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.

Key Takeaways The US and China have agreed to lower tariffs, with the US now charging a 30% tariff, whereas China will charge 10%. Actual prices may not come down in the long run, but we may see an increase at a much lower pace. Lower tariffs may also not see massive domestic production shifts, so the trade deficit may close more slowly than expected. After a long-fought tariff war, the US and China seem to have reached an understanding. The two countries’ representatives met at Geneva and decided to lower the tariffs for 90 days. The US agreed to bring down its tariffs from 145% to 30%, while China will now only impose a 10% tariff on US goods instead of the previous 125%. It’s worth noting that the 30% tariff by the US comprises a 10% universal tariff imposed by Trump on all countries and an additional 20% tariff for failing to curb fentanyl flows by the Chinese. Trump used the entire tariff weapon to reduce the US’s massive $295.4B trade deficit with China as of 2024. He accused China of taking ‘unfair advantage’ of the US for years. This is also the largest trade deficit the US has had with any trading partner. Will Lower Tariffs Lead to Lower Prices? One important thing to understand is that while the tariffs have been reduced, the overall average effective tariff still stands at 17.8%, which is the highest since 1934. Even if you consider the shift in consumption due to the increased tariffs, the average tariff rate would come to 16.4%, the highest since 1937.  This means that consumers might not actually see lower prices. At most, we might see slower price increases. Companies like Nvidia have already pumped up the prices of their components and products by 10 to 15%. Acer has also announced a 10% price increase as a result of the tariffs. Also, a lot of products have already been shipped to the US, effective with the 145% tariff rates. Almost 12,000 containers with products for companies like Amazon, Ikea, Tractor Supply, and Home Depot have hit the shores of the US. The PC hardware inventory turnover is 30-90 days on average, which means that the price changes may be deferred by almost six weeks. So, it might take some time for the reduced tariffs to come into effect. Even then, you can expect the prices to be more than in the pre-tariff era. This will also depend on the time required to get rid of the high-tariffed inventory sitting on the US shelves. Fast-moving consumer goods usually have a faster inventory turnover, which means you can expect a price drop soon. However, high-value products like PCs may sit on the shelves for a good couple of months. The expectation of reduced prices is also based on the assumption that no further escalations will occur. This is only a 90-day pause, and the tariff scenario remains somewhat uncertain. The overall average price levels are expected to increase by 1.7% in the short run. This means that the average American household may lose $2,800 in purchasing power when compared to 2024. Even after consumption adjustment, the loss stands at around $2,300. Production Moving Back to the US? In the wake of increasing tariffs, several companies have announced moving production back to the US to save costs. For instance, Nvidia said that it will move $500 billion worth of AI server supply chain to the US. Along with partners like TSMC, Foxconn, Wistron, Amkor, and SPIL, Nvidia plans to set up AI servers and server assembly plants in the US. Apple, too, has announced a $500 billion investment in the U.S., including a Houston manufacturing facility. Trump even went on to say that he talked with Tim Cook after the tariff reduction announcement, and ‘he’s going to be building a lot of plants in the United States for Apple.’ Trump also hinted that the actual value of these investments may be way more than $500 billion. It’s worth noting that these announcements were made when the tariffs were as high as 145%. In such a situation, it wasn’t possible for these companies to shift the entire increase in cost to the customers through price hikes. For instance, Apple said that it would lose $900 million as a result of the tariffs. However, now the situation has eased off massively, with the tariffs standing at just 30%. So, do these manufacturers still have the motivation to shift production units to domestic shores? Sure, 30% is still nothing to sniff at, but a part of this cost can be passed on to the customers while the rest can be recovered through better production planning and cost-cutting. Bottom Line All in all, this seems to be a Catch-22 situation for Trump. The entire point of imposing heavy tariffs was to lower imports and encourage domestic production. While tariffs as high as 145% met these purposes, a 30% tariff may not deter the US manufacturers. However, increasing tariffs beyond a certain point would essentially bring trading to a halt between the US and China, which doesn’t serve the purpose either. So, it now all comes down to how well Trump can negotiate with the US companies. His talks with Cook seem to be reassuring as of now. We’ll know in due course whether production sees a ‘differentiable’ shift in the next few months. 