Category: Computers

  • Intel Core Ultra 9 285H Launches: 16-Core CPU and Throttling Issues

    Intel Core Ultra 9 285H Launches: 16-Core CPU and Throttling Issues

    A recent leak had indicated that Intel’s upcoming Arrow Lake-H processors would feature a combination of three distinct CPU core designs: Lion Cove (P-core), Skymont (E-core), and Crestmont (LP E-core). However, new information from a Geekbench listing for the Core Ultra 9 285H suggests a different outcome. Intel is set to unveil Arrow Lake-H, Arrow Lake-HX, and an additional Raptor Lake refresh during CES 2025.

    Performance Metrics

    The top-tier Arrow Lake-H CPU appeared on Geekbench, achieving scores of 2,665 in single-core and 15,330 in multi-core tests. It was tested in conjunction with a Dell laptop equipped with 64 GB of DDR5-6400 memory, hinting that it might be targeted towards workstation users. The Core Ultra 9 285H features a total of 16 CPU cores arranged in a 6+10 setup, with the P-core boost clock advertised at 5.4 GHz. Nevertheless, it appears that the CPU is experiencing significant throttling, failing to reach the promised boost clock speeds.

    Comparison with Competitors

    Due to this throttling issue, the Core Ultra 9 285H is only 6% faster than the Meteor Lake-based Core Ultra 9 185H (which scored 2,506 in single-core and 13,972 in multi-core tests) and 9% faster in multi-core performance. It falls short when compared to the Ryzen AI 9 HX 370, which managed to score 2,857 and 15,221 points in the same benchmarks. Curiously, even the Lunar Lake-based Core Ultra 9 288V outperforms it in single-core tasks.

    Future Expectations

    While it’s expected that performance will likely improve by the time of launch, the Core Ultra 9 285H does not seem to offer a substantial upgrade over Meteor Lake. It is hoped that there will be a notable enhancement in power efficiency, which Intel has been focusing on since the launch of Lunar Lake earlier this year.

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  • Raspberry Pi Touch Display 2 Now with Enhanced Resolution

    Raspberry Pi Touch Display 2 Now with Enhanced Resolution

    The Raspberry Pi Touch Screen Display, regarded as having a low resolution even nine years ago, has been a popular accessory for the Raspberry Pi due to its compatibility with the Raspberry Pi DSI connector, power options through GPIO pins, and support from Raspberry Pi OS.

    New Touch Screen Release

    Ebon Upton, the founder of Raspberry Pi Trading, announced today the launch of the Official Touch Screen 2. This latest version comes with a built-in touch screen controller, which replaces the external ribbon and daughter board found in the previous model, making it thinner overall.

    Improved Specifications

    The new Display 2 features a resolution of 1280×720. While this may still seem low compared to today’s standards, it is an improvement from the older version. You can still power the unit using GPIO pins on your preferred Raspberry Pi and it supports multi-touch, though the number of fingers recognized has decreased from 10 to just 5. One notable change is that this display is designed for portrait mode, so you will need to adjust the screen rotation in your operating system to view it in landscape.

    Compatibility and Pricing

    Similar to the previous model, the Pi can be attached to the back of the display and is compatible with all Raspberry Pi models that have a DSI connector. The package provides ribbon cables for both the smaller DSI on the Pi 5 and the full-size DSI connector used in the Pi 4 and older models. However, the mounting holes on the new model differ from those on the old one, meaning that direct replacements in projects using the old holes will require modifications.

    Currently, the Raspberry Pi Touch Display 2 isn’t available on Amazon, where only the older version can be found. However, you can buy the new model from retailers like Pimoroni and Sparkfun for the same price of $60.

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  • Garmin X40 Edge Bike Computer Q4 Update Now Rolling Out

    Garmin X40 Edge Bike Computer Q4 Update Now Rolling Out

    Garmin has revealed a Q4 update for its Edge 540, Edge 840, and Edge 1040 bike computers. This software update is currently being distributed in beta form and includes several new features, enhancements, and bug fixes for these devices.

