Acer unveils new Predator X and Z series of Curved OLED and MiniLED gaming monitors

By

-

Jan 8, 2024

Acer has just debuted a bunch of new gaming monitors that are a part of its popular Predator series. These models include the flagship Predator Z57 Dual UHD curved MiniLED, Predator X34 V3 curved MiniLED gaming monitors, Predator X39, and Predator X34 OLED gaming monitors. So let’s have a look.

Acer Predator Z57

The Predator Z57 is the company’s flagship gaming monitor. The model offers a 57-inch curved display that offers a Dual UHD (7680×2160) resolution and offers 120Hz refresh rate. It features 2304-zone MiniLED technology, which promises to offer improved picture quality and brightness. It has a wide 32:9 aspect ratio and a 1000R curvature. The Predator Z57 can output up to 1000 nits of brightness and comes with VESA DisplayHDR 1000 certification for accurate colors and light and dark contrast.

The screen features a 98 percent DCI-P3 color gamut. Thanks to the large screen real estate, users can even multi task with this model. It supports the latest consoles and comes with two HDMI 2.1 ports and DisplayPort 1.4. It has a sleek body and houses twin 10W speakers. The China launch is set for Q1 2024, while the North American release kicks off on Q2 2024 for a 2,499 USD price tag.

Acer Predator X34 V3

Acer’s Predator X34 V3 sports a 34-inch display as the name suggests. The screen is a curved MiniLED panel that offers a 21:9 aspect ratio and QHD resolution. It has a 1500R curvature along with a 94 percent DCI-P3 color gamut, and VESA DisplayHDR 1000 certification. This gaming monitor promises to offer an enhanced gaming monitor with a 180Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time for minimal ghosting and immersive gameplay. Similar to the Predator Z57, the model houses HDMI 2 and DisplayPort 1.4 ports along with two 5W speakers. The new X34 V3 starts from 1,399 USD and will be available for purchase at the same time as the Predator Z57.

Acer Predator X39 & Predator X34 X

Apart from the MiniLED models, the tech giant also debuted two new OLED gaming monitors which are the Predator X39 and Predator X34 X. The former sports a 39-inch panel, while the latter has a 34-inch screen. Both models feature up to UWQHD resolution (3440×1440) resolution and up to a 240Hz refresh rate. The high refresh rate is paired with 0.01ms pixel response time to ensure a smoother and stutter free gameplay experience. The two OLED gaming monitors also offer 800R curvature.

The displays support a 99 percent DCI-P3 color gamut and VESA DisplayHDR True Black 400 certification. These models arrive with Eyesafe 2.0 certification to ease the strain on users’ eyes. The Predator X34 X has a starting price tag of 1,299 USD while the Predator X39 starts from 1,499 USD. These will also go on sale in the Chinese market in Q1 2024, while the release in other regions kicks off in Q2 2024.

Note: All four new gaming monitors support AMD FreeSync Premium technology to prevent screen tearing and flickering. A USB Type-C enables 90W PD port that delivers power, display, and data transfer. The new Predator Gaming Monitors feature built in KVM switch for swapping sources without having to reconnect peripherals.

Acer announced various new products during CES 2024. This includes the Aspire 3D 15 Spatial Labs Edition laptop, Aspire Vero 16, Predator Connect routers, and Aspire Go 14 and Go 15 notebooks. You can also check out our other coverage of the CES 2024 event by clicking here.

RELATED:

Belkin unveils new chargers, GaN power adapters, and an iPhone tracking stand at CES 2024

By

Rajesh Regmi

-

Jan 8, 2024

Belkin, a popular accessory maker, made some exciting announcements at CES 2024, focusing on wireless charging, powerful GaN devices, and a clever iPhone stand. Let’s learn all about them here.

Qi2 Chargers for iPhones:

Belkin’s new Qi2 chargers, based on the improved MagSafe standard, include a total of four products:

BoostCharge Convertible Qi2 Pad: The device transforms from a travel-friendly flat pad to a comfortable viewing stand, all while delivering a swift 15W charge to your iPhone.

*BoostCharge Convertible Qi2 Wireless Pad to Stand*

BoostCharge Pro 3-in-1 Wireless Charging Pad: It can simultaneously charge your iPhone (15W), another phone (5W), and an Apple Watch. For the latter, there is a detachable Watch charging puck.

*BoostCharge Pro 3-in-1 Wireless Charging Pad with Qi2*

BoostCharge Pro 2-in-1 Wireless Charging Pad: It has a similar design and features as the BoostCharge Pro 3-in-1, but doesn’t include the detachable charging puck.

*BoostCharge Pro 2-in-1 Magnetic Wireless Charging Pad with Qi2*

BoostCharge Pro Magnetic Stand: This is a stylish tree-style stand that boasts an adjustable phone angle for optimal viewing. It charges your iPhone (15W), Apple Watch, and AirPods, keeping your tech essentials organized and fueled up. It’s priced at $149.99 and will launch on Match.

BoostCharge Pro Magnetic Power Banks: Available in 5,000mAh, 8,000mAh, and 10,000mAh options starting at $59.99, these portable power banks offer both wireless (up to 15W) and wired charging options. The power banks also support a kickstand to make it easy to prop your phone while watching video.

GaN Tech for Compact Charger:

Belkin also introduced GaN chargers for efficient, space-saving power:

BoostCharge Pro 4-Port USB-C GaN Charger 200W: The charger features four USB-C ports, two capable of delivering up to 140 watts each, and two offering 60 watts each. The total output is capped at 200 watts. It will hit stores in March for $129.99.

