Category Archives: Computers

Computers, News

Acer Unveils New TravelMate Business Laptops Focused on AI and Security

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Acer has launched a new lineup of TravelMate business laptops designed to empower professionals with cutting-edge features. These features include built-in AI capabilities, robust security solutions, and efficient manageability for businesses. Let’s delve into what these new laptops offer.

The latest TravelMate laptops boast the newest processors with built-in Neural Processing Units (NPUs). This translates to improved performance, smoother multitasking, and access to unique AI-powered experiences.

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For a glimpse into these AI features, all the new laptops come with Acer TravelMateSense, offering quick access to device management settings and customizations. Additionally, a new Acer Experience Zone provides a central hub for the devices’ AI functionalities. A dedicated hotkey simplifies access to Copilot, a Windows feature that provides suggestions and assistance with various tasks.

Security remains a top priority for business laptops, and these new TravelMates address this concern with advanced security features and simplified administration for IT departments.

Every model comes equipped with a discrete Trusted Platform Module (TPM) 2.0, biometric security options, and a camera privacy shutter to safeguard sensitive data. Businesses can also leverage Acer’s suite of commercial management solutions to streamline device deployment, configuration, and updates.

TravelMate P6 14: Designed for Premium Experiences

The TravelMate P6 14 caters to business leaders and executives. Powered by the latest Intel Core Ultra processors with Intel vPro Enterprise and built-in Intel Graphics, it unlocks a new level of performance, efficiency, and AI experiences.

This Intel Evo edition laptop boasts up to 32 GB of LPDDR5X memory and up to 1 TB of M.2 PCIe SSD for long battery life and swift responsiveness, even while handling demanding tasks.

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Visuals are a treat on the stunning 14-inch WQXGA+ OLED (2880 x 1800) touchscreen display with a 16:10 aspect ratio and narrow bezels. 100% DCI-P3 colour gamut support and VESA HDR TrueBlack 500 certification guarantee exceptional colour accuracy and motion clarity.

Staying connected is seamless with Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth® 5.3, and a comprehensive selection of ports, including Thunderbolt 4™.

TravelMate P4 Series: Tailored for Everyday Business Needs

The TravelMate P4 Series encompasses a versatile range of thin-and-light laptops, including a 14-inch convertible, a 14-inch clamshell, and a 16-inch clamshell model. Each laptop is equipped with the latest features to enhance productivity and manageability for professionals and IT personnel.

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The 2-in-1 TravelMate P4 Spin 14 offers maximum flexibility, allowing users to effortlessly switch between different tasks and modes. Weighing just 1.49 kg and measuring 21.9 mm thin, it prioritizes portability. An Intel Core Ultra 7 processor with built-in Intel Graphics and Intel vPro Enterprise eligibility ensures smooth performance. The 14-inch WUXGA (1920 x 1200) touchscreen display with a 16:10 aspect ratio and narrow bezels delivers a captivating visual experience, further enhanced by DTS immersive audio. For on-the-go professionals, Wi-Fi 6E and optional 4G LTE connectivity keep them connected.

The 16-inch TravelMate P4 16 prioritizes power for users running demanding applications. The latest Intel Core Ultra processors with Intel vPro Enterprise, Intel Unison, fast dual-channel DDR5 memory of up to 64 GB, and up to 1 TB of PCIe SSD storage provide a robust foundation for productivity. The WUXGA (1920×1200) display with narrow bezels and Acer TrueHarmony technology ensures excellent visuals and immersive audio. A comprehensive selection of ports ensures seamless connectivity.

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The AMD-powered TravelMate P4 14 leverages the latest AMD Ryzen PRO 8040 Series processors with AMD Ryzen AI, offering exceptional performance for collaboration, content creation, and everyday productivity tasks. With up to 64 GB of DDR5 memory, up to 1 TB of PCIe Gen4 storage, and cutting-edge enterprise security features, this laptop caters to demanding users.

Durable with AI Features

All TravelMate P4 Series devices are engineered to withstand the rigours of everyday use. Their military-grade durability certification ensures they can handle bumps and knocks without compromising performance. Acer Dust Defender technology helps minimize dust buildup internally, a common cause of performance slowdowns. Security features extend beyond hardware, with all devices equipped with discrete TPM 2.0, privacy shutters, fingerprint readers for secure logins, and an optional Smartcard reader for the TravelMate P4 models.

