Category: Computers

  • OLED iMac Launch After M5 Max iMac Pro with Brightness Boost

    OLED iMac Launch After M5 Max iMac Pro with Brightness Boost

    Key Takeaways

    1. Apple is transitioning its larger devices, including the iMac, to OLED display technology after using it in iPhones and iPads.
    2. The new OLED iMac is expected to maintain a pixel density of 218 ppi and a resolution of 4480 x 2520 pixels for software compatibility.
    3. Apple is requesting a peak brightness of 600 nits for the OLED iMac, which is 20% brighter than current models.
    4. Samsung and LG are developing new OLED technologies, including Samsung’s stacked QD-OLED, to meet Apple’s requirements.
    5. The first OLED iMac could launch as early as 2027, with proposals from LG and Samsung due next year.

    After making the switch to OLED displays for its iPhones and iPads, Apple is now gearing up to transition its larger devices, including the iMac all-in-one (AiO) computer, to this advanced display technology.

    Display Features

    Apple promotes its latest AiO with the catchy slogan “Briiiiiiliant,” where the six “i’s” emphasize the variety of colors available for the iMac, not the brightness of the display. The 24-inch iMac has a brightness of 500 nits, which is indeed brighter than many other all-in-one screens in the market. However, when it is updated with an OLED variant, its specifications are expected to improve significantly.

    OLED Development Requests

    Reports indicate that Apple has reached out to Samsung and LG with a request for proposals that specify the display requirements for the upcoming OLED iMac AiO. The memo outlines a minimum pixel density of 218 ppi, suggesting that Apple aims to maintain the existing resolution of 4480 x 2520 pixels to ensure compatibility with software scaling. Other specifications likely to be retained include the wide color P3 gamut coverage and the True Tone technology that adapts to variations in ambient light.

    Brightness Improvements

    In terms of peak brightness, Apple is requesting that Samsung and LG create an OLED panel for the iMac that achieves 600 nits of peak brightness, which is 20% more than the current models. This increase in brightness, combined with the high contrast ratios that OLED technology offers, will make the iMac much more comfortable to use in well-lit environments.

    Creating such bright OLED displays for the large sizes of iMac screens is quite a challenge. Samsung is expected to utilize its newly introduced stacked QD-OLED technology, which features five BBGBG layers. This technology is already implemented in Samsung’s 27-inch Odyssey G6 gaming monitor, which has a refresh rate of 500 Hz and is currently on sale at a 33% discount on Amazon.

    Future Releases

    The additional green layer in each pixel serves as a brightness enhancer. In response to Apple’s demand for larger OLED displays, LG is also working on different OLED technologies, which are anticipated to first appear in the 2026 MacBook Pro models. Apple has set a timeline for LG and Samsung to submit their OLED display proposals by next year, indicating that the first OLED iMac could launch as early as 2027. This timeline implies that the recent code string discovery referencing an Apple iMac desktop with the potent M5 Max processor is likely about a revived iMac Pro set for a 2026 debut, rather than the debut of the first OLED iMac, which will probably be powered by an M6 series processor.

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  • Asus Vivobook S15 Launches with AMD Ryzen 9 465 and 32GB RAM

    Asus Vivobook S15 Launches with AMD Ryzen 9 465 and 32GB RAM

    Key Takeaways

    1. Asus will unveil new laptops at CES 2026 in Las Vegas, including a new Zenbook Duo and ROG Zephyrus gaming laptops.
    2. The upcoming Vivobook S15 has been spotted on Geekbench, featuring AMD Strix Point and Qualcomm Snapdragon processors.
    3. The Vivobook S15 (M5650GA) will include the Ryzen AI 9 465, a 10-core CPU, and a Radeon 880M integrated GPU.
    4. The Ryzen AI 9 465 is expected to offer performance similar to the Ryzen AI 9 365, with a new XDNA 2 neural chipset for a 10% performance boost.
    5. Asus is likely to reveal multiple laptops at CES 2026, following their trend of frequent product launches.

    Asus has confirmed plans to unveil new laptops at CES 2026 in Las Vegas next month. They have hinted at the launch of a new Zenbook Duo. It seems that the brand is also gearing up to present new ROG Zephyrus gaming laptops as well.

