Latest news with #Asus
Gizmodo
17 hours ago
- Business
- Gizmodo
ASUS 14-Inch Chromebook Costs Almost Nothing, an Absolute Steal for a 4.9-Star Laptop
In search of a new laptop? If you're primary need for a computer is basic web browsing, email drafting, word processing, and YouTube video-watching, then you really don't need to shell out for anything crazy expensive. A Chromebook is kind of the perfect tool for these use cases plus they're super great for travel. Asus has its Chromebook CX14 on sale over at Best Buy. Right now, it's been shaved down almost 50%. That brings the price from its usual $279 to just $149. You can save a cool $130 for a limited time. Something unique about this Chromebook is the screen can lay flat at a 180° angle with its keyboard. This makes collaboration with others easier as everyone around the table can see what's on display. See at Best Buy This Asus Chromebook CX14 has a decently sized screen, measuring in at 14inches. It displays in full 1080p HD. The narrow bezels allow you to make the most of your screen space while keeping the laptop as whole compact and easy to travel with. And you can travel with it anywhere because the screen has a matte anti-glare coating to help reduce reflections. Respond to emails out at your favorite sunny outdoor coffeeshop. Lightweight, Yet Durable Speaking of travel, you can maintain peace of mind toting this Chromebook around with you wherever you go. It's built solid, meeting industry-leading MIL-STD 810H US military standard. That means it has undergone stringent testing to withstand panel pressure, shock, and drops to ensure maximum toughness. The Asus Chromebook is quick to start up, only taking 10 seconds to being operational from when you push the button. The side comprises of several useful ports including a full-function reversible USB-C port that can be used for easy charging or to connect peripherals. You also get a USB 3.2 Type A port. The Chromebook also has an AUX port, my beloved (still mad at Apple for removing them from phones). This Chromebook comes with a three month trial of Gemini Advanced premium plan—Google's own AI. That also comes with a full 2TB of cloud storage. Just don't save anything important only to that unless you plan on subscribing after the three months are up. Though when that expires, you do also get one free year of 100GB cloud storage with Google One. Get your Asus 14-inch Chromebook CX14 for just $149 at Best Buy before the price goes back up to $279. Right now, you'd be saving a whole $130, which is almost 50%. See at Best Buy
Geeky Gadgets
a day ago
- Business
- Geeky Gadgets
Asus Flow Z13 Laptop Runs Local AI Models Better Than Most Desktops
What if your laptop could outperform a desktop? Picture this: a sleek, lightweight device that not only fits in your backpack but also powers through tasks that would leave many traditional desktops struggling. Enter the Asus Flow Z13, a laptop that flips the script on what portable computing can achieve. With the ability to run large language models (LLMs) and other computationally demanding workloads more efficiently than most desktops, the Flow Z13 is redefining the boundaries of performance and portability. For developers, researchers, and AI enthusiasts, this isn't just a laptop—it's a fantastic option. In this breakdown, Alex Ziskind explore how the Asus Flow Z13 achieves its remarkable balance of desktop-level power and mobility. From its innovative hardware optimized for AI workloads to its ability to handle intensive tasks like natural language processing and real-time AI development, the Flow 13 sets a new standard for portable computing. Whether you're fine-tuning machine learning models on the go or tackling resource-heavy projects without being tied to a desk, this laptop promises to deliver. But how does it manage to pack so much power into such a compact form? Let's take a closer look at what makes the Flow Z13 a standout in today's tech landscape. Asus Flow 13 Overview Advanced Hardware for Intensive Workloads At the core of the Asus Flow Z13 lies a combination of state-of-the-art hardware components that enable it to handle even the most demanding computational tasks. Equipped with the latest-generation processors, high-speed memory, and a GPU optimized specifically for AI workloads, the laptop delivers exceptional performance for tasks such as natural language processing, deep learning, and real-time AI development. Unlike traditional desktop setups that rely on bulky hardware and extensive cooling systems, the Flow Z13 integrates these capabilities into a streamlined, portable design. This engineering feat ensures the laptop remains efficient and reliable under heavy computational loads, offering consistent performance without the need for excessive cooling or additional hardware. Its ability to handle