ASUS today announced the XG Core Radeon RX 9060 XT LP 16 GB GDDR6, a compact external graphics solution that adds discrete graphics to compatible laptops, gaming handhelds and mini PCs through USB4 connectivity. Powered by AMD RDNA 4 architecture, it pairs 16 GB of GDDR6 memory with support for gaming, creative applications and compatible AI workloads. With the XG Core, users do not need to make any internal hardware modifications to their device to access the power of discrete graphics.

Discrete graphics for more demanding workloads
Thin laptops and compact PCs make everyday computing convenient, but users may need additional graphics power as their games and applications become more demanding. XG Core offers a way to extend the capabilities of a compatible device without replacing the entire system. Its external design adds a dedicated GPU when needed, giving users the flexibility to keep the device they already use for work, travel or play.

Sonnet, a US-based provider of connectivity solutions, has silently launched the Solo10G T5, a Thunderbolt 5 adapter that adds 10 Gigabit Ethernet connectivity to computers with Thunderbolt or USB4 ports. This follows the Thunderbolt 5 docking stations with 10 GbE connectivity released in April. The adapter uses a single RJ45 connector, offering 10 GbE over Cat 6 / Cat 6A cables for up to 55 / 100 meters, respectively. The device is compatible with Thunderbolt 5, Thunderbolt 4, USB4, and Thunderbolt 3 systems, and works with Mac, Windows, and Linux. Also, it can support 2.5 Gbps and 5 Gbps connections if paired with a compatible multi-gigabit switch, router, or NAS.

The adapter is bus-powered and rated at 7.5 W. It uses a fanless aluminium enclosure measuring 79.5 x 114 x 27.2 mm and weighs 260 g. The 0.3-meter Thunderbolt 5 cable can be replaced if necessary, while the adapter also supports AVB on Mac systems. Sonnet includes hardware-based firmware authentication, encrypted firmware and authenticated updates. The Solo10G T5 comes with a two-year warranty and lifetime technical support. The SonnetTech Solo10G T5 Thunderbolt 5 adapter is available for $199.99 on the company's website.

A new Linux driver developed by Intel maintainer, Mika Westerberg, has been revealed to be merging in the Linux kernel version 7.2, which is slated to launch in June 2026. The new driver will enable users to more easily share files over USB4 while bypassing the network driver. The developer pitches the new protocol as a way to easily back up, transfer, and access files across two or more connected systems, or even share hardware, like a webcam or input peripherals. For now, the protocol requires some setup, currently requiring users to set up devices using the ConfigFS interface, and the developer details a number of examples and commands to configure them. More importantly, because the stream is controlled by the receiving side, it seems as though after a little setup, the protocol could be used by app developers to create apps with similar functionality to LocalSend without the need for a network connection. The upstream request reads:

Introduce USB4STREAM protocol and Linux implementation. This allows two (or more) hosts to transfer data directly over Thunderbolt/USB4 cable through a character device without need to go through the network stack.

Any application that supports read(2) and write(2) in some form should be able to use the device without changes. The data is sent out to the other side over a tunnel inside Thunderbolt/USB4 fabric. The character device is called /dev/tbstreamX where X is the minor number starting from 0.

TerraMaster, a leading storage solutions brand, introduces the D1 SSD Plus, a USB4 SSD enclosure designed for creative professionals, gamers, and mobile office users. With 40 Gbps ultra-high speed and exceptional thermal performance, it meets the demands of 4K/8K video editing, macOS boot drives, and Mac mini storage expansion, setting a benchmark for high-performance portable storage.

Key Features of D1 SSD Plus
Ultra-High-Speed USB4 Performance
Equipped with a USB4 40 Gb/s interface, the D1 SSD Plus, when paired with high-performance NVMe SSDs (e.g., Samsung 990 PRO or WD Black SN850X), achieves read speeds up to 3853 MB/s and write speeds up to 3707 MB/s. It transfers a 3 GB video in approximately 1 second, effortlessly handling 4K/8K video editing, large-scale data transfers, and application execution.

