Category: Computers

  • China’s Subsidy Scheme to Boost Semiconductor Industry

    China’s Subsidy Scheme to Boost Semiconductor Industry

    Beijing's local government has launched a subsidy program to assist local businesses in purchasing Chinese semiconductors, particularly GPUs, with the goal of enhancing its computing capabilities and reducing dependence on foreign technology. This initiative is part of a larger strategy to improve the city's smart computing capabilities by 2027.

    Subsidy Plan to Boost Local Businesses

    The subsidy scheme, the details of which have not been disclosed, will provide financial incentives to local companies for acquiring domestically produced GPUs. These subsidies will be correlated with the investment needed for establishing computing services. The policy places emphasis on utilizing GPUs designed and manufactured domestically, which are crucial for high-performance systems in data centers, especially for projects related to AI development.

    US Export Regulations Impact

    Changes in US export regulations have made it challenging for Chinese companies to access advanced AI processors and semiconductor manufacturing equipment. Trade sanctions imposed by the US have limited the export of components to China by companies such as Nvidia, leading Chinese entities to explore alternative solutions.

    China's Push for AI Technological Self-Sufficiency

    China is pivoting its strategy towards promoting the domestic production of AI chips rather than depending heavily on international corporations such as Nvidia, Intel, and AMD. The subsidy program is aligned with a broader national agenda that encourages the adoption of domestically produced AI chips to ensure self-sufficiency in AI semiconductor technology despite external constraints.

    Beijing's Commitment to Technological Self-Reliance

    Beijing's initiative underscores its dedication to achieving technological self-sufficiency amidst escalating trade tensions and US export controls. The financial incentives offered to local businesses are intended to expedite the adoption of AI processors, strengthening Beijing's computing infrastructure and reducing reliance on foreign technology.

    Future Outlook and Challenges

    Apart from traditional semiconductor technologies, China is also focusing on advancements in silicon photonics and quantum computing chips to attain complete self-reliance in smart computing infrastructure by 2027. However, geopolitical tensions and the potential expansion of US-led export restrictions pose business risks for chip manufacturers and equipment suppliers, such as ASML.

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  • Haier Yunyue Mini H13 PC Available for Pre-Order on JD.com

    Haier Yunyue Mini H13 PC Available for Pre-Order on JD.com

    Haier is making a comeback in the mini PC market with the introduction of their latest product, the Yunyue mini H13, which is now available for pre-order on JD.com for 2,899 yuan (approximately $400 USD). This compact device is powered by an Intel Core i7-12650H processor, featuring 6 performance cores, 4 efficiency cores, and a turbo frequency of 4.7GHz. It comes equipped with 16GB of memory and 512GB of storage, all packed into a small form factor measuring less than 3 liters and weighing just 1.36kg.

    Versatile Design and Connectivity

    The Yunyue mini H13, set to be released on May 9th at 10:00 AM, is designed for versatility. It features convenient front access to USB-C, two USB-A ports, and an audio jack, while the back offers dual network ports for wired connections, two additional USB-A ports, and both DP and HDMI display outputs. This mini PC also supports Wi-Fi 6 connectivity and comes pre-installed with Windows 11, with Haier suggesting its potential for "soft routing" applications.

    Previous Model Comparison

    Haier had previously launched the Yunyue mini H12 mini PC in December 2023, which also boasts impressive features such as a 12th Gen Intel Core i5-12450H processor, 16GB DDR4-3200 RAM, and a 512GB PCIe 4.0 SSD. While some specifics about the Yunyue mini H13 are still undisclosed, it is scheduled to be available for purchase on May 9th at 10:00 AM.

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  • Dell Inspiron 14 Plus 7441: Snapdragon X Elite

    Dell Inspiron 14 Plus 7441: Snapdragon X Elite

    Qualcomm introduced the Snapdragon X Elite processor in October of the previous year. Recently, the company has unveiled a more affordable iteration of the Elite called the Snapdragon X Plus. The Snapdragon X series by Qualcomm is specifically designed for PC platforms, aiming to compete with established chipmakers like Intel, AMD, and Apple's M-series. Laptops powered by Snapdragon X CPUs have started appearing in benchmarks, with Dell being the latest to join this trend.