    New Connection Method

    There’s a significant change in how the X40 Edge series devices connect to a PC, now utilizing the Media Transfer Protocol (MTP). According to Garmin, this switch aims to bolster file security. Consequently, the update process is a bit unusual. Users of the X40 Edge series need to first install beta version 24.54 by navigating to Main Menu > System > About > Check for Updates, followed by allowing their device to reboot. This step will enable the device to use MTP. After that, users can repeat the process for beta version 25.17 to access the additional features and fixes.

    Update Highlights

    The change log for beta version 25.17 mentions that the sound for electronic shifting over-shift has been restored, while the previous Functional Threshold Power (FTP) test has been eliminated. Now, Lactate Threshold estimates can be automatically calculated as long as a heart rate is recorded during workouts. Moreover, users will see a new confirmation message when they successfully pair an altimeter manually. Below is the complete change log for beta version 25.17 for the Edge 540, Edge 840, and Edge 1040 cycling devices.

    Garmin (Edge 540, Edge 840, Edge 1040)

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  • Anker Unveils Enhanced USB-C to USB-C Cable for Faster Charging

    Anker Unveils Enhanced USB-C to USB-C Cable for Faster Charging

    Anker has introduced the USB-C to USB-C Cable (240W, Silicone) in both the US and EU markets. This new product is an enhanced version of the previous 643 USB-C to USB-C Cable (Flow, Silicone), maintaining the same soft silicone design and copper details.

    Durable Design and Performance

    The updated USB-C to USB-C Cable comes in two different lengths: 3 ft/90 cm and 6 ft/180 cm. Similar to the earlier model, this cable is designed to resist up to 25,000 bends or carry a weight of up to 220 lbs (~100 kg). Its silicone exterior also helps prevent tangling. The main upgrade in this version is its charging capability; while the old version supported 100W, this new cable can charge devices at a powerful 240W. Anker claims that with this cable, you can charge a MacBook Pro 16 (M3 Pro) to 50% in just 26 minutes. Both cables feature a 480 Mbps data transfer speed and are backed by an 18-month warranty.

    Pricing and Availability

    You can grab the Anker USB-C to USB-C Cable (3 ft, 240W, Silicone) for $16.99/€16.99 and the Anker USB-C to USB-C Cable (6 ft, 240W, Silicone) for $18.99/€18.99. In the US, these prices are only a slight increase over the older 100W versions, which are available for $15.99 and $17.99, respectively. In Europe, the 100W cables are priced at €12.99 and €19.99.

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  • Apple Analyst Reveals Timeline for 2nm Processors and MacBook Pro Updates

    Apple Analyst Reveals Timeline for 2nm Processors and MacBook Pro Updates

    Apple has yet to begin shipping the new Mac products that were announced last week. However, Mark Gurman is already looking ahead to what the company might reveal for future MacBook Pro devices as far ahead as 2026. Just to give some background, Apple updated the 24-inch iMac, Mac mini, MacBook Pro 14, and MacBook Pro 16 at the end of October, introducing the new M4 Pro and M4 Max chipsets.

    Only One Redesigned Product

    Out of these updates, only the Mac mini (currently $799 – 512 GB on Amazon) received a complete redesign. Historically, Apple has refreshed the design of the MacBook Pro every four years. However, the last update was delayed by an additional year, which aligned with the launch of the Apple M1 chipsets.

    Future Designs and Delays

    Gurman indicates that Apple is likely to take a similar amount of time again before introducing new designs for the MacBook Pro lineup. This delay appears to be linked to production issues with the expected tandem OLED panels, which Apple aimed to have ready by next year. Consequently, the MacBook Pro models expected next year will primarily feature the M5, M5 Pro, and M5 Max chipsets.

    What’s Coming in 2026

    In contrast, the next generation of MacBook Pros is anticipated to integrate a new design alongside tandem OLED displays for the very first time. Additionally, Gurman mentions that the Apple M6 chipsets will transition to a 2 nm manufacturing process, down from the 3 nm process used for the M4 and M5 series. Therefore, the MacBook Pros released in 2026 are expected to be much more efficient compared to the current models, while also providing a significant improvement in performance and maximum display brightness.

