Category: Computers

February 27, 2025
Redmi Book Pro 14: Xiaomi’s New Rival to MacBook Pro 14
Key Takeaways
1. The Redmi Book Pro 14 2025 features Intel’s new Arrow Lake architecture, offering improved performance over previous models.
2. It is available with Core Ultra 5 225H and Core Ultra 7 255H processors, up to 32 GB of LPDDR5X RAM, and 1 TB of PCIe 4.0 storage.
3. The laptop has a 14-inch 2.8K display with a 120 Hz refresh rate and 500 nits peak brightness.
4. Connectivity options include USB 3.2, HDMI 2.1, USB Type-C, and Thunderbolt 4 ports.
5. Pricing in China starts at CNY 5,699 (about $783), with additional options for RAM and processor upgrades.
The Redmi Book 14 Pro is back, a year post Xiaomi’s upgrade to Intel’s Meteor Lake platform. This time, they’ve integrated Intel’s latest Arrow Lake architecture into the 14-inch laptop, which measures 312 x 220 x 15.9 mm and weighs 1.45 kg.
Specifications and Performance
The Redmi Book Pro 14 2025 offers options between the Core Ultra 5 225H and Core Ultra 7 255H processors, both utilizing Arc 130T and Arc 140T integrated graphics, respectively. The laptop can be configured with up to 32 GB of LPDDR5X RAM running at 8,400 MT/s, but it comes with only 1 TB of PCIe 4.0 storage. Additionally, Xiaomi has included an 80 Wh battery, giving the Redmi Book Pro 14 2025 an edge over competitors like the MacBook Pro 14, which is currently priced at $1,399 on Amazon.
Display and Connectivity
The Redmi Book Pro 14 2025 features a 16:10 display that has a resolution of 2,880 x 1,800 pixels (2.8K) and boasts a refresh rate of 120 Hz with a peak brightness of 500 nits. The new 14-inch model doesn’t skimp on connectivity, offering two USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A ports on one side and a 3.5 mm jack, HDMI 2.1 (TMDS), USB Type-C, and Thunderbolt 4 ports on the other side.
Pricing and Availability
In China, the Redmi Book Pro 14 2025 starts at CNY 5,699 (about $783) for the version with a Core Ultra 5 225H processor, 16 GB of RAM, and a 1 TB SSD. For an additional CNY 300 (~$41), buyers can upgrade to 32 GB of RAM, or spend CNY 6,999 (~$961) for the more capable Core Ultra 7 255H with the same memory. There is currently no information on when it will be available internationally.
Source:
Link

Tags: intel Arrow Lake, Redmi Book Pro 14 2025, Xiaomi
February 27, 2025
Lenovo Reveals Solar-Powered Laptop Concept with Multi-Monitor Arm
Key Takeaways
1. Lenovo is set to showcase mid-cycle updates and a new foldable ThinkBook at MWC 2025.
2. The “Magic Bay Module” is a sleeve-like device that adds up to two displays to a laptop via USB-C.
3. A controversial solar-powered laptop concept features a solar panel on the back of the screen for charging in sunlight.
4. Concerns arise about the effectiveness of a small solar panel in charging a laptop battery and the risks of exposing electronics to sunlight.
5. While intriguing, the solar-powered laptop concept may face challenges in becoming a practical reality.
Renowned leaker Evan Blass has revealed much of what Lenovo is preparing for MWC 2025. This lineup features mid-cycle updates for current models and an exciting new ThinkBook with a foldable display. Now, two additional products have come into view, and one of them is sure to turn heads.
Magic Bay Module
The first item is possibly named the “Magic Bay Module.” It appears to be a sleeve-like device that can be attached to your laptop, allowing for the addition of up to two new displays, likely connecting through USB-C. This design is reminiscent of Razer’s attempt with Project Valerie, which sadly never became a reality. Still, it seems like a more refined approach compared to the ideas Expanscape had back in the day.
Solar-Powered Laptop Concept
Next, we encounter what could be one of Lenovo’s most controversial concepts yet. This design features a laptop screen that has a solar panel built into its back. Theoretically, this would enable users to charge their laptop while in sunlight, allowing for later use. The Yoga-branded device is surprisingly slim and includes a notch for its webcam.
