Category: All News

May 22, 2025
ECS Liva Z8 Plus: New AMD Strix Point Mini PC Launch
Key Takeaways
1. The Liva Z8 Plus mini PC is powered by the Ryzen AI 9 HX 370, AMD’s top-tier Strix Point series processor.
2. It supports up to 64 GB of DDR5-5600 or LPDDR5-75000 RAM, with the possibility of two different versions available.
3. The device includes two M.2 2280 slots for PCIe Gen 4 SSDs and a dedicated M.2 2230 slot for a wireless card.
4. Its compact dimensions are 147x147x55.8 mm, featuring RGB lighting and a stylish black exterior.
5. ECS has not yet revealed the pricing and availability details for the Liva Z8 Plus.
ECS recently unveiled several new mini PCs at Computex 2025, including the Liva Z8 Plus. This compact device is powered by the Ryzen AI 9 HX 370, which represents the highest tier in AMD’s Strix Point series. With the Radeon 890M integrated, this mini PC is well-equipped to handle demanding AAA games at 1080p resolution.
Memory and Configuration Options
The Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 in the Liva Z8 Plus can support up to 64 GB of DDR5-5600 or LPDDR5-75000 RAM. Although ECS has not provided extensive information about memory compatibility, it is likely that the LPDDR5 memory is soldered to the motherboard. This suggests that there could be two separate versions of the Liva Z8 Plus available.
Storage and Connectivity Features
Additionally, the Liva Z8 Plus is designed with two M.2 2280 slots for PCIe Gen 4 SSDs, and for reference, a 2 TB Samsung 990 EVO Plus is currently priced at $139.99 on Amazon. ECS has emphasized the extensive range of ports available on the Z8 Plus, which include a dedicated M.2 2230 slot for a wireless card. The dimensions of the chassis are noted to be 147x147x55.8 mm, featuring an RGB lighting array along the upper corners.
Among other features of the Liva Z8 Plus is a 120 W power supply included in the package, a dual-microphone setup, and a stylish black exterior. ECS has yet to announce the pricing and availability for this mini PC powered by the Ryzen AI 9 HX 370.
Source:
Link
Tags: ECS Liva Z8 Plus, Mini-PC, Ryzen AI 9 HX 370
May 21, 2025
Hyte X50 Gaming Case: Sleek Design & Superior Cooling Performance
Key Takeaways
1. Unique design with a smooth, rounded shape and highly perforated steel front cover for improved airflow.
2. Supports up to ten case fans with multiple configurations for optimal cooling, including space for a 360 mm radiator.
3. Tool-less access to side panels and front plate for easy internal component access.
4. Available in various colors (white, black, red, pink, green, violet) with a more affordable X50 Air version featuring a second perforated side panel.
5. Expected prices of around $150 for the X50 and $120 for the X50 Air, with no announced release date.
The Hyte X50 impresses with its unique design. Featuring a highly perforated steel front cover and a see-through side window, the case boasts a smooth, rounded shape that sets it apart from the increasing number of angular PC cases. Hyte claims that they focused on improving airflow in the X50.
Airflow and Fan Capacity
To enhance airflow, the case includes a perforated side panel, front, rear, and base plate, capable of housing up to ten case fans. The bottom section can accommodate three 120 mm fans, while both the front and right panels can support three fans each or one 360 mm radiator. Additionally, there’s room for another fan on the back panel. A special compartment is designed to hide an ATX power supply and optimize cable management. Hyte also uses unique silicone cable grommets, which are further explained in the Gamers Nexus video linked below.
Easy Access and Color Options
Both side panels and the front plate can be removed without any tools for quick access to the internal components. The Hyte X50 will come in various colors like white, black, red, pink, green, and violet. There’s also a more affordable version called the Hyte X50 Air, which swaps the transparent window for a second perforated side panel, available only in white and black. If there are no changes, the expected prices for the X50 and X50 Air are around $150 and $120, respectively. However, the release date has not been announced yet.
