Category: Computers

  • AMD Zen 6 Leak: 7GHz Target and Moore’s Law Insights

    AMD Zen 6 Leak: 7GHz Target and Moore’s Law Insights

    Key Takeaways

    1. AMD is testing desktop CPUs, known as Olympic Ridge, that aim for speeds of 6.4 GHz, with a goal to exceed 7 GHz using the advanced N2X node technology.
    2. The transition to N2X represents a major upgrade from the current Zen 4 series, which is based on N4P, showcasing AMD’s commitment to progress in efficiency and clock speed.
    3. Most Zen 6 products, including APUs and EPYC processors, will likely use N2P or N3P processes, offering improved performance without reaching the same peak frequencies as Olympic Ridge.
    4. Laptop-class APUs like Medusa Halo are expected to achieve speeds of 6.2 to 6.5 GHz, indicating a 20% increase over current mobile processors.
    5. Achieving a 7 GHz Zen 6 desktop CPU would set a record for AMD and significantly impact the desktop performance competition.


    While this isn’t exactly breaking news, this article brings together trustworthy information from Moore’s Law Is Dead, a leaker known for its accuracy, and much of it aligns with what we have discussed earlier.

    AMD’s Bold Leap Forward

    Zen 6 represents one of AMD’s most daring advancements in recent times. Reports from Moore’s Law Is Dead indicate that the company is currently testing desktop CPUs that can reach speeds of 6.4 GHz, with the ultimate aim of exceeding “7 GHz.” These processors, known as Olympic Ridge, will utilize the N2X node, an upgraded version of TSMC’s 2 nm technology, signaling a major enhancement from the ongoing Zen 4 series based on N4P. The transition from N4P to N3P, then to N2P, and ultimately to N2X involves three complete node changes. To put this into perspective, AMD progressed from Zen+ (12 nm) to Zen 2 (7 nm) and subsequently to Zen 4 (5 nm), with each transition providing significant increases in efficiency and clock speed. If all goes as planned, Olympic Ridge could surpass the peak of 5.7 GHz seen in Zen 4 and might outperform Intel’s top Raptor Lake Refresh CPUs in single-threaded tasks.

    Variations in Product Lines

    Nonetheless, it’s crucial to understand that the 7 GHz target is specific to the desktop-class N2X variants. The majority of Zen 6 products—including the Medusa Point APU platform and Venice-class EPYC processors—will likely use the more established N2P or N3P processes. Although these components may not reach the same raw frequency as Olympic Ridge, they are still predicted to offer significant gains in efficiency and performance-per-watt. According to Moore’s Law Is Dead, AMD seems to be focusing its highest clock speeds on AM5 desktop SKUs, and might include a few select server variants. Meanwhile, laptop-class APUs like Medusa Halo are anticipated to reach speeds around 6.2 to 6.5 GHz, which would still represent a 20% increase over the current generation of mobile processors. Even though clock speed isn’t the sole factor in defining overall performance, AMD’s goal to surpass the 7 GHz threshold demonstrates its ambitious roadmap and readiness to embrace cutting-edge manufacturing techniques.

    Implications of Achieving 7 GHz

    Should AMD succeed, a 7 GHz Zen 6 desktop CPU would stand as the highest clocked x86 processor ever released by the company and could mark a significant milestone in the desktop performance race. While the final shipping frequencies remain uncertain, internal tests and sourcing imply that AMD is on course to achieve a substantial advancement with Olympic Ridge.

  • Zen 6 Desktop Chips Expected Late 2026 After APU and EPYC Launch

    Zen 6 Desktop Chips Expected Late 2026 After APU and EPYC Launch

    Key Takeaways

    1. AMD plans a staggered rollout for its Zen 6 family, starting with APUs and server components.
    2. High-end desktop models are expected to be released later, with the flagship N2X versions likely available by late 2026.
    3. Mainstream desktop CPUs based on the N2P may debut as early as August 2026.
    4. AMD prioritizes mobile and server platforms before introducing ultra-high-performance desktop components.
    5. The multi-node strategy will see different Zen 6 derivatives using N2P, N3P, and N2X based on market needs.


