Category: All News

  • ASUS ROG Ally and ROG Ally X Get Major New Updates

    ASUS ROG Ally and ROG Ally X Get Major New Updates

    Key Takeaways

    1. Asus has released a significant update (V32.0.13031.9000) for the ROG Ally X and original ROG Ally without prior announcement.
    2. The update introduces support for AMD Fluid Motion Frames 2.1 (AFMF 2.1), enhancing image quality and reducing ghosting effects.
    3. AFMF 2.1 does not require additional hardware compared to its predecessor, AFMF 2.
    4. There may be regional availability issues, with some users unable to see the update for their devices.
    5. The new drivers could improve image quality but may cause crashes in games like The Last of Us Part 2 Remastered.

    Without any prior notice, Asus has rolled out a significant update for the ROG Ally X and the original ROG Ally, which is currently priced at $549.99 on Amazon. The company has not officially announced this update on its forums. Rather, users have discovered new graphics drivers listed on Asus’ product support pages.

    New Features in the Update

    The new update introduces V32.0.13031.9000, which brings support for AMD Fluid Motion Frames 2.1 (AFMF 2.1) to both devices. To summarize, AFMF 2.1 was launched in March without additional hardware needs compared to AFMF 2. However, version 2.1 is said to enhance image quality while reducing ghosting effects. You can check the video below to see some popular AAA games making use of AFMF 2 and AFMF 2.1.

    Availability Issues

    Some early reports indicate that V32.0.13031.9000 might not be visible for the ROG Ally in certain regions. If you’re experiencing this issue with either the ROG Ally or ROG Ally X, you can manually download Asus’ latest graphics drivers using the links provided below. These drivers are available on Asus’ official website. While the new drivers might enhance image quality in some situations, they could also lead to crashes when launching The Last of Us Part 2 Remastered.

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  • Samsung’s Future: Modular Phones with Replaceable Lenses

    Samsung’s Future: Modular Phones with Replaceable Lenses

    Key Takeaways

    1. Samsung has filed a patent for a modular smartphone design that supports interchangeable lens accessories.
    2. The patent outlines four main components: device housing, lens assembly, image sensor, and motor/actuator.
    3. The phone can recognize attached lenses using methods like magnets or RFID tags, allowing automatic camera setting adjustments.
    4. Additional accessories like flash units and batteries could also be accommodated in the phone’s design.
    5. While the patent reveals interesting concepts, it’s uncertain if these features will be available to consumers in the future.

    With the recent launch of the CMF Phone 2 Pro, featuring external lens accessories, it appears that Samsung also has a similar idea in development. A newly discovered Samsung patent reveals a modular phone design that supports replaceable accessories, especially lenses. The patent outlines four key components that would, in theory, let users attach various lenses to their phone’s internal camera system.

    Patent Insights

    According to a report by 91mobiles, this patent was submitted to WIPO by Samsung Electronics last year and became public on April 24 this year. The drawings illustrate a standard Samsung flagship smartphone that includes a square external housing positioned above the camera lenses. The patent identifies four main components: a device housing, lens assembly, image sensor, and a motor or actuator.

    Functionality of Components

    The device housing is the square part that holds all the other components together. The lens assembly includes the interchangeable lenses that connect to the housing, while the image sensor gathers data from these lenses. The motor or actuator is likely responsible for enabling zoom and focus features by adjusting either the lens assembly or the sensor.

    The report states that the device must recognize which lens is connected, potentially using magnets, RFID tags, or resistors for this purpose. This capability would enable the device to automatically change various settings in the camera application. It also mentions that this housing could accommodate additional accessories like flash units, batteries, and extra displays.

    Market Viability

    It’s important to understand that these are just concepts at this stage, and it’s uncertain if they will ever reach consumers. However, given the CMF Phone 2 Pro with its interchangeable lenses, it wouldn’t be surprising if other companies begin to explore similar modular designs. The Phone 2 Pro features a detachable back panel that allows users to easily swap in different lenses.

