Category: Computers

March 11, 2025
Fake Ryzen 7 9800X3D Review: Received AMD FX 4100 Instead
Key Takeaways
1. A counterfeit AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D was delivered to a reviewer, disguised with a sticker, but was actually an outdated AMD FX 4100 CPU.
2. The reviewer noticed significant differences in the CPU’s design compared to the genuine 9800X3D.
3. The counterfeit product had a convincing sticker that misrepresented it as a Ryzen 7 9800X3D.
4. The counterfeit CPU was purchased directly from Amazon, not a third-party seller, raising concerns about Amazon’s quality control.
5. The reviewer has initiated a refund process and suggested that Amazon may need to investigate the situation with AMD.
The recent wave of PC hardware scams has brought to light a counterfeit AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D that was delivered to a reviewer through Amazon.de. However, this item was far from being a genuine 9800X3D. A writer and reviewer from Hardware Busters recounted his experience with this AMD CPU, which turned out to be an outdated AMD FX CPU that had a sticker affixed to it. While counterfeit CPUs have been reported in the past, this particular scam appears to be a new variant, and Amazon may not bear full responsibility.
Initial Impressions
The writer, cmaris from Hardware Busters, stated on their site that they ordered a Ryzen 7 9800X3D for their CPU testing system on February 25, and it arrived on March 4. When he opened the box on March 9, everything seemed normal, as the packaging appeared to be for the 9800X3D. However, he quickly noticed significant differences between the genuine 9800X3D and the product he received. Having previously owned a 9800X3D, he recognized the dissimilarities in the heatspreader, pins, and the underside of the CPU, which looked nothing like the authentic 9800X3D.
Uncovering the Truth
Upon closer examination, he discovered a sticker on top of the processor that, when removed, revealed it was actually a 2011 AMD FX 4100 CPU. The sticker claimed it was a Ryzen 7 9800X3D and included other official markings, making it appear convincingly real. While there have been instances where the integrated heat spreader (IHS) was swapped out, resulting in a faulty CPU, this seems to be an entirely new type of deception.
Amazon’s Involvement
Cmaris emphasized that the processor was not acquired from a third-party seller on Amazon but was directly from Amazon itself. Although the box was sealed, it’s possible it was returned by a previous customer who then placed the sticker on an older CPU to obtain a refund for the 9800X3D. If this is not the case, Amazon may need to contact AMD to investigate the situation. Cmaris has initiated the process for a refund.
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Tags: amd, CPU scam, Ryzen 7 9800X3D
March 10, 2025
Banana Pi Unveils New SBC Compatible with Nvidia Jetson Nano
Key Takeaways
1. The Banana Pi BPI-AIM7 is a compute module that requires a compatible carrier board for functionality.
2. It features an RK3588 ARM chipset with 8 cores and a built-in NPU for enhanced AI performance (up to 6 TOPS).
3. The board supports high-resolution outputs (up to 7680 x 4320 pixels at 60Hz) via DisplayPort and HDMI, and can connect cameras through MIPI-CSI.
4. Expansion options include PCIe 3.0 and 2.1, USB ports, and the ability to connect sensors or actuators.
5. The board dimensions are 2.7 x 1.8 inches, comes with up to 32GB LPDDR4X RAM and 128GB eMMC storage, and is compatible with Nvidia’s Jetson Nano.
The Banana Pi BPI-AIM7 is a fresh single-board computer, or a compute module to be more precise. This indicates that the board itself would likely be rather useless for most users, given that it lacks typical ports for image output and similar functions. Therefore, it can only be utilized with a compatible carrier board. Those who enjoy tinkering and want to create a compact and flat system may find this compute module quite useful when paired with a custom carrier board.
Specifications and Features
In terms of specs, the BPI-AIM7 board features an RK3588 ARM chipset, which includes four Cortex-A76 cores and four Cortex-A55 cores. The built-in NPU is designed to enhance AI applications, boasting performance of up to 6 TOPS. The board provides support for DisplayPort and HDMI, allowing resolutions up to 7680 x 4320 pixels at 60Hz. Users can also connect cameras through MIPI-CSI.
