Saturday, July 6th 2024

Intel Arc Xe2 "Battlemage" Discrete GPUs Made on TSMC 4 nm Process

Intel has reportedly chosen the TSMC 4 nm EUV foundry node for its next generation Arc Xe2 discrete GPUs based on the "Battlemage" graphics architecture. This would mark a generational upgrade from the Arc "Alchemist" family, which Intel built on the TSMC 6 nm DUV process. The TSMC N4 node offers significant increases in transistor densities, performance, and power efficiency over the N6, which is allowing Intel to nearly double the Xe cores on its largest "Battlemage" variant in numerical terms. This, coupled with increased IPC, clock speeds, and other features, should make the "Battlemage" contemporary against today's AMD RDNA 3 and NVIDIA Ada gaming GPUs. Interestingly, TSMC N4 isn't the most advanced foundry node that the Xe2 "Battlemage" is being built on. The iGPU powering Intel's Core Ultra 200V "Lunar Lake" processor is part of its Compute tile, which Intel is building on the more advanced TSMC N3 (3 nm) node.

Ryzen AI 300 Series: New AMD APUs Appear in CrossMark Benchmark Database

AMD's upcoming Ryzen AI 300 APUs pre-launch leaks continue, the latest coming from the BAPCo CrossMark benchmark database. Two models have been spotted: the officially announced Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 and the recently leaked Ryzen AI 7 PRO 360. The Ryzen AI 9 HX 370, part of the "Strix Point" family, boasts 12 cores and 24 threads. Its hybrid architecture combines four Zen 5 cores with eight Zen 5C cores. The chip reaches boost clocks up to 5.1 GHz, features 36 MB of cache (24 MB L3 + 12 MB L2), and includes a Radeon 890M iGPU with 16 compute units (1024 cores). The Ryzen AI 7 PRO 360, previously leaked as a 12-core part, has now been confirmed with 8 cores and 16 threads. It utilizes a 3+5 configuration of Zen 5 and Zen 5C cores, respectively. The APU includes 8 MB each of L2 and L3 cache, with a base clock of 2.0 GHz. Its integrated Radeon 870M GPU is expected to feature the RDNA 3.5 architecture with fewer cores than its higher-end counterparts, possibly 8 compute units.

According to the leaked benchmarks, the Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 was tested in an HP laptop, while the Ryzen AI 7 PRO 360 appeared in a Lenovo model equipped with LPDDR5-7500 memory. Initial scores appear unremarkable compared to top Intel Core Ultra 9 185H and AMD Ryzen 7040 APUs, however, the tested APUs may be early samples, and their performance could differ from final retail versions. Furthermore, while the TDP range is known to be between 15 W and 54 W, the specific power configurations used in these benchmarks remain unclear. The first Ryzen AI 300 laptops are slated for release on July 28th, with Ryzen AI 300 PRO models expected in October.

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Friday, July 5th 2024
NZXT Lift 2 Ergo Review

NZXT Lift 2 Ergo Review

At a budget-friendly $50, the right-handed ergonomic Lift 2 Ergo comes with PixArt's PAW3395 sensor, optical main button switches, true 8000 Hz polling, and pure PTFE feet. Its 58 g weight is achieved by utilizing an open-bottom design with a solid shell.

NVIDIA to Sell Over One Million H20 GPUs to China, Taking Home $12 Billion

When NVIDIA started preparing the H20 GPU for China, the company anticipated great demand from sanction-obeying GPUs. However, we now know precisely what the company makes from its Chinese venture: an astonishing $12 billion in take-home revenue. Due to the massive demand for NVIDIA GPUs, Chinese AI research labs are acquiring as many as they can get their hands on. According to a report from Financial Times, citing SemiAnalysis as its source, NVIDIA will sell over one million H20 GPUs in China. This number far outweighs the number of home-grown Huawei Ascend 910B accelerators that the Chinese companies plan to source, with numbers being "only" 550,000 Ascend 910B chips. While we don't know if Chinese semiconductor makers like SMIC are capable of producing more chips or if the demand isn't as high, we know why NVIDIA H20 chips are the primary target.

The Huawei Ascend 910B features Total Processing Performance (TPP), a metric developed by US Govt. to track GPU performance measuring TeraFLOPS times bit-length of over 5,000, while the NVIDIA H20 comes to 2,368 TPP, which is half of the Huawei accelerator. That is the performance on paper, where SemiAnalysis notes that the real-world performance is actually ahead for the H20 GPU due to better memory configuration of the GPU, including higher HBM3 memory bandwidth. All of this proves to be a better alternative than Ascend 910B accelerator, accounting for an estimate of over one million GPUs shipped this year in China. With an average price of $12,000 per NVIDIA H20 GPU, China's $12 billion revenue will undoubtedly help raise NVIDIA's 2024 profits even further.

Beyerdynamic Releases MMX 300 Pro Gaming Headset with Studio Sound

The Heilbronn-based audio specialist beyerdynamic presents the third generation of the popular gaming headset: the new MMX 300 PRO. Manufactured in Germany, the latest development features the latest driver technology, a high-quality condenser microphone and improved comfort

Studio DNA for an Immersive Gaming Experience
At the heart of the closed gaming headset is the STELLAR .45 driver, which is also used in beyerdynamic's studio headphones. This ensures the exceptional audio fidelity and spatial sound reproduction of the MMX 300 PRO. Compared to the previous model, the bass and treble profiles have been thoroughly refined. Acoustic in-game events can be pinpointed immediately. The MMX 300 PRO is also impressive when it comes to music playback.

LIAN LI Introduces a New PSU Form Factor for Dual Chamber Cases with the EDGE Series

LIAN LI, a leading manufacturer of computer chassis and accessories, has introduced a new form factor for power supplies. The EDGE series is designed for vertical installation in dual-chamber PC cases. This premium-grade, fully modular power supply features a unique T-shape design for easy cable management. It also includes a built-in USB expansion hub for seamless connectivity of RGB devices, fans, and controllers. With industrial-grade EPCOS capacitors, it ensures reliable and stable performance. The PSUs come with a unique custom-designed dual-colored 12VHPWR connector and custom-designed SATA power cabling. Certified to PCIe 5.1 and ATX12V Version 3.1 standards, the EDGE series is rated 80 Plus Platinum, Cybenetics Platinum, and PPLP Platinum. The LIAN LI EDGE PSU is available in black and white as 1300 W, 1000 W and 850 W models.

A New Form Factor
The EDGE power supply series has a versatile T-shaped design for vertical installation in dual chamber cases. It features an outward-facing modular strip for easier access, simplifying wiring for a clean setup. The PSU includes a built-in 4-port USB expansion hub for seamless connectivity of RGB devices, fans, and controllers. This reduces the number of wires going to the motherboard, making installation easier. The power supply also showcases an embossed mesh design with 66.9% porosity, paired with a 120 mm fan for optimal heat dissipation while maintaining a clean appearance.

Intel Arrow Lake CPU Refresh May Include Upgraded NPU, Increasing Die Size

Intel's upcoming Arrow Lake "S" Desktop and "HX" laptop CPUs are reported to launch without dedicated NPU hardware. NPUs will be limited to Arrow Lake-H/U and Lunar Lake chips, with Core Ultra 200V chips offering up to 48 TOPS of AI performance. Currently, AMD is the only manufacturer offering desktop chips with dedicated NPUs in their Ryzen 8000G "Hawk Point" series for the AM5 platform. However, according to Jaykihn, an active Intel-related leaker, Intel may be planning to incorporate NPUs in future Arrow Lake-S and Arrow Lake-HX refreshes.