Questions and Concerns
This concept brings up a lot of questions. For example, can a tiny solar panel on what appears to be a 13-14-inch screen really produce enough power to charge a laptop battery? Even if it can, exposing delicate electronics to sunlight for long periods poses its own set of issues. Regardless, it’s a fascinating idea, though it seems unlikely to become a reality anytime soon (both literally and figuratively).
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Tags: Lenovo, ThinkBook, Yoga
February 27, 2025
CWWK S7 Mini PC Launches with 10 Gigabit Ethernet Speed
Key Takeaways
1. Impressive Network Connectivity: The CWWK S7 features four Ethernet ports, with two offering 10 Gbps and two at 2.5 Gbps.
2. Ideal for Fast Connections: Designed for high-speed networking, it effectively supports fast routers and NAS for local file transfers.
3. Pricing and Specifications: The base model starts at £313 and includes options for different Intel processors and memory configurations, including up to 32GB DDR5 RAM and a 2TB SSD.
4. Versatile Design: Supports two M.2 2280 PCIe 3.0 SSDs and can also function as a standard mini PC, accommodating Wi-Fi cards with an adapter.
5. Multiple Video Output Options: Offers HDMI 2.0, DisplayPort 1.4, and USB Type-C for external display connections, along with various USB ports and a headphone jack.
The Chinese company CWWK has released a new mini PC called the S7. One of its key features is the impressive network connectivity, which includes four Ethernet ports. Out of these, two ports offer a bandwidth of 10 Gbps, while the other two are capped at 2.5 Gbps.
Ideal for Fast Connections
While these speedy LAN ports might not be necessary for users with internet speeds of one gigabit or less, the CWWK S7 will not slow you down when connected to a fast router or NAS for local file transfers. It’s built to handle high-speed networking without being a hindrance.
Pricing and Specifications
The CWWK S7 is currently listed on Amazon UK, starting at a price of £313. This price is for the base model featuring the Intel N150 processor. Customers can also opt for configurations with Intel Core i3-N305 or Intel Core 3 N355. Additionally, there are various memory options available, including 32GB DDR5 RAM and a 2TB SSD.
Versatile Design
The compact mini PC supports two M.2 2280 PCIe 3.0 SSDs, which can also accommodate Wi-Fi cards using an M.2 Key-M to Key-E adapter. While it’s primarily designed as a networking device, it can also function like a standard mini PC.
For video output, the S7 offers both HDMI 2.0 and DisplayPort 1.4 options. Users can also connect an external display via the USB Type-C port located at the front. There are two USB 3.2 ports that provide 10 Gbps speeds, along with two slower USB 2.0 ports. Finally, the CWWK mini PC includes a 3.5mm headphone jack for audio needs.
Source:
Link

Tags: CWWK S7, Ethernet 10 Gbps, Mini-PC
February 27, 2025
Honor MagicBook Pro 14: OLED Display & Core Ultra 200 Specs
Key Takeaways
1. The Honor MagicBook Pro 14 is currently available only in China, starting at around $800, with a special launch discount.
2. It features either an Intel Core Ultra 5 225H or Intel Core Ultra 9 285H processor, with RAM options of 16, 24, or 32GB and a 1TB SSD.
3. The laptop has a 14.6-inch OLED display with a resolution of 3,120 x 2,080 pixels, 700 nits brightness, and a refresh rate of 120Hz, with some models offering a touchscreen.
4. Connectivity options include two USB 3.2 Type-C ports, two USB-A ports, HDMI 2.1, and a 3.5mm headphone jack, along with a Full-HD webcam and integrated fingerprint sensor.
5. The 92Wh battery lasts about 12 hours for typical office tasks but lacks a number pad on the backlit keyboard.
Honor has just released its new MagicBook Pro 14, which is currently available only in China. The price for this laptop varies based on the model, with costs starting around $800. There’s a special launch discount, but there are no details yet about when it might be available globally or what the prices would be outside China.
Specifications and Performance
The Honor MagicBook Pro 14 is powered by either an Intel Core Ultra 5 225H or an Intel Core Ultra 9 285H processor. Depending on the specific model, it offers RAM options of 16, 24, or 32GB, and all models come with a 1TB SSD that users can swap out later if needed.
Display and Design Features
The laptop features a 14.6-inch OLED screen with a resolution of 3,120 x 2,080 pixels, boasting a maximum brightness of 700 nits and a refresh rate of 120Hz. Some models even include a touchscreen. The OLED display covers the full DCI-P3 color spectrum and achieves color accuracy with a Delta E of less than 0.5. The touchscreen variant is slightly heavier at 3.06 pounds and has a thickness of 0.67 inches.