Belkin CES 2024 — *BoostCharge Pro 4-Port USB-C GaN Charger 200W*

6-in-1 Core GaN Dock: Belkin says this new 6-in-1 adapter is 50% smaller than similar docks while having HDMI (4K display), 2 USB-A ports, 2 USB-C ports (one with 96W power delivery), and Gigabit Ethernet. It is available for order starting today for $139.99, while a launch will be followed soon.

iPhone Tracking Stand:

Finally, Belkin is announcing Auto Tracking Stand Pro which is world’s first accessory to make use of Apple’s DockKit framework introduced in iOS 17 for face and object tracking. This means your iPhone stays in frame during video calls, FaceTime, and other apps, eliminating the need for constant adjustments. It works in both orientations and with front and rear cameras, making it useful for a variety of applications.

The stand boasts a built-in battery for up to 5 hours of on-the-go use and charges your iPhone via MagSafe at 15W when plugged in. It is expected to launch soon with a price tag of $179.99.

Related:

(Via)

Xiaomi Clarifies: Will There Be an Affordable Redmi Car in The Near Future?

By

Oğuz Çakır

-

Jan 8, 2024

Xiaomi has finally entered the electric vehicle market. The company’s first EV, the Xiaomi SU7 EV, was unveiled last week in China and has already started appearing in stores. Although it’s the company’s first car, it has managed to impress everyone with smart features like self-parking. However, when it comes to Xiaomi, people want both top quality and low prices. That’s why there have been ongoing speculations about a budget-friendly Redmi car. Now, Xiaomi has addressed these rumors officially through their Weibo account.

No Affordable Redmi Car, Prioritizes SU7 EV Introduction

Xiaomi Auto recently posted an article called “Xiaomi Auto Answers 100 Questions from Users (Part 1)” on their official Weibo account. One of the highly anticipated questions was whether Xiaomi plans to make an affordable Redmi car. Similar to their smartphones and other devices, Xiaomi offers premium products while its subsidiary brands like Redmi and Poco provide more affordable options with comparable features. However, in the electric vehicle realm, this setup doesn’t currently exist, at least for the time being. However, for electric vehicles, a similar situation does not exist, at least for now.

Xiaomi Auto also stated: “We have no plans to launch a Redmi car. We are currently focused on the manufacturing and sales of our first car, the Mi SU7.” Additionally, Xiaomi CEO Lei Jun responded to some questions in the comments section. One of them was related to the price of the car. Jun stated, ‘I firmly believe that the Mi SU7 has no current rivals in its price range and prefers to stay realistic rather than set unrealistic goals.’

However, he denied the rumors by saying, ‘The rumored prices of the Mi SU7 are all false. We have not yet determined the final price. The final price will be announced to the public when the Mi SU7 is officially released.’ At the Mi Auto technology launch conference, Lei Jun also mentioned that the car is ‘a bit expensive, but it will be expensive for a reason.’ He clarified that the price won’t be 99,900 yuan, 149,900 yuan, or 199,900 yuan.

RELATED:

Acer debuts Aspire 3D 15 SpatialLabs Edition laptop & Predator SpatialLabs View 27 Gaming Monitor

By

Sudhanshu

-

Jan 8, 2024

Acer has introduced the Aspire 3D 15 SpatialLabs Edition laptop and the Predator SpatialLabs View 27 gaming monitor, aiming to deliver immersive 3D experiences to users.

Aspire 3D 15 SpatialLabs Edition:

The Aspire 3D 15 laptop is designed to provide captivating 3D content on its 15.6-inch UHD display. It is equipped with up to an Intel Core i7-13620H processor and up to NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4050 Laptop GPUs, eliminating the need for special glasses. The laptop includes AI-powered applications like SpatialLabs Go, transforming 2D content into stereoscopic 3D in real-time. Creators can use the SpatialLabs Model Viewer for real-time rendering of CGI and CAD files. Microsoft Copilot in Windows 11 enhances creativity and productivity.

With a 15.6-inch UHD IPS panel supporting Adobe RGB color gamut, the laptop seamlessly switches between 2D and 3D modes. Acer PurifiedVoice and PurifiedView enhance video calls, and TwinAir technology ensures efficient heat dispersion. It offers up to 32GB of DDR5 memory, up to 2TB of storage, and various connectivity options.

Predator SpatialLabs View 27 Gaming Monitor:

The Predator SpatialLabs View 27 gaming monitor expands Acer’s 3D display lineup, featuring TrueGame technology for enhanced 3D gaming realms. The 3D Ultra mode provides customization options for visual effects and intensity. Acer Immerse Audio complements the 3D experience with spatial sound technology.

The 27-inch, 2D-3D switchable 4K panel offers eye-catching visuals with a 160Hz refresh rate, 400 nits brightness, and Delta E<2 color accuracy. The gaming monitor is compatible with AMD FreeSync and NVIDIA G-SYNC, ensuring tear-free frames.

Price and Availability:

The Acer Aspire 3D 15 SpatialLabs Edition starts at USD 1,399.99 in North America (available in February), EUR 1,499 in EMEA (available in March), and RMB 14,999 in China (available in April). The Predator SpatialLabs View 27 will be available in North America in Q2 2024, starting at USD 1,999, and in EMEA in Q1 2024, starting at EUR 1,999. Specifics, prices, and availability may vary by region.

RELATED:

Here’s an early look at Google Assistant with Bard on Android phone

By

Rajesh Regmi

-

Jan 8, 2024

Google has been working on a new version of its Assistant with Bard. Bard is a large language model (LLM) that can generate text, translate languages, write different kinds of creative content, and answer your questions in an informative way.

Google announced last year that Bard will be integrated with Google Assistant for Android phones. This means that you will be able to use Bard to do all of the things that you can do with Google Assistant now, plus a whole lot more.

