Tech & Hardware 24 Hours

Last updated: July 8, 2026, 5:30 PM ET

AI & Software Updates

Google updated Android Bench with new large language models, though its proprietary Gemini model continues to trail competitors in performance benchmarks. Developers can now contribute to the platform's evolution. Separately, a new report indicates that hackers can weaponize AI tools to assemble vast botnets, exploiting LLMs' inability to refuse certain queries through a technique dubbed "Hallu Squatting." Meanwhile, TikTok users have less control over their "For You" pages than they believe; the platform's "not interested" feature requires consistent, intentional user input to effectively shape content feeds.

Hardware & Components

VESA announced DisplayHDR True, a new certification for next-generation OLED displays, setting a higher standard for peak brightness and contrast. In memory news, launching Viper Steel 5 with speeds up to 8000 MT/s, targeting high-end gaming and professional workloads. XPG's Lancer Blade RGB memory kit offers a low-profile design suitable for compact builds, though its IC count may affect peak performance. For cooling solutions, Cooler Master introduced the V8 ACE 3DHP, a single-tower air cooler featuring patented 3D Heat Pipe technology.

Computing & Peripherals

The market for mini PCs is seeing promotions, with KAMRUI offering discounts on AK1PLUS and Pinova P1 models starting at $230.84. For those seeking Windows 11 Pro, a significant deal is available with licenses dropping to just $10 through July 19. In gaming peripherals, Hammerhead V3 X Hyperspeed for both Xbox and PlayStation. Gamers can also consider the GameSir G7 Pro Aimlabs, which builds upon the G7 series with new upgrades. Mechanical keyboard enthusiasts have several new options, including the retro-inspired KeyBoy Advance wireless keyboard priced at $275 and Keychron's K4 Ultra and K10 Ultra models featuring num pads.

Processors & Graphics

AMD's 10-core "Medusa Point" has reappeared in Geekbench benchmarks, showing improved performance on the Plum-MDS1 FP10 platform. On the graphics front, Intel released Arc GPU, including optimizations for titles like "Assassin's Creed Black Flag Resynced" and "DOOM: The Dark Ages Revelations." Rumors suggest that NVIDIA GeForce RTX 50 may be surfacing, though previous reports indicated a potential indefinite postponement of their launch.

Storage & Networking

Samsung has begun mass production of its PM1763 SSD, an enterprise-grade solid-state drive utilizing PCIe 6.0 technology for optimized data center performance. For file transfer needs, Transfr Pro is offering a lifetime plan for unlimited file sending at $80, aiming to simplify large file transfers that often face size limitations or subscription requirements. In a peculiar situation, Australian government officials instructed volunteers to discard thousands of functioning test routers, despite the devices being easily re-flashable.

Defense & Space Technology

The U.S. military is reportedly seeking cheaper hunter-killer drones following significant losses of Reaper drones, valued at approximately $1 billion, in Iran. Meanwhile, Miami-based City Labs achieved, with its BOHR mission serving as a precursor for future nuclear-powered spacecraft. In the realm of rare earth minerals, U.S. rare earth exports are flowing to Asia as domestic demand struggles to materialize, despite government backing for local supply chains.

Automotive & Infrastructure

Waymo vehicles have encountered incidents with individuals, including two teenagers who learned the hard way not to engage in toy gun drive-by incidents from a robotaxi; the Waymo vehicle stopped, contacted authorities, and waited for police. Geologically, ocean rift zones have been observed to expand in sudden bursts, a phenomenon that scientists are studying to understand the mechanisms of crustal expansion.

Corporate & Investment

Apple announced an increased spending commitment with Broadcom to produce billions more U.S.-made chips, focusing on custom silicon and advanced wireless connectivity for its product lines. Blue Origin is expected, seeking $10 billion and aiming for a valuation of $130 billion.