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  Wednesday, February 5th 2025 Today's Reviews
  
  Cases - MSI MAG Pano 100L PZ Think Computers
  
  Graphics Cards - Inno3D iChill RTX 5080 X3 Tweaktown
• Colorful iGame RTX 5080 Ultra OC Tweaktown
• MSI RTX 5090 SUPRIM Liquid SOC Guru3D
• MSI RTX 5090 SUPRIM SOC KitGuru
  
  Headphones - NZXT Capsule Elite Microphone Basic Tutorials (de)
  
  Keyboards - Endorfy Thock Wireless Pudding Onyx White OverClocked Inside (de)
• NZXT Function Elite MiniTKL ComputerBase (de)
  
  Monitors - Philips Envia 49M2C8900L NikkTech
  
  PSUs - Lian Li Edge Gold EG1200G HardwareInside.de (de)
  
  Speakers - Adam Audio D3V Cowcotland (fr)
  
  Boulies Launches the Master Rex Ergonomic Chair
  
  Press Release by Nomad76 Today, 16:22 Discuss (0 Comments) UK based premium office and gaming chair specialist, Boulies, today announces the arrival of its newest chair, the Master Rex. Following on from the best-selling Master Chair, the new Master Rex features an ergonomic design and is built for use for work, leisure and gaming. Featuring upgrades such as a built-in leg rest for added comfort and an Enhanced Stable Tilt Mechanism for outstanding stability and durability, it ensures a secure and comfortable experience.
  
  The Boulies Master Rex offers unparalleled sitting comfort, whether working hard, gaming or relaxing. Designed with adjustable features and a sleek, modern aesthetic, it provides ergonomic support whilst blending with a home or office seamlessly. With an integrated leg rest, the Master Rex ensures pressure-free reclining for added relaxation. The built-in lumbar support also helps to promote better posture and boost productivity thanks to it being customizable with an up and down adjustment that allows users to fine-tune the lumbar support to precisely align with the spine's natural curvature. Whether requiring a higher or lower level of support, this chair allows users to customize to exact specifications to ensure it is adapted to the individual. Read full story
  
  NVIDIA DLSS Available in Kingdom Come: Deliverance II, FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH, The First Berserker: Khazan and More Games
  
  Press Release by GFreeman Today, 16:02 Discuss (1 Comment) More than 700 games and applications feature RTX technologies, and each week new games integrating NVIDIA DLSS, NVIDIA Reflex, and advanced ray-traced effects are released or announced, delivering the definitive PC experience for GeForce RTX players. This week, you can check out 6 new DLSS-enhanced games including Kingdom Come: Deliverance II, The First Berserker: Khazan, NINJA GAIDEN 2 Black, Ambulance Life: A Paramedic Simulator, FINAL FANTASY VII REBIRTH, and Level Zero: Extraction.
  
  And DLSS 4 is now available, a major upgrade to our much-loved suite of technologies. DLSS Multi Frame Generation is introduced, multiplying performance on GeForce RTX 50 Series GPUs. DLSS Frame Generation's new AI model is faster and uses less VRAM. DLSS Resolution, DLSS Ray Reconstruction, and DLAA are upgraded to new, incredible transformer AI models that dramatically enhance image quality. And via the aforementioned NVIDIA app overrides, you can apply these enhancements to many of your games and apps. The complete suite of DLSS 4 upgrades, including DLSS 4 with Multi Frame Generation, are now available in Alan Wake 2, Cyberpunk 2077, and Hogwarts Legacy, and Star Wars Outlaws adds support soon. Read full story
  
  This $50 Bundle Gives You the Full Coding Package
  
  Deal by btarunr Today, 15:52 If you want to learn to code, then take a look at this bundle that pairs Microsoft Visual Studio Pro 2022 with the 2025 Premium Learn to Code Certification Bundle. It's a comprehensive introduction to programming paired with an industry-standard tool for mobile and desktop app development. It's on sale for $49.97.
  
  Visual Studio Pro is a 64-bit IDE from Microsoft that handles larger workloads and supports multiple languages and platforms. It's ideal for cross-platform app development with.NET MAUI and web UI creation using Blazor. It also supports development, debugging, and testing for.NET and C++ apps on Linux.
  
  A lifetime license for Microsoft Visual Studio Pro 2022 and Lifetime Access to the 2025 Premium Learn to Code Certification Bundle is now available for $49.97 (reg. $1,999). Read full story
  
  AGON by AOC Launches New G42 Monitor Series
  
  Press Release by GFreeman Today, 15:42 Discuss (0 Comments) AGON by AOC - the world's leading gaming monitor brand - announces the new G42 series of gaming monitors under the mainstream AOC GAMING category, comprising the 23.8-inch (60.5 cm) 24G42E, 24.5-inch (62.2 cm) 25G42E, and 27-inch (68.6 cm) 27G42E. These new models are equipped with the latest-generation Fast IPS panels, which can deliver 180 Hz refresh rates and up to 1 ms GtG response times, making competitive-grade gaming performance more accessible than ever before. Today, thanks to the G42 series, gamers shouldn't settle with monitors below 180 Hz, triple of the common 60 Hz standard.
  
