WAYR TODAY

Category: Hardware

  • HP and Dell Disable HEVC Support in Laptops, Impacting Multimedia Experience

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    HP and Dell have disabled hardware support for HEVC/H.265 decoding in some of their laptops, affecting how users can access high-efficiency video content online. Despite having processors capable of HEVC decoding, certain popular business notebooks from both manufacturers have had this feature intentionally turned off, leading to confusion among users.

    Laptops equipped with sixth-generation Intel Core processors and newer, as well as AMD chips from 2015 onwards, come with integrated support for HEVC decoding and encoding. However, HP and Dell have chosen to deactivate this functionality on specific models, such as the HP ProBook 460 G11, ProBook 465 G11, and EliteBook 665 G11.

    HP explicitly mentions in the data sheets for affected laptops that ‘Hardware acceleration for CODEC H.265/HEVC is disabled on this platform,’ leaving users to grapple with issues like videos failing to load in browsers or reduced performance in certain web applications. Dell laptop owners are also facing similar challenges, with some models lacking HEVC hardware decoding capabilities, albeit without clear disclosure on product pages or manuals.

    This decision comes amidst increasing HEVC licensing costs set to take effect in January, prompting HP and Dell to adjust their laptop configurations. As a result, users are left to navigate the consequences of this change, including potential performance degradation and compatibility issues.

    Source: Ars Technica

  • Nvidia’s Data Center Dominance Drives Record Revenue Growth

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Nvidia, a leading hardware company, reported a remarkable third-quarter performance with revenue hitting a record $57 billion, a 62% increase year-over-year. The company’s CEO, Jensen Huang, highlighted the impressive results that surpassed Wall Street expectations.

    The standout performer for Nvidia was its data center business, which generated a record $51.2 billion in revenue, marking a substantial 66% growth from the previous year. The remaining revenue came from gaming, professional visualization, and automotive sectors.

    Nvidia’s CFO, Colette Kress, attributed the success of the data center business to the increasing demand for computing power, advanced AI models, and edge applications. Notably, the company announced significant AI projects in the past quarter, totaling 5 million GPUs, catering to various markets and industries.

    The Blackwell Ultra GPU, introduced earlier this year, has been a major contributor to Nvidia’s success, with the company reporting exceptional sales of these GPU chips.

    This performance highlights Nvidia’s strong position in the tech industry, particularly in the data center segment, showcasing the company’s ability to meet the growing demand for AI and computing solutions.

    Source: TechCrunch

  • Apple’s N1 Wi-Fi Chip Outperforms Broadcom Alternatives, Ookla Data Shows

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Apple’s latest iPhones have introduced a significant shift in wireless connectivity with the debut of the Apple N1 Wi-Fi chip, the company’s first proprietary chip designed for local wireless connections. The N1, supporting Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6, and the Thread smart home communication protocol, replaces the previously used third-party wireless chips, predominantly from Broadcom.

    According to data from Ookla, the company behind the SpeedTest app, the iPhone 17 series, powered by the N1 chip, showcased improved download and upload speeds compared to the iPhone 16 models across various percentiles and regions. The median download speed for the iPhone 17 series reached 329.56Mbps, a significant increase from the iPhone 16’s 236.46Mbps. Similarly, upload speeds saw a boost from 73.68Mbps to 103.26Mbps. Notably, the N1 chip’s performance enhancements were most prominent in the lower 10th percentile, suggesting that Apple’s custom silicon elevates the baseline performance more than the peak performance.

    While the iPhone 17 didn’t claim the top spot globally in performance, Ookla reported that devices like the Pixel 10 Pro and Xiaomi 15T Pro with different Wi-Fi chips slightly outperformed it in specific speed metrics. Overall, the N1 chip marks a notable advancement in wireless connectivity for the iPhone lineup.

