Category: Computers

March 28, 2025
Common Laptop Manufacturing Shortcuts to Avoid When Shopping
Key Takeaways
1. Price Differences: Cheaper laptops may have altered features to justify lower prices, making it essential to compare models carefully.
2. Display Quality: Discounted models often have lower-quality screens with reduced color coverage, which may not be clearly stated in specifications.
3. RAM Configuration: Some laptops may come with single-channel RAM instead of dual-channel, affecting performance, especially in gaming.
4. Integrated Graphics Impact: RAM performance is crucial for integrated graphics, and single-channel memory can lead to a poorer user experience.
5. Specification Scrutiny: Always examine laptop specifications closely, especially during sales, to avoid hidden downgrades.
Shopping smart usually means searching for the best prices for any specific model. For instance, if you find the 2025 HP Envy x360 15 for $200 less at one store compared to another, most people will likely choose the cheaper option. However, it’s not rare for laptop manufacturers to subtly alter certain features of the less expensive version to offer those appealing “sale” prices.
Differences in Display Quality
One of the most common differences we notice when comparing laptops sent by companies and those bought on sale is the quality of the display. Discounted models sometimes come with lower-quality screens that cover significantly less than 100% sRGB, while the higher-priced version maintains better color coverage. Although wide color coverage is often promoted, it’s typically not highlighted in the specs on retail websites, making this downgrade easy to overlook. The previously mentioned HP Envy x360 15 serves as a clear example: it’s priced at $1000 at Sam’s Club, but $1250 directly from HP. However, Sam’s Club neglects to inform customers that their cheaper option uses a lower-quality panel that doesn’t support full sRGB colors.
RAM Performance Issues
Another significant downgrade can be found in the RAM configuration. Some laptops come with single-channel RAM instead of dual-channel, which is another detail that can be overlooked since most retailer sites only list the total amount of RAM without specifying the mode. The performance of RAM plays a crucial role in integrated graphics, so playing games on a laptop with single-channel memory can significantly impact your experience. Luckily, newer Intel laptops are moving away from this issue, as most Lunar Lake models do not offer a single-channel option. Yet, you can still find single-channel 8 GB or 16 GB RAM in various laptop deals, from multimedia to gaming. It’s essential to examine the specifications carefully before making a purchase, especially on popular deals.
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Tags: Display and RAM Specifications, HP Envy x360 15, Laptop Deals
March 28, 2025
Dell 14 Plus and 16 Plus Series Now Available for Purchase
Key Takeaways
1. Dell is now selling the 14 Plus, 16 Plus, 14 Plus 2-in-1, and 16 Plus 2-in-1 laptops directly, with high base configurations suitable for office use.
2. All models feature Lunar Lake V-series CPUs and a minimum 1200p IPS display, with upgrade options including Core Ultra 9 288V and 32 GB of RAM.
3. Only the 16-inch models offer 2.5K mini-LED HDR600 90 Hz display options.
4. Dell has simplified its product naming by moving away from traditional names like Latitude and XPS to “Plus” and “Pro.”
5. Anticipated performance includes excellent battery life and efficiency, especially in graphics, with full reviews expected soon.
Announced at CES just two months ago, Dell is now selling the 14 Plus, 16 Plus, 14 Plus 2-in-1, and 16 Plus 2-in-1 directly. Here are the starting prices:
The base configurations of these laptops are impressively high. Even the least expensive models should meet the needs of users in office settings or those who prefer Latitude devices. All four versions are equipped with Lunar Lake V-series CPUs and at least a 1200p IPS display. Additionally, they can be upgraded to include the Core Ultra 9 288V and 32 GB of soldered RAM. Notably, only the 16-inch models have the option for 2.5K mini-LED HDR600 90 Hz displays.
Naming Changes and Consumer Reactions
The introduction of the 14 Plus and 16 Plus series received a mix of reactions. Dell is moving away from its traditional Latitude, Inspiron, and XPS names, opting instead for simpler terms like “Plus” or “Pro.” The intention behind this is to create shorter names with fewer specific terms, making it easier for regular shoppers to understand the product lineup.
