Samsung Electronics a global leader in advanced memory technology, today showcased its latest AI memory innovations at Future of Memory and Storage (FMS) 2026 in Santa Clara, California.

With broad expertise spanning DRAM, NAND, enterprise storage and relevant advanced semiconductor technologies, Samsung presented its latest AI memory portfolio and technology roadmap, including a preview of its zHBM and zNAND-O concept models, the industry-first introduction of its V10 BV-NAND with 400-plus layers and a comprehensive range of solutions designed to advance future AI infrastructure. Samsung is also featuring its AI cloud server-inspired booth at FMS 2026, where approximately 30 memory and storage technologies are on display.

OpenMouse is a new hardware-agnostic, open-source, browser-based control panel for gaming mice that aims to support a host of gaming mice that would otherwise require installing software in order to change things like basic button mapping and sensor or MCU options. It works via WebHID, which means that it will work with macOS, Linux, and Windows, as long as users use a Chromium-based browser.

OpenMouse is still in the early stages of development, and it is not yet available to the public, but the development team claims to already have support for brands like WLMouse, Endgame Gear, Pulsar, Logitech, and the Orbital Pathfinder. Surprisingly, the Logitech G Pro X2 Superstrike is also on the support list, and a recent post on the OpenMouse account on X claims that Support for Logitech's HITS inductive switch and haptics tech is already on the way.

OpenAI, Anthropic, and Google all pushed major updates to their coding models, Cursor just crossed $1 billion in annual recurring revenue, and developers are embracing AI at an increasing rate. Underneath all the hype, most of that code still gets written and debugged in a traditional IDE like Visual Studio Professional 2026. Built as a 64-bit environment, it supports development across.NET, C++, Blazor, and.NET MAUI, covering cross-platform mobile and desktop projects without switching tools.

IntelliCode's AI analyzes code context to deliver ranked completion suggestions and assist with refactoring, cutting down on both boilerplate and bugs, similar in spirit to the agent tools making headlines but built directly into the editor rather than bolted on. CodeLens surfaces commit history, test status, and code references directly in the editor, no context switch required. Live Share enables real-time collaborative editing and debugging without teammates needing to clone repos or first match local environments. The IDE also integrates natively with Azure, GitHub, and DevOps workflows, and supports hot reload across.NET and C++ projects so changes apply instantly during runtime.

This is a single-user lifetime license, redeemable on one supported device within 30 days of purchase. Get Microsoft Visual Studio Professional 2026 for $29.97 (reg. $499.99) before the offer ends August 9 at 11:59 p.m.

GIGABYTE is reportedly implementing a round of GPU price hikes ranging from 20% to 40%, depending on the model. According to Japanese hardware distributor CFD-BIZ, these price increases have been officially in effect since August 1st. While the specific GPU models affected by this pricing strategy are not yet known, CFD-BIZ noted that some existing orders might not be shipped. Any outstanding orders that haven't been shipped are at risk of being canceled, and CFD-BIZ may contact customers individually to discuss cancellations depending on the order. Since each order is unique, the distributor might be able to fulfill some at current prices, but new prices are now in place for future orders.

PC DIY hardware enthusiasts in Asia are facing challenges, as NVIDIA GeForce RTX 50 graphics card prices have reportedly increased by up to 30% in South Korea, depending on the model. The falling value of the Japanese Yen might be contributing to an additional 10% price difference, as the supply of GIGABYTE GPUs may have been delivered when USD/JPY exchange rates were at historical levels, bringing the Yen to new lows. However, the US and Japan have jointly intervened to support the currency, suggesting that the 40% increase might not be entirely sustained, and we may see a similar 30% price increase as rumored for the rest of the industry. What actually happens at the retail level remains to be seen, as CFD-BIZ handles wholesale shipping, not direct consumer sales. Therefore, we still have some time to determine which GPU models are affected and by how much.

Apple is once again complying with the rules of the European Union, as the company is now developing a universal copy and paste system to transfer text directly from an iPhone to a Windows-based PC. Under the EU Digital Markets Act (DMA), Apple is required to create a feature to align itself with Microsoft's formal interoperability request, which will help users with the simple copy and paste action that hasn't worked until now. Currently, third-party applications on iOS, which powers iPhone mobile devices, can only access the iPhone's clipboard contents while they are open and active on the screen. Every copy or paste action required the user's manual approval.

However, Microsoft has built a workaround, and the EU has been pressuring Apple to adopt the standard. The company reportedly reviewed the Union's request in March 2026, put forward project plans by late June, and is now in development. Apple will implement this universal clipboard through a framework called AccessorySetupKit. One permission is granted per device, and once a Windows PC is approved, clipboard items will move automatically in the background. No further prompts will be required. The Cupertino-based company already offers similar universal syncing between its own ecosystem of devices through the existing Universal Clipboard, which connects iPhones with Mac computers for seamless integration.

As PCIe Gen 6 storage becomes increasingly important for AI infrastructure, cloud platforms, enterprise databases, and hyperscale data centers, SSD controllers must deliver significantly more than raw bandwidth. They need intelligent flash management, enterprise-grade security, advanced error correction and scalable architecture.

The Marvell Bravera SC6 SSD Controller (MV-SF1410) addresses these challenges by combining PCIe Gen 6 connectivity, NVMe 2.2 compliance, support for high-speed NAND flash, powerful multicore processing, integrated security and advanced reliability technologies into a single enterprise-ready platform. The Marvell Bravera SC6 SSD Controller (MV-SF1410) is engineered to meet the demanding requirements of modern data centers and enterprise storage environments. Designed to support PCIe Gen 6 NVMe SSDs, this advanced controller combines exceptional performance, scalability, robust security and intelligent flash management.

If you prefer buying software outright instead of paying recurring subscription fees, Microsoft Office Professional 2021 for Windows is available for $32.97 through Aug. 9 (MSRP $219.99). The license provides lifetime access on one Windows PC and includes Microsoft's core productivity applications. The suite includes Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, OneNote, Access, Publisher, and the free version of Microsoft Teams. Whether you're writing documents, analyzing spreadsheets, building presentations, managing email, or working with databases, the software covers most everyday productivity needs for home, school, and business use.

