Apple Vision Pro’s laminated front glass scratches very easily but costs $799 (~5,700 Yuan) to replace

By

-

Feb 6, 2024

The much-anticipated Apple Vision Pro has officially launched in the United States, garnering attention from eager users. Initial tests showcased its laminated front glass, which is essentially a plastic layer on top of the glass. While the plastic layer may protect the glass form shattering, its very susceptible to scratches.

Upon scratched, the outer plastic layer will obstruct the view of the cameras through which you see the world

The $3499 Apple Vision Pro starts scratching in level 3!

Youtube creator Jack Nelson from JerryRigEverything shared a teardown video today, focusing on the front glass covering the camera, sensor, and display of the Vision Pro. While laminated glass typically incorporates a plastic layer to enhance impact resistance, the Vision Pro’s design leaves this layer on the outside, making it highly prone to scratches.

Tests employing Mohs hardness testing revealed that tools with a hardness level as low as 2 can leave light scratches on the Vision Pro’s front glass, with level 3 hardness tools causing deeper scratches. This contrasts sharply with most smartphone displays, which typically only show scratches at hardness levels of 6-7.

As a consequence, everyday items such as keys, coins, and even dust pose a significant risk of leaving permanent marks on the Vision Pro’s front glass. To mitigate this issue, Apple includes a special protective case and polishing cloth in the product’s packaging. However, replacement of the front glass comes at a hefty cost of US$799 (~5,700 Yuan), underscoring the severity of potential damage.

Despite this vulnerability, the outer plastic layer does offer an upside: enhanced drop resistance. Drop test conducted by AppleTrack demonstrate that the front glass of the Vision Pro can endure multiple drops before succumbing to breakage, providing reassurance to users concerned about accidental impacts.

While the Apple Vision Pro excels in one aspect, its vulnerability to scratches highlights the importance of proper handling and maintenance of the device. Apple CEO Tim Cook says this ‘special computing‘ device will soon launch in the Chinese market.

Related:

OnePlus president Kinder Liu prioritizes user experience over 7 years of updates

By

Debasish

-

Feb 6, 2024

In the rapidly evolving landscape of smartphone technology, Samsung and Google have emerged as frontrunners in providing extended system update services for their flagship phones. The Samsung Galaxy S24 series and Google Pixel 8 series both promise seven years of OS updates.

The executive says “Simply offering longer software update policies completely misses the point,”

OnePlus has opted for a different approach, committing to four years of system updates for the OnePlus 12 and an additional year of security updates. OnePlus President Kinder Liu recently shed light on this decision in an interview with Tom’s Guide, emphasizing the importance of a smooth user experience over blindly extending the duration of system updates.

Liu argues that merely prolonging the system update timeline does not address the underlying issues that may arise with hardware performance over time. Drawing a metaphorical comparison between a mobile phone and a sandwich, he explains that while software represents the fillings, hardware serves as the bread.

OnePlus also collaborated with TUV Rheinland to ensure consistent performance at the hardware level

Some manufacturers claim to offer seven years of system updates, but Liu suggests that they may overlook the fact that after four years, the hardware performance of the phone could decline significantly, akin to the bread of a sandwich becoming moldy. The result, he notes, is a potentially poor user experience despite the extended software support.

To address concerns about hardware performance, OnePlus has collaborated with TÜV Rheinland SUD in Germany to conduct rigorous simulated use tests for the OnePlus 12 and 12R over many years. Based on the results of these tests, the company promises users a four-year “fast and smooth” performance guarantee. This proactive approach aims to ensure that the hardware keeps pace with software updates, maintaining a seamless and satisfactory user experience throughout the promised support period.

In addition to hardware considerations, Liu raises the issue of battery degradation over extended use. He highlights that when competitors boast of supporting system updates for up to seven years, the batteries of their phones may not last the entire duration. This brings attention to the practical challenges associated with prolonged device usage and the potential impact on overall performance.

Related:

(Source)

Q4 2023: Global tablet sales decline 11%, but Huawei sees major growth

By

Rajesh Regmi

-

Feb 6, 2024

Tablet sales ended 2023 on a downbeat note as the numbers dropped a significant 11% in the final quarter compared to the same period last year, according to market research firm Canalys.

This slump brings the total decline for the year to 10%, with just 135.3 million tablets shipped – the lowest since 2011.

“Even with holiday promotions and bundle deals, the tablet market couldn’t escape its slide,” said Himani Mukka, an analyst at Canalys.

