Category: Computers

  • Intel Nova Lake Core Ultra 400: 10% Faster Single-Thread, 60% More Multi-Thread Performance

    Intel Nova Lake Core Ultra 400: 10% Faster Single-Thread, 60% More Multi-Thread Performance

    Key Takeaways

    1. Nova Lake Core Ultra 400 series will replace Arrow Lake-S and Arrow Lake-S Refresh processors, launching in 2026 with expected performance improvements.
    2. Leaks suggest a potential 10% boost in single-core performance and a 1.6x enhancement in multi-threaded performance for Nova Lake compared to Arrow Lake-S.
    3. Nova Lake may introduce a new low-power island feature, absent in previous Arrow Lake models, aiming for better energy efficiency.
    4. Speculation surrounds the inclusion of a large Last Line Cache in some Nova Lake models, but details remain unclear, warranting caution.
    5. Nova Lake is rumored to feature a flagship model with 16 P-cores and 32 E-cores, potentially reaching up to 52 cores, but comparisons with Arrow Lake-S may be misleading without further information.

    Intel’s upcoming Nova Lake Core Ultra 400 series is set to replace the existing Arrow Lake-S and the soon-to-be-released Arrow Lake-S Refresh desktop processors. Although Nova Lake won’t be available until 2026, early leaks suggest it will offer significant performance improvements compared to Arrow Lake-S.

    Performance Gains Expected

    A post from Game.Keeps.Loading (@G_melo_ding) on X claims that Nova Lake might provide as much as a 10% boost in single-core performance when compared to Arrow Lake. This enhancement is likely to result in better gaming experiences and improved responsiveness for single-threaded tasks. According to the leaked information, Nova Lake is touted to achieve “Leadership Gaming Performance,” boasting a 1.1x improvement in single-thread performance and a 1.6x enhancement in multi-threaded performance.

    Previous Concerns with Arrow Lake-S

    Our evaluation of the Arrow Lake-S Core Ultra 9 285K revealed some performance drops during gaming, despite standalone CPU benchmarks performing well. Intel did announce several Field Updates during CES 2025 to enhance gaming capabilities, but the actual improvements vary based on the specific game. It’s to be hoped that Nova Lake-S avoids facing such issues.

    New Low-Power Island on the Horizon

    Additionally, there’s news about a new low-power island being developed. Notably, Nova Lake could be the first desktop CPU to include this feature. While Arrow Lake-S and Arrow Lake-HX do not have low-power islands, the Arrow Lake-H does feature two low-power E-cores in its SoC tile. However, it’s unclear if these low-power cores are based on the new Skymont design or if they are simply modified Crestmont cores from Meteor Lake.

    From the information available, Nova Lake is anticipated to launch with fresh Coyote Cove P-cores and Arctic Wolf E-cores. It’s still uncertain whether they will utilize TSMC’s 2 nm process or Intel’s 18A-P technology. The Nova Lake-S series is rumored to include a flagship model, the Core Ultra 9 485K, featuring 16 P-cores, 32 E-cores, and 4 low-power island E-cores, all with a TDP of 150 W. We might also see a combination of Celestial and Druid integrated GPUs within the same SoC.

    Speculations and Cautions

    There is speculation that some Core Ultra 5 Nova Lake-S models will come equipped with a large Last Line Cache or bLLC, similar to AMD’s successful 3D V-cache. However, this rumor should be viewed with skepticism, as the leak lacks specific details on which CPU generation is being compared. If it is indeed against Arrow Lake-S, the single-core performance gains might not be as appealing, particularly since Nova Lake is still a year away from release.

    An Arrow Lake-S Refresh expected later this year might close the performance gap with the current Arrow Lake-S models. Moreover, we still lack information on clock speeds, making any claims of performance improvements quite vague.

    A 1.6x or 60% increase in multi-core capabilities sounds promising compared to Arrow Lake-S processors. However, Arrow Lake-S tops out at 24 cores in the Core Ultra 9 285K, while Nova Lake might feature a massive 52-core design, making the comparison somewhat unclear at this stage.

