Hardware · Top stories
Tesla and SpaceX to Build $16.8 Billion Terafab Chip Factory in Texas
Tesla and SpaceX announced an initial $16.8 billion investment to build "Terafab," an advanced chip factory in Grimes County, Texas. The facility, planned for over 100 million square feet, aims to produce AI inference processors and high-power processors to meet the future computing demands of both companies, including Tesla's Optimus robots and SpaceX's space-based data centers. The factory will be powered by natural gas plants and large battery arrays.
iPhone 18 Pro Production Faces Delays Due to DRAM Shortage, Impacting Availability
Production of Apple's iPhone 18 Pro is reportedly experiencing delays due to a DRAM shortage, affecting the packaging of the A20 Pro processors. This situation could lead to limited availability and longer wait times for the new device, with approximately $1 billion worth of processors awaiting DRAM delivery.
Samsung Unveils New Memory Technologies for AI and General Computing at FMS
Samsung introduced zHBM, zNAND-O, and BV-NAND memory technologies at the Future of Memory and Storage (FMS) conference. These advancements utilize wafer bonding to improve performance, density, and energy efficiency, primarily targeting AI data centers and specialized computing applications.
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.
Snap to Detail $2,195 AR Specs at September 16 Event
Snap will host an event on September 16 to provide an in-depth look at its standalone augmented reality glasses, Specs. The glasses, priced at $2,195, are expected to ship in the US, UK, and France this fall, with CEO Evan Spiegel demonstrating their features. Spiegel previously stated that mass-market adoption is not anticipated until closer to the end of the decade.
Asus Releases New ProArt Displays for Professional Content Creation
Asus has released two new ProArt displays: the 27-inch 4K PA27UCGE and the 32-inch 4K PA32UCDMR OLED monitor. The PA27UCGE features a 160Hz refresh rate and a built-in motorized colorimeter, while the PA32UCDMR offers a 240Hz refresh rate, Adaptive-Sync, and an included external calibrator. Both monitors are designed for photo and video editing professionals, offering high refresh rates and calibration tools.
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.
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.
Valve Clarifies Steam Machine Reservation Process and Releases CAD Files
Valve addressed concerns regarding Steam Machine reservation fulfillment, stating that waitlist individuals are not bypassing existing reservations and all current reservation holders are expected to receive an option to purchase by the end of 2026. The company also released CAD files for the Steam Machine's external shell under a Creative Commons license, allowing for custom accessory development.
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.
Nothing Denies Market Exit, Confirms Layoffs and AI Business Unit
Nothing cofounder Akis Evangelidis denied reports of the company exiting global markets and inaccurate sales figures for its Phone (4b), stating the device sold nearly 30,000 units on its first day. Evangelidis confirmed a reorganization of teams, including the creation of an AI-native business unit, which has impacted some positions, though the scale of reported layoffs was disputed.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.