Category: Computers

  • Core G3: Intel Panther Lake Chip for Handheld Consoles Delayed

    Core G3: Intel Panther Lake Chip for Handheld Consoles Delayed

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Core G3 chip, aimed at handheld devices, has been delayed from Q1 2026 to Q2 2026.
    2. The Core G3 is rumored to feature a 14-core CPU with 2 P-cores and 12 E-cores, plus graphics from an Arc B360 SKU with 10 Xe3 cores.
    3. A more powerful version, the Core G3 Extreme, is expected to use an Arc B380 variant with 12 Xe3 cores.
    4. The Core G3 Extreme is anticipated to compete with AMD’s Ryzen Z2 Extreme due to its power efficiency and GPU performance.
    5. Panther Lake allows for more flexible memory configurations, enabling OEMs to create budget-friendly handhelds.


    While Intel has showcased a variety of Panther Lake products at CES 2026, there are still some that haven’t been revealed yet. One of these is the handheld-oriented Core G3 chip, which was first hinted at last month. Originally expected to launch in Q1 2026, the Core G3 is now reportedly pushed to Q2. This delay isn’t surprising since Panther Lake products, in general, won’t be available for a while.

    Information Leaked

    This news comes from the well-known leaker, Golden Pig Upgrade, on Weibo (via Videocardz). To remind you, the Core G3 was rumored to feature a 14-core CPU, including 2 P-cores and 12 E-cores. For its graphics, it was expected to use an Arc B360 SKU with 10 Xe3 cores. There was also talk of a more powerful version called the Core G3 Extreme, which would utilize an Arc B380 variant with 12 Xe3 cores.

    Performance Expectations

    From our in-depth analysis of Panther Lake, the Core G3 Extreme should be capable of competing with AMD’s Ryzen Z2 Extreme, thanks to its enhanced power efficiency and GPU capabilities. Although it may have fewer P-cores, which could lead to lower raw performance, the large number of E-cores is likely to significantly enhance battery life. Unlike the Lunar Lake, Panther Lake does not impose memory-on-package restrictions, enabling OEMs to produce handhelds with minimal memory to keep prices down.

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  • iOS Beta Uncovers M5 Max and M5 Ultra SoCs; M5 Pro Missing

    iOS Beta Uncovers M5 Max and M5 Ultra SoCs; M5 Pro Missing

    Key Takeaways

    1. Apple is expected to release the M5 Pro and M5 Max MacBook Pros soon, alongside the existing M5 model priced at $1,875.
    2. New unreleased Apple M-series SoCs, T6051 and T6052, were found in the latest iOS 26.3 beta.
    3. The “C” and “D” designations in the SoCs likely indicate the M5 Max and M5 Ultra models, with no current mention of an M5 Pro variant.
    4. The absence of an M5 Pro could suggest a possible upcoming introduction or that an updated Mac Studio may launch sooner.
    5. There are concerns about power management with high-end SoCs, as MacBooks typically struggle with the demands of an Ultra SoC without sacrificing battery life.


    Apple is likely to release the M5 Pro and M5 Max MacBook Pros very soon, adding to the existing M5 MacBook Pro, which is currently priced at $1,875 on Amazon. Numerous rumors and insider information suggest that the launch of these new premium MacBooks is around the corner, with a recent leak indicating some intriguing details about the System on Chips (SoCs).

    New SoCs Spotted

    It’s not unusual for unreleased SoCs to appear in operating system beta versions, and this appears to have happened once again. Developer Nicolás Alvarez found mentions of two unreleased Apple M-series SoCs, known as T6051 and T6052, in the latest iOS 26.3 beta. The platform names associated with these chips are H17C and H17D.

    Naming Conventions

    As noted by MacRumors, the “C” and “D” designations likely correspond to the M5 Max and M5 Ultra models, based on Apple’s past naming patterns. This is curious because there seems to be no reference to a Pro version at all.

