Category: Computers

  • PQShield Unveils UltraPQ-Suite: Expanding Post-Quantum Hardware

    PQShield Unveils UltraPQ-Suite: Expanding Post-Quantum Hardware

    Key Takeaways

    1. PQShield launched the UltraPQ-Suite, featuring fast and secure implementations of post-quantum cryptography (PQC) for essential applications.
    2. The PQPlatform-TrustSys provides a quantum-secure Root of Trust solution for ASIC and FPGA hardware, meeting NSA’s CNSA 2.0 standards.
    3. The test chip is the first silicon version of post-quantum cryptography based on NIST-approved algorithms, facilitating real-world testing of performance and security.
    4. The chip aligns with newly finalized NIST PQC standards, including CRYSTALS-Kyber for encryption and CRYSTALS-Dilithium for digital signatures.
    5. PQShield aims to use the test chip as a development platform for hardware partners to refine designs before integrating quantum-resistant algorithms into production.

    PQShield has revealed the UltraPQ-Suite, a collection of extremely fast, tiny, and secure implementations of post-quantum cryptography (PQC) aimed at essential applications. One key aspect of this suite is the newly launched PQPlatform-TrustSys, a quantum-secure Root of Trust solution that allows ASIC and FPGA hardware to meet PQC requirements, including those set by the NSA’s CNSA 2.0. This release builds on previous hardware advancements, notably the company’s first PQC silicon test chip that was introduced in September 2024. This product aims to incorporate NIST-approved quantum-safe algorithms into practical hardware for the very first time.

    Innovative Chip Design

    The test chip is noted for being the initial silicon version of post-quantum cryptography based on NIST-approved algorithms. The NIST initiative to standardize post-quantum cryptography began in 2016, and by August 2024, it had finalized the first three approved standards.

    As per the company, the chip allows for testing of post-quantum algorithms under actual conditions, such as power consumption, performance, and side-channel countermeasures. This assessment is tailored for semiconductor manufacturers creating system-on-chip designs for industries like Industrial IoT and automotive, where secure adherence to forthcoming PQC standards is becoming more crucial.

    Supporting NIST Standards

    The chip has been designed to align with the newly finalized NIST PQC standards, including CRYSTALS-Kyber for encryption and CRYSTALS-Dilithium for digital signatures. By implementing these algorithms in hardware, it facilitates direct evaluation of performance and efficiency on genuine silicon, a vital step for determining their practicality in devices with limited resources.

    A video presentation on the official YouTube channel of the company offers more technical details about the chip’s design and possible uses.

    PQShield plans for the test chip to act as a development platform for hardware partners, as mentioned by IoT World Today. The company states that by allowing realistic assessments before widespread deployment, it and its partners can fine-tune designs prior to the integration of quantum-resistant algorithms into production silicon.

    Source:
    Link

     

    Tags: , ,
  • OneXPlayer Super X Set to Outperform Asus ROG Flow Z13

    OneXPlayer Super X Set to Outperform Asus ROG Flow Z13

    Key Takeaways

    1. One-Netbook launched the OneXPlayer Super X in China, featuring AMD’s Strix Halo architecture and Ryzen AI Max+ 395 with a power output of 120 W.
    2. The device will have a global release, following the success of the OneXPlayer X1 series, and an English teaser video has been released.
    3. The OneXPlayer Super X is positioned to compete directly with the Asus ROG Flow Z13, claiming superior resolution and an AMOLED display.
    4. It features a larger battery (83.5 W) and improved storage options with M.2 2280 and mini SSD slots.
    5. The OneXPlayer Super X is expected to launch in October, but pricing and OCuLink connectivity details are still unclear.

    Earlier today, One-Netbook unveiled the OneXPlayer Super X in China. As previously discussed, the company has confirmed that this device is one of the growing range of products utilizing AMD’s Strix Halo architecture with the Ryzen AI Max+ 395. Allegedly, the OneXPlayer Super X can push this APU to 120 W, which is a notable difference from the Asus ROG Flow Z13, currently priced at $2,229 on Amazon.

    Global Release Plans

    One-Netbook has announced that the OneXPlayer Super X will have a worldwide launch, similar to the OneXPlayer X1 series that came before. To support this, the company has released an English version of the teaser video they previously shared in Chinese, which is included below.