Performance Expectations
From our experience with other Lunar Lake laptops, we anticipate that these four Dell models will provide remarkable battery life and great performance-per-watt efficiency, particularly in graphics when compared to AMD. Full reviews of these models will be available in the next few weeks.
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Tags: Dell 14 Plus, Dell 16 Plus, Lunar Lake CPUs
March 28, 2025
Order Dell Pro 13 Plus, 14 Plus, and 16 Plus with AMD Processors
Key Takeaways
1. Dell has expanded its Pro series laptops to include customizable options with AMD processors, offering Ryzen 200 and 300 series CPUs.
2. The Ryzen 200 series features older Zen 4 architecture, resulting in lower prices compared to Intel models, but with less powerful integrated performance.
3. The Ryzen 300 HX series, built on Zen 5 architecture, delivers significantly better performance than both Ryzen 200 series and Intel’s V-series and U-series CPUs.
4. For battery life and efficiency, the energy-efficient Intel V-series may be a better choice compared to AMD options.
5. Color customization is limited; only the AMD Pro 14 and Pro 16 models offer black or silver options, while other AMD configurations are restricted to silver.
Dell has just expanded its Pro 13 Plus, Pro 14 Plus, Pro 14, Pro 16, and Pro 16 Plus series with a significant increase in customizable options, as they now support AMD processors. Customers can choose from the latest Ryzen 200 and 300 series CPUs, starting from the Ryzen 3 210 all the way up to the Ryzen AI 9 HX Pro 370 for the Plus models, or the Ryzen AI 7 350 for the non-Plus versions.
Performance Insights
The Ryzen 200 series, unlike its 300 series counterpart, utilizes AMD’s older Zen 4 architecture, which comes with less powerful integrated NPUs and only up to the Radeon 780M integrated GPU. As a result, these models are priced a few hundred dollars lower compared to their Intel equivalents, depending on the specific model chosen.
Choosing the Right Processor
On the other hand, the Ryzen 300 HX series, which is built on the Zen 5 architecture, promises a considerable increase in performance compared to the Ryzen 200 series and even better than the Intel Lunar Lake V-series and Meteor Lake U-series. Dell’s offerings are limited to configurations with Intel V-series and U-series CPUs, making the new AMD HX options more appealing for those seeking high performance. However, if battery life and efficiency are key concerns, opting for the more energy-efficient Intel V-series processor may be the better choice.
Color Customization
When it comes to color choices, only the AMD Pro 14 and Pro 16 models can be selected in either black or silver, whereas all other AMD configurations are restricted to silver only. Below are links to the product pages for each AMD model.
Dell Pro 13 Plus product page
Dell Pro 14 Plus product page
Dell Pro 16 Plus product page
Dell Pro 14 product page
Dell Pro 16 product page
Source:
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Tags: AMD processors, Dell Pro Series, Ryzen 300 Series
March 27, 2025
LG Gram 15 Launches New AMD Krackan Point Laptop with Zen 5 Cores
Key Takeaways
1. LG has updated its Gram laptop lineup with new Intel Arrow Lake-H and Lunar Lake processors, replacing the older Meteor Lake versions.
2. The Gram 15 15Z80T model now features AMD’s Ryzen AI 7 350 processor with a strong performance profile.
3. The Gram 15 15Z80T includes a 15.6-inch 1080p IPS display with a brightness of 350 nits.
4. Connectivity options for the Gram 15 15Z80T include two USB Type-A, two USB Type-C ports, and a full-sized HDMI port.
5. The Gram 15 15Z80T is lightweight at 1.29 kg and is priced at €1,499 (approximately $1,616) in Europe, with no release date announced for other regions.
LG has refreshed its Gram laptop lineup by introducing a new processor choice, showcasing the Intel Arrow Lake-H and Lunar Lake options that were revealed late last year. These newer models take the place of the Intel Meteor Lake-powered versions, such as the Gram 17 17Z90S (currently priced at $999 on Amazon), which received high praise in our review from last year.
New AMD Options
Additionally, LG has broadened its offerings with 15-inch models that utilize AMD’s Krackan Point architecture. The specific model, Gram 15 15Z80T, is equipped with the Ryzen AI 7 350, a chip that performed well in the Vivobook 16 we assessed earlier this year. As we previously mentioned, the Ryzen AI 7 350 is built with four cores each of Zen 5 and Zen 5c CPUs along with a Radeon 860M integrated GPU that features 8 Compute Units (CUs) based on the RDNA 3.5 framework.
