Category: Computers

  • Apple MacBook Air M2 Price Reduced, 15-inch M2 Discontinued

    Apple MacBook Air M2 Price Reduced, 15-inch M2 Discontinued

    Apple has introduced the latest MacBook Air model featuring the M3 processor and various enhancements. Typically, when a new model is launched, the older version receives a price reduction. As a result, the MacBook Air M2 is now more affordable. Regrettably, Apple has decided to discontinue the 15-inch Air M3 along with the older M1 Air.

    MacBook Air M2 Price Reduction and Discontinuations

    Apple has permanently lowered the prices of the 13-inch MacBook Air M2 worldwide. With the introduction of the M3 model, the previous generation now starts at $999 in the US, down from $1,099, marking a $100 decrease. In India, the starting price for the M2 Air is now Rs 99,900, reduced by Rs 14,000 from Rs 1,14,900. These updated prices are already reflected on Apple's official website. It is important to note that all RAM and storage configurations of the MacBook Air M2 have received price cuts.

    The MacBook Air M2 is available in 13 and 15-inch options. While the 13-inch model was launched in 2022, the 15-inch variant was introduced at last year's WWDC. Alongside the price drop, Apple has taken a surprising step by discontinuing the 15-inch MacBook Air, which is less than a year old. This model is no longer listed on Apple's official website, and the company has not provided an official statement regarding this decision.

    The earlier MacBook Air M1, which made its debut in 2020 as one of the first laptops powered by Apple's initial-generation silicon, has also been discontinued. Interested buyers may still find the 15-inch MacBook Air M2 and Air M1 available through e-commerce platforms and authorized resellers until stocks are depleted.

  • ASUS Zenbook 13 2024 Lightweight Notebook with Intel Core Ultra 7 155U Launched in China

    ASUS Zenbook 13 2024 Lightweight Notebook with Intel Core Ultra 7 155U Launched in China

    ASUS recently unveiled the newest addition to its Zenbook series, the Zenbook 13 2024, expanding its range of advanced notebooks. This latest model is distinguished by its incredibly light build, weighing approximately 1kg, and its integration of the cutting-edge Intel Core Ultra 7 155U processor.

    Pricing and Availability

    The Zenbook 13 2024 comes in two color options: Deep Lake Blue priced at 8699 yuan ($1,208) and Polar Gray at 9199 yuan ($1,278), with sales starting at 10:00 am on March 11th.

    ASUS Zenbook 13 2024 Specifications:

    The Zenbook 13 2024 features a 2.8K OLED HDR display with a resolution of 2880×1800 and a peak brightness of 600 nits. It covers 100% of the P3 wide color gamut and delivers a true HDR contrast of 1 million:1 for vibrant and realistic visuals. Each unit undergoes ΔE<1 color calibration for precise color accuracy. It has received certifications from TUV Rheinland for low blue light emission at the hardware level, flicker-free operation, and SGS Eye Care certification to ensure a comfortable viewing experience.

    Powered by the Intel Core Ultra 7 155U processor, the laptop reaches a maximum turbo frequency of 4.8GHz. This processor boasts 12 cores and 14 threads, along with an integrated NPU AI engine capable of handling a 200 billion parameter large language model for offline tasks.

    The Zenbook 13 2024 provides various connectivity options including a 3.5mm headphone jack, USB-A 3.2 Gen2, HDMI2.1, and dual Thunderbolt USB-C ports. It runs on a 63Wh battery, supporting around 16 hours of 1080P video playback.

    This notebook retains ASUS’s minimalist design philosophy, with a slim body thickness of just 1cm achieved through the use of a magnesium-aluminum alloy for the keyboard panel and a thinner OLED screen to optimize internal space. Despite its sleek form factor, the Zenbook 13 2024 doesn’t compromise on performance or battery life, catering to users in need of a potent yet portable notebook.

    ASUS enriches the user experience with its new software suite, ASUS Hall, which includes OLED Care to prolong screen longevity and AI-powered camera features for enhanced video conferencing. The laptop offers Dolby panoramic sound for immersive audio, a backlit keyboard for typing in low light conditions, and undergoes military-grade MIL-STD 810H durability testing. It also includes a high-resolution 1080p+ infrared dual camera for video calls and an ambient light sensor for automatic screen adjustments.