Connectivity and Battery Life
For connectivity, the MagicBook Pro 14 includes two USB 3.2 Type-C ports that allow for charging and data transfer at rates up to 10 Gbit/s. Additionally, it has two USB-A ports with a lower transfer speed of 5 Gbit/s. Other connection options consist of HDMI 2.1 and a 3.5mm headphone jack.
The laptop is also equipped with a Full-HD webcam, dual speakers, and three microphones. There’s a fingerprint sensor integrated into the power button, although the backlit keyboard does not have a number pad. Finally, the 92Wh battery is designed to last about 12 hours during typical office tasks.
Source:
Link

Tags: honor, MagicBook Pro 14, OLED display
February 27, 2025
Qualcomm Senior VP on Snapdragon X Series: Power vs. Battery Life
Key Takeaways
1. Snapdragon X Series Overview: The Snapdragon X series includes three variants—X Elite, X Plus, and X—designed to meet diverse user needs with a focus on AI integration and battery efficiency.
2. Battery Life Importance: Snapdragon prioritizes battery life in its design philosophy, with products like the VivoBook S15 Co-pilot PC achieving 9 to 10 hours of usage, significantly outperforming traditional laptops.
3. AI Integration and Efficiency: The inclusion of a Neural Processing Unit (NPU) across the Snapdragon lineup enhances performance and energy efficiency, allowing effective on-device AI processing without compromising battery life.
4. Clear Product Tiers: Snapdragon offers a straightforward product structure with clear tiers—X Elite for top performance, X+ for balanced efficiency, and X as the entry-level option—ensuring consumer clarity.
5. Future Expansion and Accessibility: Snapdragon is expanding its X Series with over 70 devices announced, making ARM-powered laptops more budget-friendly and positioning them as a viable alternative to traditional x86 models.
I attended a recent event held at the Croma store in Juhu, Mumbai, where Kedar Kondap, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Compute and Gaming, unveiled Qualcomm’s inaugural Snapdragon Experience Zone in India. After this event, I was able to converse with him about the current Snapdragon X lineup, which consists of three variants: Snapdragon X, X Plus, and X Elite.
Understanding the Snapdragon X Series
Our discussion highlighted how the Snapdragon X series addresses various user demands, with AI integration through the NPU ensuring low battery usage even when using on-device LLMs. Kedar pointed out the importance of clear product names, India’s swift AI adoption, and future prospects, which include ARM-based desktops and more affordable Snapdragon-powered PCs as their popularity grows. We also talked about GPU performance, where Qualcomm is focusing on AI and battery longevity rather than just superior gaming graphics.
Battery Life: A Crucial Factor
Battery life is a critical element for modern professionals. Kedar mentioned that Snapdragon is aware of this requirement, stating “market research repeatedly shows that battery life is a key concern for PC consumers.” This insight has influenced the core design philosophy of their X Series processors.
For instance, I observed the VivoBook S15 Co-pilot PC, running on Snapdragon X Elite, which delivers remarkable endurance, “achieving 9 to 10 hours of usage” during average workdays. This marks a substantial improvement over many traditional x86 laptops that necessitate more frequent charging during demanding tasks. Snapdragon ensures that even those who aren’t yet keen on on-device AI can enjoy enhanced power efficiency. Kedar remarked, “Even if people aren’t fully convinced about generative AI, they will still gain from the impressive battery performance.”
AI Integration Without Compromising Battery
A significant worry regarding on-device AI processing is its potential effect on power consumption. Snapdragon tackles this issue by incorporating an NPU (Neural Processing Unit) throughout its entire lineup. For those unfamiliar, the NPU is specifically designed to manage AI tasks effectively, alleviating the load on the CPU and GPU. This boosts both performance and energy efficiency, allowing for smoother AI-related activities.
Kedar elaborated on how this design improves efficiency: “By utilizing our mobile background, we’ve managed to shift many tasks to the NPU, which indeed enhances efficiency and lessens the battery life impact when running on-device LLMs.”
