OnePlus is bringing a new software update for the OnePlus 9/9 Pro and OnePlus 9RT smartphones. The updates are currently rolling out for the Indian variants, comprising the latest January 2024 security patch. It bundles several other improvements and enhancements that will surely enhance the user experience.
OnePlus 9 Pro
OnePlus 9/9 Pro and OnePlus 9RT New Update Details:
The OnePlus 9 receives the firmware LE2111_14.0.0.212, the OnePlus 9 Pro gets the LE2111_14.0.0.202 firmware version, and the OnePlus 9RT receives the MT2111_14.0.0.212 version. All three smartphones are receiving the new security patch for security enhancements and to improve the system’s stability and performance. It further improves the battery life. The update fixes the swipe-up gesture not working issue on some smartphones, and the background stream features in the Smart Sidebar are finally removed.
The latest update improves the communication stability of mobile network connections and WiFi. Further, the camera stability has been improved, which will surely impact the user.
Changelog
System
Integrates the January 2024 Android security patch to enhance system security.
Improves system stability and performance.
Extends the battery life in some scenarios.
Fixes an issue where swipe-up gestures might not work.
The Background stream feature in Smart Sidebar has been removed.
Communication
Improves the stability of mobile network connections.
Connections
Improves the stability of Wi-Fi connections.
Camera
Improves the stability of Camera.
OnePlus 9/9 Pro and OnePlus 9RT firmware updates are currently limited to the Indian variants; we expect them to roll out to other regions very soon. It is an incremental update and may take time to reach each unit. The update is first seeded to a few users and verified for any bugs or major issues before being made available to a broader audience.
In case the user accounts for any bug or issue, they can always submit it for analysis using the Google Dialer *#800#. Users can also head over to the OnePlus Community to file reports.
Yesterday, the Honor X9b accidentally leaked on Amazon India even before the official announcement by the brand. The leak revealed Now, the brand has confirmed the launch date of the smartphone as well. As per a recent tweet by the brand, the Honor X9b will make its Indian debut on February 15.
Brace yourselves for a tech revolution! Unveiling the HONOR X9b on 15th February – a leap beyond curved displays. Get ready for the extraordinary with India's first ultra bounce display featuring 'Airbag' technology. Stay tuned! #HONORX9b#RIPTemperedGlass#ExploreHONORpic.twitter.com/JLyP6tAHtx
As per the tweet, the Honor X9b will be India’s first ultra-bounce display smartphone featuring ‘Airbag’ technology. This phone will feature a three-level protection system for the screen, frame, and internal components. It has a specialized cushioning material with micron-sized pores, capable of absorbing 1.2 times the impact of a drop.
Honor X9b specs
The Honor X9b boasts a 6.78-inch AMOLED display, offering a resolution of 1200 x 2652 pixels, a 19.9:9 aspect ratio, and 10-bit color support for improved image quality. It is powered by the Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 chipset. The device is available in two RAM configurations globally – 8 GB and 12 GB – each coupled with 256 GB of internal storage. Running on Magic OS 7.2 based on Android 13, the Honor X9b promises a user-friendly experience.
Battery capacity is a highlight, with a 5,800mAh battery supporting 35W fast charging. For photography, the phone features a 108-megapixel main camera, a 5-megapixel ultra-wide lens, and a 2-megapixel macro camera at the rear, along with a 16-megapixel front camera. Additional features include dual SIM support, 5G, Wi-Fi 802.11ac, Bluetooth 5.1, GPS, NFC, a USB-C port, and a 3.5mm audio jack.
In a world where technology really helps with our lives, here we have the Chongker Companion Robot Pet that comes up with a good solution for those seeking companionship without complexities. Specifically designed for the elderly and individuals with specific needs, this robot Cat can create the joys of pet ownership. In this review, we will talk about the crucial role of pets in the lives of older people and small children, the challenges associated with real pets, and how Chongker Companion Cat addresses these issues, offering comfort, companionship, and joy without the typical troubles.
Chongker
Just a brief introduction of the brand. Chongker, a company specializing in handmade simulated plush animals, they have developed an interactive simulated plush cat called “Percy”, it is very suitable as a companion for elderly people and Alzheimer’s patients(ADRD), helping them increase socialization, improve mood, and reduce certain nursing costs. Also, it can be used as a companion doll-machine pet for children. By creating these pets, they have gained the love of hundreds of thousands of users.
The Importance of Having a Pet
The companionship provided by pets is invaluable, particularly for the elderly. Older people often experience isolation or loneliness, and the presence of a pet can be a good thing in their lives. Whether in a senior community or at home, the love and company offered by a pet can significantly reduce stress, depression, and provide a sense of purpose.
