In a move to cut its dependency on Nvidia‘s high-cost AI chips, Naver, the South Korean equivalent of Google, has signed a 1 trillion won ($750 million) agreement with Samsung.
The deal will see the tech giant supply its more affordable Mach-1 chips to Naver, by the end of 2024.
The Mach-1 chip, currently under development, is an AI accelerator in the form of a SoC that combines Samsung’s proprietary processors and low-power DRAM chips to reduce the bottleneck between the GPU and HBM.
Just the start
The announcement of the Mach-1 was made during Samsung’s 55th regular shareholders’ meeting. Kye Hyun Kyung, CEO of Samsung Semiconductor, said the chip design had passed technological validation on FPGAs and that finalization of SoC was in progress.
The exact volume of Mach-1 chips to be supplied and prices are still under discussion, but The Korea Economic Daily reports that Samsung intends to price the Mach-1 AI chip at around $3,756 each. The order is expected to be for somewhere between 150,000 and 200,000 units.
Naver plans to use Samsung’s Mach-1 chips to power servers for its AI map service, Naver Place. According to The Korea Economic Daily, Naver will order further Mach-1 chips if the initial batch performs as well as hoped.
Samsung sees this deal with Naver as just the start. The tech giant is reportedly in supply talks with Microsoft and Meta Platforms who, like Naver, are actively seeking to reduce their reliance on Nvidia’s AI hardware.
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With the Naver deal, Samsung is also looking to better compete with its South Korean rival SK Hynix, which is the dominant player in the advanced HBM segment. Samsung has been heavily investing in HBM recently and at the start of March announced the industry’s first 12-stack HBM3E 12H DRAM. This reportedly outperforms Micron’s 24GB 8H HBM3E in terms of capacity and bandwidth and is expected to begin shipping in Q2 this year.
The Galaxy S24 series is getting all the attention nowadays, but your Galaxy S22 series device is treating you just fine. Whether you own the base model, the Plus, or the Ultra, you’re not ready to give up on your Galaxy S22 just yet, and that’s fine by us. We think the 2022 model is still a great phone, regardless of whether it’s the Snapdragon or Exynos variant.
Nevertheless, after two years of usage, you may feel like your Galaxy S22, Galaxy S22+, or Galaxy S22 Ultra’s battery doesn’t last as long as it used to on a single charge. You want to keep using the phone and wish its battery could last as it used to.
Or perhaps the screen has too many scratches, and the frame is too scuffed. You’d like to give your Galaxy S22, S22+, or S22 Ultra a shiny new look without breaking the bank.
However, your phone is out of warranty, and you’re not sure where to start. Well, this might be just the place. Stick around, and we’ll try pointing you in the right direction for all the information you need.
What are your options to renew your Galaxy S22-series device?
Samsung offers in-store repairs in every market. In addition, in some markets like the USA, UK, Europe, India, and others, the company may also offer doorstep repair services, mail-in options, and pick-up repair services.
And if you’re a DIY enthusiast, Samsung has launched the Self-Repair program in several markets, including the USA and Europe. This option lets you buy the parts and tools you need to replace your Galaxy S22’s battery and screen yourself. Samsung also provides online instructions through its partners, such as iFixit.
You can save some money using the DIY Self-Repair program, but there’s the risk of damaging other Galaxy S22 components. It’s a risk you’ll have to decide whether or not you want to take.
Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide which repair method works best. You should be able to find more information about the repair options available in your market on Samsung’s website. Here are a few examples:
What can you repair on your Galaxy S22, S22+, and S22 Ultra?
One key thing to remember if you want to replace your Galaxy S22, S22+, or S22 Ultra’s battery or screen is that they often come together in one kit. In most markets, you can replace either your screen or the entire screen module, which includes the display, metal frame, and battery.
However, in most markets, you cannot change only the battery without the other components. The battery replacement kit usually includes the screen assembly.
