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July 31
- Samsung reportedly slashes HBM3 prices to woo Nvidia — cuts could put the heat on rivals SK hynix and Micron as company attempts to spur AI turnaround
➀ Samsung reports a 94% profit plunge in its chip division, driven by U.S. export restrictions and inventory corrections;
➁ The company pins recovery hopes on HBM3E production cost reductions to secure Nvidia's AI GPU supply chain, challenging SK Hynix and Micron;
➂ A $16.5 billion Tesla partnership and geopolitical risks, including U.S. tariffs, add complexity to Samsung's AI-driven turnaround strategy.
- Nvidia confirms end of Game Ready driver support for Maxwell and Pascal GPUs — affected products will get optimized drivers through October 2025
➀ NVIDIA confirms discontinuation of Game Ready drivers for Maxwell and Pascal GPUs post-October 2025, transitioning to quarterly security updates until 2028;
➁ Legacy GPUs like GTX 1080 Ti will lose DLSS/ray-tracing optimization but remain functional for non-RT titles;
➂ Windows 10 users receive extended driver support through October 2026 despite Microsoft ending OS updates in late 2025.
- China raises security concerns over Nvidia's H20 Chips — hardware may expose user data or hidden tracking functions
➀ China's Cyberspace Administration questioned Nvidia's H20 GPU over potential data security risks and hidden tracking functions linked to U.S. legislative proposals.
➁ The H20 is a modified export-compliant GPU for China, lacking tracking features, yet concerns may stem from efforts to boost domestic AI chip adoption (e.g., Cambricon, Huawei).
➂ Analysts view the scrutiny as symbolic, unlikely to escalate to a ban, as China still relies heavily on Nvidia's CUDA software ecosystem.
- Success in the DFG Reinhart-Koselleck Program: TU Dresden Prof. Czarske Secures Prestigious Research Funding
➀ Prof. Jürgen Czarske's team at TU Dresden secured €1.5M funding through the DFG's Reinhart-Koselleck program for a 5-year project on physics-informed deep learning in fiber-optic security transmission;
➁ The project aims to address AI's explainability challenges and high energy consumption while developing energy-efficient optical neural networks for applications like secure communication and quantum computing;
➂ Innovations focus on combining data-driven AI with physical models to enable real-time light scattering measurements and reduce reliance on power-intensive GPUs.
July 30
- ASUS ROG Xbox Ally Preorder & Pricing Details Break Cover
➀ Preorders for the ASUS ROG Xbox Ally X and ROG Xbox Ally are expected to start on August 20, 2025, at the beginning of this year's Gamescom event.
➁ The ROG Xbox Ally X is priced at €899, while the ROG Xbox Ally is priced at €599.
➂ Both devices feature a 7-inch IPS display with 1920x1080 resolution, 120Hz refresh rate, and AMD FreeSync Premium certification.
- MSI's Luxurious Prestige 16 AI+ Mercedes-AMG Laptop Rolls Off The Lot
➀ MSI has collaborated with Mercedes-AMG Motorsport to create a limited edition Prestige 16 AI+ laptop;
➁ The laptop features a design inspired by the AMG color palette and includes laser-etched AMD Motosport branding;
➂ It is a thin and light system with a magnesium-aluminum alloy chassis and a Samsung-sourced 16-inch OLED display.
- Graphene Revolutionizes Energy Technology: Scalable Supercapacitors from Graphene
➀ Empa researchers are developing graphene-based supercapacitors with higher energy density through precise pore-size control and scalable manufacturing processes;
➁ The team uses a gel-like graphene ink derived from graphite, enabling efficient industrial-scale production and improved electrode performance;
➂ The project aims to commercialize the technology by 2028, with prototypes integrating optimized electrolytes and electrode designs for reliable energy storage solutions.
- Leading the Way in Industrial-Scale Hollow Embossing: Fraunhofer IWU Presents flexROLLmax
➀ Fraunhofer IWU introduced the flexROLLmax, a system expanding hollow embossing capabilities to large-format components like electrolyzer plates, complementing its existing BPPflexROLL for fuel cells;
➁ The system leverages a continuous roller process, reducing costs and process forces by 10x, while enabling high-throughput production and flexibility for diverse applications;
➂ Developed under the H2Giga project (funded by the German Federal Ministry), it will debut at the B2B Production Forum, showcasing advancements in hydrogen system manufacturing and digitalized forming processes.
