Lowyat.NET: Latest topics in Hardware Clubs / Brand Discussions

Motorola's GrapheneOS phones, best privacy phone?

Moogle Stiltzkin — Wed, 04 Mar 2026 08:52:24 +0800

Introduction

grapheneos is a smartphone os whos goal is for privacy. While still able to use googleplay (sandboxed).

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because of their strict requirements, so far only the google pixel phones qualified for it. But now that is about to change. Motorola is now partnering with grapheneos to support it.

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https://www.zdnet.com/article/motorola-to-p...on-2027-phones/

this is a game changer. Meaning there is no longer a single point of failure if google decided not to make a new pixel that conformed to what grapheneos required in order to make a privacy oriented smartphone. it's a start.

but already there has been push back from the other side that don't want users to have privacy e.g. france
https://www.theregister.com/2025/11/28/grapheneos_ovhcloud/

user experience using grapheneos
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QUOTE

By default, GrapheneOS removes nearly all of Google’s proprietary AI software to prioritize user privacy and security. While the Pixel hardware itself contains AI-accelerating components (like the Tensor chip’s TPU), the GrapheneOS operating system does not include the high-level AI features found in stock Pixel Android.

AI on GrapheneOS

AI Features (Removed):

The Google Gemini app and its OS integrations are not included.

Generative AI tools such as Pixel Studio or "Magic Editor" are not included.

System assistants such as "Circle to Search," Call Screening, and AI-based battery optimization are not part of GrapheneOS.

Hardware Capabilities (Active):

GrapheneOS supports the hardware-accelerated neural network processing (TPU) built into Pixel devices.

Apps using on-device machine learning for tasks like image processing or offline translation can use this hardware.

Optional AI (User-Installed):

The Google Camera app can be installed via the sandboxed Google Play to regain AI-powered photography features.

Users can install open-source or local AI applications that run on the device's hardware.

https://discuss.grapheneos.org/d/28974-is-t...eneos-or-google

so if you need AI and you liked a particular app, maybe this might not be the OS for you. not sure if you can reinstall it to get it to work or not you'd have to dyor. i don't use the ai as much so not a big deal for me.

other things that may not work, like google wallet and contactless payments. so if you need something like that, then this is not the os for you.

banking apps may or may not work. your millage may vary. depends how strict they are. this is the biggest deal breaker. check first if it works or not, before you commit to getting a grapheneos smartphone

another nice thing grapheneos does is it strips out the meta from the pics you take from your cam. people don't realize for most smartphones, they add a meta data for your geo location where you snapped your pic with the cam. grapheneos by default does not add these geo location tags. there is of course some apps that will remove those tags, but i rather it not take them at all.

even if you don't care for your privacy, it helps with your battery life. but if you reinstall/enable stuff it removed, then your battery consumption will be the same like if you weren't using grapheneos, so keep that in mind.

QUOTE

How GrapheneOS Handles Location Tags

Disabled by Default: In the stock GrapheneOS Camera app, location tagging is turned off by default.

Automatic Stripping: The Camera app is configured to strip all EXIF metadata (including GPS coordinates, timestamps, and device models) from captured images automatically.

Orientation Exception: Only the orientation metadata is preserved so that photos are displayed correctly (e.g., preventing them from appearing sideways).

Screenshots: GrapheneOS also strips sensitive metadata from screenshots, such as the OS build number and timezone, which could otherwise leak "quasi-location" information.

side note: grapheneos does not recommend fdroid. instead they use their own store which is better for security. alternative you can use something called obtainium

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lastly the other important question, how long do you get updates for your smartphone model?

QUOTE

GrapheneOS provides full security updates for Pixel devices as long as Google (the OEM) continues to support them with firmware and driver updates.

Update Lifecycle by Pixel Model

Once a device reaches its "OEM minimum support end," GrapheneOS typically transitions it to a "harm reduction" support phase for a limited time before ending support entirely.

Device Generation ,Support Duration ,Expected End of Full Support

Pixel 8, 9, & 10 series ,7 years from launch ,2030 – 2032

Pixel 6 & 7 series ,5 years from launch ,2026 – 2028

Pixel Fold / Tablet ,5 years from launch ,June 2028

5-7 years for smartphone is good enough. samsung oneui for their s24-s26 was 7-8 years roughly as well? but the fact is, with their new s26u battery 5000 mAh with 1200 cycles, it will probably last 3-4 years before the battery degrades. just saying so 5 years before you upgrade/change your smartphone sounds about right under the current tech we have atm

so who is this for really? basically just users that want a smartphone for it's intended purpose, without others doing unnecessary stuff including privacy invasive actions. this os does it's best to ensure that while still having a usable smartphone.

probly 2 types of users

1. people that want smartphone to be without bloat and privacy invasive stuff (as much as realistically possible) and to have better battery life by default. i probably fall under this camp

2. the privacy paranoid user. all the settings they are super careful. i'm not judging, i'm just noting that this camp does exist. to each their own.

my point is, you don't have to fall under user type 2. even user type 1 can benefit from grapeheneos. improved battery life helps a lot

RX 9060 XT or RTX 5060 TI (16GB),

bluecat68 — Wed, 19 Nov 2025 23:39:51 +0800

In case if someone has a solid answer about how close the RTX 9060 XT 16GB compare to RTX 5060 TI 16GB in term of:

1: Gameplay recording smoothness & quality

2: Video editing rendering speed

Thanks first.

Post wrong section. Mod can pls delete. Tq,

babylon52281 — Thu, 05 Jun 2025 02:40:58 +0800

Deleted. Wrong section

Arcade stick, Wtask

Acap1986 — Wed, 14 May 2025 14:57:41 +0800

Hi iam newbies in arcade stick. So i love game like sf and kof including marvel vs stree fight snk vs capcom all the fightings game. So my question is which arcade stick is good. My budget rm250. My platform is ps4 n pc

Laptop vendor for businesses,

thechosenone93 — Wed, 26 Mar 2025 15:20:31 +0800

Normally buy laptops from Notebook Plaza due to cheaper price for businesses. However, it is best for us to see another vendor if specific model is not available. Can anyone introduce any vendor that provides distribution pricing which is cheaper than RRP?

Many thanks.

Crucial Pro DDR5-6400 OC Gaming Memory, Is it good?

steven789 — Mon, 24 Mar 2025 15:21:57 +0800

Just a quick review of this Crucial Pro DDR5-6400 OC Gaming RAM (32G, 16G x 2 kit) that I bought from Amazon US for RM420.13 (including tax). Product code is CP2K16G64C38U5B.

First of all, I thought it is cheap and good without doing much research. Turns out the best DDR5 RAM for Ryzen 9000 series should be Hynix chips. EXPO timings are:

6000 MT/s: 36-38-38-80-118, 1.35v
6400 MT/s: 38-40-40-84-118, 1.35v

Just to show you all how "overclockable" these sticks are since it is marketed as "OC Gaming". For info, it uses Micron D-die chips.

Take note that:
- These sticks run best at 1.2v memory VDD/VDDQ. Higher voltage will only make the RAM less stable. There's a review somewhere also confirmed my finding. So do ignore the default EXPO voltage of 1.35v.
- The Aida64 benchmark results are based on the above timings @ 6000 MT/s with a FCLK of 2200 and PBO disabled.
- The RAM can be pushed to higher clock speed like 6200 / 6400 MT/s but there's not much of performance gain as timings have to be loose and I don't want to run my Ryzen processor with higher Vsoc.
- So ya, despite all efforts, it's impossible to get the latency below 70ns like those Hynix chips.

For those who "accidentally" bought Crucial DDR5, you can refer to the above timings to get the most out of it (don't forget to lower the voltage to 1.2v). You can hardly find any other optimized reference timings about these chips online because Micron DDR5 are so unpopular.

Asus Tuf Gaming - On/Off Button Problem,

Dylnyat — Mon, 10 Feb 2025 14:49:11 +0800

Last year, I bought this ASUS TUF Gaming A15. Just a few months after using it, the power button started having issues.
What used to be a single click now sometimes takes 10 minutes or multiple tries before it turns on.

Once it boots up, everything is fine. The issue is, I’m not sure whether it's the button or something else.

Have you guys ever experienced this?

I already sent the laptop for warranty checking, but I received a call saying they want to format my laptop. I’m not sure about the purpose of formatting it, since I’ve already tried that method. But yeah, still waiting for the update.

Fingers crossed my laptop will be fine and healthy like before.

B650 still overpriced in Malaysia!, Commentary

mengshi — Fri, 15 Nov 2024 18:00:50 +0800

B650 motherboards in Malaysia are still way overpriced! Can get identical board on Amazon and Shopee (Japanese dealer) - both brand new at significant discounts (300-500). Both have return policies. There is warranty cover as well.

Lenovo warranty, thinkpad

ShinHaruhi — Mon, 04 Nov 2024 08:13:59 +0800

Our office purchased around 40 T14 ThinkPads for the first time, and we've encountered problems with a few units. After just one week of use, one key popped out on the keyboard.

I called Lenovo customer service, but they informed me that we can’t claim warranty coverage because it falls under Customer Induced Damage. We have Premier Support, which makes this situation even more frustrating.

Has anyone else had a similar experience?

