WhatsApp introduces four new features for Channels

By

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Jan 19, 2024

WhatsApp has recently upgraded its Channels feature, making it even better for brands, celebrities, and public figures to connect with their audience. Launched in late 2023, Channels lets these users send messages directly to their followers.

Mark Zuckerberg, the CEO of Meta, announced that WhatsApp Channels has added four exciting new features for Channels. So let’s talk about them here.

WhatsApp ending support for older devices

WhatsApp Channels features

First, channel admins can now send voice messages. This is great for quick updates, sharing behind-the-scenes snippets, or just chatting with followers.

Next up, Channels has introduced polls. If you’ve used polls in WhatsApp groups, you’ll know how handy they are. Admins can now ask followers for their opinions on various topics, like new product ideas or what content they prefer.

Another big change is that Channels can now have multiple admins. This is especially useful for big organizations or brands that need to keep their channel active and respond quickly to messages.

Lastly, followers can share interesting updates from Channels on their own WhatsApp Status. This means more people might see these updates, helping the Channels grow their audience.

These updates are no longer just in the testing phase, so they should be available to everyone soon. Although there’s no exact date for when they’ll be out, it’s clear that these new features will make WhatsApp Channels even more engaging and interactive for both admins and followers.

With the ability to send voice messages, create polls, have multiple admins, and let followers share updates, WhatsApp is taking big steps to improve how people connect and share content on their platform.

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Sony BURANO: 8K full-frame cinema camera with intelligent features launched for 200,000 Yuan ($28,000)

By

Debasish

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Jan 19, 2024

Sony (China) Co., Ltd. has unveiled its latest addition to the CineAlta series, the CineAltaB, also known as BURANO in international markets. This intelligent full-frame 8K cinema camera caters to a diverse range of cinematic needs, from big-screen film production to documentaries, variety show recordings, and small-team commercials.

Key Specifications

The CineAltaB boasts an impressive set of features, making it a powerful tool for cinematographers:

8.6K Full-Frame Sensor: Equipped with an 8.6K full-frame sensor, the camera delivers high-resolution imaging for exceptional visual quality.
Dual Native ISO and 16-Stop Latitude: With dual native ISO (800/3200) and a broad 16-stop latitude, the camera excels in capturing details in varying lighting conditions.
Flexible Shooting Modes: The camera supports full-frame and Super 35mm formats, enabling shooting in up to 8K at 30p, 6K at 60p, or 4K at 120p. It accommodates a wide range of anamorphic widescreen movie lenses.
AI-Powered Autofocus: Featuring an AI smart chip with independent subject recognition, the CineAltaB ensures fast hybrid autofocus. This is particularly beneficial when capturing high-speed moving subjects.
Electronic Variable ND Filter: The electronic variable ND filter ranges from 0.3 to 2.4, providing exposure control in different lighting conditions without the need for cumbersome filtering. It supports exposure control during lens replacement without altering the depth of field.
Lens Compatibility: Supporting both PL lens mount and E-mount lens groups, the camera offers versatility in lens choices. Its design, incorporating a thinner electronic variable ND filter and optical anti-shake structure, results in a more compact and ergonomic body.

Availability and Pricing:

The Sony CineAltaB is available for purchase on the official website. The stand-alone price is set at 200,000 yuan (~$28,000), while the package, including Sony CEB-G1920T & CEB-G960T memory cards and the GP-VR100 multi-function control handle, is priced at 220,000 yuan (~$30,894).

Sony’s CineAltaB introduces cutting-edge technology to cinematography, combining high-resolution imaging, intelligent autofocus, and ergonomic design, making it a standout choice for professionals across various cinematic applications.

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Entun’z Mega Pro, Double Barrel party speakers launched with Rs 5,999 (~$72) starting price

By

Anvinraj Valiyathara

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Jan 19, 2024

Dubai-based Endefo, has announced two new audio products at the Mobile India Expo in Delhi. These include the Entun’z Mega Pro and Double Barrel party speakers. The company said that starting Jan. 21, both devices will be accessible on their website across 19,000 Indian pin codes and will soon be available at 2000+ retail stores, including Sangeetha Mobiles, Supreme Paradise, Lot Mobile, Nandilath Digital, Ideal Home Appliances, Easy Store, Gulf Own Digital, Image Mobiles and Computers.

The Entun’z Mega Pro and Double Barrel party speakers are priced at Rs 9,999 each. However, the company will be offering both products at reduced prices of Rs 6,999 (~$84) and Rs 5,999 (~$72), respectively, to make them available to a wider audience.

