Category: Computers

  • Banana Pi BPI-R4 Lite vs Raspberry Pi 5: Key Advantages Explained

    Banana Pi BPI-R4 Lite vs Raspberry Pi 5: Key Advantages Explained

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Banana Pi BPI-R4 Lite is available for about $86 and is a potential alternative to the Raspberry Pi 5, which starts at $66.
    2. It is designed with a focus on networking, featuring an SFP port with 2.5Gbps bandwidth and five Ethernet ports, including one that supports 2.5Gbps.
    3. The board includes a mini-PCIe slot for expansion, allowing users to add a WiFi 7 card or a cellular modem via the M.2 slot.
    4. Powered by a MediaTek MT7987A SoC, it has four Cortex-A53 cores, 2GB of DDR4 RAM, and 8GB of eMMC storage, with support for microSD cards.
    5. It lacks a standard GPIO pin header but supports sensor connections through UART, I2C, and SPI; it also features a USB 3.0 port and is powered by a barrel plug.

    The Banana Pi BPI-R4 Lite is now ready for sale. You can find this single-board computer on Youyeetoo for approximately $86. Before making a purchase, customers should check the shipping terms and any additional fees. This device could be a good alternative to the Raspberry Pi 5, which starts at $66 on Amazon.

    Focused on Networking

    This SBC has a unique focus, especially for networking uses. It might be great for setting up an OpenWrt router, for example. The latest Banana Pi model comes with an SFP port that supports a bandwidth of 2.5Gbps and includes five Ethernet ports. One of these ports reaches the same 2.5Gbps speed, while the others provide standard Gigabit performance.

    Expandable and Versatile

    Moreover, there’s a mini-PCIe slot available that connects through two PCIe 3.0 lanes, enabling users to add a WiFi 7 card, for instance. The board is driven by a MediaTek MT7987A SoC, which boasts four Cortex-A53 cores, 2GB of DDR4 RAM, and 8GB of eMMC storage. Users can also utilize a microSD card. Although it doesn’t have a standard GPIO pin header, you can connect sensors and actuators using UART, I2C, and SPI. Additionally, you can add a cellular modem in the M.2 slot. There is no HDMI port included, but it does come with a single USB 3.0 port. Finally, this competitor to the Raspberry Pi 5 is powered by a conventional barrel plug.

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    Banana Pi BPI-R4 Lite vs Raspberry Pi 5: Key Advantages Explained

     

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  • Affordable Core i5-12450H Laptop with 512GB SSD: Rimbook L1 Launches

    Affordable Core i5-12450H Laptop with 512GB SSD: Rimbook L1 Launches

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Colorful Rimbook L1 is a budget-friendly laptop aimed at office users, featuring basic specifications.
    2. It is powered by an Intel Core i5-12450H processor, with 16GB of DDR4 RAM and a 512GB SSD.
    3. The laptop has a 15.6-inch 1080p display, but lacks detailed color space coverage specifications.
    4. The 50Wh battery offers around eight hours of use and supports USB-C charging at 65 watts.
    5. Priced at $399, the Rimbook L1 includes multiple ports but is not particularly lightweight, weighing 3.92 lbs.

    Colorful is well-known for its graphics cards, but they also provide a few laptops. Their latest offering, the Rimbook L1, is one of the most budget-friendly notebooks they have released, aimed specifically at office users. Even though the specs are quite basic, the Rimbook L1 presents a compelling option compared to Chromebooks or affordable Pentium laptops.

    Processor and Memory

    For this model, Colorful has chosen an Intel Core i5-12450H, a mobile CPU from 2022. It has four performance cores that can reach boost clock speeds of up to 4.4 GHz and four efficiency cores. The laptop is equipped with 16GB of DDR4 RAM and a 512GB SSD. The 15.6-inch screen features a 16:9 aspect ratio, a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels, a refresh rate of 60Hz, and a brightness level of 300 nits. It seems that Colorful has selected a cost-efficient display, as there are no specifications available regarding the color space coverage.

