Red Magic's OLED gaming tablet, comparable in size to an iPad mini and featuring liquid cooling, is set to launch worldwide.
The Astra 2 introduces the power of the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 along with active cooling in a 9-inch tablet.
Red Magic has officially announced the global launch details for the Astra 2 gaming tablet. The device, which was initially launched in China as the Red Magic Gaming Tablet 5 Pro, will be available in international markets later this summer.
Early Bird vouchers will be available in mid-August, with priority access and a broader global sale occurring in late August through Red Magic’s website and select retailers.
What features does the Red Magic Astra 2 present?
The Astra 2 starts at $699 or €699, available in 12GB + 256GB and 16GB + 512GB versions. Its 9.06-inch OLED display puts it closer in size to the iPad mini compared to the larger 11-inch and 13-inch tablets dominating the market. This more compact design is favorable for gaming, making it easier to hold during extended sessions.
For comparison, the current iPad mini begins at $599, which is only $100 less than the Astra 2. There are rumors that Apple’s next compact tablet will feature an OLED display but will still be limited to a 60Hz refresh rate. In contrast, Red Magic’s panel boasts a 2.4K resolution, a 185Hz refresh rate, and an impressive 2,000Hz touch-sampling rate, making it far more suitable for high-paced games.
Performance is powered by Qualcomm’s top-tier Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor, complemented by Red Magic’s RedCore R4 gaming chip. An 8,300mAh battery provides power, while the global version supports 75W fast charging and includes two USB-C ports for added convenience. Additional features encompass stereo speakers and Red Magic OS 11.5, which is based on Android 16.
Cooling remains a standout feature
Cooling is one of the key features of the Astra 2. It is equipped with the “AquaCore Cooling System 2.0,” which employs a mix of liquid cooling, liquid metal, an enhanced vapor chamber, and software-driven thermal management to sustain performance during prolonged gaming sessions.
Early Bird purchasers will receive an 80W charger and a Red Magic keychain. Specific sale dates, regional pricing, and finish options will be revealed closer to the launch.
In my free time, I enjoy…
Samsung’s forthcoming iPad Pro competitor has leaked with a faster chip and a persistent notch.
The Galaxy Tab S12 Ultra seems to retain the notch that many disliked.
Samsung's upcoming flagship Android tablet has leaked, showcasing a sizeable design similar to its predecessor. CAD renders of the Galaxy Tab S12 Ultra were shared by OnLeaks and Smartphone Checker, illustrating the device from multiple angles. Its appearance is nearly indistinguishable from that of the Galaxy Tab S11 Ultra, featuring the same shallow display notch, dual rear cameras, magnetic S Pen charging strip, and keyboard connector. Samsung appears to have found no reason to make any significant changes.
Apple reportedly plans to refresh its entire iPad lineup, with the first new model potentially arriving this fall.
A recent report outlines the updates expected for the iPad mini, entry-level iPad, iPad Air, and iPad Pro over the coming year, with a new OLED iPad mini leading the updates.
If you're considering getting a new iPad, you might want to delay your purchase for a few months. A new report indicates that Apple is preparing a comprehensive refresh of its entire tablet range, with the first new model anticipated as early as this fall.
A new OLED iPad mini will pave the way.
AppleCare+ prices are increasing for new Mac and iPad customers.
Existing AppleCare+ subscribers will not be affected by Apple’s latest price increase.
Apple has raised its AppleCare+ subscription fees for new Mac and iPad customers, adding to the costs of hardware that recently saw significant price hikes. AppleCare+ offers technical support and repair coverage for accidental damage and other qualifying issues.
Monthly AppleCare+ plans for Macs and iPads will now be $0.50 more expensive, while annual plans have seen an increase of $5. Current subscribers will retain their existing rates, as the changes only apply to new customers.
Other articles
Red Magic's OLED gaming tablet, comparable in size to an iPad mini and featuring liquid cooling, is set to launch worldwide.
Global customers will soon have the option to purchase Red Magic's liquid-cooled OLED gaming tablet in two different memory configurations.
