Key Takeaways Meta and Yandex have been found guilty of secretly listening to localhost ports and using them to transfer sensitive data from Android devices. The corporations use Meta Pixel and Yandex Metrica scripts to transfer cookies from browsers to local apps. Using incognito mode or a VPN can’t fully protect users against it. A Meta spokesperson has called this a ‘miscommunication,’ which seems to be an attempt to underplay the situation. Denmark’s Ministry of Digitalization has recently announced that it will leave the Microsoft ecosystem in favor of Linux and other open-source software. Minister Caroline Stage Olsen revealed this in an interview with Politiken, the country’s leading newspaper. According to Olsen, the Ministry plans to switch half of its employees to Linux and LibreOffice by summer, and the rest by fall. The announcement comes after Denmark’s largest cities – Copenhagen and Aarhus – made similar moves earlier this month. Why the Danish Ministry of Digitalization Switched to Open-Source Software The three main reasons Denmark is moving away from Microsoft are costs, politics, and security. In the case of Aarhus, the city was able to slash its annual costs from 800K kroner to just 225K by replacing Microsoft with a German service provider.  The same is a pain point for Copenhagen, which saw its costs on Microsoft balloon from 313M kroner in 2018 to 538M kroner in 2023. It’s also part of a broader move to increase its digital sovereignty. In her LinkedIn post, Olsen further explained that the strategy is not about isolation or digital nationalism, adding that they should not turn their backs completely on global tech companies like Microsoft.  Instead, it’s about avoiding being too dependent on these companies, which could prevent them from acting freely. Then there’s politics. Since his reelection earlier this year, US President Donald Trump has repeatedly threatened to take over Greenland, an autonomous territory of Denmark.  In May, the Danish Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen summoned the US ambassador regarding news that US spy agencies have been told to focus on the territory. If the relationship between the two countries continues to erode, Trump can order Microsoft and other US tech companies to cut off Denmark from their services. After all, Microsoft and Facebook’s parent company Meta, have close ties to the US president after contributing $1M each for his inauguration in January. Denmark Isn’t Alone: Other EU Countries Are Making Similar Moves Denmark is only one of the growing number of European Union (EU) countries taking measures to become more digitally independent. Germany’s Federal Digital Minister Karsten Wildberger emphasized the need to be more independent of global tech companies during the re:publica internet conference in May. He added that IT companies in the EU have the opportunity to create tech that is based on the region’s values. Meanwhile, Bert Hubert, a technical advisor to the Dutch Electoral Council, wrote in February that ‘it is no longer safe to move our governments and societies to US clouds.’ He said that America is no longer a ‘reliable partner,’ making it risky to have the data of European governments and businesses at the mercy of US-based cloud providers. Earlier this month, the chief prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC), Karim Khan, experienced a disconnection from his Microsoft-based email account, sparking uproar across the region.  Speculation quickly arose that the incident was linked to sanctions previously imposed on the ICC by the Trump administration, an assertion Microsoft has denied. Earlier this month, the chief prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC), Karim Khan, disconnection from his Microsoft-based email account caused an uproar in the region. Some speculated that this was connected to sanctions imposed by Trump against the ICC, which Microsoft denied. Weaning the EU Away from US Tech is Possible, But Challenges Lie Ahead Change like this doesn’t happen overnight. Just finding, let alone developing, reliable alternatives to tools that have been part of daily workflows for decades, is a massive undertaking. It will also take time for users to adapt to these new tools, especially when transitioning to an entirely new ecosystem. In Aarhus, for example, municipal staff initially viewed the shift to open source as a step down from the familiarity and functionality of Microsoft products. Overall, these are only temporary hurdles. Momentum is building, with growing calls for digital independence from leaders like Ministers Olsen and Wildberger.  Initiatives such as the Digital Europe Programme, which seeks to reduce reliance on foreign systems and solutions, further accelerate this push. As a result, the EU’s transition could arrive sooner rather than later As technology continues to evolve—from the return of 'dumbphones' to faster and sleeker computers—seasoned tech journalist, Cedric Solidon, continues to dedicate himself to writing stories that inform, empower, and connect with readers across all levels of digital literacy. With 20 years of professional writing experience, this University of the Philippines Journalism graduate has carved out a niche as a trusted voice in tech media. Whether he's breaking down the latest advancements in cybersecurity or explaining how silicon-carbon batteries can extend your phone’s battery life, his writing remains rooted in clarity, curiosity, and utility. Long before he was writing for Techreport, HP, Citrix, SAP, Globe Telecom, CyberGhost VPN, and ExpressVPN, Cedric's love for technology began at home courtesy of a Nintendo Family Computer and a stack of tech magazines. Growing up, his days were often filled with sessions of Contra, Bomberman, Red Alert 2, and the criminally underrated Crusader: No Regret. But gaming wasn't his only gateway to tech.  He devoured every T3, PCMag, and PC Gamer issue he could get his hands on, often reading them cover to cover. It wasn’t long before he explored the early web in IRC chatrooms, online forums, and fledgling tech blogs, soaking in every byte of knowledge from the late '90s and early 2000s internet boom. That fascination with tech didn’t just stick. It evolved into a full-blown calling. After graduating with a degree in Journalism, he began his writing career at the dawn of Web 2.0. What started with small editorial roles and freelance gigs soon grew into a full-fledged career. He has since collaborated with global tech leaders, lending his voice to content that bridges technical expertise with everyday usability. He’s also written annual reports for Globe Telecom and consumer-friendly guides for VPN companies like CyberGhost and ExpressVPN, empowering readers to understand the importance of digital privacy. His versatility spans not just tech journalism but also technical writing. He once worked with a local tech company developing web and mobile apps for logistics firms, crafting documentation and communication materials that brought together user-friendliness with deep technical understanding. That experience sharpened his ability to break down dense, often jargon-heavy material into content that speaks clearly to both developers and decision-makers. At the heart of his work lies a simple belief: technology should feel empowering, not intimidating. Even if the likes of smartphones and AI are now commonplace, he understands that there's still a knowledge gap, especially when it comes to hardware or the real-world benefits of new tools. His writing hopes to help close that gap. Cedric’s writing style reflects that mission. It’s friendly without being fluffy and informative without being overwhelming. Whether writing for seasoned IT professionals or casual readers curious about the latest gadgets, he focuses on how a piece of technology can improve our lives, boost our productivity, or make our work more efficient. That human-first approach makes his content feel more like a conversation than a technical manual. As his writing career progresses, his passion for tech journalism remains as strong as ever. With the growing need for accessible, responsible tech communication, he sees his role not just as a journalist but as a guide who helps readers navigate a digital world that’s often as confusing as it is exciting. From reviewing the latest devices to unpacking global tech trends, Cedric isn’t just reporting on the future; he’s helping to write it. View all articles by Cedric Solidon Our editorial process The Tech Report editorial policy is centered on providing helpful, accurate content that offers real value to our readers. We only work with experienced writers who have specific knowledge in the topics they cover, including latest developments in technology, online privacy, cryptocurrencies, software, and more. Our editorial policy ensures that each topic is researched and curated by our in-house editors. We maintain rigorous journalistic standards, and every article is 100% written by real authors.

Google and OpenAI struck a cloud computing deal in May, according to a Reuters report. The deal surprised the industry as the two are seen as major AI rivals. Signs of friction between OpenAI and Microsoft may have also fueled the move. The partnership is a win-win.OpenAI gets more badly needed computing resources while Google profits from its $75B investment to boost its cloud computing capacity in 2025. In a surprise move, Google and OpenAI inked a deal that will see the AI rivals partnering to address OpenAI’s growing cloud computing needs. The story, reported by Reuters, cited anonymous sources saying that the deal had been discussed for months and finalized in May. Around this time, OpenAI has struggled to keep up with demand as its number of weekly active users and business users grew in Q1 2025. There’s also speculation of friction between OpenAI and its biggest investor Microsoft. Why the Deal Surprised the Tech Industry The rivalry between the two companies hardly needs an introduction. When OpenAI’s ChatGPT launched in November 2022, it posed a huge threat to Google that triggered a code red within the search giant and cloud services provider. Since then, Google has launched Bard (now known as Gemini) to compete with OpenAI head-on. However, it had to play catch up with OpenAI’s more advanced ChatGPT AI chatbot. This led to numerous issues with Bard, with critics referring to it as a half-baked product. A post on X in February 2023 showed the Bard AI chatbot erroneously stating that the James Webb Telescope took the first picture of an exoplanet. It was, in fact, the European Southern Observatory’s Very Large Telescope that did this in 2004. Google’s parent company Alphabet lost $100B off its market value within 24 hours as a result. Two years on, Gemini made significant strides in terms of accuracy, quoting sources, and depth of information, but is still prone to hallucinations from time to time. You can see examples of these posted on social media, like telling a user to make spicy spaghetti with gasoline or the AI thinking it’s still 2024.  And then there’s this gem: With the entire industry shifting towards more AI integrations, Google went ahead and integrated its AI suite into Search via AI Overviews. It then doubled down on this integration with AI Mode, an experimental feature that lets you perform AI-powered searches by typing in a question, uploading a photo, or using your voice. In the future, AI Mode from Google Search could be a viable competitor to ChatGPT—unless of course, Google decides to bin it along with many of its previous products. Given the scope of the investment, and Gemini’s significant improvement, we doubt AI + Search will be axed. It’s a Win-Win for Google and OpenAI—Not So Much for Microsoft? In the business world, money and the desire for expansion can break even the biggest rivalries. And the one between the two tech giants isn’t an exception. Partly, it could be attributed to OpenAI’s relationship with Microsoft. Although the Redmond, Washington-based company has invested billions in OpenAI and has the resources to meet the latter’s cloud computing needs, their partnership hasn’t always been rosy.  Some would say it began when OpenAI CEO Sam Altman was briefly ousted in November 2023, which put a strain on the ‘best bromance in tech’ between him and Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella. Then last year, Microsoft added OpenAI to its list of competitors in the AI space before eventually losing its status as OpenAI’s exclusive cloud provider in January 2025. If that wasn’t enough, there’s also the matter of the two companies’ goal of achieving artificial general intelligence (AGI). Defined as when OpenAI develops AI systems that generate $100B in profits, reaching AGI means Microsoft will lose access to the former’s technology. With the company behind ChatGPT expecting to triple its 2025 revenue to $12.7 from $3.7B the previous year, this could happen sooner rather than later. While OpenAI already has deals with Microsoft, Oracle, and CoreWeave to provide it with cloud services and access to infrastructure, it needs more and soon as the company has seen massive growth in the past few months. In February, OpenAI announced that it had over 400M weekly active users, up from 300M in December 2024. Meanwhile, the number of its business users who use ChatGPT Enterprise, ChatGPT Team, and ChatGPT Edu products also jumped from 2M in February to 3M in March. The good news is Google is more than ready to deliver. Its parent company has earmarked $75B towards its investments in AI this year, which includes boosting its cloud computing capacity. In April, Google launched its 7th generation tensor processing unit (TPU) called Ironwood, which has been designed specifically for inference. According to the company, the new TPU will help power AI models that will ‘proactively retrieve and generate data to collaboratively deliver insights and answers, not just data.’The deal with OpenAI can be seen as a vote of confidence in Google’s cloud computing capability that competes with the likes of Microsoft Azure and Amazon Web Services. It also expands Google’s vast client list that includes tech, gaming, entertainment, and retail companies, as well as organizations in the public sector. As technology continues to evolve—from the return of 'dumbphones' to faster and sleeker computers—seasoned tech journalist, Cedric Solidon, continues to dedicate himself to writing stories that inform, empower, and connect with readers across all levels of digital literacy. With 20 years of professional writing experience, this University of the Philippines Journalism graduate has carved out a niche as a trusted voice in tech media. Whether he's breaking down the latest advancements in cybersecurity or explaining how silicon-carbon batteries can extend your phone’s battery life, his writing remains rooted in clarity, curiosity, and utility. Long before he was writing for Techreport, HP, Citrix, SAP, Globe Telecom, CyberGhost VPN, and ExpressVPN, Cedric's love for technology began at home courtesy of a Nintendo Family Computer and a stack of tech magazines. Growing up, his days were often filled with sessions of Contra, Bomberman, Red Alert 2, and the criminally underrated Crusader: No Regret. But gaming wasn't his only gateway to tech.  He devoured every T3, PCMag, and PC Gamer issue he could get his hands on, often reading them cover to cover. It wasn’t long before he explored the early web in IRC chatrooms, online forums, and fledgling tech blogs, soaking in every byte of knowledge from the late '90s and early 2000s internet boom. That fascination with tech didn’t just stick. It evolved into a full-blown calling. After graduating with a degree in Journalism, he began his writing career at the dawn of Web 2.0. What started with small editorial roles and freelance gigs soon grew into a full-fledged career. He has since collaborated with global tech leaders, lending his voice to content that bridges technical expertise with everyday usability. He’s also written annual reports for Globe Telecom and consumer-friendly guides for VPN companies like CyberGhost and ExpressVPN, empowering readers to understand the importance of digital privacy. His versatility spans not just tech journalism but also technical writing. He once worked with a local tech company developing web and mobile apps for logistics firms, crafting documentation and communication materials that brought together user-friendliness with deep technical understanding. That experience sharpened his ability to break down dense, often jargon-heavy material into content that speaks clearly to both developers and decision-makers. At the heart of his work lies a simple belief: technology should feel empowering, not intimidating. Even if the likes of smartphones and AI are now commonplace, he understands that there's still a knowledge gap, especially when it comes to hardware or the real-world benefits of new tools. His writing hopes to help close that gap. Cedric’s writing style reflects that mission. It’s friendly without being fluffy and informative without being overwhelming. Whether writing for seasoned IT professionals or casual readers curious about the latest gadgets, he focuses on how a piece of technology can improve our lives, boost our productivity, or make our work more efficient. That human-first approach makes his content feel more like a conversation than a technical manual. As his writing career progresses, his passion for tech journalism remains as strong as ever. With the growing need for accessible, responsible tech communication, he sees his role not just as a journalist but as a guide who helps readers navigate a digital world that’s often as confusing as it is exciting. From reviewing the latest devices to unpacking global tech trends, Cedric isn’t just reporting on the future; he’s helping to write it. View all articles by Cedric Solidon Our editorial process The Tech Report editorial policy is centered on providing helpful, accurate content that offers real value to our readers. We only work with experienced writers who have specific knowledge in the topics they cover, including latest developments in technology, online privacy, cryptocurrencies, software, and more. Our editorial policy ensures that each topic is researched and curated by our in-house editors. We maintain rigorous journalistic standards, and every article is 100% written by real authors.