Display and Connectivity
The Gram 15 15Z80T sports a 15.6-inch 1080p IPS display with a 16:9 aspect ratio and offers a peak brightness of only 350 nits. Furthermore, LG has incorporated two USB Type-A and Type-C ports each, in addition to a full-sized HDMI port, all packed into a lightweight design of just 1.29 kg. Currently, the Gram 15 15Z80T is available at various European retailers starting at €1,499 (approximately $1,616), featuring 16 GB of RAM and 1 TB of storage. However, LG has yet to announce when this AMD Krackan Point-powered laptop will be launched in other regions.
Source:
Link
Tags: AMD Krackan Point, LG Gram 15 15Z80T, Ryzen AI 7 350
March 27, 2025
Asus Zenbook A14 with Snapdragon Launches in US for $999.99
Key Takeaways
1. Asus has released the Zenbook A14 (UX3407) in the US, featuring Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X Plus processor.
2. The laptop has a lightweight magnesium-aluminum body, weighing 2.4 lbs, and a 14-inch OLED screen with 1920×1200 resolution.
3. It is powered by a Snapdragon X Plus X1P 42 100 processor, 16GB of LPDDR5X RAM, and a 512GB PCIe 4.0 SSD.
4. Connectivity options include Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3, USB ports, HDMI 2.1, and a 1080p IR webcam for Windows Hello.
5. The Zenbook A14 is priced at $999.99 and is available exclusively at Best Buy until at least Q2 2025.
Asus has begun shipping the Zenbook A14 (UX3407) in the United States, marking its first Zenbook model that utilizes Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X Plus processor. This launch follows the laptop’s introduction in India.
Specifications Overview
The Zenbook A14 has a magnesium-aluminum body, weighing 2.4 lbs (1.09 kg) and measuring between 0.53 to 0.63 inches thick. It features a 14-inch OLED screen with a resolution of 1920×1200, a 60Hz refresh rate, and full DCI-P3 color support.
Inside, the device runs on the Snapdragon X Plus X1P 42 100 processor and has a Hexagon NPU with a performance of 45 TOPS. The laptop is also equipped with an Adreno GPU, 16GB of LPDDR5X RAM, and a 512GB PCIe 4.0 SSD.
Connectivity and Battery Life
For connectivity, it supports Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3, one USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A port, and two USB4 Gen 3 Type-C ports (which support 40Gbps, DisplayPort, and Power Delivery). Additionally, it has HDMI 2.1 and a 3.5mm audio jack. The Zenbook A14 is powered by a 70Wh battery and comes with a 65W USB-C charger. It also includes a 1080p IR webcam that allows for Windows Hello authentication.
Price and Availability
The Zenbook A14 is available for $999.99 and can be found exclusively at Best Buy in the US until at least Q2 2025. It comes in a Zabriskie Beige color option.
Tags: ASUS, Snapdragon X Plus, Zenbook A14
March 27, 2025
AMD Ryzen 9 9955HX3D Benchmarks Show Strong Performance
Key Takeaways
1. The AMD Ryzen 9 9955HX3D, showcased at CES 2025, has not yet been widely benchmarked but is expected to be used in more laptops than its predecessor.
2. In PCMark10 tests, the Ryzen 9 9955HX3D scored 9,706 points, slightly below the Ryzen AI Max Plus 395’s score of 9,739 points.
3. The Ryzen 9 9955HX3D achieved the top score in single-core performance but fell short in multithreaded tests compared to some competitors.
4. In Cinebench 2024, the Ryzen 9 9955HX3D led the results, indicating significant generational improvements for Zen 5 HX3D processors.
5. The Ryzen 9 9955HX3D is expected to outperform Intel’s Core Ultra 9 275HX in multithreaded applications, indicating increased competition in this generation.
Despite being shown off at CES 2025, we still haven’t seen the AMD Ryzen 9 9955HX3D perform, not even on benchmarking sites like Geekbench. This Zen 5 X3D model replaces the Ryzen 9 7945HX3D and is anticipated to be used in more laptops compared to the Zen 4 version. Recently, Hot Hardware shared some benchmarks for the Ryzen 9 9955X3D.