Expansion Options
Additionally, this SBC offers PCIe 3.0 with four lanes, which allows for the addition of M.2 slots or extra USB ports when used with a carrier board. It also supports PCIe 2.1 with one lane, along with one USB 3.0 Gen 1 and three USB 2.0 ports. As is common with SBCs, sensors and actuators, which can measure things like brightness, can be connected via a pin header or directly to the board.
Size and Compatibility
The Banana Pi board is about 2.7 x 1.8 inches in dimensions and comes with up to 32GB LPDDR4X RAM and 128GB eMCC storage. Importantly, the SBC is compatible with Nvidia’s Jetson Nano. An associated Crowd Supply campaign aims to not only fund the production of this new single-board computer but also to create a matching carrier board.
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Tags: Banana Pi BPI-AIM7, RK3588, Single-board Computer
March 10, 2025
Dynabook Portégé Z40L-N Launches with Detachable Battery
Key Takeaways
1. The Dynabook Portégé Z40L-N targets business users and features Intel’s Lunar Lake processors with two options: Core Ultra 5 226V (16 GB RAM) and Core Ultra 7 258V (32 GB RAM).
2. It has a removable 56 Wh battery designed to extend the laptop’s lifespan and offers a sleek, lightweight design.
3. The laptop’s build includes a magnesium-aluminum body that weighs 2.2 pounds and meets the MIL-STD-810H military standard for durability.
4. It offers a variety of ports, WiFi 7, Bluetooth, a 14-inch 1920×1200 pixel screen, and a 5 MP IR camera for Windows Hello.
5. Additional features include a spill-resistant keyboard, Dolby Atmos stereo speakers, a fingerprint reader, and storage options up to 2 TB. Pricing starts at $1,699 for the Core Ultra 5 model and $2,199 for the Core Ultra 7 model.
Dynabook’s Portégé Z40L-N is now here, marking its entry as a new laptop aimed at business users and is driven by Intel’s Lunar Lake processors. There are two different setups to choose from: one comes with the Core Ultra 5 226V, and the other features the Core Ultra 7 258V. The first option is equipped with 16 GB of RAM, while the latter gives you 32 GB of RAM.
Battery and Design Features
A standout feature of this laptop is its removable 56 Wh battery. This design choice is meant to prolong the device’s overall lifespan since batteries usually wear down quickly over time. However, that’s not all that makes this laptop special. The Dynabook Portégé Z40L-N also boasts a sleek and lightweight design.
Build Quality and Port Selection
According to the specifications, the Dynabook Portégé Z40L-N has a magnesium-aluminum body that weighs in at just 2.2 pounds, and its dimensions are 312.4x224x15.9 mm. Despite its light and slim profile, the company assures that this laptop is tough enough to pass the MIL-STD-810H military standard test.
The laptop provides a good array of ports, including:
For connectivity, you’ll find WiFi 7 and Bluetooth. As for visuals, the Portégé Z40L-N is equipped with a 14-inch screen that has a resolution of 1920×1200 pixels. Additionally, there’s a 5 MP IR camera on the front that supports Windows Hello.
Additional Features and Pricing
Other notable features of the laptop include a spill-resistant keyboard, a stereo speaker system with Dolby Atmos, a fingerprint reader, and storage options that go up to 2 TB (1 TB Crucial P310 currently priced at $64.99 on Amazon). The starting price for the Core Ultra 5 226V model is $1,699, while the higher-end Core Ultra 7 258V variant begins at $2,199. More details can be found in the spec sheets linked below.
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Tags: business-class laptop, Dynabook Portégé Z40L-N, intel Lunar Lake
March 10, 2025
Zeus GPU by Bolt Graphics: 10x Performance vs RTX 5090
Key Takeaways
1. Bolt Graphics, founded in 2020 by Darwesh Singh, has released its second GPU, the Zeus, designed for demanding tasks like simulations and 3D graphics.
2. The Zeus GPU features onboard networking with a 400 GbE QSFP, up to 32 GB of embedded GDDR5X, and supports upgradable DDR5 SODIMMs with a capacity of 2.25 TB.
3. It utilizes real-time path tracing technology (Glowstick) and is compatible with software such as AutoCAD, Revit, and Unreal Engine, focusing more on rendering for TV and film than gaming.
