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A New Look at the Acer Iconia X12 Tablet
The Acer Iconia X12 tablet offers an outstanding blend of entertainment and productivity. This article will introduce the benefits of a tablet and the features and specifications of the Acer Iconia X12. Tablets are portable, all-in-one devices with a sensitive touchscreen. They are typically used for playing games, taking pictures, browsing the web, and reading electronic books. They are built for mobility, offering a happy medium between a smartphone and a laptop.
What are the benefits of an Android tablet?
With so many devices on the market, it can be tough to know which is right for your needs. There are significant differences between tablets, smartphones, and laptops, with unique advantages to each. Laptops tend to be bigger and offer more robust computing abilities with more memory storage, making them ideal for multitasking, whereas tablets are smaller and less suitable for intense work sessions. Here are some benefits of a tablet and why they may be a top choice for your needs.
1. Android vs. Windows and Chrome tablets
Android tablets like the Acer Iconia X12 are known for their simplicity, ease of use, and affordability. They also provide access to a huge range of apps via the Google Play Store, which are optimized to run directly on Android devices. While Windows and Chrome tablets are compatible with Android apps, they may not run as smoothly as they are scaled down for their respective operating systems. Chrome tablets are designed for web-based use and therefore tend to rely on using apps in the browser. As such, Android tablets offer a superior choice and quality for entertainment, games, and other apps than Windows and Chrome devices.
2. Lightweight and portable
Tablets are lightweight and portable, with most tablet devices weighing under two lbs (0.90 kg), so you can comfortably carry them in a handbag or purse without noticing much extra weight. This makes them an excellent travel companion, allowing you to take photos and videos to document your trip. Moreover, playing games or watching movies on a tablet is a great way to beat boredom on long journeys or commutes.
3. Long battery life
One major advantage of a tablet device is its long battery life. This is because the hardware components within a tablet consume less power than a laptop, which have a smaller sized battery and more components. Some tablets can last over 12 hours on a single charge, depending on usage, which is enough to get you through a long flight or day of classes.
4. Designed for games and videos
If you enjoy playing games, watching videos, and listening to music, then a tablet might be for you. Tablets are less capable of multitasking and flicking between apps than a laptop but still offer good performance for light tasks like playing games. Moreover, tablets are ideal for note taking during classes and are lightweight enough to carry around in a backpack or school bag. They also support electronic books, helping you save space while still being able to read your favorite novel.
5. AffordabilityÂ
Tablets are typically more affordable than laptops. Some budget models may cost USD $100 or less, whereas middle tier tablets with a better performance could be in between USD $200 and USD $400. Premium tablets are priced from USD $500, delivering a higher performance for their price tag.
Introducing the Acer Iconia X12 tablet
The Acer Iconia X12 tablet is the perfect blend of entertainment and productivity. It includes stunning AMOLED visuals and quadspeakers sound, as well as up to 400 nits of brightness and a 60Hz refresh rate. The tablet also features in-cell touch technology for precise responsiveness and unbeatable clarity.Â
It comes with an optional stylus and keyboard, so you can unleash your creativity as you stay productive with up to 16 hours of battery life on a single charge. The Acer Iconia X12 also delivers lightning-fast performance with a MediaTek Helio G99 OctaCore processor and up to 8GB RAM for smooth multitasking. You can also expand its 256 GB storage up to 1 TB using a MicroSD card.
The 13MP rear camera features a flash for taking photos in low-light situations, while the 5MP front camera is perfect for video calls and taking selfies. The handy magnetic kickstand lets you free your hands and show your best side with the perfect viewing angle.
Specifications
* Operating System: Android
* Processor Model: Helio G99, 2 GHz, Octa-core (8 Coreâ˘)
* Maximum Memory: 8GB LPDDR4X
* Flash Memory Capacity: 256 GB
* Display Screen Type: Active Matrix TFT Color LCD, CineCrystal, WQXGA
* Screen Resolution: 2560 x 1600
* Number of Speakers: 4
* Bluetooth: Bluetooth 5
* Webcam Resolution: 4224 x 3166
* Ports: USB, headphone jack
* Battery Run Time: 16 hours
* Input Devices: Stylus, keyboard
* Height: 0.3â (0.76 cm)
* Width: 11.2â (28.44 cm)
* Depth: 7.3â (18.54 cm)
* Weight: 1.21 lbs (0.54 kg)
So, should you buy a tablet device?