    Competition with ROG Flow Z13

    Furthermore, the company has made it clear to Discord members that the OneXPlayer Super X is designed to directly compete with the latest ROG Flow Z13. If the teaser video didn’t already make this clear, One-Netbook has also shared a concise table that outlines the areas where the OneXPlayer Super X is said to outperform the ROG Flow Z13.

    For example, the OneXPlayer Super X features a better resolution and an AMOLED display compared to the ROG Flow Z13. It is expected to have a 14-inch panel size, considering its display type, resolution, and a larger keyboard accessory than what is offered with the OneXPlayer X1 series. This display will likely consume more power than the 2.5K IPS panel found in the ROG Flow Z13.

    Enhanced Battery and Storage Options

    To address this power demand, One-Netbook has equipped the device with a battery that is 19.2% larger, rated at 83.5 W. Additionally, the OneXPlayer Super X comes with M.2 2280 and mini SSD slots, which is a step up from the M.2 2230 slot in the ROG Flow Z13. As we understand it, this is the same 1517 SSD type made by Biwin, which will also be featured in the GPD Win 5. Currently, One-Netbook is planning to launch the OneXPlayer Super X in October. However, details on pricing and whether the device will include OCuLink connectivity remain uncertain at this time.

    Source:
    Link

    OneXPlayer Super X Set to Outperform Asus ROG Flow Z13OneXPlayer Super X Set to Outperform Asus ROG Flow Z13

     

    Tags: , ,
  • Apple M5 MacBook Pro May Miss 2025 Launch Deadline

    Apple M5 MacBook Pro May Miss 2025 Launch Deadline

    Key Takeaways

    1. The M5 SoC for MacBook Pros is now expected to be released in 2026, contrary to earlier rumors of a 2023 launch.
    2. The A20 Pro SoC for the iPhone 18 Pro series will transition to a new manufacturing process that may reduce costs and improve efficiency.
    3. Confusion exists around Apple’s upgrade cycles, with M-series chips not following the same timeline as A-series chips.
    4. The M4 MacBook Pro remains a viable option for those needing a new laptop soon, as the M5 models likely won’t offer significant upgrades.
    5. The M2 Pro and Max chips had a 15-month gap from their predecessors, while the M3 Pro and Max were released just 9 months later, indicating inconsistent release patterns for M-series chips.

    There is no doubt that many Mac users are eagerly waiting for the M5 SoC, which is anticipated to be released in the last quarter of this year. However, while earlier rumors suggested that the MacBook Pro would get the M5 upgrade this year, a new update from a trusted source suggests otherwise.

    Changes in Chip Technology

    In his latest newsletter, Ming-Chi Kuo mentioned that the A20 Pro SoC, expected in the iPhone 18 Pro series, will move from TSMC’s InFO (Integrated Fan-Out) to WMCM (Wafer Multi-Chip Module). This change will incorporate the underfill and molding processes, which could help reduce material costs and streamline “process steps” to enhance yields. Kuo also pointed out that the M5 chips are not likely to make the transition to WMCM and will instead be used in the “2026” MacBook Pros.

    Implications for MacBook Pro Release

    Kuo’s reference to the upcoming MacBook Pro models as 2026 versions likely signifies that he believes these products won’t launch this year. Mark Gurman previously indicated that MacBook Pros equipped with M5 chipsets would debut by the end of this year, though he mentioned last month that Apple was “considering” delaying the laptops to early 2026.

    Confusion Surrounding Upgrade Cycles

    As always, Apple’s upgrade timeline for MacBooks is puzzling. The M2 Pro and Max versions arrived 15 months after the M1 Pro and Max, while the M3 Pro and Max were released just 9 months following their predecessors. The high-end M4 SoCs reverted to a 12-month cycle, and it now seems that the high-end M5 chips will surpass that 12-month timeframe once again. Given Apple’s strict adherence to a 12-month cycle for A-series SoCs, it raises questions why the M-series chips are treated any differently.

    For those who urgently need a new laptop, it may not be a big loss to purchase an M4 MacBook Pro instead, as the M5 MacBook Pros are unlikely to have significant design or external upgrades. The M4 MacBook Pro is currently priced at $1,299 on Amazon.