Testing Setup
The CPU was tested in an MSI Titan 18 laptop, which likely had either a GeForce RTX 5090 or RTX 5080. In the PCMark10 test, the Zen 5 X3D managed to score 9,706 points. As expected, it fell short when compared to the Ryzen AI Max Plus 395, which achieved 9,739 points. The results were fairly similar in Geekbench as well, where the Strix Halo model outperformed it in multithreaded tests. However, the Ryzen 9 9955HX3D regained the top spot in single-core performance.
Cinebench Results
In Cinebench 2024, the Ryzen 9 9955HX3D also led the results. These findings indicate that the Zen 5 HX3D laptop processors offer generational improvements akin to their desktop equivalents. While gaming is their primary focus, this chip is also capable enough for productivity tasks.
Competitive Landscape
Ideally, the Ryzen 9 9955HX3D should outperform the Arrow Lake-based Core Ultra 9 275HX in multithreaded applications. Traditionally, Intel has excelled in single-core tasks, but the latest scores imply that the competition may become significantly tougher this generation.
Source:
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Tags: AMD Ryzen 9 9955HX3D, MSI Titan 18, Zen 5 X3D
March 27, 2025
FusionDock Pro 3: Thunderbolt 5 Docking Station with Dual 8K Support
Key Takeaways
1. iVanky launched the FusionDock Pro 3 docking station, priced at $339 for Prime members, featuring Thunderbolt 5 technology.
2. The docking station is compatible with Apple MacBooks and Windows machines that support Thunderbolt 5, offering high-resolution display options.
3. It can charge connected devices with up to 140 watts, allowing laptops to run on a single cable.
4. The FusionDock Pro 3 includes multiple ports: two Thunderbolt 5 ports, three USB Type-A ports, an SD card reader, and a headphone jack.
5. It features a 2.5 Gbps Ethernet port for fast local network file transfers, improving productivity for users.
iVanky has launched a new docking station named the FusionDock Pro 3, available on Amazon starting at $339 for Prime members. This device boasts the latest Thunderbolt 5 technology, designed to offer an exceptionally quick connection to any compatible device. To fully utilize its features, users must ensure their devices also support TB5.
Compatibility and Features
The manufacturer states that the FusionDock Pro 3 works well with Apple’s MacBooks; however, Windows machines with Thunderbolt 5 can access the complete set of features. On those systems, users can connect either two 6K displays at 60Hz, three 4K screens at 144Hz, or two 8K monitors running at 60Hz.
Power and Ports
The connected gadgets can be charged with a maximum of 140 watts, allowing laptops to operate with just one cable connected to this docking station. Furthermore, the FusionDock Pro 3 includes two downstream Thunderbolt 5 ports capable of supporting up to three monitor connections. Additionally, it features two USB Type-A ports with speeds of up to 10 Gbps, one USB Type-A port at 5 Gbps, a UHS-II SD card reader, plus a 3.5mm headphone jack.
Connectivity Options
The docking station requires a barrel connector for power. At the back, there’s an Ethernet port that offers a bandwidth of 2.5 Gbps. When paired with a suitable router, this feature can be greatly beneficial for transferring files to or from local network storage, especially since most internet connections tend to be significantly slower than that.
iVanky’s new product promises to enhance productivity and connectivity for users seeking a powerful docking solution.
Source:
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Tags: FusionDock Pro 3, iVanky, Thunderbolt 5
March 26, 2025
Microsoft should offer Intel or Qualcomm options for Surface Laptop 7
Key Takeaways
1. Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X Elite processors are integrated into Microsoft’s Surface Pro and Surface Laptop, using a specialized ARM version of Windows.
2. ARM laptops have potential compatibility challenges with older software and games, which can lead to unexpected issues for uninformed consumers.
3. Microsoft has released Surface configurations with Intel’s Lunar Lake processors, offering better compatibility and superior battery life compared to ARM models.
4. The Intel model excels in single-core performance and graphics capabilities, making it better for everyday tasks and occasional gaming, despite being noisier under heavy use.
