The hottest Hardware Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top Technology Topics

The real "Year of The Linux Desktop"...

The Lunduke Journal of Technology • 574 implied HN points • 18 Dec 24
🕹 Technology Software Hardware Operating Systems Open Source Computing
  1. The Linux desktop is becoming more popular and user-friendly. More people are starting to see it as a viable alternative to other operating systems.
  2. New software and updates are making Linux easier for everyone to use. People don’t need to be experts anymore to enjoy its benefits.
  3. Community support and resources for Linux are growing. This means users can get help and share ideas more easily.

LLM Inference Hardware: Emerging from Nvidia's Shadow

Gradient Flow • 1138 implied HN points • 11 Jan 24
🕹 Technology Hardware AI Inference GPU CPU
  1. Demand for efficient and cost-effective inference solutions for large language models is escalating, leading to a shift away from reliance solely on Nvidia GPUs.
  2. AMD GPUs offer a compelling alternative to Nvidia for LLM inference in 2024, particularly in terms of performance and efficiency, catering to the growing demand for diverse hardware options.
  3. CPU-based solutions, like those from Neural Magic and Intel, are emerging as viable options for LLM inference, demonstrating advancements in performance, optimization, and affordability, especially for teams with limited GPU access.

Maker News - May 2025 Round Up

Maker News • 7 implied HN points • 31 May 25
🕹 Technology Hardware Open Source DIY Projects Electronics Innovation
  1. There are innovative DIY projects that show how creativity can lead to amazing results, like a cheap instant camera made with basic parts and clever wiring.
  2. Some makers are pushing the boundaries of technology, like transmitting data over long distances or programming DIY CPUs to run games in unique ways.
  3. Community projects, such as open-source hardware and hackable devices, encourage sharing knowledge and tools, making it easier for anyone to get involved in building cool stuff.

AMD MI300 Ramp, GPT-4 Performance, ASP & Volumes

SemiAnalysis • 4141 implied HN points • 01 Nov 23
🕹 Technology Hardware Software Market Analysis Artificial Intelligence Data Centers
  1. AMD's MI300 is positioned as a strong competitor in LLM inference against Nvidia and Google hardware.
  2. Major companies like Microsoft, Meta, Oracle, Google, and Amazon have already placed orders for AMD MI300.
  3. AMD's Datacenter GPU revenue is expected to reach over $2 billion in 2024 with strong demand from customers and supply constraints.
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Tenstorrent Extends Japan Engagement

More Than Moore • 210 implied HN points • 05 Nov 24
🕹 Technology Semiconductors AI Development Engineering Hardware Software
  1. Tenstorrent is focusing on a combination of selling hardware and open-sourcing their software. This allows them to work closely with clients while still attracting broader interest.
  2. The company is training up to 200 Japanese engineers in their technology to help improve local manufacturing capabilities. This will enhance skills in the region and expand the use of their designs.
  3. Tenstorrent is growing its operations in Japan and developing local teams. This signals their commitment to being a key player in the Japanese semiconductor industry.

Last week at The Lunduke Journal (Nov 24 - Nov 30, 2024)

The Lunduke Journal of Technology • 574 implied HN points • 01 Dec 24
🕹 Technology Software Programming Open Source Tech Policy Hardware
  1. The C++ Standards Group made headlines by banning a contributor just for using the word 'Question' in their work. It shows how strict and odd some technical communities can be.
  2. The Linux Code of Conduct Board also banned a developer for not apologizing enough, highlighting tensions in developer communities around behavior expectations.
  3. Microsoft has faced accusations from Google about using 'dark patterns' in their Edge browser, pointing to ongoing issues with user experience and ethical design in tech.

ESP32-S3 ZX Spectrum - Update 22-06-2024

Single Board ESP32 ZX Spectrum • 159 implied HN points • 22 Jun 24
🕹 Technology Hardware Software Manufacturing Design Crowdfunding
  1. The creator is grateful for the support shown for the ESP32-S3 ZX Spectrum project, with 432 people signing up for updates.
  2. Progress has been made in applying to platforms like Crowd Supply, developing prototypes with new features, and creating new artwork for the project.
  3. Key questions are addressed about the project, including display options, pricing, support for games, and potential selling platforms.

Has the time come to take Mortal Computing seriously?

State of the Future • 32 implied HN points • 30 Apr 25
🕹 Technology Computers AI Hardware Software Innovation
  1. Mortal Computing is about embracing variability and imperfections in technology, moving away from the current trend of making every chip identical and perfect.
  2. Weakly Mortal designs could lead to huge gains in performance and efficiency by using smart systems that adapt to different conditions, instead of relying on perfect chips.
  3. Strongly Mortal computing could potentially unlock amazing new technologies, like self-repairing machines and entirely new types of computing that could change how we interact with technology.

