Category: Computers

  • Apple’s Future MacBook Pros May Feature OLED Screens Again

    Apple’s Future MacBook Pros May Feature OLED Screens Again

    Apple’s move to upgrade its MacBook Pro lineup to OLED has been a topic of speculation among many analysts for quite some time. A latest report from TrendForce suggests that Apple is pushing its suppliers to increase investments in larger OLED panels suitable for laptops. As mentioned in earlier reports, the transition to OLED is anticipated to happen by 2026 at the earliest.

    Benefits of OLED Displays

    There’s no denying that OLED screens come with numerous advantages compared to traditional LED displays. With their per-pixel dimming feature, OLED panels deliver outstanding black levels, resulting in almost infinite contrast ratios and a fantastic HDR experience. Additionally, they offer rapid response times, which is especially appealing for gaming enthusiasts.

    Drawbacks of OLED Technology

    Nonetheless, there are some downsides to OLED technology. The ongoing risk of burn-in could be a worry for professionals who often deal with static images on their screens for long durations. Moreover, OLEDs generally have lower brightness levels compared to the current Mini LED panels that Apple uses. However, it seems that the company’s innovative tandem OLED technology might adequately address this issue.

    TrendForce’s report indicates that Apple is indeed serious about integrating OLED technology into its products.

    Source: Link

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  • AMD Threadripper 9000 Series: 16-96 Cores at 350W TDP

    AMD Threadripper 9000 Series: 16-96 Cores at 350W TDP

    A recent leak of a shipping manifest has shed light on AMD’s upcoming Threadripper 9000 series processors, codenamed Shimada Peak. Among the revelations is the unexpected introduction of a 16-core version, which will join the previously disclosed 96-core flagship model. The documents suggest that this new high-performance desktop lineup will keep the same power consumption levels as the previous generation, even as AMD has been shifting towards more power-efficient designs in its mainstream desktop offerings.

    Confirmed Specs and Performance

    The Threadripper 9000 series, which is anticipated to incorporate Zen 5 architecture, looks ready to keep AMD at the forefront of the high-performance CPU market. Notably, the leaked manifest confirms a flagship processor boasting 96 cores and 192 threads, likely to be named the Threadripper 9980X. This model is set to have a thermal design power (TDP) of 350 watts, identical to that of its predecessor, the Threadripper 7980X. Even with the higher core count, it appears that AMD is prioritizing performance over power efficiency by maintaining this TDP, particularly in contrast to the lower TDPs observed in the Ryzen 9000 series chips.

    The 16-Core Model

    Remarkably, the manifest also refers to a 16-core processor with a TDP of 350 watts. While this might seem excessive for a chip with fewer cores, it aligns with the previous Threadripper 7000 series, all of which operated under the same thermal design. This 16-core model likely won’t be included in the standard Threadripper lineup since AMD’s Threadripper 7000 series kicked off with a 24-core variant and the last 16-core version dates back to the 2000 series in 2018. It’s probable that this 16-core option will be a PRO model, following the trend of earlier Threadripper PRO series, which also offered a 16-core choice.

    Clock Speeds and Expectations

    Details regarding clock speeds are still unclear, but AMD’s Zen 5 architecture should deliver faster frequencies compared to Zen 4. The Ryzen 9 9950X, for instance, can boost up to 5.7 GHz. The Threadripper 7000 series already reaches speeds of up to 5.3 GHz, so a slight increase can be expected. However, significant improvements in clock speeds might be limited due to thermal and architectural restrictions.

    Another fascinating aspect of the leaks is the absence of any reference to a model exceeding 96 cores. This could imply that the Threadripper 9000 series won’t feature Zen 5c-based processors. These cores, made for cloud servers, focus on increasing core counts rather than enhancing per-core performance. Their exclusion from the Threadripper lineup is consistent with earlier patterns, as Zen 4c cores were also missing from the Threadripper 7000 series.

