Google has finally launched its long-awaited Find My Device network after . The technology leverages a crowdsourced network of over a billion Android devices to help people locate lost gadgets, with a basic functionality in line with similar offerings from Apple and Tile. It’s rolling out today to Android users in the US and Canada, with a global release coming soon.
Once installed, people can use the app to locate compatible Android phones and tablets. The tool will cause them to ring at your command and their location will pop up on a map. This map data works even if the items are offline. Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro smartphones will appear on the map if they’re powered off or if the battery is completely dead. That sounds pretty handy.
The technology isn’t yet available for everyday items, but that’s coming soon. Bluetooth tracker tags from Chipolo and Pebblebee will get integrated into the Find My Device app in May. This will let users locate just about anything, including car keys, purses, wallets and, hopefully, . The upcoming tags are being built specifically for the network.
Google
The Pebblebee offerings include tags, clips and slim cards for wallets. They hit store shelves in late May or early June. Chipolo is making versions of its One Point and Card Point trackers for Android devices, which will arrive in May. Google says more trackers are coming later this year, including products made by Motorola and eufy.
Google’s Find My Device service also integrates with Nest smart home gadgets. If you lose something in the home, the Find My Device app will show you the location of the item in relation to pre-existing Nest devices. This should help provide an “easy reference point” to snatch them back up.
Finally, there’s a nifty feature that lets you share the location of an item with other people, so friends and family can keep an eye on precious belongings. Google says it’ll let folks “easily divide and conquer if something goes missing.”
The new Find My Device tracking technology works on devices running Android 9 and above. That OS came out in 2018, so it means a whole lot of people will have access to this service. As for compatible products beyond Android devices and Bluetooth tags, the company says future software updates will allow integration with a full range of headphones from JBL and Sony.
Of course, there are the usual privacy concerns with this kind of thing. Google says that users can opt out of the service via a web portal if they feel uncomfortable, . Reports indicate that the technology has been ready for a while, but Google delayed it until Apple implemented tracking protections into iOS to . To that end, both companies to develop industry standards to fight the misuse of tracking devices. Apple applied updated protections against stalking in iOS 17.5, which is still in beta.
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Google today began letting Android customers know that it will soon launch a promised Android-based Find My Device network, reports 9to5Google. Google announced the upcoming Find My feature last year, but it has not yet debuted because Apple and Google were working to develop a cross-platform solution for unwanted tracking alerts.
Code in iOS 17.5 suggests that Apple is adding support for discovering nearby third-party item trackers and alerting iPhone owners when one has been located. “You can disable this item and stop it from sharing its location with the owner. To do this, follow the instructions provided on a website by the manufacturer of this item,” reads some of the code.
With Apple likely planning to add alerts for third-party trackers in iOS 17.5, Google is clear to launch its new Find My Device network, which will allow Android smartphones to be used to locate lost phones, Bluetooth trackers, headphones, and other accessories.
Apple and Google first announced plans for an industry tracker specification in May 2023, with the aim of putting an end to the misuse of Bluetooth item trackers for tracking individuals. Both companies have been working to implement AirTag-style tracking alerts so people will know when a tracker of any kind is nearby.
After Apple launched the Find My network alongside AirTags, there were countless news stories and reports of criminals using AirTags for stalking purposes, leading Apple to make several changes to unwanted tracker alerts. iPhones were initially able to identify nearby AirTags and alert customers if they were being used for stalking purposes, but Android devices could not. Apple remedied this with a Tracker Detect app for Android, but the partnership with Google will allow for a more permanent and reliable solution that will work regardless of device.
Google says that the Find My Device network will let Android users find their devices even when offline, and it will work with compatible Fast Pair accessories as well as Android-based electronics. Google plans to launch the network early next week.