The Type-C USB connector has made it a lot easier—at least in theory—to connect devices, but it's not without its faults, especially as it's been hard to know what capabilities both the ports and the cables deliver. The USB-IF has solved most of the issues on the cable side with clearer markings on certified cables, but that still leaves both computers and devices as a gotcha point. Microsoft has now announced that it has a new WHCP (Windows Hardware Compatibility Program) certification program for Windows 11 laptops that guarantees certain features from a Type-C USB port. No, it doesn't mean all new Windows 11 WHCP laptops will support USB4, which is something of a letdown, but it does guarantee that all USB-C ports on new WHCP laptops will support charging of the laptop and at least DP Alt mode for one display.

As the older USB 3.x standard doesn't support many of the features of USB4, there are several limitations to laptops that lack USB4 support, beyond just data transfer speeds over USB, such as PCIe tunnelling and Thunderbolt 3 support. However, Microsoft mandates Thunderbolt 3 support on all WHCP laptops with USB4 support. USB4 equipped WHCP laptops also have to support 15 W device charging and at least a pair of 4K 60 Hz displays via DP Alt mode. Microsoft's new WHCP certification does at least remove some of the guesswork when buying a new laptop, but until all laptops support USB4, there will still be devices with limited USB Type-C ports in the market.

Morefine is a relatively reputed brand of mini PCs that we have covered in the past. The company has now introduced a powerful new eGPU dubbed the G1, which can also function as a dock, courtesy of its healthy selection of ports. The eGPU can be equipped with the RTX 4060 Laptop, RTX 4080 Laptop, or even the RTX 4090 Laptop GPUs. The product is already available for purchase, with prices starting from $659 for the RTX 4060 L variant, $1,099 for the RTX 4080 L variant, and the highest-end RTX 4090 Laptop variant is unfortunately out of stock as of this writing, which otherwise carries a price tag of $1,699.

For those who need a refresher, the RTX 4060 Laptop packs 3,072 CUDA cores paired with 8 GB of GDDR6 VRAM, allowing for performance that is roughly in the same league as the Radeon RX 7600M GPU found in many other eGPUs. The RTX 4080 Laptop and RTX 4090 Laptop GPUs pack 7,424 and 9,728 CUDA cores coupled with 12 and 16 GB of GDDR6 VRAM respectively. Morefine has revealed the 3D Mark scores for each of the systems, which is certainly a good thing for prospective buyers. The 14 x 10 x 5.4 cm chassis is impressively compact, and as mentioned previously, the ports on offer are equally impressive. An OCuLink port is provided, along with Thunderbolt 3 (85W PD), which can swapped with a dual USB-C module for folks with systems that cannot take advantage of OCuLink. Other ports include triple USB-A 3.2, dual HDMI 2.1, and DisplayPort 1.4 ports.

QNAP Systems, Inc. has introduced the new QNA series USB4 Type-C to 10GbE network adapters, specifically designed for Mac and Windows PCs equipped with USB4 or Thunderbolt 3/4 ports. These adapters enable connecting to 10GbE high-speed networks, significantly improving user convenience and work efficiency.

QNAP Product Manager Andy Chuang stated, "The compact and low-noise QNA USB4 adapters allow computers without network ports to establish a high-speed network environment with other devices. Users can enjoy efficient large file transfers and smooth 10GbE collaborative workflows without complicated setup."

M31 Technology Corporation, a leading global provider of silicon intellectual property (IP), today announced that its cutting-edge USB4 IP has achieved silicon validation on TSMC's 5 nm (N5) process. The newly validated IP enhances data transfer capabilities for a new wave of mobile and portable devices. The announcement coincides with M31's participation in TSMC's 2024 Open Innovation Platform (OIP) Ecosystem Forum in Taiwan. This milestone underscores the close collaboration between M31 and TSMC, reflecting M31's commitment to advancing high-performance IP solutions by leveraging TSMC's innovative platform to drive next-generation connectivity.

M31's USB4 IP is built on the latest USB4 specification and represents a major leap in the evolution of USB architecture. It supports multi-protocol tunneling, enabling simultaneous transmission of multiple data types—such as USB, DisplayPort, and PCIe—over a single connection. The USB4 IP achieves 40 Gbps data transfer rates, significantly enhancing bandwidth associated with previous USB standards. The IP is fully compatible with USB 3.2, USB 2.0, and Thunderbolt 3, ensuring seamless integration with existing and future devices.

