Category: Computers

April 16, 2025
GMKtec Strix Halo EVO-X2 Mini PC Pre-Order Pricing Revealed
Key Takeaways
1. GMKtec has launched the EVO-X2 mini PC in China and plans to make it globally available soon, with pre-orders starting now.
2. The base model of the EVO-X2 is priced at $1,499, while an upgraded version will cost $1,999; both require a deposit for priority shipping and discounts.
3. The base configuration includes 64 GB of RAM and 1 TB of storage, with an upgraded option featuring 128 GB of RAM and 2 TB of storage.
4. The EVO-X2 features the Ryzen AI Max+ 395 processor and Radeon 8060S iGPU, performing similarly to the Nvidia RTX 4070 Laptop.
5. Key features include two USB4 ports, WiFi 7, Bluetooth 5.4, a maximum TDP of 140 W in “Performance Mode,” and compatibility for up to 4 TB of storage.
GMKtec has officially launched the EVO-X2 in China. Following this announcement, the company revealed that the gaming mini PC will soon be available globally and provided additional information. According to the latest news, the Strix Halo system is set to be available for purchase starting May 7, 2025, and the company is currently accepting reservations for priority shipping.
Pre-Order Details
To reserve the Ryzen AI Max+ 395-powered mini PC, customers must make a minimum deposit of $100, which will grant them a $100 discount on the final price. If someone chooses not to pay the $100 deposit for the GMK EVO-X2, the company has stated that the pre-sale price for the base model will be $1,499, positioning it among the pricier mini PCs available.
Configuration Options
The base model of the EVO-X2 features 64 GB of RAM and 1 TB of storage. There’s also an upgraded version that increases the memory to 128 GB and the storage to 2 TB (the 2 TB Samsung 990 Pro is currently priced at $169.99 on Amazon). This higher-end Ryzen AI Max+ 395 option will have a pre-sale price of $1,999, and it necessitates a $200 pre-order deposit for priority shipping and a corresponding $200 discount.
The company has not yet disclosed the standard prices for the two configurations of the GMKtec EVO-X2. The standout feature of this mini PC is the Ryzen AI Max+ 395 coupled with the Radeon 8060S iGPU. Our thorough analysis indicates that this AMD iGPU performs comparably to the Nvidia RTX 4070 Laptop.
Additional Features
Moreover, the GMK EVO-X2 boasts an extensive I/O, including two USB4 ports, although this Strix Halo mini PC lacks an OCuLink port. Other significant features include WiFi 7, Bluetooth 5.4 support, a maximum TDP of 140 W in “Performance Mode,” and compatibility for up to 4 TB of storage.
Source:
Link
Tags: EVO-X2, GMKtec, Ryzen AI Max+ 395
April 15, 2025
Engineered Copper Alloy Enhances Reliability in Electrical Systems
Key Takeaways
1. A new copper alloy (Cu-3Ta-0.5Li) can withstand temperatures up to 800°C for over 10,000 hours while maintaining strength and structure.
2. The alloy features a unique nanoscale structure that prevents grain coarsening and creep deformation, enhancing its stability under heat.
3. It has a yield strength of 1120 MPa at room temperature, surpassing traditional copper alloys in performance.
4. The alloy is ideal for high-temperature applications in computing, aerospace, and defense, providing a lightweight alternative to nickel-based superalloys.
5. The research demonstrates the significant impact of atomic-scale changes on material performance for advanced electronics and industrial uses.
A research group from Arizona State University, in collaboration with national defense and educational institutions, has created a novel copper alloy that could be beneficial for thermal and structural functions in high-temperature environments. The nanocrystalline Cu-3Ta-0.5Li alloy sustains its strength and structure at temperatures reaching 800°C for more than 10,000 hours, offering better performance compared to traditional copper alloys.
Key Innovation
The primary breakthrough is found in the nanoscale structure of the alloy. By integrating lithium precipitates into a tantalum-rich bilayer, the researchers successfully stabilized the internal configuration, which stops grain coarsening and creep deformation. This property allows the material to keep its shape and strength, even when subjected to extended heat. Additionally, the alloy boasts a yield strength of 1120 MPa at room temperature, which is significantly higher than current commercial copper alternatives.