However, she predicts a rebound in 2024, thanks to factors like better inventory management, government purchases, and new tablet models from players like TCL and Lenovo.

Apple is also expected to refresh its iPad lineup this year which could further help boost the market.

Despite the overall decline, Apple remained the top seller, shipping 14.8 million iPads in the final quarter – though that’s still a 24% drop compared to 2022. Samsung followed in second with 6.8 million units, down 10.5% annually.

Huawei took third place with 2.8 million units which is a growth of 95.4% compared to Q4, 2022. Whereas, Lenovo also saw a healthy growth of 15% with 2.6 million units shipped to reach fourth place. Amazon rounded out the top five with 2 million units shipped but suffered a 43.9% annual decline.

Analysts believe innovation is key to reversing the tablet market’s fortunes. Kieran Jessop from Canalys points to the “gap between tablets and other personal computing devices” in terms of features like on-device AI integration.

They say bridging this gap and creating a more unified user experience across devices will be crucial for vendors.

In contrast to the tablet market, PC shipments are expected to see an 8% rise in 2024, reaching 267 million units. This growth is attributed to the upcoming Windows refresh cycle and the emergence of AI-capable and Arm-based devices.

Related:

(Source)

ASUS launches new ROG Strix XG259QNS gaming monitor with 380Hz refresh rate

By

Rajesh Regmi

-

Feb 6, 2024

Asus has announced the ROG Strix XG259QNS, a new high-performance gaming monitor aimed at competitive esports players. It features a 380Hz refresh rate and a 0.3ms GtG response time for smooth, blur-free visuals. So let’s get into its details here.

Asus ROG Strix XG259QNS specifications

The centerpiece of the XG259QNS is its 24.5-inch Full HD (1920 x 1080) IPS panel. This panel boasts a brightness of 400 nits, a 1000:1 contrast ratio, and 178-degree viewing angles. Additionally, it covers 110% of the sRGB color gamut and supports HDR10 for improved color accuracy and dynamic range.

In terms of functionality, the monitor offers a range of features tailored to enhance gaming performance. There’s support for AMD FreeSync Premium to eliminate screen tearing, ELMB technology to reduce motion blur, and variable refresh rate (VRR) for synchronized visuals between the monitor and graphics card.

The stand offers a wide range of adjustments for optimal comfort, including a swivel range of +45° to -45°, and a pivot range of +90° to -90°. Additionally, the stand allows for increased height adjustment of up to 120mm and it also supports VESA wall mounting for added flexibility.

Connectivity options abound with a DisplayPort 1.4, two HDMI 2.0 ports, two USB 3.2 Gen1 Type-A ports, and a 3.5mm headphone jack, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of devices.

As for pricing and availability, ASUS has not yet provided official details for the ROG Strix XG259QNS. However, considering it has similar features as the XG259QN, which currently retails for approximately $449 in the US, it is reasonable to expect a similar price point for the new model as well.

Get the ROG Strix XG259QNS on Amazon

Related:

Vivo X100 Pro+ launch timeframe leak reveals no delay

By

Anvinraj Valiyathara

-

Feb 6, 2024

Vivo is gearing up to launch a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3-powered X-series phone in the Chinese market. It remains unclear whether the device will be named the Vivo X100 Pro+ or X100 Ultra, or if it will carry a different designation. Leaks that emerged after the Vivo X100 and X100 Pro in November last year revealed that the X100 Pro+ may go official in April. However, some leaks that emerged later claimed that its launch has been pushed back, suggesting that it may go official by late Q2. Now, a leak courtesy of tipster Smart Pikachu has revealed when exactly the phone will go official.

Vivo X100 Pro+ launch timeframe (rumored)

According to the leaker, the Vivo X100 Pro+ is on schedule to go official by late April, and there is unlikely to be any delay. Apart from this information, the leaker did not say anything about the specs of the phone.

Reports have revealed that the X100 Pro+ / X100 Ultra will sport a Samsung E7 AMOLED curved-edge display that offers a 2K resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate. The rear camera setup of the phone is expected to feature a 50-megapixel LYT-900 main camera, a 200-megapixel periscope telephoto camera, a telephoto, and an ultra-wide lens.

The device is expected to ship with 16 GB of LPDDR5x RAM and up to 1 TB of UFS 4.0 storage. While the exact battery size is not known, it is expected to offer 100W charging and 50W wireless charging. The phone will offer other features, such as a USB-C port with USB Gen 3.2 support, dual stereo speakers, and an IP68-rated chassis. It is expected to arrive in shades such as black, blue, and yellow.

RELATED:

MWC 2024: Tecno to unveil Phantom Ultimate rollable concept phone, Dynamic 1 intelligent dog, and more

By

Anvinraj Valiyathara

-

Feb 6, 2024

Last year, Tecno unveiled a slew of new devices, such as its first foldable phone, the Tecno Phantom V Fold, and the Spark 10 series of smartphones at MWC 2023. The company has now officially confirmed what to expect from it for the upcoming MWC 2024, which will be held between Feb. 26 and Feb. 29 in Barcelona, Spain.

MWC 2024: What to expect from Tecno

Tecno MWC 2024 — TECNO will return to MWC Barcelona following a hugely successful debut appearance in 2023

Tecno has confirmed that it will unveil the Tecno Pova 6 Pro 5G and Megabook T16 Pro 2024 Ultra notebook featuring the latest Intel Core Ultra processors at MWC 2024. Apart from the Pova phone, the brand will unveil futuristic and innovative products at the tech trade show.

The brand confirmed it will take off covers from the Dynamic 1, an intelligent dog, which sounds similar to Xiaomi’s Cyberdog. The German Shepherd-inspired intelligent dog by Tecno will be equipped with advanced algorithms and sensors that will allow it to perform real-life actions and understand commands.

The Tecno Pocket Go will also be showcased at MWC 2024. The company claims that it will be the industry’s first Windows AR gaming set that combines AR glasses and a Windows handheld. It will be a lightweight device that will deliver an immersive AR gaming experience.

Furthermore, Tecno will unveil some advanced technologies, such as industry-leading imaging technology driven by floating-point computing to offer users a top-notch mobile video imaging experience, and the Universal Tone, which is said to be the most advanced AI-powered multi-skin tone imaging technology that relies on unbiased data and three AI-powered engines to accurately capture diverse skin tones.

Tecno will also announce some concept products at the event, which include the Phantom Ultimate, a rollable concept smartphone with a double-sided screen that expands from 6.55 inches to 7.11 inches. Other concept technologies include a borderless foldable main screen, satellite communication technology, and environmentally friendly materials like the new organosilicon fabric leather, layered fiberglass, 3D stereo optical grating, colored textured glass, and more.

RELATED:

Huawei Shifts Focus to AI Chips, Slows Down Phone Production

By

Anubhav

-

Feb 6, 2024

Huawei is making a big change in its production plans, showing a strong interest in the growing area of artificial intelligence (AI). The tech giant has chosen to boost the production of its AI chip, the Ascend 910B, even though it means slowing down the making of its Mate 60 smartphones in at least one of its factories. This move is surprising because the Mate 60 had recently done better than Apple in terms of phone sales in China, as mentioned by the South China Morning Post. Huawei’s decision to focus more on AI chips than on smartphones highlights the company’s belief in the significant impact AI will have on the tech world.

There is a growing demand for AI chips in China

The Ascend 910B chip is important for developing AI models, and there’s a growing demand for it in China. This increase in interest comes as Chinese AI developers are finding it hard to get their hands on high-quality AI chips from abroad, like Nvidia’s H100, because of trade restrictions set by the United States. By concentrating on the Ascend 910B, Huawei is not only finding a way around these challenges but also setting itself up as an important player in the domestic AI market.

Huawei’s new direction also shows how Chinese tech companies are eager to get involved in the AI field. Even though they’re a bit behind global leaders like OpenAI and Google, companies such as Baidu are moving forward with their own AI projects. China is also ahead in making rules for AI, requiring companies to get approval before they release AI products to the public.

With this shift towards AI technology, Huawei is preparing for the future, focusing on an area that could change technology in big ways. This move shows Huawei is thinking ahead, ready to face current challenges while betting on the long-term importance of AI.

RELATED:

(VIA)

Vivo X Fold 3 inches towards launch, bags important certification

By

Anvinraj Valiyathara

-

Feb 6, 2024

Several reports indicate that Vivo will unveil the Vivo X Fold 3 and X Fold 3 Pro foldable phones in the first quarter of 2024 in China. The series seems to be nearing launch, as a new Vivo phone, believed to be the X Fold 3, has received radio certification in China. This certification suggests an imminent launch could be on the horizon.

Vivo X Fold 3 bags radio certification

An IMEI database listing that emerged in December revealed that the forthcoming Vivo X Fold 3 has the V2303A model number. This same device has now appeared in the database of China’s radio certification platform. While the listing remains silent on key specifications, it signifies an important hurdle cleared for the phone’s launch.

Multiple leaks have claimed that the Vivo X Fold 3 will be an affordable foldable phone that will lack some of the premium features like an ultrasonic fingerprint scanner, wireless charging, and a periscope telephoto camera, which are said to be exclusively available on the X Fold 3 Pro.

According to reports, the Vivo X Fold 3 will feature the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset. The device may pack a 5,600mAh battery, which may support 80W fast charging. At present, there is no clear information about the internal and external displays of the phone. However, it is expected to feature a 50-megapixel OV50H primary camera with OIS support. It is also being said that it will be a lightweight foldable phone that weighs around 220 grams.

As far as the launch is concerned, Vivo may hold a massive launch event in March in China. It may see the arrival of three devices, such as the Vivo X100s smartphone, the Vivo Pad 3 tablet, and the Vivo X Fold 3 foldables.

RELATED:

iQOO Neo 9 Pro display specifications officially confirmed before India launch

By

Anvinraj Valiyathara

-

Feb 6, 2024

iQOO is gearing up to launch the iQOO Neo 9 Pro in India on Feb. 22, and they’re actively building anticipation around it. Amazon’s landing page for the phone has already spilled the beans on some key specs, and now an update reveals even more details, including the display design, resolution, refresh rate, and peak brightness.

iQOO Neo 9 Pro display specifications

As shown in the image above, the iQOO Neo 9 Pro has a flat AMOLED LTPO panel with a punch-hole design. The screen size is 6.7 inches, and it offers a 1.5K resolution and a 144Hz refresh rate, making it a good gaming device. In addition, the screen offers a peak brightness of 3000 nits.

iQOO is yet to reveal the front camera details of the iQOO Neo 9 Pro. The company may likely have opted for a 16-megapixel selfie camera. On the back, the device features a Sony IMX920 primary camera and an 8-megapixel ultra-wide lens.

The iQOO Neo 9 Pro has the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip onboard, which is coupled with the iQOO Q1 Supercomputing chip for enhanced gaming. The device will be sold in two options, such as 8 GB RAM + 256 GB storage and 12 GB RAM + 256 GB storage. It is speculated that the device could be priced at under Rs 40,000 in India.

The Neo 9 Pro will pack a 5,160mAh battery with 120W fast charging. In addition, it will come with other features, such as dual speakers, an IR blaster, and FunTouch OS 14-based Android 14.

The Neo 9 Pro will be sold in two colors: Fiery Red and Conqueror Black. Starting Feb. 8, the device will be for pre-booking via Amazon and iQOO India’s website. Readers can visit this page to learn more about the pre-booking offers.

RELATED:

OnePlus 12R goes on sale in India, check offers, price, specifications

By

Anvinraj Valiyathara

-

Feb 6, 2024

On Jan. 23, OnePlus unveiled the OnePlus 12R alongside the OnePlus 12 in both India and the global market. While the OP12 became available for purchase shortly after launch, the 12R was initially announced with a Feb. 6 sale date. The much-anticipated day has finally arrived, and the 12R goes on sale in India at 12 PM IST today. For those looking to purchase this phone, here’s a breakdown of the offers, price, and specifications.

OnePlus 12R price in India

The OnePlus 12R comes in two options in India, such as 8 GB + 128 GB storage and 16 GB RAM + 256 GB storage. These variants are priced at Rs 39,999 and Rs 45,999, respectively. The handset comes in two shades, such as Cool Blue and Iron Gray. It can be purchased through Amazon and OnePlus India’s website.

Buyers of the 12R will get the OnePlus Buds Z2 TWS earbuds worth Rs 4,999 for free. In addition, buyers can benefit from a Rs 1,000 discount using ICICI Bank cards and One Card. Other benefits include Rs 2,250 in Jio Plus benefits for enhanced connectivity. Buyers also get a Rs 3,000 discount on the OnePlus Pad, a Rs 1,200 coupon for OnePlus Audio, and 50 percent off on the protection plan. In addition, buyers of 12R will also receive YouTube Premium’s 3-month subscription and Google One’s six-month subscription.

OnePlus 12R specifications

The OnePlus 12R has a 6.78-inch curved-edge AMOLED display with Gorilla Glass Victus 2 protection and an in-screen fingerprint scanner. The screen offers a 1.5K resolution, up to 120Hz refresh rate, and up to 4,500 nits of brightness. The device ships with Android 14 and OxygenOS 1, and the company has confirmed that it will be treated with three major Android OS upgrades and four years of security updates.

The Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip powers the OnePlus 12R along with LPDDR5x RAM, UFS 3.1 / UFS 4.0 storage, and a 5,500mAh battery with 100W charging support. For photography, the device has a 16-megapixel front camera and a 50-megapixel (Sony IMX890) + 8-megapixel (ultra-wide) + 2-megapixel (macro) triple camera unit. It comes with other features, such as dual speakers, an IR blaster, NFC, and an IP65-rated chassis.

In the US, the OnePlus 12R is priced at $499 and $599 for the two variants. It will be up for purchase in the US and Europe on Feb. 13.

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.

RELATED:

Apex Legends is Back with Season 20, ‘Breakout’ – New EVO Harvesters and More!

By

Anubhav

-

Feb 6, 2024

Apex Legends is back with its latest season, “Breakout,” promising to shake things up for veterans and newcomers alike. As the game celebrates its fifth anniversary, players are invited to explore a series of exciting updates and enhancements designed to refresh the experience.

Players will have EVO Shields that will now regenerate over time

The heart of Season 20 lies in the introduction of the Legend Upgrade system, a feature that allows players to customize their characters in battle with upgrades for armor and abilities. This means that each match now offers a unique opportunity to adapt and refine strategies, making the gameplay more dynamic and personal.

Armor and shields have also been reimagined. Gone are the days of scavenging for body shields on the battlefield. Now, Legends start with inherent armor that grows stronger as they evolve in the game. This change, along with the ability to swap Shield Cores, adds a new layer of strategy to managing defenses.

Earning EVO points has become more integral to the game, encouraging players to engage in combat to improve their Legend’s capabilities. Whether it’s landing damage, assisting in knocks, or completing various in-game actions, players have numerous ways to evolve and gain an edge over their opponents.

A new feature, EVO Harvesters, introduces a communal way to boost your squad’s EVO points, emphasizing teamwork and strategic planning. Meanwhile, EVO Caches offer a rare loot item that can instantly upgrade a Legend, further intensifying the competition for resources.

Ranked play receives a comprehensive overhaul in “Breakout.” With the aim of making the ranked experience more rewarding and transparent, changes include the return of splits and a more straightforward scoring system that emphasizes eliminations. The updated matchmaking system now pairs players based on their RP, ensuring fair and challenging matches.

Thunderdome, a new map, promises to bring high-stakes action with its unique design and dynamic environments, testing the adaptability of every player. Additionally, the introduction of a Performance Mode means that players with compatible consoles can enjoy smoother, faster gameplay. The season also brings Breakout Rewards, offering players the chance to unlock Legends and exclusive cosmetics. As Clubs retire, a new system, Tags, allows players to personalize their profiles further.

RELATED:

(VIA)

Rivian Announces March 7 as the Reveal Date for the New R2 Electric SUV

By

Anubhav

-

Feb 6, 2024

March 7 will mark a key day for Rivian, the electric vehicle innovator based out of California, as it pulls the curtain back on its latest endeavor, the R2 electric SUV. This reveal comes over two years after the debut of its initial offerings, the R1T pickup and the R1S SUV, setting the stage for Rivian’s ambition to solidify its reach in the electric vehicle sector.

The R2 is rumoured to be priced lower than the R1T and R1S

Rivian’s journey began with the R1T and R1S, vehicles that combined uniqueness with a fun driving experience but carried a price tag starting at over $73,000, making them a dream beyond the reach of many. In contrast, the R2 series aims to be a game-changer by targeting a more expansive audience with a more palatable price point envisioned between $45,000 and $50,000.

The upcoming R2, a mid-size SUV or crossover, will look to challenge the likes of the Tesla Model Y, Hyundai Ioniq 5, and Kia EV6. Rivian’s strategy is clear: tap into America’s crossover craze to compete in a segment where the Model Y has seen significant success. The R2’s potential to disrupt this market will hinge on several factors, including its price, range, fast charging capabilities, and Rivian’s capacity to meet demand.

Rivian’s commitment to making electric vehicles more accessible is evident in its plans to produce the R2 series at a new $5 billion facility in Georgia, supplementing its production capabilities beyond its original plant in Normal, Illinois. Moreover, embracing Tesla’s NACS charging connector for the R2 models underscores Rivian’s forward-thinking approach, ensuring compatibility with an extensive network of charging stations. Will the R2 carve out a niche in the competitive electric SUV market? Only time will tell, but the anticipation is undeniably high.

