Category: Computers

January 1, 2025
Lenovo Launches Magnetic Portable SSD with 2TB Storage Capacity
Lenovo has unveiled a new portable SSD called the Y910, which comes with built-in magnets. This device is designed to provide easy storage expansion for iPhones that are compatible with MagSafe. It is also expected to work with Android devices that can use MagSafe accessories.
Impressive Speed
The standout feature of the Lenovo Y910 is its impressive read speed, claimed to be 2,000 MB/s. Utilizing a USB-C 3.2 Gen 2×2 interface, this portable SSD is said to transfer 1 GB of data in merely 1 second. Thanks to its fast speeds, Lenovo confidently asserts that this SSD can serve as a dependable option for portable game storage.
Solid Write Capabilities
The write speed is also quite commendable. Lenovo states that the magnetic SSD can achieve write speeds of up to 1900 MB/s. This makes it an excellent choice for individuals looking for a reliable storage solution for recording 4K ProRes videos.
Storage Options and Pricing
When it comes to capacity, the external storage is offered in two sizes: 1 TB and 2 TB. The company claims that the 1 TB version can store approximately 254,936 high-resolution photos, while the 2 TB version is marketed to hold around 509,872 of the same quality images.
Besides these features, the Y910 magnetic portable SSD is lightweight, compatible with both Windows and macOS, and has a compact design. In China, the 1 TB model is priced at CNY 559, which is roughly $76, while the 2 TB version costs CNY 889, approximately $122. Lenovo has not yet provided information regarding global pricing and availability, but if you’re seeking an alternative, the Orico A20Plus MagPro is a viable option, currently priced at $59.99 on Amazon for the 512 GB version.
Source: Link
Tags: Lenovo Y910, MagSafe-Compatible, Portable SSD
January 1, 2025
Topton F12 Mini PC: Meteor Lake-H & Thunderbolt 4 in Compact Design
The Topton F12 is equipped with an Intel Core Ultra 7 155H, a high-performance laptop CPU featuring six performance cores that can reach boost clock speeds of up to 4.8 GHz, along with eight efficiency cores. It also includes an Intel Arc integrated GPU, which provides adequate performance for older games or less demanding titles. For those who need better gaming capabilities, it’s possible to connect an external graphics card using Thunderbolt 4 (USB-C).
Multiple Display Support
With HDMI 2.1, DisplayPort 2.1, and Thunderbolt 4, you can connect up to three 4K monitors at once, and it even supports one 8K display. The mini PC has two SO-DIMM slots allowing for a maximum of 96 GB of DDR5 5600 RAM, as well as space for two M.2-2280 SSDs linked through PCIe 4.0, enabling the Topton F12 to have as much as 8 TB of storage. For network connections, you can use either Wi-Fi 6 or a 2.5 Gbit/s Ethernet connection.
Connectivity Options
Bluetooth 5.2 is included for connecting wireless headphones. Besides the Thunderbolt 4 port, the mini PC features three USB-A ports (10 Gbit/s) and headphone jacks on the front, while the back has two 2.5 Gbit/s Ethernet ports, USB 2.0, HDMI 2.1, and DisplayPort 2.1. However, this design has its downsides; all the high-speed USB ports are located at the front, forcing users to plug in some devices in a more obvious manner rather than at the back where it might be less visible.
Pricing and Availability
You can find the Topton F12 Mini-PC on AliExpress right now. The barebones model, which includes the Core Ultra 7 155H but lacks RAM and SSD, is priced at $419, which comes with free shipping. Alternatively, there’s a model with 32 GB of RAM and a 1 TB SSD available for $599.00 on the same platform.
Source: Link
Tags: Intel Core Ultra 7 155H, Mini-PC, Topton F12
January 1, 2025
LG Gram Pro 2025: Lunar Lake, Arrow Lake & 120Hz OLED Display
The new LG Gram Pro 2024 has been launched, introducing a variety of impressive features. This series includes four models: the budget-friendly LG Gram Book, as well as the Gram Pro 16, Gram Pro 17, and the Gram Pro 2-in-1. The LG Gram Book weighs 1.7 kg (3.74 lb) and is equipped with a 51 Wh battery, a 15.6-inch 1080p screen, and a 720p webcam, but it isn’t the lightest option.
Exciting Features of Gram Pro Models
Among the new models, the LG Gram Pro 16 (16Z90TS) stands out with its Intel Lunar Lake chip, which can go up to Core Ultra 9 288V. It has a robust 77 Wh battery and a 16-inch QHD display that refreshes at 144 Hz, all packed in a lightweight 1.24 kg (2.73 lb) body. The LG Gram Pro 17 (17Z90TR) comes with a larger 17-inch QHD display and a powerful 90 Wh battery, weighing 1.48 kg (3.26 lb). This version is powered by the latest Intel Arrow Lake-H processor and includes an Nvidia GeForce RTX 4050 Laptop GPU.