As for prices, we’ll use the US market as an example. Here’s an estimate of what you should expect to pay for a screen or screen module replacement for your Galaxy S22 device if you want Samsung to do the work:
If you want to DIY and use the Self-Repair program, as of this writing, Samsung’s partner iFixit offers assemblies (display + battery + frame), with and without the tools you need for DIY repairs, for the following prices:
Galaxy S22 screen + battery + frame module for $159 / $166 with iFixit tool kit.
Galaxy S22+ screen + battery + frame for $182 / $189 with iFixit tool kit.
One last tip we have for you is that, if you go the DIY route and use Samsung’s Self-Repair program to renew your Galaxy S22, S22+, or S22 Ultra, nothing is stopping you from mixing and matching colors and creating combos that even Samsung hasn’t offered.
The repair kits for the Galaxy S22 don’t include the back panel. You can buy those separately, but let’s assume you don’t have to. Well, nobody says you can’t mix, for example, your Dark Green Galaxy S22 back panel with a Dark Gray or Pink Gold metal frame.
As long as you find the right color choices in stock for screen modules + frames, you can create dozens of color combinations that were never officially on sale for the Galaxy S22 series.
If your Steam Deck, handheld games console has been experiencing a little drift. You will be pleased to know might know the annoyance of a thumbstick that’s not working right can be easily corrected next to the help of iFixit. Joystick drift can throw off your game and make your device feel less responsive. But there’s good news: you can fix this problem yourself. The guide kindly created by the team over at iFixit will walk you through the steps to replace and calibrate the Steam Deck thumbsticks. Providing you with clear instructions, enabling you to tackle the task with ease and get back to gaming with precision.
Before you dive in, make sure you have the right tools on hand. You’ll need a couple of Phillips screwdrivers (sizes #1 and #0), some iFixit opening picks, tweezers, a spudger, and a FixMat to keep your parts organized. Safety is key, so power down your Steam Deck to below 25% battery life and switch it to battery storage mode. And don’t forget to remove your microSD card to protect your data.
The first thing you need to do is figure out which replacement thumbstick you need. Check the Steam Deck Controller ID in the system settings to see if you require a Type A or Type B thumbstick. Once you’ve got the right part, you’re ready to start the replacement process.
How to replace Steam Deck LCD Thumbsticks
Begin by taking off the Steam Deck’s back cover. This will give you access to the inside of the device. Next, remove the motherboard cover and disconnect the battery cable. This will reveal the thumbsticks. Be careful as you work on this part; you don’t want to accidentally damage other components inside your Steam Deck.
Now, it’s time to put in the new thumbsticks. Once they’re in place, you’ll need to put everything back together. Reconnect the battery cable, put the motherboard shield back on, and reattach the back cover. Make sure all the parts fit together well and are secure. The final step is to make sure the new thumbsticks work correctly. To do this, you’ll need to calibrate them. Turn on your Steam Deck and use the “thumbstick_cal” command in the Konsole app. This will help you adjust the thumbsticks so they respond accurately to your movements. By following these steps, you can replace your Steam Deck thumbsticks and get back to enjoying your games. This guide is designed to help you keep your device in top shape and ensure that you have the best gaming experience possible.
Why do thumbsticks suffer from drift?
Joystick thumbstick drift, a common issue with game controllers, occurs when the thumbstick registers input or movement without being manually moved by the user. This malfunction can significantly affect gameplay, leading to unintended actions or movements in games. The underlying causes of thumbstick drift are multifaceted, involving both physical wear and tear and design flaws.
Physical Wear and Tear: The thumbsticks on a joystick are subject to frequent and repetitive movements during gameplay. This constant use can lead to the degradation of the internal components. Specifically, the potentiometers (variable resistors) that translate the physical position of the thumbstick into electronic signals can wear down. As the potentiometers degrade, their ability to accurately measure the position of the thumbstick diminishes, resulting in drift.