    Source: Ars Technica

  • Apple Revolutionizes Watch Manufacturing with 3D Printing

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Apple has introduced a novel manufacturing process for the Apple Watch Ultra 3, utilizing 3D printing technology to craft watch cases from 100 percent recycled titanium powder. This innovative approach significantly reduces raw material usage, with an estimated 400 metric tons of titanium saved this year alone.

    The intricate process involves blasting titanium dust with lasers, building up over 900 layers of material, each a mere 60 microns thick. To prevent explosions from high heat exposure, the titanium powder must undergo meticulous refinement to lower its oxygen content.

    While Apple currently applies 3D printing to watch cases and the iPhone Air’s USB-C port, the company plans to expand this technology across its product lineup. “We’re never doing something just to do it once – we’re doing it so it becomes the way the whole system then works,” says Sarah Chandler, Apple’s VP of Environment and Supply Chain Innovation.

    Source: The Verge

  • Apple’s Custom N1 Chip Boosts iPhone 17 Wi-Fi Performance, Ookla Speed Tests Reveal

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    According to a recent study by Ookla, Apple’s custom N1 networking chip, which incorporates Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6, and Thread radios in the iPhone 17 lineup, has significantly improved real-world Wi-Fi performance compared to the Broadcom chip used in the iPhone 16 models. Despite being limited to 160MHz channels and not fully utilizing Wi-Fi 7’s 320MHz channels, the N1 chip demonstrated up to a 40% increase in median download and upload speeds globally, with 60% faster 10th-percentile speeds than its predecessor.

    The iPhone 17 family surpassed leading Android devices like the Pixel 10 and Galaxy S25 in North America, achieving the highest median and 90th percentile Wi-Fi download speeds. This remarkable performance, especially in challenging Wi-Fi conditions, highlights the N1 chip’s ability to deliver consistent high-speed connectivity and outperform its competitors.

    While the N1 chip’s technical specifications may appear similar to its predecessor on paper, real-world speed tests demonstrate a clear advantage for the iPhone 17 family. As North America witnesses the rise of 320MHz-capable Wi-Fi 7 routers, the N1 chip’s prowess in maintaining superior performance will continue to be tested, solidifying its position as a key component in smartphone connectivity.

    Source: The Verge

  • Luminar Faces Volvo Contract Cancellation Amid Financial Challenges

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Luminar, a lidar sensor company, is facing the cancellation of a long-standing contract with Swedish automaker Volvo amid financial difficulties. This development comes as Luminar is grappling with cash shortages and an SEC investigation.

    The cancellation of the five-year contract with Volvo is attributed to Luminar’s failure to meet its obligations, raising concerns over supply chain risks. The relationship between Volvo and Luminar has been strategic, with Volvo’s investment aiding Luminar’s entry into vehicle production.

    In a bid to avert a potential bankruptcy, Luminar has initiated cost-cutting measures, including a significant workforce reduction and exploring options for a potential sale of the company or its assets. The company’s founder, Austin Russell, who stepped down as CEO earlier this year amid an ethics inquiry, is among the potential buyers.

    Despite early successes, Luminar has encountered challenges post-SPAC merger, struggling to reduce its reliance on Volvo and facing operational setbacks. The company’s recent troubles underscore the complexities of maintaining key partnerships in the tech industry amidst financial uncertainties.

    Source: TechCrunch

  • Apple’s Mac Pro Future Uncertain as Focus Shifts to Mac Studio

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Apple’s Mac Pro, once a prominent part of the company’s workstation lineup, has faced limited updates in recent years, with only four hardware refreshes in the last 15 years, according to a report by Ars Technica. The transition to Apple Silicon in mid-2023 raised hopes for more frequent updates, but a recent report by Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman suggests otherwise.

    Gurman indicates that Apple has shifted its focus towards a new Mac Studio featuring the upcoming M5 Ultra chip, leaving the Mac Pro on the back burner until 2026. While not ruling out an update entirely, the emphasis on the Mac Studio hints at a lack of significant refresh for the Mac Pro next year.