4. The GPU aims to reduce rendering time for creators, potentially justifying a premium price for production companies.
5. While targeted at professionals, everyday users may find more value in traditional GPUs like the RX 9070, and the Bolt Zeus may be more accessible at retail locations compared to offerings from Nvidia or AMD.
Bolt Graphics might not be as well-known as Nvidia, AMD, or Intel when it comes to GPUs, but that hasn’t stopped them from introducing their second graphics card.
Company Background
Established in 2020, Bolt Graphics was founded by Darwesh Singh. He has experience in creating data centers for large companies and designing ray tracing solutions since 2014. His newly unveiled GPU is built for demanding tasks, like simulations and 3D graphics, while only consuming 120 watts of power.
Unique Features
The Zeus GPU boasts some distinct features that are unlikely to be found in consumer graphics cards. It includes onboard networking with a 400 GbE QSFP and offers up to 32 GB of embedded GDDR5X, along with upgradable DDR5 SODIMMs that can support an impressive 2.25 TB. Additionally, it has a standard 8-pin power connector that, fingers crossed, won’t overheat.
This isn’t the first GPU the company has released; that honor goes to the 2024 Bolt “Thunder,” which also comes with a similar set of extravagant features.
Performance and Use Cases
With real-time path tracing technology known as Glowstick, this card is compatible with software like AutoCAD, Revit, Fusion 360, 3ds Max, and Unreal Engine. While “gaming” is included as a capability, it’s more likely that this GPU will be used for rendering effects in TV and film rather than for playing the latest cloud games.
This card is mainly designed to help creators cut down on the time they spend waiting for their projects to finish rendering. If the benchmarks are accurate, production companies will surely be willing to pay a currently undisclosed premium to save significant time in rendering effects.
For everyday users, it might be wiser to choose an RX 9070, but realistically, you’re more likely to find the Bolt Zeus available at your local Best Buy than any of the newest offerings from Nvidia or AMD.
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Tags: Bolt Graphics, Ray Tracing, Zeus GPU
March 8, 2025
Apple M3 Ultra Debuts on Geekbench with New Mac Studio
Key Takeaways
1. The M3 Ultra chip offers significant improvements over the M2 Ultra, including 32 CPU cores and the ability to support up to 512 GB of unified memory.
2. Geekbench scores show a 20% increase in single-core performance and a 30% increase in multicore performance for the M3 Ultra compared to the M2 Ultra.
3. The GPU performance improvements are less pronounced, with a 13% increase in the Metal test and a 9% increase in the OpenCL benchmark.
4. Compared to AMD’s Ryzen AI Max+ 395, the M3 Ultra shows about 9% better single-core performance and 33% better multicore performance, with a 63% advantage in GPU performance.
5. The M3 Ultra-powered Mac Studio starts at $3,999 for 96 GB of RAM, significantly higher than a comparable system with Ryzen AI Max+ 395, which is priced at $1,999.
Apple has quietly unveiled a brand new chip along with the latest Mac Studio. The M3 Ultra, which many thought was scrapped, brings some astonishing improvements over the M2 Ultra, including additional CPU cores and the ability to support up to 512 GB of unified memory. Recent Geekbench results have shed light on how the M3 Ultra compares with its predecessor.
Performance and Specifications
The Mac Studio being discussed is referred to as code-named Mac15,14. Its predecessor, the one featuring the M2 Ultra, is known as Mac 14,14. This indicates that the latter is indeed the new model, as confirmed by its impressive specs including 32 CPU cores and 256 GB of RAM exclusive to the M3 Ultra. According to Apple’s official site, this model is equipped with 80 GPU cores.
In the CPU test conducted by Geekbench 6.4, the M3 Ultra achieved scores of 3,262 and 28,333 points. Its predecessor, the M2 Ultra, managed 2,718 and 21,754 points. This shows a 20% boost in single-core performance and a 30% enhancement in multicore performance. The first improvement comes from an increase in clock speed (4.05 GHz compared to 3.48 GHz) and various upgrades made possible by the M3 architecture. The latter improvement is due to the higher number of CPU cores. However, these remarkable enhancements apply only to the CPU.
