Meet the Chip That Uses Light, Not Electricity, to Power AI

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Feb 21, 2024

A team of engineers at Penn has just unveiled a technology that might just set a new course for the future of computing. Their creation, a chip that leverages light for artificial intelligence (AI) computations, stands to dramatically boost processing speeds while slashing energy use.

The new chip also promises enhanced privacy for the users

At the heart of this innovation is the field of silicon-photonics (SiPh), a domain where silicon, the abundant and cost-effective material at the core of traditional computer chips, meets the extraordinary capacity to manipulate light. This union draws upon the pioneering work of Penn Professor Nader Engheta, who has explored how materials can be fine-tuned at the nanoscale to carry out complex mathematical operations using light waves.

This chip isn’t just another step in technology’s march forward; it represents a potential paradigm shift. Traditional computing chips, despite their advancements, still hew closely to concepts established in the 1960s. The new chip, however, operates on an entirely different principle, performing calculations at the unparalleled speed of light.

The development of this chip was a collaborative effort, with significant contributions from Firooz Aflatouni, Associate Professor in Electrical and Systems Engineering at Penn. The team focused on enabling the chip to execute vector-matrix multiplication—a key process underpinning neural networks, which are vital for the AI applications that increasingly influence our daily lives.

One of the chip’s ingenious features is its design, which achieves computational magic by altering the height of the silicon wafer in certain areas. This allows light to scatter in precise patterns, facilitating the rapid execution of mathematical operations.

Beyond its potential for blazing-fast computation and reduced power consumption, the chip also promises enhanced privacy. Its capacity to perform numerous calculations simultaneously—without needing to store data in a computer’s working memory—could make future computers using this technology nearly impossible to hack. Now, all we can do is wait to see when this chip will start being incorporated in our daily devices, and one thing is for sure, that can take a lot of time.

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Oppo F25 Pro 5G launch date, design, Amazon availability confirmed

By

Anvinraj Valiyathara

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Feb 21, 2024

For the past few weeks, the rumor mill has been speculating that India will soon receive an F-series Oppo phone. Today, the brand officially confirmed that the Oppo F25 Pro 5G will be unveiled on Feb. 29 in India. Its microsite available on Amazon has revealed its design and color options.

Oppo F25 Pro 5G design

The official images available on the microsite confirm that the Oppo F25 Pro 5G will feature a punch-hole display, which seems to be integrated with a fingerprint sensor. The back panel of the device has a triple-camera unit and an LED flash. It will be sold in two shades, maroon and light blue. The final marketing shades of these variants are not known yet.

Oppo F25 Pro 5G specifications (rumored)

Oppo is yet to reveal any information about the specifications of the Oppo F25 Pro 5G. Rumors surrounding the device claim that it could be a tweaked or rebranded version of the Oppo Reno 11F 5G, which is available in some Southeast Asian markets.

The Reno 11F 5G has a 6.7-inch Amole display that offers an FHD+ resolution, a 120Hz refresh rate, and Panda glass protection. The device runs on the Dimensity 7050 chipset and ColorOS 14-based Android 14.

The Reno 11F 5G ships with 8 GB of LPDDR4x RAM, 256 GB of UFS 3.1 storage, and a 5,000mAh battery with 67W fast charging. It has a 32-megapixel camera on the front, and its back panel has a 64-megapixel primary camera, an 8-megapixel ultra-wide lens, and a 2-megapixel macro camera.

At present, there is no word on the price of the Oppo F25 Pro 5G. Considering that the Oppo F23 5G was priced at Rs 24,999 (~$301) in India last year, it is likely that the F25 Pro could be priced under Rs 30,000 (~$360). It is also unclear whether the brand plans to launch a non-Pro version of the F25.

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Philips launches Evnia 32M2N6800M, a 31.5-inch 4K 144Hz Mini-LED gaming monitor in China

By

Soumyakanti

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Feb 21, 2024

Philips has unveiled a new gaming monitor, the Evnia 32M2N6800M in the Chinese market. The monitor is now listed on JD.com, priced at 4999 Yuan ($695). Let’s check out the key specs.

Philips Evnia 32M2N6800M Specifications:

The gaming monitor features a 31.5-inch display offering 4K resolution (3840×2160) at a 144Hz refresh rate, powered by Mini-LED technology. It uses a BOE UHD panel that boasts a rapid 1ms GTG response time to minimize input lag, providing gamers with the critical edge to react quickly and dominate the competition.