  Making high performance the new standard Building upon the success of AOC GAMING's G4 series, which includes the fully ergonomic G4X models and the pared-down G4XE variants, the new G42 series further streamlines the formula to bring 180 Hz gaming to an even broader audience. Read full story
  
  AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D CPU Accounts for Almost 90% of "Zen 5" Sales, Rest of 9000 Series in Trouble
  
  by AleksandarK Today, 14:01 Discuss (23 Comments) Based on the MindFactory sales data for January 2025, employment we have seen AMD push a significant share of sales and revenue at the German PC hardware store. However, an interesting observation lies in the details. AMD's Ryzen 7 9800X3D CPU was the best-selling SKU at 8,390 units sold. An entire AM5 platform recorded sales of 18,410 units, which puts the eight-core X3D SKU on the top, with 46% of consumers on the AM5 platform going with this CPU. The rest of the AMD Ryzen 9000 series performed poorly, with other SKUs reaching only up to 3% of AM5 socket sales. This means that out of 100% "Zen 5" units sold, the leading Ryzen 7 9800X3D SKU captured 87% of sales. The AMD Ryzen 9000 series is performing exceptionally only due to its only available AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D SKU selling 46% of the AM5 volume.
  
  Among standard Ryzen 9000 series SKUs, the Ryzen 7 9700X achieved 640 units in sales, while the Ryzen 5 9600X, Ryzen 9 9950X, and Ryzen 9 9900X recorded 250, 230, and 180 units respectively. These figures suggest significantly lower market penetration for non-X3D variants in the retail channel. The data points to a clear market preference for gaming-optimized processors, indicating AMD's strategic focus on X3D variants-despite their higher manufacturing costs and retail premiums-is likely to continue. While MindFactory's sales data represents just one retailer in the German market, the overwhelming consumer preference for the 9800X3D over standard Zen 5 SKUs signals that consumers are ready to pay a premium for more performance and that the X3D effect reflects positively on the sales.
  
  AMD CPUs had 92% Market Share at German PC Hardware Retailer in January
  
  by AleksandarK Today, 12:46 Discuss (34 Comments) German PC hardware retailer MindFactory sold an astonishing 25,625 AMD and Intel CPUs in January 2025. However, an honor falls to AMD this time, as Team Red has managed to capture as much as 92.16% (23,615) of all units sold by this retailer. Not only did it leave Intel with 7.84% (2010) of total units sold, AMD also beat Intel in average selling price, where AMD managed to keep ASP at 320 Euros, while Intel buyers were considering some less expensive CPU SKUs at 290 Euros. This has resulted in AMD's revenue share recording 93.45% at 8,300,674 Euros, while Intel left a smaller mark at 6.55% or 581,959 Euros. The best-selling CPU was AMD's Ryzen 7 9800X3D, sold in 8,390 units in January.
  
  A detailed analysis of socket distribution reveals AMD's AM5 platform's overwhelming dominance, securing 18,410 units or 71.84% of total sales. The mature AM4 platform maintains a significant market presence with 5,205 units (20.31%), showing strong continued demand for AMD's previous-generation socket. Intel's LGA 1700, compatible with 12/13/14th generation processors, accounted for 1,745 units (6.81%), while their older platforms showed minimal market penetration. The LGA 1851 socket, supporting Intel's latest Core Ultra 200S processors, managed just 185 units (0.72%), with legacy LGA 1200 and LGA 1151 sockets trailing at 55 (0.21%) and 25 (0.1%) units respectively. AMD's latest platform market performance suggests strong consumer confidence in AM5's upgrade path and performance capabilities. This dramatic market share capture by AMD represents one of the most significant shifts in the desktop CPU market in recent years, particularly notable given the higher average selling prices at which AMD CPUs are now sold.
  
  Elgato Releases the Wave Link 2.0 Audio Management Software
  
  Press Release by btarunr Today, 08:40 Discuss (0 Comments) Elgato is proud to unveil Wave Link 2.0, the latest evolution of its powerful audio management software, which introduces incredible new features and major quality-of-life improvements. Highlights include Voice Focus, an integrated tool that ensures crisp vocals in any space, and One-Click Audio Routing for easy setup and customization. Overall, Wave Link 2.0 redefines audio management by addressing several universal challenges content creators and digital professionals face.
  
  Voice Focus, a tool developed in collaboration with ai|coustics, brings cutting-edge vocal enhancements to Elgato Wave mic and audio interface users. By leveraging ai|coustics' advanced machine learning technology, the tool removes unwanted noise, room reverb, and echo-while isolating the user's voice and elevating it to professional quality standards. Designed for users who may not have the knowledge or patience to configure audio effects, Voice Focus delivers studio-grade results in seconds. Whether streaming, podcasting, or meeting, everyone sounds professional-even in spaces with poor acoustics. Read full story
  
  Razer Unveils Razer Wolverine V3 Controller Product Line in White
  
  Press Release by T0@st Today, 03:05 Discuss (5 Comments) Razer, the leading global lifestyle brand for gamers, today announced the Razer Wolverine V3 Pro and Wolverine V3 Tournament Edition, its premium Xbox controllers, are now available in a stunning new White colorway. White brings a fresh new look to Razer's latest Pro controllers for the perfect blend of elegance and performance. The new lineup appeals to the competitive console and PC gamers who want a clean look to match their gaming setups.
  
