VAR

NAB 2026: RØDE UNVEILS WORLD-LEADING MICROPHONE TECHNOLOGY, NEXT-GEN PRODUCTS AND FUTURE-FORWARD SOFTWARE

Published

5 months ago

April 17, 2026

INTRODUCING SONAURA™, RØDELINK II, LPA1, DS3, PODMIC FLAG AND RØDECASTER STUDIO

RØDE has today marked a major evolution in professional audio and creative workflows in the lead up to NAB Show in Las Vegas, introducing a suite of new products, technologies and software set to redefine the future of content creation.

Central to the announcement is Sonaura, a world-leading studio-grade MEMS (Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems) microphone technology that will underpin a new generation of professional audio solutions across RØDE and the wider Freedman Group.

Alongside this, RØDE introduced the RØDELink II professional UHF wireless mictrophone system, a range of new studio accessories including the LPA1 low-profile studio arm, the DS3 desktop studio arm, PodMic Flag branding tool, and the RØDECaster Studio podcast app – developed by its state-of-the-art AI Lab – further expanding its end-to-end ecosystem for creators.

RØDE will be showcasing these products alongside recent new releases, including the RØDECaster Video S and RØDECaster Video Core, at the NAB Show from Sunday April 18, until Wednesday, April 22 at booth C9316 in Central Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center.

SONAURA – WORLD-LEADING PROFESSIONAL MEMS MICROPHONE TECHNOLOGY

A new era for audio capture has arrived with Sonaura, a breakthrough studio-grade MEMS (Micro-Electro-Mechanical-Systems) microphone technology. The culmination of a five-year collaboration with Infineon Technologies AG, a global leader in MEMS microphone technology, Sonaura combines RØDE’s industry-leading audio engineering with Infineon’s cutting-edge semiconductor expertise to fundamentally redefine how professional audio is captured.

Sonaura represents the next frontier for audio technology, capable of delivering exceptional audio fidelity, precision and durability in an ultra-compact 4mm x 5mm form factor. Manufactured at Infineon’s industry-leading semiconductor fabrication facilities, and engineered to RØDE’s exacting standards, Sonaura introduces a new class of microphone performance – delivering unprecedented signal clarity, resilience and versatility to creators across all disciplines.

“What we’ve achieved with Sonaura was once considered impossible” said Freedman Group Founder and Chairman Peter Freedman AM. “We have always been relentless in our pursuit of delivering the highest quality audio, and Sonaura is not only proof of that unwavering commitment, but a testament to RØDE and the wider Freedman Group’s ethos of shattering barriers and crushing conventions. In partnership with Infineon, we’ve created a foundational audio platform on which the future of sound will be built, wholly revolutionising recording technology as we know it.”

With an industry-leading Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR) of 83dB and a self-noise measurement of just 11dBA, Sonaura delivers an unparalleled level of clarity, providing broadcast-grade fidelity while maintaining far greater resilience than any other traditional professional microphone technology.

Measuring just 4mm x 5mm and built on a newly developed low-noise ASIC, Sonaura defies the conventional limits of audio technology design, providing a level of performance previously unattainable in such a compact form. This breakthrough enables seamless integration into applications where high-quality audio was once impossible, unlocking limitless possibilities in sonically transforming broadcasting, filmmaking and content creation.

With exceptional SPL handling, extremely high immunity to RF interference and an incredibly flat frequency response, Sonaura produces flawless audio recording in any scenario, from controlled studio environments to unpredictable field productions.

“Sonaura is a true feat of engineering,” said Ryan Burke, Freedman Group Portfolio Manager. “It’s clarity, resilience and sonic precision combined with its ultra-compact form heralds the bright future of microphone technology. Through seamless collaboration, RØDE and Infineon have delivered the best of their respective worlds to creators, with Sonaura boasting uncompromising audio quality in an incredibly versatile form factor.”

Built with longevity in mind, Sonaura is engineered to withstand extreme conditions. It features Infineon’s revolutionary Sealed Dual Membrane design which combines ultra-low self-noise with enhanced environmental robustness and reduces sensitivity to physical shock compared to conventional microphones. This ensures consistent performance and long-term reliability, making it the most durable studio-grade microphone technology ever developed.

“To accomplish this groundbreaking development, we sought a partner who shares our pursuit of acoustic excellence,” said Adam White, President of Infineon’s Power and Sensor Systems Division PSS. “With both our teams’ spirit, ingenuity and dedication, we are redefining what’s possible in audio – and accelerating the future of digitalisation.”