Tablets are the sweet spot between a smartphone and a full laptop. They are portable and budget-friendly, offering a nifty travel companion that fits in your handbag. The Acer Iconia X12 is a lightweight but powerful tablet with 8GB of RAM and 16-hour battery life. Get yours for just USD $549 in the Acer online store today, or USD $466.65 with a 15% student discount.
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Introducing the Predator Helios 18 AI (5080 GPU): The 2nd Most Powerful Acer Laptop
If you joined us a few weeks back when we unveiled the most powerful Acer gaming laptop, the Predator Helios 18 AI (RTX 5090), youâll be glad to know that our season of powerhouse gaming laptops continues today with the introduction of its formidable runner-up, the Acer Predator Helios 18 (5080 GPU).
Acer gaming computers come in many shapes and sizes. And if you donât look carefully, the names and numbers of the different models can get slightly confusing. The key here is in the 8, or the 9! The Predator Helios 18 AI 5080 version looks and tastes very similar to the 5090, but is less than half the price of its almighty cousin. So, weâre taking a slight step down from the lofty heights of the 5090 GPU to the still very lofty (h)eights of the 5080, letâs take a closer look at the Predator Helios 18 AI 5080 and see if we canât conquer the gameverse while weâre at it.
Death or glory
The Predator Helios 18 AI 5080 is a ridiculously portable gaming fortress ready to take you to new realms of gaming success. As we mentioned earlier the Predator Helios 18 AI 5080 currently sells for less than half of the $6,999.99 that the 5090 goes for. If youâre looking to dominate the games you play, but donât want to destroy your finances or remortgage your house, then the 5080 is a wiser choice.
But letâs be clear: this is not a budget laptop! In fact, there are two different models available, the Predator Helios 18 AI Gaming Laptop - PH18-73-98GC for $3,549.99, and the Predator Helios 18 AI Gaming Laptop - PH18-73-974G yours for $3,099.99.
The difference between these two apex beauties? A matter of RAM and SSD, of course. The slightly more expensive model packs a ceiling cracking 64 GB, DDR5 SDRAM and 2 TB SSD, while the other model kicks down the door with 32 GB, DDR5 SDRAM 1 TB SSD.
Now that weâve got the price tags and RAM out of the way, letâs get amongst it take a sip of the tasty tech-specs of the Predator Helios 18 AI Gaming Laptop (5080):
* OS: Windows 11 Home
* Processor: IntelÂŽ Core⢠Ultra 9 275HX processor Tetracosa-core (24 Coreâ˘) 2.70 GHz
* GPU: NVIDIAŽ GeForce RTX⢠5080 with 16 GB dedicated memory
* Memory: 64 GB, DDR5 SDRAM/32 GB, DDR5 SDRAM (see above)
* Storage: 2 TB SSD/1 TB SSD (see above)
* Display: 18" WQXGA (2560 x 1600) 16:10 IPS 250 Hz
* Display Screen Technology: ComfyView (Matte); In-plane Switching (IPS) Technology
* Speakers: 6
* Network: Wireless LAN Killer 1750x IEEE 802.11be
* Bluetooth: 5.4 or aboveÂ
* Built in Devices: Webcam, microphone
* Interfaces: HDMI, 5 x USB, Network (RJ-45), audio in/out
* Color: Abyssal Black
* Dimensions: 15.8â x 12.1â x 1.16â
* Weight (Approx): 7.72 lb
The peopleâs choice
As you can see from these block rocking tech specs, the Predator Helios 18 AI Gaming Laptop (5080) shares many of the flagship features of the 5090. Similarly, this is a gargantuan of gaming that lights up any room lucky enough to be graced with its RGB illuminated, abyssal black presence. At the heart of this beast we have the Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX, a smashing 18-inch WQXGA IPS display, all infused with era-defining AI capabilities. This is the Predator Helios 18 AI for those who recognize exactly where performance meets precision.
Number of the beast: 24 core mind
For tactical excellence the Predator Helios 18 AI Gaming Laptop (5080) is built out from the Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX CPU. 24 cores represent the pinnacle of the core mind: 8 cores for heavy lifting, while the other 16 cores ensure that everything in the background is covered. A clock speed of 2.70 GHz can be overclocked to a maximum of 5.4 GHz giving you a massive speed boost when itâs needed.