Artificial pets step into this as a modern solution, bringing pleasure without the need for special care or feeding. Even those with physical limitations now can experience the joy of having a companion without the challenges of real pets.
Beyond the emotional benefits, having a pet also encourages physical activity. Walking a dog or engaging in playful interactions with a pet can contribute to better mobility and exercise for seniors. However, the demands of caring for a real pet, especially for those with limited mobility, can pose significant challenges.
Troubles of Having a Real Pet
While the benefits of having a real pet are immense, the challenges associated with their care and maintenance cannot be overlooked. In particular, older people may face difficulties in raising a live animal. Physical limitations, health concerns, and the need for consistent care can drive many of them away from an actual ownership. Real pets require feeding, grooming, and regular veterinary visits, which can become overwhelming for seniors living alone or in assisted care.
Additionally, small children, while benefiting greatly from the companionship of real pets, may unintentionally mishandle or provoke animals, leading to some safety concerns. The balance between the advantages and challenges of real pets are hard to handle among children actually.
The demand for pet care can also be a logistical challenge. Regular vet appointments, the need for pet food, and potential emergencies add extra responsibility that may be too burdensome for some people. Chongker Companion Cat addresses these concerns by the little robot pet you can see here, making it an ideal choice for seniors and those with specific needs.
How Chongker Companion Cat Can Help
hongker Companion Cat enters the scene as a state-of-the-art artificial companion designed to provide pet ownership, without those troubles mentioned above. It offers a lifelike experience that replicates the interaction with a real cat. The key advantage lies in its ability to deliver comfort, companionship, and joy without the need for special care or feeding.
This product addresses the emotional well-being we all need , providing a source of comfort in moments of stress and other big emotions. Its design is meticulously crafted to cater to the unique needs of people. In addition to the emotional benefits, Chongker Companion Cat offers a low-maintenance need for those who desire the companionship of a pet without the exhaustive responsibilities.
HowDoes It Work
Sensor-Based Real Cat Experience:
Basically, Chongker Companion Cat creates authentic pet experience with its sensor-based design. Five built-in sensors respond to touch in various ways, there are over 30 real cat calls, allowing users to engage with the robotic cat in a manner reminiscent of interacting with a real one. Stroke the cat’s back, and you’ll not only hear simulated purring but also feel the gentle throb of its heartbeat, providing a really realistic experience. These sensors elevates the bond between the user and the artificial companion, creating a lifelike connection that goes beyond simple visual or interactions. For seniors who may miss the tactile experience of petting a cat, the sensor-based design aims to fill that void.
The sensor-based real cat experience not only enhances the authenticity of the interaction but also introduces a therapeutic element. The rhythmic purring and simulated heartbeat can have a calming effect, to reduce stress and create a soothing atmosphere. This feature adds another layer of value, especially for seniors seeking emotional support and relaxation.
User-Friendly Design:
Running on rechargeable batteries, it can function for 18H in total, this eliminates the need for constantly replacing power sources. This not only saves older people from the hassle of battery management but also contributes to the overall sustainability of the product.
The controls are seamlessly integrated into the cat’s paws, allowing for intuitive interaction. Users can navigate through different modes and responses by touching every little part in the paw, this is a very good design. Moreover, the charging port, cleverly hidden in the leg, preserves the aesthetic of the robotic cat, making it a charming addition to the overall design.
The voice control mode is also a good implementation, you can say “meow meow” “hello Percy” “Rise and shine” to create a certain purr sound out of the robot cat. This is another intuitive design of the cat, it goes beyond those simple taps or touches.
The user-friendly design of Chongker Companion Cat extends to its ease of maintenance. With rechargeable batteries and durable construction, users can enjoy the companionship without the added stress of frequent replacements or complicated maintenance routines.
Therapeutic Elements:
The therapeutic elements of Chongker Companion Cat align with the positive impact of pet therapy on mental health. As studies continue to highlight the benefits of interactions with animals in reducing anxiety and creating relaxation, this robotic cat provides a technologically avenue for anyone to experience these advantages.
To summarize the benefits of the Chongker Companion Cat for older adults with ADRD or who feel isolated and lonely here:
Help reduce isolation and loneliness among older adults
Avoid the withdrawal of ADRD and alleviate related behavioral problems such as anxiety and agitation
Provide an engaging experience that calms people without the use of drugs
Help establish a sense of purpose
Improve mental function and abilities
Coping with hospital-induced anxiety and delirium
Allow staff to focus on other care needs or patients
Conclusion
Chongker Companion Cat emerges as a great solution to address the emotional needs of seniors and individuals seeking the joys of pet companionship, without the challenges of real pets. With its sensor-based real-cat experience, user-friendly design, and therapeutic elements, it provides comfort and companionship in a convenient package. I can already imagine my own grandma sitting in the chair, patting this cat to sleep, enjoying the time every day.
