Garmin shows off new GPS cycling computers

Garmin, the renowned global leader in GPS technology, has unveiled its highly anticipated Edge 540 and Edge 840 Series GPS cycling computers, marking a significant leap forward in cycling technology. These cutting-edge devices offer cyclists a wide array of performance-based training metrics, personalized coaching tailored to individual goals, advanced navigational support, and more, all wrapped in a sleek and lightweight design.

The grand reveal of the Edge 540 and Edge 840 Series took place during an exhilarating breakfast ride around Taktak C6 Loop, attended by a group of 60 avid cyclists. With their groundbreaking features and impressive design, the Edge 540 and Edge 840 Series are set to revolutionize the world of cycling technology.

One of the standout features of these new devices is their solar charging models, which provide cyclists with extended ride time between charges. The solar models boast an impressive battery life of up to 32 hours in demanding use or an outstanding 60 hours in battery saver mode. This ensures that cyclists have ample power for their journeys, whether they are training for a major race or aiming to achieve personal milestones.

The Edge 540 and 840 Series offer advanced performance metrics, including targeted adaptive coaching, which helps cyclists track their progress and make informed decisions about their training load, recovery, and upcoming events. These devices provide dynamic insights and analytics to improve performance and gain a comprehensive understanding of strengths and weaknesses ahead of milestone targets.

The Edge 540 and Edge 840 Series come equipped with a host of innovative features designed by cyclists, for cyclists. These features include cycling ability and course demands analysis, which allows riders to identify their strengths and weaknesses and tailor their training accordingly.

The devices also provide targeted adaptive coaching, presenting daily suggested workouts and training prompts while adjusting coaching based on individual training load, recovery, and upcoming events. Real-time stamina monitoring enables riders to track exertion levels during a ride, helping them make strategic training decisions and maintain optimal pacing.

To enhance the overall riding experience, the Edge 540 and 840 Series include a power guide feature to help riders manage their efforts with power targets throughout a course. The ClimbPro ascent planner allows cyclists to view the remaining ascent and grade for each climb, even without course navigation.

Additionally, the devices employ multi-band GNSS technology for enhanced positioning accuracy, ensuring reliable navigation in challenging environments such as dense tree cover or downtown urban areas.

The solar models of the Edge 540 and 840 Series are equipped with Power Glass solar charging lens, which extends battery life to up to 60 hours in battery saver mode. This innovative solar charging capability provides cyclists with up to an extra 25 minutes of battery life per hour during daytime riding, ensuring they never run out of power during their adventures.

Built to withstand various terrains and demanding rides, all models of the Edge 540 and 840 Series feature a rugged design. Boasting a 2.6-inch color display and button controls that function flawlessly in any riding environment, these devices are ready for any ride, from remote gravel trails to challenging climbs. The Edge 840 Series computers also come with a responsive touchscreen, adding an extra layer of convenience and ease of use.

The Edge 540 Solar and Edge 840 Solar models are now available for purchase, priced at PhP 27,990 and PhP 34,490, respectively. For those seeking non-solar options, the Edge 540 is priced at PhP 21,970, and the Edge 840 is priced at PhP 27,990. Sensor bundles for each device are also available, allowing cyclists to tailor their setup to their specific needs.

The launch of the Edge 540 and 840 Series also signifies Garmin’s commitment to continuous innovation. By seamlessly integrating with Tacx indoor smart trainers, offering extensive connectivity through the Garmin Connect app, and providing customization options via the Connect IQ Store, Garmin ensures that cyclists have access to a comprehensive ecosystem of tools and resources to enhance their training experience.

The Edge 540 and 840 Series are now available for purchase, offering cyclists a range of options to suit their preferences and needs. Whether opting for the solar models or the non-solar versions, cyclists can equip themselves with cutting-edge technology that will undoubtedly elevate their training and performance.

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ASUS ROG Ally: The handheld gaming device to be excited about, priced

The ASUS ROG Ally is a handheld device that aims to provide an immersive gaming experience and stands as a strong competitor to the Steam Deck. We’ve had the chance to attend a technical seminar held by ROG Philippines and here’s what you can expect on this device once it becomes officially available here in the Philippines.

Display and design

It boasts a 7-inch Full HD IPS touchscreen with a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels, ensuring sharp and vibrant visuals. With a high 120Hz refresh rate and a quick 7ms response time, the ROG Ally offers smooth and responsive gameplay, enhancing the overall gaming experience.