While the iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max are still months away from launching, there are already over a dozen rumors about the devices. Below, we have recapped new features and changes expected for the devices so far. These are some of the key changes rumored for the iPhone 16 Pro models as of April 2024:Larger displays: The iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max will be equipped with large…
A first look at iOS 18’s rumored visionOS-style redesign may have been revealed by a new image of the Camera app. Alleged iOS 18 design resource. MacRumors received the above iPhone frame template from an anonymous source who claims they obtained it from an iOS engineer. It will allegedly be included as part of the Apple Design Resources for iOS 18, which helps developers visually design apps …
Apple is exploring various “personal robotics” projects in an effort to create its “next big thing,” according to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman. Amazon’s Astro robot One of these projects is described as a “mobile robot” that would “follow users around their homes,” while another is said to be an “advanced table-top home device that uses robotics to move a display around”:Engineers at Apple have…
Nearly one year after it launched in the U.S., the Apple Card’s high-yield savings account will be receiving its first-ever interest rate decrease. Starting on April 3, the Apple Card savings account’s annual percentage yield (APY) will be lowered to 4.4%, according to data on Apple’s backend discovered by MacRumors contributor Aaron Perris. The account currently has a 4.5% APY. 4.4% will …
Apple has yet to release the first beta of iOS 17.5 for the iPhone, but two changes are already expected with the upcoming software update. iOS 17.5 will likely allow iPhone users in the EU to download apps directly from the websites of eligible developers, and the update might include some changes to how Apple ID recovery contacts work. More details about these potential changes follow. W…
Apple today added a handful of devices to its public-facing vintage and obsolete products list, including some older iPhone and iPad models. Apple now considers the iPhone 6 Plus to be “obsolete” worldwide, meaning that Apple Stores and Apple Authorized Service Providers no longer offer repairs or other hardware service for the device. Apple says it considers a product “obsolete” once seven…
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Apple researchers have developed an artificial intelligence system named ReALM (Reference Resolution as Language Modeling) that aims to radically enhance how voice assistants understand and respond to commands. In a research paper (via VentureBeat), Apple outlines a new system for how large language models tackle reference resolution, which involves deciphering ambiguous references to…
Google‘s new Android Find My Device network has started slowly rolling out, according to some users – and that finally opens up the possibility of some Apple AirTags rivals landing on the platform for tracking your lost belongings.
As spotted by Android tipster @Assembledebug on X (formerly Twitter), Google has seemingly started rolling out its new Find My Device network on some devices in the latest Google Play Service beta (version 24.12.14, below).
So far, this rollout appears to be very limited and also isn’t a full release of the feature, which Google announced way back at Google IO 2023. While a new settings page for the Find My Device network has appeared for these early users, they don’t yet have the option of opting into the service.
(Image credit: @AssembleDebug)
But this is still a significant moment for anyone who’s been patiently waiting for AIrTags equivalents to arrive on Android. Like its Apple rival, Google’s new Find My Device network will anonymously leverage millions of Android devices around the world (assuming they’ve opted in) to help you track down offline devices and accessories.
Like on recent iPhones, this offline tracking works by keeping your phone’s Bluetooth beacon signal active even when the handset is shut down. But the offline tracking feature may not work on every Android device – earlier rumors have suggested that the full Find My Device network will start by rolling out on the Google Pixel 9 (and possibly the Pixel 8) with Android 15.
So, what happens next? This slow rollout will likely continue until Google IO 2024 on May 14, when we can expect to hear more about Android’s promising tracking network – and hopefully, some new third-party trackers from Tile and Chipolo.
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How will it work?
(Image credit: Google)
Your Android phone already has a limited Find My Device service, which lets you find your phone if it’s nearby and connected to the internet. Google’s new network promises to be a massive upgrade by anonymously leveraging millions of Android phones to help track down your lost devices – much like Apple’s Find My network.
Apple calls this its “crowdsourced network of hundreds of millions of Apple devices”, but Android’s network could potentially be even bigger. It’ll also benefit from the cross-platform alerts that Google and Apple announced to “combat the misuse of Bluetooth location-tracking devices”.
The question is when we’ll see Google AirTags, or at least Google’s first-party equivalent of the trackers that can be attached to your belongings. Given this apparent rollout of the Find My Device network, our money is on some news at Google IO 2024, as we’ve previously heard rumors about a Google tracking device codenamed ‘Grogu’.
Given that makers of third-party brands like Tile, Chipolo and Pebblebee are all supporting the industry standard partnership between Apple and Google on Bluetooth trackers, we may see some Android-flavored versions of their tracking devices at the same time, too.
