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Baidu beats revenue estimates, navigates AI Chip challenges amidst U.S. export curbs

In a robust third-quarter performance, Baidu, the Chinese tech giant, reported a 6% increase in revenue to 34.45 billion yuan, surpassing analysts’ expectations. The company’s adjusted net income also demonstrated a healthy 23% rise to 7.27 billion yuan, propelling U.S.-listed shares up by 1.8% in morning trading.

Despite these gains, Baidu faces challenges in the AI chip landscape due to U.S. export curbs, with CEO Robin Li Yanhong acknowledging potential impacts. However, he reassured stakeholders, stating that Baidu’s extensive stockpile of AI chips could sustain the upgrading of its Ernie large language model for the next two years. To mitigate future risks, the company is actively exploring alternative sources, with recent reports suggesting a potential deal with Huawei for domestically-made AI chips.

The U.S. sanctions on AI chip exports to China, particularly from companies like Nvidia, pose a broader concern for the pace of AI development in the country. Baidu anticipates a potential consolidation of Chinese AI companies, particularly around leading large language models (LLMs), as competitors Alibaba and Tencent express their own anxieties regarding the impact of U.S. curbs on their cloud computing businesses.

In the face of a 2% year-on-year decline in Q3 AI cloud revenue, attributed to weak demand in smart transportation projects, Baidu remains optimistic about positive growth in Q4. The company attributes this optimism to the increasing demand for generative AI services.

The Ernie Bot ecosystem, a significant focus for Baidu, has gained remarkable traction since its March launch. Accumulating 70 million users within three months and handling tens of millions of queries daily, Ernie Bot positions itself as a formidable player in the AI landscape. Its success is particularly noteworthy as Baidu, Alibaba, and Tencent all release competitors to OpenAI’s ChatGPT.

While Baidu’s current revenue from generative AI is relatively modest, CEO Li is optimistic about the future. He forecasts that generative AI products will contribute significantly to ad revenue in the fourth quarter, emphasizing a strategic realignment of resources to invest further in AI growth opportunities and move away from lower-priority efforts.

In the broader market context, Baidu’s revenue growth aligns with China’s overall economic projections, expected to grow by 5.4% this year. This growth prompts increased spending on consumer advertising online, a boon for Baidu, which primarily derives revenue from advertising.

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Logitech Wave Key ergonomic keyboard arrives in India for maximum comfort while typing

Last month, Logitech unveiled the Wave Key ergonomic keyboard in Europe. The keyboard has finally arrived in the Indian market. The keyboard boasts a wave-shaped keyframe, strategically curving the layout to reduce strain on your hands and wrists.

Logitech Wave Keys ergonomic keyboard

The white variant of the keyboard uses 46% post-consumer plastic, while the grey model features an impressive 61%. Going beyond aesthetics, the Wave Keys prioritizes comfort with a wrist rest comprising three layers of support materials, including deep memory foam and a +4° tilt bracket. The soft-touch surface adds practicality, making it easy to keep your workspace clean.

For connectivity, there is an option to pair the keyboard via Bluetooth or the included Logi Bolt receiver. The keyboard allows you to connect with up to three devices at once and the Easy-Switch feature allows seamless transitions between computers, tablets, or mobile phones with just one click.

For an optimized experience, Logitech recommends pairing the Wave Keys keyboard with its Lift vertical mouse. Boasting a 57° inclination design, this mouse raises the wrist, alleviating pressure, and reducing forearm twists.

Price & availability

The Logitech Wave Keys wireless keyboard is priced at Rs 6,995 in India. It is available in off-white and Graphite color options.

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OpenAI Drama Unfolds Amidst AGI Progress and Safety Concerns

OpenAI, the leading player in the pursuit of Artificial General Intelligence (AGI), found itself embroiled in controversy with the sudden dismissal of CEO Sam Altman. Despite Altman’s reinstatement, reports indicate that his initial removal stemmed from board disagreements over AGI safeguards, honesty concerns, and worries about hastening the release of AI products to market without sufficient safety precautions.

Speculation is rife regarding OpenAI’s AGI progress, with unnamed sources suggesting that researchers may be closer to achieving AGI than publicly disclosed. The board’s worry over Altman’s alleged haste in capitalizing on ChatGPT’s success for new AI products, possibly linked to AGI, adds a layer of complexity to the unfolding drama.

The definition of AGI itself has evolved within OpenAI, from tasks teachable to humans to surpassing human capabilities in economically valuable domains. Transparency has reportedly declined since the release of GPT-2 in 2019, with an increase in secrecy surrounding model details, potentially tied to AGI development.

