Category: Computers

  • Google Secures First Offshore Wind Deal for Data Center Power

    Google Secures First Offshore Wind Deal for Data Center Power

    Key Takeaways

    1. Google signed its first offshore wind Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) in Taiwan, marking a first for the Asia Pacific region.
    2. The energy will be sourced from the Fengmiao I offshore wind project, developed by Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners (CIP), set to start operations in 2027.
    3. The wind farm will have an installed capacity of 495 Megawatts (MW) and is connected to the grid following a recent auction.
    4. Google aims to enhance its renewable energy portfolio in Taiwan, which already includes solar and geothermal energy, to meet rising energy demand and achieve 24/7 carbon-free energy.
    5. The company also plans to generate 1 gigawatt of solar energy in Taiwan in partnership with BlackRock’s Climate Infrastructure business, targeting net-zero emissions by 2030.

    Google has revealed it has inked its first offshore wind Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) in Taiwan. This is also the first agreement of its kind in the Asia Pacific region, adding to the renewable energy options available in the country.

    Energy Acquisition

    The tech giant will source energy from the Fengmiao I offshore wind project, which is being developed by Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners (CIP). The project is slated to commence operations in 2027.

    “This significant step enhances our current energy technology portfolio in Taiwan, which includes solar and geothermal energy sources, ensuring we can meet the increasing energy demand and move closer to achieving 24/7 carbon-free energy (CFE) in every grid we serve,” the company stated.

    Project Specifications

    The wind farm will boast a total installed capacity of 495 Megawatts (MW) and has already secured a connection to the grid. This was confirmed following Taiwan’s Round 3.1 auction, which allotted 500 MW of grid capacity to the project.

    CIP indicated that this offshore wind project has entered into PPAs with six major local and international corporate offtakers, who will utilize the entire production capacity. However, Google has not revealed the specific capacity it will acquire under this agreement.

    Future Plans

    Google operates a datacenter in Changhua County, Taipei, Taiwan. Additionally, the company has formed agreements with BlackRock’s Climate Infrastructure business to generate 1 gigawatt of solar energy in the nation, aiming to achieve net-zero emissions by 2030.

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  • WD My Passport Drives on Sale at Amazon and Flipkart Discounts

    WD My Passport Drives on Sale at Amazon and Flipkart Discounts

    Key Takeaways

    1. Western Digital is offering discounts on My Passport portable hard drives during the Amazon Great Summer Sale and Flipkart Big Savings Days from May 1 to May 8, 2025.
    2. Key discounted models include the 2TB My Passport for Rs 7,049, the 6TB My Passport Ultra for Rs 15,949, and the 4TB My Passport for Rs 10,799.
    3. A special limited-edition 2TB WD My Passport Ultra 20th Anniversary Edition is available for Rs 7,999 only on Flipkart.
    4. The My Passport drives feature USB-C technology, modern metal designs, and 256-bit AES hardware encryption for secure file storage.
    5. The sale prices are valid from May 1st to May 8th, 2025, with exclusive offers available on both Amazon and Flipkart.

    Western Digital has shared some thrilling offers on its well-known My Passport portable hard drive range. These promotions, announced by the company, can be found during the Amazon Great Summer Sale and Flipkart Big Savings Days. Let’s dive into the discounted prices for the Western Digital hard drives up for grabs during this sale.

    Great Discounts on WD Portable Drives

    The Amazon Great Summer Sale and Flipkart Big Savings Days is happening from May 1 to May 8, showcasing enticing deals on various models of Western Digital’s popular My Passport and My Passport Ultra series. Among these offers, the WD 2TB My Passport Portable External Hard Drive in Black Avenger is priced at Rs 7,049. The 6TB Blue My Passport Ultra is available for Rs 15,949, while the WD 6TB My Passport Portable External Hard Drive, also in Black Avenger, can be purchased for Rs 14,899. Additionally, a 4TB Black Avenger version of the My Passport is on sale for Rs 10,799.

