Category: All News

February 24, 2025
AMD Fluid Motion Frames 2.1 Aims to Compete with Nvidia Smooth Motion
Key Takeaways
1. AMD is developing Fluid Motion Frames 2.1 to improve quality over the previous version, AFMF 2.0.
2. AFMF 2.1 will be included in an update to the HYPR-RX software suite within the AMD Software: Adrenaline Edition driver package.
3. The new update will not require any new hardware, making it compatible with older AMD Ryzen processors.
4. AFMF 2.1 aims to enhance motion smoothness without needing specific AI hardware, unlike AMD FSR 3 and Nvidia’s DLSS.
5. A release date for AFMF 2.1 is not yet announced, but it is expected to coincide with the AMD Radeon RX 9070 series GPU launch.
The recent competition between AMD and Nvidia in the field of AI gaming has taken a new turn with AMD’s announcement of Fluid Motion Frames 2.1 currently being in the works. The main detail known about AFMF 2.1 is that it aims to offer better quality than its predecessor, AFMF 2.0, which was launched in October of the previous year.
Upcoming Update Details
As reported by VideoCardz, AMD is expected to release AFMF 2.1 as a part of an update to its HYPR-RX software suite, included in the AMD Software: Adrenaline Edition driver package. The release of AFMF 2.0 was a major improvement, but Nvidia’s Smooth Motion quickly took the lead, as gamers frequently pointed out issues with artefacts and image quality in Fluid Motion Frames.
Compatibility and Hardware Requirements
It appears that AMD Fluid Motion Frames 2.1 won’t necessitate any new hardware, making it a feasible choice for enhancing motion smoothness on older AMD Ryzen processors. This includes devices like the Asus ROG Ally X, which is currently priced at $799.99 at Best Buy.
The frame-generation technology at the driver level offers an alternative to options such as AMD FSR 3 and Nvidia’s DLSS, both of which need specific AI hardware and tailored game implementations. In contrast, AFMF can enhance motion smoothness even for games that no longer receive updates, provided they run on Vulkan, DirectX 11 or 12, or OpenGL.
Anticipated Release Timing
AMD has not yet specified the launch date for the updated FMF 2.1, but it is anticipated to be around the same time as the release of the AMD Radeon RX 9070 series GPUs, creating excitement among gamers and enthusiasts alike.
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Tags: AMD Fluid Motion Frames 2.1, AMD Ryzen, ASUS ROG Ally X
February 24, 2025
Apple C3 Expected as Next-Gen Modem Chip Launching in 2027
Key Takeaways
1. Apple has started using its own C1 chip in the iPhone 16e, replacing Qualcomm’s Snapdragon modem for the first time.
2. The C1 chip features a dual-architecture design with a 7nm transceiver and a 4nm baseband component, enhancing performance and efficiency.
3. Apple claims the C1 chip improves battery life, allowing for up to 26 hours of video playback on a single charge.
4. The C1 chip has been rigorously tested for temperature resistance and signal reception from over 180 carriers in 55 countries.
5. The C1 chip lacks mmWave 5G support, but future iterations, like the rumored C3 chip, may address this and expand to other Apple products.
Qualcomm has traditionally been recognized for its role in enabling features like Emergency SOS via Satellite and 5G connectivity on Apple’s iPhones, thanks to the Snapdragon Xnn-series modem chipsets.
A Shift in Apple’s Strategy
With the introduction of the iPhone 16e, Apple has managed to eliminate Qualcomm from the equation for the first time by using its own C1 chip, marking a significant change in its hardware approach.
Recent information has disclosed that this chip employs a 7 nanometer (nm) architecture, but this is only true for its transceiver, which is responsible for managing data signals. The baseband component, which processes these signals, utilizes a more advanced 4nm process.
Optimized Performance
Apple claims that this unique dual-architecture setup is expertly designed to integrate with the A18 processor in the 16e, resulting in seamless gaming, browsing, and uploads on the device due to their custom synergy.