    Despite using the M2 Ultra chip, the current Mac Pro appears to be excluded from the immediate upgrade path, unlike other Apple desktops. This decision underscores Apple’s strategy of selective updates for its high-end desktop range, with the iMac, Mac mini, and Studio having already skipped a silicon generation since the 2020 M1 release.

    Source: Ars Technica

  • Apple Ordered to Pay $634M to Masimo for Blood Oxygen Monitoring Patent Infringement

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    In a recent federal jury ruling in California, tech giant Apple has been ordered to pay medical device manufacturer Masimo $634 million for infringing on a patent related to blood oxygen monitoring technology. The dispute centered on Apple Watch features, specifically the workout mode and heart rate notifications, which were deemed to infringe on Masimo’s patent, as reported by Reuters.

    Masimo stated that protecting their intellectual property is crucial for developing technologies that benefit patients. The company expressed satisfaction with the verdict, saying, “This is a significant win in our ongoing efforts to protect our innovations and intellectual property.” Apple, however, plans to challenge the decision, arguing that the patent in question expired in 2022 and pertained to outdated patient monitoring technology.

    The legal battle between Masimo and Apple revolves around pulse oximetry, a technology that uses optical sensors to monitor blood flow. Masimo has accused Apple of not only infringing its patents but also poaching its employees, including the chief medical officer. The U.S. International Trade Commission previously ruled in favor of Masimo in 2023, resulting in a ban on Apple importing watches with blood oxygen monitoring capabilities.

    As the two companies continue to clash over intellectual property rights, the outcome of this case could have broader implications for the tech industry’s approach to innovation and patent protection.

    Source: TechCrunch

  • Valve Unveils New Steam Hardware: Home Console and VR Headset

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Valve, the company behind the popular PC gaming platform Steam, has announced the introduction of two new hardware products: the Steam Machine home console and the Steam Frame VR headset.

    The Steam Machine is a compact, PC-like home console that boasts a custom Zen 4 CPU from AMD. It is reported to be six times more powerful than the Steam Deck, offering various memory and storage configurations that allow for user upgradability.

    Accompanying the Steam Machine is an updated Steam Controller, featuring haptic-feedback trackpads and a traditional array of controls. Additionally, Valve unveiled the Steam Frame VR headset, designed for lag-free, wireless gaming when connected to a PC. The headset’s dedicated wireless module ensures seamless data transfer, providing a high-quality VR experience.

    The Steam Frame can also function as a standalone headset, running on a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip. This allows users to play x86 games on ARM architecture through SteamOS, with a focus on gaming performance and a lightweight design.

    Source: WIRED

  • Belkin Recalls iPhone Tracking Stand and Power Banks Due to Fire Risks

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Belkin, a prominent technology accessory manufacturer, has initiated a recall for its Auto-Tracking Stand Pro designed for the iPhone and two variants of the 20,000mAh BoostCharge USB-C PD Power Bank. The recall stems from a manufacturing defect that could lead to overheating of the products’ lithium-ion cell components, creating a potential fire and burn hazard for users. While there has been only one reported fire incident in the US, other countries have seen 15 reported incidents, resulting in two minor burn injuries and significant property damage totaling $37,765, as reported by the US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).

    Approximately 83,500 of these stands and power banks were sold in the US between August 2020 and August 2025 through various retailers such as Best Buy, Target, Walmart, and Amazon. An additional 2,385 units were sold in Canada. Consumers can identify the affected devices by checking the model numbers located on the bottom or sides of the products. The Auto-Tracking Stand Pro carries the model number MMA008, while the power banks are labeled with model numbers BPB002 or PB0003.

    Belkin advises customers to cease using the recalled devices immediately and to reach out to the company for a full refund or store credit equivalent to the purchase amount plus a 20 percent bonus. To expedite the refund process, individuals can complete a recall claim form on Belkin’s website, providing a valid receipt and the device’s serial number. The faulty devices should be appropriately disposed of at facilities equipped to handle defective lithium-ion batteries, avoiding disposal in regular garbage, recycling bins, or battery collection points typically found at retail locations.