Apple is planning a major update for its iPhone operating system, iOS 18, according to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman. He says that the update could be the “biggest” software update in the iPhone’s history.
Gurman shared this news in the subscriber-only Q&A section of his Power On newsletter.
“I’m told that the new operating system is seen within the company as one of the biggest iOS updates — if not the biggest — in the company’s history,” he wrote.
Although he didn’t reveal many specifics about the features of iOS 18, he mentioned plans to share more details in the future.
But there are a few changes we are already expecting on the iOS. One of the anticipated features is support for Rich Communication Services (RCS) — a messaging standard that will allow for better communication between iPhones and Android devices.
In November 2023, Apple announced its intention to support RCS in the Messages app on the iPhone starting “later” in 2024. And the timeframe likely coincides with the launch of iOS 18.
With RCS support, iPhone users will be able to send high-resolution photos and videos, enjoy read receipts and typing indicators, and even participate in group chats with both Android and iPhone users.
Moreover, Apple is also said to be working on generative AI technology and according to Gurman it “should improve how both Siri and the Messages app can field questions and auto-complete sentences.”
Gurman notes that Apple is also exploring integrating similar AI features for various other apps, including Apple Music, Pages, Keynote, and Xcode.
Likewise, according to The Information, Apple is planning to integrate large language models into Siri, which would allow users to automate complex tasks with deeper integration into the Shortcuts app. This feature is expected to be part of an iPhone software update in 2024, likely iOS 18.
These are just a few of the rumored features that are expected to be included in iOS 18. We expect more details to be revealed soon.
Realme just unveiled the Realme 12 Pro and Realme 12 Pro Plus for global markets. These devices are yet to be unveiled in the brand’s home country.
Before the global event began, the brand officially revealed when these phones would be presented in China. Consumers in the company’s home country need not wait longer.
The Realme 12 Pro series is scheduled to debut in China in February. The brand is yet to disclose the launch date, which we think should be out in the next few days.
The lineup consists of two smartphones, namely Realme 12 Pro and Realme 12 Pro Plus. The latter is the only handset in its segment to offer a flagship-grade primary camera and a periscope telephoto camera.
Both devices are built around a 6.7-inch centered punch-hole curved OLED display. This 10-bit panel comes with a resolution of 2412 x 1080 pixels (FHD+), a 120Hz refresh rate, a 240Hz touch sampling rate, 2160Hz PWM dimming, and 950 nits peak brightness level.
The Pro houses a Qualcomm Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 SoC, while the Pro Plus is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 chip. Both of them ship with Realme UI 5.0 software based on Android 14.
The camera setup on Realme 12 Pro includes a 50MP Sony IMX882 primary sensor, a 32MP Sony IMX709 sensor with a 2x telephoto lens, an 8MP ultrawide unit, and a 16MP selfie camera. Whereas the Realme 12 Pro Plus arrives with a 50MP Sony IMX890 main sensor, a 64MP OmniVision OV64B 3x periscope telephoto shooter, an 8MP ultrawide snapper, and a 32MP front-facing camera.
The duo comes with dual stereo speakers and an in-screen fingerprint sensor. Last but not least, they draw energy from a 5,000mAh battery and support 67W wired charging.
Apple is rumored to be working on new laptop and tablet models. The company is expected to unveil the M3 powered MacBook Air along with the latest iPad Pro and iPad Air soon, with a fresh report revealing its possible launch timeline. So here are all the details.
Apple M3 MacBook Air, iPad Pro, & iPad Air Launch
The report arrives from Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman in his latest PowerOn newsletter. He claimed that the new devices are expected to debut the iPad Pro, iPad Air, and M3 MacBook Air around the end of next month. In other words, the tablets and notebook will be launching in March end. Interestingly, this is also in line with one of his previous reports.
If this report is true, then the release is barely two months away. Based on what we know so far, the MacBook Air model is expected to be released in a 13-inch and 15-inch variant. It will be powered by Apple’s latest generation M3 series (including M3, M3 Pro, and M3 Max). On the other hand, the latest iPad Air will also launch in two size variants for the first time ever. The 12.9-inch model was spotted recently in leaked CAD renders.
The iPad Air is set to get an upgrade to the M2 chipset. Apple’s iPad Pro is rumored to feature an OLED display panel and may arrive in 13-inch and 11-inch models. Similar to the MacBook Air, the upcoming 2024 iPad Pro could also be powered by the M3 processor. This would likely lead to a price hike as well over its predecessors. This is all the information we have at the moment, so stick around for more updates.
