NVIDIA may have figured out a way to go around the US export restrictions on China, but apparently ASML, the Dutch firm behind the key chipmaking equipment, isn't having much say on this end. According to Bloomberg, Biden's administration reportedly reached out to ASML "weeks before" the January 1, 2024 export ban deadline, requesting the firm to halt some pre-scheduled shipments of its deep ultraviolet lithography (DUV) machines to its Chinese customers. This came after the revelation that SMIC used ASML tech to manufacture Huawei's latest flagship processor, the 7nm HiSilicon Kirin 9000S.
In addition to DUV machines, ASML also manufactures extreme ultraviolet lithography (EUV) machines for making more advanced chips — with node processes of 5nm or less — for the likes of Apple and Qualcomm. While ASML was never allowed to sell EUV equipment to China, the Dutch government did grant licenses to the firm for shipping DUV machines to China until the end of 2023.
Bloomberg reports that things changed when the US government — National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan, specifically — allegedly contacted the Dutch government regarding some of ASML's final shipments to China, to which his team was asked to reach out to ASML directly. "Shipments of a limited number of machines" were affected.
While China had been able to source lithography machines from elsewhere, they tended to be off less advanced methods. Not to mention the joint effort between the US, Japan and the Netherlands on limiting China's access to such equipment. That said, China had since been pushed to beef up its own silicon ecosystem, to the point where it surprised the world with its homegrown 7nm mobile 5G chip. It's no wonder the US was desperate to halt ASML's final DUV shipments to China, though doing so before the agreed deadline may be a questionable move.
This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/us-reportedly-halted-asmls-chipmaking-machine-shipments-to-china-weeks-before-ban-075407978.html?src=rss
Samsung has announced that it will unveil a new range of AI-enhanced vacuum cleaners at CES 2024 this month, this will include the new Bespoke Jey Bot Combo which is a robot vacuum and mop cleaner in one. “I am thrilled to introduce our innovative vacuum cleaner lineup for 2024, the Bespoke Jet Bot Combo™, […]
The world of gaming is constantly on the move, and during 2023, mini gaming PCs captured the attention of gamers everywhere. These small yet mighty computers offer the perfect solution for those with limited space or the need for a portable setup that doesn’t skimp on power. If you are considering purchasing a new gaming […]
Since its unveiling late last year and its subsequent availability now in Google Bard the latest AI model from Google in the form of Gemini Pro is a main competitor to OpenAI’s ChatGPT providing very similar multimodal large language model (LLM) features. If you are interested in learning a little more about the basic differences […]
Have you ever wished for a hosting platform that’s specifically designed for WordPress, one that offers enhanced speed, performance, and security? Well, your wish has just come true. Introducing the WP Buzz Premium Managed WordPress hosting platform. This platform is not just another hosting service, it’s a game-changer. WP Buzz is a platform that’s been […]
Imagine transforming your living room into a miniature cinema with the latest in home entertainment technology. LG Electronics has just introduced the CineBeam Qube, a sleek 4K projector that promises to do just that. This innovative device is not only a powerhouse of technology but also a stylish accessory for any modern home. With its […]
Have you ever seen a power bank that A. folds in half, B. comes with two wireless charging coils, and C. has a built-in SSD to take backups of photos on your phone and store other data? No? Well, neither had I until I first saw the ANX Duo. Clearly, the ANX Team looked at the power bank and realized it had so much more potential because just putting a lithium-ion battery inside a brick-shaped device is so yesterday. Designed to do much more than charge your phone, the ANX Duo has a foldable-phone-shaped avatar. It folds in half when not in use, opening up into a charging ‘mat’ that can simultaneously wirelessly charge two devices together. A total of 6 USB-C ports on the side let you connect more devices to the ANX Duo, while a 16,000mAh battery on the inside reliably juices all your devices. When your battery woes end and your storage woes begin, the ANX Duo’s built-in SSD (which starts at 128 gigabytes and goes all the way up to a cool 4 terabytes) lets you store all your photos and videos locally, saving on those pesky cloud subscriptions and their monthly fees.
Calling the ANX Duo a power bank is almost a muscle reflex at this point, but in all honesty, this device is MUCH more than just that. It charges batteries (both wirelessly as well as in wired formats), acts as a pass-through charging hub for multiple devices, stores/manages data from your smartphone, and even doubles as a card reader that wirelessly transmits files to your phone from memory cards. It also folds open when in use, and shuts to a compact pocket-friendly form factor during travel.
While most power banks are brick-shaped given the interior layout of Li-ion batteries, the ANX Duo takes on a unique bifold-like design, almost like a folding smartphone. Fold it open and you’re greeted with two wireless charging coils offering a maximum output of 15W per coil. If you want more power, however, a wired connection to one of the many USB-C ports gives you a maximum output of 60W, helping you fast-charge your phones when you’re in a bit of a hurry. The ANX Duo’s 16,000mAh overall battery holds enough power to juice all your devices, from the larger tablets and handheld gaming consoles to phones, wearables, and even the smallest TWS earbuds.