    AMD seems to have a plan for rolling out its Zen 6 family in a staggered manner, as mentioned by Moore’s Law Is Dead. The initial phase will include APUs and server components, with high-end desktop models coming later. Olympic Ridge, which utilizes the advanced N2X node, is slated to be the last part of this phased release. There’s a chance that some mainstream desktop CPUs based on the N2P could show up as early as August 2026, but the flagship N2X versions are likely to be available closer to the year’s end. AMD’s decision to focus first on APUs and EPYC chips indicates that they are prioritizing volume and mobile/server platforms before introducing ultra-high-performance desktop components. This plan fits well with AMD’s current multi-node strategy, where various Zen 6 derivatives will employ N2P, N3P, and N2X depending on the market segment and target TDP.

    Late 2026 Launch for Zen 6 Desktops

    If this report holds true, we could see Zen 6 desktop CPUs making their debut in late 2026. AMD is spacing out their releases to coincide with node readiness and the demand within different segments of the market. The deliberate approach highlights AMD’s strategy to ensure that they meet both production capabilities and consumer needs, rather than launching everything all at once.

    YouTube Insights

    The insights come from the YouTube channel, Moore’s Law Is Dead, which has been known for its accurate predictions and analyses. As the landscape of CPUs continues to evolve, AMD’s approach to the Zen 6 family could reshape their competitive edge in the market, setting the stage for future innovations.

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  • Apple Analyst Casts Doubt on 2026 MacBook Pro OLED Redesign

    Apple Analyst Casts Doubt on 2026 MacBook Pro OLED Redesign

    Key Takeaways

    1. Apple is aiming for an early 2026 launch for the M5 MacBook Pro models, but the exact timing is still uncertain.
    2. The release of M5 MacBook Pro models will not affect the launch schedule of new MacBook Air models.
    3. The upcoming 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro will keep the same design as the current M4 versions.
    4. Future MacBook Pro models (codenamed J714 and J716) are expected to feature M6 chipsets, OLED screens, and design changes.
    5. Delaying the M5 models makes it unlikely for M6 successors to be released in the same year, despite past instances of multiple launches.


    Mark Gurman has provided new insights into the upcoming MacBook Pro launches from Apple. To summarize, since Apple began using its own silicon in 2020, every generation except for the M2 has been released annually between October and November. In contrast, the 13-inch model was introduced in June 2022, while the 14-inch and 16-inch versions debuted in January 2023.

    Potential Timeline for M5 MacBooks

    In a recent article on Bloomberg, Gurman hints that Apple might repeat this pattern for its M5 generation of Pro MacBooks. Although he hasn’t given exact details, he thinks Apple is “now internally aiming for a launch early next year,” while noting that “the timing is still uncertain” at this moment.

    Impact on MacBook Air Releases

    Gurman also claims that the postponed arrival of the M5 MacBook Pro versions won’t influence the timing of the new MacBook Air models. Instead, he mentions that Apple has planned a particularly hectic launch timetable for the first half of 2026, with more information available in a separate report.

    Design and Features of Upcoming Models

    For now, the upcoming 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro are projected to maintain the same design as their current M4, M4 Pro, and M4 Max versions, which are currently priced at $2,847 on Amazon. On the other hand, the successors to these models, known by their codenames J714 and J716, are expected to feature M6 generation chipsets, OLED screens, and the first design changes since 2020.

    MacRumors believes that delaying the M5 generation models until early 2026 makes it unlikely for the M6 successors to be released in the same year. However, Apple did manage to release its M2 and M3 generation models within the same year, which led to a nine-month availability for the M2-powered MacBook Pro 14 and 16. Therefore, while we can’t dismiss the possibility of two generations of MacBook Pro 14 and 16 launches, recent trends suggest that Apple may not pursue multiple releases for MacBook Pro in the near future.

