Hardware · Top stories
Xbox Console Prices Increase in EU and UK by up to €200 or £170
Microsoft has increased the prices of Xbox Series X and Series S consoles in the European Union and the UK, with some models rising by up to €200 or £170. This adjustment follows previous price bumps in the US and is attributed to rising component costs, particularly for RAM and storage, impacting consumer affordability in these regions.
Apple anticipates significant supply constraints and increased memory costs in September quarter
Apple expects significant supply constraints for iPhone, Mac, and iPad products in the September quarter, alongside increased memory pricing and foreign exchange headwinds. This follows strong Q3 2026 results, but the company's stock fell by approximately 6.5% after the earnings call due to the outlook.
Samsung reveals features of new smart glasses to compete with Meta
Samsung introduced features of its upcoming smart glasses, including gesture controls and a built-in camera for recording. This launch challenges Meta's dominance in the smart glasses market, where it holds a significant share.
Qualcomm to Increase Chip Prices by Double-Digit Percentages Starting September 1
Qualcomm will raise prices on its chips by a double-digit percentage for products shipped after September 1. The company attributes this increase to its inability to absorb higher supplier costs and ongoing component shortages. This price hike is expected to affect device manufacturers and could lead to higher costs for consumer electronics, including smartphones and PCs.
Framework Laptop 13 Pro Memory Prices Increase Due to Supplier Cost Hikes
Framework has increased pricing for 32GB and 64GB LPCAMM2 memory modules in its Laptop 13 Pro, with the 32GB option rising from $439 to $800. This change is a direct result of a supplier doubling the cost of LPCAMM2 components, which Framework states it cannot absorb without financial risk. The price adjustment also affects pre-order fulfillments, with some customers receiving lower capacity memory at their original configured price.
Nintendo to End Original Switch Sales in Europe by 2027 Due to Battery Regulations
Nintendo will cease sales of the original Switch consoles in Europe by February 2027, aligning with new EU regulations requiring user-replaceable batteries. Updated versions of products, including the new Switch 2, will feature replaceable batteries, supporting sustainability goals.
Roku Launches First OLED TVs, Starting at $999
Roku has introduced its first OLED televisions, the Pro Series and Pro Series LX, entering the midrange OLED market. These new TVs offer features like 120Hz or 144Hz panels, HDMI 2.1 ports, and Dolby Vision, with prices starting at $999 for the Pro Series and $1,299 for the Pro Series LX, making them competitive with existing options from LG, Samsung, and Sony.
Lenovo Launches New Yoga Android Tablets with 7 Years of Updates and 4K Displays
Lenovo introduced two new flagship Android tablets, the Yoga Tab Gen 2 and Yoga Tab Plus Gen 2, featuring 4K displays, high-end chipsets, and a commitment to 7 years of Android and security updates. This extended update support positions the tablets as long-term devices in the competitive Android tablet market.
Intel's Core Ultra 400 'Nova Lake' Mass Production Set for Q4 2026, Q1 2027 Launch
Intel's Core Ultra 400-series 'Nova Lake-S' CPUs are reportedly scheduled for mass production in Q4 2026, with the initial 28-core version launching in Q1 2027. This timeline confirms earlier leaks and indicates a staggered release for the new desktop processor platform, which will include a 52-core model later in 2027.
Acer Unveils New Predator and Nitro Monitors, Including 1,000Hz 1080p Display
Acer introduced eight new monitors at IFA 2026, expanding its Predator, Acer Nitro, and Acer ProDesigner lines. Key releases include the 24-inch Predator XB253Q U1, Acer's first 1080p monitor with a 1,000Hz refresh rate, and several models featuring Mini LED backlighting, OLED panels, and tri-mode resolution/refresh rate options. These updates provide new choices for gamers and professionals seeking high refresh rates and advanced display technologies.
Oura faces class action lawsuit over alleged misleading sleep-tracking accuracy
A proposed class action lawsuit accuses Oura of deceiving consumers about the accuracy of its smart ring's sleep tracking features. The lawsuit alleges Oura rings rely on AI-generated estimates rather than physiological signals to determine sleep stages, despite marketing claims of high accuracy. This matters because consumers make health decisions based on the device's data, which the lawsuit claims is inaccurate.
IBM unveils mainframe chip supporting both Arm and Z workloads on same cores
IBM announced a new mainframe processor that can natively execute both IBM's instruction set and Arm's, switching between them in nanoseconds. This development allows enterprises to run Arm-native Linux software, including AI frameworks, alongside traditional z/OS transaction-processing workloads on the same chip.