Source:
Link
Tags: airflow design, Hyte X50, PC case
May 21, 2025
Honor 400 Series to Receive 6 Years of Android Updates
Key Takeaways
1. Honor has committed to providing 6 years of Android updates for the new Honor 400 series, extending support until 2030.
2. The Honor 400 series will launch with Android 15 and will be upgraded to Android 16 by the end of the year.
3. Honor’s update plans align with Samsung’s similar 6-year support for its Galaxy A56.
4. The Magic 7 Pro and Magic V3 will also receive the Android 16 update this year, with the beta already available for the Magic 7 Pro.
5. The Honor 400 series will be unveiled on May 22 in the UK and Europe, with a separate announcement in China on May 28.
Lately, several brands making Android phones have started to provide longer software support for their devices, and Honor is one of them. Today, the Chinese company shared its plans for the software support of the new Honor 400 series.
Software Commitment
According to a press release from Notebookcheck, Honor has pledged to offer 6 years of Android updates for the Honor 400 series. This means that these phones, which will come with Android 15, will continue to get updates all the way until 2030. This is comparable to Samsung, which also provides six years of updates for its Galaxy A56.
Upcoming Updates
Honor has also stated that the Honor 400 series will be upgraded to Android 16 by the end of this year. While a stable version of Android 16 is expected to be available in June for supported Pixel devices, only a handful of manufacturers will be able to keep up with this release schedule for their own devices.
Other Models
In addition to the Honor 400 series, Honor plans to upgrade the Magic 7 Pro (currently for sale on Amazon.de for €999.90) and the Magic V3 to Android 16 this year. The Android 16 beta is already available for the Magic 7 Pro, which means a stable update should come much sooner than for the Honor 400 series. This update will also introduce a new version of Honor’s MagicOS software, likely named MagicOS 10, since the current version, MagicOS 9, is based on Android 15.
The Honor 400 series is set for launch on May 22 in the UK and Europe. The phones will also be unveiled in China, but the announcement is scheduled for May 28.
Tags: Android updates, Honor 400 series, Magic 7 Pro
May 21, 2025
Redmi K80 Ultra: New Details on Xiaomi 15T Pro Revealed
Key Takeaways
1. The Redmi K80 Ultra, also known as the Redmi K80 Extreme Edition, is set to launch soon, following the Xiaomi Pad 7 Ultra and Xiaomi 15S Pro.
2. The smartphone has received certification in China and is expected to feature a 7400 mAh battery, Dimensity 9400+ chipset, and 100 W charging.
3. There are rumors that the Redmi K80 Ultra may be rebranded as the Xiaomi 15T Pro for international markets, though they may differ slightly in specifications.
4. The exact launch date for the Redmi K80 Ultra is uncertain, but it is anticipated to happen in late June.
5. The Redmi K80 Ultra is expected to launch alongside a new compact gaming tablet from the brand.
After the launch of the Xiaomi Pad 7 Ultra and Xiaomi 15S Pro on May 22, Xiaomi is now looking forward to its upcoming launch event. The Redmi sub-brand is gearing up to introduce the Redmi K80 Ultra, also known as the Redmi K80 Extreme Edition, and fresh details about this flagship device have emerged.
Certification and Specifications
According to Digital Chat Station on Weibo, the Redmi K80 Ultra has officially received certification in China. This smartphone comes with the model number “25060RK16C” and is expected to be powered by a robust 7400 mAh battery. In addition, the Redmi K80 Ultra is rumored to come with a Dimensity 9400+ chipset, around 100 W charging capabilities, and notably enhanced haptics and audio, which aligns with recent leaks regarding the Xiaomi 15T series.
Possible Rebranding
In relation to the Xiaomi 15T series, it is believed that the Redmi K80 Ultra might be rebranded as the Xiaomi 15T Pro in international markets. While it may not be exactly the same device, the design, chassis, chipset, and display are likely to be very similar between the two models.