Moreover, the C1 chip is said to enhance battery life and overall performance, boasting an impressive capability to support up to 26 hours of video playback on a single charge.
Rigorous Testing
Apple emphasizes that the C1 has undergone extensive testing for temperature resistance and durability, as showcased during a modem lab tour for tech blogger Andru Edwards, making it a pioneering demonstration in the field.
The modem has also been thoroughly evaluated for its ability to catch signals from over 180 carriers across 55 countries worldwide.
Limitations and Future Prospects
Nevertheless, the C1 does come with certain drawbacks, notably its lack of mmWave 5G support.
However, Apple hints that future iterations may address this shortcoming and could potentially be integrated into other products like Macs and iPads as they evolve.
The anticipated next-generation chip, the “C3,” is rumored to debut in Apple’s 2027 lineup, following leaks that suggest a new in-house modem may be released every couple of years.
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Tags: 5G, Apple C1, Qualcomm
February 24, 2025
Lenovo ThinkBook 14 Gen 8 with Intel Core i7 Now Available at Discount
Key Takeaways
1. Design: The Lenovo ThinkBook 14 Gen 8 features a sleek gray design with a backlit keyboard and spacious trackpad.
2. Performance: It is powered by an Intel Core 5 Ultra 210H processor, which includes four performance cores and four efficiency cores, but lags behind newer Core Ultra 200H processors in graphics and energy efficiency.
3. Display: The 14-inch IPS display has a resolution of 1,920 x 1,200 pixels and offers 300 nits brightness, but only covers 45% of the NTSC color spectrum, making it less suitable for color-critical tasks.
4. Connectivity: The laptop includes a variety of ports, such as Thunderbolt 4 USB-C, USB-C with 10 Gbps support, USB-A, HDMI 2.1, Ethernet, an SD card reader, and a headphone jack.
5. Pricing: The base model starts at $984, and customers can use a launch discount coupon on Lenovo’s website for pre-orders.
The Lenovo ThinkBook 14 Gen 8 has a sleek and simple gray design. It comes with a backlit keyboard and a spacious trackpad. Under the hood, it runs on an Intel Core 5 Ultra 210H, which is a Raptor Lake chip that’s a bit older than the latest Arrow Lake processors.
Performance Insights
This processor features four performance cores that can boost up to 4.8 GHz along with four efficiency cores. While it provides decent CPU capabilities, it lags when compared to the newer Core Ultra 200H processors, especially in graphics performance and energy efficiency. Additionally, there’s an option for the Intel Core 7 Ultra 240H in the 14-inch Lenovo laptop lineup. All configurations include 16GB of RAM and a 512GB SSD, and the battery size varies between 45Wh and 60Wh depending on the specific model.
Display and Connectivity
The laptop’s 14-inch IPS display features a resolution of 1,920 x 1,200 pixels, offers 300 nits of brightness, and has a refresh rate of 60Hz. However, it only covers 45% of the NTSC color spectrum, making the ThinkBook 14 Gen 8 less ideal for tasks that need accurate color representation. On the connectivity front, it provides a good range of ports, including a Thunderbolt 4 USB-C port, another USB-C port with 10 Gbps support, two USB-A ports (5 Gbps), HDMI 2.1, Ethernet, an SD card reader, and a 3.5 mm headphone jack.
Ordering and Pricing
The ThinkBook 14 Gen 8 is now available for pre-order on Lenovo’s official website. The base model starts at $984, and customers can get a launch discount by using the coupon code “NEWTHINKBOOKLAUNCH” when they shop.
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Tags: 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD, Intel Core 5 Ultra 210H, Lenovo ThinkBook 14 Gen 8
February 24, 2025
iQoo Neo 11 Pro Set to Be First Smartphone with Dimensity 9400 Plus
Key Takeaways
1. iQoo will launch flagship smartphones in the Z10 mid-range series, including the Z10 Turbo and Turbo Pro, in April 2025.
2. One device may compete with the Redmi Turbo 4 or Poco X7 Pro, powered by the Dimensity 8400 SoC, while the other may feature the Snapdragon 8s Elite chip.