Clear Product Tiers in the Elite Series
To provide clarity for consumers, the Snapdragon X series features a simple product structure:
– Snapdragon X Elite – The top performance tier
– Snapdragon X+ – Mid-tier, balancing power and efficiency
– Snapdragon X – The entry-level choice
Kedar confirmed, “We want buyers to easily grasp the tiers. X Elite stands for the best performance, followed by X+ and then X.” Although it boasts high-end AI features, Snapdragon has also maintained price accessibility. Kedar mentioned, “With prices beginning at around $600 for the Snapdragon X, we ensure customers can access high-performance laptops with excellent battery life and AI capabilities throughout the entire range.”
Everyday Performance of Snapdragon X Series GPUs
While Snapdragon GPUs aren’t tailored for extreme gaming, they provide solid performance for daily applications, including casual gaming and AI tasks. Kedar stated, “Our GPUs excel for casual gaming, standard use, and even AI generation.” However, he acknowledged that Snapdragon isn’t focusing on professional gaming: “For serious gaming, a dedicated gaming GPU would be more appropriate.” This makes Snapdragon-powered PCs suitable for professionals, students, and everyday users who value battery life and AI features over high-end graphics performance.
Future Expansion of the Snapdragon X Series
Snapdragon is making notable progress in expanding its X Series range, with increasing adoption from various manufacturers. Kedar highlighted, “We’ve already announced over 70 or 80 devices, whether launched or in development, featuring Snapdragon processors.” As more manufacturers adopt Snapdragon X chips, prices are likely to become more competitive, positioning ARM-powered PCs as a common choice.
Gradually, Snapdragon-powered laptops are becoming more budget-friendly, with models like the Acer Swift Go A14 and Asus VivoBook 16 priced at Rs 50,000 and Rs 65,900, respectively. Furthermore, Snapdragon is venturing beyond laptops, having already revealed mini desktops and small form factor devices at CES 2024, indicating a possible entry into the desktop market soon.
Concluding Thoughts
Snapdragon’s X series processors balance performance, battery longevity, and AI capabilities. By utilizing efficient NPUs and a clear product strategy, they serve a diverse audience. Kedar encapsulated this approach: “Our ongoing focus is on performance, battery life, and AI capabilities across the whole product range.” With ongoing price reductions and growing acceptance, Snapdragon-powered PCs are poised to become a genuine alternative to traditional x86 laptops.
In related news, Snapdragon India held a special launch event on February 24 to introduce the Snapdragon X platform, showcasing AI innovations like regional LLMs and advanced on-device AI capabilities. At the event, Asus unveiled the Snapdragon X-powered Vivobook 16 and Zenbook A14. To ensure fast delivery, Flipkart confirmed that Snapdragon X laptops will be available through its Flipkart Minutes service, guaranteeing delivery within 10 minutes.
Tags: Acer Swift Go, Snapdragon X, VivoBook S15
February 26, 2025
Linglong Host Foldable Keyboard PC Launches with 60Wh Battery and Ryzen 7
Key Takeaways
1. Raspberry Pi launched the Pi 400 and Pi 500 as a ‘PC in a keyboard’ concept, priced at $159.99 on Amazon.
2. ARFirst introduced the Linglong Host, a more powerful alternative with different design and features.
3. The Linglong Host is powered by an AMD Ryzen 7 8840U APU and has a 59.2 Wh battery.
4. It offers configurations with up to 2 TB of storage and 32 GB of RAM, along with USB Type-A and Type-C ports.
5. Pricing for the Linglong Host starts at CNY 3,899 (about $537) for 16 GB RAM/512 GB storage, with a higher option at CNY 4,899 (around $675) for 32 GB RAM/1 TB storage.
Raspberry Pi has set the bar with its ‘PC in a keyboard’ idea, launching the Pi 400 and Pi 500, which are priced at $159.99 on Amazon. In contrast, the Chinese company ARFirst has come up with a different strategy by introducing the Linglong Host, which takes a more powerful route.
Background on the Device
Last summer, some early information about this device was shared while it was still known under the Linglong name. After that, the branding shifted to ARFirst, but the design and features of the device have stayed the same.
Specs and Features
The Linglong Host is powered by the AMD Ryzen 7 8840U APU and comes with a 59.2 Wh battery. It also offers up to 2 TB of storage and 32 GB of RAM, along with USB Type-A and USB Type-C ports for connectivity.
Pricing and Availability
Currently, you can get the Linglong Host starting at CNY 3,899 (about $537) for a version with 16 GB of RAM and 512 GB of storage from Xiaomi Youpin. If you want more power, there’s another option available for CNY 4,899 (around $675), which has 32 GB of RAM and 1 TB of storage. Sadly, there is no information yet about when it will be available outside of China.