The potential refresh could include an NPU within the SOC tile, possibly increasing the die size by 2.8 mm compared to current Arrow Lake designs. The package size is expected to remain unchanged, maintaining socket compatibility, however, motherboard manufacturers would need to enable Fast Voltage Mode (FVM) on VccSA rails to support the NPU functionality. While it's early to discuss an Arrow Lake refresh before the initial launch, this development could impact Intel's roadmap and the "AI PC" market segment. Also, it could have possible implications for the release schedule of future architectures like Panther Lake.

Philips Monitors E1 Line Gains Four New Feature-rich Models for Enhanced Productivity

n July, the Philips Monitors E1 series product line is expanding to include four new models within its multipurpose offering for today's dynamic professionals. Featuring a variety of productivity-enhancing innovations, these beautifully designed monitors ensure that professionals and home users alike have all they need to get the most out of every workday.

Easy on the eyes
The Philips 27E1N1800A, 27E1N1800AE, 27E1N1900AE and 32E1N1800LA are equipped with a 27"/68.6 cm or 32"/80 cm 4K UHD display with a sleek, elegant design, three-sided frameless standard design to facilitate multi-monitor set-ups, and innovative features to enhance both visual performance and physical comfort.

ASUS Republic of Gamers Launches First ROG NUC

ASUS Republic of Gamers today announced the launch of the ROG NUC gaming PC. The first-ever ROG NUC PC is packed with cutting-edge technology and performance for AAA gaming and more.

Gaming, redefined
Featuring Intel Core Ultra 9 or Intel Core Ultra 7 processors and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 or 4060 discrete graphics, the ROG NUC PC is a compact powerhouse that delivers unmatched gaming experiences. The high-performance hybrid architecture of Intel Core Ultra processors provides gamers with the power needed to stream, edit, record and play without skipping a beat. The 2.5-liter chassis is designed for quick system access to make upgrades and cleaning easy. Plus, the compatible ROG Raikiri Pro controller can be used to deliver a console-like experience for gamers seeking uncompromised performance and flexibility in a compact form factor.

NVIDIA GeForce NOW Gets 22 New Titles in July, Including The First Descendant

GeForce NOW is bringing 22 new games to members this month. Dive into the four titles available to stream on the cloud gaming service this week to stay cool and entertained throughout the summer - whether poolside, on a long road trip or in the air-conditioned comfort of home. Plus, get great games at great deals to stream across devices during the Steam Summer Sale. In total, more than 850 titles on GeForce NOW can be found at discounts in a dedicated Steam Summer Sale row on the GeForce NOW app, from now until July 11.

Time to Grind
In The First Descendant from NEXON, take on the role of Descendants tasked with safeguarding the powerful Iron Heart from relentless Vulgus invaders. Set in a captivating sci-fi universe, the game is a third-person co-op action role-playing shooter that seamlessly blends looting mechanics with strategic combat. Engage in intense gunplay, face off against formidable bosses and collect valuable loot while fighting to preserve humanity's future.

Samsung Introduces 61.44 TB BM1743 SSD with 176-Layer V-NAND

Samsung has introduced its latest BM1743 SSD, boasting an impressive 61.44 TB of storage capacity. The BM1743 utilizes Samsung's seventh-generation 3D NAND (V-NAND) technology, featuring 176 layers of memory cells. This represents a significant leap from its predecessor, the BM1733, which debuted in 2020 with 96-layer technology and a maximum capacity of 32 TB. Performance-wise, the BM1743 doesn't disappoint. It delivers up to 1.6 million random read IOPS and 110,000 random write IOPS, with sequential read and write speeds of 7.2 GB/s and 2.0 GB/s, respectively. These figures position the drive as a highly capable solution for read-intensive workloads. Samsung claims that the new SSD offers double the sequential read and write speeds of its fifth-generation technology, with random reads quadrupling in performance. This advancement suggests that quad-level cell (QLC) SSDs are now approaching the performance levels of their triple-level cell (TLC) counterparts while offering superior storage density.

The BM1743 is available in the traditional U.2 form factor, with an E3.S variant supporting PCIe Gen 5 also in the lineup, thanks to the custom Samsung controller. Samsung has enhanced the durability and data retention capabilities of the BM1743. The new drive boasts an improved endurance rating of 0.26 drive writes per day (DWPD) throughout its warranty period, a notable increase from the BM1733's 0.18 DWPD. Additionally, the BM1743 extends its power-off data retention to three months, tripling the one-month period of its predecessor. In a hint of things to come, Samsung has suggested that a 122.88 TB model may be on the horizon, potentially doubling the capacity of the BM1743. This new offering puts Samsung in direct competition with Solidigm's D5-P5336, which has dominated the high-capacity SSD market for the past year. High-density storage solutions are becoming more important as AI and HPC tasks require and produce massive amounts of data.

BIOSTAR Introduces the BIAST-PAT Industrial Motherboard

BIOSTAR, a leading manufacturer of motherboards, graphics cards, storage devices, and IPC products, is excited to introduce the all-new BIAST-PAT industrial motherboard solution. The BIAST-PAT motherboard is expertly designed to meet the diverse needs of System Integration (SI) businesses and industry professionals seeking to build robust, efficient, and future-proof systems for business and industrial applications. It is a highly versatile platform, perfectly suited for applications in AIOT machines, automation systems, edge computing devices, HMI machines, and digital signage.

The BIOSTAR BIAST-PAT motherboard, with its robust wide temperature and broad voltage support, is engineered to excel in a variety of demanding environments, making it a prime choice for numerous outdoor applications. Its design incorporates M.2 Key-M, Key-B, and Mini-PCIe slots, offering exceptional versatility in connectivity options. This compatibility extends to Hailo AI acceleration cards, further enhancing its edge AI utility.

Intel's Upcoming 800-series Chipsets Leak in Detail

What appears to be the full details of all of Intel's upcoming 800-series chipsets have leaked and although we've already seen what the Z890 chipset will offer, no details of the other SKUs have leaked to date. Maybe the biggest news is that there won't be an H870 chipset this time around, according to the leaker @jaykihn0 over at X/Twitter. The full range appears to be Z890, B860 and H810 for consumers, W880 for workstations and Q870 for corporate desktops. That said, the Z890 and W880 are identical in terms of slots and ports, but whereas the W880 gains full ECC support and Intel vPro and remote management, it loses the CPU and bus overclocking features of the Z890. The Q870 loses four chipset PCIe 4.0 lanes, one 20 Gbps or two 10 Gbps USB 3.2 ports, but is otherwise similar to the Z890, minus all the overclocking features, but with Intel vPro and remote management.

The B860 ends up on the chopping block as always and loses not only 10 chipset PCIe lanes compared to the Z890 chipset, but also four lanes from the CPU and four lanes on the DMI interface to the chipset. On top of that bifurcation goes out the window toigether with PCIe RAID and the chipset is only capable of having two 20 Gbps or four 10 Gbps USB 3.2 ports, but at least memory overclocking is still on the table. Finally, the H810 chipset is as basic as it gets, with no extra CPU PCIe lanes beyond the 16 lanes for a graphics card, but they are at least PCIe 5.0 this time around. The chipset itself is only equipped with a mere eight PCIe 4.0 lanes and it gets zero 20 Gbps and two 10 Gbps USB 3.2 ports. Note that all platforms support one or two Thunderbolt 4 / USB4 ports, but it's unclear if this is native support or via an add-on chip. Also note that the USB ports are shared and the maximum count is that for the 5 Gbps ports in the details below, so the Z890 for example, doesn't have 25 USB 3.2 ports in total, but rather only 10. All in all, we'll see a migration to PCIe 5.0 for the x16 slot across the entire 800-series chipset range and from the B860 and up, all chipsets will have a dedicated PCIe 5.0 x4 interface that will most likely be used for an M.2 slot. Also, the PCIe lane count is the maximum, but due to Intel's HSIO layout, some resources will be shared with SATA and Ethernet, which means not all PCIe lanes will be accessible.
Thursday, July 4th 2024
FiiO FA19 In-Ear Monitors Review

FiiO FA19 In-Ear Monitors Review

FiiO aims at the premium IEM market with its flagship FA19 earphones. These use 10 balanced armature drivers with some clever acoustic engineering to put out an esoteric tuning that works very well for vocals and some music genres similar to high-end offerings from others.