This CPU has a built-in Neural Processing Unit (NPU) for you to offload tasks like background removal and audio optimization for seamless streaming. Whatâs more, Intel Application Optimization (APO) continually tweaks and tinkers with your PCs performance letting you get the most out of the latest games as well as older titles.
Intelligent savagery: RTX 5080
This is where the Predator Helios 18 AI (5080) earns its name. Letâs make no bones about it: the GeForce RTX 5080 isnât a compromise, itâs NVIDIAâs latest generation of GPU technology, balancing sheer graphics horsepower with thermal efficiency.
Built on dedicated GDDR7 video memory, the 5080 handles high-res textures and lighting with ease, pushing the 2560 Ă 1600 WQXGA display to its limits. Whether youâre playing AAA titles at max settings, creating in 3D, editing 8K footage, or simply streaming your favorite show, the 5080âs dedicated graphics memory ensures zero slowdown and ever- consistent frame pacing.
On top of all this, AI-enhanced rendering (using NVIDIAâs own machine-learning optimizations) sharpens detail and maximizes performance, so visuals stay crisp and clean under the heaviest of loads. If youâre a gamer or creator who requires laptop portability with desktop-level output, the 5080 is your ticket to rarefied freedom. What you see is what you get: AI-infused computing with ray tracing, ultra high-speed rendering, and real-time visual computation, all fine tuned for efficiency and cool running.
Speaking of running temps, a beast like the Predator Helios 18 AI kitted out with such monstrous CPU and GPUs is bound to run slightly on the warmer side of toasty. Naturally, this laptop is also equipped with 6th gen aeroblade 3D fan technology. The Predator Helios 18 AI features the worldâs thinnest 0.05mm fan blades that rise and adapt at high speeds, increasing airflow efficiency by 20%!
Choose wisely
As we mentioned above, there are currently two configurations of the Predator Helios 18 AI Gaming Laptop (5080). So, how to choose between the two?
* Firstly, the 64 GB DDR5 RAM and dual PCIe 5.0 SSD (2 TB total) model. This slightly pricier version delivers instant loadouts with zero lag, and is built for creators with vast libraries.
* Meanwhile, the 32 GB DDR5, 1 TB SSD model is still a full-blooded Predator, just leaner and every bit as fast. Slightly smaller capacity trims cost and heat, while delivering Predator performance, as expected.
Both of these fantastic devices run the same Ultra 9 engine and RTX 5080 GPU, so choice comes down to how much space and multitasking headroom you demand!
A solid second
Thatâs about all weâve got time for today, gamers of the universe. For more info about the display, and other bits of the Predator Helios 18 AI, we recommend you peruse this article, and check out the flagship Predator Helios 18 AI (RTX 5090) while youâre at it. Balance is the new benchmark for on-the-go gaming, and the Predator Helios 18 AI (5080) can walk the tightrope like no other!
With its 24-core Intel processor, GDDR7 RTX 5080 graphics card, and the choice of two ultra-intelligent configurations, itâs engineered for those who require power and precision. Gaming is power, and the Predator Helios 18 AI (5080) certainly delivers in the smartest way possible.Â
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Still Using Windows 10? Hereâs Why Itâs Time to Switch to Windows 11
The end of support for Windows 10 is no longer a future concern, as of October 14, 2025, Microsoft has officially stopped providing free security updates and feature support for Windows 10. If you're still using a Windows 10 PC today, your system is now unprotected unless you've taken specific steps to stay secure.
Some regions, such as the European Union, receive one additional year of free critical security updates through October 2026. In most other areas, including the United States, you must either upgrade to Windows 11 or sign up for Extended Security Updates (ESU) to continue receiving protection. These updates only cover important security fixes and do not include new features or quality-of-life improvements.
For organizations and businesses, ESU can be purchased through the Microsoft Volume Licensing Program at $61 USD per device for Year One. This cost doubles each year, for a maximum of three years. ESU is also available at no cost for Windows 10 virtual machines running in specific Microsoft cloud services.Â
If you havenât enrolled in ESU, upgraded your system, or bought a Windows 11 device, now is the time to act. Below, we explain why.