Launch Timeline
The exact launch date for the Redmi K80 Ultra is still uncertain. There has been talk of a launch event in June, although it is expected to occur later in the month. Digital Chat Station suggests that the Redmi flagship might not be ready in time for the popular sales on June 18. Regardless of when it launches, the Redmi K80 Ultra is anticipated to share the spotlight with Redmi’s new compact gaming tablet.
Source:
Link
Tags: Dimensity 9400, Redmi K80 Ultra, Xiaomi 15T Pro
May 21, 2025
2026 Model Y Performance Seen Testing at Racetrack Before Release
Key Takeaways
1. The 2026 Model Y Performance has been spotted testing at the Nürburgring racetrack in Germany, aiming for high-speed performance records.
2. The Model Y Performance is expected to achieve improved acceleration, with a target of 3.2 seconds from 0-60 mph, compared to its predecessor’s 3.5 seconds.
3. The SUV will likely utilize a 510 HP drivetrain, up from the previous 470 HP, while being lighter and featuring better aerodynamics.
4. Design changes include a lower stance and a rear lip spoiler for increased downforce, although the final aesthetic may differ from the current camouflaged prototype.
5. The prototype is equipped with 21-inch Arachnid wheels from the Model S Plaid, indicating ongoing testing for traction and stability.
After being seen testing on American roads prior to the launch of the 2026 Model Y AWD and RWD variants, the high-speed Performance version has now been observed at its rightful place—the famous Nürburgring racetrack in Germany.
Record-Setting History
The Nürburgring is where a modified Model S Plaid, equipped with the Track Package, achieved a record lap time of 7:25.231 for its class in 2023, driven by Tom Schwister. It makes sense for Tesla to aim for a similar accomplishment in the electric SUV category.
Performance Expectations
While onlookers who noticed the 2026 Model Y Performance, concealed in camouflage at the racetrack, could not track its lap times for clear reasons, it is anticipated that the SUV will have improved acceleration compared to the 3.5 seconds needed for its older version to reach 0-60 mph.
The expectation rests on a 3.2-second acceleration for the Model Y Performance, likely utilizing the same 510 HP drivetrain found in the Model 3 Performance, an increase from the previous 470 HP, while also being lighter and featuring enhanced aerodynamics.
Design Details
To support this claim, the new Model Y Performance is designed to sit lower than the standard AWD/RWD versions and is equipped with a rear lip spoiler to boost downforce. However, the sporty front bumper seen on the Model 3 Performance is noticeably absent; the final aesthetic may vary from the camouflaged version currently being tested.
The 21-inch Arachnid wheels borrowed from the Model S Plaid are present, indicating that this is still an engineering prototype of the Model Y Performance, intended to test traction and stability. There is ample opportunity for the design to become more dynamic before the anticipated launch in the latter half of the year.
Source:
Link
Tags: 2026 Model Y Performance, Nürburgring lap test, Tesla Model Y
May 21, 2025
Fortnite Returns to Apple’s App Store After Five-Year Absence
Key Takeaways
1. Fortnite has returned to the US App Store after a lengthy legal battle between Apple and Epic.
2. The game was removed in August 2020 for breaching App Store rules related to payment processing.
3. Epic achieved a partial victory, with Fortnite reinstated in the EU App Store due to new regulations.
4. Epic plans to launch an official Epic Store app in the EU Play Store by 2025.
5. Currently, Fortnite is available in the US App Store and EU via the Epic Store, with global availability still uncertain.
After a long legal fight that lasted several years between Apple and Epic, Fortnite has made its comeback on the US App Store. This follows its return to the EU App Store last year due to new regulations that compelled Apple to change its approach.
The Reason for Removal
The well-known battle royale game was taken off the App Store in August 2020 after Apple alleged that Epic had breached store rules by allowing players to buy in-game currency directly through them. The main issue was Apple’s 30% cut on transactions made via the App Store, which Epic argued was not fair. Google also reacted negatively when Epic circumvented their 30% charge, leading to the game’s removal from the Android Play Store.