Office 2021 also introduced performance improvements and updated collaboration features compared with earlier perpetual versions. The familiar ribbon interface remains, while updated tools make it easier to format documents, create presentations, and work with large datasets in Excel. Because the software is installed locally, you can continue working even without an internet connection for many common tasks. This is a device-based lifetime license, meaning it activates on a single Windows PC rather than being tied to a Microsoft account subscription. It's designed for users who want a one-time purchase instead of ongoing monthly or annual payments.

For anyone looking to install Microsoft's core Office applications on a Windows PC without committing to a subscription, this offer provides a straightforward way to do so for $32.97 through Aug. 9.

Kioxia Corporation, a subsidiary of Kioxia Holdings Corporation (TOKYO: 285A) and Sandisk Corporation (Nasdaq: SNDK) today unveiled their next-generation Quad-Level-Cell (QLC) 3D flash memory technology, which delivers up to 60% increase in bit density compared to their 8th-generation, surpassing 37 Gb/mm² and setting the industry benchmark for bit density, performance and power efficiency.

Leveraging the companies' revolutionary CMOS directly Bonded to Array (CBA) technology which fabricates CMOS logic and the memory array on separate wafers before bonding them together with high-precision wafer-to-wafer alignment, the new generation improves read and write bandwidth compared to the 8th-generation 3D flash memory and becomes the industry's first QLC 3D flash memory technology to reach a 4.8 Gb/s interface.

HighPoint Technologies, Inc., a leading provider of high-speed, high-density PCIe storage and connectivity solutions, has launched the newest member of their comprehensive NVMe RAID Product Family, the Rocket 7602L, a Dual M.2 PCIe Gen 5 x16 Low-Profile Bootable RAID Add-In-Card (AIC).

Engineered specifically for system integrators, edge architects, and engineering professionals building high-performance workstations and edge servers, the Rocket 7602L stands alone as the premier bootable dual-port Gen 5 M.2 solution available on the market. It offers an elite, high-value framework for deploying mirrored (RAID 1) OS redundancy or striped (RAID 0) high-velocity scratchpads while freeing up primary front-loading server drive bays for dedicated data storage.

Designed to deliver a listening experience that feels as natural as it sounds. Built for people who move through busy cities, long workdays and active lifestyles, Clip Pro combines an ergonomic open-ear design with immersive sound, intelligent calling features and thoughtful everyday functionality, all wrapped in CMF's distinctive design language.

Designed to disappear
Every aspect of Clip Pro has been engineered around long-term comfort. The new 3-point Clip Design uses a carefully balanced three-point support system that distributes pressure naturally across the ear instead of concentrating it in a single area. The result is a secure fit that remains comfortable through work, commuting, exercise and everything in between.

We have seen numerous reports about Chinese memory giant CXMT and its production. The company has now reportedly entered risk production of the latest LPDDR6 memory, reaching parity with Samsung, SK hynix, and Micron in both manufacturing and technological evolution. According to multiple reports, CXMT's LPDDR6 memory will operate at speeds of up to 12.8 Gbps, with the base speed of LPDDR6 being 10.7 Gbps. LPDDR6 picks up where LPDDR5X left off, which could reach speeds of up to 10.7 Gbps when highly overclocked. However, the newest standard is pushing for much higher speeds, with the first generation of LPDDR6 from CXMT's fabs reaching 12.8 Gbps. Additionally, CXMT is producing these chips with a 16 Gb capacity, equivalent to 2 GB, and the memory IC is placed inside a package-on-package (POP) casing, featuring about 1,295 pins in a ball grid array.

For now, this production will be only a trial run before high-volume manufacturing (HVM), which will likely take place weeks or even months after the initial risk production. Currently, the company is shipping its LPDDR6 to customers for validation, suggesting that we will likely see full risk production soon. As CXMT has manufacturing, construction, and other factors far ahead of industry standards, it is possible that HVM will occur in just a few weeks.

Microchip Technology (Nasdaq: MCHP) today announced a demonstration showcasing an end‑to‑end PCIe Gen 6 storage architecture, combining Microchip's Switchtec PCIe Gen 6 switches with high-performance Micron 9650 NVMe solid state drives (SSDs). The demonstration highlights the role of next‑generation PCIe technology in enabling higher data throughput, reduced latency and scalable connectivity for AI, high‑performance computing (HPC) and cloud data center workloads.

At the 2026 Future of Memory and Storage (FMS) Conference, the demonstration features a Microchip Switchtec Gen 6 PCIe fanout switch acting as a high‑bandwidth, low‑latency interconnect between host processors and multiple Micron 9650 SSDs enabling the drives to operate at the full potential of Gen 6 speed. The architecture supports composable and disaggregated system designs, allowing data center architects to scale storage resources efficiently while maintaining predictable performance.

NVM Express, Inc. today announced the release of all 11 of the NVM Express (NVMe) specifications, incorporating new features and engineering change notices (ECNs). These updates represent the next step in the evolution of NVMe technology, with security, management and sustainability extensions to address the growing demands of data-intensive applications in AI, cloud, enterprise and client environments.

The updated specifications include:

• NVMe 2.4 Base Specification
• Command Set Specifications (NVM Command Set 1.3, ZNS Command Set 1.5, Key Value Command Set 1.4, Subsystem Local Memory Command Set 1.3, Computational Programs Command Set 1.3)
• Transport Specifications (NVMe over PCIe Transport 1.4, NVMe over RDMA Transport 1.3, NVMe over TCP Transport 1.3)
• NVM Express Management Interface (NVMe-MI) 2.2 Specification
• NVMe Boot 1.4 Specification

Lekuo, an add-in card manufacturer that produces just about any add-in card you can think of, has released what they call the SouthBridge Max PCIe 4.0 Multi-Function Expansion Card or PB65MX3. We found out about this courtesy of TPU forum member FoulOnWhite who spotted this commercial version of something that first appeared back in January this year as a DIY project, but Lekuo's version brings with it a lot more features. Based on the Promontory 21/B650 AMD chipset, the expansion card not only adds four SATA 6 Gbps ports and four M.2 NVMe slots, but also a USB Type-C 3.2 Gen 2x2 port (20 Gbps), one USB Type-C 3.2 Gen 2 (10 Gbps) port and two USB Type-A 3.2 Gen 2 (10 Gbps) ports.