We love to give practical buying advice on the latest gadgets here at TechRadar. But sometimes what we love even more is to indulge in the most ridiculous, high-end, cutting-edge, luxurious tech on the planet. That’s what we bring you in these Money no Object columns – you can read the whole series here.
You’ve got an audio system you’re very pleased with, because it sounds great and it looks the part. But it’s of a certain vintage, and you’d like to get into a bit of digital audio streaming because, well, the more sources of music the merrier, right? So what can you do?
The obvious thing is to make sure you’ve got a spare analogue input on your amplifier and then start researching the best music streamers around. There are some pretty tasty devices out there, after all – techradar.com itself is a big admirer of Cambridge’s Audio’s new CXN100 streamer, but it’s far from your only option.
But we all know what happens when you start investigating new equipment. Sometimes the budget you’ve set yourself goes out the window. Sometimes a new ‘this’ makes you think you really need a new ‘that’, and maybe you should think about upgrading ‘the other’ while you’re at it. Before you know it you’ve overhauled your entire system and there’s smoke coming off your credit card.
Technics has what could conceivably be described as ‘a solution’. The beautiful, beautifully built SL-G700M2 is ‘a solution’, all right – if that means combining high-resolution digital audio streaming capabilities, a fistful of wired and wireless inputs, and an optical disc-drive capable of dealing with super audio compact discs (as well as the more humble CD) into a single box, anyway.
Technics SL-G700M2: what is it?
According to Technics, the SL-G700M2 is a ‘network/super audio CD player’. What this means, in practice, is that it’s ‘a bit of everything’.
As far as physical media is concerned, there’s that optical disc drive front and centre of the fascia. From high-resolution super audio compact discs (or SACDs; they were a thing once, honestly) and MQA-CD to HDCD, CD-RW and common-or-garden CDs, the Technics is ready and able to deal with your legacy disc collection no matter how esoteric the specific format. This certainly separates it from the Hegel Viking we covered in these regular Money No Object slots recently – a $5,000 / £4,500 (around AU$7,925) disc player that does just one job: play CDs. That’s correct, the Hegel Viking is a high-end CD player that won’t play SACDs or DVD-Audio discs and has no built-in streaming capability.
Back to the Technics and there’s a USB-A slot on the fascia too, just next to the 6.3mm headphone socket, and a USB-B input on the rear of the machine – so thumb-drives and connection to a laptop or what-have-you are available.
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The rear panel also has digital optical and digital coaxial inputs, in case you have external equipment you wish to route through in order to take advantage of the SL-G700M2’s ‘coherent processing’ -assisted digital-to-analogue conversion circuitry. There’s an Ethernet socket too, for optimal network stability.
As far as outputs are concerned, in addition to that headphone socket there is a pair of unbalanced stereo RCA outputs and a pair of balanced XLRs. So connection to pretty much any worthwhile amplifier is assured.
It’s a lot more connectivity than you’d expect from a CD player… (Image credit: Future)
The rear panel also hosts a couple of short aerials, because naturally enough the Technics has wireless connectivity available too. Dual-band wi-fi allows for network connection, Apple AirPlay 2, Chromecast, and Spotify Connect – all other worthwhile music streaming services are available, of course, via their native apps. Internet radio is on board, and if push comes to shove you can also use Bluetooth – although it’s ‘just’ 4.2 and ‘only’ compatible with SBC and AAC codecs.
On the inside, Technics has deployed the same power-supply arrangement, that splits dedicated feeds to the analogue and digital sections, that first saw service in its super-pricey ‘Reference Class’ range of products. It’s designed to reduce noise on the supply feed, particularly on the analogue side.
And there’s also that ‘coherent processing’ technology, of course. The player’s ESS ES9026PRO DAC chipset is bolstered by an additional stage in the digital signal path that attempts to negate the artefacts such as changes in gain or phase that are the inevitable result of digital filtering. The system is switchable in the control app, so you can decide for yourself if you think it’s worth deploying or not.
