Category: Computers

  • Apple’s New MacBook Pro Could Feature Quantum Dot Displays

    Apple’s New MacBook Pro Could Feature Quantum Dot Displays

    Ross Young has shared some new details about the latest MacBook Pro 14 and MacBook Pro 16 models, which come with Apple’s M4, M4 Pro, and M4 Max chipsets. Apple has not made any alterations to the mini-LED screens in these devices. However, customers can now choose a nano-texture display finish for both models, though this option comes with an extra cost.

    Display Brightness Comparison

    Apple states that only the nano-texture displays can achieve higher peak brightness levels. They mention that these displays can reach up to 1,000 nits of peak brightness, while the standard displays on both the MacBook Pro 14 and MacBook Pro 16 max out at 600 nits (curr. $1,654 on Amazon).

    Technological Advancements

    According to Young, the M4 series marks the first time Apple has incorporated Quantum Dot technology into its machines. Previously, Apple used KSF phosphor films for their displays. The reason for this switch is that KSF films were more efficient and did not contain Cadmium, which is heavily regulated in the European Union and several other regions.

    Improved Efficiency

    The newer Quantum Dot films are claimed to be more efficient than the older versions. These films are said to offer better motion clarity and color accuracy compared to the KSF films, which might explain why Apple has chosen to implement them. In our recent reviews of the MacBook Pro 14, we noticed only slight declines in color space and response times. As per the latest whispers, it seems Apple won’t be introducing significant redesigns for the MacBook Pro 14 and MacBook Pro 16 for at least another two generations.

    Ross Young’s insights provide a clearer picture of these exciting developments in Apple’s laptop lineup.

    Source: Link,Link,Link

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  • Raspberry Pi Compute Module 5 Launching Soon with 16GB RAM

    Raspberry Pi Compute Module 5 Launching Soon with 16GB RAM

    Little more than a month has gone by since the first hints about the Raspberry Pi 500 showed up online. Since that time, the Raspberry Pi Foundation hasn’t said anything officially about replacing the Raspberry Pi 400 (currently priced at $70 on Amazon). However, they have introduced new accessories for their current single-board computers (SBCs), including the Raspberry Pi 5, which we have covered in a separate article.

    Next Steps for SBCs

    It appears that the Raspberry Pi 500 will not be the next SBC to come from the Foundation. Instead, we might see a new version of the Compute Module 4 (CM4). Similar to the Raspberry Pi 500, the Raspberry Pi CM5 has not been confirmed yet. Still, this System on Module (SOM) has made an appearance at electronicaFair 2024 in Munich.

    Details and Expectations

    At this moment, we only have one photo to refer to. But even with that, some details can be figured out. For instance, it seems the Raspberry Pi CM5 keeps the same overall look as its predecessor. Moreover, there are signs on the SOM indicating that the Foundation might offer 1 GB, 2 GB, 4 GB, and 8 GB RAM options.

    Interestingly, there’s an area for a fifth RAM option, which would likely be a 16 GB variant. Also, other labels suggest that there will be eMMC options of 8 GB, 16 GB, 32 GB, 64 GB, and 128 GB, along with a Broadcom BCM2712 chipset. It’s reasonable to think that the Foundation is close to officially revealing the Raspberry Pi CM5, especially since it was shown at electronicaFair 2024 with a related IO board.

    Source: Link,Link,Link

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  • Razer USB 4 Dock: 14-Port Expansion for Laptops at Lower Price

    Razer USB 4 Dock: 14-Port Expansion for Laptops at Lower Price

    On the surface, the latest Razer USB 4 Dock appears quite similar to the company’s previous Thunderbolt 4 Dock Chroma (currently priced at $299.99 on Amazon). Nevertheless, Razer asserts that this new model features better compatibility, likely due to the absence of Thunderbolt branding, as well as an expanded range of ports.