The card requires a PCIe 4.0 x4 slot to enable full functionality, but Lekuo points out that it doesn't require support for bifurcation from the system to work properly. The card measures 174 x 69 mm (D x H) and it needs to be connected to a 6-pin power connector. Lekuo doesn't specify which systems it will work with though, but a safe bet is most AMD AM5 platforms, but as we saw from the DIY solution back in January, it should also be compatible with Intel hardware.

Ten years ago, Akko believed that great peripherals should be more than tools. They should connect productivity, creativity, and personal expression. Over the past decade, desktop life has evolved. As work, gaming, creation, and entertainment increasingly overlap, users expect peripherals to deliver performance, adapt to different scenarios, fit naturally into daily life, and express individual style. Akko continues pushing product, technology, and experience boundaries. From mechanical keyboards to a complete desktop ecosystem, Akko remains focused on real user needs, balancing performance, aesthetics, and personalization so technology serves every lifestyle.

To celebrate its 10th anniversary, Akko is introducing new products to Europe. The new 5075 and 5108 ISO keyboards offer mechanical and next-generation V5 magnetic-switch configurations. Designed for European ISO layouts, they offer localized keycaps in German, French, Spanish, and other languages, making work, creation, and competitive gaming more natural.

Nextorage Japan announced the NX-F2AE series of SDXC UHS-II memory cards for professional video creators and high-res, high-bitrate recording. The new memory cards meet Video Speed Class V90 specifications, offering a minimum sustained write speed of 90 MB/s and sequential read and write speeds of up to 300 MB/s. The Nextorage NX-F2AE memory cards use 3D TLC NAND flash memory and a UHS-II interface. The series is also rated UHS Speed Class U3, Class 10 and Application Performance Class A1, making it suitable for 4K, 6K and 8K video capture.

Nextorage says that the new NX-F2AE memory cards are designed to offer stable long-term high-bitrate video recording while operating in temperatures ranging from -25°C to 85°C and have passed seven types of durability tests. The series is launching in Japan from August 5th with 256 GB, 512 GB, and 1 TB models priced at ¥46,480 (~$295), ¥89,980 (~$570), and ¥169,980 (~$1,076), respectively. The Nextorage NX-F2AE series comes with a five-year warranty.

According to DigiTimes, industry insiders are now claiming that the entire memory production capacity for 2027 has been fully booked, well ahead of the schedule the industry expected. All of the big three memory makers—Samsung, SK hynix, and Micron—have sold out their memory capacity for the upcoming year, leaving no room for additional supply for third parties to purchase more DRAM wafers. Interestingly, the report notes that everyone from OEM server makers and PC makers to AI labs knows that July and August are crucial months for securing allocations for the following year. However, some businesses have been kept in the dark because nobody has been public about this out of fear of losing their allocation.

Memory makers have been pushing customers into long-term agreements with contracts ranging from three to five years, using an advance payment deposit model where customers essentially pre-pay for some of the memory capacity. These deals are made on an individual customer level. All of this combined signals that 2027 will be the worst year in recent history regarding memory shortages, meaning that only those who managed to sign agreements for supply will benefit, while the rest are left without as there simply isn't enough available DRAM. Only about 60-70% of the estimated demand can be met in 2027, leaving a significant amount of demand unmet and waiting for the 2028 supply.

Following its unveiling at COMPUTEX 2026, GIGABYTE, the world's leading computer brand, today officially launched the AORUS P1600W 80+ Titanium Modular PCIe 5.1 AI TOP, a flagship power supply engineered for enthusiast PC builds and local AI systems. Packing 1600 W of power and 80 Plus Titanium efficiency into a remarkably compact 160 mm chassis, this ATX 3.1 and PCIe 5.1-compliant powerhouse combines premium components, comprehensive connectivity, and real-time LCD monitoring to meet the demands of today's most advanced PC builds.

Massive Power, Remarkably Compact
The AORUS P1600W delivers immense power without taking over the build. At just 160 mm long, it is one of the most compact 1600 W power supplies in its class. Its compact footprint improves compatibility with a wide range of standard ATX PC cases while leaving more room for components and cable management.

Club 3D, a Dutch technology innovator specializing in advanced computer connectivity solutions since 1997, released their newest products for August. Introducing the CAC-2509 the first fully passive 9 m USB4 cable, delivering full-featured 20 Gbps performance for video, data, and power over a single long-distance connection. We also introduced the CAC-2507 a new compact USB-C female-to-female coupler that allows you to connect two USB-C cables together.

Long-distance connectivity shouldn't force you to rely on bulky active electronics or external power sources. The Club 3D CAC-2509 9 m USB-C Cable bridges the gap between ultra-long reach and full-featured desktop performance over a single, clean connection. As the first fully passive 9-meter USB4 cable, it delivers uncompromised 20 Gbps bandwidth, high-resolution video output, and robust power delivery without signal boosters. Designed for demanding environments, it supports up to 8K60Hz or 4K240Hz video while supplying up to 100 W Power Delivery. It pairs perfectly with laptops connected to monitors with a built-in KVM feature.

Typing is more than just input - it is feel, rhythm, and precision. This is exactly where the PureWriter W100 comes in, combining the characteristic typing feel of the PureWriter series with modern gaming features and flexible connectivity. As a dual-mode keyboard, it can be used either wirelessly or in wired mode and is designed for those who enjoy typing but also value control, comfort, and responsiveness when gaming.

The PureWriter W100 can be operated either via a 2.4 GHz wireless connection or wired through USB-C. This allows it to adapt seamlessly to everything from a clean, wireless workspace to a stationary setup with a stable wired connection. With its full-size 3-block layout, the PureWriter W100 offers maximum functionality and familiar usability. Especially frequent typists benefit from the complete key layout, enabling efficient work and comfortable input without the need for adjustment.

At COMPUTEX 2026, MSI unveiled an exclusive product lineup to celebrate its 40th anniversary. Inspired by Draco—the legendary dragon who guarded the golden apples to become the North Star—the design embodies enduring power and a commanding presence. The DRACO EPIC EDITION will soon be available in limited quantities across an extensive suite of hardware and peripherals, including motherboard, graphics card, liquid cooler, chassis, headset, keyboard, mouse, and mouse pad, showcasing MSI's 40-year legacy of innovation.

