Artificial Intelligence
Acer Swift Goes AI: New Laptops Boast Ryzen 8040 and Ryzen AI
Acer has announced new models of the Acer Swift Edge 16 and Acer Swift Go 14 laptops, blending AI power and innovative features in stylish thin and light devices. The latest additions to the Swift lineup feature AMD Ryzen 8040 Series processors with up to AMD Radeon 780M Graphics and are equipped with Ryzen AI neural processing units (NPUs) for versatile performance and support for Acer’s AI-powered capabilities such as Acer PurifiedVoice, Acer PurfiedView, and the new Acer LiveArt photo-editing feature.
Intuitive control and seamless navigation on AI PCs are made possible thanks to the AcerSense application and Microsoft Copilot in Windows with instant access through dedicated keys. Users can also appreciate clear images and rich colours when working or streaming through the OLED laptops’ displays, as well as Microsoft Pluton technology, enabled by default, to help secure devices, personal data, and encryption keys.
Designed to deliver premium AI experiences and reliable performance for everyday productivity, the Swift Edge 16 and Swift Go 14 laptops are powered by AMD Ryzen 8040 Series processors with Ryzen AI technology built in. AMD’s latest processors enable the efficient distribution of AI workloads between accelerators on the NPU, GPU, and CPU, to advance user experiences with AI technology on the devices. It leverages AMD’s “Zen 4” processor architecture with up to eight cores and delivers up to 16 threads of processing power, so creative professionals and mainstream users can expect faster, power-efficient computing and longer battery life on the ultrathin Swift laptops.
Support for AI features further complements the appeal and usability of the Swift laptops to various users and functions. Intelligent AI companion with Copilot in Windows can be accessed with a single click of the dedicated Copilot key, harnessing the power of AI to optimize time spent when working, creating, or playing. Acer’s AI-powered solutions such as Acer PurifiedView and Acer PurifiedVoice enhance conferencing sessions, while Acer QuickPanel allows for swift and easy fixtures to the videoconferencing tools. The AcerSense utility app helps users take control and manage device systems with one click of the AcerSense key, and the new Acer LiveArt feature utilizes AI technology to quickly edit images with a control panel that instantly surfaces when an image or screenshot is taken on the device.
The Acer Swift Edge 16 is crafted to deliver optimal performance without compromising portability. Encased in an ultra-thin and lightweight aluminium alloy chassis that measures just 1.2 kg and 12.95 mm in height, the sleek design blends form and function while housing powerful hardware that can handle today’s AI demands and more. It is powered by up to AMD Ryzen 7 8840U octa-core processor, integrated with AMD Radeon 780M graphics and AMD Ryzen AI, and comes with up to 32 GB of LPDDR5 RAM and up to 2 TB PCIe 4.0 SSD storage. Paired with Acer’s own AI solutions, the laptop is equipped to handle everyday computing tasks and is ready to bring AI experiences closer to users.
The Swift Edge 16 boasts a 16-inch 3.2K OLED panel capable of projecting amazing visuals and hues thanks to its 120 Hz refresh rate and 100% support for the DCI-P3 colour gamut. The narrow bezels, less than 0.2 ms response time, and VESA DisplayHDR True Black 500 certification further highlight the exceptional visual clarity of the OLED laptop. The device also gives users an edge in terms of connectivity and security with Wi-Fi 7 compatibility to ensure swift network speeds of up to 5.8 Gbps and low latencies of under 2 ms, while the secured-core PC features Microsoft Pluton to keep the device protected against modern cyber threats. For added convenience, the Swift Edge 16 comes with all the essential ports at users’ disposal; an HDMI 2.1 port, two USB Type-C ports, two USB Type-A ports, and a MicroSD Card slot.
The Acer Swift Go 14 is a powerful device that can handle the most demanding workloads with ease. It features up to an AMD Ryzen 9 8945HS octa-core processor, AMD Radeon 780M graphics, and Ryzen AI that delivers up to 60% improved AI performance to provide users with enhanced AI experiences on the go. The laptop supports up to 32 GB LPDDR5X memory and up to 2 TB PCIe Gen 4 SSD, and works hand in hand with Acer’s own AI technology, making experiences more seamless and enjoyable on the device. The processors are also integrated with a Microsoft Pluton security processor to harden the Windows 11 PC’s protection of sensitive data and information.