GPU Performance
When it comes to graphics, the improvements are less striking. In the Metal test from Geekbench, the M3 Ultra recorded 259,277 points, which is 13% faster than the M2 Ultra’s score of 229,348. A similar pattern emerges in the OpenCL benchmark, where the M3 Ultra (147,719) is about 9% faster than the M2 Ultra (135,233).
The M3 Ultra can be compared to AMD’s Ryzen AI Max+ 395, which scored 2,978 and 21,269 points in Geekbench 6.4’s CPU test, along with 90,181 points in the OpenCL benchmark. In single-core performance, Apple’s M3 Ultra is about 9% superior and approximately 33% faster in multicore tests. On the GPU front, the advantage grows to an impressive 63%. Clearly, the increase in both CPU and GPU cores gives the M3 Ultra a significant edge over the Strix Halo.
Pricing Comparison
Apple still holds a commanding position in the market; however, a fully equipped Strix Halo machine featuring a Ryzen AI Max+ 395, 128 GB RAM, and free NVMe SSD slots from Framework can be purchased for just $1,999. In contrast, an M3 Ultra-powered Mac Studio with 96 GB of RAM will cost a staggering $3,999, which also comes with a mere 512 GB of non-upgradable storage.
Tags: Geekbench, M3 Ultra, Mac Studio
March 8, 2025
Xiaomi RedmiBook Pro 16: 3K Display, 165Hz, 32GB RAM Available
Key Takeaways
1. Pre-order Availability: The Xiaomi RedmiBook Pro 16 can be pre-ordered through TradingShenzhen, not directly from Xiaomi.
2. Pricing Options: The laptop is available in two versions: the Intel Core Ultra 7 model for $1,227 and the base Intel Core Ultra 5 model for $1,086, both excluding shipping.
3. Warranty and Customization Risks: Importing the laptop may pose warranty issues, and it currently lacks options for different keyboard layouts.
4. Display and Battery Specs: It features a 16-inch display with a resolution of 3,072 x 1,920 pixels, 165 Hz refresh rate, 500 nits brightness, and a 99Wh battery with 140W charging support.
5. Connectivity and Features: The laptop includes HDMI, Thunderbolt 4, USB Type-C, USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports, WiFi 7, and a Full-HD camera.
The Xiaomi RedmiBook Pro 16 was revealed just last week, but eager buyers can already pre-order this new laptop. As is common, the device isn’t available for direct purchase from the company, but can be obtained through a Chinese online marketplace.
Pricing and Specifications
Specifically, TradingShenzhen is offering the model that features an Intel Core Ultra 7 255H, 32GB of RAM, and a 1TB SSD for $1,227, not including shipping costs. On the other hand, the base version of the RedmiBook Pro 16, which comes with an Intel Core Ultra 5 225H along with the same memory and storage, is priced at $1,086 plus shipping.
Important Considerations
Potential customers need to keep in mind that importing a Xiaomi laptop comes with certain risks, particularly regarding warranty issues. Moreover, the RedmiBook Pro 16 cannot be customized with different keyboard layouts at this moment. Nevertheless, the laptop includes Windows 11 Pro, which allows for easy language adjustments.
Display and Battery Features
This laptop is also designed with a 16-inch display that boasts a resolution of 3,072 x 1,920 pixels, a 165 Hz refresh rate, and brightness levels reaching up to 500 nits. The screen reportedly covers the entire DCI-P3 color spectrum. Additionally, it packs a 99Wh battery that supports charging at up to 140 watts. Other features include WiFi 7 and a Full-HD camera.
When it comes to ports, the laptop offers HDMI, Thunderbolt 4, USB Type-C, and USB 3.2 Gen 1 connectivity options. We evaluated last year’s version of the Xiaomi RedmiBook Pro 16 and found it quite impressive. Therefore, it’s likely that the updated 2025 model will also be a solid choice, although cautious buyers might prefer to wait for comprehensive reviews.
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Tags: 32GB RAM, Intel Core Ultra 7, Xiaomi RedmiBook Pro 16
March 8, 2025
Lenovo Launches First T ThinkPad with Pen Features at MWC 2025
Key Takeaways
1. The ThinkPad T14s 2-in-1 is the first convertible in the T series, replacing the X Tablet line.
2. Weight reduction has been a focus, with the T14s 2-in-1 made from metal and glass for sturdiness despite being heavier.
