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Cable Matters Launches USB4 20Gbps 3-Port Switch for Seamless Multi-Device Connectivity

Cable Matters, a leading innovator in connectivity solutions, proudly announces the release of its new USB4 20 Gbps 3-Port Switch-an advanced upgrade to its popular 2-port model. This next-generation switch is designed to meet the needs of professionals, content creators, and tech enthusiasts who rely on high-speed, multi-device workflows.

The 3-port USB-C switch empowers users to effortlessly toggle between up to three host devices while maintaining top-tier performance: support for up to 8K video at 30 Hz, 20 Gbps data transfer speeds, and 140 W Power Delivery for charging the device in use. Ideal for use with USB-C or Thunderbolt 4 monitors and docking stations, this switch delivers a unified, efficient workspace experience.

Other World Computing Launches the Express 4M2 Four-slot NVMe M.2 SSD USB4 Enclosure

Other World Computing (OWC), a trusted leader in high-performance storage, memory, connectivity, software, and accessories that empower creative and business professionals to maximize performance, enhance reliability, and streamline workflows, today announced the launch of the OWC Express 4M2, a four-slot NVMe M.2 SSD USB4, Thunderbolt compatible enclosure offering improved performance, thermal protection for today's high performance drives, as well as expanded compatibility for an improved near-silent operation.

The Express 4M2 is made for the most demanding work. It's built to keep up whether you're backing up footage on set, editing 8K video, or sorting through thousands of high-res photos. It supports up to four NVMe M.2 SSDs (2230, 2242, or 2280) and achieves real-world speeds up to 3200 MB/s - and, with flexible RAID options, i.e., 0, 1, 4, 5, and 1+0, users can create the setup that works best for their workflow. Whether that's max performance, redundancy, or a mix of both. And even when things get intense… multi-camera offloads, long editing sessions, big batch processing, the aluminium shell and smart fans keep it cool and quiet so you're not dealing with slowdowns, overheating, or distracting noise. It's fully compatible with USB4, Thunderbolt, and USB-C, so whether you're working on a Mac or PC, it fits right in and works seamlessly, with no fuss.

Satechi Intros USB4 Slim NVMe SSD Enclosure

When storage speed and flexibility matter most, why compromise? Whether you're a creative pro managing massive media libraries, a gamer juggling terabytes of AAA titles, or a developer running virtual environments, your workflow deserves storage that's as fast, flexible, and beautiful as your Mac Mini M4 setup.

Introducing the Satechi USB4 Slim NVMe SSD Enclosure—a high-performance, travel-friendly storage solution designed to unlock the full potential of your device. Inspired by the sleek simplicity of Apple's USB SuperDrive and built for modern pros, this enclosure combines USB4 technology, expandable capacity, and a premium, minimalist design.

TerraMaster D4 SSD Unveiled: 40 Gbps All-Flash 4-Bay Storage Solution

TerraMaster, a leading innovator in storage solutions, proudly announces the launch of D4 SSD, a 4-bay all-flash direct-attached storage (DAS) enclosure designed for media creators, filmmakers, and professionals seeking unparalleled speed and flexibility. With USB4 support delivering up to 40 Gbps bandwidth, the D4 SSD offers exceptional performance and seamless integration with NAS systems, including the forthcoming TerraMaster F4 SSD All-Flash NAS, easily expand the storage space of NAS to meet users' diverse storage needs.

The D4 SSD utilize the USB4 protocol with support for up to 40 Gbps data transfer bandwidth. When equipped with four M.2 SSDs (such as Samsung 990PRO 4 TB) and configured as RAID 0 via macOS Disk Utility, it achieves read/write speeds of up to 3224 MB/s. In single-disk operation, read speeds can reach 1608 MB/s. Fully compatible with Thunderbolt 3/4/5 and USB4/3.2/3.1/3.0 protocols, the D4 SSD offers exceptional cross-platform compatibility.

