Hardware · Top stories
Fi Ultra Pet Tracker Introduces Starlink Satellite Connectivity for Wider Coverage
Fi has launched the Fi Ultra pet tracker featuring T-Mobile's Starlink satellite service for expanded coverage beyond cellular towers, providing continuous GPS tracking across the US. Despite its enhanced connectivity, the device has a reduced battery life of two days and costs $199 plus an annual fee. This advancement is significant for pet owners needing reliable location tracking in remote or cellular-dead zones.
Tower Semiconductor to invest $3B in Japan photonics with METI support
Tower Semiconductor announced a $3 billion expansion for its photonics operations in Japan, including reviving a former Panasonic fab. This initiative aims for $3.6 billion in revenue by 2028, benefiting the semiconductor supply chain significantly amid rising global demand.
Xona Space Systems' Pulsar satellites to launch for enhanced navigation by 2026
Xona Space Systems is set to launch six production satellites in October 2026, offering stronger navigation signals than traditional GPS. Their low-Earth orbit constellation is expected to improve location accuracy significantly, especially in challenging environments like urban areas and indoors, while also countering GPS jamming.
105,000 nano-oscillators synchronized in 45 nanoseconds, advancing computing methods
Researchers have synchronized 105,000 nano-oscillators in 45 nanoseconds using minimal energy, significantly scaling oscillator-based computation. This development may lead to faster, energy-efficient alternatives to transistors for various applications, including real-time data analytics and AI.
NVIDIA Launches Jetson Thor Computers for Robotics and Edge AI
NVIDIA has announced the T3000 and T2000 modules based on the Thor architecture, designed for robotics and edge AI applications. These new modules provide enhanced AI computing capabilities in compact form factors, supporting the growing demand for autonomous machines in various industries.
Intel ships high-volume logic chips using ASML's High NA EUV technology
Intel has begun high-volume manufacturing of logic chips using ASML's High NA EUV lithography for its Panther Lake processors. This milestone marks the first commercial application of High NA EUV, promising advancements in semiconductor scaling and performance for future processors.
Nanya Technology to Quadruple 2027 Capital Spending to $6.2 Billion Amid Dramatic Revenue Surge
Nanya Technology plans to increase its capital spending to $6.2 billion in 2027, up from $1.55 billion in 2023, as second-quarter revenue skyrockets by 684% to T$82.55 billion. The surge is primarily driven by a more than 70% increase in average selling prices for DRAM, pushing gross margins to 79.5%.
Longsys forecasts profit surge to $1.5B driven by AI demand for memory chips
Shenzhen Longsys Electronics expects a profit of $1.36 to $1.62 billion for 1H26, a dramatic rise from $2.2 million last year. This surge is attributed to heightened demand for memory chips due to global AI infrastructure expansion and limited wafer capacity.
Quantum Systems breaks electric drone speed record at 434 mph
Quantum Systems Group has reportedly set a new world record for electric drones, achieving a top speed of 434 mph with its Apex Recordhunter during internal tests. This significantly surpasses the previous record of 409 mph and underscores advancements in drone technology for potential military applications.
China's Startups Push to Create Dextrous Robotic Hands
Chinese startups aim to develop fully dextrous robotic hands, marking a critical advancement in humanoid robotics. This development is vital as it could facilitate the broader use of humanoid robots in various industries amid China's push for innovation and economic growth.
DARPA develops 30-year nuclear waste batteries for military drones
DARPA's SYMPHONEE project plans to create batteries powered by Strontium-90, potentially lasting 30 years. This initiative aims to enhance power systems for next-gen drones operating in extreme environments.
SK hynix announces $712.5 billion investment in South Korean semiconductor operations
SK hynix revealed plans to invest KRW 1.1 trillion ($712.5 billion) in its South Korean operations, primarily for semiconductor production. This includes KRW 100 trillion ($64 billion) for its Cheongju campus for NAND and HBM production, and KRW 400 trillion ($259.5 billion) for a new Southwestern semiconductor cluster.
Firefly Aerospace Operates NVIDIA Jetson in Lunar Orbit for the First Time
Firefly Aerospace's Blue Ghost Mission 2 will use NVIDIA Jetson for AI processing in lunar orbit, enabling real-time data insights. This marks a significant advancement in space technology, reducing the delay of data transmission and processing from space.