Entun’z Mega Pro

The Endefo Entun’z Mega Pro party speaker features a 70W bass output, delivering clear voice and an immersive audio experience. It also offers other features, such as a karaoke mic, surround sound, LED Display, remote control, mobile holder, AUX, USB port, microSD card slot, FM radio, and a long battery life.

Double Barrel

The Endefo Double Barrel party speaker produces an even more powerful 100W output thanks to its dual speaker system. It is equipped with features, such as an equalizer control board, LED Display, tone control, remote control, AUX, USB Drive, microSD card slot, FM radio, and a long-life battery.

Both the Entun’z Mega Pro and Double Barrel will be showcased at Endefo’s Experience booth at the Mobile India Expo, allowing visitors to explore the brand’s diverse product range, including earphones, neckbands, portable speakers, party speakers, soundbars, smartwatches, and TWS earbuds.

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Realme Note 50 launches as Realme’s first Note-branded phone, read specifications, price

By

Anvinraj Valiyathara

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Jan 19, 2024

Realme has discreetly unveiled the Realme Note 50, a new entry-level smartphone, in the Philippines. It is the company’s first-ever Note-branded smartphone. The key highlights of the device include a 90Hz display, a Unisoc chip, a big battery, and a slim design. Here is a look at what’s in store for the buyers of the Note 50.

Realme Note 50 specifications and features

Starting from the front, the Realme Note 50 has a 6.74-inch IPS LCD panel that offers an HD+ resolution of 1600 x 720 pixels. The screen also offers up to 90Hz refresh rate, a 180Hz touch sampling rate, and a 260ppi pixel density. It comes in an IP54-rated dustproof and water-resistant chassis that measures 7.99mm in thickness and weighs 186 grams.

The Realme Note 50 has security features, such as a side-facing fingerprint scanner and face unlock. The device runs on Realme UI T-based Android 13 Go.

The Note 50 has the Unisoc T612 chip onboard. In addition, it offers 4 GB of RAM, 64 GB of internal storage, and a 5,000mAh battery with 10W charging support via USB-C port. For additional storage, it has a microSD card slot.

For photography, the Realme Note 50 has a 5-megapixel camera on the front, and its back panel has a 13-megapixel camera, a monochrome sensor, and an LED flash. The device offers other features, such as dual SIM, Wi-Fi 802.11ac, Bluetooth 5.0, GPS, a USB-C port, and a 3.5mm audio jack.

To sum up, it is a tweaked version of the Realme C51, which packs better cameras. The rest of the specs appear to be identical on both devices.

Realme Note 50 price in the Philippines

The Realme Note 50 is priced at PHP 3,599 (~$65) in the Philippines. It comes in two shades, such as Midnight Black and Sky Blue.

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Micron unveils LPDDR5X-based LPCAMM2 memory: will launch within the first half of 2024

By

Debasish

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Jan 19, 2024

Micron Technology, Inc. has introduced the industry’s first standard low-power compression attached memory module (LPCAMM2). Available in capacities ranging from 16GB to 64GB, the LPCAMM2 promises enhanced performance, energy efficiency, space savings, and modularity.

The LPCAMM2 memory achieves speeds up to 9600Mbps as compared to 5600Mbps of current DDR5 SODIMMs

Expected to be in production by the first half of 2024, it is positioned as the first disruptive form factor for client PCs since the introduction of small outline dual inline memory modules (SODIMMs) in 1997.

Micron’s LPCAMM2 integrates LPDDR5X DRAM, offering up to 61% lower power consumption and up to 71% better performance for essential workloads, such as web browsing and video conferencing. Additionally, it provides a remarkable 64% space savings compared to SODIMM offerings. As generative artificial intelligence (GAI) becomes more prevalent on client PCs, the LPCAMM2 is designed to deliver the necessary performance for processing Artificial Intelligence workloads while maintaining low power consumption.

Praveen Vaidyanathan, Vice President and General Manager of Micron’s Compute Products Group, emphasizes the transformative nature of the LPCAMM2, stating that it will deliver best-in-class performance per watt in a flexible, modular form factor. The new product is expected to enhance the capabilities of AI-enabled laptops and allows for memory capacity upgrades as technology and user needs evolve.

LPCAMM2’s development involved collaboration with key client PC OEMs and ecosystem enablers, and it represents a significant departure from current memory module form factors. The new memory solution offers higher performance with LPDDR5X, achieving speeds of up to 9600Mbps, an 80% reduction in system standby power for improved battery life, and benefits in digital content creation and productivity workloads.

Moreover, the LPCAMM2 boasts modularity, enabling critical serviceability functionality for enterprise IT users and administrators. It features a single PCB for all module capacities, providing supply chain flexibility for OEM and ODM customers. Compared to SODIMMs, LPCAMM2 simplifies motherboard routing complexity.

