Welcome to the latest edition of Tech News! As we dive into December, the final month of 2024, the tech world is buzzing with exciting developments. From new GPU launches to innovations in handheld gaming, let’s explore the most pressing stories that have emerged over the past week.
Intel’s Resurgence with Battlemage GPUs
Intel is gearing up for a strong finish to the year with the anticipated launch of its Battlemage GPUs. Set to debut on December 12, these second-generation Arc cards are expected to make waves in the graphics market. Among the models, the B580 has garnered significant attention, with rumors suggesting it will feature 20 Xe2 cores, a clock speed of 2.8 GHz, and 12 GB of GDDR6 memory.
Retail listings have hinted at a price range of $250 to $260 for the B580, a notable increase from the last generation A580, which started at $180. This pricing suggests a potential for better performance, which is crucial as the gaming landscape evolves. However, it remains to be seen if Intel can effectively compete with Nvidia in this space.
Performance Expectations
Despite the excitement, some skepticism lingers. A leaked Geekbench score for the B580 indicated a performance drop compared to its predecessor, raising concerns about whether this new card will deliver the expected improvements.
The Mysterious RTX 4090 Ti
In a twist of fate, a Reddit user discovered a prototype GeForce RTX 4090 Ti GPU in a tech junk bin. This find has sparked intrigue, especially given its unique PCB orientation. The prototype, albeit damaged, reportedly aligns with earlier leaks regarding the RTX 4090 Ti’s design.
As the saga unfolds, the user managed to run the card, revealing it as an RTX 4090 in GPU-Z. This unexpected discovery has reignited discussions about Nvidia’s plans and the potential of the RTX 40 series.
Handheld Gaming Market Heating Up
As the handheld gaming scene continues to grow, new models are entering the market with hefty price tags. The Ryzen AI 300 “Strix Point” handhelds are now available, with prices soaring up to $1,700 for the top model, the OneXfly F1. This pricing strategy raises questions about the sustainability of such high costs in a competitive market.
Additionally, the MSI Claw 8 AI+ has surfaced with specifications that include a Core Ultra 7 CPU and a price point of $900. These new entrants are vying for attention against established players like the Steam Deck and the ROG Ally, which offer more affordable options for gamers.
Intel’s CHIPs Act Funding
Intel is also making headlines with updates on its CHIPs Act funding, originally set at $8.5 billion. After adjustments, the funding has been finalized at approximately $7.86 billion. This funding is crucial for Intel as it aims to bolster its research and development efforts in the U.S. over the next few years.
In addition to government funding, Intel has secured a $3.5 billion military contract, further solidifying its position in the tech landscape. These developments are seen as a positive sign for the company, especially as it continues to face challenges in the semiconductor market.
High-End Desktop Enthusiasts Rejoice
High-end desktop users have reason to celebrate with leaks surrounding the upcoming Threadripper 9000 series. A shipping manifest has unveiled references to the flagship 9980X, expected to feature a staggering 96 cores and a 350W TDP. This new lineup promises to push the boundaries of desktop computing.
As CES 2025 approaches, anticipation builds for what these new products will bring to the table. The Threadripper series has long been a favorite among enthusiasts, and these new additions are likely to continue that legacy.
AZZA’s New Diamond Case
Wrapping up our tech news, AZZA has introduced a unique case design called the Diamond. Its distinctive shape has caught the eye of many, especially those interested in aesthetics. While the case was initially shown at Computex, it has recently gained attention due to a press release from AZZA.
The Diamond case’s design, reminiscent of a pyramid, has sparked discussions about its functionality and appeal among PC builders. As more details emerge, it will be interesting to see how this case performs in the market.
Conclusion
As we close out this week’s tech news, it’s clear that the landscape is ever-evolving. With Intel’s new GPU launches, the mysterious RTX 4090 Ti, and the rise of handheld gaming devices, the industry is buzzing with potential. Stay tuned for more updates as we move further into December and beyond!
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