Hardware · Top stories
ZEISS Introduces Crossbeam 750 for Enhanced Semiconductor Failure Analysis
ZEISS launched the Crossbeam 750, a FIB-SEM tool designed for improved TEM lamella preparation and advanced nanofabrication. It features enhanced resolution, better signal-to-noise ratio, and faster acquisition times, impacting semiconductor failure analysis efficiency and accuracy.
Samsung supplies VESA DisplayHDR True Black 1400 panels for new laptops
Samsung Display has begun supplying its VESA DisplayHDR True Black 1400 tandem OLED panels to Lenovo, Asus, Dell, and MSI for upcoming laptops. This new display standard requires at least 40% higher brightness than prior models, enhancing visual performance significantly and impacting laptop designs in the premium segment.
DIY 3D printed Companion Cube project launched after dbrand's cancellation
A 3D printing enthusiast has created a DIY version of the dbrand Steam Machine Companion Cube after its cancellation due to copyright issues with Valve. The project allows users to print and assemble the cube at home using detailed instructions and a list of required materials.
Logitech G Pro X2 Superstrike Gaming Mouse Discounted to $125.99
Logitech's G Pro X2 Superstrike gaming mouse is now available for $125.99 following a $54 discount. This reduction marks the first significant price drop for this mouse since its February 2026 release, making it more accessible for gamers.
Google Pixel Watch bands discounted to around $10 from various retailers
Select official Pixel Watch bands are now discounted, with prices starting at around $10. Discounts are available through sellers like Amazon and Best Buy, indicating a cyclical trend in pricing.
AMD Zen 6 Medusa Point APU Leaks Show High Geekbench Performance
AMD's upcoming Zen 6 'Medusa Point' APU has appeared on Geekbench, demonstrating superior performance in both single-core and multi-core tests to current AMD and Intel mobile chips. As a 10-core APU with a notable increase in scores—up to 3,329 in single-core and 16,555 in multi-core—the data suggests performance advancements in AMD's next-generation mobile CPUs, expected at CES 2027.
AMD GFX1250 LLVM Commits Indicate New Datacenter Accelerators
AMD is set to unveil its new MI400 series Datacenter Accelerators, including the GFX1250 chip for machine learning. Early LLVM commits show architectural similarities with previous generations and highlight its operational mode, which deviates from prior designs.
Samsung Galaxy Watch 9 to use Snapdragon Wear Elite chipset, leaked images reveal
Samsung's Galaxy Watch 9 will now feature the Qualcomm Snapdragon Wear Elite chipset, marking a shift from Exynos. This change indicates improved performance and AI capabilities for the smartwatch.
REO Trucks Launches Affordable I4 4WD Pickup Starting at $21,500
REO Trucks has introduced the Runabout, an affordable pickup truck priced at $21,500, featuring a gasoline I4 powertrain and mechanical 4WD. The truck aims to offer a proven and reliable alternative to electric vehicles in a market where 90% of new cars are gas-powered.
GoPro Max 2 bundle discounted to $369 with $100 in accessories
The GoPro Max 2 camera bundle is now available for $369, including over $100 worth of accessories. This bundle offers essential gear for capturing 360-degree and 180-degree videos, enhancing value for new users.
LONGi claims 35.5% efficiency for new crystalline silicon-perovskite solar cell
LONGi has developed a solar cell with a verified conversion efficiency of 35.5%, surpassing the 25% typical for commercial cells. This advancement in crystalline silicon-perovskite tandem solar technology highlights potential for higher efficiency in solar energy applications.
Sony launches Bravia 9 II RGB LED TV with advanced features
Sony has introduced the Bravia 9 II, a flagship RGB LED TV featuring improved brightness, more dimming zones, and enhanced color accuracy. Priced higher than flagship OLEDs, it aims to set new standards in TV technology as RGB LED becomes a focal point in 2026.
AGI AI828 SSD Review Highlights Strong Specs with Budget Limitations
The AGI AI828 SSD offers a wide range of capacities but exhibits sluggish performance and poor efficiency. It is positioned as a budget-friendly option, though not recommended for best performance in typical scenarios.
Linn Products' 1988 Custom Silicon Resurfaces in Modern Computing
A custom processor developed by Linn Products in 1988 for hi-fi manufacturing showed advanced memory handling features. Though it was buried in the Forth and Clyde Canal after its decline, its ideas are now reflected in contemporary Arm silicon, highlighting a shift in computing economics.
Tornyol micro-drone achieves first air-to-air insect kill, targeting mosquitoes
Tornyol Systems' micro-drone has completed its first air-to-air insect kill, using advanced sonar and DSP technology to locate targets. The drone aims to contribute to efforts in eradicating mosquitoes, which pose serious health risks globally.
Vertu launches $6,880 Alphafold smartphone with AI automation for executives
Vertu introduces the Alphafold smartphone at $6,880, targeting executives with its AI agent, Hermes. This luxury device combines high-end materials with automation features designed to streamline executive tasks, marking an atypical approach in a crowded smartphone market.
Open Book Touch: New Open Source E-Reader Unveiled
Open Book Touch is a new open-source e-reader featuring a 4.26-inch front-lit e-paper touchscreen. It supports EPUB and plain text files, with a focus on a high-quality reading experience through its typesetting engine and customizable frontlight.
Asus ROG Swift 32-inch 4K QD-OLED Monitor Discounted by $400
The Asus ROG Swift 32-inch 4K QD-OLED gaming monitor is currently priced at $899.99, down from $1,299.99, indicating a substantial discount aimed at boosting sales before newer models are available. Its specifications cater to high-end gaming, featuring a 240Hz refresh rate and G-Sync technology to enhance gaming performance.
Samsung Freestyle+ projector launches at $1,200 with advanced features
Samsung has released the Freestyle+ projector for $1,200, featuring automatic image correction and size adjustment. This model enhances projection versatility on irregular surfaces while offering HDR10+ support and built-in streaming capabilities.
Caviar unveils $13,130 Messi-themed Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra before launch
Caviar is offering a limited edition Lionel Messi-themed Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra for $13,130, a week prior to the phone's official announcement. This custom phone features high-end materials including gold plating and cloisonné enamel, with a limited run of just 19 units. The listing hints at Samsung's upcoming launch of the Galaxy Z Fold 8, confirming two versions will be announced, including an Ultra model.
Multi-primary color display technology showcased at Shanghai conference
The ‘Multi Primary Color Display Ecosystem Conference’ introduced multi-primary color display technology as a major advancement in the display industry. This technology aims to enhance color reproduction beyond conventional RGB systems, addressing limitations in color gamut and accuracy, which could shift industry focus towards new standards for displays.
Redmagic Astra 2 Android tablet priced at $699, launching in August
The Redmagic Astra 2 tablet launches in August, priced starting at $699 for the 12GB/256GB model. With a Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset and 9-inch AMOLED display, it competes against high-end options like Lenovo's Legion Tab.
MSI releases MAG Z890 Tomahawk Wi-Fi II motherboard with reduced features
MSI launched the MAG Z890 Tomahawk Wi-Fi II motherboard, optimizing it for Intel’s Core Ultra 200S Plus processors but removing some connectivity options. It features a single Thunderbolt 4 port instead of two and reduced Wi-Fi 7 speeds, yet is priced similarly to the original Tomahawk at $229.99.
Pebble Time 2 Shipping Updates and Software Enhancements Announced
Pebble has shipped over 23,000 Pebble Time 2 watches and expects to fulfill remaining pre-orders by the end of July. The company also reported significant software updates, improving battery life to over 30 days for the Pebble 2 Duo and enhancing developer features in the Pebble SDK.
2026 Toyota RAV4 Debuts Plug-in Hybrid with Enhanced Battery Capacity
Toyota has unveiled the 2026 RAV4 plug-in hybrid with a 22.7 kWh battery, allowing it to operate on all-electric power for daily drives. This model features a new powertrain with significant improvements over its predecessor, maintaining Toyota's strong market presence in the SUV sector.
Ecovacs Deebot X11 robot vacuum hits new low price of $699
The Ecovacs Deebot X11 has dropped to $699, a $400 reduction from its previous price. This discount positions it as a competitive option for consumers seeking a hybrid vacuum/mop solution with advanced features.
Lenovo releases first laptop with TCL's inkjet-printed OLED technology
Lenovo has launched the Legion R9000P, the world's first laptop utilizing TCL CSOT's inkjet-printed OLED technology. This development underscores a potential shift in display manufacturing towards more cost-effective and efficient methods, impacting future consumer electronics, particularly in the gaming segment.
Satechi launches color-matched accessories for MacBook Neo
Satechi has introduced a trio of color-matched accessories for the MacBook Neo, enhancing its functionality without compromising aesthetics. The new accessories include a multiport hub and a Snap hub, both designed to expand connectivity options for users.
Ninja introduces first microwave with air fryer functionality at $449
Ninja has launched the Crispi Microwave, its first microwave that also functions as an air fryer. This dual capability allows users to reheat food quickly while achieving a crispy finish, potentially replacing multiple kitchen appliances.
Prusa Research ships limited 1,000-unit INDX Founders Edition toolchanger mod
Prusa Research has begun shipping 1,000 units of its INDX toolchanger Founders Edition, designed for the CORE One printer. This toolchanger allows for multi-material printing without the typical waste associated with color swaps, which is significant for 3D printing enthusiasts and professionals.
Walmart Adjusts Google TV Hardware Lineup Amid Stock Changes
Walmart is shifting its Google TV streaming stick production from SDMC to Skyworth, as indicated by an FCC listing. The $29.98 FHD Google TV stick, which disappeared briefly from Walmart's website, signals potential changes. Additionally, the Onn 4K Pro Google TV box, priced at $59, has been restocked for in-store purchases but remains elusive online. These shifts indicate potential restructuring in Walmart's streaming hardware strategy.
Samsung investigates reddish tint issue on Galaxy S26 Ultra screens
Some Galaxy S26 Ultra users report screens developing a red tint, prompting an internal investigation by Samsung. The issue, which may relate to the device's Privacy Display feature, could indicate potential defects affecting user experience and device reliability.
Nvidia's CEO denies Vera Rubin delays, confirms large production volumes
Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang denied reports of delays for the Vera Rubin AI platform, stating that production is robust and ongoing. The company reassured investors that they are on track to launch next-generation CPUs and GPUs despite rumors about a complex PCB midplane causing delays for the Kyber NVL144 rack-scale systems.
ASRock launches Phantom Gaming and Steel Legend 360 LCD liquid coolers
ASRock has introduced its Phantom Gaming and Steel Legend 360 LCD AIO liquid coolers, featuring 3.4-inch LCD displays. These coolers offer strong thermal performance and low noise levels, targeting PC enthusiasts looking for effective cooling solutions.
8BitDo announces FlipPad, a portable gamepad for smartphones
8BitDo introduced the FlipPad, a $30 USB-C gamepad designed to turn smartphones into Game Boy-like devices. Its compact design and direct connection offer portability and ease of use, positioning it as a competitor to GameSir's Pocket Taco.
Google opts for Intel's EMIB-T packaging for next-gen TPUs over TSMC technology
Google will use Intel's EMIB-T packaging for its upcoming Ninth-Generation TPUs, marking a shift from TSMC's CoWoS technology. This decision reflects potential supply constraints with TSMC, indicating a growing preference for Intel's packaging solutions in AI and HPC applications.
Silicon Motion confirms PCIe Gen7 development is underway
Alex Chou of Silicon Motion announced that development of PCIe Gen7 has commenced amid growing focus on enterprise SSDs. This move aligns with the company's strategy to enhance its position in the increasingly competitive market for cloud service providers and hyperscalers.
Nvidia RTX 3060 Graphics Card Returns Amid AI Component Crunch
Nvidia's GeForce RTX 3060, a graphics card with 12GB of VRAM initially released in 2021, has been reintroduced as a response to AI-driven component shortages. MSI's Ventus 2X OC model is now available at Newegg for $329.99, a reduction from its previous near-$400 price. Palit has also launched a new Infinity 2 OC variant. This move aims to address the scarcity of GPUs vital for gaming and AI applications.
Intel Invests $5.7 Billion in Irish Facility to Enhance Chip Production
Intel is investing $5.7 billion to upgrade its Leixlip, Ireland facility, focusing on increasing output for Xeon 6 and next-generation Xeon processors using the Intel 3 process. This move is part of Intel's strategy to meet rising demands in server and AI markets, and follows the recent cancellation of its planned German fab project.
Weathergotchi: Open-source climate data logger launched
The Weathergotchi is an open-source temperature and humidity data logger featuring an e-paper display. It is designed for low power consumption and can operate for over a week on a small Li-Po battery, making it beneficial for environmental monitoring projects.