Crucial LPCAMM2 retail products will be made available, allowing laptop users, including gamers and content creators, to upgrade their system memory configuration, marking an industry first for low-power memory. The Crucial LPCAMM2 products are set to be available in the first half of 2024.

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Vivo G2 debut as first G-series Vivo phone, packs 90Hz display, Dimensity 6020, 5,000mAh battery

By

Anvinraj Valiyathara

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Jan 19, 2024

Vivo has silently announced its first G-series phone in the Chinese market. Last week, the Vivo G2 was spotted in the database of the Google Play Console, and now it is officially listed on Vivo China’s website. Here is a look at the specifications, features, and price of the device.

Vivo G2 specifications and features

The Vivo G2 has a 6.56-inch LCD panel with a teardrop notch. The screen offers an HD+ resolution of 1612 x 720 pixels and a 90Hz refresh rate. The device comes preinstalled with the Origin OS 3-based Android 13. On the front, it has a 5-megapixel selfie camera, and its back panel has a 13-megapixel single camera with LED flash.

Under the hood, the Vivo G2 has the Dimensity 6020 chipset and up to 8 GB of LPDDR4x RAM. On the storage front, the device offers up to 256 GB of UFS 2.2 storage and a microSD card slot for additional storage.

The Vivo G2 has a 5,000mAh battery with 15W charging via USB-C port. The device offers other features, such as dual SIM, 5G, 5GHz Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.1, GPS, a 3.5mm audio jack, and a side-facing fingerprint scanner.

The specs and design of the Vivo G2 show that it is a rebranded version of the Vivo Y36i, which was announced in China in December 2023. It appears that the G2 is aimed at the offline market in China.

Vivo G2 price

The Vivo G2 comes in four variants, such as 4GB + 128GB, 6GB + 128GB, 8GB + 128GB, and 8GB + 256GB. These variants are priced at 1,199 Yuan (~$167), 1,499 Yuan (~$210), 1,599 Yuan (~$225), and 1,899 Yuan (~$265), respectively. It comes in Deep Sea Black color only.

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An Updated HarmonyOS is Here, and Huawei Seems Extra Confident

By

Anubhav

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Jan 19, 2024

Huawei is making big moves to prepare for a comeback. This time, it’s the introduction of HarmonyOS Next, their very own mobile operating system. In a bold pivot away from Android, Huawei aims to make a significant impact on the mobile tech landscape, challenging the dominance of Google’s Android and Apple’s iOS in China.

The developer version of HarmonyOS Next is the one that was actually released

The developer’s version of HarmonyOS Next was recently unveiled, signaling Huawei’s dedication to nurturing its platform. With a commercial launch slated for the fourth quarter of this year, this move marks a new chapter in Huawei’s story. What’s interesting here is the deliberate decision to stop supporting Android-based apps, a clear sign that Huawei is ready to forge its own path.

Huawei is not just focusing on the software; they’re building an entire ecosystem. They’re rallying support from over 200 industry partners, with ambitions to bring on 5,000 by the end of 2024. Big names like Meituan have already joined the fray, creating apps specifically for HarmonyOS. This initiative isn’t just about a new operating system; it’s about creating a whole new tech community.

The company is also investing heavily in this venture, dedicating 7 billion yuan to fuel innovation in everything from native apps to development tools. This investment isn’t just monetary; it’s a commitment to the future of tech, aiming to cultivate a new generation of developers through collaborations with over 300 educational institutions.

The journey hasn’t been easy for Huawei. Their inclusion on the US government’s Entity List, limiting access to US-origin technologies, has been a significant hurdle. However, this has only spurred them on to innovate and push boundaries.

Huawei’s ambitions are high, with projections suggesting HarmonyOS could overtake Apple’s iOS in China by 2024. This isn’t just a tech update; it’s a tech revolution. HarmonyOS Next isn’t just a new player in the smartphone OS game; it’s a statement of intent from Huawei, showing that they’re not just adapting to challenges – they’re setting out to redefine the rules of the game.

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Himiway Unveils Exciting New E-Bike Models at CES 2024

By

Anubhav

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Jan 19, 2024

The electric bike industry is buzzing with excitement following Himiway’s recent showcase at CES 2024. This California-based company, known for blending affordability with functionality, has taken a bold step into the high-performance e-bike arena. Their latest offerings at CES have set new benchmarks in design and capability, indicating a significant shift in Himiway’s market strategy.