Users are treated to smooth, eye-catching visuals on the 14-inch laptop with up to a 2.8K OLED display and a 90 Hz refresh rate or a touchscreen option on an IPS LCD (1920×1200) panel for users who prefer to tap and swipe. The thin and light aluminium body adds to the device’s visual aesthetic and is tailored for dynamic lifestyles, while the fully extendable 180o hinge and OceanGlass touchpad with 44% larger space make it easier to work and scroll within any setting. On top of these features, the Swift Go 14 productivity-boosting technology such as a 1440p QHD webcam, a 100W battery with quick-charging capabilities, Wi-Fi 6E compatibility, and essential connectivity features; dual USB Type-C ports, HDMI 2.1 port, Bluetooth 5.3, and a MicroSD card.
The Acer Swift Edge 16 (SFE16-44) is available in EMEA, starting at $1,249. The Acer Swift Go 14 (SFG14-63) is available in EMEA, starting at $949.
Artificial Intelligence
HP EliteBook Ultra G1q Review: Balancing Power and Portability
The HP EliteBook Ultra G1q is a sleek, lightweight laptop designed for business professionals who prioritise portability and battery life. Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite (X1E78100) chip, it offers impressive performance for everyday tasks and excellent battery endurance.
Design and Build Quality
The EliteBook Ultra G1q boasts a premium aluminium chassis that feels sturdy and well-constructed. Its thin and lightweight design, weighing just under 1.3 kg, makes it easy to carry around all day. The laptop’s 14-inch touch display has a 2.2K resolution, offering sharp visuals and good colour accuracy. While the 60Hz refresh rate might not be ideal for gamers or video editors, it’s perfectly adequate for most productivity tasks.
Hardware
As mentioned earlier, the EliteBook Ultra G1q comes packed with a Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite (X1E78100) chip and a Qualcomm Hexagon NPU. Graphics is handled by the Qualcomm Adreno GPU and the laptop runs Windows 11 Pro. You also get 16 GB of LPDDR5x RAM and up to 1TB of PCIe Gen4 NVMe TLC M.2 SSD storage.
In terms of connectivity, you get one USB Type-C 40Gbps port, one USB Type-C 10Gbps port, one USB Type-A 5Gbps port, and one stereo headphone/microphone combo jack. When it comes to audio, you get dual speakers with discrete amplifiers which are powered by Audio by Poly Studio, and integrated dual array microphones.
Performance
The Snapdragon X Elite chip, built on the ARM architecture, delivers snappy performance for everyday tasks such as browsing the web, video conferencing, and running productivity apps. However, some Windows applications might not be fully optimised for ARM, leading to occasional compatibility issues or performance hiccups. The laptop’s 16GB of LPDDR5 RAM and 1TB of SSD storage provide ample space for your files and apps.
As an AI PC, the HP EliteBook Ultra G1q offers features to boost productivity and collaboration. Its Hexagon NPU enables the local running of AI applications, reducing latency and improving performance. Additionally, the Poly Camera Pro provides advanced video conferencing capabilities, including auto-framing, background blur, and virtual backgrounds.
Battery Life
One of the standout features of the EliteBook Ultra G1q is its exceptional battery life. With its 59Wh battery, the laptop can easily last for over 12 hours on a single charge, making it ideal for long workdays or travel. The included 65W USB-C charger provides fast charging, bringing the battery from 0 to 100% in about two hours.
Verdict
The HP EliteBook Ultra 14-inch G1q Notebook AI PC is a powerful and efficient laptop that excels in performance, battery life, and connectivity. Its advanced features and AI capabilities make it an ideal choice for professionals seeking a reliable and versatile device for their work.
Price: $1,699.99 onwards
HP EliteBook Ultra G1q $1,699.99 onwards
Summary
The Snapdragon X Elite chip, built on the ARM architecture, delivers snappy performance for everyday tasks such as browsing the web, video conferencing, and running productivity apps.