As scheduled, Realme took wraps off the Realme 12 Pro series for global markets today. The lineup consists of two models, namely Realme 12 Pro and Realme 12 Pro Plus.
The two phones share a similar design but arrive with different sets of specs. Just like their predecessors, the main highlights of these devices are design and camera.
Here in this article, let’s take a look at the ‘Pro’ variant. You can check out the ‘Pro Plus’ version here.
Realme 12 Pro Specifications
The Realme 12 Pro sports a design inspired by luxury watches. It has a faux leather back and a giant camera module. It measures 8.75mm in thickness and weighs about 190g.
The smartphone is built around a 6.7-inch centered punch-hole curved OLED display. The panel offers a resolution of 2412 x 1080 pixels (FHD+), a 120Hz refresh rate, and a 240Hz touch sampling rate. The 10-bit screen supports up to 2160Hz PWM dimming and 950 nits peak brightness level.
The device is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 chipset. On the software front, it boots Realme UI 5.0 based on Android 14.
The handset comes with a triple camera system comprising an OIS-assisted 50MP Sony IMX882 primary sensor, a 32MP Sony IMX709 sensor with 2x telephoto lens and OIS, and an 8MP ultrawide unit. On the front, it has a 16MP selfie camera.
Other features of the product include Dolby Atmos-supported dual stereo speakers, an in-screen fingerprint sensor, a 5,000mAh battery, and 67W wired charging support.
Realme 12 Pro Price
The Realme 12 Pro carries the following price tags in India.
8GB + 128GB – ₹25,999 (~$315)
8GB + 256GB – ₹26,999 (~$325)
It can be availed in either Submarine Blue or Navigator Beige color options from Flipkart, Realme.com, or retail stores.
The early access sale is scheduled for today at 6 PM IST. The regular first sale is set for at 12 PM IST on February 6.
Pre-order window opens today (January 29) for offline stores, followed by online channels tomorrow (January 30).
Vivo launched the X100 Pro flagship smartphone back in November in China, while the global model made its debut in January. In the latest test version of OriginOS number 14.0.14.6, the brand has added an important camera feature to the Chinese model, while also fixing a bunch of bugs.
New trial version 14.0.14.6 for X100pro is out.
Upto 4K 60fps selfie video is now available
Improved clarity Improved accuracy of bokeh effect in portrait mode Stability of the manual focus tracking frame of the rear camera in Photo mode to improve the photo-taking experience pic.twitter.com/ZbYDbVFyrA
The Vivo X100 Pro‘s recent OriginOS update now lets you record 4K videos using the front camera. People were confused before because, even though the front camera and the device’s chip supported 4K recording, this feature wasn’t available on the flagship phone. It looks like Vivo might have added this option in response to competitors like Xiaomi 14 Pro and Oppo Find X7 Ultra, which already offered 4K recording on their front cameras. Other than that, OriginOS 14.0.14.6 brings a bunch of improvements and bug fixes with the update. You can check out the complete changelog below.
OriginOS 14.0.14.6 update changelog:
New features for the front camera:
Added the features of “4k 30 fps” and “4k 60 fps” for the front camera in Video mode to improve the video recording experience using the front camera.
Optimized the photo effects of the rear camera by enhancing the clarity of photos.
Optimized the features of the rear camera in Portrait mode to improve the portrait bokeh accuracy.
Optimized the display stability of the manual focus tracking frame of the rear camera in Photo mode to improve the photo-taking experience.
Bluetooth:
Optimized the stability of Bluetooth car kit connections.
Home screen, lock screen, and wallpaper
Added information sync for the train reminder service of “Guotie Juxun”, allowing you to quickly view train number updates in Origin Notification, Smart Launcher, and Important notifications
Fixed the occasional issue where the home screen is not displayed properly after you exit Recent tasks
Sticker Component
Fixed the occasional issue where the background of the Sticker kit is not displayed properly
Input method
Optimized the usage stability of the system input method
System
Optimized system stability for a better user experience
Fixed the occasional issue of abnormal power consumption in standby mode
While this update is for the Chinese model only, we expect that the global X100 Pro, which runs on FunTouchOS, will also receive a similar update in the coming days.
The ‘Pro Plus’ is better and more expensive. It is currently the most affordable smartphone on the market with a periscope camera. Even the primary camera is flagship grade.
The phone retains the design from its predecessor Realme 11 Pro Plus with some tweaks. Let’s go through everything it has to offer.
In case you are interested in the ‘Pro’ model, you can learn about it here.
Realme 12 Pro Plus Specifications
The Realme 12 Pro Plus arrives with a faux leather back. It has a large camera ring, which is inspired by luxury watches. The handset measures 8.75mm in thickness and weighs around 196g.