5. There is a significant price gap between the ARM and Intel Surface Laptop models, with the Intel versions being less accessible to average consumers, potentially leading to dissatisfaction and reduced sales.
Since Qualcomm introduced its Snapdragon X Elite processors, Microsoft has been utilizing these chipsets in both the Surface Pro and Surface Laptop, integrating them with ARM architecture. This effort includes a specialized ARM version of Windows along with apps that are optimized for this platform. In our evaluations of ARM laptops, we have consistently highlighted possible compatibility challenges with older software and games.
Informing Customers
We often encourage manufacturers to make customers aware of these potential limitations. Generally, ARM laptops perform admirably, and as long as users are aware of or can tolerate the mentioned drawbacks, there’s nothing fundamentally wrong with them. However, if consumers are not informed, they may encounter unexpected issues. For instance, we recently noted that the Surface Laptop has been marked as a product that gets returned frequently on Amazon. It seems that business clients were not very pleased either.
New Intel Options
In mid-February, Microsoft released Surface configurations labeled “for Business,” featuring Intel’s Lunar Lake processors. We have just completed an in-depth review of the larger Surface Laptop 7 15 with the Core Ultra 7 268V, making a direct comparison to the Snapdragon version. Besides the absence of compatibility problems, the Intel model even boasts superior battery life.
While the multi-core performance of the processor is lower, the Lunar Lake chip matches the single-core performance, which tends to be more crucial for day-to-day tasks. The built-in Arc Graphics 140V GPU is also markedly more powerful. When it comes to occasional gaming, the Intel version excels significantly. The main downside is that the fan on the Intel model is noisier, but it’s important to mention that the peak noise level only occurs after several minutes of intense use. Under normal conditions, the Intel version operates quietly, especially when not in performance mode.
Pricing Discrepancies
Although the Surface Laptop for Business can be purchased by regular consumers through various outlets, the high retail price and absence of discounts create a noticeable price gap. For instance, our Intel test unit has a suggested retail price of €2760, making it €700 pricier than the comparable Snapdragon model, which is heavily discounted at €2,499 MSRP. Therefore, the Intel configurations are not a viable option for average users, even though these versions of the Surface Laptop 7 would likely be a better fit for many consumers. It’s unfortunate that Microsoft is pushing its less favorable ARM models onto individual customers, limiting their options. In the long term, this approach could result in unhappy customers and a decline in sales.
Tags: intel Lunar Lake, Snapdragon X Elite, Surface Laptop 7
March 26, 2025
Get a Free Galaxy A35 with Galaxy Book 5 Purchase in the UK
Key Takeaways
1. Samsung is offering a promotion in the UK for the Galaxy Book 5 laptop range, which includes a free Galaxy A35 smartphone valued at £339 with any purchase.
2. The promotion runs until April 8 and features a £200 discount on all Galaxy Book 5 models, along with an additional 10% off using the promo code BOOK5.
3. Total savings from the promotion can exceed £539 when factoring in the free Galaxy A35 smartphone.
4. Customers can also receive a 20% discount on select accessories like Galaxy Watches, Buds, and the Galaxy Ring when purchasing a Book 5 laptop.
5. To receive the Galaxy A35 smartphone, customers must request it within 30 days of their laptop purchase and meet basic eligibility criteria, including being at least 18 years old.
Samsung has introduced an enticing offer in the UK aimed at increasing sales of its Galaxy Book 5 laptop range. For a limited period, anyone who buys any model from the Galaxy Book 5 series will also receive a complimentary Galaxy A35 smartphone (valued at £339) and enjoy noteworthy price cuts on the laptops.
Details of the Promotion
This deal, available until April 8, features several layers of savings. Every variant of the Galaxy Book 5 – which includes the Book 5 360, Book 5 Pro 360, and Book 5 Pro – is available with a straight £200 discount. Customers can take advantage of an extra 10% off by entering the promo code BOOK5 when checking out on the Samsung Shop app. Altogether, when you factor in the free Galaxy A35, the combined savings go beyond £539.
Additional Savings on Accessories
To make the offer even more appealing, Samsung is adding bundle discounts. Customers can enjoy a 20% discount on specific accessories, such as Galaxy Watches, Buds, and the Galaxy Ring when they purchase a Book 5 laptop.
