Apple iPhone users account for more than 40% of Xiaomi IoT smart ecosystem users

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Nov 17, 2023

The 2023 Xiaomi IoT Ecological Partner Conference kicked off on November 16, 2023. Xiaomi has, during a discussion at the conference, indicated that Apple phones were a major player in its IoT smart ecosystem.

The new data showed that 45% of Apple users in the ecosystem owned more than five Xiaomi smart appliances. The data are telling as the Xiaomi IoT smart ecosystem has been rated as the world’s largest consumer-grade IoT platform. The number of connected devices on the Xiaomi IoT platform stands at over 655 million. There are more than 13 million users in the Xiaomi IoT smart ecosystem that have five or more connected devices. This means that users with five or more devices account for about 10% of the population of connected devices.

During the conference, Xiaomi officially announced the 2023 Xiaomi IoT Ecological Partner Open Plan. There are currently more than 9,000 IoT partners that connect products in more than 200 categories on the IoT smart ecosystem. The Chinese tech powerhouse expects the partners to continue to expand rapidly. Xiaomi’s flagship Mijia App has an average of 82.9 million active users monthly. On the other hand, the monthly average number of users of Xiaoai is estimated at over 110 million.

The optics remain bright for Xiaomi in the IoT smart ecosystem. It is expected that more Apple iPhones will enter the ecosystem as it continues to grow rapidly.

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Tesla Might Put Their Heated Seat & Windshield Wiper Feature Behind a Paywall

By

Anubhav

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Nov 17, 2023

Tesla, a pioneer in the electric vehicle industry, is reportedly considering a new approach to its vehicle features, which could potentially see the implementation of a pay-to-use model for certain amenities. A recent delve into Tesla’s latest software update by a renowned Tesla hacker, GreenTheOnly, hints at the possibility of heated front seats and heated windshield wipers becoming premium features in new Tesla Model 3 vehicles.

Tesla has previously restricted access to different features of their cars

The idea of software-locking is not new to Tesla. Previously, the company has restricted access to features like footwell lights in the Model 3 or additional battery capacity in older Model S and X variants, unlocking them for a fee. Notably, Tesla had charged for heated rear seats in some Model 3 versions but ceased this practice in 2022.

Tesla’s consideration to monetize these features, though not confirmed, follows its history of balancing cost and convenience. By potentially offering these features as optional extras, Tesla might aim to reduce the base price of its Model 3, making it more accessible while also opening a revenue stream post-sale.

This business model raises a critical question: Is Tesla setting a precedent for future vehicle customization, or is it creating a paywall that could detract from the user experience? While offering a lower base price with optional upgrades could attract a broader customer base, it also introduces a scenario where owners could feel nickel-and-dimed for features that were once standard.

An intriguing aspect of the software update was the discovery of a software-locked battery capacity in the Model Y’s Standard Range trim, a tactic Tesla has employed in the past. This strategy might be a strategic move to streamline production processes, yet it adds another layer to the debate on software-locking features.

As of now, the specifics of how and when these features might be implemented, and their potential costs, remain undisclosed. Tesla’s history shows that the company isn’t shy about reversing course on such decisions, as seen with the heated rear seats.

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Fairphone 4 New Life Edition unveiled with free screen protector and protective case

By

Jed John Ikoba

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Nov 17, 2023

Fairphone has unveiled a “New Life Edition” for the FairPhone 4 smartphone. The new model is a refurbished version of the Fairphone 4 and it is being offered with a couple of freebies. It comes with a free screen protector and a protective case.

The Fairphone 4 New Life Edition is more sustainable than its predecessor, the Fairphone 4. The Fairphone 5 was unveiled earlier this year and it is still on the shelves (Amazon). Fairphone has already carved a sustainability-driven identity for itself. It has continued to use recycled materials in the production of its smartphones. The New Life Edition model is a refurbished Fairphone 4. This translates to a lower price for the smartphone .

The free accessories are given under the Longevity Bundle and is open until November 30. The protect case is available in three colors and is made from pre-consumer recycled TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane). The other free accessory is a 9H tempered glass screen protector. The screen protector is made from a Corning material called Accessory Glass and is available in two filter versions.

Pricing

Fairphone is offering a five-year guarantee on the Fairphone 4 New Life Edition. It says the smartphone should have at least 80% guaranteed battery capacity and will ship in otherwise original condition. Software updates are also guaranteed until at least 2026,
The Fairphone 4 New Life Edition with 6GB/128GB is originally priced at €469 in the EU and £429 in the UK. The 8GB/ 256GB version of the smartphone is priced at €529 and £479 in the EU and UK, respectively. The prices of the new model are quite cheaper than the new Fairphone 4 model.