While an official release date is still unknown, developer Dylan Roussel has offered a glimpse into Assistant with Bard’s interface.

Sneak peek into Google Assistant with Bard

We can see that it’s designed to be straightforward, with a setup screen explaining how Bard works and the data it accesses. You can even connect your Google apps for a more personalized experience, similar to how extensions work in the current Bard web app.

After you finish up the setup, you can tap the arrow icon on the popup and you’ll be presented with a full interface offering helpful suggestions or letting you type your questions and prompts.

You can also open Assistant on top of any app, tap “Add this screen,” and ask questions directly related to what you’re seeing. And yes, the familiar “Hey Google” hot word still works for seamless access.

For those who prefer the classic Assistant experience, you will be able to easily switch back. And for tech enthusiasts, Bard’s interface offers access to extensions that will allow it to tap into external data sources, broadening its capabilities.

In a nutshell, Google Assistant with Bard is about adding text-based capabilities to your existing voice assistant. While it’s still under development, we now have an understanding that the voice assistant can also handle more complex tasks and interactions.

Related:

(Via)

Elista announces new dynamic portable speakers, party speakers, & wireless soundbars in India

By

Sean

-

Jan 8, 2024

Elista has just unveiled three new dynamic portable speakers in the Indian market. The new announcements bring a new portable speaker model along with a portable party speaker and a wireless soundbar speaker as well. Just last month, the company announced new smartwatches, which you can check out by clicking here.

Elista ELS-MusiStrom 1600

Starting off with the MusiStorm 1600, the new portable party speakers offer a total power output of 16W (8W + 8W), which is paired with a 6.5-inch HiFi speakers. The ELS-MusiStrom 1600 promises to offer immersive sound and comes with RGB lighting that creates a party experience instantly. On a single full charge, it can run for up to 5 hours. Other notable features include Bluetooth 5.0, 10 meters range, an FM Radio, and remote control access. It is available for a 2,199 INR price tag and can be purchased in Black, Blue, and Red variants.

Elista ELS-MusiKing 1600

Similar to the MusiStrom, the MusiKing 1600 also comes with twin 8W audio output. Although, it is paired with 5-inch HiFi speakers for clear and powerful audio. The company promises to offer powerful bass and clear treble. A 3,000mAh battery pack powers the portable speakers, which the brand claims can offer a 5 hour battery life on a single full charge. This model offers multiple connectivity options like Bluetooth 5.0, AUX, TF, and USB like the other model, and houses a convenient mobile stand along with a wired mic for karaoke sessions. It has a price tag of 1,799 INR and is available in Black, Blue, and Red color options.

Elista ELS-MusiBar 1000

The last model that was announced in the region is the MusiBar 1000 wireless soundbar speakers. It features a unique angular design and houses a 10W output with a twin 5W speak configuration. These speakers are tuned to ensure a distortion free audio experience even at maximum volume. Thanks to Bluetooth 5.0, the soundbar has a wireless range of up to 10 meters. Other notable features include 5 hour battery life with a 2,400mAh cell, USB, TF, AUX, and FM ports. Buyers can purchase the device is available for 1,399 INR.

RELATED:

CES 2024: Samsung unveils AI-based 4K and 8K 2024 Neo QLED TVs

By

Soumyakanti

-

Jan 8, 2024

Samsung has unveiled its 2024 TV lineup just ahead of CES 2024, featuring Neo QLED, OLED, and Micro LED TVs. The standout is the Neo QLED (Quantum Mini LEDs) series which is powered by the NQ8 AI Gen3 processor.

This processor is a major improvement over the previous version, incorporating the company’s AI-driven neural quantum processor technology. It boasts double the NPU speed and an expanded neural network capacity from 64 to 512. The result is improved performance and stunningly detailed visuals on the screen.

Neo QLED TVs 2024 Specifications:

The lineup offers both 4K and 8K TVs. Design-wise, the Neo QLED 8K TVs are incredibly sleek, with a thickness of just 12.9mm. This design, termed the Infinity Air Design, not only offers outstanding picture quality but also creates a unique mirror effect that makes the TV appear to be floating in its surroundings.

Coming to the features, the Neo QLED 8K TV boasts the 8K AI Upscaling Pro Super-Resolution technology, thanks to the NQ8 AI Gen3. This technology can enhance low-resolution content to ultra-high definition, ensuring clear display even for standard definition material.

Additionally, it features the AI Motion Enhancer Pro, which is especially useful for high-resolution sports broadcasts. This feature tackles problems like ball distortion through a deep-learning model for motion detection and enhancement.

The Real Depth Enhancer Pro is another innovative feature. It uses AI to control mini LEDs, adding depth and detail to fast-moving scenes. This makes the images appear more three-dimensional and lifelike by focusing on specific parts of the scene.

For audio, Samsung introduces the 2024 Q-Symphony, which allows for the connection of multiple wireless speakers and soundbars, achieving perfect audio synchronization. Additionally, the Active Voice Amplifier Pro enhances on-screen dialogue and sound using AI technology to separate and amplify voice input from mixed audio.

Neo QLED TVs will come with the 2024 version of Tizen OS, featuring various enhancements like Designed for Samsung Gaming Hub accessories, Mobile Smart Connect, Multi Control, improved Samsung TV Plus, Vibrary, and 360 Audio.

Pre-orders for Samsung’s Neo QLED 8K TV Chinese version are currently available, with the initial pre-order window running from January 3rd to January 18th. A second pre-order phase will commence in March, and customers who pre-order and buy the TV during the launch event will also receive a Tencent Video SVIP annual card as a bonus.

