TSMC and Toyota Gear Up for New Semiconductor Plant in Japan with Investment Cap of $5.26 Billion

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Feb 7, 2024

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co (TSMC) is taking a big step forward in Japan, announcing the construction of a second semiconductor plant. With Toyota Motor Corp coming on board as a new investor, the companies are clear that there will be signals a significant shift in the landscape of global chip manufacturing.

Construction will start later this year, and the factory will be operational by 2027

TSMC, recognized as the leading contract chip maker globally, is expanding its presence in Kumamoto Prefecture, Japan. This initiative is a strategic move, aligning with Prime Minister Fumio Kishida’s vision of enhancing Japan’s semiconductor production capabilities.

The collaboration between TSMC and Toyota is noteworthy. It highlights a cross-industry effort to strengthen the semiconductor supply chain, a critical component for a wide range of technologies from vehicles to smartphones. The investment, capped at US$5.26 billion for the new facility, underscores the importance of advancing semiconductor technology, with the addition of 6- and 7-nanometre process technologies at the new site.

Scheduled to start construction by the end of this year and operational by 2027, this project is more than a manufacturing expansion. It’s a commitment to innovation and technological advancement, with the potential to produce over 100,000 12-inch wafers monthly and create more than 3,400 high-tech jobs.

This development comes at a time when countries are keenly aware of the need for a robust semiconductor supply chain, highlighted by recent global shortages that impacted everything from automotive to consumer electronics.

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3 Million Smart Toothbrushes Got Hacked in a DDoS Attack

By

Anubhav

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Feb 7, 2024

No one could have ever imagined they would read a headline like this, yet here we are. Apparently, smart toothbrushes are becoming the latest recruits in the arsenal of cybercriminals. About 3 million of these everyday bathroom gadgets have been hijacked and used to flood online services with traffic, rendering them inaccessible. An unexpected twist in the sector of Internet of Things (IoT) security was highlighted by a recent report, which pointed out the vulnerabilities in seemingly harmless devices.

This unusual attack targeted a Swiss Company’s website

The incident involved smart toothbrushes being manipulated to target a Swiss company’s website, causing it to crash for several hours and resulting in significant financial damage. This scenario underscores a critical message: any device that connects to the internet can potentially be exploited for malicious purposes, from baby monitors to electric toothbrushes.

The Swiss branch of cybersecurity firm Fortinet has been at the forefront of sounding the alarm on this issue. Stefan Züger, from Fortinet, emphasized the importance of recognizing the risks associated with internet-connected devices. His team’s experiment, which involved exposing an unprotected computer to the internet, saw it compromised in just 20 minutes, illustrating the speed at which cyber threats can materialize.

The proliferation of IoT devices in homes and businesses increases the avenues through which attackers can execute distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks. Devices ranging from routers and surveillance cameras to, now, toothbrushes, can be commandeered to disrupt online services.

To combat this threat, experts recommend keeping the software of all networked devices up to date with automatic security patches. Additionally, the use of antivirus software and monitoring for unusual spikes in energy and data usage can help detect and prevent malware infections.

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OnePlus Buds 3 Achieves Record Day-One Sales in India

By

Sudhanshu

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Feb 7, 2024

OnePlus has recently introduced the OnePlus Buds 3 to the global and Indian markets. On its first day of sales in India, these True Wireless Stereo (TWS) earphones recorded the highest day-one sales figures for any TWS product by OnePlus.

This could not have started better! Keep checking https://t.co/zMYReE8o6j for more> pic.twitter.com/sWn8awafHe
— OnePlus India (@OnePlus_IN) February 6, 2024

The OnePlus 12R, which also saw significant demand during its initial sale on February 6, sold out in mere hours. Similar to the OnePlus 12R, it is highly likely that the combination of amazing features at a reasonable price point is what has made these earbuds so popular. The earbuds provide 49dB noise cancellation, as well as LHDC, which is an alternative to LDAC codec, delivering high-quality audio with super low latency.

OnePlus Buds 3 specs:

The OnePlus Buds 3 are designed for comfort and quality audio performance. They feature an ergonomic design with a stem and silicone ear tips suitable for extended use. The earbuds are equipped with 10.4 mm and 6 nm dual drivers, delivering high-quality sound. Additionally, they offer up to 49dB noise cancellation for a disturbance-free audio experience.