Even though it looks like a folding smartphone, its 6 USB-C ports should convince you of the fact that you’re dealing with something entirely different. The 6 ports, combined with the two wireless coils, let you simultaneously juice multiple devices at the same time… but the ANX Duo has another trick up its sleeve. Connect it to a power source using one of the USB-C ports and it enters what its creators call a “Desk Hub Mode”. In this mode, the ANX Duo goes from being a power bank to being a multi-device hub, managing power delivery to its five other USB-C ports and two wireless coils. When plugged in, the ANX Duo effectively lets you charge 7 devices at the same time, managing the energy requirements of each device right through one power source while ALSO charging itself. This pass-through charging feature means you can use your ANX Duo and a single power outlet to recharge ALL your portable gadgets at the same time… a feature you probably wouldn’t expect from any power bank on the market.
When you’re not charging devices, the ANX Duo serves as an external drive for storing and managing data. Plug your ANX Duo into your phone, tablet, or laptop and you can switch into OTG mode to access the Duo’s built-in M.2 NVMe SSD. The folks at ANX offer storage capacities ranging from a conservative 128GB all the way to a whopping 4TB. That means you can store large files, take device backups, and dump all your phone’s photos and videos directly onto your so-called ‘power bank’. A smartphone app lets you manage your ANX Duo’s data, allowing you to sort through files, transfer them to and from your phone, and even wirelessly access and transfer media from memory cards by plugging them directly into the ANX Duo. Superfast read/write speeds of 1050mbps/950mbps allow you to transfer files much faster than you would through the cloud. Plus, since the data is stored locally on your ANX Duo, you don’t need an internet connection, you don’t need to shell out subscription fees, and more importantly, your files are safe from being snooped on or breached by bad actors, governments, or large companies.
The ANX Duo measures a cool 5.3″ x 2.9″ (135mm x 75mm) in length and width when folded, boasting an overall thickness of just 0.7 inches (19mm). Open it up and you’re provided with a sizeable charging mat that’s now 5.9 inches wide (152mm) and a mere 0.35 inches thick (9mm). The entire device’s enclosure is made from aluminum along with ABS + PC polymer for durability as well as heat management, and the ANX Duo weighs a paltry 9.2 ounces (263 grams), making it perfect for travel. The multi-functional gadget starts at a discounted $69 which gets you the 128GB variant, although you can upgrade to 512GB, 1TB, 2TB, or even 4TB (which is still a steal at just $219). Each ANX Duo begins shipping as early as February 2024, and comes with a 1-year warranty on the power bank, and a 3-year warranty on the SSD.
Ever felt weird chatting with Siri or Google Assistant because you know for a fact that they don’t exist? Or even ChatGPT for that matter. The folks at Wehead have a solution. It isn’t a fairly remarkable one, or an affordable one either… but it aims to help humans anthropomorphize AI assistants, because there’s nothing Silicon Valley won’t try solving.
Designed to look like a cyborg bust that sits on your table, the Wehead is a GPT-powered AI assistant that has a face (or something that passes off as one). Multiple displays come together to create the Wehead’s face, which offers a variety of different avatars that you can chat with. The cameras built into the device help the AI ‘see’ you as it makes conversation, and the head moves too, tilting sideways, nodding up and down, and being able to look around. Despite all that advancement, the Wehead feels less like a head and more like a tech-driven caricature. The attempt to humanize AI almost feels like a parody as it exists miles away from the uncanny valley, even though it’s technically impressive on paper. Oh, and it also costs a whopping $5,000 of your American dollars. If you’re scared of a future where AI replaces humans, don’t worry… this one surely won’t.
Designer: Wehead
The Weahad takes a stab at technology’s age-old pursuit of creating ‘companionship’ through AI. It’s designed with an objective of being a friend you can talk to, and who can provide sage advice… although the idea of taking a split-screen body-less oracle head’s advice seriously feels equal parts dystopian and hilarious.
“Wehead GPT is embodied LLM that helps you with brainstorming, decision making and self-reflection. For thinking out loud. At home or office. Any time you need it. On any topic,” says the company behind the device. However, as noble (and honestly remarkable) as that problem statement is, the Wehead’s appearance is what holds it back. Besides, the use of the word ’embodied’ feels rich. You’re constantly reminded that you’re talking to a bunch of oddly angled screens that mimic the shape of a human head. Maybe Wehead should reach out to the folks behind Google’s Project Starline…
The announcement of the WeHead GPT Edition brought to mind the unforgettable moment when Tesla unveiled its humanoid robot. Except instead of a sleek, futuristic robot, we got a person in a spandex suit doing the robot dance. It was a masterstroke of trolling, reminding us all that sometimes, the future isn’t as polished as we imagine it to be.
Despite its dystopian vibe, you have to admit there’s something endearingly humorous about the WeHead. It’s like having a pet that doesn’t need feeding or walking, just a good, old-fashioned power outlet and perhaps an existential conversation about its purpose every now and then. It won’t judge you for wearing the same pajamas three days in a row or for talking to a head because, well, it’s a head.
