Category: Computers

March 23, 2025
CheckMag | The Future of Quantum Computing with Photonic Logic
Key Takeaways
1. Introduction of Aurora: Aurora is the first modular photonic quantum computer designed for scalability, developed by Xanadu, a Canadian quantum tech company.
2. Addressing Key Challenges: Aurora improves fault tolerance and error correction while using light-based qubits, eliminating the need for extreme cooling typical in traditional quantum systems.
3. Expansion of Photonic Quantum Computing: Companies like PsiQuantum and startups like Quantum Source are exploring photonic quantum technologies to create efficient, commercially viable systems by 2027.
4. Sustainability in Quantum Technologies: The shift towards photonic quantum computing suggests a move towards more sustainable and environmentally friendly quantum technologies, supported by investments like NATO’s in Ephos.
5. Transformative Potential: The development of photonic quantum computing could significantly impact various industries and address complex challenges, marking a pivotal moment for practical quantum technologies.
A major breakthrough in quantum computing is the introduction of Aurora, the first-ever modular photonic quantum computer that can function at scale with linked modules. Created by Xanadu, a Canadian firm specializing in quantum tech, Aurora utilizes photonic qubits for data processing, connected via fiber optic cables. This modular approach not only promotes scalability but also works well with current data center setups, which could change the game for quantum computing entirely.
Addressing Key Challenges
Aurora’s design tackles many old problems in quantum computing, such as fault tolerance and error correction. By using light-based qubits, Aurora avoids the necessity for extreme cooling that is common in traditional quantum systems. This breakthrough could lead to more practical and accessible quantum data centers, potentially speeding up progress in fields like cryptography, material science, and modeling complex systems.
Expanding the Horizons
The reach of photonic quantum computing goes beyond just Aurora. Companies like PsiQuantum are working on mass-producing quantum chips, aiming to create commercially viable quantum computers by 2027. Their method also utilizes photonics, using light particles for quantum calculations, which simplifies cooling needs. In a similar vein, startups like Quantum Source are investigating light-based quantum computing to create systems that are more efficient and can work at room temperature.
A Sustainable Future
The shift towards photonic quantum computing indicates a significant move towards more sustainable and scalable quantum technologies. As research and development progress, the incorporation of photonic systems might result in quantum computers that are not only more efficient but also friendlier to the environment, which aligns with worldwide efforts for sustainability in tech. Ephos, an Italian startup, has secured a $500,000 investment from NATO, aiming to achieve this goal with their glass-based integrated photonic circuits.
In conclusion, the emergence of photonic quantum computing, highlighted by innovations like Aurora, signifies a crucial moment in the search for practical and scalable quantum technologies. As these systems become increasingly integrated with existing infrastructures, they have the potential to transform industries and tackle complex challenges that were once thought to be insurmountable.
PsiQuantum, Nature, Xanadu, Reuters, Ephos.
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Tags: Aurora, photonic quantum computing, Xanadu
March 23, 2025
Upgrade Lenovo Yoga 9 with Superior 4K OLED Display
Key Takeaways
1. New Design and Efficient Chipset: The revamped Yoga 9 14 convertible features a new design and uses Intel’s efficient Lunar Lake chipsets, enhancing battery life and reducing fan noise.
2. Display Limitations: The 4K OLED screen lacks good color accuracy, limited to the P3 color space, making it unsuitable for professional photo and video editing.
3. Low Refresh Rate: The 60Hz refresh rate affects the user experience during motion scenes, although the more affordable configurations have improved displays.
4. Graphics Performance: While multi-core performance is weaker, single-core and graphics performance remain impressive.
5. Need for Better Color Profiles: To compete in the creative professional market, Lenovo must provide adequate color profiles for its high-end displays, especially the 4K OLED models.
Lenovo has recently revamped the pricey Yoga 9 14 convertible, giving it a totally new design, and the latest G10 now uses Intel’s more efficient Lunar Lake chipsets. This upgrade, along with the Copilot+ certification, brings about enhanced battery life and quieter fans, although the multi-core performance of the processor isn’t as strong as it was before. On a positive note, both single-core and graphics performance are impressive.
Display Complications
The situation with the display is a bit tricky, as our test unit priced at €2,199 features a 4K OLED screen. While that sounds appealing, the details tell a different story. Lenovo seems to be aiming this 14-inch convertible at creative professionals, but simply having a high resolution isn’t sufficient. We would anticipate that devices designed for this audience would provide good color profiles with high color accuracy and an appropriate sRGB mode.