Source:
Link

Tags: AMD Ryzen 7 8840U, ARFirst Linglong Host, Raspberry Pi 400
February 26, 2025
MSI Launches Norse-Inspired RTX 50 Series Laptops in India
Key Takeaways
1. Diverse Product Lines: MSI’s RTX 50 Series includes various models like the Titan 18 HX Dragon Edition, Raider Series, Stealth Line, and Vector Series, catering to gamers, professionals, and business users.
2. Powerful Performance: The laptops feature advanced processors, such as NVIDIA GeForce RTX 50 graphics and Intel Core Ultra 200HX, ensuring high performance for demanding tasks and gaming.
3. Innovative Cooling Systems: Many models incorporate advanced cooling technology, like vapor chamber cooling in the Titan and Cooler Boost 5 in the Stealth line, to prevent overheating during intense use.
4. Business-Focused Features: The Venture and VenturePro laptops are designed for business users, equipped with OLED touchscreens, upgradeable memory and storage, and an AI Engine for efficient power management.
5. Launch and Pricing: The MSI RTX 50 Series laptops will be available in India starting March 2025, with prices beginning at Rs. 2,99,990.
MSI has launched its new RTX 50 Series laptops, drawing inspiration from Norse mythology, which was showcased at the “Dragonforged Dominance” event. Each of these models comes equipped with modern technology, stylish aesthetics, and strong performance features.
Titan 18 HX Dragon Edition
The Titan 18 HX Dragon Edition Norse Myth stands out with its unique hand-painted dragon art. It is powered by NVIDIA GeForce RTX 50 graphics and an Intel Core Ultra 200HX processor that has a built-in Neural Processing Unit. This model comes with a 400W power adapter and supports four SSD slots that utilize SuperRAID 5, boasting read speeds that can reach up to 18,000 MB/s. Its vapor chamber cooling system allows for a combined CPU and GPU output of up to 270W without the risk of overheating.
Raider Series
In the Raider series, customers can choose between AMD Ryzen 9000HX/9000HX3D or Intel Core Ultra 200HX processors, which are paired with RTX 50 graphics and DDR5 6400 CSODIMM memory. The design features a dual-fan system with seven heat pipes, ensuring stable performance, while the 4K/120Hz Mini LED display guarantees smooth and clear visuals.
Stealth Line
The Stealth line boasts a sleek magnesium-aluminum chassis, offering options for AMD Ryzen AI 300 or Intel Core Ultra 200H processors along with RTX 50 graphics. It includes MSI’s Cooler Boost 5 system, a full-size RGB keyboard, multiple ports, and high-quality speakers, making it ideal for gaming as well as professional use.
Vector Series
Focusing on STEM and professional applications, the Vector series includes a dedicated SSD cooling module to maintain consistent speeds during demanding tasks. It operates with RTX 50 graphics and either Intel Core Ultra 200HX or AMD Ryzen 9000 processors, and it features Thunderbolt 5 for quicker data transfers. Even under significant loads, it remains silent and efficient.
Business Solutions
Additionally, MSI is aiming at business professionals with its Venture and VenturePro laptops. These laptops come with either Intel Core Ultra 200H or AMD Ryzen AI 300 processors, NVIDIA GeForce RTX graphics, and an OLED touchscreen. Users can upgrade memory and storage, and the 90Wh battery with Battery Boost ensures longer usage time. An AI Engine automatically adjusts power, display, and sound settings, helping users save time.
Pricing and Availability
The MSI RTX 50 Series laptops are set to launch in India in March 2025, with starting prices at Rs. 2,99,990.
Source:
Link
Tags: MSI RTX 50 Series, Raider series, Titan 18 HX Dragon Edition
February 26, 2025
Lenovo Launches World’s First Under-Display Webcam Laptop in China
Key Takeaways
1. First Under-Display Camera: The Lenovo Yoga Air X AI Yuanqi Edition features the world’s first under-display webcam, providing a full-screen experience for users.
2. Impressive Display: It boasts a 14-inch 4K OLED touchscreen with a 120Hz refresh rate and a 98% screen-to-body ratio, achieving full color accuracy and eye-care certification.
3. Powerful Performance: Powered by an Intel Core Ultra 7 processor, 32GB RAM, and a 1TB SSD, the laptop is designed for high-efficiency tasks and creative software.