    With the high-end MacBook Pros seemingly only days away from launch, it’s puzzling that there has been no mention of an M5 Pro variant. It’s certainly possible that Apple might introduce the M5 Pro identifier soon, but there is also a chance that the updated Mac Studio could launch sooner than anticipated.

    Power Management Concerns

    MacRumors also mentions that Apple might include the M5 Max and M5 Ultra SoCs in the high-end MacBook Pros. However, this seems unlikely because MacBooks generally struggle to handle the power and thermal demands of an Ultra SoC without compromising on battery life and overall efficiency.

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  • Asus ROG Strix Aiolos: 20Gbps Tool-less RGB M.2 SSD Enclosure

    Asus ROG Strix Aiolos: 20Gbps Tool-less RGB M.2 SSD Enclosure

    Key Takeaways

    1. Enhanced Transfer Speeds: The ROG Strix Aiolos offers transfer speeds up to 20 Gbps with USB 3.2 Gen 2×2, doubling the speed of the previous Arion model.

    2. Dual M.2 Interface Support: The new enclosure supports both M.2 NVMe and M.2 SATA SSDs, expanding compatibility.

    3. Improved Thermal Management: Features a high-efficiency internal thermal pad and a heat-resistant coating to maintain stable temperatures during heavy use.

    4. Tool-Free Design: The enclosure has a convenient tool-free design and is portable, weighing 139 g with dimensions of 115.5 x 46 x 15.12 mm.

    5. Stronger Hook and RGB Lighting: Includes a more robust metal hook (five times stronger than the Arion) and retains RGB lighting for aesthetic appeal.


    ASUS has introduced the ROG Strix Aiolos, a small M.2 SSD enclosure that offers several notable improvements compared to the previous ROG Strix Arion (currently priced at $68.99 on Amazon). Both models are compatible with M.2 NVMe SSDs up to 2280 in length, but the new version also supports M.2 SATA SSDs due to its dual M.2 interface.

    Transfer Speed Enhancements

    The most significant enhancement is the transfer speeds. With its USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 Type-C interface, the ROG Strix Aiolos can reach up to 20 Gbps, which is double the speed of the Arion. This boost in performance naturally leads to an increase in heat generation. To manage this, ASUS has incorporated a high-efficiency internal thermal pad and a heat-resistant, injection-molded liquid-silicone-rubber coating, ensuring temperatures remain stable during intensive usage. Additionally, ASUS provides exclusive software for real-time tracking of important metrics, such as SSD health and performance.

    Design and Build Quality

    The enclosure showcases a tool-free design and has dimensions of 115.5 x 46 x 15.12 mm, weighing in at 139 g. Similar to the previous model, it features RGB lighting, a metal hook, and a ROG-branded fabric tag for convenient storage and portability. ASUS also boasts that the new hook is five times stronger than the one found on the Arion.

    As of now, ASUS has not revealed any information regarding pricing or availability.

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  • Apple’s Affordable MacBook: Less RAM, Lower Price than iPhone 17 Pro

    Apple’s Affordable MacBook: Less RAM, Lower Price than iPhone 17 Pro

    Key Takeaways

    1. Apple may replace the MacBook Air with a new budget-friendly model in spring 2026, featuring a 12.9-inch screen.
    2. The new MacBook is expected to use the Apple A18 Pro processor, similar in performance to the Apple M1 chip.
    3. The base model may have 8GB of memory and be priced between $699 and $799, targeting casual users for basic tasks.
    4. The laptop will have an aluminum body, various color options, and long battery life, appealing to travelers seeking lightweight devices.
    5. Apple plans to produce 5 to 8 million units annually, indicating strong expected demand for the new MacBook.


    Rumors are swirling that the MacBook Air (starting at $849 on Amazon) could be replaced as Apple’s entry-level laptop as soon as spring 2026. This new budget-friendly MacBook is rumored to have a 12.9-inch screen, making it slightly smaller than the current 13.6-inch MacBook Air. The most notable aspect of this device will be its processor. Rather than utilizing an Apple M-series chip, it is likely to run on the Apple A18 Pro.