Sadly, this isn’t the case for the Yoga 9 14, which is limited to the P3 color space. Some color deviations exceed the critical target value of 3, which indicates the DeltaE-2000 deviation from the P3 standard. Even after manual calibration, we couldn’t enhance this, suggesting that the OLED display isn’t suitable for serious or professional photo or video editing, despite Lenovo’s marketing assertions. Lenovo might want to take notes from Asus, which provides solid color profiles even on more affordable Full-HD OLED screens.
General User Experience
Another drawback impacting all users is the low refresh rate of 60Hz, which is noticeable during motion scenes. However, the 2.8K 120Hz display in the more affordable configurations has seen improvements, being brighter in SDR (500 nits) and HDR (1,100 nits). We’re in the process of testing this panel in the Yoga 7 14 2-in-1, but it has a grainy appearance, a known issue from the previous model’s 2.8K display. This version also lacks proper color profiles.
In summary, the current 10th generation Yoga 9 14 2-in-1 is a solid overall device, but for those serious about image editing, it might not meet their expectations. To stay competitive in this space, Lenovo needs to offer adequate color profiles, particularly for its high-end 4K OLED models. For more in-depth information including detailed benchmarks and additional measurements, you can check out our comprehensive review of the Yoga 9.
Tags: Color Accuracy, Lenovo Yoga 9 14, OLED display
March 22, 2025
Microsoft Surface Laptop 7: Snapdragon X Elite Faces Return Issues
Key Takeaways
1. Intel’s claim about high return rates for Qualcomm Snapdragon X laptops sparked debate, with Qualcomm refuting it.
2. The Microsoft Surface Laptop 7 is labeled as a “Frequently returned item” on Amazon, suggesting potential issues.
3. User reviews highlight problems, including difficulty in setting up an Android development environment.
4. Some users report inability to stream Hulu in 4K due to lack of Widevine L1 DRM on the Surface Laptop 7.
5. Overall customer satisfaction is mixed, indicating Snapdragon X Elite laptops have room for improvement compared to Intel, AMD, and Apple Silicon devices.
Last year, an executive from Intel stirred up some debate when she claimed that laptops using Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X chips “suffer from high return rates.” Qualcomm later refuted this assertion. Nevertheless, a listing on Amazon for the newly revealed Microsoft Surface Laptop 7 seems to hint that there might be some merit to Intel’s words.
Return Rates and User Feedback
The Surface Laptop 7 is marked with a tag stating it’s a “Frequently returned item” (H/T Windows Central), prompting Amazon to advise potential buyers to read reviews prior to making a decision. A quick look at the review section for the Surface Laptop 7 reveals some rather intriguing comments. One reviewer mentions having difficulty in establishing an Android development environment. This is quite strange since the device is powered by the Arm-based Snapdragon X Elite chip.
Streaming Issues
In addition, another user points out that they are unable to stream Hulu in 4K. This could be linked to the fact that the Surface Laptop 7 lacks Widevine L1 DRM, which is again baffling. Interestingly, the Asus Vivobook S 15 also carries the same “Frequently returned item” label. However, the reviews for this laptop focus more on its specific issues rather than the Windows on Arm platform in general, including the fact that the RAM is not upgradeable.
Overall Customer Satisfaction
While a majority of customers seem happy with their purchase, it is evident that laptops with Snapdragon X Elite chips have some distance to cover before they can match the performance and experience offered by those that run on Intel, AMD, and Apple Silicon.
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Tags: Amazon return rates, Snapdragon X Elite, Surface Laptop 7
March 21, 2025
New AMD Threadripper CPUs: 24-Core 9965WX & 32-Core 9975WX
Key Takeaways
1. AMD’s new Threadripper CPUs, the 9975WX and 9965WX, are built on the Zen 5 architecture and use the SP6 socket.
2. The 9975WX features 32 cores, while the 9965WX has 24 cores, both with a thermal design power (TDP) of 350W.
3. A flagship model, the Threadripper 9980X, is expected to feature 96 cores and 192 threads, also with a TDP of 350W.
4. There may be 3D V-cache versions of the upcoming Threadripper CPUs, but details on clock speeds and cache amounts are currently unknown.
5. AMD has not yet confirmed the release date or the number of SKUs for the new Threadripper series, leaving many questions unanswered.
AMD has kept things pretty quiet regarding the new Threadripper CPUs, with little info coming out since November. Recently, some new details about two models have emerged, but they are quite basic, including just their names, core counts, and thermal design power (TDP). The same leaker who previously stated that the Threadripper series will offer CPUs ranging from 16 to 96 cores has now revealed two specific models: the 9975WX and 9965WX.