    Dell Inspiron 14 Plus 7441 on Geekbench

    A recent listing on Geekbench confirms that Dell is developing a laptop featuring a Snapdragon X-powered CPU, known as the Dell Inspiron 14 Plus 7441. This device is equipped with a Snapdragon X Elite (X1E80100) processor, featuring eight cores in cluster 1 and four cores in cluster 2. The CPU operates at a base frequency of 3.42 GHz and comes with 16GB of onboard RAM, running on Windows 11 Pro OS.

    In the single-core and multi-core test results on Geekbench, the Dell Inspiron 14 Plus 7441 achieved scores of 1,765 and 4,367 points, respectively. Interestingly, the multi-core performance falls below 5,000 when compared to similar devices like the Microsoft Surface 6 and Samsung Galaxy Book 4 Edge, which share the same chipset but run at a higher speed of 4.01GHz.

    Potential Reasons for Lower Scores

    The lower multi-core test scores of the Dell Inspiron 14 Plus 7441 could be attributed to incorrect settings or a lower power configuration during testing. A higher clock speed might have resulted in better performance outcomes. It is important to consider that various factors can influence benchmark scores.

    In addition to Dell, Microsoft, and Samsung, a Lenovo laptop featuring the Snapdragon X Elite processor also appeared on Geekbench last month.

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  • Qualcomm Developing Powerful Snapdragon X Plus Processor

    Qualcomm Developing Powerful Snapdragon X Plus Processor

    Qualcomm recently unveiled its latest Snapdragon X series of processors designed for Windows on Arm laptops. The lineup consists of four chipsets, with three falling under the Snapdragon X Elite tier and the fourth being the Snapdragon X Plus, aimed at more budget-friendly Windows laptops.

    Qualcomm's Plans for Snapdragon X Plus Lineup

    Industry insider Kamila Wojciechowska has hinted at potential future developments within Qualcomm's Snapdragon X Plus lineup. There are talks of a more powerful variant in the works, known as the X1P-42-100, which is set to feature eight Oryon CPU cores, an increase from the six cores found in the X1P-64-100. Interestingly, the X1P-42-100 is rumored to omit the four efficiency cores present in its predecessor.

    Enhanced Performance with Fewer PCIe Lanes

    While the X1P-42-100 promises improved performance, it is noted to offer fewer PCIe lanes compared to the X1P-64-100.

    Here is a table showcasing the specifications of all the SoCs in the Snapdragon X line:

    SoCPerformance CoresEfficiency CoresTurboGPU FrequencyVideo HardwarePCIe
    X1 Elite (X1E-84-100)8x Oryon – 3.8GHz4x Oryon – 3.8GHz4.2GHz1.5GHz4K 60 fps encode, 4K 120 fps decode8+4 lanes of PCIe
    X1 Elite (X1E-80-100)8x Oryon – 3.4GHz4x Oryon – 3.4GHz4.0GHz1.25GHz4K 60 fps encode, 4K 120 fps decode8+4 lanes of PCIe
    X1 Elite (X1E-78-100)8x Oryon – 3.4GHz4x Oryon – 3.4GHz–1.25GHz4K 60 fps encode, 4K 120 fps decode8+4 lanes of PCIe
    X1 Plus (X1P-64-100)6x Oryon – 3.4GHz4x Oryon – 3.4GHz–1.25GHz4K 60 fps encode, 4K 120 fps decode8+4 lanes of PCIe
    X1 Plus (X1P-42-100)8x Oryon – ?––?–4+4 lanes of PCIe

    The X1P-42-100 is anticipated to have limitations in video encoding and decoding capabilities, reportedly capped at 4K/30 FPS encoding and 4K/60 FPS decoding. In comparison, the X1P-64-100 is expected to support 4K/60 FPS encoding and 4K/120 FPS decoding. Specific details regarding the CPU clock speeds and GPU specifications of the X1P-42-100 are currently undisclosed.

