Latest news with #Linux
Digital Trends
a day ago
- Digital Trends
Google ending Steam support for Steam; Chromebook users to rely on Android and cloud gaming services
What's happened? Google has confirmed that Steam for Chromebook Beta, launched in March 2022 in partnership with Valve, will no lnger be available starting January 1, 2026. The program allowed select Chromebooks to run Linux-based Steam games natively through ChromeOS's Linux (Crostini) environment. Users trying to install Steam from the ChromeOS Launcher will now see a discontinuation notice stating that installed games will no longer be playable after January 1, 2026. This is important because? Steam for Chromebook was one of Google's most ambitious pushes to position ChromeOS as a serious gaming platform, competing with Windows PCs, Android, and cloud services. The beta demonstrated that Chromebooks could run native PC titles, although performance was limited to higher-end models and a narrow set of compatible games. The announcement of a shutdown points to a retreat from native gaming in favor of cloud streaming and Android apps, effectively ending the experiment without a full public release. Recommended Videos Why should I care? If you've been using your Chromebook for native Steam gaming, those titles will become inaccessible starting next year. Google has no current native alternative for running PC games directly on ChromeOS. While Android and cloud streaming options like Nvidia GeForce Now or Xbox Cloud Gaming remain available, they don't replace the offline experience that native Steam gaming offered. The move may also discourage Chromebook buyers who were counting on local gaming capabilities. What's next? On January 1, 2026, all installed games via the Steam platform will be removed from Chromebooks. Users will need to pivot to Android titles from the Google Play Store or adopt cloud-based gaming services. Google hints at future gaming plans tied to ChromeOS's architecture becoming closer to Android's, but no specific replacement for Steam support has been announced. Expect more updates, possibly at next year's Google I/O, as the company reshapes ChromeOS gaming strategy.
India Today
2 days ago
- Business
- India Today
Replit CEO says solo app dev is here, all you need is a few hours and a great prompt
The CEO of Replit, Amjad Masad, says the era of one-person software creation has arrived, and all it takes is a good idea, a strong AI prompt, and a few hours of focused work. 'You can just have a prompt and have an app,' Masad said on the Big Technology Podcast. 'I'd say at least set an afternoon to give it some good effort and try to get your first app. And once you do that, you just get it.' Replit, which allows users to build applications using AI-assisted prompts and code-completion tools, has been growing rapidly. The company's annual recurring revenue jumped from $10 million at the end of 2024 to over $100 million by mid-2025, a tenfold rise in under six calls this new approach 'vibe coding,' a term for creating software by writing natural language prompts that AI turns into functional code. While this dramatically lowers the barrier to entry, he stressed that it still takes work. 'People need to invest effort. It's not magic,' he said, adding that users still need to learn prompt engineering, iterate on ideas, and understand that AI models can behave believes vibe coding is opening doors for people without technical backgrounds, from HR professionals and doctors to Uber drivers. 'Everyone in the world has ideas,' Masad said. 'People build so much domain knowledge about their field of work, but they never could make it into software because they didn't have the skill or capital.' Masad sees this shift as a possible antidote to declining entrepreneurship, enabling solo founders to launch sustainable businesses. 'If you're trying to build a company that generates a great living, where even you get rich from it, I think we're almost there,' he the conversation around AI and coding goes far beyond solo app development. The industry is locked in a debate over whether AI will eventually replace human coders says AI already writes 30 percent of its code. Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei has gone further, predicting that by the end of 2025, between 90 and 100 percent of all code will be AI-generated. In fact, earlier this year, Masad has also agreed with the possibility, and doesn't mince words about its implications. 