AI Develops Innovative Radio Chips to Accelerate Wireless Technologies
Princeton researchers utilized AI to design radio-frequency integrated circuits (RFICs), overcoming traditional design limitations. This AI-driven methodology can significantly enhance the performance and reduce the design time for RFICs, which are critical for advancing 5G, autonomous vehicles, and satellite technologies.
NVIDIA Powers Over 400 of the World's 500 Fastest Supercomputers
NVIDIA technology powers 81% of the TOP500 supercomputers, with significant growth in new deployments. The adoption of NVIDIA CPUs and GPUs indicates a strong focus on AI and high-performance computing across various systems.
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 11 and 11a to Debut with Tensor G6 Using TSMC's 2nm Process
The upcoming Google Pixel 11 series will be the first to feature the Tensor G6 chip using TSMC's new 2nm process, ahead of Apple's iPhone 18. The Pixel 11a will also use this processor, which includes a new MediaTek modem aimed at improving connectivity and power efficiency.
ASML Increases Sales Forecast Amid AI Chip Demand, Plans EUV Tool Price Hikes
ASML has raised its 2023 sales forecast to €43-45 billion due to strong demand for AI chips. Plans to increase capacity for EUV and DUV machines align with surging orders. The company is also exploring price increases for its Low-NA EUV tools, facing criticism from major client TSMC. ASML's pricing strategy and market position could impact the broader semiconductor industry.
TSMC Reports Strong Revenue and Profit Growth Amidst AI Chip Demand
Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. (TSMC) recorded a 68% revenue increase in June, with total Q2 revenue up 36% year-over-year, driven by AI chip demand. Advanced chip technologies accounted for 77% of wafer revenue, contributing to a 77.4% profit rise for the quarter. TSMC plans to expand advanced chip packaging facilities in Taiwan.
Apple M7 Ultra Chip Aims for 1.5TB RAM, Tied to Memory Market Conditions
Apple's upcoming M7 Ultra chip is planned to support up to 1.5TB of unified memory, comparable to high-end Intel Mac Pro configurations. This development, detailed by Mark Gurman, relies on memory supply improvements. The M7 Ultra is expected to enter the market in 2028, marking a significant leap in Apple's silicon strategy and AI performance capabilities.
Valve Retains Steam Deck OEM Parts Supply Through iFixit
Valve confirms continued supply of original Steam Deck batteries via iFixit, reversing a potential discontinuation. This move maintains repairability for users and upholds Valve's commitment to device longevity.
Apple Eyes Semiconductor Startups to Enhance AI Server Performance
Apple is reportedly in talks with semiconductor startups to bolster its AI server capabilities. The performance of its current M2 Ultra chips is deemed insufficient, leading Apple to consider acquisitions. This move is seen as a shift from Apple's usual business strategy, emphasizing its focus on strengthening AI processing.
Motorola Edge 70 Max Sets Benchmark with 25W Wireless Charging and Qi2 Support
Motorola has launched the Edge 70 Max, its flagship Android phone with a massive 7100mAh battery and groundbreaking 25W wireless Qi2 charging. This innovation positions it as the first Android device with built-in Qi2 magnets at this power level, challenging previous cap limits and potentially influencing the broader smartphone market.
Sony's FlexStrike Fight Stick for PS5 Delayed Indefinitely Due to Production Issues
Sony has indefinitely delayed the launch of its FlexStrike wireless fight stick for PS5 and PC. Originally set for an August 6 release to coincide with the Marvel Tōkon: Fighting Souls game, the postponement is due to unexpected production delays, impacting gamers and pre-order customers. Sony promises more updates soon.
Micron to Boost U.S. Chip Investments to $250 Billion by 2035
Micron has announced a strategic investment of $3 billion in U.S. semiconductor manufacturing, including $500 million for GlobalWafers' Texas wafer plant. This is part of a broader plan to increase Micron's total U.S. investment to $250 billion by 2035, driven by rising memory demand from AI advancements. The move seeks to secure a reliable domestic supply of critical input materials.
Apple to Release New Apple Pencil Models in 2027 with Replaceable Batteries
Apple is set to release new models of its Apple Pencil in spring 2027, featuring replaceable batteries to comply with EU regulations. This update aims to improve repairability and user experience, aligning with new standards for portable electronic devices.
