Nvidia appears to be bolstering its entry-level graphics card offerings, with an increasing number of leaks suggesting we'll get an RTX 5050. This budget-friendly card is reported to launch in the coming weeks, positioning itself as a direct competitor to Intel's Arc B580.

Leaker kopite7kimi has been relatively quiet since the RTX 50 series' initial announcements, but they recently resurfaced with detailed specifications for both the RTX 5050 and the upcoming RTX 5060 Ti.

The leaker corroborated the RTX 5060 Ti's dual memory configurations, which stated that 16 GB and 8 GB GDDR7 variants will use a 128-bit memory bus. The card is expected to feature a 180W TGP (Total Graphics Power), aligning with previous rumors. The report also reads that the RTX 5060 Ti is based on the PG152 board design and uses the GB206-300 GPU, packing 4,608 CUDA cores.

Intriguingly, the leaker claims that the RTX 5050 will share the same PG152 board design but paired with the smaller GB207-300 GPU with 2,560 CUDA cores. Matching earlier rumors, kopite7kimi said that the RTX 5050 will feature 8 GB of GDDR6 memory and a 128-bit memory bus, making it the sole RTX 50 series card to use this type of memory.

Rumours suggest that Nvidia may unveil the RTX 5060 series and potentially the RTX 5050 as early as next week. However, these cards are only expected to be released in April or May.

KitGuru says: Are you planning to buy an entry-level or mid-range graphics card soon? Are you considering one of Nvidia's upcoming RTX 50 series GPUs?

The post Nvidia RTX 5060 Ti and RTX 5050 detailed in new leak first appeared on KitGuru.

Nvidia's professional workstation graphics card lineup is probably getting an update like the gaming series did with the RTX 50 GPUs. Nvidia hasn't confirmed it yet, but the supposed new flagship card, RTX Pro 6000 Blackwell, has recently been spotted online.

The listing spotted on Leadtek's website by Mark Brown (via @harukaze5719) confirms the “RTX Pro” branding will remain and unveils the specifications of this monstrous GPU. The RTX Pro 6000 Blackwell is purported to feature a staggering 24,064 CUDA cores, exceeding the RTX 5090 count by 2,304 cores. Furthermore, the card has 96 GB of GDDR7 memory, triple the capacity of the flagship gaming card. The Leadtek listing suggests a 600W TGP for the RTX Pro 6000 Blackwell, surpassing the RTX 5090's TGP. This strongly indicates the presence of one or two 16-pin power connectors.

Image credit: VideoCardz

Compared to its predecessor, the RTX 6000 Ada, the RTX Pro 6000 Blackwell boasts a 32% increase in CUDA cores and doubles the memory capacity. The reported 600W power consumption also represents a significant leap from the RTX 6000 Ada's 300W TDP.

The RTX Pro 6000 Blackwell's enormous TGP necessitates a robust cooling solution. Gone is the traditional blower-style design, replaced by a cooling solution (shared by VideoCardz) that appears to be a variation of the dual-flow-through design found on the RTX 5090. Images accompanying the leak reveal a dual-slot design with a more exposed heatsink on the front and a redesigned backplate. The card also features a PCIe 5.0 x16 interface and four DisplayPort 2.1 ports.

The RTX Pro Blackwell series is expected to be officially unveiled at Nvidia's GTC 2025 conference, which will run from March 17th to the 20th.

KitGuru says: Considering the RTX 6000 Ada released at around £7,500, how do you think Nvidia will price the RTX Pro 6000 Blackwell?

The post Nvidia RTX Pro 6000 Blackwell leaks via retail listing first appeared on KitGuru.

Early benchmarks are promising for AMD's upcoming Ryzen 9 9950X3D, with the 16-core CPU reportedly topping the PassMark multi-threaded charts. A single benchmark run has yielded a score of 69,702 points, placing it 10% ahead of the previous-generation 7950X3D and 5% ahead of its non-3D V-Cache counterpart in multi-threaded performance.

Note that these results are based on a single benchmark run compared to the hundreds of data points typically used for comprehensive analysis. RAM configuration and overclocking or PBO could significantly influence these scores. Nevertheless, this initial result shared by @x86deadandback suggests that the 16-core 9950X3D is currently leading the pack among flagship consumer CPUs, outperforming the 7950X3D, 9950X, and Intel's Core Ultra 9 285K. This 170W CPU, armed with 16 Zen 4 cores and second-generation 3D V-Cache, is set to launch in three days.