Details on the CPUs
Known as Shimada Peak, the Threadripper 9000 series CPUs are built on the Zen 5 architecture and use the same SP6 socket. According to a new shipping manifest leak, the two models, the 9975WX and 9965WX, are set to have 32 cores and 24 cores, respectively. Both will share a TDP of 350W, but that’s about all we know for now. There are no details about clock speeds or cache amounts, although earlier leaks hinted that there might be 3D V-cache versions of these upcoming Threadripper CPUs.
The Flagship Processor
The manifest leak from last November indicated a flagship processor with 96 cores and 192 threads, anticipated to be the Threadripper 9980X. This model also had a TDP of 350W, matching its predecessor, the Threadripper 7980X. It appears that the 96-core variant might represent the maximum core count, suggesting that the 9000 series could exclude processors based on Zen 5c.
AMD has yet to provide any specifics about the next Threadripper CPUs, leaving many questions unanswered, including how many SKUs will be released and when they might arrive.
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Tags: amd, Threadripper 9000, Zen 5
March 21, 2025
Sixunited AXB35-02: New Ryzen AI Max+ 395 Mini PC Launches
Key Takeaways
1. GMKtec’s EVO-X2 is now the world’s first mini PC featuring the AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395, but Sixunited’s AXB35-02 is a new competitor claiming up to 120 W performance.
2. Testing shows that the Radeon 8060S iGPU in the AXB35-02 can deliver solid 1440p gaming performance when powered correctly.
3. The AXB35-02 supports up to 128 GB of LPDDR5X-8000 RAM, targeting users who want to run Large Language Models locally, especially in China.
4. It features a dual-fan cooling system and efficient heat pipes to maintain stable performance under heavy loads, along with an integrated power supply.
5. The AXB35-02 has a chassis volume of 4 liters and is expected to launch in May 2025, but its price has not yet been announced.
GMKtec’s EVO-X2 has officially launched as the “world’s first” mini PC featuring the AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395, and now a new contender from China has emerged. Introducing the Sixunited AXB35-02, which the company claims can deliver performance of up to 120 W.
Performance Insights
Recent tests by ETA Prime have indicated that the highest-performing APU in the Strix Halo series struggles when limited by power. Therefore, this 120 W TDP mode should enable the Radeon 8060S iGPU in this mini PC to achieve respectable 1440p gaming performance, provided it has the right type and amount of RAM.
Memory Specifications
In terms of memory, Sixunited states that the AXB35-02 can support up to 128 GB of LPDDR5X-8000 RAM. This substantial memory capacity isn’t aimed at the typical mini PC user; instead, it appears designed for those looking to operate Large Language Models locally. The local DeepSeek-R1 models are becoming increasingly popular, particularly in China.
Cooling and Design Features
Sixunited has also shared that the AXB35-02 includes a dual-fan cooling system for the Ryzen AI Max+ 395. The heat pipes seem quite efficient, allowing the Zen 5 APU to maintain stable performance even under heavy usage conditions. Additionally, it features an integrated power supply.
The company further disclosed that the AXB35-02 mini PC has a chassis volume of 4 liters. Although this doesn’t make it the tiniest mini PC on the market, the inclusion of a built-in PSU is certainly a significant advantage. However, Sixunited has not yet announced the price; this Ryzen AI Max+ 395 system is anticipated to hit the market in May 2025.
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Tags: AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395, GMKtec EVO-X2, Sixunited AXB35-02
March 21, 2025
Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 13 Adds Haptic Sensel Touchpad Option
Key Takeaways
1. The ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 13 Aura Edition was initially limited to one CPU and one display option.
2. Customization is now available for the X1 Carbon Gen 13, including an IPS display option for better battery life.
3. The starting price has been reduced from $2,500 to $2,100 with 16 GB of RAM and Ultra 5 CPUs.
4. The haptic Sensel touchpad feature is now included in the US model at no extra cost.
5. Some features, like 5G/LTE and a Low Power non-touch display option, are still not available for the X1 Carbon Gen 13.
The ThinkPad X1 series is highly regarded, with the X1 Carbon being its most recognized model. The X1 Carbon Gen 13 Aura Edition, the latest version, was introduced in November last year as part of Intel’s early enablement initiative for the Lunar Lake platform. Unfortunately, it was launched with limited options: just one CPU and one display choice. This is quite rare for ThinkPads, since these business laptops typically offer a wide range of configurations.
