Category: Computers

  • Microsoft to Announce Surface News on May 6

    Key Takeaways

    1. Microsoft will announce new Surface devices on May 6, 2025.
    2. Two new models, ‘2109’ and ‘2110’, have been certified and are likely compact versions of the current Surface Laptop and Surface Pro.
    3. A new 12-inch Surface model is expected, featuring a metal casing and a Snapdragon X processor.
    4. The new 12-inch model is anticipated to have 16GB of RAM and run on Windows 11 Pro.
    5. A third laptop, model ‘2095’, is expected to replace the current Surface Laptop Go.

    Microsoft is set to unveil new Surface devices shortly, and they’ve just confirmed a date for the big reveal.

    Launch Date Announcement

    A post on X from the official Microsoft Surface account mentions that the announcement is set for May 6, 2025. The post features an image that includes the words ‘Copilot+PC’, leading to guesses that the announcement will focus on new Surface computers.

    New Models Certified

    In March, two new models, numbered ‘2109’ and ‘2110’, passed certification by the Chinese Certification Commission. These models are thought to be compact versions of the current Surface Laptop and Surface Pro.

    Expected Features and Pricing

    The most recent Surface Pro, which is currently priced at $939.99 on Amazon, has a 13-inch display. There is talk about a new 12-inch model with a metal casing that echoes the design of the Surface Go. This model has been spotted on Geekbench and is expected to feature a Snapdragon X (X1P-42-100) processor, 16GB of RAM, and come with Windows 11 Pro.

    Additionally, there’s buzz about a third laptop with the model number ‘2095’, which is anticipated to replace the existing Surface Laptop Go.

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  • Baseus 67W 3C GaN Charger: Retractable Cable & AI Thermal Control

    Baseus 67W 3C GaN Charger: Retractable Cable & AI Thermal Control

    Key Takeaways

    1. Retractable Design: Features an 82cm retractable USB-C cable that can lock at eight lengths and retracts magnetically for convenience.

    2. High Power Output: Provides a total output of 67W across three USB-C ports, allowing simultaneous charging of multiple devices like laptops, phones, and tablets.

    3. Compact and Lightweight: Measures 70 × 58 × 37mm and weighs 198.9g, making it easy to carry while traveling.

    4. Smart Charging and Safety: Equipped with an AI-powered smart charging system, it adjusts charging speed to prevent overcharging and features advanced thermal management for safety.

    5. Wide Compatibility: Supports various charging protocols and is compatible with multiple brands, including Apple, Samsung, Huawei, and more.

    Baseus has launched the Retractable Cable Charger 67W 3C in China, a sleek and convenient GaN fast charger aimed at travelers. It costs 249 yuan (about $34) and offers a smarter solution to bulky chargers and messy cords.

    Features of the Baseus Retractable 67W Charger

    This charger includes an 82cm retractable USB-C cable that extends easily and can be locked into eight different lengths. When you’re finished charging, the cable retracts magnetically into the charger’s body, thanks to built-in N52H magnets. The cable is TÜV-certified and crafted from eco-friendly TPE, which is flexible and can endure over 30,000 stretches and 11,000 swings without damage.

    Power and Design

    It has three USB-C ports that provide a total output of 67W, allowing you to charge a laptop, phone, and tablet at the same time. The charger utilizes sixth-generation GaN (gallium nitride) technology, which makes it more efficient while keeping the size compact and reducing heat. It measures only 70 × 58 × 37mm and weighs 198.9g, making it easy to carry in your travel bags or pockets.

    Safety and Compatibility Features

    With a foldable plug and a gravity-based locking system, the charger fits securely into power outlets in hotels, airports, or trains. It operates within a wide input voltage range of 100V–240V, ensuring compatibility for international trips. To enhance safety and efficiency, it features an AI-powered smart charging system that tracks current and temperature 2000 times a second, adjusting the charging speed as needed. It can fast-charge up to 80% before switching to a trickle charge to avoid overcharging. Moreover, it comes with a triple-layer thermal management system using aerospace-grade graphene and thermal silicone that lowers surface temperature by as much as 6°C during heavy usage.

    Broad Compatibility and Compact Design

    The 67W charger supports a variety of charging protocols, including PD3.0, PPS, UFCS, QC3.0, SCP, and FCP, ensuring it works with numerous brands like Apple, Samsung, Huawei, Xiaomi, and Oppo. Despite having a retractable cable and three ports, it remains smaller than many standard laptop chargers, thanks to Baseus’s innovative Pocket IN stacking design and its dual-layer pearl-finish coating.