The monitor features a Mini-LED panel with 1152 independent backlight zones, delivering an outstanding peak brightness of 1250 nits and a typical brightness of 700 nits. This ensures vibrant colors and deep blacks across the screen. With VESA DisplayHDR 1000 certification, gamers can expect exceptional HDR performance, while a wide 99.5% DCI-P3 color gamut and 10-bit color depth ensure remarkable color accuracy and lifelike visuals.

The Evnia 32M2N6800M is packed with features aimed at enhancing the gaming experience. It includes Zero Sense Sync Acceleration Technology to reduce input lag, Ambiglow technology for immersive lighting effects synchronized with on-screen visuals, variable refresh rate (VRR), and PIP/PBP functionality for multitasking by connecting two sources simultaneously.

Connectivity is versatile, including two HDMI 2.1 ports, one DP1.4 port, a USB-B upstream port, and three USB-A ports, with one offering fast charging capabilities.

Philips Evnia 32M2N6800M features an ergonomic design with an adjustable bracket for lifting, rotating, and tilting, ensuring comfort during extended gaming sessions. Its classic rock black design, complemented by a delicate texture, includes a non-detachable headphone hook for added convenience and aesthetics. Philips also backs this product with a comprehensive after-sales service, though details remain unspecified.

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Lenovo Xiaoxin 24″ AIO PC with 100Hz 2.5K display, 13th Gen Core i7 processor launched

By

Sudhanshu

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Feb 21, 2024

Lenovo has expanded its computer lineup with the introduction of the Xiaoxin 23.8-inch and Xiaoxin Pro 24 all-in-one (AIO) PCs, designed to cater to both professional and personal computing needs.

The Xiaoxin 23.8-inch model, priced at 4,499 yuan ($626), features an i5-13420H processor, 16GB RAM, and 512GB storage. It includes a 23.8-inch 1080p 100Hz display covering 99% sRGB, certified for low blue light and flicker-free to reduce eye strain.

The AIO stands out with its slim 13.82mm profile, incorporating a 2.5K camera for clear video calls, Harman 2.0 stereo speakers for superior sound, and a 20% improvement in Wi-Fi performance over its predecessors. Connectivity options are ample, with USB-C, HDMI, and more.

The Xiaoxin Pro 24 2024 edition mirrors the Pro 27’s hardware but in a smaller package. It runs on a Core i7-13620H processor, supported by 16GB of DDR5 RAM and a 1TB NVMe PCIe 4.0 SSD, ensuring swift and efficient performance. The AIO also features a 5MP webcam for high-quality video chats. Despite its compact size, the Pro 24 maintains a strong performance profile, suitable for demanding applications.

In related news, Lenovo’s YOGA Book 9i (2024) dual-screen OLED laptop recently went on sale. The laptop features a two-part display, each measuring 13.3-inch. It features a 2.8K resolution with an Intel Core Ultra 7-155U processor on the inside.

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LG UltraGear OLED 27GS95QE monitor arrives in the US & Canada featuring 2K 240Hz display

By

Sudhanshu

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Feb 21, 2024

LG has released its UltraGear OLED 27GS95QE monitor in the United States and Canada, following its debut in China and a presentation at CES 2024. This gaming monitor is now available for US$899.99 and CAD$1,199.99, respectively.

The UltraGear OLED 27GS95QE, tailored for gaming, features a 26.5-inch screen with 2K resolution. It supports a high refresh rate of 240Hz, ensuring smooth gameplay. The monitor’s standout feature is its quick 0.03ms GtG response time, reducing motion blur and input lag significantly.

With DisplayHDR True Black 400 certification, the monitor can achieve peak brightness up to 1000 nits, offering deep blacks and vibrant colors for an enhanced HDR experience. It maintains a typical brightness of 275 nits, covering 98.5% of the DCI-P3 color space, making it ideal for both gaming and content creation.

Compatibility with AMD FreeSync Premium and NVIDIA G-Sync allows for a tear-free gaming experience across different devices. Connectivity options include HDMI 2.1 and a headphone jack. The monitor also incorporates AGLR anti-glare and LG Live Color Low Blue Light technologies, aiming to reduce eye strain during extended use.

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Apple’s Custom Battery for Enhanced iPhone Performance!