    Special Edition Drive

    One of the standout items is the limited-edition 2TB WD My Passport Ultra 20th Anniversary Edition, which features a striking green finish and is priced at Rs 7,999. This collector’s piece combines a unique design with excellent functionality and is only available on Flipkart.

    The standard WD My Passport drives come equipped with USB-C technology and a modern metal design, offering password protection with 256-bit AES hardware encryption. With storage options reaching up to 6TB, these drives are tailored for easy transport and secure backup of digital files. The My Passport Ultra series merges aesthetics with robustness, featuring built-in hardware encryption and automatic backup software, making it ideal for professionals and creators who need secure storage on the move.

    Sale Details

    The discounted rates for these Western Digital portable hard drives are valid from May 1st to May 8th, 2025, coinciding with the sales events on Amazon and Flipkart. Shoppers can find the mentioned deals on both platforms, except for the exclusive 2TB WD My Passport Ultra 20th Anniversary Edition, which can only be purchased through Flipkart.

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    WD My Passport Drives on Sale at Amazon and Flipkart Discounts

     

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  • Teclast N30: Affordable Mini PC with Triple Monitor Support

    Teclast N30: Affordable Mini PC with Triple Monitor Support

    Key Takeaways

    1. Teclast N30 is a budget-friendly mini PC with an Intel N150 processor suitable for basic tasks like office work and web browsing.
    2. It features 16GB of DDR4 RAM and a 512GB NVMe SSD, with an additional M.2 2280 slot for storage expansion and replaceable RAM.
    3. The compact design (about 9 ounces and half a liter) allows for easy placement and VESA compatibility for monitor attachment.
    4. Connectivity options include multiple USB ports, HDMI, and Ethernet, but lacks USB-C support.
    5. The Teclast N30 is priced at $181 on AliExpress, but shipping to the U.S. is currently unavailable; an alternative option is the GMKtec Mini PC G3 Plus on Amazon.

    Teclast offers a range of devices, including tablets available on Amazon, and compact PCs such as the newly released N30. This mini PC is equipped with an Intel N150 processor, which features four cores and is designed for budget-friendly use, though it doesn’t deliver high performance. It should be adequate for tasks like office work and web browsing; however, those interested in video editing or gaming should consider other options.

    Specifications and Features

    The N30 comes with 16GB of DDR4 RAM and a 512GB NVMe SSD, providing ample storage. Additionally, it has a second M.2 2280 SSD slot for further expansion of its internal storage. The RAM can also be replaced, which might help if any issues arise. Weighing just about 9 ounces and housed in a compact case of half a liter, it’s easy to place on any workspace. Furthermore, it can be attached to the back of a monitor due to its VESA compatibility.

    Connectivity Options

    On its front, the device features two USB 3.2 Type-A ports, while another Type-A and a USB 2.0 port are located at the back. Even though USB-C is known for its versatility, the N30 still includes HDMI and Ethernet ports on its rear. Currently, the Teclast N30 is available on AliExpress for a budget-friendly price of $181, but unfortunately, shipping to the United States is not available at this moment.

    Alternative Option

    If you’re looking for something in the same price range, consider the GMKtec Mini PC G3 Plus, which is also listed on Amazon.

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    Teclast N30: Affordable Mini PC with Triple Monitor SupportTeclast N30: Affordable Mini PC with Triple Monitor Support
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  • Huawei eKitStor Shield 200: Fast, Rugged 4TB External SSD

    Huawei eKitStor Shield 200: Fast, Rugged 4TB External SSD

    Key Takeaways

    1. Huawei launched the Kunling eKitStor Shield 200, a new external SSD available in China.
    2. The SSD offers fast transfer speeds of up to 2GB/s via USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 and USB Type-C.
    3. It features a durable design with a reinforced metal casing and a rubber layer, rated to survive drops and heavy weights.
    4. The SSD has an IP67 rating, making it resistant to dust and water.
    5. Pricing starts at $106 for the 1TB model and $192 for the 2TB version.

    Online stores like Amazon offer a vast array of portable storage options for smartphones and other gadgets. Some of these devices are designed to be compact, while others boast transfer speeds that traditional hard drives can’t match.

