Category: Computers

  • Geekom IT15 Mini PC Now Available with Launch Discounts

    Geekom IT15 Mini PC Now Available with Launch Discounts

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Geekom IT15 mini PC is now available for sale with introductory discounts, with the entry-level model priced at $749 (a $150 discount) and the upgraded model at $999 (a $200 discount).
    2. Both models come with 32 GB of RAM, but the entry-level version has 1 TB of storage, while the upgraded version offers 2 TB.
    3. The IT15 supports up to 64 GB of DDR5-5600 RAM and has two M.2 slots for a total of 4 TB of storage capacity.
    4. Connectivity features include Bluetooth 5.4 and WiFi 7, along with a focus on performance through the IceBlast 2.0 cooling system.
    5. The mini PC has a compact 0.46-liter chassis, supports quad-display output, and features a stylish black finish.

    Geekom has now released the IT15 for sale, and both versions of this mini PC are currently benefitting from attractive introductory discounts. Specifically, the entry-level model featuring the Intel Core Ultra 5 225H is now $150 cheaper, bringing its price to $749.

    Better Deals Available

    The upgraded model with the Intel Core Ultra 9 285H has an even larger discount of $200, which sets its price at $999. Both versions come with 32 GB of RAM, but the base model includes 1 TB of storage, while the more advanced version offers 2 TB of storage. Geekom has mentioned that these promotional prices will expire on June 22, 2025.

    Specs Breakdown

    Regarding other specifications of the mini PC, the Geekom IT15 can support up to 64 GB of DDR5-5600 SODIMM RAM, and it has two M.2 slots capable of accommodating a total of 4 TB of storage. One of these slots is a 2242 type. In terms of connectivity, the system includes the following ports:

    For wireless options, the IT15 features Bluetooth 5.4 and WiFi 7. Geekom also emphasizes the IceBlast 2.0 cooling system, which helps the Arrow Lake processor maintain consistent performance even during demanding tasks.

    Design and Features

    Additional features of the Geekom IT15 include its compact 0.46-liter chassis, support for quad-display output, and its stylish black finish. You can find more details in the images provided below.

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    Geekom IT15 Mini PC Now Available with Launch DiscountsGeekom IT15 Mini PC Now Available with Launch Discounts

     

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  • Intel to Lay Off Up to 20% of Chip Production Workforce

    Intel to Lay Off Up to 20% of Chip Production Workforce

    Key Takeaways

    1. Intel plans to cut 15 to 20% of jobs in chip manufacturing, with potential reductions in other divisions.
    2. Job losses could reach between 16,000 to 22,000, reducing the workforce from 124,800 to around 108,900.
    3. The company’s goal is to become “leaner, faster, and more efficient” by simplifying its organization.
    4. New CEO Lip-Bu Tan aims to streamline operations and focus more on engineers and customer demands.
    5. Intel’s stock price has dropped nearly 70% since April 2021, currently sitting just over $21 per share.

    Intel has recently informed its employees via email about plans to cut 15 to 20% of jobs in chip manufacturing. Additional reductions in other divisions are also possible, as the company is looking to downsize in various areas of its business.

    Job Reductions Ahead

    Back in December 2023, Intel employed around 124,800 people. Fast forward to December 2024, and that number has dropped to 108,900. With the new cuts coming, estimates suggest that the total job losses might reach between 16,000 to 22,000. A spokesperson from the company stated that Intel’s goal is to become a “leaner, faster and more efficient company.” They also plan on simplifying the organization and putting more focus on engineers and customer demands. These choices were made after thorough consideration to cut costs and improve Intel’s future standing.

    Leadership Changes and Market Pressures

    Lip-Bu Tan, the new CEO of Intel, had previously shared plans for streamlining the company about two months ago. Still, the exact number of job cuts wasn’t clear until now, showing that the situation is getting serious. The company has been feeling significant pressure lately; since April 2021, Intel’s stock price has plummeted nearly 70%. Although there was a slight recovery in 2023, the stock price has resumed its decline and is currently just over $21 per share, showing no signs of recovery in the near future.