By

Oğuz Çakır

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Feb 20, 2024

The iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Pro Max might not showcase significant improvements in battery performance compared to their predecessors in the iPhone 14 series. However, Apple is actively addressing this concern by delving into the development of a specialized battery. Recent reports shed light on Apple’s pursuit of an in-house battery design. Here are the details…

Apple’s Exclusive Battery Project: Turbocharging iPhone Battery Life

The company is engaged in researching alternative cathode materials to elevate the overall performance of the battery module, with the ambitious goal of extending the battery life of its forthcoming products slated for release after 2025. Apple is contemplating a departure from the conventional use of graphite as the anode material in lithium-ion batteries and is exploring the possibility of increasing the silicon content within the battery.

Graphite has been favored for its unique properties, efficiently storing and releasing electrical energy, ensuring reliable and enduring battery performance in mobile devices. However, Apple’s potential shift towards a silicon-based approach carries promise in terms of enhancing overall battery capacity and reducing charging times. Nevertheless, it poses a challenge, as silicon tends to expand during the charging process. Notably, Apple appears to have made strides in addressing this expansion issue, suggesting a potential breakthrough.

Rumors surrounding Apple’s exploration of its own next-generation batteries have been circulating since 2019, showcasing the company’s ongoing commitment to innovation. Apple has previously collaborated with suppliers to introduce groundbreaking battery solutions, such as the space-saving L-shaped battery featured in the iPhone XS.

In a recent corporate commitment, Apple has set the target of incorporating 100% recycled cobalt in all ‘Apple-designed’ batteries by the year 2025, signaling a dedication to environmentally sustainable practices. Despite these advancements and commitments, it remains uncertain whether the speculated Apple proprietary battery will indeed materialize and whether the company will successfully adhere to its ambitious goals amid the evolving landscape of technology and battery development.

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Asus launches ROG Strix XG27ACS, a budget-friendly 2K 180Hz gaming monitor in China

By

Soumyakanti

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Feb 20, 2024

Asus has expanded its gaming monitor lineup with the launch of the ROG Strix XG27ACS, now open for pre-orders in the Chinese market at a price of 1999 Yuan ($278). Let’s delve into its key specs.

ROG Strix XG27ACS Specifications:

The monitor features a 27-inch Fast IPS display boasting a 2560×1440 (2K) resolution and an impressive 180Hz refresh rate for smooth gameplay. It leverages BOE’s advanced ADS Pro display technology to ensure vibrant visuals and wide viewing angles.

ROG Strix XG27ACS monitor targets both professional and enthusiast gamers, offering 97% DCI-P3 and 133% sRGB color gamuts for vivid and precise color reproduction. Its color accuracy, certified by VESA DisplayHDR 400 with a ΔE<2, makes it suitable for gaming and content creation needs.

Asus has incorporated several proprietary technologies to enhance gaming performance. The monitor supports G-SYNC and FreeSync, aiming to provide a tear-free gaming experience across a wide range of graphics cards. It also features 1ms GTG (gray to gray) pixel response time along with ELMB SYNC technology to reduce motion blur, ensuring clarity in fast-paced games.

For competitive gamers, the inclusion of AI-driven Game Plus technology offers real-time scene analysis and crosshair adjustments, improving shooting accuracy. The Dynamic Shadow Boost and Variable Acceleration Drive 2.0 further refine visual clarity and response to in-game actions.

The monitor features a practical and ergonomic design, with a square base that saves desk space and includes a built-in phone stand. The ergonomic base offers forward and backward tilt, horizontal and vertical rotation, and height adjustment for comfortable viewing. Additionally, it offers versatility with a 1/4-inch tripod socket on the monitor stand, enabling users to attach cameras or secondary screens.

Moreover, it supports VESA wall mounting for limited spaces. Users can easily adjust settings via the DisplayWidget Center application, eliminating the need for physical buttons on the monitor and allowing customization for different games and applications.

In terms of interfaces, the monitor is equipped with DP 1.4, an Earphone jack, and HDMI 2.0 display interfaces alongside a Type-C interface, which can charge phones, ROG handhelds, or other devices during gaming. Asus also ensures customer satisfaction with a three-year on-site service guarantee.

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Asus Opens First Hybrid Retail Store in India, Showcases The Best Pegasus and ROG Products

By

Oğuz Çakır

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Feb 20, 2024

Asus continues to expand its product lineup and grow its investments in India. In addition to recently introducing three new desktop models, the company has opened its first hybrid retail store in the city of Nashik. This location offers both Pegasus and Republic of Gamers (ROG) products. Here are the details…

Asus Opens First Hybrid Retail Store in India

Asus has opened its first hybrid retail store in the city of Nashik, India. The store, spanning 568 square meters, holds the distinction of being the first to offer both Pegasus and Republic of Gamers products. The store offers customers a wide range of products, including the company’s laptops, tablets, smartphones, monitors, and other electronic devices. Additionally, the store features a dedicated space for gamers, where they can try out the latest ROG products.

