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

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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.

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

By

Jed John Ikoba

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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.

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Redmi A3 live images surface ahead of launch

By

Sudhanshu

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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.

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

By

Sudhanshu

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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.

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OnePlus takes an important step for the compact phones future

By

Erencan Yılmaz

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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

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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.

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Nio explores range diversity amidst challenging market conditions

By

Joane

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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.

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Apple Vision Pro gets OpenAI’s ChatGPT app

By

Soumyakanti

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Feb 5, 2024

OpenAI has introduced its ChatGPT app for the new Apple Vision Pro headset, featuring the GPT-4 Turbo model. This allows users to engage with AI through the headset in a highly immersive augmented reality (AR) setting.

ChatGPT App is Now Available on VisionOS

The ChatGPT app on Vision Pro enables users to communicate with the AI in various formats, including text, voice, and visual inputs. It’s one of the first applications to utilize visionOS, Apple’s operating system for the Vision Pro, designed for seamless integration of digital content with the real world.

chat has now entered the 3D world.

you can find it in the visionOS App Store. pic.twitter.com/TethfMEc9j
— ChatGPT (@ChatGPTapp) February 2, 2024

The Apple Vision Pro includes advanced features such as Optic ID for biometric authentication through eye tracking and iris recognition, Spatial Audio for lifelike sound experiences, and VisionKit for app development. Although it’s not specified which features the ChatGPT app will use, there’s significant potential for enhanced AI interactions using text, speech, and visual inputs.

Integrating ChatGPT with Vision Pro marks a step towards more natural and intuitive interactions between humans and AI. Users can address complex issues or generate content by speaking instructions or showing problems to the AI via the headset’s camera. This integration could transform various tasks, from troubleshooting mechanical problems to meal planning and educational activities, through direct visual input.

Making ChatGPT available on Vision Pro is part of OpenAI’s strategy to extend its generative AI technologies across multiple platforms. ChatGPT was previously made available on iPhone and iPad, broadening user access.

The ChatGPT app is available for free on the visionOS App Store, with an optional subscription for advanced features and quicker responses. The store also offers over 600 other apps designed for a range of purposes, ensuring a rich ecosystem for Vision Pro users.

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Turns Out Initial Leaks Were Wrong About The Nothing Phone (2a) As Per Latest Press Render

By

Viraj Gawde

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Feb 5, 2024

Nothing has already confirmed the presence of the Phone (2a). The London-based company is widely expected to announce it at the upcoming MWC later this month. The brand’s next smartphone has surfaced in numerous leaks and rumors. Now, reliable tipster Steve Hemmerstoffer (aka Onleaks) has shared a leaked press render of the Phone (2a). It turns out that the images of the device based on pre-production units were wrong or not reliable.

Nothing Phone (2a) won’t have a Glyph Interface

The most notable change between the initial and the latest leaked render is that the Phone (2a) will have two vertically stacked camera lenses at the top left side. The placement is the same as Nothing’s other two smartphones.

Another main difference from the latest render is that the Nothing Phone (2a) has a big circular element besides the camera sensors. It is in contrast to the large circular lines in the center above the wireless charging hardware on the Phone (2), the report adds. The Phone (2a) is also lacking the unique Glyph interface. This is understandable since the device is expected to be a mid-range offering.

The Nothing Phone (2a) will also retain the brand’s transparent back panel like the more premium phones. The absence of a Glyph interface and a somewhat different design could be the company’s effort at differentiating the flagship number series from the affordable smartphones. Additionally, a Reddit user also shared an image of the prototype unit of the Phone (2a) that matches the latest leaked render.

The core specifications of the Nothing Phone (2a) is expected to comprise of a 6.7-inch FHD+ AMOLED display, a Dimensity 7200 SoC paired with up to 12GB RAM and 256GB storage, a 50MP primary camera, and 45W charging support.

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More Layoffs as Snap Inc. Lets Go of 500 Employees

By

Anubhav

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Feb 5, 2024

Snap Inc., the company behind Snapchat, is letting go of 10% of its workforce, about 500 people. This move is part of a plan to make the company work better together and more efficiently. Snap’s decision reflects a bigger trend in the tech world, where many companies are trimming down to stay agile and competitive. Some other recent layoffs include Discord’s layoff of 17% of its employees and Microsoft’s layoff of almost 1900 employees.