ViewSonic's XG323-4K-OLED2 brings dual-mode, DisplayPort 2.1 and 140 W USB PD

ViewSonic has launched a new OLED gaming monitor in the Chinese market that not only is a dual-mode 4K 240 Hz / 1080p 480 Hz display, but it also brings DisplayPort 2.1 connectivity as part of the package. The XG323-4K-OLED2 is said to sport a 31.5-inch LG OLED panel with an anti glare coating, that delivers up to 450 nits brightness, but it can reach as high as 1300 nits in HDR mode. The 10-bit OLED panel delivers 0.03 ms Grey to Grey response time, 98.5 percent of the DCI-P3 colour gamut and it's also VESA DisplayHDR True Black 400 certified. There's also support for VRR via some form of AMD FreeSync version.

However, what stands out here is the paired back design, especially considering that the XG323-4K-OLED2 is being sold as a gaming monitor. We get a more traditional square stand and a much thicker display back compared to most other gaming OLED displays. That said, we're not quite sure what ViewSonic was thinking when the base of the stand was designed, as it's not flat. Connectivity, besides two DisplayPort 2.1 port with full 80 Gbps UHBR20 support, also consists of a USB Type-C port with DP Alt-mode and 140 W USB PD support—a first as far as we're aware—as well as more mundane options like two HDMI 2.1 inputs, one USB 3.2 Type-B input, three USB 2.0 outputs and an audio jack. The stand supports the standard tilt, swivel and height adjustments, as well as rotation. Finally the XG323-4K-OLED2 sports a pair of 5 W speakers and a remote control. JD.com is listing the display of RMB 10,999 which is just north of US$1,500. It's unclear which, if any other markets ViewSonic will offer the XG323-4K-OLED2 in.

Minisforum Launches UH125 Pro Mini PC with Intel Core Ultra 5 CPU

Minisforum, a leader in mini PC innovation, today announces the launch of the UH125 Pro, a game-changing mini PC that redefines what's possible in compact computing. The UH125 Pro delivers a powerful blend of performance, efficiency, and versatility, making it the ultimate solution for professionals, gamers, and creators alike.

Unleashing the Power of Intel Core Ultra 5:
UH125 Pro lies the lightning-fast Intel Core Ultra 5 processor, featuring Intel 4 technology and a 3D high-performance hybrid architecture. This cutting-edge processor delivers a remarkable 65 W TDP 4, resulting in a dual improvement in performance and efficiency. With 14 cores (4 Performance Cores + 8 Efficiency Cores + 2 LP Efficiency Cores), 18 threads, 18 MB L3 Cache, and a maximum Turbo Frequency of 4.5 GHz, the UH125 Pro effortlessly handles even the most demanding tasks.

NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 Ti SUPER with AD102 GPU Appears on German Retailer Listing

The GeForce RTX 4070 Ti SUPER featuring the AD102 GPU, initially speculated to be an Asia-exclusive release, is now confirmed for worldwide distribution. This development comes as the GIGABYTE RTX 4070 Ti SUPER Windforce MAX OC 16 GB, the first model equipped with this configuration, has appeared on German online retailer listing, specifically at Mindfactory. Previously using AD103-275 GPU SKU for the regular GIGABYTE RTX 4070 Ti SUPER Windforce model, the "MAX" variant now comes with AD102-225 GPU SKU. Priced at over 950 Euros, it commands a premium over the standard Windforce model. The "MAX" designation not only indicates the different GPU but also boasts an official 30 MHz higher clock speed. The Max variant also employs the more robust cooling system typically found in the GeForce RTX 4080/4090 class. This is a departure from the smaller RTX 4070 Ti design used in the SUPER variant with the AD103 GPU.

While the performance and power consumption differences between the AD102 and AD103 versions may be negligible for most users, the adoption of larger cooling systems in many custom designs could prove beneficial. This enhanced thermal management might appeal to enthusiasts and overclockers looking to push their graphics cards to the limit. While the regular AD103 card measures 261x126x50 mm, the MAX model with its AD102 and beefier coolers measures 331x136x55.5 mm. Overclockers could push the performance of this card further, and we wait to see what will come out of the AD102-225 silicon on the RTX 4070 Ti SUPER platform.

FTC Issues Warning to ASRock, Zotac, and GIGABYTE About Warranty Practices

The United States Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has taken action against three prominent PC companies, ASRock, Zotac, and GIGABYTE, for their unlawful warranty practices. The FTC has issued stern warnings, urging these companies to immediately cease their actions that have been found to be in violation of consumer protection laws. The trio has been engaging in practices that unfairly restrict consumers' ability to repair or modify their own devices with the "warranty void if removed" stickers. The FTC has made it clear that these companies cannot void warranties or deny service simply because a consumer has opened or repaired their product. "Consumers have a right to repair their own products, and companies shouldn't make that harder by putting up illegal barriers," said Samuel Levine, Director of the FTC's Bureau of Consumer Protection, adding that "Manufacturers who try to circumvent the law will face the consequences."

The FTC's investigation revealed that these PC companies have been including deceptive warranty terms that claim consumers will void their warranties if they open or modify their devices. However, the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act (MMWA), a federal law, prohibits such practices unless the company can demonstrate that the consumer's actions directly caused the need for repair. The FTC has ordered the companies to stop these unlawful warranty practices immediately and to clearly inform consumers of their right to repair their devices without voiding the warranty. All three manufacturers are given a 30-day period to update their promotional and warranty information on their websites to indicate the updated information. Failure to comply with the FTC's directives could result in significant fines and further legal action.

South Korean Research Team Develops Method to Grow Sub-Nanometer Transistors

A research team from the South Korean Institute for Basic Science (IBS) has developed a new method for growing 1D metallic materials less than 1 nm wide. They applied this technique to create a new structure for 2D semiconductor logic circuits, using the 1D metals as gate electrodes in very small transistors. However, creating very small transistors that can control electron movement within a few nanometers has been challenging. The size of semiconductor devices depends on the width and efficiency of the gate electrode. Current manufacturing processes can't make gate lengths below a few nanometers due to limitations in lithography. To address this, the team used the mirror twin boundary (MTB) of molybdenum disulfide, which is a 1D metal only 0.4 nm wide, as a gate electrode. The IBS team achieved the 1D MTB metallic phase by altering the crystal structure of a 2D semiconductor at the atomic level.

The International Roadmap for Devices and Systems (IRDS) predicts semiconductor technology to reach about 0.5 nm by 2037, with transistor gate lengths of 12 nm. The research team's transistor demonstrated a channel width as small as 3.9 nm, surpassing this prediction. The 1D MTB-based transistor also offers advantages in circuit performance. Unlike some current technologies (FinFETs or GAA) that face issues with parasitic capacitance in highly integrated circuits, this new transistor can minimize such problems due to its simple structure and narrow gate width.

Cambridge Audio Launches the Melomania P100 Wireless Headphones

Cambridge is excited to launch the first over-ear model in the award-winning Melomania wireless headphones series - Melomania P100. Melomania P100 builds on over 50 years of audio expertise and an unashamed passion for music to deliver truly emotive sound from meticulously tuned premium drivers and Hi-fi-grade Class AB amplification.