    New External SSD by Huawei

    Huawei has launched a fresh external SSD named the Kunling eKitStor Shield 200, and it’s currently on sale in China. This drive uses flash storage, which allows for quick transfer speeds, and it’s built to endure tough conditions thanks to its durable casing.

    Connection and Speed

    The Huawei SSD connects through USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 and USB Type-C, with claimed data rates of up to 2GB/s. This speed should be sufficient for fast transferring of videos or photos to and from the SSD. Of course, to reach these speeds, the Kunling eKitStor Shield 200 must be connected to a compatible device. Huawei also promotes hardware encryption for added security.

    Durability and Pricing

    As for durability, the external SSD features a reinforced metal casing with a rubber layer. Huawei claims that it can survive drops from about 10 feet and can even be driven over by vehicles weighing as much as 2 tons. Thanks to its IP67 rating, the solid-state drive is also protected from dust and water. The Kunling eKitStor Shield 200 weighs around 6.3 oz, with dimensions of 4.3 x 2.8 x 0.75 inches, and it consumes 6 watts of power. The new Huawei SSD starts at a price of $106 for the 1TB variant, while the 2TB model is priced at $192. However, the 4TB version doesn’t appear to be available at this time.

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  • Walnut Pi 2B: PCIe & NPU Raspberry Pi Alternative for AI Workloads

    Walnut Pi 2B: PCIe & NPU Raspberry Pi Alternative for AI Workloads

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Raspberry Pi 5 is a popular choice among single-board computer (SBC) enthusiasts, starting at $68.
    2. The Walnut Pi 2B is a new alternative to the Raspberry Pi, featuring an Allwinner T527 SoC with eight Cortex-A55 cores and an NPU for AI tasks.
    3. The Walnut Pi 2B offers options for 1GB, 2GB, or 4GB of built-in memory and comes with 32GB of eMMC storage, expandable via microSD.
    4. Connectivity features include USB 3.0, three USB 2.0 ports, microHDMI 2.0a (4K 60Hz), Gigabit Ethernet, and WiFi 6 support.
    5. The Walnut Pi 2B can be powered through PoE or USB Type-C and was available for around $50 on AliExpress.

    SBC enthusiasts have a variety of products to pick from these days, yet the Raspberry Pi 5 (starting at $68 on Amazon) remains a standout option in this field. On the other hand, the Walnut Pi 2B has emerged as a fresh alternative to the Raspberry Pi.

    Specifications Overview

    This device measures about 3.3 x 2.2 inches and runs on an Allwinner T527 SoC. The chipset includes eight Cortex-A55 cores along with a neural processing unit (NPU) that offers 2 TOPs of AI performance. Depending on the model chosen, the built-in memory can be 1GB, 2GB, or 4GB. Currently, the Walnut Pi 2B comes with only 32GB of eMMC storage, but it does allow for microSD card expansion. There is also one PCIe 2.1 lane, enabling the connection of an NVMe SSD.

    Connectivity Options

    This compact computer also features a 40-pin color-coded header. It includes USB 3.0 and three USB 2.0 ports for attaching external devices or accessories. In addition, the Walnut Pi 2B has a microHDMI 2.0a port that supports a 4K 60Hz output.

    For additional functionality, MIPI DSI and MIPI CSI interfaces are available, allowing for the connection of a camera or display. The single-board computer also supports Gigabit Ethernet and WiFi 6 connectivity. Powering the Walnut Pi 2B can be done through PoE or USB Type-C. It was briefly available on AliExpress for around $50.

    Conclusion

    With its impressive specifications and affordability, the Walnut Pi 2B presents a compelling option for anyone in search of a single-board computer alternative to the Raspberry Pi.