    Source:
    Link

     

    Tags: , ,
  • KeyGo: Unique Keyboard with 12.8-Inch Touch Display Hits $100K

    KeyGo: Unique Keyboard with 12.8-Inch Touch Display Hits $100K

    Key Takeaways

    1. The KeyGo keyboard features a 12.8-inch IPS touchscreen display and is compatible with multiple operating systems (Windows, MacOS, Android, and Linux).
    2. It has a unique design with a 1920 x 720 display above a standard membrane keyboard and an 180° hinge for portability.
    3. The crowdfunding campaign on Kickstarter has raised over $90,000 from 345 backers, highlighting strong interest in the product.
    4. The keyboard is made from anodized aluminum and includes RGB lighting, but lacks mechanical switches, which may deter some buyers.
    5. The retail price is $538, with a promotional early bird price of $249, but potential backers should be aware of the risks associated with crowdfunding.

    There are plenty of productivity tools on the market today, mostly from brands that you may not have heard of, and they focus on making certain tasks easier. For people who liked using the secondary displays on laptops like the ZenBook Duo and want something similar for their desktop computers, the KeyGo keyboard might be a great choice.

    Features of the KeyGo Keyboard

    The KeyGo comes with a 12.8-inch IPS touchscreen display and is compatible with Windows, MacOS, Android, and Linux systems. The designers of the KeyGo wanted to create a setup that features a 1920 x 720 display placed above a standard membrane keyboard, which could help users who need an extra screen below their main monitor. Plus, it has an 180° hinge that allows it to fold like a laptop, making it easy to carry around.

    Crowdfunding Success

    The crowdfunding effort on Kickstarter has been very successful so far, raising over $90,000 from 345 backers, with a week still to go. This isn’t a surprise, since many workflows could really benefit from the features that the KeyGo provides. It’s made from anodized aluminum, so it looks nice, but the absence of mechanical switches might discourage some potential buyers. Additionally, it includes RGB lighting for those interested in that feature. Here are some other specifics:

    Pricing Concerns

    However, the pricing of the keyboard is where things get a bit out of hand. Even though backers can score a 50% discount, the KeyGo keyboard is listed at $538. This price might be a clever tactic to make people feel they need to buy it quickly. The early bird price of $249 is much more appealing, but those thinking about backing this project should remember the risks that come with crowdfunding. Shipping is set to start in November 2025.

    Source:
    Link

     

    Tags: , ,
  • Oldest Black Hole Found: 1.3 Trillion Times Earth’s Mass

    Oldest Black Hole Found: 1.3 Trillion Times Earth’s Mass

    Key Takeaways

    1. A research group confirmed the existence of a black hole in the galaxy CAPERS-LRD-z9 using spectroscopy.
    2. CAPERS-LRD-z9 belongs to a group of ancient galaxies called “Little Red Dots” (LRDs) that are identified from the first 1.5 billion years of the universe.
    3. The brightness of LRDs suggests the presence of black holes, which consume gas and dust, creating intense radiation.
    4. The newly identified black hole is estimated to be 1.3 trillion times more massive than Earth and formed around 13.3 billion years ago.
    5. Observations were made using NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope, which explores various stages of the universe.

    A research group, guided by Anthony Taylor — a postdoctoral fellow at the Cosmic Frontier Center of the University of Texas at Austin — utilized spectroscopy to validate the existence of a black hole in the galaxy known as CAPERS-LRD-z9. This galaxy is part of a category of galaxies called “Little Red Dots” (LRDs).

    Bright Red Galaxies

    They got this name from their strikingly bright red look in telescope photographs. These ancient galaxies have only been identified within the first 1.5 billion years of the universe. Typically, the strong brightness characteristic of this galaxy type indicates the presence of many stars. However, due to the galaxy’s age, it seems unlikely that enough stars could have formed to create that level of brightness, leading to one reasonable conclusion — black holes. These black holes consume gas and dust, which spiral in at thousands of kilometers per second. This material gets compressed and heated to very high temperatures, resulting in intense radiation.

    Size and Age of the Black Hole

    What is particularly remarkable about the newly identified black hole in the CAPERS-LRD-Z9 galaxy is its immense size and ancient age. It is estimated to be up to 1.3 trillion times more massive than Earth, which is about half of CAPERS-LRD-Z9’s total stellar mass. Furthermore, it is an old giant, believed to have formed around 13.3 billion years ago, just 500 million years after the Universe was born.