World-class 60-hour battery life (extending to 100 hours with noise-cancelling turned off) ensures that the effortlessly engaging listening experience could easily last a working week or a lengthy holiday. P100 joins the recently launched M100 true wireless earphones to form the new Melomania range for 2024.

Nanya and Winbond Boost Memory Production Amid Rising Demand and Prices

As memory prices and volumes increase, manufacturers Nanya and Winbond have ceased the production cuts they implemented last year, with production now back to normal levels. Market research agencies and supply chain analysts indicate that memory shipments are expected to continue recovering in Q3 2024. Currently, memory factories are operating at a capacity utilization rate of 90% to full capacity, which is significantly higher than the 60% to 70% capacity utilization rate of wafer foundries with mature processes. Last year, Nanya adjusted its production volume reducing it by up to 20%. This year, production has gradually increased, reaching 70% to over 80% in the second quarter, and has now resumed normal levels.

Nanya anticipates that DRAM market conditions and prices will improve quarter by quarter, with the overall industry trending positively, potentially turning losses into profits in the third quarter. Nanya announced yesterday that its consolidated revenue for June was 3.363 billion yuan, marking a monthly increase of 0.35% and an annual increase of 36.83%, setting a high for the year. The cumulative consolidated revenue for the first half of the year was 19.424 billion yuan, a 44.4% increase compared to the same period last year. Nanya will hold a press conference on July 10 to announce its second-quarter financial results and operating outlook.

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AMD Could Prepare Strix Point APUs for Business Use

According to a new leak by Hoang Anh Phu, the upcoming AMD Ryzen 9000 Strix Point desktop series and Ryzen AI 300 for laptops, both dedicated to consumers, will be complemented by the usual commercial and business counterparts: the AMD Ryzen PRO series sporting improved security and manageability features. The first Ryzen PRO model based on Strix Point was spotted in shipping manifests, confirming the series' existence. However, the launch date remains uncertain. Hoang Anh Phu, suggests an October launch for these CPUs.

Hoang's recent accurate leaks include the Radeon PRO W7900 Dual-Slot and Ryzen 8000F series for the DIY market. AMD is expected to introduce the Ryzen AI 300 PRO series six months after the April launch of the Ryzen 8000 PRO, including desktop and mobile variants. The leaker also revealed new PRO variant names: Ryzen AI 9 HX PRO 370 and Ryzen AI 7 Pro 360. While exact specs remain unconfirmed, the first one is rumored to be a 12-core processor. On the other hand, it's more likely that the Ryzen AI 7 PRO 360 will be a 10-core version.

Basemark Releases Breaking Limit Cross-Platform Ray Tracing Benchmark

Basemark announced today the release of a groundbreaking cross-platform ray tracing benchmark, GPUScore: Breaking Limit. This new benchmark is designed to evaluate the performance of the full range of ray tracing capable devices, including smartphones, tablets, laptops and high-end desktops with discrete GPUs. With support for multiple operating systems and graphics APIs, Breaking Limit provides a comprehensive performance evaluation across various platforms and devices.

As ray tracing technology becomes increasingly prevalent in consumer electronics, from high-end desktops to portable devices like laptops and smartphones, there is a critical need for a benchmark that can accurately assess and compare performance across different devices and platforms. Breaking Limit addresses this gap, providing valuable insights into how various devices handle hardware-accelerated graphics rendering. The benchmark is an essential tool for developers, manufacturers, and consumers to measure and compare the performance of real-time ray tracing rendering across different hardware and software environments reliably.

Intel Arc "Battlemage" Xe2 GPUs with 448 EUs (56 Xe cores) Spotted in Transit

Intel very much does intend to make discrete gaming GPUs based on its Xe2 "Battlemage" graphics architecture, which made its debut with the Core Ultra 200V "Lunar Lake-MX" processor as an iGPU. With its next generation, Intel plans to capture an even bigger share of the gaming graphics market, both on the notebook and desktop platforms. "Battlemage" will be crucial for Intel, as it will be able to make its case with Microsoft and Sony for semi-custom chips, for their next-generation consoles. Intel has all pieces of the console SoC puzzle that AMD does. A Xe2 "Battlemage" discrete GPU sample, codenamed "Churchill Falls," has been spotted making its transit in and out of locations known for Intel SoC development, such as Bangalore in India, and Shanghai in China.

Such shipping manifests tend to be incredibly descriptive, and speak of an Arc "Battlemage" X3 and Arc "Battlemage" X4 SKUs, each with 448 execution units (EU), across 56 Xe cores. Assuming an Xe core continues to have 128 unified shaders in the "Battlemage" architecture, you're looking at 7,168 unified shaders for this GPU, a staggering 75% increase in just the numerical count of the shaders, and not accounting for IPC increase and other architecture-level features. The descriptions also speak of a 256-bit wide memory bus, although they don't specify memory type or speed. Given that at launch, the Arc A770 "Alchemist" was a 1440p-class GPU, we predict Intel might take a crack at a 4K-class GPU. Besides raster 3D performance, Intel is expected to significantly improve the ray tracing and AI performance of its Xe2 discrete GPUs, making them powerful options for creative professionals.
Wednesday, July 3rd 2024

Today's Reviews

Cases
CPU Coolers
Harddisks
Headphones
Memory
Monitors
Mouse
Other
PSUs
SSD
The First Descendant Performance Benchmark Review - 30 GPUs Tested

The First Descendant Performance Benchmark Review - 30 GPUs Tested

The First Descendant is a first-person looter-shooter with support for up to four players working together cooperatively. Powered by Unreal Engine 5, the graphics look great, but hardware requirements are definitely not on the light side. In our performance review, we're taking a closer look at image quality, VRAM usage, and performance on a wide selection of modern graphics cards.

MSI Announces the New Cubi NUC Series Mini PC

MSI, a global leader in computer hardware and solutions, launches the brand-new Cubi NUC series mini-PC and proudly announces that it has been honored with the esteemed Red Dot Design Award for 2024. This recognition underscores MSI's commitment to innovation and design excellence in the technology industry. The MSI Cubi NUC Series, which includes the Cubi NUC 1M, Cubi NUC 1MG, and Cubi NUC 13MQG, is recognized for its exceptionally sleek design that seamlessly integrates into any modern workspace or home environment. It has been meticulously crafted with great attention to detail, and its compact form factor is complemented by environmentally friendly materials, such as PCR plastics and recycled molded pulp for packaging. This aligns with MSI's commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility.

The exclusive software Power Meter is an innovative tool that provides valuable insights into energy consumption and environmental impact. It can calculate carbon emissions and electricity costs, allowing users to make informed decisions and minimize their ecological footprint. The software also features a one-click power-saving button that will enable users to save energy without compromising performance. This empowers users to contribute to a sustainable future while enjoying cutting-edge technology.

AOOSTAR Launches GEM13 Mini PC with AMD Ryzen 7 Hawk Point

AOOSTAR has released a new Mini PC for its GEM series powered by an AMD Ryzen 7 Hawk Point processor. Despite its compact size (130 mm x 126 mm x 45 mm), the AOOSTAR GEM13 integrates an AMD Ryzen R7 8845HS Octa-Core processor with 16 threads, running at speeds of up to 5.1 GHz, and an NPU for AI with up to 38 TOPS. It includes a powerful 12-core Radeon 780M iGPU RDNA 3 that reaches a speed of 2.7 GHz. This setup should be sufficient to support a wide range of applications and games running in 720p and 1080p resolution. For internal memory and storage, it supports up to 32 GB DDR5 5600 MHz and up to 1 TB storage via an M.2 2280 NVMe PCIe x4 SSD. Inside, there is enough space to install an additional 2.5" SATA internal storage unit.