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  • Apple Provides Free Repairs for M2 Mac Mini No Power Issue

    Apple Provides Free Repairs for M2 Mac Mini No Power Issue

    Key Takeaways

    1. Apple has launched a service program for M2 Mac minis that may experience a “no power” issue, offering free repairs for qualifying models.
    2. The issue affects a small percentage of Mac minis produced between June 16 and November 23, 2024, with some units failing to power up.
    3. Repairs are free and can be performed at Apple Stores or authorized service centers, covering eligible devices for three years from the original purchase date.
    4. Users can check eligibility by entering their serial number on Apple’s support site, and they should back up their data before visiting for repairs.
    5. Community reactions are mixed, with some praising Apple’s response while others question how the issue occurred, but the initiative may help maintain customer trust.

    If your M2 Mac mini won’t turn on, Apple may be able to help. The tech giant has quietly introduced a new service program to fix a rare “no power” issue impacting certain models from 2024, offering complimentary repairs for devices that qualify.

    Details of the Issue

    Apple has stated that this problem affects a “very small percentage” of Mac minis produced between June 16 and November 23, 2024. While the specific cause remains unclear, the company indicates that affected units may simply fail to power up. Even if your Mac mini appears to be functioning normally, it could still be eligible for service under this program.

    Repair Process

    Repairs will be done at no cost and can be conducted at Apple Stores or authorized service centers. The program will cover qualifying devices for three years from the original purchase date, giving owners ample time to get help.

    To check if your Mac mini qualifies, head over to Apple’s support site and input your serial number. Apple also advises that you back up your data before visiting, and if your Mac has other unrelated damages—such as a cracked case—you might need to fix that first (which may come with a fee) before they can address the power issue.

    Community Reactions

    Online reactions have been mixed. Some social media users praised Apple for their quick response, while others questioned how such a problem slipped through production. Regardless, this service initiative could help Apple retain trust among its Mac user base.

    This isn’t the first time Apple has rolled out a repair program—past efforts have tackled issues like MacBook keyboard problems and iPhone battery concerns. If you’ve recently purchased an M2 Mac mini, it’s a good idea to verify your serial number to see if you qualify for a free fix.

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  • ARM’s New Travis Core: IPC Boost and SME Support Explained

    ARM’s New Travis Core: IPC Boost and SME Support Explained

    Key Takeaways

    1. ARM is set to unveil a new high-performance CPU core named Travis in September, focusing on improving IPC (instructions per cycle).
    2. The Travis core is expected to deliver significant double-digit IPC improvements over its predecessor, emphasizing efficiency over just higher clock speeds.
    3. It will support the Scalable Matrix Extension (SME) to enhance performance for AI and machine learning tasks, aligning with ARM’s strategy for diverse workloads.
    4. MediaTek is expected to be the first to use the Travis core in its upcoming Dimensity 9500 chip, competing against Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite 2.
    5. The new MediaTek chip is reportedly showing impressive performance, benefiting from both the CPU enhancements and a new GPU design, possibly ARM’s Mali-G1 Ultra.

    ARM’s upcoming CPU enhancement has recently become more concrete, at least according to leaks. A new report from industry insider Digital Chat Station suggests that ARM will unveil a new high-performance CPU core named Travis this coming September. The chief focus of this core is said to be its IPC, or instructions per cycle.

    Understanding IPC’s Importance

    IPC is a metric that evaluates how much processing a chip can accomplish at a specified clock speed. According to DCS, the Travis core is expected to deliver double-digit IPC improvements when compared to its predecessor. This is a significant advancement, especially as chip manufacturers are now prioritizing efficiency and intelligent workload distribution instead of merely increasing clock speeds.

    New Features of the Travis Core

    The Travis core will also feature support for the Scalable Matrix Extension (SME), which aims to enhance performance for AI and machine learning tasks. SME is a part of ARM’s larger plan to update compute architecture to handle a variety of workloads across mobile and edge devices more effectively.

