(PR) XMG Refreshes APEX 16 and PRO 16 VE Laptops With RTX 5070 12GB and Better Cooling
Thu, 10 Sep 2026
XMG is introducing 2026 refreshes of its 16-inch laptops from the APEX and PRO model series with the XMG APEX 16 and XMG PRO 16 VE. Unlike the 2025 APEX 16 MAX and PRO 16 VE models, the new versions feature an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5070 with 12 GB of VRAM. Both models also receive minor adjustments to their cooling systems and bottom ventilation.
XMG APEX 16: Ryzen 9 9955HX or 8945HX and RTX 5070 with 12 GB VRAM
Following in the footsteps of the XMG APEX 16 MAX (M25), the new XMG APEX 16 (M26) offers a choice between the AMD Ryzen 9 9955HX from the Fire Range and the Ryzen 9 8945HX from the Dragon Range refresh generation. Both processors feature 16 cores and 32 threads. For graphics, the laptop uses the updated NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5070 with 12 GB of VRAM and a maximum graphics power of 115 watts, including Dynamic Boost. By contrast, the 2025 XMG APEX 16 MAX (M25) is equipped with the GeForce RTX 5070 Ti and therefore remains available as the higher-end MAX version of the 16-inch laptop.
XMG APEX 16: Ryzen 9 9955HX or 8945HX and RTX 5070 with 12 GB VRAM
Following in the footsteps of the XMG APEX 16 MAX (M25), the new XMG APEX 16 (M26) offers a choice between the AMD Ryzen 9 9955HX from the Fire Range and the Ryzen 9 8945HX from the Dragon Range refresh generation. Both processors feature 16 cores and 32 threads. For graphics, the laptop uses the updated NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5070 with 12 GB of VRAM and a maximum graphics power of 115 watts, including Dynamic Boost. By contrast, the 2025 XMG APEX 16 MAX (M25) is equipped with the GeForce RTX 5070 Ti and therefore remains available as the higher-end MAX version of the 16-inch laptop.
(PR) NVIDIA GeForce NOW Gets WARDOGS and Eight More Titles
Thu, 10 Sep 2026
Gear up: The latest PC games and major updates are ready to play on GeForce NOW this week. WARDOGS drops onto the cloud at early-access launch, alongside the Valheim 1.0 Deep North update and Bus Simulator 27 - part of nine new titles joining the cloud. The newest PC releases can demand serious hardware, storage space and upgrade budgets. GeForce NOW puts GeForce RTX-powered performance in the cloud, so members can jump into the newest titles across supported devices without needing expensive PC upgrades to keep up. From a 100-player tactical firefight to a frozen Viking frontier and a growing bus empire, every adventure is ready when members are - no downloads or storage management required.
Who Let the 'WARDOGS' Out?
Take on the Control Zone: WARDOGS launches on GeForce NOW today, bringing BULKHEAD's large-scale tactical first-person shooter to the cloud at early-access launch. Up to 100 players across three teams battle to control randomized zones in a large-scale military sandbox, where tactical gunplay, combined-arms combat, building and destruction can change the course of a match. There's no single route to victory. Outfit a loadout, coordinate a squad, fortify a strategic position or take the fight to the enemy in vehicles. Every team play action earns cash, giving players more ways to invest in gear and vehicles that can turn the tide. Ultimate members can stream the fight with GeForce RTX 5080-class performance in the cloud for a tactical advantage. Pick up the battle across supported devices without waiting on a huge game install or clearing local storage first.
Who Let the 'WARDOGS' Out?
Take on the Control Zone: WARDOGS launches on GeForce NOW today, bringing BULKHEAD's large-scale tactical first-person shooter to the cloud at early-access launch. Up to 100 players across three teams battle to control randomized zones in a large-scale military sandbox, where tactical gunplay, combined-arms combat, building and destruction can change the course of a match. There's no single route to victory. Outfit a loadout, coordinate a squad, fortify a strategic position or take the fight to the enemy in vehicles. Every team play action earns cash, giving players more ways to invest in gear and vehicles that can turn the tide. Ultimate members can stream the fight with GeForce RTX 5080-class performance in the cloud for a tactical advantage. Pick up the battle across supported devices without waiting on a huge game install or clearing local storage first.
BlockChance Offers 1,000 KH/s Solo Mining Without a Dedicated PC for Just $50 Through Today
Thu, 10 Sep 2026
Bitcoin mining typically brings to mind specialized hardware, substantial power consumption, and large mining operations. The BlockChance Bitcoin Ticket Miner, available for $49.97 (MSRP $149.99) through Sept. 10, takes a much smaller and more probability-driven approach.
