Hardware · Top stories
Lenovo addresses Legion Go BIOS update issues causing blank screens
Lenovo has acknowledged reports of Legion Go devices experiencing blank screens after users installed BIOS version V42, which was not distributed through official channels. The company has removed the update from its support website and advises affected users to contact customer support if a power cycle does not resolve the issue.
Raspberry Pi Releases Official Cyberdeck Building Tutorial
Raspberry Pi has published an official guide for building a cyberdeck, a portable computer made from repurposed parts. This tutorial responds to the growing popularity of DIY cyberdecks on social media platforms.
Mophie Releases New PowerStation Plus Battery Banks with Integrated USB-C Cables
Mophie has introduced four new PowerStation Plus battery banks, available in 5000mAh and 10000mAh capacities, featuring integrated USB-C cables and 20W power output. These new power banks offer a portable charging solution with varying finishes and cable configurations, priced between $29.95 and $59.95.
Linkdaze launches smart digital calendar for household organization
Linkdaze has launched a smart digital calendar tablet designed for household organization, offering calendar synchronization from multiple services, chore tracking, and an AI meal planner. This device aims to consolidate family schedules and tasks without requiring a monthly subscription for core features, differentiating it from some competitors.
Modder uses 3D-printed block for direct-die liquid cooling on RTX 2060 Super, achieving 28°C
A modder successfully implemented a direct-die liquid cooling solution on an RTX 2060 Super GPU using a 3D-printed block, resulting in load temperatures of 28°C. This experimental method bypasses traditional metal water blocks by pumping coolant directly over the GPU silicon, demonstrating a novel approach to GPU cooling.
Maxell and Disk Union Rerelease UD-60U Cassette Tapes for Nostalgia and Vintage PC Use
Disk Union and Maxell have rereleased UD-60U cassette tapes in Japan, targeting nostalgic customers and users of vintage 8-bit home computers. These ferric tapes are suitable for data storage on devices like the C64 Datassette due to their formulation.
Thermalright Releases Fan Frame Vision-1, a Clip-On LCD for 120mm PC Fans
Thermalright has released the Fan Frame Vision-1, a magnetic clip-on accessory that adds a 3.69-inch IPS display to most standard 120mm PC fans. This device allows users to display custom themes and information, connecting via USB 2.0 and integrating with Thermalright's TRCC software.
Storage unit auction yields retro Pentium 4 PC with unique UV-reactive PSU
A storage unit auction winner discovered a retro Pentium 4 PC featuring an Apevia X-Superalien case and a UV-reactive, see-through Apevia ATX-AS500W power supply, alongside a large quantity of other computer components. This find highlights Y2K-era PC aesthetics and component design, offering a glimpse into past hardware trends.
Gamer discovers factory plastic on RTX 3070 VRM pads, causing overheating and black screens
A Gigabyte RTX 3070 Gaming OC owner found protective film on the VRM thermal pads of their GPU after nearly five years of use, leading to overheating and system instability. Removing the film and repasting the core reduced GPU hotspot temperatures by 30°C and improved stability. This incident highlights a potential quality control oversight that can cause long-term performance issues and component degradation.
Amazon customer receives empty AMD Ryzen 5 9600X boxes in back-to-back scam
A New York-based computer repair store, PC Plug, received empty AMD Ryzen 5 9600X CPU boxes twice in three days after ordering from a third-party seller on Amazon. The store, which spends approximately $10,000 monthly on Amazon hardware, documented the incidents with unboxing videos and is concerned about the impact on their Amazon account.
SanDisk Optimus GX C50 Expansion Cards for Xbox Series X|S Now Available on Amazon
SanDisk has released its Optimus GX C50 storage expansion cards for Xbox Series X|S on Amazon, providing an alternative to Seagate's previously exclusive offerings. These cards allow direct gameplay from expanded storage, addressing the limited options available since the consoles' launch.
Apple reportedly planning return of ceramic Apple Watch as soon as this year
Bloomberg's Mark Gurman reports that Apple is planning to reintroduce a ceramic Apple Watch model, potentially as early as this year. This would mark the return of a premium material option last seen in 2019 with the Apple Watch Edition Series 5.
Pixel's 'Flip to Shhh' feature is broken for some users across multiple models
Google Pixel users from Pixel 7 to Pixel 10 models are reporting that the "Flip to Shhh" feature, which silences notifications when the phone is placed face down, is no longer working or available. The issue appears to be related to conflicting Digital Wellbeing versions, with no definitive fix currently available.
Leaked image suggests minimal design changes for Samsung Galaxy Tab S12 Ultra
A leaked image of Samsung's upcoming Galaxy Tab S12 Ultra indicates that its external design will be largely identical to its predecessor, the Tab S11 Ultra. This suggests that any significant upgrades will likely be internal, such as a new chipset or operating system.