AYANEO Intros FLIP 1S Dual-Screen Gaming Handheld with AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370

"Real Gamers, Know Gamers", AYANEO has been exploring more possibilities for game handhelds. The evolution of the handheld experience goes beyond performance and also involves breakthroughs and innovations in form. AYANEO has created the first flip dual-screen Windows handheld - AYANEO FLIP DS, making innovation within reach. With User Experience at the core, we continuously improve every creative idea and detail to present a more pure and immersive dual-screen gaming experience. Now, the new generation of flip dual-screen Windows handheld, AYANEO FLIP 1S DS, is officially unveiled. It is not only a comprehensive upgrade of the FLIP DS but also a tribute to the classic feelings. Combining hardware upgrades, AI computing power, dual-screen interactive experience, and flagship-level performance, the FLIP 1S DS is not only a flagship flip handheld but also a productivity tool that combines portability and efficiency.

The FLIP 1S DS is equipped with a fully upgraded 7-inch 1080p OLED main screen that supports a high refresh rate of 144 Hz. The maximum global brightness reaches 800 nits, and the contrast and response speed are greatly improved, bringing users a more vivid, smoother and more immersive visual experience for handheld games. Whether it is a tense and exciting FPS game or a colorful adventure in another world, this screen can present it with extremely delicate image quality and smooth dynamics, giving players an immersive visual experience.

Microsoft to Enforce Certain USB-C Features on WHCP Certified Laptops

The Type-C USB connector has made it a lot easier—at least in theory—to connect devices, but it's not without its faults, especially as it's been hard to know what capabilities both the ports and the cables deliver. The USB-IF has solved most of the issues on the cable side with clearer markings on certified cables, but that still leaves both computers and devices as a gotcha point. Microsoft has now announced that it has a new WHCP (Windows Hardware Compatibility Program) certification program for Windows 11 laptops that guarantees certain features from a Type-C USB port. No, it doesn't mean all new Windows 11 WHCP laptops will support USB4, which is something of a letdown, but it does guarantee that all USB-C ports on new WHCP laptops will support charging of the laptop and at least DP Alt mode for one display.

As the older USB 3.x standard doesn't support many of the features of USB4, there are several limitations to laptops that lack USB4 support, beyond just data transfer speeds over USB, such as PCIe tunnelling and Thunderbolt 3 support. However, Microsoft mandates Thunderbolt 3 support on all WHCP laptops with USB4 support. USB4 equipped WHCP laptops also have to support 15 W device charging and at least a pair of 4K 60 Hz displays via DP Alt mode. Microsoft's new WHCP certification does at least remove some of the guesswork when buying a new laptop, but until all laptops support USB4, there will still be devices with limited USB Type-C ports in the market.

j5Create Brings Accessories for the Travelling Creator at Computex 2025

j5Create brought several useful connectivity accessories for a wide range of consumers from professionals to creators, to Computex 2025. We begin our tour with the JTD5172, a Thunderbolt 5 Triple 8K @ 60 Hz docking station. The dock comes with Intel Thunderbolt 5 Bandwidth Boost capability, where either the Tx or Rx lanes can be made to work at 120 Gbps at the expense of the other running at 40 Gbps, to enhance transfer speeds. The dock also supports passthrough of displays at resolutions as high as 8K @ 144 Hz or triple 8K @ 60 Hz, or 4K @ 240 Hz. It also puts out some downstream connectivity of its own, including an M.2 NVMe Gen 3 slot, 2.5 Gbps Ethernet, SD 4.0, and a few USB 3.2 ports.