    Adding credibility to the leak, DCS has released images that seem to be from an official ARM press event, which confirms these features.

    MediaTek’s Role in the Launch

    While ARM is leading the design of the core, it seems that MediaTek will be the first to utilize it in a commercial product. The Dimensity 9500 is anticipated to be MediaTek’s response to whatever Qualcomm is developing with the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2.

    DCS indicates that the new MediaTek chip is already demonstrating impressive performance, likely benefiting from not only the CPU enhancements but also a new GPU design, which is rumored to be ARM’s Mali-G1 Ultra, codenamed Drage.

    ARM has yet to make any official statements, but if these leaks are accurate, the Travis core could represent a significant change in the technology behind next-generation Android flagship devices.

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    ARM's New Travis Core: IPC Boost and SME Support Explained

     

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  • Ugreen Launches New KVM Switch for Dual 8K 60Hz Monitors Discounted

    Ugreen Launches New KVM Switch for Dual 8K 60Hz Monitors Discounted

    Key Takeaways

    1. Multi-Device Connection: Connects two computers to two monitors, allowing easy switching between Windows, macOS, and Linux devices.

    2. High-Quality Display Support: Supports resolutions up to 8K at 60Hz and 4K at 240Hz, along with HDR10+ through two DisplayPorts.

    3. Requirements for Optimal Use: Requires compatible computers with two DisplayPorts, a USB-A port, and either an integrated or dedicated graphics card.

    4. Launch Discount: Available at a special introductory price of $81 (regularly $89) on Amazon, with a coupon code needed for activation.

    5. Limited Time Offer: The launch discount will end on July 11, 2023.

    Ugreen has introduced a fresh device called the “UGREEN 8K@60Hz Displayport KVM Switch 2 Monitors 2 Computers” available on Amazon, which could be beneficial for certain desktop arrangements.

    Multi-Device Connection

    This KVM switch is designed to link two computers to two shared monitors and peripherals. This means users can easily switch between a Windows PC or laptop and an Apple device without needing to unplug anything. The switch not only supports Windows and macOS but also works with Linux systems.

    High-Quality Display Support

    The Ugreen KVM switch supports impressive resolutions—up to 8K at 60Hz or 4K at 240Hz—along with HDR10+ through its two built-in DisplayPorts. It also comes with four USB 3.0 ports, which include three Type-A and one Type-C, offering a bandwidth of 5Gbit/s. The Type-A ports are ideal for connecting devices like a keyboard, mouse, or external storage.

    Requirements for Optimal Use

    To fully enjoy the features of Ugreen’s KVM switch, users need a compatible computer that has two DisplayPorts, one USB-A port, and either an integrated or dedicated graphics card, along with cables that can handle 8K at 60Hz.

    Launch Discount

    To mark the launch of this new product, Ugreen is offering a special discount on Amazon for the dual-monitor KVM switch. Instead of the usual price of $89, early buyers can get it for $81, which includes free shipping—but a coupon code must be activated manually. This introductory offer will end on July 11.

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  • Aura Displays Keyview 13: Mechanical Keyboard with Touchscreen and SSD

    Aura Displays Keyview 13: Mechanical Keyboard with Touchscreen and SSD

    Key Takeaways

    1. Storage Expansion: The Keyview 13” Touch includes an M.2 2280 SSD slot, allowing users to expand their PC’s storage, but speeds are limited to 625MB/s due to USB 3.0 constraints.

    2. Touchscreen Specs: It features a 13-inch touchscreen with a 24:9 aspect ratio, 1920 x 720 resolution, 60Hz refresh rate, 300 nits brightness, and an anti-glare finish, adjustable from 0 to 90 degrees.

    3. Keyboard Design: The mechanical keyboard has an ANSI QWERTY layout with yellow switches, PBT keycaps, RGB lighting, and a rotary knob for volume control, but specific switch details are not mentioned.