Asus aims to expand its retail presence in India through this store. The company even plans to open more stores in the coming year. Certainly, Asus’s strategy of opening stores in India is not in vain. The company holds a leading position in the PC market in the country, with a market share of 24.8%, according to recent reports. This makes the Taiwanese manufacturer the largest PC seller in India. Additionally, Asus has a significant presence in markets such as monitors and gaming smartphones.

When the situation is like this, it makes more sense for Asus to establish direct contact with customers by eliminating intermediary stores. If you also live in India and wish to visit this store, the address is: San Infotech, Shop no 5, Ravi Chambers, Sarswat Bank, Sharanapur Road, Canada Corner, Nashik-422005.

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No More Sneaky Attacks: Google Chrome’s New Security Feature Will Protect Your Home Network

By

Oğuz Çakır

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Feb 20, 2024

Google Chrome remains the world’s most popular web browser, dominating with a market share of nearly 70%. Even many users prefer it over operating systems’ default browsers like those found on Mac, Windows, and iOS. et, this popularity makes Chrome a prime target for cyberattacks. Google recognizes the risks and constantly works to improve Chrome’s security. The company is now investing heavily in privacy and security enhancements to protect your online experience. Here are the details…

Chrome’s “Private Network Access Checks for Navigation Requests” Explained

Not every website is safe. A simple click on a link can make you a target for hackers. Google knows this and is releasing a new feature to help protect devices connected to your home network through Chrome. This feature will watch for websites trying to access your private network and will only allow those it knows are safe.

The name of this feature will be “Custom Network Access Controls for Browsing Requests,” and it will verify where the request to communicate with your private network is coming from and whether it is secure. On the other end, it will check with your device to ensure that it has permission to access your private network. Currently, Google is assisting developers in accrediting websites as secure sources.

The new feature has not been rolled out in any Chrome version yet, but it is expected to be included in Chrome 123 or 124 for desktop computers and Android devices. Particularly, in today’s environment where the smart home concept is becoming increasingly prevalent, and various objects, including door locks, are becoming targets, Google’s move is poised to enhance your security.

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Huawei is the top foldable phone brand in China, Samsung comes fourth

By

Sudarshan Ravichandran

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Feb 20, 2024

As per IDC, the Chinese foldable mobile phone market registered a growth of 114.5% YoY in 2023. The number of shipments hit 7.007 million, which is more than what the Indian tablet market managed to ship.

The fourth quarter shipment alone was 2.771 million units. New products from Huawei, Oppo, and Honor contributed to the growth.

The Chinese foldable mobile phone market grew more than 100% YoY over the last four years since the first device hit the market in 2019. As the category is now more mature, its performance is forecasted to further improve in the coming years.

The share of foldables priced above $1000 dropped to 66.5% from 81%. This was due to the increase in affordable foldables in the $400-$600 segment.

However, Chinese consumers preferred the book-style horizontal foldables more than the cheaper clamshell vertical foldables. The adoption rate of this type was high among wealthy business people.

For such premium consumers, price is not an issue. Thus, they opted for horizontal foldables which offer the maximum set of features on a foldable phone.

Coming to the brands, Huawei led the market with a 37.4% share. The Mate X5 continues to be in more demand than supply since its launch.

The global top player Samsung only came fourth with an 11% share. While second, third, and fifth places were occupied by Oppo (18.3%), Honor (17.7%), and Vivo (9.7%), respectively. The Find N3 Flip was the most popular clamshell foldable.

Finally, Xiaomi obtained sixth position with a 4.6% share and Lenovo at seventh place had a mere 1.4% share.

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Dell’s new XPS 13, 14 & 16 laptops now on store shelves with up to Intel Ultra 9 processor

By

Sudhanshu

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Feb 20, 2024

Dell‘s latest additions to the XPS laptop family, the XPS 13, XPS 14, and XPS 16, are officially on sale. Announced in January 2024 following a leak in 2023, these models offer updated features and improved performance across the board.

The XPS 13 starts at $1,399, making it the most affordable option in the new lineup. For those requiring more screen space, the XPS 14 and XPS 16 are available starting at $1,699 and $1,899, respectively.