  Combining lightning-fast inputs, optimization for esports, and tournament-ready performance, the White Wolverine V3 lineup will allow players to express their individual style without compromising their competitive edge. Stay one step, one shot, and employment one level above the competition with the Razer Wolverine V3 Pro-the definitive wireless esports controller. Officially licensed by Xbox, play like the world's best on console and PC with speed, control, and precision that helps you clutch up for the win. Read full story
  
  AMD Reports Fiscal Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2024 Financial Results
  
  Press Release by Nomad76 Today, 02:53 Discuss (36 Comments) AMD today announced financial results for the fourth quarter and full year of 2024. Fourth quarter revenue was a record $7.7 billion, gross margin was 51%, operating income was $871 million, net income was $482 million and diluted earnings per share was $0.29. On a non-GAAP basis, gross margin was 54%, operating income was a record $2.0 billion, net income was a record $1.8 billion and diluted earnings per share was $1.09.
  
  For the full year 2024, AMD reported record revenue of $25.8 billion, gross margin of 49%, operating income of $1.9 billion, net income of $1.6 billion, and diluted earnings per share of $1.00. On a non-GAAP basis, gross margin was a record 53%, operating income was $6.1 billion, net income was $5.4 billion and diluted earnings per share was $3.31. Read full story
  
  Audio-Technica Intros ATH-R70xa & ATH-R50x Professional Open-back Headphone Models
  
  Press Release by T0@st Today, 01:28 Discuss (11 Comments) Audio-Technica, a leading innovator in transducer technology for over 60 years, is expanding its headphone offerings with the new R-Series line of professional open-back models. The former flagship ATH-R70x has been upgraded to the new ATH-R70xa, and is joined by the new ATH-R50x.
  
  ATH-R70xa The ATH-R70xa is Audio-Technica's new flagship pair of professional open-back reference headphones. Whether mixing, mastering, or creating, the ATH-R70xa is the perfect production tool, delivering accurate and dependable reference across stereo, surround, and immersive formats. This enhanced version of the ATH-R70x delivers the natural and balanced sound of its predecessor but with refined accuracy and detail, providing a heightened listening experience with precise imaging and depth for realistic sound staging. While the ATH-R70x utilized damping and its acoustic design for added low-frequency emphasis, the fully open-back sound of the ATH-R70xa relies solely on the performance of the driver-each diaphragm movement translates directly into sound without reliance on acoustic cavities or resonance for frequency enhancement and minimizing distortion. Read full story
  
  Criterion Completely Focused on Next Battlefield, EA Boss Foresees Revival of Need for Speed Series
  
  by T0@st Today, 01:16 Discuss (12 Comments) During yesterday's "Battlefield Labs" announcement, Electronic Arts revealed the full extent of its international multi-team development setup-dubbed "Battlefield Studios." According to their recent presentation, franchise originator-DICE (Stockholm)-is working alongside Ripple Effect (formerly DICE Los Angeles), Motive (Montreal) and Criterion (Guildford). EA's British studio is best known for its past work-most notably (going back nearly twenty-five years ago) the Burnout series and newer Need for Speed titles. The Surrey-based outfit appears to be completely devoted to working on the next Battlefield entry's single-player component-older press releases hinted about a new Need for Speed project. Around autumn 2023, Vince Zampella (Battlefield franchise overseer) announced that the majority of Criterion's team had shifted over to working on a next-gen Battlefield title, while a smaller "core group" would: "continue on what's next for Need for Speed."
  
  Almost a year ago, Criterion and EA celebrated the Need for Speed franchise's thirtieth anniversary-a press release focused mainly on roadmapped content for Need for Speed Unbound (2022). The game was updated with a final chunk of post-release content last November. Eurogamer took it upon themselves to investigate Criterion's current internal formation, given that support duties have concluded on the NFS Unbound project. The online publication received a response from EA's top-most Battlefield developer. Zampella said in a statement to Eurogamer: "the Need for Speed team at Criterion are joining their colleagues working on Battlefield...As a company, it was important to us to take the last year to listen to our Need for Speed community and use their feedback to create content for Unbound...With an increased understanding of what our players want in a Need for Speed experience, we plan to bring the franchise back in new and interesting ways."
  
  Plasma Technology Doubles Etch Rate for 3D NAND Flash Memory
  
  by Nomad76 Today, 01:14 Discuss (3 Comments) Scientists have made a big step forward in data storage technology, they've managed to improve the manufacturing process for 3D NAND flash memory. This type of storage technology stacks memory cells on top of each other to obtain higher data density. A team of experts from Lam Research, the University of Colorado Boulder, and Princeton Plasma Physics Lab came up with a better way to etch (the process of carving holes into alternating layers of silicon oxide and silicon nitride) by using hydrogen fluoride plasma. This new method cuts vertical channels through silicon-based materials twice as fast as before achieving 640 nanometers in just one minute.
  