    4. Connectivity Options: It connects via USB-C or a combination of HDMI and USB-A.

    5. Pricing and Shipping: The keyboard is priced at $399, rising to $499 after a promotional period, with free shipping in the US and potential extra fees for international customers.

    Aura Displays’ Keyview 13” Touch stands out among other mechanical keyboards mainly because of two distinct features. To begin with, it includes an M.2 2280 SSD slot for expanding the storage of the connected PC. However, it’s worth noting that the SSDs can only reach speeds of up to 625MB/s, likely limited by the USB 3.0 connection in this instance.

    Touchscreen Features

    Another key aspect is the 13-inch touchscreen, which has a 24:9 aspect ratio and a resolution of 1920 x 720 pixels. This screen offers a refresh rate of 60Hz and a brightness of 300 nits. The IPS panel also features an anti-glare finish, making it easier to use in various lighting conditions. Users can adjust the touchscreen angle from 0 to 90 degrees, making it useful for professional applications, widgets, browsers, and messaging apps such as Discord, according to Aura Displays.

    Keyboard Layout and Design

    On the downside, the mechanical keyboard is available only in an ANSI QWERTY layout. It combines yellow switches with PBT keycaps, but the specific manufacturer and details of these switches are not provided. Additionally, the keyboard comes with RGB lighting and a rotary knob for functions like volume control. It connects via USB-C or a mix of HDMI and USB-A.

    Pricing and Availability

    As of now, Aura Displays is offering the Keyview 13″ Touch keyboard for $399 on its official website. After the current promotional period, the price is set to rise to $499. Shipping within the US is complimentary and is estimated to take between 7 to 12 days. The origin of the keyboard’s shipment is uncertain, which means that customers may incur extra import duties or additional fees based on their location.

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    Aura Displays Keyview 13: Mechanical Keyboard with Touchscreen and SSDAura Displays Keyview 13: Mechanical Keyboard with Touchscreen and SSDAura Displays Keyview 13: Mechanical Keyboard with Touchscreen and SSD

     

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  • Satechi SSD Enclosure Expands Mac Mini Storage to 8TB

    Satechi SSD Enclosure Expands Mac Mini Storage to 8TB

    Key Takeaways

    1. Sleek Design: The Satechi USB4 Slim NVMe SSD Enclosure is only 0.63 inches thick and matches the dimensions of the Mac Mini, allowing for easy placement without taking up extra space.

    2. Convenient Storage: The short USB-C cable can be stored inside the enclosure, enhancing portability, and it is compatible with both Macs and Windows computers.

    3. High Storage Capacity: Supports NVMe SSDs up to 8TB, offering a cost-effective alternative to Apple’s internal storage options.

    4. Fast Speeds: The enclosure can achieve data transfer speeds of up to 3,100 MB/s.

    5. Affordable Pricing: Priced at $119, the enclosure requires a separately purchased compatible SSD, making it a budget-friendly option for storage expansion.

    While numerous docking stations for the Apple Mac Mini come with an M.2 SSD slot, the new USB4 Slim NVMe SSD Enclosure from Satechi prioritizes a sleek design over extra connectivity features. This accessory measures just 0.63 inches in thickness and matches the dimensions of the current Apple Mac Mini, measuring 5 inches in both length and width.

    Convenient Design

    This SSD enclosure can easily be placed on top of or beneath the Mac Mini, ensuring it doesn’t occupy any extra space on your desk. The short USB-C cable can be conveniently stored inside the enclosure, which enhances its portability. Since it connects through USB-C, this storage expansion device is also compatible with other Macs and even Windows computers. However, it’s important to note that a compatible SSD isn’t included with the purchase. The enclosure works with standard heatsink-less NVMe SSDs in the M.2 2280 format.

    Storage Capacity

    It supports SSDs with capacities up to 8TB, which can help users save a significant amount of money. For instance, Apple charges an extra $800 for an additional 2TB of internal SSD storage for the Mac Mini. By comparison, an 8TB WD Black M.2 SSD is currently priced at $609 on Amazon, while 2TB SSDs can be purchased for around $115 on Amazon. Satechi claims that this enclosure can achieve speeds of up to 3,100 MB/s.