Home Is the Newly Revealed Xbox Handheld a Switch 2 Killer? News Is the Newly Revealed Xbox Handheld a Switch 2 Killer? 6 min read Published: June 14, 2025 Key Takeaways Xbox has announced two new handheld gaming devices in partnership with Asus: the ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X. They’re expected to compete with Nintendo’s Switch 2, which has sold 3.5M units in just 4 days of its launch. Xbox aims to bring a wide range of game titles to portable handheld devices in order to cater to the gaming PC market. Xbox has entered the handheld gaming market with two new launches: the ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X in partnership with ASUS. Interestingly, Nintendo released its Switch 2 just last week. The public has received it with much enthusiasm, seeing as it’s already sold around 3.5M units in the first four days of its release. Needless to say, Xbox and Nintendo will be direct competitors in the handheld segment now. We looked at the spec sheets and customer reviews, and both handheld gaming devices seem to have different target audiences. Let’s unpack them in detail. Memory and Storage The ROG Xbox Ally comes in standard white color and features the AMD Ryzen Z2 A Processor with 16GB of memory and 512GB of storage, with a 60Wh battery. The Ally X, on the other hand, comes in striking black with the AMD Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme Processor, 24 GB of memory, and 1 TB of storage, and a 80Wh battery. Source: Rog Ally Life Right off the bat, we believe that Microsoft has done a good job with the storage and processors. In comparison, the Nintendo Switch 2 has 12GB of memory with just 256GB of internal storage. On paper, the Xbox series looks to have an advantage over the Switch 2, which uses a custom NVIDIA T239 chipset for raw power. Nvidia’s DLSS (Deep Learning Super-Sampling), however, gives Switch 2 an advantage over Xbox’s AMD Ryzen processors. DLSS can render games at lower resolutions and, therefore, achieve higher in-use frame rates, which boosts its overall performance. Simply put, despite the gap in on-paper specifications, the Switch 2 may render comparable performance to the Xbox Ally. Take this with a pinch of salt, though, because we’ll only be able to confirm this once we get our hands on the new Xbox handhelds. Display Both the Xbox handhelds feature a 7-inch Full HD (FHD) screen with a 120 Hz refresh rate. In comparison, the Switch 2 screen is bigger, with a 7.9-inch display, also rendering at 120 Hz. However, Switch 2 also features HDR10, giving it a significant edge over Xbox Ally. HDR10 ensures a much wider range of brightness levels and a broader spectrum of colors, so the display looks more vibrant and lifelike. Plus, you’ll see more detailed blacks and whites on the screen with better realism and depth, enhancing your overall gaming experience. The Switch 2 also features VRR technology, which prevents screen tearing and reduces stutter. Notably, the Xbox Ally range has its own version of the VRR, FreeSync Premium. So, truth be told, you might not experience much of a difference in that area. However, HDR10 can definitely prove to be a winner for Switch 2. Product Market Fit While both the Switch 2 and new Xbox handhelds are apparently the same genre of products, Microsoft and Nintendo seem to have different target markets in their minds. Microsoft is focusing more on the Windows handheld market, targeting players who want an on-the-go PC gaming experience. With access to Game Pass and titles from Steam and Epic Games, the Xbox Ally offers a more comprehensive library of games. Nintendo, on the other hand, looks to build on the legacy of the OG Nintendo Switch, which has sold 152M units since its launch in 2017. It aims to tap in on the Nintendo fan base with original titles such as Mario and an improved gaming experience. Also, Xbox is in direct competition with Valve’s Steam Deck. Both are essentially handheld PCs with wide access to PC-compatible aggregated game libraries on the go. Xbox is also introducing the ‘Xbox Experience for Handheld’ feature for its new Ally range, which will make Windows 11 more compatible and optimized for its handheld device – something similar to Valve’s SteamOS on the Steam Deck. Xbox Exploring a New Market Segment The global mobile and handheld gaming market is expected to expand at a rate of 13.8% CAGR till 2034. It may reach a market value of $35.189B.  Valve’s Steam Deck managed to sell around 3.7M units by the end of 2024. On the other hand, Windows-based devices like the ASUS ROG Ally, Lenovo Legion Go, and MSI Claw have sold ~5.9M units so far as per early 2025 reports. This shows there’s certainly demand for Windows-based handheld gaming devices.  Plus, Xbox’s partnership with ASUS could bring along a brand-value advantage for the product. With a seamless Windows 11 experience on an on-the-go device, these sales figures are expected to swell once the Xbox Ally hits the shelves. However, pricing will be a key determinant. The Switch 2 currently sells at $449.99 – or $499.99 with the Mario Kart bundle. The Steam Deck starts at $399.00 and goes up to $649. This means that the price range according to the current market demand is around $400-$600. Anything more than that may result in market adoption issues. The original ASUS ROG Ally is currently priced at $499. There’s little doubt, however, that Xbox would add a premium to this price. So, we’re expecting the price of the ROG Xbox Ally to be around $600, while the ROG Xbox Ally X may cost more than $700. This means that Xbox will be participating in the premium handheld gaming sector, which is something Nintendo and Steam do not cater to. Let’s wait for confirmation regarding the pricing and the launch date. Remember, this was only a feature comparison of the two products, and we’re yet to test them out for a detailed hands-on gaming experience comparison. Stick around for that. Krishi is a seasoned tech journalist with over four years of experience writing about PC hardware, consumer technology, and artificial intelligence.  Clarity and accessibility are at the core of Krishi’s writing style. He believes technology writing should empower readers—not confuse them—and he’s committed to ensuring his content is always easy to understand without sacrificing accuracy or depth. Over the years, Krishi has contributed to some of the most reputable names in the industry, including Techopedia, TechRadar, and Tom’s Guide. A man of many talents, Krishi has also proven his mettle as a crypto writer, tackling complex topics with both ease and zeal. His work spans various formats—from in-depth explainers and news coverage to feature pieces and buying guides.  Behind the scenes, Krishi operates from a dual-monitor setup (including a 29-inch LG UltraWide) that’s always buzzing with news feeds, technical documentation, and research notes, as well as the occasional gaming sessions that keep him fresh.  Krishi thrives on staying current, always ready to dive into the latest announcements, industry shifts, and their far-reaching impacts.  When he's not deep into research on the latest PC hardware news, Krishi would love to chat with you about day trading and the financial markets—oh! And cricket, as well. View all articles by Krishi Chowdhary Our editorial process The Tech Report editorial policy is centered on providing helpful, accurate content that offers real value to our readers. We only work with experienced writers who have specific knowledge in the topics they cover, including latest developments in technology, online privacy, cryptocurrencies, software, and more. Our editorial policy ensures that each topic is researched and curated by our in-house editors. We maintain rigorous journalistic standards, and every article is 100% written by real authors. More from News View all View all

Key Takeaways The European Commission will introduce the new International Digital Strategy that will focus on tech collaboration with the US and other countries. This is in contradiction to the growing pressure in Europe that calls for tech sovereignty and reducing tech dependence on the US. Low venture capital funding and a diverse regulatory landscape have been major challenges for tech innovation in Europe. Europe is seeing an increasing push to establish technological sovereignty and reduce the region’s reliance on US technology. However, there’s always been an undertone of acceptance that the EU is years behind the US when it comes to technological innovation and advancements. Now, the European Commission is planning to acknowledge this publicly. The EC will introduce a new International Digital Strategy, which will focus on collaboration with the United States and other tech-forward countries, such as Japan, South Korea, and India. The lawmakers believe that “decoupling” from the West is unrealistic and will instead push Europe further back in the technological race. Europe’s Call for Tech Sovereignty Several prominent political leaders and lawmakers have advocated for European sovereignty over technology and artificial intelligence.  For instance, Emmanuel Macron, the president of France, said in a speech in 2024 that Europe’s strategic autonomy is a conscious choice to end the region’s dependence on others. In an earlier speech, he also said that if Europe fails to build champions in areas such as digital and artificial intelligence, its choices will be dictated by others.  Similarly, Thierry Breton, the former EU Commissioner for Internal Markets, said that digital spending in the EU will breach the 20% target, underlining the importance of investing in European tech sovereignty. He focused on Europe’s declining market share in the semiconductor industry and called for the development of groundbreaking European tech. The Eurostack movement in the EU has also been gaining a lot of traction and support from various think tanks, academic researchers, and industry voices. Eurostack staff calls for the development of an indigenous infrastructure stack in the European region, including cloud, AI, semiconductors, digital services, and data centers. The main aim is to reduce Europe’s dependence on Chinese and US technology. This growing concern among EU well-wishers is quite understandable. Excessive reliance on the United States puts the US (meaning Donald Trump) in a controlling position, where he can arm-twist the European Union in matters of trade and even politics.  We have already seen an example of this during the tariff war, where Trump imposed a 25% tariff on automobiles (and their parts) and steel and aluminum products imported from the EU. Also, the fact that Google, Microsoft, and Amazon account for around 69% of the cloud market in the EU is quite concerning, too. Europe Wakes Up to Reality Despite positive speeches and statements by people in power in the EU, the fact remains that Europe is still lagging behind the United States. Bulgarian lawmaker Eva Maydell said that Europe should “sober up” and accept that the train has left the station. Dan Nechita, the current EU director for the Transatlantic Policy Network, said that it’s not the right time to be politically absolute and say that “we are going to do everything in Europe.” EU tech chief Virkkunen has been working hard to bring home the support of influential tech lobbies and emphasized the need to continue working with the United States. To put it in a nutshell, the European Commission is ready to accept the fact that the damage is done, and now Europe needs to play second fiddle and forge strategic partnerships with key technological leaders (primarily in the US) to stay alive in the race. Lack of Investments and the EU’s Regulation-First Approach One of the major reasons behind the European Union’s sluggish tech development is the lack of venture capital investments in the region. As per an IMF post, EU VC funds raised around $130B between 2013 and 2022. During the same time, the US raised $924B.  Similarly, annual VC investments in the EU are only 0.2% of the GDP when compared to 0.7% in the US. Currently, the United States accounts for a massive 52% of the global VC funds, whereas the EU holds just 5%.  Lack of investments has forced European startups to look elsewhere, especially the United States, for funding and support. One of the major reasons for such low venture capital interest in Europe is its diversity. Each of the 27 countries in the EU has its own regulatory and legal challenges, which make it difficult for multinational corporations to operate in the region.  Plus, the EU has adopted a regulation-first approach, which is very different from the United States. Of course, this approach has its own merits, but it has surely slowed down the speed of technological investments in the region.  For instance, the GDPR puts a truckload of regulatory and moral responsibility on companies to protect user data. Similarly, the AI Act focuses on the more ethical development of artificial intelligence that’s aligned with human values and refrains companies from exploiting public data. Sure, all of these are positive tech regulations important to protect the long-term sovereignty of the public at large. Even global tech advocates have praised the EU’s efforts for the development of safe and ethical technologies. However, we cannot ignore the fact that this has come at the cost of sluggish tech investments and overall growth. With its back against the wall, Europe needs to reassess its strengths and focus on areas such as open-source technologies, such as France’s La Suite numérique, and government-backed technological initiatives to have a say in the upcoming artificial intelligence and semiconductor race. Krishi is a seasoned tech journalist with over four years of experience writing about PC hardware, consumer technology, and artificial intelligence.  Clarity and accessibility are at the core of Krishi’s writing style. He believes technology writing should empower readers—not confuse them—and he’s committed to ensuring his content is always easy to understand without sacrificing accuracy or depth. Over the years, Krishi has contributed to some of the most reputable names in the industry, including Techopedia, TechRadar, and Tom’s Guide. A man of many talents, Krishi has also proven his mettle as a crypto writer, tackling complex topics with both ease and zeal. His work spans various formats—from in-depth explainers and news coverage to feature pieces and buying guides.  Behind the scenes, Krishi operates from a dual-monitor setup (including a 29-inch LG UltraWide) that’s always buzzing with news feeds, technical documentation, and research notes, as well as the occasional gaming sessions that keep him fresh.  Krishi thrives on staying current, always ready to dive into the latest announcements, industry shifts, and their far-reaching impacts.  When he's not deep into research on the latest PC hardware news, Krishi would love to chat with you about day trading and the financial markets—oh! And cricket, as well. View all articles by Krishi Chowdhary Our editorial process The Tech Report editorial policy is centered on providing helpful, accurate content that offers real value to our readers. We only work with experienced writers who have specific knowledge in the topics they cover, including latest developments in technology, online privacy, cryptocurrencies, software, and more. Our editorial policy ensures that each topic is researched and curated by our in-house editors. We maintain rigorous journalistic standards, and every article is 100% written by real authors.

Key Takeaways New EU rules take effect June 20, 2025, requiring mobile phones and tablets to be easier and cheaper to repair, including mandatory access to spare parts for up to seven years. Devices must meet durability standards, such as resistance to drops, water, and dust, and batteries must retain 80% capacity after 800 cycles. Manufacturers must offer 5 years of software updates and grant repair professionals access to firmware and repair tools to ensure long-term device usability. Energy consumption is expected to drop, with households projected to save €98 over five years due to longer-lasting, more repairable devices. In a win for the right to repair, the European Union (EU) has released its new energy labeling and ecodesign requirements for mobile phones, tablets, and even cordless phones.  Once implemented, this would help extend the product lifetime of these devices by making them cheaper and easier to repair. Up Ahead: Long-Lasting and Easy-to-Repair Devices The new ecodesign and energy labeling regulations will apply to devices sold in the EU effective June 20, 2025. One key area is the availability of spare parts. Once the regulations take effect, critical spare parts for a device must remain available for seven years from the last day the producer stops selling it. These parts must also be available to repairers within 5–10 working days. Mobile phones, cordless phones, and tablets under the ecodesign regulations must also be resistant to scratches and accidental drops, and be protected from dust and water.  The EU also specified that batteries must withstand at least 800 charge and discharge cycles while holding 80% of their initial capacity. These measures could help ensure devices last longer, thus reducing the need to replace them and lowering their cost of ownership. The requirements go beyond just the hardware. On the software side, manufacturers must also provide at least 5 years of operating system upgrades and give professional repairers access to software or firmware.  These would allow devices to continue to run smoothly and protect them from security vulnerabilities. On top of the ecodesign requirements, the EU also specified energy labeling requirements on the applicable devices. The labels would provide information about the device’s repairability score, energy efficiency, battery longevity, dust and water protection, and resistance to accidental drops. Having clear and easy-to-understand labels can help consumers in the EU make better choices when buying phones and tablets. They’ll know at a glance whether a device can withstand drops or if the batteries will remain reliable for as long as possible. The Projected Impact of the Ecodesign and Energy Labeling Requirements With the new requirements, the EU expects a significant reduction in the energy consumption of the applicable devices. Regarding charging time, this should go down from 2.5 to 1.75 hours per day.  Also, the annual electrical consumption of high-end smartphones is projected to decrease by 25%, while it’s 23% for tablets by 2030. Making devices easier to repair is also seen to reduce the acquisition costs of devices by € 98 per household in five years. A Win for the Right to Repair, But Obstacles Lie Ahead While the EU has already made significant progress in the area of the right to repair, many countries remain well behind. In the US, for instance, only a handful of states like California and Colorado have already enacted right-to-repair laws, while most of the country has yet to catch up. Without laws like these, most manufacturers won’t have the incentive to make their devices easier to repair.  A quick look at iFixit’s smartphone repairability scores shows that only Fairphone, which scored a perfect 10, HMD (9), and Nokia (8) had high scores among current phones. At the same time, Apple’s iPhone 16 line received a respectable 7. The Fairphone 5, launched in 2023, is especially notable for its repairability. According to iFixit, it’s easy to disassemble with common tools, the battery can be replaced quickly, and manuals and replacement parts are available to DIYers. As for the others, Ifixit gave Google’s Pixel 9 series a 5 for making it difficult to remove the battery and the USB-C port and requiring a replacement adhesive to secure the screen or back glass instead of using clips or fasteners. Meanwhile, the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra received a 4 because the battery is attached with a strong adhesive, and repairing the screen needs a lot of disassembly. All in all, we remain hopeful that with the EU’s lead, manufacturers can finally be encouraged to make repairing their devices easier than ever before. As technology continues to evolve—from the return of 'dumbphones' to faster and sleeker computers—seasoned tech journalist, Cedric Solidon, continues to dedicate himself to writing stories that inform, empower, and connect with readers across all levels of digital literacy. With 20 years of professional writing experience, this University of the Philippines Journalism graduate has carved out a niche as a trusted voice in tech media. Whether he's breaking down the latest advancements in cybersecurity or explaining how silicon-carbon batteries can extend your phone’s battery life, his writing remains rooted in clarity, curiosity, and utility. Long before he was writing for Techreport, HP, Citrix, SAP, Globe Telecom, CyberGhost VPN, and ExpressVPN, Cedric's love for technology began at home courtesy of a Nintendo Family Computer and a stack of tech magazines. Growing up, his days were often filled with sessions of Contra, Bomberman, Red Alert 2, and the criminally underrated Crusader: No Regret. But gaming wasn't his only gateway to tech.  He devoured every T3, PCMag, and PC Gamer issue he could get his hands on, often reading them cover to cover. It wasn’t long before he explored the early web in IRC chatrooms, online forums, and fledgling tech blogs, soaking in every byte of knowledge from the late '90s and early 2000s internet boom. That fascination with tech didn’t just stick. It evolved into a full-blown calling. After graduating with a degree in Journalism, he began his writing career at the dawn of Web 2.0. What started with small editorial roles and freelance gigs soon grew into a full-fledged career. He has since collaborated with global tech leaders, lending his voice to content that bridges technical expertise with everyday usability. He’s also written annual reports for Globe Telecom and consumer-friendly guides for VPN companies like CyberGhost and ExpressVPN, empowering readers to understand the importance of digital privacy. His versatility spans not just tech journalism but also technical writing. He once worked with a local tech company developing web and mobile apps for logistics firms, crafting documentation and communication materials that brought together user-friendliness with deep technical understanding. That experience sharpened his ability to break down dense, often jargon-heavy material into content that speaks clearly to both developers and decision-makers. At the heart of his work lies a simple belief: technology should feel empowering, not intimidating. Even if the likes of smartphones and AI are now commonplace, he understands that there's still a knowledge gap, especially when it comes to hardware or the real-world benefits of new tools. His writing hopes to help close that gap. Cedric’s writing style reflects that mission. It’s friendly without being fluffy and informative without being overwhelming. Whether writing for seasoned IT professionals or casual readers curious about the latest gadgets, he focuses on how a piece of technology can improve our lives, boost our productivity, or make our work more efficient. That human-first approach makes his content feel more like a conversation than a technical manual. As his writing career progresses, his passion for tech journalism remains as strong as ever. With the growing need for accessible, responsible tech communication, he sees his role not just as a journalist but as a guide who helps readers navigate a digital world that’s often as confusing as it is exciting. From reviewing the latest devices to unpacking global tech trends, Cedric isn’t just reporting on the future; he’s helping to write it. View all articles by Cedric Solidon Our editorial process The Tech Report editorial policy is centered on providing helpful, accurate content that offers real value to our readers. We only work with experienced writers who have specific knowledge in the topics they cover, including latest developments in technology, online privacy, cryptocurrencies, software, and more. Our editorial policy ensures that each topic is researched and curated by our in-house editors. We maintain rigorous journalistic standards, and every article is 100% written by real authors.