Potential Applications
For sectors like computing, aerospace, and defense—where it’s crucial to control heat and mechanical stress—this new material could provide a valuable option. The alloy’s stability under varying temperatures and loads positions it as a strong candidate for high-performance heat spreaders, sensors, or lightweight structural components in demanding conditions.
While existing solutions frequently depend on heavier nickel-based superalloys, the Cu-Ta-Li material offers a lighter alternative without compromising thermal resilience. The research effectively highlights how small changes at the atomic scale can enhance performance in ways that are significant for both advanced electronics and industrial uses.
Source:
Link
Tags: Cu-3Ta-0.5Li alloy, high-temperature materials, nanocrystalline technology
April 15, 2025
Intel Sells 51% Stake in Altera for $4.46 Billion Deal
Key Takeaways
1. Intel is selling its FPGA unit, Altera, to Silver Lake for $4.46 billion, significantly less than its original investment of $17 billion in 2015.
2. The deal will provide Intel with $3.4 billion in cash and is aimed at improving the company’s focus and financial health.
3. Altera’s CEO, Sandra Rivera, will resign, and Raghib Hussain from Marvell Technology Inc. will become the new CEO.
4. Altera is a leading supplier of programmable chips, including FPGAs and SoCs, with applications across various industries.
5. The transaction is expected to close in the latter half of 2025, after which Altera will operate as an independent entity.
Intel is set to hand over its FPGA unit, Altera, to the private equity firm Silver Lake for a sum of $4.46 billion. This transaction values Altera at $8.75 billion, which is almost 50% less than the $17 billion Intel invested in 2015.
Cash Flow and Strategic Focus
As reported by Bloomberg, Intel will gain $3.4 billion in cash from this deal. Intel’s CEO, Lip-Bu Tan, expressed that this decision will “sharpen” the company’s focus, decrease its cost structure, and enhance its financial standing.
Leadership Changes
With this transition, Altera’s CEO, Sandra Rivera, will resign, and Raghib Hussain, who is the president of products and technologies at Marvell Technology Inc., will take over her role.
Kenneth Hao, who is the chairman and managing partner at Silver Lake, mentioned that this investment represents “a once-in-a-generation opportunity to invest in a scale leader in advanced semiconductors.”
Altera’s Market Position
Altera is recognized as a top supplier of programmable chips, such as Field-programmable Gate Arrays (FPGA) and System-on-a-chip (SoC) components. These chips can be adapted for a wide range of uses, including data centers, communication systems, industrial automation, and much more.
The agreement is expected to finalize in the latter half of 2025. After the transaction is complete, Intel will detach Altera’s financial data from its own, allowing Altera to function as a completely independent entity.
“Altera is in a strong position to capitalize on its current momentum and create groundbreaking FPGA-based solutions that are influencing the future of computing driven by AI,” said Hussain. “I deeply appreciate the contributions Sandra has made and the team she has assembled as we embark on Altera’s new growth journey.”
Source:
Link
Tags: Altera, FPGA, Intel
April 14, 2025
ThinkPad P14s Gen 6: AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX Pro 370 Specs Leak
Key Takeaways
1. Lenovo’s new ThinkPads for 2025 will feature AMD CPUs but are primarily aimed at office users, lacking powerful Ryzen options.
2. All new models are limited to eight cores, with minimal performance improvements compared to previous Zen4 versions.
3. Lenovo plans to launch a new ThinkPad P series workstation lineup, including the ThinkPad P14s Gen 6 AMD with a twelve-core Ryzen AI 9 HX Pro 370.
4. The ThinkPad P14s G6 AMD can support up to 96 GB of DDR5-5600 RAM, but this is limited to certain models with specific CPUs.
5. The ThinkPad P14s Gen 6 AMD is expected to be available soon, following the launch of the ThinkPad T14 Gen 6 AMD around May or June.
Lenovo has revealed a range of ThinkPads for 2025 that come equipped with AMD CPUs, but, so far, they are all targeted at office users and lack the more powerful AMD Ryzen CPUs. Up until the middle of April, we’ve seen various models from the Zen5 lineup.
