Tech & Hardware 3 Days

Last updated: June 27, 2026, 11:30 PM ET

Gaming Hardware & Software

Valve's Steam Machine has seen its product page updated to more accurately reflect performance claims, with HDMI 2.1 support now finalized, enabling 4K 240 Hz output after a quiet rollback. Despite these technical adjustments, scalpers have begun listing Steam Machine reservations on eBay for over $1,700, significantly above the original pricing. The gaming industry is also bracing for a potential console shortage around the launch of Grand Theft Auto VI, a title that has already been banned several countries due to content concerns. In the realm of PC peripherals, Qwerty Keys has unveiled the QK100 Mk2 wireless mechanical keyboard with retro design elements, while Razer has introduced a limited-edition Ryu-themed Kitsune leverless fight stick and a new Soma Chroma RGB gaming chair.

Capcom has indicated that it plans for Resident Evil, following the success of Resident Evil 4 Remake. Meanwhile, a wave of layoffs continues to impact the gaming industry, with Ubisoft Barcelona employees preparing to strike over recent job cuts announced earlier in June. Sony has confirmed "significant" layoffs at Bungie, and former Xbox staff are also reporting retaliatory dismissals following earlier Microsoft workforce reductions.

AI & Computing

The New York Times has criticized Microsoft building copyright-infringing supercomputer for OpenAI, shifting its stance on copyright claims post-SCOTUS ruling. In a bid to consolidate AI tools, a lifetime deal offering access to AI agents that can reportedly replace subscriptions to Chat GPT, Claude, and Gemini is available for $79, aiming to reduce the monthly cost of overlapping AI services. Notion is also phasing out its Skiff-influenced email app, focusing instead on AI agents to manage inboxes.

Intel's upcoming "Nova Lake" CPUs are anticipated to be power-intensive, with a leaked 52-core overclocked SKU reportedly drawing 474W in PL2 mode. This follows Lenovo's warning that memory price increases are likely to become a new norm in the consumer PC market. Framework has switched to ADATA XPG MARS 970 SSDs for its Laptop 13 Pro pre-orders but has cautioned customers about an upcoming CPU price hike. In the realm of PC components, MSI's MPG CORELIQUID P22 360 W AIO cooler offers a balance of performance and customization with a 2.1-inch IPS display.

PC Hardware & Deals

Ace Magic is offering discounts of up to 20% on AMD Ryzen-powered mini PCs through Amazon until June 30, 2026. GIGABYTE is running its Fantastech promotion on Newegg until June 28, featuring motherboard and monitor deals, including the GS27QCA monitor at $139.99, and is also offering similar motherboard and monitor savings on Amazon for Prime Day Week. Micro Center Tech Days are also featuring GIGABYTE motherboard bundles, often paired with CPUs and RAM.

For PC builders seeking compact chassis, Lian Li has unveiled the B4-mATX, a 21.3-liter small form factor case co-developed with DAN Cases, and Silver Stone has launched the ALTA T1, a premium aluminum unibody super tower chassis. On the memory front, Goodram has announced its RIVAL DDR4 RADIANT memory series, offering higher capacities and distinct heatsinks. In the SSD market, Swissbit has launched its A2000 PCIe SSD series for high-performance industrial applications, and OWC has introduced its Atlas Core line of CFExpress 4.0 Type B memory cards.

Consumer Tech & Policy

California is set to make streaming service advertisements illegally loud starting July 1, following a similar law in Illinois that provides further incentive for services to reduce ad volume. In the automotive sector, former Apple and Audi engineers have developed the Amble One, a $25,000 street-legal electric buggy designed for luxury resorts. However, the Federal Trade Commission has denied Polestar authorization to sell its vehicles in the U.S. starting from model year 2027.

Microsoft has extended its Extended Security Updates (ESUs) for Windows 10 until October 12, 2027, acknowledging that approximately a quarter of PCs still operate on the older system. The FCC is reportedly considering terminating a $2 billion program that provides internet access to schools and libraries, with Chairman Carr citing screen time concerns. Separately, the FCC is accused of withholding messages from Chairman Carr related to DOGE and Elon Musk, with a court filing alleging a year of wasted time.

Military & Science

South Korea plans to train its entire military as "drone warriors," viewing drones as a universal combat tool for its half-million-strong armed forces. In space exploration, China may soon attempt a booster landing for its rockets, while Rocket Lab has executed a rapid response mission. Discussions are ongoing regarding the aftermath of the New Glenn launch failure, with a livestream event planned to address the situation.

A new effort aims to sequence the genomes of every species on the Endangered Species list, with Colossal Biosciences planning to biobank tissues from these organisms. In a fascinating fossil discovery, all known specimens of Homo naledi appear to be female, a finding that paleoanthropologists suggest lacks a natural explanation. Separately, rock weathering's impact on carbon dioxide levels is being studied, with findings indicating it can both release and draw down CO2 depending on the rock composition.