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    Samsung's Future: Modular Phones with Replaceable LensesSamsung's Future: Modular Phones with Replaceable LensesSamsung's Future: Modular Phones with Replaceable Lenses
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  • JBL Tour One M3 Headphones: ANC, LDAC, Auracast & Smart Tx

    JBL Tour One M3 Headphones: ANC, LDAC, Auracast & Smart Tx

    Key Takeaways

    1. JBL Tour One M3 Smart Tx headphones retail for $399 and feature versatile connectivity options, including USB-C and 3.5mm audio input.
    2. The Smart Tx transmitter allows connection to various devices and functions as an Auracast transmitter for streaming to multiple gadgets.
    3. Active noise cancellation (ANC) includes 8 microphones and modes like “Ambient Aware” and “TalkThru” for customizable listening experiences.
    4. Battery life is up to 70 hours with ANC off and 34 hours with ANC on; the transmitter lasts 18 hours on a full charge.
    5. A smartphone app is available to control and customize settings for the headphones.

    JBL is broadening its extensive range of audio devices with the introduction of the JBL Tour One M3 Smart Tx, a new set of over-ear headphones. They are currently available for a retail price of $399 on the brand’s official website and on Amazon. The Smart Tx transmitter mentioned earlier can connect to various devices, such as laptops using USB Type-C and in-flight entertainment systems on airplanes that typically feature a 3.5mm headphone jack. Furthermore, the Smart Tx can function as an Auracast transmitter, sending audio signals to other compatible gadgets. A built-in touchscreen simplifies the setup and pairing process.

    Connectivity Options

    These latest JBL headphones can also be connected directly through USB-C or a 3.5mm headphone cable. For wireless connections, the Tour One M3 supports Bluetooth codecs, including LDAC, which, while not completely lossless, should provide good audio quality. The active noise cancellation (ANC) feature includes a total of 8 microphones and offers several modes like “Ambient Aware” and “TalkThru”. Additionally, head-tracking technology is available for a more immersive listening experience.

    Battery Life and App Features

    JBL claims a battery life of up to 70 hours in wireless mode, provided ANC is turned off. When active noise cancellation is in use, the headphones are expected to last for 34 hours on a single charge. However, the transmitter could be a limiting factor while traveling, as it only operates for 18 hours on a full charge. Finally, JBL provides a smartphone app to control the new headphones and modify various settings.

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    JBL Tour One M3 Headphones: ANC, LDAC, Auracast & Smart TxJBL Tour One M3 Headphones: ANC, LDAC, Auracast & Smart Tx

     

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  • Toyota Unveils Hydrogen Solutions Website for North America

    Toyota Unveils Hydrogen Solutions Website for North America

    Key Takeaways

    1. Toyota sees hydrogen as a key future energy source, using fuel cells that combine hydrogen with oxygen to create electricity.
    2. The fuel cells have a modular design, allowing for versatile applications, including off-grid energy supplies.
    3. Currently, the fuel cells are primarily used in the 2025 Toyota Mirai, a type of electric vehicle known as an FCEV.
    4. These fuel cells can produce a maximum output of 85 kilowatts (kW) of zero-emission power.
    5. Toyota is promoting its next-generation power technologies through a newly launched website to encourage client engagement.

    Toyota believes that hydrogen will be a key energy source in the future. They say they have successfully captured this energy in their “proven” fuel cells, which create electricity by combining the universe’s “most abundant” resource with oxygen using a polymeric electrolyte membrane.

    Modular Design for Versatility

    These fuel cells can be arranged in a modular or “stacked” way, making them suitable for a variety of uses, including off-grid stationary energy supplies for businesses.

    At present, these fuel cells are mostly utilized in the 2025 Toyota Mirai, which is a unique type of electric vehicle called an FCEV. They are also used in the powertrain of Toyota’s Class 8 heavy-duty truck, which has reportedly completed 130,000 miles of “real-world” testing for haulage.

    Impressive Power Ratings

    The fuel cells are rated for a maximum output of 85 kilowatts (kW) of “on-demand zero-emission power” and are poised for deployment from Toyota Motor North America’s Hydrogen Headquarters.