The Versatile 2-in-1 Model
The LG Gram Pro 2-in-1 (16T90TP) is the only convertible option in this lineup. It features an Intel Arrow Lake-H processor along with an Intel Arc iGPU and a 77 Wh battery while weighing 1.4 kg (3.08 lb). Customers can choose between a 120 Hz OLED display with a resolution of 2,880 x 1,800 or a 144 Hz IPS display with a resolution of 2,560 x 1,600. Both options promise a brightness of 400 nits.
Every model in the LG Gram Pro 2025 series supports up to 32 GB of RAM, two M.2 SSDs, and includes two 3-watt stereo speakers. They also feature a 1080p webcam with facial recognition for Windows login and provide a total of five ports: two Thunderbolt 4 (USB-C), two USB-A, and an HDMI 2.1.
Pricing and Release Information
As of now, LG has not released any information regarding the pricing or availability of the Gram 2025 series. More details about the launch are expected to be announced at CES shortly.
Source: Link
Tags: 2-in-1 Laptop, Intel Arrow Lake-H, LG Gram Pro 2025
January 1, 2025
Modular Laptop with Mechanical Keyboard: MNT Reform vs. Framework
The new notebook from MNT Research is being marketed as a viable choice compared to modular laptops such as the Framework Laptop 13. With its hardware and firmware being fully open source, this laptop allows for extensive modifications, making it particularly appealing to enthusiasts and DIY-ers.
Features and Specifications
The device includes a mechanical keyboard that uses Kailh Choc Brown switches and comes with RGB lighting. It features a 12.5-inch 1080p IPS display, and all parts, including the battery and motherboard, can be replaced after purchase. The left and right sides of the laptop have smaller boards for the ports, enabling users to change them without affecting the motherboard. Out of the box, the MNT Reform Next has three USB-C ports (one designated for charging), one USB-A port, an HDMI output, Gigabit Ethernet, and a 3.5 mm headphone jack.
Performance Considerations
While the modular design contributes to a weight of 1.6 kg (3.5 lb) and a thickness of 2.6 cm (1.02 in), it also comes with a downside: the built-in Rockchip RK3588 CPU, which has four Cortex-A76 and four Cortex-A55 ARM cores, lacks the power of modern Intel and AMD processors. However, this chip is efficient enough that it doesn’t need a cooling fan, allowing the MNT Reform Next to operate quietly. The laptop supports Wi-Fi 5 and Bluetooth 5.0, and it will come pre-installed with Debian Linux.
Pricing and Availability
The MNT Reform Next laptop is currently available for crowdfunding on Crowd Supply and has successfully reached its $100,000 goal. The starting model, which features 16 GB of memory and 256 GB of eMMC storage, is priced at $1,099. For $1,599, the “Hyper” version includes 32 GB of RAM and a 2 TB SSD. MNT Research provides free shipping worldwide, but purchasers should be aware of possible import taxes and duties.
Source: Link
Tags: MNT Reform Next, modular laptop, Open source
January 1, 2025
OneXPlayer G1 Release Date Confirmed: GPD Win Mini Rival
One-Netbook has come back to share more information about the OneXPlayer G1, right after launching the OneXPlayer X1 Pro, which features an AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 APU and can support up to 64 GB of RAM. They also hinted at the OneXSugar, a product made in partnership with Sugar Cubes. Unlike the OneXSugar, which runs on Android, the OneXPlayer G1 uses the same Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 APU found in the OneXPlayer X1 Pro.
Hardware Details
To summarize, One-Netbook has verified that the OneXPlayer G1 will contain various other components within its 900 g casing. Additionally, the device comes with a detachable keyboard that conceals a controller along with a compact secondary touch keyboard. Essentially, the OneXPlayer G1 expands on the design of the GPD Win Mini but maintains a similar width to the Lenovo Legion Go, which is currently priced at $549 on Amazon, not including its removable controllers.
Release Date Insights
Interestingly, the OneXPlayer G1 is just about a week away from launch, even with the recent global release of the OneXPlayer X1 Pro. The company has privately notified us that the latter will be accessible on January 9, but it will be launched on Indiegogo instead of through its OneXPlayer retail store. Currently, the pricing is still unclear, as well as any potential launch promotions and memory options that might be available.