Each TravelMate laptop is equipped with new AI features designed to streamline collaboration and creative workflows. These features are conveniently located within the Acer Experience Zone on the TravelMateSense application.

Creative professionals will appreciate Acer LiveArt, which allows for instant background removal from images with people, animals, and objects, and can even generate depth maps on 2D images. Additionally, GIMP with the Intel Stable Diffusion plugin empowers users to create illustrations and images with just a few clicks and simple text input.

For flawless video conferencing and live streaming experiences, these TravelMates come pre-loaded with Acer PurifiedView 2.0. This software utilizes the NPU to offload AI-powered applications, optimizing power consumption and enabling features like Background Blur, Automatic Framing, and Eye Contact to project a professional image. Acer PurifiedVoice with AI Noise Reduction actively suppresses background noise for crystal-clear audio.

Pre-installed Business Support Solutions

Acer equips these laptops with a suite of commercial solutions to streamline business operations and safeguard data. The new TravelMateSense software allows users to optimize, customize, and access support systems with a single click. This application offers functionalities tailored to different work scenarios like meetings, travel, and focused work, with the ability for further customization based on individual preferences. “Secure Guard” provides a robust set of security features, including USB Device Filter, Personal Secure Drive, File Secure, and Dynamic Lock to protect TravelMate devices from potential threats. The “Checkup” feature allows users to monitor the health of vital device components like storage, RAM, and battery, even offering guidance on battery calibration for optimal performance. TravelMateSense also provides convenient access to system configurations, performance and charging modes, screen settings, and the DustDefender function, along with a real-time status report on the overall health of the TravelMate devices.

For organizations lacking dedicated IT staff, Acer Office Manager simplifies data collection, resource management, and IT asset monitoring from a central location. Data security is further bolstered by Acer ProShield Plus, integrating multiple security and management features into a single, user-friendly console.

Pricing & Availability

The new Acer TravelMate laptops will be available in various configurations and colour options (where applicable). Here’s a quick breakdown of starting prices in USD (US Dollar) and their estimated conversions to Malaysian Ringgit (MYR) based on today’s exchange rate (1 USD = 4.02 MYR):

  • Acer TravelMate P6 14: Starting at USD$1,429.99 (Approx. MYR 5,767.78)/EUR1,359 (Approx. RM5,472.18). Availability will begin in July 2024 in North America; the EMEA region in Q3 2024.
  • Acer TravelMate P4 Spin 14: Starting at USD$1,329.99 (Approx. RM5,361.38)/EUR1,019 (Approx. RM4,103.78). Availability will begin in July 2024 in North America; the EMEA region in Q3 2024.
  • Acer TravelMate P4 16: Starting at USD$1,229 (Approx. RM4,947.78)/EUR959 (Approx. MYR 3,853.18). Availability will begin in July 2024 in North America; the EMEA region in Q3 2024.
  • Acer TravelMate P4 14: Starting at EUR949 (Approx. RM3,811.78). Availability will begin in the EMEA region in Q3 2024.
Computers, Gaming, News

ROG Ally X Announced: Upgraded Power and Performance for Handheld Windows Gaming

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ASUS Republic of Gamers (ROG) has unveiled the ROG Ally X, the successor to its popular ROG Ally handheld console. Designed for Windows 11 gaming on the go, the ROG Ally X retains the powerful AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor but boasts significant upgrades in storage, memory, battery life, and ergonomics.

ROG Ally X

The ROG Ally X takes user feedback to heart with several key internal upgrades. First, storage capacity doubles to a whopping 1 TB M.2 2280 SSD, providing ample space for your gaming library. The redesigned motherboard now features an M.2 2280 slot, allowing for future storage upgrades beyond the original capacity.

Next, the ROG Ally X moves to a generous 24 GB of LPDDR5X-7500 RAM. This is particularly beneficial for modern games that utilize higher resolutions and complex textures. With more system memory, users can allocate more resources for both the system and the integrated GPU, potentially enhancing performance in demanding titles.

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Source: ASUS
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Battery life gets a significant boost as well. The ROG Ally X features an 80 Wh battery, doubling the capacity of the previous model. This translates to longer gaming sessions away from an outlet. Impressively, despite the larger battery, the weight increase is minimal, and the weight distribution is optimized for comfortable handheld gaming.