Analysing the 9950X3D's single-threaded performance reveals near-identical scores to the 9950X, indicating that the addition of 3D V-Cache doesn't compromise single-threaded speed. Both CPUs share the same core count, peak boost frequency, and 170W TDP. The key difference lies in the 9950X3D's usage of 3D V-Cache on one of its chipsets.

AMD recently confirmed the 9950X3D's $699 price tag, representing a $100 premium over the 9950X's launch price. Alongside it, AMD will also release the Ryzen 9 9900X3D. Both processors are expected to release on March 12th

KitGuru says: Are you thinking about getting one of AMD's new Ryzen 9000X3D processors? If so, which one are you considering buying?

The post AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D shows up on PassMark with improved single-core performance first appeared on KitGuru.

New rumors claim that Nvidia's RTX 50 series lineup is getting an RTX 5050 SKU. This budget-oriented card could significantly expand the series' reach, offering gamers a more affordable entry point and an alternative to Intel's B500-series.

While we've previously talked about Zotac's EEC entries that mentioned the RTX 5050, this new report from Wccftech includes a few more details than just the name. Examining Nvidia's Blackwell GPU family lineup reveals five distinct GPUs, with the entry-level GB207 being the most likely candidate for the rumoured RTX 5050.

However, it's plausible that Nvidia could leverage the same board design for the RTX 5060 and RTX 5050 to further optimise production costs and simplify the manufacturing process. If so, the RTX 5050 could feature a cut-down GB206 GPU.

This report also mentions that the RTX 5050 is expected to be priced between $199 and $249 (£200-£250 with VAT included), placing it in direct competition with Intel's Arc B570/B580 GPUs. It's also rumoured to feature 8 GB of memory, though the type of memory and memory bus width remain unknown. Using GDDR6 memory would be a logical choice to keep costs down. Moreover, the 5050 should target a TDP of 135/145W. Like the RTX 5060 series, this GPU could also launch in April.

KitGuru says: Seeing Nvidia coming back to the xx50 GPUs in the desktop segment could motivate AMD to do the same.

The post An RTX 5050 desktop GPU with 8GB of memory might be on the way first appeared on KitGuru.

S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl has achieved a significant milestone, surpassing six million players just over three months after its release. This success is particularly noteworthy given the game's tumultuous development, which was marked by numerous delays and challenges faced by Ukrainian developer GSC Game World.

The long-awaited sequel, released in November 2024, is the fourth mainline entry in the STALKER series, arriving 15 years after 2009's Call of Pripyat. Players once again step into the boots of “stalkers”, exploring the atmospheric post-apocalyptic exclusion zone surrounding the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant. Various updates have been released since the game launched, squashing thousands of bugs and improving AI, balancing, optimisation, and various systems.

GSC Game World expressed its gratitude to the community for its support. The game's development was fraught with difficulties, including conflict, cyberattacks, and a devastating fire, leading to multiple delays. This milestone is a testament to the team's resilience and the enduring passion of S.T.A.L.K.E.R. fans.

Players have praised the game's immersive atmosphere and gameplay, with many commenting on the feeling of returning to Pripyat. The community has also expressed excitement for the game's upcoming DLC and provided valuable feedback, including requests for a New Game Plus mode. GSC Game World previously announced it would share a content roadmap for the game, but nothing has been shown yet. While some details are still pending, this roadmap was supposed to include post-launch content, including a free PvP multiplayer mode and at least two paid DLC expansions.

KitGuru says: Have you already tried S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2? Does it stand on par with its predecessors?

The post S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2 has reached six million players first appeared on KitGuru.

New reports suggest that Nvidia is gearing up to announce the RTX 5060 series in the next two weeks, potentially as early as March 13th. While this date hasn't been officially confirmed, sources indicate that Nvidia has informed its board partners about the upcoming announcement.

Leaker MEGAsizeGPU has also reported that the reveal will occur within ten days, while VideoCardz points to March 13th. Nvidia has reportedly confirmed to its AIB partners that the GeForce RTX 5060 series will consist of three models: the RTX 5060 Ti 16 GB, RTX 5060 Ti 8 GB, and RTX 5060 (8 GB). The availability dates have not been shared yet, but MEGAsizeGPU claimed they'll be coming out in April.