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 Nvidia is set to release a downgraded version of its H20 AI chips for the Chinese market to overcome export restrictions. Recent AI models from China prove that it has overcome the performance of substandard AI chips through advanced machine learning. China may also be circumventing export restrictions directly through stockpiling and illegal means. Nvidia is planning to introduce a downgraded version of its H20 AI chip to cater to the Chinese market. Recently, Trump had imposed a licensing requirement for the export of these chips to China. However, Nvidia doesn’t seem to be in the mood to let go of its huge Chinese market. After all, China accounts for 13% of the company’s total sales, amounting to $17 billion in revenue as of January 2025. And, in only five months, the company is sitting on $18 billion worth of H20 orders – a considerable part of which can go down the drain because of the export regulations. However, no company would want a huge chunk of its revenue to be taken away for domestic production. Hence, Nvidia seems to have found a workaround for these export restrictions. The exact details of what capabilities the company plans to downgrade haven’t been made public yet. The chips are set for a July launch, and Nvidia has already intimated major customers like Tencent. However, with Trump keeping a keen eye on which AI tech gets into the hands of the Chinese, the US government might block this move. China Bypassing US Circumventions The question we’re asking is, do export restrictions even work? There are a lot of assumptions about China circumventing export controls introduced by the US. However, a report titled ‘Whack-a-Chip: The Futility of Hardware-Centric Export Controls’ by Ritwik Gupta, Leah Walker, and Andrew W. Reddie provides concrete evidence of export control violations. In May 2024, Tencent released the HunyuanDiT text-to-image diffusion model, which was reportedly run and trained on Nvidia A100 GPUs. In September last year, Tencent introduced the GameGen-O diffusion transformer model, which was also believed to use high-end, export-restricted Nvidia GPUs. The research paper reverse-engineered these models by analyzing representative code signatures. Interestingly, the training scripts show Nvidia Collective Communications Library (NCCL), which is only compatible with Nvidia GPUs. This rules out the use of AMD tech or any other third-party GPUs. Next, both models support bfloat16, which is only available with the Ampere microarchitecture, such as Nvidia 30XX, 40XX, A100, and other GPUs. This also rules out the possibility of using older GPS. More importantly, the training scripts show Remote Direct Memory Access (RDMA) configurations over InfiniBand. Again, RDMA is only supported on Nvidia’s data center GPUs, such as the H100, H20, and A100. Consumer GPUs, such as the RTX 3090, do not allow for this configuration. Lastly, the training scripts were also tweaked to include Advanced Network Parameter Tuning and bonded interfaces. Such customization is only possible if the researchers had physical access to the hardware, which points to in-house clusters and not off-the-shelf solutions. All this research points to the possible use of Nvidia A100 or H100, which directly violates the US export restrictions. How Is China Circumventing Restrictions? Whenever an export restriction is placed, it takes around a few weeks (or even months) to come into effect. This gives the parties involved a lot of buffer time to stockpile the restricted goods, i.e., Nvidia AI chips. So, it’s quite possible that China might have pre-ordered and accumulated a sizable quantity of the export-restricted tech before the restrictions actually came into force. A second theory is that the country may be accessing these chips through illegal black markets operating both within and outside its domestic borders. There have been cases of individuals caught smuggling electronic parts, but there’s still no concrete evidence for these accusations. Another source for these chips could be third-party entities and shell companies registered outside of China. For this, the US needs to place strict background checks and due diligence procedures to prevent the chips from falling into the hands of the Chinese. Nvidia’s Modified Chips Can Be a Boost for China Another important question for the US to ponder is whether these downgraded chips would stop China from developing advanced AI models. You only have to look back at the recently launched Hunyuan-Large open-source LLM model from Tencent. This AI model delivers state-of-the-art performance and competes directly with Meta‘s Llama 3.1, DeepSeek V2, and Mixtral-8x22B. The project’s README suggests that it was entirely trained on Nvidia H20 GPUs. The H20 model complies with all US export controls and only offers 75% of the performance when compared to the Nvidia H100. So, technically, using