Category: Computers

March 20, 2025
Windows 11 May Introduce New FAQ Section for PC Hardware
Key Takeaways
1. Microsoft is developing a new FAQ section for Windows 11 to address common PC hardware questions.
2. The FAQ will be part of the About page in the System settings menu, featuring questions about Windows version, GPUs, and RAM recommendations.
3. This FAQ section is not visible by default, indicating it is still in the testing phase.
4. Microsoft suggests using a GPU with over 4GB of VRAM for better performance in gaming and video editing.
5. The recommendation for RAM is to have more than 8GB for tasks beyond basic web browsing and emailing.
Microsoft seems to be working on a new FAQ area to address common questions about PC hardware in Windows 11. This information was found in the latest Dev build by user @phantomofearth on Blusky Social (as reported by The Verge). This user maintains a specialized account that focuses on dissecting the newest Windows Insider builds.
FAQ Section Details
The new section will be part of the About page located within the System settings menu. Right now, there are three questions included: one about the latest Windows version, another concerning GPUs, and a third that recommends the optimal amount of RAM for various tasks.
These inquiries are shown under your device’s specifications, which detail the hardware of your system. It is not clear if this list will vary based on hardware setups or if it will remain constant across all devices.
Visibility and Testing Stage
Interestingly, this list is not visible by default, even in the Dev build, indicating that it might still be in the early phases of testing.
In the responses, Microsoft advises using a GPU that has over 4GB of VRAM for enhanced performance in gaming and video editing applications. There is a possibility that this section could also feature notifications regarding upcoming system updates.
RAM Recommendations
Moreover, Microsoft recommends having more than 8GB of RAM for tasks beyond just web browsing, document reading, or emailing. @phantomofearth also pointed out that this feature is currently concealed in Dev builds with version numbers 26120.3576 and 22635.5090.
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Tags: GPU, Microsoft, Windows 11
March 20, 2025
ASUS India Launches Three-Device Bluetooth Mouse with Adjustable DPI
Key Takeaways
1. Lightweight and Ambidextrous Design: The MW105 weighs only 48 grams and features a symmetrical design for comfort for both left and right-handed users.
2. Silent Operation: Designed for quiet environments, it uses low-noise switches to minimize clicking sounds, making it suitable for offices, libraries, and homes.
3. Adjustable DPI Settings: The mouse offers three DPI settings (800, 1200, 1600) that can be easily adjusted for smooth tracking across different activities.
4. Bluetooth Connectivity: It utilizes Bluetooth 5.0 technology, allowing connection to up to three devices simultaneously without the need for additional drivers.
5. Affordable Pricing: The ASUS MW105 is priced at ₹899 and is available for purchase on various platforms, including Amazon.in and ASUS e-shop.
ASUS India has broadened its range of accessories by introducing the MW105 Bluetooth Silent Mouse. This lightweight mouse weighs 48 grams and features a compact design that is ambidextrous, offering symmetrical contours for comfort whether you’re left or right-handed.
Designed for Quiet Environments
Created with silent operation in mind, the MW105 uses low-noise switches to reduce clicking sounds. ASUS highlights that this mouse is ideal for use in quiet spaces like offices, libraries, classrooms, and homes, where minimizing noise is a key consideration.
Adjustable DPI Settings
The MW105 comes with three adjustable DPI settings—800, 1200, and 1600—that can be easily changed with a button located on the bottom of the device. ASUS claims this feature allows for smooth tracking and responsiveness across various activities, including web browsing, design work, and general multitasking.
Bluetooth Connectivity
Equipped with Bluetooth 5.0 technology, the MW105 offers low-latency performance and can connect to up to three devices at the same time. There’s no need for additional drivers or software, ensuring compatibility with laptops, tablets, and desktops without any complicated setup.
This mouse operates on a single AA battery and is ready to use right from the packaging. It incorporates an optical tracking system and includes three buttons along with a vertical scroll wheel. The device measures 105.9 mm in length, 60.7 mm in width, and 32.0 mm in height. It is available in black and supports Windows 10 or later versions. ASUS backs this product with a three-year warranty.