    Battery and Design

    The 50Wh battery is said to last around eight hours during typical office tasks and can be charged through USB-C with a maximum of 65 watts. Despite having a smaller battery and a cooling system that includes only one fan, the Rimbook L1 isn’t particularly lightweight or slim, measuring 0.7 inches in thickness and weighing 3.92 lbs. However, this budget laptop includes two USB-C ports—one that supports data transfer speeds up to 5 Gbps—three USB-A ports, one HDMI 1.4 port, and a 3.5mm headphone jack.

    The Rimbook L1 is currently available in the Philippines for $399, and Colorful has indicated that it will be launched in additional regions soon.

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    Affordable Core i5-12450H Laptop with 512GB SSD: Rimbook L1 LaunchesAffordable Core i5-12450H Laptop with 512GB SSD: Rimbook L1 Launches

     

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  • Ohio Woman’s Legal Revenge on Repossessed Car Shocks Dealership

    Ohio Woman’s Legal Revenge on Repossessed Car Shocks Dealership

    Key Takeaways

    1. A Kia dealership in Ohio repossessed Tiah McCreary’s car, claiming insufficient information for loan approval.
    2. McCreary registered the dealership’s name after it failed to renew it, sending a cease-and-desist letter to the dealership.
    3. The dealership initially won in court, citing a contract clause to reclaim its name.
    4. An appeals court ruled that the name issue was separate from the repossession process and should be heard independently.
    5. Both parties are returning to lower courts for further legal proceedings regarding the name dispute.

    A Kia dealership in Ohio is trying to reclaim its name after a woman named Tiah McCreary took it for herself. This whole situation began when the dealership repossessed her car.

    The Car Repossession Incident

    The dealership, which used to be called “Taylor Kia of Lima,” repossessed McCreary’s vehicle within just a month. They sold her a pre-owned Kia K5, but later claimed in court filings that McCreary didn’t give enough information for her loan to be approved.

    The Name Snatch

    While exploring her legal options, McCreary saw an opportunity for some revenge. She learned that the dealership had failed to renew its business name with the Ohio Secretary of State. Seizing the moment, she registered the name in her own name. Following this, she sent a cease-and-desist letter to the dealership, demanding they stop using the name.

    Courtroom Battle

    In response to this identity crisis, the dealership sought help from the courts to reclaim its name. They argued that a clause in their purchase contract made McCreary’s actions invalid, and a judge agreed with them at first. However, the Third District appeals court had a different opinion, stating that the clause only applied to the repossession process and not to the issue of the name “Taylor Kia of Lima.”

    According to the court ruling, the “claim is a separate matter that could be pursued independently of the other claims in the complaint that address the consumer transaction at issue. Since this claim does not fall within the scope of the arbitration agreement, this claim should not have been dismissed and sent to arbitration.”

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  • Dell 14 Plus 2-in-1 Lacks Features of Inspiron 14 7445

    Dell 14 Plus 2-in-1 Lacks Features of Inspiron 14 7445

    Key Takeaways

    1. The 2025 Dell 14 Plus 2-in-1 replaces the 2024 Inspiron 14 7445 and 7440 models but has removed some features.
    2. Key missing features include the SD card reader and a second USB-A port, which may inconvenience users.
    3. The RAM in the new model is not removable, unlike the previous version that had expandable memory options.
    4. Both models weigh about 1.6 kg, with similar processor performance; however, the new model has a larger battery for better longevity.
    5. The Dell 14 Plus 2-in-1 offers slight AI acceleration but only minimal speed improvements for basic office tasks compared to the previous model.

    The 2025 Dell 14 Plus 2-in-1 is now available, taking the place of the 2024 Dell Inspiron 14 7445 2-in-1 and Inspiron 14 7440 2-in-1. Ideally, the new version would retain all the features of the previous one while introducing some additional options, but in truth, several features have been removed or substituted.

    Missing Features

    One of the key components that the Inspiron 14 7445 2-in-1 has but the Dell 14 Plus 2-in-1 lacks is the SD card reader. Additionally, it does not include a second USB-A port. This may inconvenience users who depend on card readers for transferring files. Also, the RAM in the new model isn’t removable, unlike the 2024 version which offers two SODIMM slots for expanding memory.