- Leading in Industrial-Scale Hollow Embossing Rolling: Fraunhofer IWU Presents flexROLLmax
➀ Fraunhofer IWU introduces **flexROLLmax**, an advanced hollow embossing rolling system for large-scale production of components like electrolyzer plates, expanding applications in fuel cells and heat exchangers;
➁ The system achieves **10x lower process forces** compared to conventional methods, enabling cost-effective, energy-efficient production with modular designs for flexible geometry adaptation;
➂ Integrated sensors and AI algorithms support real-time quality monitoring, minimizing defects, while the B2B Production Forum (September 2025) will showcase its potential for hydrogen systems and industrial manufacturing.
July 29
- Sony Details FlexStrike, PlayStation's First Fight Stick For Epic Battles On PS5 And PC
➀ Sony has announced the FlexStrike Wireless Fight Stick, a new addition to its PS5 and PC compatible peripherals.
➁ The FlexStrike will offer both wired and wireless connectivity options, with Sony utilizing PlayStation Link for ultra low-latency wireless play.
➂ The fight stick features mechanical buttons, swappable restrictor plates, and a layout similar to the DualSense controller, with a touchpad included.
- Sony Lawsuit Slams Tencent's New Game As A 'Slavish Clone' Of Horizon
➀ Sony has filed a lawsuit against Tencent, accusing its upcoming game 'Light of Motiram' of being a 'slavish clone' of the popular 'Horizon' series.
➁ The lawsuit claims that nearly all aspects of the game, including story, gameplay themes, cultural elements, art style, landscapes, and more, are identical to those in 'Horizon'.
➂ Sony also mentions that Tencent had approached them to develop a 'Horizon' game for Sony, which Sony had already been working on since 2023, but Sony declined the partnership.
- When NVIDIA's GeForce RTX 50 Super Refresh Is Rumored To Launch
➀ Persistent rumors suggest NVIDIA is preparing to launch several GeForce RTX 50 Super models;
➁ The latest rumors indicate a release around the upcoming holiday season;
➂ This would be the first time for a Super refresh to arrive less than a year after the initial series launch.
- Back-To-School Gaming Laptop Deals Bring RTX Firepower For Up To $800 Off
➀ The article discusses various gaming laptop deals available for back-to-school shopping, highlighting significant discounts on laptops with GeForce RTX hardware.
➁ It mentions a specific deal on MSI's Stealth 18 AI for $2,499.99 at Best Buy, saving $800.
➂ The article also features the ASUS ROG Zephyrus G14 OLED with OLED display and GeForce RTX 5060 GPU, now priced at $1,349.99 at Best Buy, saving $450.
- ‘World’s smallest Intel Core Ultra-powered Mini PC’ crown claimed by fanless Aaeon PICO-MTU4-SEMI — just 43mm high and 0.44 liters in size
➀ Aaeon unveils PICO-MTU4-SEMI, claimed as the world's smallest Intel Core Ultra-powered Mini PC with passive cooling, measuring 108 x 95 x 43mm;
➁ Designed for industrial applications (e.g., robots, AGVs), it features legacy COM ports, dual LAN, and limited USB/HDMI, with optional GPIO for I/O control;
➂ Equipped with up to Intel Core Ultra 7 165U, 32GB LPDDR5, and M.2 SSD support, but lacks retail pricing—requires direct inquiry with Aaeon.
- U.S. semiconductor design company fined $140 million over China dealings — sold software to a military institution thought to be conducting nuclear explosion simulations
➀ Cadence Design Systems admitted exporting chip design software to China's National University of Defense Technology (NUDT), linked to nuclear weapons research, violating U.S. sanctions;
➁ From 2015-2020, Cadence China made 56 illegal sales to NUDT-affiliated institutions despite their presence on the Entity List, and partnered with sanctioned chipmaker Phytium without licenses;
➂ The $140 million penalty highlights U.S. enforcement on tech exports, amid growing concerns over AI chip smuggling and black markets bypassing restrictions.
- China forms AI alliances to cut U.S. tech reliance — Huawei among companies seeking to create unified tech stack with domestic-powered standardization
➀ China launches two AI alliances: the Model-Chip Ecosystem Innovation Alliance and the Shanghai AI Committee, aiming to reduce reliance on U.S. tech.
