AllYouCanTech

Updated Raspberry Pi 5 Chip Brings Unexpected Enhancements in Power Efficiency

### The New 2GB Raspberry Pi 5: A More Compact, Cooler, and Efficient Board

The Raspberry Pi Foundation has yet again stirred excitement in the tech world with the launch of a new 2GB variant of the Raspberry Pi 5. Priced attractively at just $50, this release has drawn interest not only for its low cost but also for the noticeable and impactful enhancements it delivers. Although the 2GB version may appear to be a simple reduction in RAM, it is equipped with an upgraded Broadcom BCM2712C1 System-on-Chip (SoC), which presents several remarkable advantages.

#### A More Compact Die with Important Implications

When Raspberry Pi CEO Eben Upton unveiled the new 2GB board, he indicated that it would feature a slightly refined version of the Broadcom BCM2712C1 SoC. This new “D0 stepping” of the chip is engineered to require less silicon by eliminating certain features that the Raspberry Pi 5 does not require. This leads to a reduced die size, resulting in decreased manufacturing expenses.

Raspberry Pi aficionado and YouTuber Jeff Geerling took the initiative to validate these assertions through practical testing. By taking off the SoC’s heat spreader and measuring the silicon beneath, Geerling established that the new die is roughly 33% smaller than that of the original 4GB and 8GB versions of the Raspberry Pi 5. This decrease in die size is a considerable achievement, as it not only cuts production costs but also positively affects the board’s thermal and power performance.

#### Enhanced Power Efficiency and Thermal Performance

One of the most unexpected discoveries from Geerling’s evaluation is that the 2GB Raspberry Pi 5 operates at lower temperatures and consumes less power compared to its 4GB and 8GB versions. According to his assessments, the 2GB Pi 5 utilizes merely 2.4 watts of power when idle and 8.9 watts during a CPU stress test. In comparison, the 4GB version requires 3.3 watts at idle and 9.8 watts under stress. These discrepancies, although seemingly minor, are significant for devices typically used in power-sensitive environments.

Thermally, the 2GB Pi 5 also surpasses its counterparts. Geerling recorded the SoC temperature at 30°C when idle and 59°C under load, as opposed to 32°C and 63°C for the 4GB version. These cooler temperatures can lead to a longer operational lifespan for the device, as well as more consistent performance during extended workloads.

#### What Was Eliminated?

While the Raspberry Pi Foundation has not detailed the specific functionalities that were removed from the D0 stepping of the BCM2712C1 SoC, Geerling hypothesizes that these modifications likely pertain to the custom RP1 I/O chip. The RP1 chip manages various functions such as Ethernet and USB controllers, display interfaces, and GPIO, which might have facilitated the removal of redundant features from the main SoC.

#### What Lies Ahead for the 4GB and 8GB Versions?

An outstanding question is whether the D0 stepping will eventually be implemented for the 4GB and 8GB versions of the Raspberry Pi 5. Adopting a single, more affordable chip could provide financial advantages for the Raspberry Pi Foundation and streamline the manufacturing process. However, as of now, the company has yet to announce any intentions to upgrade the higher RAM versions with the new SoC revision.

#### Conclusion

The new 2GB Raspberry Pi 5 is not merely a low-cost option; it signifies a careful refinement of the Raspberry Pi 5 platform. With a more compact die, enhanced power efficiency, and improved thermal performance, this new variant is an excellent selection for those seeking a compact, economical computing solution. Whether these advancements will extend to the 4GB and 8GB versions remains uncertain, but for the time being, the 2GB Raspberry Pi 5 is a standout choice within the Raspberry Pi range.

“Plug-and-Play PC Powered by Linux Arrives Preloaded with EmuDeck Emulation Suite”

### EmuDeck Machines: A New Chapter in Retro and PC Gaming Fusion

If you’re among the Steam Deck crowd or have a passion for retro gaming, you’ve likely heard of “EmuDeck.” Renowned for its intuitive software suite that makes running emulators on the Steam Deck effortless, EmuDeck has become a staple for those wishing to revisit the charm of classic titles. Now, the EmuDeck team is making a significant move into hardware with the launch of the **EmuDeck Machines**—a fresh range of retro emulation systems that also function as gaming PCs.

### What Are EmuDeck Machines?

The EmuDeck Machines are essentially compact gaming rigs crafted to deliver a seamless, console-like experience for both nostalgic and contemporary gaming. The initiative is led by DragoonDorise, one of the developers behind the original EmuDeck software. These machines come pre-loaded with EmuDeck software, making it incredibly convenient to enjoy your beloved retro games from the coziness of your sofa. Beyond retro gaming, the EmuDeck Machines support modern PC titles through Steam and other well-known PC launchers, powered by the Linux-based, gaming-centric **Bazzite OS**.