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    Walnut Pi 2B: PCIe & NPU Raspberry Pi Alternative for AI Workloads

     

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  • New Microsoft Surface Laptop Leak: 13-Inch Design Revealed

    Key Takeaways

    1. The new Surface Laptop, launching on May 6, features a 13-inch display, smaller than existing models.
    2. It lacks an IR camera for Windows Hello, a Surface Connect port, and a 120 Hz display, which were available in previous models.
    3. The device includes a built-in fingerprint reader and two USB 3.2 Type-C ports, with a 60 Hz LCD display.
    4. RAM is limited to 16 GB, and storage options are only 256 GB or 512 GB of UFS flash storage, with no expandable options.
    5. The new Surface Laptop is expected to be priced lower than the current Surface Laptop 7, though exact pricing is not yet available.

    Roland Quandt has shared several details about Microsoft’s upcoming Surface Laptop ahead of its launch on May 6. This week, Microsoft confirmed the date for its next Surface event, and earlier this year, rumors suggested they were working on a more compact version of the Surface Laptop. Additionally, news about a new Surface Pro has surfaced, and we’ve discussed that in another article.

    Surface Laptop Size and Features

    To put it simply, the upcoming Surface Laptop won’t be as compact as the current Surface Laptop Go models. Quandt’s leaks indicate that this new device will feature a 13-inch display, which is smaller than the 13.8-inch and 15-inch options available with the existing Surface Laptop 7. Some may argue that Microsoft has made more sacrifices with the new Surface Laptop 13″ than with the Surface Laptop Go series.

    Specifications Breakdown

    For example, the Surface Laptop 13″ does not include an IR camera for Windows Hello, nor does it have a Surface Connect port or a 120 Hz display. According to the leaked promotional content, this device will have a built-in fingerprint reader, two USB 3.2 Type-C ports, and a 60 Hz LCD. It appears that the Surface Laptop 13″ will use the X1P-42-100 model of the Snapdragon X Plus, which is different from the X1P-64-100 variant found in the most affordable Surface Laptop 7 (currently priced at $940 on Amazon).

    RAM and Storage Options

    Furthermore, it looks like the Surface Laptop 13″ will be limited to 16 GB of RAM, unlike its larger counterparts. To make matters worse, the marketing materials mention only 256 GB or 512 GB of UFS flash storage. This suggests that Microsoft’s new Surface Laptop might not offer expandable storage options. Although pricing details haven’t been revealed yet, it is anticipated that this device will be priced lower than the current Surface Laptop 7.

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  • NBook Fly: Dual-Screen Laptop with Intel Xeon for $875

    NBook Fly: Dual-Screen Laptop with Intel Xeon for $875

    Key Takeaways

    1. The NBook Fly features the Intel Xeon W-10885M processor with eight cores and 16 threads, starting at $875.
    2. It has a dual-display system: a 14-inch secondary screen (3840 x 1100 resolution) with touch support and a 16-inch main display (1920 x 1200 resolution).
    3. The laptop includes 16GB of RAM, a 1TB SSD, and runs on Windows 11 Pro, which is preinstalled.
    4. Weighing approximately 5.5 lbs, it has a 58Wh battery and offers various connectivity options, including HDMI, multiple USB 3.0 ports, and USB Type-C.
    5. Additional features include WiFi 802.11 ac/b/g/n, Bluetooth 4.2, a 1MP webcam, and a standard QWERTY keyboard without a numpad.

    The NBook Fly has been updated, although it’s not a completely new device. The latest model now features the Intel Xeon W-10885M processor. While this chipset isn’t the newest from Intel, it does come with eight cores, unlike the six cores of the previous Intel Core i7-10850H. This means it provides 16 threads instead of the earlier 12. You can place orders for the Xeon model on Banggood, starting at $875, with shipping from China. Keep in mind that this price does not include potential import duties.

    Dual-Display Features

    One of the standout features of this laptop is its dual-display system. The secondary screen is 14 inches wide and boasts a resolution of 3840 x 1100 pixels. The main display measures 16 inches and has a resolution of 1920 x 1200 pixels. Notably, the smaller screen also supports touch input. In addition, the NBook Fly comes with 16GB of RAM and a 1TB SSD. It runs on Windows 11 Pro, which is preinstalled.