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China’s Q3 tablet market exceeds expectations despite 3.4% yearly decline, reaching 7.05 million units

By

Soumyakanti

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Nov 17, 2023

According to a report by IDC, the tablet market in China during the third quarter of 2023 has shown surprising resilience, exceeding expectations. The total number of tablets shipped was approximately 7.05 million units, with a slight year-on-year decrease of 3.4%. Notably, this decline was more pronounced in the consumer market, which experienced a 4.3% reduction, but it was offset by a robust 7.4% growth in the commercial sector, indicating a continued recovery trend.

Market Dynamics: Fluctuations and Growth in China’s Tablet Industry

Leading domestic brands such as Huawei, Xiaomi, and Vivo exhibited remarkable resilience, each reporting significant growth in shipments. This highlights the competitive landscape of the Chinese tablet market, where local manufacturers are increasingly asserting their presence.

Apple, however, maintained its lead with a 33.4% market share, followed by Huawei at 27.9%, and Xiaomi securing third place with an 11.4% share. Other notable players included Honor and Lenovo, with respective market shares of 7.8% and 6.2%.

The IDC report attributes this better-than-expected performance to two main factors. In the consumer market, major brands have been aggressively expanding their businesses through technological innovations and diversifying their product lines. This strategy has been instrumental in stabilizing and growing their market presence despite challenging conditions. In the commercial segment, the growth can be attributed to increased shipments in sectors such as government and education procurement, reflecting a broader recovery trend.

Another significant observation is the fluctuation in price distribution within the market. The share of tablets priced between 2,000 Yuan and 4,000 Yuan ($276-$552) has decreased, while those priced below 2,000 Yuan (<$276) have seen an increase in market share. This shift suggests a trend toward more budget-friendly options in the market, likely driven by the introduction of competitive products from mainstream manufacturers. The average unit price in the market has also declined by 3.0% compared to the previous quarter, settling at 2,793 Yuan (approximately $385).

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Redragon M61 mechanical keyboard with 61 keys, 8K response rate launched for 299 Yuan ($41)

By

Soumyakanti

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Nov 16, 2023

Redragon is a reputable company known for its affordable and reliable gaming peripherals and accessories. Their product range includes gaming keyboards, mice, headsets, and other gaming-related equipment. Redragon’s focus is on delivering quality gaming gear without the premium price tag, making them a popular choice among gamers looking for cost-effective solutions without compromising performance and functionality.

Earlier today, Redragon launched its latest mechanical keyboard, the M61 in China. The keyboard will be available to purchase from November 20th for 299 yuan ($41). Let’s check out the key specs of this keyboard.

Redragon M61 Keyboard Key Features:

The Redragon M61 keyboard is a compact 61-key keyboard that uses magnetic axis switches. These linear adjustable switches incorporate Hall effect trigger technology, offering a rapid and accurate typing response with an impressive 8K rate. This technology not only improves typing speed but also ensures precision, making it suitable for both gaming and regular typing tasks.

The M61 is equipped with custom PBT spherical keycaps, which are double-shot injection molded. These keycaps are not only durable, resisting scratches and wear better than the common ABS keycaps, but they also provide a comfortable and slip-resistant typing surface. The keyboard is designed to withstand up to 100 million keystrokes, ensuring a long lifespan for users.

Additionally, the keyboard features an eye-catching contrasting color scheme and offers 20 different RGB lighting effects. These effects are not just visually pleasing but can also sync with music.

The keyboard’s ergonomic design is another notable feature. It is crafted with a golden angle to reduce wrist strain, ensuring comfort during long typing sessions. Furthermore, the trigger settings on the keyboard are adjustable, with a drive range from 0.1 to 4.0 millimeters.

The Redragon M61 keyboard comes with a durable metal top cover, anti-ghosting feature for accurate keypress recognition, and compatibility with various Windows operating systems. We are not sure of the MacOS support though.

Redragon has also recently launched the Castro K631 Pro SE wireless mechanical gaming keyboard in India.

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Machenike Starlight monitor with 24″ 2K 170Hz display launched for 999 Yuan ($138)

By

Soumyakanti

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Nov 16, 2023

Machenike has recently unveiled its latest offering, the Starlight MK24QG170S2, a 24-inch 2K monitor with an impressive 170Hz refresh rate, available at an attractive price of 999 yuan ($138). Let’s check out the key specs of this monitor.