This idea echoes Valve’s Steam Machines, which sought to bring PC gaming into the living space yet ultimately struggled to find success. However, the EmuDeck Machines adopt a more community-driven approach, prioritizing user-friendliness and affordability over direct competition with mainstream consoles.

### Two Configurations to Choose From

The EmuDeck Machines will be offered in two configurations, catering to various gamer preferences:

1. **EM1 Model**: Retailing for $365 for early supporters, the EM1 features an Intel N97 processor with 8GB of RAM. This model is tailored for retro gaming and can smoothly operate emulators for systems up to the PS2/Wii generation. It also manages less resource-intensive modern games like *Hades* at 60 fps.

2. **EM2 Model**: For those seeking enhanced performance, the EM2 is available for $676 and boasts an overclocked Radeon 760M GPU along with 16GB of RAM. This configuration can handle more intense games such as *Cyberpunk 2077* and *Returnal*, in addition to emulators for PS3 and Xbox 360. DragoonDorise has also mentioned the potential for an optional Docking Station that would deliver “Radeon 7600” graphics power to the EM2, boosting its capabilities.

Both models come equipped with 512 GB of storage, which can be expanded via external USB hard drives. Additionally, each machine includes a Gamesir wireless controller, allowing users to start gaming right away. The design of the EmuDeck Machines draws clear inspiration from the Sega Dreamcast, featuring a compact 8.6-inch square chassis with four USB ports positioned where the Dreamcast’s controller ports would typically be.

### A Word of Caution

While the EmuDeck Machines seem promising, it’s wise to proceed with some caution. Currently, the hardware remains in the prototype phase, with an ambitious production timeline aiming for shipping by December. DragoonDorise has acknowledged that this initiative is more of a passion project than a commercial one, indicating a profit of only about $50 per unit sold. This might lead to challenges in scaling production or handling unforeseen technical hurdles.

Furthermore, the project is relying on IndieGogo for funding, a platform often associated with a “buyer beware” philosophy. While DragoonDorise has a background in managing an online store and appears dedicated to providing a quality product, prospective backers should remain aware of the inherent risks in crowdfunding endeavors.

### The Bigger Picture

Despite the challenges, the EmuDeck Machines symbolize an exciting advancement in retro gaming and its convergence with PC gaming. For supporters of the EmuDeck software, DragoonDorise assures that the hardware focus will not compromise ongoing software enhancements. In fact, functionalities like CloudSync, ROM Library, and the EmuDecky plugin were integrated into the EmuDeck software with the EmuDeck Machines in consideration, and these features are now accessible to all EmuDeck users.

At the time of writing, the EmuDeck Machines project has already garnered nearly $13,000 in pledges within its first 24 hours. While it’s evident that DragoonDorise isn’t primarily motivated by profit, the community’s enthusiasm indicates a genuine demand for such a product.

### Conclusion

The EmuDeck Machines represent an ambitious effort to connect the worlds of retro gaming and modern PC gaming, all while providing a user-friendly, console-like encounter. Although the project remains in its nascent stages and carries certain risks,

Apple Allegedly Considering Investment Prospects in OpenAI

# Apple’s Possible Investment in OpenAI: A Strategic Step Towards AI Leadership

In a swiftly changing technological environment, artificial intelligence (AI) has become a crucial element, influencing the future of consumer electronics, software, and entire sectors. A recent article from *The Wall Street Journal* indicates that Apple is engaged in advanced negotiations to invest in OpenAI, the generative AI firm responsible for the innovative ChatGPT. This prospective investment could represent a significant turning point in Apple’s AI strategy and may have extensive consequences for the tech sector.

## The Investment Scene

Should the current discussions progress, Apple will participate in a multi-billion dollar financing round spearheaded by Thrive Capital, potentially valuing OpenAI at over $100 billion. While the specific amount Apple plans to invest remains under wraps, this initiative would align Apple with other technological heavyweights like Microsoft and Nvidia, who are also pondering further investments in OpenAI.

Microsoft has, for example, already allocated an impressive $13 billion to OpenAI over the last five years. This collaboration has enabled Microsoft to incorporate OpenAI’s GPT technology into numerous products, including Windows, Office, Visual Studio, and Bing. Nvidia, a leader in AI hardware, is additionally rumored to be considering its options to partake in this funding round, highlighting the strategic significance of OpenAI within the tech landscape.

## Apple’s AI Aspirations: A Peek into the Future

Apple has consistently excelled in consumer technology, yet its AI endeavors have frequently trailed those of rivals such as Google and Microsoft. Nevertheless, this potential investment in OpenAI could indicate a shift in Apple’s stance on AI, especially in the area of generative AI.

During its 2024 Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC), Apple introduced a collection of AI functionalities branded as “Apple Intelligence.” These features, tailored to function solely on the iPhone 15 Pro and newer models, represent Apple’s initial major venture into AI-enhanced user experiences. However, these features are accompanied by specific limitations and safeguards, which is where OpenAI’s ChatGPT comes into play.

Reports suggest that Apple has finalized an agreement to embed ChatGPT into coming iterations of iOS, commencing with iOS 18. This integration will enable Siri to redirect user inquiries that fall outside the realm of Apple Intelligence to ChatGPT, akin to how Siri currently consults Google for specific types of information. Such a move could greatly bolster Siri’s capabilities, rendering it more competitive against other AI assistants like Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa.

Apple’s software chief, Craig Federighi, highlighted the necessity of beginning with the best, stating that the company opted to incorporate ChatGPT first due to its superior functionalities. Nevertheless, Apple also intends to broaden its support to other AI chatbots in the future, including Google’s Gemini, thereby diversifying its AI offerings.

## Strategic Consequences for Apple

Apple’s potential investment in OpenAI extends beyond merely improving Siri or integrating ChatGPT into iOS. It may also be a strategic maneuver to secure access to state-of-the-art AI technology that could be crucial for future Apple offerings. Historically, Apple has invested in companies and technologies that align with its long-term strategic objectives. For instance, Apple has invested in supply chain partners to enhance iPhone manufacturing and in the SoftBank Vision Fund to expedite the advancement of technologies that could be essential for its future.

By investing in OpenAI, Apple could secure a competitive advantage in the AI race, ensuring that it has access to the latest developments in generative AI. This could be particularly vital as AI increasingly permeates consumer electronics, spanning smartphones to smart home devices.

## The Path Forward

While the integration of ChatGPT is not anticipated to feature in the initial release of iOS 18 in September 2024, it is likely to be included in a subsequent software update later in the year. This timeline indicates that Apple is adopting a careful yet intentional approach to AI, ensuring that the technology is thoroughly optimized before introducing it to millions of users.

In summary, Apple’s possible investment in OpenAI could revolutionize the tech industry, not just for Apple, but for the sector as a whole. As AI continues to develop, the companies that can leverage its potential most effectively will shape the future. With this investment, Apple is positioning itself to be among those companies, ensuring it remains at the cutting edge of technological progress for years to come.

Google Reports Kremlin-Supported Hackers Employing Commercial Spyware Vulnerabilities

### The Perilous Rise of Commercial Surveillance Exploits: An Escalating Global Concern

In recent times, the emergence of Commercial Surveillance Vendors (CSVs) has ignited considerable discussion and alarm among cybersecurity professionals, advocates for human rights, and governmental bodies. These firms, which orchestrate the development and sale of sophisticated hacking tools and exploits, frequently assert that their offerings are designed for use by law enforcement entities to tackle crime and terrorism. Nevertheless, detractors have persistently cautioned that these potent tools can readily end up in inappropriate hands, representing a grave risk to worldwide security. Recent insights from Google’s Threat Analysis Group (TAG) have furnished persuasive proof that these apprehensions are well-founded.

#### The Rise of CSVs and Their Disputed Influence

Commercial Surveillance Vendors, including Israel’s NSO Group and Ireland’s Intellexa, have established themselves as significant entities within the global cybersecurity sphere. These companies focus on inventing intricate exploits capable of circumventing even the most fortified systems, typically zeroing in on zero-day vulnerabilities—deficiencies that remain unknown to the software provider and for which no patch has been issued. The exploits crafted by CSVs are highly coveted by governments and law enforcement agencies globally, who deploy them to observe and track offenders, terrorists, and other crucial targets.

However, the intrinsic nature of these tools renders them perilously dangerous. Once an exploit is conceived and sold, there is minimal deterrent against its utilization for ends other than those purported by the vendor. This has stirred rising anxiety that these formidable tools might be wielded by authoritarian regimes to target political activists, journalists, and human rights proponents, or even by cybercriminals and state-sponsored hackers to execute assaults on vital infrastructure.

#### APT29: An Example of CSV Exploits Misuse

The recent disclosures by Google’s TAG underscore the tangible risks linked to the spread of CSV exploits. TAG researchers have found that APT29, a hacking group widely assumed to be connected with Russia’s Foreign Intelligence Service (SVR), has been employing exploits that are “identical or remarkably similar” to those crafted by NSO Group and Intellexa. APT29, which goes by other names such as Cozy Bear and Midnight Blizzard, is a notorious advanced persistent threat (APT) entity that has been associated with numerous prominent cyber espionage operations.

As per TAG, APT29 has utilized these exploits in various watering hole assaults—a strategy where attackers compromise websites frequently visited by their targets and embed malicious code that targets vulnerabilities in the visitors’ browsers. In this instance, the group aimed at websites affiliated with the Mongolian government, including mfa.gov[.]mn and cabinet.gov