Samsung’s 2024 TV lineup represents a significant step forward in smart display technology, emphasizing quality, innovation, and AI-powered features to enhance and personalize the user’s viewing experience. We will see more of such technologies at CES 2024. Stay tuned.

RELATED:

OPPO Find X7 with 50MP triple cameras, Dimensity 9300 SoC & 6.78″ curved OLED display launched

By

Sudhanshu

-

Jan 8, 2024

The newest flagship smartphones from OPPO have made their official debut in China. The lineup comprises two devices: the Find X7 and the Find X7 Ultra. In this article, we’ll delve into the specifics of the standard model, as we’ve previously covered the Find X7 Ultra in a separate piece.

OPPO Find X7 specs:

In terms of design, the OPPO Find X7 bears a striking resemblance to the Find X7 Ultra, showcasing a sizable circular camera module accommodating three camera sensors within four cutouts. The phone is available in four variants: Sea and Sky, Desert Moon Silver, Smokey Purple, and Starry Sky Black. The Black and Purple options boast a glass back panel housing the prominent circular camera module, while the remaining two showcase a dual-tone design enhanced by a leather finish on the lower portion. The right side of the smartphone houses the power and volume buttons, while the left side features an alert slider.

Up-front, the smartphone boasts a sizable 6.78-inch OLED curved screen with a resolution of 2780 × 1264 pixels, offering a pixel density of 450 PPI. The display supports a wide color gamut (P3) with an impressive peak brightness of 4500 nits, reaching 2300 nits in HDR and 1600 nits in HBM typical scenarios. The adaptive refresh rate ranges from 1 to 120Hz, and it supports up to a 240Hz touch sampling rate.

Performance

The OPPO Find X7 has a Dimensity 9300 SoC at its heart, coupled with up to 16GB of LPDDR4X RAM and 1TB of UFS 4.0 storage. The hardware is powered by a large 5,000mAh battery that offers 100W fast charging support. It operates on Android 14-based ColorOS 14. As for connectivity, the device offers Wi-Fi support (Wi-Fi 7, Wi-Fi 6, Wi-Fi 5), Bluetooth 5.4, and NFC capabilities for reading and writing NFC cards, OPPO Pay, and more.

The OPPO Find X7 incorporates under-screen fingerprint recognition and facial recognition for biometric authentication. The device comes equipped with a range of sensors, including geomagnetic induction, an under-screen proximity sensor, an ambient light sensor, a color temperature sensor, an accelerometer, a gravity sensor, a gyroscope, a step counting function, a rear spectrum sensor, and an infrared remote control.

Camera

The OPPO Find X7 features a powerful rear camera setup, including a 50-megapixel wide-angle camera, a 50-megapixel ultra-wide-angle camera, and a 64-megapixel periscope telephoto camera. The camera system supports various shooting modes, including optical zoom up to 3x, 6x optical quality zoom, and an impressive 120x digital zoom. The front camera is a 32-megapixel shooter supporting various photography and video modes.

Both the rear and front cameras support 4K video shooting at 60fps and 30fps, along with additional options for 1080P and 720P video shooting. The rear camera also supports slow-motion video shooting at 1080P (240fps) and 720P (480fps), with video anti-shake capabilities.

Pricing & availability

The OPPO Find X7 is offered in four different configurations, with the base model featuring a 12GB + 256GB setup priced at 3,999 Yuan ($563). Additionally, there is a 16GB + 256GB variant available for 4,299 Yuan ($605), a 16GB + 512GB configuration priced at 4,599 Yuan ($647), and the highest-tier option with a 16GB + 1TB configuration, which is priced at 4,999 Yuan ($704). Pre-orders are now live in China, and the first sale is scheduled for January 12.

RELATED:

CES 2024: Acer Aspire Vero 16 With Copilot Key, QHD Webcam Launched

By

Viraj Gawde

-

Jan 8, 2024

At pre-CES 2024, Acer made a host of announcements including Aspire Go laptops, Predator Connect routers, and more. The brand also debuted the Aspire Vero 16 which is the latest laptop in the Vero lineup. It is aimed towards environment-conscious consumers. The machine is equipped with the latest hardware along with a dedicated Copilot key. Let’s take a look below to learn more about the device.

Acer Aspire Vero 16 specifications and features

The Acer Aspire Vero 16 is developed with the brand’s commitment to achieving carbon neutrality while minimizing carbon footprint throughout the lifecycle. It features a tactile chassis texture made up of 60 percent PCR materials and does not contain any volatile organic compounds. The touchpad is also made up of ocean-bound plastic. The laptop has a smoothened surface.

The Acer Aspire Vero 16 boasts a 16-inch display bearing a WQXGA resolution with a 16:10 aspect ratio, thin bezels, and 100 percent sRGB. It is also offered in a touchscreen option. The laptop has a backlit keyboard along with a dedicated Copilot AI key. There is a 1440p QHD webcam with AI PurifiedVoice for eliminating any unwanted noise during calls.

Under the hood, the Acer Aspire Vero 16 is equipped with up to Intel Core Ultra 7 processors. It packs 16GB LPDDR5 RAM and up to 2TB SSD storage that is upgradeable. The laptop is claimed to offer up to 10.5 hours of battery life. Connectivity options on the device include WiFi-7, Bluetooth LE, two USB-C ports, and an HDMI 2.1 port.

The Acer Aspire Vero 16 carries a starting price tag of $749.99 and will be available in North America starting April. In Europe, it will go on sale starting at EUR 1,199 in March.

Related:

Lenovo ecosystem brand Erazer launches a tablet with 12.6-inch display, 12,000mAh battery, and more

By

Sudarshan Ravichandran

-

Jan 8, 2024

Major Chinese companies are known to have ecoystem brands, a trend popularized by Xiaomi. These brands utilize the sales channels of the bigger established players.