➀ The Model-Chip Alliance focuses on integrating domestic AI hardware (e.g., Huawei, Biren) with software to streamline development amid restricted access to NVIDIA GPUs.
➁ The alliances seek interoperability through standardized APIs and frameworks, potentially accelerating China's AI ecosystem and global competitiveness.
- Ayaneo crams dedicated GPU-class Strix Halo and battery inside next-gen gaming handheld — second Ryzen AI Max+ 395 handheld boldly features an internal battery
➀ Ayaneo announces Next 2 handheld with AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395 APU and Radeon 8060S GPU (40 CUs), targeting desktop-level gaming performance;
➁ The device adopts an internal high-capacity battery and dual-fan cooling system, contrasting with GPD Win 5's external battery solution;
➂ Despite a 55W default TDP and thermal challenges, Ayaneo claims breakthrough battery life via optimized design for AMD's power-hungry Strix Halo chip.
- Cutting-edge Technology for Pediatric Cancer Wards - MultiDrug-TDM: New LOEWE Focus for Medical Technology
➀ A new LOEWE research project at TU Darmstadt, funded with €4.3 million, aims to develop a portable bedside sensor system for real-time drug monitoring in pediatric cancer patients;
➁ The system will enable personalized dosage adjustments by analyzing drug concentrations in blood samples on-site, replacing time-consuming lab processes and improving treatment efficacy and safety;
➂ Combining expertise in biosensors, AI-driven data analysis, and clinical oncology, the interdisciplinary project could pioneer intelligent, adaptive medical technology and strengthen Hessian research networks.
- Many analytical applications made possible by one flexible IR laser system
➀ Fraunhofer IZM and partners developed a modular quantum cascade laser (QCL) system on a glass board, enabling compact and precise multispectral infrared (MIR) spectroscopy for applications in medical, environmental, and industrial fields.
➁ The system integrates up to three QCLs with programmable nanosecond pulses, temperature-stabilized cavities, embedded drivers, and optical components, allowing operation in harsh environments and miniaturizing traditionally bulky analytical devices.
➂ Funded by the Berlin IBB and EU’s EFRE program, the project builds on prior thin-glass platform research, aiming to democratize advanced spectroscopy technology for SMEs through cost-effective, scalable R&D solutions.
- A Flexible Infrared Laser for Versatile Analytical Applications
➀ Fraunhofer IZM and Laser Electronics LE GmbH developed a modular laser system using Quantum Cascade Lasers (QCLs) to target the mid-infrared (MIR) spectrum for multispectral analysis, enabling precise detection of organic substances;
➁ The system integrates lasers, drivers, and optical components on a thin-glass substrate with temperature-stabilized cavities, allowing miniaturization, rugged encapsulation, and operation in harsh environments;
➂ Funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) and Berlin Investment Bank, the project aims to reduce development costs for SMEs and enable portable spectroscopic devices in fields like medicine and environmental monitoring.
- Kenya PtX Atlas Reveals Potential for Green Ammonia from Renewable Energy
➀ The Kenya PtX Atlas, developed by Fraunhofer IEE and partners, identifies optimal locations for green ammonia production in Kenya using renewable energy;
➁ The open-data tool combines GIS analysis and economic evaluations to support investment, local value creation, and Europe's climate-neutral energy transition;
➂ Four key regions in Kenya demonstrate cost-effective production potential, emphasizing sustainable industrialization and international collaboration for green energy adoption.
July 28
- Samsung Scores Massive $16.5 Billion AI Chip Deal With Elon Musk's Tesla
➀ Elon Musk confirmed that Tesla has signed a $16.5 billion AI chip deal with Samsung;
➁ The deal involves Samsung's new Texas fab site supplying AI6 chips for Tesla's electric vehicles;
➂ The agreement is a strategic win for Samsung, as it will be dedicated to making Tesla's next-generation AI6 chips.
- Frigidaire Retro Mini Fridge Recall: $700K In Property Damage From Fire Hazard
➀ Curtis International is working with the CPSC on a recall of Frigidaire mini fridges due to a fire risk;
➁ The recall affects retro-themed mini fridges with potential faulty internal electrical components;
➂ There have been reports of smoking, sparking, burning, and fires associated with the affected models.
