News/Computers
Microsoft plans AI-powered Windows to promote hands-free PC experience
Microsoft corporate VP Pavan Davuluri outlined the company's vision for transforming Windows into a voice and vision-driven operating system that could eventually reduce reliance on traditional peripherals like mice and keyboards. Speaking in a video released Wednesday, Davuluri emphasized how generative AI will enable new multimodal interaction methods, suggesting a fundamental shift in how users engage with their computers over the next five years. The big picture: Microsoft envisions Windows evolving beyond traditional input methods toward AI-powered interfaces that can understand speech, visual content, and user intent contextually. What they're saying: Davuluri described the scope of these interface changes during...
read Aug 11, 2025California user sues Microsoft as Windows 10 ends with 240M PCs unable to upgrade
A California Windows 10 user is suing Microsoft for ending support for the operating system while nearly half of all desktop users still rely on it. Lawrence Klein argues that Microsoft's decision forces customers to buy new hardware optimized for AI features like Copilot, with an estimated 240 million computers unable to run Windows 11. What you should know: Klein owns two Windows 10 laptops that can't upgrade to Windows 11 and claims Microsoft is pushing users toward AI-enabled devices through forced obsolescence.• The lawsuit states that "Microsoft's decision to discontinue support for Windows 10 while most of its consumer...
read Aug 6, 2025Microsoft brings OpenAI’s open-source GPT model to Windows PCs
Microsoft has made OpenAI's new open-source GPT model available on Windows through its AI Foundry platform, marking the first time users can run an OpenAI model locally on Windows. The lightweight gpt-oss-20b model requires at least 16GB of VRAM and is optimized for code execution and tool use, with macOS support coming soon. What you should know: The gpt-oss-20b model represents a significant shift in OpenAI's approach, offering a free and open alternative that can run entirely on local hardware. Users need a PC or laptop with at least 16GB of VRAM (video memory), requiring high-end GPUs from Nvidia or...
read Aug 5, 2025ASUS and NVIDIA unveil desktop AI supercomputers with 784GB memory
ASUS and NVIDIA have unveiled a new class of AI desktop supercomputers featuring the NVIDIA Grace Blackwell superchips, including the ASUS ExpertCenter Pro ET900N G3 desktop and the ultra-compact ASUS Ascent GX10 mini-PC. These systems address the "last mile" challenge in AI computing by delivering data center-level performance in desktop form factors, with the ExpertCenter Pro offering up to 784GB of GPU memory and the palm-sized Ascent GX10 providing up to 1,000 AI TOPS of processing power. The big picture: Traditional consumer graphics cards like the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5090 with 32GB of VRAM can handle smaller AI models, but...
read Jul 29, 2025Only 33% of businesses see AI as important when buying PCs, says study
Businesses remain hesitant to adopt AI-powered Copilot+ PCs despite widespread awareness, with new research revealing a significant gap between recognition and purchasing intent. A Canalys report found that while 73% of B2B partners are aware of these advanced machines, only 33% consider AI capabilities important when making purchasing decisions, suggesting the enterprise market isn't ready to embrace the AI PC revolution just yet. What you should know: The slow adoption stems from practical business concerns rather than lack of awareness about AI PC capabilities. Only 9% of the 1.2 million AI-capable PCs shipped by European distributors in Q2 2025 qualified...
read Jul 25, 2025ChromeOS 138 brings desktop sync and enhanced AI wallpaper creation
Google has released ChromeOS version 138, introducing desktop synchronization across Chromebooks and significantly enhanced AI wallpaper generation capabilities. The update addresses workflow continuity for users working across multiple devices while expanding creative control for Chromebook Plus owners through freeform AI prompting. What you should know: The new desk sync feature allows users to seamlessly transition between Chromebooks without losing their work environment.• Windows, tabs, and cookies sync across devices, enabling users to pick up exactly where they left off when switching Chromebooks.• Google specifically highlights its utility for workers in healthcare, hospitality, and manufacturing who often share device pools.• The...