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  • TeamGroup Launches PCIe 4.0 M.2 SSD with One-Click Data Wipe

    TeamGroup Launches PCIe 4.0 M.2 SSD with One-Click Data Wipe

    Key Takeaways

    1. TeamGroup has launched the P250Q-M80 M.2 SSD with one-click data destruction technology for sensitive data environments.
    2. The SSD is available in multiple capacities: 256 GB, 512 GB, 1 TB, and 2 TB, and utilizes PCIe 4.0 technology.
    3. Key features include a S.M.A.R.T tool for health monitoring, 3D TLC NAND Flash, and military standard certification.
    4. The data destruction technology includes multiple erasure modes activated by button presses, supported by Intelligent Dual-Mode Data Destruction.
    5. The P250Q-M80 SSD offers high performance with read speeds up to 7,000 MB/s, write speeds up to 5,500 MB/s, and a three-year warranty.


    TeamGroup is a well-known name in the field of computer storage, catering to a variety of sectors such as defense, healthcare, transport, and retail. They also produce popular storage solutions for gamers and server applications. Recently, they have introduced the P250Q-M80 M.2 SSD, which features a one-click data destruction technology, making it ideal for sensitive data environments.

    Specifications and Features

    The P250Q-M80 SSDs are offered in several capacities: 256 GB, 512 GB, 1 TB, and 2 TB. Utilizing PCIe 4.0 technology, these M.2 SSDs are designed with high-quality hardware and software. Notable features include a S.M.A.R.T tool for checking disk health and identifying possible issues, 3D TLC NAND Flash with a 112-layer design, and certification for military standards. The standout feature of the P250Q-M80 is its one-click data destruction option, enabling users to erase stored information effortlessly.

    Data Destruction Technology

    With this innovative feature, pressing the button for different lengths of time activates various erasure modes, all indicated by LED lights. The drives also incorporate Intelligent Dual-Mode Data Destruction and Intelligent Continuous Execution Mechanism through a Secure Independent Destruction Circuit. The Garbage Collection feature enhances SSD durability and performance by managing invalid and valid data efficiently, allowing for the collective erasure of invalid data. Moreover, Global Wear Leveling ensures that blocks with fewer erasure cycles are prioritized for writing, based on P/E cycle assessments.

    Performance and Warranty

    In terms of speed and durability, the P250Q-M80 SSDs deliver impressive performance with sequential read speeds up to 7,000 MB/s and sequential write speeds reaching 5,500 MB/s. They meet the MIL-STD-202G military standard and are rated for a remarkable 3 million hours MTBF (Mean Time Before Failure). TeamGroup backs the P250Q series with a three-year warranty for added peace of mind.

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  • Lower-End RTX 4060 Ti GPUs Also Face Melting Issues

    Lower-End RTX 4060 Ti GPUs Also Face Melting Issues

    Key Takeaways

    1. A lower-tier Nvidia RTX GPU (EmTek StormX Dual RTX 4060 Ti) caught fire and melted, possibly due to a manufacturing flaw.
    2. The user reported that the GPU was not overclocked and was used for low-demand gaming, raising questions about the incident.
    3. Damage was found on the GPU’s backplate and PCIe slot, but the power connector and cable remained intact.
    4. Modifications to the system, including potential motherboard changes, are under scrutiny, but the user and commenters do not blame the motherboard.
    5. Concerns remain about warranty coverage for the GPU, with hopes for support from the reputable brand EmTek.


    In a surprising development, a lower-tier Nvidia RTX GPU has reportedly caught fire and melted. This incident may be unique, as several elements contributed to this specific case. While there have been instances of power supply cables and GPU power connectors melting in higher-end models like the RTX 5080 and RTX 5090, the images shared by the unfortunate user indicate a potential manufacturing flaw from the board partner.

    User’s Experience Shared

    As detailed on Quasar Zone, a user recounted their unfortunate experience, complete with photos, of their EmTek StormX Dual RTX 4060 Ti melting and catching fire. Notably, the GPU was not overclocked, and the most demanding game played was PUBG, which raises no red flags. However, after two years of usage, the user’s computer unexpectedly shut down. Upon restarting, they discovered smoke followed by flames.

    Inspection Reveals Damage

    Upon closer inspection of the GPU, areas of the backplate were found melted around the screw located just above the PCIe connector, extending towards the power supply side of the card. There were also burn marks on the PCIe slot of the motherboard, but the power connector and cable appeared to be intact.