Key updates include the replacement of older models with these new versions: the XPS 16 takes over from the XPS 17, the XPS 14 from the XPS 15, and the XPS 13 from the XPS 13 Plus series. Each model brings significant enhancements in terms of processing power, storage, and display quality.

The XPS 16 features an Ultra 9 185H processor, 64GB of memory, and a 4TB PCIe 4.0 SSD, along with an RTX 4070 graphics card. It has a 16.3-inch OLED touchscreen with a resolution of 3840×2400, supporting touch, and a variable refresh rate of 48-90Hz. The device includes three Thunderbolt 4 ports, a MicroSD card slot, and a 3.5mm headphone jack, housed in a body that’s 18.7mm thick and weighs between 2.1 to 2.2kg, powered by a 99.5Wh battery.

The XPS 14 comes with an Ultra 7 165H processor, 64GB of memory, a 4TB PCIe 4.0 SSD, and an RTX 4050 graphics card. Its 14.5-inch OLED touchscreen supports a resolution of 3200×2000 and a 48-120Hz variable refresh rate. The laptop features a similar port array to the XPS 16, with a slightly slimmer 18mm profile, weighing between 1.68 to 1.74kg, and a 69.5Wh battery.

Lastly, the XPS 13 offers an Ultra 7 165H processor, 64GB of memory, and a 4TB PCIe 4.0 SSD. The 13.4-inch OLED touchscreen supports a resolution of 2800×1800 and a 48-60Hz refresh rate. It includes two Thunderbolt 4 ports, measures 14.8-15.3mm in thickness, and weighs 1.17-1.19kg, with a 55Wh battery.

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Samsung Galaxy M15 5G clears FCC certification ahead of global launch

By

Sudhanshu

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Feb 20, 2024

Samsung is preparing to introduce the Galaxy M15 5G, as evidenced by its recent appearances on certification websites, including the FCC. Identified by the model number SM-M156B, the upcoming device is poised to enhance Samsung’s M series lineup with both 4G and 5G connectivity capabilities.

The FCC certification details reveal that the Galaxy M15 5G will support the 5G band n66, alongside dual-band Wi-Fi (5GHz and 2.4GHz) and Bluetooth functionality. Additionally, the device is listed with a battery model EB-BM156ABY, indicating it will feature 25W fast charging and a large battery capacity, speculated to be around 5,880mAh, possibly rounded up to 6,000mAh for extended use.

According to leaks, the Galaxy M15 5G is expected to run on Android 14, providing users with the latest operating system right out of the box. The device might share similarities with the Galaxy A15, which includes a 6.5-inch Super AMOLED display with FHD+ resolution and a 90Hz refresh rate, powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 6100+ SoC. It could offer up to 8GB of RAM and 256GB of internal storage, ensuring smooth performance and ample storage space.

Camera expectations for the M15 5G are high, with predictions pointing towards a setup similar to the A15, featuring a 50MP primary sensor complemented by a 5MP ultrawide lens and a 2MP macro lens.

Previously, the smartphone has cleared many regional certifications from Bureau of Indian Standards, SafetyKorea, Dekra (Europe), and more. This indicates that the brand might be planning for a global launch of the Galaxy M15 5G very soon.

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Sennheiser ACCENTUM Plus wireless headphones arrive in European markets

By

Sudhanshu

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Feb 20, 2024

Sennheiser‘s latest ACCENTUM Plus headphones are now available in the European market, following their unveiling at CES 2024. These headphones can be purchased directly from Sennheiser or through retailers such as Amazon.

Sennheiser ACCENTUM Plus specs, features & pricing:

The design of the ACCENTUM Plus prioritizes comfort and practicality, featuring ear cushions made of soft material, a silicone headband, and a design that allows for rotation, facilitating easier carrying. The headphones are equipped with touch controls for straightforward operation and include dual microphone technology to enhance the clarity of calls.

The sound quality of the ACCENTUM Plus is powered by the SYS32 transducer and a 37mm dynamic driver, characteristics of Sennheiser’s commitment to superior audio. Users can tailor their listening experience with a 5-band equalizer included in the headphones.

Key features include adaptive noise cancellation technology, which adjusts to ambient noise levels for an immersive listening experience. They also have an automatic wind protection mode and a transparent listening mode for safety and awareness.

The ACCENTUM Plus is notable for its long battery life of 50 hours and a rapid charging feature that gives 5 hours of playback with just 10 minutes of charging. They support Bluetooth 5.2 connectivity and are compatible with various codecs, including SBC, AAC, aptX, and aptX adaptive.

The dual-microphone setup aims to minimize background noise during calls, ensuring clear voice communication. The headphones are available in black and white and are priced at 229.90 euros.

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Apple rumored to double down on foldable iPhone, Vision Pro team joins development

By

Soumyakanti

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Feb 20, 2024

Rumors have long swirled around Apple‘s potential development of a foldable iPhone, met with both skepticism and anticipation. However, a recent report from the Korean website Alpha Biz has brought new excitement to these rumors, suggesting Apple is not just exploring but actively pursuing this innovative idea.

foldable-iphone-concept — Credit: 9to5Mac

Report Says Vision Pro Team Joins Foldable iPhone Development

According to the report, Apple may be eyeing a release as soon as September 2026, with an ambitious target of shipping 50 million units in the first year alone. This target far exceeds the current market size for foldable devices, indicating Apple’s confidence in the project.

To achieve this, Apple is reportedly drawing on the expertise of key personnel from the Apple Vision Pro team, known for their advanced knowledge in display technology. This internal collaboration, especially with a team that’s not due for another product release for at least 18 months, highlights Apple’s strategic approach to overcoming previous hurdles, such as display durability concerns. The report notes that advancements in foldable display durability, like Samsung’s recent achievement of MIL-STD 810G certification, provide a positive outlook for the project’s success.

The speculation includes two types of foldable prototypes: a clamshell design akin to the Galaxy Z Flip and an inward-folding device resembling a compact iPad with an 8-inch screen. The inclination might be towards the larger, inward-folding model due to its potentially greater durability, thanks to a thicker design.

However, the journey to a foldable iPhone is not without challenges. Persistent rumors of display issues and the high costs associated with foldable technology could make pricing a significant hurdle. Despite facing obstacles, the report indicates that Apple is fully committed to releasing a foldable iPhone. Although the suggested 2026 launch date may appear ambitious compared to earlier reports.

Apple‘s cautious yet innovative approach to technology suggests it aims to refine the foldable concept thoroughly before its launch. By addressing the industry’s current challenges, Apple may offer a unique and premium foldable experience, positioning itself as a major player in this emerging market segment.

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Apple’s Smart Ring Might Be Closer to Launch than We Think, Rumor States

By

Anubhav

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Feb 20, 2024

Samsung recently teased something really cool called the Galaxy Ring, making a lot of people excited about what’s next in tech. Samsung’s Global Head of B2B Wearable/ IoT/ Accessory Daniel Seung Lee shared on LinkedIn that the new health and wellness wearable product is launching in the second half of the year. Now, it looks like Apple doesn’t want to be left behind. There’s talk that Apple is working on its own smart ring, and it might show up sooner than we think.

Apple has previously filed some patents for a ring-like wearable device

A report from ETNews shared some insider info saying Apple is pretty close to revealing this new gadget. After Samsung‘s announcement, it seems like Apple is ready to jump in too. They’ve been working on this idea for a while, with a bunch of patents filed that show they’re serious about making it happen.

Apple Smart Ring — Image Credits: Antonio Uquiche

The smart ring market isn’t big yet, but it’s expected to grow a lot. Experts think it could go from being worth $20 million in 2023 to $200 million by 2031. That’s a huge jump! Smart rings offer several advantages over smartwatches, primarily due to their more compact and less intrusive design. They’re lightweight and more discreet, making them easier to wear all day and night without discomfort. This subtlety is ideal for continuous health monitoring and sleep tracking without the bulkiness of a watch. Additionally, smart rings can provide more specialized sensors closer to the skin for accurate readings, and their simplicity allows for a focus on specific functionalities like fitness tracking, notifications, and contactless payments,

Even though we’re not sure when Apple’s smart ring will come out, it’s clear they’ve been thinking about this for a long time. With the smart ring market getting ready to grow, it’ll be interesting to see what Apple comes up with.

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Apple Overtakes Samsung in the EU Smartphone Market to Grab Top Spot

By

Anubhav

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Feb 20, 2024

The tides have turned in the European smartphone market as Apple clinched the top spot, edging out Samsung after a prolonged game of cat and mouse. The holiday quarter of 2023 marked an important moment for Apple, as it saw a modest year-on-year growth, shipping 12.4 million units. This achievement ended a streak of seven quarters where Samsung led the pack.

