Plutos computers doo

(PR) Mind-bending Platformer Lumo 2 Out Now on PC and Consoles

17-10-2025 19:51

The newest title from Numskull Games and Triple Eh? launches today on PC and consoles. Rewind the cassette and embark on an adventure through the trailblazing days of '80s & '90s videogames with the sequel to 2016 indie platformer, Lumo. Lumo 2 expands upon the enchanting world of the first game with breathtaking new environments and interconnected rooms, each one packed with devious puzzles, dangers to dodge and deeply hidden secrets, inspired by the pioneering era of early '80s & '90s videogames, all with the polish of a modern platformer. Rediscover the timeless charm of classic arcade-adventure gameplay. Whether you're a seasoned Lumo veteran, or a first-time explorer, your journey awaits! Read full story

Microsoft Breaks Localhost with Windows 11 October Update, Users Forced to Revert

17-10-2025 17:29

Just two days after Windows 10 reached its end of life, issues with Microsoft's latest Windows 11 October update have begun to surface. Users on Microsoft Support Forums, Stack Overflow, and Server Fault have reported that the localhost functionality in Windows 11 is now broken. This problem is affecting millions of web developers who are unable to run their applications on their own PCs. The update, KB5066835, focuses on security and enhances the September-issued KB5065789 package with additional quality improvements. However, it disrupts the localhost function, a virtual hostname that allows a PC to serve as its own server. This feature is commonly used by local developers to test websites or fully developed web apps. The disruption has significantly impacted developers, including those using Windows 11 on their local servers or workstations for production purposes. The community has managed to solve the issue by simply deleting the October KB5066835 package, alongside its September KB5065789 sibling, if the first package uninstall doesn't work. Software engineers have reported connection failures and HTTP/2 protocol issues impacting various development tools, including ASP.NET compilation processes and Visual Studio debugging functionality. Investigation has revealed that the problem originated in build version 26100.6899, with the root cause identified in HTTP.sys—a kernel-level Windows component responsible for managing HTTP traffic on local systems. Update October 17, 15:30 UTC: Microsoft confirmed the issue and stated: "We are working on releasing a resolution for this issue in a future Windows update. We will provide an update when more information is available." Read full story

(PR) iFLYTEK Launches the AINOTE 2 E-Ink Tablet

17-10-2025 17:24

iFLYTEK has officially launched the AINOTE 2 tablet on October 14, 2025, combining a sleek design with cutting-edge features to cater to business consultants, journalists, lawyers, and other professionals who rely on high-performance tools. The AINOTE 2 has set a new standard in the world of productivity devices. It is officially recognized by Guinness World Records as the thinnest E-ink tablet, with an average thickness of 4.2 mm, AI integration, and a highly efficient design aimed at professionals who demand portability, performance, and focus. Revolutionary E-Ink Design for Portability and Performance The AINOTE 2 is the thinnest E-Ink tablet on the market, measuring just 4.2 mm in thickness. This ultra-slim profile makes it incredibly portable, fitting easily into any bag or briefcase without compromising functionality. With a 4000 mAh battery, it offers impressive battery life that supports long workdays and frequent travel without the constant need for recharging. Read full story

Intel Foundry Reportedly Secures 18A Order from Microsoft for Maia 2 Accelerator

17-10-2025 16:58

Intel has secured a significant order from Microsoft, putting trust from external customers into Intel Foundry. According to Charlie Demerjian from SemiAccurate—and shared by X user @Jukanlosreve—Microsoft will manufacture its Maia 2 chip at Intel Foundry using the 18A or 18A-P process. This 18A-P node improves upon Intel's 18A by incorporating the second generation of RibbonFET and PowerVia technologies, offering enhanced performance and energy efficiency. The improvements include newly designed low-threshold voltage components, optimized elements to reduce leakage, and refined ribbon width specifications, all aimed at boosting performance-per-watt metrics. This is particularly important for AI accelerators used in data centers, which require high efficiency due to the large number of units involved. Microsoft could relocate the production of future Maia accelerators, following Maia 2, to Intel Foundry. If the Maia 2 project is successful, they plan to continue with Intel's more advanced nodes. As a reminder, Microsoft's first-generation Maia 100 chips were produced using TSMC's N5 process with CoWoS-S interposer technology. These chips feature an 820 mm² die size and operate at a 500 W TDP, with a maximum design power of 700 W. They include 64 GB of HBM2E memory providing 1.8 TB/s bandwidth and 500 MB of L1/L2 cache. The chips achieve peak tensor performance of 3 PetaOPS at 6-bit precision, 1.5 PetaOPS at 9-bit, and 0.8 PetaFLOPS for BF16. Connectivity options include 600 GB/s backend network bandwidth via twelve 400GbE ports and 32 GB/s host bandwidth through PCIe Gen 5 x8.Read full story