BlockChance is a standalone solo-mining device that generates what the company describes as mining "lottery tickets." Instead of steadily earning small fractions of Bitcoin, the objective is to successfully mine a full Bitcoin block. The tradeoff is important: the probability of doing so is extremely low.
The device provides a 1,000 KH/s hashrate, which the manufacturer says is about 18 times higher than typical ticket miners. Its stated estimated probability is approximately one in 930 million per block, one in 6.5 million per day, and one in 17,800 annually, or roughly 0.0056%. Actual results can change with Bitcoin network difficulty and hashrate fluctuations.
Get this BlockChance Desktop Bitcoin Miner for just $49.97 (MSRP $149.99) through Sept. 10 only.
BlockChance is a standalone solo-mining device that generates what the company describes as mining "lottery tickets." Instead of steadily earning small fractions of Bitcoin, the objective is to successfully mine a full Bitcoin block. The tradeoff is important: the probability of doing so is extremely low.
The device provides a 1,000 KH/s hashrate, which the manufacturer says is about 18 times higher than typical ticket miners. Its stated estimated probability is approximately one in 930 million per block, one in 6.5 million per day, and one in 17,800 annually, or roughly 0.0056%. Actual results can change with Bitcoin network difficulty and hashrate fluctuations.
Get this BlockChance Desktop Bitcoin Miner for just $49.97 (MSRP $149.99) through Sept. 10 only.
Shortly after modders enabled DLSS 5 on previous NVIDIA generations, the focus has shifted to Frame Generation. A modder has reportedly gotten NVIDIA's own DLSS Frame Generation running on a GeForce RTX 20-series GPU, something the company has never officially supported. The mod was tested on an RTX 2060 Max-Q in The Witcher 3's next-gen update using DirectX 12, where the in-game Frame Generation toggle could be switched on, and the improved framerate was observed. NVIDIA officially only supports DLSS Multi Frame Generation (MFG) on RTX 50-series GPUs, with simple Frame Generation limited to RTX 40-series and above.
This mod builds on earlier work that brought DLSS Frame Generation to RTX 30-series GPUs. That project has now been adapted to support yet another generation, targeting Turing's SM75 architecture. Unlike previous RTX 20 and RTX 30 mods, which rerouted DLSS Frame Generation calls through AMD's FSR 3 pipeline, this one runs NVIDIA's actual nvngx_dlssg 310.1 runtime. It swaps out the original GPU kernels for versions compiled for SM75 and tweaks architecture checks so the runtime reads the Turing GPU as Ada Lovelace, letting it initialize.
This mod builds on earlier work that brought DLSS Frame Generation to RTX 30-series GPUs. That project has now been adapted to support yet another generation, targeting Turing's SM75 architecture. Unlike previous RTX 20 and RTX 30 mods, which rerouted DLSS Frame Generation calls through AMD's FSR 3 pipeline, this one runs NVIDIA's actual nvngx_dlssg 310.1 runtime. It swaps out the original GPU kernels for versions compiled for SM75 and tweaks architecture checks so the runtime reads the Turing GPU as Ada Lovelace, letting it initialize.
AMD Quietly Launches Ryzen 5 7500 and Ryzen 5 5500F
Thu, 10 Sep 2026
Today, AMD quietly launched new CPUs for both the AM4 and AM5 platforms in a surprising twist. Starting with the Ryzen 5 7500, it joins the Ryzen 7000 lineup as a slightly different take on the Ryzen 5 7500F. Meanwhile, the Ryzen 5 5500F introduces another Zen 3 chip to the increasingly hard-to-retire Ryzen 5000 family. Focusing on the newer platform, the Ryzen 5 7500 is a 6-core, 12-thread "Zen 4" processor running at 3.7 GHz by default and reaching up to 5.0 GHz under boost. Its 65 W TDP and 38 MB of combined cache, split between 6 MB of L2 and 32 MB of L3, remain unchanged from the 7500F. The key distinction is the integrated GPU; AMD has equipped the chip with a small RDNA 2 graphics unit containing two Compute Units clocked at up to 2.2 GHz.