The device flaunts a 6.67-inch curved OLED display with a resolution of 2412 x 1080 pixels (FHD+) and a 120Hz refresh rate. The 10-bit panel with a centered punch-hole supports 240Hz touch sampling rate, 2160Hz PWM dimming, and 950 nits peak brightness level.
The phone is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 chip. As for software, it boots Android 14-based Realme UI 5.0.
Talking about cameras, the smartphone is equipped with an OIS-assisted 50MP Sony IMX890 primary sensor, an OIS-assisted 64MP OmniVision OV64B 3x periscope telephoto shooter, an 8MP ultrawide unit, and a 32MP selfie camera.
The handset is backed by a 5,000mAh battery and supports 67W wired charging. Finally, it comes with an in-screen fingerprint sensor and Dolby Atmos-supported dual stereo speakers.
Realme 12 Pro Plus Price
The Realme 12 Pro Plus is offered in the following three memory configurations in India.
8GB + 128GB – ₹29,999 (~$360)
8GB + 256GB – ₹31,999 (~$385)
12GB + 256GB – ₹33,999 (~$410)
The device can be purchased in either Submariner Blue, Navigator Beige, or Explorer Red color variants.
The first sale is scheduled for at 12 PM IST on February 6. It can be purchased from Flipkart, Realme.com, or retail stores.
There’s a special early access sale at 6 PM IST today. The phone can be pre-ordered from select offline stores starting today (January 29). Online pre-order window opens tomorrow (January 30).
Huawei is currently rumored to be working on the P70 series of smartphones. However, new information from a Huawei distributor, @看山的叔叔, on Weibo indicates that the company is also preparing to launch a new flip-foldable smartphone in February.
Details about the new phone are scarce for the moment. The distributor, however, revealed the device is codenamed “LEM” and could use a 5G Kirin chipset.
Additionally, a tip from prolific tipster Fixed Focus Digital suggests that the official launch of Huawei’s upcoming flip phone could take place after the Lantern Festival in China on February 24. And pre-orders for the device could commence shortly after the Chinese New Year on February 10.
Huawei currently has three foldable phone lines: Pocket (flip phones), X (outward folding tablets), and Xs (inward folding tablets). The Pocket series, despite only having two models (P50 Pocket and Pocket S), captured a noteworthy 29.6% share of the Chinese foldable phone market in 2023.
The most recent addition to the Pocket series is the Pocket S, introduced in 2022, which is priced at approximately $695. It features a 6.9-inch main screen and a 1.04-inch outer screen, both with high refresh rates and wide color gamuts.
Under the hood, the Huawei Pocket S is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 778G processor and operates on the HarmonyOS system.
Around the back, it features a 40 MP main shooter with an RYYB sensor and f/1.8 lens, complemented by a 13 MP ultrawide-angle camera. The selfie camera is discreetly placed within a punch hole and uses a 10.7 MP sensor.
The Huawei Pocket S has an ultra-thin bendable graphite sheet for improving cooling capabilities. There is a 4,000 mAh battery with 40W fast charging. The company promised the wing mechanism of the hinge has been opened and closed 400,000 times in testing to ensure its durability.
In a significant development surrounding Apple’s response to the European Union’s Digital Markets Act (DMA), EU industry chief Thierry Breton has issued a stern warning, stating that Apple will face robust action if its changes to the App Store do not align with the upcoming EU regulations. The DMA, enacted in 2022, addresses alleged anticompetitive practices by major tech companies, designating them as “gatekeepers” and imposing specific obligations.
Apple’s move to comply with the DMA includes allowing software developers to distribute apps through alternative stores starting in early March. Notably, developers can opt out of using Apple’s in-app payment system, which currently charges up to 30% commissions. However, critics argue that Apple’s fee structure remains unfair and may violate the DMA, with some contending that the changes offered by Apple do not go far enough.
Thierry Breton emphasizes that the DMA’s goal is to open the internet gates to competition for fair and open digital markets. The assessment of companies’ proposals will commence on March 7, and strong action will be taken if the proposed solutions are deemed insufficient.
Under the new regime, developers still need to submit apps to Apple for review regarding cybersecurity risks and fraud. However, developers now have the option to choose alternative app stores and payment systems. Apple has introduced a “core technology fee” of 50 euro cents per user account per year for developers opting into the new business terms.
Apple estimates that under the new terms, 99 percent of developers would reduce or maintain the fees owed to Apple. However, larger companies with millions of free users, such as Meta and Spotify, maybe more significantly affected. Spotify CEO Daniel Ek criticized Apple’s proposed changes, describing them as ‘vague and misleading’ and accusing Apple of ‘extortion.’