The player can be control by using the remote control handset that accompanies it, or the ‘AUdio Center’ control app. The remote is on the big side, but at least that means it doesn’t have any undersized buttons – and it covers pretty much every eventuality. The app is rather underwhelming, though; it’s not very thorough, nothing special to look at, and it can’t even set the device up in the first place. You have to use Google Home to get up and running – but that does at least mean the SL-G700M2 works with Google Assistant.
Aside from the obvious – the breadth of its functionality – there are a couple of things that make the Technics special. There’s the way it sounds, and the way it’s built.
Taking the second of those things first, there’s just no arguing with the way the SL-G700M2 is built or finished, or with the materials it’s built from. In every area, this looks and feels like a premium device. The aluminium side-panels are 3mm thick, and the fascia is a full 7mm thick – which allows the ‘Technics’ logo to be engraved on its top left, which is a seriously classy touch. The disc-tray is made of die-cut aluminium too, and slides with the sort of well-damped precision that encourages you to open and close it even if you don’t want to load a disc. The fascia controls all feel good and operate with real positivity, especially the ‘turn/push’ multi-control dial. Everything is put together flawlessly. Only the rather rudimentary monochrome display undermines the luxurious impression.
Most of all, though, the Technics SL-G700M2 sounds an absolute treat – and that’s the case no matter how you get digital audio information into it or, to a slightly lesser extent, the size and quality of the digital audio content you use.
Obviously, some properly hi-res stuff is what the Technics likes most of all – and given that its DAC is capable of dealing with all popular file types of up to 32bit/384kHz and DSD256, properly hi-res stuff can certainly be dealt with. And if you pander to it to this extent, the SL-G700M2 is an intermittently thrilling listen.
It’s no lapel-grabber, the Technics, and isn’t about to try and make every recording the most exciting thing you ever heard. It’s altogether more judicious and considered than that, preferring to get out of the way of the music as much as possible. Yes, it digs deep into the frequency range and punches with proper determination where bass information is concerned – but it’s not overblown or showy. If there’s detail there relating to tone, texture or harmonic variation, it will report on it – but it’s not going to make a song and dance about doing so.
It communicates with real eloquence through the midrange, and can organise and control a soundstage so effectively that any vocalist occupying the middle of the frequency range gets plenty of space in which to express themselves. High-frequency information is served up with real positivity, and the SL-G700M2 has plenty of substance to go along with its top-end drive and attack. The frequency range hangs together neatly, and the stage is wide and deep enough for even very complex recordings to be laid out horizontally rather than the information be piled up vertically. It’s an easy-to-follow device, and is tonally balanced and naturalistic too.
Dynamic headroom is considerable, so changes in intensity or simple volume are tracked fully. Rhythmic expression is very decent too, so recordings never get bogged down or tripped up by their own low-frequency response. And there’s a definite sense of ‘musicality’ to the way the Technics operates overall – which is not something that can be said for every source of digital music, no matter how much it costs.
A thing of beauty and a joy to listen to… (Image credit: Future)
Technics SL-G700M2: is it worth it?
Context, of course, is everything. At £2899 (so, somewhere in the region of $3,650 or AU$5,599), the Technics SL-G700M2 is no one’s idea of a bargain, even if it does have fair bit more functionality than the majority of digital music streamers. So it’s important that it’s integrated into a system of similarly accomplished partners that’s something like proportionate where value/cost is concerned.
As long as it’s working with appropriately talented amplification and loudspeakers, though, there’s not much else to concern yourself with. As with every piece of audio electronics, a degree of system-matching is in order – in this instance, I’d suggest the SL-G700M2 won’t thank you for incorporating it in a set-up that’s already lively where the top of the frequency range is concerned. The Technics is assertive enough when it comes to treble response, and similar top-end confidence in the rest of the system could well end up in too much of a good thing.
Other than that, though, there are very few downsides to Technics SL-G700M2 ownership. Unless youre expecting a state-of-the-art control app, that is…
Asustor has this week introduced the Drivestor 2 Lite, an entry-level NAS designed for home or small office use. The Drivestor Pro Gen 2 NAS, is powered by a Realtek RTD1619B Quad-Core CPU with a 1.7 GHz frequency, which enhances both CPU and GPU performance. The Pro Gen 2 offers network speeds up to 2.5 Gbps in compatible networking environments.