Support for high-resolution audio and LHDC 5.0 codec, along with 3D spatial sound effects, further improves the listening experience. The OnePlus Buds 3 also boasts a long battery life, promising up to 44 hours of total playtime. A notable feature is the fast charging capability, which offers 7 hours of playtime with just 10 minutes of charging.

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BYD’s YangWang U7 EV with a 135.5kWh battery and 800km of range revealed

By

Jed John Ikoba

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Feb 7, 2024

Prolific Chinese EV manufacturer BYD is working on the YangWang U7, a sedan packing a 135.5kWh battery that delivers up to 800km of range. The new BYD EV will offer two CLTC cruising ranges – 720km and 800km. The new detail was culled from the latest catalog of NEVs exempted from vehicle purchase tax. The catalog was released by the Chinese Ministry of Industry and Information Technology. Recall that the company recently announced the YangWang U8.

The U7 is being prepared for its market launch in China, having earlier applied for the sales license last month. BYD is the world’s biggest new energy vehicle maker and the YangWang brand is a luxury unit of the carmaker. YangWang currently sells the UB EREV offroader and the U7 will expand the YangWang portfolio. YangWang is also reportedly working on two other models apart from the U7. These are the U9 sports car and a fastback crossover whose name has not been revealed.

The Ministry’s catalog indicates that the YangWang U7 has an LFP battery manufactured by BYD’s FinDreams with a capacity of 135.5kWh. The battery weighs 903kg which translates to about a third of the electric sedan’s full weight of 3095kg. The substantial weight of the battery is due to its chemistry and configuration. There are several other batteries with higher capacity and less weight than the U7. The difference in the CLTC cruise ranges is due to the drag coefficient, as the curb weight and combined power output are similar. The U7 comes with four electric motors with a total power output of 960kW and a top speed of 270km/h.

The YangWang U7 will come with optional side-view cameras in place of traditional mirrors. It will also feature aerodynamic wheel covers and optional bumpers. With its full complement of aerodynamic elements in place, the U7 can achieve a drag coefficient of 0.195 Cd. It runs on the e4 platform (also called the YiSiFang) and implements the brand’s three-screen layout. The interior offers either four or five seats and the dimensions of the U7 are 5265 x 1998 x 1517 mm with a wheelbase of 3160mm.

Pricing & Availability

The YangWang U7 is expected to debut in China later this year but the release specifics and pricing details are lacking at this time.

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Reebok unveils upcoming electric bike models with impressive designs & features

By

Jed John Ikoba

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Feb 7, 2024

Renowned sporting accessories manufacturer Reebok has showcased its new lineup of e-bikes and e-scooters. The range of e-mobility products was highlighted in a new catalog that also included accessories for the new lineup.

It is not known when the models will hit the market

The e-mobility space has a wide array of players and Reebok is making inroads into the segment. Reebok is known for its range of footwear and clothing but it launched its e-mobility arm last December. This was during the ISPO Munich and Asia Kingston is the licensee that will manufacture the e-bikes and e-scooters. The license to Asia Kingston is for five years and the images of the new lineup were given by Asia Kingston.

Asia Kingston is a Hong Kong-based company that has a growing repertoire of high-profile companies under its portfolio. The A-list clients of Asia Kingston include NASA, Alfa Romeo, Red Bull Racing, and Rover. The new Reebok offerings were designed in Europe and are offered in four categories namely Performance, Fitness, Commuter, and Freetime. The performance category features the RK Pro 29, an electric mountain bike with full suspension. It has a Shimano 12-speed groupset, a Samsung cell battery, and a MIVICE x700 motor situated at the bottom bracket area. There are three other variants of the RK Pro with a lower performance and price rating.

Reebok is also offering hybrid bikes in the lineup under the fitness and commuter categories. There are multiple step-through frame options for the model. Reebok is also offering a folding bike in the lineup – RK-Fun 20 Folding Full. It has Kenda 20-inch fat tires that are primed for adventure trails. Reebok is also offering road bikes in the new range of products. The RK-Fit Road comes with a deep seat tube and seat post. It is equipped with a Bafang motor and Shimano 2×8-speed groupset. The road bike comes with Tektro mechanical disc brakes which seems underwhelming for an electric bike.

The Reebok lineup also includes a selection of e-scooters with an exciting array of models such as the Urban Street Classic, Urban Sport, and Urban Pro Speed. Reebok also showcased a range of helmets. The Asia Kingston catalog did not provide pricing and release information for the new models. Reebok has also not provided an official clarification of the release of the models.