    Source: The Verge

  • Blue Origin’s New Glenn Rocket Lands Offshore in Historic Achievement

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Blue Origin, the aerospace company founded by billionaire Jeff Bezos, has achieved a significant milestone with the successful landing of its 18-story-tall New Glenn rocket on a floating platform in the Atlantic Ocean. The rocket, named after the late NASA astronaut John Glenn, lifted off from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida and returned to Earth, demonstrating the company’s progress in reusable rocket technology.

    The New Glenn rocket, powered by seven BE-4 main engines, carried two NASA science probes on a mission to Mars. During its ascent, the rocket generated over 3.8 million pounds of thrust, showcasing its impressive capabilities. The first stage booster flawlessly released the second stage, equipped with dual hydrogen-fueled BE-3U engines, to continue its journey into orbit.

    Blue Origin’s CEO, Dave Limp, expressed satisfaction with the team’s achievement, highlighting the successful landing on the rocket’s second attempt. This event signifies a significant step forward in the company’s efforts to increase flight frequency and serve its clientele. The flawless execution of this mission underscores Blue Origin’s commitment to advancing space exploration and satellite deployment.

    Source: Ars Technica

  • Microscopic Chips Hitch a Ride on Immune Cells to Target Inflammation

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Researchers have developed a novel approach to brain implants, where tiny electronic devices can now be fused with living immune cells to navigate to sites of inflammation, as reported by Ars Technica. This breakthrough technology eliminates the need for invasive surgical procedures typically required for traditional brain implants.

    Deblina Sarkar, an electrical engineer and MIT assistant professor, led this research project. After years of persistence, Sarkar and her team successfully combined microscopic electronics with cells, creating a new method for non-invasive brain interventions.

    By miniaturizing electronic devices to subcellular levels, Sarkar’s team was able to overcome the challenges faced by previous attempts. The innovative use of CMOS technology enables these hybrid devices to harness light for power generation and computational tasks, further enhancing their capabilities.

    This advancement not only opens new possibilities for targeted brain treatments but also highlights the potential of integrating technology with biological systems. The impact of these advancements on healthcare and research could be substantial, offering a glimpse into future medical innovations.

    Source: Ars Technica

  • Accelerating AI: The Surging Demand for High-Speed Chip Networking

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    In the rapidly evolving technology landscape, the surge in AI development has catalyzed a crucial need for high-speed chip networking solutions. As reported by WIRED, next-generation networking technologies, including photonics-driven systems, are becoming indispensable components of AI infrastructure.

    Unlike the virtual connections on social platforms, the tech industry is channeling substantial investments into AI data centers, driving significant innovation in chip-to-chip and server-to-server networking. From the interconnectivity within semiconductor chips to the external links between chip clusters, networking technology is pivotal at various levels of the computing ecosystem.

    Established chip manufacturers like Nvidia and Broadcom are enhancing their networking capabilities, while emerging players such as Lightmatter and Celestial AI are leveraging optical technologies to accelerate data processing. The resurgence of optical technology, long underestimated, has been revitalized by the AI boom, with startups like PsiQuantum pioneering photonics to enhance computing speeds.

    Venture capitalists and institutional investors are actively backing these innovative startups, recognizing the insufficiency of traditional electron-based interconnect methods to meet the escalating demands of AI workloads. The shift towards photonics-based networking signifies a paradigmatic evolution in chip connectivity, ushering in an era of high-speed data transmission essential for AI-driven applications.

    Source: WIRED

  • Researcher Develops Bat-Inspired Robots for Search and Rescue Missions

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    A researcher at Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) has developed palm-sized robots that mimic the characteristics of bats to enhance search and rescue missions in challenging terrains. Nitin J. Sanket and his team have engineered these small flying robots to utilize ultrasound technology, similar to bats, enabling them to navigate through harsh conditions with precision.