    Mark Gurman & Bloomberg via 9to5Mac

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  • Pre-Order New M4 Macs & Enjoy Discounts on Old Models

    Pre-Order New M4 Macs & Enjoy Discounts on Old Models

    The Apple M4 MacBooks have just been released and they are ready for purchase. Retailers like Amazon and Best Buy are offering attractive discounts on the previous models. Alongside the new M4 MacBooks, Apple has also updated the older Mac versions to include 16GB RAM as the standard configuration. This change seems to have made sellers hesitant to clear out their inventory of the earlier models.

    Pricing Details for New Models

    The Apple MacBook Pro 14.2-inch with M4 is priced at $1600 on Amazon US. Additionally, the M4 Pro model with 24GB RAM and 512GB storage is tagged at $2000. For those looking for more storage, the Apple MacBook Pro 14.2-inch 2024 model equipped with the M4 Max, featuring 32GB RAM and 1TB storage, is available for $3200.

    Larger Variants and Their Costs

    The larger 16.2-inch model comes solely with M4 Pro and M4 Max configurations, offering 24GB and 36GB RAM. To purchase the M4 Pro version, customers will need to pay $2500, while the M4 Max is priced at $3500.

    Discounts on Previous Models

    With the launch of a new 16GB variant, the 2022 Apple MacBook Air 13.6-inch is now available for $700 on Amazon US. Meanwhile, the 2024 Apple MacBook Air 13.6-inch model is being sold at a discounted rate of $250, thanks to a $150 coupon. The final price for this model on Amazon US comes to $850.

    Upgrades in the New Apple M4 Macs

    Apple has rolled out multiple upgrades alongside the new System on Chips (SoCs). The 14.2-inch MacBook Pro now features three ports, and the display has been enhanced to a 120Hz Liquid Retina XDR. There are also improved 12MP cameras with Center Stage functionality. Additionally, if you purchase the M4 Max MacBook, it includes Thunderbolt 4. On the other hand, the M4 Pro and M4 Max models come equipped with Thunderbolt 5.

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  • TSMC Invests $350M in High NA EUV for 1.4nm Chip Tech

    TSMC Invests $350M in High NA EUV for 1.4nm Chip Tech

    Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Corporation (TSMC) is planning to buy ASML’s newest High NA EUV lithography system by the end of 2024. This is a big step for the semiconductor field. The machine, called the Twinscan EXE:5000, costs around $350 million and is filled with state-of-the-art tech for chip production.

    Advanced Technology Features

    This high-tech system has an incredible 8nm resolution and operates with a 13.5nm EUV light wavelength. It allows chipmakers to create smaller chips and fit in up to 2.9 times more transistors than what was possible before. TSMC aims to implement this technology in its upcoming 1.4nm (A14) manufacturing process, intending to start mass production by 2027.

    Industry Adoption

    Intel has already taken the leap by being the first to use High NA EUV, having set up two machines at its facility in Oregon earlier in 2024. Samsung is expected to follow suit, likely by early 2025. Currently, Intel, Samsung, and TSMC are the only confirmed companies with access to ASML’s advanced technology, primarily due to international trade regulations that prevent Chinese companies from obtaining it.

    Challenges Ahead

    Although ASML has claimed to receive 10-20 orders for these machines, bringing them into operation isn’t as easy as it sounds. Their large size means that manufacturers may have to significantly upgrade their existing facilities or even construct new ones. Additionally, these machines have a smaller imaging field compared to current NA EUV systems, which requires a redesign of chip architectures.

    TSMC’s decision to invest in High NA EUV highlights its dedication to leading in advanced chip manufacturing, especially as the demand for AI chips keeps rising. Even though it might take a few years before mass production with this technology truly begins, it represents a move towards the future of semiconductor manufacturing.

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  • Copilot+ PCs Offer 5x Performance Boost Over 5-Year-Old Models

    Copilot+ PCs Offer 5x Performance Boost Over 5-Year-Old Models

    Microsoft’s Copilot+ PCs are introducing a range of AI features, including Recall, Cocreator, and others. Beyond these intelligent functionalities, they are also said to enhance performance and battery life. According to Microsoft, these Copilot+ PCs represent the fastest and most advanced Windows computers ever made. But how do they compare to older Windows PCs? Microsoft has shared details to clarify this.

