Power banks (or battery packs on the other side of the world) have gone through loops of ups and downs.

While it’s ever-popular for juicing up smartphones and several devices in a pinch, it’s also notorious for making you flinch whenever your airplane’s overhead bin blows some white smoke all of a sudden. Or worse: engulfing flames when left unattended.

But, with the advent of bigger yet slimmer (and safer) batteries this 2026, it’s hard not to wonder and ponder when such tech will arrive in power-packed accessories most of us use.

Very, Very Airy

For a refresher, UGREEN launched the MagFlow series not too long ago. That’s specifically eight months from the time of this writing.

One of its standout features is its LED display. Removing that feat with some running on the treadmill gives you a power bank that managed to shed some weight and trim down its waist.

Thus, the UGREEN MagFlow Air truly stands out on the show floor.

By the numbers, UGREEN’s MagFlow Air takes it to the next level with its 13.9mm slim chassis and 213 grams of feather-lightness.

The regular MagFlow, on the other hand, is heavyweight at 254g and oh-so-juicy-thicc at 21mm.

I even tried putting the new model up against UGREEN’s first-gen MagSafe power bank I personally bought from 2023. My OG power bank was still thick at 19mm and weighed as much as 235 grams.

Visual differences aside, I’ve held it enough to say the size and weight differences were truly felt from every inch within.

But at what cost?

Just like its THICCer brother, the UGREEN MagFlow Air shares the same Qi2 wireless charging standard alongside the inclusion of Apple’s legendary MagSafe feature.

But, to achieve its thinner and lighter form factor, UGREEN clearly needed to make some sacrifices.

MagFlow Air vs MagFlow vs PB206

First and foremost: its wireless charging capabilities.

The first MagFlow power bank boasts as much as 25W wireless charging speeds. That has been downgraded to just 15W wireless in the newer MagFlow Air.

And another: the removal of its special LED display. This hinders possible buyers from checking if it actually fast charges one’s device.

Although some users prefer it, others don’t. It’s something that ends up on the buyer’s priorities at the end of the day.

Which further brings me to my extensive charge tests and how I tried conducting it.

Feel that fill

With the absence of that dedicated display, knowing the power bank’s overall charge status relies on the conventional 4-bar indicator.

While percentage accuracy is clearly impossible, it didn’t hinder me from conducting my GadgetMatch Charge Test.

With my smart watch timer and dedication on keeping tabs with the power bank’s actual battery level, the test was still a success.

UGREEN claims this 10,000mAh power bank can be charged up for around two hours.

I am not sure what type of charger and cable UGREEN used for their test. On my end, I used two of the most extreme combos I have with me.

First, their very-own UGREEN 100W Uno GaN charger paired with ADATA’s magnetic USB-C to USB-C cable that supports Qualcomm’s Quick Charge (QC 3.0) speeds.

For another, vivo’s newest 100W FlashCharge adapter — now with a better USB-C port (instead of USB-A).

While UGREEN did not explicitly specify if it’s exactly a two-hour charging time, these results prove that you can fully fill the power bank to the very brim as long as you got the fastest chargers and cables around.

Power up to the top

My extensive charging benchmarking doesn’t end there.

Just like any other power bank in the market, smartphones are also built different. While flagships lead the race in having the best charging speeds possible, modern-day midrangers barely feel “mid” now especially with their behemoth battery tanks.

For the most objective yet inclusive test possible, I’ve decided to use the MagFlow Air and its built-in USB-C cable to charge two phones from my stash: the all-new vivo X300 Ultra and the TECNO POVA Curve 2 5G.

ICYMI, vivo’s X300 Ultra boasts a 6600mAh Si/C battery that supports speedy 100W wired FlashCharge speeds.

However, that’s not just limited to its bundled charger and cable. Thanks to a leveled-up USB-C PPS protocol, I was able to maximize its charging speeds even with just MagFlow Air’s stationary body cable.

On the other hand, the TECNO POVA Curve 2 5G has a gargantuan 8000mAh battery. Albeit, slower charging at 45W with the absence of PPS.

That said, my test shows differences affect overall charging time.