The implications of AGI are profound, requiring global collaboration to address risks and mitigation efforts. Concerns loom over job displacement and social upheaval, with the potential concentration of power in the hands of the wealthy once AGI arrives.

When Altman was fired, the majority of OpenAI’s 700 employees threatened to quit unless existing board members resigned, and Altman was reinstated. Before Altman’s dismissal, staff researchers sent a warning letter to the board about a powerful AI discovery, potentially linked to the Q* project. 

Q* is seen as a breakthrough in the quest for AGI, showcasing remarkable mathematical problem-solving abilities with significant computing resources. The letter flagged the prowess and potential dangers of AI without specifying safety concerns.

The Q* project and the warning letter were cited as contributing factors in Altman’s firing, with Mira Murati, a long-time executive, mentioning the project to employees. An OpenAI spokesperson confirmed Murati’s communication but did not comment on the accuracy of the reports.

Altman’s leadership in propelling ChatGPT’s success and his tantalizing tease about AGI being in sight at a gathering of world leaders in San Francisco add context to the significance of the Q* project. The board’s decision to terminate Altman, strategically timed a day after his public mention of AGI’s progress, has sent shockwaves through the tech industry, marking an unprecedented news cycle with potential links to AGI safety concerns.

As the OpenAI saga continues to unfold, the tech world braces for the impact of this dramatic turn of events, pondering the future of AGI and the organization at the forefront of its development.

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Red Magic 9 Pro global launch date confirmed

Earlier today, Red Magic announced its new flagship gaming smartphone called the Red Magic 9 Pro & 9 Pro+. Both of these devices are powered by the latest Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 SoC. The brand now revealed when global customers can expect the smartphones to hit their shores.

Red Magic 9 Pro

The global launch of the Red Magic 9 Pro is scheduled for December 18th at 7 AM EST, according to the latest teaser on Red Magic’s global website. The disclosed specifications indicate that there will be no variations from the Chinese model.

Red Magic 9 Pro specs:

The Red Magic 9 Pro features a 6.8-inch Full HD+ OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, 960Hz touch sampling rate, 10-bit color depth, and 100% DCI-P3 color gamut. It achieves up to 1600 nits brightness with support for DC dimming and 21600Hz PWM dimming. Powered by the Octa-Core Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 4nm Mobile Platform and Adreno 750 GPU, it offers configurations of 8GB, 12GB, 16GB, and 24GB LPDDR5X RAM, paired with 256GB, 512GB, or 1TB storage using UFS 4.0. The Red Magic 9 Pro is powered by a 6500mAh battery and supports 80W fast charging for efficient charging capabilities.

Red Magic 9 Pro Design

Running on Android 14 with Redmagic OS 9.0, the device supports dual SIM. The camera setup includes a 50MP 1/1.57-inch Samsung GN5 sensor and a 50MP 120-degree ultra-wide lens with a Samsung JN1 sensor. On the front, there’s a 16MP under-display camera. Additional features include an in-display fingerprint sensor, a 3.5mm audio jack, dual 1115K speakers with DTS:X ULTRA, and three microphones. The phone measures 163.98×76.35×8.9mm and weighs 229g. Connectivity options include 5G , Wi-Fi 6E 802.11 ax (2.4GHz + 5GHz + 6GHz), Bluetooth 5.4, GPS (L1/L5) + GLONASS, USB Type-C, and NFC.

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OnePlus 12’s three exciting colors revealed, boast industry-leading glass quality

OnePlus China’s president, Li Jie, recently unveiled the colors of the upcoming OnePlus 12. The device will be available in three colors: Frost White, Cyan Green, and Obsidian Black. These colors are chosen based on user preferences and symbolic themes. Frost White represents purity and original intention; Cyan Green symbolizes nature and vast landscapes; Obsidian Black signifies resilience and a decade of growth.

OnePlus 12’s Exciting Three Colors with Premium Glass Finish

OnePlus emphasizes top-tier glass craftsmanship in all three color variants of the device. Additionally, there are rumors of a variant featuring a wood grain texture on the back, paying tribute to the iconic wood-textured covers of the original OnePlus One, in alignment with the company’s 10-year anniversary celebration.

As per the renders, the OnePlus 12 will continue the brand’s design legacy, featuring a triple-camera setup with a Hasselblad logo, a curved display, a centered front camera punch-hole, and a speaker positioned above this hole.

In terms of specs, the OnePlus 12 is expected to feature a 6.82-inch 2K BOE X1 OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate. It will be powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor.

OnePlus 12 Render

OnePlus 12 may offer up to 1TB of UFS 4.0 storage and 16GB of LPDDR5x RAM. It’s anticipated to have a 5,400mAh battery with 50W wireless and 100W wired charging capabilities. The phone is likely to run on Android 14 based on ColorOS 14.