AMD Releases Ryzen AI Halo, a $4,000 Local AI Development Platform
AMD has launched the Ryzen AI Halo, a $3,999.99 mini-PC for local AI development, powered by the Zen 5 Ryzen AI Max+ 395 processor. It includes integrated graphics, ample memory, and comes preloaded with Windows 11 Pro or a custom AMD Linux. While user-friendly, its performance is noted to lag behind Nvidia's similar offerings.
Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra Launched with Privacy Display and AI Features
Samsung has unveiled the Galaxy S26 Ultra, featuring a new privacy display with restricted viewing angles and integration of multiple AI chatbots. The device, priced at $1,299, comes with multiple configurations and stackable discounts, driving increased production to meet demand. This launch is significant as it addresses user security while keeping pace with competitive flagship offerings.
Sony Releases RX10 V Superzoom Camera with New Stacked Sensor, Priced at $2,299.99
Sony has launched the RX10 V superzoom camera with a new 20.1 megapixel stacked sensor, enabling 30fps shooting. Priced at $2,299.99, the camera features 4K video recording at 120fps and a redesigned body but retains its predecessor's lens design. The upgrades make it suitable for both photographers and videographers.
Alienware Unveils Enhanced 34-Inch QD-OLED Gaming Monitor
Alienware has launched the AW3426DW, a 34-inch ultrawide monitor using Samsung's QD-OLED technology, featuring a five-layer RGB Stripe panel and a 280 Hz refresh rate. These advancements improve brightness and color accuracy for a more immersive gaming experience. The monitor represents a significant update in the competitive gaming display market.
PC Shipments Decline Amid Memory Shortages and Price Hikes
U.S. PC shipments dropped by 7% in Q1 2026 to 15.8 million units, while worldwide shipments fell by nearly 5% to 68.2 million units. These declines, driven by component shortages and price hikes, notably the ongoing AI-driven memory shortage, have affected consumer purchasing. Despite the reduced shipments, PC manufacturer revenues continue to rise due to increased prices.
Google's Pixel Watch 5 Sees Price Hike to $399 Amid Hardware Cost Increases
Google's Pixel Watch 5 is set to launch at $399, showing a $50 increase over the previous model due to rising material costs. Leaks suggest it will be released on August 20 with multiple size and variant options. This pricing shift aligns with broader industry trends and highlights the impact of global memory shortages.
Marshall Launches Acton IV and Stanmore IV Speakers with Improved Sound and Repairability
Marshall has released the Acton IV and Stanmore IV Bluetooth speakers, enhancing sound quality and repairability. Priced at $299.99 and $399.99 respectively, these models feature upgraded components for better sound dispersion and customizable controls. User-replaceable parts aim to improve product longevity.
Nvidia's Kyber Rack System Delayed to 2028 Due to Manufacturing Issues
Nvidia's Kyber NVL144 rack system, intended for its 2027 Rubin Ultra chips, has been delayed until 2028. This setback is due to difficulties manufacturing a crucial PCB midplane, impacting Nvidia's product roadmap and competitive position in AI hardware. An intended stopgap solution, the NVL72x2 rack, has also been canceled, leaving Nvidia with fewer options in 2027.
NVIDIA and Partners Expand U.S. Chip Manufacturing Efforts
NVIDIA, alongside partners including TSMC and Foxconn, is investing in U.S. chip manufacturing and infrastructure, spanning 43 states. This includes the production of Blackwell wafers at TSMC's Arizona factory, although some packaging processes still occur overseas. This initiative seeks to bolster U.S. technologial self-reliance but highlights ongoing gaps in the domestic supply chain.
Even Realities Secures $150M Funding, Hits $1B Valuation for Display-First Smart Glasses
Even Realities, a smart glasses startup founded by former Apple engineers, has raised $150 million led by Meituan and Tencent, reaching a $1 billion valuation. The company focuses on developing display-first smart glasses prioritizing privacy, competing with Meta and Snap's AI and camera-equipped offerings. The funds will support further platform development and global expansion.
Sony to Transform PlayStation Disc Factory to Microlens Production by 2028
Sony's Thalgau factory in Austria will shift from manufacturing 600,000 discs daily to producing optical microlenses by 2028, cutting disc production by 90%. This strategic move aligns with Sony's pivot to digital PlayStation content, with a €30 million ($34 million) investment to retrain 300 employees.
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.