Home Meta and Yandex Spying on Android Users Through Localhost Ports: The Dying State of Online Privacy News Meta and Yandex Spying on Android Users Through Localhost Ports: The Dying State of Online Privacy 7 min read Published: June 4, 2025 Key Takeaways Meta and Yandex have been found guilty of secretly listening to localhost ports and using them to transfer sensitive data from Android devices. The corporations use Meta Pixel and Yandex Metrica scripts to transfer cookies from browsers to local apps. Using incognito mode or a VPN can’t fully protect users against it. A Meta spokesperson has called this a ‘miscommunication,’ which seems to be an attempt to underplay the situation. Wake up, Android folks! A new privacy scandal has hit your area of town. According to a new report led by Radboud University, Meta and Yandex have been listening to localhost ports to link your web browsing data with your identity and collect personal information without your consent. The companies use Meta Pixel and the Yandex Metrica scripts, which are embedded on 5.8 million and 3 million websites, respectively, to connect with their native apps on Android devices through localhost sockets. This creates a communication path between the cookies on your website and the local apps, establishing a channel for transferring personal information from your device. Also, you are mistaken if you think using your browser’s incognito mode or a VPN can protect you. Zuckerberg’s latest method of data harvesting can’t be overcome by tweaking any privacy or cookie settings or by using a VPN or incognito mode. How Does It Work? Here’s the method used by Meta to spy on Android devices: As many as 22% of the top 1 million websites contain Meta Pixel – a tracking code that helps website owners measure ad performance and track user behaviour. When Meta Pixel loads, it creates a special cookie called _fbp, which is supposed to be a first-party cookie. This means no other third party, including Meta apps themselves, should have access to this cookie. The _fbp cookie identifies your browser whenever you visit a website, meaning it can identify which person is accessing which websites. However, Meta, being Meta, went and found a loophole around this. Now, whenever you run Facebook or Instagram on your Android device, they can open up listening ports, specifically a TCP port (12387 or 12388) and a UDP port (the first unoccupied port in 12580-12585), on your phone in the background.  Whenever you load a website on your browser, the Meta Pixel uses WebRTC with SDP Munging, which essentially hides the _fbp cookie value inside the SDP message before being transmitted to your phone’s localhost.  Since Facebook and Instagram are already listening to this port, it receives the _fbp cookie value and can easily tie your identity to the website you’re visiting. Remember, Facebook and Instagram already have your identification details since you’re always logged in on these platforms. The report also says that Meta can link all _fbp received from various websites to your ID. Simply put, Meta knows which person is viewing what set of websites. Yandex also uses a similar method to harvest your personal data. Whenever you open a Yandex app, such as Yandex Maps, Yandex Browser, Yandex Search, or Navigator, it opens up ports like 29009, 30102, 29010, and 30103 on your phone.  When you visit a website that contains the Yandex Metrica Script, Yandex’s version of Meta Pixel, the script sends requests to Yandex servers containing obfuscated parameters.  These parameters are then sent to the local host via HTTP and HTTPS, which contains the IP address 127.0.0.1, or the yandexmetrica.com domain, which secretly points to 127.0.0.1. Now, the Yandex Metrica SDK in the Yandex apps receives these parameters and sends device identifiers, such as an Android Advertising ID, UUIDs, or device fingerprints. This entire message is encrypted to hide what it contains. The Yandex Metrica Script receives this info and sends it back to the Yandex servers. Just like Meta, Yandex can also tie your website activity to the device information shared by the SDK. Meta’s Infamous History with Privacy Norms This is not something new or unthinkable that Meta has done. The Mark Zuckerberg-led social media giant has a history of such privacy violations.  For instance, in 2024, the company was accused of collecting biometric data from Texas users without their express consent. The company settled the lawsuit by paying $1.4B.  Another of the most famous lawsuits was the Cambridge Analytica scandal in 2018, where a political consulting firm accessed private data of 87 million Facebook users without consent. The FTC fined Meta $5B for privacy violations along with a 100M settlement with the US Securities and Exchange Commission.  Meta Pixel has also come under scrutiny before, when it was accused of collecting sensitive health information from hospital websites. In another case dating back to 2012, Meta was accused of tracking users even after they logged out from their Facebook accounts. In this case, Meta paid $90M and promised to delete the collected data.  In 2024, South Korea also fined Meta $15M for inappropriately collecting personal data, such as sexual orientation and political beliefs, of 980K users. In September 2024, Meta was fined $101.6M by the Irish Data Protection Commission for inadvertently storing user passwords in plain text in such a way that employees could search for them. The passwords were not encrypted and were essentially leaked internally. So, the latest scandal isn’t entirely out of character for Meta. It has been finding ways to collect your data ever since its incorporation, and it seems like it will continue to do so, regardless of the regulations and safeguards in place. That said, Meta’s recent tracking method is insanely dangerous because there’s no safeguard around it. Even if you visit websites in incognito mode or use a VPN, Meta Pixel can still track your activities.  The past lawsuits also show a very identifiable pattern: Meta doesn’t fight a lawsuit until the end to try to win it. It either accepts the fine or settles the lawsuit with monetary compensation. This essentially goes to show that it passively accepts and even ‘owns’ the illegitimate tracking methods it has been using for decades. It’s quite possible that the top management views these fines and penalties as a cost of collecting data. Meta’s Timid Response Meta’s response claims that there’s some ‘miscommunication’ regarding Google policies. However, the method used in the aforementioned tracking scandal isn’t something that can simply happen due to ‘faulty design’ or miscommunication.  We are in discussions with Google to address a potential miscommunication regarding the application of their policies – Meta Spokesperson This kind of unethical tracking method has to be deliberately designed by engineers for it to work perfectly on such a large scale. While Meta is still trying to underplay the situation, it has paused the ‘feature’ (yep, that’s what they are calling it) as of now. The report also claims that as of June 3, Facebook and Instagram are not actively listening to the new ports. Here’s what will possibly happen next: A lawsuit may be filed based on the report. An investigating committee might be formed to question the matter. The company will come up with lame excuses, such as misinterpretation or miscommunication of policy guidelines. Meta will eventually settle the lawsuit or bear the fine with pride, like it has always done.  The regulatory authorities are apparently chasing a rat that finds new holes to hide every day. Companies like Meta and Yandex seem to be one step ahead of these regulations and have mastered the art of finding loopholes. More than legislative technicalities, it’s the moral ethics of the company that become clear with incidents like this. The intent of these regulations is to protect personal information, and the fact that Meta and Yandex blatantly circumvent these regulations in their spirit shows the absolutely horrific state of capitalism these corporations are in. Krishi is a seasoned tech journalist with over four years of experience writing about PC hardware, consumer technology, and artificial intelligence.  Clarity and accessibility are at the core of Krishi’s writing style. He believes technology writing should empower readers—not confuse them—and he’s committed to ensuring his content is always easy to understand without sacrificing accuracy or depth. Over the years, Krishi has contributed to some of the most reputable names in the industry, including Techopedia, TechRadar, and Tom’s Guide. A man of many talents, Krishi has also proven his mettle as a crypto writer, tackling complex topics with both ease and zeal. His work spans various formats—from in-depth explainers and news coverage to feature pieces and buying guides.  Behind the scenes, Krishi operates from a dual-monitor setup (including a 29-inch LG UltraWide) that’s always buzzing with news feeds, technical documentation, and research notes, as well as the occasional gaming sessions that keep him fresh.  Krishi thrives on staying current, always ready to dive into the latest announcements, industry shifts, and their far-reaching impacts.  When he's not deep into research on the latest PC hardware news, Krishi would love to chat with you about day trading and the financial markets—oh! And cricket, as well. View all articles by Krishi Chowdhary Our editorial process The Tech Report editorial policy is centered on providing helpful, accurate content that offers real value to our readers. We only work with experienced writers who have specific knowledge in the topics they cover, including latest developments in technology, online privacy, cryptocurrencies, software, and more. Our editorial policy ensures that each topic is researched and curated by our in-house editors. We maintain rigorous journalistic standards, and every article is 100% written by real authors. More from News View all View all

Key Takeaways Dell and Nvidia will together provide architecture for the next set of supercomputers, named Doudna, for the US Department of Energy. Dell will focus more on sustainable hardware and cooling systems, while Nvidia will provide its AI architecture, including the Vera Rubin AI chips. The US Department of Energy wants to focus more on the sustainable development of AI, hence the choice of environment-conscious companies. The US Department of Energy said that Dell’s next batch of supercomputers will be delivered with Nvidia’s ‘Vera Rubin’ AI chips, marking the beginning of a new era of AI dominance in research. The said systems are expected to be 10x faster than the current batch of supercomputers, which HP provided. The supercomputer will be named ‘Doudna,’ after Jennifer Doudna, a Nobel Prize winner who made key contributions in CRISPR gene-editing. Supercomputers have been instrumental in key scientific discoveries in the last few decades and also played a big role in the design and maintenance of the U.S. nuclear weapons arsenal. And now, with the introduction of artificial intelligence, we’re heading towards a new decade of faster and more efficient scientific research. It (supercomputers) is the foundation of scientific discovery for our country. It is also a foundation for economic and technological leadership. And with that, national security – Nvidia CEO, Jensen Huang Dell Going All in on AI This isn’t the first time Dell and Nvidia have come together to develop newer AI solutions. Back in March 2024, Dell announced the Dell AI Factory with NVIDIA, an end-to-end enterprise AI solution designed for businesses.  This joint venture used Dell’s infrastructure, such as servers, storage, and networking, combined with NVIDIA’s AI architecture and technologies such as GPUs, DPUs, and AI software. Image Credit – Dell For instance, the Dell PowerEdge server uses NVIDIA’s full AI stack to provide enterprises with solutions required for a wide range of AI applications, including speech recognition, cybersecurity, recommendation systems, and language-based services. The demand for Dell’s AI servers has also increased, reaching $12.1B in the first quarter of 2025, with a total backlog of $14.4B, which suggests a strong future demand and order book. The company has set a bold profit forecast between $28.5B and $29.5B, as against the analysts’ prediction of $ 25.05 B. With Doudna, Dell is well-positioned to lead the next generation of supercomputers in AI research, invention, and discoveries. Focus on Energy Efficiency Seagate has warned about the unprecedented increase in demand for AI data storage in the coming few years, which is a significant challenge to the sustainability of AI data centers. Global data volume is expected to increase threefold by 2028.  Image Credit – DIGITIMES Asian The data storage industry currently produces only 1-2 zettabytes (1 zettabyte equals 1 trillion gigabytes) of storage annually, which is much lower than what would be required in the next 4-5 years. At the same time, Goldman Sachs predicts that power requirements will also go up by 165% by 2030 due to increasing demand for AI data centers. This calls for a more sustainable approach for the supercomputing industry as well.  Dell will use its proprietary technologies, such as Direct Liquid Cooling, the PowerCool eRDHx, and Smart Flow design in the Doudna, ensuring energy efficiency. Direct Liquid Cooling (DLC) increased computing density by supporting more cores per rack, which reduces cooling costs by as much as 45%. Dell’s PowerCool eRDHx is a self-contained airflow design that can capture 100% of the heat generated by IT systems. This reduces the dependency on expensive chillers, as eRDHx can work in usual temperatures of 32 and 36 degrees Celsius, leading to 60% savings in cooling energy costs. Lastly, the Dell Smart Flow design improves airflow within IT components and reduces the fan power by 52%. This leads to better performance with fewer cooling requirements. Besides this, Dell plans to incorporate Leak Sense Technology. If a coolant leak occurs, the system’s leak sensor will log an alert in the iDRAC system so that swift action can be taken. As per a report titled ‘Energy and AI’ by the IEA, the data center electricity demand will increase to 945 terawatt-hours (TWh) by 2030. For comparison, this is more than the total electricity consumption of Japan today. The US alone will consume more electricity in 2030 for processing data than for manufacturing all energy-intensive goods combined, including aluminum, steel, cement, and chemicals. Therefore, the need to develop sustainable AI data centers and supercomputers cannot be highlighted enough. Dell’s technology-focused, sustainable approach can be a pivotal point in how efficiently we use AI in the next decade. The US Department of Energy’s choice of Dell also seems to be a conscious move to shift towards companies that give importance to sustainability and can vouch for the long-term viability of research-intensive AI setups. Krishi is a seasoned tech journalist with over four years of experience writing about PC hardware, consumer technology, and artificial intelligence.  Clarity and accessibility are at the core of Krishi’s writing style. He believes technology writing should empower readers—not confuse them—and he’s committed to ensuring his content is always easy to understand without sacrificing accuracy or depth. Over the years, Krishi has contributed to some of the most reputable names in the industry, including Techopedia, TechRadar, and Tom’s Guide. A man of many talents, Krishi has also proven his mettle as a crypto writer, tackling complex topics with both ease and zeal. His work spans various formats—from in-depth explainers and news coverage to feature pieces and buying guides.  Behind the scenes, Krishi operates from a dual-monitor setup (including a 29-inch LG UltraWide) that’s always buzzing with news feeds, technical documentation, and research notes, as well as the occasional gaming sessions that keep him fresh.  Krishi thrives on staying current, always ready to dive into the latest announcements, industry shifts, and their far-reaching impacts.  When he's not deep into research on the latest PC hardware news, Krishi would love to chat with you about day trading and the financial markets—oh! And cricket, as well. View all articles by Krishi Chowdhary Our editorial process The Tech Report editorial policy is centered on providing helpful, accurate content that offers real value to our readers. We only work with experienced writers who have specific knowledge in the topics they cover, including latest developments in technology, online privacy, cryptocurrencies, software, and more. Our editorial policy ensures that each topic is researched and curated by our in-house editors. We maintain rigorous journalistic standards, and every article is 100% written by real authors.