OWC brought a host of creator storage solutions to Computex 2024. The company's claim to fame over the past decades has been that their gear is compatible with Macs and iOS devices, although, the current generation is pretty standardized for Macs and Windows PCs. We begin our tour with docking stations—the stuff OWC is good at. The OWC Thunderbolt Go Dock supports the new Thunderbolt Share standard announced by Intel barely a month ago. It plugs into two PCs (or Macs) that support Thunderbolt Share, and enables a fast 40 Gbps network connection between the two, letting you quickly move files and other resources. The dock also allows you to share its various ports, I/O, and card readers among the two connected machines. These connections include two downstream Thunderbolt 40 Gbps, an HDMI display output, a gigabit Ethernet, two 10 Gbps USB 3.2 Gen 2 type-A, a 10 Gbps USB 3.2 Gen 2 type-C, a USB 2.0, HD audio with 4-pole headset jack, and an SD card reader. The dock has its own internal power supply that drives all its functions.

Next up, is the Express 1M2, a very slick designed USB4-based portable SSD. Internally, the enclosure has an M.2-2280 slot with PCI-Express 3.0 x4 connection, and tested bandwidth as high as 3151 MB/s. A bridge chip connects the M.2 slot to the 40 Gbps USB4 host interface. The actual compartment of the aluminium enclosure with the drive is very slim, much of the body doubles up as a heatsink for the M.2 SSD, there's even some thermal pad and contact points located strategically to make contact with the SSD controller and NAND flash chips. The enclosure supports drives of up to 8 TB in capacity. The range starts from $249 for the 1 TB model.

Zotac took the plunge into the emerging market of Windows-based gaming handhelds that a lot of PC hardware brands are getting into off late. The device has a 7-inch 1080p AMOLED multi-touch display, but you can connect an external display using over DisplayPort. At the heart of the Zotac ZONE is the AMD Ryzen 7 8840U "Hawk Point" processor, with its Radeon 780M graphics. This chip is wired to 16 GB of LPDDR5X-7500, and a 512 GB M.2 NVMe SSD. The device features an M.2-2280 Gen 4 slot, so you are spoiled for choice with SSD upgrades.

The Zotac ZONE handheld console uses Windows 11 Home, but with its first-party One Launcher UI that organizes your games across DRM platforms, lets you configure input, tweak performance or battery life, and much more. The star attraction with this device's connectivity is its two USB4 type-C ports, one of which has DisplayPort passthrough), and PD 3.0. There's also a microSD UHS-II reader. A 4-pole 3.5 mm headset jack handles analog audio. Wireless connectivity includes Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.2. Powering it all is a 48.5 Wh battery. The device measures 310 mm x 135 mm x 40 mm, and is expected to weigh under 700 g.

GIGABYTE TECHNOLOGY Co. Ltd, a leading manufacturer of motherboards, graphics cards, and hardware solutions, introduced the latest all-round B650E AORUS PRO X USB4 motherboard. Built-in with Dual USB4 ports and comprehensive leading features, B650E AORUS PRO X USB4 enables users to enjoy the most affordable next-gen AM5 platform in advance.

With blisteringly fast and reliable transfer speeds, extensive compatibility, efficient charging, and ultra-HD display connectivity, USB4 has evidently become an essential specification on the coming next-gen AM5 platform. Among the increasing number of USB4-ready devices on the market, the B650E AORUS PRO X USB4 exclusively features dual native USB4 ports, providing up to 40 Gbps on each port with support for all Ryzen processors. Uniquely, this total 40 Gbps bandwidth can be fully used for data transferring, unlike Thunderbolt 4, which shares bandwidth between data and video. Aside from the full 40 Gbps USB4, B650E AORUS PRO X USB4 also offers superb connectivity with Wi-Fi 7 using GIGABYTE's Ultra-High Gain antenna and 2.5 GbE LAN.

ZOTAC Technology, a global manufacturer focused on innovative and high-performance hardware solutions, will return to COMPUTEX 2024 to showcase its biggest push yet into brand-new product categories. At this year's exhibition, ZOTAC will unveil its first attempt at creating a unique Handheld Gaming PC with advanced controls and features, allowing gamers to enjoy their favorite games on the go like never before with maximum competitive advantage.