    There’s a chance that the performance figures mentioned in the leaked slide are based on a lower-tier Core Ultra 400 model. We should gain more insights in the upcoming months, so keep an eye out for further updates.

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    Intel Nova Lake Core Ultra 400: 10% Faster Single-Thread, 60% More Multi-Thread Performance
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  • Starlink Satellites at Risk from Solar Activity Cycles

    Starlink Satellites at Risk from Solar Activity Cycles

    Key Takeaways

    1. Starlink satellites may be affected by the Sun’s 11-year magnetic activity cycle, leading to potential communication disruptions.
    2. Increased solar activity, including sunspots and solar flares, releases particles that can disrupt satellite operations.
    3. Coronal mass ejections raise Earth’s upper atmosphere temperature, increasing air resistance and forcing satellites to adjust their orbits.
    4. The number of Starlink satellite re-entries has significantly increased, with 316 recorded in 2024 compared to only a couple in 2019.
    5. Research aims to improve satellite durability and reduce re-entries, as falling debris poses risks to people and property.

    When you look up at the night sky, you can notice many satellites moving in their own paths. Occasionally, you’ll spot a string of Starlink satellites, which looks like a long white line gliding through the darkness. A recent study suggests that these orbiting objects may be influenced by the Sun’s cycles, which could lead to serious issues.

    NASA’s Findings

    NASA researchers explained this occurrence in the journal Frontiers in Astronomy and Space Sciences. Over the last five years, the Sun has been slowly reaching its maximum magnetic activity. This coincides with the increasing number of Starlink satellites being launched into orbit.

    It’s crucial to recognize that the Sun goes through cycles that typically last around 11 years. During these cycles, its magnetic poles flip. When the Sun becomes more active, many sunspots and solar flares can be seen on its surface. These events release significant amounts of particles and energy that have the potential to disrupt communication with satellites.

    Impact on Earth’s Atmosphere

    Moreover, there’s another aspect to think about, which relates to the upper atmosphere of the Earth. Coronal mass ejections raise the temperature in this region, leading to increased air resistance for satellites. This forces them to constantly adjust their paths to prevent falling out of orbit. A study analyzing 583 Starlink satellites during their re-entries from 2020 to 2024 highlights that this heightened activity speeds up the descent of these satellites.

    Starlink started launching its fleet of satellites in 2019. In the first year, there were only a couple of re-entries, with just two in 2020. However, the numbers grew significantly, reaching 78 re-entries in 2021, 99 in 2022, and 88 in 2023. By 2024, there were 316 recorded re-entries, marking the entire solar cycle 24.

    Future Implications

    This research aims to enhance the durability of these satellites and reduce their re-entries into the atmosphere. This is especially vital since they can pose risks to people; for instance, in 2024, a piece of debris from a Starlink satellite landed on a farm in Canada.

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  • E Ink Touchpad for Laptops: Change Design with One Button

    E Ink Touchpad for Laptops: Change Design with One Button

    Key Takeaways

    1. The E Ink trackpad offers significant power efficiency by only using energy when the display changes.
    2. Users can customize the trackpad to show various widgets and applications, enhancing functionality.
    3. The trackpad can integrate with AI tools for features like meeting transcripts and summaries.
    4. Visibility may be limited in dim environments due to the trackpad’s low brightness and black-and-white display.
    5. The E Ink trackpad is still in development, and its availability in laptops is uncertain.

    Laptops featuring touchscreens built into their trackpads aren’t a fresh concept; a notable example is the Asus Zenbook 14, which comes with the Asus ScreenPad. The recently introduced ePaper trackpad from E Ink, utilizing the Intel Smart Base laptop framework, is claimed to have a significant benefit: much lower energy use.

    Power Efficiency

    E Ink screens only draw power when there’s a change in what’s displayed, allowing the trackpad’s appearance to be altered with just a tap without greatly affecting the laptop’s battery. This trackpad can show various widgets and applications, like weather updates or a note-taking interface. In combination with different AI tools, users can present a transcript or a summary of a current meeting or video call right on the E Ink screen. Quick access to commonly used apps and system features is possible through shortcuts on the trackpad.