Key Takeaways AMD’s RX 9060 XT is set to launch on June 5th, 2025 in both 8GB and 16GB versions under the same name, creating confusion and backlash. Reviewers and gamers say 8GB of VRAM isn’t enough for modern gaming, especially at 1440p. AMD’s decision to showcase only the 16GB model in benchmarks raised concerns about transparency. This move mirrors Nvidia’s controversial RTX 4060 Ti rollout, suggesting an industry trend of misleading GPU marketing. It all started with a new GPU announcement. The AMD Radeon RX 9060 XT is set to launch, and on paper, it looks like a solid move. A $349 graphics card with 16GB of VRAM? Not bad. That’s more memory than some RTX 4070 cards. Sounds like AMD might finally be delivering some value again, right?  Well, yes and no.  Because right alongside that 16GB version, AMD is also releasing an 8GB version for $299. Same name, same chip, half the memory. And that’s where the internet lost it.  Déjà Vu: We’ve Seen This Trick Before If this sounds familiar, it’s because Nvidia pulled the same move with the RTX 4060 Ti.  They sold both 8GB and 16GB versions with the same branding, but a $100 price difference. The RTX 4060 Ti 8GB launched in May 2023, and the 16GB variant followed in July.  Source: Nvidia Gamers hated the confusion. Reviewers criticized the 8GB version’s lack of performance, especially in memory-heavy games, and the way Nvidia tried to sweep the difference under the rug.  Performance dipped significantly at 1440p, and stuttering was a problem even in some 1080p titles. The backlash was swift. Tech media slammed Nvidia for deceptive marketing, and buyers were left second-guessing which version they were getting.  We’ve seen this pattern before in Nvidia’s review restrictions around the RTX 5060, where early coverage was shaped by what reviewers were allowed to test – and what they weren’t.  It led to a mess of misinformation, bad value perceptions, and a very clear message: don’t confuse your customers. So naturally, AMD did it too.  It’s like watching two billion-dollar companies playing a game of ‘Who Can Confuse the Customer More.’ It’s not just about the money. It’s about trust, and AMD just dumped a bunch of it off a cliff.  Frank Azor Lights the Fuse on X The backlash started when AMD’s Director of Gaming Marketing, Frank Azor, took to X to defend the 8GB card.  He said that most gamers don’t need more than 8GB of VRAM and that the cheaper card still serves the mainstream crowd just fine.  It’s the same reasoning Nvidia used last year with the RTX 4060 Ti. That didn’t work then, and it isn’t working now.  Because when Steve from Hardware Unboxed sees a bad take like that, you know a flamethrower video is coming. And oh boy, did it come.  Hardware Unboxed Fires Back The backlash against AMD’s 8GB RX 9060 XT took off after a post from Hardware Unboxed on X called out the company’s defense of limited VRAM.  In response to AMD’s claim that most gamers don’t need more than 8GB of memory, Hardware Unboxed accused them of misleading buyers and building weaker products just to hit certain price points. The criticism gained traction fast. Tech YouTuber Vex picked up the story and added fuel to the fire by showing side-by-side gameplay comparisons.  In multiple games, the 8GB RX 9060 XT showed serious performance issues – stuttering, frame drops, and VRAM bottlenecks – while the 16GB version handled the same titles smoothly.  And yet, during the GPU’s official reveal, AMD only showed performance data for the 16GB card. There were no benchmarks for the 8GB version – not a single chart. That omission wasn’t lost on anyone. If AMD truly believed the 8GB model held up under modern gaming loads, they would have shown it. The silence speaks volumes.  Why This Actually Matters You might be thinking: ‘So what? Some games still run fine on 8GB. I only play Valorant.’ Sure. But the problem is bigger than that. Source: AMD Games are getting heavier. Even titles like Cyberpunk 2077, released in 2020, can eat up more than 8GB of VRAM. And with GTA 6 (still) on the horizon, do you really think game developers are going to keep optimizing for 8GB cards in 2025? That’s not how game development works. Developers target the most common setups, yes. But hardware also shapes software.  If everyone’s stuck with 8GB, games will be designed around that limit. That holds back progress for everyone.  It’s like trying to make a movie with a flip phone because some people still own one. Same Name, Different Game Another big issue is how these cards are named and sold.  The RX 9060 XT 16GB and RX 9060 XT 8GB are not clearly labeled as different products. They’re just two versions of the same GPU.  But that extra memory makes a huge difference.  In some games, the 8GB card performs dramatically worse. And yet, unless you know what to look for, you might walk into a store and buy the 8GB version thinking you’re getting the same performance.  You’re not. You’re getting a watered-down version with the same name and a silent asterisk. This isn’t just AMD’s Problem Nvidia started this mess with the 4060 Ti naming confusion. AMD just saw the outrage and decided to walk straight into the same buzzsaw.  It’s hard not to feel like both companies are treating consumers like they’re too dumb to notice. Spoiler: they noticed. And this whole ‘VRAM doesn’t matter’ argument? It’s already been debunked by dozens of reviewers.  If you’re spending over $300 on a graphics card in 2025, it needs to last more than a year or two. 8GB cards are already struggling. Buying one now is like buying a smartphone in 2025 with 64GB of storage. Sure, it works. Until it doesn’t. Steam Data Doesn’t Help AMD’s Case AMD and Nvidia both love to point at the Steam Hardware Survey. They say, ‘See? Most people still play at 1080p.’ And that’s true – for now. Source: Nvidia But what they leave out is that 1440p gaming is growing fast. More gamers are upgrading their setups because 1440p monitors are getting a lot more affordable.  Take the Pixio PXC277 Advanced, for instance – a 27-inch curved 1440p monitor with a 165Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time, all for $219.99. A few years ago, a screen like that would’ve cost you double. Now it’s entry-level. Gamers are ready to step up their experience. The only thing holding them back is GPU hardware that’s still stuck in 2020.  Planned Obsolescence in Disguise Here’s the worst part. Companies know full well that 8GB won’t cut it in 2026.  But they still sell it, knowing many gamers will only find out when it’s too late – when the stutters kick in, the textures disappear, or the next big title becomes unplayable. It’s planned obsolescence disguised as ‘choice.’ And while it’s great to have options at different price points, it should be clear which option is built to last – and which one is built to frustrate.  So, Is AMD Actually Screwed?  Not right now. In fact, they’re playing the game better than they used to.  They’ve learned from past pricing disasters and figured out how to get better launch-day headlines – even if it means faking the MSRP and letting street prices run wild.  But this kind of marketing comes at a cost. If AMD keeps making decisions that prioritize short-term wins over long-term trust, they’ll lose the very crowd that once rooted for them.  We don’t need two Nvidias. We need AMD to be different – to be better.  One Name, Two Very Different Cards The RX 9060 XT 16GB might be a good deal. But it’s being overshadowed by the 8GB version’s drama. And the longer AMD keeps playing games with memory and naming, the more it chips away at its hard-earned goodwill.  This whole mess could’ve been avoided with one simple move: name the 8GB card something else. Call it the RX 9055. Call it Lite or whatever. Just don’t make it look like the same card when it isn’t.  Until then, buyers beware. There’s more going on behind the box art than meets the eye.  Anya Zhukova is an in-house tech and crypto writer at Techreport with 10 years of hands-on experience covering cybersecurity, consumer tech, digital privacy, and blockchain. She’s known for turning complex topics into clear, useful advice that regular people can actually understand and use.  Her work has been featured in top-tier digital publications including MakeUseOf, Online Tech Tips, Help Desk Geek, Switching to Mac, and Make Tech Easier. Whether she’s writing about the latest privacy tools or reviewing a new laptop, her goal is always the same: help readers feel confident and in control of the tech they use every day.  Anya holds a BA in English Philology and Translation from Tula State Pedagogical University and also studied Mass Media and Journalism at Minnesota State University, Mankato. That mix of language, media, and tech has given her a unique lens to look at how technology shapes our daily lives.  Over the years, she’s also taken courses and done research in data privacy, digital security, and ethical writing – skills she uses when tackling sensitive topics like PC hardware, system vulnerabilities, and crypto security.  Anya worked directly with brands like Framework, Insta360, Redmagic, Inmotion, Secretlab, Kodak, and Anker, reviewing their products in real-life scenarios. Her testing process involves real-world use cases – whether it's stress-testing laptops for creative workloads, reviewing the battery performance of mobile gaming phones, or evaluating the long-term ergonomics of furniture designed for hybrid workspaces.  In the world of crypto, Anya covers everything from beginner guides to deep dives into hardware wallets, DeFi protocols, and Web3 tools. She helps readers understand how to use multisig wallets, keep their assets safe, and choose the right platforms for their needs.  Her writing often touches on financial freedom and privacy – two things she strongly believes should be in everyone’s hands. Outside of writing, Anya contributes to editorial style guides focused on privacy and inclusivity, and she mentors newer tech writers on how to build subject matter expertise and write responsibly.  She sticks to high editorial standards, only recommends products she’s personally tested, and always aims to give readers the full picture.  You can find her on LinkedIn, where she shares more about her work and projects.  Key Areas of Expertise: Consumer Tech (laptops, phones, wearables, etc.) Cybersecurity and Digital Privacy PC/PC Hardware Blockchain, Crypto Wallets, and DeFi In-Depth Product Reviews and Buying Guides Whether she’s reviewing a new wallet or benchmarking a PC build, Anya brings curiosity, care, and a strong sense of responsibility to everything she writes. Her mission? To make the digital world a little easier – and safer – for everyone.  View all articles by Anya Zhukova Our editorial process The Tech Report editorial policy is centered on providing helpful, accurate content that offers real value to our readers. We only work with experienced writers who have specific knowledge in the topics they cover, including latest developments in technology, online privacy, cryptocurrencies, software, and more. Our editorial policy ensures that each topic is researched and curated by our in-house editors. We maintain rigorous journalistic standards, and every article is 100% written by real authors.

Home OpenAI Academy – A New Beginning in AI Learning News OpenAI Academy – A New Beginning in AI Learning 5 min read Published: May 29, 2025 Key Takeaways The OpenAI Academy is a collection of tutorials and live webinars that educate users about OpenAI products and LLMs. The main aim of the Academy is to enable users to understand the full capabilities of these AI tools in various sectors, such as education, business, and everyday work. With AI advancing rapidly, we might soon see artificial intelligence being offered as professional courses from recognized universities. OpenAI has launched the OpenAI Academy – a one-stop destination for you to learn everything about OpenAI LLM products, such as ChatGPT, Sora, Deep Research, and more. The portal provides extensive video demonstrations on using various features of these AI models and optimizing inputs to get the best results. Here’s a quick look at what you can learn at the OpenAI Academy: ChatGPT on Campus: Meant for students, specifically those in higher education courses. This includes tutorials on researching and writing, managing time effectively, designing resumes, and preparing for interviews. AI for K-12 Educators: Designed for educators, this module focuses on how teachers and support staff can leverage AI tools to streamline school operations and enhance communications. With detailed videos on lesson planning and student support, educators can improve education from the bottom up. It also includes detailed tutorials on using ChatGPT Edu – OpenAI’s specialized chatbot version for educators. ChatGPT at Work: This module will help you with prompt engineering, coding, introduction to ChatGPT projects, ChatGPT Search, data analytics, and Deep Research. Sora Tutorials: Sora is OpenAI’s very own video generator. It can render videos from text, images, and video prompts. Sora tutorials on OpenAI Academy teach you how to build a storyboard, recut, blend, and remix videos with the AI tool. OpenAI for Business: This module is all about personalizing ChatGPT to make it more relevant to your day-to-day work. You can learn more about ChatGPT’s Deep Research integration with GitHub, connecting ChatGPT to Google Drive to tap into internal knowledge, run multi-step workflows, and do extensive market research. In addition to these pre-recorded tutorials, videos, and ‘how-to’ articles, the OpenAI Academy hosts many live events and webinars. These sessions are quite exhaustive, from the introduction to ChatGPT to practical use cases for career development and education. There’s no debating that ChatGPT has endless real-world applications, whether in business or education. However, a vast majority of people are simply unaware. The OpenAI Academy looks to eliminate the lack of awareness around its products and show the world their capabilities. The Art of Prompts In a nutshell, the art of using AI is essentially your ability to feed these LLM models proper and effective prompts. For example, if there’s an image to be generated, an average person’s prompt might be as simple as ‘generate an image of a kid playing football.’ However, those who know what the AI is truly capable of will feed more specific prompts, such as ‘Generate a portrait image in HD showing a kid aged roughly six years old, wearing a Chelsea jersey and shorts with Nike boots playing football on a grassy ground. Keep the lighting in the image close to what we see during sunset in August.’ Here’s how the two results would vary: Interestingly, both these images have been generated using the same model, i.e., ChatGPT, with the only difference being the prompt. This goes to show that people who have fully wrapped their heads around what AI can do will be able to use it to its full potential. It’s worth noting that you can extrapolate this example to endless scenarios. For example, if you’re too lazy to read a book, you can simply ask ChatGPT to generate a mind map of the entire book. This will help you understand the text better and remember the book’s content for a long time. However, you must have professional AI training to do so. Alternatively, ChatGPT can serve up some work emails or sort numerical data. However, experienced users can also use it for tasks like strategic planning, breaking down trends and competitions, finding new strategic leads and opportunities, and generating an actionable market strategy using accurate prompts. AI Isn’t Just a Feature Anymore Gone are the days when AI was just a new, cool feature for us to try. Using ChatGPT or Gemini to write a work email, complete an assignment, or generate an AI image are just the tip of the iceberg. Using AI tools now requires real skills and comes with a learning curve and even a curriculum. If you give an average person a blank canvas and a paintbrush, he may draw a couple of houses, a river, the sun, and other basic elements. However, put the same canvas and paintbrush in the hands of a trained artist, and he’ll make you a masterpiece. Today’s AI tools are essentially the canvas and the paintbrush. In the hands of the average user, it’s hardly anything more than a text or image generator. However, those aware of their potential can design entire business plans, write and run complex codes, and learn new things almost every day. In its initial days, coding, too, was just a soft skill or an extracurricular activity. However, with time, coding has developed into a full-fledged education stream with postgraduate and PhD certifications. Something similar might happen with AI as well. As these tools become more sophisticated, the need for a structured AI education will also rise. The day isn’t far when we might see recognized universities offering professional degrees in artificial intelligence, focusing not only on designing the systems but also harnessing the most out of AI. Krishi is a seasoned tech journalist with over four years of experience writing about PC hardware, consumer technology, and artificial intelligence.  Clarity and accessibility are at the core of Krishi’s writing style. He believes technology writing should empower readers—not confuse them—and he’s committed to ensuring his content is always easy to understand without sacrificing accuracy or depth. Over the years, Krishi has contributed to some of the most reputable names in the industry, including Techopedia, TechRadar, and Tom’s Guide. A man of many talents, Krishi has also proven his mettle as a crypto writer, tackling complex topics with both ease and zeal. His work spans various formats—from in-depth explainers and news coverage to feature pieces and buying guides.  Behind the scenes, Krishi operates from a dual-monitor setup (including a 29-inch LG UltraWide) that’s always buzzing with news feeds, technical documentation, and research notes, as well as the occasional gaming sessions that keep him fresh.  Krishi thrives on staying current, always ready to dive into the latest announcements, industry shifts, and their far-reaching impacts.  When he's not deep into research on the latest PC hardware news, Krishi would love to chat with you about day trading and the financial markets—oh! And cricket, as well. View all articles by Krishi Chowdhary Our editorial process The Tech Report editorial policy is centered on providing helpful, accurate content that offers real value to our readers. We only work with experienced writers who have specific knowledge in the topics they cover, including latest developments in technology, online privacy, cryptocurrencies, software, and more. Our editorial policy ensures that each topic is researched and curated by our in-house editors. We maintain rigorous journalistic standards, and every article is 100% written by real authors. More from News View all View all

Home You Can Now Make AI Videos with Audio Thanks to Veo3: A New Era of Scams Await News You Can Now Make AI Videos with Audio Thanks to Veo3: A New Era of Scams Await 6 min read Published: May 27, 2025 Key Takeaways With Google’s Veo3, you can now render AI videos, audio, and background sounds. This would also make it easy for scammers to design deepfake scams to defraud innocent citizens. Users need to exercise self-vigilance to protect themselves. Developers’ responsibilities and government regulations will also play a key part. Google recently launched Veo3, an AI tool that lets you create videos with audio, including background tracks and various sound effects. Until recently, you could either use voice cloning apps to build AI voices or video rendering apps to generate AI videos. However, thanks to Veo3, folks can now create entire videos with audio. While this is an exciting development, we can’t help but think how easy it would be for scammers and swindlers to use Veo3’s videos to scam people. A video posted by a user on Threads shows a TV anchor breaking the news that ‘Secretary of Defence Pete Hegseth has died after drinking an entire litre of vodka on a dare by RFK.’ At first glance, the video is extremely convincing, and chances are that quite a few people might have believed it. After all, the quality is that of a professional news studio with a background of the Pentagon. Another user named Ari Kuschnir posted a 1-minute 16-second video on Reddit showing various characters in different settings talking to each other in various accents. The facial expressions are very close to those of a real human. A user commented, ‘Wow. The things that are coming. Gonna be wild!’ The ‘wild’ part is that the gap between reality and AI-generated content is closing daily. And remember, this is only the first version of this brand-new technology – things will only get worse (worse) from here. New AI Age for Scammers With the development of generative AI, we have already seen countless examples of people losing millions to such scams.  For example, in January 2024, an employee of a Hong Kong firm sent $25M to fraudsters who convinced the employee that she was talking to the CFO of the firm on a video call. Deloitte’s Center for Financial Services has predicted that generative AI could lead to a loss of $40B in the US alone by 2027, growing at a CAGR of 32%. Until now, scammers also had to take the effort of generating audio and video separately and syncing them to compile a ‘believable’ video. However, advanced AI tools like Veo3 make it easier for bad actors to catch innocent people off guard. In what is called the internet’s biggest scam so far, an 82-year-old retiree, Steve Beauchamp, lost $690,000 after he invested his retirement savings in an investment scheme. The AI-generated video showed Elon Musk talking about this investment and how everyone looking to make money should invest in the scheme. In January 2024, sexually explicit images of Taylor Swift were spread on social media, drawing a lot of legislative attention to the matter. Now, imagine what these scammers can do with Veo3-like technology. Making deepfake porn would become easier and faster, leading to a lot of extortion cases. It’s worth noting, though, that we’re not saying that Veo3 specifically will be used for such criminal activities because they have several safeguards in place. However, now that Veo3 has shown the path, other similar products might be developed for malicious use cases. How to Protect Yourself Protection against AI-generated content is a multifaceted approach involving three key pillars: self-vigilance, developers’ responsibilities, and government regulations. Self Vigilance Well, it’s not entirely impossible to figure out which video is made via AI and which is genuine. Sure, AI has grown leaps and bounds in the last two years, and we have something as advanced as Veo3. However, there are still a few telltale signs of an AI-generated video.  The biggest giveaway is the lip sync. If you see a video of someone speaking, pay close attention to their lips. The audio in most cases will be out of sync by a few milliseconds. The voice, in most cases, will also sound robotic or flat. The tone and pitch might be inconsistent without any natural breathing sounds. We also recommend that you only trust official sources of information and not any random video you find while scrolling Instagram, YouTube, or TikTok. For example, if you see Elon Musk promoting an investment scheme, look for the official page or website of that scheme and dig deeper to find out who the actual promoters are.  You will not find anything reliable or trustworthy in the process. This exercise takes only a couple of minutes but can end up saving thousands of dollars. Developer’s Responsibilities AI developers are also responsible for ensuring their products cannot be misused for scams, extortion, and misinformation. For example, Veo3 blocks prompts that violate responsible AI guidelines, such as those involving politicians or violent acts.  Google has also developed its SynthID watermarking system, which watermarks content generated using Google’s AI tools. People can use the SynthID Detector to verify if a particular content was generated using AI. However, these safeguards are currently limited to Google’s products as of now. There’s a need for similar, if not better, prevention systems moving forward. Government Regulations Lastly, the government needs to play a crucial role in regulating the use of artificial intelligence. For example, the EU has already passed the AI Act, with enforcement beginning in 2025. Under this, companies must undergo stringent documentation, transparency, and oversight standards for all high-risk AI systems.  Even in the US, several laws are under proposal. For instance, the DEEPFAKES Accountability Act would require AI-generated content that shows any person to include a clear disclaimer stating that it is a deepfake. The bill was introduced in the House of Representatives in September 2023 and is currently under consideration.  Similarly, the REAL Political Advertisements Act would require political ads that contain AI content to include a similar disclaimer. That said, we are still only in the early stages of formulating legislation to regulate AI content. With time, as more sophisticated and advanced artificial intelligence tools develop, lawmakers must also be proactive in ensuring digital safety. Krishi is a seasoned tech journalist with over four years of experience writing about PC hardware, consumer technology, and artificial intelligence.  Clarity and accessibility are at the core of Krishi’s writing style. He believes technology writing should empower readers—not confuse them—and he’s committed to ensuring his content is always easy to understand without sacrificing accuracy or depth. Over the years, Krishi has contributed to some of the most reputable names in the industry, including Techopedia, TechRadar, and Tom’s Guide. A man of many talents, Krishi has also proven his mettle as a crypto writer, tackling complex topics with both ease and zeal. His work spans various formats—from in-depth explainers and news coverage to feature pieces and buying guides.  Behind the scenes, Krishi operates from a dual-monitor setup (including a 29-inch LG UltraWide) that’s always buzzing with news feeds, technical documentation, and research notes, as well as the occasional gaming sessions that keep him fresh.  Krishi thrives on staying current, always ready to dive into the latest announcements, industry shifts, and their far-reaching impacts.  When he's not deep into research on the latest PC hardware news, Krishi would love to chat with you about day trading and the financial markets—oh! And cricket, as well. View all articles by Krishi Chowdhary Our editorial process The Tech Report editorial policy is centered on providing helpful, accurate content that offers real value to our readers. We only work with experienced writers who have specific knowledge in the topics they cover, including latest developments in technology, online privacy, cryptocurrencies, software, and more. Our editorial policy ensures that each topic is researched and curated by our in-house editors. We maintain rigorous journalistic standards, and every article is 100% written by real authors. More from News View all News OpenAI Academy – A New Beginning in AI Learning Krishi Chowdhary 44 minutes ago View all