The tech sector has seen nearly 24,000 job cuts in the month of January alone

The layoffs are meant to help Snap reduce layers within the company and improve face-to-face work among teams. This is a strategic step to keep the company strong and focused, especially during a time when the tech industry is facing a lot of changes. Other tech firms, including big names like Okta and Zoom, have also been cutting jobs recently. In fact, the tech sector saw nearly 24,000 job cuts in January alone.

Snap has been through this before, with several rounds of job cuts starting in 2022. This is part of an ongoing effort to align the company’s structure with its goals for growth and innovation. These latest layoffs are expected to cost between $55 million to $75 million.

The company is also under the spotlight for the impact of social media on young people, with CEO Evan Spiegel recently speaking to the Senate Judiciary Committee about this issue. Despite these challenges, Snap has managed to increase its revenue from digital ads recently and has started buying back $500 million in shares.

Even with these efforts, Snap’s stock price is still below its initial public offering price and far from its peak in 2021. This shows the company is working through some tough times, trying to find the best path forward in a fast-changing tech landscape.

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All Xbox Games May Go Multiplatform Soon, Rumor States

By

Anubhav

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Feb 5, 2024

Rumors are swirling that Xbox is considering a bold move: making its games available on more than just its own consoles. This could include big names like Starfield and even extend to every Xbox game. It’s a surprising turn that could change how we think about gaming on different platforms.

Playing Xbox exclusives on a PlayStation is a wild thing to think of

The idea seems to be driven by a desire to reach more gamers and possibly improve profits. Xbox has been behind PlayStation in sales, but it’s not for lack of trying. The Xbox Game Pass has been popular, but exclusive games haven’t given Xbox the edge it hoped for. Now, there’s talk that Microsoft wants to spread its wings and let its games land on PlayStation and other consoles.

This move could shake up the gaming world. For years, certain games have been tied to one console. If Xbox games start appearing on PlayStation, it would be a big change. It’s not just about playing on different devices; it’s about making games more accessible to everyone, no matter their preferred console.

There’s a list of games that might make the jump, including Halo Infinite and Microsoft Flight Simulator. This news has gamers talking and wondering what it could mean for the future of gaming. Will we see more games become available across platforms? How will this affect the console wars? Making Xbox games available on more platforms could be a win for gamers everywhere, giving them more choices and ways to play their favorite titles.

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China’s Electric Car Market Zooms Ahead with 46% Surge in Plug-in Sales in 2023

By

Anubhav

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Feb 5, 2024

China has once again proven itself as the global powerhouse in the electric vehicle (EV) sector, with a whopping 8 million new plug-in electric cars hitting the roads in 2023. This achievement not only sets a new benchmark for the country but also underscores the rapidly growing appetite for greener transportation options among Chinese consumers.

Electric cars now account for 37% of all car sales in China

The latest data reveals a significant 46% surge in plug-in car sales compared to the previous year, highlighting the unrelenting momentum of China’s EV market. This surge is fueled by a remarkable blend of all-electric cars (BEVs) and plug-in hybrids (PHEVs), both registering record highs in sales. BEVs, leading the charge, witnessed about a 31% increase, while PHEVs, with their growing popularity due to larger battery capacities, saw an astounding 80% jump in registrations.

2024 BYD Seal — BYD is the leading Chinese EV maker

The electric revolution in China isn’t just about numbers; it’s a clear sign of the country’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions and making electric mobility mainstream. With electric cars now accounting for 37% of all new car sales in China, the country is setting the pace for the global transition to sustainable transportation.

The dominance of domestic brands like BYD, which has captured a significant share of the market, alongside international players like Tesla, showcases a competitive and vibrant EV ecosystem. Models such as the BYD Song Plus and Tesla Model Y have become consumer favorites, topping the sales charts and driving the market forward.

As we look ahead, expectations are high for continued growth, albeit at a more measured pace. The industry is optimistic about reaching a new milestone of 10 million sales in 2024, reflecting confidence in the enduring appeal and potential of electric vehicles. With each passing year, China is driving closer to a greener, more sustainable future on the roads, demonstrating what’s possible with innovation, investment, and a shared vision for a cleaner planet.