  • Lenovo Introduces Refurbished Products Program for Budget-Friendly Tech

    Lenovo Introduces Refurbished Products Program for Budget-Friendly Tech

    Lenovo's Market Expansion and Sustainable Initiatives

    Lenovo, a prominent player in the tech industry, continues to broaden its product range to bolster its market presence globally. Recently, the company unveiled the Legion Tab for the international market and introduced new ThinkBook 14 models in China. However, for a tech giant like Lenovo, merely launching new products isn't sufficient. The key lies in appealing to a diverse user base for increased revenue. Acknowledging this need, Lenovo has taken a strategic step by introducing a program for refurbished laptops and servers to help cut down on hardware expenses. Here's what you need to know about Lenovo's latest initiative.

    Lenovo's Certified Refurbished Products Program

    Lenovo has rolled out a new initiative known as "Certified Refurbished Products," with the aim of making cutting-edge technologies more accessible to consumers. This program is primarily geared towards offering refurbished computers and various hardware solutions. The overarching objective is to tap into new consumer segments while simultaneously addressing the pressing issue of electronic waste. While this initiative is a global endeavor, it will first launch in select regions to test its efficacy. Denmark, France, Germany, the United Kingdom, and Hong Kong will be the pioneering markets for this project.

    Promoting Sustainability and Affordability

    The specifics of this ambitious project by Lenovo are still under wraps. Drawing from personal experience using a second-hand ThinkPad laptop from Lenovo, it's evident that such an endeavor could greatly benefit consumers. Many businesses routinely upgrade their office tech, leading to a surplus of fully functional yet discarded computers annually or ending up in the hands of sellers seeking exorbitant prices.

    Lenovo's approach involves collecting these used computers and hardware, refurbishing them, and making them available to consumers at reasonable prices. This not only helps in reducing electronic waste but also grants consumers access to cost-effective, high-quality products. Lenovo emphasizes that all devices sold through its refurbished store will undergo extensive data cleansing procedures, ensuring that critical components like storage and memory are thoroughly wiped clean and undergo rigorous maintenance checks.

    Conclusion

    Lenovo's move to introduce refurbished products aligns with a dual focus on sustainability and affordability. By extending the lifespan of tech products and making them more accessible, the company is not only catering to consumer needs but also contributing significantly to environmental preservation. As Lenovo ventures into this new territory, consumers can anticipate a more sustainable and budget-friendly approach to acquiring top-notch technology products.

  • 2024 Redmi G Pro Gaming Laptop with i9-14900HX + RTX 4060 – Price 8,999 Yuan

    2024 Redmi G Pro Gaming Laptop with i9-14900HX + RTX 4060 – Price 8,999 Yuan

    Xiaomi has unveiled its newest gaming laptop, the Redmi G Pro 2024, designed to cater to gaming enthusiasts. At a price of 8,999 yuan (~$1250), this laptop offers a compelling set of specifications and features that make it a strong contender in the gaming laptop market.

    Specifications Overview

    The Redmi G Pro 2024 is powered by the 14th generation Intel Core i9-14900HX processor along with an RTX 4060 graphics card. It boasts 16GB of DDR5 RAM and a generous 1TB PCIe 4.0 SSD, ensuring both ample storage space and swift data access. The laptop incorporates an advanced cooling system consisting of "dual fans + three heat pipes + VC vapor chamber", allowing for a power usage of up to 210W. Noteworthy specifications include a performance limit of 130W for the CPU and 140W for the GPU.

    Storage and Display Features

    This gaming laptop is equipped with dual 2280 M.2 interfaces for expanding storage up to 8TB and dual memory slots that support expansion up to 96GB. On the display front, users can enjoy a 16-inch 2.5K screen with a 240Hz variable refresh rate. The display offers a quick response time of 3ms, G-SYNC technology, 500 nits of brightness, 10-Bit color depth, and DC dimming, delivering vivid visuals with rich colors and seamless motion.

    Connectivity and Ports

    When it comes to connectivity, the Redmi G Pro 2024 doesn’t disappoint, featuring a variety of ports for user convenience. These include:

    • 1 x Thunderbolt 4
    • 3 x USB-A 3.2 Gen 2
    • 1 x HDMI 2.1
    • 1 x USB-A 2.0
    • 1 x MiniDP 1.4
    • 1 x RJ45 network port
    • 1 x 3.5mm headphone jack
    • 1 x SD card slot

    Special Features

    One of the standout features of this laptop is Xiaomi’s smart connectivity technology, which facilitates seamless integration across devices to enhance gaming and productivity experiences.