Both models support Btrfs file system, allowing users to create snapshots for real-time data protection and recovery, particularly from ransomware attacks. Asustor emphasizes the importance of data safety and security through these features. Additionally, both NAS storage devices come with a three-year warranty.
At the core of the Drivestor 2 Lite is a Realtek RTD1619B Quad-Core CPU, which operates at a speed of 1.7 GHz, supported by supported by 1GB of RAM of DDR44 RAM. This processor is the powerhouse behind the device, ensuring that both the central processing unit and the graphics processing unit perform at their best. What this means for you is that you can expect smooth multitasking and media playback, without any hiccups or slowdowns. Whether you’re streaming videos or backing up large files, the Drivestor 2 Lite is designed to keep up with your workload.
Drivestor 2 Lite NAS
In the digital world, speed is everything. The Drivestor 2 Lite shines in this aspect, with network capabilities that support data transfer speeds of up to 2.5 Gbps. This is especially important when you’re dealing with large files or need quick access to your data. With such rapid transfer rates, you can rest assured that your operations will run efficiently, saving you time and frustration.
But speed isn’t the only priority. The integrity of your data is paramount, and the Drivestor 2 Lite takes this seriously. It uses the Btrfs file system, which is known for its robust approach to data protection. One of the key features of this file system is snapshot technology. This allows you to take a ‘snapshot’ of your data at specific points in time, so you can easily roll back to a previous state if something goes wrong, such as accidental deletions or a ransomware attack. It’s like having a time machine for your data, providing peace of mind that your information is safe.
Backing up your data is crucial, and the Drivestor 2 Lite has you covered with a range of comprehensive backup solutions. These options ensure that your files are not just protected but also easily retrievable in case of an emergency. It’s like having an insurance policy for your digital assets, giving you the confidence that your data won’t be lost even if disaster strikes.
Asustor stands behind the quality of its products, and this is evident in the three-year warranty that comes with the Drivestor 2 Lite. This warranty is a statement of the company’s belief in the durability and performance of its storage solutions. It offers you an extra layer of security, knowing that your investment is protected for years to come.
To sum it up, the Asustor Drivestor 2 Lite NAS is a robust and secure storage solution that excels in performance and reliability. With its powerful CPU, high-speed network capabilities, advanced data protection features, and versatile backup options, it’s equipped to handle the storage needs of today’s digital landscape. And with the added reassurance of a three-year warranty, you can trust that your data is in good hands. Whether you’re a home user or running a small office, the Drivestor 2 Lite is ready to serve as the cornerstone of your data management strategy. Here are some other articles you may find of interest on the subject of network attached storage solutions :
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If your network could do with a little upgrading, you might be interested in a tutorial created by SpaceRex on how to upgrade a network to 25GbE with transfer speeds of 1.7 GBs. The introduction of 25 gigabit Ethernet (GbE) technology is a significant step forward, offering data transfer rates that can reach an impressive 1.7 gigabytes per second (GB/s).
This leap in speed is particularly beneficial for businesses that rely heavily on the rapid exchange of data, such as those in the video production industry or data-centric enterprises where every second counts. I have personally found that connecting network attached storage (NAS) to the fastest connection you can afford makes all the difference when moving large files and future proofs your system. Improving productivity and keeping downtime to a minimum.
At the core of this technological advancement is the 25GbE card, priced at around $600 that has become indispensable for users who are eager to tap into these faster transfer speeds. The Twin25G manufactured by Sonnet, is key to achieving the remarkable 1.7GB/s rate, marking the fulfillment of a long-held goal in the tech community. However, it’s important to note that utilizing this technology isn’t as simple as plugging in the card. It requires a deep understanding of network hardware and a meticulous configuration process to ensure everything works smoothly. Which might not be perfect for every situation or person.