3. Rumors suggest one smartphone will be the first to use the Dimensity 9400+ chipset.
4. All models are expected to include an independent graphics chip and large batteries ranging from 7,000mAh to 7,500mAh.
5. The Neo11 Pro may include an ultrasonic fingerprint sensor, and the devices are anticipated to offer good value for money.
iQoo is set to unveil its upcoming flagship smartphones in the Z10 mid-range series. One of these devices could go head-to-head with the Redmi Turbo 4 (or the Poco X7 Pro internationally), both powered by the Dimensity 8400 SoC. The other device is expected to feature the rumored Snapdragon 8s Elite chip.
Launch Timeline
The anticipated models are believed to be named the Z10 Turbo and Turbo Pro, based on the specifications mentioned above. We can expect them to be released in April 2025, with a more premium version launching later in the year.
Cutting-Edge Technology
Rumors suggest that one of these devices will be the first in the world to feature the Dimensity 9400+ chipset, continuing iQoo’s trend of securing advanced technology, like the 9300+ for the Neo9S Pro.
Battery and Features
All three smartphones are rumored to include a Q-series “independent graphics” chip and batteries ranging from 7,000mAh to 7,500mAh. However, it appears that only the Neo11 Pro will possibly come equipped with an ultrasonic fingerprint sensor.
Despite its “first mover” specifications, it is believed to offer good value for money, but we will have to wait for its official reveal to know for sure.
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Tags: Dimensity 9400, iQOO Z10, Snapdragon 8s Elite
February 24, 2025
Anker Unveils 140W USB-C to HDMI Cable for Fast Charging
Key Takeaways
1. Anker’s new HDMI cable supports 4K@60Hz resolution and has a 140W USB-C input port for charging.
2. The cable is 3 ft long, made with an upcycled-braided design, and is aimed at reducing workspace clutter.
3. It is compatible with Thunderbolt 3, 4, and 5 devices but does not work with the Nintendo Switch.
4. The cable may have compatibility issues with certain monitors, including some models from Dell, ASUS, and AOC.
5. The price is $28.99 in the US and €29.99 in Germany, with a potential 6 ft version planned for future release.
Anker has introduced a fresh HDMI cable available on Amazon in both the US and Germany. The Nano USB-C to HDMI Cable with 140W Input Port (3 ft, 4K, Upcycled-Braided) is intended to enable streaming content and charging your device through one single port. This product is promoted as a cleaner option for your workspace.
Features and Specifications
This 90 cm long Anker cable is capable of supporting 4K@60Hz resolution when connected via the HDMI port to your television or monitor. At one end, it features a USB-C input port that can deliver up to 140W of power to your primary device, necessitating a separate charging cable and wall charger. Anker highlights that devices utilizing the PPS fast charging protocol may face slower charging rates.
Compatibility and Limitations
On the opposite end, the cable is equipped with a USB-C connector for both video output and power input to the host device. It’s advertised as compatible with Thunderbolt 3, 4, and 5 ports and works with a variety of gadgets such as the MacBook Air, Steam Deck, or Google Pixel 9. However, it’s important to mention that Anker clarifies this cable doesn’t work with the Nintendo Switch. The HDMI connector size may also restrict its compatibility with certain monitors, including the Dell S3321QS, ASUS VA24EHF, and AOC Q32E2N (you can find the complete list in the image below).
Design and Pricing
The cable is crafted to be flexible, featuring a braided exterior and nickel-plated connectors. The product listing on Amazon US suggests a longer 6 ft/180 cm version may be released in the future. Currently, the Anker Nano USB-C to HDMI Cable with 140W Input Port (3 ft, 4K, Upcycled-Braided) is priced at $28.99 in the US and €29.99 in Germany. It is still unclear when this accessory might be available in other regions.
Tags: 4K HDMI Cable, Anker Nano USB-C to HDMI Cable, Upcycled-Braided Cable
February 24, 2025
Samsung Offers 6 Years of Android Updates for Galaxy A Series
Key Takeaways
1. The upcoming Galaxy A-series smartphones (A26, A36, A56) will feature a new design with a pill-shaped camera bump.
2. The new models will receive six major operating system updates, improving upon the four updates offered for Galaxy A35 and A55 5G.