However, AMD is apparently not ready to let the Ryzen 5000 series disappear just yet. The new Ryzen 5 5500F adds another 6-core, 12-thread "Zen 3" processor to the AM4 platform, but it is not simply a rebranded Ryzen 5 5500. The 5500F is based on AMD's "Vermeer" silicon, whereas the standard Ryzen 5 5500 uses the "Cezanne" design. Curiously, AMD has paired the "Vermeer"-based chip with just 16 MB of L3 cache, which is half the amount found on 6-core Vermeer parts such as the Ryzen 5 5600. Clock speeds range from 3.0 GHz to 4.4 GHz, with a 65 W default TDP, so the difference is more pronounced compared to the non-F design.
However, AMD is apparently not ready to let the Ryzen 5000 series disappear just yet. The new Ryzen 5 5500F adds another 6-core, 12-thread "Zen 3" processor to the AM4 platform, but it is not simply a rebranded Ryzen 5 5500. The 5500F is based on AMD's "Vermeer" silicon, whereas the standard Ryzen 5 5500 uses the "Cezanne" design. Curiously, AMD has paired the "Vermeer"-based chip with just 16 MB of L3 cache, which is half the amount found on 6-core Vermeer parts such as the Ryzen 5 5600. Clock speeds range from 3.0 GHz to 4.4 GHz, with a 65 W default TDP, so the difference is more pronounced compared to the non-F design.
Physint is an upcoming stealth action game by Kojima Productions and written by Hideo Kojima, originally slated to be published by PlayStation. It was originally announced at a 2024 PlayStation State of Play, but as of a recent announcement on the Kojima Productions site, Physint will now be published in partnership with Xbox.
As explained in a follow-up post by Hideo Kojima on X, PlayStation had decided to cancel Physint in mid-June 2026, although no reason was publicly disclosed for the cancellation. Following Sony pulling out of the project, Kojima Productions searched for a new publishing partner for three months, ultimately landing on Xbox, citing that the two companies "share a common vision for the future."
As explained in a follow-up post by Hideo Kojima on X, PlayStation had decided to cancel Physint in mid-June 2026, although no reason was publicly disclosed for the cancellation. Following Sony pulling out of the project, Kojima Productions searched for a new publishing partner for three months, ultimately landing on Xbox, citing that the two companies "share a common vision for the future."
Productivity for Less—Windows 11 Pro Is Just $9.97 Right Now
Thu, 10 Sep 2026
Microsoft Windows 11 Pro is available for only $9.97 (MSRP $199) through Sept. 27, providing a lifetime license for one compatible PC with no recurring subscription fees. The Pro edition adds several features intended for professional, business, development, and IT use. BitLocker provides full-disk encryption for protecting data, while Hyper-V lets users run virtual machines. Windows Sandbox provides an isolated environment for testing applications, and Azure AD support is included for business identity and access management.
Windows 11 Pro also includes the core Windows 11 features. Snap layouts help organize multiple windows for multitasking, while DirectX 12 Ultimate supports gaming and graphics. Biometric login works with TPM 2.0, and the AI assistant Copilot is built in to handle tasks such as answering questions, summarizing content, generating images, and writing code.
For someone with a compatible PC that specifically needs a new Windows license, Windows 11 Pro at just $9.97 (MSRP $199) is a solid deal.
Windows 11 Pro also includes the core Windows 11 features. Snap layouts help organize multiple windows for multitasking, while DirectX 12 Ultimate supports gaming and graphics. Biometric login works with TPM 2.0, and the AI assistant Copilot is built in to handle tasks such as answering questions, summarizing content, generating images, and writing code.
For someone with a compatible PC that specifically needs a new Windows license, Windows 11 Pro at just $9.97 (MSRP $199) is a solid deal.
(PR) MSI Officially Announces PRO MAX 341QPXW14G Ultra-Wide Monitor for Apple Ecosystem
Thu, 10 Sep 2026
MSI, a global leader in high-performance computing, has officially announced the PRO MAX 341QPXW14G, a new ultrawide monitor designed to meet the evolving demands of Mac workflows. As multitaskers increasingly move between creative applications, spreadsheets, communication tools, and AI-powered tasks, expansive screen space has become essential for viewing more, organizing work efficiently, and staying productive across multiple applications.
Smarter Mac Integration with MSI M-Mate
Built specifically around Mac workflows, the PRO MAX 341QPXW14G pairs seamlessly with the MSI M-Mate app to bring intuitive display controls and Mac integration directly to the desktop. M-Color Mode helps maintain consistent color performance with compatible MacBooks, while M-Sync Mode allows users to control screen brightness and volume directly using their MacBook's dedicated brightness and volume keys—delivering a more seamless and integrated experience.