MEG X870E ACE MAX DRACO EPIC EDITION
At COMPUTEX 2026, MSI unveiled an exclusive product lineup to celebrate its 40th anniversary. Inspired by Draco—the legendary dragon who guarded the golden apples to become the North Star—the design embodies enduring power and a commanding presence. The DRACO EPIC EDITION will soon be available in limited quantities across an extensive suite of hardware and peripherals, including motherboard, graphics card, liquid cooler, chassis, headset, keyboard, mouse, and mouse pad, showcasing MSI's 40-year legacy of innovation.

Motherboard manufacturers are currently facing a challenging situation where declining sales are impacting their revenue, and rising component costs are eroding their margins. According to the latest update from Board Partners, major motherboard manufacturers, including ASUS, GIGABYTE, and MSI, are expected to introduce a series of planned price increases to maintain their margins. Taiwanese motherboard makers are experiencing price increases across their supply chain, with the cost of bare PCBs used in manufacturing these motherboards expected to rise by at least 50% this year, significantly impacting component costs. Raw materials used in manufacturing, such as copper, are also in high demand, leading to price increases. Other electronic components like control chips, power devices, and surface-mount capacitors, such as MLCCs, are experiencing significant bottlenecks.

As a result, motherboard manufacturers are facing substantial price increases from their supply chain and are being forced to implement price hikes this quarter. The total bill of materials (BOM) for each motherboard design varies, as every platform uses a different number of capacitors, power components, and control chips. Additionally, each motherboard uses a different number of PCB layers, affecting the BOM. This means we are not yet certain how much motherboards will be impacted by the component shortage, as only motherboard manufacturers know exactly how much they need to adjust their pricing percentage-wise, likely on a per-motherboard SKU basis.

Silicon Labs, the leading innovator in low-power wireless connectivity, today announced the BG2B, its next Series 2Bluetooth Low Energy (LE) wireless SoC designed to help developers build smaller, more secure, and longer-lasting battery-powered IoT devices by providing the industry's best combination of power efficiency, security, and integrations.

As Bluetooth LE applications become more sophisticated, developers are challenged to add capabilities such as secure ranging, location awareness, advanced security, and richer peripheral integration while preserving battery life and compact designs expected of today's wireless IoT devices. BG2B addresses these demands with Silicon Labs' lowest-power Bluetooth architecture, a complete feature set for Bluetooth Channel Sounding, Secure Vault High security and integrated peripherals including CAN-FD, LED drivers and dual ADCs, in a single highly integrated platform.

Sandisk Corporation and SK hynix Inc. today announced the release of the HBF (High Bandwidth Flash) technical specification through the Open Compute Project (OCP), advancing the workstream to drive HBF standardization for the AI inference era, just six months after the consortium began work in February.

The specification was developed through the HBF technology workstream under OCP, with Sandisk and SK hynix serving as primary contributors. Notably, Google and Tenstorrent joined as consortium members during this standardization process, contributing significantly to technology validation and the establishment of the standard. The specification provides companies and developers designing AI inference systems and accelerators with a common technical framework for incorporating HBF technology where larger, near-compute memory capacity and higher bandwidth are needed to improve power and performance metrics and help reduce total cost of ownership.

Stormcraft PC, a California gaming PC brand founded by gamers and engineers, today announced the launch and multi-channel availability of new Valkyrie Series gaming desktops through Amazon, Best Buy, Newegg and the official Stormcraft PC webstore. The expanded lineup features NVIDIA GeForce RTX 50 Series and AMD Radeon RX 9070 XT graphics, paired with AMD Ryzen 7 X3D and Intel Core Ultra 7 processors.

The four featured configurations span AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D and Ryzen 7 9800X3D processors, the Intel Core Ultra 7 processor 270K Plus, AMD Radeon RX 9070 XT graphics, and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5070 and RTX 5080 graphics. Each featured system includes DDR5 6000 MHz RGB memory, PCIe Gen 4 NVMe storage, a 360 mm liquid CPU cooler, an 850-watt 80 Plus Gold power supply and seven ARGB chassis fans.

NVIDIA's GeForce RTX 50 series is rumored to see a price increase of about 20-30%, depending on the model, due to rapidly rising costs of GDDR7 memory from NVIDIA's VRAM suppliers. According to ZDNet Korea, South Korean importers and distributors have already informed the supply chain about this price hike, which could reach up to 30%. NVIDIA provides its add-in board partners with GDDR7 memory as a kit that includes both the GPU die and GDDR7, so any price increase from memory manufacturers affects AIBs and, ultimately, consumers.

Currently, each 2 GB GDDR7 memory module costs in the low 20s in USD. This spot pricing for GDDR7 means NVIDIA needs 16 of these modules for its flagship GeForce RTX 5090 GPU. This results in at least $320 being spent on GDDR7 memory for the flagship model, before adding the cost of the GPU die, research and development, and the margins for AIB partners. The situation remains challenging even in South Korea, the world's hub of DRAM production. Despite being home to SK hynix and Samsung, no one is exempt from these price increases, which are expected to continue.

In mid-May, Google announced that it is working on bringing its new Googlebook devices to the masses, with a promise to introduce a new operating system featuring integrated Gemini AI across the board. As the company collaborates with multiple OEMs, including Acer, ASUS, Dell, HP, and Lenovo, we have received the first leak of the Lenovo Googlebook 15 model. This model is set to offer a 15-inch experience of Google's upcoming "Aluminium" operating system. Thanks to a leak by Digital Citizen, we can see the first renderings of the Lenovo Googlebook 15, showcasing a sandblasted aluminium casing in a 15-inch body. The device features the traditional Lenovo bezel and overall design, housed in a medium-thickness body.

On the keyboard front, Lenovo has included a small "G" button with the Google icon, reminiscent of the Windows key on standard Windows-based laptops. Two speakers flank the keyboard, and the left side of the unit includes an HDMI port, a USB-C or Thunderbolt port, and a 3.5 mm headphone jack. On the right, there is another USB-C port, a USB Type-A port, and a slot similar to an SD card reader. Specifications such as display resolution, refresh rate, and details about the processor powering this PC are currently unknown, but we expect to learn more when Googlebooks officially launch. Scheduled for release in the fall of this year, we are still months away from the official debut.