Next up, is the j5Create JTD5174, a more feature-packed, "AI-ready" Thunderbolt 5 dock that includes a GPU/NPU module to turn your PC into an AI PC. We're not sure what module this is, or what silicon it uses. Its downstream connectivity and Thunderbolt 5 daisy-chaining features are similar to those of the JTD5172. Next up, we were shown j5Create's durable 40 Gbps USB4 cables that are capable of 240 W power delivery; and a VESA-certified DisplayPort 2.1 cable, which can transmit 80 Gbps for resolutions of up to 16K @ 60 Hz with DSC over a single cable. The JTSA302 is an ergonomic dual-monitor mount that includes a USB4-capable 10-in-1 docking station that puts out a plethora of connectivity, including dual 4K @ 60 Hz HDMI, 1 GbE wired LAN, SD 4.0, microSD 4.0, and a number of USB ports that include 100 W PD passthrough. For its main function, the JTSA302 supports up to two 32-inch 16:9 monitors. We now move onto one of the star attractions in the j5Create booth, the Stream Station Pro 4K.

Biwin Showcases its Latest Memory and Storage Products at Computex 2025

Biwin over the years has emerged as a major OEM of DRAM and NAND flash consumer products, selling innovative new hardware not just under its own brand, but also supplying them for top-tier PC OEMs, such as Acer and HP. At Computex 2025, we went hands on with their latest products that they directly sell under the Biwin marquee. Starting off things, is the Biwin X570, a high-end M.2 NVMe Gen 5 SSD that comes in capacities of 1 TB, 2 TB, and 4 TB, with sequential performance of up to 14.5 GB/s reads, with up to 11 GB/s writes. Next up, is the X570 PRO, a step up from the regular X570, which offers increased sequential write speeds and NAND flash endurance.

While the regular X570 does up to 14.5 GB/s reads with up to 11 GB/s writes, the X570 PRO offers up to 14 GB/s reads, with up to 13 GB/s writes. It also comes with increased endurance of 750 TBW, 1500 TBW, and 3000 TBW for the 1 TB, 2 TB, and 4 TB variants, respectively, compared to the 600/1200/2400 TBW respectively, of the regular X570. The X570H PRO is basically the same drive, but with an added heatsink.

Minisforum Shows Off Upcoming AMD Powered NAS at Computex 2025

Tiny PC maker Minisforum was showing off its upcoming N5 Pro NAS at Computex, and it's quite different from what most NAS makers have put out to date. For starters, it's built around AMD's Ryzen AI 9 HX Pro 370 SoC and has support for up to 96 GB of ECC DDR5 5600 MHz memory over two SO-DIMM slots. Connectivity consists of one 10 Gbps and one 5 Gbps Ethernet port, two USB4 ports—with DP Alt mode support—one HDMI 2.1 port, two USB 3.2 10 Gbps ports and one USB 2.0 port. For some reason the Oculink port, clearly visible around the back of the unit on display, isn't mentioned in the specs we were provided, but it's still mentioned on the product page, so we'll have to wait and see if that will be part of the final product or not.

On the storage side of things there's room for five 3.5-inch or 2.5-inch drives in traditional drive caddies, and drives up to 22 TB in size are supported. In addition to this, there's room for one M.2 NVMe slot which is limited to PCIe 4.0 X1, lengths of up to 110 mm are supported. There is also an extra PCB that can be slotted in that adds support for a further two NVMe drives in either the U.2 or M.2 form factor, one with a PCIe 4.0 x2 interface and one with PCIe 4.0 x1. Judging by the design of this expansion PCB, it might be a bit fiddly to install, but as the main PCB of the N5 Pro slides out for access, it could've been far worse. Internally there's also a full-length low-profile PCIe x16 slot—which was occupied by a GPU in the unit on display—although it's limited to four lanes electrically, as well as a USB 3.2 10 Gbps port. It will apparently come with MinisCloud OS, but Windows 11 is also supported, which means the N5 Pro could be used for something else than just as a NAS. No word on pricing, but the company is offering a 30 percent off discount if you sign up on their website.

ASMedia Showcases PCIe and USB4 Solutions at COMPUTEX 2025

ASMedia Technology is getting ready to unveil its latest PCIe Packet Switch solution (ASM58048) at Computex 2025, with sampling expected in Q3 2025. ASMedia product lineup covers PCIe generations 2 through 6, offering channel configurations that range from 3 to 80 channels. The upcoming PCIe Gen 5 product (ASM68080 series) development is underway, with a fully verified PHY design nearing completion. Following the ASM58048, ASMedia plans for multiple products featuring 24 to 80 channels, while work on PCIe Gen 6 is actively underway.