    Anticipated Launch

    The Threadripper 9000 series is expected to hit the market soon, solidifying AMD’s leadership in the high-end desktop (HEDT) segment and equipping power users with tools necessary for intensive tasks like 3D rendering, video editing, and scientific simulations. With Shimada Peak setting new standards, the HEDT arena is about to become significantly more competitive.

    Source: Link,Link

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  • Aoostar N1 Pro: Compact Mini PC with Multiple Ports

    Aoostar N1 Pro: Compact Mini PC with Multiple Ports

    Aoostar has launched a mini PC called the N1 Pro, and it looks like they have quietly updated it. The earlier version, later known as the Aoostar R1, was a tower mini PC that included the Ryzen 5 5500U and primarily served as a personal NAS solution. The refreshed model, however, is equipped with a low-power Intel CPU and is compact enough to fit in the palm of your hand.

    Compact Design

    The updated N1 Pro features a 0.33-liter chassis and weighs just over 300 grams. The focus on a space-saving design is clearly evident in this mini PC, as the size constraints limit the ability to include a high-performance CPU. Instead, it has the Intel N100, which is a basic processor from the Alder Lake-N series.

    Performance Capabilities

    With four E-cores and four threads, the N100 is designed primarily for light office work and everyday tasks. Although it includes Intel UHD Graphics with 24 EUs, it isn’t capable of running modern AAA games, and the new Aoostar N1 Pro isn’t intended for that purpose (Z1 Extreme ROG Ally curr. $499.99 on Best Buy).

    Port Selection and Cooling

    In terms of connectivity, the new N1 Pro offers a good range of ports. This mini PC includes three USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports, one Type-C port, one DisplayPort 1.4 that supports up to 4K at 120 Hz, one HDMI port, and two 2.5G Ethernet ports. Aoostar has also integrated an active cooling system to maintain stable performance during heavy use.

    Pricing Options

    For pricing, the basic barebone option of the new Aoostar N1 Pro is available for $159 on GeekWills. The high-end version, which comes with 12 GB of RAM and 1 TB of storage, is priced at $259. Keep in mind that GeekWills is a third-party retailer, and the company has not yet listed this mini PC on its official website.

    Source: Link

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  • Qualcomm Unveils Affordable Snapdragon X Chip for Budget Windows PCs

    Qualcomm Unveils Affordable Snapdragon X Chip for Budget Windows PCs

    Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X processors are changing how we see Windows laptops by providing battery life that lasts for days. This is a big plus compared to the usual power-hungry laptop chips. But the high costs have kept many from getting them. Good news might be on the horizon, as there are rumors of a more budget-friendly Snapdragon X chip coming soon.

    Snapdragon X Lineup Evolution

    The Snapdragon X series kicked off with the “Elite” model, which was made to rival Apple’s M-series chips that are used in premium laptops. These laptops usually cost more than $1,200, making them less attractive to everyday users. Qualcomm followed this up with the “Plus” version, which brought prices down to around $1,000. In September, they also released a more affordable variant of the Snapdragon X Plus, which can be found in devices like the Lenovo IdeaPad 5x 2-in-1, that started at a nice $849.

    New Entry-Level Snapdragon X Chip

    Now, it looks like Qualcomm is set to introduce even cheaper chips for Windows laptops. At a recent Investor Day event, they hinted at an “entry-level” Snapdragon X chip that’s targeted for laptops under $700. This move could help more people access Snapdragon X technology.

    While performance details are still limited, Qualcomm has shared that this chip will include the same Neural Processing Unit (NPU) as the higher-end models. This NPU is crucial for the long battery life and AI capabilities that these processors are known for. Consequently, laptops that use these chips will carry the Copilot+ PC branding, which has minimum requirements like 16GB of DDR5 RAM and 256GB of SSD storage. It’s likely these specs will be found even in more budget-friendly models.

    Potential Trade-Offs

    Nonetheless, it’s still uncertain what compromises might be made to achieve the lower price point. Possible reductions could involve fewer CPU cores or slight drops in graphical performance. Qualcomm has yet to reveal a specific release date, but with CES 2025 coming up in January, it seems that this event could be an ideal place for the new chip’s introduction.