Performance Insights
These models share a common trait: they are all limited to eight cores. While the Zen5 architecture is more efficient in comparison to its predecessor, Zen4, the performance improvements in the eight-core versions are minimal or non-existent. This is largely due to the fact that Zen5 CPUs utilize a mix of large and small cores, whereas the eight-core Zen4 versions consisted entirely of large cores. Given the exciting performance jumps seen in the 12-core Zen5 models, such as the Ryzen AI 9 365, Ryzen AI 9 HX 370, and Ryzen AI 9 HX 375, the new AMD ThinkPad laptops feel less thrilling than they might have been.
Upcoming ThinkPad P Series
However, things are set to change: Lenovo is preparing to unveil their new ThinkPad P series workstation lineup for 2025, and early details about the Lenovo ThinkPad P14s Gen 6 AMD have surfaced, thanks to a premature product page posted by Lenovo Malaysia.
The standout feature of this new model is its design, which is based on the ThinkPad T14 Gen 5 AMD (available on Amazon) and the ThinkPad T14 Gen 6 AMD. It will come with the Strix Point AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX Pro 370, boasting twelve cores. Apart from that, it appears to match the specifications of the T14 Gen 6 AMD.
Specifications and Availability
Another intriguing detail found in the specifications is that the Lenovo ThinkPad P14s G6 AMD can support up to 96 GB of DDR5-5600 RAM. However, this applies only to the Krackan Point versions that are equipped with the AMD Ryzen AI 5 Pro 340 and AMD Ryzen AI 7 Pro 350. This implies that the Strix Point versions may have limitations on memory, likely capping at 64 GB with soldered options.
The listing indicates that the Lenovo ThinkPad P14s Gen 6 AMD will be “available soon.” Considering that the ThinkPad T14 Gen 6 AMD is expected to launch around May or June, we wouldn’t anticipate its workstation counterpart to hit the market any earlier than that.
Source:
Link

Tags: AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX Pro 370, DDR5-5600 RAM, Lenovo ThinkPad P14s Gen 6
April 14, 2025
US Implements New Tariffs on Electronics to Support Domestic Production
Key Takeaways
1. The U.S. will implement separate tariffs on imports of smartphones, computers, and semiconductors to boost domestic manufacturing.
2. A “special focus type of tariff” will now apply to previously exempt consumer electronics, impacting companies like Apple and Samsung.
3. The policy change aims to address national security concerns and reduce reliance on Southeast Asian manufacturing.
4. Experts warn that the cost of products like iPhones could increase significantly as production shifts to the U.S.
5. The new tariffs may alter global trade relations and raise concerns about supply chain stability.
The United States is getting ready to implement separate tariffs on imports of smartphones, computers, semiconductors, and similar components in the next one to two months, as stated by US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick. According to ABC News on April 13, 2025, this action indicates a strategic shift aimed at bolstering domestic manufacturing.
New Tariff Details
Consumer electronics imports will now be subject to a “special focus type of tariff.” “We need to have semiconductors, chips, and flat panels made in America. We can’t depend on Southeast Asia for everything that operates for us,” Lutnick explained. This announcement follows President Donald Trump’s decision from April 11 to exempt smartphones, laptops, and other electronics from reciprocal tariffs imposed on April 2, a day referred to as “Liberation Day.”
Impact on Importers
The US Customs and Border Protection notice, effective from April 5, included products such as hard drives and memory chips, providing relief to companies like Apple and Samsung. Lutnick later clarified that these products will now be included in a “special focus type of tariff” set to begin soon, even though they were previously exempt from reciprocal duties. To avoid the tariff deadline imposed by Trump, Apple moved its inventory from India and China to the US in the last week of March.
National Security and Economic Concerns
This policy change aims to tackle national security issues, with Lutnick declaring that discussions with other countries are off the table. “These are things that are national security that must be made in America,” he mentioned. Experts have warned that “Made in America” iPhones could potentially rise to $3,500, indicating possible cost increases as production is shifted. The Trump administration aims to protect consumers and assist US firms while promoting self-sufficiency, although the swift policy change raises concerns about the stability of supply chains.
