Tag Archives: Super Sampling

ASUS Unveils the NUC 14 Pro AI with Intel Core Ultra Processors

ASUS has announced the NUC 14 Pro AI, a groundbreaking mini PC that integrates the latest Intel Core Ultra processors (Series 2) with Microsoft Copilot+. This compact device promises to deliver significant performance enhancements for a wide range of applications, from business and entertainment to industrial use cases.

ASUS NUC 14 Pro AI
Source: ASUS

Advanced Processing Power for Demanding Tasks

At the heart of the NUC 14 Pro AI is the latest generation of Intel Core Ultra processors (Series 2). These processors utilize a multi-architecture design, combining CPU, GPU, and NPU (Neural Processing Unit) technologies for optimal performance. This architecture delivers up to 120 platform TOPS (trillions of operations per second) and a substantial 48 NPU TOPS. This represents a threefold increase in AI performance compared to previous NUC models, positioning the NUC 14 Pro AI as a strong contender for demanding workloads in commercial settings, edge computing, and IoT deployments.

Enhanced Graphics and Memory for a Smoother Experience

The NUC 14 Pro AI features integrated Intel Arc 140/130V graphics, powered by the Xe2 Architecture. This integrated GPU delivers up to 67 TOPS, providing enhanced visuals for both content creation and general use. Technologies like Xe Super Scaling (XeSS) and Intel Xe Matrix Extensions (XMX) further boost graphics performance. Notably, the NUC 14 Pro AI is the first to incorporate on-chip LPDDR5x-8533 MT/s memory, offering a significant increase in memory bandwidth compared to DDR5. This improved memory performance should result in faster loading times and smoother multitasking.

AI Integration with Copilot+

A key feature of the NUC 14 Pro AI is its integration with Microsoft Copilot+. A dedicated Copilot button provides quick access to AI-powered functionalities. Combined with built-in microphones and speakers supported by Smart Amp technology, users can interact with the system using voice commands. Running on Windows 11, Copilot acts as an AI assistant, providing information and assistance from both local and web sources, aiming to enhance productivity and creativity.

Designed for Reliability, Security, and Ease of Use

ASUS has focused on reliability and security in the design of the NUC 14 Pro AI. Engineered for continuous 24/7 operation, the device incorporates advanced thermal management to maintain stable performance. Security features include Secure Boot, Trusted Platform Module (TPM), and optional fingerprint recognition. For IT management, the NUC 14 Pro AI supports ASUS Control Center Remote Management and Microsoft Windows Autopilot, simplifying deployment and ongoing maintenance.

Compact Form Factor for Versatile Deployment

Despite its powerful internals, the NUC 14 Pro AI maintains a compact form factor, measuring 130 x 130 x 34mm with a 0.6-liter chassis. This small footprint makes it suitable for various environments where space is limited. The inclusion of embedded LPDDR5x memory, enhanced graphics, and intelligent cooling ensures efficient performance even in demanding scenarios. The NUC 14 Pro AI also meets EPEAT Climate+ energy standards, reflecting a commitment to sustainability. A toolless-access design simplifies upgrades and maintenance.

Comprehensive Connectivity Options

Connectivity is well-addressed with the inclusion of Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4, and Thunderbolt 4. These technologies enable high-speed data transfers and seamless connections to a wide range of peripherals.

Pricing & Availability

The ASUS NUC 14 Pro AI is expected to be available in Malaysia around mid-February 2025. Pricing will be announced closer to the launch date and will vary depending on the specific configuration.

Official Spec

CPUIntel® Core Ultra 9 Processor 288V (32GB memory) cTDP 30W Intel® Core Ultra 7 Processor 258V (32GB memory) cTDP 30W Intel® Core Ultra 7 Processor 256V (16GB memory) cTDP 30W Intel® Core Ultra 5 Processor 228V (32GB memory) cTDP 30W Intel® Core Ultra 5 Processor 226V (16GB memory) cTDP 30W
ChipsetIntegrated
GraphicsIntegrated – Intel® Arc graphics
MemoryIntegrated – LPDDR5x- 8533 16/32GB on chip (depending on CPU model)
Storage1 x M.2 2280 PCIe® Gen4x4, supports 256GB–2TB NVMe® SSDs
Wireless NetworkIntel® Wi-Fi 7[i], Bluetooth® 5.4[ii], 2×2
LAN1 x Intel® 2.5G LAN
Integrated Speaker1 x Internal mono-speaker with external smart amp
Digital Mics1 x Internal digital mic
TPMfTPM 2.0 or TPM 2.0 chip (Optional)
InterfaceTop I/O1 x Fingerprint module
Front I/O1 x Power button 1 x Copilot button 1 x Thunderbolt 4 (Supports DisplayPort 2.1) 2 x USB 3.2 Gen1 Type-A (5Gbps) 1 x Audio Jack (Line out/Mic in/Headphone out
Side I/O1 x Kensington Lock slot
Rear I/O1 x Thunderbolt 4 (Support DP2.1) 2 x USB 3.2 Gen2 Type-A (10Gbps) 1 x HDMI® port[iii] 1 x 2.5G RJ45 LAN 1 x DC-in Note: Triple-display support enabled by 2x Thunderbolt 4 and 1x HDMI
PhysicalDimension130 x 130 x 34mm (0.5746-liter chassis)
Weight0.53kg
NoteASUS Corporate Stable Model
24/7 operation
Power Supply*[iv]20V DC / 19V DC, 6.0A / 6.32A 120W power adapter

[i] Wi-Fi 7 support depends on device compatibility, network setup, and regional availability of the 6 GHz band, which may not be accessible in all countries, potentially limiting full functionality.
[ii] Bluetooth version support may vary from OS. Bluetooth v5.4 function will be ready in  in Windows 11 or later.
[iii] Supports HDMI CEC & HDCP 2.2 ; Supports 4K @ 60Hz visuals as specified in HDMI 2.1
[iv] Passed the DOE VI regulation (over 250W: DOE efficiency 87.5%;  between 45W-250W: DOE efficiency 88%) List

OPPO Reno3 Series Brings 108-Megapixel Imaging to the Game at MYR 1,699

OPPO has been really stepping up in the smartphone game. Their OPPO Find X2, as we have reviewed was one of the best flagship smartphones that you can buy in today’s money, in our opinions. The OPPO Find X2 Pro is also an impressive media powerhouse capable of wonderful things.

The OPPO A92 that was launched last week brings things a bit more down to earth. But still, the OPPO A92 was launched to impress too. It packs a great camera package in an offering that will set you back less than MYR 1,500. Today, they set out to impress the mid-range market with a high-end camera package in a smartphone. It is the OPPO Reno3 series.

Welcome to the OPPO Reno3 series. Like any other modern smartphone, there are two variants of the OPPO Reno3. There is the regular Reno3 and the Reno3 Pro. With the Pro, they brought the big gun out.

Source: OPPO

Yes, we start with the OPPO Reno3 Pro and its cameras. Technically because they start the presentation with that. There is a 64-Megapixel main camera flanked by a 13-Megapixel telephoto lens, a 2-Megapixel monochrome (black and white) sensor, and an 8-Megapixel ultra-wide lens. Get this though, the camera array can capture images at up to 108-Megapixel in resolution.

Wait a minute, the main sensor is only 64-Megapixel. Yes, we heard you. They do it via something called super sampling. What that means is that the camera itself takes multiple photos of the subject in quick successions or an instant. Those photos are then mashed together to fill pixel information that is missing from the original 64-Mgeapixel camera to create a highly detailed 108-Megpaixel resolution photo. It is a trick that plenty of professional photographers use to create an image that looks like it was taken via a medium format camera, but only using a full-frame or even an APS-C camera.

You must keep in mind that that kind of process is quite a lot of work and taxing to the hardware. That also means that you need to let your smartphone do its job before taking another photo. Take it with a pinch of salt and be patient. Still, we seldom see this kind of technology on a smartphone these days, so it is a welcome.

Source: OPPO

Going to the front is a punch hole that shoehorns two cameras for great selfies. The main shooter is A 44-Megapixel camera that is supported by a 2-Megapixel depth sensor. Again, not new implementation for a smartphone. We saw this on something like the Samsung Galaxy A8 before too. There are more modern smartphones with this kind of arrangement of course. What is more impressive though is OPPO’s ultra-dark mode for both the front and back camera. It somehow eliminates noised and at the same time, brightens images even when you can barely see anything while taking the photo.

The front cameras are embedded in a beautiful 6.4-inch Super AMOLED display pushing Full HD+ resolution to your eyes. Super AMOLED is widely known for its great colour contrast and vividness. There is no curved elements on the display though, unlike the Find X2. Like the Find X2 as well, the Reno3 series has given up on the pop-up mechanism. Turns out notches are not a bad thing.

The regular OPPO Reno3 still packs four cameras and can still shoot 108-Megapixel resolution photos. It might take the regular Reno3 to process the photos though with 48-Megapixel in tow. The other supporting cameras are the same as the Reno3 Pro. The regular Reno3 also comes with a single front facing camera at 44-Megapixel that is lodged in the familiar dew-drop notch on top of the same sized 6.4-inch AMOLED display.

Source: OPPO

Both ColorOS 7 (based on Android 10) devices in the series are powered by MediaTek processors. The OPPO Reno3 Pro packs a MediaTek Helio P95 flagship class Octa-core System on a Chip (SoC) while the regular OPPO Reno3 packs an equally impressive MediaTek Helio P90 SoC. Juice comes from a 4,025mAh battery on both devices. Of course, that battery comes with OPPO’s 30W Flash Charge 4.0 for a quick getaway.

You get 8GB RAM on both devices and up to 256GB of storage on the OPPO Reno3 Pro. On the regular OPPO Reno3, you are stuck with 128GB. Still, you can upgrade them via a MicroSD slot that is not shared with a SIM tray. Yes, it is a three-card tray with two dedicated SIM slots and single MicroSD slot. Whichever device you get sill offers the in-display fingerprint sensor.

The OPPO Reno3 series is available today onward on your favourite online shopping platforms: Lazada and Shopee. Of course, you can get them on OPPO’s own online store too. The OPPO Reno3 Pro is available for MYR 2,399. The OPPO Reno3 is available for MYR 1,699. Both are available in Midnight Black and Aurora Blue colour options. For more information about the OPPO Reno3 series, you can check out their website, or webstore.