If readers recall, a few days ago we reported that TSMC has achieved a milestone of about 20,000 wafers per month on the company's latest 2 nm N2 node. However, the company is now rapidly scaling its high-volume manufacturing, aiming to produce about 100,000 N2 wafers per month by the end of 2026. This gives the company about four months to increase its manufacturing output fivefold. While that might seem impossible, TSMC has been rapidly scaling its manufacturing output over the years, and the latest N2 node is no exception. Currently, the N2 node accounts for only 3% of TSMC's revenue, while the 3 nm node holds 30%, and the 5 nm node secures the top spot at 33%. Even with projected growth in N3 and N5 consumption, increasing revenue fivefold would mean the N2 node would represent more than 10% of the company's overall revenue share.

Meanwhile, the demand for its 3 nm N3 family of nodes is still strong. Reportedly, TSMC's customers, including NVIDIA, AMD, Broadcom, and many others, have pushed the total monthly wafer output of the N3 node to 180,000 units, exceeding the company's internal targets. While TSMC hoped to achieve this number in the fourth quarter of 2026, demand has pushed production capacity to its limits, prompting TSMC to consider additional expansion plans for this node.

Following months of anticipation, Pwnage has finally unveiled Vanta, a lightweight wireless gaming mouse that introduces what the company describes as the world's first mechanically adjustable click geometry. In a detailed video, Pwnage explained that unlike conventional gaming mice, where the click feel is fixed during manufacturing, their Vanta mouse allows users to physically adjust how the buttons engage the microswitches. By changing the button geometry, users can modify the force curve and choose between lighter or firmer click responses to better suit different games and personal preferences. In simpler terms, with a tiny screwdriver (included in the package), it allows users to change the click force, initial resistance, force curve, actuation feel, break point and return feel. Besides this, the mouse adopts a symmetrical design, measures 120 x 60 x 39 mm and the shell is made from a magnesium alloy, keeping the mouse weight at just 49 g. Internally, it combines a Nordic nRF54L15 wireless controller with the Pwnage custom XERO sensor that is based on the well-known PixArt PAW3950.

The Vanta also features an adjustable sensor position, enabling users to actually move and reposition the sensor to match their grip style and aiming preferences rather than relying on a fixed position. The Pwnage Vanta is available for preorder starting at $159 with PTFE skates, while the version equipped with glass skates is priced at $179. Four limited-edition color options are also available: Black, Platinum, Nacho, and White.

Over the weekend, social media drama took a turn when the community accused Microsoft of running a new background tracking service on Windows 11. However, the company officially denies this. The whole event started on July 31st when a user on X noticed a new background service called "Windows Health and Optimized Experiences" that starts automatically every time the system is booted. This background service monitors the CPU's thermals and reportedly sends data every 15 minutes. However, this feature is not actually new and is used for diagnostics. According to Microsoft VP Scott Hanselman, when Windows 11 detects slow or sluggish behavior, it can record performance traces that can be sent to Microsoft via the Feedback Hub.

The service is not standalone telemetry but is initiated by Windows 11 itself, saving these files under "%SystemRoot%\Temp\DiagOutputDir\Whesvc." These files are stored locally, but there is an option to send them back to Microsoft for diagnostics and to improve future experiences using the Feedback Hub. Contrary to the fear-inducing post, this data-sending service is optional if the user chooses to submit a report. Additionally, Microsoft did not suddenly introduce this feature to Windows 11, as it has existed for over a year, having been included in the Windows 11 Canary build introduced in May 2025.

If you've been looking at adding faster networking at home, but either don't have a spare PCIe slot in your PC or need it on a laptop, then ASUS ROG might just have launched what you've been waiting for. Its new ROG USB-C10G USB dongle brings 10 Gbps Ethernet in a fairly compact form factor of 85 x 32 x 19 mm and 38 grams, without the cable. ASUS went down what we'd call the correct route here by not having a captive cable, instead the dongle has a USB Type-C port and is supplied with a short USB-C to USB-C cable that also comes with a USB-C to USB-A adapter.

As this is most likely a Realtek RTL8159 based Ethernet dongle, it has one quirk that means it won't work with some computers, as this is a USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 device. Yes, that's 20 Gbps, but as the USB protocol has quite a bit of overhead, USB 3.2 Gen 2 won't be enough for 10 Gbps Ethernet, instead you end up somewhere between 6 and 8 Gbps based on tests we've seen of other RTL8159 dongles. This means that it's not compatible with Macs, as Apple only supports USB 3.2 Gen 2 and USB4/Thunderbolt. This also means that you will limit the throughput if you use the USB-C to USB-A dongle. ASUS hasn't provided any official pricing, but we found a listing online from a Norwegian retailer that stocks it for around US$139, including 25 percent VAT, suggesting it might retail for US$100-120 once it becomes more broadly available.

MSI today announced the global availability of the Crosshair A16 HX MLG Edition, a distinctive white gaming laptop created for players who want powerful performance, immersive visuals, and a bold design identity. The new edition introduces global gamers to LOONG:NIA, also known as MLG, a dragon-inspired original character whose story is built around courage, creativity, and the determination to overcome limits. Raised by the noble lineage of the Ancient Dragons, LOONG dreamed of becoming a Wingborne Watcher, a guardian who protects and guides dragonkind. Though born without wings, she used her talent in mechanical design to build her own, becoming a night-sky guardian who symbolizes self-made power and fearless ambition. Bringing this character narrative into the product experience, the Crosshair A16 HX MLG Edition combines MSI's gaming DNA with a pearl-like Stellar White finish, custom MLG design elements, and exclusive bundled accessories.

Top-tier Performance with 16-core CPU & Full-powered GPU
Built for high-performance gaming and next-generation AI experiences, the Crosshair A16 HX MLG Edition is powered by up to an AMD Ryzen 9 8940HX processor and up to an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5070 Laptop GPU with 12 GB GDDR7 memory. MSI OverBoost Technology enables up to 190 W total CPU and GPU power output, while the Cooler Boost cooling system, with dual fans, five heat pipes, and a quad-exhaust heatsink design, helps maintain stable performance under heavy workloads.

