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Intel Core™ Ultra 200V series processors to hit markets soon

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Intel announced the launch of its most efficient x86 processor family in India, the Intel® Core™ Ultra 200V series, code-named Lunar Lake. Devices powered by these cutting-edge processors will be available for preorder on leading retail platforms like Amazon, Croma, Flipkart, Reliance Digital and Vijay Sales starting September 12, 2024, with availability starting September 24, 2024.  Intel highlighted that the new processors will drive the industry’s most advanced AI-powered PCs, featuring over 80 consumer designs from more than 20 leading global manufacturers such as Acer, ASUS, Dell Technologies, HP, Lenovo, MSI, and Samsung.

The new Intel Core™ Ultra 200V series processors promise to deliver exceptional performance, breakthrough power efficiency, a significant leap in graphics capabilities, seamless application compatibility, enhanced security, and unparalleled AI computing power. Additionally, all devices equipped with these processors and running the latest version of Windows will be eligible for a free update to Copilot+ PC features, available starting in November.

“As a leader in the AI PC space, Intel has consistently pushed the boundaries of innovation,” said Santhosh Viswanathan, Vice President & Managing Director, India Region Intel. “Our latest offering is a game-changer, redefining the x86 experience for users globally and setting a new benchmark for AI and graphic performance. The latest Intel Core Ultra processors deliver outstanding performance, extended battery life, seamless application compatibility, and enhanced security—all while harnessing the full potential of AI hardware through our robust software enablement. This is more than just an upgrade; it’s a transformative step forward for the future of computing.”

Gokul V Subramaniam, President, Intel India and VP Client Computing Group added, “We designed the new Core Ultra processors with a focus on performance, power efficiency, and unmatched AI compute capabilities. With Lion Cove P-cores, Lunar Lake delivers the fastest CPU core of any processor in a thin and light laptop. With Skymont E-Cores, we have doubled throughput for AI. With the new Xe2 graphics architecture, we bring the fastest built-in GPU in the industry and the fastest AI accelerator in a mobile processor ever. With the new NPU, we bring nearly 4x the performance of our prior generation with up to 48 TOPs. Lunar Lake is the most power efficient processor we have built, bringing AI driven usages to reality and delivering 20 hours of active and productive battery life.”

The Intel® Core™ Ultra 200V series processors introduce Intel’s new Xe2 graphics architecture, delivering a substantial 30% average performance improvement in mobile graphics. The integrated Intel® Arc™ GPU features up to eight new 2nd Gen Xe-cores, eight enhanced ray tracing units, support for up to three 4K monitors, and advanced Intel® Xe Matrix Extensions (Intel® XMX) AI engines, offering up to 67 TOPS for superior creative applications and enhanced gaming performance with improved Xe SS kernels.

ASUS introduces Qualcomm Snapdragon X Plus Processors 

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ASUS announced the expansion of its Qualcomm laptop offerings with two new laptops, the ProArt PZ13 and Vivobook S 15 OLED, equipped with the latest Snapdragon X Plus processors. The first ASUS Copilot+ PC with the latest Snapdragon X Elite Processor, the Vivobook S 15 OLED pushes the limits of computing in a powerful, smart and efficient form factor. On the other hand, the ProArt PZ13 is ideal to create anywhere owing to its lightweight design and top-notch performance. 

The ProArt PZ13 and Vivobook S 15 OLED exemplify ASUS’ commitment to delivering high-performance, portable, and durable laptops for discerning users. The  ProArt PZ13 will be available at the starting price of INR 1,39,990, while the Vivobook S 15 OLED will be available for sale starting at INR 1,04,990. These products will be accessible through both online and offline channels.

Commenting on the launch of the ProArt PZ13 and Vivobook S 15 OLED laptops, Arnold Su, Vice President, Consumer and Gaming PC, System Business Group, ASUS India, said, “At ASUS, our relentless drive is to advance technology and elevate the users’ digital experience. Our latest offerings –the ProArt PZ13 and Vivobook S 15 OLED embody this very vision. The power-packed ProArt PZ13 is a creator focused device, that boasts an exceptional ASUS Lumina OLED display and state-of-the-art AI features like Copilot+ to boost productivity and creativity, all housed in a robust, durable design. Meanwhile, the Vivobook S 15 OLED, featuring Qualcomm Snapdragon processors and a premium display panel, seamlessly blends high performance with portability, perfect for both professional and personal settings. These innovations underscore our commitment to not just meeting but simultaneously surpassing our customers’ expectations.”

ProArt PZ13

The ProArt PZ13, powered by the Snapdragon® X Plus CPU with up to 45 TOPS NPU. This AI-driven PC unlocks Microsoft’s Copilot+ features, including Windows Studio Effects and Live Captions. ASUS’ StoryCube AI assists with digital asset management, while smart noise-cancellation software ensures clarity in communication. The ProArt PZ13 boasts a 16GB 8448MHz LPDDR5 memory and a 1TB SSD storage, offering seamless and lag-free performance. The robust 70Wh battery is capable of delivering multi-day power and Wi-Fi 7 keeps you connected wherever you go.

The ProArt PZ13 stands out with its 16:10 3K ASUS Lumina OLED touchscreen display, delivering Dolby Vision and Pantone Validated cinema-grade colour accuracy for spectacular visuals. The display’s rapid 0.2ms response time ensures smooth, fluid motion, while the ASUS Pen 2.0 Stylus is the perfect partner for creative tasks. For audio, three directional mics combined with Smart Amp technology, enhanced by Dolby Atmos, deliver crystal-clear sound, creating an immersive auditory experience.

The ProArt PZ13 isn’t just a sleek device—it’s built to withstand tough conditions. With an IP52 rating, it is protected against dust and water, making it ready for any environment. Undergoing rigorous tests for vibration and high/low temperature shocks, the PZ13 remains sturdy in a lightweight form at just 0.85 kg and just 9mm thick. Crafted from aluminum alloy with precision CNC machining, it balances durability and style. The detachable magnetic keyboard and cover stand add to the flexibility of everyday use, while the new ProArt logo and chamfered edges exude professional aesthetics. The Nano Black coating not only enhances its sleek appearance but also resists smudges and fingerprints.

Specifications:

ModelProArt PZ13 (HT5306)
CPUQualcomm Snapdragon® X Plus 8-Core CPU with 45 TOPS NPU performance
Display13.3” 16:10 2880 x 1800 @60Hz OLED displayUp to 500-nits brightness, VESA DisplayHDR True Black 500, 100% DCI-P3color gamut, Pantone validated
Memory16GB LPDDR5X 8448MHz on board RAM
Storage1TB PCIe® Gen 4.0 NVMe™ M.2 SSD
I/O Ports2 x USB 4 Type-C1 x SD Express 7.0 full sized card reader
Webcam5MP front camera with IR sensors for Windows Hello login13MP rear camera
Wireless ConnectivityWi-Fi 7(802.11be) (Tri-band)2*2 + Bluetooth® 5.4 Wireless Card (*Bluetooth® version may change with OS version different.)
Battery70Wh 3-cell lithium-polymer battery
AdapterTYPE-C, 65W AC Adapter, Output: 20V DC, 3.25A, 65W,Input: 100-240V AC 50/60Hz universal
AudioSupports Dolby Atmos®, Smart Amp technology
Included in-the-boxNew ProArt Backpack (supports up to 16-inch laptops), Micro SD adapter, Magnetic Stand, Detachable Keyboard,Stylus (ASUS Pen SA203H-MPP2.0 support)
Dimensions & Weight297.5 x 202.9 x 9 mm0.85 kg (Without Keyboard)1.2 kg (With Keyboard)


Vivobook S 15 OLED 

The ASUS Vivobook S 15 OLED features the Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite and Snapdragon X Plus processors, along with Adreno integrated graphics. This premium, thin design integrates AI capabilities through the Qualcomm Hexagon NPU, offering 45 TOPS. With 16GB LPDDR5X RAM at 8448 MHz and a 1TB PCIe 4.0 SSD, it’s built for performance. The all-metal design is both robust and elegant, highlighted by the new ASUS Vivobook logo. With a weight of just 1.42 kg and measuring 14.7mm thin, this PC combines power with portability. The ASUS ErgoSense keyboard design ensures comfortable typing, complete with a number pad and single-zone RGB lighting.

The Vivobook S 15 OLED with an ASUS Lumina OLED display provides stunning visuals on a 15.6-inch 3K (2880 x 1620) 120Hz screen. The 16:9 aspect ratio is ideal for work and entertainment, with up to 600 nits peak brightness and VESA DisplayHDR True Black 600 certification, ensuring top-notch colour accuracy.

Built to withstand the toughest conditions, the Vivobook S 15 OLED passes 26 rigorous MIL-STD 810H tests, ensuring military-grade durability. Its 70Wh battery provides over 18 hours of power, with USB Type-C fast charging. Connectivity is seamless with an array of ports like USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A, HDMI 2.1 TMDS, a MicroSD card reader, and USB 4 ports, supporting 4K display output, 40 GB/s data transfer, and fast charging. The ASUS Antimicrobial Guard keeps your device safe and clean, while Windows Hello with a 1080p Full HD 3DNR webcam offers easy, secure login. Experience enhanced audio with the Smart Amplifier, delivering 350% louder sound without distortion.

Specifications:

CPUQualcomm Snapdragon® X Elite Processor (12C)Qualcomm Snapdragon® X Plus Processor (8C)
GraphicsQualcomm® Adreno™ GPU
NPUQualcomm® Hexagon™ NPU 45 TOPS
Display15.6-inch, 3K (2880 x 1620) OLED 16:9 aspect ratio, 0.2ms response time, 120Hz refresh rate, 600nits HDR peak brightness, 100% DCI-P3 color gamut, 1,000,000:1, VESA CERTIFIED Display HDR True Black 600, 1.07 billion colors, Glossy display, 70% less harmful blue light, TÜV Rheinland-certified, SGS Eye Care Display
Operating systemWindows 11 Home with support forCopilot,Recall (to be available once Microsoft releases the feature),Live Captions,Cocreator apps
RAM16 GB 8448 MHz LPDDR5X
StorageUp to 1 TB PCIe® 4.0 NVMe® M.2 SSD
ConnectivityWi-Fi 7(802.11be) (Tri-band)2*2 + Bluetooth® 5.4 Wireless Card
CameraFHD IR camera with privacy shutter and Windows Hello supported
I/O ports2 x USB4 Type-C® (supports 4K UHD external displays and up to 40 Gbps data transfers)2 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A1 x HDMI® 2.1 (TMDS)1 x MicroSD card reader1 x Audio jack
Keyboard & TouchpadASUS ErgoSense keyboard with dedicated Copilot key, customizable RGB backlight, noise reduction technology 
129.7 x 84.8 mm ASUS ErgoSense touchpad with Smart Gesture
AudioHarman Kardon-certified, Dolby Atmos® sound systemBuilt-in array microphone
Battery70 Wh with over 18 hours battery life
Dimensions & Weight352.6 x 226.9 x 14.7~15.9mmApprox. 1.42 kg

Price and availability:

Model NameAvailabilityStarting Price
ProArt PZ13 (HT5306)Online: ASUS e-shop, Flipkart and AmazonBrand Store: ROG stores/ASUS Premium Stores₹ 1,39,990
Vivobook S 15 OLED (S5507)Online: ASUS e-shop, Flipkart and AmazonBrand Store: ASUS Exclusive StoresMulti-Brand Retailers: all ASUS authorized dealers₹ 1,04,990

Acer Introduces New Chromebook laptops 

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Acer, launched its latest Chromebook plus models, the Acer Chromebook Plus 14 and 15 laptops. These advanced laptops are specifically designed to cater to the demands of the Enterprise and education sector. The all-new Chromebook Plus with the latest built-in Google Gemini AI features offering robust performance, enhanced productivity features, and a sleek, professional design. The Chromebook Plus 14 offers a 14-inch Full HD IPS display with options for high-brightness Acer ComfyView™ LED-backlit TFT LCD or an integrated multi-touch version. The Acer Chromebook Plus 15 features a 15.6-inch Full HD IPS display with Acer ComfyView™ technology, available in standard and high-brightness touch variants. Acer Chromebook Plus offers built-in Google apps and powerful AI capabilities. It also offers Google Photos Magic Eraser, File Sync, Wallpaper generation, AI-created video backgrounds, and Adobe Photoshop on the web to help consumers boost their productivity, inspire their creativity, and make everyday tasks intuitive. It’s a laptop experience that optimizes hardware performance with software apps and tools.

Powered by a range of Powerful Intel® & AMD® processor variants, these Chromebooks ensure robust performance for multitasking and running demanding applications. The Chromebook Plus 14 has two variants. One with Intel® Core™ i3-N305 processor and another with AMD® Ryzen® 7000 Series Processor, while the Chromebook Plus 15 offers Up to Intel® 13th Gen Core™ i7-1355U processor. All the models support Upto 16GB LPDDR5X SDRAM and Storage up to 512 GB PCIe NVMe SSD, ensuring fast data access and ample space for important files and applications.

Google® AI-powered writing assistance and generative, custom wallpapers and AI backgrounds for video calls make the Chromebook Plus the most preferred device for the professional. All Chromebook plus models feature Dual DTS® Speakers, optimized bass, and treble response. It is also equipped with two built-in microphones and a high-definition Full HD webcam with features such as Temporal Noise Reduction, High Dynamic Range (HDR), and support for 1080p video at 60 fps, ensuring clear video conferencing and online interactions.

Sudhir Goel, Chief Business Officer at Acer India, stated, “We are excited to launch the new Chromebook Plus laptops in India. These models represent our commitment to providing cutting-edge technology and reliable performance. With powerful Intel® & AMD® processors, vibrant displays, Powerful AI capabilities, and robust security features, we believe these Chromebooks will significantly enhance productivity and learning experiences. Our goal is to offer solutions that empower professionals and students to achieve more, and the Chromebook Plus 14 and 15 embody this vision perfectly.”

All Acer Chromebook Plus models support the Latest Wireless Wi-Fi 6E, providing fast and stable wireless connectivity, and Bluetooth® 5.3 for seamless pairing with peripherals and accessories. All models are equipped with a discrete H1 Trusted Platform Module (TPM) solution, camera shutters for privacy, and Kensington lock slots for physical security.

Designed for durability and reliability, these Chromebooks have undergone rigorous military-grade reliability tests, including mechanical shock, transit drop, vibration, and resistance to sand, dust, humidity, and extreme temperatures. The robust construction ensures that the laptops can withstand the rigors of daily use in various environments. All models feature a 53 Wh 3-cell Li-ion battery that supports fast charging technology. The Chromebook Plus 14 can last up to 11 hours on a single charge, while the Chromebook Plus 15 offers up to 10 hours of battery life, making them perfect for all-day use without frequent recharging.

PRICE AND AVAILABILITY

Acer Chromebook Plus 14 & 15 starting price at Rs. 35990. The laptop will be available in Acer exclusive stores, Acer online store, Amazon, Croma, Flipkart, Vijay Sales, and other multi-brand outlets.

Dell Introduces XPS 13 and Inspiron 14 plus

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Dell Technologies officially announces the new consumer Copilot+ AI PCs in India, namely the XPS 13 and Inspiron 14 Plus. Transforming AI experiences a notch, both devices debut the new Qualcomm® Snapdragon® processors. The XPS 13 is equipped with the Snapdragon® X1 EliteX1E-80-100 CPU, while the Inspiron 14 Plus features the Snapdragon® X Plus X1P-64-100 processor at its core. Both machines offer all-day battery life, allowing users optimum hassle-free search, create, and work experience. The ability of AI processing locally on the device with Qualcomm® Hexagon™ NPU, coupled with the Copilot+ feature, will redefine the overall AI experience, commencing a new era of performance across productivity, efficiency, and convenience.

Commenting on the launch, Raj Kumar Rishi, Vice President and Managing Director, Consumer and Small Business, Dell Technologies, India, said, “We’re thrilled to introduce our Dell Copilot+ AI PCs to the Indian customers. This innovative lineup, powered by Qualcomm Snapdragon processors, demonstrates our commitment in empowering users to achieve more and unlock their full potential with AI technology.”

Pujan Chadha, Director, Product Marketing, Consumer and Small Business, Dell Technologies, India, said, “With the new XPS 13 and Inspiron 14 Plus, we are setting the latest benchmark in personal computing. Equipped with AI capabilities that intuitively adapt to users’ needs, offer smarter performance and connectivity, and seamless multitasking, these devices open AI experience to a new array of users.”

Saurabh Arora, Mobile, Compute and XR Business Head, Qualcomm India Pvt. Ltd. added, “We are thrilled to collaborate with Dell to bring the revolutionary Snapdragon X Series platforms to the latest XPS 13 and Inspiron 14 laptops, transforming PC experiences in India. United by our mission to innovate, this partnership marks a pivotal development in India’s PC ecosystem. Snapdragon X Series’ advanced AI capabilities and unmatched power efficiency will redefine the user experience, enabling seamless multitasking, enhanced security, and a wide array of other use cases. The platforms offer cutting-edge AI features for creativity, video conferencing, security, and productivity, with rapid performance and enhanced security through the Qualcomm Sensing Hub. Users will benefit from extraordinary performance, battery life, and new AI experiences, making this a significant leap in the AI PC era, catering to the evolving needs of both consumers and professionals.”

The XPS 13 heralds a new era of AI in an already iconic portfolio. This model is the thinnest and lightest XPS yet, taking sleek design to a new height. Powered by the Snapdragon® X1 Elite X1E-80 CPU, the XPS 13 delivers game-changing performance and battery life, with up to 27 hours on a single charge, thanks to its three-tier architecture, comprising of CPU, GPU, and NPU. Specifically, with up to 27 hours of streaming on an FHD+ display, the XPS 13 boasts the longest runtime of any Snapdragon® laptop. The OLED display option, the first on any laptop in the world, delivers higher brightness and lower power consumption to stay active more than 10% longer compared to the previous generation of OLED display. In addition, the combination of the Qualcomm® Adreno™ GPU and the Qualcomm® Hexagon™ NPU ensures stunningly smooth graphics for streaming, sharing, and creating, all while improving power efficiency, reducing heat emissions, and minimizing noise. Ultimately, the XPS 13 is an avant-garde device that redefines performance, efficiency, and design possibilities. 

The new Inspiron 14 Plus device also boasts of revolutionary all-day battery life, allowing up to 21 hours of local video playback or up to 15 hours of streaming 4K content with a single charge on a QHD+ display. Beyond text-based commands, users can leverage voice commands. With Qualcomm’s Always-On Sensing technology and presence detection, this device securely logs users in while ensuring better privacy by preventing onlookers from viewing the screen content. Additionally, the Snapdragon® compute platforms support a multitude of applications for productivity, browsing, video conferencing, and multimedia, delivering mobility and productivity across various tasks.

The new XPS 13 and the Inspiron 14 Plus introduce innovative AI experiences powered by the Snapdragon® X Series platforms, allowing users to reclaim time and focus on tasks that matter the most.

  • Using Cocreator, users can create AI-generated images using a combination of descriptive words and brushstrokes. They can iterate the image in real-time to make it exactly as how they need it to be when they need visuals for a PowerPoint presentation or want to unlock creativities.
  • Live Captions adds the ability to translate any live or pre-recorded audio from 44 languages to English, making it even more seamless to connect with friends and colleagues on video calls.
  • New Windows Studio effects adjust lighting and offer new creative filters to enhance call collaboration.

Pricing and Availability (inclusive of taxes)

The new XPS 13 and Inspiron 14 Plus will be available to customers across Dell.com, DES, large format retail partners such as Croma, Reliance Retail and Vijay Sales along with, multi-brand outlets and Amazon.in starting 16 July, 2024.

The XPS 13 will be available in three variants. The base variant costs INR 1,39,990 while the highest-end variant costs INR 1,69,990.