Moreover, this not only proves how fast and sturdy the built-in USB-C cable of the MagFlow Air is. It was also able to live up to its 10,000mAh battery capacity with both tests being able to keep one (1) battery bar alive and kicking.

Of course, using the USB-C port (given you have the right type of cable) can supply your phones and other devices as much as 30W of maximum charging output.

1-bar wonder?

As preluded to earlier, knowing the actual charge of the power bank after using it was never possible at all. Still, that never stopped me from trying to use it even under such a silly circumstance.

With that 1-bar left. it’s nothing but a guessing game. A battle against your anxious mind if it will actually help charge up your device or not.

This is also another testament that wired charging standards and protocols also matter as much as the charging cables and bricks we are also using for our power banks.

Safety is a HUGE priority

If you worry about bringing this in your upcoming trip, the UGREEN MagFlow Air is definitely allowed when you board your airplanes with its “airline-friendly” or “travel-friendly” mark.

My only cause of concern: Despite the brand originating in Mainland China, they still don’t put that much-needed CCC (triple C) Certification. Personally, this affected my work trips last year going to China.

Not being able to bring any certified power bank made me struggle — especially as someone who uses my phone as the main device when taking snaps and stills while still being connected to the internet via foreign SIM card (and/or eSIM).

Hopefully, UGREEN will secure all needed safety standards and certifications for it to be deemed as a “travel-friendly” power bank.

That said, even without China’s strict regulation against portable power packs, UGREEN’s multiple safety protections still make it a safe product to use whenever you’re out and about.

More so, that ThermalGuard feature that intelligently controls the overall temperature of the power bank when being used. A clear sign that it regulates heat caused by charging even in prolonged usage periods.

And now that we’re already at it, this is a friendly reminder not to use unauthorized third-party chargers and/or cables.

As much as you want your power banks, phones, and other devices to be safe from unsolicited battery blowouts, you should also be able to invest on authentic power adapters and charging cables that won’t harm or degrade the MagFlow Air.

Is the UGREEN MagFlow Air your GadgetMatch?

With a price of US$ 79.99, UGREEN’s MagFlow Air is definitely a power bank (or battery pack) worth considering and purchasing.

Without an ounce of doubt, the UGREEN MagFlow Air is a solid Super Swipe and deserves the GadgetMatch Seal of Approval.

If you’re not being too nitpicky about the lack of a dedicated status display or the slower 15W wireless charging speeds, the MagFlow Air is still as powerful as its MagFlow brother alongside other power banks in the same league.

While it’s overall slim and light, it still has a strong suit and core that makes it a must-have accessory to bring — especially if you’re the type who lugs, roams, or travels out a whole lot.

UGREEN has introduced its new Nexode and MagFlow Air Editions, a lineup of ultra-portable charging accessories designed primarily for Apple users.

The new collection focuses on combining compact form factors with fast charging performance for devices like the MacBook Air, iPhone, iPad, and AirPods.

Leading the lineup is the Nexode Air 65W Charger, a compact charger capable of delivering up to 65W fast charging for the MacBook Air. UGREEN says the charger is designed to remain portable despite its power output, making it suitable for travel and daily carry.

For users who prefer an even slimmer design, the company is also offering the Nexode Air 45W Charger Slim.

Both chargers feature UGREEN’s Thermal Guard temperature control technology and broad compatibility across Apple devices.

On the wireless charging side, the MagFlow Air Magnetic Power Bank 10000mAh 15W offers Qi2-certified 15W magnetic charging in a slim portable form factor.

The power bank also includes a built-in USB-C cable alongside an additional USB-C port for more flexible charging options. UGREEN says it uses premium ATL battery cells for improved safety and reliability.

The wider Air Edition lineup likewise includes:

• Nexode Air 65W Charger Slim
• MagFlow Air Magnetic Power Bank 5000mAh 15W

According to UGREEN, the new series reflects the brand’s continued push toward compact yet capable charging solutions for mobile users.

Pricing and availability

The new products are now available in the United States through the UGREEN Official Store and Amazon.

