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Noctua Unveils Phase‑Change AIO and New Auxiliary Fan

TechPowerUp News •
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At 2026 Computex, Noctua revealed a prototype all‑in‑one liquid CPU cooler that introduces a coolant phase‑change mechanism. The company engineered the pump‑block in‑house, adding layers of porous sintered copper on microfins to shuttle heat from the CPU into the coolant. This design boosts vaporization, letting the coolant carry more heat to the radiator.

Alongside the cooler, Noctua introduced the NL‑ACF1, an auxiliary fan that mounts directly atop the pump‑block. Its conical frame spreads airflow toward the CPU socket area, cooling VRMs and memory. Installation is tool‑free; three contact points link the fan to an internal controller that syncs its speed with the radiator fans.

These innovations signal Noctua’s push into advanced thermal solutions, offering tighter CPU cooling without external pumps. The phase‑change feature could set a new benchmark for AIO performance, while the NL‑ACF1 simplifies airflow management for high‑end builds. Enthusiasts will likely test the prototype once it reaches production, evaluating real‑world gains over conventional coolers.

Market observers note that Noctua’s focus on proprietary design could curb reliance on third‑party components, potentially lowering costs for future models. Current reviews suggest the prototype achieves lower noise levels at high fan speeds, positioning it as a compelling option for overclockers seeking quiet yet powerful cooling.