'As AI agents get better, it would be a waste of time to learn how to code,' he said, referencing Amodei's forecast. However, he adds that the fundamentals still matter: 'Learn how to think, learn how to break down problems. Learn how to communicate clearly, as you would with humans, but also with machines.'Other tech leaders share the belief that AI will take a dominant role in coding, though not all are optimistic about the pace. Linux creator Linus Torvalds has called much of the AI buzz '90 percent marketing and 10 percent reality,' saying genuinely transformative tools are still years away. Infosys founder Narayana Murthy has also questioned the depth of the AI boom, warning against mistaking rebranded software for genuine however, remains bullish: 'I'm agents-pilled. I am very bullish.'- Ends
Tom's Guide
2 days ago
- Tom's Guide
I tested the Framework Desktop — and it made me rethink everything I knew about mini PCs
The Framework Desktop is a powerful and highly customizable mini PC that's equally well-suited for work, gaming and local AI workloads. But we are talking about Framework, so it's much more than that. Just like with Framework's laptops, it's incredibly easy to build and repair thanks to its replaceable parts. However, unlike with other mini PCs, it's also very customizable since you can use the company's Expansion Cards to configure its front ports to your liking and its magnetic front panel can be personalized using a number of different swappable tiles. The only components you can't swap out are its AMD Ryzen AI Max processor and LPDDR5x memory, which is soldered to the motherboard due to this chip's limitations. You do get to pick from three CPU and memory configurations when putting together your Framework Desktop though. Likewise, you can either pay extra for storage and the computer's operating system at checkout or you can bring your own to save a bit of cash. My Framework Desktop review will help you decide if this is the best mini PC for your needs and workflow or if you'd be better off with something smaller, cheaper and less customizable. For me though, this computer is the small form factor desktop I've always wanted. Here's why. Max 385 (32GB) Max+ 395 (64GB) (as tested) Max+ 395 (128GB) Price $1,099 1,599 $1,999 CPU AMD Ryzen AI Max 385 AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395 AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395 GPU Radeon 8050S Radeon 8060S Radeon 8060S NPU Up to 50 TOPS Up to 50 TOPS Up to 50 TOPS RAM 32GB LPDDR5x 64GB LPDDR5x 128GB LPDDR5x Storage 2 x M.2 SSD from 500GB to 8TB 2 x M.2 SSD from 500GB to 8TB 2 x M.2 SSD from 500GB to 8TB Ports 2 x Expansion Cards (Front), 2 x USB-A, 2 x USB-C, 1 x HDMI 2.1, 2 x DisplayPort 2.1, 1 x 5 GbE Ethernet (rear) 2 x Expansion Cards (Front), 2 x USB-A, 2 x USB-C, 1 x HDMI 2.1, 2 x DisplayPort 2.1, 1 x 5 GbE Ethernet (rear) 2 x Expansion Cards (Front), 2 x USB-A, 2 x USB-C, 1 x HDMI 2.1, 2 x DisplayPort 2.1, 1 x 5 GbE Ethernet (rear) Connectivity Bluetooth 5.4, Wi-Fi 7 Bluetooth 5.4, Wi-Fi 7 Bluetooth 5.4, Wi-Fi 7 OS Windows, Linux Windows, Linux Windows, Linux Size 3.81 × 8.09 × 8.9 inches 3.81 × 8.09 × 8.9 inches 3.81 × 8.09 × 8.9 inches Weight 6.83 pounds (3.1kg) 6.83 pounds (3.1kg) 6.83 pounds (3.1kg) The Framework Desktop builds on the company's experience with customizable and easily repairable laptops but in a mini PC form factor. Everything about this mini PC from its unique case and customization options, to the fact that you have to build it yourself make it stand on its own. However, it's the extra power under the hood from that AMD Ryzen AI Max processor that makes the Framework Desktop such a versatile desktop or laptop replacement. If you've ever built a PC before, you're in for a familiar but much simpler experience with the Framework Desktop. This is because its motherboard, CPU, RAM and power supply come pre-installed. In fact, you don't even have to plug in any cables either. Putting the Framework Desktop together starts with opening its case. From there, you need to install your M.2 SSD and the CPU fan before closing everything up and loading either Windows or Linux onto your new PC. Get instant access to breaking news, the hottest reviews, great deals and helpful tips. In total, it took me around 15 minutes to put everything together, though I did stop and take pictures and videos along the way. I found the whole process to be quite refreshing compared to building a traditional PC where simple mistakes can not only be time consuming but also quite expensive. I did have to download Windows 11 and install the operating system from scratch but this way, you don't have to worry about any of the bloatware you find