For network connectivity, it features a combination of WiFi 6, Bluetooth 5.2, and two RJ45 2.5G network ports. As for interfaces, it sports 2x USB 3.0 ports, 2x USB 2.0 ports, a full front USB-C, a 3.5 mm audio jack, and two HDMI 2.1 video outputs. It also has a USB4 Type-C with DisplayPort 1.4 data, power, and video output that could be used for an eGPU to increase gaming performance. The AOOSTAR GEM13 comes with a small 100 W external power supply and Windows 11 Pro as the operating system.

"Indirector" is Intel's Latest Branch Predictor Vulnerability, But Patch is Already Out

Researchers from the University of California, San Diego, have unveiled a significant security vulnerability affecting Intel Raptor Lake and Alder Lake processors. The newly discovered flaw, dubbed "Indirector," exposes weaknesses in the Indirect Branch Predictor (IBP) and Branch Target Buffer (BTB), potentially allowing attackers to execute precise Branch Target Injection (BTI) attacks. The published study provides a detailed look into the intricate structures of the IBP and BTB within recent Intel processors, showcasing Spectre-style attach. For the first time, researchers have mapped out the size, structure, and precise functions governing index and tag hashing in these critical components. Particularly concerning is the discovery of previously unknown gaps in Intel's hardware defenses, including IBPB, IBRS, and STIBP. These findings suggest that even the latest security measures may be insufficient to protect against sophisticated attacks.

The research team developed a tool called "iBranch Locator," which can efficiently identify and manipulate specific branches within the IBP. This tool enables highly precise BTI attacks, potentially compromising security across various scenarios, including cross-process and cross-privilege environments. One of the most alarming implications of this vulnerability is its ability to bypass Address Space Layout Randomization (ASLR), a crucial security feature in modern operating systems. By exploiting the IBP and BTB, attackers could potentially break ASLR protections, exposing systems to a wide range of security threats. Experts recommend several mitigation strategies, including more aggressive use of Intel's IBPB (Indirect Branch Prediction Barrier) feature. However, the performance impact of this solution—up to 50% in some cases—makes it impractical for frequent domain transitions, such as those in browsers and sandboxes. In a statement for Tom's Hardware, Intel noted the following: "Intel reviewed the report submitted by academic researchers and determined previous mitigation guidance provided for issues such as IBRS, eIBRS and BHI are effective against this new research and no new mitigations or guidance is required."

Lenovo Announces ThinkCenter Neo Ultra Compact Desktop, its Mac Studio Competitor

Lenovo announced the ThinkCenter Neo Ultra, a compact high-performance desktop meant for power users and creative professionals. This desktop is larger than what would qualify as a mini-PC, with its 3.6 L volume, but is significantly smaller than a tower. Despite its compact size, it comes with a full-featured I/O. The desktop is powered by Intel's 14th Gen Core vPro "Raptor Lake Refresh" platform, and uses a custom form-factor desktop motherboard based on Intel Q670 chipset that supports various commercial desktop features under vPro. The processor and memory are socketed and hence user upgradeable.

Processor options range from the Core i5-14500 (6P+8E), going all the way up to the Core i9-14900 (8P+16E), including vPro and regular SKUs; and energy-efficient "T" SKUs. Memory options range from 16 GB (1x 16 GB) up to 64 GB (2x 32 GB) DDR5-4800. The sole graphics option is an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060 desktop GPU, all four of its display connectors are directly wired out on the rear I/O. There are two M.2-2280 Gen 4 slots, storage options range from 1x 256 GB Gen 4, to 2x 1 TB Gen 4. Networking connectivity include 2.5 GbE and Wi-Fi 6E. USB ports include a 20 Gbps USB 3.2 Gen2x2 type-C on the front-panel, two 10 Gbps USB 3.2 Gen 2, and four additional USB 3.2 type-A ports at the back. The case measures 195 mm x 191 mm x 108 mm, and depending on the configuration, can weigh around 3.5 kg.

NGK Insulators and PanelSemi Collaborate on Advanced Hybrid Ceramic Substrate

PanelSemi, a developer of ultra-thin flexible LED displays and semiconductor substrates, has partnered with NGK Insulators to create high-performance hybrid packaging solutions. Leveraging its tiled thin-film transistor (TFT) circuit fabrication technology, PanelSemi is developing a hybrid circuit board that combines fine wiring and functional circuits on polyimide film with a ceramic substrate. The company is expanding into high-performance circuit boards for semiconductor modules, targeting large-scale panel manufacturing for wireless communications and opto-electronic integration. The collaboration with NGK extends the application of ceramic substrates to higher power and thermal scenarios.

NGK aims to integrate PanelSemi's circuit fabrication technology with its own products, including the ultra-compact EnerCera lithium-ion rechargeable battery, ceramic substrates, and ceramic packages. PanelSemi's HyBrid Substrate (HBS) technology platform features ultra-fine line width and spacing achieved through Thin Film (TF) and Panel Level Packaging (PLP) processes. HBS enables high-density interconnection, functioning as both an interposer and package substrate in advanced packaging, with the top die directly bonded to the HBS.

ASUS to Host AI PC Event on July 17, to Launch Nine Designs Based on AMD Ryzen AI 300

ASUS announced a press event on July 17 to launch at least nine notebook designs powered by AMD Ryzen AI 300 series "Strix Point" mobile processors. All these notebooks are AI PCs that meet Microsoft Copilot+ requirements. Each of the 9 designs will have several variants based on the processor model, discrete graphics, and other hardware differentiators, making up dozens of individual SKUs. The AMD "Strix Point" mobile processor is based on a 4 nm monolithic die. It combines a 12-core/24-thread CPU based on a combination of "Zen 5" and "Zen 5c" cores, a 50 TOPS-class NPU, and a powerful iGPU based on the RDNA 3.5 graphics architecture, with 16 compute units.

Among the notebook designs ASUS plans to announce on July 17 are the ROG Zephyrus G16 (GA605), the TUF Gaming A14 (FA401), the TUF Gaming A16 (FA608), the Zenbook S16 (UM5606), Vivobook S14 (M5406), Vivobook S16 (M5506 and M5606), ProArt P16 (HN7606) and ProArt PX13 (HN7306). With these, ASUS is covering pretty much all its notebook market segments, including enthusiast gaming, performance gaming, boutique ultraportability, mainstream, and creative professional.

Prices of AMD Ryzen 8000G Desktop APUs Continue Downward Trend, 8600G Now at $152

AMD Ryzen 8000G desktop APUs combine "Zen 4" CPU cores with a powerful iGPU based on the RDNA 3 architecture, and are the first desktop processors to pack an NPU with 16 TOPS of performance on tap. These Socket AM5 processors based on the "Hawk Point" silicon have been on a downward price trend. Last month, the top Ryzen 7 8700G asked for $299 compared to its $329 launch price; and the 6-core Ryzen 5 8600G went for $199, down from its $229 launch price. This month, the downward pricing trend continues.

According to the latest prices charted on B&H Photo, the Ryzen 7 8700G is now just $269, a $60 cut from its launch price; while the Ryzen 5 8600G faces its biggest ever cut, sending it all the way down to $152, a $77 or a 33% reduction from its launch price. At this price, the 8600G is a formidable processor, with a 6-core/12-thread CPU based on the "Zen 4" architecture (all 6 of which are full-sized "Zen 4" cores); a 16 TOPS NPU, and a Radeon 760M iGPU with 8 compute units (512 stream processors). The Ryzen 5 8500G based on the "Phoenix 2" silicon, with a combination of 2 "Zen 4" and 4 "Zen 4c" cores, is now priced at $139, a $40 cut from its original.