A Step Forward
In a partial win for Epic, the game was reinstated in the EU App Store last year, thanks to changes in the EU Digital Markets Act. This legislation required Apple to accept third-party app stores and different payment methods. Epic has declared plans to launch an official Epic Store app in the EU Play Store by 2025. In the meantime, players can download the game on Android by sideloading the Epic Store app.
Global Availability of Fortnite
Currently, the game is only accessible in the US App Store and can be found in the EU region via the Epic Store. Likewise, Google permits sideloading the app through the Epic Store. Fortnite’s official account on X stated that the game will be available in the US App Store and the Epic Games Store and AltStore in the EU. However, it remains uncertain when the game will be available to players across the globe.
Source:
Link
Tags: Apple, Epic Games, Fortnite
May 21, 2025
AMD FSR Redstone: Faster RDNA 4 Ray Tracing with ML Regeneration
Key Takeaways
1. AMD’s FSR 4 and FSR Redstone significantly improve image quality, competing closely with Nvidia’s DLSS.
2. FSR Redstone integrates three technologies: Frame Generation, Ray Regeneration, and Neural Radiance Caching (NRC) to enhance graphics performance.
3. Neural Radiance Caching predicts indirect lighting behavior, improving efficiency and performance in path tracing tasks.
4. Ray Regeneration uses machine learning to enhance ray tracing quality and speed, serving as AMD’s answer to Nvidia’s DLSS 3.5 Ray Reconstruction.
5. FSR Redstone will launch in late 2025, exclusively for RDNA 4 GPUs, leaving older Radeon cards without access to this technology.
Ever since the first generation of DLSS was launched, AMD has been in a race to keep up with Nvidia. Now, it seems that Team Red is making significant strides. With the introduction of FSR 4, AMD has achieved impressive improvements in image quality, and the output from FSR now competes directly with DLSS. At Computex 2025, AMD unveiled the new FSR Redstone, which further narrows the gap between FSR and DLSS features.
A Blend of Technologies
FSR Redstone combines three primary technologies:
AMD has already incorporated Frame Generation into FSR, but with the addition of Ray Regeneration and Neural Radiance Caching, Team Red is getting closer to matching the software features Nvidia provides on its RTX GeForce GPUs. For example, in January 2025, Nvidia launched its RTX Neural Radiance Cache to accelerate and enhance demanding techniques like full Path Tracing.
Understanding Neural Radiance Caching
Neural Radiance Caching (NRC) is designed to enhance indirect lighting efficiency. AMD asserts that NRC learns the behavior of indirect light bounces and, from these initial assessments, predicts additional bounces, storing this data. As a result, the hardware can avoid excessive workload when calculating indirect lighting for rays in a path tracing context, leading to significantly better performance.
Path tracing, while delivering breathtaking visuals, is extremely resource-intensive. For instance, even the top-tier GPU, the RTX 5090, struggles to run games such as Cyberpunk 2077 smoothly at full Path tracing settings. However, by utilizing techniques like NRC, both AMD and Nvidia GPUs can achieve playable frame rates without sacrificing image and lighting quality.
Enhancements in Ray Tracing
FSR Redstone’s Ray Regeneration aims to boost both the speed and quality of ray tracing. This method serves as AMD’s response to Nvidia’s DLSS 3.5 Ray Reconstruction. Ray Regeneration replaces conventional hand-drawn denoisers with machine learning to denoise ray-traced pixels. This approach not only enhances the quality of ray/path-traced scenes but also improves performance, as traditional denoisers can be quite demanding.
Similar to NRC, AMD hasn’t released many technical specifics about Ray Regeneration. However, if you’re curious about how Ray Regeneration functions, Nvidia has a video that explains DLSS 3.5 Ray Reconstruction. While the differences between Ray Regeneration and Ray Reconstruction remain unclear, the fundamental principles behind both methods are likely analogous.