    Weight and Performance

    So, do these removed features create a lighter and quicker device? Sadly, both the 2024 and 2025 models weigh approximately 1.6 kg, and their processor performance is quite similar. However, the newer model does come with a bigger battery pack (64 Wh vs. 54 Wh), which is beneficial for battery longevity.

    AI Acceleration

    For those interested in AI acceleration from the Ryzen AI 7 350, the Dell 14 Plus 2-in-1 might still be a good option. Nevertheless, basic office tasks such as browsing the web, working on spreadsheets, light editing, and video streaming will see only a slight increase in speed with the more expensive new model.

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  • Ayaneo Launches AM01S Mini-PC, Teases New AM03 Model

    Ayaneo Launches AM01S Mini-PC, Teases New AM03 Model

    Key Takeaways

    1. Ayaneo’s AM0 series mini-PC line has not introduced new models in 18 months, with the AM01 and AM02 priced at $599.
    2. The company lowered existing model prices and hinted at the upcoming AM01S, but no release date has been provided despite earlier announcements.
    3. The AM01S will feature options with AMD’s latest Ryzen processors, including the Ryzen AI 9 HX 370.
    4. Ayaneo has introduced a limited edition B-Duck finish and confirmed that pre-orders for the AM01S will start in August, though the exact date is unclear.
    5. Ayaneo is teasing the AM03 model, with limited information available, and briefly mentioned the AM04 before removing references to it.

    It’s been some time since Ayaneo talked about its mini-PC line. The AM0 series is still a young branch even after eighteen months since it first launched. The AM01 and AM02 (currently priced at $599 on Amazon) made their appearance in late 2023, but no new models have been introduced since then.

    Price Adjustments and Updates

    Instead, last year, the company decided to lower the prices of the existing models while hinting at the upcoming AM01S. Even though the AM01S was teased over a year ago, Ayaneo has yet to give it a release date, which is surprising since they announced an AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 upgrade for it back in March.

    Recent Developments

    Just this week, the AM01S made another appearance during the company’s latest public strategy sharing session. From what we can see, there hasn’t been any change to the mini-PC since earlier this year. The AM01S will offer options with AMD’s Ryzen 7 8745HS, Ryzen 7 8845HS, Ryzen 9 8945HS, and the Ryzen AI 9 HX 370.

    In addition, Ayaneo has introduced a limited edition B-Duck finish that has been featured on some of its recent models. The company has also confirmed that pre-orders for the AM01S will kick off in August. However, the exact date remains uncertain at this point.

    New Models on the Horizon

    Ayaneo has begun to tease the AM03 as well. Sadly, not much has been disclosed about this new model, other than it being showcased in two different colors. Ayaneo also mentioned the AM04 during their livestream, but later removed any mention of it in the following videos. For further information, check out the images and video below.

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  • Dynabook Portege Z40L-N: Lightweight 14-Inch Laptop with Drawbacks

    Dynabook Portege Z40L-N: Lightweight 14-Inch Laptop with Drawbacks

    Key Takeaways

    1. Lightweight laptops, especially 14-inch variants, are easier to carry while traveling, with most weighing around 1.2 kg to 1.3 kg.
    2. The Dynabook Portege Z40L-N is notable for its low weight of only 961 g, making it the lightest in its category.
    3. Users should be aware of performance trade-offs; the Portege Z40L-N shows a performance drop of over 20% compared to other 14-inch laptops with the same processor.
    4. The smaller cooling system in the Portege Z40L-N causes it to have lower CPU performance and higher temperatures during stress tests.
    5. For those prioritizing performance in 14-inch subnotebooks, heavier models like the Dell or Lenovo are recommended over ultra-light options.

    Lightweight laptops are always easier to carry around whe traveling or on-the-go. 14-inch variants especially offer a nice mix of screen real estate and portability, with most weighing around 1.2 kg to 1.3 kg, such as the Lenovo ThinkPad X9 14 and the Dell Pro 14 Premium. However, the Dynabook Portege Z40L-N stands out because it weighs only 961 g, making it significantly lighter than other 14-inch laptops while still providing similar Core Ultra 7 processor options.