Pricing & Availability
The ASUS MW105 Bluetooth Silent Mouse is available for ₹899 and can be purchased starting today. Customers can find it on Amazon.in, through offline retailers, on quick commerce platforms, and at the ASUS e-shop.
Tags: ASUS, Bluetooth Mouse, MW105
March 20, 2025
ASUS Vivobook Pro 15: Intel Core Ultra 9, RTX 4050, OLED $1500
Key Takeaways
1. Powerful Hardware: Features Intel Core Ultra 9 processor and NVIDIA RTX 4050 GPU for high performance in gaming and creative tasks.
2. High-Quality Display: 15.6-inch OLED screen with 3K resolution, 120Hz refresh rate, and 100% DCI-P3 color gamut for vibrant visuals.
3. Advanced Cooling System: IceCool Pro technology with dual fans and multiple heat pipes to manage performance during demanding tasks.
4. User-Friendly Features: Includes ASUS DialPad for easy app adjustments, a Copilot Key for AI tool access, and a high-quality 5MP IR camera for secure login and video calls.
5. Fast Charging and Audio: 75Wh battery charges to 50% in 30 minutes, with Harman Kardon speakers and Dolby Atmos for enhanced sound quality.
ASUS has introduced the Vivobook Pro 15 (N6506CU), a laptop designed for both creators and gamers, featuring a 15.6-inch display. It is currently up for sale with a price tag of $1500, showcasing an Intel Core Ultra 9 processor, an NVIDIA RTX 4050 GPU, and a high-refresh OLED screen.
Hardware Specifications
The device is powered by Intel’s Core Ultra 9 285H CPU with an NPU that has 13 TOPS, perfect for offline AI applications, and comes with NVIDIA’s RTX 4050 GPU that has 6GB of VRAM, enabling ray tracing and DLSS 3. Users can take advantage of the MUX switch, which allows them to either enhance GPU performance or extend battery life. The laptop can be equipped with up to 24GB of LPDDR5x RAM and a 2TB PCIe 4.0 SSD, along with Wi-Fi 6E support.
Cooling and Performance Features
ASUS employs IceCool Pro technology that includes dual fans, five heat pipes, and triple vents to manage a combined TDP of 125W. This setup ensures that the laptop can maintain high performance levels during demanding tasks like gaming or 3D rendering.
Display Details
The 15.6-inch OLED panel boasts a 3K resolution (2880 x 1620) with a refresh rate of 120Hz, a 0.2ms response time, and a peak brightness of 500 nits. It covers the full 100% DCI-P3 color gamut and is certified for Dolby Vision, Pantone Validation, and VESA DisplayHDR True Black 600. Additionally, TÜV Rheinland certification helps to minimize blue-light emissions.
User-Friendly Features
The laptop comes with an ASUS DialPad, a touchpad that incorporates a rotary control for easy adjustments in applications such as Photoshop. It also features a Copilot Key, providing direct access to AI tools in Windows 11. The 5MP IR camera allows for Windows Hello login, background blur, and noise cancellation during calls. Connectivity options include Thunderbolt 4, HDMI 2.1, USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C, an SD card reader, and RJ-45 Ethernet.
Audio and Battery Life
The Vivobook Pro 15 is equipped with speakers tuned by Harman Kardon featuring Dolby Atmos, and it has a 75Wh battery that can charge to 50% in just 30 minutes. This laptop weighs 1.8kg and has a thickness of 19.95mm.
Pricing and Where to Buy
The Vivobook Pro 15 is available now at retailers such as B&H, with prices starting at $1,500
Tags: ASUS, gaming laptop, Vivobook Pro 15
March 19, 2025
Redditor’s 100-Hour BIOS Update Ends with Unresponsive System
Key Takeaways
1. A Reddit user experienced a 100-hour BIOS update on his BioStar motherboard, which ended with his computer becoming unresponsive.
