Gone are the days when laptops were seen just as technical equipment needed to get work done. Just like with smartphones, they have also become part of our modern lifestyles and a reflection of our own selves. What all these mean is that people are now more conscious of the design of the laptops they purchase, not just the specs or the brand. Yes, there are still many that look like tanks with rainbow lighting accents, but even some more powerful notebooks now have sleeker and more refined aesthetics as well. To keep up with more discerning consumers, ASUS has engineered a new kind of material for the outer lid of their newest and most premium laptop that combines the lightness of ceramic with the durability of aluminum into an elegant surface that just screams “luxury.”
Designer: ASUS
Laptop lids are often made of either plastic or metal because of their resilience and durability. Of the two, metal, which usually means aluminum, is considered more premium but also tends to be heavier and sometimes uncomfortable due to how cold it is to the touch. In contrast, ceramic is equally premium yet almost the opposite of metal: lightweight, warm to the touch, and sadly also fragile.
ASUS has aimed to bring the best of these worlds together and has created the portmanteau “Ceraluminum” to mark the success of their years of research and experimentation. In reality, it is actually aluminum but treated in a special process, which it unsurprisingly calls “ceramization,” which gives it the properties of ceramic. This “hi-tech” new material boasts being lighter than steel yet also more durable than actual ceramic. More importantly, the material focuses as much on the tactile experience as on the aesthetics. Like ceramic, Ceraluminum is not only cool to the touch but also gives the fingers a better grip on the laptop’s lid.
Ceraluminum is still a novel material and it might not be ready for truly mass production just yet. For its maiden voyage, ASUS has chosen its new Zenbook S 16 to be the first to benefit from this amalgamation of two of the most premium materials known in the industry. It’s a perfect match as well, given how incredibly thin and lightweight the laptop is. It looks premium and definitely feels premium, a fitting exhibit for Ceraluminum’s equally premium properties.
In addition to its elegant material, the ASUS Zenbook S 16 also brings nature-inspired colors to match. Zumaia Gray takes inspiration from flysch cliffs in Spain, while Scandinavian White mimics the warm light of the sun on snowy mountains. Even this color is a product of sophisticated materials research, modifying the molecular structure of copper and oxygen atoms to give off a different color while using the same aluminum oxide material as other colors. The ASUS Zenbook S 16 is, in the final analysis, an exhibit of the brand’s innovation in creating new materials meant to delight not just the eyes but also your fingers and elevate your laptop experience.
Although Windows on ARM has existed before, the latest iteration of Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X processors is coming out in full force to redeem the platform’s previous image. Part of that means having more PC makers on board who are willing to dive head-on into the arena, branding not just more capable silicon but, more importantly, AI-powered features that are all the buzz these days. ASUS, unsurprisingly, isn’t going to be left behind, and it’s bringing all that goodness into the new ProArt PZ13 detachable laptop that offers an ultra-portable form factor aimed to give creators an edge to let their creative juices flow whenever and wherever inspiration strikes them, even if it’s just on their living room couch.
Given the uninspiring legacy of previous Windows on ARM attempts, it’s quite a bold move for ASUS to pitch the platform to one of the most discerning audiences in the market. Artists, designers, and content creators need more than just light, portable devices or long-lasting batteries, they need the performance that will be able to meet the demands of the software they use. At only 9mm thin, weighing only 1.87 lbs, and carrying a large 70Wh battery, the ASUS ProArt PZ13 definitely gets the first two aspects right. The new AI-enabled Qualcomm Snapdragon X processor promises to deliver that last and most critical part.
If it wasn’t painfully obvious yet, this processor harnesses the power of AI to boost its performance, particularly with paired with the Windows 11 operating system. It isn’t just your run-of-the-mill AI voice assistant that answers your search queries but a deeper, more encompassing tool that optimizes the system’s operation to save time, power, effort, and other resources. ASUS is also throwing its own AI-powered creation tools, like a StoryCube media hub for organizing digital assets, and a subscription-based CapCut for dynamic video editing. And, yes, Microsoft’s CoPilot is also onboard to make the other menial tasks more efficient as well.