    Performance Trade-offs

    While the reduced weight is a definite plus, it’s important for users to realize that this comes with a slight dip in performance. Our comparison charts indicate that the Portege Z40L-N ranks lowest among other 14-inch laptops featuring the same Core Ultra 7 258V processor, showing a performance drop of over 20 percent on average. The smaller cooling system is mainly responsible for this; during tests like Prime95, the CPU managed to stabilize at just 2.2 GHz and a hot 82 C, in contrast to 3.4 GHz and a cooler 73 C on the Lenovo Yoga Slim 9 14 Gen 10.

    Conclusion and Recommendations

    You can find more information and benchmarks in our review of the Portege Z40L-N. Users who seek the utmost performance from their 14-inch subnotebooks might want to consider heavier alternatives like the Dell or Lenovo models instead of opting for ultra-lightweight choices like the Dynabook.

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  • Intel Unveils Three New Power-Efficient Arrow Lake CPUs

    Intel Unveils Three New Power-Efficient Arrow Lake CPUs

    Key Takeaways

    1. Intel has added three new models to the Core Ultra 200 series, set to launch in Q3 2025.
    2. The new models include the Core Ultra 5 235A, 235TA, and mobile 235UA, with slight price and performance variations.
    3. The Core Ultra 5 235A is similar to the existing Core Ultra 5 235 but has a higher price of $269.
    4. The 235TA and 235UA have identical specifications to the 235T and 235U, leading to confusion about their differences.
    5. Intel is also developing Panther Lake mobile CPUs, which are expected to feature 50% more Xe cores for improved graphics performance.

    The Intel Core Ultra 200 series Arrow Lake CPUs made their debut in October of the previous year, and the range has been gradually growing. In January of this year, Intel introduced the Core Ultra 5 235, a budget-friendly, energy-efficient processor for desktops. Recently, the company has quietly added three more versions of this chip—two for desktops and one for laptops.

    New Models Coming Soon

    According to @momomo_us, who shared the news on X, the three new models are set to launch in Q3 2025, as indicated on Intel’s website. The new additions include the Core Ultra 5 235A, the 235TA, and the mobile 235UA. Notably, the Core Ultra 5 235A appears to be nearly identical to the Core Ultra 5 235, but it comes with a slightly higher suggested retail price of $269, compared to the $247-$257 range for the Core Ultra 5 235.

    Similar Specs Across the Board

    The Core Ultra 5 235TA and Core Ultra 5 235UA are also replicas of the existing models, the Core Ultra 5 235T and Core Ultra 5 235U, respectively. The 235TA features a configuration comprising six P-cores and eight E-cores, with a maximum boost frequency of 5 GHz. The E-cores can achieve a peak frequency of 4.4 GHz, and the cache memory remains unchanged at 24 MB, identical to the Core Ultra 235T. The same applies to the 235UA and the 235U, leading to confusion regarding the addition of these new models and their distinctions from the current offerings.

    Future Developments in Mobile CPUs

    As Intel expands its lower-end options, the company is also said to be working on its Panther Lake mobile CPUs. Recent reports suggest that some of these models will feature 50% more Xe cores, resulting in significantly enhanced graphics performance, which is perfect for next-gen handheld gaming consoles.

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  • Emdoor Unveils AMD Strix Halo Laptop with Sturdy Design

    Emdoor Unveils AMD Strix Halo Laptop with Sturdy Design

    Key Takeaways

    1. Emdoor has launched the EM-959-NM16ASH-1 laptop featuring Ryzen AI Max Strix Halo processors, available in multiple CPU configurations.
    2. The laptop supports up to 128 GB of LPDDR5X RAM and includes two PCIe Gen4 NVMe SSD slots, though RAM availability may vary by CPU.
    3. It features a 16-inch LCD display with a high resolution of 2560×1600 pixels and refresh rates of 165 or 180 Hz, along with various battery options.
    4. Connectivity includes one USB 4.0 port, USB 3.2 Gen2 Type-C ports, 2.5 Gbps Ethernet, and a micro SD card reader, but lacks multiple USB 4.0 ports.
    5. Weighing 2.4 kg, the laptop is positioned as a potential desktop replacement, though Emdoor primarily supplies laptops to other businesses rather than selling directly to consumers.