    Earlier this year, Baseus also released the PicoGo power banks, which offer Qi2 wireless charging in a slim form, alongside the Qpow 3 power bank that includes a built-in LED display, 45W fast charging, and integrated cables.

    Baseus 67W 3C GaN Charger: Retractable Cable & AI Thermal Control
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  • Buffalo Launches 50th Anniversary Skeleton Hard Disk Edition

    Buffalo Launches 50th Anniversary Skeleton Hard Disk Edition

    Key Takeaways

    1. Buffalo introduced the HD-SKL ‘Skeleton Hard Disk’ to celebrate its 50th anniversary, with only 50 units available globally at a price of 100,000 yen (about $700).
    2. The original ‘Skeleton Hard Disk’ was launched in 1998, featuring a 4.3 GB capacity and a clear cover to display internal components.
    3. The new drive has a capacity of 4 TB, supports USB 3.2 Gen 1 Micro-B with transfer rates up to 5 Gbps, and is pre-formatted with the exFAT file system.
    4. A special application called SeekWizard allows users to control the magnetic read head in different modes for visual enjoyment.
    5. The HD-SKL comes in a special padded keepsake box and interested buyers in Japan can enter a lottery from May 1 to May 25, 2025.

    Buffalo has introduced the HD-SKL ‘Skeleton Hard Disk’ to celebrate its 50th birthday. This limited-edition transparent drive has only 50 units available globally, priced at 100,000 yen (about $700). Those interested in Japan can enter a lottery from May 1 to May 25, 2025.

    A Brief History

    Founded in 1975 by Makoto Maki, Buffalo initially made audio equipment, like the yarn-drive record player. Over the years, the company has shifted towards IT products and offers solutions across multiple industries. The original ‘Skeleton Hard Disk’ was launched in 1998, featuring a 4.3 GB capacity and a clear cover that let users see the magnetic head and platters in action.

    Specifications of the New Drive

    The new ‘Skeleton Hard Disk’ for the 50th anniversary is a 4 TB external hard drive with a USB 3.2 Gen 1 Micro-B port that supports theoretical transfer rates of 5 Gbps. It arrives pre-formatted with the exFAT file system, making it suitable for both Windows and Apple computers.

    Unique Features

    A special application called SeekWizard will be available to control the magnetic read head for visual fun. It includes different modes like random seeking, sequential seeking, and second-hand stepping.

    The dimensions of the HD-SKL are 126 × 185 × 115 mm (4.96 x 7.28 x 4.53 in.) and it weighs 1.5 kg (3.31 lbs.). The hard disk is presented in a special padded keepsake box to mark the occasion.

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    Buffalo Launches 50th Anniversary Skeleton Hard Disk EditionBuffalo Launches 50th Anniversary Skeleton Hard Disk EditionBuffalo Launches 50th Anniversary Skeleton Hard Disk EditionBuffalo Launches 50th Anniversary Skeleton Hard Disk EditionBuffalo Launches 50th Anniversary Skeleton Hard Disk Edition
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  • Honor MagicBook Pro 16: 165Hz 3K Display & RTX 5070 Laptop

    Honor MagicBook Pro 16: 165Hz 3K Display & RTX 5070 Laptop

    Key Takeaways

    1. Design and Build: The Honor MagicBook Pro 16 (2025) features a standard design with a numeric keypad, ample trackpad, and effective ventilation for cooling.

    2. Powerful Performance: It is powered by the Intel Core Ultra 9 285H processor and Nvidia GeForce RTX 5070 GPU, providing strong performance, especially in the top model.

    3. Advanced Cooling System: The laptop includes a dual-fan cooling system and a larger copper heatsink, allowing for high performance while maintaining low fan noise.

    4. High-Quality Display and Audio: The 16-inch display offers a resolution of 3072 x 1920 pixels, 500 nits brightness, and six speakers for an immersive audio-visual experience.

    5. Pricing and Availability: The laptop is available in China, with prices ranging from $894 to $1,650, and there is no announced global launch date yet.

    The Honor MagicBook Pro 16 (2025) comes with a standard design, featuring a keyboard that includes a numeric keypad, an ample trackpad, and multiple ventilation slots on the underside. This laptop is designed mainly to offer a strong price-performance value. To achieve this, Honor has chosen the Intel Core Ultra 9 285H processor and the Nvidia GeForce RTX 5070 Laptop GPU equipped with 8GB of GDDR7 VRAM in its top model.