Why you should upgrade to Windows 11 now
If you are still using Windows 10 without extended protection, youâre exposing your system to increasing risk. Even with ESU, you are missing out on key improvements. Here are four major reasons why upgrading to Windows 11 is the better choice:
1. No more security patches
Windows 10 no longer receives free security updates. This means newly discovered vulnerabilities will go unpatched for most users. Over time, this creates significant risk as hackers begin to target unprotected systems. Even if you pay for ESU, it only covers critical security fixes and nothing else.
2. Decreasing software support
Developers are already shifting their focus to Windows 11. While your apps wonât stop working overnight, software companies will gradually drop Windows 10 compatibility. This means fewer updates, reduced features, and eventually, no support at all.
3. No access to new features like Copilot
Microsoftâs latest tools, such as Windows Copilot, AI enhancements, and modern accessibility features are only available on Windows 11. If you want to use the newest functionality, youâll need to upgrade your operating system.
4. Loss of technical support
Microsoft and many third-party providers are phasing out assistance for Windows 10 users. Whether itâs help from official support teams or compatibility with newer hardware, Windows 10 users will be increasingly left behind.
To learn more about the benefits, read our guide on why you should update to Windows 11.
What to do if you can't upgrade yet
Not everyone can upgrade immediately. Maybe your hardware isnât supported, or youâre waiting to buy a new PC. If you plan to stay on Windows 10 a little longer, here are some ways to protect yourself in the meantime.
1. Use Extended Security Updates (ESU)
Microsoft offers Extended Security Updates to help Windows 10 users stay protected after support ended on October 14, 2025. There are two general pathways: free extensions (if eligible) and paid access.
Free options for home users
If you're using Windows 10 Home or Pro, you may be eligible for one year of free ESU by completing one of the following actions:
* Redeem 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points
* Turn on Windows Backup and sync it with Microsoft OneDrive
These options are aimed at consumers and are available through Microsoft's official ESU extension page. They may only apply to certain regions or be available for a limited time. In the European Union, all users automatically receive one additional year of critical security updates through October 2026.
Paid options for ESU access
If you're not eligible for the free extension, or you prefer not to use Microsoft Rewards or OneDrive, you can purchase ESU in the following ways:
* Windows 10 Home and Pro users can pay a one-time fee of $30 USD for one year of ESU coverage. This is a consumer-level offering and does not require volume licensing.
* Windows 10 Business and Education editions must go through the Microsoft Volume Licensing Program. Pricing starts at $61 USD per device for the first year, and it doubles each year for up to three years.
Each of these options ensures continued access to critical and important security updates only, with no new features or quality-of-life improvements.
Note: Virtual machines running Windows 10 in Microsoft cloud services such as Azure receive ESU at no additional cost.
2. Disconnect your PC from the internet
If your Windows 10 PC is being used for offline tasks, like editing documents or running legacy software, you can reduce your risk by keeping it disconnected from the internet. This minimizes exposure to remote attacks, but it's not a long-term solution.
3. Switch to Linux
If your computer canât run Windows 11 and you donât want to pay for ESU, installing a Linux distribution is an option. Linux is free, secure, and supported by an active developer community. It's not a direct replacement for all Windows applications, but it can be a solid alternative for basic tasks like web browsing, email, and document editing.
Final thoughts: Upgrade while you still have options
Windows 10 support officially ended on October 14, 2025. If you are still using it and have not taken any action, your system is now at risk. Extended Security Updates can buy you some time, but they are limited, may cost money, and do not include new features or full support.
Upgrading to Windows 11 is the most secure and future-proof choice. If your current device is eligible, you can upgrade through Windows Update. If not, there are many Acer laptops that run Windows 11 available at a range of price points and if you have a valid university/college email you can sign up at Student Beans for a 15% discount on your next purchase from the Acer Store.Â
To learn more about the benefits, read our guide on why you should update to Windows 11. If you have already made the switch, here is how to set up your new Windows 11 computer/laptop.
Now is the time to act. The longer you wait, the fewer options you will have.
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How to Set Up Your New Windows 11 Computer
As of October 14, 2025, Microsoft has officially stopped providing security updates and feature improvements for standard Windows 10 installations. While Extended Security Updates (ESU) are still available through paid plans or specific programs in the EU or Microsoftâs cloud services, they are limited in both scope and duration. For everyone else, upgrading or setting up a new Windows computer running Windows 11 is the safer path forward. This guide walks you through how to set up a new laptop with Windows 11, including performance, privacy, and security steps every user should follow from day one.