GameSir, a global gaming peripheral brand renowned for combining high-performance engineering with innovative gaming technology, today announces the launch of the GameSir Tarantula 8K PC, a purpose-built wired esports controller designed for players seeking uncompromising speed, precision and customisation. Engineered exclusively for PC gaming, and available in a striking orange colorway, the Tarantula 8K PC delivers an ultra-fast 8000 Hz polling rate with just 0.25 ms response time, alongside GameSir's latest Gen-2 Mag-Res TMR stick technology, extensive programmable controls and an exceptionally lightweight 180 g design. The GameSir Tarantula 8K PC Wired Esports Controller is available now, priced at £79.99 / $69.99 on the GameSir website, with Amazon availability expected at a later date.

Created from the ground up for competitive play, the Tarantula 8K PC focuses on eliminating latency and maximizing responsiveness. Its wired USB-C connection delivers up to an 8000 Hz polling rate, ensuring inputs are registered with exceptional speed and consistency, making it ideal for esports titles and fast-paced competitive games where every millisecond matters.

KIOXIA America, Inc. today announced the KIOXIA GP1 Series PCIe 6.0 NVMe SSD, the first product in its KIOXIA GP Series of Super High IOPS SSDs optimized for GPU direct access. Building on the KIOXIA GP Series technology introduced earlier this year, the KIOXIA GP1 Series delivers up to 10 million random read IOPS using KIOXIA XL-FLASH generation 2 flash memory, enabling flash-based memory extension to help address the growing performance and memory demands of AI infrastructure. Evaluation samples will be available to select customers by the end of 2026. The KIOXIA GP1 Series will be showcased at FMS: the Future of Memory and Storage, taking place August 4 - 6 in Santa Clara, California.

The KIOXIA GP1 Series is designed to support emerging AI storage architectures, which extend High Bandwidth Memory (HBM) as a fast flash memory media-based tier. This approach lets AI systems access larger datasets at a significantly lower cost than adding more HBM4, while improving GPU utilization.

TCL, one of the world's best-selling consumer electronics brands, today announced the U.S. availability of the TCL TAB A1 Plus NXTPAPER, a large-format tablet that combines a 12.2-inch 2.4K resolution display, intuitive software and AI-powered productivity for modern learning, creativity and entertainment, offering students and young professionals a versatile option heading into Back-To-School. The device combines TCL's industry-exclusive NXTPAPER display technology with versatile functionality for a paper-like viewing experience and flexible productivity.

The TCL TAB A1 Plus NXTPAPER bridges the gap between traditional tablets and laptops by providing enhanced productivity, learning, multitasking, note-taking and creative capabilities in a portable form. TCL's proprietary NXTPAPER display technology creates a paper-like viewing experience designed to help users stay comfortable and focused for longer. The industry-exclusive NXTPAPER Key and upgraded 3-in-1 VersaView provide customizable display controls, with built-in AI tools to support everyday tasks.

Microsoft's internal roadmap for the Disc to Digital feature has been leaked, revealing that the feature will be generally available this month. According to the roadmap, an insider beta of the Disc to Digital feature has been available since July, with general availability for Xbox One and Series X owners expected in August. For those unfamiliar, Disc to Digital is Microsoft's initiative to promote a digital-only future for Xbox consoles. This feature allows players to insert their game discs into the console to convert them into digital licenses. When the disc is scanned, Microsoft uses the unique key to create a digital license, which prevents the disc from being activated on third-party consoles and stops it from being rented, borrowed, or sold to others.

This marks a significant shift away from physical disc game releases, as both Sony and Microsoft are moving towards ending disc-based games, encouraging gamers to use digital licenses exclusively. According to the roadmap, Xbox One and Series X users will be the first to scan their games and obtain digital licenses, as these consoles have physical disc readers. Game licensing will now be tied to the specific user account, with Xbox managing all engineering, certification, and support efforts if any issues arise. However, publishers retain the right to participate, maintaining full control over rights, pricing, and branding.

Kioxia Corporation, a world leader in memory solutions, today announced that it will exhibit the KIOXIA XL1 series, a Compute Express Link (CXL) compatible memory expansion module, at the Kioxia booth at FMS: the Future of Memory and Storage, taking place August 4 - 6 in Santa Clara, CA. The product features KIOXIA XL-FLASH, a low-latency and high-performance flash memory technology that enables flash memory, traditionally used for storage applications, to also be utilized as a memory expansion solution. In addition, it is being designed and developed to support the growing volume of memory-intensive AI applications. Evaluation samples are scheduled to be shipped to industry ecosystem collaborators in August 2026.

In recent years, the growing number of AI workloads has significantly increased memory demand in data centers, creating serious challenges such as capacity shortages and rising costs. In response to this important market need, Kioxia is targeting an innovative memory expansion solution for hyperscale environments. The KIOXIA XL1 series memory expansion module combines low-latency, high-performance XL-FLASH with a CXL interface and improves DRAM utilization efficiency by placing less frequently accessed data on the module. It bridges the performance and cost gap between conventional DRAM and SSDs, enabling memory expansion for demanding AI applications.

Chinese memory maker CXMT is planning a second DRAM fab in Beijing amid high demand for its memory products. According to Reuters, the Chinese memory giant is considering building this second fab and is already in talks to secure funding for the project. As CXMT aims to boost its manufacturing output, measured in DRAM wafers per month (WPM), the company needs to secure new funding and is reportedly backed by the local government to increase production. While the project details are currently unknown, building a modern DRAM fab can cost over $10 billion, meaning CXMT will likely require significant funds to get started.

Currently, CXMT operates two 12-inch fabs, one in Hefei and one in Beijing, with each fab having an output of about 100,000 WPM. This means the current output capacity is around 200,000 wafers per month, with plans to triple that number to an astonishing 600,000 WPM when the Shanghai and Hefei plants are completed and fully operational. We have already reported that CXMT will end the year 2026 with about 350,000 WPM of DRAM output, just behind Micron's 375,000 DRAM WPM output.