it should not have resulted in an AI model as powerful as the Hunyuan-Large. However, China has been using advanced machine learning techniques to overcome the shortcomings of these chips through its whack-a-mole approach. For starters, it uses Mixtures-of-Experts – an architecture that activates only parts of the model per training step. This helps achieve the same accuracy as monolithic models on limited hardware. Tencent also used mixed-precision training with the help of bfloat16. Mixed precision training can train models up to 2.5x faster than full precision training when using advanced GPUs such as Nvidia A100. Similarly, by using Quantization, these models can be converted to a lower bit representation, which speeds up training with minimal loss of accuracy. Other techniques include large VRAM usage, sharded training, and efficient GPU communications. This suggests that an inferior version of the H20 chip would make no difference to China. It has already developed advanced architecture to customize the configuration of such chips and squeeze out the best performance. Nvidia might just be aware of this and playing into the hands of the Chinese to save its revenue. Remember, the company has already been under pressure since the release of DeepSeek. It’s an AI model developed at just a fraction of the cost of premium US-made models like ChatGPT and Gemini. If the Chinese can figure out large-scale cost optimization of high-performance AI models, the demand for Nvidia’s overly expensive AI chips may fall drastically. Therefore, the company is trying all it can to ensure sales are not impacted. What remains to be seen is whether Trump would allow such circumvention of export rules or if the US is aware enough of these Chinese techniques. Only time will tell. Read more: Nvidia plans to establish $500 billion worth of domestic production chain 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 OpenAI’s new app build shows signs of ‘weekly’ and ‘lifetime’ plan introductions. Weekly subscriptions may help OpenAI expand its user base to include budget-conscious users. There’s no official confirmation from OpenAI, as these are just observed speculations. OpenAI may be planning to introduce weekly and lifetime subscriptions to its ChatGPT AI model. An X user named @M1Astra spotted some interesting strings in the latest ChatGPT app build with mentions of words – ‘weekly’ and ‘lifetime.’ Interestingly, we also spotted a string that reads ‘Upgrade to Plus,’ which means that these subscriptions may be introduced for ChatGPT Plus. Of course, all of this is just speculation as of now and may not materialize anytime soon. Still, this highlights the fact that OpenAI is trying to come up with new tactics to capture the market. After all, its current free plan is not sufficient for most casual users, while the $20/month Plus plan is admittedly too expensive for the average user. The ‘weekly’ plan hits just the sweet spot in this regard. It’s perfect for people with limited AI needs. For instance, students might get the weekly plan while working on university assignments. This way, they won’t have to pay for the entire month’s subscription or worry about cancellations. However, the ‘lifetime’ plans make little sense to us and to the wider audience who reacted to the news. AI is a rapidly developing technology with new applications being found every day. We don’t think that even OpenAI can confidently say what its products will look like five years down the line. In such a dynamic landscape, would you want to be stuck with a ‘lifetime’ subscription with no surety of updates? Read more: OpenAI pushes for democratic AI – and we think it could be a marketing gimmick. OpenAI’s Huge Cost Recovery Path OpenAI has pumped billions of dollars into its revolutionary ChatGPT AI model, releasing various variants over the last four years. It recently raised a $40 billion investment round led by SoftBank. No doubt, the investment is humongous, and as it happens in every capitalistic economy, the price has to be ultimately paid by the end user. However, the time seems to be running out for ChatGPT in the face of increasing cost competition. DeepSeek gave it the biggest reality check by developing an AI model just as good as ChatGPT (if not better) for a mere $1.6 billion. This left OpenAI and other frontrunners with a big question: How will we justify the billions of dollars pumped into data centers and research facilities? The weekly subscriptions may be an effort to speed up its cost recovery while there is still time. While we talk about cost, it’s not wise to overlook the quality aspect as well. Of course, OpenAI has a massive early mover advantage and a pool of data that other companies do not. This gives it a ‘quality’ edge over other competitors. However, if you think from the perspective of a layman who doesn’t know about technical configurations, it will ultimately boil down to cost. And this is where OpenAI’s weekly subscriptions may help it out. Sure, other companies may follow suit and introduce their own versions of flexible subscriptions. But once again, OpenAI will have the first-mover advantage and may add massively to its user base. For now, we wait for official updates, if any, from OpenAI. 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 OpenAI has introduced ‘OpenAI for Countries’ to help other nations develop their own data centers and customized ChatGPT solutions. This is part of the company’s $500B Stargate project, which focuses on AI development in the US. OpenAI has focused a lot on the development of democratic AI across the globe, but we believe it’s worth digging into its intent behind the project. OpenAI has introduced ‘OpenAI for Countries,’ a new initiative aimed at fostering democratic AI infrastructure worldwide. Through this program, OpenAI will partner with governments to enhance local data center capabilities, empowering nations to harness data responsibly and fully comply with democratic standards. The AI giant also plans to develop and provide customized ChatGPTs to various countries, which will help improve education and healthcare. These AI products will be customized per a particular country’s needs and will also be available in local languages for easy accessibility. With this, OpenAI plans to ‘seed a healthy national AI ecosystem,’ which creates jobs and revenue in countries worldwide. For the initial part of the project, OpenAI plans to pursue 10 such partner countries. Focus on Democratic AI Interestingly, in its blog post, OpenAI has focused a lot on the democratic development of AI worldwide. The firm defines democratic AI as technology that aligns with a country’s democratic vision and values, such as fairness, accountability, transparency, and inclusion. In other words, a technology as powerful as artificial intelligence should not be controlled by a few corporations or the government. If a few autocratic corporations or governments come to regulate AI, they may use it to control information and as tools for manipulation, misinformation, and even surveillance. That’s why the people must have a say in developing AI products so that they can build AI ‘by the people, of the people, and for the people.’ OpenAI wants to achieve that with its new ‘OpenAI for Countries.’ What’s in It for OpenAI? By launching ‘OpenAI for Countries,’ the company strengthens its global presence and establishes a key role in shaping the future of AI governance. This collaboration with national governments allows OpenAI to expand its infrastructure, ensure compliance with regional data laws, and solidify its leadership in the rapidly evolving AI landscape. Moreover, the initiative opens doors to new partnerships and market opportunities, positioning OpenAI as a trusted partner for countries navigating the complexities of AI integration. The AI giant also plans to develop and provide customized ChatGPTs to various countries, which will help improve education and healthcare. These AI products will be customised as per the needs of a particular country and will also be available in local languages for easy accessibility. With this, OpenAI plans to “seed a healthy national AI ecosystem,” which creates jobs and revenue in a country. For the initial part of the project, OpenAI plans to pursue 10 such partner countries. Increasing Global Pressure OpenAI may be feeling the heat of increasing global competition and the deglobalization of artificial intelligence. Mistral AI is a great example. This French startup launched Le Chat Enterprise, an AI assistant specifically built for enterprise use. Using this, enterprises can build a complete searchable knowledge base by connecting various platforms, such as Google Drive, OneDrive, Google Calendar, Gmail, and SharePoint. The assistant also shows quick preview files with auto summaries and improved personalized answers. You can also build custom AI agents and connect with your enterprise libraries and apps without any coding. This unlocks a new degree of customizability among enterprise users with complete control over implementation. Le Chat Enterprise is also privacy-friendly and can be deployed on the private cloud with strict ACL adherence. Moreover, Le Chat Enterprise is built on the Mistral Medium 3 model, which performs better than ChatGPT’s 4-o models. It beats ChatGPT on various parameters, such as coding, instruction following, math knowledge, and long context. The best part is that the model delivers such performance at a cost of just $0.4 per million input tokens as compared to ChatGPT’s $10 per 1 million input tokens. Just 4% of the cost of ChatGPT. Remember, not long back, DeepSeek shook the entire US AI industry by building an AI model at just a fraction of the cost of ChatGPT. It shattered the myth that AI models must be expensive and require trillions of dollars of investment. And now, we’re increasingly seeing AI models costing less than ChatGPT and offering at-par performance. No wonder OpenAI is worried and wants to expand to other global locations before companies like Mistral AI or DeepSeek get there. The ‘Nice Guys’ Gimmick We have a question: Why is OpenAI the guardian of AI, and why does it think it has the authority to decide what other countries should do with AI tech? Isn’t the fact that a single company is trying to control artificial intelligence applications anti-democratic in itself? While no one wants AI to turn evil in the hands of anyone, should we just assume that OpenAI isn’t the company that may turn artificial intelligence into a weapon? After all, Sam Altman’s ‘Tools for Humanity’ project scanned millions of people’s eyes in exchange for just some ‘fugazi’ cryptocurrency, which may or may not bring any real wealth. Even if it does, the fact that a single corporation has the personal iris scans of millions is pretty bone-chilling. What’s more, it was OpenAI that used Scarlett Johansson’s voice for ChatGPT’s voice, even though she expressly denied permission. And let’s not forget that Altman turned a non-profit organization into a for-profit one at the cost of losing top OpenAI executives. Dario Amodei, the former VP of research, left OpenAI because they shifted away from their initial mission of developing a ‘safe and ethical AI.’ Tom Brown, former engineering lead, also left the company for similar reasons. Jack Clark, former policy director, left because the company’s culture was becoming less open and receptive to critical risk discussions. More famously, Jan Leike, who co-led the company’s Superalignment team, resigned in May 2024 upon disagreement with the company’s core priorities and safety guardrails around AGI. There are other examples, where employees have left OpenAI because it was (and maybe is) overlooking safety while developing AI products. Ironically, people have left OpenAI because the company has become less democratic and more authoritarian. So, it’s pretty easy to see why we think that OpenAI speaking about the democratic development of AI could be a marketing gimmick. 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 Windows 10’s Deadline Is Looming: Microsoft will end support for Windows 10 in October 2025, potentially leaving over 200M devices without updates or security patches.  Linux as a Viable Successor: Modern Linux distributions like Mint and Pop!_OS offer a user-friendly, efficient alternative that works well on older hardware left behind by Windows 11’s strict requirements.  The End-of-10 Project Pushes Back: Grassroots initiatives are helping users switch to Linux, offering practical guides, support networks, and real-world repair options to extend the life of aging PCs.   On October 14, 2025, Microsoft will pull the plug on Windows 10 for good.  No more updates. No more security patches. Just you, your aging PC, and the digital equivalent of a ‘Good luck out there.’  And unless you want to pay hundreds for extended support or upgrade to Windows 11 (which your old hardware probably hates), you’re in trouble.  But maybe–just maybe–that trouble is a blessing in disguise.  What if you switched to something different instead of shelling out more cash for an OS that increasingly feels like a rented billboard?  Something that doesn’t serve ads, doesn’t nag you for a Microsoft account, doesn’t preinstall Solitaire and endless bloatware, and doesn’t treat you like a confused toddler whenever you want to delete a file?  Yes, we’re talking about Linux.  You Bought Windows, But Did You Really?  Let’s talk about ownership – or rather, the illusion of it. You didn’t really buy Windows 10. You bought a license to use it, under Microsoft’s ever-changing rules.  And now those rules say it’s dead. Try running Windows 10 in 2026 and see how it feels. Unsupported, vulnerable, and alone.  Meanwhile, your PC – still chugging along fine – becomes collateral damage in a corporate lifecycle decision. Doesn’t that feel wrong? It’s like buying a car, and five years later, the manufacturer remotely disables the engine and says, ‘Time to buy a new one, champ.’  The Bloatware Nightmare Windows 10’s legacy isn’t just about support dates. It’s also about bloat – and lots of it.  Preinstalled games, ‘helpful’ tips that link to Bing, AI features you didn’t ask for, OneDrive pop-ups, background processes you don’t understand, and ads. Yes, ads – in your OS that you paid for.  As PewDiePie, a surprise Linux convert and evangelist in 2025, put it in his YouTube video about switching to Linux:  Windows talks to me like I’m a baby. ‘You want Candy Crush? You want to use Bing? – PewDiePie He’s not wrong. And he’s not alone. More and more people are discovering that Linux can turn their Frankenstein laptops back into sleek, fast machines – no corporate babysitting required.  Linux: Not Just for Bearded Hackers Anymore  Back in the day, switching to Linux meant living in a command-line bunker, fighting for Wi-Fi drivers, and crying in Bash lines while obsessing over what distribution to try next Saturday. But today? It’s a different world. Well, except for the obsessive distribution switching. That one’s even stronger nowadays… Modern Linux distributions like Linux Mint, Pop!