4. Advanced Features: The laptop includes AI-driven functionalities, a high-density battery with fast charging, and a premium audio setup with Dolby Atmos.
5. Security and Connectivity: It offers robust security with a fingerprint unlock feature, multiple Thunderbolt 4 ports, and Wi-Fi 7 support for fast connectivity.
Lenovo has made a significant announcement with the launch of the Yoga Air X AI Yuanqi Edition in China, marking it as the first laptop in the world to incorporate an under-display camera. This high-end ultrabook, which was first unveiled at CES as the Yoga Slim 9i, sets a new standard for bezel-less design, boasting an impressive 98% screen-to-body ratio.
Specifications of the Yoga Air X AI Yuanqi Edition
This laptop is equipped with a 14-inch 4K OLED touchscreen that offers a 120Hz refresh rate, ensuring extremely smooth visuals. It is certified with DisplayHDR True Black 600, supports Dolby Vision, and achieves full coverage of the sRGB, P3, and Adobe RGB color gamuts. Factory-calibrated for color accuracy with a Delta E<1, the display also features TÜV Rheinland-certified eye-care technology with low blue light at the hardware level.
Key Features and Performance
The Lenovo Yoga Air X runs on an Intel Core Ultra 7 258V processor, paired with 32GB of LPDDR5X RAM and a 1TB PCIe Gen 4 SSD. This processor enhances tasks driven by AI, boosts efficiency, and improves graphics performance, making it ideal for creative software like Adobe Premiere Pro and After Effects. The laptop’s design is both ultra-slim and lightweight, weighing only 1.23kg and measuring just 14.55mm in thickness. It includes a high-density battery, a mini motherboard, and a compact hinge to maximize space. The 75Wh battery allows for up to 17 hours of video playback and features 100W fast charging for quick recharges.
Innovative Camera and Audio Experience
The Yoga Air X features a 32MP under-display webcam, ensuring a seamless full-screen experience while providing high-quality video calls. It includes infrared functionality and 3D noise reduction to enhance clarity. Additionally, the laptop is equipped with a 10W quad-speaker system that includes Dolby Atmos, Smart AMP technology, and AI-driven noise reduction for an immersive audio experience.
Connectivity and Smart Features
In terms of connectivity, this laptop has two Thunderbolt 4 ports and supports Wi-Fi 7 for fast and stable internet connections. It comes with Lenovo’s Super Interconnect technology, allowing for high-speed file transfers of up to 50MB/s between devices. AI-driven features are also incorporated, such as Lenovo’s personal assistant Xiaotian, which offers real-time voice recognition, AI translation, and document summarization.
Security and Keyboard Comfort
For security, the Yoga Air X integrates an independent security chip for fingerprint unlocking and maintains solid wireless performance, ensuring a stable connection up to 500 meters away. The laptop also features a modern “Rhythmic Keyboard” with 1.5mm key travel, smile-shaped keycaps, and a dedicated function key area for a more comfortable typing experience.
Pricing and Availability
The Lenovo Yoga Air X AI Yuanqi Edition is available with 32GB of RAM and 1TB of storage, retailing for 14,999 yuan ($2,069).
Lenovo has also launched the Legion Blade 9000K 2025 gaming PC, equipped with the Ultra 9 285K processor and RTX 5080 GPU, along with their first 240Hz OLED gaming monitor, specifically designed for high-performance gaming.
Tags: 4K OLED touchscreen, Lenovo Yoga Air X, Under Display Camera
February 26, 2025
ASRock BIOS Update Fixes Ryzen 9000 Series Boot Problems
Key Takeaways
1. ASRock has released a BIOS update (3.20) to address boot issues with Ryzen 9000 series CPUs, especially the Ryzen 9800X3D, on various motherboards.
2. Users have reported similar boot problems with motherboards from other brands like Gigabyte, MSI, and Asus, but most complaints are from ASRock users.
3. Severe cases of CPU failures during boot with the 9800X3D on ASRock motherboards have been acknowledged, prompting users to report their experiences.
4. ASRock Japan linked the boot issues to memory compatibility problems, with at least 40 reported incidents across multiple motherboard models.
5. The BIOS update aims to improve boot stability for AMD 9000 Series CPUs, specifically targeting the issues mentioned by users.