The phone’s primary camera is rumored to include a 64MP OmniVision OV64B periscope telephoto camera with 3x optical zoom, along with a 48-megapixel IMX581 ultra-wide lens. For selfies, there’s expected to be a 32-megapixel front-facing camera. OnePlus is focusing on HyperTone camera optimizations and the LYT-T808 primary camera sensor for its rear camera setup.

OnePlus has announced a “10th-anniversary fireside chat” event set for December 4th, during which they are likely to unveil the OnePlus 12 smartphone and the OnePlus Ace 3. These devices are expected to be launched globally next year under the names OnePlus 12 and OnePlus 12R.

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Get the SAMSUNG Galaxy Watch 4 at $35 OFF this Black Friday 2023

Get the SAMSUNG Galaxy Watch 4 at an unbeatable price! Originally priced at $165, you can now grab this advanced smartwatch for only $129, saving you a solid $35.

One of its standout features is the body composition analysis. For the first time ever, you can get accurate readings on body fat, skeletal muscle, body water, basal metabolic rate, and Body Mass Index, all right on your wrist.

Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 Featured 01

This valuable data allows you to track your progress and make informed decisions about your health. Additionally, the Galaxy Watch 4 offers advanced sleep tracking features. Say goodbye to restless nights, as this smartwatch monitors your sleep and SpO2 levels continuously. Wake up feeling refreshed and energized with the help of this cutting-edge technology. Taking care of your heart is now easier than ever. The Galaxy Watch 4 provides accurate ECG monitoring and can detect possible atrial fibrillation, a common form of irregular heart rhythm.

Share your personalized readings with your doctor using the Samsung Health Monitor app on your compatible Galaxy phone. Furthermore, this smartwatch is designed to optimize your workouts. With advanced workout tracking, it recognizes six popular activities automatically, from running to rowing to swimming. Stay motivated by connecting to live coaching sessions via your smartphone or engaging in dynamic Group Challenges with your friends.

Don’t miss out on this incredible deal for the SAMSUNG Galaxy Watch 4.

Top Black Friday Deals: Discounts on TVs, Headphones, Watches & More

Unleash the savings this Black Friday with Gizmochina’s handpicked selection of unbeatable deals! From cutting-edge electronics to must-have accessories, we’ve curated a list of the best discounts to make your shopping experience unforgettable. 

The best deals with the biggest discounts include the LG OLED C2 with a discount of $420, bringing the price down to $879. This is a significant reduction and a great opportunity to upgrade to a high-quality OLED TV. Another fantastic deal is on the Bose QuietComfort 45 Headphones, offering a discount of $130. These highly rated headphones are now priced at $199, allowing you to enjoy premium sound quality for less.

If you’re in the market for wireless earphones, the Beats Studio Pro is a notable option with a discount of $180. With a new price of $169, these earphones deliver immersive audio and advanced noise cancellation. Additionally, the Garmin Instinct 2 Solar smartwatch is available at a discounted price of $299, providing a saving of $100. This rugged and durable smartwatch features solar charging capabilities, making it perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.

Other noteworthy deals include the GoPro Max with a $150 discount, making it available for $348. Lastly, the Anker Powercore 140W Power Bank is a great accessory to have at a discounted price of $92, saving you $58.

Even the RingConn Smart Ring is getting its first discount of $50 this Black Friday. It is now available for just $229 and comes with features such as stress monitoring, daily activity monitoring, sleep tracking etc.

These deals provide substantial discounts on highly sought-after products, allowing you to save money while enjoying top-quality technology.

Here’s a complete list of deals:

GEEKOM MINI Fun11 mini-PC with Intel Core i9 CPU & DGPU slot launched

After recently launching the GEEKOM Mini Air12 mini-PC in the market, the brand is back with the GEEKOM Mini FUN11 mini-PC, which features a unique approach to performance. Priced at $999 on Amazon (currently discounted to $899 on the official site), this machine is not your average compact computing solution.

Geekom Mini FUN11 mini PC

Under the hood, the GEEKOM Mini FUN11 houses an Intel Core i9-11900KB CPU, boasting 8 cores and 16 threads. The mini PC also supports discrete GPUs, accommodating cards up to 31.2 cm long, including recent releases like the Radeon RX 6000 and GeForce RTX 30.

Geekom Mini FUN11 mini PC

With 32 GB of DDR4 RAM and a 1 TB SSD, the Mini FUN11 offers a solid foundation for users. The potential for upgrades, allowing up to 64 GB of RAM and 4 TB of total storage, caters to those with expanding needs. Cooling is handled by three built-in fans, ensuring optimal performance.