BenQ Officially Announces New MOBIUZ EX321UX 4K Gaming¸Mini LED Monitor

BenQ, a globally renowned brand of digital lifestyle devices and pioneer of professional display technology, is set to revolutionize console gaming with the launch of the next generation of MOBIUZ gaming monitors. Leading this innovation is the new EX321UX, a monitor designed to deliver unprecedented levels of in-game detail and refinement, making it the premier choice for AAA console games. "Unveiling the Unseen" is the goal that MOBIUZ aims to achieve," said Conway Lee, President of BenQ Corporation. "We invite gamers to venture into the unknown with us and gain the courage to face all challenges. Marching at the forefront of the future, MOBIUZ is with you."

Central to the EX321UX's groundbreaking performance is BenQ's all-new PixSoul Engine. This technology leverages BenQ's Game Color Database to create game-oriented color modes and utilizes AI for real-time adaptive fine-tuning of brightness and contrast. The result is an unparalleled visual experience tailored for gamers. The EX321UX is equipped with the latest Mini LED panel, offering 1,000 nits of peak brightness for Display HDR1000. It features a hyper-realistic contrast spectrum enabled by 1,152 local dimming zones and 99% coverage of both P3 and Adobe RGB color gamuts. This ensures vivid, true-to-life colors and incredible detail in every scene.

Demand from AMD and NVIDIA Drives FOPLP Development, Mass Production Expected in 2027-2028

In 2016, TSMC developed and named its InFO FOWLP technology, and applied it to the A10 processor used in the iPhone 7. TrendForce points out that since then, OSAT providers have been striving to develop FOWLP and FOPLP technologies to offer more cost-effective packaging solutions.

Starting in the second quarter, chip companies like AMD have actively engaged with TSMC and OSAT providers to explore the use of FOPLP technology for chip packaging and helping drive industry interest in FOPLP. TrendForce observes that there are three main models for introducing FOPLP packaging technology: Firstly, OSAT providers transitioning from traditional methods of consumer IC packaging to FOPLP. Secondly, foundries and OSAT providers packaging AI GPUs that are transitioning 2.5D packaging from wafer level to panel level. Thirdly, panel makers who are packaging consumer ICs.

Kioxia Introduces 2 Tb QLC Flash Memory with the Latest BiCS FLASH Technology

Kioxia Corporation, a world leader in memory solutions, today announced that it started sample shipments of 2 Tb (Tera bit) Quad-Level-Cell (QLC) memory devices with its eighth-generation BiCS FLASH 3D flash memory technology. This 2 Tb QLC device has the highest capacity in the industry, elevating storage devices to a new capacity point that will drive growth in multiple application segments including AI.

With its latest BiCS FLASH technology, Kioxia has achieved both vertical and lateral scaling of memory die through proprietary processes and innovative architectures. In addition, the company has implemented the groundbreaking CBA (CMOS directly Bonded to Array) technology, which enables the creation of higher density devices and an industry-leading interface speed of 3.6 Gbps. Together, these advanced technologies are applied in the creation of 2 Tb QLC, resulting in the industry's highest capacity memory device.

Intel Arc GPU Graphics Drivers 101.5594 Beta Released

Intel has released its latest version of Arc GPU Graphics drivers for A-series discrete GPUs and Arc Graphics iGPUs, version 101.5594 Beta. The new drivers bring a fix for Citrix Workspace application on both Intel Arc A-Series and Intel Core Ultra CPU with Intel Arc GPUs that have exhibited sluggish behavior when interacting with a virtual desktop.

Unfortunately, there are no further fixes or optimizations as the previous Arc GPU Graphics drivers version 101.5593 Beta already brought optimizations for Final Fantasy XIV: Dawntrail and The First Descendant games. There are still plenty of known issues on Intel Arc A-Series graphics products including ones with games like No Man's Sky, Enshrouded, Doom Eternal and application like Topaz Video AI. There are also known issues with Intel Arc Control Studio as well with corruption of the recording file when the mouse cursor is enabled during HDR capture and issues with schedule updates for drivers.

DOWNLOAD: Intel Arc GPU Graphics Drivers 101.5594 Beta
Tuesday, July 2nd 2024

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AMD FidelityFX FSR 3.1 Review - Frame Generation for Everyone

AMD FidelityFX FSR 3.1 Review - Frame Generation for Everyone

AMD's new FidelityFX Super Resolution 3.1 update (FSR 3.1) features improvements to upscaling quality and Frame Generation. It is now possible to run FSR Frame Generation without any upscaling, or combine it with DLSS, which finally gives GeForce 30 gamers a feasible framegen option.

Panmnesia Uses CXL Protocol to Expand GPU Memory with Add-in DRAM Card or Even SSD

South Korean startup Panmnesia has unveiled an interesting solution to address the memory limitations of modern GPUs. The company has developed a low-latency Compute Express Link (CXL) IP that could help expand GPU memory with external add-in card. Current GPU-accelerated applications in AI and HPC are constrained by the set amount of memory built into GPUs. With data sizes growing by 3x yearly, GPU networks must keep getting larger just to fit the application in the local memory, benefiting latency and token generation. Panmnesia's proposed approach to fix this leverages the CXL protocol to expand GPU memory capacity using PCIe-connected DRAM or even SSDs. The company has overcome significant technical hurdles, including the absence of CXL logic fabric in GPUs and the limitations of existing unified virtual memory (UVM) systems.

At the heart of Panmnesia's solution is a CXL 3.1-compliant root complex with multiple root ports and a host bridge featuring a host-managed device memory (HDM) decoder. This sophisticated system effectively tricks the GPU's memory subsystem into treating PCIe-connected memory as native system memory. Extensive testing has demonstrated impressive results. Panmnesia's CXL solution, CXL-Opt, achieved two-digit nanosecond round-trip latency, significantly outperforming both UVM and earlier CXL prototypes. In GPU kernel execution tests, CXL-Opt showed execution times up to 3.22 times faster than UVM. Older CXL memory extenders recorded around 250 nanoseconds round trip latency, with CXL-Opt potentially achieving less than 80 nanoseconds. As with CXL, the problem is usually that the memory pools add up latency and performance degrades, while these CXL extenders tend to add to the cost model as well. However, the Panmnesia CXL-Opt could find a use case, and we are waiting to see if anyone adopts this in their infrastructure.
Below are some benchmarks by Panmnesia, as well as the architecture of the CXL-Opt.

Origin PC Dark Cherry Gaming PC Bundle Available Now

ORIGIN PC, a leader in custom high-performance systems, today announced the launch of their limited edition Dark Cherry bundle. The launch of this limited edition bundle marks a significant milestone, as it introduces a customizable gaming PC. This extraordinary package showcases stunning artwork by Corsair LAB and allows you to select the components that suit your preferences for a sleek gaming experience. Alongside the customizable PC, you will also receive a SCUF Envision controller, a Corsair K65 PLUS WIRELESS gaming keyboard, a Corsair M75 WIRELESS gaming mouse, and a Corsair MM300 mouse pad. This grand moment offers an unparalleled opportunity to create your ideal gaming setup.

The ORIGIN PC Dark Cherry PC is their inaugural Limited Edition System featuring customizable components. Now you can personalize your system and pick out the components of your choice to game, stream, and create with only the limit of your imagination. Characterized by its absolutely stunning Cherry Blossom imagery, the Dark Cherry PC is a sight to behold. Customize yours with the latest Corsair DDR5 memory plus a plethora of fast, reliable SSD storage to drastically improve performance and save every game, file, or program you need.