The pricing of the bikes is still under wraps for now

Leading the charge are the X5 Pro and X5 Ultra, two mountain bikes that redefine what it means to ride electrically off-road. With their 27.5-inch wheels, these bikes are designed to conquer challenging terrains. What makes them stand out is the combination of Schwalbe tires, RockShox suspension, and Sram Code Ultimate brakes, all built around lightweight yet sturdy carbon frames. The Bafang M500 motor in these bikes is not just about power; it’s about delivering a seamless, high-torque experience that mountain biking enthusiasts will appreciate.

Himiway didn’t stop there. They also introduced the Zebra and Cobra Pro, tailor-made for adventurers who refuse to be limited by terrain. The Cobra Pro, with its full-suspension frame and massive tires, is an all-terrain beast, while the Zebra, with its accessible design, ensures that no adventure is out of reach. Both are equipped with a 1,000W motor, striking a balance between power and accessibility.

For city riders, the A7 Pro is a game changer. This bike combines urban convenience with performance, featuring a step-through frame and full suspension for a comfortable ride. The adjustable stem and integrated wheel lock show Himiway’s attention to the diverse needs of urban cyclists.

Although pricing details are still under wraps, Himiway’s track record suggests these models will offer great value. What’s clear is that Himiway is no longer just about practicality; they’re now a serious contender in the performance e-bike market. This shift not only spices up the competition but also promises exciting times for e-bike enthusiasts and casual riders alike. Stay tuned to Gizmochina as more details unfold about these groundbreaking models.

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Toyota’s Chairman says brand is developing advanced ICEs amidst the EV revolution

By

Jed John Ikoba

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Jan 19, 2024

Toyota’s chairman Akio Toyoda has claimed that there is still a future for internal combustion engines (ICE) even in the pursuit of reduced carbon emissions. The assertion by the Toyota Chairman is bound to draw attention from industry watchers and policymakers alike.

Toyota’s Chairman was speaking at a press conference at the Tokyo Auto Salon when he revealed that Toyota was developing next-generation ICE models that will play an important role in achieving a carbon-neutral environment. Mister Toyoda stated that there is still a role for ICEs as a practical means of achieving carbon neutrality and Toyota is thus refining engine technology. Even with the rapid development and deployment of battery-electric technology in modern cars, Toyoda feels engine technology development is a necessary step toward the future.

It is believed that Toyota’s next-generation vehicles will use advanced internal combustion engines beginning this year. Toyota says its development of cutting-edge engine technology will help safeguard Japan’s automotive sector which currently employs approximately 5.5 million people. The challenge in ICE vehicles is the critical reduction of carbon emissions and Toyota aims to achieve this in several ways. The engines could come with higher compression and cleaner burning technologies. Toyota is also developing engines that run on the cleaner hydrogen fuel.

At the Tokyo Auto Salon, Toyota showcased some impressive ICE models like the GR Yaris and the Lexus LBX RR Morizo Concept with a 300hp engine. The models, as well as others under development, hold a lot of promise to have a future of ICE vehicles with reduced emissions. Toyota will have to up its technology to be able to compete with battery-electric EVs which have become the vehicles of choice across the population.

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Xiaomi Robot Vacuum T12 with mop function and a cheaper price tag unveiled in the EU

By

Jed John Ikoba

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Jan 19, 2024

The Robot Vacuum T12 is Xiaomi’s latest offering in the segment and it comes with some decent features. The Xiaomi Robot Vacuum T12 is in the lower price range in the lineup of robot vacuums from the tech giant. The Xiaomi Robot Vacuum T12 is now available in the EU.

The Robot Vacuum T12 has a suction power of 3,500Pa, uses LDS laser navigation, and has a scan range of 8 meters. The robot vacuum has a sampling frequency of 2K/s, allowing it to accurately map the home for optimized route planning. The new Xiaomi robot vacuum T12 is equipped with four cliff sensors and two collision sensors to ensure the device avoids falling downstairs or hitting obstacles. It has a smart onboard water tank that however needs to be refilled manually. There are three flow levels for optimal cleaning at any time.

The Xiaomi Robot Vacuum T12’s settings can be controlled via its companion app, as well as set up a cleaning schedule. The dimensions of the robot vacuum are 350 x 94.5 mm and its 3,200mAh battery delivers up to 130 minutes of runtime on a full charge for the gadget. The robot comes in a black shell housing the device. There are also OTA updates available for the Xiaomi Robot Vacuum T12 via its companion app.

Pricing & Availability

The Xiaomi Robot Vacuum T12 is currently available in a sprinkling of EU countries like France, Italy, and Spain. The price of the model is €169.99 ($185) in France and Italy, while in Spain it is priced at €179.99 ($196). There are no indications yet whether the Xiaomi Robot Vacuum T12 will be available in other EU markets and globally.