    Source: Link

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  • Aoostar Godx Gaming Mini PC with Discrete GPU Now Available

    Aoostar Godx Gaming Mini PC with Discrete GPU Now Available

    Aoostar has introduced a new gaming mini PC called Godx. While it isn’t the tiniest compact computer on the market, it does outperform many others. This device features the AMD Ryzen 9 6900HX, a high-performance processor from the Rembrandt series.

    Performance Capabilities

    Despite being three generations old, the CPU still effectively manages modern AAA games with ease. Aoostar has equipped the Godx with the Radeon RX 6600 LE, a GPU that’s exclusive to China. However, it looks like this RDNA 2-based desktop graphics card will soon be available worldwide.

    GPU Specifications

    The RX 6600 LE may not be the newest option from AMD. Its specifications are nearly identical to the standard non-LE RX 6600, which is a mid-range solution from 2021. Additionally, this isn’t the first time Aoostar has used this GPU. Earlier this year, the company launched the "Youyan," which also featured the same CPU and GPU, but it hasn’t been introduced globally yet.

    Benchmark Results

    In our tests, the non-LE version consistently achieved over 60 FPS in most games. Aoostar claims that the Godx mini PC can maintain a stable 80 FPS in Black Myth: Wukong at 2K resolution on high settings.

    To keep performance steady during demanding tasks, Aoostar has outfitted the Godx with what they call a Glacier 3.0 cooling system. This setup includes dual fans and seven heat pipes, designed to maintain a cool system while minimizing noise.

    Connectivity and Features

    The mini PC is also equipped with an Intel AX210 network card, which promises "esports-grade" WiFi 6 speeds, although it is actually a WiFi 6E card. It comes with a good selection of ports, including:

    Other notable features of the Aoostar Godx are its metal chassis, support for up to 32 GB of DDR5-4800 RAM, two M.2 PCIe 4.0 slots, and the ability to connect three displays at 4K 120 Hz. The barebone version of this gaming mini PC is currently available for pre-order on the official website at a price of $529, while the fully-loaded version with 32 GB of RAM and 1 TB storage is priced at $679.

    Source: Link

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  • Qualcomm Unveils Next-Gen Snapdragon X Series Chipsets

    Qualcomm Unveils Next-Gen Snapdragon X Series Chipsets

    Qualcomm has launched a large number of Snapdragon X chipsets this year, and they have also rolled out the architecturally similar Snapdragon 8 Elite. Currently, Qualcomm provides the following chipsets to Windows OEMs:

    Interestingly, there might be even more SKUs on the way. While the company hasn’t made any public announcements yet, they hinted at this during Qualcomm Investor Day, where XDA Developers were present.

    New Chip Details

    Sadly, Qualcomm didn’t share much information during the event aside from the fact that these upcoming chips will have the same 45 TOPS NPU as the Snapdragon X Plus and Snapdragon X Elite variants. From what XDA Developers discovered, it seems there is a new, more entry-level chipset intended to be positioned beneath the Snapdragon X Plus 8-core. It’s probably going to be named Snapdragon X.

    Speculation on Future Chipsets

    Recent rumors suggest that Qualcomm is working on at least three ‘Snapdragon X’ chipsets. There’s particular evidence pointing towards the existence of the X1P-24-100, X1P-39-100, and X1P-40-100. However, it’s uncertain whether all these SKUs will actually hit the market. Additionally, there have been no updates on the rumored X1P-56-100 and X1P-62-100 so far. Regardless, these new Snapdragon X chipsets are expected to power laptops priced under $600, which would be a significant drop from the least expensive Surface Pro 11, currently priced at $800 on Amazon.

    Source: Link,Link,Link,Link,

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  • Microsoft Rolls Out Full-Screen Ads for Windows 10 Users

    Microsoft Rolls Out Full-Screen Ads for Windows 10 Users

    Microsoft has a history of irritating users to encourage upgrades from older Windows versions, and now they seem to be focusing on persuading people to buy new PCs—particularly from the Microsoft Surface Laptop range. While the specific laptop is not mentioned, the intent is unmistakable. Microsoft is shifting its strategy from merely encouraging users to leave Windows 10 to pushing them towards replacing outdated hardware.