2. The update process started slow, with notable progress at 4 hours, 16 hours, and 36 hours, leading to a livestream of the ordeal.
3. The user aimed to update the BIOS for stability fixes, as his current version was from 2018, but faced prolonged update time, possibly due to the new BIOS being stored on the boot SSD.
4. The situation highlighted the unpredictability of technology, as not all updates go smoothly.
5. Despite the failure, the supportive community helped the user acquire a new motherboard through donations.
BIOS updates can sometimes be a bit slow, but nothing compares to what a Reddit user went through when he tried to update the BIOS on his BioStar motherboard. In a series of posts on Reddit, this user detailed an update process that stretched an incredible 100 hours, only to end with his computer becoming unresponsive. Luckily, he managed to acquire a new motherboard thanks to the generosity of supportive viewers.
Update Progress
About a week ago, a Redditor known as GoatWithAGun posted a picture of his BioStar A320MH motherboard while it was updating the BIOS. At that moment, the update had already been going on for four hours. Later, he shared another update after 16 hours, showing the progress bar moving painfully slow. Roughly 24 hours later, there was some movement in the update, but it was clear that this would turn into a multi-day process. After receiving suggestions from curious commenters on Reddit, he decided to livestream the entire update on YouTube when he hit the 36-hour mark.
An Unexpected Outcome
The BIOS update dragged on, and so did the livestream, ultimately concluding around the 100-hour mark. Unfortunately, it did not go as many viewers had hoped, and just two days ago, GoatWithAGun reported on Reddit that his monitor lost connection to the PC, rendering it completely unresponsive.
The user aimed to update the BIOS to gain some stability fixes included in the new version, especially since his current BIOS was from 2018. The new BIOS was stored on the boot SSD, which the user suspects might have contributed to the prolonged update time, but the exact cause remains unclear. Thankfully, this wasn’t his main system; it was just a secondary machine for his dorm room. After livestreaming the entire ordeal, GoatWithAGun also received donations that helped him afford a new motherboard.
Conclusion
In the end, this BIOS update saga serves as a reminder of how unpredictable technology can be. While most updates can be completed within a reasonable time frame, there are instances where things can go terribly wrong. Nonetheless, the support from the community showcases the camaraderie among tech enthusiasts.
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Tags: BIOS update, BioStar, GoatWithAGun
March 19, 2025
Samsung 9100 Pro PCIe 5.0 SSDs Offer 14,800 MB/s Read Speeds
Key Takeaways
1. Samsung’s new PCIe 5.0 M.2 NVMe SSDs can achieve read speeds of up to 14,800 MB/s.
2. Available sizes include 1TB, 2TB, 4TB, with an 8TB version expected later this year.
3. The SSDs come in both heatsink and non-heatsink versions, maintaining the 2280 form factor.
4. All models are backed by a five-year limited warranty and adhere to advanced data encryption standards.
5. Pricing starts at $200 for the 1TB model and goes up to $570 for the 4TB heatsink version.
Samsung has just revealed its super speedy PCIe 5.0 M.2 NVMe SSDs, which can achieve read speeds of up to 14,800 MB/s. You can now order the 9100 Pro and the 9100 Pro with Heatsink directly from Samsung’s website or from a few chosen retailers. These SSDs come in 1TB, 2TB, and 4TB sizes. Samsung also announced that they will release 8TB versions in the second half of this year. While these SSDs redefine the capabilities of PCIe 5.0, they do come at a higher price.
Product Specifications
Utilizing the PCIe 5.0 x4 interface, the 9100 Pro series maintains the 2280 form factor and offers both Heatsink and non-heatsink versions. Storage options include 1TB, 2TB, 4TB, and the upcoming 8TB (expected later this year), with comparable read and write speeds across the variants. The 4TB and 8TB options can achieve the maximum advertised sequential read speed of 14,800 MB/s and sequential write speeds of 13,400 MB/s. Meanwhile, the 1TB and 2TB models are slightly slower, reaching 14,700 MB/s for sequential reads, with the 1TB variant having the lowest sequential write speeds at 13,300 MB/s.