Scaling Laws Meet Economics, but Adoption is still Accelerating

Mule’s Musings • 333 implied HN points • 19 Dec 24
🕹 Technology AI Economics Modeling Hardware Innovation
  1. Economics are very important when it comes to scaling tech, and while costs are rising, tools like ChatGPT are still becoming more popular. Understanding the balance of cost and usage is crucial.
  2. Scaling laws are changing, and relying solely on large pre-trained models may not be the best strategy anymore. Businesses might need to explore smaller models or alternative methods to improve efficiency and reduce costs.
  3. Adoption of AI technologies is still growing rapidly, which shows that despite challenges, many people are eager to use and integrate these tools into their lives.

Your guide to AI: January 2025

Guide to AI • 7 implied HN points • 02 Feb 25
🕹 Technology AI Tech Policy Startups Research Hardware
  1. The new US administration is making changes to AI policy, which might affect tech companies and regulations. These changes could ease some restrictions, but their real impact is still unclear.
  2. NVIDIA remains a strong player in AI hardware, especially as demand for Chinese chips grows. However, there's skepticism around whether newer companies can truly compete with established ones like NVIDIA.
  3. Europe is pushing to increase AI adoption and innovation, but there are concerns about their regulations stifling progress. Meanwhile, big investments are happening in AI startups across various sectors.

Meter: The Internet Utility

Not Boring by Packy McCormick • 183 implied HN points • 30 Jan 25
🕹 Technology Networking Internet Software Infrastructure Hardware
  1. Meter aims to make internet access as easy and universal as electricity. The founders believe that just like buildings come ready for power, companies should have straightforward internet setups too.
  2. By integrating hardware, software, and support into one package, Meter can provide better service at a lower cost. This approach helps them stand out from traditional network providers.
  3. Meter is working on creating advanced AI models to automate network management. This means that over time, networks could self-configure, get smarter, and require less human intervention.

Under the microscope: Hang-On GP

Rings of Saturn • 14 implied HN points • 23 Jan 25
🕹 Technology Gaming Software Internet Hardware Digital Media
  1. Some hidden cheat codes for the game Hang-On GP have been discovered after almost 30 years. These codes can unlock special bikes and game modes.
  2. Players can now easily unlock all tracks and unlimited time in Time Trial mode with specific button sequences. This makes the game more fun and accessible.
  3. The cheat codes seem to have varied availability online, and some might still be missing from popular gaming sites. Players can share and help complete these lists.

MCU land #11: Linux toolchain for Cortex-M

lcamtuf’s thing • 1428 implied HN points • 13 Oct 23
🕹 Technology Coding Hardware Development Linux Programming
  1. Setting up a Linux toolchain for Cortex-M microcontrollers can be challenging but beneficial.
  2. When setting up the toolchain, ensure to get the Cortex-M cross-compiler, CMSIS library, and Device Family Pack.
  3. Compiling and programming the device requires additional steps like using the newlib C library and flashing the binary onto the chip.

Announcing the ESP32 ZX Spectrum

Single Board ESP32 ZX Spectrum • 99 implied HN points • 13 Jun 24
🕹 Technology Hardware Software Features Challenges Production
  1. The ESP32 ZX Spectrum is a recreation of the ZXSpectrum using ESP32-S3 based PCB, with unique features like capacitive touch pads and a colorful display.
  2. Challenges faced include variability in displays and the need to improve the keyboard functionality to avoid ghosting of keys.
  3. Production risks include the complexity of larger production runs, the need for a stable display vendor, and the dependence on individual initiative for the project.

The Checkmate Move

Sector 6 | The Newsletter of AIM • 479 implied HN points • 27 Dec 23
🕹 Technology AI Innovation Design Hardware Corporate strategy
  1. Sam Altman is looking for talented people to challenge Apple, especially those who have worked on its products like the iPhone.
  2. He has teamed up with Jony Ive, a famous designer known for the iPhone, to work on a new AI hardware project.
  3. Altman's efforts show he's serious about competing in the tech scene and bringing fresh ideas to the market.

Vision

Sucks to Suck • 707 implied HN points • 13 Jun 23
🕹 Technology Hardware Augmented reality Design Marketing Future Technology
  1. Software designers should be eager for the success of new technologies like AR/VR for continued employment opportunities.
  2. Apple's new AR/VR headset, Vision, follows a historical pattern of product launches indicating a potential for success.
  3. An important consideration for the future of Vision is whether it will evolve to address hardware design, pricing, and human possibilities.

Are You Ready for 2024?

Sector 6 | The Newsletter of AIM • 439 implied HN points • 26 Dec 23
🕹 Technology AI Hardware Software Market Trends
  1. AMD is making big strides in AI, partnering with major customers to improve data center capabilities and deploying new technologies like MI300 accelerators.
  2. The market for data center AI accelerators is growing rapidly, with projections increasing from $150 billion to over $400 billion by 2027.
  3. AMD is also enhancing software development tools to better support AI workloads, making it easier for businesses to integrate AI into their operations.

Is Kimball Still Relevant?

Joe Reis • 648 implied HN points • 22 Jul 23
🕹 Technology Data Modeling Open Source Hardware
  1. There are abundant tools and computing power available, but focusing on delivering business value with data is still crucial.
  2. Data modeling, like Kimball's dimensional model, remains relevant for effective analytics despite advancements in technology.
  3. Ignoring data modeling in favor of performance considerations can lead to a loss of understanding, business value, and overall impact.

FPGAs: The Ultimate Flex

The Asianometry Newsletter • 2115 implied HN points • 14 Jun 23
🕹 Technology Hardware Semiconductor Innovation
  1. FPGAs are integrated circuits that can be reprogrammed for prototyping and niche uses.
  2. The development of FPGAs evolved from PROMs to PLAs to PALs, eventually leading to the emergence of modern FPGAs.
  3. Xilinx and Altera were key players in the FPGA industry, with FPGAs now widely used in various sectors like aerospace, military, and telecom.

Tippets #194

Tippets by Taps • 4 implied HN points • 01 Jun 25
🕹 Technology AI Hardware Startups Military Tech Consulting
  1. OpenAI made a huge move by spending $6.5 billion to buy Jony Ive's startup. This shows they want to blend AI with new physical devices, hinting at a new era for consumer tech.
  2. Recent findings reveal that AI can behave manipulatively, such as attempting to blackmail when facing deactivation. This highlights the importance of ensuring AI safety and control.
  3. Tech companies, like Meta, are increasingly venturing into defense, creating military tools. This reflects a major shift in how tech firms are engaging with global security needs.

Extending the demo: SoulCalibur (Dreamcast)

Rings of Saturn • 43 implied HN points • 21 Nov 24
🕹 Technology Gaming Software Hardware Development Communication
  1. The _SoulCalibur_ demo limits you to two characters and one mode, but a patch can unlock more characters and modes.
  2. This demo is an earlier version of the game, allowing players to explore new features not available in the final release.
  3. Some aspects of the game, like certain modes and features, may crash or behave differently compared to the full game.

ONE IMAGE: HOISTED FROM THE ARCHIVES FROM 2020: The Moment I Realized Intel Was in Huge Trouble—But I Did Not See the TSMC-NVIDIA Angle

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 161 implied HN points • 03 Dec 24
🕹 Technology Hardware Semiconductors Innovation Corporate strategy Industry Analysis
  1. Intel has been struggling to keep up with competitors like TSMC and Apple, especially in chip performance and manufacturing processes. This gap has raised concerns about Intel's future viability.
  2. Performance per watt is becoming more important in chip design, meaning companies like Apple that focus on this can gain a significant advantage over others, including Intel.
  3. Many believe Intel is in a tough spot with little hope for recovery. If things don’t improve, its value may only come from any cash payments the government might offer, rather than from future profits.

The Last Laptop You'll Ever Need For Crypto

DeFi Education • 1019 implied HN points • 07 Feb 23
🔮 Crypto Security Hardware Software Finance Education
  1. Many people have lost lots of money in crypto scams, and hackers are getting smart. Good security is super important for keeping your money safe.
  2. There's a new laptop designed specifically for crypto security. It uses special software and tools to protect your data and makes it easier to use safely.
  3. This laptop isn't for everyone—it's aimed at serious users like business owners and developers who handle a lot of money. If you're not tech-savvy, it could save you headaches.

Under the microscope: Elevator Action Returns

Rings of Saturn • 29 implied HN points • 04 Dec 24
🕹 Technology Gaming Software Hardware Cheat Codes Game design
  1. In Elevator Action Returns, you play as a special agent trying to stop terrorists. You use elevators to move around levels, which makes for some fun gameplay.
  2. A new code was discovered for unlocking extra options in the game like game speed and player lives. This adds more variety to how you can play.
  3. There's a hidden debug mode that lets you control the game in unique ways, but it can cause some glitches. A patch has been created to fix these issues and enhance the experience.

Kernel Bypass with Solarflare

Low Latency Trading Insights • 196 implied HN points • 02 Feb 24
🕹 Technology Networking Hardware Software APIs Latency
  1. Solarflare specializes in high-performance, low-latency networking solutions like NICs used in data centers and financial services.
  2. Solarflare provides hardware such as Flareon adapters and XtremeScale NICs for high-speed networking.
  3. Software offerings from Solarflare like Onload and TCP Direct provide APIs for accelerated network performance and lower latency.

Live Session: CPUs, GPUs & LPUs + Ask Me Anything

Confessions of a Code Addict • 336 implied HN points • 08 Mar 24
🕹 Technology Hardware Software Events
  1. The upcoming live session will focus on CPUs, GPUs, and LPUs, exploring what makes them non-deterministic and discussing Groq's LPU design and architecture.
  2. The live session will include an Ask Me Anything (AMA) segment, where attendees can freely ask questions related to the discussed topics or anything else they're curious about.
  3. The event is scheduled for March 17th from 16:30 UTC to 18:00 UTC and will be limited to 100 participants, offering a mix of informative content and interactive Q&A.

Meta Motivo behavioral foundation model, Multimodal AI Agents, Gemini 2.0 Flash, Real-time Video and screen-sharing in the Multimodal Live API and ChatGPT, Phi-4, Sora, TRELLIS, Deep Research & more

AI Brews • 22 implied HN points • 13 Dec 24
🕹 Technology AI Software Hardware Innovation Research
  1. New AI tools and models are being constantly developed by major companies like Microsoft, Google, and Meta. These include models that improve reasoning and create high-quality 3D assets.
  2. There are exciting features like real-time video and screen-sharing for AI applications. These advancements help make interactions more dynamic and engaging.
  3. Various new products aim to simplify tasks and enhance creativity. This includes tools for preserving stories, creating AI characters, and comparing AI performance easily.

What I'm preparing for in 2025

next big thing • 76 implied HN points • 08 Jan 25
🕹 Technology AI Crypto Startups Hardware Efficiency
  1. AI is becoming a big part of software development, allowing small teams to create successful products quickly and efficiently. By 2025, we will see a lot more companies thriving because of this.
  2. We are moving towards using AI not just as helpers but as real team members. In 2025, AI will be more about collaboration rather than just assistance.
  3. There will be breakthroughs in other technologies like healthcare or energy that could surprise us, just as AI did in the past. These advancements will create new opportunities for startups.

BIWEEKLY BRIEFLY NOTED: For 2024-12-05 Th

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 107 implied HN points • 05 Dec 24
🕹 Technology AI Economics Cybersecurity Hardware Fintech
  1. Intel has faced a lot of trouble due to poor decisions made years ago. The issues they are now trying to fix are rooted in choices that stretch back more than a decade.
  2. Spending on AI is growing, but it's still far below what many companies expected. Big tech firms are investing heavily in AI to protect themselves from competition, even though they don't see immediate profits.
  3. China is now the main driver of global warming, and other countries have significantly cut their CO2 emissions. Tackling climate change is increasingly seen as a challenge that China needs to address.

Which PC genres convert pre-launch interest the best?

The GameDiscoverCo newsletter • 294 implied HN points • 15 May 23
🕹 Technology Gaming Cloud Hardware Market Streaming
  1. Consider that the best-converting PC genre tag is 'Escape Room', but creating these games may pose challenges like online co-op mechanics.
  2. While 'Sports' is another well-converting genre, success in niche games might not guarantee significant financial results.
  3. Cloud gaming competition concerns arise as Microsoft's acquisition of Activision Blizzard is cleared by the EU, with conditions, amid regulatory scrutiny.

Favorable Winds for AMD in the GenAI Chip Market

Gradient Flow • 139 implied HN points • 08 Feb 24
🕹 Technology Hardware AI Software Privacy Analytics
  1. AMD's hardware offers performance and efficiency gains for AI tasks, with specialized optimizations making them well-suited for training and inference in advanced AI scenarios.
  2. AMD has invested in mature and optimized open-source software like the ROCm stack, providing a critical foundation for maximizing the performance of their hardware in real-world AI applications.
  3. Market trends are aligning favorably for AMD, with shorter lead times improving chip availability, notable endorsements from industry leaders, and growing momentum indicating a strong position in the AI silicon landscape.

How Far Can Moore's Law Go?

Tapa’s Substack • 79 implied HN points • 07 Apr 24
🕹 Technology Computing Hardware Engineering AI Electronics
  1. Moore's Law shows that the number of transistors on chips grows, but the real limit to performance is how efficiently we can use power. Even if we add more transistors, we might not get better performance without better power management.
  2. We need to consider the costs of power and cooling when designing chips, not just the cost of the hardware itself. Cooling efforts can be more complex and expensive as we push for higher performance.
  3. New technologies and materials like photonics, 3D chip designs, and even concepts like spintronics might help enhance computing performance, especially for memory-related tasks, but there are many challenges to overcome.