The ROG Ally X sports a redesigned chassis in a sleek black colourway. The handles are slightly deeper, and the overall shape is more rounded for improved comfort without adding significant bulk. The button and joystick layout has been tweaked for better ergonomics, with a slight slant to the triggers for easier activation. Macro buttons on the back are now smaller to reduce accidental presses while remaining accessible.

Gamers will appreciate the upgraded joysticks. These new modules boast a 5-million-cycle lifespan and stiffer springs, offering a more familiar and responsive feel for seasoned controller users. The D-Pad has also been improved, delivering precise eight-direction inputs for fighting and retro games.

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In response to user feedback, the original XG Mobile port has been replaced with two USB-C® ports on the ROG Ally X. One of these ports is Thunderbolt™ compatible, offering broader interoperability with third-party docks and external GPUs.

To accommodate the larger battery, the ROG Ally X utilizes new fans that are 23% smaller but employ 50% thinner blades for improved airflow. Two redesigned tunnels within the fan housing direct air upwards and out through a new third exhaust vent on the top of the device. This 24% increase in airflow volume cools not only internal components but also the touchscreen, keeping it up to 6°C cooler for more comfortable extended gaming sessions.

Pricing & Availability

The ROG Ally X is expected to be available soon. No specific pricing details have been announced at the time of writing.

Computers, News

ASUS Unveils Prime Family of NVIDIA GeForce RTX Graphics Cards

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ASUS has unveiled its new Prime family of NVIDIA GeForce RTX graphics cards, including the Prime GeForce RTX 4070 SUPER, Prime GeForce RTX 4070, and Prime GeForce RTX 4060 Ti. Designed with budget-conscious enthusiasts in mind, these cards offer impressive performance housed within a sleek design that’s perfect for small form-factor (SFF) builds.

The trend towards building powerful PCs in compact SFF chassis continues to grow. The new NVIDIA GeForce SFF-Ready program simplifies this process by identifying compatible cases and graphics cards. The Prime GeForce RTX 4070 SUPER and Prime GeForce RTX 4070 join the ranks of SFF-ready cards, measuring a mere 50mm thick and 269mm long. This 2.5-slot design falls comfortably within NVIDIA’s recommended guidelines for SFF PCs, ensuring compatibility and a streamlined building experience.

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Despite their slim profile, the Prime GeForce RTX 4070 SUPER, Prime GeForce RTX 4070, and Prime GeForce RTX 4060 Ti pack a punch for cooling. These cards borrow cooling innovations from the ASUS Dual models, with the addition of a third fan. Each card features three Axial-tech fans with nine blades, working with a vented backplate for efficient airflow and noise control.

For silent operation during light workloads, these cards utilize 0 dB technology, allowing the fans to stop when temperatures permit completely. A physical Dual BIOS switch lets users choose between performance and quiet modes for added flexibility.

Durability and reliability are also addressed. Dual ball fan bearings offer double the lifespan of sleeve bearing alternatives, and long-life capacitors ensure extended operation. Additionally, ASUS Auto-Extreme Technology automates the manufacturing process, reducing thermal strain and environmental impact for a long-lasting product.

The Prime family of PC components boasts a shared design language – a classic black-and-white colourway with subtle space-age design elements and minimal RGB lighting. Prime graphics cards seamlessly integrate with this aesthetic, featuring a sleek design and a predominantly black finish that lets the performance do the talking.

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The Prime ecosystem extends beyond graphics cards, encompassing motherboards like the cost-effective Prime X670E-Pro WiFi for AMD builds, the Prime AP201 chassis (available in tempered glass or mesh side panel options), and the recently announced Prime AIO liquid CPU cooler. Rounding out the ecosystem are the durable and affordable Prime Gold Series PSUs, available in 750W and 850W options, featuring full modularity, ATX 3.0 standard compliance, 80 Plus Gold certification, and an eight-year warranty.

The latest version of ASUS GPU Tweak III software provides users with granular control over their Prime graphics card. Preset modes allow for easy performance or noise prioritization with a single click, while users can also create custom profiles for specific games.