Customization Finally Available
Lenovo has now addressed this issue, as the ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 13 (also listed on Amazon) can now be customized through Lenovo’s US website. This means that buyers can order the X1 Carbon with an IPS display option, which will significantly extend battery life compared to the OLED version we reviewed. Additionally, with 16 GB of RAM and Ultra 5 CPUs, the price has been reduced — originally around $2,500, it now starts at $2,100.
Haptic Touchpad Comes to the US
Moreover, this release finally introduces the haptic touchpad feature to the US market. We had previously tested the European model, which always included the impressive haptic Sensel touchpad, but the US variant had been limited to the standard mechanical touchpad until now. As of the writing of this article, the haptic Sensel touchpad is available at no extra cost.
Missing Features Still
However, there are still some options not yet available, such as 5G/LTE. Additionally, while the IPS screen is a touch display, Lenovo usually offers a Low Power non-touch version for the X1 Carbon, which is still not available. Therefore, it appears that some potential customers might have to keep waiting for their preferred configurations.
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Tags: customizable options, Lenovo, ThinkPad X1 Carbon
March 21, 2025
Huawei to Launch High-End Custom PC to Compete with Mac in 2025
Key Takeaways
1. Huawei’s new PC may use its own Kirin processor instead of Intel Core i9-12900H chips.
2. The “X90” chipset could be an ARM-based processor aimed at PCs, competing with Apple’s M3.
3. The device is expected to run on HarmonyOS, enhancing compatibility with Huawei’s other products.
4. The design is anticipated to be “ultra-high-end” and visually appealing.
5. The expected launch date is May 2025, alongside other products like the Pocket 3.
Huawei’s latest PC was equipped with up to Intel Core i9-12900H chips; however, the upcoming version might not follow suit. Reports suggest that the company has crafted its own processor from the Kirin series instead.
New ARM Chipset
The “X90” could be the ARM-based chipset that was previously hinted at, but its exact purpose remains unclear. It is believed to be designed for PCs rather than just smartphones, potentially putting it in competition with the Apple M3.
HarmonyOS Integration
The computer might run on HarmonyOS, the same software found in the company’s mobile devices and wearables. This could enhance compatibility across different devices.
The specific design of the new device is still uncertain, but it’s expected to be “ultra-high-end” and “a little fancy.”
Launch Timeline
It is rumored to launch in May 2025, likely alongside other gadgets like the Pocket 3 but ahead of the Pura 80 series, which includes the next generation of flagship smartphones.
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Tags: HarmonyOS, Huawei, Kirin X90
March 20, 2025
Real-Time Velocity Tracking for Autonomous Satellites
Key Takeaways
1. The “Spacecraft Speedometer” is a new device developed by researchers to measure the speed of satellites around Earth and other planets.
2. It aims to provide real-time velocity measurements to improve satellite position predictions and avoid collisions with other satellites and space debris.
3. Current tracking methods, like ground-based radar and GPS, have limitations, including tracking frequency and susceptibility to solar storms.
4. The Spacecraft Speedometer offers continuous velocity data, even when GPS is unavailable or ground stations cannot track satellites.
5. This innovation is crucial for managing space traffic as mega-constellations grow in low-Earth orbit, supporting the long-term viability of orbital activities.
Researchers at the Los Alamos National Laboratory and the U.S. Air Force Academy have come up with a small device called the “Spacecraft Speedometer.” This gadget is meant to measure how quickly satellites move around Earth and possibly other planets too. Currently, it is waiting for a patent, and it employs twin laminated plasma spectrometers to provide important, real-time speed readings of spacecraft.
Importance of the Invention
Carlos Maldonado, who leads the project at the Space Science and Applications group in Los Alamos, mentioned, “The Spacecraft Speedometer has the potential to provide critical on-board and real-time spacecraft velocity measurements.” He added that these measurements are vital for better predicting satellite positions, which is essential for executing maneuvers to avoid collisions with other active satellites and space debris.
Limitations of Current Methods
Currently, satellite speed and position are usually determined using ground-based radar or onboard GPS systems. But these methods have their drawbacks. Ground stations can only track satellites when they are overhead, which might happen every few hours or even days. Moreover, GPS can get disrupted by solar storms, which is precisely when accurate satellite positioning becomes crucial for managing space traffic.
Continuous Data Collection
The Spacecraft Speedometer overcomes these issues by supplying ongoing velocity information, even during periods when GPS is down or ground stations can’t be used. The device operates like a car driving through heavy rain, where the front windshield gets hit by more raindrops than the back. As the spacecraft travels through charged particles (like ions and electrons) in the upper atmosphere, more ions strike the front sensor than the rear sensor, allowing for accurate ram and wake measurements.