Sonaura will be introduced across select next-generation products within the RØDE and wider Freedman Group lineup, beginning with the L1 sub-miniature lavalier microphone from Lectrosonics. This launch marks the first step in a broader rollout of the Sonaura platform, bringing its studio-grade performance to professional wireless, broadcast and production environments.

With this revolutionary new audio platform, RØDE and Infineon have set a new standard for microphone technology, achieving unmatched precision, performance and durability for the next generation of audio capture.

Learn more about Sonaura technology

RØDELINK II – PROFESSIONAL UHF WIRELESS MICROPHONE SYSTEM

RØDELink II signals the next generation of professional wireless microphone systems. Built for filmmakers, broadcasters and content creators, RØDELink II features proprietary UHF wireless transmission, offering unparalleled sound quality, best-in-class range, staunch stability and a host of powerful features that set a new industry standard for wireless microphone systems.

Drawing on the deep wireless heritage within The Freedman Group, RØDELink II benefits from decades of UHF innovation pioneered by stablemate Lectrosonics. By leveraging engineering expertise from one of the most respected names in professional wireless audio, the system brings proven UHF performance into a new generation of RØDE products, delivering exceptional reliability, interference resistance and operational confidence in demanding RF environments.

Designed for versatility, RØDELink II includes two transmitters and a single receiver, offering seamless dual-channel operation for recording multiple sound sources at once. Each transmitter is paired with a broadcast-grade lavalier microphone featuring locking connectors, delivering exceptional detail and secure, high-quality audio capture for interviews, productions and live performances in any environment.

Replete with a host of professional features, RØDELink II is headlined by 32-bit float on-board recording, allowing users to capture pristine audio directly to a microSD card, no matter how loud or quiet the source. This revolutionary feature ensures that no take is ever lost, providing absolute peace of mind in any recording scenario. Additionally, a dedicated timecode I/O port makes it easier than ever to accurately align audio and video, removing the need for complex post-production adjustments.

Built for professionals, RØDELink II features a rugged metal body designed to withstand the rigours of location recording, along with three included removable lithium-ion batteries that deliver extended operating time in demanding environments. Complete with a comprehensive accessory kit housed in a premium travel case, RØDELink II redefines what’s possible in wireless audio, making it an essential tool for any production.

Complementing RØDELink II are a range of timecode and audio cables launching alongside it, designed to provide seamless connectivity and exceptional performance for creators and filmmakers. These include the 3.5mm TRS to 5-Pin and 3.5mm TRS to BNC timecode cables, both featuring locking connectors, professional-grade construction, and right-angle designs for a compact, secure setup.

Additionally, the 3.5mm TRS to XLRM and XLRM Splitter cables offer premium solutions for connecting microphones and audio sources to professional recording devices, with options for summing stereo channels or splitting them into separate XLR outputs. Built for durability and reliability, these cables ensure stable connections and uncompromising performance in any production environment.

RØDELink II, along with the new range of timecode and audio cables, will be available soon.

LPA1 – PROFESSIONAL LOW-PROFILE STUDIO ARM

The LPA1 expands RØDE’s studio ecosystem with a professional low-profile studio arm engineered for precision placement without visual obstruction. Designed for modern recording, streaming and broadcast setups, the LPA1 sits neatly below the camera’s line of sight, keeping creators unobstructed on screen while delivering accurate microphone positioning.

With an extended horizontal reach of 650mm and a wide vertical adjustment range, the LPA1 offers exceptional flexibility to accommodate both end-address and side-address microphones. Smooth 360° rotation and silent operation allow for precise repositioning during recording or live broadcasts without introducing unwanted noise, ensuring complete creative control in any studio environment.

Built to support professional equipment with confidence, the LPA1 features a high load capacity of up to 2kg and universal thread compatibility, making it suitable for a wide range of microphones and studio accessories. Integrated cable management keeps XLR and USB cables neatly concealed, maintaining a clean, organised workspace while preserving full freedom of movement.

Effortlessly mounted to any standard desk using the included clamp, the LPA1 delivers a streamlined, professional solution for studios at home or on location. Purpose-built for creators who demand precision, reliability and a clean on-camera presence, the LPA1 is a heavy-hitter in RØDE’s suite of next-generation studio workflow tools.

LPA1 is coming soon.

