Category: Computers

  • MediaTek Kompanio 838 SoC for Chromebooks Boosts AI Performance

    MediaTek Kompanio 838 SoC for Chromebooks Boosts AI Performance

    At Computex 2024, MediaTek is set to unveil its latest Kompanio 838 chipset designed for Chromebooks. The brand has already shared some details about the chip, highlighting its 6nm process technology and the substantial performance improvements it brings over its predecessor.

    Enhanced Performance

    The new chipset boasts a 66% faster CPU and a 76% faster GPU. One of its standout features is the ability to support dual 4K displays, making it ideal for both entertainment, such as streaming 4K content, and productivity, like connecting to high-resolution monitors.

    Improved Connectivity and Battery Life

    Connectivity capabilities are enhanced with Wi-Fi 6 and 6E through MediaTek’s Filogic technology, providing faster and more reliable internet. Additionally, the chipset focuses on battery efficiency, enabling Chromebooks to operate for an entire day on a single charge.

    Advanced Multimedia and AI Features

    The Kompanio 838 also excels in multimedia. It incorporates the MediaTek Imagiq 7-series ISP for professional-grade photo and video capabilities with dual camera support. The MediaTek NPU 650 further optimizes AI tasks, including voice recognition and image processing.

    Detailed Specifications

    MediaTek Kompanio 838 specs:

    Processor

    • CPU: 2x Arm Cortex-A78 @ 2.6GHz + 6x Arm Cortex-A55 @ 2.0GHz
    • Cores: 8

    Memory & Storage

    • Memory: LPDDR4x, DDR4 64-bit
    • Max Memory Frequency: 3733MTs / 3200MTs
    • Storage Type: eMMC 5.1

    Graphics

    • GPU: Arm Mali-G57 MC3

    Display Resolution

    • 4K60 + 4K30

    Video Encode

    • H.264, HEVC

    Video Decode

    • H.264, HEVC, VP-9, AV1

    Camera

    • ISP: 16MP + 16MP @ 30 FPS
    • Recording Resolution: 3840 x 2160

    Peripherals

    • Connectivity: PCIe x1, 1x USB 3.0, 2x USB 2.0

    AI

    • Accelerator: Yes
    • Performance: 4 TOPS
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  • Enermax to Unveil 1650W & 2400W Power Supplies at Computex 2024

    Enermax to Unveil 1650W & 2400W Power Supplies at Computex 2024

    Enermax is stepping up its game at Computex 2024 with an array of new PC components designed to keep systems cool and efficient. Their offerings include various chassis, power supplies, and cooling solutions aimed at a broad spectrum of users, from casual builders to hardcore enthusiasts.

    High-Efficiency Power Supply Units

    For those seeking top-tier performance, Enermax presents two high-powered power supply options:

    • MaxTytan Digital 1650W: This unit features 80 Plus Titanium efficiency and supports the latest ATX 3.1 standard. It includes a semi-fanless design for quiet operation during low workloads and a built-in screen to monitor power output in real-time.
    • Platimax 2400W: Certified 80 Plus Platinum, this powerhouse can handle the most demanding systems while maintaining a compact size suitable for mid-tower cases.

    AI System Solutions and Versatile Options

    Enermax also caters to AI-powered PC builders with the Platimax DF 12 Series, available in 750W, 850W, and 1000W variants. These power supplies feature a standard 14cm form factor and a fan stop function that activates at 50% load or below, ensuring silent operation.

    For users with varied power needs, the Revolution DFX Pro Series offers wattages ranging from 750W to 1200W. All models in this series deliver the reliable performance synonymous with the Revolution DFX Pro line.

    Collaboration for Extreme Performance

    In collaboration with an overclocking champion, Enermax has developed the Revolution DFX Pro Splave series, available in 1000W and 1200W models. This series is designed for extreme enthusiasts focused on performance and stability, pushing their systems to the limit.

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  • China invests $47.5B in Big Fund III to boost semiconductor tech

    China invests $47.5B in Big Fund III to boost semiconductor tech

    China has initiated the third phase of its National Integrated Circuit Industry Investment Fund, commonly referred to as Big Fund III, to boost self-reliance in the semiconductor sector. Launched last week, this fund has a registered capital of 344 billion yuan (around $47.5 billion), marking it as the most significant state-backed investment in China’s semiconductor industry to date.

    Big Fund III aims to support various facets of the semiconductor industry, including contract manufacturers, equipment suppliers, and material providers. The primary goal is to enhance domestic capabilities and minimize dependence on foreign technology, especially amid increasing US tech sanctions.