Key Takeaways Thermal Grizzly unveiled its WireView Pro 2, a device that monitors the current and temperature of the 12VHPWR power connector. This improved version also offers data logging for 3 months and is expected to be priced at $100. The WireView Pro 2 will come out by the end of the year with better hardware and software compatibility. The WireView GPU Pro is a device from Thermal Grizzly that measures the power consumption of a graphics card.  The device connects to the 12VHPWR power connector of the graphics card and is hooked up to the power supply through a power cable. You can then see the power consumption data on an OLED screen.  It also features a connection detector and temperature sensors, as well as a buzzer for audio warnings for overheating. The device measures power consumption every 60 seconds and can be used to monitor consumption over a given period of time. Interestingly, Thermal Grizzly is already planning the WireView Pro II, which will be an updated version of its predecessor. Instead of the 60-second window, it will record metrics (current, voltage, and temperature) every 5 seconds and store data for up to 3 months. The WireView Pro uses per-pin sensing to monitor each of the 16 pins of the 12VHPWR connector. This way, it can identify which pin carries too much current, which one is loose or oxidized, and will also detect anomalies quickly. The aim here is to identify issues before they cause any permanent damage. However, Roman from Thermal Grizzly also acknowledged that this might not always be the case, as overheating may occur due to subtle resistance at a contact point. He also said that WireView isn’t entirely fail-proof. Out of the 3,700 units sold that use a 12VHPWR connector, 12 had issues with melted connectors, which boils down to a failure rate of 0.3%. Although not alarmingly high, Thermal Grizzly is ‘learning from failures’ to develop a better version. Source: YouTube, Hardware Unboxed There’s also a small two-pin connector near the WireView USB-C port and a Y-splitter cable, which can connect it to the motherboard’s power button. That way, it can trigger a system shutdown if needed. The USB-C port can also be used to hook the WireView up with your PC and configure settings via compatible software. You can store data, including potentially images or other files, and then uninstall the software. The device will work independently. All Thanks to Nvidia? Roman sarcastically thanked Nvidia for its poor 12VHPWR connector, which led to the conceptualization of a product like WireView. Nvidia’s 12VHPWR is often used in high-end GPUs like the RTX 4090 and has been reported to melt or overheat. People have even lost entire GPUs because of this. A simple product like WireView, though, has helped people keep a watch on temperatures and save thousands of dollars. One man’s loss is another man’s gain, as they say. And it has proven to be absolutely correct in the case of Thermal Grizzly. Had NVIDIA not messed up their connector, a whole new product would never have been born. Sure, Nvidia has upgraded its 12VHPWR connector over time to introduce a better version, but the reputational damage is already done. The WireView Pro 2 is expected to come out by the end of this year at a price of around $100. It costs around $25 more than an earlier version due to a custom 12VHPWR connector, which would require at least 3 months for production. Plus, considering improved hardware, per-pin current sensing, and software compatibility, the $100 price point seems to be pretty reasonable. Obviously, Nvidia can throw a curveball and move away from the 12VHPWR to a new connector standard, making products like the WireView Pro incompatible with various GPU versions. However, this is easier said than done, considering cost and operational challenges. Krishi is a seasoned tech journalist with over four years of experience writing about PC hardware, consumer technology, and artificial intelligence.  Clarity and accessibility are at the core of Krishi’s writing style. He believes technology writing should empower readers—not confuse them—and he’s committed to ensuring his content is always easy to understand without sacrificing accuracy or depth. Over the years, Krishi has contributed to some of the most reputable names in the industry, including Techopedia, TechRadar, and Tom’s Guide. A man of many talents, Krishi has also proven his mettle as a crypto writer, tackling complex topics with both ease and zeal. His work spans various formats—from in-depth explainers and news coverage to feature pieces and buying guides.  Behind the scenes, Krishi operates from a dual-monitor setup (including a 29-inch LG UltraWide) that’s always buzzing with news feeds, technical documentation, and research notes, as well as the occasional gaming sessions that keep him fresh.  Krishi thrives on staying current, always ready to dive into the latest announcements, industry shifts, and their far-reaching impacts.  When he's not deep into research on the latest PC hardware news, Krishi would love to chat with you about day trading and the financial markets—oh! And cricket, as well. View all articles by Krishi Chowdhary Our editorial process The Tech Report editorial policy is centered on providing helpful, accurate content that offers real value to our readers. We only work with experienced writers who have specific knowledge in the topics they cover, including latest developments in technology, online privacy, cryptocurrencies, software, and more. Our editorial policy ensures that each topic is researched and curated by our in-house editors. We maintain rigorous journalistic standards, and every article is 100% written by real authors.

Key Takeaways Maxsun unveiled the new Intel Arc Pro B60 Dual GPU video card, featuring two 24GB Pro B60 GPUs. It features a blower-style fan, ideal for building complex workstations with multiple cards. Although the pricing isn’t made public yet, we expect it to be around $1,000, which can be a competition-killer. Remember the good old CrossFire days when you could hook up multiple AMD GPUs to achieve higher performance? Well, those days might be returning thanks to the new Intel Arc Pro B60 Dual GPU launched by Maxsun at Computex. It PCIe features two 24GB GPUs in a single card, meaning you can get 48 GB of GPU memory. What’s incredible here is that the Arc Pro B60 only needs 8 PCIe lanes, unlike some high-end GPUs that need 16. However, you’ll need an X16 motherboard/CPU combo that supports PCIe bifurcation. In that case, the entire x16 slot can be split into two x8 connections. Interestingly, the Arc Pro B60 isn’t marketed as a gaming GPU – it’s meant primarily for workstations that require high computing power for tasks such as rendering, animations, moderate AI development, 3D modelling, etc. This is why it features a unique blower-like fan instead of the typical open-air fan we see in gaming CPUs. Unlike open-air fans that spread the heat out inside the case, a blower-style fan works like a hairdryer by pushing the heat out from the inside of the case. While the cooling efficiency of a blower fan might be lower on a single GPU, they turn out to be more effective in stacks, which is exactly what the Arc Pro B60 is meant for. So, if you’re building a workstation with 3 Arc Pro B60s, a blower-style fan ensures all 6 GPUs can be cooled without overwhelming the entire setup, making it better for ‘stacking.’ Comeback of Multi-GPU Setups Multi-GPU setups were quite the thing back in the day. We’re sure that a couple of die-hard builders in our team would serve up puppy eyes thinking about hooking up two 16GB GPUs to get more power. However, despite the widespread belief that you would get double the performance, memory was only enhanced by 30-50%. Still, these CrossFire setups served the purpose, i.e., gamers could play resource-intensive games. It’s worth noting that such dual-GPU setups faded away with the rapid development of newer GPUs. In short, single GPUs became powerful enough to overshadow dual GPUs. Eventually, a lot of applications and games stopped supporting CrossFire setups. With the new Intel Arc Pro B60, dual GPUs might make a mini-comeback. They’re not returning to the gaming arena, but to data centers, workstations, and AI setups. NVIDIA hasn’t promoted this in a long time, pushing its expensive GPUs into the market instead. This is also precisely where Intel wants to punch harder – the price point. Although we’re still waiting for the exact details on the Intel Arc Pro B60 dual GPU setup price, experts believe it could be priced around $1,000-$1,200. To get the same 48 GB of VRAM, you might have to spend $5,000-6,000 with models like the NVIDIA RTX 6000 Ada. Of course, there will be performance differences between the two, too, but getting at-par VRAM is the first step of the process. Honestly, if power-intensive workspaces are able to get 48 GB of VRAM at 70-80% less cost, this dual GPU setup can become a market killer. In other news, Intel has also announced Project Battlematrix – a solution that supports AI workloads that can combine up to eight Intel Arc Pro GPUs in a system, with 192 GB of VRAM. The company seems to be working hard on the workstation and data processing industry – something NVIDIA and AMD haven’t catered to explicitly yet. This could give Intel a first-mover advantage. If it can achieve comparable performance with some modern NVIDIA chips, the new Intel Arc Pro B60 can revive the Blue team. Read more: Nvidia’s downgraded H20 chips might not be enough to stop China’s Ai ambitions Krishi is a seasoned tech journalist with over four years of experience writing about PC hardware, consumer technology, and artificial intelligence.  Clarity and accessibility are at the core of Krishi’s writing style. He believes technology writing should empower readers—not confuse them—and he’s committed to ensuring his content is always easy to understand without sacrificing accuracy or depth. Over the years, Krishi has contributed to some of the most reputable names in the industry, including Techopedia, TechRadar, and Tom’s Guide. A man of many talents, Krishi has also proven his mettle as a crypto writer, tackling complex topics with both ease and zeal. His work spans various formats—from in-depth explainers and news coverage to feature pieces and buying guides.  Behind the scenes, Krishi operates from a dual-monitor setup (including a 29-inch LG UltraWide) that’s always buzzing with news feeds, technical documentation, and research notes, as well as the occasional gaming sessions that keep him fresh.  Krishi thrives on staying current, always ready to dive into the latest announcements, industry shifts, and their far-reaching impacts.  When he's not deep into research on the latest PC hardware news, Krishi would love to chat with you about day trading and the financial markets—oh! And cricket, as well. View all articles by Krishi Chowdhary Our editorial process The Tech Report editorial policy is centered on providing helpful, accurate content that offers real value to our readers. We only work with experienced writers who have specific knowledge in the topics they cover, including latest developments in technology, online privacy, cryptocurrencies, software, and more. Our editorial policy ensures that each topic is researched and curated by our in-house editors. We maintain rigorous journalistic standards, and every article is 100% written by real authors.

Home Google Launches SynthID Detector – A Revolutionary AI Detection Tool. Is This the Beginning of Responsible AI Development? News Google Launches SynthID Detector – A Revolutionary AI Detection Tool. Is This the Beginning of Responsible AI Development? 7 min read Published: May 22, 2025 Key Takeaways Google has introduced SynthID Detector, a powerful tool that can detect AI-generated content. It works by identifying SynthID-generated watermarks in content served up by Google AI tools, such as Imagen, Gemini, and Lyria. The detector is currently in the testing phase and only available for use by joining a waitlist. SynthID Detector is also open-source, allowing anyone to build on the tech architecture. Google has launched SynthID Detector, a tool that can recognize any content generated through the Google suite of AI tools. SynthID, in case you didn’t know, is a state-of-the-art watermarking tool launched by Google in August 2023. This technology adds a watermark on AI-generated content, which is not visible to the naked eye.  Initially, SynthID was launched only for AI-generated images, but it has now been extended to text, video, and audio content generated using tools like Imagen, Gemini, Lyria, and Veo. The detector uses this SynthID watermarking to identify AI content. When you upload an image, audio, or video to the detector tool, it’ll look for this watermark. If it finds one, it’ll highlight the part of the content that is most likely to be watermarked. It’s worth noting, though, that the SynthID Detector is currently in the testing phase. Google has released a waitlist form for researchers, journalists, and media professionals. Google has also partnered with NVIDIA to watermark videos generated on their NVIDIA Cosmos AI model. More importantly, Google announced a partnership with GetReal Security, which is a leading pioneer in detecting deepfake media and has raised around $17.5 million in equity funding. We’re likely to see an increasing number of such partnerships from Google’s end, meaning SynthID Detector’s scope will keep broadening. So, you’ll be able to detect not just Google-generated AI content but also content generated with other AI platforms. The Need for SynthID Detector Notwithstanding all of the benefits that artificial intelligence has brought us, it has also become a powerful tool in the hands of criminals. We have seen hundreds of incidents where innocent people were scammed or threatened using AI-generated content. For example, on May 13, Sandra Rogers, a Lackawanna County woman, was found guilty of possessing AI-generated child sex abuse images. In another incident, a 17-year-old kid extorted personal information from 19 victims by creating sexually explicit deepfakes and threatening to leak them. A man in China was scammed out of $622,000 by a scammer using an AI-generated voice over the phone impersonating the man’s friend. Similar scams have become popular in the US and even in countries like India that aren’t really at the forefront of AI technology. In addition to crimes against civilians, AI is also being used to cause a lot of political unrest. For instance, a consultant was fined $6M for using fake robocalls during the US presidential elections. He used AI to mimic Joe Biden’s voice and urged voters in New Hampshire not to vote in the state’s Democratic primary. Back in 2022, a fake video of Ukrainian President Zelensky was broadcast on Ukraine 24, a Ukrainian news website, which was allegedly hacked. The fake AI video showed Zelensky apparently surrendering to Russia and ‘laying down arms.’ This is only the tip of the iceberg. The internet is filled with such cases, with newer ones coming out almost every single day. AI is increasingly being weaponized against institutions, government, and the societal order to cause political and social unrest. Image Credit – Statista Therefore, a tool like SynthID Detector can be a beacon of hope to combat such perpetrators. News houses, publications, and regulators can run a suspected image or content through the detector to verify a story before running it for millions to view. More importantly, tools like SynthID will also go a long way in instilling some semblance of fear among criminals, who will know that they can be busted anytime. And What About the Legal Grey Area of AI Usage? Besides the above outright illegal use of AI, there’s also a moral dilemma attached to increasing AI use. Educators are specifically worried about the use of LLMs and text-generating AI models in schools, colleges, and universities. Instead of putting in the hard yards, students now just punch in a couple of prompts to generate detailed, human-like articles and assignments. Research at the University of Pennsylvania formed two groups of students: one with access to ChatGPT and another without any such LLM tools.  The students who had used ChatGPT could solve 48% more mathematical problems correctly. However, when a test was conducted, the students who had used ChatGPT solved 17% fewer problems than those who didn’t.  This shows that the use of LLM models isn’t really contributing to learning and academic development. They’re, instead, tools to simply ‘complete tasks,’ which is slowly robbing us of our ability to think. Another study called ‘AI Tools in Society: Impacts on Cognitive Offloading and the Future of Critical Thinking’ shows that people in the age group 17-25 have the highest AI usage as well as the lowest critical thinking scores. Coincidence? We don’t think so. Clearly, the use of AI tools isn’t contributing to the development of young minds. Instead, it has become a watchdog for laziness for people who wish to cut corners. We call this a moral dilemma because the use of AI tools for education or any other purpose, for that matter, is not illegal. Instead, it’s more of a conscious decision to let go of our own critical thinking, which, as most would argue, is what makes us human. Contemporary AI Detectors Are Worthless Because AI is replacing critical thinking and being used to outsource work by students, it’s understandable why educational institutions have resorted to AI detectors to check for the presence of AI-generated content in student submissions and assignments.  However, these AI detectors are no more accurate than a blind person telling you the way ahead. Apologies if we stepped on any toes here! We forgot our stick! Christopher Penn, an AI expert, made a post on LinkedIn titled ‘AI Detectors are a joke.’ He fed the US Declaration of Independence to a ‘market-leading’ AI detector, and guess what? Apparently, our forefathers used 97% AI to pen down the Declaration. Time travel? The inaccurate results from these detectors stem from their use of parameters such as perplexity and burstiness to analyze texts. Consequently, if you write an article that sounds somewhat robotic, lacks vocabulary variety, and features similar line lengths, these ‘AI detectors’ may classify your work as that of an AI language model. Bottom line, these tools are not reliable, which is possibly why OpenAI discontinued its AI detection tool in mid-2023, citing accuracy issues. However, the sad part is that a large part of the system, including universities, still relies on these tools to make major decisions such as student expulsions and suspensions. This is exactly why we need a better and more reliable tool to call out AI-generated content. Enter SynthID Detector. SynthID Detector Is Open-Source Possibly the biggest piece of positive news with regard to Google’s SynthID Detector announcement is that the tool has been kept open source. This will allow other companies and creators to build on the existing architecture and incorporate AI watermark detection in their own artificial intelligence models. Remember, SynthID Detector currently only works for Google’s AI tools, which is just a small part of the whole artificial intelligence market. So, if someone generates a text using ChatGPT, there’s still no reliable way to tell if it was AI-generated. Maybe that’s why Google has kept the detector open-source, hoping that other developers would take a cue from it. All in all, it’s really appreciable that Google hasn’t gate-kept this essential development. Other companies that are concerned about the increasing misuse of their AI models should go ahead and contribute to the greater good of making AI safe for society. Krishi is a seasoned tech journalist with over four years of experience writing about PC hardware, consumer technology, and artificial intelligence.  Clarity and accessibility are at the core of Krishi’s writing style. He believes technology writing should empower readers—not confuse them—and he’s committed to ensuring his content is always easy to understand without sacrificing accuracy or depth. Over the years, Krishi has contributed to some of the most reputable names in the industry, including Techopedia, TechRadar, and Tom’s Guide. A man of many talents, Krishi has also proven his mettle as a crypto writer, tackling complex topics with both ease and zeal. His work spans various formats—from in-depth explainers and news coverage to feature pieces and buying guides.  Behind the scenes, Krishi operates from a dual-monitor setup (including a 29-inch LG UltraWide) that’s always buzzing with news feeds, technical documentation, and research notes, as well as the occasional gaming sessions that keep him fresh.  Krishi thrives on staying current, always ready to dive into the latest announcements, industry shifts, and their far-reaching impacts.  When he's not deep into research on the latest PC hardware news, Krishi would love to chat with you about day trading and the financial markets—oh! And cricket, as well. View all articles by Krishi Chowdhary Our editorial process The Tech Report editorial policy is centered on providing helpful, accurate content that offers real value to our readers. We only work with experienced writers who have specific knowledge in the topics they cover, including latest developments in technology, online privacy, cryptocurrencies, software, and more. Our editorial policy ensures that each topic is researched and curated by our in-house editors. We maintain rigorous journalistic standards, and every article is 100% written by real authors. More from News View all View all