    Performance and Cooling System

    Equipped with a dual-fan cooling system and a larger copper heatsink, the laptop can reach up to 150 watts in performance mode, activated by pressing the fn and P keys. Additionally, Honor offers a version without a dedicated graphics card that utilizes the same cooling system. This setup enables the processor to operate at a maximum of 85 watts even during prolonged use, all while keeping fan noise relatively low.

    Display and Audio Features

    Honor also promotes a 16-inch display with a 16:10 aspect ratio, boasting a resolution of 3072 x 1920 pixels, a brightness of 500 nits, a refresh rate of 165Hz, and full DCI-P3 color coverage. The display holds a VESA DisplayHDR 400 certification. Furthermore, the Honor MagicBook Pro 16 (2025) is equipped with six speakers and a 75Wh battery, claiming to deliver up to nine hours of usage. The laptop includes two Thunderbolt 4 USB-C ports, two USB-A ports, HDMI 2.1, and a 3.5mm headphone jack.

    Availability and Pricing

    Currently, the Honor MagicBook Pro 16 (2025) is available in China. The model featuring an Intel Core Ultra 5 225H, 32GB of RAM, and a 1 TB SSD is priced at around $894. The highest tier, which includes the Core Ultra 9 285H and the GeForce RTX 5070 Laptop GPU, is priced at $1,650. Honor has not announced a global launch date yet, but historically, MagicBook Pro laptops have reached the European market eventually.

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    Honor MagicBook Pro 16: 165Hz 3K Display & RTX 5070 LaptopHonor MagicBook Pro 16: 165Hz 3K Display & RTX 5070 Laptop

     

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  • DockOrb: Stylish Laptop Docking Station with 15W MagSafe Charger

    DockOrb: Stylish Laptop Docking Station with 15W MagSafe Charger

    Key Takeaways

    1. The DockOrb is a new docking solution funded on Kickstarter, available for a pledge of $109, with shipping expected in August.
    2. It features a unique squished ball design with a Qi2 charging pad that supports charging up to 15 watts for compatible smartphones.
    3. The DockOrb includes multiple connectivity options: three USB Type-A 3.0 ports, two USB 3.1 Type-C ports, two HDMI ports for 4K output, and a Gigabit Ethernet port.
    4. It can power and charge devices up to 100 watts through a single USB-C cable, making it suitable for laptops and gaming handhelds.
    5. Comparable docking stations are available for around $39 on Amazon, highlighting the DockOrb’s higher price point.

    A fresh docking solution is now being funded through Kickstarter. The DockOrb is available for a pledge of $109, but it’s important to remember that the typical risks associated with crowdfunding apply. Shipping is anticipated to begin in August.

    Unique Design

    With the introduction out of the way, this docking solution resembles a ball that has been squished on two sides. On the side facing the user, there’s a charging pad that supports Qi2, allowing compatible smartphones to charge at speeds of up to 15 watts. Built-in magnets secure the device, yet users can still rotate their smartphones while charging.

    Comprehensive Connectivity

    On the back, you’ll find several additional ports. It includes three USB Type-A 3.0 ports and two USB 3.1 Type-C ports, with bandwidths of 10 and 5 Gbit/s, respectively. For video output, there are two HDMI ports that can support 4K monitors at 60Hz. Additionally, a Gigabit Ethernet port is included, making it easy for laptops to connect to wired networks.

    Power and Size

    Laptops or even gaming handheld devices can connect through a single USB-C cable, and the docking station can provide power and charge the main device with a capacity of up to 100 watts. Finally, the DockOrb measures roughly 3.5 x 3.7 inches and features a handy 3.5mm headphone jack.

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    DockOrb: Stylish Laptop Docking Station with 15W MagSafe ChargerDockOrb: Stylish Laptop Docking Station with 15W MagSafe Charger
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  • Kingdel PHX18: Compact Modular Mini-PC with AMD APUs Released

    Kingdel PHX18: Compact Modular Mini-PC with AMD APUs Released

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Kingdel PHX18 mini-PC features a modular design that can operate with or without its bottom layer.
    2. It includes two USB Type-C ports, one on the front and one for power at the back, and measures 100 x 100 x 67 mm.
    3. Available in AMD Ryzen 5 6600U and Ryzen 7 7840U versions, with a 19% performance difference in CPU benchmarks.
    4. Pricing starts at approximately $433 for the Ryzen 5 model with 16 GB of RAM and no SSD; Ryzen 7 models start at $493.
    5. The PHX18 supports M.2 2242 and M.2 2280 slots but is limited to 16 GB of RAM.