    Limitations in Display

    Even though E Ink screens perform well in sunlight, the trackpad’s limited brightness could affect visibility in dim environments. Also, this trackpad can only show content in black and white, and E Ink’s slower reaction time typically prevents smooth video playback. It remains uncertain if or when this E Ink trackpad will appear in a laptop available for purchase, but E Ink mentions that their “ultra-thin” module can be easily fitted into laptops that are based on Intel technology.

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  • Over 100 US Companies Targeted by North Korean Workers in Raids

    Over 100 US Companies Targeted by North Korean Workers in Raids

    Key Takeaways

    1. North Koreans used fake identities and stolen names to secure remote IT jobs with American companies.
    2. At least 29 “laptop farms” were established in the U.S. to facilitate remote work for North Korean individuals.
    3. Sensitive data, including military technology information and cryptocurrency, was reportedly stolen during these operations.
    4. Hundreds of millions of dollars were transferred from the U.S. to North Korea as a result of these activities.
    5. The report highlights significant security risks for U.S. companies and the need for stronger measures against cybercrime.

    A recent report from the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) reveals intriguing details about how the North Korean government raises money overseas. It claims that North Korean individuals used fake identities and stolen names to find remote IT jobs with American companies. With help from people in the U.S., Saudi Arabia, China, and Taiwan, these North Koreans managed to infiltrate over 100 companies in the U.S.

    Deceitful Tactics

    Some of these individuals supposedly provided misleading information on websites to make the North Korean resumes look more trustworthy. At least 29 known “laptop farms” were created in the U.S. These farms set up employer-supplied laptops and powered them, allowing North Korean workers to connect remotely and perform their tasks. The salaries earned were then sent directly to the North Korean government.

    Serious Consequences

    In certain instances, sensitive data was also reportedly taken, including information about U.S. military technology exports and virtual currencies. Notably, an employee from North Korea at a U.S. blockchain firm allegedly stole cryptocurrency worth $900,000. Overall, these operations are believed to have led to hundreds of millions of dollars being transferred from the U.S. to North Korea. Authorities conducted a series of coordinated raids, searching 29 “laptop farms” across 16 states, while also seizing 29 bank accounts and 21 websites. Astonishingly, despite this large operation, only two charges were brought forward and just one individual was apprehended.

    The Bigger Picture

    This report sheds light on the complex ways the North Korean regime is able to fund itself through deceit and technology. It raises concerns about the security of U.S. companies and the broader implications of such infiltrations. The situation highlights the ongoing risks of cybercrime and the need for stronger measures to protect sensitive information and maintain national security.

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  • Qantas Security Breach Affects Millions of Customers

    Qantas Security Breach Affects Millions of Customers

    Key Takeaways

    1. Qantas experienced a security breach affecting potentially over six million customers’ personal information.
    2. Compromised data includes names, phone numbers, addresses, dates of birth, and frequent flyer numbers, but not credit card details or passwords.
    3. The breach was linked to a third-party customer service platform, which has been secured following unusual activity detection.
    4. Qantas has reported the incident to Australian authorities, including the Cyber Security Centre and the Federal Police, and is actively investigating.
    5. The hacking group “Scattered Spider” has been implicated in similar breaches targeting multiple airlines.

    Australia’s main airline, Qantas, has disclosed a significant security breach that could have put the personal information of millions of its customers at risk. Although the precise number of impacted individuals is still being examined, it is possible that over six million passengers are affected.

    Details of the Breach

    As reported by Reuters, the attackers were able to infiltrate a third-party customer service platform. The compromised data includes personal information such as full names, phone numbers, addresses, dates of birth, and frequent flyer numbers.

    Qantas has stated in a press release that credit card details, financial information, and passports were not stored in this system and are safe. The airline also reassured that frequent flyer account passwords, PINs, or login credentials were not included in the stolen data.