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Lenovo Legion C140 2024 GaN charger with 140W PD 3.1 fast charging unveiled

By

Jed John Ikoba

-

Jan 19, 2024

Lenovo has launched the Legion C140 2024 GaN charger. This comes on the heels of the earlier release of two new Lenovo laptops in China this week. The Lenovo Legion C140 is a Gallium Nitride (GaN) charging adapter and offers up to 140W fast charging support. The Lenovo Legion C140 GaN charger supports PD 3.1 charging, as well as Qualcomm QC 3.0 and PPS 3.0. The new Lenovo Legion GaN 140W charger is the perfect charging accessory for the new Lenovo Legion laptops.

The Lenovo Legion C140 2024 is a versatile charger with support for multiple charging standards. Its impressive 140W charging power is also another talking point of the GaN charger. The charger is compatible with other devices but delivers a top-notch performance when charging a Lenovo Legion gaming laptop. It uses special performance settings that outperform the regular 100W chargers. Lenovo claims that the GaN charger offers a 78% gaming performance over a 300W charger for a laptop equipped with the Intel Core i5-13500HX processor and Nvidia RTX 4060 GPU.

The Lenovo Legion C140 2024 GaN charger with dimensions of 66.2 x 65 x 30.6mm and it is also lightweight, weighing just 270g. The small form factor of the new Lenovo Legion GaN charger makes it easy to carry.

Pricing & Availability

The Lenovo Legion C140 2024 GaN charger is currently available for pre-order in China and is priced at 209 yuan ($30). International buyers can get the gaming fast-charging brick via AliExpress for $39.81. Its price is pretty much another major plank of the charger as its competitors are more expensive. Lenovo expects a decent reception for the new GaN charger.

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Bose unveils Ultra Open Earbuds with stylish clip-on design for $300

By

Soumyakanti

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Jan 18, 2024

Bose has introduced a new limited-edition product called the Ultra Open Earbuds, in collaboration with the fashion and lifestyle brand Kith. The marketing material for these earbuds was leaked ahead of their official announcement at CES 2024. This suggested that Bose was working on a new pair of earbuds, but specific details about the product were not disclosed in the leak.

Key Specs of Ultra Open Earbuds

These earbuds stand out with their unique clip-on design, allowing users to easily attach them to their ears. This design is somewhat similar to Huawei’s FreeClip headphones and offers a fresh take on how we use headphones.

The Ultra Open Earbuds are designed to provide a balance between enjoying music and staying aware of the surroundings. They have an innovative cuff-shaped design with soft, rounded edges, making them more of a stylish accessory than traditional headphones. The idea is to provide comfort for all-day wear, and they can be easily worn with hats, glasses, or jewelry.

Despite their appealing design, Bose hasn’t yet disclosed key details like battery life or waterproof capabilities. However, Kith’s website mentions a “light-as-air grip,” a flexible joint for easy wear, and up to seven and a half hours of playtime. The earbuds also feature Bose’s Immersive Audio technology for spatial sound.

The headphones and charging case carry the Kith brand logo, created in the iconic Bose font. This partnership marks Bose’s first venture with a fashion brand and shows a significant departure from their usual product launches. The Ultra Open Earbuds are priced at $300 and will be available in extremely limited quantities on Kith’s online store and select physical stores starting from January 22.

While Bose had previously introduced the Sport Open Earbuds in 2021 with a similar open-ear design, they received a lukewarm response from the market. Despite this, Bose remains committed to exploring the market potential for open-ear headphones and has taken a different design approach with the Ultra Open Earbuds.

Bose also recently acquired a strategic stake in the Indian audio brand Noise, aiming to foster innovation in audio technology through collaboration. Additionally, earlier this month, Bose introduced the QuietComfort Ultra headphones in India, featuring spatial audio, customizable sound profiles, and an impressive 24-hour battery life.

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Italy Cracks Down on Airbnb Tax Evasion, Seizes €779 Million

By

Oğuz Çakır

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Jan 18, 2024

Airbnb, a short-term home rental company, had 779 million euros seized in Italy on the grounds of tax evasion. The investigation, initiated by the Milan Prosecutor’s Office, alleges that the company failed to pay a 21% tax on the 3.7 billion euros of revenue from its European headquarters in Ireland between 2017 and 2021. Here ate the details…

Airbnb Tax Evasion Investigation in Italy Targets Company and Individuals

As part of the investigation, it was revealed that the financial police confiscated 779 million euros from the company. Additionally, an ongoing investigation targets three individuals who held managerial positions at Airbnb between 2017 and 2021. The company had previously contested the 2017 Italian law regarding rental taxes, arguing that it violated European Union regulations. According to this law, Airbnb and other short-term rental companies are required to pay 21% of their rental income to tax authorities.

