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Sam Altman joins Microsoft’s AI team following OpenAI departure

By
Soumyakanti
-

Microsoft has recently made a significant move by hiring Sam Altman, the former CEO of OpenAI, and Greg Brockman, a co-founder of OpenAI, to lead a new advanced AI research team. This development comes after a tumultuous weekend at OpenAI, which saw Altman abruptly dismissed from his role by the company’s board due to concerns over his commitment to OpenAI’s mission. The board cited issues with overseeing Altman and a lack of trust, leading to his and Brockman’s departure.

Sam Altman
Credit: WIRED

Altman’s Departure and New Beginning at Microsoft

Emmett Shear, co-founder of Twitch, was appointed as the interim CEO of OpenAI, succeeding Mira Murati, who had briefly held the position following Altman’s firing. The OpenAI board highlighted Shear’s unique skills and experience as pivotal for the company’s future. Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella expressed excitement about Altman and Brockman joining Microsoft and emphasized the company’s commitment to providing them with the necessary resources.

Notably, Nadella took to social media to reiterate Microsoft’s dedication to its partnership with OpenAI, stating, “We remain committed to our partnership with OpenAI and have confidence in our product roadmap.” This statement reflects Microsoft’s strategic intent to maintain a strong collaboration with OpenAI while also enhancing its own AI research capabilities.

Altman’s departure from OpenAI was unexpected and caused a stir in the tech industry, revealing a divide in the AI community between rapid development and concerns about AI’s potential risks. Altman had been discussing a new AI start-up, and his firing led to some employees planning to leave OpenAI. Microsoft, a major investor in OpenAI, was taken aback by the sudden decision, learning about it shortly before it was publicly announced.

Microsoft’s new AI research team, led by Altman and Brockman, is part of the company’s ongoing investment in AI technology. Microsoft has also developed its own custom AI chip, the Azure Maia, to reduce reliance on Nvidia and power its Azure data centers.

Overall, Microsoft’s acquisition of Altman and Brockman positions the company favorably in the competitive AI research space, capitalizing on their expertise and following among AI professionals.

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Google has Removed “Long-Pressing on Icons for Notifications” from Android 14

By
Anubhav
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In the latest Android 14 update, Google has made a noticeable change in how users interact with app icons on their home screens. Unlike in Android 13, where long-pressing an app icon displayed recent notifications for that app, Android 14 has done away with this feature. Instead, long-pressing an app icon now presents options like app shortcuts, app info, the ability to pause the app, and widgets.

A lot of users are complaining about a feature very few people used

This change might not seem significant at first glance, but it subtly alters how users manage and view their notifications. In the past, if your notification tray was brimming with alerts, you could easily view notifications for a specific app directly from the home screen. This feature was particularly handy for those who receive a high volume of notifications and prefer to deal with them app-by-app.

android-14

However, with Android 14, this convenience has been stripped away. Google has not provided a clear rationale for this change, but it’s possible that internal usage statistics influenced this decision. During the Android 14 Beta Program, Google confirmed that the removal of this notification feature was intentional and not something they plan to “fix.”

The response from users has been mixed. While some, like myself, rarely used the long-press feature for checking notifications, preferring the notification tray, others found it incredibly useful and are now calling for its return. Over a hundred new comments have been posted since the stable launch of Android 14 on Pixel devices, with users requesting that this capability be reinstated.

Despite these user requests, it seems Google has no immediate plans to bring back the feature. The current long-press menu in Android 14, primarily focused on shortcuts and app information, doesn’t appear to be undergoing any significant changes. Restoring the notification feature might not cause much disruption, but for now, users will have to adapt to this new way of handling their notifications on Android devices.

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BYD Introduces “Online Accident Reporting” Service for Enhanced User Safety

By
Oğuz Çakır
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BYD, the world’s largest electric vehicle manufacturer, continues to expand its range of products and services. The company aims to keep its existing customers satisfied while attracting new ones. In line with this goal, its latest initiative is the “Online Accident Reporting Service.” Still in the trial phase, this service aims to provide quick assistance to users in case of need. Here are the details…

BYD Unveils User-Friendly Online Accident Reporting System

Accidents, unfortunately, are a part of our lives. Many of us have unintentionally caused harm to an object, or worse, to ourselves or someone else due to mistakes we’ve made. However, in situations like driving a car, accidents can be much more dangerous and even fatal. For instance, a short while ago in China, a driver crashed a test car of the AITO M5 into a BYD Dolphin because they accidentally pressed the accelerator pedal instead of the brake pedal.

Although accidents like these may sound simple, they occur quite frequently and can lead to serious damages. In an effort to prevent such incidents and ensure a smooth experience for users involved in accidents, BYD has launched a new online accident reporting service. The service is currently accessible through the BYD Dynasty and BYD Ocean mini programs, with the app function scheduled for a later release.

For example, with the Ocean mini program, users can open the relevant interface, then follow the instructions to upload the relevant information. The insurance company will respond immediately to provide services to the car owner, thus realizing “one-click reporting”, and users can also check the reporting progress online in real time.

The online reporting service can help to ensure that electric vehicle owners receive timely and accurate assistance in the event of an accident.

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BYD’s Latest Launch, the Sea Lion 07 Electric SUV will Rival Tesla’s Model Y

By
Anubhav
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BYD, the world’s leading EV manufacturer, is poised to challenge Tesla‘s dominance with its newly launched Sea Lion brand. This bold move signals a significant shift in BYD’s strategy, traditionally known for targeting lower-income segments in China.

The car is priced competitively, starting from 200,000 yuan (~$28,000)

The introduction of the Sea Lion 07, a mid-sized, full-electric SUV, at the Guangzhou Auto Show, marks BYD’s entry into the high-end market. Priced competitively between 200,000 to 260,000 yuan, this model is set to rival Tesla’s Model Y, which has been a popular choice in China since 2021. The Sea Lion 07’s unique features, like the DiSus body control system that enhances safety and stability, showcase BYD’s technological advancements and commitment to quality.

BYD

This strategic shift by BYD, supported by Berkshire Hathaway, reflects the growing competitiveness in China’s EV sector. With Tesla facing challenges in maintaining its market share due to month-on-month declines in deliveries, BYD’s entry into the luxury segment could further intensify this competition.

Moreover, BYD’s cost advantage, as noted by industry analysts, presents a formidable challenge to Tesla. The ability to produce high-quality EVs at a lower cost could redefine the market dynamics, especially as Chinese consumers become more discerning and environmentally conscious.

BYD’s success in the EV market has been remarkable, overtaking Tesla as the world’s largest EV maker. However, its journey into the luxury segment is not just about market share but also a demonstration of Chinese EV manufacturers’ growing prowess in innovation and design. The Yangwang U8, BYD’s super luxury model, is a testament to this, rivaling international luxury brands in performance and features.

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Apple Plans To Transition To OLED iPad Mini, Air, And MacBooks By 2027

By
Viraj Gawde
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As per multiple reports, Apple is expected to refresh its entire iPad lineup next year. The 11th Gen iPad, 7th Gen iPad Mini, and 6th Gen iPad Air are tipped to arrive by the end of the first quarter in 2024. Meanwhile, the higher-end Pro models may arrive at a later date. Rumors have been hinting at Apple adopting OLED displays on its next-generation iPads. Now, a new report has revealed some fresh details about the seventh-generation iPad Mini along with more details. 

Launch timelines of OLED iPad Mini, Air, and MacBooks surface

Apple seems to be working on transitioning to OLED displays on its MacBooks and iPads in the coming years. We have already seen the company’s transition to USB-C port on its entire product portfolio with the iPhone 15 series this year. The Cupertino-based tech giant has also adopted its proprietary silicone chipsets on Macs and iPad models. 

Apple’s iPads use LCD display panels. There have been rumors that next year’s iPad Pros may ditch the mini-LED screen in favor of OLED panels. While, the iPad Pro 2024 will kick-start the transition, as per the new development, Apple may expand the usage of OLED display to the iPad Mini and iPad Air in 2026. Additionally, the former is also said to get an increased screen size from the current 8.3-inches to 8.7-inches. 

The report adds that there would be differences in display performance on the OLED iPad Pro, iPad Air, and iPad Mini models. The flagship pro variants will adopt LTPO technology along with ProMotion whereas the Air and Mini models will use a single-stack LTPS OLED panel. Additionally, the iPad Air with a 12.9-inch display will also get an OLED panel but it will debut in 2027. The same model with an LCD screen is expected to launch next year. 

Alongside the iPads, the report also reveals that Apple will also transition to OLED panels on MacBook starting in 2025 with the 16-inch Pro model. This will eventually expand to the 13, 14, and 15-inch MacBook models by 2026.

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NVIDIA’s Decision to Remove RTX 4090 Cards from its Chinese Website Sparks Unrest

By
Anubhav
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Nvidia, a leader in graphic processing technology, recently stirred the tech world by removing the RTX 4090 gaming card from its Chinese website. This move has sparked discussions and concerns among gamers and tech enthusiasts in China. The 4090, known for its exceptional performance, has been a favorite among video game players, and its sudden absence raises questions about supply and future availability.