Ek points out that the 0.50 cent Euro fee per download, every year, in perpetuity, is tantamount to ‘extortion.’ He questions the need for an annual flat fee in addition to the existing commission on digital goods, raising concerns about the impact on developers, especially potential start-ups and those offering free apps.
The European Commission took note of Apple’s announcements ahead of the compliance deadline and encouraged designated gatekeepers to test their proposals with third parties. In response to the DMA, Apple announced changes to iOS, Safari, and the App Store in the European Union, allowing third-party app stores on iOS for the first time.
While Apple aims to comply with the DMA, criticism persists for the perceived inadequacy and potential negative impact on developers. As the compliance deadline gets closer, the tech industry is waiting to see what happens next and how the European Commission responds to Apple’s plans.
Over the last couple of weeks, it was revealed that HMD Global is gearing up to launch new smartphones under its own branding. The company has released Nokia branded devices, and is now planning on expanding its very own Android phone portfolio. Now, the latest sighting has revealed a key camera spec of the upcoming device.
HMD Smartphone Spotted with 108MP Primary Camera
To recall, two HMD Global smartphones surfaced on the IMEI database back in November 2023. These devices were expected to launch sometime in April 2024. Earlier this month, a render leak also offered us a first look at the upcoming HMD phone. But while these were leaks or certification sightings, the fresh report from Suomimobiili (a Finnish publication) shared the product render that were spotted on the brand’s official website.
Unfortunately, following the link shared by the original report shows a 404 Error, which likely means that the image was taken down soon after it went live. But the image was still shared and offered us a look at the rear camera module. The design appears to be in line with our previous report. A notable aspect spotted in the image is the 108MP OIS etching that confirms the primary sensor’s resolution and Optical Image Stabilization support.
The HMD smartphone can be seen in a Cyan color option. Finer details regarding this device like its specs and pricing are still unclear. Although, we do know that the device has a dual camera setup on the back. Just last week, known tipster Evan Blass also shared a series of codenames for HMD-branded devices that are set to launch soon. These include, Pulse, Legend, Pulse+, Legend Plus, Pulse Pro, and Legend Pro. This is all the information we have at the moment, so stick around for more updates.
Earlier this month, we reported that Samsung is working on a standalone app to streamline device management for Galaxy users. Well, the company has officially launched the app, named “Samsung Find.” The new standalone app takes the place of the “SmartThings Find” section that used to be a part of the SmartThings app.
Before this change, if users wanted to locate their Samsung devices, such as smartphones, tablets, laptops, or SmartTags, they had to navigate through the SmartThings app. Now with “Samsung Find”, users get all tracking features built into one dedicated app, which should simplify things for users.
The app is available for download on the Galaxy Store and weighs around 70MB in size. It has three main tabs on the home screen:
Devices: This section displays all your Galaxy smartphones, tablets, laptops, and smartwatches on a map, allowing you to easily pinpoint their location.
Samsung Find “Devices” tab.
Items: If you misplace your accessories attached to the Galaxy SmartTag tracker, you can find them via the Items section on the app. Just simply open the app and you can view where your keys, wallet, or any other item attached to a SmartTag is located.
People: Within the People tab, you can view the location of your family members if they’re sharing it with you. It offers added peace of mind, knowing you can check in on their whereabouts, especially for children or older adults.
Samsung Find “People” tab.
Beyond just displaying locations, “Samsung Find” offers some additional features. For instance, you can share your own location or the location of your device/item with others, to keep your loved ones informed.
Likewise, you can locate your lost device or item with an audible ping using the “Make Sound” feature. And for devices with Ultra-Wideband (UWB) support, the app shows even more precise location data and directional guidance.
As per the latest Counterpoint report, the global semiconductor industry experienced an 8.8% decline in revenue in 2023, primarily due to reduced spending in both consumer and enterprise sectors. However, the landscape saw significant changes, with Intel overtaking Samsung for the top spot, as Samsung battled downturns in its memory and smartphone businesses.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) emerged as a key driver of growth in the semiconductor industry, especially in the second half of the year. NVIDIA, a major player in AI technology, benefited significantly, marking an 86% increase in year-over-year revenue, which positioned them third in revenue rankings for the first time.
Counterpoint’s semiconductor revenue tracker indicates that only six out of the top 20 global semiconductor vendors reported growth in 2023. The memory sector was particularly hard hit, witnessing a 43% decrease in revenue year-over-year. This decline contributed to the top 20 vendors’ market share falling from 76% in 2022 to 71% in 2023.
Intel’s return to the lead in the semiconductor market came despite a 16% drop in its year-over-year revenue, attributed to declining shipments in PCs and servers. Samsung’s revenue fell by 38% due to challenges in the DRAM and NAND segments. Other major players in the memory market, SK hynix and Micron, also reported significant revenue decreases.