RELATED:

(Via)

LG 27GS95QE OLED gaming monitor with 2K 240Hz display with up to 1000 nits of brightness unveiled

By

Jed John Ikoba

-

Feb 5, 2024

Korean electronics giant LG has unveiled the LG 27GS95QE OLED gaming monitor. The new LG monitor is capable of 2K resolution and offers a display refresh rate of 240Hz. It also has a peak brightness of 1000 nits and sports a 26.5-inch screen. The new LG monitor is well-suited for gaming applications and e-sports.

The LG OLED gaming monitor has a GtG response time of 0.03ms and comes with DisplayHDR True Black 400 resolution. It covers 98.5% of the DCI-P3 color gamut while the normal-use brightness of the monitor is 275 nits. However, the brightness can be adjusted up to a maximum of 1000 nits.

The new LG OLED gaming monitor supports AMD FreeSyncM Premium and NVIDIA G-Sync. The interfaces available on the monitor are HDMI 2.1 and a 4-pole headphone interface. It also supports AGLR anti-glare technology and LG Live Color Low Blue Light technology.

Pricing & Availability

In China, the LG OLED gaming monitor has a retail price of 5,999 yuan ($) and can be purchased from JD.com. There is no global availability information for the new LG OLED gaming monitor at this time. It is however expected that the monitor will be available in a sprinkling of markets outside China. It is also unclear how long the launch price will be before reverting to the original price of the monitor. More details about the LG OLED gaming monitor can be viewed from the brand’s website.

European Union Takes the Lead with World’s First Artificial Intelligence Law Approved

By

Oğuz Çakır

-

Feb 5, 2024

Artificial intelligence technologies are increasing in popularity every day. Almost every product, application, and service we use today either has AI integration or is in the process of acquiring it. However, this situation brings along certain challenges. Regulators worldwide are urging for the rapid development of AI to be monitored and for it to adhere to specific rulşes. Moreover, they have finally achieved their goal, as the European Union approved the final version of the Artificial Intelligence law, making a groundbreaking move in the world of AI regulations. Here are the details…

European Union Approves World’s First Artificial Intelligence Law

The European Union has passed its first extensive law overseeing artificial intelligence. The aim is to guarantee the secure, ethical, and human rights-conscious advancement and application of AI. Using a risk-based strategy, the law enforces stricter rules for high-risk systems. It also bans certain unethical practices, mandates transparency, and demands explainability in AI systems.

The expectation is that this law will contribute to the responsible development and application of AI, turning it into a valuable tool for society.The main points of the law are as follows:

Risk-Oriented Approach: Artificial intelligence systems will be categorized based on potential levels of harm. High-risk systems, such as facial recognition or credit scoring, will be subject to stricter regulations.
Prohibited Applications: Unethical practices, like using hidden techniques or manipulating people’s emotions, will be banned in artificial intelligence systems.
Transparency and Explainability: It will be mandatory for artificial intelligence systems to provide information on how they operate and make decisions.
Discrimination, Bias, and Injustice: Measures to prevent discrimination, bias, and injustice in artificial intelligence systems have also been included in the law.

The Artificial Intelligence law marks a cruvial step for the future of AI. This law aims to support responsible and ethical development and use of AI in the EU and beyond, promoting its transformation into a beneficial tool for society.

RELATED:

Xiaomi Monitor A27i with a 1080p display and slim body launched in Europe

By

Jed John Ikoba

-

Feb 5, 2024

The Xiaomi Monitor A27i has been released as a cheaper alternative to its more expensive siblings in Germany. The Xiaomi Monitor A27i comes with a 1080p display and sports a thin body. The model will subsequently be available in other EU markets, as well as Southeast Asia and the Middle East. This is coming almost at the same time the company unveiled the Monitor A24i.

The Xiaomi Monitor A27i has a 100Hz refresh rate and is quite similar to the earlier released Monitor A24i although with a larger display. The monitor comes with a 27-inch 16:9 display with a native resolution of 1080p and support for HDR10. It uses an IPS display panel with a peak brightness of 250 nits. The monitor has a 178-degree viewing angle and a 99% coverage of the sRGB color gamut. The monitor is capable of offering 16.7 million colors and has Delta E < 2 calibration. The new affordable Xiaomi monitor has a G-to-G response time of 6 ms.

Connectivity options available in the Xiaomi Monitor A27i include HDMI 2.0 and DisplayPort 1.4. These ports are at the rear of the monitor next to the power button. The gadget comes with TUV Low Blue Light certification and sports slim bezels. Its 7.5mm body is also thin and the monitor comes with an adjustable angle stand that can tilt between -5º and 15º. This allows the monitor to be able to swivel to a comfortable viewing angle for the user.