    Beneficiaries and Strategic Goals

    Key beneficiaries of this extensive investment include Semiconductor Manufacturing International Corp (SMIC) and Hua Hong Semiconductor. Equipment suppliers such as Naura Technology Group and Advanced Micro-Fabrication Equipment, along with raw material providers like National Silicon Industry Group, are also set to receive considerable support.

    Big Fund III is viewed as a counteraction to the US Chips and Science Act of 2022, which allocated $53 billion to revitalize the American semiconductor industry. China's strategic aim with this fund is to establish a strong, self-reliant semiconductor industry capable of enduring external pressures and restrictions. The fund includes 19 equity investors, led by China’s Ministry of Finance.

    Historical Background and Challenges

    This new fund follows two earlier phases: the first, launched in 2014 with initial financing of 138.7 billion yuan, and the second in 2019, which raised 204.1 billion yuan. Despite previous successes, such as fostering companies like Yangtze Memory Technologies Corp and ChangXin Memory Technologies, the industry has encountered significant challenges. US export controls have notably impeded access to advanced chip-making equipment, affecting production yields and cost efficiency.

    The fund’s past management faced corruption issues, with former president Ding Wenwu under investigation since July 2022. The current president, Zhang Xin, has taken over, emphasizing transparency and effective investment.

    Focus Areas and Future Prospects

    The fund’s priorities include capacity expansion, equipment, materials, and advanced packaging. Nevertheless, bridging the technology gap with global leaders remains a challenge due to ongoing export restrictions.

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  • Acer Launches Chromebook Plus Spin 714 and 516 GE for Work and Play

    Acer Launches Chromebook Plus Spin 714 and 516 GE for Work and Play

    Acer took a significant step forward in the Chromebook market on May 28th by unveiling two new powerful models: the Chromebook Plus Spin 714 and the Chromebook Plus 516 GE. Featuring robust Core Ultra processors, these devices are set to redefine what Chromebooks can do, from productivity to gaming.

    14-inch Chromebook with Touchscreen Display and QHD Camera

    The 14-inch Chromebook Plus Spin 714 is designed for performance, equipped with a Core Ultra 7 165U processor to handle intensive tasks. Its 1920 x 1200 IPS touchscreen display delivers impressive visuals, boasting 340 nits of brightness and a 100% sRGB color gamut, making it perfect for both professional work and entertainment. The device also features two Thunderbolt 4 ports for fast data transfer, a 53Wh battery for prolonged use, and a QHD camera for high-quality video calls. Its convertible design allows for a versatile user experience with a flip touchscreen.

    Chromebook Plus 516 GE: A Gamer's Delight

    The Chromebook Plus 516 GE is tailored for gamers, featuring a 16-inch high-resolution 2560 x 1600 display with a 120Hz refresh rate for smooth, immersive visuals. Powered by a Core i7 150U processor, it ensures excellent gaming performance. The 100% sRGB color gamut guarantees vibrant visuals, while the four-zone backlit keyboard enhances the gaming experience. Additionally, its 65Wh battery offers long-lasting power, and the 2.5GbE wired network port improves connectivity. Supporting popular cloud gaming platforms like NVIDIA GeForce NOW, Xbox Cloud Gaming, and Amazon Luna, this Chromebook underscores Google's commitment to promoting Chromebooks as capable gaming machines.

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  • MacBook Air M2 on Sale: Get Discounted Prices Now

    MacBook Air M2 on Sale: Get Discounted Prices Now

    The 2022 Apple MacBook Air M2 is now available at a reduced price of $849, offering a savings of approximately $150 from its regular retail price of $999.

    Specifications and Features

    Despite Apple launching the M3 lineup in March 2024, the M2 version continues to be a solid option for those in need of a powerful and portable device. This lightweight laptop boasts competitive specifications that can hold their own against more recent models. It comes equipped with an 8-core CPU, a 10-core GPU, and an impressive battery life of up to 18 hours. While you can configure it with up to 24GB of unified memory and up to 2TB of SSD storage, the discounted deal includes 8GB of memory and 256GB of storage.

    Ideal for Students and Professionals

    This 13.6-inch M2 MacBook Air model is perfect for both students and working professionals. It features a sleek design and a vibrant display with 500 nits of brightness and a 60Hz refresh rate. Additional features include a 1080p FaceTime webcam for high-quality video calls, two Thunderbolt ports, and a headphone jack for connectivity. The device is available in several color options: Midnight, Silver, Space Gray, and Starlight.

    Future-Ready with AI Capabilities

    As the tech industry shifts towards AI-powered laptops, it's worth noting that Apple’s M chips, including the M2, already feature Neural Processing Units (NPUs), which ensure compatibility with upcoming AI functionalities.