    These robots leverage AI algorithms to filter out extraneous noise from the ultrasound signals they receive, allowing them to detect obstacles within a two-meter radius. Sanket emphasized the potential of these drones in search and rescue operations, highlighting their agility and speed in covering vast areas quickly.

    Sanket’s interest in aerial robots and drones, rooted in his fascination with biology, led him to explore how biological principles could be harnessed to create efficient machines. His prior work on a robotic beehive aimed at pollinating flowers transitioned into a focus on developing biology-inspired robots for immediate practical applications.

    By drawing inspiration from nature’s mechanisms, Sanket aims to revolutionize the field of robotics, particularly in aiding critical missions where human intervention may be limited or hazardous.

    Source: TechCrunch

  • Sandisk Unveils World’s Smallest 1TB USB-C Flash Drive

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Sandisk has introduced the Extreme Fit, a compact 1TB USB-C flash drive designed to remain plugged into a laptop permanently. The drive, slightly larger than a wireless mouse dongle, features an L-shaped design to fit into a USB-C port without protruding horizontally, ensuring a flush connection with laptops. This ‘leave-in design’ allows users to use it as a semi-permanent storage upgrade.

    Available in capacities ranging from 64GB to 1TB, the 1TB model offers USB 3.2 Gen 1 support with transfer speeds of up to 400MB/s. While not the fastest drive, its compact size and high capacity make it a unique offering in the market. A 512GB version is also available, primarily in Japan.

    Priced from $15.99 for the 64GB variant to $117.99 for the 1TB model, the Extreme Fit is currently accessible for purchase in the US and other regions. Users are advised to handle the drive carefully due to the delicate nature of USB-C connectors.

    Source: The Verge

  • Pirelli’s Cyber Tire: Revolutionizing Road Management with Advanced Sensor Technology

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Pirelli’s Cyber Tire, initially developed for high-performance supercars, is now poised to transform road management. Equipped with cutting-edge sensors, the Cyber Tire communicates vital data such as temperature, pressure, and tire specifics to the vehicle wirelessly via Bluetooth Low Energy. This technology goes beyond traditional tire pressure monitoring systems by enabling cars to optimize antilock braking and electronic stability control based on the tire’s characteristics.

    Unlike conventional systems that tune ABS and ESC irrespective of tire type, the Cyber Tire recognizes the distinct behavior of various tires, considering factors like rubber composition, tread pattern, and stiffness. This personalized approach enhances driving performance and safety, showcasing the potential for tailored vehicle dynamics based on specific tire properties.

    Partnering with automotive giants like Pagani and Aston Martin, Pirelli is expanding its collaborations to integrate this advanced technology into upcoming projects in Europe, China, England, and Korea, promising a future of efficient and customized road solutions.

    Source: Ars Technica

  • Apple Enhances iPhone Capabilities with Satellite Connectivity Innovations

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Apple is reportedly working on enhancing its iPhone capabilities by integrating satellite technology for various features beyond emergency services, according to a report by Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman. The current satellite functionalities on iPhones enable essential functions like texting, emergency calls, and roadside assistance without traditional network coverage.

    The upcoming developments include an API that will enable developers to incorporate satellite connectivity into their applications. Apple is also exploring a version of Apple Maps that allows navigation even without cellular or WiFi connectivity, as well as the ability to share photos through messaging platforms. Moreover, users may soon experience improved satellite connectivity for uninterrupted usage, regardless of their phone’s orientation towards the sky.

    These advancements aim to extend the usability of iPhones in remote areas or locations with limited network coverage. Additionally, a potential enhancement in 5G network performance is on the horizon by leveraging satellite connections to expand network reach, as per a report from The Information.

    While the foundational features are expected to be complimentary, users might have to subscribe to carriers for advanced satellite services. Apple is also collaborating with its satellite partner, Globalstar, to bolster the necessary infrastructure for these advancements, with financial support from Apple.