    System Modifications Under Scrutiny

    It’s important to note that not everything in this system was standard. Although it’s tricky to ascertain due to translation difficulties, it seems the user either swapped out their motherboard for a refurbished one or replaced a refurbished motherboard with a brand new one shortly before the fire. Nonetheless, both the user and commenters do not attribute the problem to the motherboard. One commenter suggested that excessive screw torque might have led to a short circuit or that there was a manufacturing defect that compromised the PCB.

    The user has returned the system to the repair shop but is concerned about whether the GPU will be covered if it isn’t related to the motherboard. Some commenters have mentioned that since EmTek is a reputable brand, they should provide a replacement either at a cost or possibly for free.

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  • Scientists Discover Way to Make Devices 1,000 Times Faster

    Scientists Discover Way to Make Devices 1,000 Times Faster

    Key Takeaways

    1. A team from Northeastern University has developed a method that could make everyday gadgets 1,000 times faster.
    2. The technique used is called thermal quenching, which involves heating and rapidly cooling materials to change their electronic properties.
    3. The material studied, 1T-TaS₂, is a quantum substance known for its unique electronic behaviors.
    4. The discovery could simplify the production of electronic parts by eliminating the need for interfaces between different materials.
    5. Further research is needed to create stable materials, but this breakthrough has significant potential for future technologies like quantum computers.


    Many progress are being made in the scientific field, enhancing research in space as well as our daily comfort. One particular discovery might make our everyday gadgets 1,000 times more quicker than they are currently.

    Breakthrough Research

    A team of scientists from Northeastern University is responsible for this innovation, leading to new developments and next generations of quicker and more effective devices. The researchers accomplished this using a technique known as thermal quenching.

    How Thermal Quenching Works

    This technique consists of heating a material and then rapidly cooling it down. By doing so, its internal electronic arrangement is changed until it gets to the desired condition, be it metallic or insulating. However, it’s important to note that this is not a simple task. The correct temperature needs to be paired with the right amount of exposure time. If done correctly, this method can be reversed, allowing the material to revert to its original state without any harm.

    The material used in this research is 1T-TaS₂, a quantum substance that reacts to light, pressure, and temperature, recognized by researchers for its varied electronic behaviors and features that classical physics cannot explain. With the thermal quenching method, by exposing it to light at room temp, the team was able to create a hidden metallic state that stayed stable for several months.

    Future Implications

    Gregory Fiete mentions that this scientific finding is one of a kind and could remove the necessity for interfaces between various materials, which would make the production of electronic parts much more simpler and, in turn, many common devices. Of course, more experiments and investigations are required to create dependable and stable materials.

    This finding signifies a significant step forward in the field and has the potential to change the world in the upcoming years by facilitating quicker production of electronic parts. Additionally, these materials are central to a lot of research aimed at enhancing the devices we will use in the future, such as quantum computers.

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  • Cerabyte’s 2030 Goal: 100 Petabyte Glass-Ceramic Racks

    Cerabyte’s 2030 Goal: 100 Petabyte Glass-Ceramic Racks

    Key Takeaways

    1. Cerabyte plans to deliver archival racks with over 100 petabytes of storage and fast access times by the end of the decade using femtosecond lasers and ceramic technology.
    2. A pilot system set for 2025–26 aims for 1 PB per rack, with improvements in bandwidth and latency, promising longer-lasting media at a lower cost than current magnetic tape solutions.
    3. Future advancements may include helium-ion particle beams to significantly increase storage capacity to around 100 exabytes, although this remains speculative.
    4. Cerabyte has secured around $14 million in investments and grants, with ongoing efforts for additional funding to support pilot production.
    5. The technology is positioned as a sustainable alternative to traditional data storage, potentially reducing carbon emissions in the industry.


    Cerabyte is getting ready to deliver archival racks that will have a storage capacity of more than 100 petabytes, with a throughput of 2 GB/s and first-byte access times under 10 seconds by the time the decade wraps up. The company’s method involves using femtosecond lasers to engrave nanodots into a ceramic layer that is attached to thin glass tablets, which then fit into cartridges resembling tape libraries, all managed by robotic arms.