Durability and Warranty
All variants are equipped with Samsung’s V NAND TLC (V8) and come with a custom controller. Regarding durability, the 1TB model is rated for 600 TBW (Total Bytes Written), the 2TB version for 1,200, the 4TB for 2,400, and the 8TB for 4,800. Each model is backed by Samsung’s five-year limited warranty, which is typical for most Samsung SSDs. They also adhere to Class 0 (AES 256), TCG/Opal v2.0, and MS eDrive (IEEE1667) data encryption standards to keep your data secure.
Pricing Information
The pricing for the 1TB 9100 Pro SSD is set at $200, while the heatsink version costs $220. For the 2TB model, the price is $300 without the heatsink and $320 with it. The 4TB variant is priced at $550 for the non-heatsink version and $570 for the heatsink version. You can find all of these products available on Samsung’s online store, Amazon, Newegg, and Best Buy.
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Tags: NVMe storage, PCIe 5.0 SSD, Samsung 9100 PRO
March 19, 2025
Apple’s First Foldable Could Be More Efficient Than Expected
Key Takeaways
1. Apple is developing its first foldable gadget with an 18.8-inch screen that will run on macOS.
2. The device is expected to have improved power efficiency due to a smaller display driver IC, reduced from 28nm to 16nm.
3. The foldable gadget, potentially named ‘MacBook Fold’, will be Apple’s first touchscreen device operating on macOS.
4. Rumors suggest the device could be revealed soon, with mass production expected to start in late 2026.
5. Industry experts speculate the product launch may occur in late 2026, early 2027, or possibly as late as 2028.
Apple is reportedly developing its first foldable gadget, featuring a sizable 18.8-inch screen that will operate on macOS. Although the company has not released any official details, various rumors and leaks have been circulating. The most recent information suggests that this device could be much more efficient than earlier estimates indicated. This improvement is linked to Apple supposedly shrinking the display integrated circuit to a smaller, more efficient version, all while maintaining performance levels.
Improved Power Efficiency
According to a post by leaker Phone Chip Expert on Weibo, the anticipated foldable gadget from Apple has demonstrated enhanced power efficiency. The display driver IC, which was originally said to be 28nm, has now been minimized to 16nm. This change significantly boosts the power efficiency of the display, without compromising its performance. The leaker did not provide any additional details, but their post was a reply to another that mentioned Apple’s two folding devices have entered the product introduction phase at Foxconn, with mass production expected to kick off in the latter half of 2026.
Anticipated Launch
It is rumored that Apple plans to reveal this foldable device, dubbed the ‘MacBook Fold’, in the near future. This will mark the company’s first touchscreen device running macOS, and it will be intriguing to observe how macOS is adapted for touch functionality.
As noted before, Apple has kept quiet about any specifics regarding the foldable device, so this information should be regarded with caution. Given the production timeline, experts in the industry speculate that the gadget might hit the market in late 2026 or early 2027. However, Bloomberg journalist Mark Gurman suggests that a 2028 launch is more likely.
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Tags: Apple, foldable device, MacBook Fold
March 19, 2025
Asus NUC 15 Pro+ Mini PC: Core Ultra 9 & 96GB Memory Launch
Key Takeaways
1. The NUC 15 Pro Plus features updated processors, including the Intel Core Ultra 9 285H, with options for Ultra 7, 5, and 2 series CPUs.
2. It has a compact design measuring 5.7 x 4.4 x 1.6 inches and supports up to 96GB of DDR5-6400 RAM across two memory slots.
3. Users can install one M.2 2280 and one M.2 2242 SSD, with connectivity options including USB 3.2 Gen 2 and Thunderbolt 4.
4. Connectivity features include 2.5 Gbps Ethernet, WiFi 7, and the ability to mount the PC on the back of a monitor with a VESA mount.