Machenike Starlight Monitor Key Specs

The Starlight MK24QG170S2 boasts a 24-inch FAST IPS panel that delivers vibrant and accurate colors. Its 2560 x 1440 (2K) resolution ensures sharp and detailed visuals. What sets this monitor apart is its exceptional 170Hz refresh rate, which provides incredibly smooth motion in fast-paced scenes. Additionally, its 1ms MPRT response time minimizes motion blur and stutter, enhancing the overall gaming experience.

With a 91.9% DCI-P3 color gamut, this gaming monitor accurately reproduces a wide range of colors. It also features a high static contrast ratio of 1000:1, resulting in improved brightness and depth in visual content. The 178° wide viewing angle ensures consistent color and clarity from various viewing positions.

The Starlight monitor comes with a built-in adjustable stand that allows for a 130mm elevation and 25° tilt adjustments, offering ergonomic comfort and flexibility in viewing angles.

Machenike has equipped this model with a variety of interfaces, including two HDMI 2.0 ports supporting up to 144Hz, one DP 1.4 port supporting up to 170Hz, and an audio output interface.

Notably, the monitor supports HDR10, enhancing visual depth and texture by brightening scenes and illuminating dark areas. It also includes AdaptiveSync to ensure tear-free gaming, OverDrive to prevent ghosting, and color gamut switching. Additionally, Machenike backs this product with a 2-year quality assurance warranty, reaffirming its reliability and quality.

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Samsung T5 Evo Solid State Drive with up to 8TB of storage released

By

Jed John Ikoba

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Nov 16, 2023

The Samsung T5 Evo SSD with a compact and robust design has been introduced. The new Samsung T5 Evo comes in three storage configurations, with the highest being 8TB. It is portable and could be one of Samsung’s more robust SSDs so far. It is available in 2TB, 4TB, and 8TB storage options.

Features

The Samsung T5 Evo is a cheaper and more rugged alternative to the Samsung T9. The dimensions of the T5 Evo are 95 x 40 x 17 mm and it weighs 102g. The Samsung T5 Evo has a metal housing with rubberized parts that provide protection for the V-NAND flash. The SSD can withstand drops from up to 2 meters and it has a built-in handle for attachment to other items.

The Samsung T5 Evo SSD comes in a simple design and discrete branding. It has a small LED near its USB-C port. The USB-C port is rated 5Gbps and is of the USB 3.2 Gen 1 standard. The SSD features a Dynamic Thermal Guard architecture which simultaneously prevents the SSD from overheating and thermal throttling. This is achieved even under continuous load input.

The Samsung T5 Evo SSD has a 460MB/s read and write speed that is pretty sub-par. It is much slower than standard M.2 PCIe SSDs and this makes the device to be very slow when transferring data.

Pricing & Availability

The 2TB version of the Samsung T5 Evo SSD is priced at $189.99. The 4TB and 8TB versions have $349.99 and $649.99 price tags respectively. Even with the pretty low read/write speeds of the T5 Evo, it is still an affordable and durable choice of SSD.

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UGREEN Revodok Pro 13-in-1 docking station launched for the global market

By

Jed John Ikoba

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Nov 16, 2023

The new UGREEN Revodok Pro 13-in-1 docking station has been launched. The docking station comes with much functionality including support for up to three 4K displays, 85W pass-through charging, and 10Gbps file transfer speed.

The UGREEN Revodok Pro docking station is powered by a 100W PD input. The maximum pass-through power output is 85W via USB-C and the device also features two HDMI ports and DisplayPort. The Revodok Pro Docking Station 13-in-1 offers 60Hz refresh rates for macOS. However, for Windows devices, a 60Hz refresh rate is delivered for two screens, while the third is at 30Hz. The Extend mode of the docking station is however only available with Windows devices.

There are three 10Gbps ports in the Revodok Pro 13-in-1 consisting of one USB-C 3.2 Gen 2 and two USB-A 3.2 Gen 2. The gadget also features two 5Gbps USB-A 3.0, a Gigabit Ethernet port, an audio jack, and SD/ MicroSD card readers.

Pricing & Availability

The UGREEN Revodok Pro Docking Station is available in multiple markets including the US and Europe. It can be purchased from Amazon at an equivalent price of $129.99. It is noted that the current price of the docking station is discounted when purchasing via Amazon. Amazon Prime account holders could purchase the gadget for just $99.99, with a similar offer in the UK. Buyers in Germany can get a €30 coupon to reduce the price to €99.99. The US discount offer duration was not specified but the discounted prices in Germany and the UK are valid until November 16.

