Tech

Microsoft Open-Sources Historic 6502 BASIC from 1976

In a significant move for computing history enthusiasts and developers, Microsoft has formally released the assembly language source code for its seminal 6502 BASIC. This development comes after decades of the code existing in various unofficial forms across the internet, finally granting it a clear, modern open-source license. Developed in 1976 by Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates and early team member Ric Weiland, 6502 BASIC was designed to run on the 6502 CPU, a processor that powered an array of iconic early personal computers and gaming consoles, including the Apple II, Atari 2600, Nintendo Entertainment System, and the Commodore 8-bit series.

The decision to open-source this historically important software reflects Microsoft's commitment to acknowledging its deep roots in the software industry and supporting the vibrant community of preservationists and hobbyists. This early version of BASIC was instrumental in standardizing programming language implementations and made coding accessible to a broad audience, enabling the first generation of developers to learn programming on machines like the Commodore by simply typing commands such as \"10 PRINT 'HELLO'\" and \"20 GOTO 10.\" This open release further complements Microsoft's prior open-sourcing of GW-BASIC, another descendent from the same foundational lineage, which was embedded in the original IBM PC's ROM.

The enduring fascination with early software and the MOS 6502 CPU remains strong, even nearly half a century later. Enthusiasts actively engage in projects involving FPGA-based re-creations and emulators, demonstrating a persistent interest in understanding and interacting with these foundational technologies. Microsoft notes that dedicated preservationists have tirelessly reconstructed build environments to ensure the historical source code can still produce byte-exact ROMs. This open-source initiative not only formalizes access to this crucial piece of software history but also underscores the continuous relevance of legacy code in inspiring future innovations and fostering a deeper appreciation for the origins of modern computing.

The open-sourcing of Microsoft's 6502 BASIC is more than just a historical footnote; it is a profound testament to the power of foundational technologies and the enduring spirit of innovation. By making this integral part of computing history accessible, Microsoft empowers new generations to explore the building blocks of software, fostering a deeper understanding of how the digital world came to be. This act of sharing reinforces the idea that knowledge, especially in technology, thrives when it is openly accessible, encouraging continued learning, experimentation, and collaborative development for the betterment of all.

Anker Innovations Unveils Revolutionary Smart Home and Tech Products for 2025-2026

Anker Innovations, a leader in consumer electronics, is preparing for a significant launch of cutting-edge products across its well-regarded brands: Anker, Eufy, and Soundcore. These upcoming releases, spanning late 2025 and early 2026, promise to introduce advanced features and innovative solutions that will enhance daily life, from intelligent home cleaning to sophisticated personal audio and robust power management.

Step Into Tomorrow: Anker Innovations Redefines Smart Living

Eufy's Next-Generation Home Cleaning Solutions

Eufy is poised to revolutionize automated home maintenance with its latest offerings. The Eufy RoboVac Omni S2, launching in January 2026 at $1,599, boasts superior cleaning power, navigating deep-pile carpets with AeroTurbo Carpet Master 2.0. This advanced unit operates as a combined vacuum and mop, featuring HydroJet 2.0 for self-cleaning with electrolyzed water. Beyond its robust cleaning, it incorporates 3D mapping and obstacle detection, alongside a unique aromatherapy system that disperses one of three signature scents: bamboo and sage, bergamot and lychee, or citrus and basil. Its most remarkable innovation is the ability to ascend stairs when paired with the Eufy Marswalker.

The Eufy Marswalker: Enabling Vertical Mobility for Robot Vacuums

The Eufy Marswalker represents a significant leap in robot vacuum functionality, acting as a revolutionary platform that enables compatible robot vacuums, such as the Omni S2, to effortlessly climb stairs. Unlike previous models limited to small thresholds, the Marswalker, expected in spring 2026, will carry the vacuum up and down straight, L-shaped, and U-shaped staircases, creating a comprehensive 3D map of the home to navigate multi-level environments with unprecedented ease. While specific pricing has not yet been revealed, its introduction promises truly autonomous whole-home cleaning.

EufyMake E1 UV Printer: Bringing Textural Art to Life

Eufy is venturing into the world of creative technology with the EufyMake E1 UV Printer, a device designed to reproduce 3D textures, giving printed art a tangible feel. Following a successful crowdfunding campaign, this printer is slated for release in December 2025. Available in a basic bundle that includes the printer and an ink kit, and a deluxe plus bundle priced at $3,799, which adds a UV DTF laminating machine, a rotary printing attachment, and a roll-to-film attachment, the E1 UV Printer opens new possibilities for tactile and visually rich creations.

Eufy Security: Advanced Surveillance with AI Integration

Eufy is bolstering its security product line with two major enhancements. In November 2025, the Eufy AI Core will debut, powered by Qualcomm technology to provide comprehensive yard-level perimeter security, extending surveillance capabilities beyond typical porch monitoring to cover entire lawns. Concurrently, the EufyCam S4 is available for preorder, featuring a dual-camera setup with 4K wide-angle and 2K lenses. Priced at $649 for a two-camera kit and $1,149 for a four-camera kit, it includes a solar panel for charging and is weather-sealed for outdoor use. These cameras integrate seamlessly with Eufy's HomeBase 3, which will also support the new AI Core. While the company has previously addressed a privacy breach, the rapid resolution demonstrates Eufy's commitment to security.

Soundcore Work: Revolutionizing Audio Capture and Transcription

Soundcore, traditionally known for audio output, is now entering the audio capture market with Soundcore Work. This compact device, measuring less than an inch, records audio that can be accessed via the Soundcore app. A key feature is its AI-powered transcription service, boasting an impressive 97% accuracy. Priced at $99.99, with a monthly subscription fee of $15.99 for transcription services, Soundcore Work is set for a global release in November 2025, promising a new era of effortless audio documentation.

Soundcore Nebula X1 Pro: An Immersive Audiovisual Experience

Anker's projector division now operates under the Soundcore brand, and its flagship new product is the Nebula X1 Pro. This projector aims to be a pioneer in home entertainment, featuring the first integration of Dolby Atmos and Dolby Vision for an unparalleled audiovisual experience. It includes front-facing speakers that can function as a standalone soundbar or speaker system. The Nebula X1 Pro is set to launch via Kickstarter on September 22, 2025, with an expected price range of $4,000 to $5,000, signaling a premium offering for cinematic home viewing.

Anker Prime: Expanding Power and Connectivity

The Anker Prime collection is expanding with four powerful new additions, all available in September 2025. These include the Anker Prime Charger (160W, 3 Ports), which is more compact than Apple's 140W charger yet delivers greater power output; the Anker Prime Power Bank (26K, 300W), capable of simultaneously charging two laptops and a phone at maximum speed; the Anker Prime Wireless Charging Station (3-in-1 dock), which is MagSafe compatible for iPhone and Apple Watch while managing device temperatures; and the Anker Prime Docking Station (14-in-1), offering extensive connectivity with 14 ports for various USB, HDMI, DisplayPort, Ethernet, and audio needs. These products underscore Anker's commitment to delivering high-performance charging and versatile connectivity solutions.

See More

Anker Unveils Next-Gen Prime Charging Ecosystem with Advanced Power Bank and Docking Station

Anker is revolutionizing portable power and connectivity with its latest Prime series, highlighted by an exceptionally fast power bank, a comprehensive docking station, and innovative charging solutions. These new products are designed to meet the demands of modern digital lifestyles, offering unparalleled speed, versatility, and efficiency for users on the go and in their workspaces.

This innovative lineup from Anker addresses the growing need for high-speed charging and seamless device integration, bringing forth a suite of products that redefine convenience and performance. From bolstering the capacity of portable power to streamlining complex multi-device setups, Anker's new Prime family showcases a strategic evolution in personal electronics accessories.

The Pinnacle of Portable Power: Anker Prime Power Bank

Anker's newest addition to its power bank collection, the Prime Power Bank (26k, 300W), sets a new benchmark in portable charging capabilities. With an airline-friendly capacity of 26,250mAh (99.75Wh at 3.8V), this device is engineered for maximum output, providing an impressive 300W of total power. It features two bidirectional USB-C ports, each delivering up to 140W, along with a 22.5W USB-A port, enabling simultaneous charging of multiple power-hungry devices, such as laptops and smartphones. Furthermore, the power bank boasts an exceptional charging input of up to 250W when connected to two 140W USB-C PD 3.1 chargers, allowing it to reach 80 percent charge in a mere 35 minutes. An optional Prime Charging Base, sold separately, offers 150W input via a pogo-pin connector and additional charging ports, enhancing its versatility. The integrated display and companion app connectivity provide detailed power monitoring, though it notably omits the 'find device' feature found in previous models. Scheduled for release on September 25th, pricing details are yet to be announced.