DS3 – PROFESSIONAL DESKTOP STUDIO ARM

The DS3 introduces a new standard for compact desktop studio arms, delivering precise positioning, exceptional stability and a refined design for modern content creation. Built for creators who demand flexibility without compromise, the DS3 provides effortless placement for microphones, cameras, smartphones, lights and accessories in any desktop setup.

Engineered with a heavy weighted base, the DS3 sits securely on any flat surface without the need for clamps or mounting points, ensuring maximum stability in even the most dynamic recording environments. A precision-engineered ball head offers smooth, controlled movement and a wide range of adjustment, allowing users to achieve perfect positioning with whisper-quiet operation during streams, recordings or live broadcasts.

Crafted from precision-manufactured metal and finished in either classic black or crisp white, the DS3 balances rugged durability with understated elegance. A natural cork base inlay not only enhances stability but adds a premium tactile finish, making the DS3 a seamless addition to any professional or home studio.

Designed to adapt to a wide range of equipment, the DS3 features universal mounting compatibility with included 5/8” and 1/4” thread adaptors and supports devices up to 1.5kg. Integrated cable management keeps XLR and USB cables neatly secured and out of sight, maintaining a clean, organised workspace while preserving complete creative flexibility.

Designed and made in RØDE’s state-of-the-art facilities in Sydney, Australia, the DS3 reflects RØDE’s commitment to precision engineering, thoughtful design and uncompromising build quality across every element of the creator workflow.

DS3 is coming soon.

PODMIC FLAG – CUSTOM MICROPHONE BRANDING FLAG

Designed specifically for the RØDE PodMic, this customisable microphone flag allows users to display their logo or artwork with a refined, broadcast-ready finish – expanding the visual identity of the modern podcast studio with a simple yet impactful way for creators to showcase their brand on camera.

Precision-engineered to integrate flawlessly with the WS14 pop filter, the PodMic Flag preserves the PodMic’s sleek silhouette while adding a distinctive branded element. Its durable construction ensures a secure, reliable fit, making it ideal for video podcasts, livestreams and professional studio productions where presentation matters as much as performance.

Creators can design, download and print their own artwork, enabling a streamlined, accessible path to personalised studio branding. The wrap-around sticker format applies smoothly for a polished result, delivering a crisp, professional aesthetic that elevates any on-screen setup.

PodMic Flag is coming soon.

RØDECASTER STUDIO – INTELLIGENT PODCAST PRODUCTION APPLICATION

RØDECaster Studio is an innovative new desktop application designed to revolutionise how podcasters and audio creators edit, refine and publish spoken-word content. Developed by RØDE’s state-of-the-art UK AI Lab, RØDECaster Studio combines studio-grade transcription accuracy, intuitive speaker identification and a suite of AI-driven editing tools to streamline post-production workflows like never before.

Available for both Mac and Windows, RØDECaster Studio supports seamless import from compatible RØDECaster devices, including direct-to-cloud workflows via RØDE Cloud. Creators can record on a RØDECaster Pro II or RØDECaster Duo and continue editing instantly in the app, with projects automatically synced and accessible across devices.

With its next next-generation transcript-based editing engine, RØDECaster Studio can generate highly accurate transcripts with word-level timestamp alignment and intuitive speaker identification. Integrated speaker profile management and automatic voice recognition ensure precise host and guest labelling, enabling structured navigation, topic-based editing and faster review of long-form conversations.

Creators can also refine dialogue simply by editing text. Advanced AI-powered in-painting tools allow words or entire phrases to be corrected or replaced naturally, preserving tone and cadence without requiring re-recording. RØDECaster Studio also features an integrated voice and chat-powered RØDE Assistant, capable of handling high-level editing tasks through natural-language commands. Creators can trim intros and outros, remove filler words and gaps, apply censorship, smooth speech or request meaning-based edits simply by asking while preserving the authenticity and character of every recording.

RØDECaster Studio also introduces a flexible composition system, enabling users to generate multiple versions from a single recording. Highlight reels, concise cuts and alternate edits can be created non-destructively, while the original recording remains intact and instantly recoverable.

Beyond editing, RØDECaster Studio streamlines the path to publication. Automatic title and summary generation accelerates content preparation, while one-click export presets optimise sample rate, format, bit depth and loudness for major platforms including Spotify, Apple Podcasts and YouTube. Full audio, selected clips or transcripts can be exported in professional formats, ensuring platform-ready results with minimal manual configuration.