Key Takeaways Next Xbox Could Run Windows: A reliable leak suggests Microsoft is working on an Xbox that runs a custom Windows build with Steam support and full backward compatibility. Steam and Xbox Already Work Well Together: Xbox controllers dominate on Steam, and Microsoft continues releasing more games on the platform. Best-in-Class Backward Compatibility: Xbox Series X supports four console generations. A Windows-based Xbox could make this even more straightforward. A Strategic Shift to Stay Competitive: With PlayStation ahead, Microsoft may bet on openness, merging PC and console ecosystems to regain ground. In the never-ending console wars, it looks like Microsoft might be gearing up to throw out the rulebook – and maybe the whole library too.  According to reports, the next-generation Xbox could run a custom version of Windows, support Steam, and offer full backward compatibility.  That’s not just an upgrade. That’s a potential identity crisis. Or maybe, it’s a long-overdue evolution. Why This Isn’t Just Another Rumor First, let’s get this straight. This isn’t a random internet fantasy or Reddit wishlisting.  The source of these claims is a Spanish leaker known as eXtas1s, with a decent track record with Xbox-related news.  In a recent YouTube video, he claimed that Microsoft is working on a new Xbox console that would run a modified version of Windows, support PC storefronts like Steam, and offer full backward compatibility. The details were later summarized in English on ResetEra by a user named P40L0, helping the rumor spread across the broader gaming community.  Even possibly including a dedicated ‘Xbox mode’ launcher on top of Windows.  While Microsoft hasn’t confirmed any of this (and probably won’t anytime soon), it certainly makes sense when you look at the direction Xbox has been heading.  Xbox is no longer just a piece of hardware. It’s Game Pass. It’s cloud gaming. It’s the Xbox app on your PC. So when someone says the next Xbox might just be a living room-friendly Windows PC, the real surprise isn’t the rumor – it’s that it hasn’t already happened. Steam on Xbox? Why Not – They Already Share a Bed Now let’s talk about Steam.  Valve and Microsoft used to be slightly cold toward each other, especially when Windows 8 tried to become a walled garden. But now? They’re practically roommates.  Steam runs perfectly on Windows. Microsoft has been adding more and more games to Steam. The Xbox controller is the go-to option for most Steam players. In some cases, Microsoft even allows you to link your Xbox and Steam accounts.  Source: Xbox And let’s be honest: the Microsoft Store is… not great. Steam is where PC gamers live. Supporting Steam on the next Xbox might be less about generosity and more about pragmatism.  If you can’t beat Valve, join them – and maybe use their massive user base to prop up your console. Backward Compatibility: Microsoft’s Underrated Power Move The Xbox Series X is hands-down the most backward-compatible console on the market. It supports games from four generations – Original Xbox, Xbox 360, Xbox One, and Series X|S.  Source: Xbox.  You can play Knights of the Old Republic, Fable II, or Gears of War 3 without paying for a remake or subscription.  Just insert the disc or download your old digital copy, and you’re good to go. Many older titles look and run better, thanks to features like Auto HDR, higher resolutions, and faster load times. It’s not just support – it’s enhancement. This kind of access is rare. Sony’s PS5 doesn’t support PS3 discs at all. And Nintendo locks most of its classic library behind paid online services.  Microsoft, by contrast, is preserving its gaming legacy in a way that respects the player. If the next Xbox runs Windows and supports Steam, backward compatibility could surpass consoles. You could run your entire game library across decades and platforms with no emulators, just Windows doing what it does best. That’s more than a feature. It’s a reason to stick with Xbox. Or to finally switch.  Is This About PlayStation? Of Course it is Let’s not pretend this is happening in a vacuum.  The PlayStation 5 is dominating this console generation. Sony’s strategy has been aggressive and, frankly, smart. Exclusive titles. Strong global brand. A focus on cinematic single-player experiences that people want to play.  Microsoft tried to play the subscription game with Game Pass. It was a great idea, and it still is – but it hasn’t closed the gap.  And then came the Activision Blizzard acquisition. That was supposed to be a game-changer. Instead, it turned into a regulatory circus and has yet to deliver a big shift in momentum.  Call of Duty is still on PlayStation. Diablo IV didn’t launch as a Game Pass exclusive. So what does Microsoft do when it’s behind? It opens up. This isn’t the first time Microsoft has flipped the script. It open-sourced .NET, embraced Linux, and made Visual Studio Code free. The message behind these moves? We’re not the old Microsoft anymore — we’re the cool one now. Now, that same logic might apply to Xbox.  If people aren’t buying the Xbox for its exclusives, give them a reason to buy it for everything else. Steam, Windows, emulation, mods – these are things gamers want but don’t get from traditional consoles. The Console That Isn’t a Console Imagine a box under your TV that runs Windows, plays Steam games, runs emulators, supports Xbox Game Pass, and doesn’t care where your games come from.  Call it an Xbox, call it a PC, call it ‘Xbox Fusion’ or whatever marketing comes up with. But that’s not a console in the traditional sense – that’s a lifestyle device. And before you laugh at that phrase, remember the Steam Deck? That thing is a handheld Linux PC. People jailbreak it. They install Game Pass on it. They use it to emulate Nintendo games. Valve leaned into that openness, and it worked. If Valve could do it with a $399 handheld, why can’t Microsoft do it with a $499 living room console?  It’s About Ecosystem, Not Exclusives Once upon a time, consoles lived and died by their exclusives.  But Microsoft isn’t trying to sell you a box. It’s trying to sell you into an ecosystem. Game Pass. Xbox Live. Cloud saves. Achievements. Cross-play. Even the Xbox app on your phone. By turning the Xbox into a Windows-powered hybrid, they make it easier to say: ‘You’re already in the Xbox world. You just didn’t know it yet.’ But Will People Buy it? Here’s the catch: People who want a Windows gaming box… already own one. It’s called a PC.  Source: Unsplash.  So the next Xbox must do something a regular gaming PC doesn’t.  It needs to be plug-and-play. It needs to be cheap. It needs to be quiet, reliable, and hassle-free. No driver updates. No BIOS settings. No random crashes because Steam updated, and your mod loader broke.  If Microsoft can pull that off and make a gaming PC that feels like a console, they might not win the generation, but they’ll win back a lot of goodwill. And maybe even some market share.  What This Means for the Industry If the next Xbox truly embraces Windows and Steam, the lines between consoles and PCs will blur even further.  Sony will feel the pressure. Nintendo probably won’t care. But developers? They’ll love it. One build to rule them all, with less fragmentation and more options.  And if Xbox supports things like mouse and keyboard, mods, or even side-loading apps, it could become the best place to play, not because it’s a walled garden, but because it isn’t. Xbox Needs a Bold Move – This Might Be It The console wars are no longer just about graphics or frame rates. They’re about ecosystems. Microsoft tried going all-in on subscriptions, and it helped, but it wasn’t enough. So now, it’s pivoting again. Steam support. Windows under the hood. Full backward compatibility. It sounds wild. But it also sounds like the kind of disruption the gaming industry needs. Don’t be surprised if the next Xbox is a Trojan horse PC for your living room. Microsoft’s been training this horse for years.  Anya Zhukova is an in-house tech and crypto writer at Techreport with 10 years of hands-on experience covering cybersecurity, consumer tech, digital privacy, and blockchain. She’s known for turning complex topics into clear, useful advice that regular people can actually understand and use.  Her work has been featured in top-tier digital publications including MakeUseOf, Online Tech Tips, Help Desk Geek, Switching to Mac, and Make Tech Easier. Whether she’s writing about the latest privacy tools or reviewing a new laptop, her goal is always the same: help readers feel confident and in control of the tech they use every day.  Anya holds a BA in English Philology and Translation from Tula State Pedagogical University and also studied Mass Media and Journalism at Minnesota State University, Mankato. That mix of language, media, and tech has given her a unique lens to look at how technology shapes our daily lives.  Over the years, she’s also taken courses and done research in data privacy, digital security, and ethical writing – skills she uses when tackling sensitive topics like PC hardware, system vulnerabilities, and crypto security.  Anya worked directly with brands like Framework, Insta360, Redmagic, Inmotion, Secretlab, Kodak, and Anker, reviewing their products in real-life scenarios. Her testing process involves real-world use cases – whether it's stress-testing laptops for creative workloads, reviewing the battery performance of mobile gaming phones, or evaluating the long-term ergonomics of furniture designed for hybrid workspaces.  In the world of crypto, Anya covers everything from beginner guides to deep dives into hardware wallets, DeFi protocols, and Web3 tools. She helps readers understand how to use multisig wallets, keep their assets safe, and choose the right platforms for their needs.  Her writing often touches on financial freedom and privacy – two things she strongly believes should be in everyone’s hands. Outside of writing, Anya contributes to editorial style guides focused on privacy and inclusivity, and she mentors newer tech writers on how to build subject matter expertise and write responsibly.  She sticks to high editorial standards, only recommends products she’s personally tested, and always aims to give readers the full picture.  You can find her on LinkedIn, where she shares more about her work and projects.  Key Areas of Expertise: Consumer Tech (laptops, phones, wearables, etc.) Cybersecurity and Digital Privacy PC/PC Hardware Blockchain, Crypto Wallets, and DeFi In-Depth Product Reviews and Buying Guides Whether she’s reviewing a new wallet or benchmarking a PC build, Anya brings curiosity, care, and a strong sense of responsibility to everything she writes. Her mission? To make the digital world a little easier – and safer – for everyone.  View all articles by Anya Zhukova Our editorial process The Tech Report editorial policy is centered on providing helpful, accurate content that offers real value to our readers. We only work with experienced writers who have specific knowledge in the topics they cover, including latest developments in technology, online privacy, cryptocurrencies, software, and more. Our editorial policy ensures that each topic is researched and curated by our in-house editors. We maintain rigorous journalistic standards, and every article is 100% written by real authors.

We never thought we’d utter the phrase RTX 5060 review restrictions, but here we are. From YouTube channels to review sites, independent tech media has always played a huge role in the launch cycle of a new graphics card. With early access to hardware and drivers, these outlets conduct their own, thorough tests and give buyers an objective view on performance – the full picture, so to speak. With the launch of NVIDIA’s GeForce RTX 5060, that could all change. According to a report from VideoCardz, NVIDIA has switched up its preview model before the card’s launch. Where it used to provide pre-release drivers to media outlets in exchange for comprehensive reviews, it’s instead now limited early access to outlets that agree to publish ‘previews’.  Adding insult to injury, NVIDIA has a set of conditions that these outlets must agree to, meaning they’re in charge of what information consumers receive, rather than the outlets themselves. NVIDIA ‘has apparently handpicked media who are willing to share the preview, and that itself was apparently the only way to obtain the drivers.’ This selective approach could mean we as consumers can expect less diverse perspectives prior to launch. Tom’s Hardware explains that this means day-one impressions ‘will largely be based on NVIDIA’s first-party metrics and the few reviewers who aren’t traveling.’ NVIDIA’s RTX 5060 Review Restrictions Limit Game Choices and Graphics Settings So, what are NVIDIA’s parameters for the early testing and reporting during the ‘previews’? They want to: Limit the games allowed for benchmarking Only permit the RTX 5060 to be compared to specific other graphics cards, and  Specifying individual graphics settings Though we don’t have a full list of the games allowed by NVIDIA, judging from already-published previews from Tom’s Guide and Techradar, the approved titles include Cyberpunk 2077, Avowed, Marvel Rivals, Hogwarts Legacy, and Doom: The Dark Ages – all games which have been optimized for NVIDIA GPUs. According to Tom’s Hardware, NVIDIA won’t allow the RTX 5060 to be compared to the RTX 4060, only permitting comparisons with older cards such as the RTX 2060 Super and RTX 3060.  Speaking to VideoCardz, GameStar Tech explained: “What’s particularly crucial is that we weren’t able to choose which graphics cards and games we would measure and with which settings for this preview.” Should a card’s manufacturer really have such control over this type of content? Anyone who values independent journalism says a resounding ‘No.’  Credit: HardwareLuxx First Party “Tests” Can’t Always Be Trusted Taking control of the testing environment in this way and dictating points for comparison means NVIDIA is steering the narrative. It wants these early previews to highlight the strengths of its latest card, while keeping under wraps any areas where it may fall short or fail to provide significant improvements over the last generation. Cards are typically tested by playing a diverse array of game titles and at different graphical settings and resolutions, with many factors such as thermal performance, power consumption, and more taken into account to provide a balanced overview that should help consumers decide if the latest release is worth an upgrade. NVIDIA has come under suspicion from tech outlets for its shady behavior in the past. During a previous round of reviews, the manufacturer intentionally didn’t launch the RTX 5060 with the 5060XT. It was thought this was to promote and receive positive reviews for the 16GB variant, while quietly putting the 8GB variant onto store shelves. Overly positive early glimpses of the latest NVIDIA products could prompt consumers to purchase if they’re desperate to upgrade, but for those who want more in-depth analysis, the RTX 5060 review restrictions are stifling independent media coverage Consumers Deserve Comprehensive Reviews and Competitor Comparisons Constraints put in place by a manufacturer mean we’re not getting a full, comprehensive review of a product’s pros and cons. The ‘preview’ of the RTX 5060’s capabilities is distorted by these constraints, meaning we’ll never see how the card really compares to competitors from rival AMD, or previous generation cards from NVIDIA itself. Any negatives, like performance bottlenecks when playing specific tiles, also won’t be initially apparent. Furthermore, NVIDIA’s latest move opens up a can of worms surrounding ‘access journalism.’ This is where media outlets feel they need to comply with demands from manufacturers so they can keep receiving samples for future reviews, exclusive interviews, and so on. It’s a valid and growing concern, according to a report by NotebookCheck. NVIDIA seems like it’s trying to turn independent journalism into a PR effort for its own purposes. Controlling reviews in this way has many asking the question: Why doesn’t NVIDIA simply take a more ethical approach by paying for coverage and marking it as sponsored?  Gamers Nexus Raises Ethical Concerns Over NVIDIA Pressure In the NotebookCheck report, Gamers Nexus claims NVIDIA pressured them for over six months to include Multi-Frame Generation 4X (MFG4X) performance figures in their reviews, even when the graphics cards being tested didn’t support this feature. Understandably, Gamers Nexus found the request unethical and misleading for its reviewers and declined to comply. Gamers Nexus then says that NVIDIA threatened to remove access to interviews with its engineers. Since GN isn’t paid by NVIDIA for their coverage, this is the best way to penalize them as this unique, expert content and technical insight helps them stand out from the competition and has proven popular with subscribers. According to the report, ‘their continued availability was apparently made conditional on GN complying with NVIDIA’s editorial demands.’ Stephen Burke of GN spoke about this in more detail on a recent YouTube video, likening NVIDIA’s demands to ‘extortion.’ The alleged behavior is shocking, if true. Manufacturers behaving in this way bring the entire integrity of the review process into question and raises several ethical questions. Should manufacturers be using sanctions to influence how their products are covered? Making this the norm could mean other media outlets are afraid to stray from the approved narrative and may not publish honest analysis, which is the whole point of reviews in the first place. Part of the appeal of independent testing is just that: it’s independent. Some feel that makes it more credible than testing carried out by companies that have a financial stake in the matter. Whatever your views on it, there’s no denying that these controlled previews only benefit the chosen outlets and have the potential to harm the credibility and reputation of others. FTC and Google Would Disagree with Nvidia’s Review Restrictions Not to mention the fact that controlling coverage in this way expressly goes against Google’s EEAT guidelines for publishers. The EEAT guidelines, standing for Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, and Trustworthiness, are designed to ensure content is helpful – but most importantly, that it can be trusted. NVIDIA’s move to influence reviews goes directly against this. Moreover, the FTC in the US also has strict guidelines surrounding reviews, prohibiting businesses from “providing compensation or other incentives conditioned on the writing of consumer reviews expressing a particular sentiment, either positive or negative.” This doesn’t have to be monetary – and could apply in the case of NVIDIA only providing outlets that comply with its demands with drivers. It’s not the first time GN has raised questions about the way NVIDIA does business. In May 2024, they posted a video surrounding the manufacturer’s entrenched market dominance and how the ‘mere exposure effect’ could subconsciously influence consumers to buy NVIDIA products.  Consumers May Need to Wait For Trusted, Independent Reviews This move by NVIDIA could mean we all take a more critical view of the first wave of reviews when a new GPU is launched. If other manufacturers follow NVIDIA’s lead, we will likely all need to wait a week – or more – for independent reviews from trusted sources, carried out without any restrictions imposed by manufacturers. It’s that or rely on previews that don’t provide a full picture. This ‘preview paradox’ surrounding the launch of the RTX 5060 is undoubtedly concerning. It’s something new – a dangerous shift towards a less transparent product launch.  Influencing independent coverage at launch raises ethical questions and places a greater onus on consumers to ensure the reporting they’re reading is unbiased and comprehensive.  There’s also pressure on media outlets to remain committed to providing the full, honest picture, even when faced with the risk of losing access to products or interviews in the future. This practice has the potential to harm publishers’ ability to operate – particularly smaller independent outlets. There’s enough evidence available for a consumer to claim an outlet is going against best practices for reviews, as laid out by Google and the US FTC, opening them up to legal ramifications. Ultimately, consumers deserve to be able to make informed choices. This puts that right at risk. Paula has been a writer for over a decade, starting off in the travel industry for brands like Skyscanner and Thomas Cook. She’s written everything from a guide to visiting Lithuania’s top restaurants to how to survive a zombie apocalypse and also worked as an editor/proofreader for indie authors and publishing houses, focusing on mystery, gothic, and crime fiction. She made the move to tech writing in 2019 and has worked as a writer and editor for websites such as Android Authority, Android Central, XDA, Megagames, Online Tech Tips, and Xbox Advisor. These days as well as contributing articles on all-things-tech for Techreport, you’ll find her writing about mobile tech over at Digital Trends. She’s obsessed with gaming, PC hardware, AI, and the latest and greatest gadgets and is never far from a screen of some sort.Her attention to detail, ability to get lost in a rabbit hole of research, and obsessive need to know every fact ensures that the news stories she covers and features she writes are (hopefully) as interesting and engaging to read as they are to write. When she’s not working, you’ll usually find her gaming on her Xbox Series X or PS5. As well as story-driven games like The Last of Us, Firewatch, and South of Midnight she loves anything with a post-apocalyptic setting. She’s also not averse to being absolutely terrified watching the latest horror films, when she feels brave enough! View all articles by Paula Beaton Our editorial process The Tech Report editorial policy is centered on providing helpful, accurate content that offers real value to our readers. We only work with experienced writers who have specific knowledge in the topics they cover, including latest developments in technology, online privacy, cryptocurrencies, software, and more. Our editorial policy ensures that each topic is researched and curated by our in-house editors. We maintain rigorous journalistic standards, and every article is 100% written by real authors.