    Performance Insights

    The A18 Pro SoC is already being used in the iPhone 16 Pro, which debuted in September 2024. Its performance aligns closely with that of the Apple M1 chip. A fresh report from Mirror Daily indicates that Apple might limit the base model’s memory to just 8GB to keep the price within a range of $699 to $799. This means that the MacBook would have the same memory as the iPhone 16 Pro, but 4GB less than what the current iPhone 17 Pro offers. This configuration would appeal to casual users in need of a laptop for basic office tasks and web browsing.

    Pricing and Features

    Currently, Apple charges $200 for an upgrade from 16GB to 24GB of RAM, so a model with extra memory could end up being only a bit cheaper than the MacBook Air. With an elegant aluminum body and a variety of color options, alongside impressive battery life, this affordable MacBook could stand out from other laptops in the same price bracket. Given that the 12-inch MacBook weighed around 2 lb back in 2015, it’s likely that this new budget model will also attract frequent travelers seeking a lightweight laptop.

    Production Expectations

    Reports suggest that Apple is intending to manufacture between 5 to 8 million units each year, signaling that the tech giant anticipates a strong market demand for this upcoming MacBook.

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  • Asus ProArt Mouse MD301: A New Rival to Logitech MX Master 3S

    Asus ProArt Mouse MD301: A New Rival to Logitech MX Master 3S

    Key Takeaways

    1. Interchangeable Buttons: The ProArt Mouse MD301 features customizable buttons with options for optical or micro switches.

    2. SmartShift Wheel: It includes a SmartShift Wheel that allows users to switch between high-speed free-spin and line-by-line scrolling modes.

    3. High-End Sensor: The mouse has a maximum sensor resolution of 8,000 DPI and supports a 1 KHz polling rate, ensuring smooth performance on various surfaces.

    4. Ergonomic Design: Designed for comfort, the mouse weighs 99.7 grams, making it lighter than competitors like the MX Master 3S.

    5. Additional Features: It offers six programmable buttons, a battery life of up to 180 days, and fast charging capabilities.


    Asus has launched a new ProArt Mouse at CES 2026, though specific details about this productivity-oriented device were somewhat limited. A recent video has surfaced that provides a clearer insight into this latest competitor to the Logitech MX Master. Additionally, the product has a dedicated page on the brand’s website.

    Versatile Features

    At CES 2026, Asus emphasized the adaptability of the ProArt Mouse MD301. It features interchangeable buttons, allowing users to select between optical or micro switches, or even a combination of both if that’s what they like.

    SmartShift Wheel

    Similar to the new Logitech MX Master 3S (which you can find on Amazon), the wheel on the Asus ProArt MD301, known as the SmartShift Wheel, enables a tailored scrolling experience. Users can toggle between “high-speed free-spin” and “line-by-line control” scrolling modes.

    High-End Sensor

    While Asus hasn’t detailed the specific sensor used in this productivity mouse, it boasts an “high-end” specification with a maximum sensor resolution of 8,000 DPI. It supports a 1 KHz polling rate via USB and 2.4 GHz connections, ensuring minimal latency and smooth cursor movements.

    There’s no information about the polling rate in Bluetooth mode, but Asus claims the sensor can function on various surfaces, including glass. The company also notes that the mouse features low-friction PTFE feet for a smooth glide.

    Ergonomic Design

    Asus prioritized ergonomics in the design of the ProArt Mouse MD301, claiming that it fits comfortably in the hand for better grip. Weighing in at 99.7 grams, it is lighter than the MX Master 3S, making it a preferable choice for users who may experience wrist fatigue.

    Additional Features

    This mouse offers six programmable buttons, an impressive battery life of up to 180 days, and supports fast charging as well. The ProArt MD301 is anticipated to be available for sale before mid-2026. More information about the mouse can now be accessed on its dedicated live webpage.