Exploring Quality and Performance
If you’re interested in witnessing the impact of these machine-learning enhanced ray tracing technologies, Digital Foundry has a solid video on the topic (linked below).
In addition to NRC and Ray Regeneration, AMD FSR Redstone introduces new Frame Generation powered by a fresh machine learning model. This model utilizes both spatial and temporal frame data to create new “fake” frames. Notably, AMD hasn’t clarified whether the new FSR Redstone Frame Generation supports Multi-Frame Generation (MFG), as seen in the existing versions of DLSS.
Availability for Gamers
FSR Redstone is set to launch in titles during the second half of 2025, but it will only be compatible with RDNA 4 GPUs. Gamers who own or can acquire the RX 9070/XT or RX 9060 XT will benefit from improved and quicker ray tracing. Unfortunately, Radeon gamers still using older generation cards will not have access to FSR Redstone, likely due to the slower AI performance of those GPUs.
Source:
Link
Tags: FSR Redstone, Ray Regeneration, RX 9070
May 21, 2025
Prototype 2T1R Control Chip for Neuromorphic Computing Developed
Key Takeaways
1. In-memory computing is changing computer architecture by moving processing closer to memory for improved efficiency.
2. A new 2T1R memristor design enhances energy efficiency for AI and edge devices by minimizing sneak path currents and leakage.
3. The design supports analogue vector-matrix multiplication (VMM), crucial for machine learning applications.
4. It effectively addresses virtual ground issues and wire resistance to boost performance and reduce power usage.
5. This technology paves the way for faster, more integrated AI operations in memory, hinting at a future where hard drives could process information more intelligently.
What if your hard drive did more than just store your files? Imagine it could think and react to information right where it’s located. This idea is part of in-memory computing, which is changing the way computers are built by moving processing closer to memory to improve efficiency.
New Memristor Design
Researchers from Forschungszentrum Jülich and the University of Duisburg-Essen have introduced a fresh design based on a 2T1R memristor. This innovation aims to facilitate a more energy-efficient approach for AI and edge devices.
The details of this design, shared on arXiv, include the integration of two transistors and one memristor in each cell, which helps regulate current to minimize sneak path currents—an issue often faced in memristor arrays. Unike regular memory, this new design connects both memristor terminals to ground when not in active use. This method could enhance signal stability and cut down on leakage.
Enhancing Machine Learning
The architecture is meant to enable analogue vector-matrix multiplication (VMM), a key element in machine learning. It achieves this by managing memristor conductance with built-in DACs, PWM signals, and controlled current paths. A functional 2×2 test array was successfully created using standard 28 nm CMOS technology.
By tackling virtual ground concerns and the impact of wire resistance, the design seeks to boost performance reliability and decrease power usage. Compatible with RISC-V control and digital connections, the 2T1R structure may set the stage for scalable neuromorphic chips, allowing for speedier and more compact AI acceleration directly in memory.
Future of AI and Memory
While your hard drive isn’t quite thinking yet, the technology that could make this a reality is already being developed in silicon. This progression hints at a future where AI operates faster and more seamlessly integrated with memory.
Source:
Link
Tags: 2T1R memristor, in-memory computing, RISC-V
May 21, 2025
Xiaomi 15S Pro vs Snapdragon 8 Elite: AnTuTu Benchmark Results
Key Takeaways
1. Xiaomi is set to launch its new in-house SoC, the Xring O1, powering the Xiaomi 15S Pro and Pad 7 Ultra.
2. An early review suggests the Xring O1 may outperform the Snapdragon 8 Elite based on AnTuTu benchmark scores.
3. The Xring O1 scored 2,535,163 points, slightly higher than the Snapdragon 8 Elite’s score of 2,515,259 points.
4. The Xiaomi 15 Pro isn’t the top-performing Snapdragon 8 Elite device, with others like the RedMagic 10S Pro+ scoring over 3.15 million points.