    New Vivobook S15 Spotted

    Recently, the next Vivobook S15 has appeared on Geekbench. To give some background, Asus currently sells a 15.6-inch mid-range laptop that features AMD Strix Point and Qualcomm Snapdragon X processors, which is priced at $999 on Amazon right now. According to the benchmark shown below, Asus is about to enhance these options with AMD Gorgon Point APUs.

    Specifications and Performance Details

    The Vivobook S15 (M5650GA) is set to include the Ryzen AI 9 465, a 10-core CPU that should rank just below the Ryzen AI 9 HX 470 in AMD’s Gorgon Point series. It also comes with a Radeon 880M integrated GPU; essentially, the Ryzen AI 9 465 is very similar to the Ryzen AI 9 365, which Geekbench mistakenly identifies as a Strix Point chip.

    The initial benchmark results indicate that the Ryzen AI 9 465 will offer performance comparable to that of the Ryzen AI 9 365. The key distinction between the two is expected to be the addition of a new XDNA 2 neural chipset, which is projected to provide a slight 10% performance boost, bringing it to 55 TOPS. It is likely that the Vivobook S15 is just one of many laptops that Asus plans to unveil next month, considering their history of releases.

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  • Beware of Counterfeit DDR5 RAM on Amazon: What to Know

    Beware of Counterfeit DDR5 RAM on Amazon: What to Know

    Key Takeaways

    1. DDR5 prices are rising due to a DRAM crisis, leading to increased scams in online shopping.
    2. A user received counterfeit RAM from Amazon, despite the packaging appearing authentic.
    3. The scam likely involved a previous buyer swapping out genuine RAM for outdated modules and returning the package.
    4. ADATA advises customers to buy from authorized sellers and offers a verification page for product authenticity.
    5. Consumers must stay vigilant and informed when shopping online to avoid scams, especially during price surges.

    With DDR5 prices skyrocketing due to the ongoing DRAM crisis, a recent incident illustrates that consumers should be cautious not just about inflated costs but also about potential scams – even on sites like Amazon. A user named BravoNorris shared his experience with hardware site VideoCardz, detailing how he ordered four ADATA XPG Caster 32 GB DDR5-6000 CL40 RAM kits from Amazon Spain. Unfortunately, one of the packages turned out to be counterfeit.

    A Closer Look at the Fraud

    At first glance, the packaging seemed sealed and authentic, but it actually contained significantly outdated RAM sticks – possibly from the DDR or DDR2 generations, although discussions among Reddit users continue about the exact type. The modules sported fake XPG labels, and a metal plate was added to mimic the heft of a genuine DDR5 kit. This situation raises a concerning question: how could such an item pass through a platform usually viewed as safe like Amazon?

    The Mechanics Behind the Scam

    Many Reddit users suspect that return fraud is the most plausible explanation for this incident. In this widespread scam, a previous buyer might have swapped the original RAM with older modules, resealed the packaging, and sent it back to Amazon. The tampered product was then seemingly restocked and sold as new without proper inspection. While this trick is not novel, it poses a heightened risk to shoppers, especially given the record-high prices of DDR5.

    ADATA has reacted to this event by encouraging customers to buy products solely from authorized sellers when possible. However, since Amazon is generally seen as both an authorized and respected platform, this case brings to light a larger concern – even major marketplaces are vulnerable to tampered returns and may not have thorough checks in place to catch them. To safeguard against counterfeits, ADATA directs users to its official verification page, where they can confirm product authenticity. The company has also stated its intention to enhance market oversight and raise awareness of such scams through its social media platforms.

    Conclusion

    The whole situation underscores the importance of vigilance when shopping online, particularly during times of rising prices. As companies like ADATA work to protect their customers, it’s crucial for buyers to remain aware and informed to avoid falling victim to similar scams.