I was able to play Forza Horizon 5 on it and the visuals are a lot smoother than playing at home on my 60Hz TV. And the additional capability to connect to ROG’s XG mobile — an external GPU with additional ports for input — makes the Ally all the more flexible as you can go for bigger displays for better immersion.

In terms of build quality, the device features Corning Gorilla Glass DXC and Corning Gorilla Glass Victus, providing durability and protection against scratches and accidental damage. The body comes with a textured finish to ensure good grip during usage and its white color, to me, closely resembles a PS5’s DualSense controller.

Internal specs

ASUS offers two variants: the ROG Ally and the ROG Ally Extreme. The ROG Ally is equipped with an AMD Ryzen Z1 4nm CPU with 6 cores and 12 threads, along with an AMD Radeon GPU featuring 4 compute units (CUs) and 2.8 Teraflops of graphics performance. It also comes with a 256GB PCIe 4.0 M.2 SSD for fast and ample storage.

On the other hand, the ROG Ally Extreme variant aims to take gaming performance to the next level with an AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme CPU boasting 8 cores and 16 threads. It also features AMD Radeon Graphics with 12 CUs, delivering an impressive 8.6 Teraflops of graphics performance. Additionally, it offers a larger 512GB PCIe 4.0 M.2 SSD for increased storage capacity.

Both variants come with 16GB LPDDR5 6500MT/s dual-channel RAM, enabling smooth multitasking and efficient gaming performance. The ROG Ally emphasizes audio quality with its two stereo speakers, Dolby Atmos support, Hi-Res audio certification, and AI noise-canceling technology — ensuring an immersive and high-quality audio experience. Biometric security is provided by a fingerprint scanner, allowing for quick and secure access to the device.

Other noteworthy features include Aura Sync support, allowing users to synchronize the device’s lighting effects with other compatible ASUS peripherals. The inclusion of a 3.5mm headphone/mic audio jack enables easy connection of headphones or external audio devices. And as mentioned earlier, the ROG XG Mobile Interface provides additional connectivity options, allowing users to connect external devices for enhanced gaming experiences.

In terms of ports, the device offers a USB-C 3.2 Gen 2 port that supports DisplayPort and DC power delivery, providing versatile connectivity options. Additionally, it includes a UHS-II microSD card slot for expandable storage.

The ROG Ally is powered by a 40WHr 4-cell Li-Ion battery and supports 65W USB-C charging, offering decent battery life and quick charging capabilities. With its compact dimensions of 28.0 x 11.1 x 2.12 ~ 3.24cm and a weight of 608g, the ROG Ally is designed to be portable and convenient for gaming on the go.

Vs Steam Deck

Compared to the Steam Deck, the ASUS ROG Ally has the advantage of a higher refresh rate, providing smoother visuals and a more responsive gaming experience. Additionally, the ROG Ally Extreme variant offers a more powerful GPU with 12 CUs and 8.6 Teraflops of graphics performance, surpassing the capabilities of the Steam Deck.

These features, along with its advanced audio technology, expandability, and biometric security, make the ASUS ROG Ally a compelling option for gamers seeking a high-performance handheld gaming device.

Price in the Philippines

The price for the ROG Ally in the Philippines is still under embargo, but the company promises it’s going to be a very competitive price point for what it offers. Stay tuned for the official announcement of its price.

 

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Availability & Pricing
The Ryzen Z1 Extreme-equipped model is now available at PhP 43,995, while the ROG Ally model with the Ryzen Z1 processor will be available this August for PhP 39,995.

Both models will have 512 GB storage and 16GB of LPDDR5 RAM and is available at ASUS and ROG Concept Stores. 

The first 100 buyers of the Ally will get a chance to obtain the handheld’s perfect accessories set —  The ROG Ally Travel Case and Gaming Charger Dock worth PhP 6,000 when they register here.

For gamers looking to purchase online, visit ASUS’ newest e-shop or get it through Shopee’s 6 months 0% interest SPayLater installment plan plus free shipping from July 20 – 31, 2023.
The ROG Ally offers a two-year ASUS International Warranty with ASUS Premium Care to feel secure with ASUS’ nine-step exclusive preventive maintenance program.

A special pop-up booth in One Bonifacio High Street Mall for the ROG ALLY will also be present from July 21-30, 2023. Special ROG merch and prizes will be given away so make sure to follow the ASUS Republic of Gamers on all social media channels to get exciting updates.

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