Last December, Airbnb’s objection to this law was rejected by the European Court of Justice. Following the recent action by Italian authorities, Airbnb officials expressed their surprise and disappointment with the prosecutor’s decision. They also noted that they have been in discussions with the Italian tax authority since June 2023 in an effort to resolve the issue.

Airbnb emphasized its belief in operating in full compliance with the law and its intention to assert its rights. The Italian government had also announced last week that it would intensify its scrutiny of homeowners engaged in short-term home rentals. Furthermore, there are plans to increase the tax rate from 21% to 26% for those who rent multiple properties, with the government aiming to generate approximately 1 billion euros in additional revenue through this measure.

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ViewSonic VX2758-4K-PRO-2 display with 160Hz refresh rate launched

By

Sudhanshu

-

Jan 18, 2024

ViewSonic has introduced the VX2758-4K-PRO-2, a new gaming monitor currently in the pre-sale phase in China, offering a range of features with gaming in mind.

The 27-inch monitor features a Fast IPS LCD panel with a 4K resolution of 3840×2160, providing a pixel density of 163 PPI for sharp visuals. Notably, it boasts a 160Hz refresh rate and 1ms GTG screen response technology for smooth gameplay.

Designed with gaming in mind, the monitor supports HDR technology and is compatible with both AMD FreeSync and Nvidia G-Sync, catering to users with different graphics card preferences.

Color accuracy is a highlight, with the monitor offering a 100% sRGB color display capability and claiming to cover a professional-grade film and television/web-wide color gamut space. Comfort features include DC dimming to reduce blue light output and flicker-free technology with FlickrFree support. Users can also adjust the black stabilization (dark picture compensation) function from 0-100 in the OSD menu.

In terms of design, the monitor features a triangular metal base and includes two HDMI 2.1 interfaces, two DP1.4 interfaces, and audio interfaces.

For those interested, the pre-sale price is set at 1,699 yuan, with a purchase price not exceeding 1,799 yuan. Currently, there is no news on the global release.

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OnePlus Buds 3 battery & charging specs revealed ahead of January 23 launch

By

Sudhanshu

-

Jan 18, 2024

OnePlus is set to unveil its latest OnePlus 12 series in India and global markets on January 23rd. Alongside the flagship series, the company will also launch the OnePlus Buds 3 in the Indian market on the same day.

Leading up to the Indian launch of these earbuds, the brand has started revealing specifications. The OnePlus Buds 3 are confirmed to provide 44 hours of playback time and 7 hours of playback time on a 10-minute charge. The earbuds will be available in Splendid Blue and Metallic Grey color variants.

Worry less. Enjoy more.
⚡️ 7 hours of listening on a 10-minute charge
⚡️ 44 hours of listening on a full charge#OnePlusBuds3
— OnePlus (@oneplus) January 18, 2024

These earbuds were introduced in China last month alongside the OnePlus Ace 3 smartphone, and the specifications of the Chinese variant are already known.

Key specs of the OnePlus Buds 3:

In-ear with stem design, each earbud weighs 4.8 grams.
Features a 10.4mm composite diaphragm bass unit for detailed highs and deep bass.
49dB active noise cancellation through a three-microphone AI system, resulting in a 99.6% reduction in background noise.
LHDC 5.0 Hi-Res support for high-quality audio transmission with a 96kHz sampling rate and 1Mbps wireless transmission speed.
Tailored for gamers with custom game sound effects, a new sound field expansion, 3D spatial sound effects, and 94ms low latency for clearer and more immersive in-game sounds.
Impressive 44 hours of usage with noise cancellation turned off, fast charging with 10 minutes of charging delivering 7 hours of music playback.
IP55-rated for dust and water resistance.
Utilizes Bluetooth 5.3 for connectivity.

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China’s Semiconductor industry surpasses expectations despite sanctions

By

Joane

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Jan 18, 2024

In a remarkable turn of events, China’s semiconductor industry defied expectations in 2023, achieving impressive growth amidst global challenges. According to data from China’s National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), the country’s integrated circuit (IC) output surged by an impressive 6.9%, reaching a record 351.4 billion ICs, up from 324.2 billion in 2022. This unexpected success, however, does not overshadow the complex landscape the industry navigated throughout the year.