Smarter Mac Integration with MSI M-Mate
Built specifically around Mac workflows, the PRO MAX 341QPXW14G pairs seamlessly with the MSI M-Mate app to bring intuitive display controls and Mac integration directly to the desktop. M-Color Mode helps maintain consistent color performance with compatible MacBooks, while M-Sync Mode allows users to control screen brightness and volume directly using their MacBook's dedicated brightness and volume keys—delivering a more seamless and integrated experience.
(PR) OWC Unveils USB4 Hub Alongside 3-Meter and 5-Meter 40 Gb/s Active Optical Cables
Thu, 10 Sep 2026
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 expansion of its USB4 product portfolio with the addition of the OWC USB4 Hub and USB4 40 Gb/s Active Optical Cables in 3-Meter and 5-Meter Lengths.
The OWC USB4 Hub is designed for creative professionals, heavy storage users, and hybrid workers, as well as anyone using a modern laptop as their primary computer who wants full desktop connectivity without the clutter. With up to 40 Gb/s of total bandwidth, one USB4 cable connects their laptop to fast external storage, accessories, and an HDMI 2.1 display while delivering up to 81 W of charging - eliminating the constant juggling of ports, adapters, dongles, and chargers. In short, it gives users the portability of a laptop without connectivity compromises when they sit down to work.
The OWC USB4 Hub is designed for creative professionals, heavy storage users, and hybrid workers, as well as anyone using a modern laptop as their primary computer who wants full desktop connectivity without the clutter. With up to 40 Gb/s of total bandwidth, one USB4 cable connects their laptop to fast external storage, accessories, and an HDMI 2.1 display while delivering up to 81 W of charging - eliminating the constant juggling of ports, adapters, dongles, and chargers. In short, it gives users the portability of a laptop without connectivity compromises when they sit down to work.
(PR) DFI Launches ARH171/ARH173 Mini-ITX Industrial Motherboards
Thu, 10 Sep 2026
DFI, a Qisda Group company and a global leader in embedded motherboards and industrial computers, introduces the ARH171/ARH173, expanding its AI-ready portfolio with a Mini-ITX platform built for space-constrained, mission-critical deployments. Powered by Intel technologies, the ARH171/ARH173 is purpose-built to handle demanding Physical AI workloads from perception to reasoning, enabling next-generation smart logistics and industrial automation.
As Physical AI transitions to operational deployment, intralogistics is driving rapid mobile automation adoption. Mordor Intelligence projects the autonomous mobile robot (AMR) market to expand at a CAGR of nearly 15% through 2029 to counter labor shortages, while advanced systems like 3D cube storage robots require on-device AI to navigate floors, climb racks, and process dense sensor streams in real time.
As Physical AI transitions to operational deployment, intralogistics is driving rapid mobile automation adoption. Mordor Intelligence projects the autonomous mobile robot (AMR) market to expand at a CAGR of nearly 15% through 2029 to counter labor shortages, while advanced systems like 3D cube storage robots require on-device AI to navigate floors, climb racks, and process dense sensor streams in real time.
In September, Microsoft released fixes for 999 vulnerabilities, making it one of the largest batches of fixes the company has ever issued. Out of these 999 patches, 723 vulnerabilities have been reportedly patched on Windows alone. For Office and Office 2016, about 111 fixes were released, while SQL Server received 62. Third-party projects received an additional 25 fixes. However, the majority of the focus was on Windows, where two vulnerabilities with very high severity were addressed. Microsoft confirmed that these were being actively exploited to unlock local privileges and allow code and program execution without any issues. These vulnerabilities, CVE-2026-81963 and CVE-2026-85880, have now been patched.
As readers may recall, Microsoft is working on expanding its memory integrity protection feature across its global Windows 11 installations, with the rollout beginning in October. For those unaware, memory integrity protection enhances operating system security at the kernel level, safeguarding it from sophisticated attacks by malicious actors. Using Virtualization-based Security (VBS), the OS employs hardware virtualization to create Windows hypervisors that dedicate isolated virtual environments. The OS always operates under the assumption that the kernel can be compromised.
As readers may recall, Microsoft is working on expanding its memory integrity protection feature across its global Windows 11 installations, with the rollout beginning in October. For those unaware, memory integrity protection enhances operating system security at the kernel level, safeguarding it from sophisticated attacks by malicious actors. Using Virtualization-based Security (VBS), the OS employs hardware virtualization to create Windows hypervisors that dedicate isolated virtual environments. The OS always operates under the assumption that the kernel can be compromised.