YEYIAN Unveils the Ultra-Fast AVANCE Series 25-inch FHD 240Hz Gaming Monitor

YEYIAN GAMING, a global leader in innovative pre-built gaming PCs, peripherals, and computer components, is excited to unveil the latest gaming masterpiece, the YEYIAN AVANCE Series 25" FHD 240 Hz gaming monitor. This exclusive gaming monitor, designed for gamers seeking unparalleled refresh rate, response speed, and clarity for immersive gameplay, features an ultraslim bezel that, combined with its advanced features and stunning visual functionality, can redefine the next-generation gaming experience.

The YEYIAN AVANCE Series 25" FHD 240 Hz gaming monitor delivers more than just high refresh rates and rapid response times; it ensures a seamless and immersive gaming experience. Boasting a native refresh rate of up to 240 Hz and a swift 1 ms response time, the monitor guarantees ultra-smooth visuals, free from motion blur or ghosting, whether during gameplay or fast-motion videos. Its wide 92% sRGB color gamut enhances the display with 16.7 million vibrant colors, providing lifelike accuracy and stunning detail. Fully compatible with AMD FreeSync Premium and NVIDIA G-Sync, the AVANCE Series monitors ensure a flawless display devoid of artifacts or tearing while the advanced HDR10 processing chip enriches the visual experience by presenting a more comprehensive dynamic range and color contrast. The monitor's ultraslim bezel design and customizable RGB backlighting add a sleek aesthetic and immersive ambiance to any setup.

Sabrent Introduces Rocket V60 microSDXC Memory Cards

Sabrent is excited to announce that our newest product, the Rocket V60 microSDXC Memory Card, is part of these discounts. Available in 128 GB, 256 GB, and 512 GB, this card is perfect for photographers, videographers, and everyday creators. With a minimum write speed of 60 MB/s, it ensures smooth and reliable 8K video capture and supports various devices with backward compatibility. The new Sabrent Rocket V60 microSDXC Memory Card is our latest storage solution for photographers, videographers, and everyday artists. Quickly and reliably capture your photos and videos, up to 8K, without any hitches. Get up to 512 GB of memory that meets the V60 specification, which means a minimum write speed of 60 MB/s with 8K video performance guaranteed. Other files will work just great, too, with enough IOPS - meeting the A1 specification—to ensure that things never bog down.

Go from device to device, as this memory card has backward compatibility. It's designed for UHS-II compliance but will also work with UHS-I devices at their respective speeds. Any device that can take microSD memory cards, whether phone, camera, or portable gaming system, can immediately work with this card for rapid transfers. Reliability is at least as important as performance, so robust flash is utilized in the Rocket V60 microSDXC Memory Card to ensure smooth operation even during extended transfers. This portable memory card is great for just about anything.

LG Announces the 2024 gram SuperSlim Laptop

LG Electronics USA (LG) is expanding its thinnest and lightest lineup of laptops with the LG gram SuperSlim in a crisp white colorway. The 2024 LG gram SuperSlim (15Z90ST-G.AAW4U1) stands out with an upgraded processor and sleek profile. Customers can now purchase the new LG gram SuperSlim for $799, a $600 savings from its retail price of $1399. Designed with ultra-portability in mind, the new 15.6-inch white model measures just 0.49-inches and weighs a scant 2.18lbs.

With Intel Evo Edition powered by Intel Core Ultra 5 125H processors, the 15Z90ST-G.AAW4U1 delivers improved performance for more productivity, content creation and entertainment. Powered by an Intel Core ️ Ultra Processor with an integrated AI Boost, this LG gram SuperSlim is faster than previous-generation CPU-only systems. Intel Core Ultra processors include a specialized AI processing unit alongside supercharged performance to support advanced, innovative use cases and demanding applications. The architecture enables smooth graphics and power efficiency for improved battery life.

Capcom's Dead Rising Deluxe Remaster Announced for September 19 Release

Capcom Co., Ltd. today announced that the digital version of Dead Rising Deluxe Remaster will be released on September 19, 2024, ahead of the physical version. Dead Rising Deluxe Remaster is a revival of Dead Rising, a title that garnered fans across the globe due to its fresh concept and gameplay experience, developed on Capcom's proprietary RE ENGINE. By bringing the game to a new generation of consoles, Capcom has enhanced the overall gameplay experience, such as with vastly improved graphics made possible with high-quality modeling, better play controls, and the addition of 3D audio. Further, by including 14 languages for text and 9 languages for voice, Capcom has put together a game that goes beyond a typical remaster and is truly worthy of being called "Deluxe."

In addition to regularly releasing major new titles each year, Capcom is focusing on re-activating dormant IPs that haven't had a new title launch recently. The company is working to further enhance corporate value by continuing to leverage its rich library of content, such as by reviving past IPs as Deluxe Remasters to make highly-efficient and high-quality titles.

French Authorities to File Competition Charges Against NVIDIA

On July 1st, Reuters reported that the French antitrust authority plans to file charges against NVIDIA for alleged anti-competitive practices, marking France as the first country to take such action against the tech giant. This follows a raid on NVIDIA's local offices in September 2023, as we reported here, which was part of a broader investigation into the graphics card and cloud computing sectors. A recent report released by French authorities regarding competition in generative AI highlighted concerns about potential abuses of power by chip suppliers, specifically noting the industry reliance on NVIDIA. If NVIDIA is to be found guilty of charges made by French authorities it can be facing fines of up to 10% of its global annual revenue. However, NVIDIA may have the option to make concessions to avoid such penalties.

As the world's largest manufacturer of AI chips and computer graphics cards, NVIDIA is under intense scrutiny from antitrust authorities in Europe and the United States. The European Commission is gathering informal feedback to assess whether NVIDIA had breached its antitrust rules, though it has not yet launched a formal investigation. The Department of Justice and Federal Trade Commission are reportedly conducting joint investigations into NVIDIA, Microsoft, and OpenAI, reflecting growing regulatory concern in the United States over these tech giants' market influence.

Skullcandy Launches All-New Active True Wireless Earbuds Collection

Skullcandy announced an all-new Active Collection featuring three new purpose-built "active" true wireless products for the most active and adventurous consumers, including Push Play Active, Push ANC Active and Sesh ANC Active. The new earbuds are designed with different features at different price points to meet users where they're at. Ranging from $59.99 to $99.99 MSRP, the Active Collection will begin selling July 2 on Skullcandy.com and at select retailers.

"We crafted the Active Collection to meet the demands of those seeking reliable earbud performance in any conditions, from our famously fearless boardsports fans and fitness fanatics to casual outdoor adventurers," said Justin Regan, VP of Marketing, Skullcandy. "These buds are the ultimate companions for those who dare to push boundaries."

ACEMAGIC Unveils X1 Dual-Screen Business Laptop

In a groundbreaking move to redefine the dual-screen laptop market, ACEMAGIC introduced the ACEMAGIC X1. The Intel Core i7-1255U processor powers this innovative device and features dual 14-inch Full HD displays.

Revolutionary Dual-Screen Technology
The ACEMAGIC X1 boasts a unique 360° horizontal folding dual-screen design, allowing users unparalleled flexibility in adjusting the displays to meet their needs. Whether for video conferencing, data analysis, or multitasking, this innovative dual-screen configuration dramatically enhances collaborative efficiency and user comfort.

0patch Offers Additional Windows 10 Security Updates, Extending Usage Until 2030

0patch plans to combat Microsoft's ending Windows 10 support by offering unofficial security updates for the 2015 operating system. Microsoft is ending Windows 10 security updates on October 14, 2025, after which the OS will stop receiving patches for vulnerabilities. The Redmond giant will provide you with an option to update your Windows 10 build, however, with a hefty fee slapped. Extended Security Updates (ESU) pricing structure follows a tiered model that doubles each year. From October 2025 to October 2026, the cost is $61 per device. The following year, from October 2026 to October 2027, the price increases to $122 per device. In the final year, spanning October 2027 to October 2028, the cost rises to $244 per device. For users planning to maintain Windows 10 until October 2028, the total expense over the three-year period would amount to $427 per device.