The ASUS ProArt PZ13 comes in a 2-in-1 detachable design that is reminiscent of the Microsoft Surface, complete with a full-width kickstand and a keyboard cover. The 13.3-inch 3K ASUS Lumina OLED touch screen promises to meet the demanding requirements of creators when it comes to brightness, color accuracy, and precision, supporting an optional ASUS Pen 2.0 stylus for creating digital masterpieces. Unlike the existing line of ASUS ProArt laptops, this tablet and laptop in one is clearly designed for mobility, and the IP52 dust and water resistance rating, along with MIL-STD-810H certification, offer some peace of mind when you need to take the device places.
Of course, the real question will be whether Windows 11 on this new Snapdragon platform will perform just as well as on Intel and AMD processors. Early reviews seem to be promising, but the final judgment will really depend on the compatibility of creators’ tools on this still rare combination. The ASUS ProArt PZ13 AI-powered detachable laptop will go on sale sometime in the third quarter of the year, with pricing details to be released closer to the product’s launch.
The ROG Ally X by ASUS upgrades storage, RAM, battery life, ergonomics, and cooling, enhancing handheld gaming with improved performance and longer playtime.
After numerous leaks and rumors, the cat is finally out of the bag. The next ASUS Republic of Gamers handheld PC isn’t the Ally 2 but the ROG Ally X as expected. While some might see it as simply splitting hairs, the naming does make a difference. It still has the beating heart of the first ROG Ally, but with a few extras that respond to the criticisms and requests of the gaming community who embraced this more portable form factor right off the bat. From some perspectives, those extras are really small and subtle, especially if looking at it from the outside. But with enough of those changes working together, the ROG Ally X is positioning itself to be a more powerful companion that will let you play more games longer.
Just from a glance, you might not be able to tell that this is in any way different from the OG ROG Ally, at least except for its new all-black motif. It still boggles the mind why ASUS chose white for its first iteration, a color that’s almost alien to gamers’ palettes, though it did help the ROG Ally stand out from its rivals. If you look more closely, however, and hold the device in your hands, you might notice how things are somewhat different, hopefully for the better.
The handles, for example, are rounder now, which helps improve the grip that’s critical to a handheld device. The back triggers now come at an angle for better ergonomics, while the joystick and D-pad have been improved to be more durable and more precise. The biggest changes, however, are on the inside, where every little thing counts if it’s meant to improve the gaming experience.
It’s still the same AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme as the original ROG Ally, but that mobile gaming processor is now paired with 24GB of DDR-7500 RAM, up from 16GB in the first iteration. The storage capacity has been doubled to up to 1TB, but the bigger surprise is that ASUS is making it easier to upgrade it. The battery has also been doubled to 80Wh, which means you’ll have more time playing before you need to plug the little monster in. To compensate for this newfound power, ASUS ROG promises an improved thermal cooling solution so you won’t burn your hand while you play.
There is at least one change that some might consider a downgrade, depending on how attached they’ve become to ASUS’ proprietary XG external graphics port. In its place, the ROG Ally X uses a more standard Thunderbolt-compatible USB-C port that could still work with external GPUs but also with a lot more devices as well. Given all these changes, it’s no surprise that the ASUS ROG Ally X will cost more than its predecessor at $799.99. Then again, this version is squarely aimed at power gamers, and those who can live with the bare minimum can still get the older model, at least for now.
Unleash creativity and productivity with the new ASUS Chromebook Plus laptops, featuring integrated AI tools and 2TB cloud storage with Google One AI Premium.
The ASUS Chromebook CR Series offers durable, flexible laptops for K-12 students, featuring military-grade durability, versatile design, and easy maintenance.
The ASUS Chromebook CR Series offers durable, flexible laptops for K-12 students, featuring military-grade durability, versatile design, and easy maintenance.