3. The Galaxy A56 5G is expected to be powered by the new Exynos 1580, offering a 37% increase in GPU performance and efficiency.
4. The anticipated launch date for the new Galaxy A models is soon, following the release pattern of the previous models in March.
5. The Galaxy A36 5G may come equipped with the Qualcomm Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 processor.
Samsung has put out a fresh teaser video to highlight its upcoming Galaxy A-series smartphones. The video appears to feature the current Galaxy A models, hinting that the Galaxy A26, Galaxy A36, and Galaxy A56 are set to flaunt a new design, showcasing a pill-shaped camera bump on their backs.
Major Updates Confirmed
Regardless, this teaser video highlights a key upgrade. The new Galaxy A devices will come with six significant operating system updates, which is an upgrade from the Galaxy A35 and A55 5G that only got “just” four major Android updates along with an extra year of security patches. This means that the mid-range smartphones are now just one major update behind top-tier models like the Galaxy S25 Ultra and Galaxy Z Fold 6.
Anticipated Launch Date
Since the Galaxy A35 and A55 made their debut last March, it seems that the release of Samsung’s next-gen mid-range smartphones is just around the corner. However, the company hasn’t specified a release date up until now. Along with a slightly tweaked design, users can also expect an improvement in performance.
Rumors from earlier suggest that the Samsung Galaxy A56 5G will be powered by the new Exynos 1580, promising a 37% increase in GPU performance and a similar 37% boost in efficiency compared to the Exynos 1480 in the Galaxy A55 5G. The previous version was already known for its strength, featuring Gorilla Glass Victus+ and a waterproof frame. It’s still uncertain what other changes and enhancements the Galaxy A56 5G will include aside from the new processor. Meanwhile, the Galaxy A36 5G could come with the Qualcomm Snapdragon 6 Gen 3.
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Tags: Galaxy A Series, Galaxy A56 5G, Samsung
February 24, 2025
Monster Hunter Wilds PS5 Xbox Performance Issues Analyzed
Key Takeaways
1. Capcom reassured players that the open beta version of Monster Hunter Wilds does not reflect the final optimizations for the game, releasing on February 28.
2. The open-world design received praise for its vastness and vibrant environments filled with creatures and plants, offering a lively atmosphere.
3. Digital Foundry tested the game in three performance modes: Prioritize Resolution, Balanced, and Prioritize Framerate, with the Framerate mode providing the smoothest experience at 60fps.
4. Graphical issues persist, such as lack of low framerate compensation on PS5 and inconsistent lighting effects, affecting overall visual quality.
5. Despite earlier concerns from the beta, Monster Hunter Wilds has shown significant improvements, although the graphics may still not meet some fans’ high expectations.
The open beta for Monster Hunter Wilds has sparked worries about its performance. Capcom has assured players that the version they tested does not represent the latest optimizations. Now that reviews are out, gamers have a clearer picture of what to expect from the release on February 28. Digital Foundry has shared an in-depth technical assessment of the final versions for PS5 and Xbox. While the game’s intricate environments are impressive, a lack of sharpness often gives them a feel reminiscent of last-gen titles.
Open World Experience
Despite mixed performance feedback, Oliver Mackenzie commended the open-world aspect of Monster Hunter Wilds. The borders of the maps appear boundless, especially when compared to Monster Hunter: World. The environments are alive with a variety of creatures and plants, creating a vibrant atmosphere. Furthermore, animations live up to expectations, showcasing realistic movements from both hunters and monsters.
Performance Testing
Digital Foundry evaluated Monster Hunter Wilds in three modes: Prioritize Resolution, Balanced, and Prioritize Framerate. Generally, the framerate targets were achieved in each setting. The Framerate mode offered the most fluid experience, including an option for a cap at 60fps. However, blurry textures might tempt players to choose the 30fps or 40fps options in the other modes.