3. Material choices include a magnesium alloy outer shell and optional aluminum bottom cover for better cooling and performance.
4. The Wacom digitizer pen now attaches magnetically and charges via USB-C, enhancing comfort but increasing the risk of misplacement.
5. Port placement on the T14s 2-in-1 is suboptimal, with USB ports concentrated on one side, which may hinder user convenience.
ThinkPad has a rich legacy that dates back nearly 33 years. Some of its product lines seem almost ancient by today’s fast-paced tech world. The ThinkPad T series, for instance, was first launched in 2000 and is known for its classic 14-inch clamshell designs.
Evolution of the X Series
The X series convertibles have been around since 2005, featuring 12-inch and 13-inch displays. Historically, these two series were distinct; the T series focused solely on 14-inch models, while the X series incorporated stylus and tablet capabilities.
Introduction of the T14s 2-in-1
However, this has changed. At MWC 2025, Lenovo unveiled the new Lenovo ThinkPad T14s 2-in-1, marking the T series’ first foray into convertible laptops. This also signals the end of the X Tablet line, as the T14s 2-in-1 takes the place of the X13 2-in-1, which will not see a sixth generation release (only the clamshell ThinkPad X13 Gen 6 is set to launch). We had the chance to check out the fresh convertible in Barcelona.
Focus on Weight Reduction
In recent years, the priority for T series laptops has been reducing weight. For example, the Lenovo ThinkPad T14s Gen 6 features a carbon fiber plastic screen cover, which significantly cuts down on weight but can be a tad less sturdy than a metal body.
The ThinkPad T14s 2-in-1 Gen 1 is quite different from its T series siblings. Lenovo constructed it entirely from metal and glass. While this results in a heavier weight of 1.4 kg for a convertible, it also provides a robust and premium feel. This sturdiness is vital for a convertible, as the chassis must endure considerable mechanical stress when switching to tablet mode.
Material Choices
A magnesium alloy forms the outer shell of the ThinkPad T14s 2-in-1, but Lenovo also offers an aluminum bottom cover as an option. This aluminum cover is likely available for models with the Arrow Lake H CPUs, as it enhances heat transfer and allows for higher TDP for the processor. Boosting performance was a key reason for the T14s 2-in-1’s creation, replacing the X13 2-in-1. A larger chassis enables better cooling and faster CPU performance, addressing one of the major criticisms of the ThinkPad X13 2-in-1 Gen 5.
Wacom Digitizer Pen Design Change
A significant design update compared to the older X13 2-in-1 is the setup for the Wacom digitizer pen. In the past, the pen had a designated storage space in the chassis when not in use. The ThinkPad T14s 2-in-1, however, does not feature this. Now, the pen attaches magnetically to the right side of the screen and charges via USB-C. This change allows for a larger and more comfortable pen, but it also makes it easier to misplace. Fortunately, the magnetic hold is quite strong, requiring some effort to detach the pen.
Classic ThinkPad Aesthetic
The overall design of the ThinkPad T14s 2-in-1 remains true to the ThinkPad identity. It is all black with robust metal-capped hinges that securely hold the display. Lenovo didn’t experiment with the design elements, such as removing the mechanical TrackPoint buttons.
Port Placement Concerns
However, the placement of ports on this model could be better. With two USB-A ports on the right and two USB-C ports on the left, users might find it inconvenient to connect accessories on both sides. It would have been preferable for Lenovo to distribute the ports more evenly, potentially something to consider for future redesigns.
Tags: convertible laptop, Lenovo, ThinkPad T14s 2-in-1
March 7, 2025
Minisforum AI X1 Pro: The Future of Ryzen AI Mini PCs
Key Takeaways
1. First Mini PC with Copilot Technology: The AI X1 Pro is claimed to be the world’s first mini PC featuring Copilot technology, powered by AMD’s Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 processor.
2. Impressive Processing Power: The device boasts a 12-core, 24-thread processor with a boost clock speed of 5.1GHz and a 50 TOPS AI performance, enabling efficient execution of AI tasks.