    Asus’

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  • Raspberry Pi 4 Model B Relaunch: New Version Available Now

    Raspberry Pi 4 Model B Relaunch: New Version Available Now

    Key Takeaways

    1. Raspberry Pi has launched a new variant of the Raspberry Pi 4 Model B called the Rev 1.5 with minor technical adjustments.
    2. The new model features a dual-RAM configuration for improved performance.
    3. Changes are made in response to supply chain uncertainties and rising component prices.
    4. The Rev 1.5 board includes an extra RAM chip but remains compatible with existing accessories and software.
    5. Users need to install bootloader versions from January 9, 2026, or later for the new variant.


    Raspberry Pi has quietly launched a fresh variant of the Raspberry Pi 4 Model B. This release comes just days after an increase in prices for the Raspberry Pi 5, which is currently priced at $137 on Amazon. The new variant brings only minor technical adjustments to the existing single-board computer (SBC) lineup.

    New Dual RAM Configuration

    The latest addition is known as the Raspberry Pi 4 Dual RAM variant, officially named the Raspberry Pi 4 Model B Rev 1.5. This new model primarily features a dual-RAM setup. In a recent Product Information Portal (PCN) document, Raspberry Pi has also noted that this Dual RAM version benefits from better manufacturing processes through a method called intrusive reflow soldering.

    Supply Chain Response

    Furthermore, the company mentions that these changes are in response to ongoing uncertainties in the supply chain and pressures on component prices. For users, the Rev 1.5 board merely adds an extra RAM chip located on its bottom side. This new variant is still fully compatible with all current accessories and software platforms. However, Raspberry Pi does indicate that users must install bootloader versions released on or after January 9, 2026. For additional information, refer to the company’s PDF document.

    Raspberry Pi (PDF) via CNX Software.

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  • RTX 5070 Mini PC: 24-Core Intel Ultra 9, 96GB DDR5, Many Ports

    RTX 5070 Mini PC: 24-Core Intel Ultra 9, 96GB DDR5, Many Ports

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Jean Canyon NUC 15 Performance mini PC features Intel’s Core Ultra 200 HX-class processors, offering powerful options with up to 24 cores.

    2. The Core Ultra 9 275HX provides a 20% increase in multithreaded performance over the Core Ultra 7 255HX, making it suitable for demanding tasks and gaming.

    3. It includes robust discrete GPUs, with the Ultra 7 variant featuring the RTX 5060 and the Ultra 9 variant featuring the RTX 5070, both equipped with 8 GB of GDDR7 VRAM.

    4. Users can customize the NUC 15 with up to 96 GB of DDR5 memory and 8 TB of storage, although pricing details are not fully disclosed.

    5. An alternative option is the Aoostar GT37 mini PC, which offers AMD Strix Point APUs and is available for $799 on Amazon.


    SimplyNUC has made a name for itself in the compact systems market, known for creating powerful mini PCs. The company has recently begun shipping the Jean Canyon NUC 15 Performance, which is designed specifically for high-performance gaming and demanding tasks.

    Powerful Performance

    This mini PC is powered by Intel’s Core Ultra 200 HX-class processors. Users can choose between two options: a 20-core Core Ultra 7 255HX or a 24-core Core Ultra 9 275HX. The Ultra 7 255HX boasts a peak boost clock of 5.2 GHz and offers multithreaded performance comparable to the Apple M4 Pro and Ryzen 9 8940HX.

    Enhanced Multithreading

    The Core Ultra 9 275HX, with its additional cores, provides a significant 20% increase in multithreaded performance compared to the already strong 255HX. This brings it almost on par with the Apple M4 Max SoC and AMD Ryzen 9 9955HX3D. In easy terms, both CPUs are more than capable of handling a wide range of demanding CPU tasks and gaming experiences.

    Graphics and Cooling

    Additionally, the NUC 15 Performance features robust discrete GPUs. The Core Ultra 7 variant includes the RTX 5060 Laptop GPU, while the more expensive Core Ultra 9 variant comes with the RTX 5070 Laptop. Each of these graphics cards has 8 GB of GDDR7 VRAM, although the RTX 5070 benefits from faster memory speeds (512 GB/s compared to 384 GB/s).