The tech world has been a battleground for years, with Apple reigning supreme with its sleek MacBook Pros powered by M3 processors. These devices, marked by the iconic Apple logo, have long dominated with seamless design and easy-to-use interfaces. But now, a formidable coalition is ready to take the fight to Apple. Qualcomm, teaming up with Microsoft, has pulled together an impressive lineup of brands united by Snapdragon X Series processors and Windows 11. This diverse army is ready to challenge Apple’s top spot, featuring laptops and hybrid devices from Acer, ASUS, Dell, HP, Lenovo, Microsoft, and Samsung. Each device in this alliance is packed with advanced AI capabilities, long battery life, and efficient performance, aiming to set new standards in personal computing.
Microsoft Copilot+ PCs
On May 20 in Seattle, Microsoft made the first move in this ongoing tech battle by unveiling a new category of personal computers with AI features, aiming to weave this emerging technology into its products and compete with giants like Apple and Alphabet. At an event on its Redmond campus, CEO Satya Nadella introduced “Copilot+” PCs, which a range of manufacturers, including Acer and ASUS, will sell. These new AI-enhanced PCs, capable of handling more AI tasks without relying on cloud data centers, start at $1,000 and will begin shipping on June 18.
The ability to process AI data directly on the device allows for features like “Recall,” which tracks and stores all activities on the computer for easy recall months later. The Copilot voice assistant, showcased as a real-time virtual coach in “Minecraft,” highlights the innovative uses of on-device AI.
Acer’s Swift 14 AI, agile and versatile, leads the charge. Powered by Snapdragon X Elite and featuring a 2.5K touchscreen display, it’s designed for both work and creativity. The Swift 14 AI’s Activity Indicator pulses, signaling readiness for the battle ahead. With Acer PurifiedView 2.0 and Acer PurifiedVoice 2.0, this laptop ensures top-notch video and audio quality, making it an excellent choice for users who demand high performance and immersive experiences.
Swift 14 AI
ASUS Vivobook S 15
Next up is the ASUS Vivobook S 15, a seasoned fighter with Snapdragon X Elite and X Plus processors. Its 45 TOPS NPU and efficient cooling system ensure it can handle heavy tasks. The 15.6-inch 3K 120 Hz OLED display and 18-hour battery life make it a reliable companion for any user. The Vivobook S 15’s slim design and versatile connectivity options add to its appeal, offering a perfect balance between power and portability. With ASUS IceCool Thermal technology, this laptop stays cool even during the most demanding tasks.
The Dell Latitude 7455 with Snapdragon X Elite or Snapdragon X Plus.
Dell’s new lineup, including the XPS 13, Inspiron 14 Plus, Inspiron 14, Latitude 7455, and Latitude 5455, forms the backbone of the Qualcomm alliance. Known for their speed and AI performance, these laptops feature sleek designs and solid build quality. The XPS 13 leads with its high-resolution display, while the Inspiron and Latitude models offer strong support for consumers and professionals. These devices have NGAI-enabled transformative AI experiences, boosting productivity and simplifying complex tasks. The new Latitude models are designed with business users in mind, providing long battery life and high-speed processing for smooth performance in commercial settings.
OmniBook on the left and the EliteBook is on the right
HP’s OmniBook X AI PC and EliteBook Ultra AI PC bring intelligence and security to the forefront. Powered by Snapdragon X Elite, these models offer up to 26 hours of battery life. With its advanced security features, the EliteBook Ultra acts as a protector, safeguarding crucial data and strategies. HP’s next-gen AI PCs harness powerful AI technologies, ensuring greater productivity and improved user experiences. The HP EliteBook Ultra also offers extra features for business customers, including Wolf Pro Security Next Gen Antivirus and the Microsoft Secured-Core PC designation, providing secure identity and cryptographic services.
Lenovo Supercharges Copilot+ PCs with Latest Yoga Slim 7x and ThinkPad T14s Gen 6
Lenovo’s Yoga Slim 7x and ThinkPad T14s Gen 6 add agility and resilience to the team. The Yoga Slim 7x enhances creativity and productivity, while the ThinkPad T14s Gen 6 ensures reliability in rugged environments. These laptops offer top performance per watt and fast NPU-based AI processing, enhancing user experiences with advanced AI features. The Yoga Slim 7x is designed for consumers wanting a lightweight, powerful laptop, while the ThinkPad T14s Gen 6 caters to business professionals needing top-level security and performance.