    Immediate Actions Taken

    On Monday, the airline detected unusual activities on the third-party platform and swiftly acted to contain the issue. They also confirmed that the integrity of their other systems remains intact.

    “There are 6 million customers that have service records in this platform,” the airline noted. “We are still investigating how much of the data has been compromised, but we anticipate it will be considerable.”

    Ongoing Investigations

    Qantas has informed the Australian Cyber Security Centre and the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner about the breach. Additionally, the Australian Federal Police are now involved in the investigation. The airline is reaching out to customers who might be affected by the incident to offer support and details.

    While Qantas indicated that a “cyber criminal” was responsible for the breach, they have not disclosed the identity of the group or individuals involved, as a complete investigation is underway.

    As per Reuters, the U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation mentioned last week that a hacking group, Scattered Spider, is targeting airlines. Other airlines, including Hawaiian Airlines and Canada’s WestJet, have also reported similar breaches.

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  • Intel Shifts Focus to 14A Production After 18A Setbacks

    Intel Shifts Focus to 14A Production After 18A Setbacks

    Key Takeaways

    1. Intel reported a significant loss of $18.8 billion for fiscal year 2024, leading to CEO Pat Gelsinger’s departure.
    2. Delays in the Intel 18A manufacturing process hinder Intel’s competitiveness against TSMC, which is advancing its N2 production.
    3. Intel plans to limit the use of Intel 18A for its own chip production, with minimal output for major clients like Amazon and Microsoft.
    4. Upcoming “Panther Lake” laptop processors are expected to use the Intel 18A process starting in late 2025.
    5. Intel is pivoting towards Intel 14A manufacturing to compete with TSMC and Samsung, aiming to attract clients like Apple and Nvidia, with strategy discussions planned for July and fall.

    The current state of Intel is deteriorating significantly. The company has revealed a staggering loss of $18.8 billion for the fiscal year 2024, leading to the departure of CEO Pat Gelsinger. As a result, the delays in the Intel 18A manufacturing process are making it outdated and unable to compete effectively. A report from Reuters indicates that while Intel is struggling, TSMC’s N2 production is progressing as planned.

    Shift in Production Strategy

    Intel’s recent plans involve limiting the use of Intel 18A and Intel 18A-P exclusively for its own chip production, rather than attracting new clients. There will be a “small quantity” of chips produced for major clients like Amazon and Microsoft using the Intel 18A process. The upcoming “Panther Lake” laptop processors are anticipated to utilize the 18A process starting in the latter half of 2025. As reported by Reuters, the Intel 18A process is probably similar to TSMC’s N3, although the N3 technology has been in mass production since 2022.

    Future Directions

    In an effort to enhance its competitive stance against TSMC and Samsung Foundry, Intel is reportedly shifting its focus to Intel 14A, the next-generation manufacturing process that supposedly provides benefits over TSMC’s offerings. The intention is to attract major customers such as Apple and Nvidia, encouraging them to transition from TSMC. Nevertheless, Intel has yet to finalize its strategy regarding both Intel 18A and Intel 14A. Discussions about potential strategies will take place during a supervisory board meeting in July, with final decisions anticipated by a fall meeting at the latest.

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    Intel Shifts Focus to 14A Production After 18A Setbacks

     

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  • US Treasury Sanctions Russia Bulletproof Hosting for Cybercrime

    US Treasury Sanctions Russia Bulletproof Hosting for Cybercrime

    Key Takeaways

    1. The U.S. Department of the Treasury has targeted Aeza Group for aiding cybercriminals, impacting related firms and leaders.
    2. Aeza Group provides infrastructure for ransomware and info-stealing malware operations, affecting U.S. defense and tech sectors.
    3. The group is linked to BlackSprut, a dark web platform involved in drug trafficking, including fentanyl.
    4. Sanctions have been imposed, freezing assets of Aeza Group and its leaders in the U.S. and prohibiting U.S. entities from engaging with them.
    5. Key figures in Aeza Group, including CEO Arsenii Penzev and General Director Yurii Bozoyan, have been arrested by Russian authorities.

