Tech & Hardware 24 Hours

Last updated: May 18, 2026, 8:38 AM ET

Semiconductor & Chip Manufacturing

TSMC's Arizona facility achieved record Q1 profits surpassing all of 2025's performance, demonstrating the strategic importance of U.S. semiconductor production amid global tech competition. Meanwhile, TetraMem announced a 22nm breakthrough with their Multi-Level RRAM Analog In-Memory Computing SoC, marking a significant advancement in analog in-memory computing technology that could revolutionize AI processing efficiency. In the CPU space, Thermal Grizzly released de-lidded versions of Intel's Core Ultra 7 270K Plus processors, which with overclocking capabilities even surpass the flagship Ultra 9 285K performance, offering enthusiasts new performance avenues for Intel's LGA1851 socket platform.

PC Hardware & Input Devices

Microsoft reimagined its AI PC specification by making the dedicated Copilot key reprogrammable, allowing users to customize the functionality beyond just launching AI assistants. This flexibility comes as Perixx unveiled the PERIBOARD-535 II, a full-size ergonomic mechanical keyboard engineered for extended typing comfort in office and coding environments, combining mechanical switches with ergonomic design principles to address productivity and comfort concerns in professional settings.

Gaming Technology

A new open-source project called low_latency_layer has enabled NVIDIA Reflex 2 and AMD Anti-Lag 2 technologies to function across any GPU brand under Linux, dramatically improving gaming responsiveness for Linux users previously limited to proprietary solutions. Expanding the gaming ecosystem, GIGABYTE launched an OLED monitor bundle with Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, offering gamers enhanced visual experiences for the most popular titles through a limited-time promotion running April 24 through May 31.

Software & Operating Systems

Microsoft restored Windows 10-style customization for the Windows 11 taskbar and start menu, reintroducing user-requested flexibility in taskbar placement and organization that had been removed in previous iterations. Addressing subscription fatigue, Microsoft introduced a one-time Office purchase option at $130, providing an alternative to the $69.99-$99.99 annual subscription model that could cost users $200-$400 over just a few years.

Space Technology

The U.S. space enterprise continues to anticipate Starship's capabilities with mixed emotions as described by observers: "The highs are high. The lows are low," reflecting the volatile but potentially transformative journey of SpaceX's next-generation spacecraft that could revolutionize access to space.