  The team found out that mixing in certain chemicals like phosphorus trifluoride helps the etching process. They also learned that some byproducts can slow down etching, but adding water can help fix this problem. "The salt can decompose at a lower temperature when water is present, which can accelerate etching", said Yuri Barsukov, a former PPPL researcher now working at Lam Research. This breakthrough is important as the need for data storage received a huge boost with the rise of AI programs, that need tons of storage. Read full story
  
  Helldivers 2: Servants of Freedom Warbond DLC Launches on February 6
  
  Press Release by T0@st Today, 00:21 Discuss (0 Comments) Let's be honest, Helldivers: Super Earth is worth it. No matter what "it" is. All Helldivers share this belief, and fanatical loyalty is expected from all citizens of Super Earth. But the Helldivers need to demonstrate their allegiance. They need to look like the democratic disciples they are inside, and the only way we know to properly show it off is with the gear from our next Warbond: Servants of Freedom which launches on February 6.
  
  So what does true devotion to Democracy look like? Hellbombs. It looks like Hellbombs. They really send a message: liberation is big, loud, and happening all around you. It gets the spirit of democracy soaring, and gets a lot of other things soaring, too, like buildings, Bile Titans, and Automaton industrial sites. Now, imagine you've got that kind of freedom strapped to your back. That's the B-100 Portable Hellbomb, a beacon of democratic truth in a convenient backpack format, which can be easily activated by you or a helpful teammate. Just be sure to drop the pack and clear the area once it's active, because the B-100's got a ten-second countdown that can't be canceled. Read full story
  
  ZOTAC GeForce RTX 5090 SOLID OC on Auction in China, Apparently Sourced from S. Korea
  
  by T0@st Today, 00:12 Discuss (4 Comments) A South Korea-based hardware enthusiast-Harukaze5719-has discovered a curious listing of ZOTAC's GeForce RTX 5090 SOLID OC model on a Chinese auction site (asking price: ~$4175 USD). This finding was shared with their audience, via a social media post-a screenshot was accompanied by harukaze5719's short and succinct message: "OMG..." Officially, NVIDIA and its board partners cater to the Chinese hardware market with a restricted variant of the flagship "Blackwell" GPU-GeForce RTX 5090D. Despite under-the-hood nerfing, this region-exclusive model still offers enviable performance (when pushed).
  
  The "full fat" GeForce RTX 5090 GPU appears to be an even hotter commodity-with demand (at launch) exceeding far exceeding supply. ZOTAC's South Korean branch warned potential customers about difficult conditions almost two weeks ahead of Blackwell's market debut on January 30. Harukaze5719 has likely expressed semi-personal frustration over apparent South Korea market-destined ZOTAC stock turning up for sale in China. So-called "Chinese GPU shopping tourists" could have made the journey to a South Korean PC hardware store, with their sole objective being the acquisition of GeForce RTX 5090 graphics cards. Tom's Hardware has gathered various related tidbits from Japanese and Taiwanese news sources-where local TV coverage explored the events of last week's launch event.
  
  Read full story
  
  Tuesday, February 4th 2025 Today's Reviews
  
  CPU Coolers - DeepCool LQ360 Overclocking.com (fr)
  
  Graphics Cards - MSI RTX 5090 SUPRIM Liquid SOC Tweaktown
  
  Headphones - 1MORE Fit Open Earbuds S70 APH Networks
• Dan Clark Audio NOIRE X Closed-Back Headphones TechPowerUp
• PowerColor Alphyn AH10 Wireless KitGuru
  
  Keyboards - Glorious GMMK 3 Tom's Hardware
  
  PSUs - FSP VITA GM 850 W TechPowerUp
• Lian Li Edge Gold 1200W Cowcotland (fr)
  
  Speakers - Edifier S880DB MKII Basic Tutorials (de)
  
  Dan Clark Audio NOIRE X Closed-Back Headphones Review
  
  Review Headphones Dan Clark Audio shakes up the premium closed-back headphones market with the NOIRE X, bringing the brand's patented AMTS technology in its most affordable entry yet. The NOIRE X also uses the same, excellent industrial design from the far more expensive E3, and gives you a good execution of the Harman Over-Ear tonality for the money. Read Review
  
  FSP VITA GM 850 W Review
  
  Review Power Supplies The FSP VITA GM series aims at the value-oriented enthusiast. Today we're looking at the 850 W unit from the VITA GM family, boasting 80 Plus Gold efficiency and supporting the latest ATX 3.1 standard. Priced at just $105 it comes with excellent build quality, good efficiency and support for the 16-pin GPU power connector. Read Review
  
  Saber Interactive & Focus Entertainment Showcase Roadcraft's Gameplay
  
  Press Release by T0@st Yesterday, 23:20 Discuss (3 Comments) We know how much you've been waiting for this moment, we're thrilled to unveil the gameplay trailer for RoadCraft! Just imagine stepping into a world where you're the one turning disaster zones into thriving landscapes with cutting-edge technology and teamwork to make it happen. Sounds like a dream, doesn't it? In RoadCraft, you're at the helm of a disaster recovery company specializing in restoring areas devastated by natural calamities. With advanced simulation powered by Saber Interactive's new engine, every material, vehicle, and terrain reacts with realistic physics, making each task feel immersive and rewarding.
  