Apple shipped 12.4 million smartphone units in the holiday quarter of 2023

This shift at the top is not just a story of Apple’s success but also reflects broader market dynamics. Overall, smartphone shipments in Europe dipped by 3% to 37.8 million units in the fourth quarter of 2023. Samsung, despite facing a 12% decline to 10.8 million units, managed to hold its ground, thanks in part to its robust S-series and mid-range A-series.

The competition doesn’t end there. Xiaomi, Motorola, and Honor also made their presence felt, with Motorola and Honor posting remarkable year-on-year growth rates of 73% and 116%, respectively. Yet, it was Apple’s high-end models, especially the iPhone 15 Pro, that captured nearly 40% of the market, a record share for premium smartphones in Europe.

Analysts point to a growing trend towards high-end devices and note Apple’s strategic moves to capitalize on upcoming refresh cycles. Collaborations with financial institutions like Santander in Spain are part of Apple’s strategy to widen its market reach. With predictions of single-digit growth for the European smartphone market in 2024, the emphasis is increasingly on enhancing user experience through on-device AI, personalization, and seamless ecosystem integration.

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China-based Startup Moonshot AI Secures a Whopping US$ 1 Billion in Funding

By

Anubhav

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Feb 20, 2024

Moonshot AI, a new player from Beijing in the field of artificial intelligence, has just received a massive $1 billion boost. This investment, led by the well-known Alibaba and the venture capital firm HongShan, is one of many reminders of the increasing interest in AI companies similar to OpenAI. With this recent funding, Moonshot AI’s value has jumped to $2.5 billion, showcasing the tech world’s confidence in its potential.

Alibaba and HongShan helped Moonshot AI’s value to hit $2.5 billion

The company has quickly made a name for itself, especially with the introduction of its smart chatbot, Kimi Chat, last October. This chatbot, powered by Moonshot’s own advanced language model, can understand and process a huge amount of text, making conversations with it more natural and engaging for users.

This huge financial milestone for Moonshot AI is part of a larger trend in China, where there’s a noticeable rush to support AI startups. In fact, China led the world in investing in this sector in the early part of 2023. The country has become a hotbed for AI innovation, with Moonshot AI at the forefront of this movement.

Behind Moonshot AI’s success is its founder, Yang Zhilin, a graduate of the prestigious Tsinghua University, who later earned his Ph.D. in the US. Yang’s ambition is to push the boundaries of how AI can interact with large amounts of text, potentially changing how we use technology in our daily lives.

However, not everyone sees the rapid expansion of AI technologies as a positive development. Some industry leaders, like Baidu‘s Robin Li, argue that China may be investing too much in AI models without focusing enough on practical applications that could benefit from these technologies. Despite such concerns, Moonshot AI’s recent funding round is a clear signal that the company, and China as a whole, is becoming a significant force in the global AI landscape.

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Unveiling the Haylou RS5 with 2.01″ AMOLED Display and Health Monitoring Suite

By

Joane

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Feb 20, 2024

Haylou’s latest release, the Haylou RS5 smartwatch, represents a fusion of style and innovation in the ever-changing world of wearable tech. With its sleek design and advanced features, the RS5 reflects Haylou’s dedication to enhancing users’ lives by promoting health and connectivity.

At the heart of the Haylou RS5 lies a stunning 2.01″ AMOLED Boundless View display, offering users an immersive visual experience. With vibrant colors, exceptional clarity, and smooth navigation, this ultra-thin display sets a new standard for smartwatch visuals, elevating the user experience to unprecedented levels of excellence.

Crafted from premium aircraft-grade metal with meticulous precision, the Haylou RS5 boasts an aerospace-quality metallic bezel that seamlessly blends lightweight design with durability and elegance. Weighing just 51g and with a thickness of approximately 10.5mm, the RS5 strikes the perfect balance between style and functionality, making it the ideal companion for any occasion.

With over 100 personalized watch faces and two colorful strap options in silicone and woven styles, the Haylou RS5 offers unparalleled customization, allowing users to express their unique style and personality. Whether you’re heading to the gym or a night out on the town, the RS5 effortlessly adapts to suit your lifestyle, ensuring you always look and feel your best.

Beyond its stunning design and customizable features, the Haylou RS5 is equipped with a comprehensive health monitoring suite designed to prioritize your well-being. From continuous blood oxygen saturation monitoring to automatic stress tracking and heart rate monitoring, the RS5 keeps a vigilant eye on your health 24/7, providing you with detailed insights into your sleep patterns and overall wellness.

