From Pixels to Platinum: When AI Designed My New Hairstyle
There’s something oddly thrilling about letting technology take creative control. I’ve spent years testing gadgets, reviewing innovations, and exploring the limits of artificial intelligence — but this time, I let the tech get a little more personal.
A few weeks ago, I asked Midjourney — my go-to AI image generator — a simple question: “What would The Gadget Man look like with a fresh new hairstyle?”
The result was, quite frankly, impressive. The AI produced a series of strikingly realistic portraits featuring a textured, platinum-blonde cut that looked part cyberpunk, part 21st-century rockstar. I loved it. The catch? It wasn’t real… yet.
The AI Concept
Armed with a few reference prompts and an experimental mindset, I spent an evening fine-tuning the digital version of myself. Midjourney, in its infinite wisdom, decided that bleached hair and choppy texture were the future of The Gadget Man brand.
At first, it was just a bit of fun. But the more I looked at the AI render, the more I realised — this was something I could actually pull off. So, I decided to make it happen.
Turning AI Into Reality
I booked an appointment with my stylist and brought along the AI images on my phone — full 360-degree green-screen shots of the “digital me.” It’s not every day you walk into a salon and say, “I’d like this look, please — it was designed by artificial intelligence.”
To their credit, they didn’t flinch. Instead, we broke it down into human-achievable steps:
The Cut: Short, faded sides with plenty of texture on top.
The Style: Tousled and natural, with enough lift to keep things casual.
The Colour: A cool, silver-white platinum tone — bold but clean.
The Result
Wait and see!!!
AI as a Creative Partner
This little experiment isn’t just about hair — it’s about what happens when AI moves from the screen into the real world. Whether it’s designing products, testing ideas, or in this case, reinventing a hairstyle, AI has become a kind of creative partner.
From Pixels to Platinum: When AI Designed My New Hairstyle
From Pixels to Platinum: When AI Designed My New Hairstyle
Coming soon: a behind-the-scenes video of the full transformation — from my original hairstyle to the final platinum reveal. Keep an eye on The Gadget Man socials for the big unveil.
Cambridge, UK — Majority has unveiled its latest creation, the Folio Turntable, a compact and stylish record player that brings together timeless vinyl charm and modern listening convenience.
Designed to be the centrepiece of any music lover’s home, the Folio offers the perfect balance of form and function. Its clean, minimalist aesthetic pairs beautifully with built-in stereo speakers and a transparent cover, while its versatile connectivity options make it ideal for both traditional and contemporary setups.
The Majority Folio Turntable Blends Style, Simplicity and Sound
At its core, the Folio features the acclaimed Audio-Technica AT3600L Moving Magnetic Cartridge, delivering crisp, detailed playback across 7”, 8”, 10” and 12” records. With pitch and RPM controls, users can fine-tune playback for everything from vintage pressings to modern reissues.
The Majority Folio Turntable Blends Style, Simplicity and Sound
Beyond its classic appeal, the Folio is built for today’s listener. Bluetooth 5.3 allows effortless wireless streaming from smartphones, tablets and laptops, while USB playback and recording offer the flexibility to enjoy or archive your vinyl digitally. The RCA and AUX connections make it simple to connect to external speakers or amplifiers for an expanded soundstage.
Key Features Include:
Bluetooth 5.3 – Stream wirelessly from any compatible device
RCA & AUX Outputs – Connect to amplifiers or external speakers
USB Playback & Recording – Convert vinyl to MP3 or play digital tracks
Pitch & RPM Controls – Fine-tune playback for perfect performance
Integrated Stereo Speakers – Enjoy balanced sound without extra equipment
Audio-Technica Cartridge – Trusted performance and long-lasting precision
The Majority Folio Turntable Blends Style, Simplicity and Sound
Compact, finely built, and easy to use, the Majority Folio Turntable fits effortlessly into any living space. Whether placed in a modern apartment or a vintage-inspired home, it delivers an authentic vinyl experience enhanced by contemporary design and functionality.
The Majority Folio Turntable is available now for £169.95 from Amazon and other leading retailers.
For months, I battled a persistent and damaging issue on my Mid 2015 MacBook Pro — a workhorse of a machine that, even at nearly 10 years old, continues to run exceptionally well with a 2.5GHz Quad-Core i7, 16GB RAM, 1 TB SSD and macOS Monterey 12.7.6.