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A Man in Turkey Steals 33 iPhones worth $30,000 to Buy a Car for His Girlfriend

By

Oğuz Çakır

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Nov 16, 2023

How far would you go for love? Would you compromise your principles or make sacrifices? In the case of a courier working in Turkey, he went above and beyond. Instead of delivering 33 iPhones worth $30,000 to a technology store, he stole them and used the money to buy a car for his girlfriend. Here are the details…

A Man Steals 33 iPhones to Gift Girlfriend a Car

If you’ve ever entered the workforce, you’ve probably realized that not everyone shares your work ethics. In some cases, it seems that this value is nonexistent. Azim G., who worked in the city of Adana, Turkey, was employed by a courier company. His latest assignment involved delivering a package containing 33 iPhones to a technology store within a shopping mall. However, he chose to steal the box containing the phones instead.

Turkey is known for selling the world’s most expensive iPhones due to taxes. Consequently, stolen phones are more valuable there. A thief who quickly sold most of the stolen phones managed to buy a car for his girlfriend with the money he earned. Fortunately, the happiness of the two lovers didn’t last long. The truth came to light after the store noticed the missing delivery and examined the security cameras. The thief had never delivered the package he brought and was supposed to deliver.

After the incident, the police took action and raided the criminal’s house. During the investigation, the thief admitted to the theft of five iPhones found in his home during questioning. His girlfriend claimed she didn’t know that the car was a stolen gift and was purchased with stolen money. Certainly, the final decision on this matter will be made by the judiciary. Although the car and unsold iPhones have been seized, it is currently unclear who will be responsible for covering the damages.

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[Update] Redmi K70e Surfaces On Geekbench With Key Details

By

Viraj Gawde

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Nov 16, 2023

Update: Redmi 2311DRK48C device is the Redmi K70e. The K70 and K70 Pro bears 23113RKC6C and 23117RK66C model numbers, respectively.

Original story continues…

Redmi is expected to launch the K70 series smartphones by the end of this month. Recently, the standard K70 model was spotted in leaked render giving a clear look at the device. Details about the K70 series have leaked numerous times. Now, ahead of the launch, the Redmi K70 has appeared on the Geekbench benchmarking platform reveals its hardware.

Redmi K70 spotted on Geekbench

On Geekbench, the Redmi K70 has a model number 2311DRK48C. The database listing mentions a motherboard codenamed ‘duchamp’ comprising four cores clocked at 2.20GHz, three cores at 3.20GHz, and a prime core at 3.35GHz. It’s likely that the processor configuration and motherboard codename correspond to the MediaTek’s Dimensity 8300 chipset which is set to be announced later this month. As per the benchmarking platform, the upcoming smartphone will pack 16GB RAM onboard. It will ship with pre-loaded Android 14 OS out of the box.

The Redmi K70 scores 1,248 and 4,177 points in Geekbench’s single-core and multi-core test results.

Previously, the Redmi K70 with the same model number surfaced on the 3C certification website in China. It revealed support for 90W fast charging and 5G connectivity. The smartphone is expected to be backed by a 5,000mAh battery unit. As per the leaked render of the Redmi K70, it will feature a POCO-like rectangular camera island housing three cameras and an LED flash unit that protrudes more. The device has a flat display with a center-aligned punch-hole cutout and thin bezels around the screen.

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Tencent adapts to U.S. export bans, explores domestic alternatives for AI Chips

By

Joane

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Nov 16, 2023

In response to the recent broadened U.S. restrictions on high-end chip sales to China, Tencent Holdings is strategically navigating the challenges posed by the semiconductor export bans to safeguard its cloud services. The company, acknowledging its substantial stockpile of AI chips from U.S. manufacturer Nvidia, is proactively planning to optimize their usage amidst the evolving regulatory landscape.

Tencent’s President, Martin Lau, emphasized the impact of the U.S. ban on exporting additional AI chips to China, revealing that the company is committed to efficiently utilizing its existing Nvidia chip stock for the continued development of its “Hunyuan” AI model. Despite the ban, Tencent assures continuity for at least a couple more generations, minimizing the near-term impact on its AI capabilities.

However, the export restrictions are expected to affect Tencent’s cloud services, particularly in the resale of AI chips to clients. Tencent currently relies on Nvidia, which dominates approximately 90% of the Chinese AI chip market. The company is exploring alternatives, including domestically produced chips, to mitigate the risks posed by the U.S. restrictions.

Tencent’s rival, Baidu, has reportedly taken steps to secure alternatives by ordering 1,600 Huawei Ascend 910B chips. In a bid to address the challenges posed by the ban on its H800 AI chips developed by Nvidia specifically for China, Tencent plans to reserve them for the crucial training phase of AI model development. The company is actively seeking ways to offload inference capability to lower-performance chips, preserving high-performance AI chips for training purposes.