_OS, and Ubuntu have made the jump surprisingly friendly. You can click, drag, install apps from software centers, and even ignore the terminal if you really want to (though we advise you to get comfortable with it, the things it can do…). Source: PewDiePie And gaming? It’s real now. Thanks to Valve’s Proton compatibility layer and the success of the Linux-powered Steam Deck, you can actually play Elden Ring on Linux. And Baldur’s Gate 3, Kingdom Come Deliverance 2, The Elder Scrolls Oblivion Remastered, and any recent title you can think of. Proton translates Windows game code so it can run smoothly on Linux, and it’s constantly being improved. Extremely few games still need tweaking or specific Proton versions to work well (and you’ll find a solution online in no time). With Steam Play, many AAA titles now work out of the box, and tools like Lutris and Heroic Game Launcher make it easier than ever to manage your game library – including games from Epic and GOG.  And it’s not standing still. The latest SteamOS 3.7.5 beta adds early support for non-Steam Deck handhelds like the ASUS ROG Ally and Lenovo Legion Go, signaling broader Linux gaming adoption. SteamOS now runs on a newer Arch base with updated kernel and Mesa drivers for better performance. KDE Plasma 6.2.5 upgrades the desktop interface, while Bluetooth audio and controller support have been improved with features like battery indicators and wake-from-sleep across more devices. The days of ‘Linux is only for spreadsheets and servers’ are long gone. It’s a gamer’s paradise in 2025. Project End-of-10 – A Lifeline for the Left Behind One group trying to make the transition easier is the End of 10 project. Their mission is to help people stuck on aging Windows 10 hardware move to lightweight Linux systems instead of buying new PCs.  It’s not just about ideology. It’s about accessibility, sustainability, and giving people real options.  E-waste is a growing issue, and ditching a perfectly usable laptop because Microsoft won’t support your OS anymore is, frankly, absurd. Plus, if your computer isn’t good enough for Windows 11, it’s probably perfect for Linux. Microsoft’s latest OS has strict requirements – like TPM 2.0, Secure Boot, and newer CPUs – that leave a lot of perfectly functional hardware out in the cold.  But Linux doesn’t care about any of that. Most modern Linux distributions run smoothly on older machines (and could probably boot on a toaster), giving them a second life instead of a trip to the recycling bin. The project also lists local Linux-friendly repair shops and beginner events in several countries, helping users make the leap with real-world support.  And it’s not just for tinkerers – the goal is to make Linux approachable even for people who’ve never strayed beyond the Windows Start menu. While that’s a bit far down the line, especially if you go in blind, the fact this option exists is invaluable for Windows 10 refugees everywhere. What You Gain When You Switch Here’s the kicker: Linux gives you back control. You choose what’s installed. You choose when and how to update. You don’t need to sign in with a cloud account just to change your wallpaper. And don’t wake up to find your taskbar now has a new AI assistant whispering Bing search results. One that you didn’t ask for. You decide what your system does – and what it doesn’t do.  Want a desktop with zero background tracking? Done. Want to disable automatic updates entirely or schedule them on your terms? No problem. Want to remove every trace of software you don’t use, right down to the last package? You can – a quick ‘sudo’ in the terminal will wipe off every earthly trace of the intruder. If you know, you know… Customization is also next-level. You can make your desktop look like macOS, Windows, or something that looks like it was pulled straight from a sci-fi control panel.  Source: u/Haletran on Reddit You can bind your own shortcuts, set up multiple workspaces, change every icon, or strip the interface down to pure function. The OS is what you want it to be, at all times. It’s not just fun – it’s truly empowering. You’re not a passenger anymore. With Linux, you’re in the driver’s seat, and the car’s flying to Mars. Linux Isn’t Perfect Let’s not sugarcoat it, Linux isn’t a magic fix.  Some software, like Adobe’s suite, simply doesn’t work natively. Sure, there are open-source alternatives – for example, you can use GIMP instead of Photoshop – but they come with a learning curve.  Source: GIMP  And sometimes, things do break (oh yes, do things break). Driver issues, hardware compatibility quirks, terminal commands that feel like spells from a fantasy novel.  But here’s the difference: on Linux, the tools to fix it are in your hands (though, in the spirit of honesty, you’re going to struggle until you get the hang of it). On Windows, you mostly reboot and hope for the best.   Windows 10 Is Dead. Long Live Your Computer! The end of Windows 10 doesn’t have to mean the end of your PC. You can keep using your current machine, and even improve its performance by switching to an operating system that’s more efficient and less restrictive.  