RayNeo Introduces iO Smart Glasses and GT Series AR Glasses
RayNeo announced two new AR smart glasses: the minimalist iO Smart Glasses and the maximalist GT Series. The iO Smart Glasses prioritize discreet integration and AI features for daily use, while the GT Series focuses on immersive media consumption.
Genki Launches Manta Controller with Integrated Screen and Extensive Customization
Genki has launched the Manta, a new customizable controller featuring a 2.9-inch LCD screen and adjustable buttons, via a Kickstarter campaign. The Manta offers deep customization for game profiles, thumbstick response, haptic feedback, button remapping, and macro creation, powered by a Raspberry Pi RP2350 microcontroller. This device provides players with extensive control over their gaming experience through hardware and software adjustments.
Pixel 11 Series Removes "Powered by Android" Boot Logo, Replaced by Gemini Intelligence Branding
The new Pixel 11 lineup no longer displays the "Powered by Android" boot logo, instead featuring branding related to Gemini Intelligence. This change reflects Google's increased focus on Gemini in its Pixel device marketing and development efforts.
Seasonic Launches Prime Enterprise RX-1600, First 80 Plus Ruby ATX Power Supply
Seasonic introduced the Prime Enterprise RX-1600, the first ATX power supply to achieve 80 Plus Ruby certification, offering 1600W and up to 95.4% efficiency. This development provides a new high-efficiency option for demanding desktop, workstation, and AI systems, potentially reducing power consumption in such setups.
BluHub 9-in-1 Blu-ray drive and dock exceeds Kickstarter funding goal by 160x
A Kickstarter campaign for the BluHub, a 9-in-1 Blu-ray read/write drive with docking capabilities, has surpassed its funding goal by 160 times. The device combines optical media functionality with extensive port options, appealing to users seeking a versatile media and connectivity hub.
G.Skill Settles Class Action Lawsuit for $2.4M Over Misleading RAM Speed Advertising
G.Skill has begun distributing payments from a $2.4 million class action settlement regarding claims of misleading advertising for DDR4 and DDR5 memory speeds. The lawsuit alleged that G.Skill did not clearly state that overclocking was required to achieve advertised speeds, and the settlement includes payouts to eligible customers and a commitment to update product packaging with clear disclaimers.
Modder integrates Switch 2 Joy-Con internals into original Wii Remote shells
A modder successfully transplanted Switch 2 Joy-Con components into Wii Remote shells, creating custom controllers that magnetically attach to a Switch 2 and function in games. This modification demonstrates the technical feasibility of integrating newer console hardware into older controller designs, offering a unique aesthetic and form factor for Switch 2 users.
Counterpoint Research Predicts Wearables Market to Exceed $1 Trillion by 2032
A new report from Counterpoint Research forecasts that the consumer wearables market will generate over $1 trillion in cumulative revenue through 2032, with smartwatches and wireless earbuds leading the growth. This projection indicates a significant expansion in the wearables sector, driven by health-focused features and integration with smartphone ecosystems.
reMarkable Paper Pro can run Android 13 with user modification
A YouTuber successfully ported Android 13 to the reMarkable Paper Pro, an e-paper tablet originally running a proprietary OS. This modification allows the tablet to access Android applications like Kindle, expanding its functionality beyond its original design.
Pixel 11 Features Stronger Pixelsnap Magnets Compared to Pixel 10
The Pixel 11 series incorporates stronger Pixelsnap magnets, improving accessory attachment reliability compared to its predecessor, the Pixel 10. This enhancement addresses a previous weakness and brings the magnetic connection closer to the strength of Apple's MagSafe system.
Leaked "Moto Snap" magnetic wireless charger suggests broader Qi2 adoption by Motorola
Images of a "Moto Snap" magnetic wireless charger have leaked, indicating Motorola may expand Qi2 magnetic wireless charging beyond its Edge 70 Max smartphone. This development could bring the Qi2 standard to more devices in Motorola's product line.
Mova Launches V70 Ultra Complete Robot Vacuum with Articulating Mop Arm
Mova, a sub-brand of Dreame, has launched the V70 Ultra Complete robot vacuum and mop, featuring an articulating mop arm and an extending side brush. This design allows the robot to clean hard-to-reach areas like under and around furniture legs, addressing a common limitation of robot vacuums.
Thermal Grizzly Sells Delidded Ryzen 9 9950X3D2 Dual Edition for $1,403
Thermal Grizzly is selling a delidded version of AMD's Ryzen 9 9950X3D2 Dual Edition processor for $1,402.83, which is over $500 more than the standard version. This offering includes post-delidding testing, a USB stick with results, and a 24-month worldwide warranty, addressing the voided AMD warranty.