As mega-constellations become more popular in low-Earth orbit, this innovative tool represents a significant step towards autonomous management of space traffic, which is necessary for the long-term viability of activities in orbital space.
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Tags: autonomous space traffic management, satellite velocity measurement, Spacecraft Speedometer
March 20, 2025
Windows 11 May Introduce New FAQ Section for PC Hardware
Key Takeaways
1. Microsoft is developing a new FAQ section for Windows 11 to address common PC hardware questions.
2. The FAQ will be part of the About page in the System settings menu, featuring questions about Windows version, GPUs, and RAM recommendations.
3. This FAQ section is not visible by default, indicating it is still in the testing phase.
4. Microsoft suggests using a GPU with over 4GB of VRAM for better performance in gaming and video editing.
5. The recommendation for RAM is to have more than 8GB for tasks beyond basic web browsing and emailing.
Microsoft seems to be working on a new FAQ area to address common questions about PC hardware in Windows 11. This information was found in the latest Dev build by user @phantomofearth on Blusky Social (as reported by The Verge). This user maintains a specialized account that focuses on dissecting the newest Windows Insider builds.
FAQ Section Details
The new section will be part of the About page located within the System settings menu. Right now, there are three questions included: one about the latest Windows version, another concerning GPUs, and a third that recommends the optimal amount of RAM for various tasks.
These inquiries are shown under your device’s specifications, which detail the hardware of your system. It is not clear if this list will vary based on hardware setups or if it will remain constant across all devices.
Visibility and Testing Stage
Interestingly, this list is not visible by default, even in the Dev build, indicating that it might still be in the early phases of testing.
In the responses, Microsoft advises using a GPU that has over 4GB of VRAM for enhanced performance in gaming and video editing applications. There is a possibility that this section could also feature notifications regarding upcoming system updates.
RAM Recommendations
Moreover, Microsoft recommends having more than 8GB of RAM for tasks beyond just web browsing, document reading, or emailing. @phantomofearth also pointed out that this feature is currently concealed in Dev builds with version numbers 26120.3576 and 22635.5090.
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Tags: GPU, Microsoft, Windows 11
March 20, 2025
ASUS India Launches Three-Device Bluetooth Mouse with Adjustable DPI
Key Takeaways
1. Lightweight and Ambidextrous Design: The MW105 weighs only 48 grams and features a symmetrical design for comfort for both left and right-handed users.
2. Silent Operation: Designed for quiet environments, it uses low-noise switches to minimize clicking sounds, making it suitable for offices, libraries, and homes.
3. Adjustable DPI Settings: The mouse offers three DPI settings (800, 1200, 1600) that can be easily adjusted for smooth tracking across different activities.
4. Bluetooth Connectivity: It utilizes Bluetooth 5.0 technology, allowing connection to up to three devices simultaneously without the need for additional drivers.
5. Affordable Pricing: The ASUS MW105 is priced at ₹899 and is available for purchase on various platforms, including Amazon.in and ASUS e-shop.
ASUS India has broadened its range of accessories by introducing the MW105 Bluetooth Silent Mouse. This lightweight mouse weighs 48 grams and features a compact design that is ambidextrous, offering symmetrical contours for comfort whether you’re left or right-handed.
Designed for Quiet Environments
Created with silent operation in mind, the MW105 uses low-noise switches to reduce clicking sounds. ASUS highlights that this mouse is ideal for use in quiet spaces like offices, libraries, classrooms, and homes, where minimizing noise is a key consideration.
Adjustable DPI Settings
The MW105 comes with three adjustable DPI settings—800, 1200, and 1600—that can be easily changed with a button located on the bottom of the device. ASUS claims this feature allows for smooth tracking and responsiveness across various activities, including web browsing, design work, and general multitasking.
Bluetooth Connectivity
Equipped with Bluetooth 5.0 technology, the MW105 offers low-latency performance and can connect to up to three devices at the same time. There’s no need for additional drivers or software, ensuring compatibility with laptops, tablets, and desktops without any complicated setup.
This mouse operates on a single AA battery and is ready to use right from the packaging. It incorporates an optical tracking system and includes three buttons along with a vertical scroll wheel. The device measures 105.9 mm in length, 60.7 mm in width, and 32.0 mm in height. It is available in black and supports Windows 10 or later versions. ASUS backs this product with a three-year warranty.
Pricing & Availability
The ASUS MW105 Bluetooth Silent Mouse is available for ₹899 and can be purchased starting today. Customers can find it on Amazon.in, through offline retailers, on quick commerce platforms, and at the ASUS e-shop.
Tags: ASUS, Bluetooth Mouse, MW105