(PR) Lian Li Intros the RB Series PSU with Advanced Cable Management

17-10-2025 16:01

LIAN LI, a leading manufacturer of computer chassis and accessories, launches the RB Series PSU, available in 550 W, 650 W, and 750 W models with 80 Plus Bronze certification for up to 85% efficiency. Designed to deliver clean power and cleaner builds, the RB Series features an integrated cable management system with a built-in groove and Velcro straps to secure excess cables, paired with a semi-modular layout that lets users connect SATA and peripheral cables only when needed. Fully compliant with Intel's ATX 3.1 specification, the 650 W and 750 W units also include a native PCIe Gen 5.1 12V-2x6 connector (up to 450 W) for next-gen GPU support. With a high amperage single +12V rail and a DC-to-DC conversion design for enhanced voltage stability and power quality, the RB Series is engineered for reliable performance. Cooling is handled by a quiet 135 mm FDB fan, ensuring efficient airflow while keeping noise levels in check. Advanced Cable Management with Semi-Modular Flexibility The RB Series stands out in the Bronze category with a unique cable management system built directly into the PSU housing. The integrated cable groove on one side and Velcro straps on three sides of the PSU allow users to secure excess cables neatly along the sides, reducing clutter and improving airflow. Along with this is a semi-modular design, where only the essential power cables are fixed. Users can connect SATA and peripheral cables as needed. This setup makes the build process easier while giving the flexibility to create a clean, efficient system without extra wiring. Read full story

(PR) Assetto Corsa Rally Launching in Early Access on November 13

17-10-2025 15:42

505 Games and Supernova Games Studios, in technical partnership with KUNOS Simulazioni, are proud to announce Assetto Corsa Rally - the new additional arm within the Assetto Corsa series, dedicated to the thrilling world of rally racing. Developed by Supernova Games Studios, Assetto Corsa Rally brings the acclaimed realistic driving engine of the Assetto Corsa franchise to one of the most demanding and spectacular motorsport disciplines. The game delivers an authentic and immersive experience that captures the unique essence of rallying - the ultimate test of speed, strategy, reflexes, and composure, all rolled into one. The title will be available in Early Access on Steam starting November 13, at the special price of £24.99 / $29.99 / €29,99. Supernova Games Studios, part of the Digital Bros Group, is an international team of industry veterans with a strong passion for sim-racing and motorsport. Thanks to its partnership with KUNOS Simulazioni, the team had access to the acclaimed Assetto Corsa physics engine, which has been specifically refined and fine-tuned to tackle the unique challenges of rally driving. KUNOS supervised and supported the accuracy of the driving model, ensuring the new entry lives up to the high standards of realism and simulation that define the Assetto Corsa brand. Read full story

Stack Social Brings Genuine Office 2021 at Under $40

17-10-2025 14:57

Monthly software costs continue to accumulate, but this one-time purchase allows you to keep Microsoft Office permanently. Right now, you can grab a lifetime license to Microsoft Office Professional 2021 for just $39.97—no subscriptions, no annual renewals, just full access to the classic suite you already know. This bundle includes the complete set of professional Microsoft apps: Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Publisher, and more. It's the same trusted lineup that helps millions of people do the work they need to do seamlessly. Since this is a desktop license, you'll install the software directly on your Windows PC and use it offline whenever needed. There's no dependency on the cloud and no expiration date; your license is permanent once activated. Get Microsoft Office Professional 2021 for Windows for $39.97 (reg. $219.99) before October 19 at 11:59 p.m. PT. Read full story

(PR) Fanatec Unveils Flagship Podium Series and Hosts Major Partners at SimRacing Expo 2025

17-10-2025 14:11

Fanatec, a brand of Corsair and global leader in sim racing hardware, presents the next generation of its flagship Podium Series and hosts some of the most exciting partners in the industry. At this year's SimRacing Expo, Fanatec revealed two highly anticipated products: the new Podium DD and the long-awaited Podium Pedals. Offering a first look at hardware prototypes in the final stages of development and testing shows Fanatec's commitment to transparency and open communication. The Podium DD is set to replace the Podium Wheel Base DD2 as the flagship Fanatec direct drive system. An evolution of the acclaimed ClubSport DD and ClubSport DD+, the Podium DD offers 25 Nm of genuine holding torque, revised electronics, and an all-aluminium internal and external structure. Like the ClubSport DD, the Podium DD features FullForce technology, but its broader dynamic range and stronger internal construction allow it to deliver even finer detail and clarity from FullForce effects. Read full story