such workloads in a compact form factor makes it a fantastic option for professionals who demand both power and portability. Portability Without Compromise One of the defining features of the Asus Flow Z13 is its exceptional portability. Unlike stationary desktops that require a dedicated workspace, this laptop is lightweight and easy to transport, making it ideal for professionals who need flexibility in their work environments. Whether you're moving between offices, working remotely, or presenting at a conference, the Flow 13 ensures you have access to high-performance computing wherever you go. Despite its compact size, the Flow Z13 is built to handle intensive workloads with ease. This makes it an excellent choice for developers, researchers, and data scientists who require both mobility and computational power. By combining portability with robust performance, the laptop proves that you don't have to sacrifice power for convenience. Asus Flow 13 Review: Desktop-Level Power in a Portable Laptop Watch this video on YouTube. Dive deeper into running AI models locally with other articles and guides we have written below. Tailored for AI and Machine Learning Applications The Asus Flow Z13 is particularly well-suited for AI and machine learning tasks, thanks to its robust hardware and software optimizations. Running LLMs, for instance, demands significant processing power and memory bandwidth—both of which the Flow Z13 delivers seamlessly. This makes it an invaluable tool for a wide range of use cases, including: Training and fine-tuning machine learning models. Processing large datasets for natural language understanding and analysis. Developing, testing, and deploying AI-driven applications in real-time. By efficiently managing these tasks, the Flow Z13 not only accelerates workflows but also reduces the time and resources required for AI development. This is particularly advantageous for professionals in fields such as computational linguistics, data analysis, and software engineering, where speed and precision are critical to success. Efficiency and Reliability for Extended Use Efficiency is a cornerstone of the Asus Flow Z13's design. Its advanced cooling systems and energy-efficient components ensure that the laptop maintains peak performance without overheating or consuming excessive power. This balance allows users to run computationally intensive workloads for extended periods without interruptions, making it a reliable tool for long-term projects and continuous development cycles. What sets the Flow Z13 apart is its ability to outperform many desktops in running LLMs and other demanding tasks. By combining portability with desktop-level power, it offers a versatile solution that caters to both individual users and enterprise-level applications. This unique combination of features makes the Flow 13 an invaluable asset for modern computing needs, particularly in industries where adaptability and performance are paramount. A New Standard in Portable Computing The Asus Flow Z13 challenges traditional perceptions of what a laptop can achieve. With its advanced hardware, exceptional processing power, and portable design, it stands out as a top-tier choice for running large language models and other resource-intensive tasks. By delivering desktop-level performance in a compact form, it provides professionals with the flexibility and efficiency they need to excel in their work. Whether you're developing AI applications, analyzing complex datasets, or exploring new frontiers in machine learning, the Asus Flow Z13 ensures you can achieve your goals with speed, precision, and reliability. Media Credit: Alex Ziskind Filed Under: AI, Laptops, Technology 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.
Digital Trends
2 days ago
- Business
- Digital Trends
3 reasons to buy the Asus ROG Strix SCAR 18 (2025) gaming laptop
Brash and bold has been the signature trait of Asus' ROG line-up of gaming laptops for years. With the ROG Strix Scar 18, Asus took that formula, gave it the bleeding edge silicon treatment and added a dash of upgradability, without compromising a bit on the gamer aesthetics. There's still plenty of RGB fun here, and the cool AniMe Vision LED matrix on the display is here to stay. You can't mistake this 8-inch behemoth for any other laptop out there. Of course, performance is why you're splurging on this laptop, and you get just that by the oodles. But there are more reasons to get this machine than meets the eye. Recommended Videos Hello, ease of upgrades! One of the biggest advantages of investing in a gaming laptop, especially a big and bulky one, is the upgrade flexibility. Yet, it's not always convenient. And definitely not without its own set of risks. I learnt that lesson the hard way. About four years ago, I tried to upgrade my Asus ROG Zephyrus