And let’s face it, in a world where we’re increasingly glued to our screens, having a physical head to talk to might just be the quirky solution we didn’t know we needed… although might I remind you that you’ll still be glued to screens with the WeHead. It’s an attempt to bring back the art of conversation, albeit with a partner that’s more circuit board than flesh and blood. The WeHead doesn’t pretend to be your friend; it’s a reminder of the slightly off-kilter future we’re stepping into, one awkward interaction at a time.
So, if you’re longing for a taste of tomorrow, today, and you’ve got a sense of humor about the whole ‘AI taking over the world’ thing, the WeHead GPT Edition might just be for you. Just remember, it’s more than a conversation piece; it’s a conversational piece. Available soon to anyone looking to spice up their chats with a touch of the future’s peculiar flavor, and with 5 grand to spare. Besides, who knows, in a world gone mad, talking to a head might just be the sanest thing you do.
If the micro-mobility market was looking for an evolution that Gen-Z would love, it’s right now. That’s because TOZZ has just revealed its new hip electric motorbike. This is the Joyce’90 by the sub-culture brand based in Istanbul that’s known for its e-mobility solutions for the young generation that doesn’t follow anything mainstream.
Smart design with sustainable production is their niche and durable construction is their forte. All these attributes are reflected in the Joyce’90 e-bike that shines with its peculiar pop-up headlights. The interesting USP of the electric motorcycle is the integrated Bluetooth boombox, because why not?
At first glance, you’ll notice the reminiscences of 90s cross bikes (maybe that’s where the name is derived from) and grand tourers. As expected, the body is as tough as a bull and draped in trending color decals, and we can safely say, that millennials will hit the skip button here. Coming on to the hip youngsters who’ll fancy this ride, the 150W 2.1 boombox hides in the body to get the party started anywhere, anytime.
On the performance front, the electric bike reaches a maximum speed of 45 km/h but the company plans to limit it to 25 km/h and 250W output in the European countries to keep up with the regulations. The base battery capacity of the e-bike is 45 km but an upgraded battery pack can be fitted to increase it by double to 90 km. The ride currently in the prototype stage will ultimately be licensed as a pedelec so that it can be driven in the bike lanes in the region. When the electric bike will be available in other parts of the world?
Joyce’90 will be available for pre-order this month and deliveries can be expected soon. The price and availability of the e-bike will be revealed in the coming days on the website and social media channels.
In the ever-evolving world of kitchen appliances, the demand for efficiency, versatility, and compactness has led to the creation of innovative solutions. The Hybrid Kitchen Aid emerges as a groundbreaking product that not only boasts multiutility but excels in adaptability, storage efficiency, and economical use.
This kitchen aid redefines the concept of kitchen appliances by seamlessly integrating the functions of multiple devices into one compact and adaptable machine. Inspired by the classic French press, its design allows it to execute tasks equivalent to blending, grinding, and kneading, making it an all-in-one solution for various kitchen needs.
One of its distinguishing features is the inversion of the motor placement, a deviation from traditional food processors. This unique design contributes to the adaptability of the appliance. The sliding switch empowers the user to cut direct power, enhancing safety and control during use.
The telescopic arm, a key design element, controls the lid level and ensures the attachment reaches the bottom of any vessel placed. A lock mechanism secures the telescoping arm and lid at the desired level, providing stability and ease of use. The user-friendly design allows for easy adjustment by lifting the arm head to unlock its position.
Lack of storage is a very common concern, the Hybrid Kitchen Aid addresses this by presenting a minimal and robust design where every element serves multiple functions. The ability to disassemble and adjust the appliance not only aids in storage but also contributes to its economic viability.
The product’s unique design allows it to adapt to a variety of kitchenware, reducing the need for multiple appliances. This adaptability not only enhances productivity but also minimizes the cleaning time between tasks. The suction cups secure the product onto the kitchen counter, adding to its stability during operation.
Cleanability is a critical aspect of any kitchen appliance, I always have my mom complaining about certain products that are difficult to clean and how she despises them, the Hybrid Kitchen Aid excels in this regard. The dismantleable attachments are specifically designed for thorough cleaning, addressing concerns about food particles accumulating in hard-to-reach spaces. The yellow ring and blade module, with a ceramic bearing, ensure easy disassembly and efficient cleaning.
The user interface of the Hybrid Kitchen Aid is both intuitive and aesthetically pleasing. A user flow diagram guides the user through a start-to-finish process, employing color and brightness levels to highlight errors or selections. The regulator dial, also serving as an On/Off button, allows for easy control of RPM.
In addition to its functionality, the Hybrid Kitchen Aid stands out as a statement piece in the kitchen. Its elegant design and adaptability make it not only a powerful tool but also a visually appealing addition to any culinary space.
The Hybrid Kitchen Aid transcends the boundaries of conventional kitchen appliances. With its multiutility, adaptability, storage efficiency, and cleanability, it emerges as a revolutionary solution for individuals seeking a versatile and economical kitchen aid that performs optimally in day-to-day cooking tasks.
