Techwise Corner

 Grand Theft Auto VI for PlayStation 5 is an enticing prospect, although this Code in Box edition deserves a closer look before you buy. With release scheduled for 19 November 2026, this is an assessment of the package and announced features, rather than a verdict based on playing the finished game. The biggest detail is also the easiest to overlook: there is no disc inside. You receive a download code, so the box offers something tangible to unwrap without providing a traditional physical copy. That makes it appealing as a present, but less satisfying for collectors who value having the game itself on their shelf. Convenience is the main attraction. Once redeemed and downloaded, there is no disc to insert whenever you fancy playing. The trade-off is that you need an internet connection for the download and sufficient console storage. Anyone expecting to lend their copy to a friend or trade it in afterwards should think carefully about choosing this format. As for the game, the ret...

 The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time remains an adventure with a remarkable sense of purpose. Its opening hours turn a sheltered woodland childhood into something much larger, building a world that feels mysterious, inviting and occasionally unsettling. The appeal goes beyond nostalgia: there is real craft behind its enduring reputation. Hyrule is modest by modern standards, but its compact design gives individual places a strong identity. Peaceful villages, eerie corridors and sprawling dungeons each bring a distinct atmosphere. The angular characters and simple textures show their age, yet expressive animation and thoughtful art direction help the world retain its charm. The music does even more, giving familiar locations an emotional weight that sharper graphics alone could never provide. Exploration and puzzle solving remain the strongest attractions. New equipment opens fresh possibilities, while the journey between childhood and adulthood gives familiar surroundings a differ...

There is something lovely about giving favourite photographs a place beyond your phone screen. The Humblestead 10.1-inch WiFi Digital Photo Frame offers a straightforward way to do that, combining a touchscreen with wireless photo sharing. Its appeal is simple: keeping family moments visible without finding space for another collection of traditional frames. The black finish gives it an understated look that should sit comfortably on a shelf, bedside table or desk. At 10.1 inches, the display offers useful viewing space without demanding too much room. The 1280 × 800 resolution should suit everyday photographs, although the advertised “Full HD” description needs qualification: this is not a 1920 × 1080 display. The IPS panel is a welcome specification, as this type of screen generally maintains colours and visibility when viewed from an angle. That matters for something you are likely to glance at while moving around a room. Touchscreen controls also promise a more approachable experie...

The Sony MDR-3R Stranger Things headphones have an appealing premise: bring the charm of a 1979 design into everyday listening, without abandoning modern convenience. Based on the supplied specifications, their strongest attraction is the combination of nostalgic styling, low weight and a straightforward wired connection. At just 38g, these headphones should feel less cumbersome than many larger designs. The on-ear format keeps things compact, although comfort will depend on headband pressure and how the pads sit against your ears. Low weight helps, but it cannot guarantee a comfortable afternoon of listening. Swappable earpads are a welcome touch, offering flexibility if the originals become worn or you fancy a change. USB-C connectivity gives the retro concept a practical update. There is no Bluetooth pairing to manage or headphone battery to recharge, which has a certain refreshing simplicity. The trade-off is a cable that can catch on clothing, plus the need to check compatibility ...

The Motorola Signature 5G makes a strong first impression on paper, pairing 16GB of RAM with 512GB of storage in a smartphone that targets demanding users. The PANTONE Carbon finish sounds suitably understated, giving it an appealing identity for anyone who prefers a discreet look over something more colourful. That generous memory allocation is the headline feature, although its value deserves a little perspective. Having 16GB of RAM provides ample headroom for multitasking, but it does not automatically guarantee faster gaming or smoother everyday use. The processor, cooling and software optimisation matter just as much. For someone constantly switching between demanding apps, the specification is reassuring; for lighter use, it may be more than necessary. The 512GB storage capacity is arguably the more immediately useful advantage. It offers plenty of space for photographs, downloaded entertainment and larger apps, reducing the need to constantly clear files. Anyone who keeps a size...

 The REDMAGIC Astra 2 makes an appealing pitch: serious gaming hardware in a tablet that still feels manageable in size. With a 9.06-inch OLED display, a Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor and generous memory, this Eclipse Black model looks particularly tempting for anyone who finds a phone screen too restrictive. The display is arguably the biggest attraction. OLED technology promises rich contrast, while the 185Hz refresh rate offers scope for exceptionally fluid gameplay. However, the benefit will depend on which games support higher frame rates. The compact screen size also strikes an interesting balance between immersion and portability, although players who prefer sprawling strategy interfaces might want something larger. Performance potential is another strong point. The processor and 16GB of RAM suggest ample headroom for demanding games and multitasking, while 512GB of storage provides useful breathing room for sizeable downloads. Fluid cooling sounds encouraging for longe...