Microsoft and Micron Hardware Production is Leaving China

17-10-2025 13:37

According to TrendForce, citing a Nikkei report, Microsoft is accelerating efforts to relocate laptop and server production out of China. The company has asked suppliers to prepare for the manufacture of Surface laptops and data center servers outside the country, with the goal of moving up to 80% of server components and final assembly elsewhere by 2026. The transition extends beyond final assembly to components and materials, including cables, connectors, and printed circuit boards marking the first time major U.S. firms have diversified supply chains down to this level. Meanwhile, Micron reportedly plans to exit China's server chip business after failing to recover from a 2023 government ban that restricted its products from critical infrastructure. The U.S. memory maker was the first American semiconductor company targeted by Beijing in what was widely viewed as retaliation for Washington's tech export controls. The move has cost Micron access to China's fast-growing data center market in favor of rivals Samsung Electronics, SK hynix, and domestic players YMTC and CXMT. However, Micron will continue supplying customers such as Lenovo and other firms with operations outside China, as well as maintain business in the automotive and mobile sectors. Despite workforce reductions in its Chinese NAND division earlier this year, Micron continues to operate and expand its Xi'an packaging facility, one of its key manufacturing sites in Asia, Reuters reports.

TSMC to Bring More Advanced Manufacturing to Arizona Plant Ahead of Schedule

17-10-2025 11:47

TSMC's strategy to keep advanced manufacturing primarily in Taiwan might be shifting, as indicated by recent comments from CEO C.C. Wei. During the Q3 earnings call, Wei stated, "We are preparing to upgrade our technologies faster... to more advanced process technologies in Arizona, given the strong AI-related demand from our customers." Previously, TSMC has emphasized that its latest nodes would be developed in Taiwan first, with Arizona following. Currently, TSMC produces N4 4 nm technology at its Arizona facilities and had planned to introduce the N3 node in 2028. However, this plan might change in favor of developing more advanced N2 or even A16 nodes in the coming years, as Taiwanese facilities advance to the A16 and A14 nodes first. The U.S. fabs will remain one node generation behind the Taiwanese fabs, rather than several generations as initially planned. The push to accelerate advanced node deployment is largely driven by demand from U.S. customers. TSMC recently confirmed that its most advanced N2 node will begin volume production by the end of the year, with a rapid increase planned through 2026 in Taiwan. This marks the second 2 nm-class node to reach high-volume manufacturing, following Intel's 18A node. The competition from Intel's 18A and the upcoming 14A ramp may have led TSMC to reconsider its strategy for bringing advanced manufacturing to its U.S. facilities. While TSMC plans to add five more facilities at its Fab 21 site, it is yet to be confirmed which nodes will be developed there. With an accelerated timeline, it seems only a matter of time before we see the first Angstrom-era nodes produced on American soil.

Microsoft PowerToys Adds Automatic Light/Dark Mode Switching Based on Time of Day

17-10-2025 10:50

It has been over six years since we last covered an update for Microsoft PowerToys. PowerToys date all the way back to the Windows 95 era, offering a set of utilities for power users to enhance and streamline their Windows experience for greater productivity. Modern PowerToys, initially released in 2019, are a collection of tools and apps that allow users to customize the user interface and user experience. The latest PowerToys update, version 0.95.0, introduces features like automatic switching between light and dark modes in the Windows 11 UI, depending on the time of day. Users can schedule light mode to be active during the day and have the tool automatically switch to dark mode when the sun sets. Another notable improvement is the speed enhancement of the Command Palette, reducing latency by hundreds of milliseconds in real-world scenarios. Additionally, the Peek function, which allows users to preview files without opening apps, is now accessible by simply pressing the space key on your keyboard. For those eager to apply these changes, the Find My Mouse highlight can be made fully transparent and adjusted using a built-in slider. Other features, such as ignoring shortcut conflicts and unassigning shortcuts, are also available. Read full story

(PR) HIKSEMI Unveils AI-Powered Storage Innovations at GITEX 2025

17-10-2025 10:26

HIKSEMI, a global provider of professional data storage solutions, showcased its vision for the intelligent storage era at GITEX 2025 under the theme "Smart Data. Smarter Life." The company introduced next-generation storage products designed to help users harness data in the AI-driven world. A highlight was the debut of HIKSEMI's mascot, Semi the Elephant, at the booth. Dressed in HIKSEMI's colors, the cheerful elephant greeted visitors, posed for photos and engaged in playful interactions. It drew crowds and spread joy. Semi's presence reflected HIKSEMI's mission to make smart technology accessible and human-centered. Read full story