In terms of connectivity, the GEEKOM Mini FUN11 is no slouch, featuring a variety of ports including USB Type-C, Thunderbolt 4, USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A, and 2.5 GbE Ethernet. The inclusion of HDMI 2.0b adds to its versatility.

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Samsung Galaxy A34 5G grabs One UI 6.0 based on Android 14

Samsung continues to roll out its latest One UI 6.0 based on Android 14. Now, the Galaxy A34 5G has started to receive the latest One UI via an OTA software update.

A few weeks ago, the company launched the One UI 6.0 beta update for the mid-range smartphone in select regions. Users who took part in the beta program are currently receiving the stable Android 14 version in the UK.

To remind you, the program is already live for the Galaxy S23 Series, and the Galaxy A54. Interestingly, the beta program is now live for mid-range smartphones ahead of the Galaxy S22 series.

Samsung Galaxy A34 5G grabs One UI 6.0 based on Android 14
Samsung Galaxy A34 5G grabs One UI 6.0 based on Android 14

Galaxy A34 5G grabs One UI 6.0 based on Android 14

The Galaxy A34 5G is currently receiving the stable One UI 6.0 update based on Android 14, with firmware version A346BXXU4BWK2 / A346BOXM4BWK3 / A346BXXU4BWK2.

Currently, the OTA update is only released to One UI 6.0 beta testers in the UK. However, we anticipate adding more individuals and countries to the update rollover in the coming weeks.

The latest releases include a security patch for November 2023 that addresses many software vulnerabilities.

If you are a UK resident and took part in the One UI 6.0 Beta Program for the Galaxy A34. You can now check for the stable update by going to Settings > Software update and selecting Download and Install.

One UI 6.0 Features

One UI 6.0, which is based on Android 14, gives the Galaxy A34 access to a number of additional capabilities. The Quick Panel arrangement has been totally redone, along with the alerts and media player widget.

Waveform animations have also been included, and all new emojis have been added to the app. Additionally, Samsung has enhanced all of the default applications, with the exception of the camera app, which now has more user-friendly controls.

There are more font, size, and positioning choices available for the lock screen clock widget.

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Instagram’s Latest Update Lets You Download Reels Instantly

Social media addiction is increasing day by day. Many of us spend a significant amount of our day watching videos on platforms like Reels, TikTok, and Shorts. However, this habit can lead to both anxiety in scenarios where we don’t have internet access and running out of data for our internet packages. The solution is now quite simple: Instagram Reels download. Here are the details…

Instagram Introduces the Reels Download Feature!

According to a post by Instagram CEO Adam Mosseri, Instagram is gaining a Reels download feature. As per Mosseri, this feature will offer a download option similar to YouTube Premium. Users who wish to do so can access and watch videos through the app even without an internet connection.

The Instagram Reels download feature is quite similar to the download feature that comes with YouTube Premium, as mentioned earlier. Instead of taking up space in your gallery, the videos are saved in a dedicated area within the app. This way, you can access the downloaded videos from there when you are offline or don’t want to use your data.

This feature will particularly benefit those who collect their favorite Reels in the saved section. Unfortunately, despite Mosseri’s statement, this feature has not been rolled out globally yet. It will likely take a few days for this process to complete, so we cannot show you the screenshots we have taken.

In fact, the company had started allowing Reels downloads to users in the United States back in June, and now it is beginning to roll out this feature to users worldwide. Of course, the Instagram Reels download feature has also brought copyright debates. Instagram’s initial solution to this issue is to mute the sound during the download of videos with copyrighted music.

However, another issue is people stealing others’ videos. YouTube and TikTok address this problem by adding a watermark logo during the download. This way, users watching the video on other platforms can see the original video owner’s name. Of course, this doesn’t mean that people won’t make an extra effort to download the video from somewhere else.

Still, Instagram, like YouTube and TikTok, needs to protect content creators by not directly providing this convenience to content thieves.

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Xiaomi listed Redmi Buds 5 Pro earbuds for 399 yuan ($56) ahead of its Redmi event

Xiaomi is set to expand its audio product line with the introduction of the Redmi Buds 5 Pro true wireless (TWS) noise-canceling earbuds, complementing its existing Redmi Buds 5 series. The Redmi Buds 5 Pro, already listed on JD.com for 399 yuan ($56), offers a step up from the non-Pro version, which retails for 199 yuan ($28). Xiaomi also brings a unique flavor to the series with a 299 yuan ($40) AAPE limited edition.

