Latest news with #AppleSilicon
Geeky Gadgets
2 days ago
- Geeky Gadgets
Cyberpunk 2077 Finally Comes To Mac Apple Silicon
What if someone told you, just a few years ago, that a game as graphically demanding and ambitious as Cyberpunk 2077 would run natively on a Mac? For decades, Mac users have been relegated to the sidelines of gaming, watching from afar as PC players reveled in innovative titles. But now, with the arrival of Cyberpunk 2077 on macOS—fully optimized for Apple Silicon—the narrative is shifting. This isn't just a game release; it's a bold statement about the growing viability of Mac gaming. Using technologies like Metal FX scaling and dynamic resolution, this launch signals Apple's intent to carve out a space in the gaming world, one that combines performance with accessibility in ways we've never seen before. But what does this mean for you, the gamer? Whether you're a casual player with an M1 MacBook Air or a hardware enthusiast wielding an M3 Ultra, this release promises something for everyone. From seamless frame generation to pre-configured presets that take the guesswork out of optimization, Cyberpunk 2077 on macOS offers a glimpse into the future of gaming on Apple devices. Yet, this achievement doesn't come without its trade-offs. Challenges like limited ray tracing capabilities and the occasional visual artifact remind us that the journey to gaming parity with PCs is far from over. So, is this the dawn of a new era for Mac gaming—or just a fleeting moment in the spotlight? Let's unpack what makes this release so significant and what it reveals about the evolving landscape of gaming on macOS. Cyberpunk 2077 on macOS This launch not only underscores the growing potential of macOS as a gaming platform but also highlights the challenges developers face in optimizing games for Apple's ecosystem. The result is a mix of opportunities and limitations that could influence the trajectory of gaming on macOS in the coming years. System Requirements: What You Need to Play To enjoy Cyberpunk 2077 on macOS, your system must meet specific hardware requirements. These requirements are divided into performance tiers, making sure compatibility across a range of Apple Silicon devices: Minimum: M1 chip with 16GB of RAM, delivering 30 FPS at 900p resolution. M1 chip with 16GB of RAM, delivering 30 FPS at 900p resolution. Recommended: M3 Pro with 16GB of RAM, achieving 60 FPS at 1080p resolution. M3 Pro with 16GB of RAM, achieving 60 FPS at 1080p resolution. High-Fidelity: M2 Max or M3 Max with 32GB of RAM, supporting 1440p gaming. M2 Max or M3 Max with 32GB of RAM, supporting 1440p gaming. Ultra Settings: M3 Ultra or M4 Max with at least 36GB of RAM, allowing very high settings. These tiers ensure that a wide spectrum of Mac users, from casual gamers to enthusiasts with high-end machines, can access the game. The scalability of Cyberpunk 2077 is largely attributed to its integration with Metal FX scaling and dynamic resolution, which dynamically adjust rendering quality to maintain smooth frame rates across different hardware configurations. How Metal FX Scaling Enhances Performance Metal FX scaling plays a crucial role in optimizing Cyberpunk 2077 for macOS. This technology dynamically adjusts the game's rendering resolution in real time, striking a balance between visual fidelity and system performance. For example, during graphically demanding scenes, the resolution may temporarily decrease to maintain consistent frame rates, then return to higher fidelity when system resources allow. Another key feature of Metal FX scaling is frame generation, which interpolates additional frames to enhance smoothness. This technology significantly boosts frame rates, particularly on mid-range Apple Silicon devices. However, it is not without its trade-offs. In certain scenarios, such as fast-moving scenes, minor visual artifacts like ghosting may occur. Despite these occasional imperfections, the combination of dynamic resolution and frame generation ensures a playable and visually engaging experience, even on lower-end configurations. Cyberpunk 2077 on Mac Watch this video on YouTube. Advance your skills in Cyberpunk 2077 by reading more of our detailed content. High Power Mode and Pre-Configured Presets For users with high-end Macs, High Power Mode offers an additional performance boost. Available on configurations such as the M4 Max, this feature maximizes CPU and GPU performance, allowing the game to run at ultra settings with 1440p resolution and Metal FX scaling. However, this enhanced performance comes at the cost of increased fan noise and power consumption, which may be noticeable during extended gaming sessions. To simplify the gaming experience, Cyberpunk 2077 includes pre-configured presets tailored to various Mac hardware configurations. These presets automatically adjust settings such as texture quality, shadow detail, and ray tracing levels to match your system's capabilities. This eliminates the need for manual adjustments, allowing you to start playing immediately without compromising performance or visual quality. Ray Tracing and Frame Generation: Strengths and Limitations Cyberpunk 2077 supports ray tracing on macOS, but its performance is limited by the current capabilities of Apple Silicon chips. While standard ray tracing settings are achievable on higher-end configurations, advanced features like ray tracing overdrive remain out of reach. This limitation highlights