The company's USB4 ASM4242 host controller has found a home in high-end motherboards and laptops from a variety of brands being certified USB4 and Thunderbolt 4. The ASM2464PDX USB4 controller is tailored for edge AI computing, allowing for plug-and-play external GPUs by converting PCIe Gen 4 signals to USB4. This makes it easy to connect graphics cards, NVMe SSDs, and Wi-Fi modules externally, delivering performance that rivals internal setups.

Update May 22nd: Added more pictures

Apacer Shows New Gaming RAM and Storage Products at Computex 2025

This year at Computex, Apacer was showing off several new DDR5 memory modules and storage products. First up is its NOX RGB DDR5 CUDIMM which delivers a base speed of 8000 MT/s, but according to the company, can be overclocked to 9000 MT/s and there's also a non RGB version. Next up we have the Shield RGB DDR5 modules, which appears to want to take on Corsair's Dominator modules, at least design vise and these are also available without RGB. There was no mention of any speeds for these modules and as they'll only be available later this year, there's no information on the Apacer website either. Finally, Apacer has entered into a partnership with ASUS to produce TUF co-branded memory and was showing off the new NOX TUF RGB DDR5 modules. The already available non RGB version is available in speeds from 5200 MT/s to 6800 MT/s.

On the storage side, Apacer had a new external USB4 Gen 3x2—otherwise known as 40 Gbps—SSD, which is based on the Phison U21 controller. The AS741 as the drive is called, will be available in sizes from 1 TB to 4 TB and it should offer sequential read speeds of up to 4000 MB/s and sequential write speeds of up to 3600 MB/s. It also has an integrated cable/handle, which is the blue part in the picture, but we're not sure how it really is intended to work. Apacer also had a new PCIe 5.0 x4 M.2 NVMe SSD that goes under the name of AS2280F4U, which is based on Silicon Motion SM2508 controller and it should offer read speeds of up to 14000 MB/s and write speeds of 13000 MB/s. It will come in sizes between 1 TB and 4 TB and the heatsink has a rather tiny fan built into it. Both of the SSDs will be available later this year.

A Stroll Through the Team Group Computex 2025 Booth

Team Group brought a slick new lineup of storage and gaming PC cooling products to Computex 2025. We already previewed its T-Force AIO CPU and M.2 coolers, and we now have with us memory and storage products spanning the T-Force, T-Create, and Xtreem sub-brands. We begin our tour with the T-Create AI Expert DDR5 CAMM2 module. A CAMM2 module is a dual-channel memory form factor that's installed along the plane of the motherboard instead of perpendicular to it, to improve clearance around the CPU socket area and benefit from superior circuit topology. The T-Create AI Expert CAMM2 offers speeds of DDR5-8000 at CL42-50-50-84 timings, 32 GB of capacity (16 GB per channel), and 1.4 V module voltage. Its advertised speeds are enabled through XMP.

Next up, is the T-Create Classic C47, a M.2-2280 Gen 4 SSD targeting creators, offering capacities of up to 4 TB with transfer speeds of up to 7.4 GB/s reads, and 7 GB/s writes. While the C47 targets client PCs, the company has a few workstation/server grade products under the T-Create brand, too. First up is the T-Create Master AI I5U2, a 2.5-inch SSD with the U.2 Gen 5 x4 interface, capacities of 15.36 TB, 30.72 TB, and 61.44 TB; and transfer speeds of up to 14 GB/s sequential reads, with up to 10 GB/s of sequential writes. The T-Create Master AI I5E1 is a slender drive in the E1.S form-factor, with a PCIe Gen 5 x4 interface, capacities of 7.68 TB, 12.8 TB, and 15.36 TB, and the same 14 GB/s reads and up to 10 GB/s writes as its U.2 sibling. The T-Create Master AI I5E3 is basically the same drive component wise, but in the E3.S form-factor.