Lexar has introduced a new THOR RGB DDR5 Gen 2 32 GB memory kit, consisting of two 16 GB DDR5 modules, specifically for the Chinese market. The kit features DDR5 memory running at 7,200 MT/s, with the actual DDR5 modules produced by an unidentified Chinese DRAM manufacturer, likely CXMT. The latest THOR RGB 32 GB kit offers memory with 38-48-48-86 CAS latency timings at 1.40 V and supports Intel's XMP 3.0 and AMD EXPO profiles to achieve maximum frequency and overclocking potential. While the exact overclocking range of these modules is unknown,

Lexar has not explicitly disclosed which Chinese DRAM maker is used for this DDR5 kit, but it is assumed that CXMT DRAM is housed under the sandblasted aluminium heat spreaders. The company tested a variety of ASUS and MSI motherboards on both AMD and Intel platforms, even mentioning a 32 GB kit with 7,600 MT/s speeds, as opposed to this newly listed 7,200 MT/s kit. It is likely that more motherboards and vendors will be compatible without issues, but only those mentioned in the list below were tested. Lexar's official JD store lists the price for the THOR RGB DDR5-7200 32 GB kit at 3,999 RMB, which is approximately $592 at the time of writing, based on the current exchange rate. This kit is meant for the mainland China, with no mention of global availability.

AMD has released the latest set of patches for its RDNA 5 GPU IP, initiating the enablement of the Display Core Next (DCN) 6 display engine. Although the launch of AMD's next-generation RDNA 5 graphics cards is still a few months away, Linux support is already being developed to ensure every part of the stack is operational before the official release. According to the latest patch noted by Phoronix, the DCN6 display engine is associated with the AMD GFX13, which corresponds to the RDNA 5 GPU family. AMD's DCN display engine handles a variety of functions, including display output, image scaling, monitor ratio output, pixel manipulation, and much more. This engine is a highly complex component crucial for graphics output in AMD RDNA graphics cards.

For this DCN6 version, AMD has introduced new scaling integrity and costing surfaces, a UPSP pre-scaler to sample 4:2:0 and 4:2:2 content before scaling, and new pixel formats within the display logic. For the final GPU, this means that modern high-refresh and high-resolution gaming will be possible across a range of aspect ratios and configurations, with content being delivered smoothly. However, the final implementation will ultimately depend on what AMD includes in its actual GPU silicon.

MSI, a global leader in high-performance computing, has officially announced the PRO MAX OLED 271UPJW12, marking a new era in visual technology as the world's first 27-inch 4K 120 Hz Inkjet-printed (IJP) OLED display. Designed as the ultimate display, it seamlessly bridges high-efficiency productivity and premium entertainment.

Unmatched Clarity and Infinite Contrast
The PRO MAX OLED 271UPJW12 features a breathtaking 27-inch 4K display with a fluid 120 Hz refresh rate. With a 164 PPI density and an optimized RGB Stripe sub-pixel layout that closely resembles the uniform RGB structure of traditional LCDs, this advanced design effectively eliminates color fringing, optimizing text and image clarity. Delivering pure color precision, the PRO MAX OLED 271UPJW12 covers 99% of the DCI-P3 wide color gamut with an exceptional Delta E ≤ 2 accuracy. Furthermore, it carries the prestigious VESA DisplayHDR True Black 500 certification and achieves a striking HDR peak brightness of up to 1,000 nits, ensuring deep, inky blacks and infinite contrast for a truly lifelike viewing experience.

AMD's latest "Zen 6" microarchitecture was unveiled at the Advancing AI event in a server format. However, we still anticipate a consumer version in the coming months, which might surprise gamers. According to 1usmus, the creator of the HYDRA OC tool, who shared insights with VideoCardz, AMD's "Zen 6" CPUs will focus on improving 1% lows in games through several software methods, besides hardware advancements. The first is Collaborative Processors Performance Control (CPPC). CPPC Performance Priority allows the operating system and firmware to manage the performance of each individual CPU core. This means the OS can direct maximum power and frequency to specific cores based on workload demands. For instance, if a game utilizes only about 8 cores, those cores will receive maximum power and frequency to enhance frame rates to their highest potential.

CPPC includes Performance Priority and HighestFreq settings, which manage task priority and allocate the highest performance, respectively. Additionally, when the CPU reaches its maximum temperature or power limit, the FloorPerf feature ensures that only the most critical tasks run at maximum frequency, while other cores are throttled to reduce power or temperature. This dynamic scheduling is expected to enhance various gaming aspects, particularly when addressing 1% lows in gaming tasks. Other features include per-core EPP boost, allowing specific CPU cores to boost to their maximum state without pushing the entire CPU to its limit. The CPU also offers improved frequency tuning with more dynamic scaling, focusing on maintaining stable clock speeds to deliver maximum performance when needed and ensuring a smooth gaming experience.

Microsoft is significantly increasing the prices of its Xbox gaming consoles starting August 1st across the United States, Europe, and the United Kingdom. We were aware that the pricing strategy for the United States market involves an increase of up to $150, depending on the SKU. However, it turns out that the pricing in Europe and the UK is set to rise even more dramatically. A member of the Resetera forum has compiled a list of UK and European pricing updates, showing the Xbox Series S 512 GB version going from €349 to €499, while the Xbox Series X Digital Edition is now priced at €749, up from €549. For the base Xbox Series S model, this represents a 43% price hike compared to the old price. Raising the price by nearly half the MSRP is a decision made amid the memory crisis, where Microsoft's supply of GDDR6 memory for these consoles has been affected by significantly higher prices.

For the more powerful Xbox Series X, the price increase ranges from 33% to 36%, depending on whether the edition is digital or disc version. This means that for the 1 TB version of the Xbox Series X with disc capability, you can expect to pay €800. Of course, this is only the MSRP listing, and retailers might add additional charges if demand exceeds supply. As we approach the launch of the Grand Theft Auto VI game, expect console demand to continue rising. Console makers like Sony have been stockpiling memory to ensure there is ample supply. Below, you can check the pricing across Europe, the UK, and the US, compiled by VideoGamesChronicle.

Welcome to the month of August and it brings with it a somewhat more regular scheduling of new game releases. This week's major release is an ARPG set in a Sci-Fi/fantasy universe that blends martial arts, dogs and robots. The regular releases this week kicks off with a presidential rogue-like action game, followed by a game that sounds like an office team work exercise, an Asian-inspired metroidvania, a 4v4 Marvel fighting game and we round things off with a world where anything can catch on fire and kill you. We also have a few additional games that might pique your interest as well.