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A new feature, Mobile Monitor, allows users to connect to GPU Tweak III via their phone or other mobile device for real-time monitoring of the graphics card without in-game overlays. Additional improvements include a user-friendly VF Tuner for adjusting the clock speed curve, an enhanced on-screen display, and improved import/export functionality. An integrated GPU-Z interface eliminates the need for separate installation.

The Prime GeForce RTX 4070 SUPER, Prime GeForce RTX 4070, and Prime GeForce RTX 4060 Ti offer enticing options for mainstream gaming builds. Combining a triple-fan cooling solution, long-lasting durability, and an aesthetic that complements the ASUS Prime family of components, these graphics cards deliver exceptional value, especially for builders crafting SFF PCs.

Pricing & Availability

The Prime GeForce RTX 4070 SUPER, Prime GeForce RTX 4070 and Prime GeForce RTX 4060 Ti will be available soon. No pricing details have been revealed at the time of writing.

Business, Computers, Gaming, News

MSI Gives A Sneak Peak at Its COMPUTEX 2024 Showcase

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MSI is teasing its showcase at COMPUTEX 2024, happening from June 4th to 7th. MSI will be showcasing its latest offerings for the AI era. This includes cutting-edge AI-powered hardware and innovative software designed to transform the way we work and play.

MSI Computex

MSI’s booth will boast a variety of AI-focused products, from cutting-edge AI-ready PCs to the exclusive offline text-to-image tool, AI ARTIST. This innovative tool empowers content creators by generating high-quality visuals directly on MSI devices, eliminating network latency and data security concerns.

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Several of MSI’s AI-powered products have received prestigious awards, including the COMPUTEX Best Choice Golden Award-winning Prestige 16 AI Evo laptop, the Best Choice Award-winning MSI Claw gaming handheld, and the Best Choice Award-winning Modern AM273Q AI PC.

MSI will also be showcasing a range of GPU platforms catering to various needs. The G4101, a 4U server optimized for AI training, packs a powerful punch with a single liquid-cooled AMD processor, ample DDR5 memory slots, and multiple PCIe slots for high-performance graphics cards. For even more demanding tasks, the G4201 supercomputer boasts eight high-performance GPUs and dual processors, ideal for scientific computing and complex AI applications.

Partnering with leading CXL technology providers, MSI’s S2301 CXL memory expansion server is designed to tackle data-intensive workloads and in-memory databases. This powerful server caters to AI training and high-performance computing (HPC) applications.

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MSI’s upcoming AI gaming desktops will integrate advanced AI technology to optimize settings based on your activity. The MEG VISION X AI utilizes MSI’s AI ENGINE for intelligent detection and hardware adjustments, while also featuring cloud and private AI assistant functions. Additionally, MSI Artist x MSI Chat allows for local generation of high-quality images and summaries, all while keeping your data secure.

The award-winning Modern AM273Q AI series is an eco-conscious all-in-one PC crafted from recycled plastics. It prioritizes both performance and sustainability with features like MSI’s Power Meter software for energy efficiency monitoring and a retractable webcam for enhanced privacy.

MSI’s showcase will also feature an impressive lineup of user-friendly motherboards and PC builds. These innovative designs boast sleek aesthetics and cutting-edge features, pushing the boundaries of the DIY community. Visitors can also experience the latest in connectivity with the ThunderboltTM Ecosystem and explore virtual streaming possibilities with DigiME’s innovative application.

MSI understands the importance of visual immersion for gamers. Its new QD-OLED series monitors, like the MPG 341CQPX QD-OLED, offer stunning visuals with a high refresh rate and curved design for an unparalleled gaming experience. These monitors are packed with MSI’s exclusive gaming intelligence software and cutting-edge features for top-tier performance.

MSI Gear, formerly known as MSI Gaming Gear, is expanding its horizons with a versatile range of peripherals designed for gamers, professionals, and creatives alike. The new lineup prioritizes comfort, ultra-low latency, and cross-platform compatibility for a competitive edge during gameplay. From hot-swappable keyboards to customizable controllers, MSI Gear offers something for everyone.

MSI’s storage solutions cater to a variety of needs. The DATAMAG magnetic portable SSD offers convenient storage expansion for iPhones and other devices, while the DATAVAULT SSD enclosure ensures you never lose important data. For performance enthusiasts, the SPATIUM M560 PCIe 5.0 SSD delivers blazing-fast transfer speeds and utilizes an innovative non-metal vapor chamber for efficient heat dissipation.