    The U.S. Department of the Treasury took a major step yesterday against the cybercrime world, naming Aeza Group for its part in aiding harmful actors. This move also impacts two related firms and four leaders of the group.

    Ransomware and Malware Support

    Aeza Group has been supplying necessary infrastructure for ransomware outfits like BianLian, as well as info-stealing malware operations including Meduza and Lumma. These groups have been involved in attacks against the U.S. defense sector and global tech companies. Info-stealing programs are used to collect sensitive credentials and personal information, which are frequently sold on dark web markets.

    Connections to Drug Trafficking

    In addition, Aeza Group was behind BlackSprut, a key Russian dark web platform for illegal drugs. The Treasury pointed out that such platforms are crucial in the trafficking of fentanyl and other drugs into the U.S.

    Cybercriminals are still very much depending on BPH service providers like Aeza Group to enable disruptive ransomware assaults, pilfer U.S. technology, and distribute drugs on the black market. — Acting Under Secretary, Bradley T. Smith.

    Sanctions and Legal Actions

    This move, done in coordination with the National Crime Agency of the United Kingdom, freezes all assets and interests belonging to Aeza Group and its leaders in the United States. It also bans any U.S. persons or businesses from dealing with them. Among those designated are CEO Arsenii Penzev and General Director Yurii Bozoyan, both arrested by Russian officials for their connection to the BlackSprut marketplace.

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  • GPD Announces Pricing for New MicroPC 2; Pre-Orders Open Now

    GPD Announces Pricing for New MicroPC 2; Pre-Orders Open Now

    Key Takeaways

    1. GPD has launched the MicroPC 2, an upgraded version of the original MicroPC from 2019.
    2. The MicroPC 2 features a 7-inch IPS display, Intel Processor N250, and weighs less than 500 grams.
    3. Pricing for the MicroPC 2 is set at around $495 for 16 GB of RAM and 512 GB of storage via Indiegogo.
    4. Pre-orders are being taken by third-party retailer Droix, starting at $661.14, with options for larger SSDs.
    5. GPD plans to begin shipping orders in September, although the exact date for the Indiegogo campaign is not confirmed.

    Almost a month ago, GPD introduced the MicroPC 2, which is the upgraded version of the MicroPC that was first launched in 2019. Out of the blue, the company has announced the pricing for the launch. Additionally, third-party retailer Droix is already taking pre-orders for those who don’t want to wait for GPD’s upcoming Indiegogo campaign.

    Specifications Overview

    To sum it up, GPD has equipped the MicroPC 2 with a 7-inch IPS display and an Intel Processor N250. The lightweight device weighs less than 500 grams and houses a 27.5 Wh battery within its dimensions of 171.2 x 110.8 x 23.5 mm. In comparison to the current Pocket 4 (priced at $1,499 on Amazon), the MicroPC 2 will offer significantly less power but comes in a more compact size. GPD’s website lists several key hardware features for the MicroPC 2:

    Pricing Details

    GPD plans to offer the MicroPC 2 with 16 GB of RAM and 512 GB of storage for around $495 via Indiegogo. While the exact date for the crowdfunding campaign has not been confirmed yet, the company aims to begin shipping orders in September. In the meantime, Droix is taking pre-orders for the MicroPC 2 starting at $661.14, taxes included. They are also providing options for 1 TB, 2 TB, and 4 TB SSDs, which can go up to $1,263.54, taxes included as well.

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  • AMD Ryzen AI+ Max 395 Mini-PC Launches with Liquid Cooling Design

    AMD Ryzen AI+ Max 395 Mini-PC Launches with Liquid Cooling Design

    Key Takeaways

    1. Abee has launched a new mini-PC called the AI Station, featuring AMD’s Ryzen AI+ Max 395 APU with 16 Zen 5 CPU cores and a Radeon 8060S integrated GPU.
    2. The AI Station supports up to 128 GB of LPDDR5X-8000 RAM and offers both 2.5 Gigabit and 10 Gigabit Ethernet connections.
    3. It utilizes a proprietary liquid cooling system with two 92 mm fans and a custom radiator to enhance cooling performance.
    4. The mini-PC includes a unique internal 400 W Flex ATX power supply, allowing for a single cable connection to a power outlet.
    5. Pricing and release dates for the AI Station are not yet announced, and it’s unclear if it will be available globally.