The system process configd would regularly consume 100% of the CPU. The fans screamed. The laptop baked. Performance tanked. Worst of all — two batteries failed completely during the years this bug went undiagnosed.
A Machine with a Backstory
This MacBook Pro actually replaced an almost identical model (with a 500GB SSD) whose keyboard had begun to fail. That original machine is now used as a secondary workstation — mostly plugged in with external monitors, keyboard and mouse and of course, rarely moved.
However, the replacement system was set up via migration from the older Mac, meaning all settings, preferences, and low-level cruft came with it. It’s entirely possible this bug — and the problematic plugin behind it — exists on the secondary machine too, simply hiding in the shadows because that Mac rarely gets unplugged or stressed.
A Hunch from the Past
Throughout the troubleshooting, I had a nagging feeling: years ago, I’d installed a PPP-based VPN service, and I couldn’t shake the idea that something related had survived the years. That memory — almost dismissed — turned out to be the smoking gun.
All the Fixes That Didn’t Work
Before getting to the actual solution, I tried everything:
Resetting network preferences
Disabling IPv6
Safe Mode diagnostics
launchctl unloads
Cleaning out /SystemConfiguration
Monitoring via top and Activity Monitor
Nothing worked. The issue was like digital rot — persistent and invisible.
Enter ChatGPT
Eventually, I turned to ChatGPT for deeper insight. Together, we sampled the configd process and analysed its call stack. That led us to the true culprit:
PPPController.bundle — a legacy dial-up/VPN plugin, long deprecated but still loading in the background.
Despite not being used in years, it was triggering configd into a CPU loop, damaging system performance and hardware.
macOS Protections (and How to Work Around Them)
macOS uses System Integrity Protection (SIP) and Signed System Volumes (SSV) to protect core files. To disable this plugin, you must bypass those protections temporarily.
The Fix (Finally)
WARNING!
DO NOT ATTEMPT ANY OF THE FIXES BELOW WITHOUT CONSULTING A TRAINED APPLE EXPERT! YOU ARE FIDDLING WITH THE WORKINGS OF A COMPUTER AND RISK PERMANENTLY LOSING THE CONTENTS OF YOUR HARD DRIVE. PLEASE, PLEASE!!! TAKE A FULL BACKUP BEFORE ATTEMPTING ANYTHING LIKE THIS.
IT TOOK SEVEN ATTEMPTS TO FIX THIS PROBLEM WITH THE ASSISTANCE OF CHATGPT, SO IT FAILED SIX TIMES BEFORE THE ISSUE WAS RESOLVED.
top -o cpu showed configd no longer topping the chart
configd -v | grep -i ppp showed nothing — the plugin was gone
The Mac ran cooler, quieter, and battery health stopped declining
Re-enabling Protections
After verifying stability:
bash
csrutil enable
csrutil authenticated-root enable
Then reboot normally.
Final Thoughts
This wasn’t your average support task. It took two dead batteries, countless failed attempts, a hunch from years back, and finally the help of ChatGPT to trace configd’s madness back to a plugin that had long outlived its purpose.
If you’ve ever migrated from an older Mac, especially one where you’d used PPP-based VPNs or dial-up tools, this issue may be lurking silently in your system too — especially if that system is mostly docked or plugged in. For me, it nearly cooked a great machine.
Now? My Mid 2015 MacBook Pro is back to being a quiet, powerful daily driver — and I intend to keep it that way.
Have a similar story? Reach out or connect with me on social media. Let’s keep our ageing tech running better than new.
In the latest episode of The Gadget Man, I joined Lorna Bailey on BBC Radio CWR to explore a topic that’s close to all our smartphones — apps. From checking our health and managing our money, to securing our homes and snapping hundreds of photos we never quite get around to backing up, apps have become the digital wallpaper of our lives.
But here’s the big question: Have we become too reliant on them? And are there risks lurking in our seemingly innocent app folders?
During this episode, we chat candidly about the app overload many of us experience. Whether it’s a dozen different parking apps or a folder full of CCTV apps just for one house (guilty as charged), we’ve all felt the weight of digital clutter and the anxiety of deleting an app in case we “might need it someday.”
