Category: Computers

March 7, 2024
Huawei 2025 Launch: New Magneto-Electric Disk (MED) Storage Device
Huawei is said to be in the process of unveiling its cutting-edge data storage solution, the OceanStor Arctic, by 2025.
The heart of this upcoming product is an innovative technology known as the “magneto-electric disk” (MED). Nevertheless, details surrounding this new storage method remain shrouded in secrecy, with specifics yet to be disclosed.
Huawei's MED Technology Advancements
According to reports, Huawei's upcoming MED technology is expected to accommodate rack capacities exceeding 10PB while operating on less than 2kW of power. The company also asserts a 20% cost reduction compared to tape storage alternatives and an impressive 90% decrease in power utilization when juxtaposed with conventional hard drives.
Impressive Efficiency and Performance Metrics
Huawei's projections are indeed striking. Today, a standard 42U rack has the capacity to house approximately 288 HDDs, with the capability to store up to 8.64PB of data. Such a configuration typically demands around 2.88kW of power for operation.
A Glimpse into Future Storage Solutions
Moreover, there exist 4U storage servers such as the ASRock Rack 4U100-C612, capable of accommodating 100 3.5-inch hard drives and storing up to 3PB of data while operating at 1kW. Nonetheless, the energy consumption of 10 such machines would be considerable.
The reduced power requirements of the Huawei OceanStor Arctic emerge as a standout feature. However, the precise methodologies enabling Huawei to achieve such significant power efficiencies with seemingly disk-based technology remain ambiguous.
The Mystery Behind MED Technology
Additionally, details concerning Huawei's MED technology remain elusive. Speculations from a Tom's Hardware report propose that the foundational concept of MED technology could revolve around the magneto-electric effect, establishing a link between a material's magnetic and electric attributes.
Yet, this speculation remains just that—an educated guess. The full scope of Huawei's MED technology and the mechanisms enabling its remarkable efficiency and performance enhancements are yet to be unveiled.
Tags: Data Storage Innovation, Huawei, Magneto-Electric Disk Technology
March 7, 2024
Acer Swift Go 16 Pro Black Edition Laptop: 3.2K OLED Display, 13th-Gen Intel
Acer has unveiled the Swift Go 16 Pro Black Edition, a fresh addition to its laptop lineup scheduled for debut in early Q2 of 2024. This laptop boasts a sleek matt black aluminum unibody design and a 16-inch OLED display, appealing to professionals seeking a blend of elegance, performance, and ruggedness.
Features and Specifications
The Swift Go 16 Pro comes equipped with 13th-generation Intel Core processors, presenting two distinct configurations. The initial choice integrates an Intel Core i5-13420H processor alongside 16 GB of LPDDR5 memory. In contrast, the more potent variant showcases an Intel Core i7-13620H processor with 32 GB of LPDDR5 memory. Both models offer 1 TB of PCIe Gen 4 SSD storage, expandable up to 2 TB, to meet demanding speed and storage needs.
Display and Connectivity
A standout feature of these laptops is their display, boasting a 16-inch OLED screen with a 3.2K resolution, 120 Hz refresh rate, and a peak brightness of 500 nits. This ensures sharp, fluid visuals with vivid colors, catering well to both professional and creative endeavors.
In terms of connectivity, the Swift Go 16 Pro offers HDMI 2.1, a microSD card reader, and two USB Type-C ports with Thunderbolt 4, enabling rapid charging capabilities. Additionally, the laptop includes a 1,440p webcam with temporal noise reduction and Acer PurifiedVoice technology with AI noise reduction, ensuring clear audio during video conferences.
Pricing and Availability
The Acer Swift Go 16 Pro Black Edition featuring the Intel Core i5-13420H is slated for an early Q2 2024 release, priced at 1,099 euros. For those seeking the i7-13620H variant, known as SFG16-71-782M, it will also be available at the same time for 1,299 euros.
Tags: Acer, Laptop Release, Swift Go 16 Pro
March 7, 2024
Lenovo Yoga Slim 7i: OLED Display, Core Ultra 7 SoC Launched in India
Lenovo has introduced a new model in its Yoga series of laptops in India, unveiling the Lenovo Yoga Slim 7i, which made its debut at CES in January. This laptop boasts cutting-edge specifications, distinguishing itself from the previously reviewed Yoga Slim 7i Carbon. Let's delve into what this latest offering brings to the table.