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Anbernic RG556 gaming handheld with a 5.48″ AMOLED screen unveiled for $174.99

By

Jed John Ikoba

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Feb 7, 2024

The Anbernic RG556 gaming handheld has been unveiled. The new model is seen as a rival to the Retroid Pocket 4 gaming handheld and comes with some decent features. It is a relatively powerful gaming handheld and comes with hall effect triggers, joysticks, as well as a gyroscope.

The launch details for the Anbernic RG556 are coming on the heels of the revelation of the PS2 emulation and Android gaming performance levels. The RG556 was the subject of a recent leak but Anbernic confirmed that the model will not be available in a white colorway but rather black and translucent blue options. The earlier leak had pointed to a glossy white finish for the RG556. The new gaming handheld features either 128GB or 256GB MicroSD card options.

The Anbernic RG556 is equipped with a 5.48-inch AMOLED display with a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels. It has a Unisoc T820 chipset with 8GB LPDDR4x RAM. The new Anbernic gaming handheld comes with a 5,500mAh battery and weighs 331g. It has dimensions of 223 x 90 x 15mm. The Anbernic RG556 features hall effect triggers, hall effect joysticks, and a six-axis gyroscope for a solid compact gaming experience. The handheld will compete against the Retroid Pocket 4 and bear similarities in many aspects. The Retroid Pocket 4 is however slightly more powerful than the Anbernic RG556.

The RG556 gaming handheld runs on Android 13 and can connect to an external display via its single USB-C port. The USB-C port also serves as the charging port for the handheld and for connecting an external display using the DisplayPort Alt Mode protocol.

Pricing & Availability

The Anbernic RG556 is being sold at $174.99 for the barebones model and up to $204.99 for the top MicroSD card option. The earliest deliveries of the new gaming handheld will be around March 5, 2024.

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YouTube App for Apple Vision Pro is on the roadmap, says company

By

Soumyakanti

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Feb 6, 2024

YouTube plans to create a dedicated app for Apple’s Vision Pro platform, responding to the growing VR and AR landscape. This decision follows the launch of the Apple Vision Pro App Store with 600 exclusive apps but lacks apps from prominent content providers like Netflix, YouTube, and Spotify.

YouTube App Is Under Development, Until Then Use Safari or Juno

Initially, it was reported that there were no plans for a YouTube app compatible with Vision Pro. However, this changed when YouTube spokesperson Jessica Gibby confirmed to The Verge that a Vision Pro app is indeed on their roadmap, possibly influenced by the high demand, particularly from Juno users. Although no release timeline was provided, YouTube is currently prioritizing an improved YouTube experience on Safari.

Apple‘s latest venture into spatial computing has received mixed reactions regarding its support for immersive content. Currently, Vision Pro users can access YouTube content through Safari or third-party applications like “Juno” by Apollo developer Christian Selig. However, these methods do not fully support YouTube’s extensive library of 360-degree and 3D videos, citing limitations in delivering a high-quality spatial experience and potential motion discomfort issues.

Apple has indicated that it is actively working on improving support for WebXR content, which could enable the viewing of VR videos through Safari in the future. However, it’s worth noting that WebXR is a relatively new standard and does not fully harness the capabilities of the Vision Pro and visionOS. Apple is actively involved in contributing to the development of WebXR standards to enhance spatial computing experiences on the web.

As the Vision Pro gains popularity, it is anticipated that more developers will be motivated to create VR content for the headset. Given the significance of content consumption for VR headsets, it is likely that major developers will soon launch their apps on the Vision Pro App Store, seizing the opportunity presented by the growing user base.

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Elista enters the AC market in India with three new models

By

Sudhanshu

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Feb 6, 2024

Elista, an Indian electronics manufacturer known for its TVs and speakers has entered the air conditioner market in the country. This move comes after it expanded its portfolio by entering the smartwatch market back in December 2023. The company has launched a series of air conditioners, including 4-in-1 convertible, inverter, and fixed speed models, aligned with the ‘Made in India’ initiative. These products are designed to address the cooling needs of Indian consumers, especially with the approaching summer season.

The newly introduced air conditioners by Elista feature Turbo Cool Power Chill mode for quick cooling to combat the intense heat of Indian summers. These units are equipped with Blue Fin Technology to protect the coils, 100% copper condensers, and a C-Shaped evaporator design that enhances the efficiency of heat transfer.