Now, only RTX 4060, 4070 and 4080 are available on the Chinese website

The 4090’s removal came without explanation from Nvidia, leaving consumers speculating. This graphics card, part of Nvidia’s GeForce RTX 40 series, has been particularly popular in China due to its advanced capabilities in graphics processing. However, only its siblings—the 4080, 4070, and 4060—remain available for Chinese buyers.

Nvidia

Recent changes in U.S. export controls have raised the bar for China-bound exports of advanced graphics processing chips (GPUs). This has intensified concerns about the 4090’s future in the Chinese market. Additionally, major Chinese hardware partners of Nvidia, including AsusTek, Micro-Star International, and Shenzhen-based Colorful Technology, have also removed the RTX 4090 from their online stores, further fueling consumer anxiety.

Despite these developments, the RTX 4090 remains accessible through e-commerce retailers and unofficial channels, albeit at a premium price. The card’s scarcity and high demand have driven its price significantly higher, with listings showing substantial markups.

Interestingly, the U.S.’s October export updates intended to minimize consumer market impact by allowing exceptions for certain AI-capable, consumer-grade chips. The RTX 4090, not designed for data centers but boasting high processing performance, should have qualified for this exception. Yet, it now finds itself in a grey area, alongside banned data center GPUs.

In China, the implications of this removal extend beyond gaming. The 4090 is instrumental in applications like autonomous driving, as it powers complex perceptual functions in self-driving vehicles. Its absence could impact sectors reliant on high-end graphic processing capabilities.

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Portronics Pico 12 Portable Projector With 4K Support Launched In India

By
Viraj Gawde
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Portronics has expanded its range of projectors in India. The homegrown brand’s latest offering is the Pico 12. The main USP of the device is that it is a compact and portable offering that can be carried for on-the-go entertainment as well. Thanks to its premium features, the portable projector can turn any space into a movie theater, a gaming zone, and more. Let’s take a look at what the device offers out of the box. 

Portronics Pico 12 specifications and features

As mentioned earlier, the Portronics Pico 12 is an incredibly compact projector that is the size of a beverage can. Dimension-wise, it measures 6.5 x 6.5 x 11 cm and weighs just 715 grams. This allows people to carry the projector anywhere and consume entertainment on the go. The upper surface of the device supports touch functionality for various controls. 

The Portronics Pico 12 is capable of outputting up to 4K display resolution at a customizable projection size up to 120-inches. It features auto keystone correction that does seamless alignment for on-screen clarity. There is also a focus wheel to adjust the sharpness for a clear image. The projector is also equipped with a built-in 5W speaker and can be connected to a Bluetooth speaker as well. 

The Portronics Pico 12 is powered by a 3200 lumens LED lamp that is ensured to offer a lifespan of up to 30,000 hours. It runs on Android 11-based Aptoide OS with pre-installed OTT apps like Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+ Hotstar, and YouTube. Connectivity options on the projector include WiFi, HDMI, Bluetooth 5.3, IR Blaster, and Screen Cast. 

The Portronics Pico 12 is priced at Rs 29,999. It can be purchased from the brand’s official website and Amazon. 

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Realme to host conference on November 22 to discuss GT 5 Pro’s telephoto imaging

By
Rajesh Regmi
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Realme has announced that it will be holding a conference on November 22, 2023. The conference, titled “Super Core Imaging Technology Communication Meeting” (translated), will be held in collaboration with Qualcomm and ArcSoft.

While details remain scarce, Realme has teased the conference with a cryptic message suggesting a “new turning point for telephoto imaging.” 

The announcement of the conference comes on the heels of Realme’s confirmation that its GT 5 Pro smartphone will be released this month.

The GT 5 Pro will feature a Sony LYTIA camera sensor, which is likely to be the 50MP LYT-808 sensor confirmed for the OnePlus 12.

The smartphone is expected to be powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset and will feature a 10,000mm² heat dissipation unit. It will also be the world’s first smartphone with a BOE-customized curved-edge 6.78″ 1.5K display supporting a 3,000 nits brightness rate.

Finally, the smartphone is also confirmed to support a 240W wired fast charging feature.

Realme’s conference is expected to provide more details about the GT 5 Pro and its new telephoto imaging technology. Stay tuned for more information.

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Five Xiaomi devices to receive stable HyperOS update including Redmi K60 Pro

By
Rajesh Regmi
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Xiaomi’s new self-developed operating system, HyperOS stable update is coming soon to five of its flagship smartphones, according to a report by GSMChina. As expected, the update will be based on Android 14. 

