Having visited all the major Taiwanese USB chip vendors during Computex, it's clear that the three have very different focus when it comes to their businesses, with ASMedia going for host and device controllers with PCIe Express support, Realtek focusing on USB hubs and connectivity. This leaves VLI or VIA Labs who are putting its main efforts into video over USB-C. The company was showing a new USB-C to HDMI 2.1 converter chip, with the added benefit of being a single chip solution that also allows for USB PD passthrough, ideal for devices with a single USB-C port.

VLI is also hoping that USB4 will take off as a lower cost alternative to Thunderbolt based docking solutions, especially as not everyone needs Thunderbolt connectivity on their docks. As such, for those looking at a docking station that's still capable of multi-display support at resolutions over 4K60p or for those that are looking at combining multiple 4K displays while maintaining data speeds of at least 10 Gbps for storage devices, then USB4 appears to be the more affordable option to Thunderbolt. Later this year, the company will start shipping its VL832 USB4 end point device, which is an updated version of the VL830, although we weren't told what features have changed, as VLI wasn't ready to unveil the product at Computex.

So far it has been very quiet on the market when it comes to USB4 hubs, with most products being based on Intel Thunderbolt hardware costing Thunderbolt money. Realtek was demoing its RTS5490 "hub router controller" at Computex and it's as far as we're aware, the first USB4 hub IC that has been announced. The RTS5490 supports speeds of up to 40 Gbps and it has one upstreams and four downstreams ports. It's also backwards compatible with Thunderbolt 3 and USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 (20 Gbps), as well as slower USB standards. It also supports the USB PD 3.1 standard and should as such be suitable for docking stations that can deliver up to 240 W to a connected laptop.

It also has native support for DisplayPort 2.1 Alt mode and UHBR20 up to 80 Gbps for DisplayPort signals. The demo board only had an older MST controller, so it would be limited to DP 1.4, but hopefully some company is working on a DP 2.1 MST controller, as this is required to split off the DP signal to the physical ports from USB-C. We were not given any details on when the RTS5490 will be available in the market and pricing will obviously depend on what kind of extra features are being added by the device makers, as it's unlikely that the first products based on it will be simple hubs.

A new series of ENDORFY Arx 700 Air and Arx 700 ARGB PC cases has just been released, developed for gamers, creators, and technology enthusiasts who are looking for maximum cooling potential and convenient access to all internal components. These are the largest cases to date in ENDORFY's portfolio, able to accommodate, among other things, a tall cooling system, 8 fans, and virtually any graphics card currently available on the market.

The ENDORFY Arx 700 is designed to provide the best possible airflow, while ensuring easy and convenient installation and the maximum possible compatibility with air- and water-cooling systems or the latest, large-sized graphics cards. Arx 700 provides maximum cooling potential, wide possibilities of computer configuration, and freedom in the choice of components used.

Baseus, a leading consumer electronics brand, recently launched an important product: the Baseus PowerCombo Tower series of smart 65 W desktop power strips. Anyone familiar with surge protectors has more or less heard about joules (J), the unit of energy. Baseus PowerCombo Tower series smart version stands out by featuring 1200J surge protection, while the industry standard is between 800 to 1000J, ensuring utmost safety for both individuals and devices.

The second great wall is the BDIP Baseus Digital Intelligent Power, a technology that monitors circuit status to detect malfunctions like overload, overvoltage, undervoltage, overcurrent, short-circuit, and more, then actively cuts off the power in 0.1 seconds, solidifying the barrier. Yet, Baseus has gone further. The case is made of fire-retardant material, ensuring that the product is safe-to-use inside out, and is also superpowered by GaN technology which increases power conversion, resulting in less power loss translating to less heat generation, thereby cutting off the odds of causing damage. In short, this charging station features 8 safety protections, keeping its user and their devices safe 24/7 without requiring supervision.

Amazon today introduced a new lineup of Echo products—the all-new Echo Pop, Echo Show 5 and Echo Show 5 Kids, and all-new Echo Buds—offering customers even more choice in how they access Alexa. In addition, Echo Auto is now available to customers in Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Spain, and the United Kingdom.

"Customers around the world love Alexa as their trusted, personal AI—they've now purchased well over half a billion Alexa-enabled devices, and use of Alexa increased 35 percent last year," said Rohit Prasad, senior vice president and head scientist for Alexa. "These new devices give customers more options and more utility at incredible value. And as with every Echo device we've shipped, they will only continue to get better as we add even more generative AI powered experiences for Alexa throughout the year."