    While finding AMD’s laptop processors was quite difficult just a year ago, the new Ryzen AI Max Strix Halo chips are now seen everywhere. These chips have powered numerous mini-PCs, laptops, and even portable gaming consoles. Recently, another laptop using Strix Halo has been revealed by a lesser-known Chinese manufacturer.

    Emdoor’s Latest Offering

    Emdoor, a company that introduced a modular mini-PC earlier this year, has presented the EM-959-NM16ASH-1. This model can be set up with various CPUs including the Ryzen AI Max+ 395, Ryzen AI Max 390, and Ryzen AI Max 385. It’s capable of supporting up to 128 GB of LPDDR5X RAM and includes two PCIe Gen4 NVMe SSD slots. However, it’s not clear if the 128 GB RAM option will be available for all CPU configurations.

    Specifications and Features

    The device features a 16-inch LCD display with a resolution of 2560×1600 pixels and a refresh rate of either 165 or 180 Hz. Battery options are available in 80 Wh and 99 Wh. Users can select between an Intel Wi-Fi 6 + Bluetooth 5.2 module or an AMD Wi-Fi 7 alternative. The webcam options include a 1080p camera with a privacy shutter or one equipped with an optional IR module. Additionally, the chassis includes a fingerprint reader for biometric security.

    Interestingly, Emdoor has opted to include only one USB 4.0 port, unlike other models that offer two. The remaining ports are limited to USB 3.2 Gen2 Type-C with speeds of 5 and 10 Gbps. It also supports 2.5 Gbps Ethernet and comes with a micro SD card reader. The laptop features a full keyboard that includes a numpad, though the direction keys and overall design may not appeal to everyone.

    Weight and Market Position

    Although Emdoor has not disclosed the cooling methods for the EM-959-NM16ASH-1, its weight of 2.4 kg suggests it might be quite robust. This weight brings it close to the desktop replacement category, which isn’t necessarily a drawback, particularly since the Strix Halo provides sufficient power for such functionality. Similar to Sixunited, Emdoor acts as an ODM supplying laptops to other businesses, meaning direct purchases by consumers may not be possible.

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    Emdoor Unveils AMD Strix Halo Laptop with Sturdy Design
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  • NEC VersaPro J UltraLite VY Laptops: AI Power, Lunar Lake, All-Day Use

    NEC VersaPro J UltraLite VY Laptops: AI Power, Lunar Lake, All-Day Use

    Key Takeaways

    1. Self-Replaceable Battery: The NEC VersaPro J UltraLite Type VY features a large, user-replaceable battery, providing extended use up to 20.1 hours for video playback.

    2. AI Power Management: The laptop utilizes an AI NPU in Intel Core Ultra Series 2 processors for efficient power consumption and enhanced features like AI background noise cancellation.

    3. Variety of Configurations: Users can choose from multiple CPU, RAM, and SSD options, with connectivity features including Ethernet, Wi-Fi 7, and Bluetooth.

    4. Lightweight Design: Weighing between 885 g and 1,031 g, the laptop is available in standard and lightweight versions, with dimensions that make it portable.

    5. Pricing and Availability: The starting price is 255,090 yen (about $1,759), and it is available for purchase in Japan, with an optional large battery for an additional cost.

    NEC has introduced the 13.3-inch WUXGA VersaPro J UltraLite Type VY business laptops that are built for extended use, featuring a large battery that users can replace themselves. This laptop is designed to endure drops, shocks, and spills on the keyboard, and it has a TFT LCD display that can flex when pressure is applied.

    Advanced Power Management

    The device utilizes the AI NPU present in the Intel Core Ultra Series 2 processors to manage power consumption and maintain battery health. With the large battery option, the VersaPro Type VY can last up to 20.1 hours for video playback, measured under the JEITA 3.0 battery operating time standards, while average usage yields about 16 hours, based on NEC’s internal tests. The NPU also enhances features like AI background noise cancellation for video calls and supports the AI Plus Biz agent for troubleshooting.