Whether you’re a novice looking to kickstart your fitness journey or a seasoned enthusiast striving for new personal bests, the Haylou RS5 is the ultimate companion on the path to wellness. With its focus on health data and fitness tracking, the RS5 empowers users to take control of their health and achieve their goals, one step at a time.

Availability and Pricing

The Haylou RS5 smartwatch will be available in Black and Silver variants, with an initial launch price of $39.99 on AliExpress. The launch event will commence on February 27th at 00:00 PT and will conclude on March 4th at 23:59:59 PT. For more information about the Haylou RS5 smartwatch and other innovative products from Haylou, visit the official website.

About Haylou

As a global leader in smart wearable devices, Haylou is dedicated to pushing the boundaries of innovation with its range of innovative smartwatches and wireless earbuds. Renowned for its cost-effective, feature-packed solutions, Haylou enhances the daily lives of users around the world, resonating with health and fitness enthusiasts alike.

Samsung foldable display earns military-grade durability certification

By

Rajesh Regmi

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Feb 20, 2024

Samsung Display has made a significant advancement in the durability of its foldable technology. The company’s 7-inch foldable panel, featured in its latest generation of foldable smartphones, has successfully passed the MIL-STD 810G durability tests.

These tests, established by the U.S. Department of Defense, rigorously assess equipment’s resilience in extreme conditions. Samsung Display’s achievement marks the first time a foldable panel has earned this certification.

Independent safety science expert, UL Solutions, put the panel through a series of trials designed to simulate harsh environments. As per Samsung, the foldable display demonstrated remarkable resilience under the following conditions:

Extreme Temperatures: The panel maintained functionality after being exposed to freezing temperatures (-10 degrees Celsius) while covered in a layer of ice. It also withstood rapid temperature fluctuations between -32 and 63 degrees Celsius.
Shock Resistance: The display was dropped repeatedly from a height of 1.22 meters (standard phone-use height) in various orientations without malfunctioning. Additionally, it withstood forces up to 10.5 times Earth’s gravity, similar to those experienced during astronaut training.

This certification reinforces Samsung’s position within the foldable display market.

Jo Yong-Seok, head of marketing for Samsung Display’s Small to Medium Size Business Unit, noted, “Through this military spec certification, it has been confirmed that Samsung Display maintains a firm technological lead in the foldable display market, which has become the next-generation form factor. Foldables are moving beyond the prejudice of being less durable, and we expect foldable panels to be utilized in a wider variety of devices and environments.”

While foldable phones often have a reputation for being fragile, Samsung is actively working to make its devices more durable. They were the first to introduce an IP water-resistance rating to foldable, and now they’ve earned military-grade certification for their displays. This, honestly, is a major step forward for foldable technology!

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(Via)

OnePlus Watch 2 Arriving Globally On February 26, Design & Pre-Reservation Benefits Revealed

By

Viraj Gawde

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Feb 20, 2024

Just yesterday, OnePlus teased the arrival of its second-generation smartwatch. Now, the brand’s India branch has officially confirmed a host of details about the wearable device including its name, launch date, and more. OnePlus looks all set to make a comeback in the smartwatch market after nearly a three-year hiatus.

OnePlus Watch 2 launch date confirmed, key details teased

The OnePlus Watch 2 is set to launch in India on February 26 at 8:30 pm IST. The global launch is also happening on the same day in the US at 10 am EST. Interested customers in India can purchase a pre-reserve pass at Rs 99 and get a guaranteed Rs 1,000 discount along with free Bullets Wireless Z2 ANC on the Watch 2. The early bird coupon and trade-in program is also available for US buyers which can be checked here.

The OnePlus Watch 2 looks similar to the leaked renders. It has a protrusion on the right side housing a rotating crown and a physical button. The smartwatch is confirmed to sport a stainless steel unibody and sapphire crystal protection for a premium finish. It will be offered in Black Steel and Radiant Steel colors. The upcoming offering seems to have a thick casing. OnePlus is also promising a long battery life. It is rated to last 100 hours in smart mode.

OnePlus President and COO Kinder Liu says that ‘The Watch 2 indicates our determination to transform from “Flagship Killer” to “Ecosystem builder”. It will provide you with experience that’s not just improved, but transformed’

It’s just a matter of days until we learn the full details of the OnePlus Watch 2 officially.

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