XPG introduces “Nia” Handheld Gaming PC: Foveated Rendering and Swappable DRAM Steal the Show

Computex Taipei

The handheld gaming PC market is on the rise, and PC vendors are constantly exploring new ways to enhance gaming performance. At this year’s Computex trade show, Adata sub-brand XPG has caught our attention with their prototype handheld PC called “Nia.” What sets Nia apart is its utilization of eye tracking and dynamic foveated rendering to further optimize rendering performance.

Dynamic foveated rendering is a graphics technique commonly employed in virtual reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) applications to improve performance. It takes advantage of the fact that our central vision, known as the fovea, perceives detailed imagery while our peripheral vision is less detailed. By using real-time eye tracking, dynamic foveated rendering renders only the area the user is looking at in high resolution, while rendering the peripheral areas in lower resolution. This reduces the overall rendering workload and boosts framerates on devices with limited performance.

While dynamic foveated rendering is typically used in high-end AR/VR headsets with high-resolution displays placed close to the user’s face, XPG’s application of this technique in a handheld device is a novel approach. The lower resolutions and greater distance between the screen and the user’s eyes make it a less ideal use case. However, XPG’s efforts are intriguing, and we look forward to seeing how dynamic foveated rendering benefits handheld PCs. It’s worth noting that not all prototypes showcased at trade shows make it to the market, so time will tell if Nia becomes a reality.

According to a press release from ADATA, XPG has partnered with Eyeware, an AMD collaborator, for the eye tracking technology. What’s interesting is that Eyeware’s software-based approach works with standard webcams, eliminating the need for specialized IR cameras. This simplifies the camera hardware requirements.

Beyond foveated rendering, XPG is ensuring that Nia offers more than just one standout feature. The handheld PC boasts hardware swappability, allowing users to replace the M.2-2230 SSD and take advantage of the new LPCAMM2 memory module standard for removable DRAM. By incorporating a hatch at the back of the device, XPG enables users to upgrade to higher capacity LPCAMM2 LPDDR5X modules, providing a level of future-proofing not found in current handhelds with soldered-down memory.

Under the hood, the current prototype of Nia is powered by AMD’s Zen 4 Phoenix APU, which is utilized in the company’s Ryzen Mobile 7000/8000 and Ryzen Z1 mobile lines. Additionally, the handheld features an adjustable display that can be angled away from the body for optimal viewing.

If all goes well with the prototype, XPG plans to release the finished product in 2025. We’ll be eagerly following their progress and hoping to see Nia redefine the handheld gaming PC market.

Background Information

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About Adata:

Adata is a well-established Taiwanese brand that specializes in memory and storage solutions, including RAM modules, solid-state drives (SSDs), and USB flash drives. They are recognized for their reliable and high-performance storage products, catering to both consumer and industrial needs.

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About AMD:

AMD, a large player in the semiconductor industry is known for its powerful processors and graphic solutions, AMD has consistently pushed the boundaries of performance, efficiency, and user experience. With a customer-centric approach, the company has cultivated a reputation for delivering high-performance solutions that cater to the needs of gamers, professionals, and general users. AMD's Ryzen series of processors have redefined the landscape of desktop and laptop computing, offering impressive multi-core performance and competitive pricing that has challenged the dominance of its competitors. Complementing its processor expertise, AMD's Radeon graphics cards have also earned accolades for their efficiency and exceptional graphical capabilities, making them a favored choice among gamers and content creators. The company's commitment to innovation and technology continues to shape the client computing landscape, providing users with powerful tools to fuel their digital endeavors.

  

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Event Info

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About Computex:

Computex, held annually in Taipei, Taiwan, stands as one of the world's leading technology trade shows, showcasing cutting-edge innovations in computing hardware, software, and emerging technologies. With a focus on industry trends and product launches, it serves as a pivotal platform for tech giants and startups alike to unveil their latest advancements and forge key partnerships, attracting a global audience of industry professionals, enthusiasts, and media representatives.

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Technology Explained

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APU: An APU, or Accelerated Processing Unit, is a type of processor that combines a CPU and a GPU on a single chip. This type of processor is becoming increasingly popular in the computer industry due to its ability to provide both computing and graphics processing power in a single package. APUs are used in a variety of applications, from gaming PCs to high-end workstations. They are also used in embedded systems, such as those found in smartphones and tablets. The combination of CPU and GPU on a single chip allows for more efficient power consumption and better performance than traditional CPUs. Additionally, APUs are often used in conjunction with other components, such as RAM and storage, to create powerful and efficient systems.

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Augmented Reality: Augmented Reality (AR) is a technology that combines the real world with virtual elements, creating an enhanced and interactive experience. In simpler terms, it is like adding a layer of digital information on top of what we see in the real world. This technology has various applications in the computer industry, making it an exciting and rapidly growing field. One of the most common uses of AR in the computer industry is in gaming. With AR, gamers can immerse themselves in a virtual world and interact with digital objects as if they were real. AR is also being used in education, where students can visualize complex concepts and interact with them in a more engaging way. In the business world, AR is being used for training and simulations, allowing employees to practice real-life scenarios in a safe and controlled environment. Additionally, AR is being integrated into e-commerce, allowing customers to try on products virtually before making a purchase. With its endless possibilities, AR is revolutionizing the computer industry and enhancing our daily lives in

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LPDDR5X: LPDDR5X is a type of computer memory technology that is used in many modern computers. It stands for Low Power Double Data Rate 5X and is a type of Random Access Memory (RAM). It is designed to be more efficient than its predecessors, allowing for faster data transfer speeds and lower power consumption. This makes it ideal for use in laptops, tablets, and other mobile devices. It is also used in gaming consoles and other high-end computers. LPDDR5X is capable of transferring data at up to 8400 megabits per second, making it one of the fastest types of RAM available. This makes it ideal for applications that require high performance, such as gaming, video editing, and 3D rendering.

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M.2: M.2, also known as Next Generation Form Factor (NGFF), is a computer expansion card format that is designed to replace the outdated mSATA standard. It is thinner and longer than mSATA, which gives it a much higher data transfer rate. The M.2 format measures 22mm in width and can measure up to 110mm in length. It uses the M-key and B-key connectors to interface with PC host systems, and can connect to both SATA III and PCIe for data transfer. Due to its small size, M.2 is often used for ultra-slim laptops and netbooks, as well as in embedded SSDs for tablets and other mobile devices. It is also becoming increasingly popular in the desktop computer industry, thanks to its compactness and fast transfer speeds. This makes M.2 ideal for gaming PCs, workstations, and other demanding applications that require high levels of data throughput.

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SSD: A Solid State Drive (SSD) is a modern data storage device that employs flash memory technology to store data electronically. Unlike traditional hard disk drives (HDDs), SSDs have no moving parts, resulting in significantly faster read and write speeds. This leads to quicker boot times, faster application loading, and smoother overall system performance. SSDs are known for their durability, shock resistance, and energy efficiency, making them ideal for laptops, ultrabooks, and other portable devices. They come in various form factors, including 2.5-inch, M.2, and PCIe cards, and are favored for their reliability, quiet operation, and reduced heat generation

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