Lenovo Yoga Slim 7i Specifications and Features
The Lenovo Yoga Slim 7i is impressively lightweight at just 1.39kg, encased in an aluminum body that meets MIL-STD 810H standards for durability. Its key feature is a 14-inch OLED display with a WUXGA resolution, a 60Hz refresh rate, and a peak brightness of 400 nits, certified for HDR500 VEGA.
Advanced Features and Hardware
Equipped with a full HD IR webcam featuring a privacy shutter, the laptop also boasts quad 2W speakers with Dolby Atmos support and a backlit keyboard for enhanced user experience.
Under the hood, the Lenovo Yoga Slim 7i runs on the latest Intel Core Ultra 7 processor with integrated Intel Arc graphics. It comes with a fixed 32GB of RAM and 1TB SSD storage, with Windows 11 pre-installed. Powering the device is a four-cell 65WHr battery.
Connectivity and Pricing
In terms of connectivity, the Yoga Slim 7i offers Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.1, an HDMI 2.1 port, two USB-C ports, a USB-A port, and a headphone jack. This premium laptop is priced at Rs 1,04,999 and is available for purchase through Lenovo's official website, Lenovo Exclusive Stores, leading e-commerce platforms, and various offline retail outlets.
Tags: laptop specifications, Lenovo Yoga Slim 7i, Technology news
March 7, 2024
Lenovo Xiaoxin Pro 14 (2024) Core Ultra 9 – Launching This Weekend
Lenovo has unveiled a fresh setup for its Xiaoxin Pro 14 2024 AI Core Edition laptop, which offers the choice of the Intel Core Ultra 9-185H processor. This particular model is set to deliver a peak performance output of approximately 70W. Fans of Lenovo can look forward to the launch of this enhanced variant, as the company has hinted at its imminent release during the weekend.
Enhanced Performance with Intel Core Ultra 9-185H Processor
The Intel Core Ultra 9-185H processor, which powers the Xiaoxin Pro 14 2024 AI Core Edition, comes equipped with 16 cores and 22 threads, boasting a turbo frequency of 5.1GHz. This powerful processor is designed to elevate the overall computing performance, especially for individuals involved in intensive activities like gaming, content creation, and multitasking.
An official statement mentioned, "See you this weekend, so stay tuned."
Tags: Intel Core Ultra 9-185H, Lenovo Xiaoxin Pro 14 2024
March 7, 2024
Apple 20-inch Foldable MacBook Expected by 2027
Apple appears to be delving into the realm of foldable devices in a distinctive manner. Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo suggests that the company might introduce a foldable MacBook sporting about a 20-inch screen by 2027.
Apple's Foldable MacBook Vision
Kuo's revelation lacks specifics about the device but hints at it being Apple's sole foldable product with a definite development timeline.
Potential Advancements in Apple's Lineup
This potential product aligns with earlier mentions by display analyst Ross Young and the Korean website The Elec. It is anticipated to surpass the current largest MacBook, the 16-inch MacBook Pro, and could evoke memories of the discontinued 17-inch MacBook Pro's screen size.
Unveiling a Foldable Future
While the physical attributes of this MacBook are uncertain, a foldable design could present a multi-faceted user experience. It might serve as a conventional laptop when only partially unfolded, transforming into an expansive display when fully open.
Kuo's statements suggest that Apple isn't prioritizing foldable iPhones or iPads at present, despite ongoing speculation.
Future of Foldable Tech
Previous reports hint at Apple exploring the foldable market with a smaller 7-inch to 8-inch device to potentially replace the iPad Mini. This rumored foldable iPad might debut between 2026 and 2027. However, Kuo's latest information indicates that foldable iPhones or iPads remain a distant prospect.
It is essential to understand that the concept of a foldable MacBook remains speculative. Apple's reputation for thorough research and development means that projects can evolve, change, or even be scrapped entirely.
Tags: Apple MacBook, Foldable MacBook
March 7, 2024
BenQ PD3225U: 32-inch 4K Designer Monitor with HDR 10 & Color Matching for Macs
Creative professionals looking for a top-notch display that seamlessly complements their Mac setups can now explore a new offering from BenQ. Recently introduced, the PD3225U is a 32-inch 4K monitor packed with features tailored specifically for Mac users.
Enhanced Features for Creative Workflows
Building on the foundation of its predecessor, the PD3220U, the PD3225U brings a range of enhancements designed to enhance creative workflows. Notably, it offers an improved DCI-P3 color space with 98% coverage, ensuring precise color reproduction crucial for activities such as photo editing and video production. Moreover, the monitor is equipped with "precise color matching for Macs," striving to deliver color accuracy consistent with what users experience on their MacBook Pro laptops.
Impressive Display Specifications
Featuring a 31.5-inch IPS Black panel with a 4K resolution of 3840 x 2160 pixels and a 16:9 aspect ratio, the PD3225U promises a high-quality viewing experience. The anti-glare coating reduces reflections, while the 2000:1 contrast ratio ensures rich blacks and vibrant colors. Although the refresh rate is set at 60Hz, the monitor supports HDR (HDR10/Display HDR 400), enhancing contrast and color depth for compatible content.
Mac-Friendly Features
In addition to its display capabilities, the PD3225U offers several features tailored to Mac users. The Hotkey Puck G2 enables swift adjustments to monitor settings, while the Display Pilot 2 software allows brightness control directly from the Mac keyboard. Noteworthy is the inclusion of one Thunderbolt 3 port with 85W power delivery, facilitating simultaneous MacBook connection and power supply.
While some users may have desired a higher resolution or greater power delivery via the Thunderbolt port, these additions could elevate the price closer to competitors like Apple’s Studio Display and Samsung’s ViewFinity S9.
The BenQ PD3225U is currently available for purchase from BenQ, Amazon, and other retailers at a price of $1,099. Although it might not boast the most extensive feature set in the market, it presents an appealing option for Mac-oriented creative professionals seeking a top-tier 4K display with color precision and seamless integration features at a competitive price point.
Tags: BenQ PD3225U, Creative Professionals, Mac Integration
March 7, 2024
Intel to Launch Core i9-14900KS Processor on March 14, Reaching 6.2 GHz
Intel is gearing up to launch the Core i9-14900KS processor on March 14, as per reports from VideoCardz. This new processor is expected to achieve an impressive boost clock speed of 6.2 GHz.
Enhanced Performance and Features
The Core i9-14900KS will be added to the existing lineup, which includes its predecessors, the Core i9-12900KS and Core i9-13900KS. The i9-14900KS stands out with its higher clock speeds, reaching up to 6.2 GHz on two cores, 5.9 GHz on all P cores, and 4.5 GHz on the E cores. This improvement was a result of leaks in late February, hinting at upgrades alongside the Lunar Lake Laptop CPUs.
Pricing and Specifications
Despite a price tag of around $740, approximately 30% higher than the current flagship i9-14900K, the i9-14900KS promises substantial performance enhancements. It features 8 performance cores (P) and 16 efficient cores (E), totaling 24 cores and 32 threads. With 36MB of L3 cache and 32MB of L2 cache, the processor offers ample memory for multitasking needs. The thermal design power (TDP) is expected to increase from 125W to 150W compared to the i9-14900K.
Transition to New Technology
The Intel Core i9-14900KS will be the final CPU on the LGA-1700 platform, marking the end of an era with the old naming convention for Desktop CPUs. Moving forward, it will be succeeded by the LGA-1851 socket, starting with the 15th-generation Arrow Lake CPUs by the end of this year.
Tags: Core i9-14900KS, Intel
March 7, 2024
Lenovo YOGA Air 14 Laptop Receives 3C Certification, Features OLED Display & Touch Screen Option
Unveiling its official domestic name in China via a recent 3C certification, the Lenovo YOGA Air 14 laptop is preparing for its market debut. Formerly recognized as the Yoga Slim 7 / Lenovo Slim 7 in global markets, this thin and light notebook in the mid-to-high-end category was first showcased at CES 2024 and is anticipated to be available in US stores in April, with a starting price of $1,049.99 (around ¥7,560 yuan).
Specifications and Features
Users will have the option to select either 16GB or 32GB of RAM for their laptop. Embodying the sleek design language seen in recent YOGA series laptops, the Air 14 is crafted with a stamped aluminum alloy body and holds an Intel Evo certification, denoting its commitment to both performance and slimness. Users can opt for either an Intel Core Ultra 5 125H or Ultra 7 155H processor, ensuring efficient performance for daily tasks and demanding workloads. The memory choices include 16GB or 32GB of LPDDR5x-7560 RAM, soldered directly onto the motherboard to enhance efficiency and maintain a slender form factor.
Display and Battery
The laptop offers a visual treat with a 1920 x 1200 resolution OLED display featuring a 60Hz refresh rate and a peak brightness of 400 nits, providing excellent visibility under varied lighting conditions. For those seeking a more interactive experience, a touch-enabled display option is available, albeit with a slight weight increase of 0.04kg. Powering the device is a 65Wh battery, complemented by a 65W power adapter for swift charging.
Camera, Connectivity, and Design
Equipped with a 1080p resolution webcam for video conferencing, the laptop incorporates infrared face recognition for secure logins. The webcam additionally features a physical privacy cover, granting users control over camera access, and a ToF sensor that could enhance depth-sensing capabilities for applications like augmented reality. The YOGA Air 14 includes a variety of ports, such as two Thunderbolt 4 ports for high-speed data transfer and display connectivity, two USB-A 5Gbps ports for peripherals, an HDMI 2.1 port for external displays, and a headphone jack for wired audio devices. With dimensions of 312 x 221 x 14.9 mm and a weight of 1.39kg for the non-touch version and 1.43kg for the touch version, the laptop strikes a balance between portability and functionality, catering to students, professionals, and content creators on the move.
Tags: High-End Performance, Lenovo YOGA Air 14, Thin and Light Laptop
March 6, 2024
Acer Aspire Desktops: 12th Gen Intel Core CPUs Launched in India
Acer has introduced new desktop models in the Indian market as part of the Aspire series, catering to various user needs such as students, home offices, and small businesses. These Aspire desktops come as a complete package including a monitor, CPU, keyboard, and mouse.
Acer Aspire Desktop Specifications and Features
The Acer Aspire Desktop is available in two display options: 21.5-inch VA display and 23.8-inch IPS display, both offering FHD+ resolution. These desktops are outfitted with dual 2W built-in speakers and come with a full-sized wired keyboard and mouse. The CPU boasts a sleek and contemporary design.
Performance and Connectivity
Customers can choose between 12th-generation Intel Core i5, Core i3, or Core i7 processors for the Acer Aspire Desktop, which also features integrated Intel UHD graphics. These desktops are equipped with 8GB RAM, expandable up to 64GB, and 512GB SSD storage, expandable up to 1TB. Connectivity options include Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.2, two USB 3.2 Gen1 ports, an SD Card Reader, and a combo microphone jack. The systems come pre-installed with Windows 11 OS.
Pricing and Availability
The Acer Aspire Desktops start at Rs 42,490 for the base Core i3 variant, while the Core i5 model is priced at Rs 48,390, and the Core i7 configuration costs Rs 66,490. Interested buyers can make a purchase through the Acer E-store or Acer exclusive stores nationwide.
Tags: Acer Aspire Desktops, dual device connectivity, specifications
March 6, 2024
Microsoft’s Potential Launch of Surface Pro 10 and Surface Laptop 6 on March 21
Microsoft is gearing up to launch the Surface Pro 10 and Surface Laptop 6 with significant display upgrades, shifting to OLED panels. According to a report by Windows Central, these new devices are expected to hit the market on March 21st.
OLED Display Upgrade
OLED screens are gaining traction in the premium laptop segment due to their ability to provide rich blacks, vibrant colors, and enhanced contrast. Microsoft, which has yet to embrace OLED technology for its laptops, is now making the leap with the upcoming Surface models. This transition to OLED panels will not only improve display quality but also enable support for HDR content.
Enhanced Features and Specifications
Both the Surface Pro 10 and Surface Laptop 6 are rumored to be offered in versions powered by Intel and Qualcomm processors. The Intel variants are likely to feature the latest Intel Core Ultra processors focusing on AI capabilities, set for an April launch. On the other hand, the Arm-based models are expected to utilize the Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite chip, with an anticipated release in June.
Design Updates
While the Surface Pro 10 is expected to maintain the design essence of its predecessor, it will come with enhancements such as an upgraded wide-angle webcam featuring Studio Effects and an integrated NFX reader. In contrast, the Surface Laptop 6 is speculated to undergo a more significant redesign, featuring smaller display bezels, rounded corners, and a new haptic touchpad. The device will also offer an expanded port selection, including two USB-C connections, a USB Type-A port, Surface Connect, and a dedicated Copilot key integrated into the keyboard.
Windows “AI Explorer”
In addition to hardware upgrades, a new feature named “AI Explorer” is anticipated to debut with the 2024 Windows 11 update. This feature, an advanced version of Copilot, will track user activity on the computer, allowing every interaction to be searchable using natural language. AI Explorer aims to comprehend vague requests and offer contextual assistance. For instance, it could suggest editing options when an image is opened, enabling users to issue simple commands for specific edits like background removal.
These forthcoming devices, such as the Surface Pro 10 and Surface Laptop 6, are expected to be among the first to leverage the capabilities of AI Explorer.
Tags: Microsoft Surface Pro 10, Microsoft Teams, Surface Laptop 6