Rumours suggest that the RTX 5060 Ti will have a 180W TDP, though it's unclear whether this applies to both the 16 GB and 8 GB variants. The 5060 Ti is expected to use either the GB205 GPU, a cut-down version of the chip powering the RTX 5070, or the GB206 GPU. The latter seems to be the likely candidate for the non-Ti RTX 5060, which is rumoured to feature 8 GB of GDDR6 memory.

While previous rumors pointed toward an April launch for the RTX 5060 series, it remains to be seen whether all three models will be released simultaneously or if Nvidia will opt for a separate release.

KitGuru says: Are you planning to upgrade your GPU with one of the upcoming RTX 5060 series GPUs? If so, which one were you planning on buying?

The post Nvidia RTX 5060 launch reportedly scheduled for April first appeared on KitGuru.

Nvidia's RTX 50 series ROP issue continues. Laptop manufacturers are reportedly facing the added burden of ensuring their upcoming RTX 50-powered laptops are free from the same defect. As such, these companies are implementing additional testing measures to avoid shipping defective GPUs to customers.

This extra scrutiny comes in response to Nvidia's request to inspect RTX 50 Laptop GPUs, which, according to Heise (via VideoCardz), are believed to originate from the same production line as the affected desktop models. Moreover, the same report states that laptop manufacturers are now working extended hours to prevent complications with their upcoming laptops.

The RTX 50-powered laptops, initially unveiled at CES 2025, have faced delays, with pre-orders pushed back from late March to April. It's unclear whether laptop manufacturers will be able to meet these revised deadlines, and the delay could have broader implications, impacting production schedules for Intel, AMD, and other companies involved in the laptop supply chain.

In addition, laptop manufacturers reportedly received the final VBIOS only recently, hindering their ability to commence mass production. However, this additional testing should, at the very least, ensure that consumers don't receive laptops with compromised GPUs.

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru says: Are you planning on buying an RTX 50-powered laptop, or have the delays made you change your mind?

The post Nvidia RTX 50 Laptop GPU series also affected by missing ROPs issue first appeared on KitGuru.

Endorfy has expanded its power supply lineup by introducing the Supremo FM6 1000W and Supremo FM6 850W. These new PSUs are designed to meet the demands of modern high-performance systems, offering full compliance with the latest ATX 3.1 and PCIe 5.1 standards, gold-level efficiency, and quiet operation.

The Supremo FM6 1000W and 850W are built to the ATX 3.1 specification, delivering improved performance, stability, and resilience against power fluctuations compared to previous standards. Including a 12V-2×6 connector ensures full compatibility with the latest PCIe 5.1 graphics cards, eliminating the need for adapters. Traditional PCIe 8-pin connectors are also provided for wider compatibility. Both models feature fully modular cabling for clean and efficient cable management.

Both PSU models feature an 80 Plus Gold certification, guaranteeing high energy efficiency and reduced operating costs. They operate quietly and maintain low temperatures even under heavy loads, increasing longevity and reliability. High-quality Japanese capacitors ensure consistent performance and stability, even at high temperatures, making these PSUs suitable for demanding applications and operating environments.

The integrated Fluctus 120mm fan is optimised for maximum airflow and efficiency while minimising noise. This quiet fan features an FDB bearing and psychoacoustically optimised fan blades, reducing noise levels and making the sound profile more pleasing to the human ear. Moreover, Endorfy has engineered these PSUs for maximum reliability and safety, incorporating a comprehensive suite of electrical and thermal protection features. Safeguards against voltage spikes, short circuits, overloads, and overheating ensure the protection of your components.

Endorfy backs the Supremo FM6 1000W and 850W with a 10-year warranty, demonstrating its confidence in the quality and reliability of these PSUs. These PSUs are available for purchase now at €119 (850W) and €145 (1000W).

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru says: For their pricing, the new Endorfy Supremo FM6 PSUs seem worth checking out if you're looking for a new PSU, especially considering their 10-year warranty.

The post Endorfy launches new 80-Plus Gold Supremo FM6 modular PSUs first appeared on KitGuru.

Lossless Scaling, a popular third-party tool for upscaling and frame generation, has just received a significant update with the release of version 3.1 Beta. This new version introduces Adaptive Frame Generation (AFG), promising smoother frame pacing.