read Jul 25, 2025OpenAI adds Agent mode to ChatGPT Mac app for Plus users
OpenAI has added its new Agent mode to the ChatGPT macOS app, making it available immediately for Plus subscribers. The integration allows Mac users to run complex, long-term tasks in the background while continuing other work, bringing the combined capabilities of Deep Research and the previous Operator agent directly to desktop users. What you should know: Agent mode appears as a new option in the toolbar beneath the prompt window, offering an alternative way to interact with ChatGPT's most advanced capabilities. Users can access Agent mode by selecting it from the toolbar or by typing "/" to bring up a...
read Jul 22, 2025Microsoft brings screen-scanning AI to millions of Windows 11 PCs
Microsoft is preparing to transform Windows 11 into a more AI-integrated operating system with a comprehensive update that brings advanced artificial intelligence capabilities to millions of PCs worldwide. The rollout, which begins this month and continues through the next several weeks, represents one of the most significant expansions of AI functionality in Windows history. At the center of this update is Copilot Vision, Microsoft's screen-scanning AI tool that can analyze everything displayed on your computer screen. Unlike traditional AI assistants that only respond to specific queries, Copilot Vision continuously monitors your desktop environment and can answer questions about any content...
read Jul 17, 2025NSF invests $20M in AI supercomputer despite 57% budget cut
The US National Science Foundation is financing a $20-million supercomputer at Georgia Institute of Technology despite facing a proposed 57% budget cut under the Trump administration. The supercomputer, called Nexus, will use AI to advance scientific research across multiple disciplines and represents one of the NSF's most significant funding commitments since the administration proposed slashing its budget from $6.8 billion to $3.9 billion. What you should know: Nexus will be one of the most powerful supercomputers dedicated to AI-driven scientific research, capable of calculating more than 400 quadrillion operations per second. The supercomputer is designed to find new cures for...
read Jul 16, 2025Microsoft Copilot Vision now scans entire computer screens
Microsoft is expanding Copilot Vision's capabilities to scan entire computer screens, not just individual apps. The AI tool can now analyze everything on a user's desktop or any specific browser or app window, representing a significant upgrade from its previous limitation of viewing only two apps simultaneously. What you should know: Copilot Vision now provides comprehensive desktop analysis through an opt-in screen sharing approach. Users can activate the feature by clicking the glasses icon in the Copilot app and selecting which desktop they want the AI to analyze. The tool can "help analyze content, provide insights, and answer your questions,...
read Jul 2, 2025Lenovo Yoga 9i Aura Edition packs AI tools at $1,440
Lenovo's Yoga 9i 2-in-1 Aura Edition positions itself as a MacBook Pro competitor, featuring AI-powered productivity tools, a vibrant OLED display, and solid battery life at a discounted price of $1,440. The laptop integrates artificial intelligence features designed to enhance workplace productivity, though its lightweight design comes with performance trade-offs compared to more powerful alternatives. What you should know: The Yoga 9i Aura Edition combines convertible functionality with AI-driven features that aim to improve user experience and productivity. The "Aura Edition" designation refers to a suite of AI tools including Smart Share for seamless file transfer between smartphones and laptops,...
read Jun 24, 2025Deal with this: Dell’s 32GB Copilot+ laptop hits lowest price at $799!
Best Buy is offering the Dell 16 Plus Copilot+ PC with 32GB RAM and 1TB SSD for $799.99, down from its regular price of $1,250. The 36% discount represents the lowest price tracked to date for this touchscreen laptop powered by AMD's Ryzen AI 7 350 processor, delivering serious value for users seeking AI-enhanced computing capabilities. Key specifications: The Dell 16 Plus features AMD's Ryzen AI 7 350 chip with an octa-core CPU and Radeon 860M integrated GPU, paired with 32GB of RAM and 1TB SSD storage. The laptop includes a 16-inch FHD+ (1,920 x 1,200) touchscreen display with a...