    Pilot System Goals

    There’s a pilot system that is set to launch around 2025–26, which is targeting 1 PB per rack, with a steady bandwidth of 100 MB/s and a retrieval time of 90 seconds. After three rounds of updates, Cerabyte expects to see a significant increase in storage density, along with a ten-fold decrease in latency. The company claims that its media will last longer than magnetic tape—over a century compared to approximately ten years—and will offer quicker read times at a cost of about $1 per terabyte, which is half of what current tape solutions cost.

    Future Prospects

    Looking ahead, the roadmap includes a potential transition after 2030 from lasers to helium-ion particle beams. This could reduce the bit size from 300 nm down to 3 nm and increase the capacity per rack to around 100 exabytes, although this idea is still in the realm of speculation. Competing technologies include Microsoft’s Project Silica, holographic systems like Holomem, and DNA-based storage solutions.

    Investment and Sustainability

    Cerabyte has garnered strategic investments from companies like Pure Storage, Western Digital, and In-Q-Tel, in addition to receiving grants from Europe. The total from seed and grant rounds is approximately $14 million, and they are currently working on an A-series funding round to help kickstart pilot production.

    Cerabyte also markets its technology as a green alternative. A market study referenced by the company indicates that replacing tape with glass-ceramic archives could reduce carbon emissions related to data storage from two percent of the global total down to about 1.25 percent.

    If Cerabyte meets its engineering goals, it could provide hyperscale operators with a more high-density, low-maintenance option compared to tape. However, the transition from lab prototypes to dependable, usable hardware will be the key factor in determining if these promises become commonplace or simply remain an interesting note in the industry.

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  • Asus ExpertBook P3: Secure and Productive Laptops Launched

    Asus ExpertBook P3: Secure and Productive Laptops Launched

    Key Takeaways

    1. Asus has launched two new notebooks: ExpertBook P3 P3405CVA (14-inch) and P3605CVA (16-inch) with Intel Core i5-13420H and i7-13620H processors.
    2. Both models feature a 1,920 x 1,200 resolution display with 45% NTSC color coverage and a brightness of 300 cd/m².
    3. They come with 16 GB DDR5 RAM, upgradeable to 64 GB, and a 512 GB SSD, plus an option for a second M.2 SSD.
    4. Port options include USB 3.2 Type-A, Type-C, and HDMI 2.1; they support Ethernet, WiFi 6, and Bluetooth 5.0, with a 63 Wh battery charged via USB-C.
    5. The starting price for both models is around $800, with more pricing details to be announced before launch.


    Asus has revealed the introduction of two new notebooks, the ExpertBook P3 P3405CVA and P3605CVA, which are driven by the Intel Core i5-13420H and Intel Core i7-13620H processors, respectively. The P3405 features a 14-inch display, while the P3605 boasts a larger 16-inch screen, both offering a resolution of 1,920 x 1,200. However, the display’s color coverage is limited to 45% of the NTSC color spectrum, and it has a brightness level of 300 cd/m². Each device is outfitted with 16 GB of DDR5 RAM, which can be upgraded to a maximum of 64 GB. A 512 GB SSD in the M.2 2280 format is included, and users can easily add a second M.2 2230 SSD for additional storage.

    Port and Connectivity Features

    The arrangement of ports is identical for both models, offering two USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A ports and two USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C ports. Users can connect to displays with HDMI 2.1. In terms of connectivity, both models support Ethernet, WiFi 6, and Bluetooth 5.0. The 63 Wh battery is chargeable via USB-C with an output of 65 watts, meaning users don’t need a separate power adapter. The larger P3605 weighs in at 1.75 kg, while the P3405 is lighter at 1.36 kg. Importantly, both notebooks have MIL-STD 810H certification, ensuring durability against harsh conditions like extreme temperatures, rain, shocks, and humidity.

    Pricing Information

    The starting price for the basic versions of these models is expected to be around $800. Additional details regarding pricing will be revealed closer to the launch date.