    The company is now encouraging potential clients to fully commit to its next-generation power technologies through their newly launched website.

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  • May Free PlayStation Plus Games: Addictive Roguelike & Quirky Shooter

    May Free PlayStation Plus Games: Addictive Roguelike & Quirky Shooter

    Key Takeaways

    1. Sony announced three free PlayStation Plus games for May 2025, available starting May 6 for active subscribers.
    2. “Balatro,” a popular Roguelike deck-builder from 2024, offers unique gameplay through poker hand manipulation and various card combinations.
    3. “Ark: Survival Ascended” is a remastered version of the 2015 game, focusing on survival, tribe building, and dinosaur breeding, with co-op options.
    4. “Warhammer 40,000: Boltgun” features retro-style graphics and gameplay reminiscent of 90s shooters, set in the Warhammer 40,000 universe.
    5. The May 2025 lineup promises exciting experiences for PlayStation Plus subscribers with diverse game styles.

    Sony has revealed the free PlayStation Plus games for May 2025, and the selection is truly impressive. You will receive three fantastic titles, one of which is sure to keep you glued to your console for many hours. These games will be available starting May 6, provided you have an active PlayStation Plus subscription.

    A Look at Balatro

    Balatro needs no introduction at this point. The Roguelike deck-builder made a huge impact in 2024, winning multiple awards. The amazing thing is that it can run on practically any device made in the last twenty years. Some might say that a PlayStation console is a bit much for Balatro, but once you dive in, you’ll find it hard to stop playing.

    The game centers around manipulating poker hands to achieve the highest score possible. This task is complemented by cards and jokers that offer boosts. With countless permutations and combinations, every playthrough of Balatro is unique, and if you encounter a particularly exciting run, you can easily replay it or share it with your friends.

    Exploring Ark: Survival Ascended

    Ark: Survival Ascended is basically a remastered edition of 2015’s Ark: Survival Evolved. The core idea remains the same in both games—survive, thrive, and scale to the top. This is accomplished through forming strategic tribes and, most importantly, breeding dinosaurs. You can also join forces with a friend via local split-screen co-op or play online with others.

    The Appeal of Warhammer 40,000: Boltgun

    Similar to Balatro, Warhammer 40,000: Boltgun doesn’t emphasize graphics much. It resembles a classic Boomer Shooter from the ’90s, featuring pixelated visuals and exaggerated violence. When you mix in some Warhammer 40,000 lore, you get an entertaining experience with a bit of background. While it may not be as complex as the newly launched Warhammer 40,000 Space Marine 2, you still play as a Space Marine in this title.

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  • Assassin’s Creed Shadows 2023: Ubisoft Reveals Roadmap

    Assassin’s Creed Shadows 2023: Ubisoft Reveals Roadmap

    Key Takeaways

    1. Positive Reception: Assassin’s Creed Shadows launched with Mostly Positive feedback on Steam and is being actively improved by Ubisoft.

    2. Upcoming Story Updates: New free quests and content will be released, including a quest titled “The works of Luis Frois” and parkour enhancements.

    3. June Features: In June, players can expect another free quest, gameplay enhancements, and the option to remove headgear during cutscenes.

    4. Free Expansion for Pre-Orders: Pre-orders will include a free expansion called “Claws of Awaji,” introducing a new island and a new weapon for the character Naoe.

    5. Developer Engagement: Ubisoft is responsive to player feedback, showing commitment to enhancing the gameplay experience for Assassin’s Creed Shadows.

    Assassin’s Creed Shadows made its debut last month and is receiving Mostly Positive feedback on Steam. The team at Ubisoft is actively enhancing the game and planning to introduce new content. In addition to regular story updates and parkour enhancements, a free expansion is on the horizon for those who pre-ordered the game.