    Every so often, Kingdel unveils mini-PCs that piques our interest. A few years back, the company showcased models featuring six 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet ports. Now, they have come back with a modular design that can function with or without its bottom layer.

    New Modular Design

    Called the PHX18 or K3, this mini-PC elevates the concept of the latest Mac mini (currently priced at $564 on Amazon) connected to an expansion dock. From the images provided by Kingdel, it appears that the PHX18 incorporates two physical connections located at the bottom to introduce additional ports.

    Specifications and Features

    In terms of its base unit, it includes a single USB Type-C port on the front and another one for power at the back. Kingdel states that the PHX18 measures 100 x 100 x 67 mm, which we think likely includes both components. The mini-PC is available in AMD Ryzen 5 6600U and Ryzen 7 7840U versions, with an expected performance difference of about 19% in CPU benchmarks. However, there’s a more significant performance gap between their Radeon 660M and Radeon 780M integrated graphics.

    Pricing Options

    Currently, the PHX18 starts at roughly $433 on AliExpress for the Ryzen 5 6600U model, featuring 16 GB of RAM and no SSD. Kingdel does provide slots for M.2 2242 and M.2 2280. On the other hand, the Ryzen 7 7840U models are priced from at least $493, which is a 14% increase for a CPU that offers 19% more performance and over 30% better gaming capability. It’s worth noting that the Kingdel PHX18 can only be set up with 16 GB of RAM.

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    Kingdel PHX18: Compact Modular Mini-PC with AMD APUs Released
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  • Dell 14 Plus: Affordable AI Laptops with AMD Krackan Point APUs

    Dell 14 Plus: Affordable AI Laptops with AMD Krackan Point APUs

    Key Takeaways

    1. Dell has launched the 14 Plus series of laptops featuring AMD’s Krackan Point APUs, starting at $800.
    2. The base model includes an AMD Ryzen AI 5 340 APU with an 8-core CPU, 12 threads, and integrated Radeon 840M graphics.
    3. Initial configurations offer up to 16GB of LPDDR5 RAM and 512GB SSD, with higher options available for increased performance.
    4. The laptops boast IPS LCD screens with a 1920 x 1200 resolution, HDMI 1.4, USB Type C ports, and WiFi 7 support.
    5. Additional features include a fingerprint scanner, a 64Wh battery, an FHD webcam, and a lightweight design at 1.52 kg.

    Dell is growing its range of laptops with AI capabilities, introducing the Dell 14 Plus series. This new line features AMD’s Krackan Point APUs, which are priced more reasonably compared to the recently revealed Intel Lunar Lake-powered 14 Plus models. Let’s dive into the details.

    Dell 14 Plus series: Unique Features

    The well-known PC manufacturer has launched 14-inch laptops in the Dell Plus range, starting at $1,000. However, the new AMD Krackan Point APUs have been revealed with a lower entry price of $800 for the basic model, while the 2-in-1 option is available for $850. The base model of the Dell 14 Plus comes with the AMD Ryzen AI 5 340 APU, featuring an 8-core CPU with 12 threads and integrated Radeon 840M graphics based on RDNA3 architecture.

    Dell 14 Plus with AMD’s Krackan Point APUs

    The initial storage setup offers 16GB of LPDDR5 7500MHz RAM and 512GB of PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD. Additionally, there is a Ryzen AI 7 350 variant, which is paired with the Radeon 860M iGPU and provides 1TB of SSD storage, priced at $950. For those wanting 32GB of RAM and a more powerful iGPU, the cost rises to $1,150. If these processors sound recognizable, it’s because they are AMD’s latest AI chips, placed just below the premium Strix Point CPUs.

    Additional Features Worth Noting

    Some other impressive features include IPS LCD screens with a resolution of 1920 x 1200, an HDMI 1.4 port, a pair of USB Type C ports, WiFi 7 capabilities, a fingerprint scanner for added security, a 64Wh battery, an FHD webcam, and a sleek design weighing only 1.52 kilograms.