As these tariffs come into play, the emphasis on domestic chip and electronics production could significantly alter global trade relations.
Tags: Apple, Semiconductors, Tariffs
April 13, 2025
Trump Tariffs on Smartphones and Computers: Exemptions Update
Key Takeaways
– Trump granted temporary tariff exemptions for imported smartphones and computers, raising hopes for stable prices.
– U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick warned of potential new tariffs on electronics within a month, affecting consumer decisions.
– Electronics manufacturers face uncertainty due to unpredictable tariffs, leading to sales and shipment halts.
– Efforts to increase domestic production of electronics may take years and could result in higher prices for consumers.
– Companies like Apple and Nintendo are shifting production to avoid tariffs, but new semiconductor tariffs could still affect pricing.
On April 12th, it was revealed that Trump had granted tariff exemptions for imported smartphones and computers. This news sparked optimism among consumers that the prices and availability of popular tech products would stay steady. Unfortunately, it seems this relief from tariffs might be short-lived. U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick informed ABC News that different tariffs on a range of electronics could be implemented in as little as a month.
Latest Tariff Updates
Lutnick shared the most recent information regarding tariffs on the ABC This Week program. He clarified that the forthcoming semiconductor tariffs would affect smartphones and computers. While he did not specify any percentage rates, the penalties could be milder than those imposed on other countries. Nevertheless, consumers are once again questioning whether they should buy electronics now before prices go up.
Manufacturers in a Bind
Electronics manufacturers are also in a tricky position regarding how to deal with the unpredictable Trump tariffs. Before the recent exemptions, many tech products produced in China were subjected to tariffs as high as 125%. Companies that make laptops, such as Razer, Dell, and Lenovo, have either ceased sales to U.S. customers or stopped shipments altogether. Due to the uncertainty around import charges, these firms may not quickly begin selling again.
Domestic Production Challenges
The Trump administration aims to boost domestic production of smartphones, laptops, and other electronic devices. However, most economists believe that this transition will take several years. Moreover, the products made domestically might still be priced higher than what Americans currently pay. Apple has pushed back against this notion, asserting that U.S. consumers wouldn’t gain from having cheaper iPhones.
In a strategic move, Apple is building up its stock of iPhones in India to sidestep the most significant tariffs imposed on products from China. These smartphones will then be shipped to customers in the U.S. Similarly, Nintendo has used a comparable tactic with their Vietnam-manufactured Switch 2 consoles. Regardless, future semiconductor tariffs could still impact electronics, no matter where they are produced.
Source:
Link

Tags: Apple iPhones, Dell Laptops, Trump tariffs
April 13, 2025
HP OmniBook 5 Laptop Launch in India: 2K Display & 16GB RAM
Key Takeaways
1. HP launched the OmniBook 5 series in India with AMD Ryzen AI 300 Series processors, priced at ₹75,990 and ₹87,990.
2. Both models feature 16GB LPDDR5x RAM, 512GB PCIe Gen4 NVMe SSD, AMD Radeon 840M graphics, and a 16-inch 2K WQXGA display.
3. They run on Windows 11 Home and include a one-year Microsoft 365 subscription and lifetime Office 2024 license.
4. The laptops have a 43 Wh battery that supports HP Fast Charge, reaching 50% in 30 minutes, and are made from recycled materials.
5. Pre-orders start on Amazon India with discounts and sales begin on April 17, 2025, alongside the launch of Motorola’s Moto Book 60.
HP has introduced the OmniBook 5 laptop series in India, equipped with AMD’s Ryzen AI 300 Series processors. This series comprises two models: the Ryzen AI 5 340, which is priced at ₹75,990, and the Ryzen AI 7 350, which comes with a price tag of ₹87,990. Both configurations are designed with an integrated NPU (50 TOPS) that allows for AI functionalities directly on the device, categorizing them under the Copilot+ PC segment.
Specifications Overview
Both models share the same specifications aside from their processors. They feature 16GB of LPDDR5x RAM, a 512GB PCIe Gen4 NVMe SSD, and AMD Radeon 840M graphics, suitable for work and visual content. The laptops boast a 16-inch display with a 2K WQXGA resolution (16:10 aspect ratio) and a brightness level of 300 nits.