Team Group Unveils the T-Force Z54E Gen 5 NVMe SSD

17-10-2025 08:40

Team Group today introduced the T-Force Z54E M.2 NVMe Gen 5 SSD. This enthusiast-segment SSD is powered by Phison's latest E28 series controller that's built on the TSMC 6 nm node and comes with significantly lower thermals than the E26 series. The drive comes in 1 TB, 2 TB, and 4 TB models, and takes advantage of PCI-Express 5.0 x4 interface to offer sequential transfer speeds of up to 14,900 MB/s reads on all models. The 2 TB and 4 TB models offer up to 14,000 MB/s sequential writes, while the 1 TB model offers up to 13,700 MB/s sequential writes. The Team Group T-Force Z54E comes as a bare-drive, with only a graphene-based heat spreader, no active cooling solution, so you're probably recommended to use the heatsinks included with your motherboard. The company did not put out random-access performance numbers, but states endurance at 600 TBW for the 1 TB model, 1200 TBW for 2 TB, and 2400 TBW for the 4 TB model. The company didn't reveal pricing.

Intel Quietly Raises Older Core i3/i5/i7/i9 Processor Prices Up to 15% Overseas

16-10-2025 19:15

Intel has been quietly increasing prices on its older desktop CPUs over the past few weeks, particularly affecting budget and mid-range chips that are popular among consumers. According to South Korean pricing tracker Danawa, the Core i3-14100F has risen by 15%, from 121,000 won to 140,000 won between late September and mid-October. Similarly, the Core i5-14600KF has climbed 13% to 298,000 won. In Japan, the Core i5-14400 has seen a significant 20% increase in some stores. Meanwhile, the more expensive Core i7 and i9 chips have experienced only modest price adjustments of around 5%. This indicates that Intel is not raising prices uniformly but is instead targeting the high-volume sellers that constitute the majority of their desktop sales. The timing of these price hikes coincides with the release of Intel's current desktop "Arrow Lake" processors. The Core Ultra 200S chips were intended to showcase Intel's latest advancements, but mixed performance reviews and aggressive pricing have led many builders to continue purchasing older generations. Despite the introduction of new models, DIY builders are still opting for older generation chips, enabling Intel to achieve better margins on products manufactured using its mature Intel 7 and Intel 10 process nodes. Unlike Arrow Lake, which relies on TSMC's external foundries and limits Intel's flexibility, these older chips are entirely under Intel's control regarding production costs and pricing decisions. Read full story

(PR) Battlefield 6 Shatters Records as the Biggest Launch in Franchise History With 7 Million Copies Sold

16-10-2025 18:44

Electronic Arts Inc. and Battlefield Studios have revealed that Battlefield 6, the ultimate all-out warfare experience, is a record-breaking success, shattering long-standing records for the Battlefield franchise - solidifying Battlefield 6 as one of the biggest gaming and entertainment launches of the year. Battlefield 6 is now available on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC (Steam, EA App, Epic Games Store). Following a record-shattering Open Beta in August, Battlefield 6 now has the biggest opening ever in the storied Battlefield franchise. Battlefield 6 hit all-time highs for franchise sales during the first three days of launch, selling over 7 million copies and counting. Thanks to the series' passionate community, the game had over 172 million matches played online and accumulated over 15 million hours watched on streaming services during the 3-day weekend as well as earning the most concurrent players for Battlefield ever. Read full story

(PR) Razer Launches Phantom White Collection Featuring Retro-Inspired White Finish

16-10-2025 17:23

Razer, the leading global lifestyle brand for gamers, today expands its celebrated Phantom Collection with the debut of Phantom White - a sleek new translucent colorway in white that brings retro-futuristic vibes to modern gaming setups. First unveiled in June 2025, the Phantom Collection redefined gaming gear aesthetics through its all-translucent design, refined internal architecture, and immersive Razer Chroma RGB integration. Engineered to push the boundaries of gaming hardware design, every piece is crafted to be admired inside and out by fans who appreciate every detail of their battle station. The Phantom White Collection continues that philosophy, blending retro gaming vibes with modern minimalism to deliver a fresh take on translucent gear. The lineup also extends into mobile gaming for the first time with the Razer Kishi V3 - Phantom White Edition, echoing the retro aesthetic while enabling gamers to revisit nostalgic titles on the go. Read full story

(PR) MIPI Alliance Launches Next-Gen Audio Interface Specification for Consumer Electronics

16-10-2025 17:01

The MIPI Alliance, an international organization that develops specifications that standardize wired interfaces for mobile and other connected ecosystems, today announced the release of SoundWire I3S (MIPI SWI3S v1.0). The new specification provides a transformative approach to audio transport by unifying control and data over a single scalable and power-efficient interface. Consumer electronics, automotive and industrial applications increasingly require more sophisticated audio capabilities in smaller, denser, feature-rich devices where EMI, power and space are critical constraints. Legacy audio interfaces like I2S or TDM struggle to meet these requirements across long traces or flexible cables. SWI3S builds upon the two-pin, multi-drop architecture of MIPI SoundWire, offering higher bandwidth, low power consumption and built-in support for scalable multi-device topologies to meet the increasing demands of modern audio systems. Read full story

(PR) NVIDIA GeForce NOW Gets 10 New Games, Borderlands 4 Reward, and SteelSeries Giveaway

16-10-2025 15:08

GeForce NOW is more than just a platform to stream fresh games every week - it offers celebrations for the gamers who make it epic, with member rewards to sweeten the deal. This week, GeForce NOW Ultimate members can score a free Borderlands 4 reward and upgrade their setup with the latest SteelSeries Nimbus Cloud controllers and headsets - the perfect gear for leveling up any cloud-based adventures. Plus, Steam Next Fest kicks off this week, serving up a flood of new demos. Get them all through Install-to-Play, the latest feature on GeForce NOW with the NVIDIA Blackwell RTX upgrade. Fire up the cloud, grab a controller and check out the 10 new games in the cloud this week, on top of the 1.0 release of Pax Dei. It's always a rewarding time to be a GeForce NOW member. Ashburn, Portland, Dallas and London are the latest regions to get GeForce RTX 5080-class power, with Atlanta coming next. Stay tuned to GFN Thursday for updates as more regions upgrade to Blackwell RTX. Follow along with the latest progress on the server rollout page. This week, Control joins the lineup of GeForce RTX 5080-ready titles, already available on the service. Look for the "GeForce RTX 5080 Ready" row in the app or check out the full list. Read full story

(PR) ARCTIC Launches P Pro Reverse Fans

16-10-2025 14:13

ARCTIC is expanding its powerful P Pro series with new models featuring reverse airflow: P12 Pro Reverse A-RGB and P12 Pro Reverse A-RGB 3-Pack are now available. Specially designed for builds where performance and aesthetics are equally important, they draw air in from the rear - ideal for installation scenarios where fans with classic airflow direction would detract from the look. The P12 Pro Reverse A-RGB is the first model in the series, with unlit and 140 mm versions to follow. New Premium Fans: P12 Pro Reverse A-RGB The Reverse Airflow technology is specifically designed for reverse airflow and is ideal for pull installations and flawless RGB staging. In addition, minimal clearance, automatic balancing, and high-precision measurement reduce vibrations and ensure quiet, efficient, and long-lasting performance. Already successfully used in Xtender cases, the Reverse models impress with powerful, quiet cooling and flawless RGB lighting. The addressable A-RGB lighting with twelve digitally controllable LEDs provides individual effects and seamless system integration. The flow-optimized design ensures maximum efficiency with minimal noise. A funnel-shaped inlet optimizes airflow, while teardrop-shaped struts minimize air resistance and reduce turbulence and noise. Read full story

Open 3D Engine v25.10 Brings Sharper Graphics and Smoother Vulkan Performance

16-10-2025 14:01

After more than four years since the initial release, the Open 3D Engine team has unveiled the O3DE v25.10 update, which improves visuals and bring smoother gameplay. This update improves textures, refines lighting, and introduces subtle post-processing that adds depth without increasing iteration time. The editor now starts up faster, asset imports are more reliable, and high-resolution surfaces display with fewer compression artifacts, allowing mods and user-created levels to better reflect their creators' visions. Motion blur and other camera effects have been refined for a cinematic experience that maintains performance, while shadows and ambient occlusion are more consistent, providing a stable environment as you move. Platform-specific improvements reduce graphical glitches on Linux and Windows, and VR users benefit from better headset compatibility with re-enabled OpenXR components. Textures, lighting, and reflections appear richer, and the Vulkan API has received bug fixes. Behind the scenes, the update reduces bloat and speeds up workflows, improving playtesting and level building. Installers are smaller, and builds take up less disk space, making downloading and updating mods quicker for players and creators. The asset pipeline has been optimized for smoother texture and model imports, and the editor's debug memory footprint has been reduced, allowing for scene iteration without hardware upgrades. Shader and material handling have been reorganized to ensure effects like reflections and surface detail are more reliable across different GPUs, resulting in steadier frame rates when multiple effects are enabled. Simplified core subsystems mean faster iteration when testing changes, from tweaking textures to launching new levels, with fewer unexpected issues on different machines. Read full story