How to configure a new computer: 10 setup steps
1. Plug in your laptop or make sure your desktop is properly connected
Before you begin setting up a new computer, make sure your device has a reliable power source. If you're using a laptop, connect it to the charger. For desktops, double-check that all cables are securely attached, including the power cable, monitor connection, and peripherals like your keyboard and mouse.
A sudden shutdown during initial setup can lead to data corruption or incomplete configurations, so don't rely on battery power alone. Itâs also a good idea to place your device in a well-ventilated area, especially if you're setting up a new PC that will handle gaming or creative workloads.
2. Update Windows 11 to the latest version
Once your new Windows computer is powered on and connected to the internet, the first thing you should do is update Windows 11. Microsoft continuously rolls out updates that include security patches, performance improvements, and new featuresâespecially those tied to AI and Copilot+ functionality.
To check for updates:
* Go to Settings
* Select Windows Update
* Click Check for updates and install everything available
This step is essential for getting ready for Windows 11, as many Copilot features and system improvements rely on having the latest version installed. You may be prompted to restart your system one or more times. Let all updates finish before moving on to the next setup steps.
If youâre still debating the move to Windows 11, this article breaks down why now is the time to update to Windows 11.
3. Install and update your device drivers
Once Windows 11 is updated, make sure your hardware drivers are up to date. Drivers ensure your components such as the graphics card, Wi-Fi module, audio system, and peripherals work properly with your operating system.
Hereâs how to update drivers:
* Open Settings > Windows Update > Advanced options > Optional updates to check for available driver updates
* Visit your computer manufacturer's support site for the latest drivers specific to your model
* Use dedicated tools like NVIDIA GeForce Experience or AMD Software for graphics drivers
* Restart your system after all key drivers are installed
Windows Update handles many drivers automatically. However, it may not install the most recent or optimized versions. Manually checking helps prevent compatibility issues and gives you access to performance improvements that the built-in updater might miss.
4. Strengthen your system security in Windows Security settings
Before you start installing apps or browsing the web, take a few minutes to improve your computerâs built-in defenses. Windows 11 includes several security features under the Windows Security panel that can help protect your new PC from malware, phishing, and hardware-based attacks.
Start by opening Settings > Privacy & Security > Windows Security, then do the following:
* Add a Microsoft account if you havenât already, so you can sync security settings and enable device recovery
* Click App & browser control and turn on Reputation-based protection to block harmful files and untrusted apps
* Go to Device security > Core isolation and turn on Memory integrity
* In Device security, scroll down to Kernel-mode Hardware-enforced Stack Protection and enable it if your system supports it
These features improve system resilience against newer threats and are especially important for anyone using their new Windows computer for work, school, or online transactions.
5. Personalize your Windows 11 PC
Now that your system is secure and updated, itâs time to make your new Windows computer feel like your own. Personalization not only improves your experience but can also help boost productivity and comfort.
To start:
* Open Settings > Personalization
* Choose a theme, set your background wallpaper, and adjust colors and accent tones
* Customize the Start menu by pinning your favorite apps
* Move or remove widgets, and clean up your desktop layout
* Go to Taskbar settings to hide icons you donât use and enable ones you do
If you're setting up a new laptop with Windows 11 for daily work or creative tasks, spending a few minutes here can help streamline your workflow and reduce clutter from the beginning.
6. Uninstall unnecessary apps and bloatware
Most new Windows computers come with preinstalled software you probably donât need. This can include trial antivirus programs, promotional apps, and manufacturer utilities that run in the background and slow down your system.
To clean up your PC:
* Go to Settings > Apps > Installed apps
* Review the list and uninstall anything you donât recognize or plan to use
* Look for items like trial games, third-party utilities, or duplicate apps (for example, two antivirus programs)
* You can also right-click apps in the Start menu and select Uninstall
Removing bloatware helps your system boot faster, reduces background activity, and clears up disk space for the apps you actually want.
7. Disable unwanted startup apps and background services
Many new laptops and desktops load unnecessary programs at startup, which can slow down boot times and consume memory. Disabling unwanted startup apps helps your system start faster and frees up resources for the programs you actually use.