For those unfamiliar with Lossless Scaling, it's a paid tool that offers an alternative to native upscaling and frame generation technologies like DLSS and FSR, which developers typically integrate directly into games. While DLSS and FSR generally offer superior performance and image quality due to their game-specific optimisations, Lossless Scaling caters to titles that lack native support for these technologies.

Image credit: Reddit

Lossless Scaling's latest update (via Reddit) introduces Adaptive Frame Generation, a feature designed to dynamically adjust frame generation multipliers to maintain a target framerate. Instead of generating a fixed number of frames, AFG only generates the number of frames needed to achieve an FPS target. The developer notes that with AFG, GPU load may increase, and image quality may be slightly lower than with fixed multiplier mode enabled.

This approach contrasts with Nvidia's recently released Smooth Motion technology and AMD's Fluid Motion Frames, both of which operate at the driver level and typically utilise fixed frame generation multipliers. The latter, however, will soon be updated to version 2.1, which could introduce new features.

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru says: Have you ever tried Lossless Scaling? While it remains a paid tool, the ability to purchase it on Steam with the option for a refund provides a degree of reassurance for those who are curious to try it out.

The post Lossless Scaling 3.1 update introduces new Adaptive Frame Generation first appeared on KitGuru.

It looks like the wait for AMD's Ryzen 9 9950X3D and 9900X3D CPUs is almost over. While AMD previously confirmed these Zen 5-based processors for a Q1 2025 release, they've remained tight-lipped about the exact launch date until now. However, AMD's Chinese store might have revealed more than it should, pointing to a release on March 12th.

The listings shared by HXL include the specifications for both CPUs, which were in line with previous reports. The 16-core Ryzen 9950X3D will feature a boost clock speed of 5.7 GHz, 144 MB of cache (L2+L3+3D V-Cache), and a 170 W TDP. The 12-core Ryzen 9 9900X3D has a boost clock speed of 5.5 GHz, 140 MB of cache (L2+L3+3D V-Cache), and a 120 W TDP.

Pricing information has also surfaced, though it's better to take it with a grain of salt. According to HXL, the Ryzen 9 9950X3D is currently listed at 5,599 RMB (£600), which is higher than the launch price of the 7950X3D in China (5,299 RMB) and even higher than the initial price of the 9950X (4,899 RMB). However, note that this is not official pricing from AMD but rather information extracted using a third-party tool. The same tool lists a price of 4,599 RMB (£492) for the 9900X3D, 100 RMB more than the Ryzen 9 7900X3D.

AMD China has not made any official announcements regarding pricing or availability, suggesting that these listings were likely unintentional and premature.

KitGuru says: Are you waiting for the release of the Ryzen 9 9000X3D series processors? Which processor are you more inclined to get?

The post Early AMD Ryzen 9 9900X3D and Ryzen 9 9950X3D listings point to mid-March launch first appeared on KitGuru.

Microsoft is giving its AI-powered Copilot app for Windows 11 a major makeover, shifting from a web-based approach to a fully native experience. The redesigned Copilot app, currently in preview for Windows Insiders, features a modern UI that aligns with Windows 11's design language, with enhanced visuals like mica blur effects, integrated context menus, and a streamlined sidebar for managing chat sessions.

The app's core functionality remains unchanged. Users can still engage in text chats, use Copilot Voice, and access previous conversations. However, as Windows Central notes, the redesign brings enhanced aesthetics and improved usability. Built on Microsoft's native UI framework, the new Copilot delivers faster startup times and smoother interactions, offering a more seamless and visually consistent experience.

Image credit: Windows Central

A dedicated “new chat” button and a new sidebar streamline navigation and encourage more frequent use of Copilot's AI capabilities. The update also retains other settings, such as launching Copilot at startup and activating it with the Alt+Spacebar shortcut.

This move towards a native experience follows last week's surprise release of a native Copilot app for macOS, which surprised many, considering Microsoft's historical focus on the Windows ecosystem. As things stand, it seems Microsoft is embracing a new strategy that focuses on providing a more consistent Copilot experience across different operating systems. The preview version (1.25023.106.0) is available through the Microsoft Store, and Windows Insiders are encouraged to explore the redesigned app and provide feedback. A public release is expected, but a release date hasn't been shared yet.

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru says: Do you use the Copilot app on Windows 11? Do you think these improvements will drive more users to use Copilot?

The post Windows 11 is getting a redesigned Copilot app first appeared on KitGuru.