read Jun 10, 2025Samsung offers $100 credit for upcoming AI smart monitors with no commitment
Samsung has launched a reserve campaign offering free $100 credits toward its upcoming next-generation AI Smart Monitors, with no purchase commitment required. The promotion runs through June 24th and allows users to secure savings on what appears to be the new Smart Monitor M9, which Samsung describes as the "first monitor" to integrate on-device AI. What you should know: The reservation system requires only an email signup and comes with zero financial commitment. Users can register on Samsung's landing page between June 9th (10am EST) and June 24th (9:59am EST) to receive the $100 credit. The credit can be applied...
read May 27, 2025Acer launches AI-powered Swift Neo laptop in India
Acer enters India's AI laptop market with the Swift Neo, a compact device combining premium features and midrange pricing designed for students, professionals, and content creators. The new laptop balances performance capabilities with affordability, joining the growing selection of AI-enhanced computers becoming available to Indian consumers. The big picture: Acer has launched the Swift Neo AI laptop in India starting at ₹61,990 ($740), positioning it as an accessible premium option for productivity-focused users. The laptop is available exclusively through Flipkart in a single Rose Gold color option. With its aluminum chassis and ultra-light 1.2-gram weight, Acer is targeting both style-conscious...
read May 24, 2025Windows 11 gains AI upgrades for 3 apps, limited availability
Microsoft is expanding AI capabilities across its native Windows 11 applications with new features for Notepad, Paint, and Snipping Tool. These additions represent Microsoft's ongoing integration of AI into everyday productivity tools, though many require either a Microsoft 365 subscription or a specialized Copilot+ PC with a neural processing unit (NPU). The big picture: Microsoft is adding AI-powered content generation to Notepad while enhancing Paint and Snipping Tool with intelligent selection features. Notepad is gaining the ability to generate written content from scratch through a new 'Write' option in version 11.2504.46.0, currently available only to Windows 11 testers. The feature...
read May 23, 2025Norton’s Neo browser deploys AI to combat tab overload
Norton's entry into the AI browser space with Neo represents a significant shift for the established cybersecurity company, expanding its digital footprint beyond traditional security software. This AI-native browser aims to differentiate itself in an increasingly crowded market by combining Norton's security expertise with AI-powered features designed to streamline web browsing through personalized assistance and tab management, potentially reshaping how users interact with online content. The big picture: Norton has launched Neo, an "AI-native browser" featuring a personal assistant that adapts to user preferences and includes tabless browsing to reduce digital clutter. The browser promises to deliver "answers instantly, not...
read May 22, 2025Lenovo showcases AI-powered desktops and monitors for workplaces
Lenovo's latest AI-powered desktop and monitor lineup arrives at a critical moment for business computing, with nearly half of businesses reporting productivity gains from AI-enhanced devices. The new ThinkCentre M Series Gen 6 desktops and ThinkVision T Series Gen 40 monitors represent a significant push into AI-ready enterprise hardware, designed to support increasingly complex workloads while maintaining Lenovo's commitment to sustainability and security. These offerings come as 90 percent of businesses are already exploring or implementing AI-powered PC deployments. The big picture: Lenovo has unveiled AI-enhanced desktop PCs and business monitors designed to support advanced AI workloads while maintaining enterprise-level...
read May 21, 2025LLM runs on Commodore 64 in impressive display of 80s tech staying power
The 42-year-old Commodore 64 just became the oldest computer capable of running a large language model, showcasing the remarkable versatility of early computing hardware in the age of AI. While modern AI companies race to optimize their models for efficiency on contemporary devices, developer Maciej Witkowiak has taken a dramatically different approach by successfully porting a simplified LLM to run on 1982 technology, demonstrating how even the most basic computing platforms can participate in today's AI revolution. The big picture: Developer Maciej Witkowiak has successfully ported a simplified version of Llama 2 to run on a Commodore 64 computer from...
