Category: Computers

January 4, 2025
Incase Launches Ergonomic Split Keyboard to Prevent Injuries
Incase has introduced a new keyboard called the Compact Ergonomic Keyboard, aimed at helping people avoid injuries while typing. This keyboard promotes proper wrist alignment and has a special Copilot key that activates the AI features in Microsoft Windows 11, Office, and Edge, enhancing work efficiency.
Benefits of Microsoft Copilot
With Microsoft Copilot, users can enjoy several AI-driven features that save time. These include summarizing meetings, clarifying complex subjects, offering gaming advice, and assisting with online shopping. By pressing the dedicated Copilot key on the keyboard, users can access the AI assistant without delay.
Ergonomic Design Features
The Compact Ergonomic Keyboard is crafted in collaboration with Microsoft, drawing on years of ergonomic research. The unique design features a split layout, angling the keys towards each hand, which helps keep the wrists straight and minimizes the risk of repetitive strain injuries (RSIs) from prolonged typing.
Other Specifications
Even though it has a compact structure, the Incase Compact Ergonomic Keyboard offers a cushioned palm rest and maintains full-sized keys, ensuring that users’ fingers have enough room to type comfortably. The keyboard connects wirelessly via Bluetooth 4.0 to as many as three devices running Windows 8.1, 10, or 11. It operates on two AAA batteries that last for up to 36 months. The keyboard dimensions are 13 x 8.6 x 1.2 inches (33.0 x 21.8 x 3.0 cm), and the key travel is 0.05 inches (1.3 mm).
The Incase Compact Ergonomic Keyboard (SKU MI9-00001) is set to launch in early 2025, available through the Incase website and on Amazon for a suggested retail price of $119.99. suggested retail price of $119
Source: Link
Tags: ergonomic design, Incase Compact Ergonomic Keyboard, Microsoft Copilot
January 4, 2025
GX06 Mini PC: Mac Mini-Like Cooling & Dedicated GPU
The GX06 is a newly released mini PC that you can import directly. It features the powerful, albeit somewhat older, Intel Core i9-12900H CPU along with a dedicated graphics card. Specifically, it includes an Nvidia GeForce RTX 4050, which is geared towards light to moderate gaming and video editing tasks. The device is equipped with 16 GB of RAM and a 1 TB M.2 SSD.
Design and Specifications
Taking inspiration from Apple’s Mac Mini, the GX06 has a raised base for better airflow, complemented by ventilation grilles on its sides. The dimensions of the model are 203 x 203 millimeters, with a height of 53 millimeters. The connectivity options include one HDMI 2.1 port, two DisplayPort 1.4 ports, four USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports, and two Gigabit Ethernet ports. Additionally, there are two jacks for a microphone and headset. All connections, including the power socket, are positioned at the back, creating a clean and minimalist front design. For wireless features, it supports Bluetooth 5.0 and WiFi 6. The GX06 operates on a 210-watt power supply.
Pricing and Purchase Information
If you’re interested in purchasing the mini PC, you can find it on Banggood for $820. Shipping is included at no extra cost, but potential buyers should check on any import fees that may apply. For instance, those in the US might face a “simplified clearance” fee for orders exceeding $800. It’s also worth noting that since this is a Chinese supplier, enforcing warranty rights could be challenging, if not impossible, if any issues arise.
Source: Link
Tags: GX06, Intel Core i9-12900H, Nvidia GeForce RTX 4050
January 4, 2025
M4 Mac Users Face Issues with Ultra-Wide Monitors
The Apple M4 chip, found in devices like the new Mac mini, MacBook Pro, and iMac, allows for the connection of up to three external displays (varies by model). This includes support for two monitors with 6K resolution and one at 5K resolution. Alternatively, users can connect an 8K display at 60 Hz or a 4K monitor running at 240 Hz. Despite these capabilities, there are issues reported with specific monitors, as seen in discussions on Reddit and the Apple Community Forum.
Issues with 5K Monitors
Of particular concern are 5K displays with a 21:9 aspect ratio, which have a resolution of 5,120 x 2,160. While these monitors can operate at full resolution, users cannot enable the "HiDPI" mode. This mode scales a resolution of 3,840 x 1,620 to the monitor’s native resolution without losing clarity. Users affected by this problem have noted that these same monitors work perfectly when connected to older Macs equipped with either ARM or Intel chips using the same cables.
Possible Workarounds
Some individuals have managed to resolve this issue by utilizing third-party applications like BetterDisplay; however, doing so limits the frame rate to 60 Hz. There has been no official response from Apple regarding this situation, leaving it uncertain whether the company is addressing the problem. For those using an M4 Mac alongside a 5K x 2K display, the options available, such as BetterDisplay, SwitchRes X, and EasyRes, do provide ways to adjust resolutions, but they come with compromises in frame rate or overall image quality.
Reddit & Apple Community Forum via 9to5Mac
Source: Link
Tags: 5K Monitors, Apple M4, Mac Mini
January 3, 2025
ECS Unveils AMD Krackan APU Laptop Ahead of CES 2025
AMD has confirmed that mid-range Zen 5 APUs are set to launch in early 2025, with reports indicating their debut will occur at the CES 2025 event. Although AMD hasn’t provided much information about these new APUs, ECS has revealed details about one of the two Krackan processors.
New Processor Insights
ECS made a somewhat early announcement regarding a new laptop, stating that it is powered by an APU featuring an 8-core CPU equipped with Zen 5c cores. This processor is likely one of the two speculated Ryzen AI models, either the AI 350 or AI 340. Unfortunately, the company did not disclose the number of Compute Units (CUs) present in the RDNA 3.5 integrated GPU (iGPU) of this APU.