    Upcoming Story Updates

    Assassin’s Creed Shadows will feature free quests that highlight beloved characters, fresh Animus content, customizable immersion options, and varying difficulty settings. In early May, players can look forward to a new quest titled “The works of Luis Frois,” which will come along with some codex updates and improvements for overall experience. Towards the end of the month, the game will introduce its first special collaboration, including parkour updates that fans have eagerly anticipated. New moves will be added, such as back ejects, side ejects, and vertical ledge jumps. Additionally, the photo mode will receive new expressions and much more.

    Features in June

    As we move into June, another free quest will be rolled out along with a new ally, gameplay enhancements, and the option to remove headgear during cutscenes. Following these updates, players can expect the New Game+ mode, additional story drops, new rewards, and changes based on community feedback.

    Free Expansion for Pre-Orders

    For those who pre-ordered Assassin’s Creed Shadows, they will have access to the first expansion titled “Claws of Awaji” at no cost. This expansion, set to release later this year, will introduce a new island that can be accessed right after the game’s epilogue. Naoe will also receive a new weapon: the Bo staff.

    It’s still quite early in the game’s life, so this level of support is not surprising. However, it’s reassuring to see that the developers are attentive to player feedback and are making efforts to enhance the gameplay experience. Assassin’s Creed Shadows has proven to be a significant success for Ubisoft, and it’s reported that it will also be available on the Nintendo Switch 2.

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    Assassin’s Creed Shadows 2023: Ubisoft Reveals Roadmap
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  • Intel Launches Ultra-Thin Cooling Solution for 1000W Chips

    Intel Launches Ultra-Thin Cooling Solution for 1000W Chips

    Key Takeaways

    1. Intel has introduced an experimental liquid cooling solution capable of handling up to 1,000 watts of heat from next-gen chips.
    2. The innovative cooling system is integrated at the package level, using a compact water block with copper microchannels for efficient heat transfer.
    3. Prototypes for LGA and BGA processors show 15-20% improved thermal performance over standard liquid coolers.
    4. The cooling technology utilizes solder or liquid metal thermal interface material for better contact, allowing for more compact system designs.
    5. While not yet available commercially, this cooling method addresses rising demands from AI workloads and high-performance computing, indicating a potential shift in CPU thermal design.

    As the power and heat generated by chips keep increasing, especially in server processors and AI accelerators, companies are always looking for better ways to manage heat. Intel has taken a unique route to tackle this challenge by revealing an experimental liquid cooling solution at its Foundry Direct Connect event, which can handle up to 1,000 watts of heat from the next-gen chips.

    Innovative Cooling Approach

    The main concept of this package-level water cooling is to enhance heat transfer by placing the cooling system as near to the heat source as possible. Unlike typical cooling systems that are installed on top of processors, Intel’s method integrates the cooling directly at the package level. Instead of using a regular heat spreader, Intel’s solution includes a specially crafted compact water block that has precisely designed copper microchannels guiding the coolant across the CPU package. This idea is somewhat similar to direct-die cooling, which eliminates the heat spreader entirely to reduce thermal resistance.

    Prototype Development

    Intel has created prototypes for both LGA and BGA processors and has showcased this with Intel’s Core Ultra and Xeon server processors. The company asserts that this solution provides 15-20% improved thermal performance compared to standard liquid coolers used on delidded dies. The cooling system is said to employ solder or liquid metal thermal interface material, which ensures better contact. Furthermore, the very slim design of these cooling blocks may allow for more compact system designs, even while managing significantly greater power loads.

    Future Implications

    Although standard consumer CPUs don’t yet reach the 1,000-watt mark, this technology looks ahead to rising demands from AI workloads, high-performance computing, and professional uses. Intel has reportedly worked on this technology for years, with some research tracing back to 2005.

    Intel has not disclosed when or if this cooling method will be available for commercial products, but the demonstration hints at a major potential change in CPU thermal design. As chips continue to grow in power consumption and package density, direct cooling solutions might become vital for high-performance computing.