Pricing & Availability

The Xiaomi Monitor A27i already has functional product pages in Thailand, UAE, and Czech Republic indicating a possible rollout soon in these markets. In Germany, the Xiaomi Monitor A27i is priced at €119.99 ($129) but it is unclear whether this price equivalent will be retained in other markets.

RELATED:

Redmi A3 live images surface ahead of launch

By

Sudhanshu

-

Feb 5, 2024

Redmi is gearing up to introduce its budget-friendly Redmi A3 smartphone in the near future. The phone’s design and specifications were initially disclosed through retail posters found at several African retailers. Recently, live images of the device have emerged, courtesy of GSMArena.

Redmi A3 live image — Images via GSMArena

As per the report, the Redmi A3 will feature a 6.71″ display, which is significantly bigger than its predecessors that housed 6.52” displays. The design of the camera island is also different, similar to the circular camera module found on the Realme 11 Pro series.

A previous report has revealed that the phone will feature an HD+ LCD panel with a 90Hz refresh rate, with a peak brightness of 400 nits. The phone will feaure a 13MP primary camera paired with an 8MP selfie snapper.

Under the hood, it will feaure a MediaTek processor, paired with 4GB LPDDR4X RAM and up to 128GB of eMMC 5.1 storage. It will have virtual RAM expansion up to 4GB and a microSD card slot for storage expansion.

Powering the device will be a 5000mAh battery unit with 10W charging support. It will have support for dual-SIM, 4G, WiFi 2.4GHz, Bluetooth 5.0, and various satellite navigation systems. It retains the 3.5mm audio jack and uses a USB Type-C port for charging.

RELATED:

(Source)

Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 & G16 gaming laptops on sale in Europe

By

Sudhanshu

-

Feb 5, 2024

Asus has officially launched the ROG Zephyrus G14 and G16 2024 models, which were initially showcased at CES about a month ago. The German online store of Asus now lists these new gaming laptops, providing eager consumers with details about their configurations and pricing.

The ROG Zephyrus G14 2024, the 14-inch model, is available in three different configurations. The base model, priced at €1,899, includes an Nvidia GeForce RTX 4050 laptop GPU (90W), 16 GB RAM, and a 512 GB SSD. The mid-range variant, costing €2,199, steps up with an Nvidia GeForce RTX 4060 (90W), 16 GB RAM, and a 1 TB SSD. The top-tier model, at €2,599, boasts an Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070 (90W), 32 GB RAM, and a 1 TB SSD. Notably, only the mid-range model is currently available in white.

All variants of the G14 feature an AMD Ryzen 9 8945HS processor and a new 14-inch ROG Nebula display in a 16:10 format, sporting an OLED panel with a resolution of 2,880 x 1,800 pixels and a 120 Hz refresh rate. Standard features include a USB-C port with USB 4 and Power Delivery support, an infrared camera for Windows facial login, quad speakers, and Wi-Fi 6E.

The larger ROG Zephyrus G16 2024 comes in five configurations. The mid-range model, priced at €2,499, is the only one available in a white case. This variant includes a Core Ultra 9 185H processor, GeForce RTX 4060 (100W), 32 GB RAM, and a 1 TB SSD. The highest-end G16 model, costing €4,299, features a Core Ultra 9 185H, GeForce RTX 4090 (115W), 32 GB RAM, and a 2 TB SSD. Each G16 configuration includes a 16-inch, 240 Hz OLED display with a resolution of 2,560 x 1,600 pixels, Thunderbolt 4 port (USB-C), and quad speakers.

RELATED:

(Via: Notebookcheck)

OnePlus takes an important step for the compact phones future

By

Erencan Yılmaz

-

Feb 5, 2024

There are many phones in the smartphone world and they all have different features. While phones with screens larger than 5 inches were considered gigantic until 10 years ago, we can say that phones with 5.7-inch screens are now standard. While some people adore small phones, phone makers are starting to make fewer and fewer phones with small displays. For instance, Apple released the 5.4-inch iPhone 12 Mini and then shelved the Mini iPhone with the iPhone 14 series.

The biggest reason for this is actually related to the change in how people use their phones. People used to make voice calls a lot before the introduction of smartphones, but now most people prefer texting. Because the keyboard letters are larger on phones with big screens, users do not have trouble typing on them.

Even though big screens have some advantages, it’s important to note that those with small hands might not find it comfortable to use a large-screen phone and Samsung on the other hand continues to still make compact phones. Galaxy S21, S22, S23, and S24, for instance, feature comparatively smaller screens that measure 6.1 or 6.2 inches.