The Inspiron 14 Plus will be available in two variants. The base variant costs INR 115,590 while the higher-end variant costs INR 119,590.

Retail Benefits for the Consumer

XPS 13:

  • No cost EMI options with leading banks and NBFCs
  • Cashback of up to ₹10,000 with leading banks
  • 1-year extended warranty for ₹4,999
  • Da Milano bag worth ₹15,499 for just ₹999

Inspiron 14 Plus:

  • No cost EMI options with leading banks and NBFCs
  • Cashback of up to ₹5,000 with leading banks
  • 1-year extended warranty for ₹999
  • Sennheiser headset worth ₹8,990 for just ₹1,999

BenQ Introduces Google EDLA Certified BenQ Board RE04 Series

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BenQ India, has announced the launch of its next-generation interactive flat panel (IFP), the BenQ Board RE04 Series. This cutting-edge IFP is officially certified under the Google Enterprise Devices Licensing Agreement (EDLA), making it one of the first fully integrated boards with Google Mobile Services (GMS) in India. The RE04 series is set to revolutionise collaborative spaces in education and corporate environments with its advanced features and Google integration.

Available in 65″, 75″, and 86″ models, the Google-certified BenQ Board RE04 series combines advanced touch technology with 4K UHD resolution, creating an immersive and interactive experience. The EDLA certification brings the power of Google’s suite of applications and APIs to corporates and educational institutions. With GMS support, the new BenQ IFPs seamlessly integrate Google services such as Google Drive, Maps, Meet, and YouTube. Google Workspace apps such as Docs, Sheets, and Slides can now be installed and utilised directly from Google Play. Emphasising the company’s commitment to local manufacturing, two models of the RE04 series, the RE04 and RE04N, are being manufactured in India, aligning with the ‘Make in India’ initiative and contributing to the country’s technological self-reliance.

“The Google EDLA Certified BenQ Board RE04 Series represents BenQ’s commitment to innovation in the education and corporate sectors,” says Rajeev Singh, Managing Director at BenQ India and South Asia. “By integrating Google Mobile Services into our interactive flat panels, we’re not just launching a product; we’re providing a tool that will enhance learning experiences and foster creativity in classrooms and boardrooms across India. Furthermore, with two models of the RE04 series being manufactured in India, we’re proud to contribute to the ‘Make in India’ initiative, combining global technology with local production. This integration not only enhances collaboration but also ensures a seamless and secure digital environment for work and education while supporting our country’s technological self-reliance.”

BenQ India announce its partnership with the Himalayan Institute of Alternatives, Ladakh (HIAL). BenQ will provide multiple newly-launched Google EDLA Certified BenQ Board RE04 Series IFPs and projectors to HIAL’s new campus, aiming to bridge the digital divide and provide cutting-edge educational tools to students in the Himalayan region.

Sonam Wangchuk, Founding Director of HIAL, expressed his enthusiasm, “BenQ’s contribution of these advanced interactive flat panels will significantly enhance our ability to provide quality education in Ladakh. This technology will open new avenues for our students, allowing them to connect with global resources and ideas.”

Gitanjali JB, Founder & CEO of HIAL, added, “The integration of Google EDLA Certified BenQ Board RE04 Series into our curriculum aligns perfectly with our vision of empowering learners. These interactive flat panels will create an immersive learning environment, fostering creativity and critical thinking among our students.”

The Google EDLA BenQ Board RE04 Series comes equipped with powerful tools like EZWrite 6, an innovative whiteboarding software, and InstaShare 2, a wireless screen sharing solution. EZWrite 6 enables corporates and educators to conduct engaging sessions and utilise specialised tools, while InstaShare 2 allows for seamless screen sharing and collaboration.

BenQ simplifies user and device management with the BenQ Account Management System (AMS) and the BenQ Device Management Solution (DMS), ensuring efficient remote control of BenQ Board settings. In addition to their collaboration features, the new BenQ Boards also offer health-focused features, such as a germ-resistant screen coating and flicker-free technology for eye care.

The Google EDLA Certified BenQ Board RE04 Series will be available from August 2024 with licensed BenQ distributors.