    Observations Made by NASA

    The observation of CAPERS-LRD-Z9 and its giant black hole was accomplished using NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope, which has been examining every stage of our universe since its launch in December 2021.

    Source:
    Link

     

    Tags: , ,
  • Apple’s 12.9-Inch MacBook Leaks in macOS 26 Tahoe Beta

    Apple’s 12.9-Inch MacBook Leaks in macOS 26 Tahoe Beta

    Key Takeaways

    1. macOS 26 Tahoe’s sixth beta includes a new onboarding video showcasing features for first-time users.
    2. The video features a MacBook design without a notch, leading to speculation about a new budget-friendly model.
    3. The upcoming budget 13-inch MacBook may have a design similar to the MacBook Air but could lack a notch.
    4. Mass production of the budget MacBook is expected to begin in Q3 2025, with a potential launch at the end of 2025 or early 2026.
    5. The budget MacBook is rumored to feature the A18 Pro processor, a 12.9-inch display, and vibrant color options, priced between $599 and $699.

    In the sixth beta version of macOS 26 Tahoe, Apple has added a new onboarding video that introduces users to some of the update’s features when they first boot up their MacBook after installation. Users quickly noticed that the video features a MacBook without a notch.

    Design Similarities

    Besides that, the overall design closely resembles the current MacBook Air. The most plausible reason for this oddity might be a simple oversight, where the notch was overlooked while the video was being made. Nonetheless, this has led to speculation that the upcoming budget-friendly 13-inch MacBook could lack a notch, while still reflecting the design of the MacBook Air. If Apple incorporates a smaller webcam and slightly broader screen bezels, it’s quite possible the camera could fit into the top edge of the screen without causing a significant bulge.

    Production Timeline and Specs

    Recent rumors suggest that mass production of this “budget MacBook” is anticipated to commence in the third quarter of 2025, indicating that its launch could occur towards the end of this year or at the start of the next. The notebook is rumored to come with the Apple A18 Pro processor, which is already featured in the iPhone 16 Pro, and is expected to have a 12.9-inch display. Along with a vibrant casing in colors like silver, pink, yellow, or blue, the pricing is expected to be a major attraction for this MacBook, as it is anticipated to be priced between $599 and $699.

    Source:
    Link

     

    Tags: , ,
  • GMK NucBox M3 Ultra: New Intel Mini PC with Launch Discount

    GMK NucBox M3 Ultra: New Intel Mini PC with Launch Discount

    Key Takeaways

    1. The GMK NucBox M3 Ultra features an upgraded Intel Core i7 12700H CPU compared to the previous version’s Core i5 12450H.
    2. It supports up to 64 GB of DDR4 RAM and has two PCIe 3.0 slots for a maximum storage capacity of 8 TB.
    3. The mini PC includes multiple ports but the USB Type-C port does not support Power Delivery (PD).
    4. Key features include triple-display output, a quiet cooling system, and compatibility with VESA mounts.
    5. The barebone version is priced at $299.99, with a special launch discount available until August 25, 2025.

    GMKtec has launched a new Intel mini PC called the GMK NucBox M3 Ultra. This model is an improved version of the previous non-Ultra edition released in 2023. The M3 Ultra is powered by a CPU from the Alder Lake series, specifically the Core i7 12700H, in contrast to the earlier version that used the Core i5 12450H.

    Specifications and Performance

    The NucBox M3 Ultra’s Core i7 12700H can be combined with as much as 64 GB of DDR4 RAM operating at 3200 MT/s. It also boasts two PCIe 3.0 slots, allowing for a maximum storage capacity of 8 TB (for instance, a 4 TB Crucial P310 is presently priced at $234.99 on Amazon). Despite its small size, the mini PC offers a diverse array of ports, including:

    It is important to mention that the USB Type-C port on this mini PC does not serve all functions. It supports data transfer and DisplayPort, but lacks Power Delivery (PD) capabilities. For wireless connectivity, the GMKtec NucBox M3 Ultra features WiFi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2.