One of the key contributors to this growth was China’s resilient response to post-pandemic economic recovery. Despite initial concerns, the semiconductor sector displayed remarkable strength, adapting to evolving market dynamics. The 6.9% increase in IC output underscored the industry’s ability to weather challenges and capitalize on emerging opportunities.

Semiconductor Manufacturing International Corp (SMIC), China’s leading foundry, did face challenges in 2023, reporting a 24% decline in wafer shipments and a drop in capacity utilization to 74%. This decline was attributed to reduced demand from key sectors such as smartphones and automobiles. Hua Hong Semiconductor, the second-largest foundry in China, also experienced a temporary setback with a 0.79% year-on-year drop in revenue and a dip in capacity utilization in the third quarter.

Despite these specific challenges, China’s semiconductor industry demonstrated resilience and adaptability in the face of adversity. Analysts now predict a positive trajectory for the industry, with signs of recovery expected in the second quarter of 2024. The Semiconductor foundry capacity utilization rates, which experienced downward pressure, are anticipated to rebound, bringing the industry back to a healthier equilibrium.

Trade statistics for 2023 revealed mixed results, with China exporting 267.8 billion ICs worth US$135.9 billion, slightly lower in volume but demonstrating a robust performance. Import figures, while lower in volume and value, did not significantly hinder the overall growth momentum of the industry.

Global tensions, particularly between the US and China, did pose challenges, with export bans and trade controls on certain semiconductor types affecting China’s access to advanced technologies. However, the industry’s proactive measures, coupled with a strategic focus on self-sufficiency, helped mitigate potential disruptions.

China’s increased semiconductor equipment imports, including a 93% surge in chip-making equipment imports in Q3 2023, reflected the nation’s commitment to reducing dependence on external sources. Initiatives like “Made in China 2025,” tax exemptions and substantial investments underscored China’s dedication to achieving semiconductor self-sufficiency.

China’s semiconductor industry not only met but exceeded expectations in 2023, showcasing robust growth and resilience in the face of global challenges. As the industry anticipates further recovery in 2024, the narrative shifts towards a positive outlook, emphasizing the sector’s ability to thrive in a rapidly evolving landscape.

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The French Army is Exploring the Potential of E-Bikes for Tactical Operations

By

Anubhav

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Jan 18, 2024

You might have not expected to read this news today. The French Army is exploring the potential of electric bikes and motorcycles for tactical operations. The shift towards these electric two-wheelers, typically associated with urban commuting or leisure activities, marks a significant step in military innovation.

Silence and high speeds are the two most important factors for these e-bikes

E-bikes and e-motorcycles have evolved into more than just tools for personal mobility. Their features like high power, ease of use, silence, and impressive range align remarkably well with military requirements, especially for covert operations. This is not the first time electric bikes have been used in military contexts – Ukraine’s use of combat-ready electric bikes is a recent example.

The French Land Force’s technical section, Battle Lab Terre, has been testing the LMX range, including the LMX 56 electric bicycle and the LMX 161 electric motorcycle. LMX Bikes, a French-based company, is known for its high-performance electric two-wheelers. These tests aim to evaluate their practical application in military settings.

The LMX 56 is a robust off-road e-bike delivering 2,500 watts of power and 175 Nm of torque. Unlike typical e-mountain bikes, it features a unique dual drivetrain system and a large battery pack, ensuring a range of up to 62 miles on a single charge. On the other hand, the LMX 161 is a lightweight electric motocross bike, boasting 9,000 watts of power, which is equivalent to 12 horsepower. Its weight is just half of a traditional gas-powered motorbike, offering agility and efficiency on the battlefield.

These tests conducted by the French Army are not just about adopting new technology; they are about rethinking traditional military mobility. The integration of e-mobility into military operations could pave the way for more sustainable and efficient military practices. While the full extent of these tests’ outcomes remains to be seen, they certainly point towards a quieter, cleaner, and perhaps more effective approach to tactical military maneuvers.

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ByteDance is Looking to Expand its Tech Footprint to Canada, Australia & the US

By

Anubhav

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Jan 18, 2024

ByteDance, the powerhouse behind the viral sensation TikTok, is on a mission to broaden its horizons. With its sights set on the tech hubs of Silicon Valley in the U.S., along with Canada and Australia, ByteDance is gearing up for an impressive expansion. This strategic move is a clear indication of the company’s ambition to stay ahead in the fiercely competitive tech industry.

The company is also on the lookout for fresh talent in these regions

At the heart of this expansion is ByteDance’s plan to sublease a significant office space in San Jose, California, a move that echoes its commitment to deepen its roots in the tech world. But it’s not just about physical space; ByteDance is on the hunt for fresh talent, particularly computer engineers, to bolster its teams in Canada and Australia. These new recruits will be instrumental in driving innovation across ByteDance’s diverse range of apps, including TikTok, CapCut, and the lifestyle app Lemon8.