Xiaomi-HyperOS

According to the outlet, the devices to receive the stable update are the Xiaomi 13 Ultra, Xiaomi 13T, Xiaomi 12T, Xiaomi Pad 6 Max, and Redmi K60 Pro. All these smartphones have appeared with HyperOS build in Xiaomi’s official server. 

The update is expected to roll out very soon, starting with the Xiaomi 13 Ultra in China. The Xiaomi 12T and Xiaomi 13T will then receive the update in the European market, with other regions following suit in the future.

Xiaomi has also shared a roadmap for the HyperOS update, detailing the release schedule for both Chinese and international devices. The update will be rolled out in phases, with the first batch of international devices receiving HyperOS in Q1 2024.

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OnePlus Nord CE 3 gets access to OxygenOS 14 x Android 14 Open Beta, Here’s how to apply

By
Sudhanshu
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The very first Open Beta for OxygenOS 14 has been released exclusively for the OnePlus Nord CE 3 5G (review), providing users with a sneak peek into the upcoming features and improvements. While this beta build comes with a caveat about potential risks and stability, it’s an opportunity for early adopters to experience the latest innovations.

OnePlus Nord CE 3

What’s in Store:

The OxygenOS 14 Open Beta brings several enhancements, aiming to make your smartphone experience smarter, more efficient, and visually appealing. The key highlights include:

  1. File Dock: Introducing a new feature where users can effortlessly drag and drop content between apps and devices.
  2. Clone Phone Upgrade: Improvements in Clone Phone for quicker device verification and smoother data migration across devices.
  3. Security and Privacy: Better management of photo and video-related permissions for enhanced safety and privacy.
  4. Performance Optimization: Expect improved system stability, faster app launches, and smoother animations for an overall optimized performance.
  5. Aquamorphic Design Upgrade: Aesthetic enhancements with a natural, gentle, and clearer color style for a comfortable visual experience. This includes Aquamorphic-themed ringtones, revamped system notification sounds, and even smoother animations.
  6. User Care Features: A carbon tracking Always On Display (AOD) has been added, visualizing the carbon emissions saved by opting to walk instead of drive.

How to Get the Beta:

For those eager to get their hands on OxygenOS 14 Open Beta, OnePlus has streamlined the application process. Follow the steps provided from November 20 until the application quota of 5000 users is reached. Ensure your device is updated to the latest OxygenOS 13.1 version and apply through Settings > About device > Beta program.

Upon successful application, OnePlus promises to review submissions within 5 workdays, with the version rollout in the following 3 workdays for approved applicants. The download process is simple, available in Settings > About device > Download Now.

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OnePlus Buds 3 Bag FCC Certification, Reveals Schematic And Battery Capacity

By
Viraj Gawde
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Earlier today, we learned the launch date of the OnePlus 12. Now, the brand’s upcoming TWS earphones has been spotted on the FCC certification website. The leaked renders of the OnePlus Buds 3 surfaced in September this year giving us a first look and a few key details. Now the FCC appearance of the audio device also confirms a few details that corroborate with the previous leak. The listing also hints at an imminent launch of the upcoming offering. 

OnePlus Buds 3 appear on FCC

The OnePlus Buds 3 are listed on the FCC with the model number E509A. The exact moniker has not been mentioned but they are described as wireless earbuds from OnePlus. The schematics from the certification listing reveal that the upcoming TWS earphones will have a semi-in-ear design with silicone ear tips. The storage and charging case of the device is also squarish which is similar to its predecessor. 

As per the FCC certification, the OnePlus Buds 3 will be powered by a 520mAh battery unit with each earbud backed by a 58mAh cell. This is similar to what was mentioned in the previous leak. The listing does not reveal any additional information of the audio device.

It remains to be seen if the OnePlus Buds 3 will debut alongside the OnePlus 12 smartphone at an event in China on December 4. To recall, the Buds 2 Pro were launched earlier globally this year. 

As per the previous leak, OnePlus is expected to ditch the dual-tone design on the Buds 3 that was found on previous models. It is tipped to be lighter than its predecessor at 4.77 grams. The earbuds and the case will be IP55 and IPX4-certified. The Buds 3 are reported to pack dual drivers, 48dB ANC, Google Fast Pair, and a total battery life of 33 hours. 

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Honor 100 Series Roundup: Design Changes, Improved Specs, and Expected Price

By
Sudarshan Ravichandran
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Ever since Honor was sold off by Huawei, it has been releasing two generations of number series smartphones every 6 months. This lineup is currently the brand’s bestseller. Thus, the company debuted it first in India while making its comeback.

As the Honor 90 lineup is now 6 months old, the brand is gearing up to launch the Honor 100 series. The successor is arriving later this week.

Over the last few days, we heard a lot about these phones via leaks and official teasers. We have enough information to compile them in a single article detailing everything about these upcoming handsets.

Let’s check out when they will get announced, how they will look, what specs they will offer, and how much they may cost.

Honor 100 and Honor 100 Pro
Honor 100 and Honor 100 Pro
PrevNext

1. Honor 100 Series Launch Date

The Honor 100 series will be launched in China on November 23. It will be presented at a press conference that will start at 1:30 PM GMT+8.

The event will be livestreamed on leading Chinese video streaming platforms, including the country’s largest microblogging platform Weibo.

2. Honor 100 Series Design

The Honor 100 series will be the first generation in the family to bring a completely new design since the Honor 50 from 2021. The devices will no longer arrive with two giant circular camera modules.

Instead, both vanilla and pro models will have different designs.  The latter variant will have an ocular camera module with three sensors. Whereas, the former will feature a rectangular island upon which a semi-circle part will consist of two sensors.

The regular Honor 100 will sport a glass panel on the rear and will be available in black, white, and a gradient option. On the other hand, the Honor 100 Pro’s back will include glass on one side and faux leather on the other. It will be offered in black, white, cyan, and purple colors.

3. Honor 100 Series Specifications

The Honor 100 series will flaunt a 6.78-inch quad-curved OLED display. The vanilla version will sport a single punch hole as opposed to a pill-shared cutout on the pro.

Further, the standard variant will be powered by the newly announced Qualcomm Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 chip. In contrast, the pro version will house a  much more powerful Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset.

But both of them will boot the same MagicOS software based on Android 14. They will even draw energy from an identical 5,450mAh battery and carry support for 100W charging.

Even the cameras will be the same on the two, except that the pro variant will have two additional cameras. The duo will come with an OIS-assisted 50MP Sony IMX906 primary sensor, a 12MP ultrawide unit, and a 50MP Sony IMX816 selfie camera. The pro model will also have a 32MP telephoto shooter and a secondary 32MP selfie camera with an ultrawide lens.

Last but not least, these smartphones are said to come with a plastic frame, NFC, an IR blaster, an x-axis linear vibration motor, and dual stereo speakers.

4. Honor 100 Series Expected Price

Both Honor 100 and Honor 100 Pro are tipped to arrive in three memory configurations. They are tipped to carry the following price tags in China.

Honor 100
  • 12GB + 256GB – ¥2,799 (~$390)
  • 16GB + 256GB – ¥3,099 (~$430)
  • 16GB + 512GB – ¥3,399 (~$475)
Honor 100 Pro
  • 12GB + 256GB – ¥3,699 (~$515)
  • 16GB + 256GB – ¥3,999 (~$560)
  • 16GB + 512GB – ¥4,299 (~$600)

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Sony α6700 Mirrorless Camera Launched In India

By
Viraj Gawde
-

Sony has introduced a new mirrorless camera in India. The latest in the APS-C lineup is the α6700. It aims to empower creators at all levels in the country. The α6700 packs various premium imaging and video features borrowed from the full-frame Alpha and Cinema line series. It also has a compact form factor like other a6000 series models. Read on to know more about the latest mirrorless camera below. 

Sony α6700 specifications and features

As mentioned earlier, the Sony α6700 has a compact design offering great portability. It weighs just 493 grams. Dimension-wise, the camera measures 122 x 69 x 75.1 grams. There is a vari-angle 3-inch LCD monitor with touch support, a customizable dial, and an electronic viewfinder. 

Coming to the photography capabilities, the Sony α6700 features a 26MP Exmor R CMOS sensor. It is equipped with Sony’s BIONZ XR processing engine. The camera supports ISO levels up to 32000. There is a dynamic range of 14+ stops, AI scene recognition, and S-Cinetone picture profile that eliminates color grading. The α6700 has a 5-axis in-body image stabilization for stable shooting. The camera is capable of recording 4K videos at 120fps along with S-Log for gradation. There is a built-in stereo mic and a monaural speaker. 

The Sony α6700 is compatible with E-mount lenses. Connectivity options on the camera include a microSD card slot, Bluetooth 4.2, dual-band WiFi, HDMI micro connector, and remote control. 

The Sony α6700 starts at Rs 1,36,990 for only the body. The camera along with a 16-50mm lens costs Rs 1,47,490 whereas the 18-135mm zoom lens is priced at Rs 1,72,990. The device will be available for purchase from November 20 at leading online and offline stores across the country. 

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SteamOS 3.5.5 update brings color calibration & performance boost to the Steam Deck

By
Sudhanshu
-

Steam Deck users, rejoice! SteamOS 3.5.5 has just hit the Stable channel, bringing a slew of enhancements that promise to elevate your gaming sessions. Let’s dive into the key changes that this update brings to the table.