Several users have shared their troubles with booting their ASRock motherboards alongside Ryzen 9000 series CPUs on the ASRock subreddit. In response, the company has launched a BIOS update aimed at fixing these problems. The 3.20 update has been rolled out for various X870, B850, B650, and A620 motherboards, specifically targeting the Ryzen 9000 series, focusing on the Ryzen 9800X3D, which was frequently mentioned in complaints.
Reports on Other Brands
Users have also reported similar boot issues with motherboards from Gigabyte, MSI, and Asus, but most of the complaints have come from ASRock board owners. The ASRock subreddit hosts a dedicated thread called “9800X3D Failures/Deaths Megathread,” where moderators have been addressing the concerns of the users. The problems related to instability and failures involving the Ryzen 9800X3D have been recognized, and the initial recommendation was to revert to an earlier BIOS version.
Severe Cases Noted
Some users faced severe issues, with their 9800X3D CPUs supposedly failing during the boot process when used with an ASRock motherboard. The moderators at ASRock acknowledged these serious cases and provided a form for users to report their experiences for further examination.
Now, the company has introduced the 3.20 Beta update for AM5 series motherboards, which is anticipated to resolve these concerns. While ASRock global hasn’t disclosed the specific reasons behind these boot problems, ASRock Japan has attributed them to memory compatibility issues, mentioning that there have been at least 40 reported incidents. The motherboards affected include two models of B650M Pro, three A620M, eleven B850, and seven X870 models. The release note simply states, “Improve minority proportion of AMD 9000 Series CPU boot issues.”
Source:
Link
Tags: ASRock, BIOS update, Ryzen 9800X3D
February 25, 2025
Framework 12: Repairable Entry-Level 2-in-1 Laptop with Rugged Design
Key Takeaways
1. The new Framework Laptop 13 features AMD’s Strix Point APUs and emphasizes repairability and upgradeability.
2. Framework is developing the Framework 12, a convertible laptop designed for students and field workers, with a focus on durability and user feedback.
3. The Framework 12 includes a 1,920 × 1,200-pixel touch display, with impressive internal specs like Intel 13th-Gen CPUs, up to 48 GB of RAM, and 2 TB of NVMe storage.
4. The laptop is made from polycarbonate and ABS materials for cost-effectiveness and durability, while maintaining a minimalist design.
5. Pre-orders for the Framework 12 will begin in April, with shipping expected by mid-2025, though pricing details are yet to be announced.
Framework has shared news about the new Framework Laptop 13, which now features AMD’s Strix Point APUs, along with a Framework Desktop powered by AMD Strix Halo. As always, these products prioritize repairability and upgradeability. Additionally, Framework revealed that they are developing the Framework 12 — a convertible laptop designed to be repairable and upgradable, intended to endure the rough treatment often faced by students and field workers.
Target Audience Expansion
Initially, Framework created the Framework 12 with students in mind, but they broadened their focus based on early feedback.
“Although students were our primary focus when we started working on this product two years ago, we discovered that every adult who tested it wanted one too!”
Impressive Specifications
The Framework 12 will come with a 1,920 × 1,200-pixel touch display and stylus support, although it remains unclear if the stylus will be pressure-sensitive. This screen is expected to deliver at least 400 nits of brightness, making it suitable for various indoor settings and some outdoor applications. The internal components of the Framework 12 are notably more impressive than those typical education laptops, featuring either an Intel 13th-Gen Core i3 or Core i5 CPU, with up to 48 GB of DDR5-5200 RAM and 2 TB of NVMe storage.
Design Choices
To manage costs while ensuring durability, Framework has chosen to use a polycarbonate (PC) and ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) casing instead of a metal frame. This is complemented by a shock-absorbent TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) overmold that protects the outer plastic shell. Despite these more economical materials, the Framework 12 maintains an adult-friendly aesthetic, adhering to Framework’s minimalist industrial design principles.
The new Framework 12 will likely feature the same expansion ports as the Framework 13 and 16, keeping the standard four-port arrangement found in the larger models. As is customary, Framework will provide support for both Windows and Linux operating systems.
Anticipated Release
While Framework has not yet revealed a price for the Framework 12, more information is expected soon. Pre-orders for the Framework 12 are set to begin in April, with the aim to commence shipping production units by mid-2025, although a precise shipment date has yet to be announced.
Tags: AMD Strix Point, Framework Laptop 12, repairable convertible laptop