Adds High-performance 25GbE Connectivity
Two SFP28 Transceivers Included
Backward Compatible with 10GbE Infrastructure
Mac, Windows, and Linux Compatible (See Product Page Tech Specs for Latest Compatibility Info)
Great for Use in Thunderbolt Expansion Systems
2-year Product Warranty
To reach these high-speeds, a 25GbE card is just one piece of the puzzle. A complete setup also involves the use of fiber optic cables, which have the capacity to transmit data at the speed of light, and Direct Attach Copper (DAC) cables, which are best suited for transferring data quickly over shorter distances. Another critical component is the UniFi Pro Aggregation Switch, which is designed to merge multiple network connections and thus boost the flow of data.
25GbE with transfer speeds of 1.7 GBs
Learn more about upgrading or setting up a 25GbE network from SpaceRex who takes you through everything you need to consider and the hardware components you will require.
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The network’s seamless communication is further ensured by SFP28 transceivers and LC connectors. These small but vital components maintain the integrity of the high-speed data transmission, ensuring that the network operates without hiccups.
Another way to optimize network efficiency is by enabling Jumbo Frames. These Ethernet frames can carry more data in each packet compared to standard frames, which reduces overhead and enhances the efficiency of data transfers.
For macOS users looking to set up this high-speed network, there are a couple of options. Those with Macs that come with PCI slots will find the installation process to be quite straightforward. On the other hand, for Macs that lack PCI slots, a Thunderbolt to PCI adapter can serve as a viable solution, allowing these users to also benefit from the increased network speeds.
When put to the test in real-world scenarios, the network upgrade has proven its worth, with data transfer speeds reaching up to 1.6GB/s. With some additional tweaking, it’s even possible to surpass the 2GB/s mark. This performance isn’t just noteworthy; it’s a transformative force for businesses that depend on fast data transfer to stay competitive and efficient.
Despite the clear advantages of the 25GbE upgrade, it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. The complexity of the setup and the specific hardware requirements mean that it’s best suited for situations where the need for speed is critical and the investment in both time and equipment can be justified.
The 25GbE network upgrade is ushering in a new era in data transfer. With speeds that were once out of reach now within grasp, businesses that handle large volumes of data have a lot to gain. However, it’s crucial to approach this upgrade with a solid understanding of the technical requirements and a commitment to a careful setup and ongoing fine-tuning. For those who are ready to take on these challenges, the rewards are clear: a faster, more efficient network that can keep up with the demands of modern business operations.
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Sam Altman, the visionary head of OpenAI,, is spearheading an ambitious initiative poised to revolutionize the technology landscape. His goal is to establish a global network of factories dedicated to producing the specialized silicon processors—the brains behind artificial intelligence. These processors are essential for powering advanced technologies from smarter phones to self-driving cars, marking a significant leap forward in AI capabilities.
This project, with an estimated cost between $5 and $7 trillion, aims not only to advance OpenAI’s technological base but also to catalyze a global shift towards more sophisticated AI applications. Altman’s strategy involves partnering with industry giants, including the Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC), leveraging their expertise to operationalize these advanced manufacturing hubs. These factories are envisioned to be at the forefront of semiconductor technology, producing chips for a wide array of companies eager to harness AI’s full potential.
The initiative emerges against the backdrop of a global chip shortage that has underscored the fragility of the current semiconductor supply chain, heavily reliant on a few key providers like TSMC. This shortage, exacerbated by geopolitical tensions, particularly between Taiwan and China, has prompted significant moves to diversify production and mitigate risks. The U.S. government, recognizing the strategic importance of semiconductor independence, has blocked certain tech transactions and invested in domestic semiconductor R&D, complementing TSMC’s commitment to build a $40 billion chip plant in the United States.
OpenAI AI Silicon Processors
Altman’s vision transcends merely addressing the current chip shortage. It represents a foundational shift towards diversifying chip production globally, reducing the geopolitical risk currently concentrated in the semiconductor industry. This strategic expansion is crucial as AI becomes increasingly integrated into every aspect of our lives, from healthcare to transportation, necessitating reliable and powerful semiconductors.
Financing this colossal venture poses a significant challenge, with Altman and his team in discussions with potential investors capable of supporting such a groundbreaking initiative. Beyond financial investment, the project requires global cooperation and alignment with the vision of a future where AI chips are ubiquitously manufactured worldwide, fostering a new era of technological innovation and independence.