Valve Steam Deck

Display Enhancements: One notable improvement in SteamOS 3.5.5 is the adjustment of the default color rendering for the Steam Deck LCD. The emulation of the sRGB color gamut now delivers a slightly warmer and more vibrant color appearance, enhancing visual experiences. Users can fine-tune display colors with the new Settings -> Adjust Display Colors feature, allowing customization of Color Vibrancy and Color Temperature.

For those craving high dynamic range visuals, Steam Deck now supports HDR for external displays, with additional HDR Analysis available in Advanced Display settings. Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) is also on the menu, provided your USB-C adapter supports it.

General Upgrades: Steam Deck OLED gets official support with the SteamOS 3.5.5 update. Additionally, the update addresses a CPU performance issue for specific workloads, ensuring a smoother gaming experience. External storage devices now auto-mount when connected, streamlining the user experience.

Graphics drivers have been updated, bringing performance boosts and fixes for specific games like Starfield. Bluetooth connection stability has been improved, along with faster sleep resume speeds. The ability to switch between controller and mouse/keyboard bindings by long-pressing Options adds a convenient touch to the Linux hid-steam driver.

Firmware Enhancements: Firmware 118 introduces voltage offset settings, providing more control over your Steam Deck’s performance. The Steam Deck Dock Firmware 121 follows suit, introducing Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) support and improving reliability when changing display modes via on-screen menus.

Updated Arch Linux Base: Beyond these device-specific upgrades, SteamOS 3.5.5 incorporates an updated Arch Linux base. This brings in newer performance, security, and stability fixes for the underlying packages supporting SteamOS. Highlights include a new window tiling system and improved Discover (app store/software manager) with enhanced search functionality.

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Microsoft finally lets you uninstall Edge, Bing, and Cortana, but there’s a catch

By
Sean
-

Microsoft is bringing a new update for Windows users in Europe. The company is finally allowing its users to uninstall some of its basic apps like Edge (browser), Bing (search), and Cortana (voice assistant). So here’s everything you need to know.

Microsoft Edge, Bing, and Cortana can finally be removed

The American tech giant isn’t rolling out this change for an improved user experience and choice freedom, rather, it is bringing the update to comply with the DMA (Digital Markets Act). For those unaware, the DMA was announced by the European Union, which is enforcing Microsoft to make all of its basic apps removable. It is worth noting that the act will come into effect from March 2024 in the European Economic Area (EEA).

This includes all EU nations along with Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway. In an official blog post, Microsoft announced that the change is exclusive to Europe. This means that the new change isn’t global. So now, you can uninstall the Edge web browser and change the Bing web search. This is something that many Windows users have been requesting for a long time now.

Microsoft is constantly pushing Edge and Bing to convince you to switch over to its own platforms. Apart from this, the company will also let users uninstall Cortana, Camera, and Photos from the Windows experience. In related news, the company patented the multi-device virtual web browser to improve users’ internet accessibility just last month.

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Microsoft unveils Bluey Edition Xbox Series X and Controller

By
Sean
-

Microsoft has just released a special edition version of its Xbox Series X console and Xbox Wireless Controller. This new limited edition variant is dubbed the Bluey Xbox, which features a unique aesthetic. So let’s have a look.

Microsoft Bluey Xbox & Controller

The American tech giant announced the Bluey Xbox Series X and Xbox Wireless Controller to commemorate the launch of Bluey: The Video Game. For those unaware, Bluey: The Video Game is based on the popular Australian animated kids show. The title was rolled out on Xbox, PlayStation, Switch, and PC. Notably, Microsoft has planned a giveaway for this custom built Xbox and controller.

Microsoft Xbox Series X Bluey Edition

To stand a chance of winning this special edition Xbox, you need to follow Xbox on X (formerly Twitter) and retweet the company’s promotional Sweepstakes hashtag. It is worth noting that you need to be at least 18 years old and reside in a country that has Xbox availability. Furthermore, the giveaway starts at 6:00 Pacific Time (PT) on 17th November 2023 and ends at 8:00 PM PT on 13th December 2023.

Keep in mind that having a private account on X won’t be considered eligible. Looking at the Bluey Xbox and Controller, we can see the titular character (Bluey the Blue Heeler puppy) and her iconic light blue color scheme. The Controller also features a similar design with light and dark blue hues, which adds to its adorable appeal. Just recently, the company even released a Willy Wonka themed Xbox Series X console and an edible chocolate Xbox controller.

