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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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)
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)
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
ASUS Republic of Gamers (ROG) has taken the gaming monitor scene by storm with the introduction of two world-first displays – the ROG Strix OLED XG27AQDMG and the ROG Strix XG27UCG. These monitors are packing some industry firsts and boast cutting-edge features designed to elevate the gameplay experience for even the most discerning gamers.
ROG Strix OLED XG27AQDMG Pushes
The ROG Strix OLED XG27AQDMG steals the spotlight with its revolutionary glossy WOLED panel – the first of its kind in the gaming monitor market. OLED technology delivers unmatched image quality with true blacks, incredible contrast ratios, and vibrant colours. This translates to stunning visuals, deeper immersion, and a significant advantage in fast-paced games where every detail matters.
Beyond the panel technology, the ROG Strix OLED XG27AQDMG boasts a 27-inch QHD (2560 x 1440) resolution, a blistering 240Hz refresh rate for buttery-smooth visuals, and a 0.03ms grey-to-grey (GTG) response time for near-instantaneous pixel response. To ensure the longevity of the OLED panel, ASUS has implemented a highly efficient custom heatsink and advanced airflow design, coupled with the ASUS OLED Care function that helps reduce the risk of burn-in.
ROG Strix XG27UCG: Dual-Resolution Domination
While the OLED technology steals the show, the ROG Strix XG27UCG shouldn’t be overlooked. This innovative monitor caters to gamers who demand ultimate flexibility in resolution and refresh rate.
The XG27UCG boasts a unique dual-mode IPS panel, allowing users to switch between a stunning 4K (3840 x 2160) resolution at a 160Hz refresh rate or a Full HD (1920 x 1080) resolution at a staggering 320Hz refresh rate. This versatility caters to a wider range of preferences, allowing gamers to prioritize high resolution for stunning visuals in slower-paced strategy games or prioritize a lightning-fast refresh rate for competitive shooters.
The ROG Strix XG27UCG also boasts a 1ms GTG response time, G-SYNC compatibility for smooth variable refresh rates, and an ergonomic stand for comfortable viewing during extended gaming sessions.
Pricing & Availability
ASUS has yet to announce official pricing or availability dates for the ROG Strix OLED XG27AQDMG and ROG Strix XG27UCG.
Microsoft is signaling a paradigm shift in PCs with the introduction of CoPilot+ PCs. This new generation of intelligent machines leverages the power of ARM processors and AI features to redefine user experience. Here’s a closer look at the all-new Surface Laptop and Surface Pro, the first devices to spearhead the CoPilot+ revolution.
Surface Laptop – Designed for Mobility and Productivity
The Surface Laptop continues its legacy of being a thin-and-light laptop. Starting at a feathery 2.96 lbs (1.34 kg), it boasts a 13.8-inch PixelSense touchscreen HDR display with vibrant colors and exceptional clarity. The AI-powered features take center stage, with innovations like “Recall” allowing users to effortlessly search through past activities and retrieve information. Imagine revisiting a specific point in a document you viewed weeks ago – Recall surfaces it instantly.
The Surface Laptop is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon X series processors with upto 32 GB of RAM and upto 1 TB of memory, delivering exceptional performance and efficiency. Multiple sources, including Engadget, highlight an impressive battery life exceeding 22 hours on a single charge – perfect for professionals and students on the go. The sleek, signature design is available in a variety of captivating colors, making a statement wherever you take it.
Surface Pro – Unmatched Versatility and Power
The Surface Pro remains the ultimate device for those who demand flexibility. This 2-in-1 powerhouse seamlessly transforms from a high-performance laptop to a versatile tablet with its stunning 13-inch PixelSense touchscreen display. The detachable keyboard with backlit keys ensures a comfortable typing experience, while the integrated kickstand allows for effortless adaptation to any work style.
Under the hood, the Surface Pro boasts the mighty Qualcomm Snapdragon X series chips complemented by up to 32GB of RAM and 1 TB of memory, delivering exceptional performance for demanding tasks like video editing and creative workflows.
Pricing & Availability
The Surface Laptop and Surface Pro with CoPilot+ features are available for pre-order now, with official release dates expected in early July.
The Surface Laptop starts at $999 and comes in a variety of colors, including Sapphire, Platinum, and the ever-popular Matte Black.
The Surface Pro starts at $1,000 and is available in Platinum and Graphite color options.
The personal computer landscape is on the edge of a revolution. Microsoft has just introduced Copilot+ PCs. These PCs are powered by next-generation ARM processors which signifies a bold leap forward in AI-powered computing experiences.
Pivoting to ARM’s x64 Architecture for Both Power and Efficiency
For decades, x86 processors have dominated the PC market. However, ARM processors, known for their superior power efficiency in mobile devices, are finally making significant inroads into the PC realm. It also marks a shift to x64-based programs which are able to perform more efficiently. This shift paves the way for lighter, fanless designs and significantly longer battery life – features highly sought after by mobile professionals and everyday users alike.
The Qualcomm Snapdragon X series chips powering Copilot+ PCs boast over 40 trillion operations per second (TOPS). This immense processing power isn’t just about raw speed; it fuels the next wave of AI applications directly on the device.
Copilot+ PCs – Microsoft’s Big Shift in Human-PC Interactions
Copilot+ PCs aren’t merely hardware upgrades. They are a shift in both performance and efficiency but, more than that, these laptops seem to be Microsoft’s way of changing the way we interact with our PCs.
A key feature is “Recall,” a revolutionary AI assistant that functions as a virtual memory bank. Recall leverages the power of the NPU (Neural Processing Unit) to continuously record and analyze user activity. This allows users to effortlessly search through past browsing history, voice chats, documents, and even specific on-screen moments. Imagine presenting and needing to reference a specific point you saw in a research paper two weeks ago – Recall can instantly surface that information, making research and presentations a breeze. Students can revisit key points from lectures, writers can effortlessly find inspiration from past notes, and the possibilities extend to countless other scenarios.
Recall is just the tip of the iceberg. Copilot+ PCs offer a broader array of AI-powered features designed to enhance productivity and creativity. Imagine a virtual language coach providing real-time feedback during presentations, highlighting areas for improvement and suggesting alternative phrasing. Creatives can leverage AI-powered tools for tasks like content creation, video editing, and graphic design, with the system intelligently adapting to their workflow and suggesting improvements.
Microsoft has meticulously reimagined Windows 11 to seamlessly integrate with ARM processors and unlock the full potential of AI features. Features like “Cocreator” allow for real-time collaboration on creative projects, with AI assisting in brainstorming and suggesting ideas. “Windows Studio Effects” leverages AI to enhance video calls, automatically adjusting lighting, background noise, and even eye contact to create a more professional and engaging experience. These features, combined with the power of the NPU, promise to transform the way we work, create, and connect.
Security remains a paramount concern in today’s digital world. Copilot+ PCs are built with security in mind, featuring the latest security features from Microsoft and Qualcomm. All Copilot+ PCs are “Secure Core” PCs, with additional hardware and software protections built-in to safeguard user data and privacy. This comprehensive approach to security ensures a worry-free experience for users who can focus on their tasks without compromising their digital safety.
Bridging the Gap with Prism
The transition to ARM processors and the integration of advanced AI features like Recall represent a turning point for Microsoft and the PC industry as a whole. While some existing software may require adaptation, the potential benefits are undeniable. With longer battery life, superior performance, and groundbreaking AI features, Copilot+ PCs promise to usher in a new era of intelligent and user-centric computing. Microsoft is committed to working closely with developers to ensure a smooth transition and unlock the full potential of the ARM ecosystem.
Microsoft is committed to working closely with developers to ensure a smooth transition and unlock the full potential of the ARM ecosystem. A key component of this strategy is “Prism,” a translation layer that acts as a bridge between ARM processors and existing x86 applications. Similar to Rosetta on Macs, Prism allows users to run x86 applications seamlessly on their ARM-based Copilot+ PCs, ensuring compatibility with a vast library of existing software. It is reported that Prism can even improve the performance of some x86 applications on ARM hardware.
Unanswered Questions and the Road Ahead
While Copilot+ PCs represent a significant leap forward, some questions linger. The compatibility of existing software with ARM architecture needs to be addressed, and the long-term impact on software developers requires careful consideration. However, Microsoft’s commitment to developer tools and emulation solutions suggests a proactive approach to these challenges. That said, the company’s track record with Windows on ARM has not been the most reassuring.
Be that as it may, the arrival of Copilot+ PCs marks a pivotal moment in the evolution of personal computing. Not only is this the first time we have had multiple OEMs jump on the Windows on ARM bandwagon, but it’s also the first time that they’ve done it with some of their most successful laptop lineups. .
The new Copilot+ PCs are running Qualcomm’s latest made-for-pc system on a chip (SoC). The Snapdragon X SoCs were announced together with Microsoft’s new Copilot+ PC standard. So far, Microsoft itself has used the SoC on the latest Surface Laptop and Surface Pro. Other OEMs have also introduced laptops carrying the same chipset under the Copilot+ PC program.
The new Snapdragon X SoCs are fabricated using a 4nm process and come with Qualcomm’s Oryon CPU, Adreno GPU and Hexagon NPU (Neural Processing unit). The combination of the three empowers higher performance and better battery life. Qualcomm boasts that Snapdragon X Elite delivers current peak PC CPU performance at 60% less power.
There are two variants of the Snapdragon X SoC: the Snapdragon X Elite and the Snapdragon X Plus. The Elite features a 12-core Oryon CPU clocked at 4.2 GHz with a 5% dual-core boost, an Adreno GPU capable of up to 4.6 TFLOPs performance and a Hexagon NPU capable of 45 TOPS performance. The Plus features a 10-core Oryon CPU with dual-core boost, an Adreno GPU with up to 3.8TFLOPs performance and the same Hexagon NPU.
Qualcomm boasts that the Snapdragon X chips are built for AI. This is primarily due to the inclusion of the Hexagon NPU which is the cornerstone of the SoC. AI tasks are primarily run using the NPU and offload complex, energy-draining processes from the CPU. This results in better power efficiency and an overall boost in performance. The chip also supports 5G connectivity and WiFi 7.
According to Qualcomm’s internal benchmarking, the Snapdragon X Elite is able to perform better than currently available chips from AMD and Intel with 60% better power efficiency, 52% better CPU performance and 36% better GPU performance. Wins across the board. The company is boasting a 2.6x improvement on Apple’s M3 processor and 5.4x improvement over Intel’s Core Ultra 7 processor.
We will have to wait to see how performance is with the first wave of Copilot+ laptops set to be released soon. Over 20 laptops are coming from various OEMs including Dell, Acer, ASUS, HP and Samsung that will be using the Snapdragon X SoCs.