However, 0patch, a company focused on providing unofficial security updates for Windows OSes, will provide Windows 10 users with free and paid security updates post-end of service. Their system focuses on delivering targeted "micropatches" for critical vulnerabilities that emerge after Microsoft's official support ends. These micropatches are designed to be extremely precise and minimal, often consisting of just a few CPU instructions. A key feature of 0patch's approach is its non-invasive nature. The patches are applied directly to running processes in the computer's memory, leaving the original Microsoft files untouched. This method allows for rapid deployment of security fixes without requiring system reboots or interrupting user activities. The patching process is designed to be seamless and virtually unnoticeable to users. For instance, a user working on a document wouldn't experience any disruption while a micropatch is being applied. This approach is particularly beneficial for servers, where continuous uptime is crucial, as patches can be implemented without any downtime.

MSI Introduces New Industrial Lite Box MS-C918 Mini PC

MSI IPC is proud to announce the launch new industrial lite box product, the MS-C918. It is designed to meet the diverse needs of modern businesses with a focus on cost-effectiveness, ease of use, and portability. MS-C918 is meticulously designed for non-critical environments. This midterm longevity support is ideal for businesses that require robust and dependable computing solutions without the need for extended industrial-grade lifespans.

Providing a service life of around three years, making them suitable for applications that do not demand the extended durability of high-end industrial-grade products. This midterm support is perfect for businesses that anticipate regular updates or technology refresh cycles, ensuring that the devices remain relevant and efficient over their expected use period.

Sharkoon Unveils OfficePal M25W Productivity Mouse

Thanks to its precise sensor and light weight, the OfficePal M25W is a compact mouse that can be used either with a stationary PC or mobile with notebooks. The simple choice between wireless or wired operation provides additional efficiency and freedom. For maximum efficiency, the OfficePal M25W can either be used with a wired connection or operated wirelessly using the USB nano receiver, which can be conveniently stowed within the mouse.

The built-in lithium-ion battery of the OfficePal M25W enables up to 50 hours of productive work and play without having to be recharged. As ever more mobile devices only have a USB-C port, the OfficePal M25W can be easily used on notebooks and compatible smartphones thanks to the supplied cable with two USB-C plugs. If required, the mouse can also be connected using the included USB-A adapter.

Noctua Announces $150 Flagship NH-D15 G2 CPU Coolers and NF-A14x25r G2 140mm Fans

Noctua today released its long-awaited NH-D15 G2 next-gen flagship model CPU cooler and NF-A14x25r G2 round-frame 140 mm fans. Continuing the legacy of the iconic NH-D15 and its NF-A15 fans, the new G2 products come packed with Noctua's latest technologies and have been carefully refined in all respects to provide even better quiet cooling performance than their award-winning predecessors.

"Our G2 products have been years in the making, and it feels amazing to finally be able to offer the first of them to our customers", says Roland Mossig (Noctua CEO). "We faced various challenges in both design and manufacturing, but we've cut no corners and gone the extra mile to make sure that the G2's will be worthy successors to some of our most iconic models. When you have them in your hands, I'm confident that you'll be able to sense some of the dedication and perseverance that went into creating these fans and coolers."

Intel "Arrow Lake-S" Engineering Sample Posts Over 25% 1T Perf Gain Over i9-13900K, Falls Behind in nT

An unnamed Intel Core Ultra "Arrow Lake-S" desktop processor engineering sample (ES) made it to the hands of someone willing to post its CPU-Z Bench screenshot. The processor allegedly scores a whopping 1143.2 points in the CPU-Bench single-thread benchmark; and 12922.4 points in the multithreaded benchmark. When compared with the internal Intel Core i9-13900K reference scores of CPU-Z, the single-thread benchmark score is a staggering 26.71% increase over that of the i9-13900K (902 points); while the multithreaded score is 22% lower.

Since we don't know which processor model this "Arrow Lake-S" ES is, we have no way of telling if it is the top SKU with its rumored 8P+16E core configuration, or a mid-tier Core i5 SKU with the expected 6P+8E configuration. The single-threaded test only loads one P-core, and here the IPC of one of the chip's "Lion Cove" P-cores is able to trounce one of the "Raptor Cove" P-cores of the i9-13900K reference score. You also have to understand that the Hyper-Threading plays no role in this thread. Where it could play a role is the multithreaded test. "Lion Cove" lacks HTT support unlike "Raptor Cove," and the i9-13900K is a 24-core/32-thread processor. It's important to note here, that "Arrow Lake" doesn't just have up to 8 "Lion Cove" P-cores, but also up to 16 "Skymont" E-cores that Intel claims to have achieved a massive IPC gain over its predecessor, bringing its IPC in the league of past-generation P-cores such as the "Raptor Cove" or "Golden Cove."

ASUS Announces Availability of ZenWiFi BQ16 Pro and ZenWiFi BT10 Routers

ASUS today announced availability of the ZenWiFi BQ16 Pro and ZenWiFi BT10, premium Wi-Fi 7 mesh systems that feature powerful 6 GHz Wi-Fi and whose 2-pack versions offer speeds of up to 30 Gbps (BQ16 Pro) and coverage of up to 8,000 square feet (2-pack BQ16 Pro). Dual 10 Gbps Ethernet ports enable future-ready 10 Gbps Internet and 10 Gbps wired backhaul for fast, stable, and seamless whole home Wi-Fi for next-gen smart home entertainment and home studio productivity.

The ZenWiFi BQ16 Pro and ZenWiFi BT10 boast exclusive ASUS Smart AiMesh technology to intelligently harness WiFi 7 Multi-Link Operation (MLO) and AI for both fronthaul and backhaul, Multi-Link Operation—automatically aggregating or switching across multiple bands for minimized latency and efficient transmission. By leveraging MLO, Smart AiMesh MLO backhaul automatically switches to the fastest band while its fronthaul also intelligently prioritizes demanding packets for max connectivity and efficiency. Smart AiMesh also empowers loads of advanced network features such as security, parental controls, and VPNs in the extendable network while offering full compatibility with all ASUS AiMesh-compatible ZenWiFi and standalone routers.

MSI Announces MPG 341CQPX QD-OLED and MAG 271QPX QD-OLED E2 Monitors

MSI, the world's leading manufacturer of true gaming hardware, is proudly expanding the hardware possibilities for all gamers, as OLED panels have become the mainstream choice for high-end gaming. Since the launch of the QD-OLED product lineup, MSI has continuously optimized every aspect to provide gamers with a better gaming experience. Now, we proudly introduce the MPG 341CQPX QD-OLED gaming monitor, designed to revolutionize your gaming experience. With a spacious 34-inch ultrawide screen, 3440x1440 (UWQHD) resolution, and an impressive refresh rate of up to 240 Hz, the MPG 341CQPX delivers stunningly vivid visuals with unparalleled clarity and immersion, thanks to advanced QD-OLED technology. With the addition of this new member, MSI reaffirms its commitment to providing gamers with cutting-edge technology and unmatched performance.

The MPG 341CQPX QD-OLED is designed to elevate your gaming experience to unprecedented levels, featuring a stunning 1800R curvature for ultimate immersion. With a refresh rate of up to 240 Hz, combined with an ultra-fast 0.03 ms response time, every frame is rendered with breathtaking clarity and precision. Equipped with advanced features such as KVM, HDMI 2.1, MSI Gaming Intelligence, and VESA ClearMR 13000, the MPG 341CQPX QD-OLED caters to the demands of even the most discerning high-end gamers.
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