To manage startup settings:
* Open Task Manager by pressing Ctrl + Shift + Esc
* Click on the Startup tab
* Right-click any app you don't need to run at startup and select Disable
* If youâre unsure about a program, search its name online before turning it off
You can also go to Settings > Apps > Startup for a more user-friendly view of which apps are enabled. Streamlining your startup process is a simple but effective way to keep your new Windows computer running smoothly.
8. Set privacy and security preferences
Taking control of your privacy settings is one of the most important parts of configuring a new computer. Windows 11 collects usage data and enables targeted ads by default, but you can adjust these settings to limit tracking and increase control over your personal information.
Start by going to Settings > Privacy & security, then review these key areas:
* General: Turn off options like âLet apps show me personalized ads by using advertising IDâ
* Activity history: Disable storing activity history on the device if you prefer
* App permissions: Limit access to your location, camera, microphone, and more on a per-app basis
* Diagnostics & feedback: Switch from full diagnostics to required data only
If you're using a browser like Firefox, consider adding a content blocker such as uBlock Origin. It helps prevent tracking, blocks ads, and improves browsing speed. You can find it for free in the Firefox Add-ons store.
This is especially useful if you're setting up a new PC for work, research, or any task where privacy matters.
9. Install your essential apps and tools
Now that your system is cleaned up and secured, itâs time to install the apps you actually plan to use. What to install on a new PC depends on your habits, but there are some basics that most users will want right away.
Consider adding:
* Web browsers like Chrome, Firefox, or Brave
* Office suites such as Microsoft 365 or LibreOffice
* Cloud storage tools like OneDrive, Dropbox, or Google Drive
* Media players such as VLC
* Gaming clients like Steam, Xbox, Epic Games, or GOG
* VPN software if you want extra privacy when browsing on public networks
* Creative tools like Adobe apps, GIMP, or DaVinci Resolve if you work with content
This is also a good time to sync your browser settings and log into accounts so everything is ready to go. Think about what you use daily and install those apps first to avoid cluttering your system with software you donât need.
10. Create a backup and set up a recovery plan
Now that your new Windows computer is customized and ready, take a moment to prepare for future issues by creating a recovery plan. Backups are essential for protecting your files from hardware failure, software bugs, or accidental deletions.
To get started:
* Open Settings > System > Recovery and create a recovery drive using a USB stick
* Enable File History or use OneDrive to back up personal documents and folders
* Consider setting up System Restore points or using Windows Backup for full-image backups
* Store important recovery passwords or encryption keys somewhere safe
If you ever need to reset your system or recover from a crash, these tools can save hours of frustration. Itâs a step many users skip when setting up a new PC, but it becomes invaluable when something goes wrong.
Final thoughts: Keep your system safe, fast, and ready
Setting up a new computer is more than just turning it on and logging in. Each step, from updating Windows 11 and installing drivers to adjusting privacy settings and creating backups, helps ensure your system is secure, responsive, and tailored to your needs.
If you're still running Windows 10, consider signing up for Extended Security Updates. These are available for free in the EU and through certain Microsoft cloud programs, but only for a limited time. Running an outdated system without updates puts your computer at serious risk. The safer option is to upgrade or replace your current device.
If you havenât made the move yet, now is the time to update to Windows 11 or choose from a range of Acer laptops that run Windows 11. If you want to check out more Acer products make sure to check out our store page. For students, with a valid college/university email, you can get 15% off your next Acer computer purchase by signing up via Student Beans.
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EA Games is Going Private! Saudi-led Companies Buying Out EA Games
Electronic Arts will leave public markets in a $55 billion, all-cash buyout. The buyers are Saudi Arabiaâs Public Investment Fund, Silver Lake, and Affinity Partners. They will pay $210 per share if the deal closes after approvals. EA will stay in Redwood City, and Andrew Wilson will remain CEO. The deal is one of the largest take-privates in gaming and tech.
Why this buyout is happening
Stable cash from live-service games. EA earns steady money from EA Sports FC, Madden, Apex Legends, and other online titles. These games sell updates, passes, and content over time. That steady flow supports big upfront financing.
Stronger control of valuable IP. The new owners get franchises that work across console, PC, and mobile. They can license, co-produce, and expand these brands into more products and services.