    2024 Redmi G Pro Gaming Laptop with i9-14900HX + RTX 4060 - Price 8,999 Yuan
  • Valmond Introduces Retro Mechanical Keyboard with 10.1″ Touchscreen

    Valmond Introduces Retro Mechanical Keyboard with 10.1″ Touchscreen

    Valmond is gearing up to introduce its latest VisionBoard mechanical keyboard. This innovative keyboard showcases a nostalgic word processor design, complete with a built-in touchscreen, and is scheduled to kick off its crowdfunding initiative on Indiegogo tomorrow.

    VisionBoard Keyboard Specifications:

    This adaptable and space-efficient keyboard presents an 84-key layout within a 75% form factor, ensuring functionality and saving space. It employs a Gasket structure to enhance typing comfort and is equipped with sturdy PBT keycaps known to withstand up to 50 million actuations.

    Innovative Features:

    The standout characteristic of the VisionBoard is its 10.1-inch touchscreen, featuring a resolution of 1920×440 pixels and a 60Hz refresh rate. Positioned at an angle for user convenience, the screen facilitates easy interaction, making engagement with the display intuitive and comfortable.

    Versatile Compatibility:

    The VisionBoard caters to a wide range of activities including video editing, photography, programming, music editing, and gaming. Video editors can navigate through their timelines on the keyboard screen, photographers can access essential tools and files, programmers can expand their workspace, and music editors can record and mix on the keyboard screen. Gamers also benefit by moving chat windows without disturbing the main game display.

    Connectivity and Design:

    This keyboard supports USB connectivity with a simple one-cable setup and features a volume knob for effortless sound adjustments. It is compatible with Windows and macOS systems, although macOS users will need to install a specific driver. Available in matte black or a white version with red and black accents, the VisionBoard is attractively priced for its upcoming crowdfunding campaign, starting at $179 with an early bird offer.

  • Apple MacBook Air M3: Faster SoC, WiFi 6E, Dual External Display Support

    Apple MacBook Air M3: Faster SoC, WiFi 6E, Dual External Display Support

    Apple introduced the latest MacBook Air featuring their newest silicon, maintaining the familiar design while enhancing performance compared to its predecessor. The updated models also include various minor enhancements.

    MacBook Air M3 Unveiled

    Apple has launched the MacBook Air M3 in 13 and 15-inch sizes, marking a departure from the previous M2 Air release pattern. These new models retain the flat-edged chassis and display notch design elements.

    Enhanced Display Connectivity

    The MacBook Air M3 13 and 15-inch versions now support connectivity to two external displays simultaneously, a step up from the previous models which could only connect to one external display with the laptop lid closed.

    Powerful Performance and Features

    Powered by the M3 processor, the new MacBook Air boasts an 8-core CPU, up to a 10-core GPU, and a faster 16-core Neural Engine. Apple claims it to be the "world's best consumer laptop for AI," delivering a 60% performance increase over the M1 model and 13 times faster than the fastest Intel-based MacBooks. The Air M3 also promises an immersive gaming experience with hardware-accelerated mesh shading and ray tracing.

    In addition to the chipset upgrade, the MacBook Air M3 includes WiFi-6E for faster speeds, voice isolation, wide spectrum microphone modes, and improved audio and video call clarity. It features a 1080p Facetime camera, three microphones, and support for Spatial Audio and Dolby Atmos.

    The MacBook Air M3 is available in midnight, starlight, space gray, and silver color options. The midnight variant now includes an anodization seal to reduce fingerprint visibility, a common issue with the previous M2 Air model.

    Pricing and Availability

    The Apple MacBook Air M3 starts at $1,099 for the 13-inch model, while the 15-inch version begins at $1,299. In India, prices start at Rs 1,14,900 and Rs 1,34,900 for the respective models. Pre-orders are open now, and shipping is set to begin on March 8.