    The Satechi USB4 Slim NVMe SSD Enclosure for the Apple Mac Mini is available for order at a price of $119. The company has not shared information about a worldwide launch, but Satechi products typically reach other markets within a few weeks following their release in the US. As previously mentioned, a compatible SSD for storage expansion needs to be bought separately.

    Conclusion

    Satechi’s new product exemplifies a balance between design and functionality, making it a practical choice for users who want to expand their Mac Mini’s storage without compromising on space.

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    Satechi SSD Enclosure Expands Mac Mini Storage to 8TBSatechi SSD Enclosure Expands Mac Mini Storage to 8TBSatechi SSD Enclosure Expands Mac Mini Storage to 8TB

     

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  • Gaming Mini PC with AMD Radeon RX GPU and 64GB RAM

    Gaming Mini PC with AMD Radeon RX GPU and 64GB RAM

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Aoostar Godz mini PC is available on Geekbuying starting at $884, with potential import fees and delivery restrictions from China.
    2. It features an AMD Ryzen 7 7435HS processor with eight cores and hyperthreading, and a Radeon RX 6600 LE graphics card with 8GB of GDDR6 VRAM.
    3. The mini PC offers two RAM slots, supporting configurations of 32GB or 64GB of 4,800MHz DDR5 memory.
    4. Connectivity options include WiFi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3, dual 2.5Gbit/s Ethernet ports, USB Type-C, HDMI, DisplayPort, USB 4, and five USB 3.2 ports.
    5. Users can expand storage by adding a second M.2 2280 SSD without reinstalling the operating system.

    The Aoostar Godz is now up for grabs. You can find this mini PC on Geekbuying starting at a price of $884. Since it ships straight from China, it’s important for potential buyers to keep in mind that there might be import fees and delivery restrictions based on where they are located.

    Specs and Performance

    The Godz boasts dimensions of 8.1 x 4.7 x 1.6 inches and offers solid performance. Aoostar has equipped this computer with an AMD processor and a dedicated graphics card, specifically the Ryzen 7 7435HS and a Radeon RX 6600 LE. The CPU has eight cores with hyperthreading capabilities, while the graphics card comes with 8GB of GDDR6 VRAM. For memory, the mini PC is fitted with two RAM slots and can be purchased with either 32GB or 64GB of 4,800MHz DDR5. If you’re looking to boost your storage, you can add a second M.2 2280 SSD without needing to reinstall the operating system.

    Connectivity Options

    When it comes to connectivity, the Aoostar mini PC is equipped with WiFi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3. There are also two Ethernet ports, each capable of 2.5Gbit/s. The Godz includes USB Type-C, HDMI, DisplayPort, USB 4, and a total of five USB 3.2 ports. Additionally, you’ll find two separate 3.5mm jacks on both the front and the back for connecting a microphone and speakers or headphones.

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    Gaming Mini PC with AMD Radeon RX GPU and 64GB RAMGaming Mini PC with AMD Radeon RX GPU and 64GB RAM
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  • Garmin Launches Edge MTB: 5 Hz GPS Mountain Bike Computer

    Garmin Launches Edge MTB: 5 Hz GPS Mountain Bike Computer

    Key Takeaways

    1. Garmin has launched the Edge MTB, a bike computer specifically designed for mountain bikers, featuring a rugged design and Corning Gorilla Glass screen.
    2. The Edge MTB includes a 5 Hz GPS recording capability, currently exclusive to this model.
    3. It has an IPX7 rating for particle resistance but is not certified for liquid resistance, limiting its performance in wet conditions.
    4. The device offers advanced features like jump distance tracking, integrated maps, incident detection, and a battery life of approximately 14 hours.
    5. The Edge MTB is priced at $399.99 and is positioned between the Edge 540 and Edge 840 in terms of MSRP.