- Samsung inks $16.5 billion Tesla AI chip deal — Elon Musk says Samsung will produce new A16 chips: 'The strategic importance of this is hard to overstate'
➀ Samsung secures a $16.5B deal to produce Tesla's next-gen A16 AI chips at its Texas fab, aiming for production by 2029;
➁ Elon Musk highlights strategic collaboration, including Tesla engineers assisting in Samsung's manufacturing efficiency;
➂ The contract boosts Samsung's foundry credibility against TSMC, targeting 2nm-class automotive-grade chips for autonomous vehicles.
- MSI Katana 15 HX review: RTX 5050 gaming for under $1,000
➀ The MSI Katana 15 HX delivers solid 1080p gaming performance with an RTX 5050 GPU at under $1,000, offering exceptional value for budget-conscious gamers;
➁ Key drawbacks include a dim, color-lacking display (257.2 nits, 69.3% sRGB) and outdated 720p webcam, while the keyboard tends to overheat during extended use;
➂ Notable strengths include four-zone RGB lighting, extensive upgrade options (DDR5 RAM/SSD slots), and competitive productivity benchmarks despite using 14th Gen Intel HX-series CPUs.
- Apple's M4 Macbook Air plunges to its lowest ever price in the ultimate back to school deal — Amazon's $799 price tag trounces Apple's official deal program
➀ Amazon offers unprecedented discounts on Apple's M4 MacBook Air, with the 13-inch model dropping to $799 and the 15-inch model to $999, both $200 below MSRP;
➁ These deals significantly undercut Apple's official student promotion, which includes free AirPods but retains higher base prices;
➂ Featuring the powerful M4 chip, upgraded camera, and multiple configurations, the MacBook Air remains a top choice for students and professionals alike.
- Crazed modder discovers RTX 5050 is actually faster than a 1080 Ti — ends up overclocking Nvidia's plucky budget card to 3300MHz, swipes top six scores in 3DMark Time Spy with 28% clock speed increase
➀ Modder TrashBench initially aimed to overclock a GTX 1080 Ti to outperform Nvidia’s RTX 5050 but discovered the budget card outperformed the old flagship both at stock and when overclocked;
➁ The RTX 5050 achieved a 28% clock speed boost to 3.3 GHz, delivering a 17.55% average FPS gain in games and securing six top 3DMark Time Spy scores;
➂ Despite extensive tuning, the GTX 1080 Ti hit a performance ceiling at 2.2 GHz, highlighting generational advancements in Nvidia’s GPU architecture.
- Get AMD's 7800X3D gaming CPU, plus a white Gigabyte B650E Aorus Elite motherboard for $449 at Newegg
➀ Newegg offers a combo deal with AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D CPU and Gigabyte B650E Aorus Elite X Ice motherboard for $449, saving over $150;
➁ The 7800X3D features 8 cores, 16 threads, 5.0 GHz boost, and supports PCIe 5.0/DDR5-5200;
➂ Though no longer cutting-edge, this bundle remains a cost-effective option for gamers and Windows 11 upgraders.
July 27
- Wuchang: Fallen Feathers' latest patch accused of faking internal render resolution to boost FPS — game runs at 'Quality' upscaling even when the render scale is set to 100% native
➀ The latest patch for Wuchang: Fallen Feathers allegedly forces hidden upscaling even at 100% resolution, falsely boosting FPS while compromising image quality;
➁ Testing by hardware analyst Daniel Owen revealed a 28–37 FPS jump at "native" settings, suggesting the game now caps internal resolution at 80–85% despite claims;
➂ Players report reduced visual fidelity without disclosure, sparking backlash against developer 505 Games for deceptive optimization tactics.
- Eco-friendly 3D-printed house uses soil, not cement — building still scores top earthquake resistance rating
➀ Lib Work's 3D-printed houses use a mix of soil (65%), slaked lime, and natural fibers, achieving earthquake resistance grade 3—Japan's highest safety rating;
➁ The eco-friendly design reduces CO2 emissions by over 50% compared to traditional concrete homes, emitting only 22,434kg per house;
➂ The technology enables free-form architectural designs and even hints at future extraterrestrial applications with its 'Mars Building Project' using Martian soil.