Hardware · Top stories
Apple Store app may soon get an AI-powered shopping assistant
Framework nearly doubles memory pricing for 32GB, 64GB Laptop 13 Pro overnight — CEO says absorbing LPCAMM2 supplier hikes would put 'our ability to operate at real financial risk'
Galaxy Z Flip 8 finally cares about cover screen apps, but just barely
Apple's A20 chip for iPhone 18 Pro rumored to feature 2nm process and WMCM design
Apple's A20 Pro chip for the iPhone 18 Pro will utilize a new 2-nanometer fabrication process, enhancing power and efficiency. It will also incorporate Wafer-Level Multi-Chip Module packaging, allowing better integration of components and improved performance for AI tasks and gaming.
Ford announces $30,000 electric truck following F-150 Lightning discontinuation
Ford unveiled plans for a new $30,000 electric truck, set to launch in 2027, as part of a shift towards a Universal Electric Vehicle Platform. The company aims to build a family of affordable EVs to improve profitability after incurring significant losses in its electric vehicle investments.
RORRY Flow power bank combines multiple charging solutions for Apple devices
The RORRY Flow power bank integrates a wall plug, USB-C cable, and magnetic charger for Apple Watch into a single device. This simplifies travel for Apple users by reducing the number of cables and chargers needed.
Xteink Launches Ultra-Portable X4 Pro E-Reader with Touchscreen and Light
Xteink has released the X4 Pro, an ultra-portable e-reader featuring a touchscreen and built-in front light. Priced at $99, it aims to improve usability over previous models, although it supports only DRM-free ebooks and includes limited software options. This update matters for fans of minimalistic, pocket-sized e-readers seeking enhanced features.
Community and Tools Unlock Hidden Thermal Sensors on Nvidia RTX 50 GPUs
Community developers and internal tools have revealed hidden thermal sensors on Nvidia's RTX 50-series GPUs. This includes the hotspot sensor, found with Nvidia's internal MODS tool, and individual VRAM sensors accessible via a new plugin. These developments provide detailed thermal insights, crucial for optimizing GPU performance.
LG's 27GX704A-B OLED gaming monitor now priced at $379.99
LG's glossy 27-inch OLED gaming monitor, the 27GX704A-B, is currently on sale for $379.99, down from its original price of $799.99. This sale highlights the rarity of high-performance OLED monitors available at this price point, appealing to budget-conscious gamers.
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.
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.
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.
Apple Card adds new feature in iOS 27 that every card should have
Apple TV announces two high-profile new shows, here’s what’s coming
iOS 27 adds convenient new iPhone feature you’ll use all the time
The future of USB connectivity (2026) — How USB4 Version 2 and Thunderbolt 5 are bringing copper to its physical limits
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.
SMIC's 7nm N+3 node shows potential but lacks competitiveness against rivals
SMIC's third-generation 7nm technology demonstrates higher transistor density than TSMC's N6 without EUV, achieving 113.4 million transistors per square millimeter. However, the Kirin 9030's performance lags behind modern competitors, indicating challenges in matching overall process competitiveness.
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.
Shark Detect Lift-Away XL enhances corded vacuum technology with new features
The Shark Detect Lift-Away XL introduces a sensor that adjusts roller speed based on the cleaning surface. This enhancement provides a seamless cleaning experience across different floor types without manual adjustments, making the corded vacuum more versatile.
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.
Apple Watch Water Lock Feature Disables Screen and Ejects Water
The Apple Watch's water lock feature disables the screen to prevent accidental taps and ejects water from the device. This feature significantly aids in protecting the watch during water activities, enhancing its usability for swimmers and divers.
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.
Rumors Suggest iPhone 18 Pro Max Will Feature Larger Battery and Increased Weight
Leaks suggest that the upcoming iPhone 18 Pro Max will have a significantly larger battery of up to 5,567mAh, compared to 5,088mAh in the iPhone 17 Pro Max, and may weigh more at 240g, attributed to the increased battery size. These changes are expected to impact the model's weight and differentiate it further from the iPhone 18 Pro. Verification of these details is still pending due to the unconfirmed nature of the leaks.
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.
reMarkable releases Paper Pure tablet focused on distraction-free writing
reMarkable launched the Paper Pure tablet, designed for users seeking a distraction-free writing experience. Priced at $399, it features a revamped design, enhanced handwriting recognition, and calendar integration for streamlined note-taking.
Windows 11 struggles on Microsoft's Surface Laptop with 8GB RAM
Microsoft's updated Surface Laptop 13-inch now features 8GB of RAM, leading to performance issues with Windows 11. This model costs $950, notably higher than last year's version with 16GB RAM, highlighting concerns over RAM capacity in modern laptops.