Pawan Kumar, CEO of Elista, emphasized that the launch signifies the company’s efforts to cater to the diverse needs of Indian consumers through technologically advanced solutions and competitive pricing. The air conditioners boast several key features, including an anti-rust design, advanced inverter technology for efficient cooling, stabilizer-free operation, and are manufactured under the ‘Make in India’ initiative.

The air conditioners are designed for energy efficiency, featuring a chipset that minimizes power consumption to 0.5W in standby mode. The use of R-32 Refrigerant and the innovative evaporator design offer effective cooling while being cost-efficient.

The ACs also focus on durability, with an anti-rust design and features to prevent dew formation. The inverter models come with a 10-year warranty on the compressor, and the fixed-speed model offers a 5-year compressor warranty.

For health and comfort, Elista’s air conditioners include HealthMax technology with an anti-virus HD filter, sleep mode, and auto mode to maintain optimal room temperatures. Additional features include auto-restart, a 24-hour timer, and self-diagnosis functionality for convenience.

Pricing & availability

The air conditioners are competitively priced, with the 1.5 Ton Inverter model available at Rs. 49,990, the 1 Ton Inverter model at Rs. 44,490, and the 1.5 Ton Fixed Speed model at Rs. 52,990. These products are now available through Elista’s network of channel partners across India.

Apple Vision Pro Passwords Unchangeable Without Apple Store Visit

By

Oğuz Çakır

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Feb 6, 2024

Apple Vision Pro has been released with a price tag of $3,499. Undoubtedly, the device has managed to capture the attention of technology enthusiasts worldwide. This technology, which merges the real and virtual worlds, has piqued the interest of many. However, the $3,499 price is quite substantial, and it’s beneficial to be aware of every detail before spending such an amount. For instance, did you know that you can’t reset the Apple Vision Pro password without visiting an Apple store? Here are the details…

Why Apple Vision Pro Passwords Require a Store Visit

If you often struggle to remember your passwords, Apple Vision Pro may not be the best option for you. Currently, there’s no way to reset the password for the mixed reality headset without going to the Apple Store. If you forget the device’s password or need to reset it, you’ll have to either go to the Apple Store in person or send the device to Apple, even if you don’t do it yourself.

Apple Vision Pro is still a new product for all of us. Therefore, the company is keeping security measures at a maximum and aims for it to be a highly secure device. Hence, there might be a simple security concern behind this move. Nevertheless, considering how often users forget their passwords, there is a high probability that Apple may backtrack on this issue soon.

However, it should be noted that the only detail you need to know before paying $3,499 for Vision Pro is not just that you have to take it to the Apple Store to reset the password. This first-generation headset is also quite fragile. For instance, a recent iFixit teardown revealed a complex design and highlighted the difficulty of repairs. Additionally, we know that the laminated front glass easily scratches and costs $799 to repair. Therefore, it’s advisable to be aware of all the negative aspects before making such an expenditure.

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Sennheiser Accentum Plus wireless headphones available for pre-order in India

By

Sudhanshu

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Feb 6, 2024

Sennheiser has announced the availability of its Accentum Plus wireless over-the-ear headphones in India, following their global unveiling at CES 2024 and subsequent launch in China. Customers in India can now pre-book these headphones, benefiting from a Rs. 1,000 discount on pre-orders.

Sennheiser Accentum Plus Wireless Headphones specs:

The Accentum Plus headphones are designed for both comfort and functionality, featuring soft ear cushions, a silicone headband for ease of wear, and a rotatable design for enhanced portability. They include intuitive touch controls for simplified operation and dual microphone beamforming technology to improve call clarity.

Central to the headphones’ audio performance is the SYS32 transducer and a 37mm dynamic driver unit, delivering the high-quality sound Sennheiser is recognized for. The device offers a customizable sound experience through a built-in 5-band equalizer.

Innovative adaptive noise cancellation technology is a key feature of the headphones, designed to provide an immersive listening experience by adjusting to ambient noise levels. The headphones also come with an automatic wind protection mode and a transparent listening mode for situational awareness.

With a 50-hour battery life and fast charging capability—5 hours of playback from just 10 minutes of charging—the Accentum Plus headphones are built for extended use. Connectivity is provided via Bluetooth 5.2, with support for SBC, AAC, aptX, and aptX adaptive codecs.