Apple has refreshed its popular MacBook Air lineup, bringing a welcome performance boost, a fresh new colour option, and an improved camera to its ultra-portable laptops. While the overall design remains unchanged, these key updates enhance the MacBook Air's capabilities and appeal.

The most significant upgrade lies under the hood. The new MacBook Air models are now powered by Apple's latest M4 processor, which debuted last year in the iMac and Mac mini. This powerful chip boasts ten CPU cores and eight or ten GPU cores. Apple claims the M4 delivers significant performance gains over the previous M1 models, with up to 1.6 times faster performance in Excel, 2 times faster in iMovie, and 2 times faster in Adobe Photoshop.

Beyond raw performance, the M4 chip also enables enhanced external display support. The new MacBook Air can now drive up to two 6K external monitors at 60Hz, a significant upgrade from its predecessor's single external display support. Adding a touch of style, Apple has introduced a blue colour option for the MacBook Air.

The front-facing camera also gets an upgrade. The new MacBook Air models now feature an improved 12MP camera, also found in the latest MacBook Pro models. Its ultra-wide focal length enables features like Center Stage, which keeps you centered in the frame as you move around, and Desk View, which captures both you and a perspective-corrected view of your desk.

Besides these updates, the 2025 MacBook Air retains its predecessor's sleek design and features, including the display, keyboard and trackpad, RAM and storage options, speakers, and microphone array. The battery has seen a slight increase in capacity, from 52.6Wh to 53.8Wh, but battery life estimates remain unchanged. The updated MacBook Air with the M4 chip is available in 13-inch and 15-inch configurations, starting at £999/$999/€1249 and £1199/$1199/€1549, respectively.

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru says: Given their specs and price, the new Air laptops sure look worth considering if you're on the market for a new MacBook.

The post Apple introduces M4-powered Macbook Air first appeared on KitGuru.

Nacon has unveiled its latest wireless gaming headset: the RIG 900 Max HS, officially licensed for PlayStation 5. This headset boasts dual-mode wireless connectivity and promises exceptional audio quality and a comfortable, lightweight design, making it an ideal choice for gamers seeking a premium gaming audio experience when playing on PlayStation 5 consoles.

The 900 Max HS offers the best of both worlds regarding wireless connectivity. Its low-latency 2.4GHz wireless connection, via a dedicated base station or USB adapter, ensures low latency, while Bluetooth 5.2 connectivity offers seamless compatibility with mobile devices and other Bluetooth-enabled platforms.

This headset has high-sensitivity 40mm drivers, providing enhanced bass and exceptional clarity. A tuned acoustic chamber refines the audio experience, reducing listening fatigue during extended gaming sessions. The headset also features a chat-optimised omnidirectional microphone with noise-canceling technology, ensuring clear communication with teammates and friends. A convenient flip-to-mute function allows for quick and easy muting without interrupting gameplay.

Comfort was also considered when designing the 900 Max HS, which is crafted with reinforced steel for durability and features a lightweight and flexible design, weighing just 290 grams. Snap-Fit earcups with breathable fabric and a sling headband provide exceptional comfort for all-day gaming sessions. Battery life is equally impressive, offering up to 50 hours of playtime on a 2.4GHz connection and up to 60 hours via Bluetooth. To recharge the headset, simply dock it on the included base station.

While officially licensed for PlayStation 5, the 900 Max HS offers broad compatibility. The included USB-A 2.4GHz wireless adapter extends its reach to a PC, while Bluetooth connectivity enables pairing with mobile phones and portable gaming devices. To further personalise your audio experience, the 900 Max HS offers advanced customisation options via the 900 Max Navigator app for iOS and Android devices, including equaliser profiles (preset and custom). The RIG 900 Max HS is available now for €249.90/$249.90

KitGuru says: If you were in the market for a wireless headset that worked with PlayStation 5 consoles, would you consider Nacon's new RIG 900 Max HS?

The post Nacon launches new RIG 900 Max HS wireless headset for PlayStation 5 users first appeared on KitGuru.

AMD seems to be mirroring Nvidia's strategies in the mid-range segment. Following recent leaks suggesting that Nvidia's GeForce RTX 5060 Ti will launch with both 16GB and 8GB memory options, a new EEC (Eurasian Economic Commission) filing hints that AMD might be taking a similar approach with its Radeon RX 9060 series.