User Review
( votes)Artificial Intelligence
HONOR Announces MagicOS 9.0 with AI Features
HONOR has launched MagicOS 9.0 in China, the industry’s first all-scenario personalised AI operating system. This groundbreaking operating system integrates its new proprietary MagicLM line-up, while YOYO Assistant has been upgraded to a more powerful AI Agent. With the launch of the AI Agent Store, HONOR shapes a new era of intelligent experiences with the multimodal ecosystem.
“At HONOR, we have always championed a human-centric approach and user empowerment as the cornerstone of our AI innovations. From the launch of Magic Live in December 2016 to the integration of platform-level AI in MagicOS 7.0 in January 2022 and the introduction of MagicOS 8.0 to revolutionise human-device interaction, HONOR has always been at the forefront of creating human-centric AI innovations,” said George Zhao, CEO of HONOR Device Co. Ltd. “Today, as we unveil the MagicOS 9.0, which introduces the industry’s first cross-application AI Agent, we showcase HONOR’s steadfast dedication to leveraging AI for operating system enhancement and driving forward innovative intent-based interactions,”
Unlike the industry’s common practice of empowering applications or creating AI applications with large language models (LLMs), HONOR leverages LLMs to enhance its platform-level AI capabilities, aiming to provide experiences such as multi-modal natural interaction, accurate intention recognition, and closed-loop services for complex tasks. With the new MagicOS 9.0, HONOR is introducing the MagicLM line-up, a family of LLMs that aims to create transformative experiences with language, visual, audio, and multimodal interactions. Leveraging this advancement, HONOR continues to bring enhancements to the platform-level AI, propelling its evolution into an AI-driven operating system.
At the core of the new MagicLM line-up, LLMs dynamically allocate AI computing power based on the specific needs of varied user scenarios. By combining and allocating on-device and cloud resources with agility and flexibility, it strikes an optimal balance between efficiency and experience while meeting diverse user demands. Among these, the three billion parameter LLM is an on-device model that will support HONOR’s mid-range and premium product series. Compared to the previously released seven billion parameter on-device model, it has achieved an 80% reduction in power consumption, a 77% increase in loading speed, a 500% increase in word output speed, and a 1.8GB and 1.6GB reduction in ROM and RAM usage respectively, bringing a significant enhancement comparing to the industry standards. Meanwhile, the cloud models will also support the full range of products in HONOR’s portfolio.
During the launch event, HONOR announced the upgrade of YOYO from a Smart Assistant to an AI Agent. Coming with four core capabilities including natural language understanding and computer vision, user behaviour habit learning and scenario perception, intention recognition and decision-making ability, and in-app and cross-app operation, YOYO can accurately understand user needs, decompose task steps, and independently operate and retrieve various resources and third-party services on the phone, meeting user needs based on its learning of user behaviour habits and usage scenario.
For instance, if a user asks YOYO to order a hot latte with a simple command, it understands and executes the request like a real-life assistant. It can access the user’s frequently used food delivery app, identify their preferred coffee shop, place the coffee order automatically, and finally, verify payment with the user, streamlining the whole process with just a single prompt.
HONOR views the AI Agent as capable of handling tasks with just a single command, assisting users in completing tasks they want to do but are unsure of or tasks they could do but prefer not to. Currently, YOYO possesses advanced human-centric scenario understanding capabilities, enabling it to comprehend 600 types of user intents, remember 950 personal habits, and plan 270 complex tasks. With a single command, YOYO can automatically execute 900 tasks, such as ordering coffee and tea, managing app auto-renewal, permissions, notifications, converting documents, and even filling out forms.
HONOR believes that open collaboration and innovation are essential for thriving in the AI era. In contrast to a closed ecosystem for AI Agent development, HONOR is committed to building AI Agents within an open ecosystem that enables cross-third-party application operations for users. With the launch of the AI Agent store, HONOR unlocks a new era of intelligent experience powered by YOYO and the multimodal ecosystem.
In addition to the new AI Agent, HONOR is also bringing upgrades to Magic Portal and Magic Capsule. With MagicOS 9.0, Magic Portal now offers a more intuitive and seamless experience. Users can simply circle objects to access text and image comprehension without the need to activate the device, allowing for direct access to the desired service in a single step. Leveraging platform-level AI advancements in intention recognition, Magic Portal can understand contextual semantics and accurately interpret user intent, bringing more precise service recommendations to users. Meanwhile, Magic Portal can now cover ten major user scenarios and more than 100 applications, with a 255% increase in service integration than the MagicOS 8.0. The newly upgraded Magic Capsule also extends its application scenarios to cover frequently used scenarios such as flights, ride-hailing, high-speed rail, express delivery, takeaway, movie watching, gaming, system services, local life, navigation, security, and communication.
With AI seamlessly integrated throughout the platform, MagicOS 9.0 has experienced a comprehensive evolution across various areas, including smart connectivity, fluid performance, privacy and security, technological aesthetics, and creative productivity. In light of the rising risks of fraud associated with deepfake technology, MagicOS 9.0 unveils the industry’s first AI Deepfake Detection feature, significantly enhancing security and safeguarding users against potential scams. On the connectivity front, the new MagicRing offers substantial upgrades in heterogeneous networking, cross-device security collaboration, and self-organizing network capabilities.
This innovation ensures seamless service flow and allows flexible multi-device connections across various scenarios. Regarding performance, MagicOS 9.0 has undergone a comprehensive reconstruction of the Turbo X system engine, enhanced by platform-level AI. Coupled with human-centred research, this transformation provides users with a comfortable and enjoyable experience. In terms of technological aesthetics, MagicOS 9.0 introduces an innovative personalization solution — Magic Personalization. With engaging features such as Versatile Desktop, Magic Lock Screen, and Magic Style, these tools empower users to express their individuality through the capabilities of on-device AI.
In addition, tailored for both creation and office scenarios, HONOR has thoroughly integrated AI into system-level applications, unlocking efficient and convenient capabilities for image and text processing. For creators, the enhanced AI Gallery features tools such as AI Eraser, face restoration, AI image expansion, and AI style. Catering to the needs of office professionals, the upgraded HONOR AI Notes introduces AI Meetings, which automatically record minutes with speaker identification and generate professional meeting summaries with a single touch. Additionally, AI Docs assists with reading, writing, translation, and summarization, while AI Translate supports multiple interaction methods and offers real-time translation.
Leveraging platform-level AI capabilities, HONOR seamlessly integrates AI into MagicOS 9.0, offering a personalised experience that is effortless, smooth, and secure. Working closely with developers, HONOR will continue working towards the goal of creating a new intelligent world for everyone.
Artificial Intelligence
Acer Launches New TravelMate P6 14 AI
Today, Acer unveiled the new TravelMate P6 14 AI, leading the market with Copilot+ PCs under 1 kg, and delivering exceptional performance, mobility and AI capabilities for businesses and institutions. This new Windows 11 Pro laptop is powered by Intel Core Ultra processors (Series 2) with a built-in NPU boasting up to 120 total platform TOPS AI performance in a compact, carbon fibre chassis.
“AI is evolving rapidly, requiring companies and enterprises to integrate it into the fabric of their IT infrastructure to resolve issues and improve workflow and communication quickly,” said James Lin, General Manager, Notebooks, Acer Inc. “With the newest Intel Core Ultra processors at the helm, the TravelMate P6 14 AI provides workers with remarkable power and has enabled us to combine the latest AI tools and software, incredible power efficiency, and built-in security protection in a convenient ultraportable form factor.”
This latest TravelMate boasts a stunning 14-inch WQXGA+ (2880×1800) 16:10 display with IPS technology or WUXGA (1920×1200) panel featuring high 400 nit brightness and 100% sRGB colour gamut, supporting outstanding picture quality. Thin bezels and a high 82% screen-to-body ratio maximise the screen area for more immersive viewing experiences.