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Samsung Galaxy S24 series launch date along with pre-order and sale dates revealed

By
Sudhanshu
-

In an exclusive report, The Elec has revealed that Samsung‘s highly anticipated Galaxy S24 series, comprising the S24, S24+, and S24 Ultra, is set to make its global debut on January 17, 2024. Although not officially confirmed by the tech giant on its channels, The Elec cites an unnamed Samsung Electronics official as the source of this announcement.

Samsung Galaxy S24 series
Samsung Galaxy S24 series dummy units

The Elec’s report not only discloses the launch date but also spills the beans on the pre-order and sale details for the Galaxy S24 series. Pre-orders for these cutting-edge smartphones will kick off on January 17, immediately following the launch. Those who secure their orders early can expect to receive their devices between January 26 and 30. The general sale of the Galaxy S24 series is slated to commence on January 30. Here’s a sneak peek at the expected specifications of the Samsung Galaxy S24 series.

Galaxy S24 & S24+ specs:

Display features of the S24 & S24+ will include a Dynamic AMOLED 2x LTPO panel with a 120Hz refresh rate, and under the hood, users can expect a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 SoC and Exynos 2400 SoC in selected markets. The devices will offer up to 12GB RAM and 512GB storage, running on OneUI 6 based on Android 14.

Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus
Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus

For photography, the devices will have a 50 MP primary lens, a 12MP ultra-wide-angle lens, and a 10MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom. The front camera boasts a 12MP sensor and the battery comes in at 4,700mAh for the Galaxy S23 and 4,900mAh for the Galaxy S23+, supporting 45W wired charging and wireless charging.

Galaxy S24 Ultra specs:

The Galaxy S24 Ultra is expected to feature a Dynamic AMOLED 2x LTPO panel with a 144Hz refresh rate. Under the hood, it will have a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, rumored to be paired with up to 16GB RAM and 2TB storage. It will have Android 14-based OneUI 6 out of the box. The device will have a 5,000mAh battery supporting 45W wired charging and wireless charging.

Samsung Galaxy S24 AI features

For photography, it will feature a 200 MP primary lens, a 12MP ultra-wide-angle lens, a 50MP periscope lens with 5x optical zoom, and a 10MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom. The front camera is equipped with a 12MP sensor.

Additionally, the S24 Ultra is said to feature a Titanium Frame and IP68 water and dust resistance. In related news, we have more details about the Galaxy Fit 3 smartband via a poster leak.

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Oppo Reno 11 Series Roundup: Everything You Need to Know

By
Sudarshan Ravichandran
-

Oppo is known for releasing two generations of Reno smartphones in a year. Now, that the last Reno came out 6 months ago, the company is gearing up to introduce its successor.

The next-gen is officially called Reno 11. Unsurprisingly, it will debut first in China.

Unlike the last few generations, there are only two models instead of three. These devices go by Oppo Reno 11 and Oppo Reno 11 Pro.

We have learned a lot about these products over the last few days from various sources. Their details were either leaked or officially teased by the brand.

Now that we are nearing the launch, let’s check out everything that’s known about these phones so far.

Oppo Reno 11 Pro
Oppo Reno 11 Pro
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1. Oppo Reno 11 Series Launch Date

The Oppo Reno 11 series is scheduled to launch in China on November 23 (Thursday). It will be announced at a conference that’s set to begin at 2 PM GMT+8.

The event will be livestreamed on Weibo and other leading video streaming platforms. 

2. Oppo Reno 11 Series Design

The Reno 11 lineup will arrive with a slightly revamped design. It will retain the ovular camera island from the Reno 10 and the sensors will be arranged in the same way as on the Reno 10 Pro Plus.

However, the LED flashlight will sit outside the camera island which no longer will have a black accent. The entire back of the Reno 11 handsets will have the same color but come with different textures on the body and the camera module.

Further, the front will be dominated entirely by a curved display with a centered punch hole. While the volume rocker and power button will sit on the right side.

Both Reno 11 and Reno 11 Pro will be available in Obsidian Black and Moonlight White color options. Whereas, the hero color for the former will be Fluorite Blue as opposed to Turquoise for the latter.

3. Oppo Reno 11 Series Specifications

The Reno 11 Pro will be equipped with a 6.74-inch 1.5K (2772 x 1240 pixels) curved AMOLED display offering a 120Hz refresh rate. It will be powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Plus Gen 1 chipset.

The Reno 11, on the other hand, will sport a bit smaller (6.7-inch) and lower resolution (FHD+) curved AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate. Similarly, the chip underneath will be a less powerful Mediatek Dimesnity 8200 unit.

Both of them will ship with the latest ColorOS 14 based on Android 14 out of the box. However, the standard variant will be backed by a 4,800mAh battery with support for 67W charging compared to a slightly lower 4,700mAh battery inside the pro version which supports faster 80W charging standard.