Also in ZOTAC's extensive lineup is a full-fledged selection of AI-focused computational hardware, including a new workstation-grade External GPU Box series for hassle-free GPU compute and AI acceleration, ZBOX mini PCs powered by Intel Core Ultra CPUs equipped with integrated neural processing units (NPU), as well as other enterprise-grade solutions, such as GPU Servers and Arm-based NVIDIA Jetson systems, offering users a broad selection of AI accelerators in applications big and small.

ZOTAC Technology, a global manufacturer focused on innovative and high-performance hardware solutions, will return to COMPUTEX 2024 to showcase its biggest push yet into brand-new product categories. At this year's exhibition, ZOTAC will unveil its first attempt at creating a unique Handheld Gaming PC with advanced controls and features, allowing gamers to enjoy their favorite games on the go like never before with maximum competitive advantage.

Also in ZOTAC's extensive lineup is a full-fledged selection of AI-focused computational hardware, including a new workstation-grade External GPU Box series for hassle-free GPU compute and AI acceleration, ZBOX mini PCs powered by Intel Core Ultra CPUs equipped with integrated neural processing units (NPU), as well as other enterprise-grade solutions, such as GPU Servers and Arm-based NVIDIA Jetson systems, offering users a broad selection of AI accelerators in applications big and small.

USB4 hasn't exactly taken off as yet, largely due to a shortage of devices in the market and with a limited number of device controllers, the competition in the market is also slow. With Thunderbolt compatibility, there are plenty of USB4 compatible hosts out there though, even though you only get 32 Gbps rather than 40 Gbps of data throughput when a USB4 device is connected to Thunderbolt 3 or 4, although Thunderbolt 5 will allow for the full 40 Gbps. A company called ADT-Link has launched a product it calls the UT3G which is pretty much a retail ready bridge solution that allows techies and tinkerers to try out whatever PCIe devices they have over USB4. The adapter has a full-length PCIe x16 slot, but it's limited to a four lane PCIe interface which is compatible with PCIe 4.0, albeit not at the full 64 Gbps that such an interface can deliver.

In addition to the USB4 Type-C port on the PCB there's a standard 24-pin ATX power supply connector for power, which means that this isn't really a portable solution. However, the company has tested the UT3G with various graphics cards from both AMD and NVIDIA to make sure you can use it as an external graphics card dock. The UT3G has also been tested to be compatible with Windows, Linux and macOS, although macOS is limited to AMD GPUs. The board is built around the ASMedia ASM2464PD USB4 to PCIe 4.0 bridge and this shouldn't come as a surprise, as so far this is the only such device controller. ADT-Link doesn't appear to be selling the UT3G to consumers, but it can be picked up online from DFRobot starting at US$129 for a single unit.

Apple today unveiled the groundbreaking new iPad Pro in a stunningly thin and light design, taking portability and performance to the next level. Available in silver and space black finishes, the new iPad Pro comes in two sizes: an expansive 13-inch model and a super-portable 11-inch model. Both sizes feature the world's most advanced display—a new breakthrough Ultra Retina XDR display with state-of-the-art tandem OLED technology—providing a remarkable visual experience. The new iPad Pro is made possible with the new M4 chip, the next generation of Apple silicon, which delivers a huge leap in performance and capabilities. M4 features an entirely new display engine to enable the precision, color, and brightness of the Ultra Retina XDR display. With a new CPU, a next-generation GPU that builds upon the GPU architecture debuted on M3, and the most powerful Neural Engine yet, the new iPad Pro is an outrageously powerful device for artificial intelligence. The versatility and advanced capabilities of iPad Pro are also enhanced with all-new accessories. Apple Pencil Pro brings powerful new interactions that take the pencil experience even further, and a new thinner, lighter Magic Keyboard is packed with incredible features. The new iPad Pro, Apple Pencil Pro, and Magic Keyboard are available to order starting today, with availability in stores beginning Wednesday, May 15.

"iPad Pro empowers a broad set of pros and is perfect for anyone who wants the ultimate iPad experience—with its combination of the world's best displays, extraordinary performance of our latest M-series chips, and advanced accessories—all in a portable design. Today, we're taking it even further with the new, stunningly thin and light iPad Pro, our biggest update ever to iPad Pro," said John Ternus, Apple's senior vice president of Hardware Engineering. "With the breakthrough Ultra Retina XDR display, the next-level performance of M4, incredible AI capabilities, and support for the all-new Apple Pencil Pro and Magic Keyboard, there's no device like the new iPad Pro."