  Launching May 20th, 2025 This first look showcases breathtaking environments brought to life with stunning visuals and realistic physics. Whether you're clearing debris, rebuilding roads, or restoring vital infrastructure, you've got everything you need to tackle challenges with creativity and precision. And with co-op gameplay for up to four players, it's all about coming together and rebuilding as a team. Read full story
  
  Japan Will Tighten Control of Computer Chips and Quantum Tech Exports
  
  by T0@st Yesterday, 23:08 Discuss (0 Comments) Japan's central government will adjust its control over cutting-edge chips and quantum computer-related technology-a Japan Times news article proposes that new regulations will come into effect by the end of May. The report suggests that the nation's governing body is expanding its list of export-controlled items to include: "advanced chips, lithography equipment and cryo-coolers needed for the manufacture of quantum computers." The publication has gathered this information from revised foreign exchange laws. According to economy ministry officials, companies will be required to apply for external trade licenses-extra measures are being put in place to prevent the export of cutting-edge items to foreign military organizations. The updated terms are viewed as another step in tightening the supply of advanced semiconductor products to mainland China. Recent global events have paved the way for a new wave of AI chip-related restrictions.
  
  Naturally, China has expressed concern regarding upcoming changes-they anticipate problems affecting supply chains and normal commercial exchanges between enterprises. According to the Japan Times report, the Ministry of Commerce in Beijing: "hopes Japan will make sure the measures don't hinder the economic and trade development between the two countries." The two nations have enjoyed a cordial semiconductor-centric trade relationship, skewed more in favor of Japan. Industry watchdogs believe that Chinese manufacturers have generated significant demand for Japanese-made production equipment. Japan's Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) has updated its documents. According to the latest report, 42 new entities worldwide have been added to a list of: "foreign companies and organizations that would be subject to export oversight on any dual-use items. The additions come into effect on Feb. 5, it said. A total of around 110 Chinese companies, research institutions and other entities are on the list."
  
  Xbox Game Pass Reveals February Title Line-up
  
  Press Release by T0@st Yesterday, 22:17 Discuss (0 Comments) Welcome back, friends! Happy to be here with more news, games, and updates. Speaking of news, we had lots of it in the 2025 Developer_Direct-with a little "everything you see is coming to Game Pass" spice. Here's what you missed (watch the presentation below, after the jump)! So many games to look forward to, plus a few surprise "you can play them right now" messages. Now let's get to even more games for Game Pass!
  
  Available Today-Far Cry New Dawn (Cloud, Console, and PC)-February 4 Game Pass Ultimate, PC Game Pass, Game Pass Standard Dive into a transformed, vibrant, post-apocalyptic Hope County, Montana, 17 years after a global nuclear catastrophe. Lead the fight against the Highwaymen as they seek to take over the last remaining resources. Read full story
  
  Samsung Reportedly Optimizing Exynos 2500 SoC for Late 2025 Launch
  
  by T0@st Yesterday, 22:05 Discuss (7 Comments) At the end of January, Samsung Electronics released their financial results for the fourth quarter and the fiscal year 2024. Smartphone tech watchdogs paid close to attention to the South Korean giant's accompanying earnings call. The recently released Galaxy S25 smartphone family is, exclusively, powered by Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite chipsets-insiders believe that Samsung opted out of utilizing proprietary chip designs (for this generation) due to missed production goals. Late last year, inside sources pointed to the foundry's allegedly problematic 3 nm Gate-All-Around (GAA) process node. Follow-up reports suggest that Samsung engineers have moved onto developing a 2 nm manufacturing process, possibly linked to a re-designed Exynos 2500 flagship mobile processor.
  
  Brian Ma, a technology industry analyst, extracted relevant information from Samsung's recent earnings meeting-several press outlets have picked up on his brief social media post. The IDC employee stated: "Samsung System LSI just mentioned in its earnings call that it's optimizing Exynos 2500 and 'aiming' to secure design wins for mobile models scheduled for release in 2H" The rumor mill has proposed that new "Galaxy Z Flip 7 and Fold 7" smartphone models are currently in the development pipeline-coincidental timing indicates that the two devices could launch later in 2025, potentially with next-gen flagship Exynos SoCs onboard. Tipsters reckon that the Exynos 2500 is configured with a 10-core cluster, and its integrated graphics solution will be an AMD RDNA 3.5-enabled Xclipse 950 model.
  
  Valve RDNA 4-based Steam Console Rumors Arise, Only To Get Shot Down
  
  by GGforever Yesterday, 21:43 Discuss (7 Comments) Extas1s is a prominent name in the rumor arena, who has provided trustworthy information in the past. Joining hands with HandleDeck, the duo recently made an interesting claim of Valve secretly working on a Steam Console of sorts, or perhaps some sort of eGPU for the Steam Deck. To back up their claims, the duo cited the fact that Valve is putting quite a lot of effort into drivers for AMD's soon-to-be released Radeon RX 9070 GPUs, and since those are desktop-only parts, a stationary console that will allow Valve to lock horns with Sony and Microsoft is likely in the works.
  