    Overall, the M2 MacBook Air’s current price of $849 makes it an appealing option for anyone in need of a robust and portable laptop that remains relevant despite the introduction of newer models. Don’t miss out on this deal before the stock runs out.

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  • China’s Origin Wukong Quantum Computer Completes 225,000+ Tasks

    China’s Origin Wukong Quantum Computer Completes 225,000+ Tasks

    Young minds in China are in for an exciting experience! On June 1st, the Anhui Provincial Committee of Children and the Anhui Provincial Quantum Computing Engineering Research Center are organizing a groundbreaking event: the inaugural “China’s Independent Quantum Computer Cluster Open Teaching Activity.”

    The supercomputer was launched in January earlier this year

    This thrilling program is set in the heart of Benyuan Quantum, China’s trailblazing quantum computing firm. Children will have the opportunity to learn about and engage with five independent superconducting quantum computer clusters, including the famed “Benyuan Wukong.”

    Benyuan Wukong: A Technological Marvel

    Benyuan Wukong, China’s third-generation standalone superconducting quantum computer, is a marvel of technology. Introduced in January 2024, it is recognized as the most advanced programmable and deliverable superconducting quantum computer in the world. Named after the legendary Sun Wukong, known for his ability to transform into 72 forms, the computer features a 72-bit autonomous superconducting quantum chip, aptly called the “Wukong Core.”

    Independent Chinese Technology

    What truly distinguishes Benyuan Wukong is its high degree of independent Chinese technology. It includes:

    • Homegrown quantum chips, developed entirely within China.
    • Independent quantum computing measurement and control systems.
    • An independent quantum computer operating system.
    • Independent quantum computer application software.

    This results in an impressive 80% localization rate, with the remaining components currently under self-development.

    Global Impact

    The influence of Benyuan Wukong is significant. As of May 27th, it has completed an astonishing 225,000 computing tasks for users in 124 countries and regions. It has also attracted over 9.38 million remote access attempts worldwide, with a particularly high number of users from the United States.

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  • Honor MagicBook Pro 16: Cloud Rainbow, NVIDIA RTX 4060, 9,299 Yuan

    Honor MagicBook Pro 16: Cloud Rainbow, NVIDIA RTX 4060, 9,299 Yuan

    Honor has introduced a dream machine for content creators: the MagicBook Pro 16 with dedicated graphics. This high-performance laptop, featuring a striking Cloud Rainbow Color finish, starts at 9,299 yuan (approximately $1,370 USD).

    Powerful Specs for Heavy-Duty Tasks

    Equipped with 24GB of RAM and a 1TB SSD, the MagicBook Pro 16 is designed for seamless multitasking. At its heart is an Ultra5 125H processor paired with an NVIDIA RTX 4060 graphics card, ensuring top-notch performance for demanding activities like video editing and gaming. The combination of 24GB of memory and a 1TB solid-state drive means you can handle multiple tasks with ease.

    Advanced Cooling and Stunning Display

    Worried about overheating? Honor’s innovative three-dimensional cooling system, featuring a large 12mm diameter heat pipe, efficiently dissipates heat, keeping your laptop running smoothly.

    Enjoy an immersive experience with the 3K 165Hz IPS display. This high-resolution screen features a 93% screen-to-body ratio, vibrant 10-bit color depth, and impressive 500 nits peak brightness. It offers realistic visuals, covering 100% of the DCI-P3 color gamut and holding VESA DisplayHDR 400 and Rhine Eye Protection certifications.

    Superior Audio and Enhanced Productivity

    The laptop’s six built-in professional speaker-level sound system provides rich and powerful audio, while the self-developed spatial audio rendering engine ensures a captivating listening experience.

    Boost your efficiency with the AI YOYO assistant and the AI super workbench. The MagicBook Pro 16 also includes a comprehensive selection of ports: a Thunderbolt 4, a USB-C, two USB-A 3.2 Gen1, an HDMI 2.1, a 3.5mm headphone jack, and a port for the 200W power adapter.

    Scheduled for release on June 7th at 10 am, the Honor MagicBook Pro 16 with independent graphics is an excellent choice for creators, gamers, and anyone in need of a powerful and versatile laptop.