ZOTAC Technology is announcing a new lineup of enterprise and healthcare-oriented mini PCs designed for specific applications and scalable deployment, as well as a whole new class of external GPU acceleration platforms for Thunderbolt 3-compatible PCs. Aside from the all-new additions, ZOTAC is also refreshing its best-selling performance mini PCs with the newest generations of Intel Core Processors and NVIDIA RTX-enabled GPUs. ZOTAC will debut these rugged, innovative solutions and showcase other AI-ready compute solutions during Hannover Messe 2024, reaffirming ZOTAC's commitment to embrace the AI-driven future.

ZOTAC ZBOX Healthcare Series: Medical AI Solution
With the all-new ZOTAC Healthcare Series, ZOTAC is offering the reputed superior quality and performance of ZOTAC ZBOX Mini PCs to the realm of Healthcare. The ZBOX H39R5000W and ZBOX H37R3500W are equipped with 13th Generation Intel Core i9 or i7 laptop processors, as well as professional-grade NVIDIA RTX Ada Generation laptop GPUs. These mini PCs are ready to power medical imaging, algorithms, and more, with some of the latest and greatest hardware currently available.

At the NAB Show 2024, in Las Vegas, Western Digital Corp. (NASDAQ: WDC) is unveiling an exciting lineup of technologies and new storage solutions designed for today's and tomorrow's complex media and entertainment (M&E) workflows. Western Digital continues to focus on creating what's next with advanced solutions that address a broad range of growing content needs.

The increasing demand for rich and engaging content, with higher resolutions and more frames per second, is generating the need for faster, more flexible high-capacity storage solutions to help streamline workflows and keep up with high-pressure project demands. For every step of the workflow - from capture and transfer to archive - Western Digital is committed to advancing technology to help professionals and creators get work done faster and more efficiently, ultimately saving time and money, so they can focus on their creativity.

BenQ, a global leader in display technology, announced today the launch of its newest professional monitor, the PD3225U. Featuring IPS Black for 2000:1 contrast ratio, Color Match with Mac devices through M-book mode, and iKeyboard Control, the PD3225U is the perfect creative complement for Mac users in need of color accuracy and enhanced connectivity.

Through IPS Black technology, the PD3225U expresses 35 percent deeper blacks than a conventional IPS monitor by minimizing light leakage, changing and improving liquid crystal array, so colors are more vibrant than ever before. The new design monitor also offers Color Match for Mac devices with its M-book Mode and 98% Display P3 color space, as well as certifications such as Calman Verified, Pantone Validation, and Pantone SkinTone Validation. For corner-to-corner authentic color and consistent luminance, the PD3225U leverages BenQ's exclusive Uniformity Technology. In addition, the monitor incorporates BenQ's exclusive Display ColorTalk software, which effortlessly matches colors between the monitor and MacBook Pro without needing a calibrator.

Other World Computing www.OWC.com -- the leading end-to-end ecosystem solution provider of computer hardware, accessories, and software for both consumers and professionals - today introduced the Express 1M2, the first USB4 drive and fastest single blade NVMe OWC has ever offered.

Exceptional Speed, Ultimate Flexibility
The OWC Express 1M2 was purposefully built to maximize the performance capabilities of today's and tomorrow's USB4-equipped Macs and PCs. It offers photo and video professionals, DITs, and prosumers/performance enthusiasts real-world speeds up to 3151 MB/s. It also offers versatile compatibility to work with millions of existing Thunderbolt and USB-C machines and devices.

Belkin, a leading consumer electronics brand for 40 years, today announced a new 11-in-1 dock featuring the latest Silicon Motion technology to add more power and productivity to any desk setup. This universal dock offers additional key ports that newer laptop models no longer support and can expand to three monitors with resolution of up to 4K at 60 Hz for one monitor.

With universal capabilities, devices stay charged with up to 100 W of pass-through power and fast transfer speeds of up to 10 Gbps. This dock also doubles as a laptop stand and includes a 350 mm centered connection cable for easy connection to a laptop in any space.