  However, it appears that the duo may have rushed to a conclusion instead of considering the facts on the table. GamingOnLinux, who was quick to respond to the claims made by HandleDeck and Extas1s, stated that Valve working on AMD drivers for future hardware is nothing out of the ordinary, adding that Valve invests in a "lot of different areas for Linux", and not just the areas that concern their own products, which is absolutely true. This time around, the speculations arose when a Valve developer commented that Mesa drivers support for RDNA 4 cards should be good enough. Read full story
  
  PNY Expands Portfolio of Ultra-Fast PRO Elite V3 USB Flash Drives
  
  Press Release by T0@st Yesterday, 21:23 Discuss (0 Comments) PNY Technologies today announced the latest additions to their USB Type-C flash drive lineup, headlined by the extreme-performance PRO Elite V3 that delivers read speeds up to 1,000 MB/s and write speeds up to 800 MB/s, and offers storage options ranging from 256 GB - 2 TB. The expanded Type-C portfolio also includes the ultra-compact Elite-X Fit and Elite models, providing a storage solution for all Type-C and high-performance portable needs without requiring a Type-C adapter.
  
  Extreme Storage Solution-PRO Elite V3 Type-C The PRO Elite V3 leads PNY's latest generation of Type-C USB storage solutions, crafted for professional content creators, designers, and gamers demanding high performance while working with large files and resource-demanding applications. With extreme read speeds up to 1,000 MB/s and write speeds up to 800 MB/s, users can safely transfer their valuable content at blazing fast speeds up to 265 times faster than standard USB 2.0 flash drives. A huge storage size increase of up to 2 TB provides professional users ample space to store large project files, 4K video collections, and extensive gaming libraries on a single storage device. Read full story
  
  HANNspree Introduces Hybri Transreflective LCD Monitor With $899 Price Tag
  
  by GGforever Yesterday, 21:18 Discuss (2 Comments) Transreflective LCD, or TCLD displays are far from commonly available. As the name suggests, these panels can combine the advantages of both reflective, as well as backlit technologies. E-Ink displays, which are also reflective, have their own set of advantages for workloads with primarily static elements. However, E-Ink displays have always suffered with motion, owing to their low refresh rate. This is where traditional displays reign supreme, and transreflective screens allow for the best of both worlds, depending on the workload.
  
  The Hybri monitor by the Taiwanese is one such offering, and sports a 1080p 23.8-inch panel with a refresh rate of 75 Hz. This allows for perfectly smooth videos and motion, unlike the vast majority of E-Ink displays. HANNspree claims that the monitor's power draw plummets by around 80% when the backlight is turned off, which is to be expected. When switched on, the backlight provides 50 nits of brightness, and the monitor should work fine without it when ambient light is above 1000 lx. The 4-in-1 adjustable stand allows for swivel, tilt, height, adjustments and pivot functionality. Overall, at a price of $899, the Hybri TLCD monitor should be a decent choice for coding, writing, and office use, especially for those folks who care about reducing eye strain over long workdays. The monitor is already available in Taiwan, with no word on an EU/US release yet.
  
  Human Error Reportedly Caused Latest 12VHPWR Cable Melting Incident
  
  by T0@st Yesterday, 21:09 Discuss (30 Comments) Late last month, NVIDIA claimed that 16-pin power connector issues were a thing of the past. The controversial 12VHPWR connection standard has fueled many online debates-prompting investigations from several prominent press outlets. Following NVIDIA's latest "safety" declaration-likely by coincidence-PCM Hong Kong reported another melting incident, affecting two cables and a power supply unit. The publication's hardware reviewer was recently engaged in the "full-load" testing of GeForce RTX 5090D and RTX 5080 graphics cards. Last week's evaluation session was interrupted by notable test system instabilities-upon downing tools, the PCM staffer discovered that their 1200 W PSU had given up the ghost. Additionally, two 16-pin cables had melted at both ends-initial detective work pointed to a GeForce RTX 4090 sample card being the main culprit.
  
  VideoCardz and UNIKO's Hardware kept close tabs on PCM's next steps-online interactions, over the past weekend, spurred a re-evaluation of circumstances. According to PCM's latest update, they noticed burn marks on the GeForce RTX 4090 test unit-the two GeForce RTX-50-series cards did not exhibit any physical damage. Post-analysis, the reviewer now suspects that an SSD failure could be the route cause. They were happy to report that all involved RTX cards have survived, and that their test platform has been re-equipped with 12V-2x6 cables. An amended VideoCardz article proposes that everything came down to a simple human error.
  
  Stealth Platformer SteamDolls Launches February 11th, Reuniting Metal Gear's Voice Cast
  
  Press Release by TheLostSwede Yesterday, 20:07 Discuss (4 Comments) SteamDolls, the debut stealth-meets-action platformer delight by French-Belgian studio The Shady Gentleman, will launch February 11th at 1pm EST / 10am PST / 6pm UTC into Steam Early Access. A new trailer has been released as well, officially revealing the launch date.
  
