TechPowerUP NEWS

[NextPowerUP]

The long-promised gaming performance uplift for "Arrow Lake" processors is here, but for now, it is only available in China. Called Intel Performance Optimizations (IPO), this feature aims at system integrators rather than end users and offers a balanced approach between stock settings and full manual overclocking, all while preserving warranty coverage. IPO works by applying optimized profiles that adjust a range of CPU and memory parameters. On the CPU side, it fine‑tunes P‑core and E‑core frequencies, ring‑bus speeds, the UPI interconnect, D2D links between tiles, and both PL1 and PL2 power limits. For RAM, IPO raises transfer rates and tightens timings, pushing modules beyond their factory XMP or EXPO profiles. Early results from Chinese OEM Maxsun show that IPO can boost core clocks by about 200 MHz and elevate DDR5‑8000 kits to DDR5‑8400. In gaming tests provided by Maxsun, this translated to roughly a 10 percent uplift in frame rates, an encouraging figure given Arrow Lake's mild launch performance in gaming.

At debut, some Arrow Lake SKUs trailed their "Raptor Lake" predecessors because the chiplet‑based memory controller introduced extra latency and ring‑bus clocks ran slower. Supply‑chain constraints and tariffs have limited IPO's rollout to China so far, where pre‑built systems from vendors like Maxsun are shipping with the feature enabled. Warranty handling stays with the OEM, so users can enjoy the extra headroom without risking hardware support. Behind the scenes, Intel has been issuing firmware and microcode patches since December, most recently microcode 0x114 paired with CSME firmware 19.0.0.1854v2.2, to improve Arrow Lake's efficiency. IPO represents the next step in that effort and could become a model for global "opt‑in" BIOS presets if the pilot proves successful. For now, China is serving as the testing ground for Intel's latest attempt to squeeze more performance out of Arrow Lake. We have to wait and see if Western markets follow soon.

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[NextPowerUP]

Running a business or launching a brand means wearing a lot of hats between designing visuals, writing content, managing engagement, and staying consistent across every channel. For entrepreneurs and small teams, that can quickly turn into a full-time job, but it's a lot easier with the right tool. AI Magicx gives you a streamlined way to manage it all.

This all-in-one platform is packed with AI-powered tools built to support entrepreneurs, creators, and small teams whether you're launching a business, building a presence, or looking for ways to automate the creative grind. AI Magicx also just dropped the price for a lifetime subscription from $972 down to $59.97.
Right now, an AI Magicx Lifetime Subscription is only $59.97.Read full story

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[NextPowerUP]

EasySMX, the leading manufacturer of gaming peripherals, proudly announces the launch of the D10 Multiplatform Gaming Controller. Designed for gamers across PC, Switch, iOS, and Android, the D10 redefines competitive gaming by integrating breakthrough technologies that deliver lightning-fast response and ultra-precise control—all refined through valuable feedback from our gaming community.

Driven by Gamer Feedback
After analyzing reviews and customer insights from our entire product lineup, we discovered that gamers value the precision, tactile click feedback, and durability of the D-pad and analog sticks above all else. Taking this to heart, EasySMX has engineered the D10 with an improved EasyPos D-pad and next-gen TMR sticks, ensuring every input is registered with unmatched accuracy and longevity.
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[NextPowerUP]

As the US works to bring more semiconductor manufacturing back home, the machines needed to turn silicon into the world's most advanced processors are becoming pricier and harder to get, thanks to tariffs. Foundries building new fabs report that the specialized equipment they rely on, everything from extreme ultraviolet (EUV) lithography steppers to chemical vapor deposition chambers, carries a roughly 15% premium compared with similar gear sold overseas. Several forces are at play. The raw materials, high‑grade quartz for vacuum enclosures, and exotic metal alloys for precision optics have climbed in price. At the same time, key components like ultra‑accurate motion stages and alignment sensors are in short supply, sometimes stretching lead times for critical subsystems well beyond 18 months. For a fab racing to move from a 7 nm to a 5 nm process, those delays can mean missing tight ramp‑up targets and pushing out product launches.