With real-time waveform analysis and proprietary AI enhancement models delivering balanced, studio-grade sound automatically, RØDECaster Studio represents a significant evolution in podcast production – uniting capture, cloud workflow, intelligent editing and distribution within a single, cohesive system.

Future-facing and creator-focused, this latest innovation further extends RØDE’s ecosystem beyond audio capture and into a new era of intelligent editing.

Spotlight

HONOR Pad X9b Max Review: When a Tablet Starts Challenging Your Laptop

Published

1 week ago

September 1, 2026

Integrator Web-Editor

With a huge 13-inch display, a 10,100mAh battery and familiar Android productivity tools, HONOR’s Pad X9b Max makes a convincing case for going big, although its size brings compromises of its own.

BY Srijith KN, Senior Editor, Integrator Media

The HONOR Pad X9b Max makes its intentions clear almost immediately. With a 13-inch display, this is not a tablet designed primarily around compactness. It wants to give you enough screen to watch, browse, multitask and, increasingly, get some proper work done.

That became the most interesting part of my time with it.

Rather than approaching the Pad X9b Max purely as an entertainment device, I connected a Bluetooth keyboard and began using it for documents, browsing, ChatGPT and some of the everyday tasks I would normally reach for my laptop to handle.

The result is a tablet that gets surprisingly close to feeling like a lightweight workstation in the right circumstances, although whether you would actually leave the laptop behind is a slightly more complicated question.

A 13-inch display that makes a difference

The headline feature is undoubtedly that 13-inch LCD display.

At 2500 × 1560 resolution and with a refresh rate of up to 120Hz, there is plenty of space here for websites, documents and video. But the more important point is simply how much larger everything feels when you start working on it.

I happened to have a Huawei MatePad 11.5 alongside the HONOR during testing, and putting the two next to each other made the difference immediately apparent. The Huawei feels much more like a conventional portable tablet. The Pad X9b Max begins moving into laptop territory.

Documents have more room to breathe, websites feel less constrained and working with text is particularly pleasant. I noticed this while using ChatGPT, where longer conversations almost began to resemble working inside a document rather than interacting with a mobile application.

The 120Hz refresh rate also helps keep scrolling and general navigation fluid, while the large canvas makes multitasking considerably more attractive than it is on smaller tablets.

There is, however, an obvious trade-off.

A 13-inch tablet isn’t something I would choose specifically because I wanted the smallest device possible in my bag. The size that makes the X9b Max so appealing on a desk is also what makes smaller tablets easier to carry and use casually.

That’s the fundamental compromise here: I prefer the HONOR when I’m sitting down to work; I prefer the idea of a smaller tablet when I have to carry it.

Productivity becomes part of the proposition

Pair the Pad X9b Max with a keyboard and the large display begins making considerably more sense.

I used a Kensington Bluetooth keyboard during testing, and the combination worked well for writing, browsing and moving between applications. Microsoft Word introduced its own subscription-related complications, but that’s more a reflection of Microsoft’s software model than a limitation of HONOR’s hardware.

The wider Android ecosystem is also important. With MagicOS and access to familiar Google applications, getting my usual collection of services onto the tablet was straightforward.

My review unit comes with 4GB of RAM and 128GB of storage, so this isn’t hardware I would position as a replacement for a high-performance notebook. But for everyday productivity — web applications, writing, email, research, media and lighter multitasking — the experience makes a convincing argument for using the tablet instead of reaching for a laptop every time.

Expandable storage also gives the X9b Max additional flexibility for users carrying large collections of documents or media.

Built for entertainment too

Of course, productivity is only half the appeal of having this much screen.

The Pad X9b Max’s size makes video one of its natural strengths. HONOR has paired the display with a quad-speaker system, DTS:X Ultra and IMAX Enhanced support, reinforcing the tablet’s entertainment credentials.

And this is where having 13 inches requires considerably less justification. Video simply benefits from the additional scale, whether you’re watching from a desk, sofa or bed.

It also means the Pad X9b Max can comfortably switch roles during the day: a document and browser screen while working, followed by a sizeable personal entertainment display once the keyboard goes away.

A battery built for the bigger canvas

Powering all of this is a 10,100mAh battery, paired with support for up to 45W HONOR SuperCharge.

The large capacity makes sense considering the size and resolution of the display. More importantly, battery life is critical for a tablet being positioned as both an entertainment device and a productivity companion. Having to constantly look for a charger would undermine much of the convenience of leaving a laptop behind.