Recognizing the need to reduce reliance on U.S.-made chips, Tencent is looking to increase its usage of domestically-produced chips. The company is not alone in this endeavor, as Chinese firms, including Baidu, are seeking alternatives and turning to domestic chipmakers like Huawei.

In response to the changing landscape, Nvidia is expected to announce new China-bound AI chips designed to comply with the export rules by featuring reduced computing power while retaining essential AI features.

Tencent’s move to explore domestic sources for training chips aligns with China’s broader efforts to invest billions in its semiconductor industry, countering the impact of U.S. high-end chip bans. Initiatives like the $41 billion fund launched in September and support for domestic chipmakers, such as YMTC, demonstrate China’s commitment to achieving self-sufficiency in the semiconductor sector despite external challenges.

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iPhone Users Report Wireless Charging Problems in GM Vehicles After Updating to iOS 17.1

By

Oğuz Çakır

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Nov 16, 2023

Apple has released the iOS 17.1 update for all eligible iPhones. While it doesn’t introduce any major new features, it focuses on resolving existing issues. One such fix addresses a problem specifically affecting BMW users. As you may recall, BMW users encountered a peculiar error when wirelessly charging their iPhones in BMW models. Despite claims that the iOS 17.1 update would address this issue, a similar problem has now surfaced in General Motors models under the GM brand. Here are the details…

iOS 17.1 Update Causes Charging Issues for iPhone Users in GM Vehicles

iPhone users who updated to iOS 17.1 are experiencing an issue with wireless charging in General Motors vehicles. The phones stop charging and freeze after a few seconds. Users have tried various troubleshooting methods, including restarting their phones, but the issue persists.

Although this issue seems to be affecting BMW users, there is a small difference. In BMW models, the NFC feature is also disrupted along with the phone, unlike in General Motors where this technology remains unaffected. Users expressing these claims state that they have tried everything, but nothing seems to work.

As one post from “caduceus26” says, “Happy to know that it isn’t just me. My iPhone 12 Pro Max worked perfectly (every time) in my ’23 Chevy Traverse. I went to the iPhone 15 Pro Max about 6 weeks ago and the feature broke just as described in other comments: Charge for a few seconds and then stops – case on or off yields same results. I am currently on iOS 17.1.1 and have taken every update since the phone was purchased on 10/8/23.”

Some users have even taken their cars to the service center, suspecting a problem with their vehicles. However, no issues were found. Complaints have also been conveyed to Apple, but the company has not yet made any statements on the matter. Nevertheless, a resolution to the problem is expected shortly with the iOS 17.2 update.

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OxygenOS 14 Open Beta 1 arrives for OnePlus 9/9 Pro and OnePlus 9RT

By

Simranpal Singh

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Nov 16, 2023

Stable OxygenOS 14 is already here for the OnePlus 11, and now the eyes are set for it to arrive on other OnePlus smartphones. Meanwhile, the OnePlus 9/9Pro and OnePlus 9RT are now receiving the OxygenOS 14 Open Beta 1. Interested users can now participate in the Open Beta program and enjoy the latest features before others.

Must See: OxygenOS 14 and ColorOS 14 extend the Cross-device connectivity with built-in Microsoft Phone Link support

However, the program is available for the first 5000 participants and is recommended for users who are aware of the bugs and the issues that come along with the Beta program.

Moreover, the device should have at least 4GB of free internal storage and up to at least 30% battery. Before installing, it is highly recommended to back up your data, as the build is not fully stable and may not be appropriate for users who have the same device as their single driver. Below is the official changelog:

Smart and efficient

 • Improves cloud photo service by Google Photos.


Security and privacy

 • Improves photo and video-related permission management for safer access by apps.


Performance optimization

 • Improves system stability, the launch speed of apps and the smoothness of animations.


Aquamorphic Design

 • Upgrades Aquamorphic Design with a natural, gentle and clearer colour style for a more comfortable colour experience.

 • Adds Aquamorphic-themed ringtones and revamps the system notification sounds.  • Improves system animations by making them even smoother.


User Care

 • Adds a carbon tracking AOD that visualises the carbon emissions you avoid by walking instead of driving.

Steps to Install OxygenOS 14 Open Beta 1:

The user must be running the following firmware:

For OnePlus 9RT

The smartphone must be running firmware MT2111_13.1.0.592(EX01) and MT2111_13.1.0.591(EX01) before installing the OxygenOS 14 Open Beta 1.