Beast of Reincarnation / This week's major release / Monday 3 August
Set in a post-apocalyptic Japan, humanity's only hope lies with Emma, an outcast shunned from society for her affliction, and Koo, the blighted dog. Together, they embark on this expansive adventure in this one-person, one-dog action RPG. Experience a journey where you feel moments of loneliness, and also the reliability and comfort of your companion. Savor a world of impermanence, where forests suddenly burst forth amidst the wasteland. As Emma and Koo travel through this beautiful yet harsh world, their bond and abilities blossom. Steam link

Following large-scale dissatisfaction with the overall Windows experience, Microsoft in March 2026 issued a statement explaining that it would be working to deliver "smoother navigation and more reliable performance for everyday tasks." Now, over four months later, Pavan Davaluri, President of Windows + Devices, has provided an update on the progress of this initiative in a new X post.

In this X post, one of the more notable improvements Davuluri claims Microsoft has made during recent months—along with improvements to the Taskbar and Start—is improved memory efficiency. He explains that Microsoft has implemented "substantial improvements in memory efficiency and latency," in order to "accelerate the modernization of Windows 11," that it has reduced memory overhead across apps and components, and that the company has tuned WinUI 3 to make built-in apps use less memory. Microsoft also outlined its plans for the future of Windows 11 memory efficiency improvements, specifically stating that the Windows team will be working on "memory optimization for 8 GB and above."

Epomaker is known for its affordable mechanical keyboards, and it has just announced the latest wireless mechanical keyboard in its lineup. The Epomaker TH65 is a 65% wireless mechanical keyboard that falls squarely in the budget category, with a starting price of just $64.99. It is available on Epomaker's website in Black with translucent PC keycaps, Retro white with opaque PBT keycaps, and Pink with ABS and PC keycaps.

Despite the low price, the TH65 has some of the hallmarks of a premium mechanical keyboard, including double-shot PBT keycaps, a gasket mount, and a programmable knob. The keyboard's case itself is made of ABS plastic, which inevitably lowers cost, but it also allows for features like two-stage flip-out feet for typing angles of 6, 8, or 10.5°. The TH65 is also available with three different switches: linear Epomaker Creamy Jades, Epomaker Crystal Silent Tactile switches, or Epomaker Clear linear switches. The TH65 features a PC plate and five layers of sound damping materials.

It was recently revealed that Xbox would be leaning into inter-studio collaborations to increase output and efficiency at its in-house game studios, and this seems to be the case now. In a recent podcast, Windows Central journalist and notable industry insider, Jez Corden, commented that he had heard rumors that inXile Entertainment, the studio behind Clockwork Revolution, was already working on its next game after Clockwork, and that the next game would be "Fallout-adjacent."

"We know inXile's working on Clockwork Revolution, but they're already incubating the next project...and I've heard some interesting rumors that that could potentially be Fallout-adjacent as well." He goes on to explain that the project is still in the very early stages of development and could still be abandoned or change in the not too distant future. This would also make it the fifth Fallout game on the cards, with Bethesda announcing four other Fallout games currently in the works. The full interview is available below.

On July 31, AYANEO CEO Arthur brought an exciting live-streaming sharing session to players, where the real machine of KONKR's brand-new retro handheld masterpiece, the KONKR Pocket Advance, was officially unveiled. As a sub-brand of AYANEO dedicated to creating high-value handheld gaming products, KONKR has always been committed to allowing more players to enjoy the fun of handheld gaming in a more relaxed and purer way. As the latest product, the KONKR Pocket Advance rekindles the spark of the golden age of handheld consoles, serving as a perfect response to the expectations and passions of nostalgic players.

KONKR Pocket Advance, with the core concept of "Totem in Your Palm, Full Awakening," pays tribute to the most iconic horizontal handheld consoles of the golden age by REMAKE the classics, allowing the classic totems that once carried the youthful memories of countless players to return in a new form in the new era. For many players, those timeless classic handheld consoles have never been just gaming devices. The familiar silhouettes, unique button layouts, and exceptional control experiences together form the most precious memories of the golden age of gaming for a generation of players. Even after all these years, these classics still hold an irreplaceable charm.

We previously reported that iFixit may have been discontinuing Steam Deck LCD battery replacement parts, after which iFixit CEO, Kyle Wiens, issued a formal response indicating that the replacement batteries would be back in stock soon. This has since come to pass, and the Steam Deck LCD batteries are once again available at iFixit, however, the spare parts have received a significant price increase.

Before the restock, the original OEM Steam Deck LCD battery kit cost $84.99, while the battery alone cost $79.99. After the restock, the OEM battery kit with iFixit's tools included costs $134.99, and the battery alone costs $129.99. That's a $50 price increase across the board on a part for a four-year-old device. What's more, the OEM battery for the Steam Deck OLED still carries the same $79.99/$84.99 pricing as the original, Steam Deck LCD battery. It's currently unclear if the OLED model's battery will also see a price increase.

Intel's push for advanced packaging is reportedly attracting significant attention from external customers to Intel Foundry. However, the company's latest packaging will only begin mass production next year. Intel's Embedded Multi-die Interconnect Bridge (EMIB) enables designers to use 2D, 2.5D, and 3D building blocks to optimize cost, power, and bandwidth at the system level. EMIB is a substrate-embedded silicon bridge that provides localized, high-density die-to-die routing without the cost and area penalty of a full-size silicon interposer. For example, small silicon EMIB bridges—available in variants like EMIB-M with embedded MIM capacitors and EMIB-T with TSVs—offer low-cost, high-density shoreline connections ideal for logic-to-logic and logic-to-HBM interfaces. The EMIB-T variant, which includes TSVs, allows ASICs to gain direct access to power connections, resulting in a massive, multi-kilowatt solution on a single package.

However, this EMIB-T advanced packaging will only enter mass production next year, as Intel is currently ramping up its regular EMIB and Foveros for customers. According to Taiwan's Unimicron, which manufactures PCBs and silicon substrates, Intel's EMIB-T will reach high-volume production in 2027. The company also notes that customers, including ASIC designers like Broadcom and Meta, are considering switching from TSMC's CoWoS packaging to EMIB to reduce costs while maintaining the same benefits and even gaining more features in some areas. The price gap between EMIB-T and CoWoS (presumably CoWoS-L or CoWoS-R) can be as much as 50%, depending on whether an expensive interposer is required. This means that the costs of advanced packaging are passed back to the customer, who can then invest in other production areas.