on other pre-built PCs or laptops. When configuring your Framework Desktop, the parts you pick can give this mini PC quite a different look once everything's put together. For instance, I went with a sleek, all-black design with more of a business-focused look to it. However, I could have easily chose a CPU fan with RGB lighting and a translucent side panel for something that looks more like one of the best gaming PCs than a sleeper build. At the time of writing, there are actually three CPU fan options to choose from but you can also get a fan mounting kit and use your own fan instead. Given the all-black look I was going for, I went with the Cooler Master Mobius 120 fan, though Framework also sent over one for Noctua for me to check out as well. Given that the Framework Desktop's side panel slides right off, swapping out one fan for another later on would be quite easy to do. What excited me most about the Framework Desktop when it was first announced was its customizable front panel. It has 21 slots for plastic tiles that you can easily snap in with your thumb. You can mix and match colors, or choose tiles with logos like Framework or AMD. Framework even sent one with the Tom's Guide logo, and I expect more custom options will come as the system grows. Behind the front panel, there are two open slots for Framework's Expansion Cards, which let you choose what ports you want on the front of the mini PC. These cards come in different colors and finishes to match the look of your setup. For my review unit, I chose a USB-A and an SD card reader, but I also really liked the translucent pink USB-C card. At 3.81 × 8.09 × 8.9 inches, the Framework Desktop is definitely on the large size for a mini PC. I'd say it straddles the line between a more cube-shaped mini PC like the Geekom A6 and a true small form factor desktop PC case due to its size. Still, it's small enough to slip into a backpack and the optional carrying handle makes it very easy to move this computer from one room to another. Even though it's compact, the Framework Desktop is powerful thanks to its Ryzen AI Max chip. There are two CPU options — one with 8 cores and 32 graphics cores, and another with 16 cores and 40 graphics cores. You can also choose between 32GB, 64GB, or 128GB of memory. I tested the mid-range setup with an AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395, 64GB of RAM, and a 1TB SSD. With 16 cores and 32 threads, it was more than I needed for my usual tasks, which mostly involve running several Chrome windows with lots of tabs and doing some photo editing in GIMP. Although there aren't any extra Expansion Card slots around back, you still get a nice selection of rear ports which include two USB-A, two USB 4, an HDMI 2.1 port, dual DisplayPort 2.1 connections, a 5 GbE Ethernet port and a headphone jack. While I wish there were a few more USB-A ports for my older devices, one thing I really appreciate about the Framework Desktop is that as it has an internal power supply, you can use a standard PC power cable. Of the mini PCs I've tested only the Mac mini M4 has an internal power supply while the rest use bulkier external ones. Framework Desktop AtomMan G7 Ti MSI Cubi NUC Geekbench 6.4 single-core 2966 2864 2712 Geekbench 6.4 multi-core 17574 15651 8740 25GB file copy test (MBps) 2976.46 1445.75 1337.70 Handbrake (Mins:Secs) 2:43 3:50 9:24 I'd say the base version of the Framework Desktop will be more than enough for most people but you could upgrade to the version with 64GB of RAM for future proofing or for playing games (more on that later). Meanwhile, the 128GB version of this mini PC is best suited for those that want to run AI models like Llama locally. Another thing that really surprised me about the Framework Desktop was just how fast my download speeds were when using it with one of the best Wi-Fi 7 routers. It comes equipped with both Wi-Fi 7 and a 5 GbE Ethernet port for fast wireless and wired connectivity. For instance, when running a speed test over Wi-Fi, I saw download speeds of 1.52 gigabits per second (Gbps). Then when I plugged it into my Eero Max 7 mesh router using an Ethernet cable, I was able to take almost full advantage of the bandwidth offered by my 10 gigabit fiber connection. All in all, the Framework Desktop delivers and then some both on the performance and the connectivity front. As I mentioned before, the Framework Desktop is a very versatile mini PC and as such, it can be whatever kind of computer you need it to be at the moment. While I spent a lot of time using it as a work machine during the day, at night, it