ASUS Launches Snapdragon X2-Powered Zenbook A14 and A16

channelnews.com.au Apr 9, 2026

ASUS Launches Snapdragon X2-Powered Zenbook A14 and A16

Curated by Shubham · TechCapsules · Apr 9, 2026

AI-summarised brief · reviewed before publication

ASUS has launched the Zenbook A14 and A16, powered by Qualcomm's Snapdragon X2 series chips, focusing on AI performance, battery efficiency, and ultra-portable design. The A16 features a 16-inch 3K OLED display and up to 80 TOPS of AI performance, while the A14 targets portability with up to 33 hours of battery life, starting at $1,349.99 and $1,699.99 respectively, with Australian pricing pending.

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iPhone Air successor with two cameras rumored for spring 2027

Apple is reportedly working on the iPhone Air 2, a successor to the iPhone Air, which debuted in September 2025. The new device is expected to launch in early 2027 with improved battery life and an ultra-wide camera, addressing key complaints from iPhone Air buyers. The iPhone Air 2 will likely be released alongside the iPhone 18 and iPhone 18e in the spring of 2027, following Apple's shift in iPhone release schedule. The device's specifications and timeline may change, but improved battery life and a second camera are expected.

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Snap's highly anticipated AR glasses, Specs, had a disappointing debut, with the company's stock plummeting over 5% after the launch. The glasses, which retail at nearly $2,200, have raised concerns about their profitability, particularly given Snap's core user demographic of teenagers who may not have the financial means to afford them. The stock has been struggling, dropping 30% over the past year, and has yet to recover from the announcement. Snap's CEO, Evan Spiegel, defended the price, comparing Specs to high-end computers and laptops.

💡 Snap's pricey AR glasses may be a non-starter for its core user base, threatening the company's business model and potentially limiting the product's market potential. The high cost of Specs may force Snap to reevaluate its target audience and pricing strategy, making it a crucial test for the company's ability to adapt to changing consumer demands.

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The Surface Pro 12 isn’t the Surface Pro 12-inch: Microsoft’s naming scheme…

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💡 Google's move to cloud processing in Pixel Screenshots highlights the company's commitment to balancing AI capabilities with user data security. By leveraging Private AI Compute, Google can offer more advanced AI features while maintaining user trust and control over their data.

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