About the Galaxy A35 Smartphone
Although the Galaxy A35 included in this promotion isn’t the latest mid-range smartphone from Samsung (as it has been followed by the £399 Galaxy A36), it still offers solid performance. This phone features a 6.6″ Super AMOLED screen, shielded by Corning Gorilla Glass Victus+, and has a plastic middle frame. It’s driven by the Exynos 1380 chip and boasts three rear cameras – a 50MP main, an 8MP ultra-wide, and a 5MP macro – plus a 13MP front-facing camera.
Importantly, while the A36 is not part of this promotion, it does come with its own limited-time “Premium Pack” valued at £138.98, which includes a 45W charger, a silicone case, and a Galaxy Fit 3. To receive the A35, customers in the UK need to submit their request within 30 days of buying the laptop and must meet basic eligibility criteria (including being at least 18 years old).
Tags: Galaxy A35, Galaxy Book 5, Samsung promotion
March 26, 2025
AMD Sound Wave ARM APU for Windows: 6 Cores & MALL Cache
Key Takeaways
1. Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X Elite and X Plus SoCs are gaining popularity among major laptop brands due to their strong performance and energy efficiency.
2. AMD is set to release its first ARM APU, called Sound Wave, in 2026, aimed at competing with Qualcomm’s offerings.
3. The AMD Sound Wave is expected to feature a CPU with 2 P-cores, 4 E-cores, and a total of 12 threads, along with an RDNA 3.5 iGPU.
4. The APU will include a 128-bit LPDDR5X-9600 memory controller and is anticipated to come standard with 16 GB of memory.
5. AMD’s Sound Wave will be manufactured using TSMC’s 3 nm process, signaling a promising future for ARM-based Windows laptops alongside new Qualcomm SoCs.
The Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite and X Plus SoCs represent the first truly remarkable ARM chips for Windows laptops. Their outstanding performance and energy efficiency have led to widespread adoption by leading laptop manufacturers such as Asus, Dell, HP, Microsoft, and others. Nevertheless, Qualcomm will not be the only beneficiary in the ARM-based Windows laptop market, as both MediaTek and AMD are set to introduce their ARM APUs in the near future.
AMD’s ARM Innovations
AMD’s upcoming ARM laptop processor is referred to as “Sound Wave.” As reported in May 2024, AMD aims to launch its first ARM APU in 2026. This APU is expected to come with a “strong NPU” designed to attract users of Microsoft Surface devices away from Qualcomm’s offerings.
Thanks to insights from Moore’s Law Is Dead, we have some intriguing specifications about the AMD Sound Wave that are worth discussing.
Technical Specifications
The AMD Sound Wave may have a CPU configuration of 2 P-cores, 4 E-cores, and 4 MB of L3 cache. If these 6 cores support SMT, similar to AMD’s x86 processors, we could see a total of 12 threads available. Additionally, the CPU is expected to be combined with an RDNA 3.5 iGPU featuring 4 Compute Units, 16 MB of MALL (Memory Attached Last-Level Cache), and enhanced machine learning capabilities.
According to MLID’s sources, the unexpected inclusion of MALL cache in a compact APU like Sound Wave “makes sense” for increasing power efficiency and supplying additional bandwidth for the AI engine. Speaking of AI, the AMD Sound Wave APUs will also include a 4th-generation AI engine.
Memory and Manufacturing Process
For its memory subsystem, AMD is reportedly utilizing a 128-bit LPDDR5X-9600 memory controller. Laptops running on the Sound Wave architecture are anticipated to come standard with 16 GB of memory, which is quite positive, as AMD appears to be positioning Sound Wave as the successor to the Zen 2-based Ryzen 7020 “Mendocino” APUs designed for 5-10 W form factors.
In terms of manufacturing, AMD Sound Wave is said to be produced using the TSMC 3 nm process. We could start seeing laptops powered by AMD’s ARM processor as soon as 2026.
Overall, with AMD Sound Wave expected to debut in 2026 alongside new Qualcomm Snapdragon ARM SoCs for Windows, and with Nvidia and MediaTek also entering the AI PC chip space, the future looks promising for ARM-based Windows laptops.
Source:
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Tags: AMD Sound Wave, ARM laptops, Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite