HW News - Valve Console, Intel Bailouts, Windows Update Kills SSDs, 2x 12VHPWR GPU

The video covers recent hardware news including a powerful dual 12VHPWR Nvidia RTX Titan ADA GPU prototype, Valve’s upcoming Windows 11-based console and new VR hardware, Microsoft’s AI-focused Xbox partnership with AMD, and ASUS’s high-power RTX 5090 card. It also discusses issues with Windows 11 updates harming SSDs, AMD’s new low-power RX 7400 GPU, Intel’s potential government-backed bailout alongside SoftBank investment, and Nvidia’s development of a Blackwell AI chip tailored for the Chinese market amid export restrictions.

The video begins with a discussion of recent hardware news, including a prototype Nvidia RTX Titan ADA graphics card featuring two 12-volt high power connectors, potentially capable of 900 watts power consumption. This design aligns with earlier rumors about an 800-watt Nvidia GPU that never officially launched, likely due to power and safety concerns. The video also touches on the upcoming Valve console, codenamed “Valve Fremont,” which appears to be a TV-focused PC box running Windows 11 Pro with a custom AMD six-core processor and an RX7600 GPU. Alongside this, Valve is expected to release new VR hardware, including the Ibex gamepad and Decard and Roy VR controllers.

Microsoft’s Xbox division is highlighted next, with news about a strategic multi-year partnership with AMD to co-engineer silicon for future Xbox consoles. The focus is on integrating advanced AI features such as neural rendering to enhance gaming fidelity and experiences. Microsoft’s Xbox Ally handheld, launching soon, already includes a dedicated neural processing unit (NPU) to experiment with AI-powered gaming experiences ahead of the next-generation console release. Meanwhile, ASUS has developed a new RTX 5090 graphics card that exceeds the usual 600-watt power limit by combining traditional 12-volt connectors with a new PCIe motherboard power connector rated for up to 1,000 watts, marking a significant advancement in GPU power delivery.

The video then addresses troubling reports about Windows 11 updates potentially damaging or corrupting SSDs. Users have reported storage devices disappearing or becoming unreadable after applying certain updates, with storage controller manufacturer Faison acknowledging the issue and engaging with industry stakeholders. This has led to recommendations for users to pause updates if they suspect their SSDs might be affected. Additionally, AMD quietly launched a new RX 7400 GPU model that draws power solely from the PCIe slot, eliminating the need for external power connectors. This makes the card suitable for small form factor builds and OEM use, although it offers lower memory bandwidth compared to higher-end models.

Intel’s recent challenges and potential bailout are discussed in detail. The US government is reportedly considering converting grants from the Chips and Science Act into an equity stake of about 10% in Intel, effectively becoming a major shareholder. Concurrently, SoftBank is investing $2 billion in Intel, further stabilizing the company amid layoffs, project cancellations, and fluctuating public confidence. SoftBank’s involvement is notable given its large holdings in ARM and investments in other semiconductor companies, highlighting a trend of major investment groups consolidating stakes across the chip industry. The US government’s interest in Intel is framed as a national security move to preserve domestic semiconductor manufacturing capabilities.

Finally, the video covers Nvidia’s efforts to develop a new Blackwell-based AI chip for the Chinese market, dubbed the B30A or Blackwell 3A. This chip is designed as a single-die solution with roughly half the computing power of Nvidia’s flagship dual-die B300 accelerator, aiming to comply with export restrictions while maintaining competitive performance. Nvidia hopes to deliver samples for testing soon, reflecting ongoing negotiations and technological adaptations in response to geopolitical trade limitations. The video concludes by encouraging viewers to check out the channel’s black market documentary and associated backer rewards, including physical USB keys containing the full movie file.