Experience the next generation of wireless connectivity with MSI’s Roamii WiFi 7 mesh series. Engineered for high-bandwidth activities like streaming and online gaming, this mesh system utilizes advanced WiFi 7 technology to deliver faster speeds, lower latency, and wider coverage throughout your home. For those seeking a convenient upgrade, the BE6500 USB adapter offers plug-and-play simplicity, instantly boosting your PC or laptop’s WiFi capabilities to the latest WiFi 7 standard.

Don’t miss your chance to witness the future of computing firsthand! Visit MSI’s booth (#M0806) at COMPUTEX 2024, happening from June 4th to 7th, 2024. Immerse yourself in cutting-edge AI technology, explore a range of innovative products, and discover how MSI is shaping the future of AI, gaming, and personal computing.

Business, Computers, News

GIGABYTE Teases “AI New Era” Exhibition at COMPUTEX 2024

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GIGABYTE is hosting a unique exhibition titled “GIGABYTE AI New Era: Humanity X Art X Technology” from June 1 to June 5, 2024 at COMPUTEX 2024. The exhibition will be held at Huashan 1914 Creative Park in Taipei. This event isn’t just about showcasing new products; it’s a deep dive into how Artificial Intelligence (AI) is shaping the future of art, gaming, and various aspects of our daily lives.

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GIGABYTE is renowned for developing high-performance hardware like motherboards, graphics cards, laptops, and monitors. This year, it is pushing the boundaries further with its exclusive AI Nexus technology and collaborations with industry giants like NVIDIA and Microsoft.

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The exhibition is divided into three sections, each focusing on a distinct facet of AI:

  • AI Art: Prepare to be captivated by a showcase of dynamic images and interactive art created by international artists using GIGABYTE AI PCs. Witness the incredible potential that arises when artistic vision collides with cutting-edge technology.
  • VS AI Street Battle: This section takes a creative spin on traditional art forms. Here, the power of AI merges with the classic arcade fighting game experience. Visitors are invited to test their artistic skills in a unique battle format using text-to-image AI applications.
  • AI Life Applications: This area delves into how AI is transforming our everyday lives. Discover how AI can enhance activities like gaming, music creation, digital art, content editing, and more. GIGABYTE AI PCs will be available for attendees to experience these applications firsthand.
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The exhibition promises a week filled with exciting events and guest appearances. Here are some highlights to look forward to:

  • AI Artist Collaboration: Renowned generative AI artists from around the world will be showcasing their work, all created using GIGABYTE AI PCs. Prepare to be amazed by the captivating visuals and the innovative ways these artists utilize AI.
  • Emmy-Nominated Filmmaker Curates AI Use Case Zone: Gain valuable insights from the best! Emmy-nominated filmmaker Hugh Hou will be curating the AI Use Case Zone, offering a glimpse into the latest AI technology and professional workflows for creating immersive videos.
  • VS AI Street Battle Finals: Witness the culmination of creativity and technology at the VS AI Street Battle finals on June 1st.

The exhibition is open to the public on June 1st and 2nd. Visitors who participate in designated experiences can even enjoy special treats and giveaways! This is a fantastic opportunity to explore the exciting world of AI with GIGABYTE.

Computers, Gaming, News

Microsoft Unveils DirectSR: One SR To Rule Integrate Them All

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Gamers rejoice! Microsoft has taken a big step towards simplifying and improving the way PC games leverage upscaling technologies with the introduction of DirectSR. But what exactly is DirectSR, and how will it impact your gaming experience? Let’s delve into the details.

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What is Super Resolution (SR)?

Before diving into DirectSR, it’s important to understand Super Resolution (SR). SR is a collection of image processing techniques used in games to render them at a lower resolution and then intelligently upscale them to a higher resolution for display. This allows for smoother performance, especially on less powerful hardware, without sacrificing too much visual quality.

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Photo by Thomas Foster on Unsplash

There are currently several popular SR technologies available, including AMD FidelityFX Super Resolution (FSR), NVIDIA Deep Learning Super Sampling (DLSS), and Intel Xe Super Sampling (XESS). Each technology has its own strengths and weaknesses, but they all share the common goal of delivering high-quality visuals with improved performance.

The current landscape of PC gaming presents a challenge for developers. In order to support multiple SR technologies from different vendors, they often need to integrate separate APIs (Application Programming Interfaces) into their games. This can be a time-consuming and complex process, potentially hindering the adoption of SR features across a wider range of titles.

Microsoft’s DirectSR: A Unified Solution

DirectSR aims to bridge this gap by offering a single API that works with various SR technologies. Developed by Microsoft in collaboration with AMD, Intel, and NVIDIA, DirectSR essentially acts as a translator, allowing developers to integrate any supported SR technology with minimal effort. This simplifies the development process and reduces the burden on studios, potentially leading to more widespread adoption of SR features in PC games.

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Photo by Alex Haney on Unsplash

Benefits for Gamers

For gamers, DirectSR offers several potential benefits. Here are a few key advantages:

  • Improved Performance: By enabling developers to easily implement SR technologies, DirectSR has the potential to boost performance in games, allowing you to enjoy smoother gameplay at higher resolutions.
  • Wider Choice of SR Options: With DirectSR, developers can offer players a choice between different SR solutions within the game. This empowers you to select the technology that best suits your hardware and preferences.
  • Simplified User Experience: DirectSR aims to eliminate the need for developers to create separate user interfaces for each SR technology. This can lead to a more streamlined and user-friendly experience for gamers within the game’s settings.

Current Status and Availability

DirectSR is still in its early stages, currently available as a developer preview through the Microsoft DirectX Agility SDK. This means it’s not yet implemented in any commercially available games. However, the positive outlook suggests that future PC games could leverage DirectSR to provide a wider range of SR options and a smoother overall gaming experience.

The arrival of DirectSR marks a significant step towards simplifying and standardizing how PC games utilize Super Resolution technologies. While it’s still early days, DirectSR has the potential to benefit both developers and gamers by streamlining the development process and offering a broader range of performance-enhancing options. As DirectSR matures and is integrated into more games, PC gamers can look forward to a future of smoother frame rates and stunning visuals, all without sacrificing precious hardware resources.

Business, Computers, Gaming

ADATA Set to Showcase Sustainable Innovations and Cutting-Edge Tech at Computex 2024

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ADATA, a leading memory and flash storage brand, will showcase a wide range of exciting new products under the theme “Innovate Today, Embrace Tomorrow” at Computex 2024. From June 4 to 7, visitors to the ADATA booth at Taipei Nangang Exhibition Center Hall 1, 4th Floor L0810 can explore innovations across three key areas: AI Computing, Sustainability and Innovation, and Immersive Reality.

ADATA is Forging the Future of AI

The “AI Computing” section features a collaboration with XPG brand ambassador Mera, a hyper-realistic AI virtual human. This display highlights ADATA’s commitment to AI technology with a range of solutions designed to accelerate performance and meet the demanding needs of AI applications. Visitors can see the powerful XPG DEFENDER WS L smart AI workstation with its superior processing capabilities and innovative noise-reduction chassis.

The XPG XENIA 15G Laptop (AI Development Edition) will also be on display. It boasts a staggering 24TB of SSD storage and 96GB of DRAM, ideal for data processing tasks. ADATA will also showcase overclocked DDR5 8000 R-DIMM memory for faster AI model performance and the latest generation LPCAMM2 memory products, designed to handle demanding AI workloads. For mobile users, ADATA offers the industry’s only complete range of Express Card storage solutions to boost the performance of AI mobile devices.

ADATA is leading the industry in DRAM SSD cooling solutions

ADATA will be showcasing its eco-friendly products and cutting-edge cooling solutions. ADATA offers a comprehensive range of DRAM and SSD cooling solutions, featuring heat dissipation coatings, liquid cooling options, and the use of recycled materials.

The XPG LANCER NEON RGB DDR5 memory module utilizes recycled materials and an environmentally friendly manufacturing process. High-performance SSDs like Project NeonStorm PCIe Gen5 SSD and LEGEND 970 PRO PCIe Gen5 SSD showcase innovative cooling systems for optimal performance without sacrificing eco-awareness. Project NeoCool PCIe Gen4 SSD takes a different approach, utilizing innovative graphene composite materials for efficient heat dissipation.

