Hardware · Top stories
Alienware Area-51 gaming desktop discounted to $5,999 from $8,580
Dell has reduced the price of the Alienware Area-51 gaming desktop to $5,999.99, a 30% discount from its original price of $8,579.99, making high-end 4K gaming more accessible. This system features top-of-the-line components, including the Core Ultra 9 285K processor and GeForce RTX 5090 graphics card.
BenQ launches MA270S, a 27-inch 5K glossy display for Mac
BenQ has released the MA270S, a 27-inch 5K monitor tailored for Mac users with a glossy finish. It features multiple connectivity options, including USB-C and HDMI, and is priced at $999, making it a competitive alternative to Apple's Studio Display.
Kuxiu D5 Qi Charger Features Active Cooling to Prevent Overheating
The Kuxiu D5 Qi2.2 charging dock integrates a cooling fan to prevent phones from overheating during wireless charging. This innovation allows for potentially faster charging speeds and prolongs battery life, addressing common issues with conventional Qi chargers.
Amazon Develops AI Chips for Echo, Fire TV and Upgrades Alexa Technology
Amazon is developing its own AI chips to enhance devices like Echo Show and Fire TV, as confirmed by hardware chief Panos Panay. This move allows on-device AI processing for better performance and security. The company is also advancing its Alexa voice assistant to understand user context through an enhanced version, Alexa+.
Godox C100 camera features transparent LCD viewfinder
Godox has launched the C100 camera with a transparent LCD that serves as an optical viewfinder. This design allows the camera to display shooting settings and function as a light meter, enhancing usability for photographers.
Valve open sources e-ink display design for Steam Machine
Valve has open-sourced the design for an e-ink display for the Steam Machine, allowing anyone to create their own customization. The project, labeled 'Inkterface', is available under the MIT license on GitLab, giving developers and hobbyists access to assembly instructions and required components.
Midjourney unveils medical scanner but lacks proof of efficacy
Midjourney released a video showcasing its ultrasound scanner intended for wellness use, but experts question its effectiveness. The company aims to provide affordable imaging without FDA clearance as a first step in the medical field.
Intel resolves yield issues in 18A process, production ramps to 15,000 wafers monthly
Intel has addressed wafer-to-wafer yield variability issues in its 18A process technology, leading to expected yield improvements. The resolution is anticipated to enhance production consistency at Intel's fabs in Oregon and Arizona, supporting a ramp-up of 12,000 to 15,000 wafers per month.
Rivian Chief Software Officer Discusses CarPlay Integration
Rivian's Chief Software Officer, Wassym Bensaid, addressed questions about CarPlay integration in a recent interview. Bensaid emphasized concerns regarding screen mirroring taking over vehicle displays, although indicated potential for a more integrated user experience.
Leaked videos reveal Samsung's Galaxy Glasses design and features
Leaked videos showcase Samsung's Galaxy Glasses, highlighting their slim design and control features. The glasses, resembling Meta's Ray-Ban smart glasses, include touchpad sensors and camera controls, enhancing integration with Android devices.
Samsung Galaxy Tab S11 Ultra and S26 Ultra models receive significant discounts
Samsung is discounting all Galaxy Tab S11 Ultra models by $350, with open-box units up to $456 off. Additionally, the Galaxy S26 Ultra sees a $350 price drop on both Amazon and Samsung's official site.
Montech NX600 Air Cooler Review Highlights Budget Efficiency and Performance
Montech launched the NX600 air cooler, priced under $30, featuring dual towers and six heatpipes. It provides good thermal performance but is noted for being loud and having compatibility issues with taller RAM DIMMs.
Asus B850-Creator Wifi Neo Motherboard Lacks Key Features for Creators
The Asus B850-Creator Wifi Neo motherboard targets creators with dual 5 GbE ports and PCIe 5.0 sockets but falls short in USB connectivity. It lacks 40 Gbps ports and has only six USB Type-A ports, which may hinder users needing high-speed external storage.
Prototype AMD RX 7900 XTX engineering sample with custom VBIOS surfaces
An engineering sample of the AMD RX 7900 XTX has surfaced that reveals significant hardware differences from retail models. Purchased secondhand, this prototype features a custom VBIOS and unique connectors for testing, indicating its status as a pre-production unit rather than a commercial product.