5. The barebone model is priced around €600 in Europe and is expected to start at $560 in the US.
We’ve previously given insight into the NUC 15 Pro, and now Asus has broadened its range with the introduction of the NUC 15 Pro Plus. As expected, this mini PC remains aligned with its initial design but now features updated processors like the Intel Core Ultra 9 285H. Buyers can also select from options like the Intel Core Ultra 7 265H, Ultra 5 235H, 255H, or 225H. The most powerful CPU option can deliver up to 99 TOPS in AI tasks.
Compact Design and Memory Options
The Asus mini PC measures about 5.7 x 4.4 x 1.6 inches and includes two memory slots that can hold up to 96GB of DDR5-6400 RAM. Additionally, users have the option to install one M.2 2280 and one M.2 2242 SSD, both interfaced through four PCIe 4.0 lanes. For those needing extra storage, external devices can be connected via USB 3.2 Gen 2 and Thunderbolt 4. The two Thunderbolt 4 ports also support DisplayPort 2.1. In addition, there are two HDMI 2.1 ports along with USB 2.0 ports. The configuration with the Core Ultra 9 comes with a 150W power supply and uses a traditional barrel power connector.
Connectivity Features
For wired connections, 2.5 Gbps Ethernet is included, along with WiFi 7 for speedy wireless access. As has been the norm, the NUC 15 Pro+ can be conveniently mounted on the back of a monitor due to its included VESA mount. The mini PC has just been released and isn’t widely available yet, but certain retailers in Europe have already listed the barebone model with an Intel Core Ultra 5 225H for around €600. In the US, prices are expected to begin at $560.
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Tags: Asus NUC 15 Pro Plus, Intel Core Ultra 9 285H, Mini-PC
March 19, 2025
GMKtec Launches EVO-X2 Mini PC with Ryzen AI Max+ 395
Key Takeaways
1. GMKtec has introduced the EVO-X2, the first mini PC featuring the Ryzen AI Max+ 395 APU during CES 2025.
2. The Ryzen AI Max+ 395 includes the Radeon 8060S iGPU, offering performance comparable to discrete graphics and gaming laptops with an RTX 4070.
3. Initial tests show the EVO-X2 performs well in gaming at 1440p.
4. The mini PC is slightly larger than typical models due to a substantial cooler but remains compact for smaller spaces.
5. Launch is expected in Q2 2025, with pricing likely exceeding $1,000 based on previous high-end Strix Point systems.
While AMD made its official announcement about the Strix Halo series during CES 2025, there hasn’t been much action in the market regarding systems with the new APUs, particularly mini PCs powered by the Zen 5 tech. That was until GMKtec stepped in, introducing the EVO-X2, claiming it to be the very first model featuring the Ryzen AI Max+ 395.
Compact Performance
The mini PC is built around the Ryzen AI Max+ 395, which boasts a standout feature—the Radeon 8060S iGPU. This graphics unit is touted to be at a level comparable to discrete graphics, with 40 Compute Units (CUs), more than double the power of the Radeon 890M found in the Strix Point series.
In recent tests by ETA Prime, a prototype of this mini PC was evaluated, showing good performance in gaming at 1440p. Our own detailed examination of the Ryzen AI Max+ 395 reveals that its integrated GPU is on par with gaming laptops that have an RTX 4070.
Size and Specifications
Even though GMKtec has not provided thorough details on the EVO-X2, the showcased mini PC seems to be somewhat larger than the typical mini PC, presumably due to the substantial cooler that’s been installed. Nonetheless, it appears compact enough to fit in smaller work environments.
The exact launch date and pricing for the EVO-X2 have also not been disclosed by GMK. Still, this new Strix Halo mini PC is anticipated to launch in the second quarter of 2025. Given that the EVO-X1 and other high-end Strix Point systems debuted at over $900 (the 1 TB Minisforum AI370 is currently priced at $935.99 on Amazon), it’s likely that this upcoming Zen 5 mini PC will exceed the $1,000 mark.