    Specifications and Ports

    The new N-One laptop weighs approximately 5.5 lbs and is equipped with a 58Wh battery. When it comes to connectivity, it includes HDMI, several USB 3.0 ports, and one USB Type-C port. There’s also an Ethernet port, along with WiFi 802.11 ac/b/g/n, Bluetooth 4.2, and a 3.5mm headphone jack. Additionally, it features a 1MP webcam and a keyboard with a sizeable trackpad, although it lacks a numpad. The keyboard layout follows the standard QWERTY design.

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    NBook Fly: Dual-Screen Laptop with Intel Xeon for $875NBook Fly: Dual-Screen Laptop with Intel Xeon for $875

     

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  • Huawei Portable SSD: Survives 2-Ton Truck, 2000MB/s Speed

    Huawei Portable SSD: Survives 2-Ton Truck, 2000MB/s Speed

    Key Takeaways

    1. High-Speed Transfers: The Kunling eKitStor Shield 200 offers transfer speeds of up to 2000MB/s using USB 3.2 Gen 2×2, making it ideal for large files like 4K videos.

    2. Multiple Variants and Pricing: Available in 1TB and 2TB sizes priced at 769 yuan ($106) and 1,399 yuan ($192), with a 4TB option expected soon.

    3. Durability: Designed to endure tough conditions with an IP67 rating, drop resistance from up to 3 meters, and the ability to withstand a 2-ton vehicle’s weight.

    4. Security Features: Includes hardware-level AES-XTS 256-bit encryption and Huawei’s eKitStor Toolkit for secure backups and diagnostics.

    5. Reliability and Warranty: Offers a mean time between failures (MTBF) of 1.5 million hours, consumes only 6W of power, and comes with a five-year limited warranty.

    Huawei has launched the Kunling eKitStor Shield 200, a robust portable SSD designed for experts and outdoor enthusiasts. It utilizes USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 connection through USB-C, allowing for transfer speeds that reach up to 2000MB/s.

    Pricing and Variants

    This drive is available in sizes of 1TB and 2TB, with prices set at 769 yuan ($106) and 1,399 yuan ($192) respectively, and a 4TB version is said to be on the way. Customers can select from two finishes: Starlight Silver or Dimming Gold.

    Key Features

    The Shield 200 takes advantage of USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 via a USB-C interface to provide rapid transfer rates of up to 2000MB/s. This means you can transfer a 100GB 4K video file in less than a minute, or swiftly move large game files and creative materials. Those working with 4K media, high-resolution photography, or large datasets will find the speed and ease of use highly beneficial.

    Durability and Security

    Durability is a strong point for this device. Huawei constructed the Shield 200 to withstand tough conditions, featuring a die-cast metal body covered by a removable rubber sleeve. It boasts IP67 dust and water resistance, can endure drops from up to 3 meters, and withstands the weight of a 2-ton vehicle. Despite this heavy-duty build, the SSD weighs only 145 grams without the cover and 180 grams when covered.

    Security isn’t overlooked either. The Shield 200 includes hardware-level AES-XTS 256-bit encryption and Huawei’s eKitStor Toolkit for health diagnostics, encrypted backups, and cloud synchronization. It is compatible with Windows, macOS, Android, and HarmonyOS and comes with USB-C to USB-C and USB-C to USB-A cables included.

    Reliability and Power Efficiency

    Huawei claims an MTBF of 1.5 million hours and a maximum power consumption of just 6W, making it suitable for both laptops and mobile use. Additionally, it comes with a five-year limited warranty, reinforcing its reliability.

    Huawei also recently launched the Smart Door Lock 2, which features AI-driven palm vein recognition, a 2K cat-eye camera, and integration with HarmonyOS. They have also revealed the Vision Smart Screen 5 SE TVs, which are equipped with a 240Hz Mini LED display and HarmonyOS AI capabilities.

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  • Asus India Launches ROG Strix Scar 16/18, Strix G16, Zephyrus G16

    Asus India Launches ROG Strix Scar 16/18, Strix G16, Zephyrus G16

    Key Takeaways

    1. New ROG Models: Asus is launching six new ROG laptop models, including Strix Scar, Strix G, Zephyrus, and Flow series, targeting gamers, creators, and high-performance users.