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  • KIWI330: Windows-Compatible Single-Board Computer Alternative

    KIWI330: Windows-Compatible Single-Board Computer Alternative

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Axiomtek KIWI330 is a compact single-board computer with an Intel N50 processor, featuring 2 cores and a peak clock speed of 3.4 GHz.
    2. It includes 4 GB of soldered LPDDR5 RAM and a 64 GB NVMe SSD for storage, with an M.2 2230 Key E slot for expansion.
    3. The board supports desktop versions of Windows and has three USB 3.2 Type-C ports, one of which provides video output via DisplayPort.
    4. The design measures 72 x 56 millimeters but lacks a GPIO pin header and Ethernet port, although an Ethernet module can be added.
    5. The KIWI330 requires a 12-volt power input and has a connector for a fan for cooling solutions.


    The Axiomtek KIWI330 is a compact single-board computer featuring an Intel N50 processor, which was launched in January 2023. It has two cores and can reach a peak clock speed of 3.4 GHz, indicating a need for proper cooling solutions. Like many single-board computers, it comes with 4 GB of soldered LPDDR5 RAM, and it offers a 64 GB NVMe SSD for storage. Additionally, there is an M.2 2230 Key E slot available for expansion boards.

    Operating System Compatibility

    Thanks to the power of the Intel processor, users can run desktop versions of Windows, although this may not be the main intention of this model. The KIWI330 is equipped with three USB 3.2 ports, all of which are Type-C, with one supporting video output through DisplayPort. It also includes an eDisplayPort and a USB 2.0 port accessible via a header. For power, the board requires a 12-volt input, and there is a connector for a fan to help keep the processor cool.

    Design Limitations

    The board measures 72 x 56 millimeters but notably lacks a GPIO pin header and an Ethernet port. However, it is possible to add an Ethernet port using a compatible module. Currently, there is no information available regarding its pricing or when it will be released.

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  • Peladn Wi-8 Mini PC: Affordable Intel Alder Lake-N with Dual Ethernet

    Peladn Wi-8 Mini PC: Affordable Intel Alder Lake-N with Dual Ethernet

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Peladn Wi-8 mini PC features an Intel ‘Alder Lake-N’ processor, specifically the Intel N150 chip with four cores and a boost clock of 3.6 GHz.
    2. It is designed for basic tasks and content viewing, lacking dedicated GPUs due to its compact size (120 x 120 x 42 mm).
    3. The mini PC includes 16 GB of DDR4-3200 RAM and a 512 GB SSD in a user-accessible M.2 slot.
    4. It offers a variety of ports, including dual HDMI 2.0, dual USB 3.2 Gen2 Type-A, one USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C, two USB 2.0 ports, an audio jack, and dual gigabit Ethernet ports.
    5. Priced at $160 (1,149 Yuan) in China, the Wi-8 is considered a good value for its basic specifications, with a worldwide release expected but no date confirmed.


    A brand new mini PC from the well-known brand Peladn has landed in China, called the Wi-8. This mini PC is priced very reasonably and features an Intel ‘Alder Lake-N’ processor along with a solid lineup of ports. Like other mini PCs in its category, the Wi-8 is aimed at users who don’t need high performance.

    Specifications Overview

    At the heart of the Peladn Wi-8 mini PC is the Intel N150 chip, which has four cores and four threads that can reach a boost clock of 3.6 GHz. The Alder Lake-N chip uses Gracemont efficiency cores only, providing performance comparable to the six-year-old AMD Ryzen 7 3750H.

    Performance Expectations

    Put simply, the Wi-8 mini PC is designed for basic tasks and content viewing. There’s no space for dedicated GPUs, which isn’t surprising given its small size of 120 x 120 x 42 mm. The device comes with integrated Intel UHD Graphics featuring 24 EUs, which is suitable for light tasks only.

    Memory and Connectivity

    The Wi-8 also includes 16 GB of DDR4-3200 RAM and a 512 GB SSD (Crucial P310 curr. $38.99 on Amazon) in a user-accessible M.2 2280 slot. It offers a good range of ports too, featuring dual HDMI 2.0, dual USB 3.2 Gen2 Type-A, one USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C, two USB 2.0 ports, an audio jack, and dual gigabit Ethernet ports. The system comes at a price of just $160 (1,149 Yuan) in China, which is a fair deal considering its basic specifications. A worldwide release is expected, but there’s no set date for that yet.

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