    Features of the USB 4 Dock

    It’s worth noting that the USB 4 Dock doesn’t come with Razer’s well-known Chroma RGB lighting. Additionally, while Razer states that this new docking station supports 100 W Power Delivery, the specific technical details reveal some important information regarding its USB ports:

    Furthermore, Razer has integrated Gigabit Ethernet, SD and MicroSD card slots, and a 3.5 mm audio jack. In terms of video connections, there are dedicated single DisplayPort 1.4 and HDMI 2.1 ports that enable 4K video output with peak refresh rates of 240 Hz and 120 Hz, respectively. However, keep in mind that these maximum refresh rates apply only when a single monitor is connected. Strangely, connecting a second monitor reduces the refresh rates to 120 Hz for one and 60 Hz for the other.

    Pricing and Availability

    At present, the Razer USB 4 Dock is available for pre-order at the Razer online store for $229.99, offered in both Black and Mercury finishes. As of the time this was written, pre-orders are expected to start shipping on November 21. Interestingly, Razer will include a Joyplot Chroma skin with every pre-order, which is shown in the image below.

    Source: Link

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  • Lenovo Kaitan X1 Laptop Launches with Zhaoxin KX-6000G CPU

    Lenovo Kaitan X1 Laptop Launches with Zhaoxin KX-6000G CPU

    Lenovo has launched a new lightweight laptop in China that does not use an Intel or AMD processor. Named the Kaitan X1, it is powered by the domestically-made Zhaoxin KX-6000G CPU, which was first introduced by Zhaoxin in 2022.

    Performance Insights

    When it comes to performance, a leaked Geekbench benchmark suggests that the Zhaoxin KX-6000G operates somewhere between the Intel Core i3 4010U and the Core i5 5015U, both of which are from 2013. This means that when compared to the latest Lunar Lake and Strix Point processors, the Zhaoxin model falls significantly behind.

    Zhaoxin’s Claims

    However, Zhaoxin has a different take on its product. The company asserts that the KX-6000G is a "high-performance processor" capable of handling the "needs of various application scenarios." Despite the leaked benchmark not showing it can manage demanding tasks like those tackled by newer laptops (like the Asus ProArt PX13 currently priced at $1,449.99 on Best Buy), it should suffice for everyday and office tasks.

    Design and Features

    In addition to the Zhaoxin CPU, the Lenovo Kaitan X1 aligns with the current trends in thin and light laptops. It boasts a 2.8K OLED display with fairly narrow bezels. The overall build quality appears to be high-end, weighing just 0.99 kg and measuring 13.9 mm in thickness, thanks to its aerospace-grade carbon fiber design.

    The laptop has a good variety of ports, including three USB-A ports, one USB Type-A, and a 3.5 mm audio jack. Other notable features of the Kaitan X1 include a "high-density" battery, a backlit keyboard, and a stylish design. Although pricing and availability information is not yet revealed, it is likely that this Lenovo laptop, featuring a Chinese-made CPU, will not be available worldwide.

    Source: Link,Link

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  • Peladn Link S-2 Launches: Affordable OCuLink eGPU Dock

    Peladn Link S-2 Launches: Affordable OCuLink eGPU Dock

    Peladn just launched a new eGPU dock that looks a lot like the Minisforum DEG1. In fact, the external GPU dock has the same specifications as the one from Minisforum. The big difference is the price, with Peladn’s version going for $86.72 on AliExpress.

    In comparison, the DEG1 was released at a price of $99. Since these two products are nearly identical, the Link S-2 stands out because it includes an OCuLink port, making it a better choice than docks with a USB4 port due to its impressive 64 Gbps bandwidth.

    Features and Compatibility

    The Link S-2 from Peladn also comes with a PCIe x16 slot, and its open-air design allows it to accommodate virtually any graphics card, even the powerful Nvidia RTX 4090. Though it includes a 24-pin ATX connector for GPU power, it lacks a built-in power supply, unlike the Aoostar AG01. Furthermore, it does not come with a USB hub or M.2 slots, features found in some competing eGPUs.

    So, if you’re looking to add an external GPU to your setup, the Peladn Link S-2 is a solid option. Just keep in mind that it doesn’t have USB4 ports, meaning it will only work with systems that include an OCuLink port, like the OneXPlayer M1 currently priced at $699.95 on Amazon.

    Market Trends

    The similarity in design and specs with the Minisforum DEG1 is a trend seen often among Chinese makers. You might even find other less-known brands selling similar products under different labels.