Strategic push from Saudi Arabia. The Public Investment Fund is building a global footprint in games and esports. Owning EA fits that plan and connects to other gaming assets in its network.
Freedom from quarterly pressure. Private ownership reduces the need to hit short-term targets. EA can delay releases, cut weak projects, and back riskier ideas without public market swings.
Financing at scale. The group is combining large equity checks with committed bank debt. That mix lowers execution risk and helps justify the premium price per share.
Who is buying EA and why
Electronic Arts is being taken private by a three-member group: Saudi Arabiaâs Public Investment Fund, U.S.-based Silver Lake, and Affinity Partners. The trio is paying cash for control of EAâs catalog and the steady income that comes from long-running sports and online franchises. The structure gives them room to reorganize the business outside the glare of quarterly earnings.
PIF represents Saudi Arabia and is central to the countryâs Vision 2030 push to diversify beyond oil. Its strategy in games is scale, talent, and global IP ownership. EA fits that playbook. Owning the publisher puts Saudi capital behind sports and shooter brands that already sell worldwide, and it opens paths to jobs, training, and future studios in markets the fund is targeting.
Silver Lake is a large American private equity firm focused on technology platforms. Its role is to bring operating discipline, digital growth tactics, and add-on deals where they boost margins or expand reach. Expect attention on live-service pipelines, user retention, and mobile extensions where unit economics are strongest.
Affinity Partners adds flexible growth capital and governance support. In a deal this size, a third partner helps balance risk, fund future projects, and keep the board aligned while management restructures timelines and spending.
The combined motive is straightforward: durable cash flows from evergreen games, more monetization across console, PC, and mobile, and the freedom to shift roadmaps without stock-price whiplash. EAâs brands already engage players for years. Private ownership lets the new backers press that advantage while they prune weaker bets and double down on what scales.
How much is the EA sale and when will it be finalized
The group is offering $210 per share in cash, valuing EA at about $55 billion. Funding mixes roughly $36 billion of equity with $20 billion of committed bank debt. EA remains based in Redwood City with Andrew Wilson as CEO. Target close is Q1 FY27, subject to shareholder and regulatory approvals.
With EA trading at $200 on October 10, 2025, the spread to the offer is about 5% in gross terms if it closes at $210. That potential pickup sits more than a year out given the Q1 FY27 timeline.
What popular games/franchises will the new owners get?
Under the new owners, control will center on EA-owned franchises with large, durable audiences and proven live-service or sequel economics; the core titles includes:
* Apex Legends
* Battlefield
* The Sims
* Need for Speed
* Mass Effect
* Dragon Age
* Titanfall
* Plants vs. Zombies
* Command & Conquer
* Dead Space
Several major series rely on third-party licenses and are not EA-owned IP. The buyers will control these only through EAâs publishing and licensing agreements, not through ownership: Madden NFL (NFL/NFLPA), EA Sports FCâs league and club rights, F1 (Formula One), NHL (NHL/NHLPA), UFC, College Football, and Star Wars Jedi (Disney/Lucasfilm). Continuation depends on contract terms, renewals, and licensor approvals.
What this likely means for EA games
Expect tighter roadmaps, fewer bets, and deeper support for live services that already scale. Sports annuals and shooters should get longer content cycles, more cross-play features, and heavier mobile tie-ins. Single-player flagships will ship less often but with clearer budgets and milestones. Older brands may be remastered or mobile-first if unit economics work.
Operational discipline will rise. Studio headcounts and project lists will be rationalized. Metrics such as retention, ARPU, and content throughput will drive greenlights. Hiring and culture will refocus on delivery speed, technical craft, and cost control. External signaling will matter less than output and quality. The short-term path is consolidation; the medium-term path is selective risk on new IP once debt and pipelines stabilize.
Conclusion
This deal takes EA off the quarterly treadmill and gives the teams room to fix pipelines and ship stronger games. I personally believe this will make EAâs releases better over the next few years. If youâre gearing up for them, Acerâs Predator and Nitro laptops and desktops are the safe bet for smooth play; check them out now!
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An Introduction to Acerâs Key Brands
This article introduces Acerâs diverse family of brands, a tech ecosystem that goes far beyond laptops. From grizzled gamers and digital artists to students and professionals on the move, each Acer brand serves a unique purpose and audience.