    When it comes to performance, cooling is essential. The mini PC manages to stay within performance limits, and the RTX 5070 version should provide approximately 13% more speed. SimplyNUC claims that the Jean Canyon NUC 15 has a triple-fan system with dual vapor chambers, which sounds promising, at least in theory.

    Impressive Features

    The I/O options are also quite noteworthy:

    For memory and storage, users can equip the mini PC with up to 96 GB of DDR5-6400 (dual SODIMMs) and as much as 8 TB of solid-state storage (dual M.2 2280 slots – PCIe 5.0 x4 and PCIe 4.0 x4). Those interested in purchasing will need to reach out to SimplyNUC directly.

    As for pricing, details are not fully disclosed yet, but it is known that the base model will come with 16 GB of memory and a 256 GB storage drive. Given the premium specifications, the NUC 15 Performance gaming mini PC is expected to have a high price point.

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  • M5 Pro and M5 Max MacBook Pro Launch Imminent, Stock Dwindles

    M5 Pro and M5 Max MacBook Pro Launch Imminent, Stock Dwindles

    Key Takeaways

    1. Apple is set to launch new MacBook Pros with M5 Pro and M5 Max chips soon.
    2. The new models will be available in 14-inch and 16-inch sizes, with existing stock levels of current models dropping rapidly.
    3. The release of macOS 26.3 is expected to coincide with the new MacBook launch, currently in beta form.
    4. There are speculations that Apple may delay the release of iOS 26.3 and macOS 26.3 until after the new MacBooks are unveiled.
    5. Consumers are advised to avoid purchasing the M4 Pro and M4 Max models at this time, as new models are imminent.


    It’s widely known that Apple is preparing to unveil new MacBook Pros featuring the M5 Pro and M5 Max chips in the near future. Well-known analyst Mark Gurman has previously mentioned that these new MacBook Pros will debut alongside macOS 26.3, which is currently available in beta form.

    New Models on the Horizon

    Recent rumors suggest that the new MacBook Pros, available in 14-inch and 16-inch sizes, are about to be launched. An Apple premium reseller shared some information with MacRumors, stating that the stock levels for the existing high-end MacBook Pros are falling quickly. This usually hints that a product release is imminent.

    As MacRumors highlighted, Apple tends to work closely with retailers before launching products to prevent excess inventory of current models. Additionally, the company has recently rolled out Xcode 26.3, which is unusual since Xcode updates typically coincide with macOS updates.

    Speculations Surrounding Release Dates

    For some reason, both iOS 26.3 and macOS 26.3 have yet to be made available, hinting that Apple may be waiting to release them until after the new MacBooks are unveiled, so they don’t accidentally reveal any new identifiers. However, the publication notes that the situation could be different, and Apple might just be delaying the macOS 26.3 release because it isn’t fully prepared yet.

    Regardless, it is quite evident that the new M5 Pro and M5 Max MacBook Pros will be released soon. We highly recommend that readers refrain from buying the M4 Pro and M4 Max models at this time. However, the base model M5 MacBook Pro, which is currently priced at $1,875 on Amazon, will remain unaffected.

    MacRumors’

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  • New AideaONE R27: Apple iMac with AMD Strix Halo & 128GB RAM

    New AideaONE R27: Apple iMac with AMD Strix Halo & 128GB RAM

    Key Takeaways

    1. Seaviv has launched the AideaONE R27, an all-in-one PC competing with the Sixunited AXA33.
    2. The AideaONE R27 features a 27-inch IPS display with 4K resolution and a slim 15 mm chassis.
    3. It is powered by AMD’s Ryzen AI Max+ 395 and includes 128 GB of LPDDR5X RAM and a 2 TB PCIe SSD.
    4. Connectivity options include Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2, managed by an AMD RZ616 module.
    5. The starting price for the AideaONE R27 in China is CNY 21,999 (approximately $3,169), with no release date for other regions yet.