    Qualcomm's Future Plans Beyond X Series

    In addition to the X series, Wojciechowska's leaks suggest Qualcomm is developing a server-grade chipset codenamed "SD1." This processor purportedly features 80 Oryon cores on a 9470-pin LGA socket and is manufactured using TSMC's 5nm (N5P) production process.

    The leak also indicates that the SD1 chipset will support 16 channels of DDR5-5600 RAM, offer 70 PCIe 5.0 lanes, and have the capability to run two chipsets simultaneously. Moreover, Wojciechowska mentions that the SD1 will integrate Compute Express Link (CXL) 1.1, although details about the silicon remain unclear at this stage.

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  • Zotac ZBOX MAGNUS Mini-PCs: Intel Core i7-14700HX CPU & RTX 4070

    Zotac ZBOX MAGNUS Mini-PCs: Intel Core i7-14700HX CPU & RTX 4070

    Zotac has recently introduced the ZBOX MAGNUS ONE compact desktop PC and two new MAGNUS mini-PCs, the MAGNUS EN474070C and MAGNUS EN474070W, in the global market. These mini-PCs are powered by a 14th-generation Intel CPU and an RTX 4000 series mobile GPU.

    Specifications of Zotac ZBOX MAGNUS mini-PCs:

    The MAGNUS EN474070C and MAGNUS EN474070W share the same hardware specifications, differing only in color. The EN474070W is available in white, while the EN474070C comes in black.

    Both versions, black (EN474070C) and white (EN474070W), are equipped with the Intel Core i7-14700HX processor, featuring 20 cores and 28 threads, with a maximum clock speed of 5.5 GHz. These mini-PCs can support up to 64 GB of DDR5 RAM and offer two M.2 slots for SSDs.

    Featuring the GeForce RTX 4070 laptop GPU with 8 GB of GDDR6 VRAM, these mini-PCs deliver high-quality graphics performance suitable for demanding tasks such as 3D rendering, video editing, and gaming. Connectivity options include dual 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet, Thunderbolt 4, and multiple USB 3.1 ports.

    Zotac has not yet disclosed the pricing details for the MAGNUS EN474070C and MAGNUS EN474070W mini-PCs. However, for comparison, the previous model, Zotac Magnus EN374070C, was priced at £1,400 as a barebones unit.

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  • All about Qualcomm Snapdragon X Series Chip

    All about Qualcomm Snapdragon X Series Chip

    Qualcomm has introduced its latest Windows on ARM platform, the Snapdragon X series processor, boasting impressive performance and efficiency. The company’s goal is to emulate Apple’s success with its M-series chip and offer a compelling option for ARM-based Windows laptops.

    Snapdragon X Series Overview

    The Snapdragon X series consists of two main tiers: the high-performance Snapdragon X Elite and the budget-friendly Snapdragon X Plus. These SoCs are designed to cater to different market segments, providing users with a range of options based on their needs and preferences.

    Performance and Efficiency

    Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X series promises to deliver a balance of power and efficiency, similar to what users have come to expect from Apple’s M-series chips. By offering a variety of features and capabilities, Qualcomm aims to enhance the overall user experience on Windows on ARM devices.

    Conclusion

    With the introduction of the Snapdragon X series processors, Qualcomm is positioning itself as a key player in the Windows on ARM market. By providing a competitive alternative to Apple’s M-series chips, Qualcomm is aiming to drive innovation and choice in the laptop industry.

    All about Qualcomm Snapdragon X Series Chip
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  • Surface Laptop 6 on GeekBench with Snapdragon X Elite

    Surface Laptop 6 on GeekBench with Snapdragon X Elite

    Qualcomm is in the process of developing two fresh chips, namely the Snapdragon X Elite and Snapdragon X Plus, aiming to provide Windows users a compelling reason to stick with their devices instead of transitioning to MacBooks equipped with Apple Silicon.