The dual-microphone setup in the headphones aims to reduce background noise during calls, supported by noise reduction technology. Specifications include a microphone frequency response of 50 Hz to 8 kHz, ensuring clear voice communications.

Pricing & availability

Priced originally at Rs. 19,999, the Sennheiser Accentum Plus headphones are offered in White and Black, with current discounts of 20% and 14% on Amazon India, priced at Rs. 15,990 and Rs. 17,160, respectively. The pre-booking option is available for the Black variant, with both color models set to be fully available on February 13, 2024.

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Redmi A3 renders and price point leaked ahead of Indian launch

By

Sudhanshu

-

Feb 6, 2024

Xiaomi is preparing to launch the Redmi A3, an entry-level smartphone, in India. Information provided by 91Mobiles Hindi, courtesy of tipster Paras Guglani, suggests that the base variant of the Redmi A3 will be priced under Rs 7,000, and a higher-end variant is expected to come in under Rs 9,000.

The design and specifications of the Redmi A3 had previously been leaked, and a recent report also revealed a live image of the device boasting a shiny, glass-like back. The device is expected to feature a waterdrop-style notch and thin bezels on the top and sides. It is set to be available in three color options: Green, Blue, and Black. The back of the phone is expected to have a circular camera module housing dual cameras and an LED flash.

The display is expected to measure 6.71 inches and use LCD technology, giving it access to 90Hz refresh rate and 400 nits peak brightness. The leaked retail packaging images indicate a higher-end model with 4GB of RAM and 128GB of storage. Additional expected features of the Redmi A3 include a MediaTek chipset, a 13MP primary camera accompanied by an AI lens, an 8MP front camera, a 5,000mAh battery with 10W charging, and Android 13 Go Edition as the operating system.

As of now, Xiaomi has not officially confirmed these details. More information is expected to be released by Xiaomi, and further updates will be provided as they become available.

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OnePlus exec explains why the OnePlus 12 has 4 years of software updates

By

Erencan Yılmaz

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Feb 6, 2024

OnePlus 12 was unveiled in 2023 and came with quite a lot of improvements compared to the OnePlus 11, particularly in the camera and battery department. However, when it comes to software updates, OnePlus is still not very active against other OEMs. Google Pixel 8 Pro and S24 Ultra will receive software updates for 7 years, however OnePlus 12 will only receive updates for 4-5 years.

OnePlus claims users don’t need long-term software support

For years, one of the worst things about Android devices compared to iOS devices has been the lack of long-term software updates. Apple has always continued to update iPhones for a long time. So much so that the iPhone X introduced in 2017 is still receiving security patches. Google and Samsung promise long software support, making them strong competition to Apple in the Android world.

OnePlus on the other hand, things are a little different. OnePlus’ president Kinder Liu explained in an exclusive interview with Tom’s Guide why OnePlus 12 will have 4 years of software support. Liu wants you to imagine that your phone looks like a sandwich!

Kinder Liu explains why the OnePlus 12 won’t have 7 years of software support: ‘It’s not just software update policies that are important to the user; it’s the fluency of your phone’s user experience too.’

Liu also stated: ‘Imagine your phone is a sandwich,” he said. “Some manufacturers are now saying that the filling in their sandwich — their phone’s software — will still be good to eat in seven years’ time. But what they’re not telling you is that the bread in the sandwich — the user experience — might be moldy after four years. Suddenly a seven-year software update policy doesn’t matter, because the rest of your experience with the phone is terrible.‘

OnePlus’s president, Kinder Liu, points out with this statement that being able to use the phone for a long time is more important than long software support. Liu also emphasizes that tests simulating many years of use on OnePlus phones have been conducted and that OnePlus phones can last for a long time.

Kinder Liu makes a valid point, but phones released recently now feature far better technology, such as more durable UFS storage chips rather than eMMC. Furthermore, each new phone released has only slight upgrades over its predecessor nowadays, so OEMs would rather offer more software support and release phones less frequently.

YouTube’s Latest Experiment is Color-Coded Video Feeds

By

Anubhav

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Feb 6, 2024

YouTube is shaking things up with a colorful new experiment. Imagine opening your YouTube app and being greeted not just by the usual mix of videos but by streams of content curated by color. That’s right, YouTube is currently trying out a feature that sorts videos into red, blue, and green feeds, aiming to offer a unique and visually engaging browsing experience.