Lenovo has one such brand called Erazer. This brand has launched a new large-screen budget tablet called Erazer K30 Pad 12.6”.

Let’s check out the features of this product along with its pricing and availability.

Erazer K30 Pad 12.6” Specifications

The new Erazer tablet features a metal unibody design. Its camera island resembles that of the Xiaomi Pad 6 series. The product measures 7.8mm in thickness and weighs 650g.

The device is built around a 12.6-inch IPS LCD screen. The display offers a resolution of 2560 x 1600 pixels and 350 nits peak brightness level. It covers 72% of the NTSC color gamut and has a 1500:1 contrast ratio.

The tablet is powered by a MediaTek Helio G99 SoC. The chipset is paired with 12GB RAM and 256 GB storage. On the software front, it boos Android 13.

The device has a 13MP rear camera and an 8MP front-facing camera. The connectivity options on it include 4G, dual-band WiFi, Bluetooth 5.2, and USB Type-C. It has a MicroSD card slot (up to 512GB) and quad speakers but no 3.5mm headphone jack.

Last but not least, the device draws energy from a 12,000mAh battery and supports up to 18W USB PD charging.

Erazer K30 Pad 12.6” Price

The Erazer K30 Pad 12.6” is priced at ¥1,999 (~$280) for the sole 12GB + 256GB variant. It is currently up for pre-order on Lenovo’s JD store.

The tablet will most likely not see an official global release.

RELATED:

(Via)

CES 2024: Samsung Premiere 8K, Premiere 5 Projectors Unveiled With Ability To Use On Any Surface

By

Viraj Gawde

-

Jan 8, 2024

Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2024 is all set to commence from tomorrow. As expected a host of companies have already unveiled new devices a day prior to the tech trade show in Las Vegas. Samsung has also announced a host new TVs, projectors, monitors, and more. The South Korean brand has expanded its home theatre lineup with two new projectors called the Premiere 8K and Premiere 5. Both pack impressive specifications and features with some of them being the firsts. Read on to know more.

Samsung Premiere 8K and Premiere 5 projectors unveiled

Starting with the premium Premiere 8K, as the name suggests it is the world’s first 8K projector with wireless connectivity. It comes with a Wireless One Connect Box enabling users to connect all peripherals like streaming devices, and consoles to the box instead of the projector. This eliminates any messy wires. The box sends content to the projector from up to 10 meters.

The Premiere 8K is capable of outputting up to 150-inch image just 12 inches away from the wall. This is great for those using the device in tight spaces. It can also upscale 4K content due to the onboard AI-powered tech. The brightness is rated at 4,000 Lumens and the projector has auto keystone, autofocus, screen scaling, and more features.

Another first is that the Samsung Premiere 8K delivers 100W sound output with 8.2.2-channel Dolby Atmos. There is also Sound-on-Screen tech for a theatre-like immersive audio experience. It gives the feeling that the sound is coming from the screen instead of the speaker unit.

Coming to the Samsung Premiere 5, the South Korean brand says that it is a ‘do-it-all’ projector model. It is also touted to be the world’s most compact triple-laser ultra-short-throw projector. It weighs just 3.7 pounds making it easier to move often.

The Premiere 5 can throw up to 100-inch images 17 inches away from the wall. It has common features like autofocus, keystone, color balance, and more. There is a multi-functional key that enables mode switching, mobile connection, and screen off features. Audio-wise, the projector is equipped with a built-in 10W speaker and it can also double up as a Bluetooth speaker.

The Samsung 2024 Premiere projectors come with a new feature called ‘Lightwrap’. It uses projection mapping technology allowing them to be used on any surface. It turns any object or surface into an interactive display. Samsung says that this is the first time that projection mapping is available outside professional environments and consumer-grade devices. It can project any content on any surface and also create a customizable dashboard. Additionally, the projectors also features Samsung Gaming Hub with access to thousands of games without a console.

Related:

CES 2024: Acer debuts Predator Connect routers as the world’s first with 5G and Wi-Fi 7 technology

By

Rajesh Regmi

-

Jan 8, 2024

Acer, in collaboration with Qualcomm, has announced two new routers — the Predator Connect X7 5G CPE and the Predator Connect T7 Wi-Fi 7 Mesh Router.

Both routers utilize Hybrid QoS software, leveraging Intel Killer Prioritization Engine and Multi-Link operation to optimize network bandwidth, throughput, and reliability for demanding applications like online gaming. Let’s learn about them here.

Acer Predator Connect X7 5G CPE and T7 Wi-Fi 7 routers

The Predator Connect X7 5G CPE is the world’s first router to combine 5G and Wi-Fi 7 technologies which boasts a theoretical BE11000 throughput. The latter translates to a combined maximum capacity of 11,000 Mbps across its 5G and Wi-Fi 7 connections.

While individual speeds reach up to 3.5 Gbps over 5G, BE11000 refers to the overall data transfer potential when utilizing all available bands and technologies simultaneously. The router is likewise said to have a low latency of around 1 millisecond.

The X7 5G CPE also offers dual WAN connectivity with failover mechanisms that ensure uninterrupted operation even if the 5G connection drops. It also supports load balancing across its various connections.

The Predator Connect T7, on the other hand, is a Mesh Router that focuses solely on Wi-Fi 7, offering tri-band connectivity. This means it utilizes three separate frequency bands – 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, and the new, wider 6 GHz band – that should reduce network congestion and interference.

Acer also says the T7 can keep up with the combined throughput of BE11000. It can be combined with other Predator routers to create a mesh network, expanding coverage and reliability for larger homes.