the gap between Apple Silicon and dedicated gaming GPUs when it comes to handling computationally intensive tasks. Similarly, frame generation, powered by Metal FX or FidelityFX Super Resolution (FSR), offers significant benefits but also comes with trade-offs. While it can substantially improve frame rates, particularly on mid-range systems, it may occasionally result in visual inconsistencies. For instance, fast-moving objects might exhibit ghosting, which can detract from the overall experience. These challenges emphasize the need for continued innovation in both hardware and software to fully unlock the potential of these technologies. Steam's Native Apple Silicon Support Valve's recent update to Steam, introducing native Apple Silicon support, has been instrumental in enhancing the Mac gaming experience. By optimizing the platform for Apple's architecture, this update eliminates the need for Rosetta 2 emulation, reducing overhead and improving load times. The result is smoother gameplay and better compatibility for titles like Cyberpunk 2077. This development also opens the door for more developers to bring their games to macOS. As more titles are optimized for Apple Silicon, the Mac gaming ecosystem is set to expand, offering users a broader selection of high-quality games. This shift could encourage further investment in macOS gaming, making it a more viable platform for both developers and players. The Future of Mac Gaming The release of Cyberpunk 2077 on macOS represents a pivotal moment for gaming on Apple platforms. It demonstrates that, with the right optimizations, even graphically demanding titles can run smoothly on Apple Silicon. This achievement sets a precedent for other developers, potentially leading to a wider array of AAA games becoming available on Mac. However, challenges remain. The current limitations of ray tracing and frame generation highlight areas where Apple's hardware still lags behind traditional gaming PCs. Addressing these gaps will require ongoing advancements in both hardware and software, as well as continued collaboration between Apple and game developers. Looking ahead, the future of Mac gaming appears increasingly promising. As Apple Silicon continues to evolve and developers refine their optimization techniques, the potential for high-quality gaming on macOS will only grow. For now, Cyberpunk 2077 serves as a testament to what is possible, offering a glimpse into the exciting future of gaming on Mac. Media Credit: ETA PRIME Filed Under: Apple, Gaming News, Top News Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
Geeky Gadgets
2 days ago
- Geeky Gadgets
iPadOS 26: Is Your iPad Finally a Computer?
The release of iPadOS 26 beta represents a pivotal moment in Apple's efforts to position the iPad as a hybrid device that combines the portability of a tablet with the functionality of a computer. Powered by the advanced Apple Silicon M-series chips, the operating system introduces enhanced multitasking capabilities, a refined user interface, and improved file management. These updates bring the iPad closer to being a viable laptop alternative. However, certain limitations, such as restricted external monitor support and the absence of advanced desktop features, reinforce its identity as a tablet-first device. The video below from ThisIsE gives us more details on the new iPadOS 26. Watch this video on YouTube. Refined User Interface: A Balance of Aesthetics and Practicality iPadOS 26 introduces a visually striking 'liquid glass' design that enhances both the aesthetic appeal and usability of the iPad. Features such as real-time blur effects, translucency, and dynamic lighting create a more immersive and fluid experience. These visual refinements are powered by the M-series chips, making sure smooth performance even during demanding tasks. Dynamic lighting, which adjusts the interface based on ambient conditions, is particularly beneficial for creative professionals. This feature enhances precision and clarity, making it easier to work on detailed projects. While these updates elevate the iPad's usability, they also highlight Apple's commitment to maintaining the iPad's distinct identity as a device separate from traditional laptops. Multitasking and Window Management: Enhanced Productivity One of the standout features of iPadOS 26 is its improved multitasking system. The introduction of windowed apps allows users to work with multiple applications simultaneously, moving beyond the limitations of full-screen or split-view modes. Stage Manager, a feature adapted from macOS, organizes open windows into manageable groups, allowing seamless task-switching. The multitasking experience is further enhanced by the inclusion of Mac-like elements, such as traffic light buttons for window controls and file menus. These additions make navigation more intuitive and user-friendly. Enhanced cursor functionality also improves precision, particularly when editing text or interacting with complex interfaces. Despite these advancements, the iPad still lacks the depth and versatility of a traditional desktop operating system, leaving room for further development. File Management: Moving Closer to Laptop Functionality File management sees significant improvements in iPadOS 26, narrowing the gap between the iPad and traditional laptops. The updated Files app now supports customizable list views, collapsible folders, and background tasks, making it easier to