Whether you’re an experienced user or just curious about alternatives, Linux is a solid option worth exploring.  You don’t need to commit right away. You can start with dual-booting or run it from a USB stick to test the waters. Unlike some modern operating systems, Linux doesn’t push unnecessary software, require a cloud account, or limit how you use your device.  You don’t have to be a programmer to benefit from a system that gives you more control – just someone open to trying something new.  And if it works for you, it might just become your go-to setup.  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 Cheating Ourselves: When AI Replaces Thinking Instead of Supporting It News Cheating Ourselves: When AI Replaces Thinking Instead of Supporting It 8 min read Published: May 7, 2025 Key Takeaways Research shows that the increasing use of LLM tools like ChatGPT has led to reduced critical thinking and higher cognitive offloading. Students using these tools fail to understand the reasoning behind a problem and end up scoring less than students who do not use any such tools. AI platforms like Cluely encourage people to ‘stop thinking’ and instead cheat on everything, including exams and jobs. There’s a need for smarter AI tools like Khanmigo that aid the thinking process instead of replacing it. AI in education and teaching has been a debated topic for quite a few years now. While some advocate actively for AI learning tech, only a few can see the slow death of human intellect and critical thinking abilities in the hands of AI. In this article, we’ll unwrap the effects of artificial intelligence on human thinking and cognitive offloading. Sit tight because this could be a brain-melting one. Why Think When You Can Prompt? Let’s start with a simple example of a college assignment. Before AI wasn’t more than just an odd combination of two English alphabets, you’d actually have to dig in the internet for information, read through tons of stuff, and then compile the whole assignment together. This required skills like research, summarizing, understanding, thinking, and even rephrasing. Cut to now, where you can just type in your assignment details on ChatGPT and let it churn out content while you sit back and scroll through Instagram or TikTok. You have a computer-generated, human-like assignment ready within a matter of minutes. The need to think, learn, and compile has gone for a toss, leaving no room for critical thought or understanding. During our research for this article, we found ourselves genuinely wondering why students are resorting to such shortcuts. Well, one possible reason could be that education today is largely viewed as a set of tasks you need to complete to get a certificate. That’s about it. The ‘willingness’ to learn new things seems to be dying among new-age students. People are submitting LLM-generated assignments simply because they think the very act of writing up a project is not important or value-adding to their educational pursuit. The Changing Education Landscape Research at the University of Pennsylvania titled ‘Generative AI Can Harm Learning’ throws more light on the matter. The experiment divided children in a Turkish high school into two categories: one with access to ChatGPT and another without. Students who used ChatGPT solved 48% more mathematical problems correctly during practice. However, when a test was conducted on the same topic, students who had no access to any LLM tool scored better. The children who had used ChatGPT while solving their practice problems ended up scoring 17% less. What does this teach us? ChatGPT or any other LLM model can help you just ‘complete a task.’ However, it adds little value to your overall intellect and doesn’t contribute much to the learning spectrum. In other words, students who used ChatGPT simply copy-pasted the answers provided by the tool without understanding the process behind the solution. Some argue that we already have technology like spreadsheets and calculators that automate such ‘mundane’ tasks. Why don’t we eliminate those and do stuff manually for the sake of ‘learning’? Well, a key differential is that you still need to understand the formulas being used on a spreadsheet to be able to produce any usable output. It’s you who runs a spreadsheet with different formulas. A spreadsheet or a calculator does not alter the way we think; these tools still require us to use our intellect and our critical decision-making thought process. However, AI tools are completely different. Instead of helping us think, they end up thinking on our behalf. The very essence of being human is the ability to process information and ponder upon things from a critical point of view. At the risk of sounding overdramatic, AI could be the death of human thinking. Increasing Cognitive Offloading: Outsourcing Thinking Another study titled ‘AI Tools in Society: Impacts on Cognitive Offloading and the Future of Critical Thinking’ studied the correlation between cognitive offloading