    A new mini-PC based on the Strix Halo has been announced, featuring AMD’s Ryzen AI+ Max 395 APU. Abee, a company under WPG Holdings, has introduced what they are calling the AI Station. Abee is mainly recognized for its production of PC cases and liquid cooling systems.

    Specifications and Performance

    Competing with products like the GMKtec EVO-X2, which is currently priced at $1,499 on Amazon, the Ryzen AI+ Max 395 equips the Abee AI Station with 16 Zen 5 CPU cores that can achieve speeds of up to 5.1 GHz. It also has 32 threads and comes with a Radeon 8060S integrated GPU, featuring 40 RDNA 3+ Compute Units. According to the picture below, Abee plans to provide the AI Station with as much as 128 GB of LPDDR5X-8000 RAM, along with support for both 2.5 Gigabit and 10 Gigabit Ethernet connections.

    Cooling Solution

    While these specs might not seem groundbreaking, the Abee AI Station could manage to keep the Ryzen AI Max+ 395 cooler than many competitors because of its proprietary liquid cooling system. Although comprehensive details about this cooling method are not yet available, Abee asserts that they have integrated two 92 mm fans in conjunction with a custom radiator to enhance cooling performance.

    Power Supply and Availability

    Additionally, the Abee AI Station includes an internal 400 W Flex ATX power supply (PSU), which sets it apart from many similar devices. This means that the Abee AI Station will only need a single cable to connect to a power outlet, eliminating the need for a bulky PSU. However, pricing and release dates are still yet to be announced, and it’s also uncertain if Abee intends to distribute the AI Station on a global scale.

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    AMD Ryzen AI+ Max 395 Mini-PC Launches with Liquid Cooling Design
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  • Orange Pi Nova: New SBC with 32GB RAM and Loongson Processor

    Orange Pi Nova: New SBC with 32GB RAM and Loongson Processor

    Key Takeaways

    1. Orange Pi is developing a new single-board computer called the Orange Pi Nova, featuring the Loongson 2K3000 chipset.
    2. The chipset includes 8 LA364E processor cores running at 2 GHz and an LG200 GPU supporting OpenCL and OpenGL standards.
    3. The Orange Pi Nova can achieve up to 6 TOPS of AI acceleration and supports 4K display output at 60 FPS.
    4. It will have a maximum of 32 GB of DDR4 RAM and various I/O options, including a 40-pin GPIO header and M.2 SSD slot.
    5. Pricing and release date for the Orange Pi Nova have not yet been announced.

    Orange Pi has shared a preview of a new single-board computer (SBC) that it is working on with Loongson. This announcement comes just a month after the release of the R2S, which is currently priced at $41.99 on Amazon. The new device, called the Orange Pi Nova, features the Loongson 2K3000 chipset, which includes 8 LA364E processor cores running at a speed of 2 GHz, along with an in-house LG200 GPU.

    Key Features of the Chipset

    The LG200 GPU supports OpenCL 1.1, OpenGL 3.3, and OpenCL ES 3.1. Additionally, this chipset can provide up to 6 TOPS of AI acceleration (in INT8 format) and allows the Orange Pi Nova to connect to an external display with a resolution of 4K at 60 FPS. The SBC is equipped with various I/O options, including a 40-pin GPIO header, two six-pin CAN headers, and an M.2 2280 SSD slot.

    RAM and Connectivity Options

    Orange Pi states that the Orange Pi Nova will come with a maximum of 32 GB of DDR4 RAM, utilizing eight 16-bit chips. The images released by the company showcase several ports, such as a 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet port, USB Type-C, HDMI, and multiple USB Type-A ports. However, details about the pricing and release date are still not available at this time.

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    Orange Pi Nova: New SBC with 32GB RAM and Loongson Processor
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