    At the close of last year, Sixunited revealed the AXA33, an innovative all-in-one (AIO) desktop aimed to compete with the Apple iMac (currently priced at $1,199 on Amazon). Since then, however, the company has been quiet about its pricing and when it will be available. Now, Seaviv has officially launched what seems to be a similar system that customers can actually buy.

    New Features of AideaONE R27

    Marketed as the first all-in-one PC that uses AMD’s Ryzen AI Max+ 395, the AideaONE R27 sports a 27-inch IPS screen instead of the OLED version featured in the Sixunited AXA33. Setting aside the differences in the display technology, the AideaONE R27 offers 4K resolution (3,840 x 2,160) at a refresh rate of 60 Hz. Seaviv claims this screen is housed in a chassis that is just 15 mm thick at its slimmest part, secured to an anodized aluminum back with a fixed stand that allows for tilt adjustments ranging from -5° to +21°.

    Specifications and Connectivity

    In addition, Seaviv has paired the Ryzen AI Max+ 395 and Radeon 8060S iGPU with a generous 128 GB of LPDDR5X-8000 RAM and a 2 TB PCIe 4.0 SSD (M.2 2280). Users can also expand storage through an additional M.2 2280 slot, while wireless capabilities are managed by an AMD RZ616 module that offers Bluetooth 5.2 and Wi-Fi 6.

    Performance and Pricing

    The AideaONE R27 is capable of supplying up to 120 W to its AMD Strix Halo APU, thanks to its dual-fan and triple-heatpipe cooling system. Nevertheless, Seaviv has chosen to utilize a 240 W external power supply. In China, the starting price for a fully equipped model is CNY 21,999, translating to about $3,169 based on current exchange rates. There are no updates yet on when it will be available in other regions.

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  • Ugreen Launches New 3-in-1 Power Bank with Folding Pins in the US

    Ugreen Launches New 3-in-1 Power Bank with Folding Pins in the US

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Ugreen 3-in-1 power bank combines a power bank and wall charger, featuring a built-in USB-C cable.
    2. It provides up to 65W of power when plugged in and 45W output when used as a power bank.
    3. The device can charge three devices simultaneously, with a total capacity of 10,000 mAh.
    4. It supports multiple charging protocols and has a digital display to show remaining battery percentage.
    5. The retail price in the US is $69.99, but it is currently out of stock on Amazon.


    A new Ugreen 3-in-1 power bank is set to launch in the US market. This gadget is already on sale in places like Japan, where it’s referred to as the Ugreen Integrated Socket Mobile Power Bank (translated through DeepL).

    Product Details

    On Amazon US, Ugreen has listed the item under the name “Power Bank 10000mAh 65W 45W Laptop Portable Charger.” This device features a 3-in-1 design, acting as both a power bank and a wall charger, complete with an integrated USB-C cable. When plugged into an outlet, it can provide 65W of power through USB-C, which Ugreen claims would charge a MacBook Air M3 to 57% in just 30 minutes. As a power bank, the highest USB-C output is 45W, capable of charging an iPhone 17 Pro Max to 66% in half an hour.

    Charging Capabilities

    The latest Ugreen power bank can charge up to three devices at the same time, with USB-C and USB-A ports located near the USB-C cable. When all three outputs are active, the USB-C cable supplies 45W, while the two other ports split 15W. Additionally, it supports multiple charging protocols like PD, SCP, and UFCS. The power bank boasts a capacity of 10,000 mAh, which is estimated to recharge an iPhone 17 about 1.7 times, a Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra 1.5 times, or a MacBook Air M3 approximately 0.6 times. Other notable features include folding pins and a built-in digital display that shows the remaining battery percentage.

    Pricing and Availability

    In the United States, the Ugreen 3-in-1 Power Bank 10000mAh 65W 45W will have a retail price of $69.99. As of now, the product is listed as ‘Temporarily out of stock’ on Amazon, and there’s no clear information on when it will be available for purchase in this region.

    Ugreen via Amazon

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