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Xiaomi Monitor A24i with FHD IPS panel & 100Hz refresh rate unveiled globally

By

Sudhanshu

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Feb 5, 2024

Xiaomi has added a new product to its lineup with the launch of the Monitor A24i. This new monitor revealed on Xiaomi’s global website, combines a minimalist design with a set of impressive features, targeting both office use and entertainment.

The Xiaomi Monitor A24i features a 23.8-inch IPS LCD panel with a 1080p Full HD resolution. It stands out with its 100Hz refresh rate. The monitor is designed to deliver vivid and natural colors, supporting 16.7 million colors and covering 99% of the sRGB color gamut.

In terms of design, the A24i is sleek and modern, boasting a slim body of just 7.5 mm thick. The monitor’s design includes thin bezels on three sides, achieving a 90% screen-to-body ratio while also including an adjustable angle stand. Additionally, the monitor supports VESA mounting, offering the flexibility to be wall-mounted, although a bracket would need to be purchased separately.

The display also focuses on color accuracy with a ΔE<2 rating, a 1,000:1 contrast ratio, and a 6 ms response time. This makes it suitable for tasks that require precision in color representation.

For connectivity, the A24i is equipped with multiple ports, including DisplayPort 1.4, HDMI, and DC IN for power. This range of connectivity options makes the monitor versatile for various setups and user requirements.

While the launch date, price, and availability of the Xiaomi Monitor A24i in specific countries are yet to be announced, we can expect the announcement to arrive soon.

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Appotronics expands its global presence in EV sector, with BYD, and Huawei

By

Joane

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Feb 5, 2024

Shenzhen-based laser display technology innovator, Appotronics, is poised to become a pivotal electric vehicle (EV) player, leveraging a strategic partnership with BYD, BMW, and Huawei Technologies. Listed on China’s Nasdaq-style Star Market, Appotronics is strategically expanding its production capabilities to cater to the surging demand for intelligent EVs.

The company is set to inaugurate a cutting-edge facility dedicated to automotive optics by the end of 2024, a move expected to contribute to Appotronics’ revenue significantly. To make car-related business constitute half of its total revenue within the next two to three years, Appotronics is positioning itself at the forefront of the evolving EV landscape.

A distinctive offering from Appotronics is its technology enabling smart EVs to display information on windows, providing users with real-time data such as interior temperature and proximity to a parked car. This innovative feature aligns with the company’s belief that its automotive-related business will surpass the overall growth of the Chinese EV market, fueled by the increasing interest in digital cockpits.

Financially, Appotronics demonstrated robust performance with a 63% year-on-year increase in first-half profit in 2023, reaching 74.9 million yuan. Despite a 15.5% dip in revenue to 1.07 billion yuan during the same period, the company remains optimistic about its prospects.

Founded in 2006, Appotronics introduced the advanced laser phosphor display (ALPD) technology in 2007, positioning itself as a leader in the automotive sector and cinemas, consumer electronics, and home projection systems. The company showcased its cutting-edge ALPD 5.0 super panchromatic laser technology at the 2024 Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas, garnering recognition and an “Innovation Award for Computer Peripherals and Accessories” for the Nexight Inc’s TriVision Ultra 4K Smart Projector.

With a keen focus on global expansion, the company aims to penetrate the European and global markets, leveraging its technological prowess. The strategic partnership with BYD underscores Appotronics’ commitment to shaping the future of electric vehicle technology.

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Samsung Chairman Lee Jae-yong cleared of charges in merger case

By

Soumyakanti

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Feb 5, 2024

Samsung Electronics Chairman Lee Jae-yong was cleared of all charges in a high-profile court case on Monday, marking a significant moment for both the tech giant and the South Korean legal system.

Legal Victory for Samsung’s Lee Jae-yong

The case centered around accusations of stock manipulation and accounting fraud linked to the 2015 merger of two Samsung affiliates, Cheil Industries Inc. and Samsung C&T Corp. This merger was critical as it was alleged to have been orchestrated to strengthen Lee Jae-yong’s control over Samsung Electronics, the crown jewel of the Samsung conglomerate.

The Seoul court’s verdict not only absolves Lee of any wrongdoing but also ends a lengthy legal saga that has captured public and international attention. Prosecutors had previously sought a five-year jail term for Lee, arguing that the merger was manipulated to inflate the stock price of Cheil Industries while undervaluing Samsung C&T, adversely affecting minority shareholders and consolidating Lee’s grip on the electronics giant.

However, the court found insufficient evidence to support these claims. It ruled that the merger could not be deemed unfair as it was decided upon after thorough review and consideration by the boards of the involved companies, with a reasonable purpose beyond merely facilitating Lee’s succession. This decision not only frees Lee from potential incarceration but also removes a cloud of legal uncertainty that has hovered over Samsung Electronics for years.

The ruling comes at a crucial time for Samsung, which has faced challenges including a sales slump and intensified competition in the global tech market. The company, once the world’s top smartphone maker, recently lost its leading position to Apple and has reported consecutive quarters of profit decline amid sluggish demand for consumer electronics and semiconductor chips.

Lee Jae-yong’s acquittal allows him to focus more intently on steering Samsung through these turbulent times. Under his leadership, the company aims to regain its competitive edge and innovation prowess, crucial for navigating the rapidly evolving technological landscape and geopolitical risks.

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Samsung Executive Confirms Galaxy Ring’s Launch Timeline

By

Viraj Gawde

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Feb 5, 2024

Samsung made a surprise announcement of its first smart ring at the Galaxy S24 series unveiling last month. Although it was rumored prior to the announcement, the Galaxy Ring has garnered plenty of excitement even though the official launch seems quite months away. Now, in a new development, a Samsung executive has confirmed the launch timeline of the wearable device.

Samsung executive confirms Galaxy Ring’s launch timeline

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. Here, the device the executive is referring to is indeed the Galaxy Ring.

The revelation from the Samsung executive is in line with the previously rumored timeline by a consumer tech analyst. The South Korean brand conducts two Galaxy Unpacked events every year with the second one in August. However, last year marked the first time it was held early at the end of July hence, this year Samsung’s plans remain to be seen. The event usually focuses on the new generation Galaxy Z Foldables, Tablets, and Watches. Hence, the Galaxy Ring launching at the same event doesn’t come as a surprise.

Recently, the Samsung Galaxy Ring was spotted in the Good Lock app. It suggests that the smart ring’s development is underway. The wearable device is rumoured to come in sizes up to 13 and it is said to be ridiculously lightweight. It will also be offered in three finishes. Meanwhile, the teaser video confirmed the presence of the heart-rate monitor, support for Samsung Health, and pogo pins on the Galaxy Ring.

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EVM EnBuds ANC earbuds with 30dB noise canceling, 13mm drivers & 45-hour playback launched

By

Sudhanshu

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Feb 5, 2024

Mumbai-based electronics brand EVM has launched a new audio product in the Indian market called EnBuds ANC.

The EnBuds ANC earbuds feature a sleek design with a glossy finish. They are equipped with 13mm drivers that provide strong bass and clear stereo sound, enhanced by Advanced Audio Coding (AAC) technology.

A key feature of the EnBuds ANC is its Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) capability, which can reduce external noise by up to 30dB. Additionally, the earbuds offer a Transparency mode, allowing users to hear ambient sounds when needed. The earbuds include Quad Mic ENC technology for clear phone calls in noisy environments.

The EnBuds ANC also features touch-sensitive sensors to easily control music and calls. They support voice assistant integration with Siri and Google Assistant and are IPX4-rated for sweat resistance.

Bluetooth Version V5.3 facilitates connectivity, and the earbuds include Insta-connect Technology for quick device pairing. In terms of battery life, each earbud provides 11 hours of music playback, and the charging case extends this to over 45 hours in total. The earbuds offer a fast charging time of about 1 hour via a Type-C connection.

Pricing & availability

Priced at Rs. 3,999, the EVM EnBuds ANC are available in white and blue and come with a one-year warranty. As an introductory offer, they are available on Amazon.in at a discounted price of Rs. 1,899 for a limited time.