  Play as the bloodthirsty, witty, and just a bit kooky Whisper (played by David Hayter) and balance both stealth and brutality as you make your way through a comic book-inspired steampunk city on the verge of anarchy. A free demo also remains available, featuring the intro sequence the game. The game will be available in English, French, German, Italian, and Spanish at launch, and contain about 6 chapters of the game, totaling an estimated 5-7 hours of content. The game's developers are hoping to gather player feedback to improve mechanics, balancing, and content leading up to the 1.0 launch. Read full story
  
  Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 Developer Livestream Happening Tomorrow, February 5
  
  Press Release by T0@st Yesterday, 19:59 Discuss (2 Comments) Our next Developer Livestream is now confirmed for Wednesday, February 5 at 10:30am PST (18:30 UTC). Follow our official Twitch channel to receive a notification when our panel of Jorg, Seb, and Martial go live to discuss the future development plans for Microsoft Flight Simulator and answer the most frequently asked questions the community submitted to our web form over the past few weeks. As always, the panel will also answer live questions from Twitch viewers, so be sure to tune in if you didn't have a chance to pre-submit a question!
  
  Thank you to everyone who has downloaded the Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 Sim Update 1 pre-release beta test build! Since its launch in January, our team has been very carefully reading your feedback and bug reports on the forums. A new pre-release build with more fixes and improvements is coming soon for beta testers. If you would like to enroll in the beta to help test the next major release of MSFS 2024, you can find instructions (for PC-MS Store, PC-Steam, and Xbox Series X|S) here. Read full story
  
  Overclockers UK Expecting Next Batch of GeForce RTX 5090 GPUs in 3 to 16 Weeks
  
  by T0@st Yesterday, 19:49 Discuss (31 Comments) Overclockers UK (OcUK)-a well-known PC hardware retailer-has revealed estimated timeframes for renewed stock of GeForce RTX 5090 and RTX 5080 graphics cards. Late last week, its various web presences informed potential customers about anticipated lead times. The company's blog disclosed that: "due to incredibly high demand and limited stock, all 50 Series cards sold shortly after launch with some pre-orders taken in restricted quantities." New GeForce RTX 5090 stock is expected to arrive at the OcUK warehouse in about three to sixteen weeks. The British store reckons that they will receive GeForce RTX 5080 cards in two to six weeks time. TechPowerUp picked up on various online predictions-a week before the market launch of NVIDIA GeForce RTX 50-series GPUs-pointing to extremely low numbers of forthcoming launch stock. An OcUK employee disclosed that their inventory-of GeForce RTX 5090 graphics cards-was in single digits.
  
  OcUK's dedicated RTX 50-series blog includes an apology-apparently their webstore experienced an outage shortly before launch time. They also informed customers about external factors affecting the re-opening of order books: "we have no plans to take pre-orders for any 50 Series cards until we have greater clarity on availability and have fulfilled the pre-orders we have taken." VideoCardz has discovered an informative post on the Megekko.nl discussion forum-where a new member has shared insider information. Board partners and suppliers are complaining about difficult conditions, according to the leaker's sources-they believe that ASUS and MSI have been forced into releasing forthcoming RTX 5090 stock via a staggered batch system (see screenshot below). The Verge has reached out to NVIDIA for comment-regarding shortages at launch-their request was not entertained.
  
  AMD Radeon RX 9070 Series Launch Event Slated for Late-February
  
  by btarunr Yesterday, 19:22 Discuss (36 Comments) AMD is planning a media event to formally launch the Radeon RX 9070 series next-generation graphics cards some time in late-February 2024, VideoCardz reports. The company could simultaneously announce the flagship Radeon RX 9070 XT, its second-best RX 9070, and new stuff on the software side, such as FSR 4, although availability dates of each could vary. Availability of at least the top RX 9070 XT could be expected in March, the report says. Both the RX 9070 XT and RX 9070 are being prepared by AMD as performance-segment products, where they probably go up against SKUs from NVIDIA's GeForce RTX 5070 series. Given the rather minor performance uplift the RTX 5080 yielded over its previous generation predecessor, the performance segment is in for some competition.
  
  The Radeon RX 9070 XT and RX 9070 are both based on the 4 nm "Navi 48" silicon, which reportedly features 64 compute units for 4,096 stream processors, and a new generation AI accelerator that's both faster and more capable than the one introduced with RDNA 3. There is expected to be a significant uplift in the ray tracing performance, too, reducing the performance cost of enabling ray tracing in games. FSR 4 is expected to leverage the AI acceleration capabilities of RDNA 4 for its super resolution algorithm. Both SKUs are expected to have all 64 CU enabled, but differ in clock speeds. Both are expected to feature 16 GB of older GDDR6 memory across a 256-bit wide memory interface. As for the media event, we gathered from our post-CES roundtable with AMD that the event will at least be an online presentation.
  