Both routers are powered by Qualcomm quad-core processors and utilize the Qualcomm Immersive Home Platform, which promises to deliver consistent performance and improved spectrum utilization for connected devices.

Likewise, they benefit from features like wider Wi-Fi channels, advanced signal modulation techniques, and multi-connection technology, all designed to reduce lag, minimize interference, and improve overall network performance.

Additionally, the routers come equipped with Acer’s Predator Connect app, allowing users to customize settings and prioritize specific network traffic. They also integrate Trend Micro Home Network Security for increased device protection.

Unfortunately, Acer has not shared any details about pricing or availability yet.

Related:

(Via)

Samsung unveils the S95D during CES 2024, brand’s brightest OLED TV that is truly Glare Free

By

Sean

-

Jan 8, 2024

Samsung has just unveiled the new S95D, which is its third generation QD-OLED TV. During the ongoing CES event, the company announced this high-end TV that aims to stand out with some impressive features. It is not only the brightest OLED TV from the brand and its even Glare Free.

Samsung S95D QD-OLED TV Specs

The South Korean tech giant claims that the new OLED TV is capable of removing any noticeable reflections. This will enable the most seamless and uninterrupted viewing experience even with light hitting the TV screen. However, Samsung seemingly didn’t make any major trade offs for this Glare Free experience. The company used a “specialized hard-coating layer and surface coating pattern” to make sure that the viewing angles don’t take a hit and that it faces no color distortion.

Samsung S95D OLED TV — Image Via TheVerge

The S95D QD-OLED TV is the brand’s brightest OLED screen ever from Samsung. Not only this, it is available for up to 77 inches in size and offers a 144Hz refresh rate as well. In other words, you can even use it for an enhanced gaming experience. Pantone has even validated the AI powered color accuracy feature on the S95D. All of this is packed in an ultra-thin 11mm body and it comes with Samsung’s One Connect Box.

Samsung’s new QD-OLED TV runs on the latest version of its proprietary Tizen OS, which runs on the user’s Samsung ID. The TV also feature HDR10 and HDR10+ support. The company has also announced a slightly cutdown S90D OLED TV option, which skips the glare free finish and design elements of the flagship model. With the CES 2024 kicking off, you can click here to check out our latest coverage of the ongoing event. Recently, another one of Samsung’s innovations is the Music Frame, which lets you listen to music in a photo frame.

RELATED:

OPPO Find X7 Ultra with Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, 50MP Quad camera setup & 6.82″ 2K display launched

By

Sudhanshu

-

Jan 8, 2024

OPPO has just unveiled the OPPO Find X7 Ultra, which claims to be the ultimate camera phone on the market. The device integrates advanced camera hardware breakthroughs, OPPO’s HyperTone camera system, and state-of-the-art computational photography in a sleek design. Let’s take a detailed look at everything the device has to offer.

Design & display

The Oppo Find X7 Ultra looks quite similar to the Find X7, featuring a large circular camera module on the back that has four cutouts and a Hasselblad branding. The frame is made out of metal with the volume rocker and power button placed on the right side and a three-stage alert slider on the left. The Find X7 Ultra boasts a sophisticated two-tone design in Ocean Blue, Sepia Brown, and Tailored Black. All of the three color options come with a premium vegan leather finish.

Up-front, the device features a vibrant 6.82-inch QHD+ curved screen with LTPO technology for smooth visuals and quality, reaching up to 1600 nits outdoors. It has 2160Hz PWM dimming, and a variable refresh rate ranging from 1 to 120Hz. ProXDR technology enhances dynamic range, making HDR photos stand out. It has a centered punch-hole that holds the front camera and an in-display fingerprint scanner.

Camera system

The standout feature onboard the Find X7 Ultra is the HyperTone Camera System, housing a Quad Main Camera setup with a HyperTone Image Engine. It includes four 50MP cameras with large sensors, featuring two periscope zoom cameras that address the gap between optical focal lengths. The primary camera, with a second-gen Sony LYT-900 1-inch sensor, offers detailed stills with a custom f/1.8 aperture lens and OIS. The ultra-wide camera, backed by a 50MP Sony LYT-600 sensor, excels in macro photography and expansive scenery.

The Find X7 Ultra features unique dual periscope cameras. The 3x periscope zoom camera boasts a 50MP Sony IMX890 sensor, enabling creative freedom with a near-focus distance of 25cm. Additionally, the 6x periscope telephoto camera, equipped with a large 50MP Sony IMX858 sensor, excels in capturing abundant detail for both landscape shots and telemacro photography.

The device introduces four key camera breakthroughs:

HyperTone Image Engine: While computational photography has transformed smartphone photography, OPPO’s HyperTone Image Engine ensures natural-looking photos without compromising quality.
Uninterrupted Zoom: Find X7 Ultra covers the complete zoom range from 14mm to 270mm, allowing users to seamlessly capture quality photos across the entire spectrum.
Hasselblad Portrait Mode: Collaborating with Hasselblad, OPPO introduces a Portrait Mode capturing at four focal lengths, producing cinematic bokeh with ultimate accuracy.
Hasselblad Master Mode: Bringing pro-grade photography to smartphones, Master Mode offers advanced controls and unlocks unique looks for shots.

Specs

Under the hood, the smartphone runs on the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, offering up to 16GB LPDDR5X RAM and up to 512GB UFS 4.0 storage. With a large 5000mAh battery, the Find X7 Ultra ensures a full day of usage, complemented by the fast 100W SUPERVOOC charging that reaches a full charge in less than 30 minutes. OPPO prioritizes user privacy with a dedicated security chip and a privacy-focused VIP slider. lastly, it has Android 14-based ColorOS 14 custom skin onboard, along with connectivity options like NFC, WiFi 7, and Bluetooth 5.4.