effortlessly transformed into a gaming PC. Based on the gaming benchmarks ran in our testing lab, you'd think that the Framework Desktop is best suited for 1080p or even 1440p gaming. However, in my testing on the MSI MPG 321URXW QD-OLED 4K gaming monitor at home, I walked away quite impressed after playing several more demanding PC games like Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth and Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart. Framework Desktop AtomMan G7 Ti Asus ROG NUC 970 Assassin's Creed Mirage 85 103 97 Metro Exodus 56.56 91.63 91.78 Cyberpunk 2077 22.09 39.90 39.33 Red Dead Redemption 2 56.57 73 62.94 While the latest entry in the FF7 remake series doesn't support AMD's FSR tech, I still managed to get a smooth frame rate of 60 fps when I enabled Radeon Super Resolution in the pre-installed AMD Software: Adrenaline Edition app. The same was true in Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart which does come with support for FSR 3.1 Obviously upscaling and frame-gen tech aren't for everyone and in that case, you'll get excellent results at 1440p and especially at 1080p with it turned off on the Framework Desktop. Still, being able to play newer and more demanding titles in 4K using an integrated GPU is quite impressive. Likewise, with two USB 4 ports around back, you could always plug in an external graphics card too. It's also worth noting that if you opt for a Framework Desktop with more memory, you can allocate extra RAM to this mini PC's Ryzen AI Max chip for improved graphics performance. For instance, in AMD's app, I was able to split my review unit's memory in half with 32GB going to the system and the other 32GB going to its graphics. The Framework Desktop is an impressive debut into the world of mini PCs by a company known for its repairable and upgradeable laptops. However, it does have its downsides too which include this PC's higher price as you are buying into an ecosystem after all and the fact that you can't upgrade its RAM or processor. The Framework Desktop makes building a PC easier, but it's not as flexible as a true barebones setup. You only get two CPU options and a few RAM configurations. The Ryzen AI Max is a strong processor, so it makes sense for Framework's first desktop — but the downside is that the RAM is soldered in and can't be upgraded later if your needs change. You also don't save much money compared to other pre-built PCs, since the price doesn't include a CPU fan, storage, Expansion Cards, or a Windows license if you don't want to use Linux. Overall, I really like the Framework Desktop and have had a wonderful experience building and using it for the past two weeks. Your money could go further with a full-size desktop PC especially when you factor in sales on components. However, that would defeat the purpose of the Framework Desktop. At the same time, as someone who has built small form factor PCs in the past, you're always going to pay a premium for smaller parts like mini ITX motherboards, SFX or SFX-L power supplies and of course, low-profile graphics cards. As such, if you're thinking about buying your own Framework Desktop, then you're definitely going to want to think long and hard about your needs and workflow before committing to a specific configuration. While the base configuration will likely meet the needs of most people, opting for the middle of the road one like my review unit or even the fully equipped configuration if you have the budget for it might make more sense for futureproofing. The Framework Desktop stands out from typical mini PCs, and that's one of its biggest strengths. Instead of a fully pre-built design, it lets you customize the look and features with its tiled front panel and Expansion Cards. You can also choose different side panels and CPU fans — or even use your own — making it a much more personal and flexible experience than most other mini PCs. While the soldered RAM and being limited to two variations of one processor might not be for everyone, this decision is what allows the Framework Desktop to be readily mass produced instead of a more niche, boutique-style mini PC. Likewise, some PC gamers might scoff at the idea of gaming on an integrated GPU but the Ryzen AI Max's Radeon 8050S or 8060S graphics get the job done while allowing you to play a wide variety of both newer and older games. The Framework Desktop could be a new way forward for mini PCs as well as small form factor desktop overall. Only time will tell but so far, it has rightfully earned its place among the best mini PCs you can get today.
