Samsung Electronics has started mass producing 32GB DDR4 memory for gaming laptops in the widely used format of small outline dual in-line memory modules (SoDIMMs). The new SoDIMMs are based on 10nm-class process technology that will allow users to enjoy enriched PC-grade computer games on the go. Using the new memory solution, PC manufacturers can build faster top-of-the-line gaming-oriented laptops with longer battery life at capacities exceeding conventional mobile workstations, while maintaining existing PC configurations, according to Samsung. Compared to Samsung's 16GB SoDIMM based on 20nm-class 8Gb DDR4, which was introduced in 2014, the new 32GB module doubles the capacity while being 11% faster and approximately 39% more energy efficient, said the vendor. With a total of 16 of Samsung's newest 16Gb DDR4 DRAM chips (eight chips each mounted on the front and back), the 32GB SoDIMM allows gaming laptops to reach speeds up to 2,666Mbps. A 64GB laptop configured with two 32GB DDR4 modules consumes less than 4.6W in active mode and less than 1.4W when idle, said Samsung. This reduces power usage by approximately 39% and over 25%, respectively, compared to today's leading gaming-oriented laptops, which are equipped with 16GB modules.

Winbond Electronics has announced an expansion of its flash product portfolio with the introduction of its lowest-voltage SpiFlash memories to date. At 1.2 and 1.5V, and in 8-pin packages, these newest members of the SpiFlash family provide designers with serial flash memories for audio, wearable, IoT and other demanding applications that call for low power in small packages. The 1.2V products cover an operating voltage range from 1.14V to 1.3V, which is ideal for very-low-power designs, Winbond said. The 1.5V devices have a wider operating voltage range, from 1.14V through 1.6V. The first product in the family, the W25Q80NE at 8Mb density at 1.2V is available in samples and will be available in production in the beginning of 2018, according to Winbond. The rest of the family of products ranging from 1Mb through 128Mb density at 1.2V, and wide range from 1.5V to 1.2V will follow.

Apple has updated its 9.7-inch iPad, featuring a brighter Retina display and improved performance. The Retina display features over 3.1 million pixels, and the device is enclosed in an aluminum unibody enclosure weighing one pound. It runs on the Apple-designed A9 chip with 64-bit desktop-class architecture. The new iPad comes with iOS 10, new ways to use Siri with users' apps, redesigned Maps, Photos, Apple Music and News, and the new Home app, which lets consumers set up, manage and control their home all in one place, according to the vendor. The new iPad comes in silver, gold and space gray and starts at US$329 for the 32GB with Wi-Fi model and US$459 for the 32GB Wi-Fi plus Cellular model, said Apple.