ISLAMABAD – Microsoft has increased prices for several Xbox console models, citing higher memory chip costs as manufacturers continue to face mounting pressure from rising semiconductor prices.

The largest increase applies to the Xbox Series X (1TB), which now carries a price tag of $799, up $150. The digital edition of the Xbox Series X (1TB) has also risen by $150 to $749.

Meanwhile, the Xbox Series S (1TB) now costs $599 after a $150 increase, while the 512GB model has been raised by $100 to $499.

The announcement comes as technology companies grapple with higher component costs, particularly for advanced memory chips used in artificial intelligence (AI) servers and consumer electronics.

Industry analysts have linked the price increases to strong demand for AI infrastructure, which has tightened global supplies of memory chips and pushed up production costs for hardware manufacturers.

Microsoft’s move follows Apple’s recent decision to increase prices for selected MacBook and iPad models, signalling that rising semiconductor costs are beginning to affect the pricing of consumer electronics more broadly.

ISLAMABAD – AYANEO has introduced the Pocket Micro 2, the successor to its retro-inspired Android gaming handheld, bringing upgraded hardware, a larger battery and improved controls.

The new handheld retains the 3.5-inch LCD display with a resolution of 960×640 pixels but replaces its predecessor’s processor with Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 865 chipset. According to the company, the new chip delivers more than twice the performance of the previous model.

Battery capacity has also been increased to 3,950mAh from 2,600mAh, offering longer gaming sessions. The larger battery has resulted in a slightly bigger design, with the Pocket Micro 2 measuring 162×67.8×18mm and weighing 248 grams.

AYANEO has redesigned the controls, introducing a larger directional pad and bigger ABXY buttons alongside recessed dual TMR joysticks. The shoulder buttons now feature different heights to improve usability and reduce accidental presses.

The Pocket Micro 2 will be available in two standard configurations: 6GB RAM with 128GB storage, priced at $269, and 8GB RAM with 256GB storage for $309. A limited-edition Stardust Purple variant with 8GB RAM and 256GB storage will retail for $339.

The handheld also includes a microSD card slot for expandable storage, a 3.5mm headphone jack, Bluetooth 5.1 and Wi-Fi 6 connectivity. It ships with Android, although AYANEO has not specified the software version.

The company has announced a $30 launch discount on all variants. The Pocket Micro 2 initially went on sale through AYANEO’s online store but sold out shortly after launch due to limited availability.

ISLAMABAD – Apple may be developing a smart ring device dubbed the “iRing”, according to a new claim from a well-known Apple leaker, though details about the project remain scarce.

The report originates from a brief post shared by Kosutami on X, which suggested that an “iRing” is currently under development within Apple. The leaker did not provide further information regarding the device’s features, launch timeline, or whether it is intended for commercial release.

If the rumoured product materialises, it would place Apple in direct competition with existing smart ring makers such as the Oura Ring and Samsung’s Galaxy Ring. These devices have gained popularity by offering health and fitness tracking capabilities in a compact form factor, allowing users to monitor metrics such as sleep quality, stress levels, and overall wellness without relying on a smartwatch.

The possibility of an Apple smart ring is not entirely surprising. The company has historically entered product categories after competitors have established the market, focusing on refining the user experience and integrating new devices into its broader ecosystem.

At present, however, the so-called iRing remains purely speculative. Apple has not commented on the rumour, and there is no independent evidence confirming the device’s existence. As with many early-stage leaks, it remains unclear whether the project will eventually become a commercial product.

Until more information emerges, the iRing should be viewed as an unverified rumour rather than a confirmed addition to Apple’s product lineup.