  MSI & Capcom Launch Monster Hunter Wilds Special Monitor Promotion
  
  Press Release by T0@st Yesterday, 18:55 Discuss (3 Comments) With Monster Hunter Wilds launching on February 28th, MSI is thrilled to announce a special promotion starting this week. Gamers can prepare for this exciting release by earning exclusive rewards with the purchase of select MSI gaming monitors.
  
  Monster Hunter Wilds-A Thrilling Adventure Awaits & Enhanced gaming experience with MSI Monitors Dive into the world of Monster Hunter Wilds, where brave hunters confront colossal creatures in untamed wilderness. From exploring lush forests to battling fierce monsters in breathtaking landscapes, every quest promises an unforgettable adventure for gamers seeking excitement and challenge. MSI's premium gaming monitors are designed to bring every detail of Monster Hunter Wilds to life. With cutting-edge features and industry-leading performance, these monitors provide gamers with an immersive and seamless experience that matches the intensity of the hunt. Read full story
  
  3M Joins Consortium to Accelerate Semiconductor Technology in the US
  
  Press Release by Nomad76 Yesterday, 17:01 Discuss (6 Comments) 3M is expanding its commitment to the semiconductor industry by joining the US-JOINT Consortium, a strategic partnership of 12 leading semiconductor suppliers. The consortium drives research and development in next-generation semiconductor advanced packaging and back-end processing technologies anchored by a new cutting-edge facility in Silicon Valley.
  
  "As the demands of AI and other high performance computing technologies increase, suppliers must work together to provide comprehensive solutions to tough challenges on increasingly shorter timelines." said Steven Vander Louw, 3M's president of display and electronics product platforms. "The companies in the US-JOINT Consortium represent US and Japanese innovation leaders in a range of advanced packaging technologies. 3M is pleased to join the consortium in order to bring our decades of materials science expertise, across more than 50 technology platforms, to help address these challenges." Read full story
  
  Keychron Launches Q6 Max Full-Size Wireless Keyboard and K5 Max QMK Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard
  
  Press Release by btarunr Yesterday, 16:57 Discuss (5 Comments) Keychron, the innovative leader in keyboard technology, announces the UK availability of two new additions to its acclaimed lineup: the Keychron Q6 Max Full-Size Wireless Keyboard and the Keychron K5 Max QMK Wireless Custom Mechanical Keyboard ISO Layout Collection. These models redefine premium keyboard design, offering unmatched versatility, durability, and performance for work, gaming, and creativity.
  
  For users seeking a full-size layout, the Keychron Q6 Max, is a wireless QMK/VIA keyboard that brings a powerful combination of functionality and sound quality. Constructed from the same 6063 aluminium, the Q6 Max exudes refinement through a CNC-machined body, paired with double-gasket mounting and reinforced multi-layer acoustic foam (IXPE, PET, and Latex) for premium typing acoustics. Read full story
  
  Notebooks Powered by Ryzen 9000HX and 9000HX3D "Fire Range" Available From March-April
  
  by btarunr Yesterday, 16:21 Discuss (14 Comments) One of AMD's key announcements at its 2025 International CES keynote was the Ryzen 9000HX line of processors, codenamed "Fire Range." A successor to the 7000HX "Dragon Range," this is essentially a BGA package of the "Granite Ridge" MCM, which combines one or two "Zen 5" CCDs with a client I/O die. The processor lacks an NPU and has a basic iGPU, but is meant for enthusiast segment gaming notebooks and portable workstations, as it's meant to be paired with discrete GPUs, taking advantage of the package's lavish 28 PCIe Gen 5 lanes. The Ryzen 9 9955HX3D stands out in the series as the only model with 3D V-Cache, making it possibly the fastest mobile processor for gaming notebooks-faster than even the "Arrow Lake-HX," given how the desktop 9800X3D compares to the Core Ultra 9 285K at gaming.
  
  Notebook OEM Dream Machines put out a press release which specifies that the first notebooks powered by the 9955HX3D will ship either toward the end of March, or early-April 2025. "Fire Range" is known to have scored design wins from several popular notebook OEMs, which means the chips could have a good run at the markets this generation. Notebooks powered by the 9955HX3D and discrete GPU options that include the GeForce RTX 5090 Laptop GPU and the RTX 5070 Ti Laptop GPU, are expected to be priced around €2,530 and €3,860, respectively.
  
  AMD "Zen 1" to "Zen 4" Processors Affected by Microcode Signature Verification Vulnerability
  
  by AleksandarK Yesterday, 15:40 Discuss (16 Comments) Google Security Research team has just published its latest research on a fundamental flaw in the microcode patch verification system that affects AMD processors from "Zen 1" through "Zen 4" generations. The vulnerability stems from an inadequate hash function implementation in the CPU's signature validation process for microcode updates, enabling attackers with local administrator privileges (ring 0 from outside a VM) to inject malicious microcode patches, potentially compromising AMD SEV-SNP-protected confidential computing workloads and Dynamic Root of Trust Measurement systems. Google disclosed this high-severity issue to AMD on September 25, 2024, employment leading to AMD's release of an embargoed fix to customers on December 17, 2024, with public disclosure following on February 3, 2025