This experiment is available only to a few Android & iOS devices

Reports from 9to5Google and user discussions on Lemmy shed some light on this concept, where users are prompted to select a color theme for their video feed. This approach is still in the testing phase, available to a handful of users on both Android and iOS devices. YouTube’s own Allison Toh has confirmed the experiment, though the reasons behind this move and its potential rollout remain a mystery.

The idea is simple yet intriguing. When you choose a color, a new feed springs up, adding a splash of your selected hue to your homepage without overtaking your existing feed. The specifics of how videos are chosen for each color filter are a bit of a puzzle, with the selection seemingly based on the dominant colors in video thumbnails or possibly even the video content itself.

This experiment is more than just a quirky feature because it taps into the broader marketing practice of color harmony, a tactic seen across various industries, from fashion to cosmetics, to create visually appealing content sequences. YouTube’s color feeds could also serve as a tool for understanding user preferences related to color, offering insights that go beyond simple content choices. As this experiment unfolds, it’ll be interesting to see how color influences our content consumption and whether YouTube will roll this feature out to all users in the future.

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OnePlus 12R Sells Out Within Hours of Open Sale in India

By

Sudhanshu

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Feb 6, 2024

Today marked a significant milestone for OnePlus in India with the sale of the OnePlus 12R, which saw an extraordinary response from customers. The stock was exhausted within a few hours of the sale starting at 12 PM IST on Amazon India and other platforms. A major attraction in this initial sale was the offer of a complimentary OnePlus Buds Z2.

A shoutout to our community for the amazing response on the OnePlus 12R Sale! We are sold out for now, but we will see you again on February 13. pic.twitter.com/IputqevQnH
— OnePlus India (@OnePlus_IN) February 6, 2024

OnePlus has announced the next sale for the OnePlus 12R on February 13th. However, this subsequent sale will not include the free OnePlus Buds Z2. Instead, a Rs 1,000 discount will be available for ICICI and OneCard users. The brief 3-4 hour window for the first sale has been a topic of discussion among consumers, with some suggesting that OnePlus could have extended the offer period. Currently, there is no official data on the number of units sold during this initial sale.

Delving into the specifications, the OnePlus 12R boasts a 6.78-inch curved-edge AMOLED display, protected by Gorilla Glass Victus 2 and featuring an in-screen fingerprint scanner. The display offers 1.5K resolution, up to a 120Hz refresh rate, and brightness levels reaching 4,500 nits. Running on Android 14 and OxygenOS 1, the device is set to receive three major Android OS upgrades and four years of security updates.

Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip, the OnePlus 12R includes LPDDR5x RAM, UFS 3.1 / UFS 4.0 storage, and a robust 5,500mAh battery supporting 100W charging. Photography enthusiasts will appreciate the 16-megapixel front camera and a rear triple camera setup featuring a 50-megapixel (Sony IMX890) main sensor. Additional features include dual speakers, an IR blaster, NFC, and an IP65-rated chassis, making it a well-rounded device.

OnePlus 12R (Cool Blue, 8GB RAM, 128GB Storage)

Fast & Smooth for years: Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 Mobile Platform, Up to 16GB of LPDDR5X RAM with RAM-Vita – Dual Cryo-velocity VC Cooling System, TÜV SÜD 48-Month Fluency Rating A

Please Note: When you buy something using the links in our articles, we may earn a small commission at no cost to you.

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Apple’s Browser Rule Change Offends Google and Mozilla

By

Anubhav

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Feb 6, 2024

Apple is making some big changes to how browsers work on iPhones and iPads in Europe, and it’s all because of new rules from the European Union. These rules are supposed to help other companies compete better with big ones like Apple. Now, browsers like Chrome and Firefox can use their own technology on iOS devices, but there’s a catch – this is only happening in Europe.

The European Union is responsible for this change.

Google and Mozilla, the companies behind Chrome and Firefox, aren’t too happy about this. They say that by making these changes only in Europe, Apple is making things complicated for them. They’ll have to work on two different versions of their browsers, one for Europe and another for the rest of the world. Mozilla thinks this is unfair and makes it hard for any browser other than Safari to compete.

Apple Fails During the Double 11 promotion, netizen demand refund – Gizmochina

Google’s Chrome team agrees. They think Apple’s not really trying to make it easier for other browsers to compete on iPhones and iPads. Right now, if you download Chrome or Firefox on an iOS device, you’re basically using Safari with a different look. That’s because Apple hasn’t let other browsers use their own tech until now.