We also talk about the very real risks of having so much of our data connected to apps and the internet — and how tech companies benefit from our every tap and swipe. While some of this data helps deliver useful services, like live traffic info, it also opens doors to targeted ads, invasions of privacy, and even scams.
Tips for Staying Safe in an App-Heavy World:
Only download apps from reputable sources like Apple App Store, Google Play, or Amazon’s App Store.
Avoid sideloading apps from unknown third-party websites — that’s where trouble can start.
Keep apps up to date — security patches are often part of these updates.
Use antivirus apps to scan for threats, especially on Android devices.
Be mindful in public when making payments with your phone — contactless tech can be abused.
Back up your photos and data regularly to avoid heartbreak if your device is lost or damaged.
There’s also a moment of digital self-reflection: Are we hoarding apps the same way we hoard random kitchen gadgets — “just in case”? You’re not alone. I’ve got folders of unused apps, too.
And while we’re talking about clutter, let’s not forget the thousands of photos we store and forget — until it’s too late. If there’s one takeaway from this episode, it’s this: Back. Up. Your. Photos. Whether it’s to iCloud, Google Photos, or any other cloud service, it could save your most precious memories.
Listen to the full episode to hear all the laughs, insights, and a few home truths about our app obsessions — and maybe get inspired to finally sort out your own digital drawers!
Want to chat more about this topic? Drop a comment below or ping me on social media @gadgetmanblog — I’d love to hear about your app habits, fears, and favourites!
I hope your week’s been a good one! There’s exciting news in the world of mechanical keyboards – and it’s especially good news for us here in the UK. Our friends at Keychron have just released UK-ISO layout versions of two of their most exciting and feature-rich models: the Keychron K2 HE Wireless Magnetic Switch Custom Keyboard and the ultra-sleek Keychron K3 Max QMK/VIA Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard.
If you’re into keyboards – whether you’re a coder, gamer, writer, or just someone who appreciates a satisfying click – you’ll want to sit down for this.
🔧 Keychron K2 HE – Magnetic Switches, Adjustable Actuation & Custom Comfort
The K2 HE isn’t just another mechanical keyboard. It’s something genuinely special. Designed with Gateron’s double-rail magnetic switches, this 75% layout keyboard gives you precision control, allowing you to tweak the actuation point of each key and enabling something called Dynamic Rapid Trigger – think faster response and more fluid key actions. It’s the kind of tech that’s great for gamers but just as welcome for day-to-day work.
Keychron Unleashes Two New UK-ISO Layout Mechanical Marvels – The K2 HE and K3 Max Hit the UK
Built around a solid aluminium frame and finished with lovely rosewood accents (light wood for the white edition and dark for the black), it’s not just clever – it’s beautiful too. Each version comes with OSA-profile double-shot PBT keycaps, giving you that ever-desirable combo of durability and aesthetic class.
Keychron Unleashes Two New UK-ISO Layout Mechanical Marvels – The K2 HE and K3 Max Hit the UK
You’ve got triple connectivity options – 2.4GHz wireless, Bluetooth 5.1, and good old-fashioned USB-C. Plus, it works across macOS, Windows, and Linux, which is always a bonus in a multi-device household like mine.
You can grab the K2 HE now from Keychron UK starting at £137, and if you’re a fan of tweaking RGB, sensitivity and multi-action key commands, the Keychron Launcher web configurator is included to let you go full custom mode.
Keychron Unleashes Two New UK-ISO Layout Mechanical Marvels – The K2 HE and K3 Max Hit the UK
💻 Keychron K3 Max – Ultra-Slim, Hot-Swappable, and Fully Programmable
If low-profile is more your thing (or you like your gear slim and stylish), the K3 Max might be your next desk upgrade.
Keychron Unleashes Two New UK-ISO Layout Mechanical Marvels – The K2 HE and K3 Max Hit the UK
This one’s all about portability meets power. It’s just 31% thinner than traditional mechanical boards thanks to Gateron low-profile MX 2.0 switches, yet it still packs in full QMK/VIA customisability. That means full key remapping, macros, and layers – ideal for developers, gamers, or productivity nerds (guilty as charged!).