    Garmin has introduced a brand new bike computer following speculations about its development of 5 Hz GPS recording capabilities for various devices. Presently, the Edge MTB is the sole device that features this advanced functionality. It is still unclear if older models can be updated to include this feature or if it needs unique hardware.

    Designed for Mountain Bikers

    Garmin promotes the Edge MTB as its inaugural bike computer specifically crafted for mountain biking enthusiasts. It boasts a ‘rugged design’ and comes equipped with a Corning Gorilla Glass screen, as well as specialized MTB mounts and a top tube for various installation choices. To give you an idea, this display utilizes a Transflective TFT panel, measuring 2.13 inches diagonally and offering a resolution of 240 x 320 pixels.

    Durability and Certification

    In addition, the ‘rugged design’ of the Edge MTB means it has an IPX7 rating for particle resistance. However, Garmin has not certified the bike computer for liquid resistance, which suggests it might not perform well in wet mountain biking scenarios.

    Advanced Features and Battery Life

    Garmin enhances the 5 Hz GPS recording with features like Timing gates and integrated maps. The Edge MTB can display metrics such as jump distance and upcoming trail names, while also being capable of detecting incidents. Garmin states that the Edge MTB can operate for approximately 14 hours under demanding conditions and has the capacity to store up to 200 hours of map history on its 32 GB internal memory.

    The Edge MTB can be purchased for $399.99 directly from Garmin. Essentially, it is positioned in between the Edge 540 and Edge 840 (currently priced at $349.99 on Amazon) regarding its MSRP. For more information, please visit Garmin’s official website.

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    Garmin Launches Edge MTB: 5 Hz GPS Mountain Bike Computer

     

  • Lenovo Unveils ThinkBook Plus Gen 6: First Rollable Laptop Release

    Lenovo Unveils ThinkBook Plus Gen 6: First Rollable Laptop Release

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Lenovo ThinkBook Plus Gen 6 features a 14-inch OLED screen that can expand to 16.7 inches, offering a dual-screen experience.
    2. The release date for the ThinkBook Plus Gen 6 is set for June 19, 2025, after a delay from the initial plan for the first quarter.
    3. The price of the ThinkBook Plus Gen 6 will be $3,499, unchanged despite new import tariffs in the U.S.
    4. The laptop will include a 66 Wh battery, Lunar Lake processor, LPDDR5x-8533 RAM, and dual Thunderbolt 4 ports.
    5. The rollable display is rated for at least 20,000 rolls, and the hinge can withstand up to 30,000 openings and closings.

    It’s been some time since we got any updates on Lenovo’s first rollable laptop. To remind you, the ThinkBook Plus Gen 6 created a buzz when Lenovo showcased it at CES 2025. It features a 14-inch OLED screen that can stretch to 16.7 inches, providing a sort of dual-screen experience.

    Release Delay

    At first, Lenovo planned to launch this device in the first quarter of 2025. Yet, that timeline didn’t hold, and the company hasn’t shared any more information since then. The good news is that the ThinkBook Plus Gen 6 is set to be released later this week. Fortunately, the price remains the same as it was mentioned in January, despite the new import tariffs in the United States.

    Pricing and Specs

    Intel announced that the ThinkBook Plus Gen 6 will be available starting June 19. Although it’s not currently listed on Lenovo’s official site, Intel confirms that the rollable laptop will retail for $3,499. It will come equipped with a 66 Wh battery, a Lunar Lake processor, LPDDR5x-8533 RAM, and dual Thunderbolt 4 ports, all housed in a 1.69 kg frame measuring 303 x 230 x 19.9 mm.

    In terms of performance, the ThinkBook Plus Gen 6 is expected to be on par with Lenovo’s other Lunar Lake laptops, like the ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 13, which we reviewed last year for around $1,899 on Amazon. Intel also states that the rollable display is rated for ‘at least’ 20,000 rolls, while the hinge is designed to withstand up to 30,000 openings and closings. For more specifics on the hardware, check out our original launch post.

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    Lenovo Unveils ThinkBook Plus Gen 6: First Rollable Laptop Release
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