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  • Intel Launches Ultra-Thin Cooling Solution for 1000W Chips

    Intel Launches Ultra-Thin Cooling Solution for 1000W Chips

    Key Takeaways

    1. Intel has introduced an experimental liquid cooling solution capable of handling up to 1,000 watts of heat from next-gen chips.
    2. The innovative cooling system is integrated at the package level, using a compact water block with copper microchannels for efficient heat transfer.
    3. Prototypes for LGA and BGA processors show 15-20% improved thermal performance over standard liquid coolers.
    4. The cooling technology utilizes solder or liquid metal thermal interface material for better contact, allowing for more compact system designs.
    5. While not yet available commercially, this cooling method addresses rising demands from AI workloads and high-performance computing, indicating a potential shift in CPU thermal design.

    As the power and heat generated by chips keep increasing, especially in server processors and AI accelerators, companies are always looking for better ways to manage heat. Intel has taken a unique route to tackle this challenge by revealing an experimental liquid cooling solution at its Foundry Direct Connect event, which can handle up to 1,000 watts of heat from the next-gen chips.

    Innovative Cooling Approach

    The main concept of this package-level water cooling is to enhance heat transfer by placing the cooling system as near to the heat source as possible. Unlike typical cooling systems that are installed on top of processors, Intel’s method integrates the cooling directly at the package level. Instead of using a regular heat spreader, Intel’s solution includes a specially crafted compact water block that has precisely designed copper microchannels guiding the coolant across the CPU package. This idea is somewhat similar to direct-die cooling, which eliminates the heat spreader entirely to reduce thermal resistance.

    Prototype Development

    Intel has created prototypes for both LGA and BGA processors and has showcased this with Intel’s Core Ultra and Xeon server processors. The company asserts that this solution provides 15-20% improved thermal performance compared to standard liquid coolers used on delidded dies. The cooling system is said to employ solder or liquid metal thermal interface material, which ensures better contact. Furthermore, the very slim design of these cooling blocks may allow for more compact system designs, even while managing significantly greater power loads.

    Future Implications

    Although standard consumer CPUs don’t yet reach the 1,000-watt mark, this technology looks ahead to rising demands from AI workloads, high-performance computing, and professional uses. Intel has reportedly worked on this technology for years, with some research tracing back to 2005.

    Intel has not disclosed when or if this cooling method will be available for commercial products, but the demonstration hints at a major potential change in CPU thermal design. As chips continue to grow in power consumption and package density, direct cooling solutions might become vital for high-performance computing.

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    Intel Launches Ultra-Thin Cooling Solution for 1000W ChipsIntel Launches Ultra-Thin Cooling Solution for 1000W ChipsIntel Launches Ultra-Thin Cooling Solution for 1000W ChipsIntel Launches Ultra-Thin Cooling Solution for 1000W Chips

     

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  • Gigabyte Launches AI-Powered Z890 with RTX 5090 and Core Ultra 9

    Gigabyte Launches AI-Powered Z890 with RTX 5090 and Core Ultra 9

    Key Takeaways

    1. High-Performance Components: The Gigabyte AI TOP 100 Z890 includes an Intel Core Ultra 9 285K processor and an Nvidia GeForce RTX 5090 graphics card.

    2. Targeted for AI Tasks: The system is designed for demanding AI applications, making the large memory and powerful GPU beneficial for such tasks rather than gaming.

    3. Advanced Storage Solutions: It features a 2TB NVMe SSD and a 320GB AI TOP 100E drive, which has a high endurance rating of 28,000 TBW.

    4. Efficient Cooling and Power Supply: The desktop includes an AiO water cooler with a 360mm radiator and a 1,600W power supply that is 80 Plus Platinum certified.

    5. Robust Connectivity Options: It supports 10 Gbit/s Ethernet, WiFi 7, two Thunderbolt 5 ports, and multiple USB ports, with room for expansion via an additional PCIe 5.0 card and two more SSDs.

    The Gigabyte AI TOP 100 Z890 is an advanced desktop computer that promises high performance. It comes packed with top-tier parts, including an Intel Core Ultra 9 285K processor and an Nvidia GeForce RTX 5090 graphics card. Additionally, the system boasts an impressive 128GB of DDR5 RAM.

    Performance and Usage

    While the vast memory may not provide significant benefits for gaming, the Gigabyte AI TOP 100 Z890 targets users engaged in demanding AI tasks. These applications can effectively leverage the processing capabilities of the Intel Core Ultra 9 285K and GeForce RTX 5090, eliminating the need for a dedicated NPU in this setup.