    Performance Comparison

    A recent report from Windows Latest indicates that Microsoft conducted a comparison between the Copilot+ PCs and well-known PCs that were popular five years ago. The focus of this assessment was mainly on performance and battery endurance. The Copilot+ PCs utilized in the evaluations are equipped with Snapdragon X Elite 12 core and Snapdragon X Plus 10 core configurations.

    Benchmark Results

    To measure performance, Microsoft used the widely recognized benchmark tool, Cinebench 2024 Multi-Core. The findings reveal that the Snapdragon-powered Copilot+ PCs outperform the most popular Windows PC from 4-5 years ago by 5 times.

    Battery Life Enhancements

    In terms of battery life, the Copilot+ PCs show significant improvements over older Windows models. During local video playback tests, these new devices demonstrated up to 2.3 times longer battery life. All devices during these tests operated on the same Wi-Fi network, with display brightness set to 150 nits.

    When it comes to web browsing, the Copilot+ PCs manage to deliver 3 times more battery life than their predecessors. These findings indicate that while Copilot+ PCs emphasize AI advancements, they also provide enhancements in other important areas. Regarding AI capabilities, Microsoft has yet to introduce features like Recall and Click to Do, but the company has pledged to roll them out by early next year.

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  • US Government Considers Intel AMD Merger Proposal

    US Government Considers Intel AMD Merger Proposal

    A recent speculation has emerged suggesting that both Apple and Samsung are interested in purchasing Intel. Prior to this, Qualcomm was also thought to be in the market for a similar acquisition. The idea of Intel merging with another firm seems more plausible now, especially given its reported net losses of $16.6 billion this quarter. Interestingly, it appears that the U.S. government also sees potential in this scenario.

    Government’s Involvement

    According to Semfor, the U.S. Commerce Department is exploring various methods to assist Intel. While a direct financial boost through the CHIPS Act could provide some relief, it may not be sufficient. The department might "suggest" a merger with competitors like AMD or Marvell. Although not specifically named, Apple seems like a likely option due to its significant cash reserves and its role in producing high-end chips. Furthermore, being an American company adds to its appeal.

    Intel’s Current Standing

    For the time being, Intel seems to be in a relatively stable position after securing a large order from the U.S. Department of Defense and Amazon Web Services. The company is pinning its hopes on the success of its 18A node technology to aid in its recovery. However, it’s perhaps premature to guess what the future holds for Intel with government involvement, but we shouldn’t have to wait too long for answers.

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  • Samsung Foundry May Spin Off into New Company

    Samsung Foundry May Spin Off into New Company

    Samsung Foundry Faces Challenges

    Samsung Foundry is currently facing difficulties, as shown by a recent report indicating that the company plans to shut down part of its 7 nm, 5 nm, and 4 nm production lines due to low demand. This decision has led to a significant loss of 1 trillion KRW. Although the situation could potentially improve with the introduction of newer nodes, such as 3 nm and beyond, some within Samsung believe it may be wiser to completely separate the foundry business.

    Task Force Formation for Separation

    According to a report from South Korean news outlet Topdaily (H/T @Jukanlosreve on X), Samsung has reportedly established a ‘task force’ aimed at detaching Samsung Foundry from Samsung Electronics. This project is expected to be resource-heavy and could take anywhere from 3 to 5 years to complete. Despite this, Lee Jae-Yong, the leader of Samsung Electronics, is against the plan. There appears to be tension within Samsung regarding this matter, suggesting that it may take some time before any definitive decisions are made.

    The Potential for Increased Autonomy

    On paper, spinning off Samsung Foundry from Samsung Electronics could grant the foundry more independence. However, the company still needs to tackle fundamental issues with its production processes. While TSMC’s N3 family of nodes has attracted major clients like Qualcomm, Apple, MediaTek, and even Intel, Samsung’s equivalent nodes have struggled to find customers, even though they utilize the advanced GAAFET technology.

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