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    Intel Launches Ultra-Thin Cooling Solution for 1000W ChipsIntel Launches Ultra-Thin Cooling Solution for 1000W ChipsIntel Launches Ultra-Thin Cooling Solution for 1000W ChipsIntel Launches Ultra-Thin Cooling Solution for 1000W Chips

     

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  • Order Boox Tab X C: Color E-Ink Android Tablet Available Now

    Order Boox Tab X C: Color E-Ink Android Tablet Available Now

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Boox Tab X C is priced at $819 for US customers and $759 when ordered from Hong Kong, with import duties not included for the latter.
    2. It features a 13.3-inch Kaleido 3 e-ink display with a resolution of 1600 x 1200 pixels and enhanced black and white resolution of 3200 x 2400 pixels.
    3. The tablet supports the InkSpire stylus with 4096 levels of pressure sensitivity and has 128GB of internal storage.
    4. It runs on Android 13, weighs 22 oz, is 0.2 inches thick, and includes connectivity options like WiFi and Bluetooth 5.0.
    5. An alternative option is the more compact and affordable Note Air 4 C available on Amazon.

    The Boox Tab X C is now ready for buying. You can find it for order at Boox’s main online store for customers in the US, but it’s not yet in stock for those in Europe. The price is $819, and it will be shipped straight from the US starting on May 13. If you choose to order it from Hong Kong, there’s a lower price of $759, but keep in mind that any import duties are not included and will need to be paid separately.

    Specs and Features

    The Boox Tab X C is an Android tablet featuring an e-ink display. It has a 13.3-inch Kaleido 3 panel capable of showing 4096 colors, with a resolution of 1600 x 1200 pixels. For black and white content, the resolution can go up to 3200 x 2400 pixels, offering double the pixel density.

    Accessories and Performance

    This tablet supports the InkSpire stylus, which has 4096 levels of pressure sensitivity. It comes with 128GB of internal storage and operates on Android 13, allowing access to a wide range of applications. Weighing in at 22 oz and measuring about 0.2 inches thick, it also includes two speakers, a microphone, and a 5,500mAh battery. Furthermore, the device supports WiFi and Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity.

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  • Gigabyte Launches AI-Powered Z890 with RTX 5090 and Core Ultra 9

    Gigabyte Launches AI-Powered Z890 with RTX 5090 and Core Ultra 9

    Key Takeaways

    1. High-Performance Components: The Gigabyte AI TOP 100 Z890 includes an Intel Core Ultra 9 285K processor and an Nvidia GeForce RTX 5090 graphics card.

    2. Targeted for AI Tasks: The system is designed for demanding AI applications, making the large memory and powerful GPU beneficial for such tasks rather than gaming.

    3. Advanced Storage Solutions: It features a 2TB NVMe SSD and a 320GB AI TOP 100E drive, which has a high endurance rating of 28,000 TBW.

    4. Efficient Cooling and Power Supply: The desktop includes an AiO water cooler with a 360mm radiator and a 1,600W power supply that is 80 Plus Platinum certified.

    5. Robust Connectivity Options: It supports 10 Gbit/s Ethernet, WiFi 7, two Thunderbolt 5 ports, and multiple USB ports, with room for expansion via an additional PCIe 5.0 card and two more SSDs.

    The Gigabyte AI TOP 100 Z890 is an advanced desktop computer that promises high performance. It comes packed with top-tier parts, including an Intel Core Ultra 9 285K processor and an Nvidia GeForce RTX 5090 graphics card. Additionally, the system boasts an impressive 128GB of DDR5 RAM.

    Performance and Usage

    While the vast memory may not provide significant benefits for gaming, the Gigabyte AI TOP 100 Z890 targets users engaged in demanding AI tasks. These applications can effectively leverage the processing capabilities of the Intel Core Ultra 9 285K and GeForce RTX 5090, eliminating the need for a dedicated NPU in this setup.

    Storage and Cooling

    This machine is equipped with two storage solutions: a 2TB NVMe SSD and a 320GB AI TOP 100E drive. The latter is designed for longevity, boasting an endurance rating of 28,000 TBW. To keep everything cool, Gigabyte has included an AiO water cooler featuring a 360mm radiator, along with a robust 1,600W power supply that holds an 80 Plus Platinum certification. It also supports modern connectivity with two Thunderbolt 5 ports and six USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A ports.