    Storage and Cooling

    This machine is equipped with two storage solutions: a 2TB NVMe SSD and a 320GB AI TOP 100E drive. The latter is designed for longevity, boasting an endurance rating of 28,000 TBW. To keep everything cool, Gigabyte has included an AiO water cooler featuring a 360mm radiator, along with a robust 1,600W power supply that holds an 80 Plus Platinum certification. It also supports modern connectivity with two Thunderbolt 5 ports and six USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A ports.

    Connectivity and Expansion

    The desktop’s Ethernet ports support a bandwidth of 10 Gbit/s, and it also incorporates WiFi 7 for quick and stable wireless connections. The dimensions of the Gigabyte AI TOP 100 Z890 are 23.4 x 13.2 x 23 inches, providing room for an extra PCIe 5.0 card with 8 lanes and two more SSDs. However, the single M.2 PCIe 5.0 slot is already in use. Currently, there is no official pricing available, and it seems that the Gigabyte AI TOP 100 Z890 is not yet found on any online stores in the US.

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    Gigabyte Launches AI-Powered Z890 with RTX 5090 and Core Ultra 9Gigabyte Launches AI-Powered Z890 with RTX 5090 and Core Ultra 9

     

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  • North America Sees Surge in Desktop and Laptop Sales Amid Tariffs

    North America Sees Surge in Desktop and Laptop Sales Amid Tariffs

    Key Takeaways

    1. High tariffs on imports from China, reaching a minimum of 145%, are causing consumers to stock up on electronic devices, potentially leading to higher prices and lower supplies.
    2. Major companies like Dell, HP, and Lenovo are postponing laptop shipments to the US due to tariff impacts, while recent data shows significant increases in sales of desktops and laptops in North America.
    3. The International Data Corporation (IDC) reported a 7.6% revenue increase in the personal computer market, with laptop sales up by 26.9% and desktop sales up by 35.3% in Q1 2025 compared to Q1 2024.
    4. Both businesses and consumers are motivated to upgrade IT systems ahead of the end of Microsoft’s security support for Windows 10 in October 2025, pushing upgrades for devices that cannot run Windows 11.
    5. Despite strong sales in the PC hardware market, consumer confidence is declining, and a contraction in the market is expected in the second half of 2025, with the US gaming sector experiencing revenue drops.

    With a lot of parts made in China, high tariffs are making people stock up on electronic devices. The minimum tariffs of 145% on imports from China could lower supplies and make prices go higher. Some companies, like Dell, HP, and Lenovo, have started to postpone shipping laptops to the US. Recent data from the International Data Corporation (IDC) shows big jumps in sales of desktops and laptops in North America.

    IDC’s Role in Market Monitoring

    The IDC keeps track of sales of personal computers, software, services, and network infrastructure items. In the first quarter of 2025, total revenue rose to $19.9 billion, which is a 7.6% increase from the same time in 2024. The biggest growth was seen in personal computers, which include laptops and ready-made desktops. Laptop sales surged by 26.9%, desktop sales went up by 35.3%, and workstation sales climbed by 49.3% compared to Q1 2024. The graph below seems to have a mistake, as the right column should read “2025Q1”.

    Corporate and Consumer Reactions

    Companies felt a strong need to upgrade their IT systems to lessen the impact of tariffs. However, even regular consumers have acted fast. Another reason is that Microsoft will stop providing security updates for Windows 10 PCs in October 2025. Those whose devices can’t run Windows 11 might have hastened their plans to upgrade.

    Consumer Spending Trends

    Recent consumer spending data from March shows significant increases in retail sales. Yet, consumer confidence has taken a hit, with little progress seen in the negotiations about tariffs between China and the US. The IDC’s report mentioned that “market contraction should be expected in the second half of 2025.” It’s hard to believe that shoppers will keep buying expensive laptops and desktops at the same pace.

    On the other hand, while the PC hardware market is thriving, the US gaming sector faced downturns in March. Circana reported a 6% drop in revenue from video game software, hardware, and accessories compared to March 2024. Consoles and gaming accessories took the biggest hits, suggesting that consumers might be focusing more on work than fun. Still, strong pre-order sales for the Nintendo Switch 2 could help boost revenue significantly.

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    North America Sees Surge in Desktop and Laptop Sales Amid Tariffs

     

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