People have been complaining about Safari for a while, saying it’s slow to add new features that other browsers have. But Safari is getting better, and having more competition could push it to improve even faster. The problem is, with Apple’s new rules, this competition is only happening in Europe.

Even though these changes are a big deal for Europe, they don’t help everyone else. Google and Mozilla have been getting ready for this by working on their browsers for iOS, hoping to bring new features to users. But with Apple’s restrictions, it looks like the rest of the world will have to wait to see any real change in how they browse the web on their iPhones and iPads.

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Threads is Rising as a Major Contender in Social Media with 130 Million Users

By

Anubhav

-

Feb 6, 2024

Threads, Instagram‘s latest venture, has quickly become a crowd favorite, with Mark Zuckerberg, the CEO of Meta, announcing it has attracted over 130 million monthly users. This impressive growth comes amid the evolving social media landscape following Elon Musk’s takeover of Twitter, now called X. Threads is holding its own in a competitive field that includes Bluesky, Mastodon, and others, showcasing its potential to be a key player.

The question is, can Threads hit the billion-user mark?

Zuckerberg shared that Threads is on a solid growth path, even surpassing the buzz it generated at its launch. This momentum hints at Threads’ potential to hit the billion-user mark, a target Zuckerberg previously mentioned, and this clearly shows confidence in its future.

Meta’s family of apps continues to expand its reach, with billions of people logging in daily across platforms like Facebook, WhatsApp, and Instagram. Threads, in particular, has seen a significant boost in downloads, ranking it among the top apps worldwide in December. This spike in interest can be traced back to Meta’s efforts to integrate Threads more closely with its existing network, encouraging a resurgence in its popularity.

Despite a dip in interest after its initial launch, Threads has bounced back, thanks in part to strategic promotions that have reintroduced the app to a wider audience. Estimates now place its total user base at around 160 million, a figure that speaks to its growing appeal. On the financial front, Meta reported strong earnings, surpassing analyst expectations and announcing its first-ever cash dividend, signaling a period of financial health and optimism for the company.

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Tecno Pova 6 Pro fast charging, storage, & rear design revealed via FCC

By

Sean

-

Feb 6, 2024

The Tecno Pova 6 series announcement is right around the corner. But ahead of the official announcement, the Pova 6 Pro 5G model was spotted on a major certification platform, which revealed some of its key specs and design elements. So let’s have a look.

Tecno Pova 6 Pro visits FCC

The Tecno Pova 6 Pro model surfaced on FCC carrying the TECNO-LI9 model number. Previously, the smartphone was certified on Google Play Console, which revealed its front design. Now, the latest sighting showcases the rear look of the upcoming device. The back seems to feature a flat panel that houses a large camera island that features a dual camera setup and an LED flash module.

The power button and volume rockers can be seen on the right side as well. For storage, the FCC listing confirms that the Tecno Pova 6 Pro 5G will offer up to 12GB of RAM and 256GB of internal storage. The database confirms that it will ship with an adapter with the model number U700TSA. This reveals support for 70W wired fast charging. Based on our previous reports, the Pova 6 Pro is set to be equipped with the MediaTek Dimensity 6080 SoC. It will also run on Android 14 OS out of the box.

The Google Play Console showcased a curved display with a Full HD+ resolution and 480 PPI pixel density as well. Tecno’s Pova 6 series of smartphones will make their debut during the MWC 2024 event, so stick around for more as we will be covering the launch event.

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MicroLED Apple Watch faces delays until after 2026 due to supply chain issues

By

Soumyakanti

-

Feb 6, 2024

Apple‘s plans to transition to Micro LED technology for its Apple Watch series may face delays until after 2027 due to challenges in finalizing the supply chain for the necessary components. This upgrade aims to replace OLED displays in Apple Watch models, offering improved lifespan, brightness, and efficiency.

MicroLED Apple Watch Now Projected to Launch in 2027

Last year, initial reports suggested Apple might introduce Micro LED technology in its Apple Watches by the end of 2024. However, projections have been postponed, and now the expected timeline for this transition is not before the first quarter of 2026, as per market research firm TrendForce.

The primary challenge in Apple’s move to Micro LED technology is the high production costs and lower yield rates. The manufacturing cost for a Micro LED display for the Apple Watch could be as high as $150, in contrast to the current $38 cost for OLED displays. This significant cost difference raises concerns about the retail pricing of future Micro LED Apple Watches, potentially positioning them at a much higher price point compared to current models and even OLED iPhones.