    Connectivity and Expansion

    The desktop’s Ethernet ports support a bandwidth of 10 Gbit/s, and it also incorporates WiFi 7 for quick and stable wireless connections. The dimensions of the Gigabyte AI TOP 100 Z890 are 23.4 x 13.2 x 23 inches, providing room for an extra PCIe 5.0 card with 8 lanes and two more SSDs. However, the single M.2 PCIe 5.0 slot is already in use. Currently, there is no official pricing available, and it seems that the Gigabyte AI TOP 100 Z890 is not yet found on any online stores in the US.

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    Gigabyte Launches AI-Powered Z890 with RTX 5090 and Core Ultra 9Gigabyte Launches AI-Powered Z890 with RTX 5090 and Core Ultra 9

     

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  • North America Sees Surge in Desktop and Laptop Sales Amid Tariffs

    North America Sees Surge in Desktop and Laptop Sales Amid Tariffs

    Key Takeaways

    1. High tariffs on imports from China, reaching a minimum of 145%, are causing consumers to stock up on electronic devices, potentially leading to higher prices and lower supplies.
    2. Major companies like Dell, HP, and Lenovo are postponing laptop shipments to the US due to tariff impacts, while recent data shows significant increases in sales of desktops and laptops in North America.
    3. The International Data Corporation (IDC) reported a 7.6% revenue increase in the personal computer market, with laptop sales up by 26.9% and desktop sales up by 35.3% in Q1 2025 compared to Q1 2024.
    4. Both businesses and consumers are motivated to upgrade IT systems ahead of the end of Microsoft’s security support for Windows 10 in October 2025, pushing upgrades for devices that cannot run Windows 11.
    5. Despite strong sales in the PC hardware market, consumer confidence is declining, and a contraction in the market is expected in the second half of 2025, with the US gaming sector experiencing revenue drops.

    With a lot of parts made in China, high tariffs are making people stock up on electronic devices. The minimum tariffs of 145% on imports from China could lower supplies and make prices go higher. Some companies, like Dell, HP, and Lenovo, have started to postpone shipping laptops to the US. Recent data from the International Data Corporation (IDC) shows big jumps in sales of desktops and laptops in North America.

    IDC’s Role in Market Monitoring

    The IDC keeps track of sales of personal computers, software, services, and network infrastructure items. In the first quarter of 2025, total revenue rose to $19.9 billion, which is a 7.6% increase from the same time in 2024. The biggest growth was seen in personal computers, which include laptops and ready-made desktops. Laptop sales surged by 26.9%, desktop sales went up by 35.3%, and workstation sales climbed by 49.3% compared to Q1 2024. The graph below seems to have a mistake, as the right column should read “2025Q1”.

    Corporate and Consumer Reactions

    Companies felt a strong need to upgrade their IT systems to lessen the impact of tariffs. However, even regular consumers have acted fast. Another reason is that Microsoft will stop providing security updates for Windows 10 PCs in October 2025. Those whose devices can’t run Windows 11 might have hastened their plans to upgrade.

    Consumer Spending Trends

    Recent consumer spending data from March shows significant increases in retail sales. Yet, consumer confidence has taken a hit, with little progress seen in the negotiations about tariffs between China and the US. The IDC’s report mentioned that “market contraction should be expected in the second half of 2025.” It’s hard to believe that shoppers will keep buying expensive laptops and desktops at the same pace.

    On the other hand, while the PC hardware market is thriving, the US gaming sector faced downturns in March. Circana reported a 6% drop in revenue from video game software, hardware, and accessories compared to March 2024. Consoles and gaming accessories took the biggest hits, suggesting that consumers might be focusing more on work than fun. Still, strong pre-order sales for the Nintendo Switch 2 could help boost revenue significantly.

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    North America Sees Surge in Desktop and Laptop Sales Amid Tariffs

     

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