    Notable Features

    Additional features of this mini PC include support for triple-display output, an efficient cooling system that operates quietly, and compatibility with VESA mounts. The barebone version is available for $299.99, while a configuration with 32 GB of RAM and a 1 TB SSD is priced at $429.99. GMKtec is also providing a special launch discount with the promo code PRM3U12. This offer is valid until August 25, 2025, reducing the price by $12.

    Source:
    N/A)

    GMK NucBox M3 Ultra: New Intel Mini PC with Launch DiscountGMK NucBox M3 Ultra: New Intel Mini PC with Launch Discount

     

    Tags: , ,
  • Minix Unveils AMD Strix Point Mini PCs with Launch Discounts

    Minix Unveils AMD Strix Point Mini PCs with Launch Discounts

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Minix ER936-AI and ER937-AI mini PCs are now on sale with limited-time discounts: ER936-AI for $789 (originally $899) and ER937-AI for $869 (originally $999).
    2. Discount codes are required for the promotional prices: “NEW110” for ER936-AI and “NEW130” for ER937-AI.
    3. Both mini PCs have a similar design and feature a robust cooling system with a vapor chamber and dual fans for stable performance.
    4. They offer easy upgrade capabilities with a quick-removal bottom panel, supporting up to 8 TB SSDs and 96 GB of DDR5 RAM.
    5. Notable features include WiFi 7, Bluetooth 5.4, a built-in fingerprint sensor for Windows Hello, and support for quad-display output.

    First revealed at Computex 2025, the Minix ER936-AI and ER937-AI are now ready for sale. They are also offering limited-time discounts for their launch, causing the Ryzen AI 9 365-powered mini PC, the ER936-AI, to decrease in price from $899 to $789.

    Discount Details

    The ER937-AI features the Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 along with the Radeon 890M. During this promotional period, its price is set at $869, which is a discount of $130 from its original price of $999. To take advantage of these offers, you must use the coupon code “NEW110” for the ER936-AI at checkout, while “NEW130” is the code for the ER937-AI.

    Design and Cooling System

    As mentioned in our previous report, both mini PCs share a similar chassis design. The port layout of both the AMD Strix Point models is identical, which is outlined below:

    Minix emphasizes that these mini PCs come equipped with a robust cooling system. It features a vapor chamber along with dual fans, which ensures that the Strix Point APUs maintain stable performance even under heavy workloads.

    Upgrade Capabilities

    Returning to the design aspect, the mini PCs are designed with a quick-removal bottom panel, making it easy for users to upgrade their storage and memory. There is an M.2 PCIe 4.0 slot that can accommodate up to an 8 TB SSD (currently, the 4 TB WD_BLACK SN7100 is priced at $229.99 on Amazon), and these Strix Point systems can be outfitted with up to 96 GB of DDR5 RAM running at 5,600 MHz.

    Among the noteworthy features of the Minix ER936-AI and ER937-AI are support for WiFi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4, a built-in fingerprint sensor compatible with Windows Hello, and the ability to support quad-display output. For more details, check the attached spec sheets below regarding these two Strix Point mini PCs.

    Minix Unveils AMD Strix Point Mini PCs with Launch DiscountsMinix Unveils AMD Strix Point Mini PCs with Launch Discounts

     

    Tags: , ,
  • Asus Launches NUC 15 Mini-PCs with Nvidia RTX 5060 and 5070

    Asus Launches NUC 15 Mini-PCs with Nvidia RTX 5060 and 5070

    Key Takeaways

    1. Asus has launched the ROG NUC (2025) globally, priced at $2,799.
    2. The NUC 15 Performance mini-PC has been officially announced after a delay, featuring Intel Core Ultra 7 or 9 processors and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5060 or 5070 GPUs.
    3. Key specifications include multiple DisplayPort 2.1 and HDMI 2.1 ports, several USB Type-A ports, and dual SO-DIMM and M.2 2280 slots in a compact chassis.
    4. The NUC 15 Performance is available for order in the Eurozone, starting at €1,632 (~$1,895) for the Core Ultra 7 model and up to €1,955 (~$2,271) for the Core Ultra 9 version.
    5. Both NUC 15 Performance models are barebone units, and pricing details may vary by retailer.