For OnePlus 9/9 Pro

The OnePlus 9 must be running LE2111_13.1.0.591(EX01) and LE2111_13.1.0.590(EX01) firmware, while the OnePlus 9 Pro should be on LE2121_13.1.0.591(EX01) and LE2121_13.1.0.590(EX01).

Then, head over to Settings > About device > Tap up to date > Tap icon on the top right > Beta program > Follow the steps to apply.
Wait for 3-5 days and then check for updates by heading to Settings > About device > Download Now.

For more information related to the OnePlus 9RT and OnePlus 9/9 Pro, head over to the respective threads.

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China’s Alibaba Group Halts its Plans for Cloud Unit Spin-Off Amid Economic Challenges

By

Anubhav

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Nov 16, 2023

One of China‘s biggest companies, Alibaba Group Holding, has halted its plans to fully spin off its cloud computing division. This move came alongside the announcement of a 9% revenue increase for the September quarter, marking a big moment for the Chinese e-commerce titan under its fresh leadership.

Alibaba seems to be considering strict US export restrictions on Advanced computing chips

Alibaba’s decision to keep its Cloud Intelligence Group intact highlights the challenges posed by the global tech landscape, particularly the heightened US export restrictions on advanced computing chips. This development highlights the complex interplay between business strategies and geopolitical dynamics.

Interestingly, Alibaba also decided to pause the listing of its supermarket chain Freshippo. This move suggests a cautious approach, prioritizing the assessment of market conditions and aiming to maximize shareholder value.

In a positive turn for shareholders, Alibaba will issue its first-ever annual dividends, amounting to approximately US$2.5 billion. This gesture could be seen as a confidence-building measure amidst the broader changes and challenges.

The company’s revenue, totaling 224.79 billion yuan (US$30.8 billion), aligns with market expectations but reflects a slower growth rate compared to previous quarters. This slowdown could be indicative of the broader economic challenges faced by China, as well as the global economy.

Under the leadership of CEO Eddie Wu Yongming, Alibaba is emphasizing a strategic reorganization. This includes a focus on artificial intelligence (AI), signaling the company’s intent to stay at the forefront of technological innovation. The application and development of their large language model, Tongyi Qianwen, is a testament to their commitment to AI. The broader retail landscape in China shows signs of recovery, with recent data indicating a rise in retail sales. This context is important for understanding Alibaba’s performance and strategy, as the company continues to navigate the complexities of a changing global market.

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YouTube is Going towards AI with its New Update for Premium Users

By

Anubhav

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Nov 16, 2023

With premium tiers available for almost every service these days, there is pressure on companies to provide a compelling set of features in newer updates. YouTube, the go-to platform for video content, is doing the same for its Premium users, with a bundle of new features. This move not only aims to improve the viewing experience but also adds a touch of exclusivity and personalization.

The experimental AI tool will make it easier for users to ask questions

The highlight of these updates is the introduction of an experimental conversational AI tool. This feature, currently available in English for a select group of U.S.-based Android users, allows for a more interactive engagement with content. Imagine watching a tutorial or a documentary and being able to ask direct questions about it right then and there. This could revolutionize how we consume and interact with video content, making it a more dynamic and informative experience.

Further appealing to content creators, YouTube is integrating AI to help organize comments. This feature promises to streamline the way creators engage with their audience, making it easier to spot trends, respond to queries, and foster a community around their content.

For those who enjoy gaming and online communities, YouTube Premium now offers promotional perks. These include trials for Discord Nitro, PC Game Pass, and even in-game bonuses for popular titles like Genshin Impact. The inclusion of a Walmart+ membership trial and Calm Premium indicates YouTube’s understanding of its diverse user base and their varied interests.

YouTube is also boosting its video quality for Premium users across platforms, including Android, web, and smart TVs. This enhanced bitrate version of 1080p HD, previously available to iOS users, will be automatically enabled depending on your connection. This ensures that the best possible video quality is delivered without the need for manual adjustments.

Finally, YouTube is introducing badges for Premium users, depicting their achievements on the platform. This small addition serves as a badge of recognizing the loyalty and engagement of its users.

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Honor 100 series key specifications leaked ahead of launch

By

Soumyakanti

-

Nov 16, 2023

Honor is gearing up to launch their upcoming Honor 100 series in China on November 23. The series will have a standard and a Pro variant. There’s also speculation that an Honor 100 GT variant may be introduced alongside these models. Ahead of the launch, popular leakster Digital Chat Station has leaked some key specs of this series.

Honor 100 Key Specifications (leaked)

According to DCS, the Honor 100 series will feature a 1.5K Oasis eye-protecting screen, which features an advanced 3840Hz PWM eye-protecting dimming technology, aimed at reducing eye strain. The series also standardizes 100W charging capability across all models.

The standard version of the Honor 100 series is reported to be the first to globally debut Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 mobile platform. The chipset will feature a high-performance core at 2.63GHz, three performance cores at 2.40GHz, and four power-efficient cores at 1.80GHz.

Complemented by an Adreno 720 GPU, the Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 is expected to deliver significant performance improvements, building on the success of its predecessor, the Snapdragon 7 Gen 2.

Meanwhile, the high-end variant, likely named the Honor 100 Pro, is said to be equipped with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 mobile platform. Launched at the end of 2022, this chipset has been a popular choice among flagship smartphones this year, acclaimed for its robust performance.

For photography, each model includes a 50MP main camera sensor with optical image stabilization (OIS). This camera setup, especially in the Honor 100 Pro, is expected to offer an SLR-level photography experience, as hinted by an Honor executive.

Meanwhile, the design of both devices was leaked a few days back which shows the standard model will have a small cutout for the front camera, while the Pro model might feature a pill-shaped cutout, possibly housing dual front-facing cameras. The rear camera modules will come with unique designs for each variant.

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Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 Pro tipped to launch in 2024

By

Sudarshan Ravichandran

-

Nov 16, 2023

Samsung has different lineups of wireless earbuds. However, unlike other Android OEMs, the company doesn’t release new models very often. But it still launches more TWS products than Apple.

Recently, the firm debuted Galaxy Buds FE as its latest offering. It is the brand’s most affordable earbuds at launch and the only one released this year.

According to a report, the company’s next TWS will launch in 2024. Let’s go through the details.

SamMobile says that Samsung will launch the Galaxy Buds 3 Pro in 2024. As the name suggests, these upcoming earbuds will be the successor of Galaxy Buds 2 Pro from 2022.

The third-gen pro-grade wireless earbuds from Samsung are expected to debut alongside the Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Galaxy Z Flip 6. So they should go official by July or August next year.

Unfortunately, nothing else is known about this product, except that it exists and will be released in less than a year from now. We are looking forward to learning more about it via leaks in the coming months.

The current-gen Galaxy Buds 2 Pro are one of the best wireless earbuds on the market despite being older than a year. If you want the best Samsung ecosystem experience, these are the ones to get, followed by Galaxy Buds 2 from 2021.

On the other hand, the latest Galaxy Buds FE also offer several features from the aforementioned more premium models. But they are still not as good as their bigger siblings, which can be purchased at around the same price as these.

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Microsoft takes a leap in AI with Custom-Designed Chips Maia and Cobalt

By

Joane

-

Nov 16, 2023

In a groundbreaking move, Microsoft has unveiled its latest arsenal in the tech race, introducing two custom-designed chips, Azure Maia AI Accelerator and Azure Cobalt CPU. These chips, the result of years of covert refinement in a Silicon lab on Microsoft’s Redmond campus, are set to revolutionize the landscape of AI services and cloud computing.

Maia AI Accelerator

The Maia chip is tailored to accelerate AI computing tasks, a direct response to the burgeoning costs associated with delivering AI services. Specifically designed to power Microsoft’s $30-a-month “Copilot” service, the Maia chip is optimized for running large language models, including those integral to Microsoft’s Azure OpenAI service. By routing most AI efforts through common foundational AI models, Microsoft aims to drastically improve efficiency and tackle the challenge of high AI service costs.

Azure Cobalt CPU

Complementing Maia is the Cobalt chip, a central processing unit (CPU) strategically designed to compete with Amazon Web Services’ Graviton series of in-house chips. Utilizing technology from Arm Holdings, Cobalt has undergone rigorous testing, proving its mettle by powering Teams, Microsoft’s business messaging tool. Unlike its counterparts, Cobalt will not be restricted for internal use; Microsoft plans to sell direct access to Cobalt, presenting a competitive alternative to AWS’s chips.

Acknowledging the stiff competition with Amazon Web Services, Microsoft is keen on emphasizing the competitive performance and price-to-performance ratio of its Cobalt chip. This strategic move aligns with Microsoft’s overarching strategy, which revolves around designing chips to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and ultimately offer superior solutions to customers.

Source: Microsoft – System level tester at Microsoft lab, Redmond

Technical details reveal that both Maia and Cobalt chips are manufactured using cutting-edge 5-nanometer technology from TSMC. The Maia chip, in a cost-effective twist, employs standard Ethernet network cabling, eschewing the more expensive custom Nvidia networking technology used in OpenAI’s supercomputers.