Akasa at Computex 2025: Coolers, Fans, and PCIe Gen 5 Risers

Akasa brought a selection of its latest products to Computex 2025. We begin our tour with the company's new SOHO series CPU air coolers. The first one, the AK-CC4022HP01, is a dual fin-stack (D-type) cooler, featuring two large fin-stacks for a total height nearing 160 mm, 7 copper heat pipes, and a pair of 120 mm FDB fans in push-pull configuration, for a cooling capacity of 250 W. All 7 heat pipes make direct contact with the CPU at the base. The 120 mm fans offer addressable RGB LED lighting. Next up is the AK-CC4026HP01, a thick single fin-stack cooler that uses two 120 mm fans in push-pull configuration. This cooler uses four copper heat pipes, and offers the same ARGB illuminated fans as its larger sibling.

Next up, are the company's new T6 ProGrade series thermal compounds. These include the T6 ProGrade Plus (T685), and the T6 ProGrade Max (T695). These come in 5-15 g syringes, as well as tubs going all the way up to 1 kg for systems integrators. The company didn't put out conductivity specs for these coolers. Next up, we have the company's AK-FN120 series "ultra premium" fans that offer IP68 dust and water protection, an impeller design that favors high static pressure and airflow, and a fluid dynamic bearing.

VLI Demos USB Type-C and HDMI 2.1 Portable Gaming Dock Concept at Computex 2025

As we walked around the show floor earlier today, we walked past the USB-IF booth and spotted VLI showing off their new portable gaming dock concept. What the company has done, is to take its new VL605 USB-C DP to HDMI 2.1 PCON and combined it with the VL832 USB4 endpoint device, which under normal circumstances operate as a USB4 to USB 3.2 and DP 1.4 adapter and the VL109 which is a docking controller that also supports USB PD for up to three ports. The overall design supports up to 140 W USB PD 3.1 power passthrough as well.

The end result is a fairly small PCB that delivers an HDMI 2.1 port with VRR support, a first for a docking station solution as far as we're aware, as well as a USB Type-C with DP Alt-mode output, two USB Type-C ports with USB PD support and two USB Type-A ports. In itself it's not a unique product, but from our understanding, there aren't many docking stations out there that support VRR combined with USB ports that offer more than USB 2.0 speeds. VLI has tested it with AMD FreeSync as well as NVIDIA G-Sync compatible monitors without any problems and it's also been certified for FreeSync Premium Pro. Overall a neat little solution that could appeal to gamers that want a simple way of hooking up their peripherals to their gaming laptop when using an external monitor, keyboard and mouse.

Other World Computing (OWC) Launches OWC Thunderbolt 5 Dock

Other World Computing (OWC), a trusted leader in high-performance storage, memory, connectivity, software, and accessories that empower creative and business professionals to maximize performance, enhance reliability, and streamline workflows, today announced the launch and pre-order availability of the OWC Thunderbolt 5 Dock. Built to meet the demands of creatives, power users, and professionals alike, this all-in-one connectivity solution redefines desktop performance. With exceptional speed, broad device compatibility, and outstanding visual output, the OWC Thunderbolt 5 Dock sets a new benchmark for workstation expansion and productivity.

Whether you're managing high-res video projects, handling massive data sets, or transforming a tablet into a workstation, the Thunderbolt 5 Dock is your all-in-one portal to connect more, do more, and create more, faster than ever.

Gaming Beyond Limits, AI Beyond Imagination ASRock at Computex 2025

ASRock, a global leader in motherboards, graphics cards, mini PCs, power supplies, and gaming monitors, is excited to announce the participation in Computex Taipei 2025. Under the theme Gaming Beyond Limits, AI Beyond Imagination, ASRock will showcase the dual focus on next-level gaming and AI applications. From immersive gaming setups to AI solutions, the exhibit highlights ASRock's commitment to innovation across both fields. Visitors are invited to explore the latest products and technologies, and to experience the Phantom Gaming Zone at booth L0818.