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  • Lenovo Launches Updated Lecoo Cool 310 Mini PC with Intel & AMD

    Lenovo Launches Updated Lecoo Cool 310 Mini PC with Intel & AMD

    Key Takeaways

    1. Lenovo has updated the Lecoo Cool 310 mini PC with two new CPU options: Ryzen 7 H 255 and Core Ultra 5 135H.
    2. The Ryzen 7 H 255 is a China-only APU based on the Ryzen 7 8745H architecture, providing strong performance for everyday tasks and some gaming.
    3. The Core Ultra 5 135H is part of the Meteor Lake series, offering mid-range performance comparable to the Ryzen AI 5 340, with decent low-end gaming capabilities.
    4. The base model features 16 GB of DDR5 RAM and a 512 GB SSD, along with a good selection of ports.
    5. Pricing for the new variants is around CNY 2,999 (about $426) in China, but international availability details are not yet known.

    The Lecoo Cool 310 appears to have received an update, with Lenovo introducing two new CPU options for this mini PC. One of these options is the Ryzen 7 H 255, which is essentially a China-only APU based on the Ryzen 7 8745H architecture.

    Global Availability of the New APU

    Although this updated AMD APU has not officially launched outside of China, it is being offered by various manufacturers around the world. One such example is the Beelink Ser9 Pro, which is essentially a rebranded Ryzen 7 8745H. This should provide more than enough power for everyday tasks. Additionally, the Radeon 780M iGPU enables the mini PC to manage some gaming activities too.

    The Second Configuration Option

    The second new setup features the Core Ultra 5 135H, which belongs to the Meteor Lake series and is a mid-range choice. According to our benchmarks, its performance is comparable to that of the Ryzen AI 5 340. This APU is equipped with a capable integrated GPU, the Arc 8-core iGPU, which allows for smooth operation in low-end gaming scenarios.

    The base model for these configurations includes 16 GB of DDR5 RAM and a 512 GB SSD (1 TB Crucial T710 priced at $169.99 on Amazon). Lenovo has also pointed out the reasonably good selection of ports available on the mini PC, which includes various options.

    Pricing and Availability

    As for pricing, the Intel Core Ultra 5 135H and Ryzen 7 H 255 variants of the Lecoo Cool 310 can currently be found in China at CNY 2,999, which is about $426. Lenovo has not yet provided details regarding international availability, but it’s important to note that most Lecoo-branded products typically do not see a proper global launch.

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  • Commodore International Sues Italian Firm in Trademark Battle

    Commodore International Sues Italian Firm in Trademark Battle

    Key Takeaways

    1. Commodore International Corporation has filed a lawsuit against Commodore Industries S.r.l. in Italy to invalidate their trademark registrations.
    2. The legal action involves the European Intellectual Property Office and Italian courts, claiming the trademarks were wrongly granted in 2017.
    3. Commodore’s legal counsel emphasizes the importance of protecting the brand and its heritage from unauthorized use.
    4. The lawsuit follows failed negotiations with Commodore Industries for partnerships, leading to the current legal conflict.
    5. Commodore plans to launch a Licensing Pipeline tool for officially licensed products and experiences in the near future.

    The long-silent Commodore International Corporation is now gaining attention once more. Nevertheless, the company finds itself involved in a trademark conflict. On December 13, Commodore International Corporation initiated legal proceedings against Italy’s Commodore Industries S.r.l., claiming that the latter’s trademark registrations are not valid.

    Legal Actions in Europe

    Commodore International Corporation has lodged the lawsuit with the European Intellectual Property Office as well as Italian courts. The aim is to invalidate the trademarks held by Commodore Industries and its related variations.

    According to the company, these trademarks were wrongly granted back in 2017 by the original brand’s guardians. This situation escalated when the Italian entity contested the American company’s rights to its trademark.

    Statements from Legal Counsel

    John Errico, the legal representative for Commodore International, expressed in a statement, “Our decision to pursue this legal action is not taken lightly.” He continued by saying:

    “Commodore International Corporation has a duty to defend its heritage and maintain the community’s trust in the authentic Commodore name. We are deeply committed to protecting the brand from unauthorized and unapproved products, and safeguarding the Commodore trademarks from unauthorized use is essential.

    Our choice to take this legal action was not made lightly and comes after we have exhausted all other reasonable efforts to resolve this issue. We aim to prevent the Commodore name from being utilized in ways that could mislead the community or the market.

    We recognize and truly appreciate the enthusiasm and commitment of the Commodore community, who have kept the essence of the brand alive for many years. Our mission is to protect the legacy and to nurture a positive, creative space for all who cherish Commodore, whether in the past, present, or future.”

