Hardware · Top stories
Meta updates smart glasses to disable camera if privacy light tampered
Meta is releasing a mandatory update for its smart glasses that disables the camera if the privacy LED is tampered with. This initiative addresses privacy concerns and misuse incidents involving covert recording. The update coincides with reports of new Meta glasses that may continuously record without a privacy light, raising further privacy issues.
Nvidia Introduces Vera CPU, Targets AI Data Center Needs
Nvidia's new Vera CPU, designed for single-threaded performance, is positioned to enhance AI operations in data centers, challenging AMD and Intel. It reflects a strategic shift toward AI-specific CPU design, promising improved efficiency for AI workloads.
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.
Garmin Launches Screen-Free Cirqa Fitness Tracker for $199.99
Garmin has unveiled the Cirqa, a $199.99 screen-free fitness tracker offering extensive health monitoring without subscription fees. The device tracks metrics such as heart rate, blood oxygen levels, and skin temperature with a 10-day battery life. It competes with subscription-based products from Whoop and Fitbit, offering connections to the Garmin Connect app for additional insights.
Intel Partners With Fortinet for SP6 Chip Development on Intel 4 Technology
Intel and Fortinet have entered a strategic collaboration to develop Fortinet's Security Processor 6 (SP6) using Intel's 4 nm process. Fortinet becomes Intel's first named external silicon customer for the Intel 4 node, marking a significant development for Intel's foundry business. This collaboration strengthens the relationship between semiconductor manufacturing and cybersecurity, with Intel showcasing its foundry capabilities under CEO Lip-Bu Tan.
Halliday's Second-Generation Smart Glasses Aim to Improve User Experience
Halliday has released its second-generation smart glasses, addressing previous display issues with improved waveguide technology. These new glasses come without a camera and feature a separate display for each eye, targeting work meetings as their primary use case. Halliday learned from its first-generation criticisms to enhance the viewing experience.
TSMC Plans 5-10% Chip Production Price Hike amid AI Demand and Rising Costs
TSMC plans to increase chip production prices by 5% to 10% starting next year, citing rising demand for AI processors and material costs. This move, affecting both advanced and mature technologies, follows Apple's recent product price hikes due to increased memory costs, potentially impacting future Apple device prices.
SK Hynix Raises $26.5B in Historic U.S. IPO Amid AI Memory Demand
SK Hynix raised $26.5 billion through a Nasdaq IPO, marking the largest-ever U.S. debut for a foreign company. The South Korean chipmaker, capitalizing on AI-driven demand for memory chips, issued American depositary receipts priced at $149 each. This significant capital influx will support expansions to address global memory shortages.
OpenAI Launches $230 Codex Micro Keyboard for AI Coding Assistants
OpenAI has introduced the Codex Micro, a $230 RGB-lit mini-keyboard designed in collaboration with Work Louder to enhance user interaction with Codex AI agents. The device features color-coded keys for live feedback, a joystick, and rotary controls to streamline coding tasks. The Codex Micro represents OpenAI's first foray into branded hardware as the company faces a separate legal battle with Apple.
Google Pixel 11 Series Leaks Reveal New Colors, Pixel Glow Feature and Pricing
Ahead of its August 12 launch, Google's Pixel 11 series leaks reveal new color options like 'Pine' and 'Fuchsia' and introduce the 'Pixel Glow' feature, a multi-colored LED light integrated in the camera bar. The leaks include design changes for the Pixel 11 Pro Fold with a narrower camera bar and price increases of approximately €100. This matters as Google shifts its strategy in the competitive smartphone market.
xMEMS introduces tiny cooling fan designed for smart glasses
xMEMS launched the XMC-1200, a micro cooling fan designed for integration into smart glasses. It aims to enhance performance and comfort by enabling better heat dissipation in future wearable devices.
Glorious GHS InfinitePlay Features Hot-Swappable Batteries Without Downtime
The Glorious GHS InfinitePlay wireless headset offers a unique hot-swappable battery system that allows for seamless battery replacement without audio interruption. Priced at $229.99, it competes effectively with higher-end models by providing a fallback battery for continued performance during swaps.