    2. Advanced Hardware: The laptops feature Intel Ultra 9 processors, AMD Ryzen AI chips, and NVIDIA RTX 50-series GPUs, along with enhanced cooling systems and high-quality displays.

    3. Strix Series Specs: The Strix Scar 16 and Scar 18 offer high-end performance with NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5090 GPUs, up to 64GB DDR5 RAM, and 2TB SSD storage, starting at Rs 379,990 and Rs 449,990, respectively.

    4. Flow Z13 Versatility: The Flow Z13 is a tablet-first device with AMD Ryzen AI Max 390 processor, designed for mobile creators and gamers, starting at Rs 199,990.

    5. Lightweight Design: The Zephyrus G16 and G14 models emphasize portability with slim profiles, powerful specs, and high-quality displays, priced at Rs 359,990 and Rs 279,990, respectively.

    Asus is updating its ROG laptop range for India in 2025. There are six models designed for different audiences, like gamers, creators, and those who need high-performance hardware in a compact design.

    New Models and Features

    The new models include the Strix Scar, Strix G, Zephyrus, and Flow series. They come with Intel’s Ultra 9 processors, AMD’s latest Ryzen AI chips, NVIDIA’s RTX 50-series GPUs, and impressive OLED and Mini LED displays, along with improved thermal systems. Below is an overview of the new offerings hitting stores this month.

    Strix Scar 16 and Scar 18

    The refreshed Strix Scar 16 and Scar 18 maintain ASUS’s tradition of crafting large machines that focus on top-notch specs. Both models run on the Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX processor and can be equipped with NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5090 GPUs. They support up to 64GB DDR5 RAM and 2TB PCIe 4.0 SSD storage. To manage heat, these laptops feature a cooling system that includes a vapor chamber and triple fan setup.

    Design and Display

    Asus is also introducing innovative ROG motherboards. The SSD slot includes a new Q-latch design, which eliminates the need for tools during mounting. In terms of aesthetics, the laptops showcase an AniMe Vision LED lid display and a 360° RGB lightbar. Both models come with 240Hz WQXGA Mini-LED ROG Nebula HDR displays that reach 1200 nits peak brightness and have a 3ms response time. These displays are Pantone Validated, G-SYNC compatible, and support Dolby Vision. The starting prices are Rs 379,990 for the Scar 16 and Rs 449,990 for the Scar 18.

    Strix G16 (2025)

    The Strix G16 offers a slightly simpler choice for gamers who seek performance without frills. It shares the same Intel Ultra 9 275HX CPU but maxes out with an RTX 5070Ti, although there will be a limited version with RTX 5080 for those wanting near-Scar performance in a less complex package.

    Performance and Features

    The 16-inch 2.5K ROG Nebula panel operates at 240Hz and covers the full DCI-P3 color space. It also includes vapor chamber cooling, but the RGB lighting is less prominent. The device comes standard with 32GB DDR5 RAM and 1TB SSD. The pricing for the ROG Strix G16 begins at Rs 259,990 in India.

    Flow Z13 (2025)

    In a more versatile part of the lineup is the ROG Flow Z13, a tablet-first device that accommodates gaming. ASUS is marketing this as a choice for mobile creators and gamers who don’t wish to sacrifice on CPU power or display quality. It uses AMD’s Ryzen AI Max 390 processor, which has a 50 TOPS-capable NPU for AI-intensive tasks. Integrated Radeon 8050S graphics handle visuals.

    Display and Build Quality

    The display is a 13.4-inch 2.5K Nebula touchscreen panel that operates at 180Hz and supports Dolby Vision and 100% DCI-P3 color space. The keyboard is detachable, the kickstand can open to 170°, and the device allows for quad-channel LPDDR5X memory (32GB). Storage options go up to 1TB, and the price starts at Rs 199,990 in India.