ASRock Unveils Flagship Taichi OCF and Taichi Creator AM5 Motherboards
To expand its success on AMD AM5 motherboards, ASRock will be adding more exciting products into its product portfolio. New product such as X870E Taichi OCF, the very first OC formula motherboard based on AMD platform, Phantom Gaming X870 Nova WiFi, the new high end gaming motherboard based on X870 chipset, a functional yet elegantly designed X870 Taichi Creator and also a lot more products that are based on X870 / B850 / B840 / A620A chipset.

Silicon Motion Showcases Next-Gen PCIe Gen5 and USB4 SSD Controllers at Computex 2025

Silicon Motion Technology Corporation ("Silicon Motion"), a global leader in designing and marketing NAND flash controllers for solid-state storage devices, today announced that it will showcase its broad portfolio of products including two new SSD controllers at COMPUTEX 2025. The first is the SM2504XT, an ultra-low power PCIe Gen 5 DRAM-less controller offering industry-leading performance per watt. The second is the SM2324, the world's first true single-chip portable SSD controller supporting USB4 with built-in Power Delivery. Together, these innovations highlight Silicon Motion's leadership in enabling energy-efficient, high-performance SSD solutions for AI PCs, gaming systems, and portable devices.

SM2504XT Delivers High Performance and Low Power for AI-Driven Client SSDs
Built on TSMC's 6 nm process, the SM2504XT delivers up to 11.5 GB/s sequential read and 11.0 GB/s write speeds, with random IOPS reaching up to 1.7M read and 2.0M write—all while consuming under 5 W. Compared to the previous generation, it achieves an 11% gain on performance per watt and sets a new standard for power efficiency among PCIe Gen 5 client SSD controllers.

Acer Debuts Nitro Gaming PCs Featuring Latest NVIDIA GeForce RTX 50 Series GPUs

Acer today announced the expansion of its mainstream Nitro gaming line with the launch of the new Acer Nitro AI laptops and the Nitro 20 desktop. The Nitro range brings a full-package gaming experience and great value for gamers and content creators, combining robust processing power, essential computing features, and more without breaking the bank. The addition of slim laptops and a compact Windows PC option also support users with limited space for their gaming set-ups.

The Nitro AI laptops are Copilot+ PCs, powered by AMD Ryzen AI 300 Series processors and equipped with the game-changing NVIDIA GeForce RTX 50 Series Laptop GPUs to make more powerful AI rendering capabilities more accessible. The Nitro 20 desktop also utilizes AI processors and up to an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5060 GPU, focusing on better energy efficiency with a smaller footprint.

ASUS Intros X870 MAX Gaming WiFi7 Motherboard

ASUS today introduced the X870 MAX Gaming WiFi7 motherboard. This Socket AM5 motherboard comes in two color-based variants—its default black, and the white X870 MAX Gaming WiFi7 W, which features a white PCB, besides white/silver heatsinks. The X870 MAX Gaming is positioned below even the TUF Gaming X870 Plus, and separate from the company's Prime series. It is designed to lure gaming PC builders away from the likes of the GIGABYTE Gaming X and MSI Gaming Plus series. The board is built in the ATX form-factor and draws power from a combination of 24-pin ATX and two 8-pin EPS connectors. It features a 12+2+1 phase CPU VRM that uses 80 A-rated power stages.