Operating System and Connectivity
Running on Windows 11 Home, these laptops also come with a one-year Microsoft 365 subscription and a lifetime license for Office 2024. In terms of connectivity, they provide two USB-C ports, two USB-A ports, HDMI 2.1, a headphone/mic jack, Wi-Fi 6, and Bluetooth 5.4. Additionally, a 1080p FHD IR camera with noise reduction, dual-array microphones, and a dedicated Copilot+ key are included, enhancing video call and AI capabilities.
Battery Life and Design
The 43 Wh battery is compatible with HP Fast Charge, allowing it to reach 50% charge in just 30 minutes when using the 65W USB-C adapter. The laptop weighs 1.799 kg and has dimensions of 357.7 x 254.85 x 17.9–18.6 mm, available in a Natural Silver color. The chassis incorporates ocean-bound and recycled plastics, achieving EPEAT Gold and ENERGY STAR certifications.
Pre-orders are available on Amazon India with discounts of up to ₹4,000 for bank transactions and a six-month no-cost EMI option. Sales will commence on April 17, 2025, through Amazon, HP’s official website, HP World, and various retail outlets.
Upcoming Launch
Motorola is set to release its inaugural laptop, the Moto Book 60, in India on April 17. It features a 14-inch 2.8K OLED display, powered by an Intel Core 7 processor, a 60Wh battery with 60W USB-C charging, and Dolby Atmos stereo speakers, weighing only 1.4 kg. The laptop will be offered in Wedge Wood and Bronze Green colors.
Tags: AMD Ryzen AI, HP OmniBook 5, Motorola Moto Book 60
April 12, 2025
Buy the Asus NUC 15 Pro Mini PC Series Now Available
Key Takeaways
1. Asus launched the NUC 15 Pro mini PC series at CES 2025, with prices starting at $699 for the entry-level model.
2. The entry-level model features an Intel Core Ultra 7 255H processor but does not include pre-installed storage or memory.
3. The NUC 15 Pro Slim supports up to 96 GB of DDR5 RAM and up to 8 TB of PCIe 5.0 storage.
4. A Tall variant is available for pre-order, allowing for additional accessory support compared to the Slim model.
5. Pro+ models are available with Intel Core Ultra 9 285H processors, and future budget-friendly options will feature Intel 200 series APUs to compete with AMD Ryzen AI 300 series mini PCs.
Asus has officially launched the NUC 15 Pro mini PC series during CES 2025, just after SimplyNUC unveiled its Cyber Canyon range. The new systems are now available for purchase, with the most budget-friendly model starting at $699.
Specifications and Pricing
This entry-level model is the barebone version of the NUC 15 Pro Slim, which comes equipped with the Intel Core Ultra 7 255H processor. Although the $699 version does not come with any pre-installed storage or memory, Asus has stated that it can support up to 96 GB of DDR5 RAM and can accommodate up to 8 TB of PCIe 5.0 storage.
Variants Available
In addition to the Slim version, there is a Tall variant of the NUC 15 Pro that is currently only available for pre-order on Adorama. The main difference between the Tall and Slim models is their support for accessories, with the Tall variant allowing for expansion modules.
Pro+ Models and Competitors
There are also Pro+ models that seem to only be available on Newegg, with the least expensive option being the barebone configuration of the NUC 15 Pro Plus featuring the Core Ultra 9 285H. Eventually, the standard mini PCs will offer more budget-friendly options that include non-Ultra Intel 200 series APUs.
When it comes to the options with Core Ultra 200 series APUs, they are competing against mini PCs powered by the AMD Ryzen AI 300 series. However, since many of the new AMD systems are using LPDDR5X RAM, there aren’t many options available that provide affordable barebone configurations.
Source:
Link
Tags: Asus NUC 15 Pro, Intel Core Ultra, Mini-PC
April 12, 2025
Lenovo Launches 140W 20000mAh Power Bank with Innovative Charging
Key Takeaways
1. The Lenovo thinkplus 140W 20000mAh portable power bank features two USB-C ports (65W each) and one USB-A port (30W), allowing simultaneous charging of up to three devices with a total output of 135W.