Key Takeaways France is the first country to have endorsed the UN Open Source Principles, which now takes the total endorsements to 36. The French government recently released La Suite numérique, which is an open-source collection of collaboration tools for French government officials. French AI startup Mistral AI is also developing open-source AI models that can beat DeepSeek. France has become the first country to endorse the UN Open Source Principles  – an initiative adopted by the UN Chief Executive Board’s Digital Technology Network (DTN) to support the development of open-source technology within the UN. In addition to France, the UN Open Source Principles added 19 more endorsers to its list, taking the total to 36. The initiative has laid down eight principles for the development of open-source projects. This includes making open source the default approach for project development. Moreover, there’s also a focus on building interoperable projects to boost reusability and enable diverse and inclusive contributions. The biggest benefit of going open source is transparency. The code for any program will be accessible to the public, ensuring anyone can inspect and improve it. It also establishes trust between the developers and users.  For instance, if you’re using an open-source health tracking app, you can view the exact details it collects, including personal information. This ensures there are no back doors and users are not left in the dark.  It’s worth noting that the European Commission has also published an Open Source Software Strategy 2020-2023 to encourage and leverage open source collaboration. Like the UN, the EC, too, focused on sharing and reusing software tech along with spreading low-cost benefits to society. French Government Supporting Open Source The French government has developed the La Suite numérique – an open-source digital collaboration platform offering tools that can replace the likes of Microsoft 365 in corporate settings.  For instance, its Visio tool can be used for video conferencing. It doesn’t impose any time restrictions on meetings, irrespective of the group size – a perfect alternative to MS Teams. Alternatively, you can use the instant messaging app Tchap, which offers a single communication channel for your entire team. Install the Docs app from La Suite numérique if you want to work with documents. This one comes with features like media imports and offline mode. Moreover, several users can work simultaneously, meaning real-time collaboration is as simple as any mainstream docs app.  La Suite numérique also has a cloud storage app called Drive, a webmail service called Messagerie, and a secure file transfer service called France Transfert. Several other tools are also under development. Currently, La Suite numérique is only available to the French public administration and for official government use. However, it’s important to ponder the kind of affordability benefits tools like this can bring. Businesses can end up saving the cost of licensing each individual app for hundreds of thousands of devices. France’s Open Source AI Another open-source initiative from France is Mistral AI. This AI startup is working on open-source AI models that are powerful enough to outperform DeepSeek. CEO Arthur Mensch said that the company’s core focus is on open-source technology, which can help companies ‘build on top of one another.’ This is an entirely different approach to OpenAI. Despite being named after open source technology, the Altman-driven company has kept its advanced models, such as ChatGPT, GPT-4, and DALL-E, as closed source projects. Imagine open-source technology as the peak form of community building. So, if someone wants to build something similar to or better than Mistral AI, they can view and take inspiration from its code, which can give them a head start and help them build something better. However, if you want to build something like ChatGPT, you’ll have no resources and will need to start from scratch. This is precisely what the United Nations wants to change, and open-source technology aligns well with its objectives of transparency and inclusion. Open-source projects allow smaller players who do not have access to endless resources to contribute to the overall development of critical AI projects. The French government seems to have caught the cue. With in-house open-source tech development, open-source AI startups, and endorsement of the UN Open Source Principles, France now stands at the forefront of the open-source movement. Anything Can Be Open Source It’s worth noting that open-source technology isn’t just limited to AI or a select few industries. Any service offered on the internet can go open source, which is evident by the kind of support the UN open source principles have received. For example, one of the endorsees is F-Droid, which is an open-source alternative to the Google Play Store. Every app listed on F-Droid is open source and completely free. Plus, it doesn’t use any hidden analytics or ads to gather user data, making it a much safer and more transparent app marketplace than what we commonly use. Image Credit – Caschys Blog The WordPress Foundation has also supported the initiative. It aims to build a stable content management system (CMS) for web publishing. The Apereo Foundation, a nonprofit built with the aim of helping open-source advancements in higher education, has also endorsed the UN Open Source Principles. Currently, Apereo has over 25 open-source projects focused on privacy and decentralization. As you can see, businesses in different sectors have come up to support the open-source initiative of the United Nations. However, open-source technology’s biggest ‘flaw’ is its anti-capitalistic nature. This simply means that for-profit organizations would not actively support the development of open-source tech. The reason is pretty apparent: why would you reveal the secret ingredient of your best-selling dish? Open source lowers costs and entry barriers in any industry, which are the two things capitalism survives on. So, as unfortunate as it is, we might never see a fully open-source approach from tech giants like Google, Microsoft, or OpenAI. However, with the development of open-source projects supported by various governments, the user base might gradually shift from traditional tech producers. That said, there’s still a long way to go before open-source products become mainstream. Krishi is a seasoned tech journalist with over four years of experience writing about PC hardware, consumer technology, and artificial intelligence.  Clarity and accessibility are at the core of Krishi’s writing style. He believes technology writing should empower readers—not confuse them—and he’s committed to ensuring his content is always easy to understand without sacrificing accuracy or depth. Over the years, Krishi has contributed to some of the most reputable names in the industry, including Techopedia, TechRadar, and Tom’s Guide. A man of many talents, Krishi has also proven his mettle as a crypto writer, tackling complex topics with both ease and zeal. His work spans various formats—from in-depth explainers and news coverage to feature pieces and buying guides.  Behind the scenes, Krishi operates from a dual-monitor setup (including a 29-inch LG UltraWide) that’s always buzzing with news feeds, technical documentation, and research notes, as well as the occasional gaming sessions that keep him fresh.  Krishi thrives on staying current, always ready to dive into the latest announcements, industry shifts, and their far-reaching impacts.  When he's not deep into research on the latest PC hardware news, Krishi would love to chat with you about day trading and the financial markets—oh! And cricket, as well. View all articles by Krishi Chowdhary Our editorial process The Tech Report editorial policy is centered on providing helpful, accurate content that offers real value to our readers. We only work with experienced writers who have specific knowledge in the topics they cover, including latest developments in technology, online privacy, cryptocurrencies, software, and more. Our editorial policy ensures that each topic is researched and curated by our in-house editors. We maintain rigorous journalistic standards, and every article is 100% written by real authors.

Home Trump Is the US’s New AI Salesman in the Middle East. A Smart Move or Desperation? News Trump Is the US’s New AI Salesman in the Middle East. A Smart Move or Desperation? 5 min read Published: May 18, 2025 Key Takeaways The US has signed a deal with the UAE to build the largest AI data center outside of the US. UAE will also be able to acquire 500K advanced NVIDIA AI chips every year from 2025. Saudi Arabia AI firm HUMAIN announced a partnership with NVIDIA to build 500 MW of AI factories in the next five years. Donald Trump’s visit to the Middle East has turned out to be quite fruitful for both parties. The US has signed a new deal with the UAE, wherein ‘the Middle East powerhouse’ will build a 10-square-mile AI facility in Abu Dhabi with a power capacity of 5 gigawatts. Remember, this kind of power can support 2.5 million Nvidia B200 chips. The facility will be built by Emirati government-backed AI company G42. This is the same company in which Microsoft invested $1.5 billion last year. However, the US seems to be cautious about the deal and would control a large part of the facility, even after it’s operational. Howard Lutnick, the US Secretary of Commerce, said that American companies will operate the data center and offer cloud services through the Middle East. This agreement would also allow the UAE to import 500K advanced Nvidia AI chips every year starting as early as 2025. Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang also accompanied Trump on his visit. Additionally, the agreement requires the UAE to reposition their national security regulations with the US, considering the country’s strong trading ties with China. This is important to prevent any diversion of US technology to other countries, specifically China. Recently, during Trump’s visit to Saudi Arabia, the country unveiled HUMAIN, an AI firm that is part of the country’s public investment fund. HUMAIN recently announced a landmark deal with NVIDIA, planning to build AI factories with a total capacity of 500 MW in the next 5 years, which will run on millions of NVIDIA GPUs.  These AI data centers will become launchpads for training and deploying AI models on a larger scale. Saudi Arabia wants to become an international AI powerhouse to drive the next wave of AI development in the Middle East, and its partnership with NVIDIA might just be the beginning. AI Shaping Geopolitical Ties The Middle East has been trying to ramp up its AI investments and efforts in recent years. For instance, the UAE hired Eric Xing, a pioneer AI researcher, in 2020 to lead the Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence. Following this, Saudi Arabia roped in Jürgen Schmidhuber, another AI pioneer, to head its King Abdullah University of Science and Technology. However, the quality of AI research from these countries has been subpar so far when compared to China and the US. This is largely due to restricted access to advanced computing resources. That could quickly become a thing of the past, though, thanks to the new deal with the US. The Middle East seems to be standing at an important crossroads. While it needs to maintain its trading ties with China, it cannot sever US relations owing to the latter’s AI supremacy. As of 2023, China accounts for around 11% of the UAE’s total exports, valued at $41.8 billion. At the same time, it also accounts for 20% of the country’s imports at $77.42 billion.  A powerhouse like the UAE is not dumb enough to ditch China to please the US. Therefore, this deal will be a meticulously planned affair from both countries. While the US will ensure the AI chips do not end up in China, the UAE will be cautious not to ruffle China. Trump Exploring New Markets The US has also shown a lot of trust in the Middle East with this deal. Earlier, such deals were blocked by the US administration, citing the Middle East’s close connections with China. However, Trump has been quick to realize that he needs to tap the potential of the ‘oil money’ to stamp America’s authority over artificial intelligence. Another reason behind the US’s interest in the Middle East could be that it has blocked the Chinese market for manufacturers like Nvidia and AMD. In fact, a new law is under discussion that could require US companies to introduce location tracking in exported AI chips so that they do not end up in the hands of their Chinese counterparts. These strict measures will eventually lead to a total loss of Chinese markets. Also, note that China contributed 13% of Nvidia’s total revenue for the year ended January 2025. So, the US-Middle East deals could also be a desperate move by the former to find new markets for its huge AI production units. Also, Trump doesn’t seem to have many options. After exiling the Chinese markets, the Middle East is the biggest emerging AI producer and consumer globally. Other strong candidates like India haven’t shown much interest in AI technological developments, at least not until the time of writing. What’s more, the South American market may not be enough to cover for loss in Chinese revenue. So, in all probability, it seems like the US needs this deal more than the Middle East. The Middle East, on the other hand, also seems to be in the mood to redefine traditional partnerships through strategic investments and diplomatic tools, creating a win-win situation for both parties. Mohammed Soliman, a senior at the Middle East Institute, said that this shift will improve the country’s technological partnership with the US. However, this does not mean that the UAE is abandoning China – it’s just recalibrating its tech strategy to prepare for the future. Krishi is a seasoned tech journalist with over four years of experience writing about PC hardware, consumer technology, and artificial intelligence.  Clarity and accessibility are at the core of Krishi’s writing style. He believes technology writing should empower readers—not confuse them—and he’s committed to ensuring his content is always easy to understand without sacrificing accuracy or depth. Over the years, Krishi has contributed to some of the most reputable names in the industry, including Techopedia, TechRadar, and Tom’s Guide. A man of many talents, Krishi has also proven his mettle as a crypto writer, tackling complex topics with both ease and zeal. His work spans various formats—from in-depth explainers and news coverage to feature pieces and buying guides.  Behind the scenes, Krishi operates from a dual-monitor setup (including a 29-inch LG UltraWide) that’s always buzzing with news feeds, technical documentation, and research notes, as well as the occasional gaming sessions that keep him fresh.  Krishi thrives on staying current, always ready to dive into the latest announcements, industry shifts, and their far-reaching impacts.  When he's not deep into research on the latest PC hardware news, Krishi would love to chat with you about day trading and the financial markets—oh! And cricket, as well. View all articles by Krishi Chowdhary Our editorial process The Tech Report editorial policy is centered on providing helpful, accurate content that offers real value to our readers. We only work with experienced writers who have specific knowledge in the topics they cover, including latest developments in technology, online privacy, cryptocurrencies, software, and more. Our editorial policy ensures that each topic is researched and curated by our in-house editors. We maintain rigorous journalistic standards, and every article is 100% written by real authors. More from News View all View all

Home Google Is Working on a DeX-like Android Experience – New Competition for Samsung? News Google Is Working on a DeX-like Android Experience – New Competition for Samsung? 5 min read Published: May 16, 2025 Key Takeaways Google’s Android 16 beta build gives us a sneak peek into its latest Android Desktop mode. Similar to Samsung’s DeX, it has taskbars at the bottom and floating windows for multitasking. This will make DeX-like experiences cheaper and increase OEM competition. Google has been, for quite some time, trying to emulate Samsung’s DeX success. Well, there’s finally some development on that initiative with the latest beta build of Android 16. Google is actively working on a new Android desktop mode, very similar to DeX. Whatever limited information has been made publicly available shows a very similar interface to Samsung DeX. There’s an Android taskbar at the bottom with all recent and pinned apps, which also houses the app drawer. Just like Samsung, you’ll get various floating windows that can be used for multitasking. The beta mode shows that you can freely move and resize windows and drag-and-drop content from one app to another, just as you can do on a Windows laptop. Remember, Google had introduced desktop windowing for its Android tablets with the Android 15 release. This allowed users to run multiple apps simultaneously and resize windows on their tablets. However, this worked only on built-in displays. It looks like Google is trying to build on this basic version of windowing to develop a full-fledged desktop UI for Android. The exact launch of the feature cannot be confirmed as of now. However, experts expect it to go live with the Android 17 release next year. The 2025 Android 16 might be too soon for a full feature release. How Can It Affect OEMs and Competition? A positive impact would be that it would make PC experiences more affordable for remote workers, college students, and those on a budget. Currently, only high-end devices from Samsung and Motorola can offer the full desktop user interface experience. Sure, you can get the Samsung Galaxy S8, S9, or S10 for DeX features for around $150-$200. However, all these devices are limited to just 4GB of RAM, which limits desktop performance. You won’t be able to multitask with fluidity and may experience glitchy interfaces. For the best DeX experience, you need something like a Samsung Galaxy S23 FE costing around $230-$260 or the S21 Ultra costing $250+. Now, with the introduction of Android’s native desktop solution, the cost of a DeX-like experience will come down. Budget smartphones offering 8GB of RAM for under $150 may achieve comparable DeX performance to high-end Samsung phones. This will also bring a need for differentiation between OEMs. Till now, they could develop different desktop experiences and market them as their USP, which is something Motorola has done. However, now that we’re on the verge of a unified Android desktop experience, these differentiations might die down, seeing as OEMs might ditch costly custom UIs. Image Credit – Android Authority It’s true that Google is miles behind Samsung when it comes to desktop experiences. However, every technology has a saturation point beyond which new innovations are slow. Ask yourself, what more can Samsung introduce in their DeX features? It’s already a near-complete product. Even if they do introduce something new, the developments will be slow. Image Credit – Samsung Business Insights Google, on the other hand, has a lot to do, which can be achieved at a faster pace compared to Samsung. The technology gap we see now can be closed down quickly in the next 3 to 4 years, beyond which the two providers may be more or less at par. Can Mobile Desktop Experiences Replace Laptops? While we are at it, let’s briefly discuss whether the mobile desktop experience can replace laptops. In a nutshell, we don’t think that’s going to happen anytime soon. Mobiles and laptops are meant for two distinct uses, even though there are several overlaps. Sure, you might be able to do 70% of the work that you do on a laptop by hooking up your mobile with an external screen. For example, you can browse the internet, write an article, send an email, attend a video conference, and so on. However, several uses that require massive computing power may not be handled well by such setups. At least not now. For instance, you cannot edit a professional video or develop new software on DeX. Additionally, there are a lot of software limitations as well. Not every app right now is optimized for the DEX experience. It would require a lot of time and investment to achieve this level of optimization. Next, there’s the issue of form factor. A laptop is a compact, complete product that you can use anywhere on the go. Now, imagine if you only have a desktop UI-enabled phone. You still need a dedicated display, keyboard, and mouse to set up the whole thing, which isn’t half as convenient as using a laptop. Then there’s the cost angle. While a laptop is an all-in-one device, going the desktop-phone route means buying a monitor, keyboard, and mouse separately, which can easily add up. What starts as a budget-friendly idea quickly becomes a piecemeal setup that could cost more than a mid-range laptop, without delivering the same seamless experience. All in all, mobile-enabled desktop experiences have a long way to go before they can come close to replacing laptops. Krishi is a seasoned tech journalist with over four years of experience writing about PC hardware, consumer technology, and artificial intelligence.  Clarity and accessibility are at the core of Krishi’s writing style. He believes technology writing should empower readers—not confuse them—and he’s committed to ensuring his content is always easy to understand without sacrificing accuracy or depth. Over the years, Krishi has contributed to some of the most reputable names in the industry, including Techopedia, TechRadar, and Tom’s Guide. A man of many talents, Krishi has also proven his mettle as a crypto writer, tackling complex topics with both ease and zeal. His work spans various formats—from in-depth explainers and news coverage to feature pieces and buying guides.  Behind the scenes, Krishi operates from a dual-monitor setup (including a 29-inch LG UltraWide) that’s always buzzing with news feeds, technical documentation, and research notes, as well as the occasional gaming sessions that keep him fresh.  Krishi thrives on staying current, always ready to dive into the latest announcements, industry shifts, and their far-reaching impacts.  When he's not deep into research on the latest PC hardware news, Krishi would love to chat with you about day trading and the financial markets—oh! And cricket, as well. View all articles by Krishi Chowdhary Our editorial process The Tech Report editorial policy is centered on providing helpful, accurate content that offers real value to our readers. We only work with experienced writers who have specific knowledge in the topics they cover, including latest developments in technology, online privacy, cryptocurrencies, software, and more. Our editorial policy ensures that each topic is researched and curated by our in-house editors. We maintain rigorous journalistic standards, and every article is 100% written by real authors. More from News View all View all