The implications of Altman’s project extend far beyond the current technological landscape. By laying the groundwork for the next generation of AI technologies, this initiative not only aims to solve the immediate issues of chip shortages and geopolitical dependencies but also sets the stage for a future where AI’s potential can be fully realized, ensuring the tech industry can meet the growing demands of AI applications.
However, navigating the intricate web of political and financial challenges remains a formidable task. The endeavor is set against a complex backdrop of international politics and economic considerations, where the strategic importance of semiconductor manufacturing has become a focal point of global attention. As Altman’s project moves forward, it will require careful negotiation and strategic partnerships to realize this bold vision for a technologically empowered future.
Sam Altman’s project is not just an ambitious venture; it’s a visionary leap towards redefining the global semiconductor industry, promising to usher in a new era of technology that could fundamentally change how we interact with the world around us. With high stakes and the world watching, the success of this initiative could signal the dawn of an unprecedented technological age.
Source : Toms Hardware
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Jeff Geerling has published an interesting tutorial revealing how he has built a Network Attached Storage (NAS) system that balances power efficiency with strong performance can be a highly satisfying endeavor. At the heart of such a system, is a ASRock Rack ALTRAD8UD-1L2T Motherboard . This motherboard is energized by an Ampere CPU that boasts 32 cores, similar to those used in AWS Graviton processors. This combination is particularly appealing for those who are somewhat familiar with technology and are eager to construct a dependable NAS setup.
The ASRock Rack motherboard is designed with a “deep microATX” form factor, which provides more room for additional components than a standard microATX board. This extra space is crucial for a NAS that needs to be both expandable and efficient. The motherboard’s 2U cooler is tailor-made to keep the Ampere Ultra Q32 CPU at the ideal temperature, ensuring the system runs smoothly and lasts a long time.
When it comes to a NAS, the variety of ways it can connect to other devices is key to its success. The ASRock Rack motherboard comes with a suite of connectivity options, including PCIe slots for expansion cards, DDR4 RAM slots, SAS and Oculink connectors for different storage devices, M.2 slots for SSDs, and 10 Gigabit Ethernet ports for fast network connections. These features allow you to customize your NAS to meet your specific requirements, making sure it can grow and adapt as needed.
How to build an ARM NAS
The NAS will be equipped with 64GB of DDR4 ECC RAM, which helps maintain data accuracy by correcting errors. For the system’s boot drive, a Kioxia XG8 NVMe SSD has been chosen for its speed and dependability. The storage capacity is impressive, combining six 20TB Seagate Exos drives with four 8TB Samsung SSDs, offering over 150TB of total storage space.
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For the NAS’s housing, the HL5 chassis from 45Drives has been selected for its exceptional quality. Although it comes at a premium, the chassis is expected to provide lasting durability, making it a worthwhile investment. The motherboard, while intended for enterprise use, is a cost-effective option when compared to typical enterprise solutions, offering a good balance between price and performance.
The installation begins with mounting the motherboard inside the HL5 chassis. Next, you’ll connect the power supply, which is essential for providing consistent power to all the components. Then, you install the RAM and the cooling solutions, including the 2U cooler for the CPU.
Once the system is powered on for the first time, it’s crucial to troubleshoot to ensure that the RAM is detected properly and that the system boots without issues. With these steps confirmed, you’ll move on to install Rocky Linux, an operating system compatible with ARM64, which sets the foundation for your NAS.
This guide has provided a walkthrough for creating an ARM-based NAS that is not only power-efficient but also robust and versatile. It offers a wide range of connectivity options and a significant amount of storage capacity. Stay tuned for a follow-up article where the network storage performance of this build will be evaluated in detail.
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For enthusiasts and professionals working with the latest Raspberry Pi 5, managing power sources and cables can be a hassle, especially when setting up multiple units or working in areas with limited access to power outlets. The Waveshare PoE HAT emerges as a practical solution to these challenges, offering a way to power your Raspberry Pi 5 using just an Ethernet cable. This innovative accessory not only simplifies your workspace by eliminating the need for separate power supplies but also enhances the functionality and reliability of your Raspberry Pi projects.