Source: Link
Tags: AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 APU, OneXPlayer G1, OneXPlayer X1 Pro
January 1, 2025
HubKey: 10-in-1 Docking Station & Input Device Solution
The HubKey is an innovative docking solution that enhances connectivity for laptops, while also serving as an input device. This product is currently being funded through a Kickstarter campaign. It features four separate buttons along with a knob that can also function as a button. These controls allow users to perform various quick tasks, like taking screenshots, locking the screen, toggling the screen on and off, adjusting volume levels, muting audio, and controlling lighting.
Device Specs & Features
Measuring 7 x 7 x 3 centimeters and weighing in at 250 grams, this dock/input device boasts a range of ports. It’s compatible with laptops, MacBooks, smartphones, Steam Decks, and mini PCs through USB-C connections. The HubKey supports 100-watt charging via USB-PD, enabling users to connect to other devices using just one cable. For video output, it has an HDMI port that allows for a refresh rate of 60 Hz and 4K resolution. Additionally, there are two USB 3.0 Type A ports and Gigabit Ethernet for wired network access. On the side, users will find slots for both microSD and SD cards.
Pricing Considerations
The HubKey is available during the crowdfunding campaign for a price of $69. Individuals interested in supporting this project should be aware of the potential financial risks involved in crowdfunding initiatives.
Source: Link
Tags: crowdfunding, docking solution, HubKey
January 1, 2025
Dram Prices to Drop 13% in Q1 2025 as PC Memory Declines
TrendForce has released a new analysis showing that DRAM prices are set to drop significantly in the first quarter of 2025. Standard DRAM products are projected to fall between 8% to 13%. When high-bandwidth memory (HBM) products are included, the overall decline in the market appears milder, ranging from 0% to 5%.
PC DRAM Faces Major Decline
PC DRAM will be impacted the most, with forecasts suggesting an 8-13% reduction in prices. This decline is mainly due to aggressive inventory reductions that started in late 2024, lower demand in end markets, increased DDR4 production from Chinese manufacturers, and an oversupply of inexpensive chips in the spot market.
Server DRAM and Seasonal Trends
Prices for server DRAM are expected to decrease by 5-10%, largely because of weak seasonal demand. Additionally, many manufacturers have transferred a significant portion of their DDR4 production to DDR5, and some HBM capacity has also switched, which increases the supply on the market.
Mobile and Graphics Market Adjustments
On the mobile front, smartphone manufacturers are remaining cautious with their purchasing strategies, despite inventory levels stabilizing. Contract prices for LPDDR4X and LPDDR5X are predicted to fall around 8-13% and 3-8%, respectively.
In terms of graphics DRAM, a price drop of 5-10% is anticipated, mainly due to sluggish demand. Even with some stockpiling of GDDR7 for future GPUs, prices are not being maintained. Consumer DRAM is also experiencing significant cuts, with DDR3 expected to decrease by 3-8% and DDR4 likely to see a more substantial drop of 10-15%.
Source: Link
Tags: DDR4, DRAM prices, LPDDR5X
December 30, 2024
Huawei Launches Affordable First Consumer SSD at Low Price
Huawei has taken a significant step into the consumer storage realm by introducing its eKitStore Xtreme 200E series SSDs. These drives are now up for grabs in South Korea, with a price that’s catching everyone’s attention. The 1 TB version is priced at around $32, which is a price that’s much lower than what current competitors are offering in the high-performance storage market.
A New Direction for Huawei
Launched in June 2024, the eKitStore Xtreme 200E series marks Huawei’s shift from server-focused storage to consumer-oriented products. These SSDs come with notable specifications, featuring read speeds of up to 7,400 MB/s and write speeds that hit 6,700 MB/s using the PCIe 4.0 interface. While these numbers don’t match the latest PCIe 5.0 drives that can reach about 14,000 MB/s, they still hold their ground against other PCIe 4.0 options.
What’s Inside the Drive?
The details about the internal parts of the eKitStore Xtreme 200E are not fully disclosed, but it is known to utilize QLC NAND and operates without DRAM. The names of the companies behind the controller and NAND remain a mystery. Due to U.S. sanctions on Huawei, it’s likely that the components are sourced from local suppliers, potentially including companies like YMTC for NAND and MaxioTech for controllers. There’s also a chance that Huawei is using its skills in server SSDs to create its own controller.
The 1 TB model’s price is set at 47,500 South Korean won (around $32), making it a strong contender in terms of price-to-performance ratio. However, there are lingering doubts about how long this pricing strategy can last and whether it will reach markets outside of South Korea.
Analysts Weigh In
Experts in the industry point out that keeping such a low price while still making a profit could be difficult, even with all components sourced from within the country. The current pricing might be a temporary or promotional tactic aimed at helping Huawei gain traction in the consumer storage sector.