Positioning in the Market
Previous reports suggest that the Krackan APUs will be positioned below the Strix Point options. To clarify, the entry-level Ryzen AI 9 365 from that series comes with a 10-core CPU and includes the RDNA 3.5 Radeon 880M iGPU featuring 12 CUs. While ECS hasn’t provided specifics on the iGPU of the Krackan APU in its new laptop, it did mention an XDNA 2 Neural Processing Unit (NPU) capable of delivering 40 TOPs of performance. This indicates that the NPU is also experiencing a reduction in capability.
Laptop Features and Specifications
Regarding the laptop, known as the UP42KP, ECS has revealed that it will come with a 14-inch display, USB4 ports, and support for fast WiFi 6 connectivity. The Thermal Design Power (TDP) range is set between 15W and 54W, aligning with typical specifications for mid-range laptops. Additionally, ECS states that the UP42KP boasts a slim profile, measuring a mere 16.9 mm in thickness. More details, including pricing, will be disclosed at the CES 2025 launch event.
Source: Link
Tags: AMD Zen 5, ECS UP42KP, Krackan APU
January 3, 2025
Xiaomi Launches New Mechanical Keyboard with Display and Metal Knob
The Xiaomi MK71 Pro is a small keyboard that features a layout with 71 keys. While it doesn’t include function keys, it compensates with full-size arrow keys. A standout feature is its multimedia module, which includes a 1-inch screen that shows the connection status, time, battery life, and the selected RGB mode. Users can also personalize this display by choosing a background image.
Control and Design Features
On the side of the multimedia module, there’s a metal dial that lets users change the volume easily. The keyboard uses ABS keycaps, which come in brown or gray, along with special TTC switches that have a travel distance of 30 millimeters. The actuation point for these switches is after 22 millimeters, and they can be swapped out while in use. For better ergonomics, the keyboard has folding feet to adjust its angle.
Connectivity Options
You can connect the keyboard to your PC using a USB cable, a USB dongle, or Bluetooth. It also supports connections to three Bluetooth devices simultaneously, which makes switching between paired devices a breeze. The built-in 7,800 mAh battery is said to last for 143 hours without RGB lighting or 71 hours with it activated. However, since the keycaps are not see-through, the RGB lighting mainly serves as an aesthetic addition.
Pricing and Market Availability
The Xiaomi MK71 Pro mechanical keyboard can be found in China via Xiaomi Youpin for 449 yuan (approximately $61). At this time, there is no clear information on whether it will be launched internationally.
Xiaomi Youpin
Source: Link
Tags: compact keyboard, RGB lighting, Xiaomi MK71 Pro
January 2, 2025
Xiaomi RedmiBook 2025: 14″ & 16″ Models with Core i5, 19h Battery
Xiaomi has recently introduced its new notebook, the Redmi Book (2025), which was first presented last week. This laptop is the successor to last year’s version, but it doesn’t bring any major changes in terms of design.
Available Models
Similar to the previous year, the new RedmiBook comes in two sizes: a compact 14-inch version and a larger 16-inch variant. Both models have a thickness of 15.9mm, but they differ in weight, with the 14-inch model weighing 1.36 KG, while the 16-inch is heavier at 1.65 KG. Each laptop features a 120 Hz display, likely LCDs, that can reach a brightness of 400 nits. Interestingly, the 14-inch version boasts a higher resolution of 2.8K, compared to the 2.5K display on the 16-inch model.
Performance and Battery Life
All versions of the RedmiBook (2025) are equipped with Intel’s latest Core 5 220H processor. Xiaomi claims that these Windows 11 laptops can last up to 19.05 hours on a single charge, thanks to their 72Wh battery capacity. They also support 100W GaN fast charging technology.
Source: Link
Tags: Intel Core 5 220H, Redmi Book 2025, Xiaomi
January 2, 2025
MSI Raider 18 HX Hits Geekbench with Arrow Lake HX & Ada GPU
Over the last few weeks, several next-gen laptops have been revealed. Among them, the HP Omen Max 16 features an Arrow Lake-HX processor along with a GeForce RTX 50 series GPU. Meanwhile, the new Razer Blade 18 also boasts the same processor, although the details about its GPU still remain unclear. Recently, a listing on Geekbench has provided us with information about the MSI Raider 18 HX.
Specs and Performance
The MSI Raider 18 HX, measuring 18 inches, is equipped with an Intel Core Ultra 9 285 HX Arrow Lake processor, which consists of 8 performance cores and 16 efficiency cores. It comes with a generous 64 GB of RAM. While the GPU specifics are not directly shown on the Geekbench AI listing, you can check the JSON output to find some intriguing details.
Surprising Choices
Interestingly, the MSI Raider 18 HX is using an Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070, which is part of the previous generation. It raises questions as to why MSI has chosen to use older hardware in its flagship model. However, an earlier rumor suggested that manufacturers might mix components from various generations, which could explain this decision.
Future Prospects
Since this is the MSI Raider 18 HX, there will definitely be options for more powerful GPUs, likely including the GeForce RTX 50 series as well. This situation indicates that Nvidia still has plenty of Ada Lovelace chips left, which will continue to be available for some time after the Blackwell series is officially launched.
Source: Link
Tags: GeForce RTX 4070, Intel Core Ultra 9 285 HX, MSI Raider 18 HX
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