and the use of AI tools. Cognitive offloading is the practice of reducing mental work by offloading the task to external tools, which in this case are AI apps. The research shows that younger participants (17-25) exhibit the highest use of AI tools and also the lowest critical thinking scores. Cognitive offloading was also the highest among this age group. In contrast, older participants (46 and above) exhibited low AI tool usage and higher critical thinking scores. It’s important to understand here that even the younger participants have gotten their hands on AI tools only in the last couple of years. They haven’t had the access to these tools throughout their childhood or early adolescence, unlike the present generation. Even then, we are seeing low critical thinking and high cognitive offloading among this age group. We can extrapolate these results to the current batch of students who rely entirely on these AI tools for education. It might be possible that if the research is done five years down the line again, these students might get even lower critical thinking scores than the current batch. The same study shows a strong negative correlation between the use of AI tools and critical thinking. This means that the more people use these tools, the lower their critical thinking skills and scores are. Plus, there was a strong positive correlation between AI tool use and cognitive offloading. So, the more people use AI tools, the more they tend to throw away their ability to think critically. AI Is Making Cheating the New Fad Enter Cluely. It’s an advanced AI assistant with a tagline that reads, ‘Let’s Cheat on Everything.’ Unfortunately, that’s what it’s literally meant for – cheating the human intellect. What’s more concerning is Cluely’s ad campaign, which shows two people on a date. The guy is wearing some sort of smart glasses, which tell him what to say next. It listens to responses from the girl and curates the ‘perfect reply.’ The guy can be seen lying about his age, job, and preferences in the video. What’s more shocking is how blatantly the brand says, ‘We built Cluley so you never have to think alone again.’ While this may sound fun to some people, it’s pretty bone-chilling to think where such tech might eventually take us. If the death of critical thinking and problem-solving wasn’t scary enough, there’s also the chance of AI killing our ability to have genuine human connection and conversation. Algorithmic LLMs like Cluely do not want to improve the human experience but rather replace it. Eventually, it’d just be two computer programs dating each other in human skin. Ana de Armas from Blade Runner 2049 is depressing, if you really think about it. The scarier part is that Cluely is not a backyard school project. It’s a real AI tool that has raised $5.3 million in seed funding. AI: A Double-Edged Sword Not everything is as grim as it looks. AI and education have surely changed the way young minds learn. Earlier, we had to dig in several pages of a textbook to understand complex equations and theorems. Now, human-like AI tools have been developed that gamify the whole learning experience and break down complex topics into small, actionable lessons. Sal Khan, the founder of Khan Academy, showed us the positive sides of AI in education two years back in a TED Talk when he unveiled Khanmigo, an AI learning assistant. Unlike LLMs that blurt out the answers to any question, Khanmigo gives students a hint about the math problem and encourages them to solve it themselves, still allowing them to think on their own. A lot of our concern about AI in education is that students won’t learn how to write or think. Khanmigo solves this problem to an extent. Instead of writing ‘for’ you, this AI assistant ‘writes with you.’ For example, if you want to write a story, it will direct you to write the first two lines, after which it will add another two lines and repeat the process until you have the full story. Khanmigo doesn’t kill creativity but rather stimulates it. This is a perfect example of how AI should be used in education. Rather than using it to offload our cognitive thinking, it should be used as a stimulus to human thought and the learning process as a whole. The bigger question is, whose responsibility is it to ensure learning stays a human experience? To put it bluntly, companies are not going to stop producing LLM tools like ChatGPT, Gemini, or Claude simply because they’re stifling human thinking. There’s money to be made, so goodbye moral responsibility. Therefore, a large part of the responsibility falls on teachers, parents, and students themselves. Guardians should regulate the kind of AI tools a child has access to. At the same time, students should become more self-aware of the long-term harm caused by replacing their thought process with an AI prompt. While tools like Khanmigo can become effective in the learning process, ‘feed me the answer’ kind of AI tools can kill human creativity and critical thinking. The choice is yours. 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