Dust and Debris Accumulation: Over time, dust, debris, and other contaminants can accumulate inside the controller, particularly around the thumbstick mechanisms. These foreign particles can interfere with the contacts within the potentiometers, causing incorrect readings of the thumbstick’s position.
Design Flaws: In some cases, the design of the joystick itself can contribute to drift. For example, if the materials used for the potentiometers are not durable enough to withstand prolonged use, or if the design does not adequately protect against the ingress of dust and debris, drift can occur more readily.
Manufacturing Variabilities: Variations in manufacturing processes can also lead to drift. Even slight deviations in the alignment or assembly of the thumbstick mechanism can result in premature wear or susceptibility to drift.
Preventing or mitigating drift involves several strategies, including choosing controllers known for their durability, regular maintenance to clean out dust and debris, and, in some cases, replacing worn or defective components. Manufacturers continuously research and implement design improvements to address the issue of thumbstick drift, aiming to enhance the longevity and reliability of their controllers.
More in-depth guides are available over on the iFixit website, as well as the ability to purchase all the components and parts you need to complete the repairs whether it is the Left Thumbstick or Right Thumbstick of your Steam Deck that needs replacing.
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Google is set to introduce a new AI service called Gemini Advanced, which will replace the existing Google Bard AI search engine. This service will feature the Gemini Ultra 1.0 AI model, designed to handle complex tasks with enhanced capabilities. Gemini Advanced as expected to also includes subscription plans as well as being optimized for English but capable of responding in other languages.
The transition from Bard to Gemini is expected to occur around February 7th, 2024, as indicated by a changelog entry. Additionally, Demis Hassabis, co-founder and CEO of Google DeepMind, may appear on a podcast around the same time, potentially coinciding with the release of Gemini Advanced. Google is also integrating its AI technology into various products and services, including the Google Assistant app, which is being renamed to Gemini and may be available on select devices like the tensor-powered Pixel phones and the Galaxy S24.
At the heart of Gemini Advanced lies the Gemini Ultra 1.0 AI model, a robust system crafted to handle intricate tasks effortlessly. It shines in various domains, including coding, logical reasoning, and creative collaboration. Users stand to gain from its improved features, which not only process the English language but also cater to multiple languages, making it a tool of choice for users around the world.
Google Bard to be replaced by Gemini Advanced
Google is also updating the name of its Google Assistant app to ‘Gemini’, reflecting the company’s aim to integrate AI more fluidly into its product ecosystem. The Gemini app will be available on a variety of devices, such as the latest tensor-powered Pixel phones and the upcoming Galaxy S24, offering cutting-edge AI technology at your fingertips.
Here are some other articles you may find of interest on the subject of Google Gemini artificial intelligence :
For those looking to delve deeper into these advancements, Demis Hassabis, the co-founder and CEO of Google DeepMind, is expected to provide valuable insights during a podcast around the time Gemini Advanced is released. His thoughts are anticipated to illuminate the future direction of AI and Google’s contribution to its progress.
Beyond language processing, Google is also forging ahead in other AI domains, including image generation, text-to-video conversion, and robotics. These efforts underscore the company’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of AI and its practical uses in various industries.
Interestingly, an event backed by Peter Thiel has recently put the spotlight on research into performance-enhancing drugs for athletes. While this may seem unrelated to AI, it underscores the broader theme of technological and scientific progress aimed at augmenting human abilities.
Google’s Gemini Advanced, with the backing of the Gemini Ultra 1.0 AI model, is on the cusp of reshaping the AI field. This subscription-based service with multilingual support, along with its integration into select devices, is tailored to meet the demands of a diverse and tech-savvy clientele. Keep an eye out for the official launch and the perspectives from industry experts like Demis Hassabis, as Google continues to spearhead innovation in the realm of artificial intelligence.