LG Monitors Trigger Unwanted McAfee Ads on Windows PCs
LG monitors, when connected to Windows PCs, can trigger automatic installation of software promoting McAfee, without user consent. This occurs through the LG Monitor App Installer, leading to privacy concerns and user complaints about unwarranted pop-up ads. Such behavior reflects broader issues of unsolicited software installs linked to hardware.
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.
DIY mod replaces RTX 4060 fan cooling with a 5.5-pound heatsink
A gamer has created a passive cooling system for the RTX 4060 by attaching a 5.5-pound aluminum heatsink. This mod aims to eliminate fan noise, offering a quieter experience, though the GPU power draw seems atypical for passive cooling. As enthusiast interest in silent systems grows, this DIY approach highlights alternative cooling methods despite potential accuracy concerns in reported metrics.
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.
Leaked Renders Reveal Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 8, Z Fold 8, and Watch Ultra 2 Designs and Specs
Leaked renders and specifications for Samsung's Galaxy Z Flip 8, Z Fold 8, and Watch Ultra 2 have been revealed ahead of their official launch on July 22. The Flip 8 shows minimal design changes from the Flip 7 but features new color options and an Exynos 2600 chipset. The Z Fold 8 introduces a wider form factor, and the Watch Ultra 2 sees a notable battery and brightness upgrade, shifting from Exynos to Qualcomm's Snapdragon chip.
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.
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.
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.
Apple to Redesign Entry-Level MacBook Pro for 2027 with Touchscreen
Apple is planning a redesign of the entry-level MacBook Pro, aligning with higher-end models and potentially featuring a touchscreen, expected in early 2027. The redesign will also incorporate elements like a slimmer form factor and the dynamic island feature. This move is part of broader updates including new iPad Pro models focusing on performance improvements.
Meta Develops Ultra-Narrow Steel-Can Batteries for Smart Glasses
Meta has engineered new steel-can batteries for smart glasses, achieving widths of 7mm. This innovation allows for better energy efficiency and performance in tight spaces, addressing limitations of traditional battery types.
TSMC Expands Arizona Chip Plant Plans with $100 Billion Investment
TSMC announced plans to invest an additional $100 billion in its Arizona operations, potentially expanding from eight to 12 chip plants. This move is driven by the growing demand for AI chips and seeks to establish a domestic supply chain. However, the feasibility of advanced chip production for new devices remains uncertain.
Apple Seeks Approval to Source RAM from Blacklisted Chinese Supplier CXMT
Apple is testing and seeking approval to use RAM chips from ChangXin Memory Technologies (CXMT), a blacklisted Chinese supplier, for its devices sold in China. This move is part of Apple's strategy to alleviate supply chain pressures amid rising RAM prices. The situation highlights ongoing geopolitical tensions and security concerns regarding U.S.-China tech relations.
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.
Xteink Releases X4 Pro, a Compact E-Reader with Touchscreen and Front Light
Xteink has launched the X4 Pro, an upgraded compact e-reader featuring a touchscreen and front light. This new model aims to improve usability, addressing feedback on previous versions. While still facing software limitations compared to competitors, it offers increased portability and will support custom firmware from CrossPoint Reader.
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.
Nintendo Switch 2 Discounts: $399 at Woot and $449.99 with Free Game at Amazon
The Nintendo Switch 2 console is currently available at a discounted price on different platforms. Woot offers it for $399 for new customers and $427 for returning customers, while Amazon sells it at $449.99, including a free digital game. This is significant as the console's price is set to rise to $499.99 in September.
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.
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.
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.
Zilog Z80 Processor Celebrates 50th Anniversary Amid Transition to Open-Source Replica
The Zilog Z80 processor, launched in July 1976, reached its 50th anniversary. Known for its role in 8-bit computing, it was discontinued in 2024 by its current owner, Littelfuse. An open-source replacement, funded by the community, will soon be available in the original DIP40 package.
Apple Ramps Up Production of Foldable iPhone Ultra Amid High Demand
Apple plans to increase production of its first foldable iPhone, tentatively named 'iPhone Ultra', to 10 million units for its scheduled launch in September 2026. This adjustment from initial estimates reflects rising demand expectations despite potential supply constraints. The phone's price is expected to be between $2300 and $2500, influencing the broader foldable market. Apple aims to release multiple iPhone models by 2027, navigating component shortages via expanded sourcing arrangements.
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.
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.