Redmi Buds 5
Redmi Buds 5

Redmi Buds 5 Pro is Expected to Launch Alongside K70 Series

These new earbuds, available in Snow White, Obsidian Black, and Ice Porcelain Blue, are designed to cater to a wide range of users, although Xiaomi has not yet revealed specific details about them. The anticipation for these earbuds is part of a larger excitement surrounding Xiaomi’s upcoming Redmi 10th-anniversary event and the launch of the K70 series smartphones on November 29th. This event promises to showcase a slew of new Xiaomi products, including the much-anticipated K70 series.

The Redmi Buds 5 Pro’s predecessor, the Redmi Buds 5, has set a high standard with its features and affordability. It offers 46db noise cancellation, a long 40-hour battery life, Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity, and a stemmed design. These earbuds deliver high-quality sound through an independent acoustic chamber, a 1.6m precision wound coil, and a 12.4mm titanium-plated diaphragm, certified by Netease Cloud Music. Additionally, they provide 40 hours of playtime with the case and support quick charging.

Xiaomi is expected to launch this product alongside the K70 series smartphones, along with a range of other releases including Redmi smartwatches, e-readers, gaming laptops, and more.

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Europe’s EV Registrations Exceed Diesel Sign-ups, Indicating a Shift in the Market

Europe’s car market is undergoing a huge transformation. For the first time, new registrations of electric vehicles (EVs) in the European Union have overtaken those of diesel cars. This change indicates a growing preference for cleaner, battery-powered transportation over traditional diesel vehicles, once the mainstay of European roads.

Battery-electric car registrations jumped by more than 36% compared to 2022

The European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (ACEA) reported that from January to October, EV registrations soared, positioning them as the third most popular vehicle type in the EU, following gasoline and hybrid cars. Notably, in October alone, battery-electric car registrations jumped by 36.3% compared to the previous year, marking a significant uptick in EV popularity.

Electric

This surge in EV registrations is a clear indicator of the changing landscape of the automotive industry in Europe. With a 53.1% increase in new EVs registered, totaling 1.2 million units, and achieving a 14% market share in the first ten months of the year, EVs are rapidly becoming a mainstream choice for European drivers.

In stark contrast, diesel-powered cars, which once dominated the European market with a 50% share in 2015, have seen a dramatic decline. Their market share has plummeted to just 12% this year, from 15.9% in the previous year. This decrease is a telling sign of the shifting preferences of consumers who are increasingly opting for more environmentally friendly vehicles.

Hybrids, too, are enjoying a rise in popularity with 2.2 million new registrations, a 29.8% increase from last year. However, plug-in hybrids are experiencing a dip in demand.

Gasoline-powered cars, while still leading in overall registrations, have seen a slight contraction in their market share. This trend, coupled with the rise of EVs and hybrids, signals a gradual but definite move away from traditional fuel sources.

The transition towards electric and hybrid vehicles aligns with broader environmental goals. The European Union Parliament’s decision to ban the sale of all new cars producing carbon dioxide emissions from 2035 underscores this commitment to a more sustainable future.

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Desiknio’s X20 Series E-bikes are Now Available in the United States

Desiknio, a Spanish electric bike manufacturer renowned for its blend of light weight and advanced technology, is making waves in the American cycling market. The company’s latest offering, the Desiknio X20 series, represents a significant leap in e-bike design and functionality, and it’s now available to American cyclists.

The X20 has a control unit that monitors the bike’s statistics in real time

The Desiknio X20 isn’t just another electric bike. It’s a statement of style, efficiency, and versatility. Available in two versions – a gravel bike and an urban commuter – the X20 is designed to cater to a variety of riders. The urban model is perfect for daily commutes, offering a smooth, efficient ride, while the gravel model is tailored for those seeking adventure and performance off the beaten path.

e-bike

At the core of the Desiknio X20’s appeal is the Mahle X20 motor. Notable for its compact size and light weight, the motor delivers power smoothly and quietly, enhancing the cycling experience without overwhelming it. The motor, combined with a 250-watt-hour battery, extendable to 500-watt-hours, ensures that riders can cover significant distances without worrying about running out of power.

The technological sophistication of the X20 extends beyond the motor. The Mahle X20 Control Unit, integrated into the bike’s frame, allows cyclists to easily monitor their ride’s key aspects. This feature, coupled with the My SmartBike app, offers GPS navigation, speed tracking, and battery management, ensuring a seamless and connected riding experience.

The X20 series also doesn’t compromise on aesthetics or performance. The gravel version features a carbon fiber frame and fork, internal cable routing, and premium components like a Shimano GRX 600 or Campagnolo EKAR 13-speed drivetrain. Meanwhile, the urban model offers a sleek design with a Pinion nine-speed gearbox and a Gates Carbon Drive CDX, providing a quiet and low-maintenance ride.