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Every time a new Raspberry Pi mini PC is launched the question is always asked whether the tiny computer is capable of replacing a more powerful and much larger ” desktop PC”. Now with the launch of the more powerful Raspberry Pi 5 the question has been asked once again and ETA Prime has put the latest Raspberry Pi mini PC through its paces, asking the question ” Can the new Raspberry Pi 5 really replace your desktop PC?”
The Raspberry Pi 5, a mini PC features some impressive specifications and affordability. The Pi 5 features a 64-bit quad-core Arm Cortex-A76 processor running at 2.4GHz, which delivers a two to three times increase in CPU performance relative to the Raspberry Pi 4. This increase in processing power, coupled with an 800MHz VideoCore VII GPU, dual 4Kp60 display output over HDMI, and state-of-the-art camera support, provides a smooth desktop experience for consumers. It also opens doors to new applications for industrial customers.
Operating system
When it comes to operating systems, the Pi 5 can run a a wide variety. However the Raspberry Pi OS is a free operating system based on Debian, optimized for the Raspberry Pi hardware, and is the recommended operating system for “normal use” on a Raspberry Pi. Although the Pi 5 is also capable of running Ubuntu 23.10. This OS is recommended choice if you are considering using the Pi 5 as an everyday desktop PC, offering a more familiar and user-friendly interface.
Can the Raspberry Pi 5 be used as a daily desktop PC?
Other articles we have written that you may find of interest on the subject of Raspberry Pi 5
Performance
The Raspberry Pi 5’s storage speed is significantly improved. USB storage over the USB 3 Port is faster than using a Micro SD card. This performance enhancement is a game-changer for tasks that require high-speed data transfer. In terms of performance, the Raspberry Pi 5 can be overclocked and run from a USB drive for improved performance. This is particularly beneficial for tasks that require more processing power. However, it is worth noting that while the Raspberry Pi 5’s performance has significantly improved, it may still struggle with tasks that require a lot of CPU and GPU power, such as AAA gaming or heavy-duty workstation tasks.
Video playback
The Raspberry Pi 5 also offers improved video playback capabilities. While it may still struggle with 4K 60 playback, its performance is significantly better than its predecessors. This makes it suitable for tasks such as web browsing, video playback, document editing, and some photo editing.
Software
For software, the Gnome Software Center and Discover Software Center can be used to install applications on the Pi 5. Document editing software such as Libra Office and photo editing software like GIMP can be used on the Pi 5. For gaming enthusiasts, Steam can be used on the Raspberry Pi 5 to run some PC games, although this is still experimental and not all games will run smoothly.
Despite its impressive specifications and performance, it is important to remember that the Raspberry Pi 5 is a mini PC. While it offers a range of features and capabilities that make it a viable desktop PC replacement for certain tasks, it may not be suitable for tasks that require a lot of CPU and GPU power, such as AAA gaming or heavy-duty workstation tasks.
The Raspberry Pi 5 is a powerful mini PC that offers a range of features and capabilities that make it a viable desktop PC replacement for certain tasks. However, its performance limitations mean it may not be suitable for all tasks. Therefore, whether the Raspberry Pi 5 can serve as a real desktop PC replacement contender largely depends on the user’s needs and requirements.
Raspberry Pi 5 specifications
Broadcom BCM2712 2.4GHz quad-core 64-bit Arm Cortex-A76 CPU, with cryptography extensions, 512KB per-core L2 caches and a 2MB shared L3 cache
VideoCore VII GPU, supporting OpenGL ES 3.1, Vulkan 1.2
Dual 4Kp60 HDMI® display output with HDR support
4Kp60 HEVC decoder
LPDDR4X-4267 SDRAM (4GB and 8GB SKUs available at launch)
Dual-band 802.11ac Wi-Fi®
Bluetooth 5.0 / Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE)
microSD card slot, with support for high-speed SDR104 mode
2 × USB 3.0 ports, supporting simultaneous 5Gbps operation
2 × USB 2.0 ports
Gigabit Ethernet, with PoE+ support (requires separate PoE+ HAT)
2 × 4-lane MIPI camera/display transceivers
PCIe 2.0 x1 interface for fast peripherals (requires separate M.2 HAT or other adapter)
5V/5A DC power via USB-C, with Power Delivery support
Raspberry Pi standard 40-pin header
Real-time clock (RTC), powered from external battery
Power button
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Hex Evo has been specifically designed to allow you to remove the need for your left hand to use a keyboard while gaming. Providing a wealth of functionality in a left-handed controller that can be used in conjunction with your mouse on your right hand.