We wouldn’t reproduce HONOR’s laboratory endurance claims as our own results here; for the VAR piece, the more relevant point is that HONOR has equipped its largest screen with an appropriately substantial battery.

Verdict

The HONOR Pad X9b Max succeeds because its 13-inch display isn’t merely a specification designed to look impressive on the box. It materially changes what the tablet is good at.

There is substantially more room for documents, browsing, multitasking and content, and adding a keyboard transforms it into a surprisingly useful desk-based productivity device.

But its greatest strength also creates its biggest compromise. At this size, the X9b Max isn’t as effortless to carry around as a smaller tablet, and once you add a keyboard, you inevitably start comparing the entire setup with taking a laptop instead.

That makes the Pad X9b Max particularly appealing for someone who wants one large-screen device capable of moving between work and entertainment, rather than someone whose priority is maximum portability.

It hasn’t made my Dell redundant.

But it has made me reach for it less often, and for a tablet this size, that’s probably the more meaningful achievement.

Spotlight

OPPO Reno16 5G Review: A Polished Upgrade, But Does It Do Enough?

Published

2 weeks ago

August 28, 2026

Integrator Web-Editor

The Reno series has become an important part of OPPO’s smartphone portfolio, sitting between the increasingly competitive mid-range segment and the company’s more premium offerings. With the Reno16 5G, OPPO isn’t attempting to completely reinvent that formula. Instead, it has focused on improving the overall package across design, photography, battery life, software and AI.

Having previously used the Reno14 as one of my primary phones, I was particularly interested in whether the Reno16 felt like a meaningful progression or simply another annual refresh.

After spending time with the device, there is plenty here that feels better refined, although its AED 2,499 UAE price also raises some questions about performance and overall value.

BY SRIJITH KN, SENIOR EDITOR, VAR

A more polished Reno!
My review unit arrived in Twilight Violet, and the Reno16 makes a strong first impression. The aluminium frame, slim symmetrical bezels and overall finish give the device a noticeably premium character.

The 6.32-inch display is also excellent for everyday use. Content looks sharp, the interface feels fluid and the screen is more than capable for browsing, video, social media and photography. The buttons feel solid too, while the haptic feedback deserves particular mention. It is one of those smaller details that contributes considerably to how polished a phone feels in everyday use.

Overall, OPPO has done a good job of making the Reno16 look and feel like a device worthy of its position in the Reno portfolio.

The camera remains a Reno strength

Camera performance was one area where I expected the Reno16 to prove itself, and it largely did.

Images generally came out with natural-looking colours and balanced exposure, without leaving me waiting for noticeable processing after pressing the shutter. There can still be a slightly punchy character to some photographs, but nothing that particularly bothered me.

During testing, I photographed a building opposite me where part of the upper floor had previously suffered fire damage. Zooming into the scene, I was impressed by how closely the camera reproduced the smoke-stained and burnt areas compared with what I could see with my own eyes.

The front camera also performed well. Selfies retained good detail and produced results that I was quite happy to share without much additional editing.

That perhaps sums up the Reno16 camera experience best. It is designed for someone who wants to take the phone out, capture the moment and quickly have an attractive, shareable image.

Performance is good, but the price changes expectations

The Reno16 5G is powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 7 Gen 4, and for everyday smartphone use, I have few complaints.

Messaging, email, browsing, photography, social media, content consumption and moving between applications all feel responsive. I didn’t encounter anything during normal use that made the Reno16 feel particularly slow.

But this is also where the AED 2,499 price becomes important.

The Snapdragon 7 Gen 4 is a capable processor, but buyers spending this amount can reasonably expect considerable performance headroom. Users interested primarily in everyday smartphone tasks are unlikely to have an issue, but demanding gamers and those running heavier workloads may find more powerful alternatives at this price.

The Reno16 therefore gets everyday performance right. I simply would have liked OPPO to push the performance envelope further.

Battery and charging strengthen the package

One specification that certainly stands out is the 6,700mAh battery, particularly when combined with 80W SUPERVOOC charging.

Battery capacity has become an increasingly important battleground among smartphone manufacturers, and OPPO has managed to package a substantial battery without making the Reno16 feel unnecessarily cumbersome.

Fast charging also remains one of those features whose usefulness becomes obvious very quickly. Rather than leaving a phone connected for extended periods, being able to add significant charge during a relatively short stop is genuinely practical.

AI is here, but practicality matters more!