    Source: TechCrunch

  • Amazon Unveils New Kindle Scribe Lineup: Enhanced E-Book Readers with Innovative Features

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Amazon has introduced a range of new Kindle Scribe models, including the third-generation Kindle Scribe, Kindle Scribe With Frontlight, and Kindle Scribe Colorsoft. Priced at $430, $550, and $630 respectively, these devices boast enhanced speed and a thinner design compared to the previous model.

    The standout feature is the introduction of a color screen in the Kindle Scribe Colorsoft, alongside a suite of innovative functionalities. These include an AI-powered notebook search, a Quick Notes digital scratch pad, and Kindle Workspace for seamless file organization, integration with platforms like OneDrive and Google Drive, and enhanced reading experiences through tools like Story So Far and Ask This Book.

    The Kindle Scribe With Frontlight and Scribe Colorsoft are set to debut later this year, with the basic version slated for early next year. Stay tuned for updates on our assessment of these devices once we have had the opportunity to put them to the test.

    For readers seeking enhanced comfort during long sessions, accessories like the Strapsicle E-Reader Hand Straps and the Lamicall Gooseneck Tablet Holder offer ergonomic solutions to prevent hand cramps and provide a more enjoyable reading experience.

    Source: WIRED

  • Ford Faces Uncertainty in Restarting F-150 Lightning Production Amid Supply Chain Challenges

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Ford’s foray into electric vehicles with the F-150 Lightning has encountered a roadblock as the company faces uncertainties in restarting production, according to a recent report by Ars Technica. The F-150 Lightning, Ford’s best-selling electric pickup truck, stands out for its efficiency and performance compared to traditional gas and hybrid models.

    However, Ford’s plans for the F-150 Lightning have been disrupted by an aluminum shortage caused by a supplier’s factory fire, potentially leading to significant financial losses for the company. Despite being the top-selling electric pickup truck in the US, the Lightning’s future remains uncertain.

    While Ford has reassured that there are sufficient F-150 Lightning units in inventory, the exact date for production restart remains unspecified. The company is currently prioritizing the production of internal combustion engine (ICE) and hybrid F-150 models, aiming to recover from the supply chain challenges.

    Notably, Ford’s decision to delay the second-generation F-150 Lightning in favor of a more cost-effective electric pickup signals a shift in strategy within the electric pickup market landscape, where manufacturers like GM and Stellantis have also faced challenges in attracting customers to electric options.

    This development underscores the complexities faced by automakers in transitioning to electric vehicles amidst supply chain disruptions and evolving consumer preferences, shaping the competitive dynamics in the electric pickup segment.

    Source: Ars Technica

  • Polestar 4: A Minimalist Approach to Electric Vehicle Design

    This article was generated by AI and cites original sources.

    Swedish electric vehicle manufacturer Polestar has unveiled its latest offering, the Polestar 4, a compact crossover SUV that showcases a minimalist design approach in the electric vehicle market. Priced at $57,800, the Polestar 4 stands out for its unique feature – the absence of a rear windshield, a design choice aimed at optimizing the vehicle’s sleek figure without compromising interior space.

    The Polestar 4 impresses with its advanced technology features, including a 15.4-inch center touchscreen, a 10.2-inch digital gauge display, and a minimalist center console with a single physical knob for essential controls. This blend of cutting-edge tech and Swedish minimalism creates a distinctive driving experience.

    Inside, the Polestar 4 offers ample space and high-quality materials, including opulent synthetic woven fabrics and solid hard surfaces. The rear cargo volume of 19 cubic feet expands to 54 cubic feet with the rear seats folded, providing practical functionality alongside its striking design.

    With its innovative design approach and state-of-the-art technology integration, the Polestar 4 sets a new standard for electric vehicles in the market, offering consumers a compelling option that combines style and substance.

    Source: The Verge