    Configurations and Connectivity

    Users can choose from different configurations, including 4P/4E Core Ultra 5 226V to Core Ultra 7 258V CPUs, with RAM options ranging from 16 GB to 32 GB and SSD storage available from 256 GB to 1 TB. Standard connectivity features include Ethernet, Wi-Fi 7, and Bluetooth, with an optional cellular LTE connection. Each model is equipped with two USB-A ports, two USB-C 3.2 Gen 2 ports (PD, DP), one HDMI port, a 3.5 mm headphone jack, and a microSD card slot. The full HD webcam supports Windows Hello and includes a privacy shutter.

    Weight and Dimensions

    The laptop is available in both standard and lightweight versions, with either a standard or large battery option. Its weight ranges from 885 g (1.95 lbs.) to 1,031 g (2.27 lbs.) and its dimensions vary between 299 x 214 x 17.9 mm and 299 x 214 x 18.2 mm (11.77 x 8.43 x 0.70 ~ 0.72 in.) depending on the specifications. The regular battery weighs 150 g (5.29 oz.), while the large battery weighs 259 g (9.14 oz.).

    The starting price of the VersaPro J UltraLite Type VY is 255,090 yen (approximately $1,759), and an additional large battery can be purchased for 4,070 yen (about $28). Both products are available for purchase on the NEC online store in Japan. For those outside of Japan seeking a comparable business laptop with a smaller battery, the ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 13 Aura Edition offers an 11-hour runtime for Wi-Fi browsing and can be found on Amazon.

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  • Lenovo’s LCFC Launches New AMD Strix Halo Mini PC

    Lenovo’s LCFC Launches New AMD Strix Halo Mini PC

    Key Takeaways

    1. Lenovo’s LCFC has launched the AMD Strix Halo mini PC, named H02, in China with three different Ryzen AI Max+ configurations.
    2. The mini PC supports up to 128 GB of LPDDR5 RAM and has two M.2 slots for PCIe 4.0 SSDs.
    3. The design resembles other Strix Halo systems and includes a variety of ports, with an effective cooling system for performance up to 120 W.
    4. Pricing starts at CNY 17,999 (about $2,508) for the entry-level model and goes up to CNY 19,999 (about $2,786) for the highest-end version.
    5. There is currently no news on a global release, and the Lenovo subsidiary has a limited international presence.

    Lenovo’s offshoot, LCFC, has quietly introduced a new AMD Strix Halo mini PC in China. Named the H02, this device can be fitted with the powerful Ryzen AI Max+ 395. There are also two other versions available, with the entry-level model featuring the Ryzen AI Max+ 385.

    Specifications and Performance

    The mid-tier version comes with the Ryzen AI Max+ 390. Each setup of this Lenovo mini PC supports up to 128 GB of LPDDR5 RAM, although the exact amount of memory included isn’t specified. Additionally, it features two M.2 slots for PCIe 4.0 SSDs, with a 2 TB Samsung 990 EVO Plus priced at $129.99 on Amazon.

    Design and Features

    In terms of design, the mini PC has a chassis that closely resembles the recently released Strix Halo systems, like the Corsair AI Workstation 300. It includes a satisfactory range of ports, including:

    Moreover, it supports a wireless module that can be installed in the M.2 2230 slot of the mini PC. This module can enable dual-band WiFi and Bluetooth 5.2. The company also highlights that the LCFC H02 features an effective cooling system, allowing it to deliver performance up to 120 W.

    Pricing Information

    As for the cost, the new Strix Halo mini PC begins at CNY 17,999, which is roughly $2,508. The highest-end model, equipped with the Ryzen AI Max+ 395, is priced at CNY 19,999, about $2,786. The mid-range version featuring the Ryzen AI Max+ 390 retails for CNY 18,999, around $2,647. There’s currently no news about a global release, but it’s important to mention that this Lenovo subsidiary does not have a strong international footprint.

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    Lenovo's LCFC Launches New AMD Strix Halo Mini PCLenovo's LCFC Launches New AMD Strix Halo Mini PC
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