    Snapdragon X Elite Chip Details

    Rumors had circulated previously suggesting that the Surface Laptop 6 would incorporate Qualcomm’s new Snapdragon X Elite chip. Recent reports unveil a mysterious device labeled as “OEMBR OEMBR” (potentially the Surface Laptop 6) operating on the Snapdragon X Elite X1E80100, as spotted on a GeekBench listing.

    Snapdragon X Elite Variants

    The “X Elite” chip is available in three distinct versions – X1E-84-100, X1E-80-100, and X1E-78-100. These variations exhibit similarities with slight discrepancies in CPU and GPU frequencies.

    Performance Insights

    Test results of the Snapdragon X Elite X1E80100 on the speculated Surface Laptop 6 have been disclosed, displaying single-core and multi-core scores.

    Surface Laptop 6 on GeekBench with Snapdragon X Elite
    Surface Laptop 6 on GeekBench with Snapdragon X Elite
    Surface Laptop 6 on GeekBench with Snapdragon X Elite

    The single-core and multi-core test scores hovered around 2700 and 14000, respectively. Notably, the test mentioned a “Balanced” power plan, hinting that with adequate cooling, performance might scale even higher. However, uncertainties persist regarding the test environment, where variables like cooling mechanisms and ambient temperature could significantly impact results, warranting cautious optimism towards peak performance.

    Potential Competitiveness

    Comparatively, the numbers illustrating the Surface Laptop 6’s capabilities suggest it could potentially rival the Apple MacBook Pro equipped with the M3 Pro chip.

    Chip Details and Specifications

    The chip is identified as “snapdragon (1m) 8cx gen 3,” purportedly employed as an anti-leak measure. Such practices have been previously attributed to Microsoft. Reports from Windows Latest affirm the chip’s identity as the Snapdragon X Elite. The device’s model number, previously linked with the Surface Laptop 6, indicates that the Snapdragon X Elite boasts 12 Qualcomm Oryon CPU cores and comes equipped with 16GB of RAM.

    Microsoft’s Prior Releases

    Microsoft had previously introduced the Business edition of the Surface Laptop 6 and Surface Pro 10, featuring Intel Core Ultra 5 and Core Ultra 7 chips.

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  • Chinese Scientists Unveil Thinnest Optical Crystal for Lasers

    Chinese Scientists Unveil Thinnest Optical Crystal for Lasers

    There has been a remarkable advancement in laser technology recently! Chinese researchers have introduced the thinnest optical crystal globally, a pivotal element for lasers. This groundbreaking material is a rhombohedral boron nitride crystal, only micrometers thin, with significantly enhanced efficiency. Lasers are vital in diverse sectors such as micro-nano processing, healthcare, and quantum technologies, with miniaturization being a crucial objective.

    Breakthrough in Laser Technology

    The research team at Peking University accomplished this feat by utilizing a unique "corner phase matching theory" and lightweight boron nitride as the foundational material. This "corner rhombohedral boron nitride" crystal showcases an energy efficiency surge of at least 100 times when compared to traditional crystals of similar thinness.

    Enhanced Efficiency and Functionality

    The ultra-thin crystal attains an impressive 8% efficiency in optical frequency doubling conversion across a broad spectrum range, rendering it 100 to 10,000 times more effective than conventional crystals of identical dimensions.

    Future Implications

    Beyond efficiency enhancements, the corner phase matching technique empowers boron nitride crystals to manipulate light polarization, opening paths for a new era of lasers characterized by extreme wavelengths, sizes, and stability. Professor Liu Kaihui, a member of the research team, envisions the potential of this technology to downsize lasers to the micron scale and potentially revive materials previously unsuitable for optical crystal creation. This discovery signifies significant promise for the evolution of laser technology.