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Tags: GMKtec EVO-X2, Radeon 8060S, Ryzen AI Max+ 395
March 19, 2025
Asus Launches Ascent GX10 Mini PC with 128GB RAM and Superchip
Key Takeaways
1. Asus introduced a new mini PC featuring the Nvidia GB10 Grace Blackwell ARM chip with a unique design.
2. The Nvidia chip includes 10 ARM Cortex-X925 performance cores and 10 Cortex-A725 cores, with a maximum memory capacity of 128GB.
3. The mini PC offers an AI performance of 1,000 TOPS and supports linking multiple units for additional memory.
4. It can accommodate up to 4TB of SSD storage, but specifics on connectivity options are not yet revealed.
5. Pricing and release date for the Asus Ascent GX10 are unknown, but it may be similar to Nvidia’s Project Digits priced at $2,999.
Almost at the same time as the Dell Pro Max GB10, Asus has introduced a new mini PC that runs on the Nvidia GB10 Grace Blackwell ARM chip. This compact PC comes in a sleek white casing with a power button located at the front, and it features a unique design on the upper side.
Specifications of the Nvidia Chip
The Nvidia chip is equipped with 10 ARM Cortex-X925 performance cores and an additional 10 Cortex-A725 cores. It connects through NVLink to a graphics chip built on the latest Nvidia Blackwell architecture. This setup allows both the processor and the graphics chip to utilize memory, which can be expanded to a maximum capacity of 128GB. This system is said to manage AI models with as much as 200 billion parameters.
Performance Insights
Nvidia claims an AI performance of 1,000 TOPS, which is roughly a third of what a GeForce RTX 5090 can achieve. However, the extensive memory capacity makes it suitable for larger models that can be processed without swapping, thus preventing any drop in performance.
Furthermore, users have the option to link multiple Asus Ascent GX10 units for additional memory. The mini PC also supports up to 4TB of SSD storage. Asus has not yet revealed more technical information or specifics regarding connectivity options.
Pricing and Availability
Asus has not shared any details about the Ascent GX10’s price or when it will be released. Nvidia’s similar Project Digits mini PC is set to launch in May with a price tag of $2,999, so it’s fair to think that the Asus device might be in the same price range.
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Tags: Asus Ascent GX10, Mini-PC, Nvidia GB10 Grace Blackwell
March 19, 2025
Asus Launches 2025 Vivobook Pro 15: Core Ultra 9 & OLED for $1499
Key Takeaways
1. 15.6-inch 16:9 laptops are making a comeback, with the Asus Vivobook Pro 15 N6506CU now available for purchase.
2. The laptop features a high-quality 3K 120 Hz OLED display called “Lumina,” aimed at gamers and content creators.
3. It includes impressive specs, like a Core Ultra 9 285H CPU and GeForce RTX 4050 GPU, offering strong performance.
4. This model is the first “Pro” version of the VivoBook Pro 15 in over three years, marking a shift towards a more premium design.
5. A detailed review of the Asus Vivobook Pro 15 N6506CU is expected to be published soon.
15.6-inch 16:9 laptops might be making a return this year after being in the background compared to 16-inch 16:10 models for a while. The new Asus Vivobook Pro 15 N6506CU is now available for purchase at stores like B&H, with prices starting at just below $1500.
Impressive Specifications
This model stands out due to its 3K 120 Hz OLED display called “Lumina,” which is designed for gamers and content creators alike. The HDR600 display boasts 600 nits of brightness, DCI-P3 color coverage, reduced blue light emissions, and a flicker-free viewing experience. Additionally, it features a Core Ultra 9 285H CPU combined with a GeForce RTX 4050, making it a powerful and well-balanced machine.
A Long-Awaited Return
The 2025 VivoBook Pro 15 is the first “Pro” version in years that has a 15.6-inch display. Our last review of a VivoBook Pro 15 was over three years ago when Zen 3 and GeForce RTX 3050 were the top mainstream mobile choices. Since then, the VivoBook series has become more premium in design and cost. Expect our review of this model to be published in the upcoming weeks.
Tags: ASUS, OLED display, Vivobook Pro 15 N6506CU