For anyone struggling to multitask when working from home, Burlington tech company Mobile Pixels Inc. has unveiled the perfect solution. It recently launched a new series of dual monitors that are specially crafted to make work-from-home hassle-free. The latest in Mobile Pixel's innovations, the Geminos Series consists of two foldable and adjustable dual-screen desktop monitors vertically stacked to provide better ergonomic support and increased productivity.

The Geminos Series was brought to life following another wildly successful Mobile Pixels Kickstarter campaign that saw over 3,000 backers pledge as much as $2,161,609. With its official launch, Geminos now promises to revolutionize the lives of all working professionals, gamers, traders, streamers, entrepreneurs, coders, and students.

Dell first unveiled its UltraSharp U3224KB 6K monitor back in early January at the CES 2023 trade show - this professional-grade 31.5-inch screen boasts Thunderbolt 4 connectivity and sports an impressive IPS Black panel (courtesy of LG Display) capable of displaying a super dense 6144 x 3456 pixel resolution. Today the North American technology company has announced that its U3224KB model is available to purchase at a price of $3,199 (CA $4,289.99).

The UltraSharp's competitive pricing undercuts the nearest competition by $1000 - Apple's Pro Display XDR is marginally better in terms of specifications, but potential buyers will get landed with a $5000 bill for the privilege of owning it. Dell is hoping that a bunch of handy features on its offering - including an in-built KVM, 4K HDR webcam, plenty of type USB-C & A ports, a Thunderbolt 4 port and dual 14 W speakers - will be enough to steal some professional clients from Team Cupertino.

The versatile ASUS Chromebook CX34 Flip lets you enjoy both work and play! The 16:10 14-inch aspect ratio display will make your viewing experience more immersive. The device also features an Intel Core processor, WiFi 6E and a long-lasting battery.

ASUS Chromebook CX34 Flip offers an exquisite blend of powerful performance and versatility to empower the way you work and play. This stylish laptop features a robust Intel Core processor, WiFi 6E and a long-lasting battery to ensure you're well-equipped to breeze through everyday tasks, wherever you are. Thanks to a 360° ErgoLift hinge, you can use ASUS Chromebook CX34 Flip in any mode, and an optional garaged stylus allows for intuitive input when it's time to jot down notes. To top it all off, military-grade durability gives you peace of mind when using ASUS Chromebook CX34 Flip on the go.

We are excited to announce the launch of Poke5, the new member of our 6" eReader lineup. Here you will learn more about the compact eReader with an optimized new design. Poke5 boasts an unparalleled screen-to-body ratio, thanks to its optimized internal construction. Its design prioritizes a refined experience with better grip and viewing comfort. Its 6" touchscreen features E Ink Carta technology with 300 PPI, which mimics the feel of reading on paper and reduces eye fatigue.

Even with the magnetic cover attached, the compact design fits comfortably in the palm of your hand. Additionally, the flush screen design makes the core component of the ePaper screen resistant to impact. The device offers ample storage space for all of your digital content with its upgraded configuration of 2 GB RAM + 32 GB ROM. It also provides expandable storage options through a microSD card or USB-C flash drive. Furthermore, every user can enjoy 10 GB of free cloud storage for Onyx cloud services upon registration.

CHERRY, the specialist for computer, office and gaming accessories and market leader in mechanical key switches, has launched the KW X ULP, a dynamic ultra-slim mechanical keyboard featuring the award-winning CHERRY MX ULTRA LOW PROFILE (ULP) mechanical switches for an unrivaled typing experience. At the heart of the remarkably slim KW X ULP are CHERRY MX Ultra Low Profile switches. This specially developed switch type has a height of just 3.5 millimetres, which is 70 percent less than standard MX switches, and thus facilitates keyboards that offer the full mechanical typing feel despite their ultra-slim form factor. Additionally, the discreet cupping of the polycarbonate keycaps offers optimal grip.

ULTRA stylish
The keyboard sports a timelessly elegant case with a noble black finish, an anodized and milled aluminium plate on top and edges in silver. Paired with the stylish monochrome backlight, the KW X ULP becomes an eye-catcher on any desk. At the same time, it delivers the precision and durability previously reserved for much thicker mechanical keyboards.

We've seen all kinds of devices integrate E Ink technology over the years, ranging from USB flash drives to keyboards and of course eReaders. However, Philips decided it was a good idea to stick one next to a 1440p display in its forgetably named 24B1D5600 monitor. The 23.8-inch 2560 x 1440 monitor has the E Ink display attached to its right side and the E Ink display is attached on hinges and can be angled up to 45 degrees towards the main display. The E Ink display measures 13.3-inches and has a resolution of 1200 x 1600 pixels.