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  • Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite Performance Claims Found Misleading

    Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite Performance Claims Found Misleading

    Qualcomm recently showcased impressive performance metrics of its upcoming Snapdragon X Elite chip, suggesting that Windows-on-Arm laptops empowered by this chip will surpass Intel processors and Apple's M series chips in performance. The specifics of the tests conducted were not disclosed, and the comparison data provided was not independently verified.

    Lack of Transparency

    The company has been criticized for the lack of transparency in disclosing the details of the benchmark tests conducted on the Snapdragon X Elite chip. Reports suggest that Qualcomm's benchmark results are challenging to replicate, even by top-tier OEM developers, casting doubts on the accuracy of the performance comparisons with competitors.

    Discrepancies in Performance

    Upon receiving the Snapdragon X series chip, device manufacturers failed to achieve performance levels close to what Qualcomm had initially presented. OEMs struggled to reach even 50% of the claimed performance figures, with Qualcomm engineers attributing the shortfall to suboptimal Windows-on-Arm optimization and inadequate device cooling solutions. Despite efforts to enhance cooling, OEMs were unable to significantly improve the chip's performance, leading to unfavorable comparisons with Intel Celeron chips.

    Future Outlook

    While concerns have been raised regarding the testing methodologies employed by Qualcomm, the alignment of the Snapdragon X Elite chips with devices produced by the same OEMs running Windows could potentially mitigate these discrepancies. Qualcomm has yet to address detailed technical inquiries about the Snapdragon X series, with promises of comprehensive technical briefings prior to the anticipated mid-2024 launch.

    Qualcomm has also introduced the Snapdragon X Plus, a more cost-effective variant of the Snapdragon X Elite chip. However, the announcement primarily focused on potential camera features enabled by the SoC rather than offering in-depth technical specifications, deviating from the initial assurances provided by the company.

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  • Apple Expands Supplier Network in China Amid US-China Tensions

    Apple Expands Supplier Network in China Amid US-China Tensions

    In the latest financial year, Apple has made significant progress in expanding its pool of suppliers, particularly focusing on mainland China. This marks the first instance since 2021 that Apple has increased its number of suppliers from China. Despite the backdrop of the US-China tech conflict and ongoing US sanctions on Chinese entities, this move by Apple comes as a surprise.

    Apple's Supplier Base Expansion in Mainland China

    Apple has introduced 8 new suppliers from mainland China while eliminating 4, underscoring the country's importance within its supply chain. With 157 contractors operating in mainland China, comprising more than a third of its disclosed suppliers, Apple reiterates its dependence on the region for manufacturing and assembly.

    Among the newly incorporated mainland Chinese suppliers are industry leaders like Baoji Titanium Industry and San’an Optoelectronics. Baoji Titanium Industry, located in Shaanxi, focuses on alloy manufacturing, while San’an Optoelectronics in Xiamen provides mini-LED chips for Apple's high-end products such as the iPad Pro and MacBook Pro.

    Diversification Efforts and Global Supplier Network

    While mainland China remains a key player, Apple is actively broadening its manufacturing presence by increasing production in South and Southeast Asia. The addition of Tata Electronics from India to Apple’s supplier roster demonstrates the company's dedication to expanding its global supplier network.

    Apart from China, contributions to Apple's supplier network also come from Taiwan, Japan, Norway, and India. This strategic diversification helps Apple navigate geopolitical challenges and enhances its capacity to meet worldwide demand.

    Sustainability Goals and Carbon Neutrality Initiatives

    An important development is the commitment of certain supply chain partners to achieve carbon neutrality by 2030, aligning with Apple's sustainability objectives. This emphasizes Apple's commitment to reducing its environmental impact and promoting responsible practices throughout its supply chain.

    Apple expects its supply chain partners to uphold its mission, encompassing commitments to carbon neutrality and ethical standards. Suppliers who fail to comply risk losing their partnership with Apple, underscoring the significance of shared values and responsible business conduct.

    Despite potential challenges arising from tighter export controls on China due to regulatory changes, Apple remains steadfast in adhering to trade regulations and adapting to geopolitical shifts to ensure efficient supply chain management.

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