Intel expands photomask production in California to support advanced chips
Intel has begun expanding its Bowers Campus in California to produce more photomasks, essential for its advanced chips. The new facility will manufacture photomasks for cutting-edge technologies, solidifying Intel's capabilities in in-house production as market demands for EUV and High-NA EUV processes grow.
Corsair Vengeance DDR5 RAM price drops to $314, lowest in months during Woot sale
Corsair Vengeance DDR5 32GB RAM is available for $314 after discounts, marking a significant price drop. This offers consumers a competitive option in a currently high-priced market for RAM, making it attractive for gaming builds.
Hyundai and Kia introduce Plasma Care UVC sanitization system for vehicles
Hyundai and Kia have launched the Plasma Care UVC sanitization system, which uses Far-UVC technology to reduce bacteria and odors in vehicle cabins. This innovation addresses hygiene concerns without the risks associated with conventional UV light, marking a significant step in automotive sanitation.
Anker's Eufy launches SmartTrack Card E40 for Android Find Hub at $34.99
Anker's Eufy has launched the SmartTrack Card E40, its first tracker for the Android Find Hub, priced at $34.99. After delays since its initial announcement in 2024, the tracker aims to compete in a growing market for tracking devices that utilize Android's dual-network configuration.
Lenovo teases Legion Y700 Infinite tablet with OLED and 5G support
Lenovo announced the upcoming Legion Y700 Infinite tablet, featuring an OLED display and 5G connectivity. This new variant adds significant enhancements over its predecessors and may cater specifically to the gaming community in China.
Tesla hires Intel veteran Gary Jiang for semiconductor project
Tesla has hired Gary Jiang, a 17-year Intel veteran, to lead efforts at its semiconductor project, Terafab. Jiang's experience includes managing advanced fabrication processes and equipment at Intel, which may bolster Tesla's semiconductor manufacturing capabilities.
Ring Video Doorbell Pro 3 introduced with 4K camera and enhanced features
Ring launched the Video Doorbell Pro 3, featuring a new 4K camera, better wifi performance, and advanced AI features. The upgrades improve low-light and detail visibility, making it more competitive among smart doorbells.
Apple launches Studio Display XDR for pro users at premium price
Apple introduced the 27-inch Studio Display XDR, a 5K monitor aimed at pro users. Priced at $2,899, it features advanced display technology and integrated audio/video capabilities for enhanced usability.
Sony launches anniversary 1000XX the Collexion noise-cancelling headphones
Sony has introduced the 1000XX the Collexion headphones, marking the 10th anniversary of its 1000X series. These headphones feature enhanced comfort and luxury design while maintaining competitive noise cancellation capabilities similar to the WH-1000XM6.
Apple launches iPhone 17e with upgraded features and pricing
Apple has released the iPhone 17e, its most affordable smartphone option, featuring a faster A19 chip and double the storage compared to its predecessor. The starting price of £599 makes it an attractive choice undercutting the iPhone 17 and 16.
Weave Robotics introduces Isaac 1, a $7,999 home robot set for 2026 delivery
Weave Robotics officially launched the Isaac 1, a $7,999 home robot that autonomously performs various household tasks. Initial deliveries will start in Fall 2026 in California, expanding across the U.S. through 2027, creating an opportunity for early adopters to reserve units with a deposit.
Apple Vision Pro VP Paul Meade leaving for OpenAI's hardware team
Paul Meade, VP of Apple Vision Pro, is leaving to join OpenAI’s hardware team. His departure follows leadership changes at Apple under incoming CEO John Ternus, which have prompted a shake-up within the hardware engineering team.
OpenAI, Google, Apple, and SpaceX develop custom chips to reduce Nvidia reliance
OpenAI announced its Jalapeño inference chip, built with Broadcom, as part of a trend where companies like Google and SpaceX are creating custom silicon. This shift aims to mitigate single-supplier dependency, providing better control and tailored performance for specific needs.
Oura Introduces Smaller Ring 5, Focuses on Design and Wearability
Oura has launched the Ring 5, a significantly smaller and lighter version of its predecessor, the Ring 4. The new ring maintains its existing health tracking features but emphasizes design enhancements over functional upgrades. It requires a subscription for complete access, impacting consumers evaluating compact smart wearables.
Plaud Launches Plaud One AI Earbuds with eSIM-Enabled Case for Standalone Recording
Plaud has released the Plaud One Explorer Edition, AI-enabled earbuds available for preorder at $250. These earbuds and their charging case can record and transcribe conversations, integrating with the Plaud Agent to generate work products like emails and documents, and feature built-in 4G connectivity for standalone operation.
Motorola Signature 27 Flagship Phone Retail Price Leaked in Europe
Retail listings in Europe indicate the upcoming Motorola Signature 27 flagship phone may cost around €1,594.90, positioning it as a high-end device. This pricing suggests Motorola's new flagship will compete in the premium smartphone market.
XREAL Aura Android XR glasses receive over 10,000 reservations, early-bird deal ends
XREAL announced that its Aura Android XR glasses have surpassed 10,000 reservations since June, indicating demand for the upcoming device. The early-bird reservation deal, which offered a $199 credit for a $99 deposit, has concluded, though $199 deposits are still available.
Jaguar Unveils Type 01 Electric Grand Tourer, Retaining Concept Design
Jaguar introduced the Type 01, an electric four-door grand tourer, which closely resembles its Type 00 concept car. This vehicle is Jaguar's first EV and its most powerful road car to date, featuring a 118kWh battery and 1,016 horsepower.
Nvidia Shield TV Pro price increases to $299, base model discontinued
Nvidia has increased the price of its Shield TV Pro to $299, a $100 hike, citing rising component costs. The company has also discontinued the base model of the Shield TV, which was introduced in 2019.
Bose Introduces Noise Cancelling Wired Earbuds with USB-C Connectivity
Bose has released its first wired earbuds in 11 years, the Noise Cancelling Wired Earbuds, featuring active noise canceling and a USB-C connector. This reintroduces a wired option for users seeking to avoid battery dependency while still benefiting from modern noise cancellation technology.
Dyson Launches CameraJet, a $499 Toothbrush with Integrated Camera and Flossing
Dyson has introduced the CameraJet, an electric toothbrush priced at $499 that integrates a camera and AI to detect gaps between teeth and blast mouthwash for flossing. This device combines brushing, flossing, and rinsing into a single unit, marking Dyson's entry into the oral care market.
Light Unveils $299 Minimalist Flip Phone, the Light Flip, Launching in 2024
Light has announced the Light Flip, an affordable, minimalist flip phone priced at $299. Slated for early 2024 release, it combines retro design elements with modern features, excluding distracting apps to target users seeking simplicity. It retains tactile qualities, harking back to classic models like the Moto Razr.
Roku Increases Streaming Hardware Prices by Up to $50 Across All Models
Roku has raised prices on its streaming hardware, with some devices increasing by as much as $50, due to an ongoing memory shortage. This change affects all Roku models, including the Streaming Stick and Roku Ultra, and follows a similar price adjustment by Apple for its devices.
Xreal Releases Budget-Friendly A01 Plus AR Glasses for $299
Xreal has launched the A01 Plus AR glasses for $299, aimed at cost-conscious consumers seeking an affordable AR experience. These glasses, designed for media consumption, offer dual-layer Micro-OLED displays with 1,600-nit brightness and weigh 62 grams. While they lack some features of pricier models, the A01 Plus provides a budget option for portable gaming and movies.
Elon Musk Denies Reports of SpaceX Handheld AI Device Prototype
Elon Musk has denied reports that SpaceX is developing a handheld AI device, calling the claims "utterly false." Despite this, several outlets reported a prototype, allegedly shown to investors, that was thinner than an iPhone and featured technology from xAI. The reports have raised questions about SpaceX's potential in AI hardware and mobile services, but Musk's denial leaves the company's plans uncertain.
Xbox Nano Controller Features Wi-Fi Cloud Connect, Similar to Stadia Controller
The new Xbox Nano Controller, launching this week for $50, includes a "Cloud connect" feature that uses Wi-Fi for Xbox Cloud Gaming. This functionality, currently in preview, mirrors the direct Wi-Fi connection method previously used by the Google Stadia Controller and is expected in future Xbox Elite Controllers.