This launch represents Huawei‘s ongoing strategy to broaden its consumer products lineup while dealing with international trade hurdles. This could potentially mark a new phase in the competitive arena of the global SSD market.
Source: Link
Tags: eKitStore Xtreme 200E, Huawei, SSD
December 30, 2024
Xiaomi Redmi Book 14/16 2025 Pre-Orders Open with Specs Revealed
Xiaomi has unveiled its new Redmi Book 14/16 2025 laptops, and pre-orders are now available on JD.com in China, with a launch set for January 1st. These laptops are positioned in the mid-range category and come with the latest Intel Core processors along with ample storage options, making them ideal for users who prioritize performance and multitasking.
Pre-orders Available Now
According to the pre-order details, the Redmi Book 14/16 2025 is set to feature the Intel Core i5 220H processor. This CPU is part of the Raptor Lake-H Refresh family, which was announced in late 2024. It combines both power and efficiency, boasting 4 performance cores and 8 efficient cores, with speeds that can reach up to 4.9 GHz. Furthermore, it utilizes Hyper-Threading technology, enhancing performance by allowing 16 processing threads.
Storage Options to Suit All Needs
The pre-order information showcases three storage options: 16GB RAM with a 512GB SSD, 16GB RAM with a 1TB SSD, and the premium version that includes 32GB RAM with a 1TB SSD. This variety accommodates users with different requirements, from basic multitasking to more intensive tasks needing significant RAM and storage space.
Stylish Design and Innovative Features
While more specific information about the Redmi Book 14/16 is still awaited, a preview of the Redmi Book 16 2025 was shown during the recent “Lu Weibing Annual Summary” event. The laptop features an elegant silver-grey design and prominently showcases the updated letter-style logo from Redmi.
Impressive Power and Battery Life
Additional insights into the Redmi Book 16 2025 indicate it can sustain up to 47W of power, likely due to Xiaomi’s innovative thermal management methods. These laptops also claim to have AI-driven battery optimization, which promises to extend usage times to up to 19.05 hours on a single charge—a claim that will be intriguing to verify in practical tests.
Enhanced Software Integration
On the software front, Xiaomi HyperOS 2 will be included, potentially offering unique features and integrations tailored for Xiaomi devices. The laptops are also confirmed to support Xiaomi HyperOS Connect, which could facilitate smooth connectivity between smartphones and laptops within the Xiaomi ecosystem.
The Redmi Book 14/16 2025 is anticipated to launch alongside the Redmi Turbo 4 on January 1st in China.
Tags: Intel Core i5 220H, Redmi Book 14/16 2025, Xiaomi HyperOS 2
December 29, 2024
ASML CEO: Chinese Chipmakers 10-15 Years Behind Global Leaders
ASML’s chief executive officer, Christophe Fouquet, recently stated that Chinese semiconductor firms such as Huawei and SMIC are still around 10 to 15 years behind leading companies including Intel, TSMC, and Samsung. This assertion comes amid increasing scrutiny of ASML’s relationships with Chinese clients, largely due to rising geopolitical tensions.
Challenges with EUV Technology
Fouquet pointed out that a major problem for Chinese manufacturers is their lack of access to cutting-edge extreme ultraviolet (EUV) lithography machines. These machines are essential for keeping pace with the global industry leaders. ASML’s EUV machines, which cost about 400 million euros each, are crucial for producing advanced semiconductors. In fact, transporting the necessary components alone requires seven cargo planes.
ASML’s Financial Performance
In spite of these hurdles, the Dutch lithography giant reported impressive figures for the third quarter of 2024, with net sales reaching 7.5 billion euros and profits of 2.1 billion euros. However, new orders dropped to 2.6 billion euros, which is less than half of the 5.6 billion euros seen in the previous quarter. Nevertheless, China continues to represent a significant portion of ASML’s revenue, contributing 47 percent to the company’s Q3 2024 sales.
Future Sales Predictions
UBS analysts are forecasting that ASML might experience nearly a 25 percent decrease in its Chinese sales in the coming year, with as much as 45 percent of its total revenue from China at risk if more restrictions are implemented. While the U.S. is urging ASML to halt servicing existing equipment in China, the Netherlands has not yet followed suit with these demands.
To provide some context, ASML and its partners have invested over twenty years in refining the commercial EUV ecosystem. Although Huawei and its partners are working on developing their own EUV systems, experts believe it could take just as long to establish a comparable ecosystem, even if they gain access to some older technologies that have already been developed.
Source: Link
Tags: ASML, EUV Lithography, Huawei