Keychron Unleashes Two New UK-ISO Layout Mechanical Marvels – The K2 HE and K3 Max Hit the UK
Like the K2 HE, it also supports 2.4GHz wireless, Bluetooth 5.1, and wired modes, and is built for all the major platforms. You’ll find IXPE acoustic foam and latex support under the hood to dampen key noise and improve comfort – a thoughtful touch for late-night typing sessions.
Inside, it’s driven by a beastly ARM Cortex-M4 MCU with 256KB flash and supports a 1000Hz polling rate, even in wireless mode. All that in a super-slim chassis? Count me in.
Even better – it’s currently on offer at £92.70 (down from £103) on the Keychron UK site. Bargain.
🎉 Final Thoughts
Keychron is one of those rare brands that manages to straddle the line between techie excellence and everyday usability. Both the K2 HE and K3 Max represent the pinnacle of what’s possible in the keyboard space today – elegant, powerful, and now with UK-ISO layouts, so we’re not left out in the cold!
Whether you’re building the ultimate battlestation or just want a keyboard that makes typing that bit more enjoyable, these are both serious contenders.
Apple has just dropped a brand-new addition to the iPhone 16 lineup—the iPhone 16e. This model is designed to deliver cutting-edge performance and Apple Intelligence at a more affordable price, making it a compelling choice for users looking for premium features without the premium price tag.
Apple Unveils the iPhone 16e – The Affordable Powerhouse
Design and Display
The iPhone 16e follows Apple’s signature sleek design ethos with a durable build, available in elegant matte black and white finishes. The device features a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display, providing vibrant colours and crisp text, perfect for streaming HDR content, gaming, and everyday tasks. It also boasts IP68-rated water and dust resistance, ensuring it can handle the rigours of daily life.
Performance Boost with A18 Chip and Apple C1 Modem
Under the hood, the iPhone 16e is powered by Apple’s latest A18 chip, delivering exceptional speed, efficiency, and AI-powered enhancements. The C1 modem, Apple’s first in-house cellular modem, ensures fast and reliable 5G connectivity while also improving power efficiency, further enhancing battery life.
Speaking of battery life, Apple claims that the iPhone 16e lasts up to six hours longer than the iPhone 11 and up to twelve hours more than previous iPhone SE models, making it the best 6.1-inch iPhone in terms of battery longevity.
Camera System: A 48MP Fusion Camera with 2x Telephoto
Photography enthusiasts will love the 48MP Fusion camera system, which allows for high-resolution shots with enhanced computational photography. The integrated 2x telephoto lens provides optical-quality zoom, making it feel like having two cameras in one. Features such as Night Mode, Portrait Mode, and Smart HDR ensure stunning photos in all lighting conditions. The front-facing TrueDepth camera offers autofocus for sharper selfies and enhanced Face ID functionality.
Apple Intelligence and AI Integration
A significant highlight of the iPhone 16e is its support for Apple Intelligence. This AI-powered system introduces advanced features such as:
Image Cleanup Tool – Easily remove distractions from photos.
Genmoji – Custom emoji creation.
Improved Siri – More conversational and able to maintain context across multiple interactions.
ChatGPT Integration – Built directly into Siri and Writing Tools, allowing users to access AI-generated assistance seamlessly.
Action Button for Quick Access
The iPhone 16e features the Action Button, first introduced on the iPhone 15 Pro series. Users can customise it to launch the camera, activate Shazam, switch focus modes, or even trigger in-app functions.
Satellite Connectivity and Safety Features
Apple continues to lead in emergency communication with the inclusion of satellite-based features such as:
Emergency SOS – Contact emergency services when out of cellular range.
Roadside Assistance – Access help via satellite in case of car trouble.
Find My via Satellite – Share location with loved ones, even in remote areas.
Crash Detection – Automatically dials emergency services in the event of a severe accident.
iOS 18 and Customisation Options
The iPhone 16e runs iOS 18, introducing new personalisation options, enhanced privacy settings, and redesigned Control Centre for improved accessibility. Users can now customise their Home Screen with dark or tinted app icons and arrange widgets more freely.
Pricing and Availability
Apple has positioned the iPhone 16e as a budget-friendly yet powerful device, starting at £599 in the UK. Pre-orders begin on February 21, with availability set for February 28. The device will be available in 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB storage options.