5. The efficiency and thermal performance of the Xring O1 compared to Qualcomm’s flagship SoC are still to be determined.
Xiaomi is getting ready to introduce its most ambitious in-house SoC, the Xring O1. This new chip will power two upcoming devices: the Xiaomi 15S Pro and the Pad 7 Ultra. Recent Geekbench results have hinted at how well the Xring O1 may stack up against the Snapdragon 8 Elite, but an early review of the flagship phone has now revealed an AnTuTu benchmark comparison between the two.
Review Insights
The review video originates from a Chinese creator named 阿文鉴机, and although it has been shared on Chinese social media, it seems to be missing from the reviewer’s profiles. This suggests that the video might have been uploaded by accident before it was intended to be and then deleted by the reviewer.
Benchmark Performance
Despite the video’s disappearance, the early hands-on review indicates that the Xring O1 in the 15S Pro has the potential to outperform the Snapdragon 8 Elite in the Xiaomi 15 Pro according to AnTuTu scores. Specifically, the Xring O1 achieved a total of 2,535,163 points, while the Snapdragon 8 Elite in the Xiaomi 15 Pro scored 2,515,259 points in the same test.
Competitor Comparison
It’s important to mention that the Xiaomi 15 Pro isn’t the highest-scoring Snapdragon 8 Elite device on AnTuTu. For instance, the soon-to-be-released RedMagic 10S Pro+ can score more than 3.15 million points in the benchmark. Additionally, the Xring O1 doesn’t hold a significant advantage over the Qualcomm flagship SoC in this particular comparison.
In any case, it’s quite remarkable to see Xiaomi’s in-house chip achieving a benchmark score that is on par with the Snapdragon 8 Elite. However, it remains to be seen how the Xring O1 stacks up against Qualcomm’s flagship SoC in terms of efficiency and thermal performance.
Source:
Link
Tags: Snapdragon 8 Elite, Xiaomi 15S Pro, XRing O1
May 21, 2025
Xiaomi Pad 7 Ultra: iPad Pro-Beating Display Quality & Repair Costs
Key Takeaways
1. The Pad 7 Ultra is the first tablet to use Xiaomi’s new Xring O1 SoC.
2. It features a larger 14-inch OLED display, competing directly with the iPad Pro 13.
3. The estimated production cost for the Pad 7 Ultra is around 2000 yuan (~$278), which may increase.
4. Repairing a damaged screen out of warranty could cost over 5,000 yuan (~$695).
5. Buyers are advised to consider purchasing insurance when pre-ordering the Pad 7 Ultra.
The Pad 7 Ultra is set to make its entrance as a unique tablet, being the first in the world to feature the new Xring O1 SoC developed by Xiaomi itself.
Competing with Apple
This places it directly against the latest iPad Pro 13, powered by the Apple M4 chip, although the Pad 7 Ultra is confirmed to be larger, boasting a 14-inch diagonal screen.
Premium Features
In addition, it will sport an OLED display, mirroring the high-quality screen of its main competitor, the iPad. According to the well-informed tipster Digital Chat Station, these specifications have been intentionally selected to ensure that the Pad 7 Ultra stands out in the tablet market upon its launch.
Cost Considerations
However, the choices in design come at a price. The leaker has indicated that the estimated bill of materials is around 2000 yuan (~$278), or possibly even higher.
If a user needs to repair a damaged Pad 7 Ultra screen out of warranty, it could cost more than 5,000 yuan (~$695), as suggested by Digital Chat Station, who based this estimate on repair costs for the iPad Pro in China.
Recommendation for Buyers
Thus, it is highly recommended that potential buyers consider purchasing insurance that will likely be available with the Pad 7 Ultra pre-orders starting as soon as tomorrow (May 22, 2025).
Source:
Link
Tags: iPad Pro 13″, Pad 7 Ultra, Xiaomi