Interestingly, ByteDance isn’t just hiring locally. The company is also shifting 120 of its existing employees from China to Canada and Australia, spreading its global influence and expertise. This relocation strategy underscores ByteDance’s unique approach to fostering a diverse and experienced workforce.

While ByteDance has stepped back from video gaming, it’s making significant leaps in e-commerce. Leveraging TikTok’s massive popularity, the company has set ambitious goals for its U.S. shopping operations, eyeing a tenfold increase to a staggering $17.5 billion in gross merchandise volume. This bold target is part of ByteDance’s larger vision to not just compete but lead in the tech arena.

In 2023, ByteDance’s revenue soared by around 30%, surpassing the growth of tech giants like Meta Platforms and Tencent Holdings. With more than $110 billion in revenue, ByteDance is not just keeping up with the competition – it’s setting the pace.

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AI Chatbots are Now Being Used to Predict Lottery Numbers in China

By

Anubhav

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Jan 18, 2024

Amid the digital revolution, an intriguing trend has emerged in China‘s lottery scene. Surprisingly, AI chatbots, known for their smart, varied responses, are now being enlisted for a new task: predicting winning lottery numbers. While this novel approach has stirred excitement, it’s yet to mint any millionaires.

The process hasn’t really been successful so far, but one can hope

The journey into this unique intersection of technology and chance was highlighted by Gu Xiangnan from Anhui province. Her experiment involved using numbers from Google’s Gemini-Pro, an AI chatbot, fed with two years of Super Lotto data. Super Lotto requires players to pick numbers from two separate sets of balls. Despite Gemini’s efforts, Gu’s adventure didn’t yield monetary success.

This trend isn’t confined to Gu’s experiences. It’s gaining traction among China’s lottery enthusiasts, a group nearly 200 million strong, contributing to an annual lottery sale that hits around 600 billion yuan. The rise in AI-assisted lottery number picking is mirrored in other parts of the world too. From Thailand to Singapore, stories of modest wins using AI-generated numbers have surfaced, fueling curiosity and hope.

Despite these tales, it’s important to remember that lotteries are fundamentally random. AI, with all its sophistication, doesn’t possess an innate advantage in this game of luck. Experts and AI alike recommend treating lotteries as fun, not as investment strategies. After all, as Gemini-Pro advised Gu, the lottery should remain a recreational activity.

This trend, while fascinating, underscores a crucial point: Technology, for all its advancements, has its limits, especially in realms governed by chance. The real win in this scenario might not be monetary gains but the intriguing blend of AI and human hope, a combination that continues to captivate and entertain.

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Samsung Galaxy A15 5G & Galaxy A25 5G arrive in the US

By

Sudhanshu

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Jan 18, 2024

The Galaxy S24 series, Samsung’s latest flagship smartphones, has been introduced worldwide. Additionally, the Galaxy A15 and Galaxy A25, initially launched in India in late December 2023, are now available in the United States as part of the brand’s lower-mid range offerings.

Samsung Galaxy A15 5G & Galaxy A25 5G specs:

The Samsung Galaxy A15 5G boasts a powerful Dimensity 6100+ SoC, coupled with Android 14-based One UI 6. Its 6.5″ FullHD+ 90Hz Super AMOLED display offers a vibrant visual experience, complemented by a 5,000 mAh battery with 25W charging support. The device features a user-friendly side-mounted fingerprint scanner and a versatile camera setup, including a 50MP primary lens, 5MP ultrawide, 2MP macro, and a 13MP selfie camera.

On the other hand, the Samsung Galaxy A25 5G is equipped with the Exynos 1280 chip and runs on One UI 6 layered over Android 14. Its 6.5″ 120Hz FullHD+ Super AMOLED screen ensures smooth interactions, backed by a 5,000 mAh battery with 25W charging capability. The device also incorporates a side-mounted fingerprint scanner and a sophisticated camera configuration, featuring a 50MP primary lens with OIS, 8MP ultrawide, and 2MP macro lenses, along with a 13MP front camera for selfies and video calls.

Pricing & availability

The Galaxy A15 5G, which comes in an 8GB/128GB configuration and Blue Black or Light Blue color options, is priced at $200 on Samsung’s US website and $220 on Amazon, making it an affordable choice. On the other hand, the Galaxy A25 5G is available in a single Blue Black color with 6GB RAM and 128GB storage, competitively priced at $300 on both Samsung’s US website and Amazon.

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