    Future Plans

    This situation arises just months after what Commodore described as an outreach of “good faith” to negotiate partnerships, including attempts that Commodore Industries in Italy reportedly disregarded.

    The company has announced that it will refrain from making further public statements on the issue while legal actions are ongoing. However, it did indicate that “parties interested in producing officially licensed Commodore products and experiences will soon be able to initiate discussions with CIC in the coming weeks, when an official Licensing Pipeline tool is launched.”

    The timing of this lawsuit is particularly significant, as CIC is currently in the process of fulfilling pre-orders for the C64 Ultimate, a modern version of the iconic Commodore 64 computer, with the initial batches of the BASIC Beige and Starlight Editions having begun shipping toward the end of 2025.

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  • Apple iMac Pro Returns with M5 Max Chip, Code Leak Reveals

    Apple iMac Pro Returns with M5 Max Chip, Code Leak Reveals

    Key Takeaways

    1. The latest Apple iMac is equipped only with the M4 chip and a 24-inch screen, targeting home users.
    2. Higher-demand users are directed towards the Mac Studio, MacBook Pro, or Mac Pro instead of the current iMac.
    3. Apple is planning to reintroduce the iMac Pro, indicated by coding in an internal debug kit.
    4. The new iMac Pro may feature the Apple M5 Max chip and could have a larger, more advanced display.
    5. Speculations suggest the iMac Pro may include a new design and improved cooling system, aimed at professional users.

    The latest Apple iMac is currently sold only with the Apple M4 chip and a 24-inch screen. This setup targets mainly home users, while creative professionals, advertising firms, and users with higher demands are pushed towards the Mac Studio, MacBook Pro, or Mac Pro. It’s worth noting that the Apple iMac was once crucial for advertising agencies for many years.

    Upcoming iMac Pro

    As reported by MacRumors, Apple is preparing to reintroduce an iMac designed for more demanding consumers. The iMac Pro is on its way back, as revealed by some coding in an internal Apple kernel debug kit. This code includes mentions of an iMac with the codename “J833c” that features a chip referred to as “H17C.” MacRumors suggests that the H17C represents the third version of the Apple M5, which is likely to be branded as the Apple M5 Max. The existence of this reference in Apple’s code indicates that testing for the iMac Pro is already in progress.

    Expectations for the New Model

    So far, there haven’t been any solid speculations about a more powerful iMac. If Apple launches a significantly pricier all-in-one powered by the Apple M5 Max, it could come with a completely new design and an enhanced cooling system. Given the anticipated high cost of the Apple M5 Max and its intended users, one can reasonably expect that the iMac Pro will feature a larger screen, potentially a 27-inch, 120Hz Mini-LED display that might also appear in the upcoming Apple Studio Display 2.

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  • NexDock 6: 14-Inch Laptop Dock with 400 Nit Display and Trackpad Upgrade

    NexDock 6: 14-Inch Laptop Dock with 400 Nit Display and Trackpad Upgrade

    Key Takeaways

    1. NexDock 6 is now available, replacing the NexDock XL and removing its convertible design and wireless features.
    2. The new trackpad features improved palm rejection and mechanical clicks, supporting multi-finger gestures across various operating systems.
    3. It has a 14-inch touchscreen display with a resolution of 1,920 x 1,200 pixels, 400 nits brightness, and covers 100% of the sRGB color space.
    4. The dock includes upgraded 2 W speakers, a 38 Wh battery lasting 6 to 7 hours, and can recharge devices even when turned off if plugged in.
    5. The retail price of the NexDock 6 is $229, plus shipping, and it is available in over 30 countries.

    NexDock has officially announced that its 6th-generation NexDock laptop dock, also known as a lap dock, is now available. This release comes more than two and a half years after the NexDock XL, but the new dock has ditched the XL’s convertible design and the wireless features. However, the NexDock 6 aims to exceed the capabilities of its earlier models in multiple ways.