Although originally revealed at CES 2022, it seems to have taken Philips quite a while to bring it to market, although it appears to have been on sale in Asia for at least a couple of months by now. The main display features an IPS panel with a 75 Hz refresh rate and a brightness that tops up at a mere 250 cd/m². It has a typical IPS contrast ratio of 1000:1 and a grey to grey response time of 4 ms. However, it also doubles as a docking station for a notebook, as it has a USB-C input that supports USB PD 3.0 up to 90 W and it has a built-in Gigabit Ethernet port. It also sports a DP 1.2 input and a four port USB Type-A hub, plus an audio output. One quirky thing is that the E Ink display requires its own input which is via a USB-C port that supports DP Alt mode and that is capable of outputting 15 W of power to an attached device. The 24B1D5600 retails for around US$620 in Asia.

Panasonic is pleased to announce two new pairs of Digital Wireless Stereo Earphones that are perfect for people on the go. Each pair caters to a different listener priority: noise cancelling or longer battery life. For those who value Active Noise Cancelling, the new RZ-B310W are an inner-ear model with Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling capabilities. Meanwhile, the RZ-B110W offer an incredible 26 hours of playback time for those who want to listen to music longer without worrying about maintaining a charge. The earphones themselves can hold a six-hour charge and are provided with an extra 20 hours-worth of playback from a fully charged carrying case.

Both pairs of new earphones are comfortable to wear for extended periods of time thanks to Panasonic's 'Ergofit' design. Both headphone pairs are outfitted with XBS tech to energize the listener's tunes with powerful bass that is streamed wirelessly via Bluetooth 5.3. The RZ-B310W and RZ-B110W offer incredible value for the money at $99.99 and $59.99, respectively. They are available now in a black color on Amazon.com.

ASUS today announced ExpertCenter PN42, a mini PC powered by an Intel N100 or N200 processor. The fanless design of this mini PC reduces operational noise and prevents dust from building up inside the chassis. Designed for small or medium-sized businesses, it features up to seven USB ports and can be specified with an additional 2.5 Gbps LAN port and a configurable port for DisplayPort 1.4, VGA, COM, HDMI, or USB-C with DisplayPort 1.2. The integrated graphics of ExpertCenter PN42 enables it to support up to three monitors or two 4K displays simultaneously. It embraces sustainable manufacturing, with a chassis made from recycled plastic.

ExpertCenter PN42 has a robust build quality that ensures durability and reliability. Its fanless design enables it to run almost silently and reduces dust accumulation inside the chassis, making it ideal for quiet environments or industrial use. The ribbed chassis design includes slats to enhance cooling performance, while a dedicated heatsink cools the SSD and WiFi module.

MINISFORUM is proud to announce the release of its latest device, the B550 PRO, an upgraded version of the B550 model. This Mini PC can be transformed into a full-sized gaming desktop when connected to an SFX power supply and discrete graphics card, offering users a versatile and powerful computing experience. Powered by the AMD B550 chipset and supporting Ryzen 5000 series CPU and APU (Up to 5800X processor), the B550 PRO is capable of handling daily office tasks and large-scale gaming.

This device's standout feature is its versatility, with a PCIe 3.0 x16 slot allowing direct connection of desktop discrete graphics cards through the PCIe 3.0 x16 interface on the chassis and the PCIe 3.0 x16 slot on the included expansion dock. The device also includes a PCIe 3.0 x4 slot, which is added into the docking station, enabling the addition of an SSD or network card expansion card, and enhancing the device's overall versatility.

Angelbird Technologies GmbH enters the CFexpress Type A market with a single 1 TB card and matching accessories. Angelbird introduces a single 1 TB sized CFexpress Type A card engineered for use with Sony Alpha and FX camera lines. The AV PRO CFexpress Type A | 1 TB is the highest available capacity CFexpress Type A media on the market. With Sustained Write performance of 650 MB/s, the card provides critical speed and performance necessary for lengthy, high-data rate video recording, stills and burst photography in up to 4K+ RAW.

To achieve the maximum potential from the CFexpress Type A card format, Angelbird engineers leaned into their extensive experience innovating custom camera-specific media solutions for industry-leading camera manufacturers. That experience laid the foundation to begin the engineering process with expertise and laser focus on the Sony Alpha and FX lines of CFexpress Type A cameras. For this endeavor, Angelbird designed a custom-built SiP (System in Package) circuit configuration, which, combined with other factors, paved the way for the highest capacity CFexpress Type A card to date- a card to support the extensive cinematic work being captured by Sony shooters.