    The Role of Copilot+

    Copilot+, an AI feature that comes standard in Windows 11, plays a major role in these new advertisements. A full-screen prompt, which isn’t appearing for every Windows 10 user just yet, encourages people to "level up" by purchasing a PC compatible with Copilot+. The catch here is that only a limited number of machines currently meet the criteria for this new feature. For a device to be certified for Copilot+, it must have an integrated neural processing unit capable of executing at least 40 trillion operations per second. Right now, the only PCs available that fulfill this requirement utilize Snapdragon X, Intel Core Ultra, or AMD Ryzen AI processors.

    A Push for New Sales

    This strategy is clearly aimed at increasing the sales of new PCs. Windows 10 has maintained high user numbers for quite a while; however, since late 2021, the majority of new PCs sold have come equipped with Windows 11. This campaign is primarily focused on users clinging to their old hardware, and its aggressive and seemingly urgent approach might just nudge less tech-savvy users to make the switch. For those who wish to remain on Windows 10 and keep their older systems, there are a few alternatives, but the official support from Microsoft will only extend for a year. On the other hand, unofficial alternatives are mainly for users with more technical skills.

    Conclusion

    In conclusion, Microsoft’s current marketing efforts highlight a trend towards getting users to update their hardware rather than just their software. With the introduction of features like Copilot+, they are making a clear push for modern machines, leaving older systems behind. While some users may find ways to stick to their current setups, the pressure from these ads could lead many to consider new purchases.

    Source: Link,Link

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  • New Apple Mac Mini Dock Offers Expandable NVMe SSD Storage

    New Apple Mac Mini Dock Offers Expandable NVMe SSD Storage

    Satechi has teamed up with RayCue to unveil a specially designed docking solution for the new Mac mini (currently priced at $559 on Amazon). Unlike RayCue, however, Satechi has not yet launched its product. They have shared details about the design and features of the device, along with a rough timeline for its release.

    Design Differences

    In contrast to RayCue’s dock, Satechi’s model does not feature the aluminum fins on top. This design choice gives the impression that the Mac mini is floating based on the visuals shared by Satechi so far. It’s still unclear if this will have real-world benefits, like better cooling or enhanced wireless capabilities.

    Ports and Connectivity

    Satechi’s dock lacks a front USB Type-C port and a MicroSD card reader, which are available on RayCue’s version. Instead, Satechi has opted for an SD 4.0 card slot, one USB 2.0 Type-A port, and two USB 3.2 Type-A ports, each capable of offering 10 Gbps transfer speeds. As of now, Satechi has not disclosed any information about the ports located at the back of the dock.

    Future Availability

    That being said, the ‘Mac mini M4 Stand & Hub’ from Satechi is compatible with M.2 SSDs that can operate at 10 Gbps, similar to what RayCue offers. Satechi anticipates that the custom Mac mini dock will be available for purchase in the spring of 2025. However, they have yet to announce the pricing for the dock and stand. For comparison, the previous model for the last Mac mini is still available for $99.99 in the United States.

    Source: Link,Link

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  • Aoostar XG76 eGPU Dock with USB4 and OCuLink Now Available for $499

    Aoostar XG76 eGPU Dock with USB4 and OCuLink Now Available for $499

    The XG76 is one of the two eGPUs that Aoostar has announced today. The other model, the XG76XT, is quite unique as it uses a desktop GPU instead of the typical mobile ones found in eGPUs. In contrast, the XG76 is more conventional, featuring a mobile AMD GPU.

    Specifications of the XG76

    Aoostar has chosen to equip the XG76 with a Radeon RX 7600M. This GPU uses the same Navi 33 architecture as the Radeon RX 7600M XT. However, the Radeon RX 7600M has four less Compute Units (28 CUs) compared to the XT version, in addition to having lower clock speeds and slower VRAM. While the Radeon RX 7600M does come with 8 GB of GDDR6 VRAM on a 128-bit memory bus, the reduced memory speed results in a bandwidth decrease of 32 GB/s, dropping from 288 GB/s to 256 GB/s.