    Zephyrus G16 (2025)

    For users who want power without bulk, the Zephyrus G16 aims to provide that with a lightweight design at just 1.95 kg and a slim profile of 1.49 cm. The laptop is driven by Intel’s Core Ultra 9 285H CPU and can be fitted with NVIDIA RTX 5080 GPUs, up to 32GB LPDDR5X RAM and 2TB SSD storage.

    Display and Price

    The display is a 16-inch 2.5K OLED ROG Nebula panel with a 240Hz refresh rate and a 0.2ms response time. It has certifications like VESA DisplayHDR True Black 500 and Dolby Vision, making it appealing for both content creators and gamers. The Zephyrus G16 (2025) starts at Rs 359,990.

    Zephyrus G14 (2025)

    Lastly, ASUS is launching the compact Zephyrus G14 with AMD’s Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 chip, featuring a 50 TOPS AI NPU. Memory options include up to 32GB LPDDR5X RAM and RTX 5070Ti graphics. This model is aimed at creators who need AI capability within a smaller form factor.

    Final Specs and Availability

    The 14-inch 3K OLED panel offers a 120Hz refresh rate with 500 nits brightness and full DCI-P3 coverage. The laptop weighs a mere 1.57 kg. The Zephyrus G14 (2025) starts at Rs 279,990 in India.

    ASUS’s new ROG lineup will be available through various online and offline channels, including Flipkart, Amazon, ASUS e-shop, and ASUS Exclusive Stores. Here’s a quick recap of the starting prices:
    – Strix Scar 16 – Rs 379,990
    – Strix Scar 18 – Rs 449,990
    – Strix G16 – Rs 259,990
    – Zephyrus G14 – Rs 279,990
    – Zephyrus G16 – Rs 359,990
    – Flow Z13 – Rs 199,990

    Asus India Launches ROG Strix Scar 16/18, Strix G16, Zephyrus G16Asus India Launches ROG Strix Scar 16/18, Strix G16, Zephyrus G16Asus India Launches ROG Strix Scar 16/18, Strix G16, Zephyrus G16Asus India Launches ROG Strix Scar 16/18, Strix G16, Zephyrus G16
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  • Pioneer Exits Blu-ray Drive Business, Reports Say

    Pioneer Exits Blu-ray Drive Business, Reports Say

    Key Takeaways

    1. Pioneer has exited the Blu-ray optical drive market by selling its optical drive branch to Shanxi Lightchain Technology in China.
    2. The company is shifting its focus towards automotive electronics, particularly car navigation systems, for future developments.
    3. Pioneer began producing optical drive recorders in 1995, known for high writing quality and low error rates.
    4. The last Pioneer Blu-ray product launched was the BDR-X13U-X BDXL recorder in 2024, with no new drives or media to be produced thereafter.
    5. LG remains one of the few manufacturers still offering Blu-ray recorders, such as the WH14NS40 14x BDXL burner.

    Pioneer has reportedly exited the Blu-ray optical drive market, as stated by Impress.

    The firm has sold its shares in Pioneer Digital Design and Manufacturing Co., Ltd. (PDDM), its optical drive branch, to Shanxi Lightchain Technology Industrial Development Co., Ltd. in China. This change comes after the company’s decision to shift its focus towards automotive electronics, particularly its well-known car navigation systems, for future developments.

    History of Innovation

    Pioneer started producing optical drive recorders aimed at the computer sector in 1995. The company’s lineup of CD, DVD, and Blu-ray recorders became recognized for their excellent writing quality and minimal error rates across various recordable formats. One of the final products they launched was the Pioneer BDR-X13U-X BDXL Blu-ray recorder, which hit the market in 2024.

    Where to Find Pioneer Products

    For those interested in purchasing a Pioneer drive, it’s best to check availability at the Pioneer Store on Amazon and other retailers since no more Pioneer drives or recordable media will be produced moving forward. Currently, the Pioneer US store has no inventory, and the Pioneer Japan store is set to close on May 30.

    Remaining Competitors

    LG stands as one of the few remaining manufacturers of Blu-ray recorders. They offer products like the WH14NS40 14x BDXL burner available on Amazon, which is compatible with software like MakeMKV for easy ripping.

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