Syntech, an innovative manufacturer of quality and affordable electronic accessories and consumer technology products, has today announced the launch of its new 6-in-1 USB-C Docking Station for Steam Deck. Providing users with 6 different ports to meet most needs, and the ability to output to a 4K monitor or TV at 60Hz, it is a handy and ergonomically designed gadget to complement a Steam Deck gaming setup. The Syntech 6-in-1 Docking Station for Steam Deck is available for £39.99/$39.99 on Amazon UK and Amazon US.

The Philips 45B1U6900CH combines two desktops and a webcam in one setup. This monitor is equipped with a large, 44.5-inch (113 cm diagonal) screen with 5120 x 1440 resolution and several other features that are designed to aid professionals' multitasking, such as: a 5 MP webcam, USB-C docking with RJ45, a 32:9 SuperWide screen, and a curvature of 1500R with viewing angles of 178/178 degrees.

Instead of having two separate monitors, the Philips 45B1U6900CH's 44.5-inch screen and 32:9 SuperWide ratio allows professionals to easily open multiple windows on one large screen surface and have an extra-wide perspective for viewing video content. In addition, the monitor's curved VA panel provides wide, 178/178-degree viewing angles for crisp, high-contrast imagery and an overall more immersive experience.

AQIRYS, the trending Romanian gaming brand, announces the launch of the newest gaming keyboard in the portfolio, ALUDRA, and the updated version of the original model, ALUDRA TKL. Designed to deliver a pro-level gaming experience, quietness, and future upgrade possibilities, the revealed models appeal to all gamers looking for unconventional, remarkable setups.

Named after a blue supergiant star in the constellation Canis Major, the ALUDRA keyboard fuses exceptional design with the updated version of one of the best mechanical switches available to deliver performance and a richer, more silent gaming experience in a full-size form factor. Rated for 80 million keystrokes and retaining the unmistakable silky smooth typing feeling, the Gateron G PRO 2.0 Red switches installed on the ALUDRA provide a more stable linear response. In addition, they are just as quiet as the previous version, only this time factory lubricated and improved to reduce wobbliness, increase durability and enhance backlight transmission.

ASUS today announced Chromebox 5 (CN67), a computer that combines exceptional performance with a contemporary design. The Red Dot Design Award-winning ASUS Chromebox 5 features a slim chassis that houses an efficient thermal solution for reliability, along with a 12th Gen Intel Core i7 processor with up to 32 GB DDR4 3200 memory, and Intel Iris Xe graphics. In addition to the expected DisplayPort 1.4 and HDMI ports, ASUS Chromebox 5 also includes versatile Thunderbolt 4 connectivity for speedy data transfers, power delivery, and a connection to external displays. ASUS Chromebox 5 can support up to four 4K displays for stunning visuals and efficient productivity, and is the first Chromebox to feature an optional integrated 15-watt Qi-certified wireless charger that allows users to charge supported devices such as smart phones and earbuds simply by placing them on the top cover. With full support for Android apps from Google Play, ASUS Chromebox 5 allows users to easily download and experience all their favorite apps. The compact chassis can be stood on its side, laid flat, or VESA-mounted on a vertical surface, allowing ASUS Chromebox 5 to be used in a variety of environments, including schools, offices, and retail.

Lightning-fast Thunderbolt 4
Thunderbolt 4 brings Thunderbolt connectivity to USB-C at speeds of up to 40 Gbps, along with DisplayPort 1.4 support. It's even compatible with USB4 to create one compact port that does it all—delivering the fastest, most versatile connection to any dock, display, or data storage device.

Today at the Amplify Partner Conference, HP Inc. announced new products and solutions to usher in the next era of hybrid work for everyone with a comprehensive set of computing solutions for hybrid flexibility. With only 22 percent of workers describing themselves as 'thriving' in hybrid work, it's clear companies are still figuring out how to make hybrid work. "Most companies want to move past the 'forced return' to the office era of hybrid work," said Alex Cho, President of Personal Systems, HP Inc. "The challenge is, they're not sure how to. We believe the future is hybrid flexibility, which delivers the best of the home and the office to workers everywhere."