3. Gaming Capabilities: Equipped with an AMD Radeon 890M GPU, the AI X1 Pro delivers smooth gameplay for modern AAA games and supports external GPU connectivity for enhanced graphical performance.
4. High Storage and Memory Options: The mini PC can support up to 96GB of DDR5 RAM and offers three M.2 SSD slots for a total storage capacity of up to 12TB.
5. Advanced Connectivity Features: It includes USB4 ports, HDMI 2.1, dual 2.5G Ethernet ports, and can handle multiple 4K displays, making it suitable for multitasking professionals.
Minisforum has just unveiled the AI X1 Pro, which they claim is the first mini PC in the world to feature Copilot technology. This device is powered by AMD’s latest Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 processor, making it more than just another small PC. Instead, it is a powerhouse designed for productivity and gaming that can handle modern tasks while delivering impressive performance.
Specifications of the AI X1 Pro
The AI X1 Pro is driven by AMD’s Ryzen AI 9 HX 370, a chip that includes 12 cores and 24 threads, combining Zen 5 and Zen 5c cores. It features a boost clock speed of 5.1GHz and a large 36MB cache, positioning it as one of the top processors available in a mini PC.
Furthermore, the processor contains AMD’s innovative XDNA 2-based neural processing unit (NPU), which achieves an outstanding 50 TOPS of AI performance, surpassing Microsoft’s AI PC benchmarks. This capability allows for efficient execution of AI tasks such as Copilot integration, smart automation, and real-time AI-enhanced workflows directly on the device.
Gaming Performance
The AI X1 Pro is also fitted with an AMD Radeon 890M GPU, designed with the RDNA 3.5 architecture and 16 compute units (CUs). This allows for smooth gameplay in modern AAA games, providing better frame rates and enhanced image quality. Additionally, gamers can boost graphical performance through the OCuLink port for external GPU (eGPU) connectivity.
To maintain excellent thermal performance in such a compact design, the AI X1 Pro uses an advanced cooling system that features dual silent fans, phase-change thermal materials, and dual copper heat pipes. This setup guarantees stable performance under heavy use while keeping noise to a minimum, with temperatures remaining below 80°C during maximum load. Plus, it includes a built-in 135W power supply, which removes the need for an external adapter and helps maintain a tidy workspace.
Memory and Storage Options
Minisforum has designed the AI X1 Pro with impressive storage and memory expansion capabilities. It can accommodate up to 96GB of DDR5-5600 RAM through its dual SODIMM slots, making it perfect for demanding applications like video editing, 3D rendering, and AI computations. For storage, it has three M.2 2280 PCIe 4.0 SSD slots, each able to support up to 4TB, allowing a total storage capacity of 12TB. Additionally, an SD card slot offers easy access for photographers and videographers who often need to transfer files.
The AI X1 Pro comes with a variety of AI-enabled features, such as real-time subtitles for video calls, an instant recall function that helps keep track of past activities, and AI-enhanced noise cancellation via dual microphones. It also has a fingerprint sensor for secure and easy logins, eliminating the need for traditional passwords.
Connectivity Features
On the connectivity side, this mini PC is prepared for the future with USB4 ports (offering data transfer speeds up to 40Gbps), DisplayPort 2.0, HDMI 2.1, dual 2.5G Ethernet ports, Bluetooth 5.4, and Wi-Fi 7. It can handle up to four 4K displays at once, making it a great option for professionals who multitask.
Pricing and How to Order
The Minisforum AI X1 Pro mini PC is now available for pre-order, with various configurations and prices as follows:
– 32 GB RAM + 1 TB SSD: $899 (down from $1,129)
– 64 GB RAM + 1 TB SSD: $979 (down from $1,229)
– 96 GB RAM + 2 TB SSD: $1,089 (down from $1,369)
For the latest updates, be sure to check our News Section.
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Tags: AI X1 Pro, Minisforum, Ryzen AI 9 HX 370
March 7, 2025
Huawei laptops may skip HarmonyOS NEXT after all
Key Takeaways
1. HarmonyOS NEXT is a redesigned operating system for Huawei’s devices, including smartphones, tablets, and laptops.
2. Initial HarmonyOS NEXT smartphones and tablets are now available in China, with plans for laptops to launch in 2025.
3. Recent leaks suggest that Huawei’s upcoming laptops may use Linux instead of HarmonyOS NEXT, with five models expected in 2024.