With a starting price of $5,995, the Desiknio X20 series is an investment in cutting-edge cycling technology. The bikes, available through a partnership with Stromer, promise to bring a new level of biking experience to American cyclists, blending the lines between performance, technology, and style.

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ByteDance Integrates AI with its Office Tool to Launch Feishu 7

Where artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing the entire corporate landscape, ByteDance, the parent company of TikTok, has taken a big leap. The launch of Feishu 7, the latest version of its online collaboration tool, marks a new chapter in workplace automation. This AI-powered platform stands as a testament to ByteDance’s commitment to innovation, aligning with the current trend where Chinese tech giants are actively integrating AI into industrial applications.

Feishu 7 derives its functionality through various Large Language Models

Feishu 7 is designed to make Chinese enterprises “AI-ready.” By incorporating ChatGPT-like functionalities through various large language models (LLMs), it promises to transform the way organizations operate. Xie Xin, CEO of Feishu, highlights the importance of adapting quickly to the AI-driven changes in the business world. This vision is not just about keeping pace with technological advancements but also about reshaping organizational structures and work processes.

Bytedance

The introduction of the Feishu Intelligent Buddy, an AI assistant, is particularly interesting. This virtual companion is capable of performing a range of tasks, from summarizing meetings to analyzing content from diverse formats like PDFs, videos, and audio files. Its ability to draft various types of work documents underscores its versatility and potential to boost productivity.

Feishu’s approach to AI integration is user-centric, offering customers the choice of LLMs to power the assistant. This flexibility, coupled with the platform’s multifunctionality, positions Feishu as a formidable contender in the burgeoning field of AI-augmented office tools. This development mirrors the global trend of incorporating AI into business tools, as seen with Microsoft’s integration of GPT-powered Copilot systems.

ByteDance’s stride with Feishu 7 not only signifies its ambition in the AI landscape but also reflects a broader movement among tech giants. Companies like Tencent and Alibaba are also embedding AI into their office software, indicating a collective push towards a more intelligent and efficient workplace.

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Elista Xplore Series Televisions With Google TV OS Launched In India

Last month, Elista announced an ultra-premium 75-inch QLED smart TV in India. The UAE-based brand has expanded its range of televisions in the country. The company has announced the Xplore series televisions that include as many as six models for catering to different segments. Read on to learn more about the latest Xplore Series TVs from Elista.

Elista Xplore Series TVs specifications and features

The Elista Xplore series TVs are offered in 32, 43, 50,55, and 65-inch screen sizes. The 32 and 43-inch variants are offered in HD and FHD display resolutions. Additionally, the latter also comes in 4K UHD resolution along with the 50, 55, and 65-inch models. The 65-inch TV also packs HDR10 support. All six televisions have a bezel-less design.

On the audio front, the 55-inch, 43-inch FHD, and 32-inch HD models in the Elista Xplore series televisions come with integrated sound bars for an immersive audio experience. The TVs also support Dolby Audio. 

The Elista Xplore series TVs run on Google TV OS with seamless UI and features like Chromecast, support for voice commands, personalized content recommendations, screen mirroring, and kids mode. Connectivity options on the televisions include Bluetooth 5.1, dual-band WiFi, three HDMI ports, two USB ports, and an ethernet port. 

The Elista Xplore series TVs start at Rs 16,999 for the 32-inch option. The 43-inch FHD and 4K variants are priced at Rs 27,500 and Rs 31,500. The 50, 55, and 65-inch models cost Rs 39,990, Rs 42,990, and Rs 62,990 respectively. The televisions are available for purchase from leading electronics store. 

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Google’s Attempt to Acquire Epic Games Before Stadia’s Fall

Google Stadia might be one of the biggest failures in recent years. The project, launched with high hopes by the company, had significant potential despite being derailed by poor decisions and unfortunate events. However, recent information has revealed another reason for its failure. Google did not plan Stadia well enough, as its original goal was to acquire Epic Games. Here are the details…

Google’s Unsuccessful Attempt to Acquire Epic Games Ahead of Stadia

Google and Epic Games are currently engaged in a legal dispute. Google’s alleged anticompetitive behavior in the Android app market is the central issue in the antitrust lawsuit. However, it seems that the relationship between the two companies has not always been adversarial. Interestingly, if everything had gone smoothly, they might not even be two separate companies today. This is because Google attempted to acquire Epic Games in 2018.

Google Stadia Controller

Google has been seeking a foothold in the gaming industry for quite some time. Already a dominant force in the realm of mobile games, the company aimed to extend its influence to AAA-quality PC and console games. Documents revealed in the Epic Games case indicate that before the Stadia project mentioned earlier, Google had considered acquiring Epic Games. The company contemplated investing up to $2 billion to secure a 20% stake in Epic.

Furthermore, the company took this idea a step further by engaging in discussions with Tencent. According to the plan, the two entities would acquire Epic Games and establish a partnership. However, what deterred the company from this project were potential regulatory hurdles. Additionally, the Tencent partnership posed its own set of challenges.

After careful consideration, Google decided against pursuing the acquisition, allowing Epic to remain an independent company. The outcome would have been uncertain had the company continued, but one thing is certain: it would have been better than the current situation. Now, Stadia has come to an end, and Google has completely withdrawn from the cloud gaming platform business.

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Honor 100 launches as the first-ever Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 phone, Honor 100 Pro with Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 debuts alongside

Earlier this year, Honor unveiled the Honor 90 and Honor 90 Pro smartphones in the Chinese market. Today, the brand took to the stage to announce the Honor 100 series, comprising two models: the Honor 100 as the world’s first Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 phone and the Honor 100 Pro, featuring a powerful Snapdragon 8-series phone. Here is a look at what the Honor 100 series has in storage for buyers in China.

Design and Display

The Honor 100 and 100 Pro smartphones showcase distinctive designs. Despite both models featuring a quad-curved OLED display on the front, they diverge in their front-facing camera setups. The standard Honor 100 presents a single punch hole, while the Pro variant boasts a pill-shaped cutout to accommodate a dual selfie camera system. Moving to the rear, the Honor 100 exhibits a rectangular camera module with a black D-shaped camera island, housing a dual-camera setup along with an LED flash. In contrast, the Honor 100 Pro stands out with its oval-shaped camera module, which houses a triple camera unit and an accompanying LED flash.

The Honor 100 has a 6.7-inch OLED panel, while the Honor 100 Pro has a 6.78-inch OLED screen. Both displays offer a 1.5K resolution, a 120Hz refresh rate, 3840Hz PWM dimming, and a peak brightness of 2,600 nits. Both phones have an in-screen fingerprint scanner for security.

Performance and specifications

Under the hood, the Honor 100 has the Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 chipset, which was announced last week. It ships with LPDDR5 RAM, UFS 3.1 storage, and a 5,000mAh battery that offers 100W charging. On the other hand, the Honor 100 Pro has the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset, LPDDR5x RAM, UFS 4.0 storage, and a 5,000mAh battery with 100W charging and 66W wireless charging. The lineup also offers other features, such as dual SIM, 5G, Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3, GPS, NFC, an IR blaster, and a USB-C port. Both phones are also equipped with Honor’s self-developed radio frequency enhancement chip called C1.

Cameras

Similar to its predecessor, the Honor 90 series, the Honor 100 series places a strong emphasis on catering to vlogging enthusiasts. The standard model is tailored for impressive vlogging capabilities with its notable 50-megapixel front camera. On the other hand, the Honor 100 Pro takes it up a notch by featuring a dual selfie camera unit featuring a 50-megapixel Sony IMX816 lens with autofocus support.

To recall, the Honor 90 came with a 200-megapixel primary camera, whereas the 90 Pro featured a 160-megapixel main camera. The rear camera system of the Honor 100 and 100 Pro features an OIS-enabled Sony IMX906 50-megapixel primary camera along with a 12-megapixel ultra-wide lens. The Pro model also gets a 32-megapixel telephoto camera that supports up to 2.5x optical zoom. The company claims that the Honor 100 duo can offer SLR-level photography experience.

Pricing and availability

The Honor 100 has arrived in China in two options, such as 12 GB RAM + 256 GB storage, 16 GB RAM + 256GB storage, and 16 GB RAM + 512 GB storage. The configurations are priced at 2,499 Yuan (~$350); 2,799 Yuan (~$400); and 2,999 Yuan ($450), respectively.

On the other hand, the Honor 100 Pro comes in configurations such as 12 GB RAM + 256 GB storage, 16 GB RAM + 256 GB storage, 16 GB RAM + 512 GB storage, and 16 GB RAM + 1 TB storage. These variants are priced at 3,399 Yuan (~$475), 3,699 Yuan (~$525), 3,999 Yuan (~$550), and 4,399 Yuan (~$625), respectively.

Both smartphones come in shades, such as Glass Black, Moon Shadow White, Monet Purple, and Butterfly Blue. As can be seen above, the blue variant of the 100 Pro has an attractive dual-tone design. The Honor 100 series is available for pre-orders in China, and its sales are scheduled to begin on Dec. 1. At present, there is no word on the launch global launch of the Honor 100 and 100 Pro.