Acer's filing (via @harukaze5719) lists a range of AMD and Intel GPUs, including the upcoming RX 9070 XT and RX 9070. However, the most intriguing entry is the unexpected appearance of the RX 9060 XT, which, unlike its higher-tier siblings, has yet to be officially confirmed. The filing reveals that the RX 9060 XT will also be available in two memory configurations: 16GB and 8GB, both using GDDR6 memory.

This mirrors Nvidia's rumoured approach with the RTX 5060 Ti, which is expected to offer 16 GB GDDR7 and 8 GB GDDR6 variants. Considering the rumoured memory capacities of both RTX 5060 Ti and RX 9060 XT cards, there's a good chance both series will also use the same bus width (128-bit) for their respective mid-range offerings.

The EEC filing also reveals a broader range of upcoming AMD GPUs, including models from the Bifrost Predator, Nitro, and unnamed series. These additional models are likely intended for OEM pre-built systems.

While the specific GPU powering the RX 9060 XT remains unconfirmed, it's likely to be either a cut-down Navi 48 (the same GPU used in the RX 9070) with a 128-bit memory bus or, more likely, the smaller Navi 44 GPU, also featuring a 128-bit memory bus. AMD has previously stated that the Radeon RX 9060 series will launch sometime in Q2 2025, with rumors suggesting an April release, coinciding with the expected launch of Nvidia's RTX 5060 series.

KitGuru says: How do you think the Radeon RX 9060 XT cards will compare against the RTX 5060 Ti models?

The post AMD Radeon RX 9060 XT to come with 16GB and 8GB memory configs first appeared on KitGuru.

In a surprising turn of events, Nvidia has announced a last-minute delay for the Founders Edition of its GeForce RTX 5070 graphics card. While the RTX 5070 is still scheduled to launch today, the Founders Edition model will not be available until later this month.

This news, initially reported by Andreas Schilling, comes as a disappointment to those hoping to snag Nvidia's version of the card. The company has confirmed that the delay affects the Founders Edition worldwide.

While this delay doesn't mean the RTX 5070 launch is entirely canceled, it does raise concerns about overall availability. Custom models from board partners will still be released today, but recent reports suggest that stock levels might be lower than anticipated.

This delay creates an interesting opportunity for AMD, whose Radeon RX 9070 series is right around the corner. Early indications suggest that AMD has secured healthy stock levels for its latest GPUs, potentially giving it an advantage in this segment while Nvidia grapples with supply constraints.

KitGuru says: Were you planning on getting an RTX 5070 Founders Edition graphics card at launch? Without that possibility, will you wait for the Founders Edition cards to come in stock, go for an AIB partner card, or move on to another alternative?

The post Nvidia states RTX 5070 Founders Edition cards won’t be available at launch first appeared on KitGuru.

EK has announced a change in its webshop management. As of yesterday, March 3rd, 2025, LM Tek has taken over the operation of the EK webshop. This transition aims to enhance customer service, streamline operations, and ensure the continued delivery of the high-quality liquid cooling solutions that EK is known for.

This shift in webshop management comes after last year's controversy over EK management issues, including not paying suppliers, employees working overtime, and a lack of communication with third parties and employees. Soon after EK admitted to these issues, the company claimed it had taken steps to fix them. However, it seems that wasn't enough, so LM Tek is now taking over brand operations.

According to the press release issued by EK, this change promises benefits for customers. Product availability will remain a priority, with the webshop continuing to offer uninterrupted access to EK's extensive range of liquid cooling components. Customer accounts and order history will be transferred to LM Tek, and customer support and warranty services will be handled through a unified channel for greater efficiency and convenience.

Existing EK customers will continue receiving email communications the same way. Newsletter subscribers will be asked to reconfirm their subscription to ensure they continue to receive it. EK emphasises that customer privacy and data protection remain top priorities, and users can modify their subscription settings anytime.

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru says: Have you ever had any issues buying directly from EK? Will you continue to purchase products from their webshop?

The post LM Tek is taking over EK operations with the aim of improving services and customer experience first appeared on KitGuru.

Intel's 18A manufacturing process is gaining traction, with industry giants Nvidia and Broadcom reportedly testing chips using this process node. This news comes as a welcome boost for Intel, which is striving to regain its footing in the competitive semiconductor landscape.