    Improved Trackpad Features

    One of the most significant upgrades is the enhanced trackpad. Previously, trackpads on laptop docks, with the exception of the HP Elite X3 Lap Dock, were known for their poor palm rejection and unsatisfactory mechanical clicks. The NexDock reportedly addresses these issues while also allowing for two- and three-finger gestures on various operating systems like SteamOS, Linux, Windows, and Android desktop modes on devices such as the Galaxy S25 Ultra (currently priced at $1,099 on Amazon).

    Display and Performance

    Initial reviews suggest that the new trackpad is performing well, in addition to the upgraded 14-inch touchscreen display. This display has a resolution of 1,920 x 1,200 pixels and features a 16:10 aspect ratio, delivering a peak brightness of 400 nits and covering 100% of the sRGB color space. Unfortunately, the refresh rate is still fixed at 60 Hz, which may disappoint some users.

    The NexDock 6 also boasts better 2 W speakers and a 38 Wh battery that can last approximately 6 to 7 hours. Furthermore, it has the capability to recharge connected devices at 5 V/2 A. Notably, this new dock can supply power to a connected device even when it is turned off, but only if it is plugged into an outlet. The retail price for the NexDock 6 is set at $229, plus shipping, available to more than 30 countries. For further information, visit NexDock’s official website.

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  • Minisforum EOP4A: Unique OCuLink Adapter Card Now Available Worldwide

    Minisforum EOP4A: Unique OCuLink Adapter Card Now Available Worldwide

    Key Takeaways

    1. The EOP4A is a PCIe to OCuLink adapter designed for mini PCs without full-length PCIe slots, making eGPU and storage setups easier.
    2. It supports connection with PCIe x1, x4, x8, or x16 slots and can deliver PCIe 4.0 ×4 with a maximum bandwidth of 64 Gbps.
    3. The adapter includes a redriver chip to reduce data errors and ensure strong signal quality, and it features a plug-and-play design with no special drivers needed.
    4. The EOP4A comes with both low-profile and full-height brackets for installation convenience.
    5. Pricing is set at £69 (~$93) in the UK and €55 (~$65) in the Eurozone, with a launch discount from higher suggested retail prices.

    Minisforum has quietly began selling the EOP4A, which launched today alongside the BD895i SE motherboard. This PCIe to OCuLink adapter card is designed to make eGPU and storage setups easier for mini PCs that don’t have full-length PCIe slots.

    Compatibility and Design

    The new accessory can connect with PCIe x1, x4, x8, or x16 slots. As shown in the image below, the EOP4A has only one OCuLink port on its back, which Minisforum states is compatible with the SF-8611/SF-8612 interface to connect with eGPUs like their DEG1 (currently priced at $99 on Amazon). This adapter is capable of delivering PCIe 4.0 ×4 with a maximum bandwidth of 64 Gbps.

    Features and Performance

    Additionally, the company has added a redriver chip to help reduce data errors and keep the signal strong. The 40 x 80 mm adapter is designed for plug-and-play use, so no special drivers are needed. For convenience, Minisforum also provides 8 cm low-profile and 12 cm full-height brackets.

    Pricing Details

    The EOP4A is available for £69 (~$93) in the UK and €55 (~$65) in the Eurozone, down from a supposed £89 (~$119) and €69 (~$94) MSRPs, respectively. Although it’s listed on Minisforum’s US website, the device isn’t currently available for purchase. For more information, check out the company’s product listing.

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  • Minisforum BD895i SE: AMD CPU & 96GB RAM Support Launch

    Minisforum BD895i SE: AMD CPU & 96GB RAM Support Launch

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Minisforum BD895i SE motherboard features the AMD Ryzen 9 8945HX processor with 16 Zen 4 cores.
    2. It supports up to 96 GB of DDR5 RAM at a speed of 5,600 MHz across two slots.
    3. The motherboard includes two M.2 slots for 2 TB PCIe 4.0 x4 SSDs and a PCIe 5.0 x16 slot for a discrete graphics card.
    4. It has a compact ITX form factor, supports triple display outputs, and includes multiple fan headers, but does not come with a cooling fan.
    5. The BD895i SE is available as a barebone setup for $423.90, with hints of a future model featuring the AMD Ryzen 9 9955HX3D.