    Performance Insights

    Due to these differences, the Radeon RX 7600M falls behind the Radeon RX 7600M XT by more than 20% in synthetic benchmark tests. Furthermore, it’s worth noting that the XG76 could perform up to 30% slower in gaming compared to eGPUs powered by the Radeon RX 7600M XT, such as the GPD G1, which is currently priced at $699.95 on Amazon, even with OCuLink connectivity instead of USB4. As a result, the XG76 is significantly more affordable than its competition.

    As of now, Aoostar has set the price for the XG76 at $499 on its official site. However, it’s important to mention that the XG76 does not include M.2 SSD expansion slots, USB Type-A ports, or an SD card reader. Pre-orders are expected to start shipping on November 29 and will come with Australian, European, UK, or US plug types.

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  • Aoostar N1 Pro Mini PC: Intel N100, Dual 2.5Gbps LAN, Compact Design

    Aoostar N1 Pro Mini PC: Intel N100, Dual 2.5Gbps LAN, Compact Design

    The Aoostar N1 Pro Mini PC is a compact yet robust computing device crafted for individuals seeking outstanding performance within a small footprint. Measuring merely 8.9 cm x 8.9 cm x 4.15 cm and weighing a light 0.3 kg, this mini PC is ideal for cramped areas, easy transportation, or minimalist setups. Even though it’s small, it features impressive capabilities that can efficiently manage various tasks. You can get the Aoostar N1 Pro Mini PC for just $159 at Geekwills.

    Processor Performance

    At the heart of the Aoostar N1 Pro is the Intel Processor N100, a chip from the 12th generation that replaces the older Pentium and Celeron lines. With four cores and a top clock speed reaching 3.40 GHz, along with Intel UHD Graphics running at 750 MHz, it guarantees smooth operation for daily activities such as web browsing, streaming videos, and doing office work. You can also enjoy a seamless experience.

    Efficient Memory and Storage

    This mini PC is equipped with 12GB DDR5-4800 RAM, which provides quicker data transfer speeds and enhances multitasking efficiency. For storage, it supports an M.2 2242-SATA slot and is compatible with the NVMe protocol, offering users flexibility to expand their storage options as needed.

    Excellent Connectivity Options

    The Aoostar N1 Pro stands out with its connectivity features. It comes with WiFi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2, ensuring fast and dependable wireless connections. Moreover, it includes dual 2.5Gbps LAN ports that facilitate ultra-fast wired internet connections, making it perfect for gamers or those dealing with large amounts of data.

    Versatile Ports Availability

    This mini PC is loaded with various connectivity options, such as:

    • USB3.2 Gen 2 (3 ports)
    • USB2.0 (1 port)
    • HDMI and DP1.4 (supports 4K@144Hz)
    • Type-C ports for both input and output
    • 3.5mm audio jack

    Compact Design, Wide Usage

    The small size and stylish design of the Aoostar N1 Pro allow it to fit seamlessly into any environment. Whether you require a home media hub, a workstation for the office, or a lightweight PC, this device performs exceptionally without occupying much room.

    Key Specifications

    • Processor: Intel N100 (4 cores, 3.40 GHz)
    • Graphics: Intel UHD Graphics (750 MHz)
    • RAM: 12GB DDR5-4800
    • Storage: M.2 2242-SATA / NVMe support
    • Wireless: WiFi 6, Bluetooth 5.2
    • Ports: USB3.2 Gen 2 (x3), USB2.0 (x1), DP1.4, HDMI, Type-C, LAN (2.5G x2), 3.5mm jack
    • Dimensions & Weight: 8.9cm x 8.9cm x 4.15cm, 0.3kg

    The Aoostar N1 Pro Mini PC is a small yet powerful device created for users who appreciate both performance and efficiency in a compact design.

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