Consumer demand for transferring large high-quality files has increased significantly due to trends in AI computing. In compliance with EU regulations, USB4 is set to become the transmission standard for a new generation of devices. Quick and convenient file transfer between various devices has undoubtedly focused consumers' attention and the time for a new generation USB4 interface to unify market specifications has arrived. ADATA, the world's leading memory brand, has launched its first USB4 SE920 external SSD, which supports Thunderbolt 3 & 4 and is backward compatible with USB 3.2 and USB 2.0. Performance can reach up to 3,800 MB/s per second. In addition, it is equipped with a mainstream Type-C interface, making it easy to transfer large multimedia files across devices or quickly export videos shot on mobile phones. The SE920 external SSD features a patented spring-loaded chassis and built-in fan to provide consumers with the ultimate in high-speed performance.

USB4 supports transmission speeds up to 40 Gbps but high speeds inevitably generate high temperatures which can became a problematic issue for users. The SE920 USB4 external SSD adopts a proprietary patented active dissipation design and a built-in micro fan. Push on the telescoping casing to activate the fan and extends the chassis to increase interior space for air circulation and quickly discharge heat. Compared with fanless products with the same specifications, this patented mechanism can significantly reduce temperatures by 10% and maintain stable data transmission. Press the casing again to retract the chassis. When retracted, the SE920 is lightweight and easy to carry. This unique and ingenious design makesthe SE920 USB4 external SSD an amazing addition to anyone's everyday carry kit.

Lenovo has unveiled the ThinkCentre M90a Pro Gen 4, setting a new standard for all-in-one (AIO) business desktop computers. Designed to address the needs of modern workplaces and content creators, this powerhouse Windows 11 PC wows with a massive 27-inch QHD display and is equipped with smart features that enhance connectivity, privacy, and usability.

"Modern businesses require more than just a high-performing PC, they need solutions that are smart and intuitive, reliable and efficient, and empowers them to create a multi-device ecosystem seamlessly," said Sanjeev Menon, vice president and general manager, Worldwide Desktop Business in Intelligent Devices Group, Lenovo. "In this evolving hybrid environment, employees use an average of 2.5 devices for work and would like to be provided with both desktops and laptops to allow them to be more productive. Lenovo's ThinkCentre M90a Pro Gen 4 is the answer for businesses looking for synergy and to make workspaces more flexible, streamlined, and productive."

Western Digital today introduces new solutions from its SanDisk brand and SanDisk Professional line ahead of IBC2023, further enriching its ecosystem of digital content storage solutions for the broadcasting, media and entertainment industry. These pro-grade products, which include two new desktop hard drive solutions and a memory card, offer the quality and dependability required for production-level video workflows without compromising the premium design.

"It is exciting to see Western Digital continue to expand its Thunderbolt offerings, which provide the higher-end capabilities and reliability that the media and entertainment industry needs," said Jason Ziller, General Manager, Client Connectivity Division, Intel Corporation. "By utilizing the power of our Thunderbolt technology, enterprise-class hard drives and multi-device connectivity solutions support prosumers and creative professionals, and their increasingly complex demands and innovative use cases."

VisionTek Products LLC (VisionTek), a recognized leader in the field of high-performance upgrades and accessories for PCs and Macs, today announced the introduction of the VisionTek VT4950 KVM docking station. This innovative product is the upgraded successor to the previously celebrated VT4900 KVM docking station and is designed to enhance the workflow of users in today's professional and remote work environments. The VT4950 enables users to seamlessly swap between two connected Windows, Mac, or Chromebook host systems with up to three 4K displays, accessories, and peripherals through a single USB-C connection to each.

"The VT4950 simplifies the process of switching between systems, saving users valuable time and making their workflow more efficient," said Nick Bill, director of product development and product marketing. "This frees these users from the tedium of unplugging and reconnecting everything as they switch between systems, resulting in significant time savings."

With the development of multimedia production and broadcasting technology, more and more film and television works are produced based on high-definition, 4K or even 8K environments, and the size of a single video material can reach dozens of GB, or even hundreds of GB. The space, reliability, and transmission performance issues of storage devices are becoming more and more difficult.

TerraMaster, a professional brand that focuses on providing innovative storage products for homes and businesses, provided Thunderbolt 3 RAID Storage and 10GbE NAS series, the 2 high-speed storage solutions for 4K video editing, which are perfectly suitable for professionals with high requirements.