The duo will arrive with an identical 32MP selfie camera and a 50MP (wide with OIS) + 8MP (ultrawide) + 32MP (2x telephoto) triple camera setup on the rear with flagship-level image processing. But the main sensor will be different on the two.

The Reno 11 is said to feature a Sony LYT600 sensor, while the Reno 11 Pro is expected to come with a Sony LYT700 sensor.

4. Oppo Reno 11 Series Expected Price

According to China Telecom listings, Reno 11 and Reno 11 Pro will cost about the same as Reno 10 and Reno 10 Pro Plus respectively. The vanilla model will be available in three memory configurations compared to two for the pro variant.

They are said to retail at the following price tags in China.

Oppo Reno 11
  • 8GB + 256GB – ¥2,799 (~$390)
  • 12GB + 256GB – ¥2,999 (~$420)
  • 12GB + 512GB – ¥3,199 (~445)
Oppo Reno 11 Pro
  • 12GB + 256GB – ¥3,999 (~$560)
  • 12GB + 512GB – ¥4,199 (~$585)

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TerransForce Handle 5 gaming console with AMD R7 7840U, 7″ FHD 120Hz display & Hall Effect joystick unveiled

By
Sudhanshu
-

TerransForce, a prominent laptop brand, is set to take on the gaming scene with its first gaming handheld, the Handle 5. Like many powerful handheld gaming consoles that have come out this year, the Handle 5 also features the formidable AMD Ryzen 7 7840U processor.

TerransForce Handle 5

TerransForce Handle 5 console specs & features:

The core of the Handle 5 is the AMD R7-7840U 28W processor, an 8-core, 16-thread chip with a max clock speed of 5.1GHz. Backing up the robust processor is the AMD Radeon 780M graphics card, featuring a top clock speed of 2700MHz. As per the brand, the console offers graphics performance on par with dedicated graphics solutions like the RTX 2050 and GTX 1650.

TerransForce Handle 5
TerransForce Handle 5

The Handle 5 is equipped with LPDDR5X-6400 memory, offering swift data access and seamless multitasking. The 7-inch 16:9 touch screen provides a crisp 1080p resolution, 120Hz refresh rate, and 100% sRGB color gamut for vibrant visuals on the go.

Powering the device is a 50Wh lithium-ion battery, optimized for a 25% increase in capacity compared to mainstream handhelds. The inclusion of a 100W PD fast charge ensures users can replenish 40% of the battery in just 20 minutes, even when the device is turned off.

Handle 5’s real-time control shines through its HALL+ALPS trigger and joystick solution, providing accuracy and stability during gameplay. The 688g body, ergonomically designed to fit the grip arc of the palm, promises both physical ease and an immersive gaming experience.

Pricing & availability

TerransForce presents the Handle 5 in two distinct configurations, distinguished solely by their memory capacity. The first variant features an AMD Ryzen™ 7 7840U processor, 16GB LPDDR5, and a 1TB PCIe SSD, priced at 650 USD. Meanwhile, the second option boasts the same processor but with an upgraded 32GB LPDDR5 and a 1TB PCIe SSD, available for 750 USD. The Handle 5 console is expected to be available to purchase in the coming days.

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(Source, via)

Vivo TWS 3e earbuds visit Indonesia’s SDPPI certification

By
Sean
-

Vivo is reportedly planning on launching a new truly wireless earbuds for the global market. The company’s new earbuds in question are the Vivo TWS 3e, which was recently spotted on an Indonesian certification platform. So here are all the details.

Vivo TWS 3e surfaces on SDPPI certification

The Vivo TWS 3e visited the SDPPI certification in Indonesia. Just recently, the Vivo TWS Air 2 was also listed on the same certification platform earlier this month. In other words, the company is planning to roll out two new earbuds in the global market. The upcoming TWS 3e earbuds were spotted carrying the model number CAR W30. For those unaware, this is similar to the model number of the TWS Air 2, which surfaced recently with the CAR W29.

Vivo TWS 3e

As the name suggests, the TWS 3e is likely the direct successor to the TWS 2e. The latter was announced more than a year ago and it appears that Vivo is finally set to release the next gen model. The Vivo TWS 2e had launched with 12.2mm bass drivers along with DeepX 2.0 Stereo Sound effects, Google Fast Pair, and Bluetooth 5.2.

It also features a dedicated low latency gaming mode, up to 30 hours of battery life, and an IP54 rating for water and dust protection. So its successor, the Vivo TWS 3e will likely bring improvements in these specs or offer more competitive features.

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(Via)

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