Graphical Concerns
Sadly, Monster Hunter Wilds fails to fully deliver on graphical fidelity. The PS5 appears to lack low framerate compensation (LFC), leading to sporadic choppiness. In contrast, VRR on the Xbox Series X performs better, contributing to smoother visuals. Mackenzie also noted issues with the game’s inconsistent lighting effects. While objects are vibrant in bright sunlight, many maps often seem dim and grainy, with peculiar reflections.
Before players think about canceling their pre-orders, it’s important to mention that Monster Hunter Wilds has improved significantly since the open beta. Still, the vast worlds and intricate monsters may not appear as stunning as some fans had anticipated.
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Tags: Monster Hunter Wilds, PS5, Xbox Series X
February 24, 2025
AOC Q27G40SE: 27-Inch QHD Gaming Monitor with 300Hz & HDR10
Key Takeaways
1. Display Quality: The AOC Q27G40SE features a 27-inch Fast IPS panel with a QHD resolution of 2560 x 1440 and a 300Hz refresh rate, ensuring sharp and fluid visuals.
2. Color Performance: It supports HDR10, covers 99% of the sRGB color space and 95% of the DCI-P3 spectrum, with a peak brightness of 300 nits and a static contrast ratio of 1500:1.
3. Gaming Features: The monitor includes FreeSync technology to reduce screen tearing, along with MBR-Sync for better motion clarity, and offers PiP and PbP modes for multitasking.
4. Connectivity Options: It has one HDMI 2.1 port, one DisplayPort 1.4 input, and a headphone jack, with VESA compatibility for mounting.
5. User Comfort: The Q27G40SE incorporates flicker-free technology and a blue light filter to help reduce eye strain during long gaming sessions.
AOC has unveiled the Q27G40SE, a brand new 27-inch gaming display that features a Fast IPS panel offering a QHD resolution of 2560 x 1440 and an impressive refresh rate of 300Hz. It boasts a rapid 1ms GTG response time along with a 0.3ms MPRT, which significantly cuts down on motion blur.
Color and Brightness
This monitor comes with HDR10 support, promising excellent contrast and vibrant color performance. It covers an extensive 99% of the sRGB color space and 95% of the DCI-P3 spectrum, making it an ideal choice for both gamers and media watchers. With a peak brightness of 300 nits and a static contrast ratio of 1500:1, users can expect sharp visuals regardless of the lighting conditions.
Features for Gamers
The Q27G40SE is equipped with FreeSync technology to help eliminate screen tearing and MBR-Sync for improved motion clarity. Additionally, it offers PiP (Picture-in-Picture) and PbP (Picture-by-Picture) modes, enhancing multitasking capabilities for users.
Connectivity and Adjustability
For connectivity, it features a single HDMI 2.1 port, a DisplayPort 1.4 input, and a headphone jack. While the stand only allows for tilt adjustments, the monitor is VESA-compatible with a 100 x 100 mm mounting option. AOC has also integrated flicker-free technology and a blue light filter to alleviate eye strain during extended gaming periods.
Although the monitor is already launched in China, international availability and pricing details still need to be confirmed.
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Tags: 27-inch gaming monitor, AOC Q27G40SE, Fast IPS 300Hz
February 24, 2025
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7: New Ultra-Thin Design & Bigger Display
Key Takeaways
1. The Galaxy Z Fold7 is expected to be slimmer than the Galaxy Z Fold Special Edition, measuring 4.5 mm when open and around 9 mm when closed.
2. The Galaxy Z Fold7’s dimensions will be 158.4 x 143.1 mm, making it taller and wider than the Special Edition.
3. The Galaxy Z Fold Special Edition is currently 12% thinner than the Galaxy Z Fold6, which measures 5.6 mm open and 12.1 mm closed.