    Minisforum has officially launched its latest MoDT motherboard, the BD895i SE. This new board is equipped with the AMD Ryzen 9 8945HX, a powerful processor from the Dragon Range Refresh lineup, boasting 16 Zen 4 cores. Users can install up to 96 GB of DDR5 RAM, which operates at a speed of 5,600 MHz, utilizing its two available slots.

    Storage Options

    Regarding storage capabilities, the BD895i SE includes two M.2 slots, each capable of accommodating a 2 TB PCIe 4.0 x4 SSD. For reference, the 2 TB Samsung 990 Pro SSD currently retails for $209.99 on Amazon. Furthermore, the motherboard supports a PCIe 5.0 x16 slot, allowing for the addition of a discrete graphics card. Despite its compact size, the BD895i SE is fitted with a variety of rear ports, which are quite adequate.

    Additional Features

    Alongside the ports mentioned, the motherboard also features a USB 3.2 Gen 1 header. Minisforum emphasizes the included CPU heat sink, though it should be noted that a cooling fan is not part of the package. Other significant features include support for triple display outputs, a compact ITX form factor, and several fan headers for efficient cooling.

    The BD895i SE is sold solely as a barebone setup, and it has been priced at $423.90 upon launch. There are indications that Minisforum may soon introduce another motherboard, which is anticipated to feature the more advanced AMD Ryzen 9 9955HX3D.

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  • Core Ultra 7 365 Performance Issues: Intel Panther Lake 10% Slower

    Core Ultra 7 365 Performance Issues: Intel Panther Lake 10% Slower

    Key Takeaways

    1. Intel will unveil its Panther Lake CPU series at CES 2026, featuring advanced 18A manufacturing technology.
    2. The lineup includes a range of models, from the entry-level Core Ultra 5 322 with six cores to the high-end Core Ultra X9 388H with 16 cores.
    3. The Core Ultra 7 365 model has 4 performance cores and 4 efficient cores, with a maximum boost clock of 4.8 GHz, achieving notable Geekbench scores.
    4. The Core Ultra 7 365 shows slightly lower performance compared to its predecessor, the Core Ultra 7 258V, and also lags behind AMD’s Ryzen 7 260 in benchmarks.
    5. The performance of the Core Ultra 7 365 may improve with final drivers, and laptops featuring the Panther Lake series will soon be available for testing.

    Intel is gearing up to unveil its Panther Lake CPU series at CES 2026. Built using the advanced Intel 18A manufacturing process, this new lineup features a range of options, starting with the entry-level Core Ultra 5 322, which includes six cores, all the way up to the top-tier Core Ultra X9 388H that boasts 16 cores. However, most multimedia and everyday laptops from brands like Lenovo are expected to be equipped with mid-tier Panther Lake CPUs that balance efficiency with performance.

    Performance Insights

    One notable model in the Panther Lake lineup is the Core Ultra 7 365, which features 4 performance (P) cores and 4 efficient (LP-E) cores, reaching a maximum boost clock of 4.8 GHz. This CPU has been spotted in the Geekbench database within a “Lenovo 4810X90100” system. It achieved a single-core score of 2,451 and a multi-core score of 9,714 on Geekbench 6.

    Comparison with Other CPUs

    When we compare this latest Core Ultra 7 365 to other similar Intel processors, it appears to be about 11% slower than the Core Ultra 7 258V Lunar Lake CPU in single-core tasks and 10% behind in multi-core performance. The Core Ultra 7 365 seems to deliver results comparable to Intel’s 12th generation, with chips like the Core i7-1270P falling within the same performance tier.

    On the AMD front, the Core Ultra 7 365 does not quite hold up against the 8-core Ryzen 7 260, based on the latest Geekbench findings. The Intel chip lags behind by 8% in single-core performance and 23% in multi-core benchmarks. This underwhelming performance from the Core Ultra 7 365 is surprising, especially considering that the Ryzen 7 260 is built on the older Zen 4 architecture.

    Future Testing and Availability

    It’s important to note that the Core Ultra 7 365 was likely running on pre-release drivers, so its performance might not be fully indicative of its capabilities. Thankfully, laptops featuring the Panther Lake series are on the horizon. We won’t have to wait long to conduct comprehensive performance evaluations of the Panther Lake CPUs, including the Core Ultra 7 365.

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