Previously, our office used Dell laptops and had Pro Support. We never faced any issues with keyboard claims, and Dell replaced them without any problems.

my boss already consider to switch back to Dell

Fighting stick / arcade stick for PC,

kitchong — Tue, 08 Oct 2024 16:04:23 +0800

Good day.
I have been playing Street Fighter since SFIV, now a casual SF6 player.
I am using Razer Atrox since 2015, the cable connection has become unstable since last year so it is time to get a new fight stick.
Currently I have shortlisted 2 fight sticks - Hori Fight Stick Alpha and Qanba Obsidian 2.
Any comments on the above 2 sticks? I am using it on PC.
Nacon Daijia is a good stick but no one selling it in Malaysia it seems. Is there any shop you know which is selling Nacon Daijia?

Looking for a Laptop for Games and Lite work, Recommendations wanted

zzpp_low — Mon, 09 Sep 2024 19:17:34 +0800

Hi everyone,
I'm planning to purchase a new laptop on Lazada before the year ends and I'm seeking some recommendations. My budget is RM2, 500 or lower, but I'm hoping to lower it with vouchers and promotions. I'm fine with buying used or something from a few years ago.

Here's what I'm looking for:
* Operating System: Windows
* Purpose: Freelance writing, document editing, social media management, gaming (Tekken 8, Dead by Daylight, Overwatch, Palia), and no vfx light editing.
* Graphics: Capable of handling 1080p gaming on medium settings for the specified games.
* Storage: SSD for faster load times
* Battery: Reliable, but I'll primarily use it plugged in
* Display: 1080p is sufficient; no need for 2K or 4K resolution
* Brand: Reliable and easy to repair
* Warranty: A warranty would be beneficial

Sorry if I can't be more specific, I'm not very tech-savvy, so I'm not familiar with the technical specifications. Any suggestions on what to look for would be greatly appreciated. Thank you in advance!

Cybercafe to test out RTX 4090 and 4k OLED monitor,

bambambam — Tue, 03 Sep 2024 05:05:07 +0800

Anyone know a cybercafe where I can pay per hour to experience RTX 4090 and at least a 1440p monitor?

Hecate by Edifier, Conquer the Mobile Realm

Edifier — Fri, 15 Dec 2023 14:03:42 +0800

“Hecate by Edifier: Conquer the Mobile Realm’

In the ever-evolving world of gaming, where innova4on and mobility are key, Edifier proudly
introduces Hecate – a brand though@ully developed with the modern mobile gamer in mind.
The name “Hecate” (pronounce as Heh . Keh . Tee) draws inspira4on from the powerful
Greek goddess associated with magic, witchcraft, and the unseen, symbolizing the brand’s
ability to conjure an excep4onal gaming experience.

The Birth of Hecate: A Gamer’s Dream Unleashed
Hecate was born from a profound understanding of the unique needs and desires of mobile
gamers. We recognized that gaming on-the-go isn’t just a pas4me; it’s a passion that
transcends geographical boundaries. Gamers needed more than just an ordinary gaming
accessory; they deserved a companion designed to enhance their skills and elevate their
gaming experience.

The Promise of Lag-Free Gaming
At the core of Hecate’s philosophy is the unwavering commitment to provide a lag-free
gaming experience. We understand that even a frac4on of a second can mean the difference
between victory and defeat in the gaming world. Hecate ensures that your every move,
every shot and every decision is executed without delay, giving you a compe44ve edge in
the mobile gaming arena.

Pinpoint Sound Precision: Your Advantage in Battle
In the heat of the battle, knowing the exact loca4on of your enemy can be the difference
between glory and defeat. Hecate’s excep4onal sound technology is designed to immerse
you in your game and help you pinpoint the slightest sound cues. Every footstep, every
reload and every distant shot will come to life with unparalleled clarity, giving you an
invaluable advantage over your adversaries.

Quality and Innovation: The Edifier Way
Edifier’s legacy of quality and innova4on is carried forward in every product bearing the
Hecate name. With Hecate, you can expect cutting-edge design, superior craftsmanship and
an unwavering commitment to excellence. Our products are not just tools; they’re
companions that empower you to conquer new realms, reach new levels and achieve new
milestones.

Join Us on the Journey to Conquer the Mobile Realm
Hecate invites you to embark on a journey where you can unleash your gaming poten4al and
experience the world of mobile gaming like never before. Our commitment to providing you
with the best in gaming audio and accessories is unwavering. Together, let’s conquer the
mobile realm, leaving our mark as true gaming legends.

With Hecate, you’re not just gaming; you’re conquering

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M2_2 slot not detected,

Noobshit1234 — Mon, 20 Nov 2023 15:13:44 +0800

How should I arrange the RAM sticks,

Oltromen Ripot — Mon, 07 Aug 2023 16:17:04 +0800

System is server.
Not overclocking (no option to anyway).
Support DDR4-2133, 4 slots, each capable up to 16Gb, for a total of 64GB.