MicroSD Card Endurance Test Writes 133 Petabytes Across 351 Cards Over Three Years
A tech enthusiast has conducted a three-year endurance test on 351 microSD cards, writing 133 petabytes of data to determine longevity. The testing revealed that consumer-grade cards averaged 10,000 program/verify/erase cycles, with PNY, Kingston, Delkin Devices, Lexar, and Samsung performing well.
ICE Prohibits Employees from Wearing Meta Smart Glasses Due to Privacy Concerns
Immigrations and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has issued a memo prohibiting its employees from wearing Meta smart glasses or similar devices while working. This policy aims to prevent unintentional capture or transmission of sensitive information, addressing privacy and legal protection concerns.
Nova Lake CPUs with disabled E-cores may retain full L3 cache, increasing predicted cache sizes
New leaks suggest Intel's upcoming Nova Lake CPUs with partially disabled E-core clusters will retain their full L3 cache pool, contrary to earlier rumors. This change means certain configurations, like the 8+12+4 and 4+4+4, are now predicted to have larger L3 cache amounts than previously expected, potentially affecting performance for some midrange SKUs.
Google Nest Hub Devices Experienced Widespread Outage Overnight
Google's Nest Hub devices experienced a widespread outage last night, causing voice commands and routines to fail, and screens to go blank. The issue has since been resolved, but Google has not provided details on the cause.
Adata XPG Novakey RGB DDR5-6000 C30 Memory Kit Released with Recycled Materials
Adata has released the XPG Novakey RGB DDR5-6000 C30 memory kit, featuring a new "Infinity Mirror" design and construction from 50% recycled aluminum and 85% post-consumer recycled plastic. This new memory offering provides consumers with another option in the DDR5 market, emphasizing both aesthetics and sustainability in its design.
Hydra Overclocking Tool Updates for RTX 50-Series GPUs with VRAM and Power Limit Controls
The Hydra overclocking application, developed by 1usmus, has been updated to version 2.3B, adding VRAM overclocking and power limit controls for Nvidia's RTX 50-series GPUs. This update allows for memory offsets up to +3000MHz and power limit adjustments to 125%, enabling users to push GDDR7 memory speeds to 36 Gbps.
Best Buy 'repairs' customer's 64GB laptop by removing half its RAM, claiming 32GB maximum
A Best Buy Geek Squad technician 'repaired' a customer's 64GB Lenovo gaming laptop by removing one 32GB RAM stick, stating the unit only accepts a maximum of 32GB RAM, despite the laptop being sold by Best Buy in a 64GB configuration. This action left the customer with half the original memory and raises concerns about warranty repair practices.
Analogue Pocket Handheld Gets Supreme-Branded Red and Gold Versions
Analogue and Supreme are collaborating to release special edition red and gold metallic versions of the Analogue Pocket handheld as part of Supreme's fall/winter 2026 collection. This collaboration introduces a luxury fashion element to a niche gaming device, primarily impacting collectors and enthusiasts of both brands.
Google's Tensor G6 chip for Pixel 11 uses TSMC's 3nm process, not 2nm as rumored
Google's upcoming Tensor G6 chip, set to debut in the Pixel 11, will be manufactured using TSMC's 3nm process, contrary to earlier rumors of it being the first 2nm smartphone chip. This clarification from Google's VP of Hardware confirms the process node for the new chip, which includes CPU, TPU, ISP, and security chip upgrades.
Open Sauce 2026 Maker Festival Showcases New 3D Printing Technologies
The Open Sauce 2026 maker festival featured new 3D printing technologies, including a foldable 3D printer, a non-planar 5-axis 3D printer, and new models from Prusa Research. These innovations demonstrate ongoing development in compact, advanced, and professional 3D printing solutions within the maker community.
Maker compresses 2.9MB song to 21KB using AI codec, prints it on paper as QR codes
A maker named Makestreme used Meta's EnCodec neural audio codec to compress a 2.9MB MP3 song to 21KB, then printed it across eight QR codes on paper. This project demonstrates extreme audio compression using AI and explores novel data storage and transfer methods, though playback relies on the specific neural network decoder.
EPFL Researchers Develop 3D-Printed Sound-Powered Engines for Silent Micro-Drones
Researchers at EPFL's MICROBS lab have developed 3D-printed sound-powered engines that use resonant frequencies to generate thrust, enabling silent micro-drones and a boat. This technology demonstrates a novel method for propulsion using acoustic resonators, potentially leading to new types of robotic matter and silent flying devices.
Modern OLED TVs show similar burn-in to 2017 models after 10,000 hours, but are brighter and more efficient
A longevity test by Rtings.com found that OLED TVs from 2020-2023 exhibit similar burn-in to a 2017 model after 10,000 hours of simulated news channel usage. While burn-in susceptibility remains, newer OLEDs offer significantly higher brightness and improved power efficiency, which can extend their effective lifespan by mitigating burn-in effects in typical use.