The Socket AM5 is wired to four DDR5 DIMM slots, a PCI-Express 5.0 x16 slot, and just the one M.2 Gen 5 x4 NVMe slot. The second CPU-attached NVMe interface is wired out as M.2 Gen 4 x4. The third M.2 slot is Gen 4 x4 and wired to the X870 FCH. The board also puts out four SATA 6 Gbps ports. Besides the main Gen 5 x16 PEG slot, the board has three other physical x16 slots, two of these are Gen 4 x1, and the last one Gen 3 x1. Display connectivity includes an HDMI, and a DisplayPort that's wired to the board's two 40 Gbps USB4 type-C ports. Other USB ports include a 10 Gbps USB 3.2 Gen 2; three 5 Gbps USB 3.1 Gen 1, and four USB 2.0, there is a 20 Gbps USB-C header, besides two additional 5 Gbps ports through a standard header.

ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Extreme Motherboard Pictured

Here are some of the first pictures of the ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Extreme, the company's new flagship Socket AM5 motherboard. Until now, the company's AMD 800-series chipset motherboard lineup topped off with the ROG Crosshair X870E Hero for connectivity and the ROG Crosshair X870E Apex for overclocking chops, and the company is looking to push things up a notch, especially given that AMD's Ryzen 9000X3D series is established as the fastest processor series for gaming PC builds. This board is designed to compete with the likes of the MSI MEG X870E Godlike and the GIGABYTE X870E AORUS Xtreme. It is firmly into the E-ATX territory in terms of dimensions. The board draws power from a combination of 24-pin ATX, two 8-pin EPS, and an 8-pin PCIe power. It uses the company's most powerful CPU VRM solution for the AMD platform, above even the 22-phase solution of the Hero.

The ASUS ROG Crosshair X870E Extreme comes with a large number of 4-pin PWM fan and water pump headers. Storage connectivity includes one M.2-22110 Gen 5 on the board with a chunky heat pipe-based cooler; a second Gen 5 and two Gen 4 slots on the board, and a DIMM.2 module that provides additional slots. The expansion slots provided are a PCI-Express 5.0 x16 and a second PCI-Express 4.0 x4 (physical x16). There are a boat-load of USB ports, including a couple of 40 Gbps USB4, 20 Gbps USB 3.2 Gen 2x2, and several 10 Gbps and 5 Gbps USB 3.2 ports. Networking interfaces include Wi-Fi 7, a 10 GbE, and a 5 GbE. The board features the company's most premium onboard audio solution that probably combines a Realtek ALC4082 with an ESS ES9219 DAC for the front channels, an audiophile-grade OPAMP, and premium capacitors. The board offers many of the exclusive overclocker-friendly features found in the company's ROG Maximus Extreme motherboards. A star-attraction is its 4-inch true-color display over the VRM heatsinks, which can be programmed to show anything. There is no word on availability or pricing.

GEEKOM IT13 2025 Edition Mini PC Unveiled

GEEKOM has introduced the latest addition to its versatile mini PC lineup—the IT13 2025 Edition. As an upgrade over the fan-favorite GEEKOM IT13, which was released in 2023, the IT13 2025 Edition is engineered to deliver even more outstanding computing capabilities across multiple domains than its predecessor.

The IT13 2025 Edition shares the widely adored design of the IT13, featuring a premium matte blue aluminium chassis which ensures both durability and aesthetic appeal. Despite its compact size, the mini PC is packed with ports, offering four USB-A, two USB4, two HDMI, an SD card reader, a 2.5 Gbps Ethernet port, and a headphone jack. At the heart of the IT13 2025 Edition is the Intel Core i9-13900HK, a processor that features 10 CPU cores, 16 threads, and 24 MB Intel smart cache. This chip provides a 5% performance boost over the IT13's Core i9-13900H, delivering faster processing speeds and improved efficiency for demanding tasks.

ASUS Also Announces the Vivobook S14/S16 Copilot+ PCs

Today marks the launch of ASUS Vivobook S14/S16 (S3407QA/S3607QA), a pair of Copilot+ PCs engineered to be the ideal companions for everyday life.