The new Intel Core Ultra processors feature up to 48 TOPS NPU of AI performance, up to 32 GB LPDDR5X on package memory, and a 65 Wh battery, ensuring seamless multitasking and extended productivity, plus next-gen Intel Arc graphics to support cutting-edge AI creation. Offering up to high-speed PCIe Gen4 SSD, the Intel Evo edition TravelMate P6 14 AI provides ample storage and rapid data transfer to handle heavy workloads. The silent keyboard with a 1.55 mm travel distance supports quiet and comfortable typing and comes with a convenient microphone mute key.
When the NPU is utilised, the AI logo stamped on the TravelMate P6 14 AI’s touchpad illuminates to indicate activity. The Acer Experience Zone within Acer’s TravelMate Sense app houses powerful AI features for collaboration and creation. Acer Assist is an on-device AI virtual assistant that leverages large language models and local files to support technical queries, summarise documents and datasets, and troubleshoot through simple prompts without any of the data leaving the device. Acer LiveArt 2.0 can easily remove the background of a photo and generate depth maps on 2D images. In addition, GIMP and Intel’s Stable Diffusion plugin support the creation of illustrations and photos with just a few clicks and text input.
Acer QuickPanel automatically launches when the camera is activated, so camera and microphone settings can be quickly adjusted. Acer PurifiedView 2.0 creates smoother videoconferencing and live streaming while optimising power consumption through the NPU. Its AI-boosted features such as Portrait Refinement, Gentle Lighting, and Super Sharp features can subtly smoothen appearance, and improve lighting, colour contrast, and resolution while maintaining a natural look to help users appear their best in video calls. Leveraging a triple microphone array, Acer PurifiedVoice 2.0 with AI Noise Reduction and triple microphone array helps users sound their best with the ability to suppress background noise and enhance the main speaker’s voice. Plus, Copilot+ PC AI experiences will be available on the TravelMate device through free updates coming this year.
The TravelMate P6 14 AI provides advanced security and administration features with a QHD IR camera for quick and safe login without requiring passwords. It also has a privacy shutter to help safeguard against hackers. Acer User Sensing Technology uses a built-in vision-based AI sensor to accurately detect people based on range and movement. It helps secure data by locking the screen when the owner leaves, and quickly waking up when they return. Integrated Acer ProShield Plus offers multiple security and management features in a single-client console.
The new TravelMate is durable and can withstand the rigours of life on the road thanks to MIL-STD 810H military-grade compliance and Acer Dust Defender which helps minimise dust buildup that can slow performance. It also provides the latest wireless connectivity, including Wi-Fi 7 with speeds of up to 5.8 Gbps speed. Integrated Bluetooth 5.4 improves speech and audio quality and has enhanced accessibility for using hearing aids with laptops. USB 4 Type-C that supports Thunderbolt 4, HDMI 2.1 and two USB 3.2 Gen1 Type-A ports support a wide range of peripherals, monitors and devices.
Recycled materials are incorporated in the design and packaging of the TravelMate P6 14 AI, while it is also EPEAT-registered and TCO 9 certified, meeting the strictest criteria for sustainability leadership in electronics. Moreover, Intel Evo edition options guarantee premium performance. Acer’s suite of commercial solutions helps businesses manage IT functions and safeguard data. TravelMateSense software lets them optimise, tailor, and access support systems with one click of the TravelMateSense key. “Workflow” consolidates the functions they may need for different work scenarios (Meeting, Away, and Work) and can be further customised based on specific preferences.
“Secure Guard” provides a range of security-related features, including USB Device Filter, Personal Secure Drive, File Secure, and Dynamic Lock to protect the TravelMate device from potential threats. With “Checkup”, businesses can examine the health of components and it includes a guide to performing calibrations to optimise battery charging. An overview system status window provides a real-time status report on the TravelMate laptop. In addition, Acer Office Manager allows offices without dedicated IT staff to poll data, centralise resources and monitor IT assets via a single portal.
The Acer TravelMate P6 14 AI (TMP614-54/T/TCO) will be available in EMEA in January 2025, starting at $1,349.