William Li, Senior Analyst at Counterpoint Research, points to AI as a primary growth driver for the semiconductor industry in 2024. He predicts a recovery in the memory sector due to a normalization of the oversupply situation and demand recovery. The automotive sector is also expected to contribute to market growth, as demonstrated by Infineon and STMicroelectronics in 2023.
With the semiconductor industry nearing the end of its inventory correction cycle and stable client demand, supply constraints are likely to be a key focus. TSMC, the world’s largest foundry player, maintains a positive outlook with plans for capacity expansion in 2024, anticipating strong demand throughout the year.
Yamaha has recently taken a significant step in the world of alternative energy vehicles by introducing the Drive H2, its first concept vehicle powered by hydrogen. Yamaha’s ongoing efforts are a step towards exploring sustainable fuel options, a journey that started in earnest a couple of years ago.
The car has two hydrogen tanks, with each tank having a 25-litre capacity
The unveiling of the Drive H2 occurred at the 2024 PGA Show in Florida. This vehicle is a modified version of Yamaha’s existing Drive2 Concierge 4 personal golf car, equipped with two hydrogen tanks. Each of these tanks can store up to 25 liters of hydrogen. One tank is positioned at the back of the car, while the other is situated under the driver’s seat.
Yamaha’s path to this innovation began in January 2022 with the announcement of a partnership with Kawasaki to develop hydrogen engines. This was followed by a collaboration with Toyota on a 5-liter V8 hydrogen engine. The commitment of Yamaha to hydrogen as a fuel source was reiterated by their president, Yoshihiro Hidaka, in mid-2023.
The adoption of hydrogen technology in vehicles, however, is not without its challenges. The main obstacle is the need for a supportive infrastructure, similar to the challenges faced by electric vehicles. The availability of hydrogen refueling stations is crucial for the widespread use of such vehicles.
While Yamaha has focused on a golf car for its hydrogen venture, the motorcycle segment is still an area of potential expansion. To date, Kawasaki and Suzuki have been the front runners in developing hydrogen-powered motorcycles. Given Yamaha’s history and the pace at which they are embracing new technologies, further developments in this area could be on the horizon.
The Indian motorcycle market leader, Hero MotoCorp, has teamed up with Zero Motorcycles, an American electric bike maker, in a significant move for the motorcycle industry. More than a business deal; this is a huge step towards changing the way motorcycles are built and used, especially in a two-wheeler-dominant country like India.
Hero’s commitment is shown by their $60 million investment in 2023
Electric bikes are now a reality, and Hero MotoCorp’s collaboration with Zero Motorcycles aims to make them more common. This partnership goes beyond selling bikes; it’s about creating a new electric platform that will lead to a variety of electric motorcycles. This shows a major shift in the motorcycle world, where new ideas and eco-friendly approaches are becoming key.
Hero MotoCorp, already in the electric vehicle market with its Vida brand, will now have access to advanced electric bike technology. They plan to launch four new electric motorcycle models. These bikes will suit different types of riders, from those seeking high performance to beginners wanting an eco-friendly option. The first phase includes two high-performance models, each with a unique style but sharing the same advanced tech.
In India, bikes with more than 25 horsepower are seen as high-performance, unlike in the US and Europe. This difference gives Hero and Zero a chance to create unique bikes – combining Zero’s electric tech with the style and efficiency needed in India.
Hero’s commitment is shown by their $60 million investment in 2023. This isn’t just for new models; it’s about imagining a future with accessible, affordable electric motorcycles for more people.
Currently, Hero MotoCorp’s electric efforts are seen in the Vida V1 scooter, but there’s more to come. Their plan includes electric bikes from mid-range to premium. This variety means there will be an electric bike for every rider, showing Hero’s commitment to an electric future.
South Korean tech giant Samsung is doubling down on memory chips with a new research lab in Silicon Valley, USA. This lab, under the company’s US arm DSA, will focus on developing the next generation of 3D DRAM technology, aiming to maintain Samsung’s position as the world’s leading memory chip maker.
The company is actively working on developing innovative DRAM structures utilizing sub-10nm fabrication technologies. Yonhap News Agency reports that this breakthrough technology is expected to yield higher-capacity memory chips, reaching up to 100Gb per chip.
Samsung isn’t new to pioneering memory advances, having first released commercial 3D vertical NAND flash in 2013. Now, they could become the first to develop 3D DRAM as well.
This move comes as the memory chip market rebounds after a rough year. Samsung’s semiconductor division faced its first-ever loss due to the chip market’s downturn last year.