The Anker Prime Power Bank with its 26,250mAh capacity is more than just a portable battery; it's a mobile charging hub engineered for peak performance. Its dual 140W USB-C ports make it ideal for powering up high-demand electronics like modern laptops, while the additional USB-A port ensures compatibility with a wider range of gadgets. This versatile power delivery system, capable of a 300W total output, ensures that users can charge multiple devices concurrently without compromising speed. The rapid input charging, facilitated by twin 140W PD 3.1 chargers, significantly reduces downtime, making it a critical tool for professionals and enthusiasts who cannot afford long charging waits. While its technical prowess is undeniable, the absence of a 'find device' function might be a minor drawback for some users. The device's integrated display and Bluetooth-enabled companion app provide comprehensive real-time data on power flow, offering users precise control and insight into their charging processes. The availability of a dedicated Prime Charging Base further elevates its functionality, transforming the power bank into a semi-permanent charging station for home or office use, offering additional USB-C and USB-A outputs. This comprehensive feature set underlines Anker's ambition to cater to a broad spectrum of charging needs with a single, high-performance solution.

Expanding the Ecosystem: Docking, Wall Charging, and Wireless Solutions

Beyond the power bank, Anker’s Prime series introduces several other innovative charging and connectivity devices. The 14-in-1 Prime Docking Station, priced at $299.99 / €349.99 / £299.99 and launching on September 5th, is a versatile hub equipped with an array of USB-C, USB-A, HDMI, DisplayPort, Ethernet, audio, and SD/TF slots. It supports fast charging and 10Gbps data transfer via its USB-C ports, and enables a triple monitor setup (up to 8K/4K/4K) for both macOS and Windows laptops. A built-in display provides real-time monitoring of power draw, data transfer, and display signals, complemented by a PC app for comprehensive management. Additionally, the new Prime Charger, a compact 210W GaN wall charger, is 43 percent smaller than Apple’s 140W charger. It features three USB-C ports, each supporting 140W output individually, with a combined total output of 210W. This charger, priced at $149 / €129, will be available on September 25th, featuring a foldable plug and app-monitored power specs. Finally, the 3-in-1 Prime Wireless Charging Station offers Qi2 25W wireless charging for phones, 5W for Apple Watch, and 5W for AirPods, utilizing active cooling to maintain optimal temperatures and extend battery life. Anker promises quiet operation (29dB) and a nearly silent sleep mode for this device, which also launches on September 25th with pricing to be announced.

The holistic approach of Anker's new Prime series is evident in its diverse range of products, each meticulously designed to enhance the user experience. The 14-in-1 Prime Docking Station stands out as a productivity powerhouse, transforming any laptop into a fully-fledged workstation with extensive port options for peripherals, high-resolution displays, and network connectivity. Its intelligent display and software integration provide users with granular control and real-time feedback, making it an indispensable tool for professionals requiring robust connectivity. Complementing this, the Prime Charger is a testament to Anker's advancements in GaN technology, delivering substantial power in an incredibly compact form factor. Its ability to simultaneously charge multiple devices efficiently, along with the convenience of a foldable plug and app-based monitoring, makes it a superior travel companion and everyday charger. The 3-in-1 Prime Wireless Charging Station showcases Anker's commitment to cutting-edge wireless technology, supporting the latest Qi2 25W standard for rapid phone charging. The inclusion of active cooling is a thoughtful innovation, mitigating heat buildup during charging to protect device batteries and ensure consistent performance. This feature, combined with a focus on quiet operation, ensures that the charging station can seamlessly integrate into any environment, including bedrooms. Together, these devices form a cohesive ecosystem that not only addresses various charging and connectivity needs but also prioritizes user convenience, efficiency, and device longevity.

See More