Unsurprisingly for a smartphone arriving in 2026, AI plays a significant role in OPPO’s software proposition.

The Reno16 includes the AI Snap Key, which can provide quick access to features such as AI Mind Space. But what I appreciate more is that OPPO allows the physical key to be customised for other functions.

I configured mine to switch between Ring, Vibrate and Silent, and found myself appreciating that simple functionality more than another dedicated AI shortcut.

That flexibility is important. AI capabilities will continue evolving rapidly, but consumers still interact with their smartphones through dozens of simple actions every day. Sometimes improving those actions creates more immediate value than adding another headline AI feature.

ColorOS is fast, although I still want more customisation

ColorOS runs smoothly on the Reno16, and there is no noticeable lag during ordinary use. As mentioned earlier, the haptics are particularly good.

I am less convinced by some of the interface aesthetics. The pre-installed applications and certain default visual elements aren’t necessarily to my taste, and I would like greater freedom around icon customisation and the Quick Settings interface.

These are largely subjective complaints, however. For someone primarily using the Reno16 for messaging, email, photography, browsing, social media and entertainment, ColorOS gets the fundamentals right.

The AED 2,499 question?

The Reno16 5G is ultimately a polished smartphone with very few obvious weaknesses. The camera is dependable, the construction feels premium, the battery capacity is impressive, 80W charging is genuinely useful and everyday performance is smooth.

What prevents it from becoming an automatic recommendation is not something the Reno16 does particularly badly. It is simply how competitive the market becomes once a smartphone reaches AED 2,499.

The Snapdragon 7 Gen 4 is perfectly capable, but at this price I would have liked more performance headroom.

For Reno14 users, however, the improvements across design, camera, battery and the overall experience make the Reno16 feel like a meaningful progression. If you already own a Reno15, the argument for upgrading immediately is considerably harder to make.

The Reno16 gets most of the fundamentals right. The question buyers ultimately need to answer is whether that polished overall experience is enough to justify its price.
Srijith kn

VAR

Baseus PicoGo AC22 Review: How Much Power Can Fit in Your Pocket?

Published

2 weeks ago

August 27, 2026

Integrator Web-Editor

Carrying a power bank often means accepting a compromise between capacity and convenience. A 10,000mAh unit typically demands a dedicated bag compartment, while ultra-compact chargers rarely hold enough power to be genuinely useful on a long day. The Baseus PicoGo AC22 takes a more elegant approach, placing a high-density 10,000mAh battery into a footprint roughly the size of a wireless earbuds case.

Reviewed By Srijith KN, Senior Editor, Integrator

The result is a portable charger that feels purpose-built for the daily commute. Rather than requiring a backpack, it slips easily into a pocket. When you factor in the built-in USB-C cable that doubles as a carrying strap, the AC22 becomes a surprisingly practical solution for professionals moving between meetings, flights, and remote workspaces.

A Different Approach to High-Density Power

The first thing that stands out about the PicoGo AC22 is its size-to-output ratio. Baseus utilises a dual-cell silicon-carbon battery chemistry, which allows the unit to remain exceptionally compact while delivering a 45W maximum output. On paper, 45W is a technical specification. In practice, it becomes the charger’s defining advantage. It provides enough current to fast-charge flagship smartphones from zero to fifty percent in under thirty minutes, and can even sustain smaller USB-C laptops during a layover.

The integrated eight-inch USB-C cable makes the concept even more practical. A secondary USB-C port allows for simultaneous dual-device charging, though output drops to a combined 5V/3A when both are in use. A smart digital display clearly indicates the remaining battery percentage, removing the guesswork often associated with four-LED indicator systems.

Design That Feels Ready for Travel

The AC22 is constructed with travel in mind. Weighing just 170 grams, it carries full TSA compliance for airline carry-on. The built-in cable is robust enough to act as a lanyard, though its short length means you cannot easily use your phone while the charger sits in your pocket.

This combination feels particularly relevant for airport lounges, cafes, and conference centres. The unit does generate noticeable warmth during sustained 45W output, but a comprehensive seven-point safety system manages thermal limits effectively. It recharges fully in roughly two hours via a 30W input, ensuring it is ready for the next leg of the journey.

For users who require magnetic attachment or wireless charging, Baseus offers the sibling AM52 model. However, for those prioritising rapid wired charging in the smallest possible format, the PicoGo AC22 delivers reliable, predictable power without the usual bulk.