Acer has announced a new lineup of gaming products led by the Predator Helios 18 AI, its flagship gaming laptop. The portfolio also includes the new Acer Nitro 16 gaming laptop, Acer Nitro Blaze Link streaming handheld, Predator Aethon 750 TKL keyboard, and Predator Robust Plus Backpack.
The new lineup is designed to deliver a combination of high-performance gaming, portability, and immersive experiences for gamers across different use cases.
Predator Helios 18 AI Debuts as Acer’s Flagship Gaming Laptop
The Predator Helios 18 AI (PH18-I71) takes center stage as Acer’s flagship gaming laptop and winner of the iF Design Award 2026. The device is powered by up to an Intel Core Ultra 9 Processor 290HX Plus and can be configured with up to an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5090 Laptop GPU.
Acer has equipped the laptop with support for up to 256GB of memory and up to 6TB of storage, targeting gamers and enthusiasts seeking desktop-level performance in a portable form factor.
The laptop features an 18-inch Mini LED WQUXGA display with up to 1000 nits brightness in HDR mode and 100% DCI-P3 color coverage. Acer has also incorporated Dual-Mode Display technology, allowing users to switch between 4K resolution at 120Hz and Full HD resolution at 240Hz.
Advanced Cooling and Audio Technologies
To maintain performance during intensive gaming sessions, Acer has integrated dual sixth-generation Predator AeroBlade 3D fans featuring 100 ultra-thin metal blades measuring 0.05 mm each. The cooling system is complemented by vector heat pipes and liquid metal thermal grease.
The Predator Helios 18 AI also introduces Acer’s patented Predator Vox audio system. The six-speaker setup is designed to deliver enhanced directional audio, improved clarity, and immersive sound performance during gameplay.
For connectivity, the laptop includes Intel Killer DoubleShot Pro technology combining Intel Killer Wi-Fi 7 and Intel Killer Ethernet connectivity. The system also features two Thunderbolt 5 ports, customizable RGB lighting, and Predator MagKey 4.0 mechanical switches.
Acer Nitro 16 Introduces AMD Ryzen 9 9955HX3D Processor
The new Acer Nitro 16 (AN16-A91) becomes the first Acer gaming laptop to feature up to an AMD Ryzen 9 9955HX3D processor. Paired with up to an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5070 Ti Laptop GPU, the device is positioned as a performance-focused gaming laptop designed to make high-end gaming more accessible.
The laptop includes a WQXGA display with a resolution of 2560 x 1600, up to a 240Hz refresh rate, and 100% sRGB color coverage. Acer has also incorporated a dual-fan, quad-intake, quad-exhaust cooling system along with vector heat pipes to manage thermal performance.
Connectivity options include USB 4 and Wi-Fi 6E, while the NitroSense utility provides users with system performance and cooling controls.
Nitro Blaze Link Creates a New Streaming Gaming Category
Acer also introduced the Nitro Blaze Link (GN772), a streaming-first handheld device designed to extend an existing gaming PC setup without requiring local processing power.
The handheld can connect with devices such as the Predator Helios 18 AI and Acer Nitro 16, enabling users to stream their gaming libraries over Wi-Fi 6. Acer says the device is designed for households where multiple users may need access to a single gaming system.
The Nitro Blaze Link features a 7-inch WUXGA touchscreen display, weighs 464 grams, and includes dual 2-watt speakers optimized for gaming and dialogue clarity.
New Gaming Accessories Expand the Ecosystem
Acer has also expanded its gaming accessory lineup with the Predator Aethon 750 TKL keyboard. The keyboard features custom Predator Magnetic Switches, an 8,000Hz polling rate, full anti-ghosting support, and wired, Bluetooth, and 2.4GHz wireless connectivity options.
The company also introduced the Predator Robust Plus Backpack, designed to accommodate laptops up to 18 inches. The backpack includes multiple storage compartments, a dedicated laptop section, water-resistant construction, and an integrated charging cable pass-through for connecting devices to an external power bank while on the move.
Availability of Predator Helios 18 AI
The Predator Helios 18 AI will be available in North America and EMEA from August 2026, while Australia will receive the laptop during Q4 2026.
The Acer Nitro 16 will launch in North America and EMEA in August 2026.
The Acer Nitro Blaze Link will become available in North America during Q4 2026, with pricing details to be announced later.
The Predator Aethon 750 TKL keyboard will launch in EMEA during Q4 2026 and in Australia during Q3 2026.
The Predator Robust Plus Backpack will be available in North America during Q3 2026. Pricing, specifications, and availability may vary depending on the region.
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