Latest hardware news and stories
Leak Reveals Xbox Elite Series 3: New Dials, Cloud Focus, and Improved Modularity
Certification documents from Brazil's Anatel agency have leaked new images of the Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 3. The premium gamepad features replaceable components, two front-facing rotary dials, and a dedicated cloud gaming mode utilizing Wi-Fi 6 for lower latency. These design choices signal a significant update aimed at durability, precision, and compatibility with Microsoft's streaming strategies.
ASUS ROG NUC 16: Compact Gaming Power Featuring RTX 5080 and Intel Core Ultra 9
ASUS has announced the ROG NUC 16, a high-performance mini-PC scheduled for release in mid-May 2026. The device pairs an Intel Core Ultra 9 290HX Plus processor with an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5080 laptop GPU within a compact chassis. Featuring up to 128 GB of DDR5 RAM and 1,334 TOPS of AI computing power, the PC targets enthusiasts seeking desktop-grade performance in a small form factor.
Google is launching a new line of premium laptops called the 'Googlebook,' positioning them as high-end successors to Chromebooks and manufactured by partners including Acer, Asus, Dell, HP, and Lenovo. The devices will utilize processors from multiple suppliers: Intel is providing its Wildcat Lake architecture, while Qualcomm and MediaTek have also been confirmed as chip providers. Running on the new Aluminium OS, the laptops feature robust AI capabilities such as Gemini Intelligence and a proactive 'Magic Pointer' interface. A market launch is scheduled for this autumn.
Google is returning to the laptop market with a new premium device category called 'Googlebooks,' developed in partnership with manufacturers like Acer, Dell, and HP using the Android tech stack. Launching in autumn, these devices feature deep Gemini AI integration, including smartphone app compatibility and a signature hardware element known as the 'Glowbar.' Meanwhile, Intel is reportedly developing a new processor line called 'Razor Lake-AX,' which may reintroduce on-package memory to enhance system performance and efficiency. These announcements highlight major technological divergences and innovations in the consumer electronics landscape.
Asus Celebrates 20th Anniversary of ROG Brand with Limited Edition Crosshair X870E 'Edition 20'
Marking its 20th anniversary, Asus is introducing a nostalgic retake of its flagship Crosshair motherboard series. The new 'ROG Crosshair X870E Edition 20' supports modern AMD Ryzen processors while blending high-end performance with retro aesthetics, featuring copper-colored heatsinks and the original ROG logo from 2006. An official reveal of this commemorative hardware edition is scheduled for early June at Computex 2026.
AMD Records Record Revenue Share in Server CPUs as Agentic AI Drives Demand for EPYC Processors
AMD has achieved a record-breaking revenue market share of 46.2% for its EPYC server processors, highlighting significant gains in the high-performance computing sector. Simultaneously, the rise of "Agentic AI" is fueling renewed demand for server CPUs, as managing complex workflows and data orchestration becomes increasingly critical alongside traditional GPU inference. While GPUs remain essential for computation, AMD's EPYC architectures are taking on a larger role in coordinating these demanding tasks. The company forecasts that the global market for server CPUs could exceed $120 billion by 2030.
Nintendo Announces Star Fox Remake for Switch 2 Amid Movie Rumors and Strategic Shadow Drop
Nintendo has unexpectedly announced a comprehensive remake of Star Fox 64, set to launch exclusively for the Nintendo Switch 2 on June 25, 2026. Alongside a complete visual overhaul and new game modes, reports suggest an animated feature film is in development via Illumination. Insiders further speculate that the sudden 'shadow drop' announcement was a strategic move to undermine leakers and reclaim control of the narrative.
Major DNS Outage: Technical Failures at DENIC Paralyze .de Domains
A severe disruption of the DNS name service at DENIC caused widespread accessibility issues for numerous German websites. Domains signed with DNSSEC were particularly affected, with access often only possible via local router caches. Following intensive overnight efforts by technicians, full service was successfully restored by Wednesday morning.
Apple Eyes Supply Chain Diversification: Talks Underway with Intel and Samsung Foundries
Apple is exploring potential partnerships with Intel Foundry and Samsung Foundry to reduce its heavy reliance on TSMC. This strategic move aims to mitigate risks associated with production bottlenecks and geographic concentration while potentially increasing chip manufacturing within the United States. While TSMC remains the primary supplier due to superior capacity, initial collaborations with new partners may start with smaller product lines.
Steam Controller Launch Plagued by Chaos: Sold Out in Minutes as Scalpers Strike
Valve's new Steam Controller sold out globally within just 30 minutes of its May 4, 2026 release due to overwhelming demand. The launch was marred by server crashes, bot activity, and technical failures within Valve's payment systems. Consequently, scalpers are now listing the devices on platforms like eBay for double or even triple the original retail price.
AMD Targets AI Professionals with Ryzen AI Max+ Pro 495 and Massive 192GB Memory Boost
Under the codename 'Gorgon Halo,' AMD is developing a new generation of high-end APUs, including the Ryzen AI Max+ Pro 495. These processors feature up to 16 Zen-5 cores and a significant memory expansion to 192 GB of LPDDR5X RAM to better handle large language models (LLMs). Additionally, AMD is increasing NPU performance to 60 TOPS and integrating powerful Radeon 8065S graphics.
GTA 6: Release Date, Platform Strategy, and Commitment to Satire Confirmed
Take-Two CEO Strauss Zelnick has revealed key details regarding GTA 6, including a planned release date of November 19, 2026. The title will initially launch exclusively on consoles to ensure optimal performance and stability, while real-world product placements will be avoided in favor of satirical brands. Meanwhile, Rockstar Games is ramping up preparations for the game's global marketing campaign.
Microsoft Retracts 32 GB RAM Recommendation Following User Backlash
Microsoft recently suggested that 32 GB of RAM is the ideal upgrade for Windows 11 to ensure a 'no worries' experience during multitasking and gaming. While 16 GB remains the baseline, the company noted that modern web frameworks and demanding apps are increasing memory pressure. However, following significant public backlash regarding accessibility and system requirements, Microsoft has since pulled the recommendation.
Affordable Raspberry Pi Alternative: Refurbished Terra Mini-PC Available for 71 Euros
A refurbished Terra Mini-PC featuring a silent Intel Celeron J5005 quad-core processor is currently available for 71 euros. The device comes equipped with 8 GB of expandable RAM, a 64 GB SSD, and supports both Windows 11 and various Linux distributions. Due to its hardware specifications, the system is positioned as a powerful and cost-effective alternative to the Raspberry Pi 4.