Featuring the latest high-performance Snapdragon X processor with up to 45 TOPS NPU, these ultra-slim, lightweight laptops deliver powerful AI capabilities, extended battery life, and next-level connectivity. For work, study, or play, Vivobook S14/S16 provide an immersive entertainment experience with stunning 16:10 FHD OLED or 2.5K 144 Hz IPS displays, along with Snapdragon Sound and Dolby Atmos audio. Designed for style and durability, these devices ensure effortless AI computing with premium metallic chassis, military-grade resilience, and advanced security features for total peace of mind.

Upcoming AOOSTAR WTR MAX NAS Packs 11 Drive Bays - 5 for SSDs, 6 for HDDs

AOOSTAR announced that the WTR MAX NAS will soon hit the market, after almost a year of development. The WTR MAX is equipped with the AMD Ryzen 7 PRO 8845HS processor, which outperforms consumer grade 8845HS series, a good choice from AOOSTAR. Another interesting feature is the ECC (Error Correcting Code) memory support. However, there's another feature that stands out as well. Users can install no less than 11 drives in the WTR MAX NAS: five SSDs (three PCIe 4.0 X2.0 and two PCIe 4.0 X1.0) and six HDDs, making it ideal for those needing large storage capacity. AOOSTAR included Oculink and USB4 ports too, so you can plug in an external GPU or more storage options.

Specifications are complemented by two 10G Ethernet ports and two 2.5G Ethernet ports. On the front, you'll find USB4, Type-C, and SD card slots. The NAS comes with its own screen to keep an eye on the system in real time. You can check things like how hot the CPU is, how the memory's doing, and how well the drives are working. Also, you can pick from different themes for the display - default, cartoon style, and cyberpunk (they're planning to add more themes and options in the future). AOOSTAR is going to start selling the WTR MAX NAS at the end of March for just $699.

Framework Announces New Gaming Mini Desktop

Today, we introduced the Framework Desktop, a tiny 4.5L Mini-ITX desktop powered by AMD's massive new Ryzen AI Max processors. Pre-orders are open now, with first shipments in early Q3 2025. When AMD shared the Ryzen AI Max with us, we immediately knew we had to use it. It has up to 16 CPU cores at 5.1 GHz boost clock, discrete-level Radeon 8060S graphics, and support for up to an insane 128 GB of unified LPDDR5x. That enables 1440p or higher gaming on the heaviest titles, big creative and workstation workloads, and true local AI use cases. This is an absolute monster of a processor, and we shifted our roadmap a year ago to make space for it. In a desktop form factor, we get to unlock every bit of its performance with 120 W sustained power and 140 W boost while staying quiet and cool.

You may still be wondering, why does Framework need to build a desktop? Aren't desktops already modular and upgradeable? They are. In fact, the desktop PC ethos is part of what inspired the Framework Laptop to begin with. The desktop world is amazing. There is a broad, long-lived, interoperable ecosystem with hundreds of brands and hundreds of millions of consumers participating. You can build, upgrade, repair, and personalize to the limits of your imagination (and budget, and desk space), and share your amazing creations with all of the other true believers. We want to make this space as accessible as we possibly can by building a desktop that is simultaneously small and simple and incredibly powerful and customizable. Everyone should have the opportunity to experience the culture around PCs and PC gaming first-hand.

Realtek Releases Multi-Port USB4 Hub Controller, with Power Delivery Support

Realtek Semiconductor Corp., one of the world's leading network and multimedia IC providers, launched the world's first multi-port USB4 hub controller (RTS5490), integrating USB Type-C/PD functionality and passing USB-IF full certification (TID: 11930).

Realtek's RTS5490 boasts a revolutionary speed upgrade, increasing the bandwidth from USB 3.2's 20 Gbps to USB4's 40 Gbps. It integrates protocols such as USB 3.2, USB-C, USB PD, PCIe, and DisplayPort while remaining backward compatible with existing USB 3.2 and USB 2.0 devices. With the RTS5490 USB4 hub controller, users can effortlessly expand their computer's ports with just a USB-C cable, offering ultra-fast data transfer, multi-display capabilities, and 240 W rapid charging.
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