4. HarmonyOS NEXT is built on a microkernel that is claimed to be three times more efficient than Linux, providing a unified ecosystem for app development.
5. Key features of HarmonyOS NEXT include App Continuation, allowing users to switch tasks seamlessly between devices.
Huawei made a significant announcement last year with the introduction of HarmonyOS NEXT—a completely redesigned operating system tailored for its wide range of devices, which includes smartphones, tablets, smartwatches, and even laptops.
New Devices on Sale
The initial HarmonyOS NEXT smartphones and tablets are now available for purchase in China, supported by an expanding collection of vital apps for local users. Additionally, Huawei had indicated earlier that its forthcoming PCs, set to debut in 2025, would operate on the same HarmonyOS NEXT framework. However, recent developments suggest that this plan may not be realized—at least not in the immediate future.
Upcoming Laptops Expected to Use Linux
A recent leak from a reliable source in China indicates that Huawei has five new laptops in development, and they will not utilize HarmonyOS NEXT. Instead, these devices are expected to come equipped with Linux. The specific models mentioned are the MateBook D14, MateBook D16, MateBook 14, MateBook GT 14, and MateBook X Pro. However, there’s a twist—the leak refers to these as 2024 models, not the anticipated lineup for 2025.
Huawei already offers Linux-based laptops in China, while versions for global markets usually come with Windows pre-installed. Nevertheless, as noted by Huawei Central, the company has consistently stated that its 2025 PC lineup will utilize HarmonyOS NEXT rather than Windows or Linux, making this leak quite perplexing. So, for now, it’s wise to take this information with some skepticism. One thing remains clear—HarmonyOS NEXT laptops are on the horizon, whether it be soon or later.
Efficiency and Features of HarmonyOS NEXT
Huawei’s proprietary OS is constructed on a unique microkernel, which the company asserts is three times more efficient than Linux. It also guarantees a cohesive ecosystem experience, enabling developers to create just one version of an app for it to function across smartphones, tablets, wearables, and eventually laptops. Another interesting feature is App Continuation, which allows users to start tasks on one Huawei device and seamlessly continue them on another. With HarmonyOS already functioning on smartphones, tablets, and smartwatches, extending it to laptops appears to be the next logical progression.
Tags: HarmonyOS Next, Huawei MateBook, Linux laptops
March 7, 2025
Apple M4 MacBook Air Debuts on Geekbench: Performance Insights
Key Takeaways
1. The new MacBook Air features Apple’s M4 chip, showcasing impressive performance similar to the Pro model.
2. Geekbench scores for the MacBook Air are 3,680 (single-core) and 14,924 (multi-core), indicating minimal performance differences from the Pro model in standard tasks.
3. The Metal test score for the M4 MacBook Air is 54,864, which is lower than the average score of 57,948.
4. The performance gap in Metal tests may be due to fewer GPU cores in the entry-level 13-inch MacBook Air.
5. The tested MacBook Air model likely has 16 GB of RAM, suggesting it is a base model.
Just a day after a somewhat lackluster press release, the new MacBook Air powered by Apple’s M4 chip has made its debut on Geekbench. This showcases the impressive new chip and gives us an idea of the performance we can expect from it. Not surprisingly, its performance is quite similar to that of the Pro model.
Geekbench Scores Revealed
The MacBook Air (Mac16,13) achieves scores of 3,680 in single-core and 14,924 in multi-core tests on Geekbench 6.4. These scores are close to the average results in our benchmark database, which are 3,748 and 15,100 respectively. This suggests there won’t be a significant performance gap between the Pro and Air models, at least in tasks that don’t require prolonged performance.
Metal Test Performance
In the Metal test conducted by Geekbench, the M4 MacBook Air scores 54,864 points, which is noticeably lower than our average score of 57,948. This might be attributed to the reduced number of GPU cores in the entry-level 13-inch MacBook Air. However, we can’t be certain since Geekbench does not disclose the GPU core count. Nevertheless, it is likely that this is a base model as it comes equipped with 16 GB of RAM.
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Tags: Apple, M4 Chip, MacBook Air