  • AMD APU Leak: Strix Point, Sarlak, Kraken, and Sound Wave Architectures

    AMD APU Leak: Strix Point, Sarlak, Kraken, and Sound Wave Architectures

    AMD is currently developing a new series of APUs (Accelerated Processing Units) for the upcoming generation of computing devices. Internally known as Strix Point, Sarlak, and Kraken, details regarding these upcoming chipsets have recently emerged from the South Korean blog site, Gamma0burst.

    Strix Point APUs: Ryzen 8050 Series

    Expected to be released later this year, the Strix Point APUs are likely to be branded as the Ryzen 8050 series. These APUs are rumored to feature AMD's next-generation Zen 5 CPU architecture and an upgraded RDNA 3.5 graphics architecture. One significant addition is a dedicated AI processing unit based on the XDNA 2 architecture, potentially boosting performance by up to 48 TOPS – a notable advancement in AI capability. Strix Point is anticipated to succeed AMD's current "Hawk Point" generation of APUs.

    Kraken: AMD's 2025 Lineup

    AMD's 2025 lineup, Kraken, is also slated to make use of the Zen 5 and RDNA 3.5 architectures. Speculations suggest an 8-core configuration, potentially incorporating a mix of Zen 5 and energy-efficient Zen 5C cores, alongside an RDNA 3.5 GPU equipped with 8 Compute Units (CUs).

    Both the Strix and Kraken APUs are rumored to be produced using a 4nm process, although the accuracy of this information remains uncertain.

    The leaked details also highlight the distinctions between Strix and Sarlak. Despite initial associations, the leak indicates that they are distinct processors.

    The Strix APU lineup is anticipated to offer a variety of chips, ranging from a single-die design featuring 12 CPU cores and 16 CUs to a top-tier multi-chip version with up to 16 CPU cores and an impressive 40 CUs.

    Furthermore, the Gamma0burst leak hints at a new processor codenamed 'Sound Wave' in development, with the only known detail being the potential use of a 3nm manufacturing process.

    With limited information available, the capabilities and timeline of Sound Wave remain enshrouded in mystery.

    APUs are favored for compact systems and laptops where strong graphics and efficient processing are crucial within a restricted form factor. AMD is making significant strides in APU development, and we will keep you informed about any further advancements.

  • Ninkear N15 Pro: Powerful Performance, Immersive Display and Connectivity

    Ninkear N15 Pro: Powerful Performance, Immersive Display and Connectivity

    In today’s modern world, possessing a dependable and effective laptop is crucial for maintaining productivity and connectivity. The Ninkear N15 Pro transcends being just a standard laptop; it stands as a robust instrument crafted to boost workflow efficiency and enhance the overall computing experience.

    Cutting-Edge Performance

    At the core of the N15 Pro lies the state-of-the-art 12th Gen Intel Core i7 processor, offering exceptional performance and responsiveness. Boasting a base frequency of 1.70GHz and the potential to turbo boost up to 4.70GHz, this powerhouse CPU ensures smooth handling of even the most demanding tasks effortlessly.

    Visual Excellence

    Experience captivating visuals with the N15 Pro’s 15.6-inch Full HD IPS display. Featuring a resolution of 1920 x 1080 and a 16:9 aspect ratio, every image and video springs to life with remarkable clarity and detail. The 92% ultra-high screen-to-body ratio expands your viewing area, allowing for full immersion in your work or entertainment.

    Generous Memory and Storage

    Bid farewell to sluggish load times and system lag with the N15 Pro’s ample memory and storage offerings. Equipped with 32GB of DDR4 high-frequency memory and a rapid 1TB SSD, you’ll have abundant space for files and applications while enjoying seamless multitasking and performance.

    Advanced Connectivity

    Maintain connectivity on the go with the N15 Pro’s advanced options. Dual-band WiFi support ensures swift and dependable wireless internet access, while Gigabit Ethernet offers rapid wired connections for maximum stability and speed. The laptop’s face recognition unlocks function and Windows Hello streamline the login process, enabling secure and effortless access.

    Crafted from aircraft-grade magnesium-aluminum alloy, the N15 Pro blends durability with portability. Weighing a mere 1.8kg and measuring just 12mm at its thinnest point, it serves as the ideal companion for on-the-go professionals. The frosted surface finish enhances the laptop’s aesthetics and provides a premium touch experience.