Surface Pro and Surface Laptop
Microsoft’s Surface Laptop and Surface Pro lead the front lines, featuring Snapdragon X Elite and X Plus. The Surface Laptop, with its modern design and sharp display, delivers impressive performance and long battery life. The Surface Pro, a flexible 2-in-1 device, adapts to any situation, providing the versatility of both a laptop and a tablet with its optional OLED display. These devices offer new AI experiences powered by the Snapdragon X Elite and X Plus processors, boosting productivity and creativity with smart computing features. The new Surface Pro Flex Keyboard lets users position their Surface Pro and keyboard as needed, ensuring a smooth transition between different modes.
Galaxy AI on Galaxy Book4 Edge
Samsung’s Galaxy Book4 Edge, equipped with Snapdragon X Elite, integrates hybrid AI features that enhance productivity. Available in 14-inch and 16-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X displays, it combines clarity with powerful computing, acting as the communication hub for the coalition. This device brings popular Galaxy AI features like Circle to Search with Google, Live Translate, and Chat Assist to the PC’s bigger display, breaking down communication barriers and boosting creativity and productivity.
Apple MacBook Pro M3
As the two armies face off, the air is thick with anticipation. Apple’s M3 processors power the MacBook Pros, with the iPad Pro showcasing the power of the M4, which has been nothing short of amazing. There is high anticipation that the M4 will soon power the next generation of MacBooks, replacing the outgoing M3. The Qualcomm and Microsoft alliance, with its diverse and powerful devices, stands ready for the challenge. Each brand, each laptop, and hybrid device brings unique strengths, forming a united front against a common foe. The clash begins, and the battlefield hums with the buzz of technology. Qualcomm processors, with their AI capabilities and long battery life, push performance and efficiency to new heights. Windows 11’s Copilot+ features provide strategic advantages, helping the alliance adapt quickly. Apple’s devices fight back fiercely, showcasing the power of the M3 and the anticipation of the M4.
Apple M4 and Snapdragon X Elite
The battle is about winning through innovation and unlocking new possibilities. As the dust settles, both sides realize that progress and competition go hand in hand. The Qualcomm and Microsoft alliance, with its Snapdragon X Series processors and diverse range of devices, has shown it can stand alongside Apple, heralding a new era of technological advancement and collaboration. Microsoft’s new Copilot+ PCs, with AI features like “Recall” and real-time virtual coaching, mark a bold step forward. While Apple prepares its counter at WWDC in June, the tech world watches eagerly to see how this clash of titans will shape the future of computing.
One of the worst days to announce or tease a new product is April 1st. Most people already presume that the majority of “news” going out that day is a hoax, especially if it’s about something outlandish or unbelievable. Then again, it might also be the best time to get as much attention, even if it means being doubted until the product actually lands on store shelves. That’s the kind of situation that ASUS’ Republic of Gamers created when it teased one of the weirdest-looking yet also most interesting portable power stations to grace the industry, only to reveal that, no, it is no April Fool’s joke. But is this Mjolnir-lookalike worthy to be wielded by gamers and enthusiasts or is it just a dastardly plot by Loki to have a laugh at everyone’s expense?
Even if you’re not a comics or movie buff, you’re most likely to already be familiar with the icons of Marvel’s Cinematic Universe given the media over-saturation. This is especially true for the most popular icons and their paraphernalia, such as Captain America’s shield, Iron Man’s mask, and Thor’s hammer. That hammer has a formal name, even in the original Norse mythology, though few will probably be able to utter Mjolnir’s properly unless they watched the first Thor film. It’s MYOL-neer or MYOL-nur, by the way. You’re welcome.