Smaller chipmakers feel the squeeze the hardest. With fewer orders to negotiate volume discounts, second‑tier foundries may see their capital budgets balloon by 20 percent or more. In response, some are taking a mixed approach, sourcing commoditized tools such as oxidation furnaces and rapid thermal processors from multiple suppliers while reserving single‑vendor deals for high‑stakes systems like EUV scanners. Government support through the CHIPS Act offers a partial safety net, helping to subsidize capital expenditures. Yet even with grants and tax credits, the challenges will remain. Success will hinge on tight coordination between fabs, equipment makers, and policymakers to tame rising costs, shorten delivery schedules, and keep America's chip renaissance on track.

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[NextPowerUP]

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.
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[NextPowerUP]

ADATA Technology Co., Ltd., a global leader in memory and flash storage solutions, today announced its official expansion into the enterprise storage market to address the growing challenges of data processing brought about by the rise of AI and high-performance computing. In strategic partnership with Korean semiconductor company FADU, ADATA will launch a new line of enterprise-grade SSDs at Computex 2025, targeting to capture significant opportunities in the AI server and data center markets.

According to TrendForce, the global AI server market is projected to reach USD 298 billion in 2025, while enterprise IT data storage volume is expected to exceed 8.4 zettabytes. As AI model training demands higher data processing speed and reliability, enterprises are seeking high-performance, energy-efficient, and scalable storage solutions at an unprecedented pace. ADATA's upcoming enterprise-grade SSDs are designed specifically to meet the intensive needs of AI servers, machine learning, and real-time data analytics, and are ideally suited for data-driven verticals such as enterprise IT, financial services, healthcare, and government sectors. The new products will make their debut at Computex 2025, targeting mission-critical workloads in data centers and AI infrastructure environments.
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[NextPowerUP]

The modern workplace is evolving, demanding seamless connectivity, enhanced security, and all-day comfort. iiyama is stepping up to meet these needs with the introduction of three ultra-wide desktop monitors featuring KVM and USB-C docking: XCB3497WQSNPH, XCB3497WQSNP, and XCB3494WQSU. Designed for professionals who juggle multiple devices and require effortless collaboration.

At the forefront of this lineup is the XCB3497WQSNPH-B1, a 34" VA UWQHD curved monitor configured for productivity and immersion. Packed with smart features, it brings convenience, security, and ergonomic excellence to any workspace.
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[NextPowerUP]

TechPowerUp today released the latest version of TechPowerUp GPU-Z, the popular graphics sub-system information, monitoring, and diagnostic utility. Version 2.65.1, launched in conjunction with v2.65.0, comes with support for desktop GeForce RTX 5060 Ti 16 GB, RTX 5090 Laptop, RTX 5080 Laptop, RTX 5070 Ti Laptop, RTX Pro 4000 Blackwell, RTX Pro 3000 Blackwell, and NVIDIA H200. Support is also added for the upcoming AMD Radeon RX 9070 GRE, and the iGPU of Ryzen AI 300 "Krackan Point" and "Strix Halo." Other new GPUs support was added for is the Intel Arc A750E and A580E. Lastly, we are introducing support for Moore Threads S3000 MTvGPU-1108. A bug that caused GPU Compute checkboxes to go missing in the non-English localization of GPU-Z (which emerged with 2.65.0), has been fixed.

DOWNLOAD: TechPowerUp GPU-Z 2.65.1
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[NextPowerUP]

As a pioneer in self-developed software for Windows handhelds, AYANEO has always adhered to integrated hardware and software development, continuously delivering exceptional user experiences that exceed gamers' expectations. Today, the highly acclaimed handheld management software AYASpace 3.0 has launched a newly upgraded beta version. Not only does it offer deep optimization and exclusive features for the modular flagship device AYANEO 3, but it also provides comprehensive support for all released AYANEO Windows handhelds and Mini PCs, including the FLIP, SLIDE, KUN, 2S, 2, GEEK, and AIR series. Gamers are welcome to upgrade and experience these enhancements while supporting AYANEO's software optimization with their valuable feedback!

