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Alienware teases new X-Series laptops with exotic cooling solution
Dell has teased an upcoming Alienware laptop lineup called the X-Series offering improved thermal performance using new materials.
Denon rolls out the first 8K-ready receivers with its 2020 X-Series
Denon's 2020 X-Series receivers handle 8K video as well as key 4K gaming features with prices starting at $849.
Intel's workstation X-series chips are a bit faster and much cheaper
Following a leak last week, Intel has officially revealed performance figures and other data for its 18-core i9 Extreme Edition and other 9th-gen X-Series chips. As we already knew, the 10-, 12-, 14- and 18-core chips can be boosted to speeds up to 4.8 GHz. That will apparently yield a modest performance bump of seven percent for Maya and 3DS Max rendering tasks compared to the last-gen models. The chips will also double the "inference" AI throughput, but that will only be of benefit to deep-learning specialists.
Intel's 8th-gen desktop CPUs boost gaming and streaming speeds
Intel has launched its 8th-generation mainstream desktop chips, calling the flagship $359 Core i7-8700K its "best gaming desktop processor ever." The six-core, 12-thread 3.7GHz chip boosts Gears of War 4 frame rates up to 25 percent compared to 7th-gen desktop chips. It can also do 4K video editing up to 32 percent faster. The best gains are with multitasking, and Intel says gaming, streaming and recording with Player Unknown: Battlegrounds will be 45 percent faster than before.
Intel unveils full specs for its 18-core i9 Extreme Edition CPU
Intel made a big splash at Computex with its new Core i9 X-series family, with the crown jewel being its 18-core processor for desktops. But until we haven't heard much in the way of technical details. Today, Intel revealed that the 18-core i9-7980XE will feature a base speed of 2.6GHz, with a Turbo Boost 2.0 clock of 4.2GHz. And using Turbo Boost 3.0, which speeds up performance of its fastest two cores, it'll reach 4.4GHz. That's just below the 4.5GHz top speed of Intel's Core i7-7700K, its fastest mainstream processor for desktops. Basically, that means the 18-core chip will be no slouch when it comes single-threaded performance for games. (Check out our in-depth story on the development of the 18-core processor here.)
Fujifilm's X-T2 camera pairs a familiar design with 4K video
Based on recent conversations with Fujifilm camera users, I know many of them couldn't wait for the X-T1 successor to be announced. And well, that day is finally here. Today, Fujifilm introduced its new X-T2 mirrorless shooter, a major upgrade over the X-T1 from 2014. The X-T2 features a 24.3-megapixel (APS-C) X-Trans CMOS III sensor without a low-pass filter, which should help capture sharp, DSLR-like images. Additionally, there's an X-Processor Pro chip that, according to Fujifilm, uses improved algorithms to produce a more accurate autofocus system (325 single points, 91 zone).
Fujifilm's mid-tier camera line grows with its X-E2S and X70
Not into the FinePix XP90 that was just announced? Don't worry, Fujifilm has something else for you. The Japanese camera maker is also introducing the X-E2S and X70, a pair of compact shooters for people who want to start getting serious about photography. First off, there's the X-E2S, which sports a 16.3-megapixel APS-C X-Trans CMOS II sensor, alongside a newly developed 49-point autofocus system and a max ISO range of up to 51,200. In addition to that, you'll get 1080p video at 24, 25, 30, 50 and 60 fps, but you won't find any 4K support here.
Fujifilm X-Pro2: The upgraded premium camera finally arrives
As rumored, Fujifilm's beloved X-Pro1 is indeed getting a sequel. Meet its appropriately named X-Pro2, the top-of-the-line camera that Fuji fanatics have long been waiting on. Designed for professional photographers, the X-Pro2 packs a 24.3-megapixel X-trans CMOS III sensor and new X-Processor Pro imaging chip, up to 8 fps continuous shooting, an extended ISO of 51,200 and a weather-resistant aluminum body. It also features an Advanced Hybrid Multi Viewfinder, which lets users swiftly switch between electronic and optical modes -- we've seen a similar option on previous Fujifilm cameras, such as the X100T and X100S.
Fujifilm's X-A1 mirrorless ILC arriving this month with 16.3-megapixel APS-C sensor, $600 price
Fujifilm is swelling its retro-tastic line of X-Series cameras with the X-A1, an entry level model for wannabe photojournalists worldwide. The shooter comes with a 16.3-megapixel APS-C CMOS, although be warned that this isn't the X-Trans sensor that made the X-Pro 1 and X-M1 so alluring -- that's been reserved for the high-end. Instead, you'll get wireless image transfer, a 3-inch 920k-dot tilting LCD and five film simulation modes. Video-wise, the unit will shoot 1080p clips at 30fps, capturing sound with its built-in stereo microphone. The retail package will come with a f/3.5-5.6 24-76mm equivalent kit lens with optical image stabilization, and will set you back $600 when it lands later this month.
Lenovo teases next-generation ThinkPad X series at Expand
Lenovo didn't hold back on the unveils here at Expand, and as if the ThinkPad T431s wasn't enough, the company just teased a next-generation of the X series ThinkPad line. In essence, what we saw is the future 12-inch, SSD-infused variant of the X230, gussied up in the same kind of motif that'll be first showcased on the 14-inch T431s. In other words, we're looking at a slimmer, more streamlined machine that boasts the outfit's new widened trackpad, remapped Function keys and a thinner bezel. We weren't given a price or release date, but we'll be sure to update with more as we get it. Follow all of Engadget's Expand coverage live from San Francisco right here! %Gallery-183060%
Fujifilm X20 and X100s details reportedly leak, put focus at center stage
Fujifilm may have more than a few treats in store for shutterbugs this year. Details and photos have emerged that supposedly reveal the X20 and X100s, direct sequels to the company's well-known X10 and X100 cameras. Both semi-pro bodies could resemble their ancestors on the outside, based on Digicam-info's images, but reportedly tackle the autofocusing performance issues that have dogged the X-series up to the X-Pro1. Photo Rumors hears the two shooters will switch to a newer, faster hybrid (both contrast and phase detection) focusing system that also includes Sony NEX-style manual focus peaking, which provides a rough visual guide as to when a subject is as sharp as possible. A few model-specific upgrades may also be in store: the X20 might get a new X-Trans sensor, while the X100s could add a much sharper 2.4-megapixel OLED viewfinder (up from 1.4 megapixels) and a Digital Split Image feature that could once more help with focusing. Launch plans aren't part of the leak, although we may not have to wait long to hear about them. There's a prominent X-series banner at the CES 2013 venue, which hints that we may learn about the X20 and X100s as early as next week.
Pioneering astronaut Neil Armstrong dies at 82
It's a story that we hoped we'd never have to report. Neil Armstrong, the first man to set foot on Earth's Moon, has died at the age of 82 after complications from heart surgery three weeks earlier. His greatest accomplishment very nearly speaks for itself -- along with help from fellow NASA astronauts Buzz Aldrin and Michael Collins, he changed the landscape of space exploration through a set of footprints. It's still important to stress his accomplishments both before and after the historic Apollo 11 flight, though. He was instrumental to the Gemini and X-series test programs in the years before Apollo, and followed his moonshot with roles in teaching aerospace engineering as well as investigating the Apollo 13 and Space Shuttle Challenger incidents. What more can we say? Although he only spent a very small portion of his life beyond Earth's atmosphere, he's still widely considered the greatest space hero in the US, if not the world, and inspired a whole generation of astronauts. We'll miss him. [Image credit: NASA Apollo Archive]
Fujifilm outlines X-Pro1 lens roadmap, brings zoom at last this fall
If there's been one outstanding gripe with Fujifilm's X-Pro1 camera, it's been the absence of zoom lenses; short of French kissing the subject, you might not get the photos you want. While there isn't much of a solution right this second outside of buying the fixed-lens X10, the Japanese camera designer can say when we'll see an interchangeable XF-mount zoom lens: fall 2012. That's when a bright 18-55mm, f/2.8-4.0 optically stabilized lens will make its appearance, along with a 14mm f/2.8 prime. Fujifilm will revert to unveiling nothing but pancakes and primes during early 2013, but the middle of that year will finish covering the zoomable basics through a wide-angle 10-24mm f/4.0 OIS lens and a 55-200mm, f/3.5-4.8 OIS telephoto. We wouldn't expect pricing with the new glass still months away -- but at least you can start planning that Sumatra vacation knowing you won't have to chase down the wildlife to get a good keepsake shot.
Lenovo refreshes its ThinkPad T, W, L and X lines with Ivy Bridge processors, retooled keyboards
Now that Intel's Ivy Bridge specifications are finally out of the bag, you may as well resign yourselves to a deluge of PC refreshes over the coming months. Today Lenovo's up at bat, unveiling a slew of products under its business-friendly ThinkPad brand. If you were looking for a wholesale redesign, we'll kindly direct you to the X1, which was just reborn as a 14-inch Ultrabook. Otherwise, if you were just holding out for a little Ivy Bridge, we've got your refresh right here. All told, the upgrades span Lenovo's ultraportable X series, mainstream "T" lineup, budget "L" models and the W-series workstation. In general, you'll find Ivy Bridge processors (natch), Dolby audio and, in some cases, optional 4G radios. Additionally, the company tweaked its famed keyboard ever-so slightly and added a backlighting option to almost every system, save the newly available T430u Ultrabook. That's the abridged version for those of you not actually in the market for a new system, but folks craving more nitty-gritty details can follow past the break for a more detailed breakdown of pricing and specs.%Gallery-155303%
Acer intros revamped desktops, 23-inch multitouch display for kids with ginormous dorm rooms
Last week, Acer unveiled a handful of back-to-school laptops, and today, the outfit's showing off gear for kids who've got a teensy bit more room in the dorms. The company just trotted out a pair of desktops, along with the beastly 23-inch T231H multitouch monitor. Both towers have a staid black chassis with Acer's clear.fi media streaming software on board. Of the two, the M series (pictured) is clearly for power users, with Core i3 and quad-core AMD Athlon II x4 processor options, 6GB of RAM, 1TB of hard drive space, optional discrete graphics, and a storage tray on top housing four USB 2.0 sockets and headphone and mic ports. The X series, meanwhile, has a trimmer, more compact design, and a modest spec list featuring Intel Pentium dual-core and AMD Athlon II X4 processors, 4GB of RAM, and integrated graphics. As for that 1080p display, it has an 80,000:1 contrast ratio and tilts between a 5-degree and 60-degree angle -- not unlike that swiveling HP all-in-one that came out earlier this year. They're all up for grabs now, with the M and X series starting at $500 and $398, respectively, and the monitor fetching $330. Full PR after the break. %Gallery-126310% %Gallery-126309%
Lenovo adds ThinkPad X1 to laptop comparison guide, outs IPS screen, USB 3.0, and optional SSD
If you've somehow not heard of the ThinkPad X1 yet, you join us at a good time. The well leaked laptop has shown up at an X Series comparison site, put together by Lenovo itself, where yet more specs have been made known. The 13.3-inch display is dubbed a SuperBright HD inifinity panel, which to you and us simply means it's built using IPS technology. There's also an integrated fingerprint reader, a buttonless touchpad, USB 3.0 connectivity, and a promised 10-hour battery life with a slice battery. Weighing in at 1.36kg (3lbs) and measuring about 16mm (0.625 inches) in thickness, it's described as Lenovo's thinnest ThinkPad yet. Last time we heard, we were told to expect it on May 17th, guess those webmasters are getting the show started a little early. One more glamor shot of the X1 can be found after the break. [Thanks, Jesse]
Nokia X7 and E6 hop an early flight to Germany for pre-order delights
If Nokia's X7 entertainment handset overwhelms you with a fluttery sensation, then you may consider grabbing one on pre-order, where it retails in Germany and Portugal for €459 and €489 respectively. Meanwhile, if the X7's 4-inch, 640 x 360 display has you begging for greater pixel density, then also up for reservation in Deutschland is Nokia's E6 QWERTY phone, featuring a 2.46-inch, 326ppi screen that goes toe-to-toe with Apple's Retina Display. While the display size isn't stellar, it's one way to measure the cost of a physical keyboard -- the other method is €429. Either way, if you're hoping to ride Symbian's wave to the very end, these two handsets will go kilometers toward actualizing that dream. Update: Looks like pre-orders are also available in Italy. [Thanks, Simone] [Thanks, Jack]
Lenovo posts ThinkPad X220 specs online, includes IPS display, SSD, and 23-hour battery options
Go to Lenovo's online store looking for an X Series laptop to call your own and you'll be greeted by the familiar X201. But go to Lenovo's spec sheet repository and you'll find a lush PDF file detailing a new ThinkPad X220 model that seems set to become available very shortly indeed. Sized at a somewhat unconventional 12.5 inches, this fresh contender will feature a new "buttonless" touchpad -- though it retains the mouse keys in support of the TrackPoint navigator -- while offering the sweet nectar of a 1366 x 768 IPS display, up to a 2.7GHz Core i7-2620M CPU, 8GB of DDR3 RAM, and a choice of Intel SSDs ranging up to 160GB. The 9-cell battery is rated to last you 15 hours and there's an additional external battery pack that will keep you tether-free for 23 hours. Click past the break for the full specs. [Thanks, Chris] Update: Hello! The X220 Tablet is listed on Lenovo's site as well. Thanks, Joe!
Canon's X Mark I Mouse excites and exhilarates like few gadgets can (video)
If there's one thing you don't expect to find at Photokina, it's a mouse. If there's another, it's a calculator. In some strange twist of fate, we found both in Canon's press lounge, and we couldn't possibly be more elated. The X Mark I Mouse captured our attention early last month, and we've been searching up and down to get our hands on one ever since. Nestled gently between legions of camcorders and a few dozen printers was the gem we'd be searching for, and we didn't hesitate to clear the area for a brief hands-on. Both models were surprisingly large, which simultaneously made the calculator buttons easy to press and the mouse as a whole difficult to grasp. The harsh, sharp edges were no friend of Mr. Ergonomic, but we'd probably forgive it if that $63 MSRP fell to a more reasonable level. Be sure to thank a lack of sleep and all of the companies pouring out news at the show for the delirium that's after the break. %Gallery-103100%
Canon's X Mark I Mouse triples as calculator, numeric keypad, fame attractor
We know, we know -- you're practically married to your existing Razer or Logitech, but it looks like you may want to phone your lawyer and get the separation papers flowing. Canon -- of all companies -- has just introduced its latest critter, and it may very well be the most spectacular mousing device in the history of mousing devices. The unquestionably magical X Mark I Mouse is a wireless laser mouse underneath, but it also doubles as a fully functional calculator and a numeric keypad to boot. Bluetooth 2.0 is responsible for the connections, and the 1,200dpi sensor should please all but the most particular of users. It'll also play nice with both OS X and Windows platforms, leaving us with an inexplicable need to handle one prior to the scheduled November launch date. Oh, the price? A paltry £39.99 / €48.99 / $63, but really, you'd pay anything those blokes asked to have one of your own.