read May 20, 2025Dell unveils AI-powered workstation laptop that skips the GPU for a dedicated NPU
Dell is pushing the boundaries of AI-powered computing with its new Pro Max Plus workstation laptop that foregoes traditional graphics chips in favor of dedicated neural processing hardware. This enterprise-focused device, featuring Qualcomm's first discrete neural processing unit (NPU) in a laptop form factor, represents a significant shift toward on-device AI processing for businesses. By enabling local execution of billion-parameter AI models without cloud connectivity, Dell is addressing growing enterprise demands for data privacy and proprietary AI capabilities. The big picture: Dell's Pro Max Plus workstation replaces conventional GPU hardware with Qualcomm's AI 100 PC Inference Card, prioritizing specialized AI...
read May 19, 2025Keyboard manufacturers add dedicated AI Keys amid LLM integration surge
The keyboard has become the latest unlikely battleground in emerging AI technologies, where design shifts reflect broader changes in computing paradigms. As generative AI models become increasingly embedded in our digital experience, even small hardware adjustments signal important shifts in how humans interact with artificial intelligence systems. The big picture: Keyboard manufacturers are introducing dedicated AI keys and shortcut buttons in response to the integration of large language models into operating systems and applications. Microsoft led this trend by adding a dedicated Copilot key to Windows keyboards, marking the first significant keyboard layout change in decades. Apple followed suit with...
read May 16, 2025Computex 2025 showcases Asia’s latest tech innovations
Computex 2025 is poised to reveal the roadmap for PC computing's next phase with its early-scheduled May 19-23 run in Taipei. While CES claims the spotlight for broad consumer tech launches, Computex's strategic proximity to Asian manufacturing hubs positions it as the more consequential venue for core PC technology developments. This year's show promises critical hardware announcements with Nvidia's Jensen Huang headlining a major press event that signals the significance of the developments to come. The big picture: Computex 2025 will showcase the next generation of computing hardware with particular emphasis on budget components, AI processing capabilities, and specialized enterprise...
read May 14, 2025AI-powered Lenovo, AMD ThinkPad elevates mobile productivity
Lenovo's new ThinkPad X13 Gen 6 brings powerhouse AI capabilities to an ultra-portable business laptop, targeting professionals who need performance without sacrificing mobility. Weighing just over 2 pounds, this AMD Ryzen AI-powered device represents a significant evolution in the ThinkPad lineup, combining the brand's legendary durability with neural processing capabilities that can handle up to 50 trillion operations per second. As AI-enabled computing becomes increasingly essential for business users, this device highlights how hardware manufacturers are integrating dedicated AI acceleration into mainstream professional laptops. The big picture: Lenovo is positioning its lightest-ever ThinkPad as a premium AI PC designed specifically...
read May 13, 2025Gigabyte launches X870 and B850 Aorus Stealth Ice motherboards in India
Gigabyte's X870 and B850 Aorus Stealth Ice motherboards represent a significant advancement in clean, cable-free PC building technology. Launching in India with support for AMD's latest processors, these boards combine aesthetic appeal with practical features like reverse-connector designs, AI-powered memory tuning, and enhanced cooling capabilities. As custom PC building continues to evolve toward more streamlined installations, these motherboards address both performance demands and the growing preference for minimalist aesthetics. The big picture: Gigabyte has designed these motherboards specifically for cable-free PC builds, partnering with major case manufacturers to ensure widespread compatibility. The boards are compatible with Gigabyte's own C500P stealth...
read May 7, 2025How Acer is evolving beyond hardware in India
Acer marks 25 years in India with a strategic evolution from PC manufacturer to comprehensive technology solutions provider, highlighting its adaptability in a rapidly changing tech landscape. In an interview with Chief Business Officer Sudhir Goel, the company reveals how it's expanding its retail footprint, embracing gaming's mainstream adoption, and integrating AI across its product lineup. This transformation reflects broader industry shifts where traditional hardware companies are repositioning themselves as integrated technology ecosystem providers to remain competitive in an increasingly AI-driven market. The big picture: Acer's quarter-century journey in India demonstrates how tech companies can successfully evolve beyond their original...
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