AYASpace 3.0: The Era of All-in-One Intelligent Control Begins
AYASpace 3.0 has been completely upgraded in terms of interface design and functional logic, achieving dual improvements in "modern aesthetics" and "high-performance efficiency"：The UI interaction has been fully optimized, with a new "Device" section added. Quick-access features have made a complete return, and the keyboard/mouse mode has been reconstructed.
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[NextPowerUP]

Razer, the leading global lifestyle brand for gamers, today announced the official launch of Razer PC Remote Play, the ultimate platform for streaming PC games directly to mobile devices. Razer PC Remote Play unlocks the full potential of your gaming rig by streaming your favorite PC game titles to your phone, tablet, or Windows handheld with unmatched visual clarity and responsiveness. By leveraging the full frame rate and resolution of your mobile device gamers will experience pristine visuals without black bars.

Introduced at CES 2025, the beta version of Razer PC Remote Play received great fanfare amongst users. The official launch brings a redesigned interface on Razer Cortex PC, along with added support to all mobile gaming controllers compatible with iOS or Android operating systems, support for the AV1 video codec for improved quality and lower latency, and software updates that improves the gaming experience for seamless PC gaming on the go. Gamers can now look forward to ultra-smooth, high-fidelity gameplay on smartphones and tablets - anywhere, anytime.
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[NextPowerUP]

Team Group Inc. today announced the launch of its latest gaming memory modules, the T-FORCE XTREEM CKD ARGB DDR5 and T-FORCE DELTA CKD RGB DDR5, featuring cutting-edge technology and innovative design. With an upgraded Client Clock Driver (CKD) technology, these modules break performance limits to reach an impressive 8400 MHz overclocking frequency to maximize performance and stability. CKD DDR5 memory modules are fully compatible with Intel Core Ultra and Intel 800 series platforms, ensuring system stability during high-load operations. The latest generation of memory technology provides a seamless user experience and offers gamers and enthusiasts a new level of overclocking performance.

The T-FORCE XTREEM CKD ARGB DDR5 features a 2 mm premium aluminium alloy heat sink, crafted through aluminium extrusion, CNC machining, and a sandblasted black finish. This aesthetic is characterized by a basalt-like strength and durability, complemented by a smooth texture reminiscent of fine black sand. Its innovative two-piece light pipe with translucent multilayered optical design produces an aurora-like ARGB lighting effect, perfectly creating an immersive and visually stunning ambiance for gamers. In contrast, the T-FORCE DELTA CKD RGB DDR5 draws inspiration from stealth fighter jets, featuring an ultra-wide 120° angle RGB lighting design paired with sleek geometric contours, delivering a bold, eye-catching look to elevate gaming setup with unparalleled performance. Both memory modules allow gamers to customize and enhance their PC builds with stunning aesthetics. They also support Intel XMP 3.0 one-click overclocking technology, enabling users to unlock peak performance without complex configurations.
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[NextPowerUP]

Colorful Technology Company Limited, a leading brand in gaming PC components, gaming laptops, and Hi-fi audio products, is thrilled to announce the CVN X870 ARK FROZEN motherboard for the AMD Ryzen 9000 Series processors - COLORFUL's first AMD X870 motherboard. The CVN X870 ARK FROZEN adopts the CVN's signature military-inspired aesthetics.

The CVN X870 ARK FROZEN's design is inspired by aircraft carriers. The motherboard features large frost gray heatsinks and a titanium gray-colored PCB - COLORFUL's first AM5 motherboard to feature the color. Its bright orange accents evoke power and sophistication. The M.2 heatsinks sport lines similar to the runway of the aircraft carrier.
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[NextPowerUP]

Grab your satchel, sharpen your blade, and dust off your negotiating skills—Moonlighter 2: The Endless Vault is officially set to open its doors in Summer 2025! The upcoming action-RPG from Digital Sun, creators of the beloved indie hit, Moonlighter, and published by 11 bit studios, returns with even grander adventures and deeper shopkeeping mastery. Step into the dual life of Wil—a shopkeeper-turned-hero—as he balances dangerous expeditions alongside the hustle of keeping his business thriving in a reality where fortune favors those bold enough to venture beyond the boundaries of what they know.