Key Takeaways Valve Expands SteamOS Beyond the Deck: A new Steam compatibility rating for non-Steam Deck devices signals Valve’s intent to make SteamOS a mainstream PC gaming operating system.  Windows 11 Leaves Older PCs Behind: With Windows 10 support ending in 2025 and strict hardware requirements for Windows 11, many gamers are seeking lighter, less restrictive alternatives. Proton Makes Linux Gaming Easy: Valve’s Proton layer enables most single-player Windows games to run smoothly on Linux, making SteamOS a real contender for everyday gaming. A Platform Play, Not Just a Storefront: Valve is evolving into a full-stack platform provider, offering hardware, software, and services that challenge Microsoft’s dominance in PC gaming. Valve quietly took another big step in its plan to change how we play PC games.  This week, they added a new compatibility rating for Steam games that run on devices other than the Steam Deck.  That might sound small, but it’s a big signal: Valve is gearing up to make SteamOS more than just the Deck’s operating system.  It wants SteamOS to be the go-to PC gaming OS. And with the way Windows is going, that might actually work.  SteamOS – From Side Project to Real Player When Valve launched the Steam Deck in 2022, it came with SteamOS pre-installed.  Back then, most people saw it as a Deck-only solution – a weird little Linux-based system with a funny name that made a handheld work.  But now Valve’s trying to ensure SteamOS can run on any device, not just the Deck. Think gaming laptops, desktops, mini PCs, and even other handhelds.  The new compatibility tag added to Steam will tell you how well a game works on ‘SteamOS, not on Deck’ setups.  It’s a subtle change, but Valve is ready to support players building their own Linux-based PC gaming rigs. It’s not just about hardware anymore – Valve wants to own the whole ecosystem.  Windows 11 – The OS Nobody Asked for Timing, as they say, is everything. Windows 10 is reaching end-of-life in 2025, which means no more updates unless you pay up.  And Windows 11? It’s bloated, loves telemetry, and keeps pushing users into Microsoft’s cloud services whether they want them or not. Gamers haven’t exactly embraced it.  What’s worse is that many older PCs can’t even run Windows 11 without jumping through hoops.  You’ll need a compatible TPM 2.0 chip, Secure Boot enabled, and often a relatively recent CPU.  And if your hardware doesn’t meet these strict requirements, you’ll have to mess with registry hacks or unofficial installers just to get it working.  Meanwhile, SteamOS is becoming lighter, faster, and more compatible with each update. Windows now feels bulky and overcomplicated for gaming, while SteamOS is streamlined, efficient, and built for play.  Proton Is the Secret Sauce A few years ago, gaming on Linux was like trying to ride a unicycle on a gravel road – technically possible, but mostly painful.  But Valve changed all that with Proton. It’s a compatibility layer that lets you run Windows games on Linux and performs impressively well.  Players are saying most single-player games just work. You install them, click play, and boom – you’re in. The exceptions are mainly multiplayer games that rely on invasive anti-cheat systems like the ones used in Valorant or Call of Duty.  These systems, like Riot’s Vanguard and Activision’s Ricochet, operate at the kernel level – meaning they have deep access to your computer’s core functions.  That level of control makes them harder to bypass, but also raises serious privacy concerns and often clashes with Proton, which is why these games usually won’t run on Linux.  But for indie games, RPGs, roguelikes, and story-driven titles, Proton is a dream.  So now that Proton is good enough for everyday gaming, why bother with Windows at all?  Why SteamOS Actually Makes Sense Now SteamOS isn’t just a gamer-friendly version of Linux. It’s also a great way to keep older hardware alive.  Since it’s built to run games efficiently, it doesn’t waste resources on background processes you don’t need. That means faster boot times, better performance, and less overheating.  If you’ve got a mid-range gaming PC from 2018, SteamOS might give it a second life. And in a world where GPUs are still absurdly priced and RAM isn’t getting cheaper, that’s a real win.  Plus, most non-gaming services today are cloud-based – think streaming, productivity, and communication tools – so you can access them from a browser without needing Linux-native apps. And for developers, there’s another perk. SteamOS encourages cross-platform development. If more users adopt it, game studios won’t have to rely so heavily on DirectX or other Windows-only tools.  The end result? Games that are easier to port, cheaper to maintain, and potentially more stable.  Valve is Building a Platform, not Just Selling Games For years, Valve has remained primarily a storefront. Steam was simply a place to buy games, and that was the extent of it. But now, Valve is turning into something more like Apple – a company with its own hardware (Steam Deck), its own OS (SteamOS), and its own platform (Steam). The shift toward platform ownership allows Valve to gain greater control over its ecosystem, enabling them to shape the gaming experience more directly.  This move opens up more options for gamers, giving them greater flexibility, access to a variety of services, and a wealth of content, all while allowing them to make more informed decisions throughout their gaming experience. Don’t want to use Windows anymore? Fine. Don’t want to buy a Steam Deck? That’s fine too. Build your SteamOS box, slap it under your TV, and enjoy a console-like experience with a PC gaming library.  That’s a shift Microsoft should be nervous about.  What Still Needs Work Of course, SteamOS isn’t perfect.  The biggest roadblock is still anti-cheat support. Many competitive multiplayer games don’t run on Linux because the anti-cheat software doesn’t play nice with Proton.  Until Valve solves that (and they are working on it), Windows will still be required for certain genres.  Valve has already worked with major anti-cheat providers like BattlEye and Easy Anti-Cheat to support Proton and SteamOS. Still, it’s up to individual developers to flip the switch and enable it in their games.  That’s the current bottleneck – the infrastructure exists, but adoption is slow. But there is a path forward.  If Valve can win over a few major game publishers or eSports tournaments, the floodgates might open. Imagine a world where CS:GO and Valorant run perfectly on Linux, and gamers no longer feel tied to Microsoft’s ecosystem. It’s not far-fetched.  The Big Picture So here’s the thing: Valve isn’t just building an OS. It’s building an escape route.  Gamers frustrated with Microsoft’s direction now have a real alternative – one that’s free, fast, and focused on games first. The new SteamOS compatibility rating is a small update, but it hints at a much bigger shift.  In the end, this isn’t about the Steam Deck anymore. It’s about making Linux gaming mainstream.  Valve’s not shouting about it yet. But it’s coming. And when it arrives, it won’t just change how we game – it’ll change who owns the future of gaming.  So go ahead, Windows 11. Keep adding bloatware. SteamOS will be over here doing squats, waiting to take your crown.  Anya Zhukova is an in-house tech and crypto writer at Techreport with 10 years of hands-on experience covering cybersecurity, consumer tech, digital privacy, and blockchain. She’s known for turning complex topics into clear, useful advice that regular people can actually understand and use.  Her work has been featured in top-tier digital publications including MakeUseOf, Online Tech Tips, Help Desk Geek, Switching to Mac, and Make Tech Easier. Whether she’s writing about the latest privacy tools or reviewing a new laptop, her goal is always the same: help readers feel confident and in control of the tech they use every day.  Anya holds a BA in English Philology and Translation from Tula State Pedagogical University and also studied Mass Media and Journalism at Minnesota State University, Mankato. That mix of language, media, and tech has given her a unique lens to look at how technology shapes our daily lives.  Over the years, she’s also taken courses and done research in data privacy, digital security, and ethical writing – skills she uses when tackling sensitive topics like PC hardware, system vulnerabilities, and crypto security.  Anya worked directly with brands like Framework, Insta360, Redmagic, Inmotion, Secretlab, Kodak, and Anker, reviewing their products in real-life scenarios. Her testing process involves real-world use cases – whether it's stress-testing laptops for creative workloads, reviewing the battery performance of mobile gaming phones, or evaluating the long-term ergonomics of furniture designed for hybrid workspaces.  In the world of crypto, Anya covers everything from beginner guides to deep dives into hardware wallets, DeFi protocols, and Web3 tools. She helps readers understand how to use multisig wallets, keep their assets safe, and choose the right platforms for their needs.  Her writing often touches on financial freedom and privacy – two things she strongly believes should be in everyone’s hands. Outside of writing, Anya contributes to editorial style guides focused on privacy and inclusivity, and she mentors newer tech writers on how to build subject matter expertise and write responsibly.  She sticks to high editorial standards, only recommends products she’s personally tested, and always aims to give readers the full picture.  You can find her on LinkedIn, where she shares more about her work and projects.  Key Areas of Expertise: Consumer Tech (laptops, phones, wearables, etc.) Cybersecurity and Digital Privacy PC/PC Hardware Blockchain, Crypto Wallets, and DeFi In-Depth Product Reviews and Buying Guides Whether she’s reviewing a new wallet or benchmarking a PC build, Anya brings curiosity, care, and a strong sense of responsibility to everything she writes. Her mission? To make the digital world a little easier – and safer – for everyone.  View all articles by Anya Zhukova Our editorial process The Tech Report editorial policy is centered on providing helpful, accurate content that offers real value to our readers. We only work with experienced writers who have specific knowledge in the topics they cover, including latest developments in technology, online privacy, cryptocurrencies, software, and more. Our editorial policy ensures that each topic is researched and curated by our in-house editors. We maintain rigorous journalistic standards, and every article is 100% written by real authors.

Key Takeaways A bill has been introduced that plans to verify the ownership and location of regulated processors and advanced AI tech. This would require companies like Nvidia, AMD, and Intel to embed location tracking functions into regulated products. This bold move appears highly questionable and could have long-term consequences on global trade. The US is planning to introduce legislation that would make it mandatory for manufacturers of high-performance AI processors to add geographical location tracking to their products. This is reportedly being done to stop advanced AI components from falling into the hands of China.  Remember, the US government has already placed several export restrictions on advanced AI chips, including Nvidia’s H100 and A100. However, this geographical tracking takes things a notch higher. As per reports, US officials are worried about increasing instances of AI tech smuggling, which means these chips ultimately end up in China in one way or another. The recently launched Hunyuan-Large AI model was also reportedly trained on Nvidia H20 GPUs, which are export-controlled. This reconfirms America’s fear of China using illegal channels to source these chips. This is why Senator Tom Cotton of Arkansas has introduced a bill that would allow the Commerce Secretary to impose location controls on these companies. The bill covers high-performance AI processors, including the GeForce RTX 4090 and RTX 5090, as well as other AI chips. The companies will be required to embed tracking technology in all high-end processor modules, including products that have already been developed. Companies will have six months to comply with these requirements after the bill is enacted. The US also suspects that China might procure these restricted chips from other export-free countries on the US list. That is why the bill aims to meticulously verify the ownership and location of regulated processors. In a nutshell, the US government has banned the export of certain products to China, and the products that are allowed to be exported will now be embedded with live location tracking. Location Tracking Might Be a Bit of an Overkill If this bill comes into force, a one-year study will be conducted jointly by the Department of Commerce and the Department of Defense to explore additional protective measures. The departments will also conduct annual assessments for three years after the bill becomes law. If the additional measures are considered appropriate, the Department of Commerce will work on them to finalize rules within the next two years. This means location tracking isn’t really the final nail in the coffin. The US might be planning to launch more such control measures in the next few years. While one can understand the rationale behind tracking the location of each US-made chip, this seems to be a bit of overkill. After all, such a ‘dictatorship’ move can be detrimental to free trade in the technology space. Companies like Nvidia, AMD, and Intel will have to spend billions to incorporate this technology, and even after that, they will have little control over whom they can sell to. It’s as good as the government tightening its control on these companies, which are essentially becoming playthings for the US government in the overall global foreign trade policy. Today, the US has a problem with China, so it’s implementing such draconian measures. Tomorrow, if there is a conflict between the US and the UK or the US and the EU, who’s to say that the government will not use this law to twist arms? Nvidia is expected to be hit the hardest. 13% of Nvidia’s total sales come from China, which is around $17 billion as of January 2025. Plus, the tech giant is already sitting on orders worth $18B in the current year. Image Credit – Finchat_io on Threads Furthermore, the company is already planning to export a downgraded version of the H20 chip with lower computing power, which will fall outside the purview of the proposed export controls. However, the US might very well block this move or require location tracking on these chips as well. Another issue with the proposed bill is the time period of the tracking. When does it stop? Does it stop at all? This could result in massive privacy scares, as retail customers using these trackable, tech-embedded products would, at all times, have their location exposed to the US authorities.  US Export Regulations Are in a Mess The US export policy is currently as confusing as it has ever been. With arbitrary tariff rate increases, export bans, and now location tracking, the US is leaving no stone unturned to ensure artificial intelligence supremacy. However, this is based on the assumption that China is totally reliant on the US for AI development, which is far from the truth. For instance, Huawei’s 910C GPU offers the same level of performance as Nvidia’s H100, which was released in 2022. To put it simply, China seems to be just three years behind the US when it comes to AI technology. Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang has also said that China is very close to the US. Plus, now that China has finally started to produce US-comparable chips, it may start catering to the global chip market and export its homemade AI chips to other countries. In that case, these strict regulations may backfire on the US, and it may end up losing a sizable chunk of the global market to China. So, this begs the question of whether such an extensive and restrictive export policy is actually needed. We have already seen how DeepSeek was built for a fraction of the cost of other AI models. So, China may catch up with the US sooner than expected. For now, we’ll wait to see if and when this bill comes into force. The concerned companies may also put forward their reservations, and clauses may be worked out before being set into writing. Krishi is a seasoned tech journalist with over four years of experience writing about PC hardware, consumer technology, and artificial intelligence.  Clarity and accessibility are at the core of Krishi’s writing style. He believes technology writing should empower readers—not confuse them—and he’s committed to ensuring his content is always easy to understand without sacrificing accuracy or depth. Over the years, Krishi has contributed to some of the most reputable names in the industry, including Techopedia, TechRadar, and Tom’s Guide. A man of many talents, Krishi has also proven his mettle as a crypto writer, tackling complex topics with both ease and zeal. His work spans various formats—from in-depth explainers and news coverage to feature pieces and buying guides.  Behind the scenes, Krishi operates from a dual-monitor setup (including a 29-inch LG UltraWide) that’s always buzzing with news feeds, technical documentation, and research notes, as well as the occasional gaming sessions that keep him fresh.  Krishi thrives on staying current, always ready to dive into the latest announcements, industry shifts, and their far-reaching impacts.  When he's not deep into research on the latest PC hardware news, Krishi would love to chat with you about day trading and the financial markets—oh! And cricket, as well. View all articles by Krishi Chowdhary Our editorial process The Tech Report editorial policy is centered on providing helpful, accurate content that offers real value to our readers. We only work with experienced writers who have specific knowledge in the topics they cover, including latest developments in technology, online privacy, cryptocurrencies, software, and more. Our editorial policy ensures that each topic is researched and curated by our in-house editors. We maintain rigorous journalistic standards, and every article is 100% written by real authors.