GA502, one of the slimmest and lightest gaming laptops back then. I ended up breaking the latches and few other plastic bits flew, while the screws could never fully go back in place. In retrospect, I should've read the manual, but at the same time, removing the back panel shouldn't have been an exercise in fragility. The latest iteration of the ROG Strix SCAR 18 solves that dilemma for anyone who is interested in DIY upgrades but lacks the nimble hands of a seasoned electronics repair guy. The hefty gaming laptop from Asus goes for a tool-less design, which lets you replace the storage and RAM modules in a few seconds. Thanks to the next-gen Q-Latch engineering, which is a mainstay on Asus' desktop motherboards, users can easily access the RAM, SSD, and fans without requiring screen drivers. 'A specially designed frame covers the rest of the mainboard to protect the other components, but can easily be removed with a few screws for users who want to tinker further,' says Asus. Also, both the SSD slots can take PCIe Gen 5 modules, so it's pretty future-proof, as well. We love to see the focus on designs that ease repair and replacement, and it's great to see Asus following in the footsteps of Framework, even if these are baby steps. Dazzling, in the right ways This one is an unabashedly gaming brute, which means it matches all the braws with the most outlandish gamer-pleasing aesthetics you will find on a gaming laptop. In addition to the per-key RGB lighting flexibility for your keyboard, you get an RGB strip that surrounds the entirety of the base. Think of those flashy JDM rides that light up the motorway. But if you look closely at the lid, it's not just the backlit logo that stands out. Asus has equipped the ROG Strix Scar 18 with a secondary dot-screen that is made up of 810 LEDs bleeding light through over nine thousand tiny holes. Asus calls it the Anime Vision display, and in the true spirit of gaming customizability, this secondary screen can dance to your creative tunes. Flash your name across it, put up a fun GIF, or animate any other image of your choice. Just make it fun, will ya? Talking about display, the 18-inch QHD+ (2560 x 1600) panel is nothing short of a visual treat on this one. It's a mini-LED panel, the same tech that you will come across on the MacBook Pro. In a nutshell, it's gorgeous, thanks to deep contrast, wide viewing angles, and stunning color reproduction. It offers nearly double the sustained SDR brightness compared to its Apple counterpart, and also beats it at contrast levels, based on lab tests. Overall, if you're eyeing creative work where color accuracy matters, the ROG warrior fares better than the MacBook Pro in our sRGB, AdobeRGB, and DCI-P3 color gamut coverage tests. Oh, this vibrant panel is pretty fast too, thanks to the 240Hz refresh rate. 'For gamers, it promises outstanding high dynamic range (HDR) performance along with a super fast refresh rate that supports Nvidia G-Sync for tear-free gaming,' says Digital Trends' review of the Asus ROG Strix Scar 18. Another underrated perk? There's also an IR camera atop the display for Windows Hello facial recognition. You want performance? Cool! Digital Trends' reviews expert, Mark Coppock, labeled the ROG Strix Scar 18 as 'very large, and very awesome, gaming laptop.' This machine certainly has the substance to go with its flashy looks. Lots of it, actually. Asus will let you max this one out with Nvidia's top-of-the-line GeForce RTX 5090 GPU, though you can pick up configurations with the RT 5070 Ti and the RTX 5080 graphics cards. Running the processing duties is Intel's Core Ultra 9 275HX, a beastly 24-core Arrow Lake chip and a peak clock speed of 5.4 GHz. On synthetic tests, it fared better than AMD's Ryzen AI MAX+ 395 silicon, and expectedly outpaced its Core-i9 predecessor. On the PugetBench Premiere Pro benchmark, it even raced past Apple's mighty M4 Max processor. Of course, you're buying this beast to play games, so let's get into it. The Blackwell 5000-series GPU in this machine is loaded to the neck with upscaling and frame generation tech, and coupled with the DLSS4 goodness, you are assured of immersive visuals in games. Playing Cyberpunk 2077 at Ultra presets and ray-tracing enabled, this machine provides an average 70fps output, while Red Dead Redemption 2 at 1600p resolution and Ultra graphics settings maintains a respectable 87fps output. Playing Assassin's Creed Valhalla at 1440p resolution and Ultra High settings managed a cool 122fps. This machine also maintains its cool under stress. Asus has fitted an end-to-end vapor chamber, assisted by liquid cooling (on both the CPU and GPU), triple cooling fans, and plenty of vents on the ROG Strix Scar 18. Thankfully, the fans won't hurt your ear canals to the point of shutting down the lid and escaping the desk.