Sources close to the matter have revealed to Reuters that Nvidia and Broadcom are evaluating the capabilities of Intel's 18A process. Intel's 18A is the company's first process node to utilize gate-all-around RibbonFET transistors and a backside power delivery network called PowerVia. While comparable to TSMC's N2 node in transistor density, 18A is projected to offer superior performance due to these two technologies.

It's important to note that Nvidia and Broadcom are not testing full chip designs at this stage but instead evaluating the performance and characteristics of the 18A process itself. This is standard practice in the industry, allowing potential customers to assess the suitability of a fabrication process before committing to full-scale production.

Broadcom's involvement with 18A dates back to September 2024, though initial reports suggested that the tests might not have met expectations. However, these reports remain unconfirmed, and Broadcom has stated that its evaluation is ongoing. Nvidia's interest in Intel's foundry services is also well-documented. CEO Jensen Huang expressed his openness to using Intel-fabricated chips as early as 2022, and test chips were reportedly being evaluated in 2023.

While these developments are encouraging for Intel, challenges remain. Reuters reports that supplier documents have revealed issues with certain unnamed third-party IP providers, potentially causing further delays for some contract manufacturing customers. These delays could push back launch dates for smaller and mid-sized clients to mid-2026. However, Intel maintains that it is on track to begin production of 18A chips in the second half of this year.

Intel has been actively promoting its 18A technology, even launching a dedicated website to showcase its capabilities. The company's Panther Lake CPUs, built on the 18A process, are expected to enter full production in mid-2025.

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru says: This news comes at a critical time for Intel, which is navigating a challenging period marked by financial losses and increased competition in the data center and foundry markets. The success of the 18A process is crucial for Intel's long-term strategy, and securing major clients like Nvidia and Broadcom would be a significant win.

The post Nvidia and Broadcom are reportedly testing Intel’s 18A process node first appeared on KitGuru.

Rockstar Games has expanded its global development network by acquiring Video Games Deluxe, a Sydney-based studio known for contributing to the L.A. Noire franchise and, more recently, its work on Grand Theft Auto: The Trilogy – The Definitive Edition. The studio, founded in 2013 by Brendan McNamara, the original creator of L.A. Noire, will now be known as Rockstar Australia.

This acquisition brings a wealth of talent and experience to Rockstar. Video Games Deluxe, comprised of many former Team Bondi developers, played a crucial role in the 2017 re-release of L.A. Noire, the development of the VR spin-off L.A. Noire: The VR Case Files, and, most notably, the post-launch updates for the controversial Grand Theft Auto: The Trilogy – The Definitive Edition. The studio was instrumental in addressing the numerous technical issues that plagued the trilogy's initial release.

While Team Bondi, the original developers of L.A. Noire, faced criticism for its harsh working conditions and high staff turnover, there haven't been any public reports regarding the work environment at Video Games Deluxe. The studio has consistently delivered high-quality work, earning a reputation for its technical expertise and dedication to refining gameplay experiences.

The newly rebranded Rockstar Australia is expected to contribute to developing the highly anticipated Grand Theft Auto 6. Rockstar's latest installment in the iconic franchise is slated for release on consoles later this year, with a PC version expected to follow.

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru says: Do you like Video Games Deluxe's work on the L.A. Noire franchise and Grand Theft Auto: The Trilogy – The Definitive Edition? 

The post Rockstar acquires L.A. Noire studio and renames it Rockstar Australia first appeared on KitGuru.

Nvidia's handling of the recent RTX 50 series ROP issue hasn't been the best. After issuing a relatively low-key disclosure about a production error affecting a small number of GPUs, the company has seemingly left it up to consumers to identify and resolve the problem. While Nvidia claims the performance impact is limited to around 4%, independent testing has revealed a more significant performance deficit in specific scenarios.

Gamers Nexus recently acquired an affected RTX 5080 and conducted extensive testing. Their findings revealed that a defective RTX 5080 with the wrong ROP count could be up to 10% slower than a fully functional card. While the performance difference is negligible in some titles, it can be substantial in others, such as Dragon's Dogma 2, Total War: Warhammer 3, and Dying Light 2.

This discrepancy between Nvidia's claims and independent testing raises concerns about the company's transparency and commitment to addressing the issue. Furthermore, the company's lack of clear guidance on how to identify affected cards is frustrating for consumers. The company has not provided easily accessible methods for verifying ROP counts, such as serial number checks or batch codes.

