Intel’s Mind-Blowing Thunderbolt 5: 120 Gbps Speeds and More – Are You Ready for the Future of Connectivity?

Intel made headlines on Tuesday with the official launch of Thunderbolt 5, a groundbreaking development in the realm of high-speed cable connectivity protocols. This highly anticipated release has been in the spotlight for the past two years, partly due to an unintentional tweet by an Intel executive that inadvertently revealed some of the impressive specifications. Today’s announcement aligns with the unintentional leak from 2021, promising speeds ranging from an astounding 80 to 120 Gbps.

Navigating the world of Thunderbolt technology can initially be perplexing, particularly considering its evolution over the years. Back in 2015, it underwent a significant transformation, shifting from a Mini DisplayPort connector to a USB Type-C connector. While it differs from USB, it’s essential to note that Thunderbolt ports and hosts introduced since the Thunderbolt 3 revision in 2015 also support USB Type-C, despite USB Type-C not inherently supporting Thunderbolt.

Opting for a computer equipped with Thunderbolt ports doesn’t restrict your connectivity options; instead, it broadens your horizons. Thunderbolt outpaces USB in terms of speed, and Thunderbolt 5 takes performance to unprecedented levels.

When comparing Thunderbolt 5 to its predecessor, Thunderbolt 4, Intel has made substantial leaps. First and foremost, there’s a remarkable twofold increase in bidirectional bandwidth, surging from 40 Gbps to an impressive 80 Gbps. Notably, Intel introduces a feature known as “Bandwidth Boost,” elevating speeds to 120 Gbps. According to Intel, this boost will “deliver up to 120 Gbps for the ultimate display experience” and provide “up to three times the throughput for tasks demanding high video performance.” In practical terms, Bandwidth Boost transforms Thunderbolt 5 from a symmetrical 80 Gbps connection into a configuration where it transmits at 120 Gbps while receiving at 40 Gbps.

Intel has also doubled the speed of the PCI Express, increasing it from 32 Gbps to 64 Gbps. This enhancement translates to superior performance for external SSDs and graphics cards. Additionally, networking speed has been ramped up, doubling from Thunderbolt 4’s 32 Gbps to 64 Gbps. These substantial throughput enhancements now enable Thunderbolt ports to support dual 6K monitors (or a single 8K monitor) with Thunderbolt 5, a significant improvement over the capacity for dual 4K monitors with Thunderbolt 4. Moreover, Thunderbolt 5 allows for increased charging wattage, jumping from 140W to 240W, with the minimum available wattage raised from 100W to 140W.

In summary, Intel’s introduction of Thunderbolt 5 signifies a groundbreaking advancement in high-speed connectivity, promising not only swifter data transfers but also enhanced support for advanced display configurations and power delivery. As the technology landscape continues to evolve, Thunderbolt 5 sets a new benchmark for seamless, lightning-fast connectivity.

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Gadgets

The lowest-priced iPad ever made by Apple is now available

by George Mensah 2025-04-28

Apple’s entry-level iPad has just become its most compelling deal ever, dropping to a **record-low price of 299∗∗(normally299∗∗(normally349) at major retailers including Amazon, Walmart, and Best Buy. For anyone needing a reliable, no-frills tablet for everyday tasks—streaming, web browsing, light productivity, and video calls—this is one of the best tech bargains of the year.

What’s New in the 11th-Gen iPad?

Compared to its predecessor, Apple’s latest budget iPad brings meaningful upgrades that make it a much better long-term investment:

✔ A16 Bionic Chip – The same processor powering the iPhone 14, delivering smoother performance for multitasking and apps.
✔ 128GB Base Storage – Double the 64GB of the 10th-gen model—no more constant storage anxiety.
✔ 11-inch Liquid Retina Display – More screen space for movies, reading, and productivity.
✔ Improved 12MP Front Camera – Better for Zoom calls and FaceTime.
✔ USB-C Apple Pencil Support – Great for note-taking and light creative work.

Who Should Buy This iPad?

✅ Students – Perfect for note-taking (with Apple Pencil), research, and streaming lectures.
✅ Casual Users – Ideal for browsing, social media, and video streaming.
✅ Remote Workers – A solid secondary device for emails, Slack, and video calls.
✅ Families – A durable, long-lasting tablet for kids’ entertainment and learning.