Pricing is as follows:

• Nexode Air 65W Charger — US$ 39.99
• Nexode Air 45W Charger Slim — US$ 39.99
• MagFlow Air Magnetic Power Bank 10000mAh 15W — US$ 79.99

For 80 years, JBL hasn’t just been part of the music scene; they’ve been the heartbeat of it. From the massive stages of Woodstock to the speakers in your pocket, they’ve defined what “loud and clear” sounds like since 1946.

Marking its 80th year, the brand is entering a new chapter that isn’t about nostalgia, but about how sound fits into the messy, beautiful, and mobile way we live right now.

No more waiting for instrumentals

If there is one thing that defines a good gathering, it’s a spontaneous karaoke session.

JBL is leaning hard into this with their new EasySing ecosystem. The star of the show is the JBL EasySing Mic Mini Duo.

It’s pocket-sized, but it features real-time AI Vocal Removal, allowing you to strip the vocals by 25%, 50%, or completely from any streaming track with a single press.

You no longer have to wait for an official “karaoke version” of a new hit to drop on YouTube. You just press a button and start your solo.

These mics offer six hours of playtime, AI noise suppression, and a natural reverb that makes even shower singers sound like pros.

For those who want the full stage experience, the new PartyBox Encore 2 Plus and PartyBox On-The-Go 2 Plus have this AI tech built directly into the speakers, turning any living room into a concert hall.

Portable power from the shower to the shore

JBL’s portable lineup has received a serious glow-up designed to survive your next adventure.

The JBL Go 5 remains the king of “throw it in your bag” audio, but it now features AirTouch technology.

If you want a wider soundstage, you just tap two Go 5s together to pair them instantly. For those who need more muscle, the JBL Xtreme 5 delivers detailed sound with AI Sound Boost to prevent distortion at high volumes.

It even doubles as a power bank and lasts for 28 hours, which is longer than most of us can stay awake.

If you’re planning a full-scale bash, the PartyBox 130 introduces a sleek new hexagonal profile and 15 hours of battery life, ensuring the lights and bass keep going until the neighbors finally complain.

Your personal sound bubble

The personal audio side of the family has been completely redesigned with a lifestyle-first lens.

The JBL Live Series, including the Live 680NC and 780NC, features a more polished finish with metallic accents and soft-touch materials.

The Live 780NC is particularly impressive, offering a staggering 80 hours of battery life — enough to fly around the world twice without needing a charger.

For a more tailored fit, the Live 4 series comes in Buds, Beam, and Flex styles to suit your ear shape.

Meanwhile, the everyday Tune Series has been updated with the 680NC and 780NC models now featuring Adaptive Noise Cancelling and Spatial Sound, bringing premium features to the daily commute.

Leveling up your gameplay

Gamers haven’t been left out of the 80th-anniversary celebration.

The new Quantum 250, 650, and flagship 950 headsets are engineered for precise spatial audio, but the real win is the modularity.

JBL has designed these so that the microphone, ear cushions, and cables are easily replaceable. It’s a refreshing move toward longevity since you don’t have to toss the whole headset just because your gear has seen some heavy use.

With customizable software and a redesigned “hammock” headband, these are built for marathon sessions where comfort is just as important as the kill-death ratio.

Price, availability

Most of this new gear is available now, while a few highly anticipated items are just around the corner.

For the karaoke enthusiasts, the EasySing Mic Mini Duo is priced at PhP 12,999, the Mic Mini at PhP 8,999, and the standard EasySing Mic at PhP 10,999.

In the portable category, the Go 5 is an easy win at PhP 2,899, while the Xtreme 5 sits at PhP 21,299. Party-goers can grab the PartyBox 130 for PhP 23,999, the Encore 2 Plus for PhP 26,999, or the On-The-Go 2 Plus for PhP 24,999.

On the personal audio front, the Live 780NC is PhP 11,999 and the Live 680NC is PhP 7,999. The Live 4 series (Beam, Buds, and Flex) are all priced at PhP 12,499.

The Tune series ranges from the 530BT at PhP 3,499 up to the 780NC at PhP 7,999. Finally, for the gamers, the Quantum series starts at PhP 3,999 for the 250, PhP 9,199 for the 650, and PhP 21,999 for the flagship 950.

JBL is 80 years old, but by mixing AI innovation with rugged portability, they’ve ensured they will remain the loudest, coolest brand in the room for another eight decades.