Motorola to release GrapheneOS-powered flagship phones in 2027
Motorola will launch "higher end" flagship smartphones running the privacy-focused GrapheneOS in 2027. These devices will feature Qualcomm's flagship chips and offer enhanced security compared to current Pixel devices running GrapheneOS, expanding the hardware options for users prioritizing privacy.
LG Display Unveils FLiPP OLED Manufacturing Method for Brighter, Longer-Lasting Panels
LG Display introduced FLiPP, a new OLED manufacturing method that eliminates the need for fine metal masks, resulting in panels that are brighter, more efficient, and have extended lifespans. This technology could enable OLED displays of various sizes, from small wearables to large TVs, and will first be applied to IT products.
Google Plans to Move All Pixel Production Out of China by 2027
Google reportedly plans to shift all Pixel phone, watch, and earbud production out of China by 2027, moving manufacturing to Vietnam and India. This move aims to diversify its supply chain and capitalize on existing manufacturing ecosystems in other regions.
Boeing Sells eVTOL Subsidiaries to Archer Aviation for 16.5% Stake
Boeing has sold its Wisk Aero, SkyGrid, and Insitu subsidiaries to Archer Aviation in exchange for a 16.5% ownership stake in Archer. This transaction allows Boeing to focus on its core commercial airplane business while strengthening Archer's position in the electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) and urban air mobility markets.
Samsung Galaxy Buds to gain FDA-cleared hearing aid feature; new over-ear headphones in development
Samsung will release an FDA-cleared hearing aid feature and a five-minute hearing test for Galaxy Buds 3 Pro and Galaxy Buds 4 Pro later this year in the US and other markets. This feature provides an over-the-counter solution for individuals aged 18 and over with mild to moderate hearing loss. Additionally, Samsung is developing new over-ear headphones, codenamed "Galaxy H1," which could launch as early as 2027.
MacBook Air Faces Significant Supply Shortages Due to AI-Driven Memory Demand
Apple's MacBook Air is experiencing significant supply shortages, with delivery estimates extending into late August or September, attributed to a global memory crisis driven by high demand from AI data centers. This shortage has led Apple to prioritize MacBook Pro production and encourage customers to consider the Pro model, despite recent price increases for the MacBook Air.
AMD's Q2 Revenue Jumps 50% to $11.5 Billion Driven by Data Center Growth
AMD reported a 50% year-over-year increase in second-quarter revenue, reaching $11.5 billion, primarily due to a 107% surge in data center sales to $6.7 billion. This growth was attributed to demand for AI capacity and sales of Epyc CPUs and Instinct GPUs, while gaming revenue declined by 31% to $779 million.
Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold 8 Series Debuts With Enhanced Designs and Features
Leaks reveal Samsung's latest devices, including the Galaxy Z Flip 8 and Z Fold 8 series with minimal design changes from previous models, and significant battery and display upgrades. New colors and a shift to Qualcomm chips for Galaxy smartwatches mark smaller-scale updates ahead of the July 22 launch.
Lenovo and Asus Googlebook Devices Leak, Revealing Hardware and "Aluminium OS"
Images of upcoming Googlebook devices from Lenovo and Asus have leaked, showcasing two Lenovo laptop sizes, a 2-in-1 tablet, and an Asus laptop. These leaks provide the first look at hardware for Google's new Android-based platform, which is expected to replace ChromeOS and integrate Gemini AI, with one leak identifying the operating system as "Aluminium OS."
Apple Aims for Late 2027 Smart Glasses Launch, Prioritizing Privacy and Developer Tools
Apple is reportedly planning to unveil its first smart glasses at WWDC in June 2027, with a public release by the end of that year. The company is focusing on privacy features, including on-device processing and the absence of facial recognition, and will likely provide developers with tools to create third-party applications for the device.
Katalyst Space's LINK Satellite Experiences Failures, Jeopardizing NASA Swift Observatory Reboost
The Katalyst Space LINK satellite, launched on July 3 to reboost NASA's Neil Gehrels Swift Observatory, is tumbling out of control due to the failure of two of its three reaction wheels and partial loss of its cold gas thruster system. This incident jeopardizes NASA's first mission to contract a private company for orbital reboosting services, which aimed to extend the Swift Observatory's operational lifespan.