What You’re Missing (And Why It Might Not Matter)

As Apple’s most affordable tablet, the 11th-gen iPad lacks some premium features:

❌ No Apple Intelligence (AI Features) – Only newer iPads (Pro, Air) support Apple’s upcoming AI tools.
❌ No Apple Pencil Pro Support – The USB-C Pencil works fine, but you miss extras like Find My and squeeze gestures.
❌ Non-Laminated Display – Slightly thicker bezels and less premium feel than the iPad Air.

But here’s the thing: If you just need a fast, dependable tablet without the bells and whistles, these omissions won’t affect your experience.

Is This the Best Budget Tablet in 2024?

iPad vs. The Competition

Feature	11th-Gen iPad ($299)	Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE ($399+)	Amazon Fire Max 11 ($229)
Performance	A16 Bionic (Very Fast)	Exynos 1380 (Mid-Range)	Mediatek (Basic)
Display	11″ Liquid Retina	10.9″ LCD	11″ LCD
Stylus Support	USB-C Apple Pencil	S Pen Included	No Precision Stylus
Software	iPadOS (5+ Years Updates)	One UI (Slower Updates)	Fire OS (Limited Apps)
Best For	All-around use	Android fans	Prime Video & Kindle users

Verdict: If you want long-term software support, better performance, and Apple ecosystem benefits, the iPad is still the best value.

Final Recommendation

For $299, the 11th-gen iPad is a no-brainer for casual users. It’s fast enough for daily tasks, has great battery life, and will receive updates for years. Unless you need AI features or a pro-level stylus, this is the best cheap iPad deal right now.

Gadgets

Expanding Home Assistant Integration with SwitchBot: A Revolution for Fans of Smart Homes

by George Mensah 2025-03-23

In a major win for smart home enthusiasts, SwitchBot has announced plans to integrate over 45 of its products with Home Assistant in the first half of 2024. This move, confirmed in an email to The Verge, underscores SwitchBot’s commitment to interoperability and user flexibility in the rapidly evolving smart home ecosystem. Among the highlighted devices is the highly anticipated SwitchBot Hub 3, which was recently revealed in a filing with the Connectivity Standards Alliance.

What’s New in SwitchBot’s Home Assistant Integration?

SwitchBot’s integration rollout, set to begin in April, will include some of its most popular devices, such as:

Robot Vacuum K10 Plus Pro: A powerful cleaning solution that can now be seamlessly controlled via Home Assistant.
Curtain 3 Smart Shades: Automate your window treatments with precision and ease.
Garage Door Opener: Add your garage to your smart home network for enhanced security and convenience.

These new integrations will join existing SwitchBot devices like the SwitchBot Lock Pro, which already supports Home Assistant. This expansion not only enhances the functionality of SwitchBot’s ecosystem but also solidifies its position as a leader in the smart home industry.

Why This Matters for Home Assistant Users

Home Assistant, an open-source platform beloved by tech-savvy users, thrives on its ability to unify devices from various brands under one roof. However, integrations with major smart home players can often be fragile. Companies sometimes make undocumented software changes or actively block third-party integrations, leaving users frustrated.

SwitchBot’s proactive approach to integrating its devices with Home Assistant is a breath of fresh air. By officially supporting these integrations, SwitchBot ensures a stable, reliable, and user-friendly experience. This is particularly important for Home Assistant users who value customization and control over their smart home setups.

The Bigger Picture: A Shift Toward Open Ecosystems

SwitchBot’s announcement reflects a growing trend in the smart home industry: the push for open ecosystems and interoperability. As more consumers demand seamless integration across devices, companies like SwitchBot are stepping up to meet these expectations. This move not only benefits users but also fosters innovation and competition in the market.

For Home Assistant users, this means greater flexibility and fewer headaches. Instead of relying on fragile community-created integrations, they can now enjoy official support for a wide range of SwitchBot devices. This is a win for both convenience and reliability.

What’s Next for SwitchBot and Home Assistant?

With the first wave of integrations launching in April, users can look forward to a more cohesive and powerful smart home experience. The inclusion of devices like the Robot Vacuum K10 Plus Pro and Curtain 3 Smart Shades demonstrates SwitchBot’s dedication to enhancing everyday life through technology.

As the smart home landscape continues to evolve, partnerships like this one between SwitchBot and Home Assistant will play a crucial role in shaping the future of connected living. For now, smart home enthusiasts have plenty to be excited about as SwitchBot brings its innovative products into the Home Assistant fold.

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