As you venture into the unknown, you'll clash with fearsome foes and gather precious loot in sprawling, dynamic dungeons. Take risks and reap rewards with the game's new layer of tactical depth—inventory management is no longer just about saving space. Relics carry special properties, adding tension and strategy to every expedition. On the shopkeeping side of things, you'll keep your store bustling by harnessing powerful boosts and charms to maximize sales and keep customers lining up at your door. And while you're stuck in Tresna for now—a brand-new location in the series, born from a dimensional mash-up—you might as well try to prosper together with the local townsfolk. Invest in the flourishing village of Tresna, shape its future, and unlock new opportunities for your own success.
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[NextPowerUP]

CD Projekt acquired The Molasses Flood—a Boston, Massachusetts-based video game developer—back in 2021. The New England studio was best known for making two indie titles: Drake Hollow (2020) and Flame in the Flood (2016). Under Polish ownership, the team embarked on a new "Project Sirius" adventure—several veteran members had spent time pumping out Bioshock, Halo, Guitar Hero and Rock Band franchise entries at previous workplaces. Earlier in the week, an official statement popped up on the company's official site: "dear all, we want to let you know that on April 1, 2025, The Molasses Flood LLC ("TMF") merged with CD PROJEKT RED Inc. ("CDPR Inc."), a company being a part of the CD PROJEKT Group. As a result of the merger TMF, in its former legal state (of a separate legal entity) ceased its operations, while CDPR Inc. assumed the rights and obligations of TMF. The merger will not affect the availability or distribution of 'The Flame in The Flood' and 'Drake Hollow' video games, which will continue to be published by CD PROJEKT Group."

In a LinkedIn post, Damian Isla provided an extra couple of tidbits and confirmed his exit from operations. The Molasses Flood (TMF) co-founder commented on recent reshuffles: "the studio I co-founded with some of my ex-Irrational friends, was to be absorbed into CDPR proper. To be ultra clear: this is a GOOD AND HEALTHY thing for the studio, and it was long-expected. It breaks down some organizational barriers, and better integrates the TMF team with the rest of the amazing CDPR org. Overall, it shows a very bright future for Project Sirius (aka "the multiplayer Witcher game," of which I was the Design Director for three years). It's going to be an amazing game, one for the books, and I cannot wait until the rest of the world learns about what we've been working on...On the sadder side—not to bury the lede—I've decided not to follow TMF on this transition. So last Monday—the last day of TMF's legal existence!—was also my last day at the studio."

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[NextPowerUP]

Last month, we released Atomfall, and it quickly became our most successful launch in the over 30-year history of Rebellion. We want to shine a light on something else we're proud of—how Atomfall is also Rebellion's most accessible title to date. Atomfall might offer challenges for those that want them, but it shouldn't be difficult to physically play. With that in mind, we want to showcase some of the standout accessibility features we've built to help everyone explore the mysteries of the Quarantine Zone. We've included features across motor, vision, audio and cognition, with many becoming accessibility firsts for the studio—including additional audio cues, directional indicators on subtitles, and more. We hope that the host of features, both in and outside of options, helps welcome more players to the Quarantine Zone.

Playstyle
We've built a world full of choice and we want players to be able to play their own way. So, instead of difficulty, Atomfall provides a choice of Playstyle. There are five preset Playstyles to choose from, including Investigator for those seeking more survival gameplay, Brawler for a combat-focused experience, and our default Atomfall experience in Survivor. Sightseer, on the other hand, is a preset which will allow more players to explore and enjoy the Quarantine Zone. It lessens combat and survival aspects and provides a boost to exploration to help you through the expansive Lake District and all its mysteries.
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