Welcome to Acer Corner. Whether you came here to learn about Acer or stumbled in while searching for maple trees, youâre in the right place. In the following sections, weâll explore Acerâs lineup of products and services, from everyday laptops to high-end creative tools and enterprise solutions, and see what makes each branch of the Acer family stand out.
Acer
Before we discuss Predator, AOPEN, and SpatialLabs, letâs cover the fundamentals of Acer, the core brand. Acerâs mission has always been to break barriers between people and technology. Broadly speaking, Acer provides the technology that makes modern life, well, modern. Acer laptops, desktops, monitors, projectors, and accessories balance performance, portability, and price.Â
Whatever your tech needs are, Acerâs main product line has got you covered. Aspire laptops maximize productivity at home or in the office, while the Swift range prioritizes portability and sleek design. For eco-devices with true green credentials, Acerâs Vero range ticks the sustainability boxes. Acer Chromebooks deliver hassle-free computing for students, cloud workers and anyone who needs out of the box performance. Acer is the foundation upon which all of the other brands are built.
Predator
When Acer decided to stride into the gaming arena, it didnât just add RGB lighting and call it a day. Oh no, it spawned Predator, a brand forged specifically for all-round winners and esports professionals. Predator gaming machines pack a punch and are unapologetically powerful. These are devices that stand out from the crowd, if youâve seen a Predator desktop or laptop you wonât soon forget it.Â
Under the hood, itâs all about speed, control, and responsiveness: Intel Core Ultra processors, NVIDIA GeForce RTX GPUs, advanced cooling systems, and high-refresh displays. From the portable behemoths like Helios and Triton laptop lines to desk-dominating lightning-fast gaming monitors, every Predator product is engineered to prevail. Predator accessories include mechanical keyboards, precision mice, and even gaming chairs to complete the ecosystem. Predator means play without limits, whether youâre earning your crust in an online tournament or just taking over the world on a leisurely afternoon.
Nitro
If Predator is the great white shark then Nitro is the tiger shark: still powerful, but slightly less intimidating and friendlier on your wallet. Nitro was built for gamers who want high-quality, reliable performance without breaking the bank. For a clearer breakdown of the differences between Predator and Nitro, check out this informative article.
The Nitro family includes laptops, desktops, and monitors that make gaming accessible to the masses. If youâre just getting started gaming, or are a hobby gamer, Nitro delivers entry level excellence, with stylish design, solid GPUs, and efficient cooling all tuned for smooth gaming experiences. Nitro laptops like the Nitro V and Nitro 16 balance everyday productivity with serious gaming ability, helping you edit, stream, and play without breaking a sweat (or the bank).
Planet9
There are no physical products in the Planet9 world. Acerâs esports platform is your ticket to stay ahead of the latest developments in gaming. Planet9 is equal parts blog, news hub, training ground, and community space, the connective tissue between Acerâs gaming hardware and the players who use it.
Venture to Planet9, to form and join teams, analyse match data, follow tournaments, and track the latest worldwide esports news. This is a hub designed to help both new and experienced players refine their skills, find teammates, and even connect with coaches. While we all dig Acerâs gaming machines, Planet9 is the social space where the people of the gaming community can flourish.
AOPEN
If youâre still with us, congratulations, for our final brand today is AOPEN, Acerâs displays and monitor specialist. Even if you havenât heard of the name AOPEN, youâve likely seen an AOPEN display, as they are the force powering much of the planetâs visual experience.
Originally a standalone company, AOPEN is now an integral part of the Acer empire, creating monitors that serve both commercial and gaming needs. From durable digital signage and business monitors, to high-refresh rate gaming displays, AOPEN represents clarity, reliability, and value. AOPEN also makes industrial PCs and all-in-one computers, so next time you see a gamerâs setup, retail store display, or office workstation, thereâs a high chance it's and AOPEN!
One tree, many branches
We hope you enjoyed our journey through the forest of Acer brands today. If you came here in search of maple trees, you likely discovered something new, all growing from the same Acer roots. From the unhinged power of Predator, to the accessibility of Nitro, Acer has gaming covered. SpatialLabs lets you step into fresh 3D realms and AOPEN covers the world's digital display needs, while if you need a little digital guidance, Planet9 can set you on the right course to play, create, work and explore with Acer. Head to the Acer Store and if youâre a student, make the most of the 15% student discount today!
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