hardware solutions Archives

AppWizard

February 20, 2026

Steam Machine delays are getting me down, but Valve could be extremely cool and release its controller right now

The Steam Machine has faced disappointment within the gaming community due to the lack of a clear price point or release date, raising concerns about its future. Although third-party models have emerged, the core vision of Valve's console-like gaming PC has been lost. Valve may need to consider launching the Steam controller independently to maintain interest. The original Steam controller did not save the 2015 iteration of the Machine, but the current gaming landscape is shifting towards hybrid setups. Introducing a new controller could encourage gamers to invest in the Steam Machine once it is released. The Steam Controller could enhance existing PC setups and foster a desire for a unified Valve hardware experience. A timely release of the Steam Controller could demonstrate Valve's commitment to quality hardware and attract potential customers from established consoles.

AppWizard

September 8, 2025

Can AI help you become a better runner? I tried the latest tech at IFA to find out

In 2025, wearable technology, including smartwatches, bands, and rings, has become integral for fitness and health monitoring, with companies like Apple, Samsung, and Strava incorporating AI coaching features. At IFA 2025 in Berlin, the Samsung Galaxy Watch 8's Running Coach software was tested, revealing limitations in personalization and fixed training goals that may not align with individual user objectives. The author also explored the Hypershell X Ultra exoskeleton, an AI-powered device designed to assist leg movement during physical activities, which adapts to individual stride patterns using data from over 12 sensors. While the exoskeleton enhances mobility for walking and hiking, it may restrict running performance due to its design. The Hypershell X Ultra includes a fitness mode that allows users to increase resistance, potentially benefiting advanced runners. The contrast between AI software limitations and the dynamic capabilities of AI hardware is noted, with the latter offering promising training enhancements.

Tech Optimizer

August 29, 2025

Why Hardware-Based USB Malware Removal Tools Are Essential for Modern Cyber Security

Organisations are increasingly recognizing that traditional security measures are insufficient against evolving cyber threats, particularly from removable media like USB drives, which account for approximately 37% of all security threats. USB devices create direct physical pathways into secure environments, making them a significant attack vector. Modern malware can embed itself at the firmware level, evading traditional scanning methods. Traditional antivirus software has limitations, including potential vulnerabilities and reliance on signature-based detection, which may not catch zero-day or polymorphic threats. Dedicated hardware solutions for USB malware removal operate as standalone appliances, allowing for thorough scanning without risking the wider network. These systems use multiple scanning engines to enhance threat detection and can identify behavioral patterns and firmware-level threats that software scanners might miss. They also provide detailed logging capabilities for compliance with security standards. Hardware-based solutions are designed for ease of use, allowing quick scanning without specialized knowledge, and can complete scans in minutes. As cyber threats evolve, the importance of adaptive, hardware-based USB cyber security solutions will increase, providing a robust foundation for future security needs.