--

Previously bought 2x Kingston Fury Beast KF432C16BB1A (16GB)
DDR4-3200
16 * 1GB chip (found out today)
16-18-18 latency

Today received 2x Kingston Fury Beast KF432C16BBA (16GB)
DDR4-3200
8 * 2GB chip (found out today)
16-20-20 latency

--

My questions:
(1) Does it matter the positioning of which stick goes into which slot number?

(2) Anyhow, is there recommended positioning for me to insert?

(a)
slot 1 - stick with 1GB chips
slot 2 - stick with 1GB chips
slot 3 - stick with 2GB chips
slot 4 - stick with 2GB chips

(b)
slot 1 - stick with 2GB chips
slot 2 - stick with 2GB chips
slot 3 - stick with 1GB chips
slot 4 - stick with 1GB chips

©
slot 1 - stick with 1GB chips
slot 2 - stick with 2GB chips
slot 3 - stick with 1GB chips
slot 4 - stick with 2GB chips

(d)
slot 1 - stick with 2GB chips
slot 2 - stick with 1GB chips
slot 3 - stick with 2GB chips
slot 4 - stick with 1GB chips

(e)
slot 1 - stick with 1GB chips
slot 2 - stick with 2GB chips
slot 3 - stick with 2GB chips
slot 4 - stick with 1GB chips

(f)
slot 1 - stick with 2GB chips
slot 2 - stick with 1GB chips
slot 3 - stick with 1GB chips
slot 4 - stick with 2GB chips

What's a good DDR4 these days?,

pillage2001 — Tue, 04 Apr 2023 09:59:07 +0800

Hie all,

Am building a Intel I9-12900 platform with B760 Asus board and trying to find a good DDR4 module ( 8 or 16Gb ) with some overclocking headroom. Read all about the SAmsung B dies but doesn't seem to be able to find a brand that guarantees it. Can anyone recommend a good module to buy? Looking to get within these two months.

Simple explanation about Wifi Router, Mesh Nodes, Need explaination

anmr — Thu, 19 Jan 2023 23:23:39 +0800

Hi, can anyone tell me simple explanation about wifi router, mesh nodes, mesh routers. What is their difference

Really noob about it.

I want to renew my Time wifi plan, and to claim device (mesh nodes). But I’m not really sure what it’s function. Is it worthy to renew my plan to just get the device or just simply go buy it.

My house (apartment) have 3 bedroom, 700sqft. But the furthest bedroom can’t get the wifi. What should i do? The router is in the living room.

https://pictr.com/images/2023/01/19/E6wLzX.md.jpg
https://pictr.com/images/2023/01/19/E6w1cu.md.jpg
https://pictr.com/images/2023/01/19/E6wG0g.md.jpg

OEM C300 Modified Unlimited Hotspot 4G, I need your opinion

midzwan — Sat, 14 Jan 2023 08:11:06 +0800

Hi I am planning to use modified unlimited hotspot 4G router ar my kampung, so I search for Huawei C300 router in lazada suddenly first result shows RM 51 per u!t, I was shocked but when I read description, it's an OEM unit, so I wonder anyone has experience using it, is it reliable and works great, please advise, thanks

self build desktop,

kazaboy — Thu, 08 Dec 2022 17:01:34 +0800

Hi everyone,

I'm actually want to buy a new desktop cause my old desktop its being 9 years.

but i too outdated to build my own.

can anyone help me up.

normally i using desktop for doing some design stuff(mostly photoshop/illustrator), watch movie, and play Ragnarok Online.

my budget is around 2-3k(not include monitor)with high Cost Performance ratio.

thanks.

MSI MAG B660M Bazooka DDR4, Review

Kenngan7012 — Sat, 05 Nov 2022 15:41:08 +0800

I just recently upgraded my gaming rig to an Intel i5-12400F, coupled with RTX3060Ti and the MSI MAG B660M Bazooka (DDR4) and am currently having a blast here no regrets.

First up, I have seen a lot of Youtube reviews concerning the best 12th (as well as 13th) Gen motherboards and currently the top spots are being held by MSI, doing exceptionally well on the high end with their Tomahawk (best performance, tested on Cinebench with one the lowest temps, and even their budget mobos especially the Pro-B660M-A. Here's a good youtube roundup review. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3o1Ebk_jCA

For me, I chose the Bazooka due to it's mid tier price range, it has excellent VRAMs and heatsinks and has a really nice aesthetics design- which couples well with my full RGB setup. Other brands such as Asus,Gigabyte and Asrock are ok too, but their prices are really high and doesn't offer the bang-to the buck performance I'm looking for.

Whats your opinion for those who are looking to upgrade or have upgraded on what mobos are good for 12th and 13th Gen CPUs?

Here's my new setup

All in all costed me only around 4k (custom build). Everything is new, except a 1TB SSD I brought over from my previous rig.