The Sun
3 days ago
- Business
- The Sun
MyIX strengthens CSR with network security workshop to boost Malaysia's cyber defenses
KUALA LUMPUR: As Malaysia's digital economy accelerates—projected to contribute 25.5% to national GDP by end-2025, according to the Ministry of Digital—the need to strengthen the nation's cybersecurity talent pool has become increasingly urgent. In response, the Malaysia Internet Exchange (MyIX) is expanding its corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives to better equip local professionals with the skills needed to tackle today's growing cyber threats. MyIX chairman Chiew Kok Hin said that Malaysia's advanced digital infrastructure must be matched by a technically skilled workforce to ensure long-term security and resilience. 'As the country's leading internet exchange, MyIX plays a vital role in Malaysia's digital backbone. We see it as our responsibility to help develop a security-conscious, technically proficient workforce that can safeguard our shared digital future and contribute to national progress,' he said in a statement. As part of this effort, MyIX will host a five-day Network Security Workshop from October 6 to 10, 2025 at its headquarters in Puchong, Selangor. Held in collaboration with the Asia Pacific Network Information Centre (APNIC), the workshop aims to upskill aspiring network engineers and IT professionals through intensive, hands-on training rooted in real-world security practices. The initiative supports Malaysia's broader digital resilience agenda and highlights MyIX's role in fortifying the internet ecosystem through knowledge-sharing, talent development, and community engagement. 'We believe the success of Malaysia's digital economy depends not only on infrastructure but also on the capability and readiness of our people. This programme is one of several steps we are taking to build a secure and inclusive digital future,' Chiew added. Workshop participants will delve into critical topics such as cryptography, intrusion detection, DDoS mitigation, BGP and RPKI, packet analysis, and flow monitoring. Modules will be delivered through lab-based exercises and practical scenarios, allowing participants to apply new skills in real-world operational settings. The course will be led by Md Abdul Awal, a veteran network engineer and trainer with extensive experience in network operations across CSIRTs, data centres, transit providers, NRENs, ISPs, and IXPs. He regularly speaks at key industry forums including APRICOT, APNIC, SANOG, and other regional NOGs. Designed for network and system engineers as well as IT managers, the programme requires basic knowledge of TCP/IP, Linux command-line use, and completion of APNIC Academy prerequisite modules. Participants must bring their own laptops with administrative access and ensure they meet minimum system requirements to fully engage in the workshop. This initiative underscores MyIX's continued commitment to building national cybersecurity capacity by investing in people—empowering Malaysia's technical community to create a safer, more resilient digital future.
Focus Malaysia
3 days ago
- Business
- Focus Malaysia
MyIX deepens CSR efforts with network security workshop to fortify Malaysia's cyber defences
AS Malaysia's digital economy gains momentum – projected by the Digital Ministry to contribute 25.5% to the national GDP come end-2025 – the need to upskill the nation's cybersecurity talent has become increasingly critical. In response, the Malaysia Internet Exchange (MyIX) is expanding its corporate social responsibility (CSR) efforts to further equip local professionals with the necessary skills to defend against today's evolving cyber threats. 'We believe it is our responsibility to help nurture a technically skilled, security-conscious workforce that can safeguard our shared digital future and contribute meaningfully to national development,' commented MyIX chairman Chiew Kok Hin in a statement, As part of this commitment, MyIX will host a five-day Network Security Workshop from Oct 6-10 October at its headquarters in Puchong, Selangor. Organised in collaboration with the Asia Pacific Network Information Centre (APNIC), the workshop is designed to upskill aspiring network engineers and IT professionals through intensive hands-on training and exposure to real-world security practices. The objective of the workshop is to further bolster Malaysia's network security capabilities amid the rise of cyber threats while aligning with national priorities for digital resilience. It also reflects MyIX's wider role in strengthening the internet ecosystem through knowledge-sharing, talent development and community engagement. 'We believe the long-term success of Malaysia's digital economy depends not just on infrastructure but on the strength and readiness of our people,' enthused Chiew. Experienced coach on-site 'This programme is one of many steps we are taking to help shape a secure and inclusive digital future.' Participants will explore key topics such as cryptography, intrusion detection, DDoS mitigation, BGP and RPKI, packet analysis and flow monitoring. Modules will be delivered through hands-on labs and practical scenarios, thus enabling participants to apply what they learn directly to operational environments and security planning. The course will be led by Md Abdul Awal Haolader, a seasoned network engineer and trainer with deep experience in network design and operations across Computer Security Incident Response Teams (CSIRTs), data centres, transit providers, National Research and Education Networks (NRENs), Internet Service Providers (ISPs) and Internet Exchange Points (IXPs). Awal is a frequent contributor to major forums such as the Asia Pacific Regional Internet Conference on Operational Technologies (APRICOT), the Asia Pacific Network Information Centre (APNIC), the South Asian Network Operators Group (SANOG) and other regional Network Operators Groups (NOGs). Designed for network and system engineers as well as IT managers, the MyIX programme requires participants to have a basic understanding of TCP/IP, Linux command-line operations and completion of prerequisite modules from the APNIC Academy. Participants must bring their own laptops with administrative access and ensure their systems meet minimum requirements to fully participate in the lab-based exercises. 'This initiative reflects MyIX's on-going effort to build national capacity in cyber defence by investing in people,' stressed Chiew. 'Through sustained engagement with the technical community, MyIX continues to contribute to a safer, more resilient digital future for Malaysia.' Seats are limited. To register or learn more, visit – Aug 7, 2025