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Capture the Spirit of the Dragon Year with Mi Gallery’s Festive Photo Watermarks

By

Oğuz Çakır

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Feb 5, 2024

Seeing a watermark on the photos we take is often quite annoying for many of us. Users often disable it in settings. Nevertheless, this watermark can also serve special purposes. The Mi Gallery – Edit app has officially introduced the “Dragon Year Spring Festival Limited Watermark” function. Here are the details…

Xiaomi Dragon Year Spring Festival Limited-Edition Watermarks Land on Mi Gallery

As we prepare to welcome the Lunar New Year and celebrate the Year of the Dragon, Xiaomi and Redmi users have a delightful surprise in store. The popular Mi Gallery – Edit app is now offering limited-edition Dragon Year Spring Festival watermarks, letting you add a festive touch to your photos and share the joy with loved ones.

Available from February 5th to 25th, 2024, these special watermarks are accessible on all Xiaomi, Redmi, and Poco models. Simply update your Mi Gallery – Edit app to the following versions:

Xiaomi 14 series: v1.5.3.5
Redmi K70 series: 1.6.3.2
Others: 1.6.0.5

Remember, this is a limited-time offer! The watermarks will disappear from the app on February 25th, so don’t wait to capture the essence of the Dragon Year with these unique designs

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iTel S9 Pro With AI ENC, 40 Hours Battery Launched At An Affordable Price Tag In India

By

Viraj Gawde

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Feb 5, 2024

Earlier today, iTel announced the launch date of the P55 series smartphones in India. Now, the brand has expanded its range of audio devices with a new offering. It is the iTel S9 Pro TWS earphone. The device has an affordable price tag and is aimed at budget buyers. It packs a long-lasting battery life, ENC, and more. Read to know more what it offers out of the box.

iTel S9 Pro specifications and features

The iTel S9 Pro has a dual-tone in-ear design with a stem and silicone ear tips in Blue (on Black option) and Green color (on the Blue variant). The stem on both color variants has a transparent panel or it could just be a design. The earbuds are IPX5 water-resistant and support touch functionality.

In terms of audio, the iTel S9 Pro is equipped with a 10mm bass boost driver for an immersive audio experience and powerful sound. There are two mics and AI ENC for crystal clear sound quality on calls. The earphones also have a 45ms low latency mode. The audio device features in-ear detection and voice activation.

The iTel S9 Pro is powered by a 400mAh battery unit with each earbud backed by a 40mAh cell. It is claimed to offer up to 40 hours of total battery life. There is a USB-C port that is said to deliver 100 minutes of usage with 10 minutes of charging. The TWS earphones support Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity.

The iTel S9 Pro is priced at Rs 799 and is offered in Nebula Black and Dark Blue color options. It is available for purchase from offline retailers across the country.

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Honor Choice Earbuds X5, Choice Watch Confirmed To Launch Alongside X9b On February 15

By

Viraj Gawde

-

Feb 5, 2024

Honor is gearing up to launch its second smartphone – the Honor X9b in India on February 15 at 12:30 pm local time. Now, the brand has confirmed that it is launching two wearables at the same event. The devices are the Honor Choice Watch and Honor Choice Earbuds X5. The company says that these will help expand the brand’s portfolio in the country.

Honor Choice Earbuds X5 and Choice Watch India launch confirmed

The Honor Choice Earbuds X5 is already available in China whereas the Choice Watch seems to be similar to the Honor Haylou Watch in the home market. The Indian variants are expected to be slightly different compared to their Chinese counterparts.

Both the upcoming wearable devices from Honor are confirmed to be available from Amazon. The e-commerce platform has already put up a microsite of the Choice Earbuds X5. They will feature an in-ear design with a stem and silicone ear tips. The TWS earphones are confirmed to be IP54-certified dust and water-resistant. The Choice Earbuds X5 will also be able to connect to two devices simultaneously.

As for the Honor Choice Watch, the brand has not teased any official details yet. An unboxing video shared by CEO Madhav Sheth revealed a squarish dial and a physical button on the right side. The smartwatch will come with a heart-rate monitor, sleep tracking, and support for various workout modes. The Choice Watch will pack a built-in calculator, weather app, alarm, calendar, and the ability to control music playback. The upcoming offering will support magnetic charging.

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