DCS published a post on Weibo revealing that OnePlus is also preparing to launch a phone with a small screen. It’s crucial to remember that this is preliminary information as of right now, as the model name, features, and release date of the phone are all unknown. In the upcoming months, OnePlus may release a phone with a small screen.

The compact phones were forgotten for a long time and this is a good news as companies try to bring them back. Xiaomi 13 model is a compact phone that features a 6.36-inch screen. In line with this, Xiaomi 14 made use of the same screen size and, despite being a tiny phone, produced a crisp image with a pixel density of 460 ppi. OnePlus should hit the market with a competitive offering against Xiaomi.

OPPO Reno 11F 5G appears on Geekbench, up for pre-order in Indonesia

By

Sudhanshu

-

Feb 5, 2024

OPPO is all set to unveil its latest offering, the Reno 11F 5G, which is likely to be introduced as the OPPO F25 in the Indian market. The smartphone, identified by the model number CPH2603, was recently spotted on the Geekbench database, showcasing its performance.

Oppo Reno 11F 5G Geekbench

As per the Geekbench results, the Oppo Reno 11F 5G achieved a score of 897 in the single-core test and 2329 in the multi-core test, hinting at robust performance. This is largely due to the MediaTek Dimensity 7050 chipset it houses, combined with a Mali-G68 MC4 GPU and 8GB of RAM. Adding to its appeal is the fact that it will run on the latest Android 14 operating system straight out of the box.

The anticipation for the Reno 11F 5G is already high in Indonesia, where it is currently available for pre-order, offered in two eye-catching color variants: pink and green. A recent teaser of the OPPO F25, which is a rebrand of the Reno 11F 5G, revealed key features like a 64MP primary camera and the support for 67W SUPERVOOC fast charging.

While other specs are currently under wraps, the Reno 11F is expected to boast a 6.7-inch FHD+ AMOLED display with a high 120Hz refresh rate. Security features include an in-display fingerprint scanner. The camera department seems promising as well, with a setup comprising a 64MP primary camera with an OV64B sensor, an 8MP Sony IMX355 ultra-wide-angle lens, and a 2MP macro sensor. A 32MP sensor is speculated to adorn the front. The device is expected to be powered by a robust 5,000mAh battery. Additionally, the smartphone might come with an IP65 rating.

RELATED:

Nio explores range diversity amidst challenging market conditions

By

Joane

-

Feb 5, 2024

Nio is gearing up for a significant update next month, considering the introduction of new variants with shorter ranges for its existing models. The move comes as the Chinese electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer faces headwinds in the competitive market. China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) has included Nio’s eight on-sale models in a regulatory catalog, rendering them eligible for vehicle purchase tax reductions.

While the available battery packs for Nio’s models retain their capacities (ranging from 70-kWh to 150-kWh), the introduction of new options with significantly lower ranges is noteworthy. The 70-kWh and 75-kWh packs represent standard range options, utilizing Li-ion ternary battery technology. The 100-kWh pack caters to long-range capabilities, while the 150-kWh pack, a semi-solid-state battery, is not yet integrated into the battery swap system.

The adjustment in the minimum Chinese Long-Term Cruising (CLTC) range for various models suggests a strategic move by Nio to potentially lower both range and price. Reports hint at the possibility of Nio offering battery packs with a 50-kWh capacity, termed “city-class range,” derived from the standard range battery packs. This strategic decision may aim to reduce the barrier to purchase, expanding sales without causing significant dissatisfaction among existing customers.

Despite a challenging January that saw Nio’s stock decline by 38%, the company delivered over 10,000 vehicles, reflecting an 18.21% increase from the previous year. The recent downturn in stock prices is attributed to intense competition in the Chinese EV market, with larger players like Tesla and BYD initiating price wars, impacting smaller players’ pricing power.

Nio, along with XPeng and Li Auto, reported record deliveries of nearly 88,500 units in December 2023, marking a third consecutive monthly record. However, the positive delivery results did not prevent a decline in stock prices as investors chose to sell the news. The current market conditions, characterized by a slowdown in China’s economic recovery, have affected consumer spending on expensive electric cars.

Nio’s challenges and opportunities in the evolving Chinese EV market remain crucial for its long-term success. The company’s positive trend in weekly registrations, amidst competition and the upcoming Lunar New Year holiday, suggests efforts to sell inventories before the anticipated business hiatus in China.

Related:

(via)