the design, reducing bulk while maintaining maximum comfort.
This development underscores the growing demand for portable energy solutions that blend functionality with eco-friendliness, potentially disrupting traditional power sources in outdoor activities.
Will the Handsfree series' emphasis on sustainable energy solutions and compact design influence the broader consumer market's adoption of eco-friendly products?
The Lenovo ThinkBook Codename Flip features a foldable 18.1-inch OLED display offering five work modes and AI-powered productivity tools to enhance multitasking and collaboration. The concept laptop was unveiled at MWC 2025, showcasing a unique design that expands vertically for more screen real estate when needed. With its customizable display modes, the ThinkBook Codename Flip aims to revolutionize the way professionals work.
By integrating advanced AI capabilities into business laptops, Lenovo is poised to set a new standard for productivity and collaboration in the workplace.
As foldable displays become increasingly common, how will these devices be used in industries that require traditional laptop functionality, such as healthcare or finance?
Lenovo's ThinkBook 'Codename Flip' AI PC Concept has five different display modes due to its flexible OLED panel, but who is this thing for? The laptop transforms into a taller, slightly wobbly 18.1-inch display when unfolded, offering a dual-display setup for work and play. However, the thin, flexible OLED display is very reflective, making it almost unusable outdoors.
This design flaw highlights the importance of material selection in foldable device development, where a more durable screen would be crucial to justify the complexity and potential drawbacks of such a design.
What limitations will consumers face when deciding whether to purchase this laptop for personal or professional use, given its susceptibility to scratches and limited usability outside of an enterprise setting?
Tecno's latest laptop, the MegaBook S14, has debuted as the world's lightest 14-inch PC with a 2.8K OLED display and is powered by the Snapdragon X Elite for generative AI tasks. The laptop boasts DTS:X Ultra enhancements for its audio and comes with an External Graphics Dock that can be used to enhance productivity and "3A" gaming on the ultra-portable PC. Tecno has also emphasized the importance of seamless pairing with their smartphones, potentially streamlining photo sharing and sorting.
This latest development highlights the growing trend of combining cutting-edge technology with portability, setting a new standard for future laptop designs.
Will the adoption of external GPUs and AI-powered processors in laptops lead to a shift towards more specialized computing environments, or will they remain accessible to mainstream users?
Lenovo has unveiled a slew of concept laptops that push the boundaries of innovation in the PC industry. The company's latest ideas include solar-powered laptops with integrated solar panels, tall foldable screens, and AI-driven navigation systems. Lenovo is also exploring new ways to harness the power of solar energy to charge its devices.
The emphasis on sustainability and eco-friendliness in these concept laptops highlights the growing importance of environmentally responsible technology in modern design.
Will the commercial viability of these innovative features, such as solar-powered batteries and AI-driven interfaces, depend on consumers' willingness to pay a premium for cutting-edge technology?
I spent an intimate morning with Lenovo's latest concept device at MWC 2025, and I'm still trying to wrap my head around its potential. The "Codename Flip" AI PC Concept boasts a flexible OLED display that can be set to five different modes, from share mode to vertical mode, but its true value lies in its ability to multitask with spreadsheets, emails, presentations, conferences, and more. However, the device's reflective OLED display is a major drawback, making it nearly unusable outdoors.
The potential benefits of this design are still unclear, as the display's reflectivity could be an insurmountable obstacle for everyday use.
Will Lenovo find a way to address these issues and bring this concept to market in a way that appeals to consumers who prioritize both form factor and functionality?
A lot of gamers go to great lengths to find a portable retro gaming device with the lightest and most compact kit. The Linux powered Raspberry Pi 5 does a decent job on that front, but an even smaller solution is available by turning a humble USB flash drive into a portable gaming console. This method requires setting up the open-source OS Batocera, which can be installed on the flash drive to play retro games. The process involves installing the OS, loading games into Batocera, and adjusting video settings for optimal performance.
The DIY approach to creating a portable gaming console has the potential to democratize access to retro gaming, allowing enthusiasts to build their own custom devices without breaking the bank.
As the technology continues to evolve, it's likely that we'll see more innovative uses for USB flash drives in the world of gaming and beyond.