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Latest Development Hints At A Potential Goodbye To Apple’s Iconic Touch ID

Apple’s iconic Touch ID is found only on the iPhone SE models as of today. It is also present on the older iPhone 8 and some iPad models if you luckily still own it. The Cupertino-based tech giant ditched Touch ID on the iPhone X with the introduction of the TruDepth camera way back in 2017. Now, if the latest development is anything to go by, we may have to bid goodbye for once and all to another iconic Apple feature. Yes, it’s the Touch ID that was rumored to be resurrected. 

Apple may not resurect Touch ID

Touch ID was the first reliable fingerprint authentication technology to be used on a smartphone. A user on Weibo who is said to be an Integrated Circuit expert revealed that the equipment that’s used to manufacture chips required for iPhone’s Touch ID has been permanently shut down. The remaining units will be used for the third-generation iPhone SE. This squashes all the hopes and rumors of the authentication technology making a comeback on iPhones. 

Facial recognition via TruDepth camera is said to be as secure as a fingerprint scanner. Additionally, Apple is also rumored to be working on embedding the TruDepth camera sensors under the display on future iPhones offering more screen estate. 

The latest development also solidifies Apple’s plans of not pursuing fingerprint recognition as a recent rumour pointed out that the iPhone SE 4 has the same design language as the iPhone 14 with Face ID. 

If all this turns out to be true, the only way Touch ID could make a comeback is in the form of an under-display version. There have also been talks that Apple may adopt both Face ID and Touch ID on iPhones but this remains a distant future. 

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Qualcomm & MediaTek looks to TSMC for 3nm tech over Samsung

Major chip making giants like Nvidia, Qualcomm, MediaTek, and others are apparently turning to TSMC for the fabrication of its next generation of high end chipsets. These chips will be based on TSMC’s advanced 3nm process.

Qualcomm & MediaTek opt for TSMC, not Samsung

For those unaware, Qualcomm was initially rumored to sourced the 3nm chips from both Samsung and TSMC. These foundries would be used for the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 SoC. But now, a new report from China Times claims that chip giants MediaTek and Qualcomm are turning to TSMC for its second generation 3nm process (N3E). This will be used to fabricate the Dimensity 9400 and Snapdragon 8 Gen 4.

TSMC

Notably, Apple is another major client of TSMC and its 3nm process line for its next gen M series and A series chipsets. As of right now, the company is relying on TSMC’s first gen 3nm process (N3B) for its A17 Pro processor, which powers the iPhone 15 Pro series. the report adds that Samsung Foundry has yet to receive major clients for its 3nm chip fabrication technology.

Typically, brands like Qualcomm, MediaTek, Apple, and Nvidia also place orders with Samsung Foundry to make their chipset. Although, these are not always flagship processors. Since the South Korean company began offering advanced 3nm process tech, it was hoping to have some brands place orders with its foundry. But this shift might take longer than expected.

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(Via)

Infinix Smart 8 HD To Launch In India On December 8, Key Features Teased

Infinix has announced that it will launch a budget smartphone in India. The upcoming offering is the Infinix Smart 8 HD. It will arrive with several upgrades as the successor to the Smart 7 HD that debuted earlier in April this year. To recall, the brand launched the Smart 8 phone in Nigeria earlier this month. Infinix has shared a few details of the Smart 8 HD ahead of its official launch in India. Read on to learn about the smartphone. 

Infinix Smart 8 HD to launch in India

The Infinix Smart 8 HD is set to debut in India on December 8, Friday. The company has revealed that the device will feature a 6.6-inch display bearing an HD+ resolution with a punch-hole cutout. It will offer a 90Hz refresh rate and 500 nits peak brightness. 

As per the teaser images, the Infinix Smart 8 HD will arrive in four striking colors namely Crystal Green, Shiny Gold, Timber Black, and Galaxy White. The back panel is said to feature a textured pattern and there is a squarish camera module. We could notice three cameras with one sensor featuring an LED ring light flash. The smartphone has a flat frame and there is a side-mounted fingerprint scanner embedded in the power button. The upcoming offering is also confirmed to come with UFS 2.2 storage and a Type-C charging port. 

We should learn more details of the Infinix Smart 8 HD at the launch event on December 8. 

To recall, the Infinx Smart 7 HD has a 6.6-inch HD+ 60Hz display. It is powered by a Spreadtrum SC9863A1 processor coupled with 2GB RAM and backed by a 5,000mAh battery unit. The smartphone features an 8MP camera along with an AI lens and a 5MP selfie snapper. 

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