    Source: Link

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  • Teen Faces Decades in Prison for Major Swatting Operation

    Teen Faces Decades in Prison for Major Swatting Operation

    Alan Winston Filion, an 18-year-old from California, has admitted guilt to federal charges related to a swatting incident that involved more than 375 fake bomb and shooting threats. Swatting is when someone makes false emergency calls to dispatch heavily armed police, like SWAT teams, to a location, claiming there is a serious threat. Filion’s pranks targeted various places, including schools, religious organizations, and prominent political figures, causing panic among law enforcement across the country. The Department of Justice announced that Filion could face up to five years in prison for each of the four counts of making interstate threats.

    The Impact of Filion’s Actions

    Authorities report that Filion, who used the online name “Torswats,” executed these threats from August 2022 to January 2024. His actions not only disrupted schools but also affected government officials, including Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas and Senator Rick Scott. This case is recognized as one of the largest swatting prosecutions, built on digital evidence gathered from platforms such as Telegram, Discord, and YouTube.

    The Role of Investigators

    Private investigator Brad Dennis was instrumental in Filion’s capture by penetrating online groups associated with Torswats and collecting vital information. Dennis shared usernames, IP addresses, and server details with the FBI, which ultimately led to Filion’s identification and arrest.

    Even after the arrest, swatting incidents connected to the Torswats name persisted. Threats continued as recently as November 2023, putting financial and emotional pressure on various communities. For example, one wave of threats resulted in Washington schools losing nearly $300,000 in instructional time.

    What’s Next for Filion?

    Filion’s sentencing is yet to be determined, but he may potentially face decades behind bars due to the extent and seriousness of his offenses—up to five years for each of the four counts of making interstate threats. Law enforcement continues to pursue accountability for all those involved in these operations.

    Source: Link,Link

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  • GMKtec Announces EVO-X1 Mini-PC Release Date, Competes with Beelink SER9

    GMKtec Announces EVO-X1 Mini-PC Release Date, Competes with Beelink SER9

    The popularity of AMD’s latest Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 APU is on the rise. This APU was first picked up by big laptop brands like Asus, seen in models such as the Zenbook S 16 and ProArt P16. Now, gaming handheld companies are also adopting this APU, likely due to the enhanced performance of its Radeon 890M integrated GPU.

    GMKtec’s Mini-PC Launch

    In exciting news, GMKtec has announced the launch date for its new mini-PC powered by the Ryzen AI 9 HX 370. The EVO-X1 will officially be available starting November 27 at 02:00 UTC. However, this initial release will be limited to China, with a starting price of CNY 5,299 (~$732), which is a drop from the original price of CNY 5,599 (~$773).

    International Availability and Specs

    There is no word yet on when GMKtec plans to sell the EVO-X1 outside of China. Nonetheless, this mini-PC should offer similar performance to the Beelink SER9, which is already up for grabs worldwide at the current price of $999 on Amazon. The EVO-X1 is also designed to support OCuLink and USB4 connectivity, making it potentially more flexible than many other mini-PCs in its class, all while maintaining a compact size of just 110 x 107 x 63 mm.

    Source: Link,Link,Link

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  • Q4OS 5.7 Released: New Debian 12.8 Features and Improvements

    Q4OS 5.7 Released: New Debian 12.8 Features and Improvements

    Since the arrival of Debian 12.8 last week, it’s not surprising that the Q4OS distro, which is based on Debian, has also received an update. As usual, the changes specific to Debian are complemented by unique fixes, tweaks, and visual enhancements from Q4OS. The Q4OS 5.7 ISO files have been available for download for over 20 hours, but there has yet to be an official announcement regarding the release.

    Changes in Debian 12.8

    When we discuss the updates in Debian 12.8 that impact Q4OS 5.7, we should highlight the new stable package releases for systemd and intel-microcode, which include security fixes for CVE-2024-23984 and CVE-2024-24968. Additionally, some adjustments have been made to calamares-settings-debian. You can find the complete list of changes in Debian 12.8 right here, although many of those packages may not be utilized in Q4OS 5.7. Nonetheless, the security patches for Chromium and some Linux base files included in the latest Debian release are very likely to be included in Q4OS, even though they might not all be present in version 5.7.