4. The new design may accommodate a 6.5-inch cover display and an 8.2-inch foldable screen.
5. Samsung is expected to unveil the Galaxy Z Fold7 this summer, alongside the Galaxy Z Flip7 and Galaxy Z Flip FE.
Recently, multiple sources have been sharing bits of information about the upcoming Galaxy Z Fold7. Now, OnLeaks has teamed up with Android Headlines to provide what they claim is the first glimpse of Samsung’s next top-tier foldable device. Unlike earlier reports, these sources suggest that the Galaxy Z Fold7 will actually be slimmer than the Galaxy Z Fold Special Edition.
Thickness Comparison
To give you some background, the Galaxy Z Fold Special Edition has a thickness of 4.9 mm when it’s opened up and 10.6 mm when it’s closed. In contrast, the Galaxy Z Fold6 measures 5.6 mm and 12.1 mm in those same states. This means that the Special Edition is approximately 12% thinner than the current Galaxy Z Fold6, which is priced at $1,549 on Amazon. However, it’s worth noting that the Special Edition is not the thinnest, as the Honor Magic V3 and Oppo Find N5 surpass it in that regard.
Galaxy Z Fold7 Specifications
It appears the same will apply to the Galaxy Z Fold7, though the improvement in thickness might not be as significant compared to the other Galaxy Z Fold models. OnLeaks and Android Headlines report that Samsung has managed to slim down the foldable to 4.5 mm when it’s open and “closer to 9 mm” when it’s closed. Even though a precise number hasn’t been released yet, they say the Galaxy Z Fold7 could measure 9.5 mm when including its camera housing.
In any case, if this holds true, the Galaxy Z Fold will finally break the 10 mm mark. Its dimensions of 158.4 x 143.1 mm will also make it a bit taller and wider than the Special Edition, which has measurements of 157.9 x 142.6 mm.
Display Features
It’s rumored that this design will enable Samsung to fit in 6.5-inch cover and 8.2-inch foldable screens. Samsung is anticipated to unveil the Galaxy Z Fold7 this summer, alongside the Galaxy Z Flip7 and the Galaxy Z Flip FE. However, their first tri-fold device might not be released until later in the year.
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Tags: foldable smartphones, Galaxy Z Fold7, Samsung
February 24, 2025
Realme Teases Ultra Phone with Large Camera Sensor Features
Key Takeaways
1. Realme will unveil the 14 Pro series at MWC 2025, featuring mid-range smartphones and an “Ultra” model.
2. The Ultra model is expected to have advanced camera features, including a large sensor and optical telephoto lens.
3. Realme claims the Ultra’s camera performance rivals that of flagship models, hinting at a 10x optical zoom capability.
4. The official launch event for the Ultra model is scheduled for March 3-6, 2025, in Barcelona.
5. Other brands, such as Vivo and Xiaomi, are also anticipated to release Ultra devices around the same time.
Realme is set to unveil the 14 Pro series to a worldwide audience at the MWC 2025 event. The Realme 14 series will be a collection of mid-range smartphones that includes several models. On top of that, Realme is working on a premium device too. They’ve teased an “Ultra” version, but they haven’t revealed its exact name yet.
Camera Features of the Ultra Model
This Ultra model is rumored to focus heavily on camera features. A teaser image displays a big circular camera setup on the back. The company has suggested that it will include an “ultra-large” sensor along with an optical telephoto lens.
“Ultra-tier device uses a sensor larger than those in flagship models” – Realme
Realme has compared the camera performance of this phone to that of two flagship models in a 10x zoom example. The company hasn’t disclosed which flagship devices they compared it to. However, it’s possible they are hinting at the iPhone 16 Pro Max and the S25 Ultra, as those devices do not have a 1″-type sensor that Realme’s Ultra model could utilize. Furthermore, these flagship phones also do not provide 10x optical zoom, which the Ultra phone might feature.
Anticipation for the Launch
Currently, information about the Ultra phone is limited. The official launch will take place at MWC, which is set for March 3-6 in Barcelona. Over the next few months, we may also see other Ultra devices released, including the Vivo X200 Ultra, Find X8 Ultra, and Xiaomi 15 Ultra.
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Tags: iPhone 16 Pro Max, Realme 14 Pro, Realme Ultra