The Waveshare PoE HAT is tailor-made for the Raspberry Pi 5, matching perfectly with its new four-pin power header. This ensures a smooth and secure connection between the HAT and the Raspberry Pi, making it an ideal choice for those who prioritize a clean and organized setup. The device is especially useful in situations where power outlets are hard to come by, or when you want to maintain a neat arrangement of your tech gear.
Raspberry Pi 5 PoE HAT
One of the key advantages of the Waveshare PoE HAT is its ability to not only power the Raspberry Pi itself but also support additional peripherals. This includes high-performance components like an NVMe SSD, which can be powered without compromising the system’s stability. This feature is particularly beneficial for users who require extra storage or enhanced capabilities for their projects.
Effective thermal management is crucial for maintaining the performance of any computing device, and the Waveshare PoE HAT addresses this need with its built-in cooling solutions. It comes equipped with thermal pads and a heat sink that work together to dissipate heat from vital areas such as the processor and RAM. Additionally, a 5V fan is included to provide active cooling, which is essential during demanding tasks that can cause the Raspberry Pi to heat up.
The versatility of the Waveshare PoE HAT extends to its power delivery capabilities. It features a 12V header for powering external devices and can supply a robust 4.5 amps through the 5V GPIO pins. This allows users to connect and power a wide array of components, expanding the potential uses of their Raspberry Pi setup.
Setting up the Waveshare PoE HAT is a breeze. Simply attach it to your Raspberry Pi 5, connect an Ethernet cable from a PoE-enabled switch or injector, and your device is ready to go. However, it’s important to note that the dimensions of the HAT may not fit the official Raspberry Pi 5 case, so you might need to consider alternative housing options.
In terms of performance, the Waveshare PoE HAT stands out for its ability to maintain voltage stability and prevent throttling. This means that your projects can run smoothly and without interruption, even when the Raspberry Pi is under a heavy load. This stability is essential for ensuring that your projects are not only operational but also reliable over time.
For those who manage multiple Raspberry Pi units, the ability to control power remotely via a managed PoE switch is incredibly convenient. This feature simplifies the maintenance of uptime and power cycles, allowing you to manage your devices from a distance with ease.
The Waveshare PoE HAT also includes a safety feature in the form of USB current limiting. This protects your Raspberry Pi from potential overloads that could arise from connecting power-hungry USB devices. If your project requires more power, this limit can be overridden, providing you with the flexibility to meet the demands of more intensive tasks.
Overall, the Waveshare PoE HAT for Raspberry Pi 5 stands as a reliable and efficient power solution for your computing needs. It offers a combination of ample power supply, effective cooling, and the added convenience of remote power management. Whether you’re working with a single Raspberry Pi or an array of devices, this PoE HAT is a smart choice for keeping your projects powered and running smoothly. With its thoughtful design and robust features, it’s a valuable addition to any Raspberry Pi user’s toolkit.
Filed Under: Hardware, Top News
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The Bluesky social network launched last year and the service was only available on an invite basis now the company has announced that it is now open to anyone, and you can now sign up for an account.
When you log in to Bluesky, it might look and feel familiar — the user experience should be straightforward. But under the hood, we’ve designed the app in a way that puts control back in your hands. Here, your experience online isn’t controlled by a single company. Whether it’s your timeline or content filters, on Bluesky, you can easily customize your social experience.
This month, we’ll be rolling out an experimental early version of “federation,” or the feature that makes the network so open and customizable. On Bluesky, you’ll have the freedom to choose (and the right to leave) instead of being held to the whims of private companies or black box algorithms. And wherever you go, your friends and relationships can go with you.
For developers: We’ve already federated the network among multiple servers internally, and later this month, you’ll be able to self-host a server that connects to the main production network. You’ll be part of the first batch of servers that federate with the network, so expect to experiment alongside us! We’ll share more information on how to join the production network with your own server soon.
You can find out more information about the new Bluesky Social Network over at the company’s website at the link below, ity is now available to sign up to without an invite.
Source BlueSky
Filed Under: Technology News
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