Despite these challenges, Apple’s interest in Micro LED technology is driven by its advantages over OLED, including the potential for enhanced display quality on smaller screens. With a feasible pixel density range of 300-400 PPI, Micro LED offers a suitable upgrade path for the wearable device.

Apple is reported to be collaborating with various suppliers to overcome these obstacles, including Epistar and Osram for wafer and chip production, LuxVue for backplane technology, and LG Display and ITRI for additional componentry. However, without a finalized supply chain, the path to mass production remains uncertain.

As the industry watches Apple’s efforts to innovate within its wearable lineup, the potential shift to Micro LED technology represents a significant investment in the future of smartwatch displays. However, with production costs and supply chain complexities posing significant challenges, consumers may have to wait longer than anticipated for the next big leap in Apple Watch technology.

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(Via)

Game of the Year Elden Ring may get a mobile version from Tencent

By

Sean

-

Feb 6, 2024

The 2023 Game of the Year, Elden Ring, is apparently hitting the mobile gaming market soon. The highly acclaimed title is reportedly getting a mobile version with Tencent being behind the development. This is quite a surprise considering the studio behind it is best known for making hit console and PC video games. So here’s everything you need to know.

An Elden Ring Mobile Game in the works

According to a report from Reuters, China’s Tencent is bringing the thrilling experience of Elden Ring to mobile devices like tablets and smartphones. To recall, Elden Ring is the latest entry in FromSoftware’s popular Souls-like genre. It is a Dark Fantasy based Open World RPG, which saw massive success within the gaming community for its gorgeous visuals, deep mechanics, and challenging boss fights.

Now, it appears that this formula might get translated from a $60 AAA title to a free-to-play mobile game. Of course, this means that microtransactions will likely make an appearance in-game. Unfortunately, this was all the information shared in the report. It is worth noting that news of the Tencent made Elden Ring mobile game arrives soon after the Chinese company halted development of the highly anticipated Nier mobile game.

For those unaware, Tencent reportedly dropped the Nier mobile project since it couldn’t find a monetization model that would let it recover the cost of licensing the franchise from Square Enix. So it remains to be seen if the Elden Ring mobile game actually hits the market. There will likely be some friction with fans of Elden Ring and the Dark Souls series, who may view the mobile version as inferior. This is all we know at the moment, so stay tuned for more updates. Till then, you can check out some of our recent gaming related coverage like Palworld’s record sales and Xbox exclusives possibly releasing on the PS5 soon.

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Realme 12 Pro+ Teased To Launch In A Transparent Back Panel Option

By

Viraj Gawde

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Feb 6, 2024

Realme launched the Realme 12 Pro series smartphones in India last week. The brand revealed that the devices managed to achieve the fastest sales record in the Rs 30,000+ price segment during its early access sale period. The latest devices are set to launch in Realme’s home country later this month. Now, Realme Europe CEO Francis Wong has shared a hands-on image of the Realme 12 Pro+ with a transparent back panel.

Realme 12 Pro+ with transparent back panel teased

Have been using this device for 1 week.
Suggest me where to launch it first. pic.twitter.com/S0Bsg2Bpsj
— Francis Wong (@FrancisRealme) February 4, 2024

The Realme executive has not explicitly revealed the name of the smartphone. From the hands-on image, it appears to be the Realme 12 Pro+. The device has a circular camera module accentuated by Gold color. And it houses three sensors including a periscope lens. The sensor placement is also similar to the 12 Pro+.

The hands-on image reveals the Realme 12 Pro+ with a transparent back panel. The internal components can be seen beneath the camera module and also in the surrounding areas. Meanwhile, the rest of the rear panel does not seem to reveal much internally. Realme could launch this variant of the 12 Pro+ in limited quantities. In his post, Wong asks users to suggest him where to launch it first. We can expect it to be announced in the China market since the official launch is this month.

The Realme 12 Pro+ is offered in Navigator Beige and Submarine Blue color options in India. Core specifications of the device include a 6.67-inch FHD+ curved OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate. It is equipped with a Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 SoC coupled with up to 12GB RAM and 256GB storage. The smartphone is backed by a 5,000mAh battery with support for 67W charging. The device features a 50MP primary camera paired with a 64MP periscope lens, and an 8MP ultra-wide-angle unit.

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