    Asus has finally launched the much-anticipated ROG NUC (2025) worldwide after revealing it back in January during the CES 2025 event (curr. $2,799 on Amazon). The company has also revisited the NUC 15 Performance, a mini-PC that looks quite similar but skips some of the flashy features seen in the ROG NUC (2025).

    NUC 15 Performance Announcement

    To give a quick refresher, the NUC 15 Performance was first spotted on Asus’ global site around three months prior. For some unknown reason, it took until today for the official announcement to come through. In the time that has passed, it seems like there have been almost no changes to the device. The NUC 15 Performance still features either Intel Core Ultra 7 255HX or Core Ultra 9 275HX processors, along with NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5060 or GeForce RTX 5070 laptop GPUs.

    Specs and Features

    Asus has provided more information, stating that the NUC 15 Performance includes two DisplayPort 2.1 and HDMI 2.1 ports each. Furthermore, this mini-PC is equipped with several USB Type-A ports, consisting of two USB 2.0 ports alongside four USB 3.2 Gen2 ports. To top it all off, Asus has packed all this hardware plus dual SO-DIMM and M.2 2280 slots into a compact chassis measuring 282.4 x 189.55 x 56.6 mm and weighing 3.12 kg.

    Pricing and Availability

    Currently, the global pricing is still unclear. However, the NUC 15 Performance can be ordered in the Eurozone from retailers like Compute Universe and Cyberport. As of now, the price starts at €1,632 (~$1,895) for the Core Ultra 7 255HX model and goes up to €1,955 (~$2,271) for the Core Ultra 9 275HX version. Both options are barebone units. For additional details, it’s best to check Asus’ website.

    Source:
    Link

    Asus Launches NUC 15 Mini-PCs with Nvidia RTX 5060 and 5070

     

    Tags: , ,
  • NASA Reveals Value of Glacier Losing 300,000 Gallons Per Second

    NASA Reveals Value of Glacier Losing 300,000 Gallons Per Second

    Key Takeaways

    1. Jakobshavn Glacier is the most dynamic glacier on Greenland’s ice sheet and significantly contributes freshwater to the ocean during summer.
    2. The meltwater from the glacier brings important nutrients like iron and nitrate, essential for phytoplankton growth, which is vital for the marine food chain.
    3. Nutrient levels in surface waters typically decrease in summer, making glacial meltwater crucial for sustaining phytoplankton during this time.
    4. NASA used advanced computer models to analyze Jakobshavn Glacier, finding that glacial melt can increase summer phytoplankton growth by 15% to 40%.
    5. More research is needed to understand the effects of glacial melt on phytoplankton across Greenland’s 250 similar glaciers.

    Jakobshavn Glacier, which is also referred to as Sermeq Kujalleq, stands out as the most dynamic glacier on Greenland’s ice sheet. Situated on the western coast of the island, this glacier plays a significant role in releasing large amounts of freshwater into the ocean during the summer months. The meltwater is less dense than saltwater, causing it to float and potentially bringing along important nutrients like iron and nitrate. These nutrients are crucial for phytoplankton growth, which forms the foundation of the marine food chain, providing sustenance for krill and other small creatures that larger marine animals, such as fish and whales, rely on.

    Nutrient Dynamics in Summer

    Typically, the levels of nutrients found in surface waters drop in the summer as they are mostly consumed during the spring phytoplankton bloom. Therefore, the upwelling caused by glacial meltwater becomes vital for sustaining Greenland’s phytoplankton during the summer season. However, validating this phenomenon close to Greenland’s thick ice sheet has been extremely difficult due to the coastal waters being filled with enormous icebergs, comparable to the size of city blocks.

    NASA’s Innovative Approach

    To tackle this situation, NASA employed sophisticated computer models to recreate the fjord of Jakobshavn Glacier. They used the Estimating the Circulation and Climate of the Ocean-Darwin (ECCO-Darwin) model, which leverages decades of collected data. By running this model on their powerful supercomputers, NASA discovered that glacial melt could boost summer phytoplankton growth by anywhere from 15% to 40%.

    Future Research Needs

    Despite these promising findings, there is still a considerable amount of research needed, as noted by Dustin Carroll, an oceanographer at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Southern California. “We’ve pieced together what occurs in one significant system, but there are over 250 similar glaciers all around Greenland,” Carroll pointed out.

    Source:
    Link

     

    Tags: , ,