The Hex Evo left hand gaming controller has been specifically designed to replace the WASD keys on your keyboard when gaming, offering a new mouse-and-controller setup specifically created to enhance your gaming experience. The Hex Evo combines the precision of mouse aim with the freedom of controller movement.
This unique combination provides a seamless gaming experience, allowing for more precise control and maneuverability. The controller features a true analog stick and 22 mappable inputs, which can be customized to suit the player’s preferences for in-game actions. This level of customization provides an unparalleled gaming experience, with the ability to execute complex actions at the touch of a button.
You replace your WASD keys
Early bird deals are now available for the avant-garde project from roughly $86 or £73 (depending on current exchange rates), offering a considerable discount of approximately 25% off the established retail price, while the Indiegogo crowd funding is under way.
One of the standout features of the Hex Evo is its ergonomic design. This design allows gamers to play comfortably from any position, be it sitting or lying down. This is a significant improvement over traditional keyboard setups that often require a specific posture for optimal gameplay. The Hex Evo includes an analog stick, four top buttons, two bumper buttons, and a side button, known as the ‘Shift Key’ button. This ‘Shift Key’ button adds a new dimension to gameplay, enabling a secondary action for all other buttons, allowing for 14 different inputs.
Hex Evo left hand gaming controller
The Hex Evo also boasts compatibility with both consoles (PS4/PS5, Xbox One/ Xbox Series X) and PCs (Windows, Mac), making it a versatile addition to any gaming setup. The controller’s buttons and analog stick have two different input modes: controller mode and keyboard mode. This flexibility allows players to switch between modes depending on the game they are playing or their personal preference.
If the Hex Evo campaign successfully raises its required pledge goal and production progresses smoothly, worldwide shipping is expected to take place sometime around August 2024. To learn more about the Hex Evo WASD left hand gaming controller project sift the promotional video below.
22 programmable inputs
The Hex Evo is also customizable, with proprietary software allowing users to configure the controller according to their preferences and needs. This software includes features such as creating custom keymap profiles, configuring button functions, and checking battery percentage level. This level of customization allows players to tailor the Hex Evo to their unique gaming style, enhancing their overall gaming experience.
One of the significant advantages of the Hex Evo is its repairability. The controller is designed to be easy to access and repair, with official replacement modules available for purchase. This feature extends the life of the controller, making it a cost-effective choice for gamers.
Finally, the Hex Evo is compact and portable, taking up less space than a traditional keyboard. An Evo Case with removable foam inserts is available to securely transport the Hex Evo and a mouse. This compact design makes the Hex Evo a perfect choice for gamers on the go, ensuring they can enjoy their favorite games wherever they are.
The Hex Evo left hand gaming controller offers a wealth of features designed to enhance the gaming experience. Its combination of mouse precision and controller freedom, customizable settings, ergonomic design, and repairability make it a standout choice in the gaming industry. With the Hex Evo, the future of gaming is in your hands.
For a complete list of all available project pledges, stretch goals, extra media and quality standards for the WASD left hand gaming controller, jump over to the official Hex Evo crowd funding campaign page by checking out the link below.
Source : Indiegogo
Disclaimer: Participating in Kickstarter campaigns involves inherent risks. While many projects successfully meet their goals, others may fail to deliver due to numerous challenges. Always conduct thorough research and exercise caution when pledging your hard-earned money.
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