    Honor MagicBook Pro 16: Cloud Rainbow, NVIDIA RTX 4060, 9,299 Yuan
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  • Upcoming Lenovo Laptops with Snapdragon X Elite CPUs

    Upcoming Lenovo Laptops with Snapdragon X Elite CPUs

    Several upcoming Lenovo laptops appear to be incorporating the latest Qualcomm technology, based on recently revealed Bluetooth certification on May 27. These laptops, which utilize the Qualcomm NCM825 network card (WCN785x, also known as FastConnect 7800), include:

    • ThinkBook 16 Gen 7 QOYYOGA Air 14s Q8X9
    • Yoga Slim 7 14Q8X9
    • ThinkPad T14s Flex Gen 1
    • ThinkPad T14s Gen 5
    • ThinkPad T14s Gen 6
    • ThinkPad T14 Gen 5

    Confirmed Snapdragon X Elite Models

    Notably, the YOGA Air 14s Q8X9, Yoga Slim 7 14Q8X9, and ThinkPad T14s Gen 6 are already confirmed to be the first Lenovo laptops powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite processor. The ThinkBook 16 Gen 7 QOY is also likely to feature a Qualcomm Snapdragon X series processor. The ThinkPad T14s Flex Gen 1 is anticipated to be a variant of the T14s with a 360-degree hinge for convertible functionality.

    Uncertain Snapdragon Integration

    The question remains regarding the Snapdragon processors in the remaining listed models (ThinkPad T14s Gen 5 and ThinkPad T14 Gen 5). These could either utilize Qualcomm network cards exclusively or potentially house Snapdragon processors as well. For more concrete details such as specifications, pricing, and release dates, official announcements from Lenovo are crucial. We will just have to wait for the same.

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  • ASUS NUC Pro+ Mini PC Launches in India with Intel Core Ultra 9

    ASUS NUC Pro+ Mini PC Launches in India with Intel Core Ultra 9

    ASUS has recently introduced a new Mini PC model in the Indian market. The NUC Pro+, which was officially announced earlier this year, is now available in this region. This model features a compact metal design paired with next-generation hardware. Here are all the details.

    ASUS NUC Pro+ Specifications

    The ASUS NUC Pro+ boasts an innovative modular design that includes a smart cooling system. It features a 5 x 4-inch anodized aluminum chassis. Despite its small size, it is powered by the Intel Core Ultra 9 CPU, which works alongside Intel’s Arc GPUs, Intel AI Boost, and Intel’s latest NPU. There are also options to purchase models with Core Ultra 7 and Ultra 5 CPUs.

    The higher-end model offers a 65W TDP compared to the 40W TDP of the more affordable options. Internally, it includes 2 x SODIMM RAM slots that support up to 48GB of DDR5-5600MHz memory and 2 slots for M.2 NVMe SSDs. For connectivity, it features two Thunderbolt 4 Type-C ports, a USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A port, a USB 2.0 Type-A port, two HDMI 2.1 ports, an RJ45 LAN port, a DC-in port, and a Kensington Lock on the rear.

    Port Configuration

    On the front side, the ASUS NUC Pro+ provides a USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C port and two USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A ports. Additionally, the Mini PC supports Bluetooth 5.3 and Wi-Fi 6E standards. For more detailed information about this device, you can click here. This introduction follows the recent launch of the ROG NUC mini gaming PC in China.

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  • Azulle Modular Mini PCs: Custom Computing for Every Business

    Azulle Modular Mini PCs: Custom Computing for Every Business

    In today’s fast-changing business landscape, companies are increasingly looking for personalized solutions to enhance their computing power. A 2022 report by Grand View Research notes a rising trend in the custom-built PC market, forecasting a compound annual growth rate of 14.5% from 2021 to 2028. This surge is primarily driven by the demand for more efficient and customized computing solutions across various industries.

    Azulle is leading this trend by providing modular mini PCs that cater to the specific needs of businesses. These compact and powerful mini PCs are designed to adapt to a company’s evolving requirements through various customization options and services.

    Features and Advantages of Modular Mini PCs

    Flexibility and Performance: Azulle’s mini PCs are built to be flexible, allowing for easy upgrades of individual parts rather than the entire system. This feature helps businesses stay current with technological advancements without frequent replacements, thereby boosting overall efficiency.

    Customization Options: These mini PCs offer customization features to fit specific business needs. Options like Active Cooling for hot environments, 4G LTE for enhanced connectivity, and other specialized modules address diverse business applications, making these PCs suitable for various industries.

    Scalability and Cost Savings: The mini PCs are scalable, enabling businesses to add or change components as necessary without significant reinvestment in new systems. This scalability is cost-effective, allowing for gradual technology investments.

    Broad Applicability: From gyms and restaurants to hospitals, Azulle’s mini PCs serve a wide array of industries. Their ability to manage over a thousand different applications demonstrates their versatility and capacity to adapt to various business needs.

    Support and Customization Services

    Azulle goes beyond merely selling hardware; they collaborate closely with their customers to ensure their computing solutions meet specific requirements. Offering both OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) and ODM (Original Design Manufacturer) services, they provide tailored solutions that streamline and enhance business operations.

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