The post-COVID-19 cloud server boom prompted numerous tech companies to order substantial quantities of memory chips. However, the global economic downturn led to a decline in demand, resulting in an oversupply of memory chips and a decline in prices.
However, thanks to the increasing demand for AI servers driven by tools like ChatGPT, memory chip prices are on the rise again. Experts predict 2024 to be a strong year for Samsung and its competitors like Micron and SK Hynix.
Samsung’s focus on advanced DRAM could also see them partnering with Intel. Their LPDDR5X DRAM chips are potential candidates for Intel’s upcoming Lunar Lake processors, due later this year. This partnership could further solidify Samsung’s position in the memory chip market.
China has recently marked a significant milestone in artificial intelligence (AI) development by approving more than 40 AI models for public use. This milestone, taking place within six months of initiating a new approval process, is a reminder of China’s commitment to advancing in the global AI race. And this race is heating up fast.
Companies like Xiaomi Corp and 01.AI are amongst the most recent ones
The recent approvals include 14 large language models (LLMs), with well-known companies like Xiaomi Corp and 01.AI among the recipients. This is the fourth round of approvals, indicating a swift and focused adoption of AI technologies in the country.
The process began in August last year, when Beijing required tech companies to get regulatory approval for public use of their LLMs. This requirement was a strategic move, aiming to foster AI growth while ensuring it remains within the government’s regulatory framework.
Approvals have been issued in several batches since the policy’s implementation. The first batch, including AI models from major firms such as Baidu, Alibaba, and ByteDance, was granted soon after the policy introduction. Further approvals were given in November and December, with the latest batch cleared this month.
The exact list of all approved AI models is not publicly available. However, the brisk pace of approvals reflects the keen interest and effort by Chinese firms in the field of AI. This surge in AI development was partly motivated by the international success of OpenAI‘s ChatGPT in 2022. At that point, China had 40% of the world’s 130 LLMs, just behind the United States with 50%.
A highlight in China’s AI journey is Baidu‘s Ernie Bot, similar to ChatGPT, which has amassed over 100 million users. This example shows the significant potential and growing enthusiasm for AI in China.
OnePlus has seemingly implemented a region lock on its Chinese-market OnePlus 12 series. The development follows closely on the heels of the global launch of the phone earlier this month.
Based on the information we’ve received, it seems that the region lock was enforced on Chinese OnePlus 12 units once the global version became available earlier this month.
Users are reportedly encountering issues similar to those experienced with the OnePlus 11 last year, restricting the phone’s calling functionality.
Historically, OnePlus phones sold in China were usually unlocked and worked with global networks. However, starting with the OnePlus 11, the company introduced the region lock, and it seems like the same problem is happening with the OnePlus 12. The reason for this change is not clear.
The region lock creates problems for people outside China who want to buy the more affordable Chinese models. These users might end up with phones that can’t be used for calls when they travel to other countries.
While this move might be to discourage people from buying cheaper Chinese models in other regions, it causes issues for those who want to use their phones internationally.
Similar to last year, users might be able to unlock the region by entering an unlock code. The code could be obtained by contacting OnePlus support. However, it’s unclear whether support will be willing to unlock phones not bought through official Chinese channels but from third-party stores. This part is still not confirmed.
So OnePlus users thinking about getting a Chinese model should be aware of this limitation before deciding, especially if they plan on traveling outside of China.
The Huawei P70 series is the upcoming line of smartphones from the company, and details about these devices have been gradually surfacing. Digital Chat Station, a renowned tipster, has recently shared additional information about the upcoming smartphones.
According to the leak, Huawei is testing two display options for the P70 series: 6.5 inches and 6.8 inches. Both sizes are expected to feature a 2.5D curved design with a 1.5K resolution and LTPO refresh rate technology for smooth visuals. The bezels are also rumored to be impressively thin.
Previous report suggests that the camera system of the Huawei P70 series will also receive significant improvements. It is expected to include the Omnivision OV50H sensor with variable physical aperture.
The Omnivision OV50H sensor, released in January 2023, is a 50MP high-resolution sensor designed for premium smartphones. With a 1/1.3-inch sensor size and 1.2-micron pixel size, it is expected to deliver an excellent low-light photography experience.
The sensor supports various HDR modes, high frame rates, and advanced features like 8K video recording and 4K video with electronic image stabilization (EIS).
The Huawei P70 series is also expected to stand out with its unique rear camera design featuring a triple-lens setup arranged in a triangular pattern. The device will also include Huawei’s XMAGE branding.
In addition to these camera enhancements, the series is expected to feature a 5000mAh battery and stereo dual speakers with a receiver. The base model is likely to be powered by the Kirin 9000S chip, as indicated by a previous leak. Rumors suggest that the release date could be in late March or early April 2024.
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