ADATA has introduced a series of external Type C SSDs to meet growing demand for seamless connection between devices

Beyond components, ADATA offers sustainable storage solutions. The EC600 enclosure utilizes recycled plastic and grants a new life cycle to used 2.5-inch disks. Additionally, the UC320 flash drive is crafted with a high percentage of recycled plastic. The award-winning XPG INVADER X mid-tower gaming chassis incorporates eco-friendly features and a sleek aesthetic. XPG is further expanding its commitment to sustainability with a wider range of cooling solutions, including air coolers, AIO liquid coolers, and ARGB PWM fans.

ADATAs gaming brand XPG comprehensively upgrades Gaming Lifestyles

The yet-to-be-announced XPG NIA Gaming Handheld PC will also be at COMPUTEX. ADATA is teasing superior ergonomics and a circular design for a comfortable gaming experience on the go. It also features innovative EYEWEAR eye-tracking technology for an even more immersive experience. Visitors can also demo the latest XPG gaming hardware, including the INVADER X family of gaming chassis, SORCERER and SORCERER MINI gaming keyboards, PRECOG STUDIO gaming headset, and FRONTLINE XL mouse pad.

ADATA isn’t forgetting about desktop gamers either. XPG will showcase a range of power supply units, including the top-of-the-line FUSION 1600W Titanium and their first SFX Platinum PSU. For data transfer and storage needs, ADATA offers a range of external Type-C SSDs, including the USB4 SE920, SE880, SD810, SC750, and SC720 models.

Computers, News

Google Unleashes a New Stable of Chromebooks In Partnership with Acer, ASUS and HP

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Together with the announcement of the updates to the Chromebook Plus standard, Google has unveiled a new generation designed for a wider range of users. These Chromebooks from Acer, Asus, and HP come equipped with hardware and software tailored for various tasks, from entertainment and productivity to cloud gaming. Security, seamless Google app integration, and long battery life of up to 10 hours remain core strengths.

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The exciting addition comes in the form of Chromebook Plus devices, featuring built-in AI functionalities like interacting with the AI assistant Gemini with a simple click. The starting price for Chromebook Plus devices is $350 (approx. RM 1,530).

The Acer Chromebook Plus Spin 714 (Starting at USD$699)

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Ideal for power users, the Spin 714 packs the latest Intel Core Ultra processor in a portable convertible design. The durable aluminium chassis features a touchscreen and a versatile 360° hinge, allowing for seamless transitions between laptop, tablet, and tent configurations. A 1440p QHD webcam with AI-powered enhancements ensures superior video conferencing, while dual microphones paired with upward-facing speakers and DTS Audio deliver high-quality sound.

The HP Chromebook Plus x360 (Starting at $429)

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Designed with both everyday tasks and sustainability in mind, the HP Chromebook Plus x360 offers a sleek and eco-friendly design. This 14-inch convertible Chromebook features a micro-edge full HD touchscreen display, rounded edges for a slimmer feel, and a long-lasting battery (up to 10 hours and 15 minutes) with HP Fast Charge technology. The 360° hinge allows for seamless transitions between modes. Additionally, it boasts eco-friendly credentials with EPEAT Gold certification and recycled materials.

More Options for Different Needs

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The ASUS Chromebook Plus CX34 (starting at $499) prioritizes performance with a 13th Gen Intel Core i5 processor. This sleek 14-inch clamshell design offers Wi-Fi 6E for fast connections and optional touchscreen functionality.

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For users seeking a compact and versatile companion with ample storage, the Acer Chromebook Plus 514 (starting at $349) features a 14-inch touchscreen, Intel Core i3 processor, 8GB RAM, and a generous 512GB of storage.

Gamers aren’t being left behind by this generation either! Google has acknowledged the growing popularity of cloud gaming platforms and introduced the Acer Chromebook Plus 516 GE (starting at $649). This Chromebook is specifically optimized for cloud gaming, ensuring a smooth and immersive experience.

Computers

Chromebook Plus Gets an AI Infusion with Gemini

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Google recently unveiled the Chromebook Plus, a new laptop class promising a more powerful and intelligent user experience with the help of artificial intelligence (AI). Let’s delve into the new features coming to Chromebook Plus and how it leverages AI for enhanced productivity.