    The Ninkear N15 Pro is priced at $645 on its official website, inclusive of taxes for EU member states, and offers free shipping within these regions. The laptop includes a 2-year warranty. With its robust performance, immersive display, versatile connectivity, and sleek design, the N15 Pro stands as the ultimate tool for contemporary professionals aiming to optimize productivity and creativity.


  • Huawei Taishan V120 Server CPU Benchmarked, Comparable to AMD Epyc

    Huawei Taishan V120 Server CPU Benchmarked, Comparable to AMD Epyc

    A new performance benchmark has surfaced for Huawei’s upcoming server CPU, showcasing competitive levels akin to AMD’s Zen 3 cores. The processor recently appeared on the Geekbench platform, although specifics regarding its name remain undisclosed. Nonetheless, its performance indicators suggest Huawei is staying in step with industry leaders like AMD and Intel.

    Performance Insights

    The processor, speculated to be the Taishan V120 from Huawei’s HiSilicon subsidiary, underwent testing on Geekbench with a single core. This core, initially seen in Huawei’s Kirin 9000s smartphone chip featured in the Mate 60 series, is presumed to be the driving force behind the performance.

    Technical Details

    The latest Geekbench 6 results hint that the Taishan V120 core is potentially built on the second-generation 7nm node, similar to the Kirin 9000s chips. Achieving a commendable score of 1,527 in the single-core benchmark, it slightly trails behind AMD’s Epyc 7413 and Intel’s Xeon E-2136. However, newer chips from both AMD (Epyc 9554) and Intel (Xeon w9-3495X) outshine its performance significantly.

    Speculations and Future Prospects

    While the benchmark outcomes remain vague about the CPU’s specifics, references to "Huawei Cloud OpenStack Nova" suggest it might be a Kunpeng server CPU, potentially the Kunpeng 916, 920, or 930. Speculations favor the Kunpeng 930, especially due to its superior single-core performance as per observations from Tom’s Hardware.

    Despite rumors of the Kunpeng 930’s release in 2021, complications arising from Huawei’s manufacturing ban at TSMC may have delayed the plan. Nonetheless, recent indications suggest that Huawei has not abandoned its development efforts despite the challenges encountered.

    In light of the Taishan V120 core’s promising capabilities, questions linger about Huawei’s ability to mass-produce server chips without access to contemporary manufacturing tools and processes.


    Huawei Taishan V120 Server CPU Benchmarked, Comparable to AMD Epyc
  • PELADN WI-6 Mini PC: Intel 12th Gen N100 CPU Sale in China – 999 Yuan

    PELADN WI-6 Mini PC: Intel 12th Gen N100 CPU Sale in China – 999 Yuan

    PELADN WI-6 mini PC is available for purchase on JD.com in China starting today. This mini PC is offered in three different configurations depending on the storage and memory capacity it possesses.

    Key Specifications of the WI-6 Mini PC

    The PELADN WI-6 mini PC is powered by a 4-core 4-thread Intel 12th generation Alder Lake N100 processor, capable of reaching speeds of up to 3.4 GHz. It features integrated UHD graphics, with options for 8GB or 16GB of DDR4 3200MHz RAM and storage capacities in 256GB, 512GB, or 1TB M.2 2280 SSD. To maintain optimal temperatures, the device is equipped with a single fan for cooling.

    Connectivity and Design

    In terms of connectivity, the WI-6 mini PC offers 2 HDMI ports, 1 USB-C port, 2 USB 3.0 ports, 2 USB 2.0 ports, 1 RJ45 network port, and a 3.5mm headphone jack. It also supports WiFi 5.0 and Bluetooth 4.2 for wireless connectivity. The device measures 124 x 112 x 35 mm and weighs approximately 0.32kg. It operates on a 12V/3A power supply and runs on the Windows 11 operating system.

    Pricing Details

    • 8GB RAM + 256GB version: 999 yuan (~$138)
    • 16GB RAM + 512GB version: 1199 yuan (~$166)
    • 16GB RAM + 1TB version: 1699 yuan (~$236)

    For users requiring more computational power in a compact form factor, the PELADN HI-3 Mini PC could be a suitable alternative. This device features an i5-11300H CPU with 4 cores, 8 threads, and a turbo boost clock speed of up to 4.4GHz. Additionally, the HI-3 Mini PC includes a dedicated NVIDIA MX450 GPU with 2GB of GDDR6 memory. It was launched late last year and is priced at around 2599 yuan ($356).