2. It incorporates digital hybrid charging technology, enabling 140W pass-through charging and can charge a ThinkBook Ryzen Edition 16+ up to 42% in just half an hour.
3. The power bank supports multiple charging protocols (PD, PPS, QC) and has a built-in display showing charging status and battery life.
4. It has a capacity to charge an iPhone 16 Pro Max up to 3.8 times and a MacBook Air once and a bit more, with dimensions of 154 x 51 x 39 mm and a weight of 420 g.
5. Priced at CNY 369 (~$50), it will officially launch in China on April 17th, with no current plans for release in other regions like North America.
The Lenovo thinkplus 140W 20000mAh portable power bank is now up for pre-order in China. This gadget is a part of the Fluxo Pioneer series from the brand, specifically designed for charging while you’re on the move.
Charging Capabilities
The thinkplus 140W 20000mAh features two USB-C ports with 65W each and a single USB-A port that has 30W output. This allows you to charge up to three devices at the same time. When all ports are being utilized, they collectively provide a 135W output. Additionally, the power bank incorporates digital hybrid charging technology, which Lenovo has touted as a first in the industry. This technology enables 140W pass-through charging through the first USB-C port when it accepts over 65W USB-C input. Lenovo claims that using a 132W output can charge a ThinkBook Ryzen Edition 16+ up to 42% in just half an hour.
Features and Specifications
Supporting various charging protocols such as PD, PPS, and QC, the device also boasts a built-in 2.01 inch (~51 mm) display that shows the charging status and the remaining battery life. The 20,000mAh capacity is said to charge an iPhone 16 Pro Max up to 3.8 times or a MacBook Air once and a bit more. The dimensions of this accessory are 154 x 51 x 39 mm (~6.1 x 2.0 x 1.5 inches) and it weighs around 420 g (~14.8 oz). It also includes a 1.5 cm (~5 ft) 240W USB-C to USB-C cable.
Pricing and Availability
The retail price for Lenovo’s thinkplus 140W 20000mAh power bank in China is set at CNY 369 (~$50), with an official launch date of April 17th. Lenovo has not shared any plans to release this charging device in other regions, such as North America, where it offers the Lenovo Go USB-C Laptop Power Bank (20000 mAh) which currently retails for $105.17 on Amazon.
Source:
Link
Tags: 140W Power Bank, 20000mAh, Lenovo thinkplus
April 12, 2025
Apricorn Launches Aegis Thunderbolt 4 Dock with Dual Security Slots
Key Takeaways
1. The Aegis Thunderbolt 4 docking station is priced at $229 and available on Amazon.
2. It is compatible with Windows 10 or later and MacOS 11 or higher, connecting through Thunderbolt 3, 4, USB-C, or USB-4 ports.
3. The dock supports plug-and-play functionality, requiring no complicated setup or extra software installation.
4. It provides 96 watts of power, allowing users to charge their laptops while connecting two 4K monitors or one 8K monitor.
5. Security features include dual security cables and slots for securing the unit to a desk.
Apricorn has revealed their new Aegis Thunderbolt 4 docking station, designed for users who need to connect several external monitors and devices to their laptops through a single, convenient connection that also offers power. The dock is priced at $229 and can be bought on Amazon.
Compatibility and Easy Setup
The Aegis dock works with laptops running Windows 10 or later and MacOS 11 or higher, connecting easily via a Thunderbolt 3, 4, USB-C, or USB-4 port. It’s a plug-and-play device, meaning that users don’t have to go through any complicated setup or install extra software. The docking station also provides:
A power supply that connects to the dock delivers 96 watts, allowing it to charge the laptop while also powering either two 4K external monitors or a single 8K monitor.
Security Features
To ensure safety, the whole unit can be secured to the desk with the dual security cables that are attached to a full-sized Kensington Security Slot and a smaller Kensington Nano Security Slot.
Apricorn has made it clear that the Aegis dock is designed to meet the needs of modern laptop users who require enhanced connectivity and power options.
Source:
Link
Tags: Aegis Thunderbolt 4, Apricorn, docking station