That hammer is the subject of today’s speculation. On the 1st of April, probably one of the trickster god Loki’s favorite days, ASUS’ gaming brand teased and then announced Mjolnir, not as a weapon but as an electrifying computer accessory. It’s a power station that indeed resembled the movie prop to some extent, with a large rectangular box whose sides tapers a bit, and a rod extending from the body acting as a handle. ROG was quick to point out that it’s a real thing, not a hoax, but that in itself could be the joke. But maybe it would have been better if it remained hidden from mortal hands.
What We Know So Far
To be fair, there’s not much we know other than what ROG itself has revealed, but there’s quite a bit already available. The most important is that this power station can be charged using solar energy, drawing power from the sun instead of lightning. How it does that, however, is still anyone’s guess. The teaser showed a dark rectangle on the station’s front that could be a tilting solar panel, though that would be too small to supply the power that this large box needs and was probably just a placeholder graphic.
On the front, you will see an assortment of ports typically found on power stations. There are four AC outlets, two full-sized USB-A ports, and two USB-C ports. There’s an LCD display above these ports that shows important information about the input, output, and remaining battery capacity. Noticeably missing here, however, are DC and car charging ports, which hints that this power station might not have outdoor adventures in mind.
The teaser also mentions that the ROG Mjolnir can illuminate your path with the light it summons, but it unsurprisingly doesn’t say how. That panel on the back could be a very bright flood light, but the better theory is that the handle itself is some sort of lighting component. Either the handle lights up or, more likely, it’s a removable flashlight, which is a better design for a part that would otherwise simply be a cosmetic detail that gets in the way.
Cracks in the Hammer
There’s no denying that the ROG Mjolnir has an interesting design, one that will appeal to a large segment of the market, especially the brand’s gaming audience. Its upturned hammer shape sets it apart from other portable power stations, if the ROG branding doesn’t already make sure of that. The bigger question, however, is whether that design is actually good for the product’s usability or hinders it.
That handle is going to be the biggest point of contention, with a tall rod sticking out from the top of the box. If it acts as a removable flashlight, then it’s not as big of an issue. But if it’s permanently fixed in that position, it will become a problem when storing or moving the power station. It’s not like you can carry the Mjolnir using its handle for real. But if that handle were removable, it also introduces a different kind of problem, one of durability and reliability. There’ll be a hole where the handle connects to the body, which means an opportunity for dust and liquid to get into the sensitive electronics. Definitely not a smart design.
It doesn’t look like the power station is designed for easy carrying either. Depending on how much battery it’s packing inside, this power station can end up being a bit heavy to carry with one hand without a handle. You’d have to hold it with both hands, but there doesn’t seem to be any grips to make that convenient. Admittedly, it doesn’t look too big beside a smartphone, but that’s just a render that might not reflect the product’s actual size.
True Power
There’s admittedly not much we know about the ROG Mjolnir Solar Power Station yet, including its specs, its price, and whether it’s really an actual product or ROG has just been pulling our leg and chuckling at the buzz going around their vaporware. Then again, it’s a pretty niche design as far as a power station is concerned, anyway, and there are plenty of other options in the market, albeit with less sensational aesthetics.
When it comes to solar portable power stations, the BLUETTI AC2A comes with all the bells and whistles, including proven product quality and durability. There are only two AC outlets, yes, but it makes up for it with a wider variety of input and output ports. You will need to plug in a solar panel, but that might also be the case for the ROG Mjolnir anyway. The BLUETTI AC2A is indeed designed more for outdoor use, though it can be an emergency backup for computers at home as well. As far as we know, the ROG Mjolnir is primarily designed to serve gamers’ needs, with rather questionable outdoor survivability.
Is the ROG Mjolnir Power Station going to sell? It will probably have a few fans, especially those who will readily throw money at cool-looking and unique designs. It is going to be a practical and usable product? It’s definitely too early to say, and ROG might still end up surprising us, or completely disappointing us with the harsh reality of a month-long joke. Either way, we don’t expect the ROG Mjolnir to be a ground-breaking new design beyond its unique aesthetics, and if you’re looking for truly gamer-ready power solutions, you don’t have to wait for the truth to be revealed.