Chromebook Plus

First off, the Chromebook Plus boasts improved performance compared to its predecessors. Building on its initial announcement, it seems like the new wave of Chromebook Plus laptops will be more powerful than before. Benchmarks suggest a noticeable upgrade in processing power, making it suitable for everyday tasks and even light multitasking. This translates to smoother performance when browsing the web, running multiple applications, or streaming content. The updated Chromebook Plus also features a sleek and modern design, promoting a clean aesthetic for users who value both functionality and style.

Gemini Makes its Chromebook Debut

The true highlight of the new Chromebook Plus lies in its integration of various AI-powered features developed by Google. Here’s a closer look at some of the key functionalities:

  • Help me write: This feature utilizes AI to assist with writing tasks. Simply right-click within a text field and choose “Help me write” to receive suggestions for grammar, and sentence structure, and even generate creative text formats like bullet points or email greetings.
  • Gemini + AI Premium: The Chromebook Plus comes pre-installed with the Gemini app, Google’s AI-powered chat interface. A subscription to AI Premium is included for the first year, unlocking advanced features like summarizing complex documents or generating different creative text formats based on user prompts.
  • Generative wallpapers and video call backgrounds: AI lets you personalize your Chromebook Plus with unique wallpapers and video call backgrounds. Right-click on your desktop or within video conferencing apps and choose “Create with AI” to generate custom backgrounds based on your preferences.
Chromebook Plus, now with Gemini

While the AI features generate excitement, it’s important to understand the underlying technology. Help me write and similar features likely rely on natural language processing (NLP), a branch of AI that allows computers to understand and process human language. Similarly, generative wallpapers and backgrounds might utilize generative AI techniques that can create new content based on existing data sets.

It’s worth noting that the effectiveness of these AI features will depend on factors like internet connectivity and the ongoing development of Google’s AI models.

Computers

Intel Teases More Power Efficiency and AI Performance with Lunar Lake

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Intel is teasing its next generation of mobile processors, codenamed Lunar Lake, on the heels of Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X announcement. Scheduled for a release in the third quarter of 2024, coinciding with the holiday season, Lunar Lake promises significant advancements in power efficiency, targeting a wider range of mobile devices and user needs.

Close-up Photo of Computer Processor Mounted on a Motherboard

This announcement also comes on the heels of Intel’s rollout of the Alder Lake and Raptor Lake processors for desktops and laptops. Lunar Lake, however, takes a mobile-first approach, specifically designed for laptops and other portable devices that prioritize battery life and performance per watt.

Intel has consistently emphasized Lunar Lake’s transformative potential in terms of power consumption. Early reports suggest Lunar Lake will outperform its predecessors by a significant margin, potentially offering up to 30% lower power draw while maintaining competitive performance.

This focus on efficiency is achieved through a combination of factors, including a new system-on-a-chip (SoC) design with a low-power island and the utilization of next-generation Performance (P-Cores) and Efficiency (E-Cores) architectures. The P-Cores, codenamed Lion Cove, are expected to deliver strong performance for demanding tasks, while the Skymont E-Cores will handle background processes and everyday activities with minimal power consumption.

newsroom intel lunar lake jpg

Beyond its power-saving capabilities, Lunar Lake boasts an upgraded Neural Processing Unit (NPU). This integrated AI engine, boasting over 40 tera operations per second (TOPS), promises significant performance improvements for AI-powered features like image recognition, background noise cancellation, and intelligent content creation.

The graphics processing unit (GPU) within Lunar Lake, codenamed Battlemage, is also expected to offer a noticeable performance leap compared to previous generations. Combined with the enhanced NPU and powerful CPU cores, Lunar Lake positions itself as a well-rounded mobile processor solution for users seeking a balance of performance and efficiency.

The arrival of Lunar Lake in Q3 2024 is expected to have a significant impact on the mobile processor market. With its focus on power efficiency and AI integration, Lunar Lake is well-suited for a range of devices, from everyday laptops to thin-and-light notebooks and potentially even premium Chromebooks.

Intel has confirmed that over 80 new laptop designs across more than 20 different manufacturers will feature Lunar Lake processors. This widespread adoption indicates strong industry confidence in Lunar Lake’s capabilities and its potential to reshape the user experience for mobile computing.