HP OmniBook Ultra 14 Review: Powerful Snapdragon Performance at a High Price
The HP OmniBook Ultra 14 laptop leverages the Snapdragon X2 Elite processor, providing strong performance and battery life but with some drawbacks. Despite its premium build and innovative design, the $2,900 price, bloatware, and lack of certain ports may deter potential buyers.
TSMC to Invest Additional $100 Billion for 2nm Chip Fabs in Arizona
TSMC is set to expand its U.S. operations by investing an additional $100 billion in building at least four new advanced chip fabs in Arizona. This move aims to increase domestic production capacity amid rising U.S. demand and government support. However, challenges remain regarding the production of advanced chips and the economic impact on TSMC's margins.
SpaceX Launches Starlink V5 Dish with Smaller, Lighter Design
SpaceX unveiled its Starlink V5 residential dish, featuring a reduced size and improved energy efficiency, available in select regions. It allows for maximum speeds of up to 375 Mbps, slightly lower than the V4's 400 Mbps, making it suitable for home internet use. The dish is not for in-motion usage, unlike the upcoming Starlink Mini. This release may lower user costs due to its energy efficiency.
Apple iPad Mini's October Release Promises OLED Upgrade Amid Price Concerns
Apple plans to launch an OLED iPad mini by October, featuring a fixed 60Hz refresh rate. Despite missing ProMotion, the upgrade emphasizes display quality and follows recent price increases, influenced by supply chain issues.
EU Exempts Smartwatches from User-Replaceable Battery Rule
The European Commission has exempted smartwatches, fitness trackers, and certain other wearables from the EU regulation requiring user-replaceable batteries. This decision responds to safety and design concerns, particularly for devices with compact, sealed designs. The exemption must be reviewed by the European Parliament and the Council of the EU.
Pixel Watch 5 Renders Leak Showing New Colors and Price Details
Leaked renders of the Pixel Watch 5 reveal new colors and potential price details ahead of its expected announcement on August 12. The colors include Dark Anthracite, Natural Silver, Pyrite, and Warm Gold. The Warm Gold is exclusive to the 41mm model, which will reportedly start at $399, marking a $50 price increase.
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.
Trump Administration Considers Expanding Chip Tariffs to Laptops, Consoles, and Servers
The Trump administration is reportedly considering expanding semiconductor tariffs to include finished products like laptops, gaming consoles, and data center servers. This potential expansion could also remove exemptions previously granted for data centers, R&D, and startups under the January 25% tariff on advanced accelerators, significantly broadening the scope of affected technology.
New 15% Tariff Imposed on Polysilicon Imports, Affecting Microchip and Solar Industries
A new 15% tariff on imported polysilicon products, primarily from China, will take effect on December 4, impacting microchip and solar panel manufacturing. This measure aims to bolster US supply chains for chips and solar panels, supporting domestic competition in AI and energy sectors.
Lumentum CEO warns of critical indium phosphide shortage for AI data centers
Lumentum CEO Michael Hurlston stated that indium phosphide, a material essential for lasers in AI data centers, faces a severe supply shortage, with current production 30% below customer demand. This bottleneck is driven by the skyrocketing demand for co-packaged optics from companies like Nvidia, which has invested in Lumentum and Coherent to secure future capacity.
Adata chairman predicts 10-year DRAM shortage, dismisses imminent AI bubble fears
Adata chairman Simon Chen forecasts that the global DRAM shortage will persist for another decade, citing strong future demand driven by AI applications across various sectors. He also suggested that concerns about an AI bubble are premature and investors should reconsider these issues only after 2030.
Wistron Opens Fort Worth Plant for NVIDIA AI Systems Manufacturing
Wistron inaugurated its first U.S. manufacturing plant in Fort Worth, Texas, for producing NVIDIA AI superchips. This $700 million facility is expected to create 1,000 jobs and support a growing domestic AI manufacturing base.
NVIDIA cools data center hardware with 113-degree water, reducing costs and water use
NVIDIA utilizes 45-degree Celsius coolant for its AI servers, replacing traditional cooling methods. This innovation reduces energy costs significantly and nearly eliminates water consumption, challenging long-standing data center cooling assumptions.
Nvidia RTX 50 Super GPUs delayed due to high GDDR7 memory prices
Nvidia's RTX 50 Super GPUs are reportedly on hold due to the exorbitant cost of 3GB GDDR7 memory, which is three times pricier than its 2GB alternative. This situation may force Nvidia to either raise retail prices above target MSRP or limit production, impacting their competitive positioning.
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.