Gamers Nexus advises recent purchasers of RTX 50 series GPUs to check their cards using TechPowerUp's GPU-Z utility to determine if they are affected. Those who discover they have a defective card are encouraged to initiate a return within the retailer's return window, as this is likely to be easier than seeking a replacement from Nvidia or their board partner.

KitGuru says: Have you got an RTX 50 series graphics card? Is it fully functional or did you got a sample with lower ROP count than it should?

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Demon Slayer: The Hinokami Chronicles 2 is set to arrive in North America and Europe on August 5th, 2025, and Sega has unveiled a brand-new story trailer to whet fans' appetites. Pre-orders are now open, with those opting for the Digital Deluxe Edition gaining access to the game five days early.

Sega has also detailed the various editions of the game and their respective bonuses. The Digital Deluxe Edition includes the base game, two Kimetsu Academy character unlock keys (Kyojuro Rengoku and Tengen Uzui), four additional character unlock keys (Tengen Uzui, Obanai Iguro, Sanemi Shinazugawa, and Gyomei Himejima), a VS mode system voice set featuring Upper-Rank Demons (Akaza, Daki, Gyutaro, Gyokko, and Zohakuten), and three battle attire costumes for Tanjiro Kamado, Inosuke Hashibira, and Tengen Uzui. Pre-ordering the Digital Deluxe Edition also grants two additional character unlock keys for Muichiro Tokito and Mitsuri Kanroji.

The Digital Standard Edition includes the base game, two Kimetsu Academy character unlock keys, and the pre-order bonus of two character unlock keys (Muichiro Tokito and Mitsuri Kanroji). The physical edition includes the base game and character unlock keys for Muichiro Tokito and Mitsuri Kanroji, even if you don't pre-order it.

Digital pre-orders for PlayStation, Xbox, and Steam platforms will go live on March 3rd, with the Nintendo Switch version to follow later. Players who have saved data from Demon Slayer: The Hinokami Chronicles or the mobile game Demon Slayer: Sweep the Board! will receive additional bonuses when starting The Hinokami Chronicles 2. These bonuses include character unlock keys and costumes, allowing players to carry over their progress and unlock additional content.

Demon Slayer: The Hinokami Chronicles 2 will be available on Nintendo Switch, PC via Steam, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and last-generation consoles. Like its predecessor, the game will feature arena-based combat and a story mode that picks up where the first game left off, covering the “Entertainment District”, “Swordsmith Village”, and “Hashira Training” story arcs.

KitGuru says: Are you a fan of Demon Slayer? Have you played the first Hinokami Chronicles game? Will you pre-order the sequel?

The post Demon Slayer: The Hinokami Chronicles 2 comes to US and EU in August first appeared on KitGuru.

Qualcomm is making a bold move in the PC processor market with its upcoming high-end CPU for Windows PCs. Rumoured to boast a significant increase in core count compared to its flagship predecessor, the next generation flagship processor is expected to feature 18 CPU cores.

Import-export documents to which Winfuture had access indicate that reference designs for PCs based on the “Snapdragon X Elite Gen 2” are currently being evaluated, including a platform known internally as “Project Glymur”. These documents also state that the new chip, internally identified as SC8480XP, has 18 CPU cores. The test systems pair this CPU with 48 GB of LPDDR5 RAM from SK Hynix and a 1 TB NVMe SSD.

While details about the specific core types and clock speeds remain unknown, the documents mention a “high-TDP” variant. With the increased core count, the TDP may even go above the 80W limit of the first-generation Snapdragon X Elite. Another detail worth mentioning is Qualcomm's packaging approach. The import-export entries use the abbreviation “SIP”, which stands for “system-in-package”. This suggests that the CPU and crucial components like the LPDDR5 RAM and SSD memory chips might be integrated into a single package.

While a specific launch date remains unconfirmed, current information suggests that Qualcomm's new flagship processor won't be widely available until next year. Previous reports indicated that Qualcomm tested the upcoming CPU with a cooling solution similar to an all-in-one liquid cooler with a fan. More recently, the name “Snapdragon X2 Ultra Premium” has surfaced, though it's unclear if it relates to the final marketing name.

KitGuru says: Although the specs for the new generation of Qualcomm processors look promising, independent testing suggests that the biggest problem with the first Snapdragon X chips was more related to software and drivers. Hopefully, Qualcomm will also improve on that side, introducing a new player to a market in dire need of more competition.

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