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Acer has announced major updates to its Predator gaming lineup at CES 2025 in Las Vegas, introducing new AI-enhanced laptops powered by Intel’s latest processors and NVIDIA’s new graphics technology. The announcement includes refreshed versions of its flagship Predator Helios series and a new gaming monitor.
New Predator Helios AI Series: Performance Meets Intelligence
The centrepiece of Acer’s announcement is the updated Predator Helios lineup, featuring the Helios 16 AI and Helios 18 AI models. These new systems integrate Intel’s Core Ultra 9 processor 275HX and NVIDIA’s GeForce RTX 50 Series laptop GPUs, marking a substantial advancement in mobile gaming capability.
Technical Specifications and Features
The Helios 16 AI (PH16-73) comes equipped with:
- A 16-inch OLED WQXGA display (2560×1600 resolution)
- 240Hz refresh rate with NVIDIA G-SYNC support
- Up to 64GB DDR5 memory
- Storage options up to 4TB PCIe Gen 5 SSD
- 90Whr battery
- Weight: 2.7kg
The larger Helios 18 AI (PH18-73) offers:
- 18-inch 4K Mini LED display
- Choice between 120Hz with HDR 1000 or 250Hz refresh rate
- Up to 192GB DDR5 memory
- Storage capacity up to 6TB PCIe Gen 5
- 99Whr battery
- Weight: 3.2kg
Cooling Technology and Design
Both laptops feature Acer’s newest thermal management system, including the 6th Generation AeroBlade 3D fan technology. The cooling fans incorporate what Acer claims are the world’s thinnest laptop cooling fan blades, measuring just 0.05mm. This design reportedly improves airflow by 20% compared to traditional plastic fans.
The systems also utilise liquid metal thermal compound and vector heat pipes to maintain optimal operating temperatures under heavy loads.
AI Integration and Software Features
The new Predator series incorporates several AI-enhanced features through the PredatorSense utility:
- Acer PurifiedView 2.0 for video enhancement
- PurifiedVoice 2.0 for audio clarity
- ProCam technology for automatic gameplay highlight recording
- Integration with NVIDIA’s AI microservices for enhanced gaming and creative workflows
Predator Helios Neo 16S AI: Slim Gaming Excellence
Alongside the flagship models, Acer introduced the Predator Helios Neo 16S AI, designed to offer high performance in a more compact form factor. At less than 19.9mm thick, it maintains impressive specifications:
- Intel Core Ultra 9 processor 275HX
- NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5070 Ti Laptop GPU
- 16-inch OLED display with 240Hz refresh rate
- Up to 32GB DDR5 memory
- 2TB PCIe Gen 4 storage
- 76Whr battery
- Weight: 2.3kg
New Gaming Monitor: Predator XB323QX
The newly announced Predator XB323QX gaming monitor brings professional-grade display technology to gamers:
Display Specifications:
- 31.5-inch 5K IPS panel
- 144Hz refresh rate
- 0.5ms GTG response time
- NVIDIA G-SYNC Pulsar technology
- DFR capability for 288Hz at 1440p resolution
- 10-bit colour depth
- 95% DCI-P3 colour gamut coverage
Connectivity and Ergonomics:
- DisplayPort 1.4
- Two HDMI 2.1 ports
- Adjustable stand with tilt, swivel, and height adjustment
- 100x100mm VESA mount compatibility
- Built-in 2W stereo speakers
Market Availability and Pricing
The new products will be released in stages across different regions:
Predator Helios 16 AI:
- North America: June 2025, starting at $2,299.99
- Europe: June 2025, starting at €2,799
- Australia: June 2025, starting at AUD 5,499
Predator Helios 18 AI:
- North America: May 2025, starting at $2,999.99
- Europe: April 2025, starting at €3,699
- Australia: April 2025, starting at AUD 7,599
Predator Helios Neo 16S AI:
- North America: April 2025, starting at $1,699.99
- Europe: May 2025, starting at €2,399
- Australia: April 2025, starting at AUD 4,999
Gaming Features and Software
All new Predator laptops come with Windows 11 and include a three-month PC Game Pass subscription. The package gives users access to new titles such as Call of Duty: Black Ops 6, Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, and Ara: History Untold, along with the EA Play library.
The laptops feature Acer’s MagKey 4.0 mechanical switches for the WASD and arrow keys, offering improved response times with just 0.3mm of key travel. RGB lighting extends across the top lid, rear frame, and palm rest areas, while maintaining a professional appearance.
Concluding Thoughts
Acer’s new lineup demonstrates the company’s commitment to advancing gaming hardware capabilities while incorporating AI features that could enhance both gaming and productivity tasks. The combination of high-refresh-rate displays, powerful processors, and advanced cooling solutions positions these devices as serious contenders in the premium gaming laptop market.
The inclusion of AI-specific hardware and software features suggests that manufacturers are increasingly viewing AI capabilities as essential components of modern gaming systems, rather than mere optional extras. As these technologies continue to develop, we may see further integration of AI features in future gaming hardware releases.
I am James, a UK-based tech enthusiast and the Editor and Owner of Mighty Gadget, which I’ve proudly run since 2007. Passionate about all things technology, my expertise spans from computers and networking to mobile, wearables, and smart home devices.
As a fitness fanatic who loves running and cycling, I also have a keen interest in fitness-related technology, and I take every opportunity to cover this niche on my blog. My diverse interests allow me to bring a unique perspective to tech blogging, merging lifestyle, fitness, and the latest tech trends.
In my academic pursuits, I earned a BSc in Information Systems Design from UCLAN, before advancing my learning with a Master’s Degree in Computing. This advanced study also included Cisco CCNA accreditation, further demonstrating my commitment to understanding and staying ahead of the technology curve.
I’m proud to share that Vuelio has consistently ranked Mighty Gadget as one of the top technology blogs in the UK. With my dedication to technology and drive to share my insights, I aim to continue providing my readers with engaging and informative content.