organize and access large volumes of data. Additionally, the ability to pin folders to the dock streamlines workflows and enhances efficiency. These enhancements bring the iPad closer to achieving laptop-level file management. However, the absence of advanced tools, such as batch renaming or automated workflows, highlights the iPad's limitations as a comprehensive productivity device. While these updates represent meaningful progress, they fall short of delivering a fully desktop-like experience. Apple Pencil and Accessory Integration: Improved Versatility The Apple Pencil experience has been further refined in iPadOS 26, with improved tactile feedback that enhances the sensation of writing or drawing. This makes the Apple Pencil feel more natural and precise, particularly when paired with accessories like Paperlike screen protectors. For artists, designers, and note-takers, these updates make the Apple Pencil an indispensable tool. In addition to the Apple Pencil, iPadOS 26 expands compatibility with peripherals such as external speakers and SD card readers. These updates increase the iPad's versatility, making it more appealing for a variety of use cases. However, these improvements remain incremental and do not fully address the broader challenges of positioning the iPad as a primary computing device. External Monitor Support: Progress with Limitations iPadOS 26 introduces external monitor support, but its functionality remains limited. The lack of clamshell mode, which would allow the iPad to function as a desktop computer with the screen closed, is a significant drawback. Interaction with external displays is inconsistent, with capped refresh rates and incomplete drag-and-drop functionality detracting from the overall experience. These limitations are particularly evident in professional workflows, where seamless external monitor integration is often essential. Despite the power of Apple Silicon, the iPad's external monitor capabilities feel underdeveloped, preventing it from being a true desktop replacement. Gaming Performance: Untapped Potential The powerful M-series chips in the iPad enable it to handle demanding games with ease, but software limitations continue to hold back its full potential. Many games lack full-screen support on external monitors, and limited optimization for the iPad's hardware hampers the overall gaming experience. While the device is capable of impressive performance, the software ecosystem has yet to fully use its capabilities, leaving gamers with a less-than-ideal experience. Challenges That Remain Despite its advancements, iPadOS 26 highlights several areas where the iPad still falls short of being a complete computer replacement. Overlapping UI elements and design inconsistencies in some apps disrupt the user experience. The absence of a true desktop workspace for managing multiple windows limits its appeal for professional users. Additionally, missing system-level features, such as advanced typography controls and automation tools, emphasize the iPad's tablet-centric design. These gaps underscore the fact that, while the iPad is more capable than ever, it remains a device that prioritizes portability and simplicity over comprehensive functionality. A Device in Transition With iPadOS 26, Apple has made significant strides in blending tablet and laptop functionalities. Enhanced multitasking, a refined user interface, and improved file management make the iPad a more versatile and powerful device. However, limitations in external monitor support, gaming performance, and desktop-level features remind users that the iPad is not yet a full-fledged computer replacement. For those seeking a device that balances portability with productivity, the iPad is an increasingly compelling option. Yet, for users who require the depth and flexibility of a traditional computer, the iPad remains a supplementary tool rather than a standalone solution. Advance your skills in iPadOS 26 by reading more of our detailed content. Source & Image Credit: ThisIsE Filed Under: Apple, Apple iPad, Guides, Top News Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
Yahoo
2 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
BitRaser Unveils Mac® Erasure & Diagnostics Tool, Enabling ITADs to Save 30% Time with Parallel Processing
HOUSTON, July 22, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- BitRaser, a global leader in certified data erasure solutions, today announced the launch of its Integrated Mac® Eraser and Diagnostics Tool, a software designed to streamline IT asset disposition (ITAD) processes. The tool allows ITAD providers to simultaneously perform secure data erasure and comprehensive hardware diagnostics on macOS devices, including both Apple M-series and Intel-based Macs. This integrated solution eliminates the inefficiencies of sequential processing for ITADs refurbishing Mac devices with Apple Silicon & Intel chips by enabling simultaneous data erasure and diagnostics. This parallel workflow significantly reduces device processing time, helping ITADs enhance operational efficiency & remain profitable, especially those managing large volumes of Mac assets. "This launch marks a significant advancement in how ITADs process Mac devices," said Sunil Chandna, CEO of BitRaser. "We've built a fully integrated software solution designed to help ITADs scale their Mac wiping operations efficiently, saving time while supporting the circular economy. Our solution meets the highest standards of data privacy, regulatory compliance, and speed, critical for today's ITAD workflows." What truly sets BitRaser's Mac® erasure tool apart is its ability to simultaneously wipe multiple Mac devices, including the latest Apple M4 series, without relying on USB boot or additional hardware. This breakthrough enables ITADs to streamline workflows, reduce setup complexity, and scale operations efficiently, making it a game-changer. Key Capabilities: Simultaneous Execution of Erasure & Automated Cum Manual Diagnostics Tests (Battery, Display, Audio, Sensors, & More) Certified Data Erasure as Per NIST 800-88 & IEEE 2883:2022 Standards. Full Compatibility with Both Apple Silicon (M4, M3, M2, M1) and Intel-Based Mac Cloud Reporting for Centralized Audit Trails & Compliance Documentation API Available for Smooth Data Transfer to IT Asset Management Software Scalable For Bulk Processing with Customizable Workflows & Automation Integrates With Popular ERP This launch reinforces BitRaser's commitment to providing compliance-driven and cost-efficient solutions that support circular IT practices & device reuse. For more information, visit: About BitRaser BitRaser is a data erasure & diagnostics software from Stellar, a globally recognized data care expert since 1993. BitRaser adheres to international erasure guidelines like NIST 800-88. The software generates tamper-proof reports and certificates that are available through the cloud portal. These reports act as verifiable audit trails, facilitating compliance with GDPR, CCPA, GLBA, SOX, HIPAA, DPDP, ISO 27001, and PCI DSS. Stellar, the innovator of BitRaser, is renowned for its comprehensive solutions in data recovery, data erasure, mailbox conversion, and file repair. With over 30 years of experience, Stellar has earned the trust of millions of customers and Fortune 500 companies worldwide, solidifying its leadership in the data care industry. Media Contact:Namrata SenguptaSenior Vice President – BitRaser+ 1-844-775-0101398372@ View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE BitRaser Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Forbes
5 days ago
- Forbes
Apple Roadmap Offers M5 MacBook Pro Release Dates
A MacBook Pro is displayed inside of the Apple Carnegie Library store on May 30, 2025 in Washington, ... More DC. (Photo by) Apple's iPhone has long had a steady cadence of releases, far more constant than the Mac portfolio. The last few years have felt like a similar annual update was being put in place, yet Apple's current roadmap is patchy at best, and MacBook Pro supporters may have to wait longer than they hoped. MacBook Pro Launch Date The team at Apple Insider has laid out a potential Mac roadmap for 2025 and 2026. With 15 products on the list, it is a comprehensive look deep into 2026. That includes the highly anticipated M5 MacBook Pro and M5 MacBook Air. What the roadmap lacks is exact dates. For example, the M5 MacBook Pro release is listed as late 2025 and covers three models (presumably the MacBook Pro, MacBook Pro Max, and MacBook Pro Max). That could easily fit a mid-to-late October date that many felt Apple was using as the annual anchor. It could also coincide with a later launch in mid- to late-November, which would potentially result in only a handful of laptops being sold in December, with the bulk of retail devices arriving in January 2026. MacBook Pro First, MacBook Air To Follow Unlike the first Apple Silicon M series MacBooks, which saw the MacBook Air lead off the new hardware, the M5 series will start with the late-2025 MacBook Pro models. The consumer-focused M5 MacBook Air models are expected to arrive in the first half of 2026, with March the likely window for the macOS laptop to arrive. Both the 13-inch and 15-inch variants are expected to arrive simultaneously. MacBook Pro Refresh The M5 MacBook Pro and M5 MacBook Air models will bring more power to the platform thanks to the updated Apple Silicon M-Series chipsets, but for many Apple fans the rela update comes not with these two laptops, but with the laptops to follow. The MacBook models slated to use the M6 chipsets are also slated to bring in the new hardware additions and redesign that many are waiting for. This includes the eagerly anticipated move away from the current LCD display to a more vibrant and power-efficient OLED display... a display option that high-end Windows laptops have offered for many years. The M6 MacBooks are also expected to herald a redesign of the laptop itself with a chassis designed to be both thinner and lighter compared to the current models. Given this will line up with the 20th anniversary, it's a good moment to reinvigorate the brand and reinforce the place it has in Apple's portfolio. The MacBook Pro Needs A Heart In all this, there's one important piece of the jigsaw missing... Apple has yet to announce the M5 chipset. While there are many signs that it is coming (not least tucked away in the developer betas of macOS 26, the physical chip is nowhere to be seen. Last year's M4 was announced in early summer, but that anniversary has been and gone. That's a delay of the M5 chipset to go alongside the delay of the MacBook Pro. Far from the 12-month cycle that the iPhone has, the M4 to M5 generation is looking more like an 18-month window to reach the mid-cycle upgrade. Now read the latest MacBook Pro, iPhone, and Apple TV headlines in Forbes' weekly news digest from Cupertino...
Fast Company
16-07-2025
- Business
- Fast Company
ASML's stock price is dropping today after the semiconductor giant issued this critical warning about 2026
One of the most critical companies in the chipmaking industry is seeing its stock price drop precipitously today. Dutch semiconductor company ASML Holding N.V. (Nasdaq: ASML) reported its second-quarter 2025 results, beating on its most critical metrics, but its stock price is still declining in premarket trading. The reason? Executives made comments about its upcoming 2026 fiscal year that have investors concerned. Here's what you need to know. The most important non-chip company in the chip industry ASML Holding N.V. is headquartered in Veldhoven, Netherlands, and is arguably the most important technology company within Europe's borders. Given that ASML is critical to the world's chipmaking supply chain, the company is also one of the most important tech giants in the world. ASML is not a chipmaker itself. However, it produced the machines that make the chips inside your devices. These machines are known as extreme ultraviolet lithography (EUV) photolithography machines, and they use light to etch patterns into the silicon wafers used in chipmaking. While the world has several photolithography machine companies, ASML is the world's only maker of EUV photolithography machines. EUV technology is critical in the world's most advanced chips, including those made by Apple for its Apple Silicon chips and the chips produced by Nvidia, which are crucial for artificial intelligence servers. ASML's customers include Nvidia and TSMC, the maker of Apple's chips. The Dutch company sells its EUV machines to these companies, enabling them to produce their own chips. As noted by CNBC, ASML's most advanced photolithography machines can be the size of a double-decker bus and cost as much as $400 million each. Without ASML's machines, the world's semiconductor manufacturing capability grinds to a halt. ASML beats, but 2026 comments worry investors Thanks to the rise of artificial intelligence, chipmakers are pumping out more advanced chips than ever—chips that require the EUV photolithography machines that ASML offers. Given that, it's little surprise that ASML exceeded investor expectations in its most recent financial quarter. Today, the company announced its Q2 2025 results, in which it reported: €7.7 billion (about $8.9 billion) in net sales €2.3 billion (about $2.6 billion) in net income Gross margin of 53.7% Earnings per share of €5.90 (about $6.85) To put those net sales and net income figures into greater perspective, CNBC notes that analysts were expecting net sales of €7.52 billion (about $8.7 billion) and net income of €2.04 billion (about $2.3 billion). In other words, ASML handily beat expectations. The company also reported net bookings—a metric that indicates customer demand—of €5.5 billion (about $6.3 billion), of which €2.3 billion (about $2.6 billion) is for its most advanced EUV photolithography machines. Analysts had been expecting net bookings of €4.19 billion (about $4.8 billion). Why is ASML stock falling? However, despite the welcomed Q2 results, ASML's stock price has plunged in premarket trading after the company announced its latest financials. That fall has to do with two main factors. First, ASML's Q3 forecast disappointed investors. The company said it expects to post total net sales of between €7.4 billion (about $8.6 billion) and €7.9 billion. It also expects its gross margin to be between 50% and 52% for the period. The company also said it expects its full fiscal 2025 total net sales to equate to an increase of 15%. As noted by CNBC, analysts had been expecting Q3 net sales to be around €8.3 billion (about $9.1 billion). ASML's 15% growth forecast for full-year sales was also lower than what it had previously forecast. However, the second factor may be the primary reason for ASML's share price decline this morning—comments made by ASML executives regarding its 2026 outlook. Announcing its Q2 results, ASML CEO Christophe Fouquet touched on expectations for 2026. 'Looking at 2026, we see that our AI customers' fundamentals remain strong,' Fouquet said. 'At the same time, we continue to see increasing uncertainty driven by macro-economic and geopolitical developments. Therefore, while we still prepare for growth in 2026, we cannot confirm it at this stage.' In other words, ASML's CEO is admitting he does not know if the company will grow in 2026. His comments suggest that the main uncertainty surrounding its growth potential are related to President Trump's tariffs. ASML is a foreign company that sells a significant amount to American companies, yet it does not have widespread operations in America, making it a potential target for retaliation from Trump and his goal to bring manufacturing back to the United States. Fouquet did not say there would not be growth, but given the tariff uncertainty, he seems to feel it's more prudent to prepare investors for that possibility. But that's a cautionary message investors have not taken well. As of the time of this writing, ASML shares are down over 7% in premarket trading to $764 per share. Yesterday, shares had closed above $823. As of yesterday's close, ASML shares were up over 18% since the beginning of the year.