Forbes
2 days ago
- Business
- Forbes
AI PCs Will Dominate By 2027, Says Asus Executive
So-called AI PCs will account for more than half of PC shipments by 2027, according to a senior Asus executive. Demand for AI PCs – which ship with a neural processing unit (NPU) to assist with AI tasks – has been relatively modest so far. The market share of AI PCs is 'still single digit', Eric Chen, Asus's senior corporate vice president told me in a briefing to coincide with last week's Computex trade show. 'It's not that big,' he admitted. However, he said that growth over the next couple of years will mean that by 2027 'over 50%' of total PC shipments will be AI PCs. Asus's predictions are roughly in line with that of major analysts such as Gartner, IDC and Canalys, all of which have predicted steep growth in AI-capable PCs over the next few years. The big challenge for PC makers is giving businesses and consumers a solid reason to pay a premium for an AI PC. Popular AI services such as ChatGPT, Google Gemini or Anthropic's Claude are cloud based and don't directly benefit from the presence of an NPU. Meanwhile, Microsoft has struggled to deliver compelling AI features in Windows, with the highly controversial and much delayed Recall feature only arriving on Copilot+ machines at the end of last month. Microsoft was forced to pull an early test version of the all-seeing Recall after serious security flaws were discovered by testers, which have now been fixed. Chen said 'the big bottleneck" right now is that users don't fully understand how AI can help them. He gave an example of how Asus is deploying AI within its own business to check the paperwork that comes with business transactions. Previously that task was done by hand, but now the company is using AI to process the paperwork. 'They used to spend 200 hours to do the checks,' said Chen. 'Now, three hours. That's a big, big difference.' It's those kinds of tasks involving sensitive customer data that companies might not want uploaded to cloud services that will really take advantage of the local processing power offered by AI PCs, Chen claimed. 'A lot of companies and people, they don't want their data to upload to the cloud,' he said. Although Asus has been developing a suite of its own applications, such as Muse Tree, which offers AI image generation without relying on expensive, resource-hungry cloud services, Chen concedes that professionals will still turn to the cloud when they need the optimal quality. He said that 'local is already good enough" for many lightweight tasks, however, and that cloud AI services will eventually start tapping the power available to AI PCs. 'The cloud and the local, they will work together. That is one of the trends that will happen,' Chen added. AI PCs may well hold more appeal to businesses than consumers right now, and that's perhaps one of the reasons that Asus has decided to ramp up its commercial offering, pitting the company into even stronger competition with rivals such as Dell and Lenovo. 'In the past 35 years, we are more focused on the consumer PC business,' said Chen. 'In the coming years, Asus will develop our commercial business as well.' IDC's figures for 2024 worldwide PC shipments put Asus in fifth position, with a market share of around 7%. But Chen said the company had 'very aggressive' plans to attack the commercial market in a bid to close the gap to market leader Lenovo, which shipped more than three times as many PCs as Asus did in 2024, according to IDC's figures.
Globe and Mail
2 days ago
- Business
- Globe and Mail
Intel Stock (NASDAQ:INTC) Slips as AMD Steps Up at Computex
While chip stock Intel's (INTC) big outing to the Computex 2025 show was a major step forward, it did not make that step forward in isolation. In fact, reports note, one of its biggest rivals, Advanced Micro Devices (AMD) has been likewise making a play for Intel's market share, and hit Computex with a show of its own. That revelation hit shareholders hard, and Intel shares slid nearly 2% in Wednesday afternoon's trading. Confident Investing Starts Here: Easily unpack a company's performance with TipRanks' new KPI Data for smart investment decisions Receive undervalued, market resilient stocks right to your inbox with TipRanks' Smart Value Newsletter And Intel will have its work cut out for it, as it takes on such items as the Asus Expert P Series Copilot+ PC lineup, the fruit of a partnership effort between AMD and Asus. Packing a Ryzen AI Pro 300 series processor, these new PCs will reportedly open up new possibilities in AI acceleration for enterprise users. They measure their operations in TOPS, or Trillions of Operations Per Second, and the new PCs can average 50 of those TOPS. AMD also brought out its new graphics cards, the Radeon RX 9060 XT, which is geared more to the gaming market. Workstations got a boost from the Threadripper processors and the other Radeon graphics cards. All of this will pose a serious threat to Intel as it works to keep, and win back, market share that it has either previously lost or may be in danger of losing. A New Partnership Meanwhile, Intel is also forging some new partnerships, and trying to bolster its artificial intelligence (AI) chops. Working together with the IndiaAI Mission, which is part of the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY). The new partnership effort will offer 'crucial mentorship and technological resources to early-stage AI ventures.' Those wondering how Intel will offer up resources for anything when it is firing at a staggering pace and husbanding its capital should remember that Intel was also looking at doing some hiring, just in very specific sectors. And with Intel working to expand AI literacy, access to multilingual platforms, and bringing AI to public services, that may prove helpful in not only finding some of those new employees of the future, but also in selling the necessary chips and infrastructure to make it all happen. Is Intel a Buy, Hold or Sell? Turning to Wall Street, analysts have a Hold consensus rating on INTC stock based on one Buy, 26 Holds and four Sells assigned in the past three months, as indicated by the graphic below. After a 32.3% loss in its share price over the past year, the average INTC price target of $21.29 per share implies 2.21% upside potential. See more INTC analyst ratings Disclosure