    Getting Started with Q4OS 5.7

    For those enthusiastic about testing Q4OS 5.7, the only option available is to download the installation images, which come in both 64-bit and 32-bit versions, just like before. The Trinity desktop environment remains unchanged, along with the setup wizard designed for users wanting to install Q4OS on a Windows machine (as long as they are running at least Windows 7, which applies to nearly all Windows users online today).

    While some Linux users prefer not to engage with the command line interface often (or at all in many cases), those who delve into more complex tasks that involve scripting might be interested in Donald A. Tevault’s The Ultimate Linux Shell Scripting Guide: Automate, Optimize, and Empower tasks with Linux Shell Scripting. Released last month, it is currently priced at $43.99 in Kindle format (full price), and the paperback edition is available for $39.18 (29% off the list price of $54.99).

    DistroWatch

    DistroWatch has been a reliable source for updates and information about various Linux distributions, offering insights into the latest releases and trends in the Linux community.

    Source: Link

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  • AMD Job Cuts: Company Focuses on AI Development and Strategy

    AMD Job Cuts: Company Focuses on AI Development and Strategy

    AMD has made the decision to cut its workforce by 1,000 employees globally. This semiconductor firm, often viewed as a key competitor to Nvidia, shared an earnings report for Q3 in September that showed mixed results.

    Financial Performance Insights

    According to a report from Reuters, AMD saw its revenue in the data center sector, which includes AI chips, increase more than double in the last quarter. Additionally, the personal computer segment experienced a growth of 29%. However, the gaming division faced a significant drop, with sales falling by 69%.

    Future Projections

    The London Stock Exchange Group (LSEG) has predicted that AMD’s data center segment will grow by 98% in 2024, which greatly surpasses the expected 13%. Even with this growth, AMD still trails behind its rivals Nvidia and Intel in the AI chip market. In the first quarter of 2024, Nvidia maintained a 65% market share, while Intel held 22%, and AMD was at 11%.

    An AMD representative commented to Reuters, "In order to align our resources with our biggest growth opportunities, we are implementing several targeted measures." They also mentioned that the company is "dedicated to treating affected employees with dignity and assisting them during this transition."

    Conclusion

    In summary, while AMD is showing signs of growth in certain areas, it faces significant challenges in the competitive landscape of AI chips and has had to make tough decisions regarding its workforce. The company’s commitment to supporting its employees through these changes is notable.

    Source: Link,Link

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  • Intel Core Ultra 7 255H: Boosts Performance Over Meteor Lake

    Intel Core Ultra 7 255H: Boosts Performance Over Meteor Lake

    Yesterday, the Core Ultra 5 225H was spotted on Geekbench. It showed a good performance improvement compared to its Meteor Lake-based version, the Core Ultra 5 125H. However, it fell short when matched against AMD’s Strix Point lineup. Now, the stronger version, the Core Ultra 7 255H, has appeared on the same benchmarking site.

    Specifications and Performance

    Looking at the specs, the Core Ultra 7 255H features 6 Lion Cove P-cores and 10 Crestmont E-cores. According to Geekbench, this CPU can reach a boost of up to 5.1 GHz. Nevertheless, it seems to struggle to maintain that speed. This behavior was also noted previously with the Core Ultra 9 285H, suggesting that Intel might need to resolve some issues with the Arrow Lake-H series.

    Benchmarking Insights

    In the single-core test on Geekbench, the Core Ultra 7 255H achieved a score of 2,754 points. This makes it 14% quicker than the Core Ultra 7 155H and nearly as fast as the Lunar Lake-based Core Ultra 7 258V. Likewise, the Core Ultra 5 255H goes head-to-head with AMD’s Ryzen AI 9 365, which scored 2,797 points in the same test.

    Multi-Core Results

    For multi-core performance, the Core Ultra 7 255H garnered 15,040 points. This result is 22% higher than the Core Ultra 7 155H and 12% faster than the Ryzen AI 9 365. These results are impressive, especially considering the absence of hyperthreading. We can expect to see this CPU in action, along with its Arrow Lake-HX and Arrow Lake-U versions, at CES 2025.

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