Analysts view Microsoft’s approach with the Maia chip as a clever maneuver, allowing the company to capitalize on selling AI services in the cloud until personal devices become powerful enough. AWS’s Graviton chip, reportedly boasting 50,000 customers, underscores the fierce competition in the AI chip market, with AWS emphasizing ongoing innovation in delivering future chip generations.

The unveiling of Maia and Cobalt chips marks a significant step in Microsoft’s quest for efficient, scalable, and sustainable computing power. These chips not only address the demands of AI workloads but also play a crucial role in optimizing infrastructure systems from silicon to servers for both internal and customer workloads.

As the tech giant sets its sights on designing second-generation versions of Maia and Cobalt, the future promises continued optimization across every layer of the technological stack for enhanced performance, power efficiency, and cost-effectiveness. Microsoft’s venture into custom-designed chips is poised to reshape the AI landscape and propel the industry toward new horizons.

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Circular Ring Slim Debuts As A Lightweight Smart Ring Loaded With AI Assistant And Haptic Interface

By

Viraj Gawde

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Nov 16, 2023

Smart Rings are still in their nascent stage and they are expected to be potential alternatives to smartwatches and fitness bands due to various reasons. There are only a few brands like Oura, Circular, Go2sleep, Ultrahuman, and more in this untapped segment. Now, French-based brand Circular has announced a new smart ring that is touted to be the slimmest and lightest in the world whilst packing all the necessary health tracking features. Read on to know more about the Circular Ring Slim below.

Circular Ring Slim specifications

As the name suggests, the Circular Ring Slim weighs only 2 grams and is said to be lighter than a standard ring. It boasts a matte titanium exterior build whereas the internal surface features a medical-grade non-allergic and non-metallic material for comfortable use. The ring is suitable for light water exposure like showering or washing hands.

The Circular Ring Slim is equipped with three-axis a accelerometer, a surface temperature sensor, and PPG sensors. These can measure various health metrics like 24×7 heart rate, SpO2 levels, heart rate variability, sleep patterns, and stress levels. The temperature variance readings help in detecting fever and menstrual cycles. The smart ring can track the user’s physical activities along with personalized recommendations for improvement. It is also loaded with Kira+, an AI-powered health and wellness assistant. The Ring Slim will notify the user when their vitals are off.

Apart from the lightweight profile, the Circular Ring Slim features a haptic navigation interface. Users can tap anywhere on the ring for various functions including medication reminders and guided breathing exercises. The device also has a smart alarm clock that will wake up the user with vibrations

The Circular Ring Slim can be integrated with Google Fit and Apple Health. It is claimed to offer a battery life of 6 days. There is also an Airplane mode to disable all the ring’s communications.

The Circular Ring Slim carries a price tag of $275 / EUR 225. But it can be pre-ordered for $245 / EUR 199 till December 15 when the shipments commence.

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Meizu 21 series pre-orders surpass 100,000 units

By

Rajesh Regmi

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Nov 16, 2023

Meizu is gearing up to launch its latest smartphone series, the Meizu 21. The company has been actively promoting the upcoming devices through various teasers, and it has now revealed that over 100,000 users have already pre-booked the smartphone.

Meizu kicked off pre-bookings on November 15th for a nominal deposit of just 1 yuan.

This early bird offer comes with a host of benefits, including a 36-month extended warranty, trade-in subsidies, an exclusive Meizu AR smart glasses package worth 999 yuan, a gaming gift pack worth 2,100 yuan, and priority delivery of the Meizu 21.

The 36-month warranty is particularly noteworthy, as it means that the device is secured for three years. During the warranty period — according to Meizu — if the smartphone doesn’t suffer from human-caused damage, users can submit it for evaluation at Meizu’s official after-sales centers.

Upon confirmation, users will be eligible for Meizu’s official after-sales free maintenance service.

The pre-booking for the Meizu 21 series ends at 16:59 (GMT +8) on November 30.

Meizu 21 series specifications

Meizu has officially revealed some key specifications of the Meizu 21, including a custom-made 6.55-inch Samsung AMOLED display with symmetrical bezels measuring 1.74mm on all four sides.

Both the Meizu 21 and 21 Pro will be powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset and are expected to feature an OIS-enabled 50-megapixel primary camera.

The standard model is expected to feature an ultra-wide camera and a telephoto camera, whereas the Pro edition may have an ultra-wide camera and a periscope telephoto camera.

Both models will have 80W fast charging, but the Pro model is likely to get a larger battery (5,020mAh) than the standard model (4,800mAh).

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