Final Thoughts
The iPhone 16e delivers an impressive mix of premium features and affordability, making it a strong contender for those looking for top-tier Apple performance without breaking the bank. With the A18 chip, improved battery life, AI-driven features, and a robust camera system, the iPhone 16e is set to be a popular choice in 2025. Stay tuned for a hands-on review soon!
The UK’s electric vehicle (EV) sector is booming, but an outdated tax policy is creating an unfair financial burden on EV drivers who rely on public charging. Lobby group FairCharge is urging the Chancellor to slash VAT on public charging from 20% to 5%, aligning it with home electricity rates and making EVs more accessible for all drivers.
A Two-Tier Charging System?
Right now, EV owners with home chargers pay just 5% VAT on their electricity, while those dependent on public chargers face a 20% VAT rate—a clear imbalance that is penalising those without driveways.
Industry leaders warn that without action, the UK risks stalling EV adoption. According to Osprey Charging, lowering VAT would save drivers over £130 million per year by 2030. ZapMap’s data suggests EV drivers could save £85 million in 2025, rising to £315 million by 2030—with more than half of these savings benefiting those without access to home charging.
Industry Leaders Speak Out
The UK government has heavily backed the EV transition, yet this “archaic tax anomaly” remains in place. Key figures from across the automotive and EV charging industries are now demanding change:
Delvin Lane, CEO, InstaVolt:“The government should act now to remove this barrier and avoid stalling the EV revolution. InstaVolt will immediately pass any VAT cut onto consumers.”
Matt Galvin, MD, Polestar UK:“We’ve been calling for VAT parity for a long time. It’s unfair to penalise those without driveways and risks slowing down adoption.”
Matt Galvin, MD, Polestar UK – Image Polestar UK
Ian Plummer, Auto Trader:“It’s simply unfair that some EV drivers pay more to charge their cars just because they don’t have a driveway. This needs to change.”
Ian Plummer, Auto Trader
Quentin Willson, Founder FairCharge: “I ask the Chief Secretary of the Treasury that he must realise, with the U.K. as the most successful EV market in Europe, the opportunities for growth in the sector are significant. But holding that growth back is an archaic piece of tax legislation conceived before the era of electric cars.”
Quentin Willson, Image Credit : Quentin Willson
Record EV Growth—But Barriers Remain
The UK is leading the charge on EV adoption, with 21.5% of new car buyers choosing a fully electric vehicle in January 2025—a 34% increase from last year. However, FairCharge argues that progress is being hindered by outdated tax rules, limiting affordability for those most reliant on public charging.
Quentin Willson, Founder of FairCharge, summed it up: “The opportunities for EV growth in the UK are huge, yet we’re being held back by an outdated tax system from the fossil fuel era. It’s time for the Treasury to step up and remove this unfair barrier.”
A Simple Fix for Big Impact
Reducing VAT on public charging is one of the most straightforward and cost-effective government actions to accelerate EV adoption. The recently announced £55 million investment in kerbside chargers will still be impacted by the higher VAT rate, meaning those without home chargers continue to be penalised.
As Andy Palmer, Founder of Palmer Energy, put it: “Reducing VAT on public charging is a no-brainer. The cost to the government is small, but the impact on EV adoption is massive. The time for action is now.”
What’s Next?
FairCharge has written directly to the Treasury, urging them to act before this unfair tax system slows down the UK’s EV progress. With major industry leaders backing the movement, pressure is mounting for the government to deliver a fairer charging system for all.
Want to support the campaign? Share your thoughts in the comments or reach out to your MP to demand change. Let’s make EV adoption fair for everyone!
Sometimes, you have an idea so out there, you just have to run with it. That’s exactly what happened with my latest experiment—writing, editing, and publishing a book in under 24 hours. Yes, you read that right: Gizmos and Gadgets in Cockney by Matt Porter went from a concept swirling in my head to a fully published book faster than you can say “Bob’s your uncle.” Now, before you start expecting War and Peace or something that’ll win a Pulitzer, let me set the record straight: this book is meant to be a laugh. So, get that tongue planted firmly in your cheek and read on!
A Silly Idea Turned Into Reality
I’ve always loved Cockney rhyming slang. There’s something so playful and creative about it, and being a tech nerd, I thought, “Why not merge the two?” With that spark of inspiration and a challenge I set for myself, the idea was born: a humorous book that reimagines the world of tech with Cockney flair. Gizmos and Gadgets in Cockney would be a light, fun read for anyone who’s ever wondered what you’d call a smartphone (a “dog”) or a smart speaker (a “chirper”) in the East End’s colourful lingo.
But then I upped the stakes: I decided to see if I could write, edit, and publish the whole thing in less than 24 hours. Why? Because life’s too short not to try ridiculous things.
You can buy and read Gizmos and Gadgets in Cockney right now and very soon in physical paperback at https://amzn.to/40QzUnI
Don’t Expect High Art—This Is Pure, Unfiltered Fun
Let’s be clear: you’re not about to read a literary masterpiece. This isn’t War and Peace or The Great Gatsby. It’s more like a mate telling you stories down the pub, but instead of talking about football, I’m rambling about gadgets and tech in Cockney slang. This book was written fast, with lots of tea, laughter, and a “who-cares-if-it’s-not-perfect” attitude. If you’re looking for a deep exploration of tech or a polished manual, you might be barking up the wrong tree.
But if you’re after a book that doesn’t take itself seriously, one that pokes fun at tech jargon while teaching you some cheeky Cockney phrases, this might be your cup of rosie-lee.
The Writing Process: Fuelled by Tea and Banter
Once the idea hit me, I got to work with one goal: get it done before the clock ran out. I wrote chapter after chapter, each filled with witty slang, light-hearted anecdotes, and ridiculous comparisons between tech gadgets and everyday London life. Need to know why Wi-Fi is like a “Skyhook” or why a computer’s operating system is the “Guv’nor”? I’ve got you covered.
To keep it fun and breezy, I didn’t worry too much about polishing every sentence. It was all about the charm, the humour, and the Cockney twist. The result? A book that feels like a good ol’ natter with a mate—unpolished, maybe a bit rough around the edges, but full of character.
Editing and Formatting: It’s Good Enough
I gave the manuscript a quick once-over (yes, quick), fixing the obvious typos and ensuring the Cockney slang made sense. But did I spend hours agonising over sentence structure or tweaking every paragraph? Absolutely not. This was about speed and spirit, not perfection. Think of it like street food: messy, but oh-so-satisfying.
I also threw in a handy Cockney slang glossary at the end, so you can brush up on your rhyming slang while giggling at the tech comparisons.
The Cover: Simple, Bold, and Straight to the Point
When you’ve only got 24 hours, you don’t spend ages designing a cover that rivals The Da Vinci Code. I kept it simple and bold, with the title front and centre: Gizmos and Gadgets in Cockney by Matt Porter. The cover hints at the humour inside without giving too much away—exactly how I like it.
Publishing: The Final Countdown
With just minutes to spare, I uploaded the book to the publishing platform, hit “Publish,” and breathed a sigh of relief. I did it! A fully published book in less than a day.
Why I Did It
Let’s face it, we all overthink things sometimes. This project was a reminder to embrace spontaneity, take risks, and have fun with creativity. You don’t always need months of preparation or endless rewrites to make something worth sharing. Sometimes, done is better than perfect.
Gizmos and Gadgets in Cockney isn’t meant to change your life, but it just might make you chuckle, and that’s good enough for me.
What to Expect When You Read It
Lots of laughs: If you’ve ever struggled to explain tech to your nan or been baffled by a new gadget, you’ll feel right at home.
Cockney charm: From “whirligigs” to “dog and bones,” the slang is in full force.
Zero seriousness: This book is pure entertainment, so don’t come looking for an academic breakdown of microchips.
Final Thoughts: Take It with a Pinch of Salt (and a cup of ‘rosie’)
If you’re the kind of reader who enjoys a bit of banter, a bit of tech, and a whole lot of Cockney rhyming slang, this book is for you. But remember: it’s all in good fun. Don’t take it too seriously—just sit back, grab a cuppa, and enjoy the ride.
So, there you have it. My little 24-hour experiment, wrapped up and ready for you to enjoy. Gizmos and Gadgets in Cockney is out now on Kindle and will be available very soon in paperback (As soon as I have approved the… Proof), and I hope it brings you as many laughs reading it as I had writing it.
Cheers,
Matt Porter
February 2025
📚 Want a bit of tech banter with a Cockney twist? Grab your copy of Gizmos and Gadgets in Cockney on Kindle now, and don’t forget to keep that tongue firmly in cheek.
Acer is pushing the boundaries of gaming laptops with the launch of its Predator Helios Neo 16 AI andPredator Helios Neo 18 AI models, delivering cutting-edge AI-enhanced gaming and creative experiences. These machines combine the latest Intel Core Ultra 200HX Series processors with NVIDIA GeForce RTX 50 Series Laptop GPUs, making them ideal for gamers, creators, and AI enthusiasts alike.
Acer Predator Helios Neo AI Gaming Laptops: Elevating Gaming to the Next Level
Unleashing the Power of Next-Gen Hardware
At the heart of the Helios Neo AI models lies a combination of powerful processors and GPUs. The laptops are equipped with up to an Intel® Core™ Ultra 9 275HX processor and up to an NVIDIA® GeForce RTX™ 5070 Ti Laptop GPU. This hardware combination ensures smooth gameplay, ultra-fast rendering, and AI-powered enhancements across gaming, content creation, and development tasks.
NVIDIA Blackwell Architecture with DLSS 4
The NVIDIA GeForce RTX 50 Series graphics cards, powered by the NVIDIA Blackwell architecture, offer new levels of AI performance. Gamers can take advantage of NVIDIA DLSS 4, a suite of neural rendering technologies designed to boost frame rates, improve image quality, and reduce latency. Additionally, NVIDIA Studio enables creators to explore new dimensions in design, animation, and video editing with optimized performance.
The inclusion of NVIDIA NIM microservices allows developers to build AI applications, virtual assistants, and automation workflows efficiently, making the laptops suitable for both gaming and AI-related projects.
Stunning Displays for Immersive Visuals
The Predator Helios Neo models offer premium display options tailored to gamers and creative professionals. The 16-inch version features an OLED panel option with WQXGA resolution (2560 x 1600) and a 240 Hz refresh rate. The 18-inch model includes a Mini LED display with a 250 Hz refresh rate for smooth visuals and precise color representation.
Both displays support NVIDIA G-SYNC and NVIDIA Advanced Optimus to eliminate screen tearing and optimize power efficiency. The MUX switch allows users to bypass integrated graphics for direct GPU performance, ideal for high-demand gaming sessions.
Cooling and Efficiency: 5th Gen AeroBlade Fans
Acer’s innovative cooling system features 5th Gen AeroBlade™ 3D fans, liquid metal thermal grease, and vector heat pipes to keep the laptops running cool under heavy loads. The thermal design ensures consistent performance during intense gaming or resource-heavy tasks.
AI-Enhanced Performance and Features
The Predator Helios Neo AI laptops offer a range of AI-enhanced features:
Intel Application Optimization: Reduces latency and improves performance for popular games.
Acer PurifiedVoice™ 2.0: AI noise reduction ensures clear communication during multiplayer sessions.
Acer PurifiedView™ 2.0: AI-powered webcam optimization for video calls and content creation.
PredatorSense 5.0 Utility App: AI-driven optimization for performance, cooling, and power management.
Multi-Tasking with 64 GB of RAM and 2 TB Storage
Both the 16-inch and 18-inch models support up to 64 GB of DDR5 memory running at 6400 MHz and up to 2 TB of PCIe Gen 4 SSD storage. This configuration ensures seamless multitasking, fast load times, and ample storage for large game libraries, creative projects, or AI workflows.
Connectivity and Gaming Precision
The laptops come equipped with Wi-Fi 6E, Intel Killer Ethernet E3100G, and Thunderbolt 4 for high-speed internet and data transfer. A combination of USB-C and USB-A ports, HDMI 2.1, and a microSD card reader provide versatile connectivity for peripherals and external displays.
Audio and Immersion
Acer enhances immersion with DTS® X:Ultra audio, delivering clear and rich sound for gaming and media consumption. The laptops also feature a full HD IR camera for Windows Hello support and video conferencing.
Pricing and Availability
The Predator Helios Neo 16 AI (PHN16-73) and Helios Neo 18 AI (PHN18-72) will be available as follows:
Predator Helios Neo 16 AI (PHN16-73)
North America: April 2025, starting at USD 1,899.99
EMEA: May 2025, starting at EUR 1,699
Predator Helios Neo 18 AI (PHN18-72)
North America: May 2025, starting at USD 2,199.99
EMEA: June 2025, starting at EUR 1,799
Specifications at a Glance
Predator Helios Neo 16 AI
Display: 16-inch OLED WQXGA (2560 x 1600) 240 Hz or Mini LED options
Processor: Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX or Ultra 7 255HX
Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5070 Ti or 5070 Laptop GPU
Memory: Up to 64 GB DDR5
Storage: Up to 2 TB PCIe Gen 4 SSD
Cooling: 5th Gen AeroBlade fans, liquid metal thermal grease
The Predator Helios Neo AI laptops blend cutting-edge AI technologies with next-gen hardware, making them the ideal choice for gamers, content creators, and developers looking for top-tier performance and versatility. With powerful GPUs, AI-powered enhancements, and exceptional display options, these laptops offer a glimpse into the future of gaming and creativity.
If you’re someone who spends long hours at your desk, whether for work, gaming, or just binge-watching your favourite shows, you already know how crucial a good chair can be. Enter the Boulies Master Rex—an ergonomic chair designed to combine premium comfort with functionality. It’s essentially the Goldilocks of chairs: not too firm, not too soft—just right.
A Sequel That’s Better in Every Way
The Master Rex builds on Boulies’ already popular Master Chair, with a fresh set of upgrades that will leave your old chair looking like it belongs in a museum. Among the highlights is a built-in leg rest, perfect for those moments when you just want to kick back. The Enhanced Stable Tilt Mechanism ensures that whether you’re reclining to unwind or rocking back and forth while brainstorming ideas, you’ll stay stable and comfortable.
And let’s talk flexibility. With a backrest that adjusts between 95° and 165° and a rocking range of 15°, finding your sweet spot—whether it’s for focused work or a well-earned break—couldn’t be easier. The built-in lumbar support is fully adjustable, helping you maintain good posture without even realising it. My spine felt like it had found its new best friend.
Sitting Comfort Like You’ve Never Experienced
One of my favourite features has to be the tailored round-edge cushion design, which moulds to the contours of your body, reducing pressure on your thighs and hips. The wider seating area means you won’t feel cramped, and the plush, cold-cure foam ensures long-lasting support. Even the 4D armrests are fully adjustable, letting you customise height, depth, and angles to perfectly cradle your elbows.
The materials are no afterthought either. You’ve got a choice between two premium finishes:
Ultraflex PU Leather: Inspired by sports car interiors, it’s soft, durable, and feels luxurious to the touch.
W/R Fabric: If you prefer something softer and more breathable, this upgraded fabric blends endurance with plush comfort.
Either way, both options are resistant to spills—ideal for those of us prone to knocking over our morning coffees.
Design and Durability in One Package
The Master Rex is built to last, with an extra-strong steel frame and an aluminium base that feels sturdy enough to survive just about anything. The 6cm PU casters glide smoothly across floors without leaving scratches, so you won’t have to worry about wrecking your wooden flooring. And with a Class 4 gas lift (top-class hydraulics), you’ll enjoy stable height adjustments without the usual creaks and groans of lower-quality chairs.
Boulies Master Rex: The Chair That Redefines Comfort for Work, Gaming, and Relaxation
Is It Worth the Price Tag?
With an RRP of £409.99 (currently available with an £80 discount), the Master Rex delivers premium features without the usual luxury price markup. It’s a chair that combines top-tier materials, modern aesthetics, and ergonomics to create a seating experience that’s hard to beat.
If you’re looking for a chair that blends seamlessly into your home office while offering the comfort of a recliner, this could be the upgrade you’ve been waiting for.
Boulies Master Rex: The Chair That Redefines Comfort for Work, Gaming, and Relaxation
Final Thoughts
The Boulies Master Rex isn’t just another fancy chair—it’s an investment in comfort, productivity, and relaxation. Whether you’re working on a big project, gaming for hours, or just chilling with Netflix, this chair supports you every step of the way.
Head over to Boulies UK to learn more or take advantage of the current discount. Believe me, your back (and your productivity) will thank you.