According to HP's Future of Work study, 80 percent of workers want to be in the office some of the time, but many companies continue to struggle to get workers back in the office. HP research suggests that the most significant barrier to a return to office is a sub-optimal technology experience. In fact, 89 percent say technology is the most important factor driving return to office decisions. Similarly, of those who report thriving in hybrid work, 90 percent believe that access to the right technology and tools leads to a positive work experience. To accelerate employees' return to work, the right technology is required for optimal work setups, enabling success for companies and their employees.

ASUS today announced the April availability of ProArt Display PA329CRV, PA279CRV, and PA248CRV. The 31.5-inch PA329CRV and the 27-inch PA249CRV feature a 4K UHD (3840 x 2160) panel, while the PA248CRV has a 24.1-inch WUXGA (1920 x 1200) panel. Each monitor is factory-calibrated and Calman Verified, offering Delta E < 2 color accuracy and covering at least 97% of the DCI-P3 color space. Connectivity features come in the form of DisplayPort over USB-C with 96-watt Power Delivery, a standard DisplayPort, HDMI, and a USB hub. In keeping with the ASUS commitment to sustainability, these displays deliver energy-efficient performance that meets global environmental standards including EPEAT Gold, ENERGY STAR, and TCO. Plus, each is packed in recyclable paper packaging.

Today Logitech International announced the launch of Zone Learn, wired headsets designed for K-12 learners. Zone Learn features comfort optimized for younger learners with smaller heads, durable architecture and replaceable ear pads and cables. These new headsets, designed with a scalable fit, were built for a deeper, more sustained focus and long-term use to keep students in their learning zones.

Logitech worked hand-in-hand with educators and students—from concept to final prototype—to build an education-first product, resulting in a headset designed, engineered and tested to support learning that happens, anytime, anywhere, in any style and is Works With Chromebook (WWCB) certified. Zone Learn purposefully adapts to every size and shape of learning to make it more accessible, meaningful and impactful.

The Philips 45B1U6900C combines a dual-monitor setup in a single display. The Philips 45B1U6900C is equipped with a large, 44.5" (113 cm diagonal) screen with Double QHD (5120 x 1440) resolution and several other features that are designed to aid professionals' multitasking, such as: USB-C docking with an RJ45 (Gigabit Ethernet) input, a 32:9 SuperWide aspect ratio, and a curvature of 1500R with viewing angles of 178/178 degrees.

Instead of having two separate monitors, the Philips 45B1U6900C's 44.5" screen and 32:9 SuperWide aspect ratio allow professionals to easily open multiple windows side-by-side, without a bezel in the middle dividing the content abruptly. The 32:9 aspect ratio also helps to have an extra-wide perspective for working with timeline-based software such as video or audio editors. In addition, the monitor's curved VA panel produces wide, 178°/178° viewing angles and crisp, high-contrast imagery, while the 1500R curvature creates an overall more immersive experience.

REDMAGIC is proud to launch the first generation of its 4K gaming monitor. With an ultra-fast refresh rate of 160 Hz, its display is designed for gamers who demand amazing visual quality and performance. Introduced as a "Dive into the gaming reality", the 27-inch gaming monitor features over 2000 mini-led lights with a 16:9 aspect ratio. It delivers 99% DCI-P3 with a HDR VESA-certified display 1000, and equipped with a dedicated anti-glare feature.

"At REDMAGIC, we believe in providing gamers worldwide with the ultimate e-Sports experience. We strive to deliver high-quality gaming equipment, using professional solutions to optimize the user experience. Our objective is to expand our focus beyond peripherals to other e-sports categories, making multi-terminal gaming more professional and enjoyable for gamers. It is our commitment to provide innovative and high-quality products to the gaming community that we value user feedback and take it seriously in the design and development of our products," said the REDMAGIC team.

CTL, a leading manufacturer of award-winning Chrome OS solutions, announced today at NCCE 2023 the introduction of a new "Secure" Special Edition of the CTL Chromebook PX11E. "This device's secure, semi-transparent bottom offers a unique and modern design that sets it apart from traditional Chromebooks. It allows users to see the inner workings of the device, which can be a valuable teaching tool and a great conversation starter," noted Erik Stromquist, CTL's CEO. "It also makes it easier to look inside the device to find problems, like loose connections or damage from liquid, so that it can be fixed. The design is invaluable for organizations with security concerns related to on-premise mobile devices."

The PX11E is equipped with an Intel Jasper Lake N4500 CPU, delivering up to 35% improved app performance and 78% better graphics than its predecessors. The device boasts a higher burst frequency and features a Google 'Everything Button,' screen capture button, an HD camera and microphone, multiple USB ports with PD and DP functions, and Bluetooth 5.2 capabilities—opening endless possibilities!