Pricing & availability

The OPPO Find X7 Ultra comes in three different configurations. The version with 12 GB RAM and 256 GB storage is priced at 5,999 Yuan ($845), the one with 16 GB RAM + 256 GB costs 6,499 Yuan ($915), and the variant with 16 GB RAM + 512 GB is priced at 6,999 Yuan ($985). Reservations are currently open in China, and the device is scheduled to be available for purchase starting January 12th.

RELATED:

Podcasts Resonated with China’s Youth, with 220 Million Total Listeners in 2023

By

Anubhav

-

Jan 8, 2024

Podcasts are making waves in China, captivating a significant portion of the internet-savvy population. In a remarkable trend observed in 2023, about 220 million Chinese internet users, from a pool of nearly 1.1 billion, have found a new favorite in podcast listening. This surge in popularity is a striking development in a country known for its stringent online content regulations.

60% of podcast listeners belong to the youth demographic

The majority of these podcast enthusiasts are young professionals, aged between 24 and 40, residing in the nation’s bustling tier-one and tier-two cities. This demographic represents over 60% of podcast listeners in China, indicating a shift in media consumption habits among the younger, urban population.

What’s intriguing is the diverse range of topics these podcasts cover. From health and lifestyle to Chinese history and frontier technology, there’s a rich variety that caters to a wide array of interests. This diversity, however, comes with a caveat. Unlike Western countries, where news and politics are podcast staples, these genres are conspicuously absent in China due to the country’s strict censorship laws. Instead, subjects like fashion, pet care, and sports dominate the Chinese podcast scene, steering clear of any potentially controversial content.

Another notable aspect is the willingness of Chinese consumers to pay for quality podcast content. This trend is underscored by the fact that over half of the podcast audience is signing up for premium content. This consumer behavior has not only benefited content creators but has also attracted global brands like Coca-Cola and Cadillac, who see these podcasts as a lucrative platform for advertising.

The rise of generative AI in the podcast industry is yet another exciting development. Ximalaya, a leading podcast service provider in China, has introduced AI-powered audio tools to enhance content creation and efficiency. This technological advancement is set to revolutionize the way podcasts are produced and consumed, offering an intriguing glimpse into the future of digital media in China.

RELATED:

(Via)

Microsoft May Break Tradition by Sharing Xbox Exclusives with Rival Platforms

By

Anubhav

-

Jan 8, 2024

In a fascinating twist, Microsoft is reportedly considering making some of its exclusive Xbox games available on other gaming platforms. This news, stirring excitement and speculation in the gaming community, could signal a significant shift in Microsoft’s strategy.

Neither Nintendo nor Sony have expressed the intent of doing so (yet)

Traditionally, Microsoft has maintained a tight grip on its exclusive titles, keeping them within the Xbox and PC realm. However, recent rumors, fueled by insider sources, suggest that Microsoft might be exploring new horizons. The game at the heart of these rumors is Hi-Fi Rush, a critically acclaimed title that was in the running for “Game of the Year.”

This potential move by Microsoft could mark a notable departure from the practices of gaming giants like Sony and Nintendo. While Sony has occasionally ported its PlayStation exclusives to PC, neither company has ventured into sharing their exclusive games with direct competitors. Microsoft’s decision to consider this path is not just about increasing game accessibility but also hints at a more collaborative and open gaming industry.

Interestingly, this discussion about porting games to rival platforms focuses on existing releases, not future ones. This means upcoming titles from major studios like Bethesda are unlikely to be shared across platforms immediately after their release. For instance, Bethesda’s highly anticipated game, Starfield, is not currently part of the porting conversation.

Microsoft’s recent acquisition of Activision Blizzard adds another layer to this development. While the deal primarily ensures that some major titles, like Call of Duty, remain accessible across various platforms, it also opens the door for more Xbox exclusives in the future. Sony, having declined a broader deal with Microsoft, may find its PlayStation platform missing out on a wider range of Activision Blizzard games. These rumors suggest an exciting future where gamers might enjoy their favorite titles across multiple platforms, breaking down barriers in the gaming world.

RELATED:

(Via)

Vivo Y28 5G launched in India with Dimensity 6020 for Rs 13,999 starting price

By

Sean

-

Jan 8, 2024

Following recent sightings and leaks, the Vivo Y28 5G model has finally been announced for the Indian market. The company’s latest device is an affordable smartphone and is the direct successor to the Vivo Y27, which launched last year.

Vivo Y28 5G: Pricing and Availability

The Vivo Y28 5G has been unveiled in two color options in the region, namely Glitter Aqua and Crystal Purple. It is also available in multiple storage configurations as well. The base 4GB + 128GB starts from 13,999 INR (roughly 169 US Dollars), while the 6GB + 128GB and 8GB + 128GB variants cost 15,499 INR (roughly 187 US Dollars) and 16,999 INR (roughly 205 US Dollars) respectively. Customers can purchase this model from popular retail platforms like Amazon, Croma, JioMart, Croma, and others.

Specifications

The device sports a 6.56-inch IPS LCD panel that has an HD+ resolution, 90Hz refresh rate, and a water drop notch. Under the hood, it is equipped with the MediaTek Dimensity 6020 SoC. The Vivo Y28 5G model is powered by a large 5,000mAh battery pack that supports 15W fast charging over USB Type-C. It runs on the Android 13 OS based FunTouch OS 13 custom skin out of the box.

On the rear, it features a 50-megapixel dual camera setup (paired with a 2-megapixel secondary camera), while the front houses an 8-megapixel selfie shooter. Other notable features include a side mounted fingerprint scanner, a 3.5mm headphone jack, 186 grams in weight, 8.09mm in thickness, IP54 water and dust rating, Bluetooth 5.1, 5G support, and Dual SIM.

RELATED:

CES 2024: Samsung’s latest innovation lets you hear music in a photo frame

By

Rajesh Regmi

-

Jan 8, 2024

With CES 2024 in full swing, tech companies are announcing their new products across various categories. And Samsung is no exception. Among their latest unveils is the new Music Frame, a device that blends the elegance of a picture frame into a speaker.

Art Meets Audio: The Music Frame

The Music Frame’s name and design subtly echo Samsung’s popular The Frame TV. So needless to say, it boasts a sleek, minimalist design that will seamlessly integrate into any living space.

The front panel doubles as a digital canvas, allowing you to display photographs, artwork, or even personalized digital creations.

But the real deal here lies beneath this aesthetically pleasing exterior. Each Samsung Music Frame consists of two tweeters, a set of mid-range drivers, and a pair of subwoofers that automatically tune themselves to your room’s acoustics.

It also supports Dolby Atmos, so you can experience immersive sound from your music and movies.

As you might expect from a modern smart speaker, the Music Frame offers both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity options, so you can effortlessly stream music from your smartphones, tablets, or computers.

Additionally, if you’re already part of the Samsung ecosystem, the Music Frame can seamlessly integrate with your existing setup. You can pair it with a Samsung TV or soundbar to function as a TV speaker, a rear speaker, or even a subwoofer.

If you buy a second Music Frame, you can stereo-pair them or use them as left/right wireless surround speakers. Or you can connect up to five of them for synchronous play.

Beyond its role as a speaker, the Music Frame doubles as an IoT hub, which means you can also use it to control your smart home devices. Unfortunately, Samsung has not yet announced the release date or pricing for the Music Frame.

Related:

Realme GT 5 Pro Year of the Dragon Limited Gift Box launched

By

Sudarshan Ravichandran

-

Jan 8, 2024

The Realme GT 5 Pro made its debut in China in early December. A few days later, the brand announced a special edition to celebrate its 200 million unit sales achievement.

A month later, the company has now unveiled another limited edition of the handset. This one is officially called Realme GT 5 Pro Year of the Dragon Limited Gift Box.

Unlike the previous special edition, the new one can be purchased by anyone interested.

Realme GT 5 Pro Year of the Dragon Limited Gift Box

The Realme GT 5 Pro’s Chinese New Year gift box is priced at ¥4,399 (~$620). The package includes the following items.

Realme GT 5 Pro in Red Rock (16GB + 1TB)
Realme Buds Air 5 in Whale Blue
Year of the Dragon Card

Separately, the said variant of the phone and wireless earbuds cost ¥4,299 (~$605) and ¥299 (~$40), respectively. Thus, buyers can save ¥200 (~$30) by opting for the gift box, which will be available for pre-order starting at 8 PM local time (GMT+8) on January 10.

For comparison, the Oppo Reno 11 New Year gift box helps customers save ¥997. That package priced at ¥5,999 comprises two units of Reno 11 (12 + 512GB) in Moonstone and two pairs of Oppo Enco R Pro.

The Realme GT 5 Pro is the brand’s first premium smartphone in a long while. It flaunts a 6.78-inch 1.5K LTPO curved OLED display with up to a 144Hz refresh rate and a 4500 nits local peak brightness level.

The device is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip paired with LPDDR5x RAM and UFS 4.0 storage. It boots Realme UI 5.0 based on Android 14.

The handset sports a 32MP selfie camera and a triple camera system. The setup on the back consists of a 50MP Sony LYT-808 primary sensor, an 8MP Sony IMX355 ultrawide unit, and a 50MP Sony IMX890 3x periscope telephoto shooter.

The IP54-rated product arrives with dual stereo speakers, an IR blaster, and an in-screen fingerprint sensor. Finally, it draws energy from a 5,400mAh battery and supports 100W wired as well as 50W wireless charging standards.

RELATED:

CES 2024: Withings introduces BeamO, a 4-in-1 home health checkup device

By

Rajesh Regmi

-

Jan 8, 2024

Withings, a digital health company based in France, has unveiled the BeamO at CES 2024 – a multi-purpose device claiming to offer four key health checkups in under a minute. The BeamO combines the functionalities of a thermometer, electrocardiogram (ECG), oximeter, and stethoscope into a single handheld device.

Withings BeamO Overview

The BeamO is a small, candy bar-shaped device that is easy to use. It has a joystick controller that lets you cycle through its features. The device also has a standalone display, but you’ll need to use the companion app to guide you when using the stethoscope.

The BeamO has electrodes on the side that measure your blood oxygen levels and heart rate, and it can also perform a 1-lead ECG, which is similar to what the Apple Watch does.

It also has a temperature scanner that reads your temperature from your temporal artery, and a piezoelectric disc that picks up chest or back acoustic sounds that you can share with your doctor during a telehealth appointment.

Withings says that the BeamO can give you a full body checkup in under a minute, and it can alert you to things like fever, infection, and even possible cardiovascular problems like atrial fibrillation. The company also says that BeamO could have a real impact in the telemedicine space. The ability to take these basic tests at home could make it easier for people to see their doctor remotely.

However, it’s important to note that BeamO’s ECG functionality requires FDA clearance, meaning availability with this feature won’t be immediate.

The BeamO’s companion app, Health Mate, is also getting a major update. The new app will allow up to eight users to track their medication intake and log their symptoms. This data can then be exported to whoever you wish to share it with, including your doctor.

Price and Availability

The BeamO is set to launch in June 2024, and it will cost $250. That’s a bit more expensive than some other home health devices on the market, but it also offers a lot more features.

Related: