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Unveiling the FOSSiBOT F101 Pro: A Mid-Range Rugged Smartphone Redefining Outdoor Connectivity

FOSSiBOT is set to redefine the mid-range smartphone landscape with the global launch of the FOSSiBOT F101 Pro, a robust device designed to meet the demands of outdoor enthusiasts. Packed with innovative features and practical upgrades, the F101 Pro stands out as a unique offering in the market.

Display Innovation:

The FOSSiBOT F101 Pro boasts a 5.45-inch HD+ touch screen, providing a vivid visual experience for users. However, what sets it apart is the additional 1.32-inch round display on the top back, introducing a new dimension to smartphone functionality. This rear display serves a multitude of purposes, offering users quick access to essential information and functions without unlocking the device.

The rear display, with a resolution of 360*360, functions as more than just an aesthetic addition. Users can seamlessly check the time, date, and week at a glance. The 24MP main camera’s quick shoot function, along with notifications, reminders, and battery level checks, enhances user convenience. The rear display also serves as a control center for music playback, a timer, a pedometer, call management, and a recorder, catering specifically to the needs of outdoor enthusiasts.

Design Refinements:

The design of the F101 Pro reflects a thoughtful approach to both aesthetics and functionality. Notably, there’s a notable absence of a large speaker on the back, contributing to a sleeker and more streamlined appearance. The addition of the 1.32-inch round display on the top back enhances both the visual appeal and usability of the device.

Outdoor Adventure:

For outdoor enthusiasts, the F101 Pro proves to be a reliable companion. The rear display plays a pivotal role in extending battery life, thanks to its lower power consumption. With nine functions tailored for outdoor use, users can efficiently navigate through various features without compromising on energy efficiency.

Processor and Memory Power:

Under the hood, the FOSSiBOT F101 Pro is powered by the MediaTek MT8788 octa-core processor. Comprising 4 Cortex-A73 cores at 2.0GHz and 4 Cortex-A53 cores at 2.0GHz, this processor ensures seamless performance, handling multitasking and resource-intensive applications with ease. Accompanied by a substantial 8GB of RAM (expandable up to 15GB) and a capacious 128GB ROM (extendable up to 1TB via TF card), the F101 Pro offers an impressive memory and storage combination for users with diverse needs.

Battery Performance:

The F101 Pro’s colossal 10600mAh battery capacity is a standout feature, providing users with extended usage periods. With 18W fast charging capabilities, the device ensures a swift recharge process, taking only 3 hours for a full recharge with the fast charger. The device boasts an impressive standby time of over 40 days with a SIM card inserted, making it an ideal choice for users on the go.

Camera System:

The triple-camera system on the back comprises a 24-megapixel main camera, a 5-megapixel macro camera, and a 0.3-megapixel bookend camera. Additionally, the front-facing 8-megapixel selfie camera ensures users capture moments with clarity. The diverse camera system caters to various photography preferences, from detailed macro shots to immersive landscape captures.

Connectivity and Rugged Features:

The FOSSiBOT F101 Pro introduces NFC support, a feature absent in its predecessor (F101), expanding the device’s connectivity options. The device is designed to withstand challenging outdoor conditions, boasting IP68/IP69K waterproofing, dust and shock resistance, and MIL-STD-810H compliance. These rugged features ensure the F101 Pro remains operational in diverse environments, making it an ideal companion for outdoor adventures.

Operating System and Key Specifications:

Running on the Android 13 OS out of the box, the F101 Pro provides users with the latest in Android technology. Notably, the device is HAC Certified, catering to the needs of hearing aid users. The inclusion of a side press fingerprint sensor, face ID unlock support, and a custom button further enhance the device’s security and user accessibility.

Global Launch and Pricing:

The FOSSiBOT F101 Pro will be available for a special launch price of $99.99 on FOSSiBOT’s official website and the AliExpress FOSSiBOT Official Store starting November 11th. After November 17, the post-launch price will be $139.99.

FOSSiBOT F101 Pro stands as a testament to FOSSiBOT’s commitment to innovation and user-centric design. With a focus on outdoor usability, robust features, and a competitive price point, the F101 Pro emerges as a compelling option for users seeking a mid-range rugged smartphone that seamlessly integrates functionality with durability.

Vivo X100 pre-orders exceed 1 million units ahead of launch

Vivo is gearing up for the launch of its flagship X100 series smartphones on November 13 in China. Ahead of the official launch, pre-orders for the vanilla X100 model have been live in China, and the response seems to be overwhelming. 

According to a recent report from Wall Street (Chinese Publication), over 1 million units of the smartphone have been reserved in just seven days. This makes it the first-ever X-series smartphone in Vivo’s history to achieve such a high pre-reservation volume.

To reiterate, these pre-order figures are only for the standard X100 model, and not the X100 Pro. The X100’s 12GB/256GB variant is priced at CNY 3,999 (approximately $546), while its Pro counterpart, also with 12GB/256GB storage, is rumored to cost CNY 5,999 (approximately $813).

In terms of specifications, the X100 is expected to feature a 6.79-inch AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate and Full HD+ resolution. It will be powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 9300 chipset coupled with LPDDR5T RAM and UFS 4.0 storage. 

Vivo X100 Pre-order 1 million units

Vivo has been actively teasing camera samples of the smartphone, and it is expected to feature a 50-megapixel Sony IMX920 primary sensor with OIS support, a 50-megapixel ultra-wide-angle lens, and a 64-megapixel periscope zoom lens with OIS, 3x optical zoom, and 100x digital zoom. 

For a more comprehensive overview of the Vivo X100 series, please refer to our dedicated story.

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OnePlus 12 Bags UAE’s TDRA And Russia’s EEC Certifications

OnePlus is widely expected to launch its next-generation number series flagship in China in the coming weeks. Recently, the brand revealed a host of camera features of the upcoming OnePlus 12. It has also bagged various certifications in the past including Geekbench, 3C, and IMDA. Now, the smartphone has been spotted on the TDRA and EEC certification websites. All this development hints at the imminent arrival of the OnePlus 12. 

OnePlus 12 bags TDRA and EEC certification

TDRA listing

The OnePlus 12 is listed with model number CPH2581 on TDRA certification in the UAE. It also carries the same model number on Russia’s EEC certification website. The listings do not reveal any key details of the device but they do suggests that the smartphone will be launching in those respective countries. We can expect the OnePlus 12 to first debut in the China market before the end of the year.

EEC certification

OnePlus has already confirmed a few key details of the OnePlus 12. It will be powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor. The upcoming offering is also confirmed to feature a 6.8-inch BOE X1 panel bearing a 2K resolution, a 120Hz refresh rate, and a peak brightness of 2,600 nits. The OnePlus 12 is teased to pack a Sony LYT 808 main camera sensor along with an OIS-enabled 64MP telephoto unit. Additionally, OPPO and Hasselblad’s collaborative HyperTone camera system– computational photography will be present on the smartphone. 

As for leaks and rumors, the OnePlus 12 will come with the same design as its predecessor. A 3C certification listing revealed support for 100W fast wired charging whereas the Geekbench database mentioned 16GB RAM onboard and Android 14 OS.

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Samsung Galaxy A15 5G Geekbench listing reveals Dimensity 6100+ chipset

Samsung is poised to unveil at least two Galaxy A15 models in the first quarter of 2024. While details about the Galaxy A15 4G have already surfaced, a Geekbench benchmark listing now confirms the A15 5G’s chipset. 

Samsung Galaxy A15 5G Geekbench Listing

The Geekbench listing reveals that the Galaxy A15 5G (SM-A156B) is powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 6100+ chipset. The 6100+ yields similar performance as the Helio G99 but adds 5G connectivity on top. The model also comes with 4GB RAM and runs Android 14 which is overlaid with One UI 6. 

Samsung Galaxy A15 5G Specifications

Rumors suggest the Galaxy A15 5G will sport a 6.5-inch OLED display with FHD+ resolution and a 90Hz refresh rate. The device is likely to feature a 50MP main camera with 10x digital zoom capability, accompanied by a 5MP and a 2MP sensor. A 13MP shooter will likely be available for selfies.

Samsung Galaxy A15 5G spotted on Geekbench

Likewise, the device is said to offer up to 128GB of internal storage, expandable up to 1TB. Other specs include a 5,000mAh battery, 25W fast charging, and a side-mounted fingerprint sensor.

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Samsung Galaxy M44 (Galaxy Jump 3) launched in South Korea with Snapdragon 888

Samsung has quiеtly unvеilеd a nеw mid-rangе smartphonе callеd thе Galaxy Jump 3 in South Korеa. Whilе thе namе may diffеr, it’s bеliеvеd to bе thе samе phonе as thе upcoming Galaxy M44 that’s еxpеctеd to launch globally soon. The phone’s model number, SM-M446KZKAKTC, hints at its M44 identity.

Samsung Galaxy Jump 3 Spеcifications

Thе Galaxy Jump 3/M44 sports a dеsign typical of Samsung’s mid-rangе offеrings for latе 2023, fеaturing a triplе-camеra sеtup on thе rеar and a notch on thе front. It’s also еquippеd with a 6.58-inch LCD with a 120Hz rеfrеsh ratе.

What’s surprising about thе Galaxy Jump 3 is its chipsеt – thе Snapdragon 888. This high-еnd chip was rеlеasеd in 2020, and it’s unclеar why Samsung chosе to usе it in a mid-rangе phonе. Howеvеr, for thosе who arеn’t fans of Samsung’s Exynos procеssors, thе 888 should offеr a significant pеrformancе boost.

Along with thе Snapdragon 888, thе Galaxy Jump 3 packs 6GB of RAM, 128GB of еxpandablе storagе, a 50MP main rеar camеra, a 13MP sеlfiе camеra, and a 5,000mAh battеry. Thе phonе mеasurеs 167.7 x 78 x 9.1 mm and wеighs 216 grams.

Pricing dеtails for thе Galaxy Jump 3 havе not yеt bееn announcеd. And it is unclеar whеthеr Samsung will launch thе Galaxy M44 globally with thе Snapdragon 888 chipsеt.

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Global Launch: OUKITEL WP30 Pro Rugged Phone Unveiled with Dual Displays and 120W Fast Charging

In the ever-evolving landscape of rugged smartphones, OUKITEL is launching one of its highly anticipated flagships, the WP30 Pro. The timing couldn’t be more perfect, coinciding with the Double 11 shopping event, where consumers have the exclusive opportunity to experience the cutting-edge features of this device at unprecedented discounts. Let’s delve into the detailed features of WP30 Pro.

The WP30 Pro is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 8050 processor, featuring an octa-core configuration with a peak speed of 3GHz. This provides users with a responsive and efficient experience for various tasks, from gaming to multimedia consumption.

A notable feature of the WP30 Pro is its 120W fast charging capability. This ensures a quick charge-up, allowing users to replenish 50% of the 11000mAh battery capacity within just 15 minutes. This feature caters to individuals with demanding schedules, eliminating the need for prolonged charging times.

The WP30 Pro offers generous internal storage, with 512GB of capacity, complemented by 12GB of RAM (expandable to 24GB). Utilizing UFS3.1 technology, the device ensures swift access to data with a read speed of up to 1,800MB/s. This ample storage is beneficial for users dealing with large files and applications.

Equipped with a 108MP Samsung sensor, the WP30 Pro’s camera system aims to capture detailed photographs. The front camera is a 32MP Sony lens, accompanied by a 20MP Sony night-vision camera and a 5MP macro camera. This array caters to a range of photography needs, from everyday shots to specialized close-ups.

Measuring at 177x483x619mm, the WP30 Pro sports a 6.78″ front display and a 1.8-inch AMOLED back display. This dual-screen setup provides users with personalized interaction options, enhancing the overall user experience. The upgraded carbon fiber on the device’s back contributes to both durability and aesthetic appeal.

The WP30 Pro meets military-grade specifications of MIL-STD-810H and holds IP68 and IP69K ratings. These certifications ensure resistance to dust, water, and durability in challenging environments. The inclusion of eSIM support adds to the device’s versatility, making it suitable for rugged adventures.

Pricing and Availability:

During the AliExpress premiere sale from November 11 to 17, the OUKITEL WP30 Pro will be available at a debut price of $339.99. Discounts include an automatic $16 off, an additional $30 discount from AliExpress, and a special $30 discount for the first 300 orders from the OUKITEL Official Store

OUKITEL WP30 Pro presents a practical and feature-rich option in the rugged smartphone market. With a focus on performance, efficient charging, ample storage, and durability, the WP30 Pro caters to the needs of users who prioritize functionality over flashy features.

Ulefone’s Power Armor 18 Ultra and 18T Ultra: Unveiling a World of Versatility with uSmart Accessories

Ulefone introduces the Power Armor 18 Ultra and 18T Ultra, positioned as 5G photography flagships. These robust smartphones come with a diverse range of accessories, enhancing their capabilities and versatility. The uSmart Expansion Series, specifically designed for these models, includes the uSmart E01, E02, and E03 Endoscopes, the uSmart C01 1000x Digital Microscope, and additional features like the Armor Case, Armor Mount, and Armor Mount Pro.

uSmart Expansion Series:

The uSmart Expansion Series is a collection of accessories tailored for the Power Armor 18 Ultra and 18T Ultra. These accessories, equipped with an exclusive expansion connector, establish a dedicated ecosystem, significantly expanding the functionality of the rugged phones. The unique connection mechanism ensures a secure attachment, guaranteeing stable signal transfer and a seamless user experience.

Included Accessories in uSmart Expansion Series:

The uSmart E01, E02, and E03 Endoscopes, along with the uSmart C01 1000x Digital Microscope, are integral components of the uSmart Expansion Series. These accessories serve a multitude of purposes, from plumbing inspections and pipe examinations to air conditioning system checks, assisting with visual aids, and inspecting home appliances.

The accessories easily attach to specific Armor series rugged phones, secured by tightening the connector cable. This mechanism not only ensures a stable signal transfer but also simplifies the process of transforming rugged phones into versatile tools for various tasks.

Diverse Applications:

The uSmart accessories cater to a broad spectrum of applications. Beyond the initially highlighted uses, they prove invaluable in detecting wall circuits, inspecting and troubleshooting home appliances, and facilitating a range of professional applications. The uSmart Expansion Series truly extends the utility of the Power Armor 18 Ultra and 18T Ultra.

These accessories facilitate numerous practical uses. They are not limited to inspecting plumbing systems and pipes; they are also ideal for checking air conditioning systems for functionality. Moreover, these accessories excel in viewing and inspecting small and hard-to-reach areas, detecting circuits within walls, and serving as indispensable visual aids for various professional tasks.

Secure Attachment:

The connector cable’s secure attachment mechanism ensures that the uSmart accessories are firmly connected to the Armor series rugged phones. This reliability in attachment is critical for professionals who rely on these tools for their day-to-day tasks.

Enhanced Functionality:

The uSmart Expansion Series significantly enhances the functionality of the Power Armor 18 Ultra and 18T Ultra. By seamlessly integrating these accessories, the rugged phones become versatile tools that cater to a wide array of professional applications.

So let’s take a detailed look at the uSmart Accessories:

uSmart E01 HD Camera Endoscope:

The uSmart E01, equipped with a waterproof HD camera probe and six dimmable LED lights, is particularly useful for tasks requiring precision in tight spaces. The detachable multi-functional accessories further enhance its capabilities, making it an indispensable tool for locating and retrieving small items in challenging environments.

uSmart E02 Dual Camera Endoscope:

The uSmart E02, featuring dual waterproof cameras and LED lights on different sides, offers a broader field of vision. This makes it highly practical in confined and dimly lit spaces, such as caves, where visibility is often a challenge. The semi-rigid cable adds flexibility, ensuring adaptability to various environments.

uSmart E03 Two-way 180°Rotatable Endoscope:

The uSmart E03, with its waterproof camera and probe that rotates 180 degrees, facilitates navigation and exploration from various angles. This unique feature provides nearly a 360° field of vision during inspection tasks. The inclusion of a phone holder and operational handle enhances ease of use, making it an ideal tool for a variety of inspection applications.

uSmart C01 1000x Digital Microscope:

The uSmart C01 1000x Digital Microscope, with its HD inspection camera and versatile magnification range from 50x to 1000x, serves a multitude of purposes. It comes equipped with a stable stand for positioning and is suitable for inspecting textiles, observing leaves and flowers, examining PCBs, inspecting electronic components, analyzing hair and skin, collecting jewelry, and educational purposes.

Armor Case:

The Armor Case, constructed from sturdy plastic and designed for the Power Armor 18 series, offers added protection. Featuring a heavy-duty carabiner and belt clip, it ensures secure attachment during outdoor adventures. Its design allows for easy adjustment of the phone to different angles, enhancing the viewing experience.

Armor Mount & Armor Mount Pro:

The Armor Mount and Armor Mount Pro cater to various mounting needs. The Armor Mount, designed as a phone holder for smartphones, comes with a robust suction cup for standing on flat surfaces. It also features an expandable pole for adjusting the phone’s position. The Armor Mount Pro serves as a phone holder for bikes, motorcycles, scooters, and e-motorcycles, providing a stable and secure hold on vehicle handlebars. Its design ensures the phone remains firmly in place during rough or high-speed terrain.

These accessories have garnered significant demand due to their versatility and applicability across various professional tasks. From outdoor adventures to intricate inspections, these accessories have become valuable additions to different industries, meeting the diverse needs of users.

Availability for Purchase:

These accessories are available for separate purchase, allowing users to customize and enhance their rugged smartphones according to their specific needs and preferences. This flexibility ensures that users can tailor their devices to meet the demands of their specific professional or personal tasks.

For specific details and a list of compatible models, users can visit www.ulefone.com for further information. The comprehensive lineup of accessories ensures that the Power Armor 18 Ultra and 18T Ultra, coupled with the uSmart Expansion Series, stand as powerful tools for professionals across different domains.

Have a Look at this Electric Volkswagen Beetle Powered by Tesla’s Batteries

One man is merging the charm of the past with the technology of the future. Blake Rhodes of Twisted Voltage LLC, based in Northern Virginia, is turning heads with his unique approach to car restoration. His focus? Transforming the classic Volkswagen Beetle into an electric powerhouse using Tesla components.

The 1.3-litre engine has been replaced with a Netgain Hyper 9 Electric Motor

At the heart of Rhodes’ project is a 1962 Volkswagen Beetle. This isn’t just any restoration, though. Instead of the typical restoration path, Rhodes is electrifying these vintage cars. He replaces the traditional 1.3-litre engine with a Netgain Hyper 9 electric motor, producing an impressive 120 horsepower and 173 pound-feet of torque. This upgrade triples the original internal combustion engine’s output, a testament to modern engineering ingenuity.

Electric

What’s remarkable about Rhodes’ work is his attention to detail. He meticulously integrates Tesla Model S batteries into the Beetle’s design, achieving a range of about 100 miles. This careful balance of vintage aesthetics and modern technology is not only a technical achievement but also a work of art.

Rhodes’ conversions aren’t just for show. He ensures these cars are practical for everyday use, retaining the original manual transmission but adapting it for the electric setup. This allows drivers to experience the Beetle in a completely new way, combining the nostalgia of manual shifting with the ease and efficiency of electric power.

The converted Beetles are not just environmentally friendly; they are also surprisingly affordable in the high-end car restoration market. Priced between $50,000 to $58,000, these electric Beetles offer a unique blend of classic style and modern performance.

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Huawei Does Not Have Exclusive Rights to Satellite Communications, Says China Telecom

Smartphone technologies continue to advance, making our lives easier with new products. One clear example of this is the satellite connection feature. This technology, first introduced with the iPhone 14, is now used in models from various brands, including Samsung and Oppo. Another manufacturer aiming to stand out with the satellite connection feature is Huawei. Moreover, there were claims suggesting that the company not only wanted to benefit from this technology but also aimed to prevent others from doing so. However, China Telecom has clarified that this is not true. Here are the details…

China Telecom Launches Mobile Direct Satellite Service, Allows Users to Add Satellite Communications to Existing Cellular Plans

China Telecom has confirmed that Huawei does not have exclusive rights to satellite communications technology. The company is also planning to cooperate with more phone makers to promote the adoption of this technology. In September 2023, Huawei launched the Mate 60 Pro smartphone, which was the first to support satellite communications. The phone allows users to make calls and send text messages even in areas with no cellular coverage.

Huawei satellite communication

Some industry insiders had speculated that Huawei had exclusive rights to satellite communications technology, which would have delayed the launch of similar features from other phone makers. However, a China Telecom spokesperson told Sina Technology that Huawei does not have exclusive rights to the technology. The spokesperson said that implementing satellite communications in a smartphone requires significant technical expertise and investment, covering areas such as chips, protocols, and terminals.

“Currently, only the Huawei Mate 60 Pro supports satellite communications,” the spokesperson said. “We are planning to cooperate with more phone makers to make this technology available to everyone.” The Huawei Mate 60 Pro is a high-end phone with a relatively high price. China Telecom’s goal is to make it possible for people to use satellite communications with a more affordable phone.

In addition to working with phone makers, China Telecom has also launched its own satellite communications service, called “Mobile Direct Satellite.” This service allows users to add satellite communications to their existing cellular plans. The service is available to all China Telecom customers, and it does not require users to switch to a new SIM card or phone number.

China Telecom to Launch Own Satellite Communications Phone, Tianyi Bodun S9

China Telecom says that its mobile direct satellite service leverages the company’s exclusive operation of the Tiantong-1 satellite constellation. The service covers all of China’s territory and territorial waters. China Telecom also plans to launch its own satellite communications phone, the Tianyi Bodun S9. The phone will be available on November 10. It has a built-in satellite antenna and can be used to make and receive calls and send and receive text messages.

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PNY Ponie electric cargo motorcycle with a 62mph top speed and 120kg payload capacity unveiled

PNY is unveiling the Ponie electric cargo motorcycle and it comes packed with capability. The PNY Ponie has a payload capacity of 120kg in its 120 liters of storage space. The storage capacity of the Ponie is interestingly larger than that of a standard sedan.

PNY Ponie electric cargo motorcycle

Features

The PNY Ponie has a top speed of 62 mph (100km/h). The PNY Ponie is designed for situations where an e-bike or scooter is inadequate but a delivery van would be sub-optimal.

The PNY Ponie can carry up to three insulated food compartments and also has an optional hard case storage trunk. The new PNY electric motorcycle is designed for haulage and delivery applications. It also comes with a decent range of 150km on a single charge of its 6.7kWh CATL battery. The Ponie is equipped with a 4kW continuous-rated rear hub motor whose position further optimizes the cargo credentials of the bike.

PNY Ponie electric cargo motorcycle

The Ponie has a 7-inch color screen and a glovebox with USB connectivity for charging your devices while on the go. The motorbike is also equipped with ABS brakes and the bike was showcased during the 2023 EICMA motorcycle show.

The PNY Ponie will be able to navigate to locations where a cargo e-trike might not be able to reach especially in densely populated cities. The speed and range capabilities of the PNY Ponie mean that they can move into urban highways and navigate back to city roads while on delivery trips.

PNY Ponie electric cargo motorcycle

Pricing & Availability

The PNY Ponie is slated to go into production soon but the earliest deliveries will be in Q2 2024. There is no pricing and global availability information for the electric motorbike at this time.

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Google warns inactive Gmail accounts will be taken down in three weeks’ time

Google has issued a three-week warning to inactive Gmail account holders to update their records or lose the account. The internet search giant plans to shed millions of Gmail accounts that have been inactive for up to two years. The move will see affected account holders losing emails, documents, photos, and videos permanently.

google

The removal of inactive Gmail accounts is part of a major update to the email service. All personal Gmail accounts that have been dormant for at least two years will be affected by the purge. The policy which was introduced this year is expected to kick into force by December 2023. Google says it is updating its inactivity policy for Google Accounts to two years across all Google products. The policy also limits the amount of time that Google can retain such unused personal information from dormant accounts.

The move by Google to delete inactive Google accounts has positive safety implications. It is expected to protect active Google users from security threats like Phishing, account hijacking, and scams. Dormant Google accounts are at higher risk of being compromised by hackers. Affected inactive or dormant Gmail account holders will be sent multiple notifications before any action is taken.

The attached recovery email address of affected accounts will also be sent the notifications. Google indeed has already started sending emails to the affected accounts. Account holders with a risk of deletion of their accounts can prevent it by opening or sending a mail, opening Google Drive, or downloading an app from the Google Play Store. They can also simply make a Google search while they are logged in to the account.

Gmail has grown to become a huge email platform and it continues to expand, having a ubiquitous appeal. Google says any account that has posted a YouTube video will not be impacted, irrespective of when it was last active.

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CATL is fast closing the gap in worldwide battery usage with impressive 2023 growth numbers

Chinese battery manufacturer CATL is expanding its global presence rapidly. This is according to a new report by Korean firm SNE Research. CATL’s worldwide battery usage outside its home market was about 64 gigawatt-hours from January to September 2023. This corresponds to a 104.9% improvement from the same period of 2022. CATL’s global market share has also risen by 7 percentage points within the period.

CATL

The impressive CATL results have put it virtually at par with South Korean manufacturer, LG Energy Solutions with its 28.1% market share. LG Energy Solutions reported a 49.2% growth within Q1-Q3, 2023 but its global market share slightly dipped. SK On and Samsung SDI increased their worldwide battery usage to 24.4GWh and 21.6GWh respectively. SK On and Samsung SDI are respectively the fourth and fifth largest battery manufacturers globally.

South Korea, despite the rising profile of CATL, still accounts for 48.3% global market share, down by 5.8 percentage points from last year. The SNE Research report also showed that global battery installation in electric vehicles was 228GWh from January to September 2023. This is an impressive 54.9% increase from last year. EV sales impliedly also recorded a remarkable increase from 2022. Chinese EV maker BYD was the world’s biggest EV manufacturer and recorded a 4.1GWh battery usage. Chinese company, Farasis Energy also recorded impressive growth numbers with 3GWh battery usage.

The outlook remains positive for CATL as it continues to supply its battery products to a wide array of EV makers. CATL’s customers include Tesla, Mercedes, BMW, and Volvo, among others. The company is also expanding its reach with Hyundai and Kia its most recent customers. Its influence has rapidly enveloped the local market, while also making inroads globally.

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OnePlus seeding OxygenOS 13 F.35 update for OnePlus Nord CE

Just before the holidays, OnePlus seems to bring plenty of new firmware updates for its smartphones in India. After OnePlus Nord CE 3, and OxygenOS 14 Open Beta 2 for OnePlus 10 Pro and OnePlus 10T, the company brings a new update for the OnePlus Nord CE. The OxygenOS 13 F.53 update brings the latest November 2023 Android Security Patch for system security enhancement.

OnePlus Nord CE 5G Blue Void Featured A

Must See: OnePlus 10 Pro and OnePlus 10T taste OxygenOS 14 Open Beta 2 Update in India

It is an incremental OTA and will reach each unit in some time. The users can manually check for the update by heading to Settings > Phone > Software Update > Download and Install. Below is the official changelog:

The update is live only for the OnePlus Nord CE India Variant.

The advanced users can also submit feedback or can file bugs via Google Dialer by typing *#800#.

OnePlus Nord CE Specifications

OnePlus Nord was introduced in June 2021 bundling a 6.43-inch Fluid AMOLED display having a 90Hz refresh rate, and a 1080 x 2400 pixels resolution. The smartphone is powered with Snapdragon 750 SoC, and Adreno 619 GPU. There’s a triple-rear camera featuring a 64MP primary camera, an 8MP ultrawide sensor, and a 2MP deth sensor. A 16MP primary sensor is present on the front for selfies.

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Sharp unveils new color E-Ink products utilizing IGZO technology

Japanese electronics giant Sharp will unveil a new lineup of color E-Ink products during the Sharp Technology Day event from November 10-12. The new E-Ink products will feature the IGZO technology and include cutting-edge color e-posters. Sharp says the new E-Ink offering is both cost-effective and eco-friendly.

Sharp

Features

The Sharp Technology Day Event is taking place in Tokyo. The color e-poster is A2-sized and features both E Ink Spectra technology and the IGZO backplane technology. It delivers vivid colors with top-notch contrast that is comparable with premium color printing paper. The model will be the first color e-paper billboard in the industry and comes in a sleek design and zero power consumption on standby.

Sharp unveils new color E-Ink products utilizing IGZO technology

Apart from the ePoster, an 8-inch color e-paper display is also on the lineup of products for release. The product is designed for e-note devices and e-book readers. The innovative Sharp Display Technology, IGZO is drawing attention from the industry, as E Ink and Sharp have already announced a collaboration. The collaboration will cover the development of a range of e-paper signage, e-note devices, and e-readers. Indium Gallium Zinc Oxide (IGZO) backpane technology is used in the manufacture of e-paper modules deployed in e-readers and e-note gadgets.

There are no indications at this time on the full release details and pricing information for the new Sharp E-Ink products. More optics are however expected during the showcase of the products during the Sharp Technology event at the Tokyo International Exhibition Center.

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Xiaomi’s Exclusive Meeting on Electric Cars and Pricing Plans

Xiaomi continues to expand its product lineup. The successful Chinese company, known for its achievements in various fields such as smartphones, smartwatches, headphones, tablets, and smart home devices, now sets its sights on the automotive industry. The tech giant from China has been working on its own electric car model for a while now, and it seems that these efforts are nearing completion. As a result, the highly anticipated electric vehicle is expected to be unveiled in the very near future.

Finally, the company took a significant step in this direction. Xiaomi held a confidential meeting with company executives, planning behind closed doors. Here ara the details…

Behind Closed Doors: Xiaomi’s Strategic Meeting on Electric Cars

William Lu, a senior executive at Xiaomi, made an announcement at the Qualcomm Snapdragon Summit in Hawaii, revealing that Xiaomi’s electric car models will officially be launched in 2024. This announcement has already generated significant anticipation among both users and the automotive industry. The company is genuinely excited about hitting the roads with their car in 2024.

Xiaomi-Car

To avoid making mistakes, Xiaomi CEO Lei Jun gathered executives together for a meeting. Individuals from various departments of the company attended the meeting with a special invitation. Unfortunately, the discussions that took place behind closed doors remain unclear. The topics likely revolved around the electric car market, the vehicle’s pricing, strategies to be implemented, and production planning.

Making production in China is not an easy task. You need to obtain permission from the government for many things. Fortunately, Xiaomi received the necessary permission to produce electric cars some time ago. Now, all that’s left is to prepare the factory. Although it’s not certain, there’s talk of a two-stage facility plan.

According to this plan, the company will establish an almost 720,000 square meter facility in the first stage. Construction of this began in April 2022 and was completed in June 2023. The second stage will commence in 2024 and is expected to be completed by 2025. Details about how sufficient the current section is, of course, remain uncertain.

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Edifier W820NB spatial audio Headphones launched for 499 yuan ($68)

Edifier seems to be on a release spree at the moment. The Chinese company recently announced the HECATE G1S Thunder Edition headphones. Earlier on, the Edifier TWS1 Air Bluetooth headset with ANC and the Zero X TWS earbuds were released in its home market. The company has now unveiled the W820NB headphones.

Edifier W820NB spatial audio Headphones

Features

The new Edifier audio product comes with the Hi-Res Audio and Hi-Res Audio Wireless gold label certification and supports 360-degree surround sound. The new Edifier headphones feature a zero-pressure patented earmuff technology for excellent performance.

The Edifier W820NB earmuffs can firmly fit the frame and disperse the pressure of the frame effectively to achieve a uniform sound effect. Its built-in spatial audio and head tracking technology helps to optimize audio rendering in real time. It also offers a realistic and three-dimensional surround sound.

Edifier W820NB spatial audio Headphones

The Edifier headset supports Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity, as well as LHDC 5.0, LHDCX, and LDAC technologies. It offers active noise reduction by up to 43dB and supports 192kHz/ 24bit mastering-level codec. The headset’s Hi-Res Audio and Hi-Res Audio Wireless double gold label certification means the gadget delivers high-resolution and high-fidelity audio. The headset can be used for up to 5 hours on a single charge and supports fast charging. Dual device pairing and connection to custom apps are also supported on the Edifier W820NB.

Edifier W820NB spatial audio Headphones

Pricing & Avalability

The Edifier W820NB spatial audio headphones are available in at least two color options – black and cream. The headset can be purchased from JD.com at a price of 499 yuan (~$68). It is unclear whether the new Edifier headset will subsequently be available in overseas markets.

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Microsoft Announces Discontinuation of Three Windows Services for Enhanced Security

Microsoft recently announced the discontinuation of three older services in Windows as part of its long-term strategy to enhance the operating system. This decision aligns with the company’s commitment to removing outdated features and services that no longer align with their vision while consistently introducing new enhancements. Here are the details…

Microsoft Phasing Out Outdated Features for Improved Windows

The three services being removed are Computer Browser, Web Client (WebDAV), and Remote Mailslot, as outlined in an online document tracking deprecated Windows features. This information was shared by @XenoPanther on Twitter. Although each of these services once served specific functions, they have become outdated and present security risks.

The Computer Browser service, including its associated driver and device location protocol, is considered insecure. Initially disabled by default with the removal of Server Message Block version 1 (SMB1) in Windows 10, this move aimed to bolster security within the operating system.

The WebDAV API, an HTTP extension introduced with Windows Vista, is no longer started by default in current Windows versions, reflecting a shift away from its use due to the emergence of newer technologies.

Lastly, Remote Mailslots, an Inter-Process Communication (IPC) protocol introduced with MS-DOS, is considered severely outdated and insecure. A high-ranking Microsoft executive earlier this year described this protocol as “disgusting” and emphasized the urgent need for its removal. While these features are marked for discontinuation, it’s important to note that they haven’t been completely removed yet. They will persist in Windows for now, but Microsoft will not invest in these services or actively update them.

The gradual phasing out of these old services is anticipated in a future version of Windows, although Microsoft has not provided a specific timeline for this transition at the moment.

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PS5 Call of Duty Modern Warfare III bundle launched in India

Sony has introduced a PlayStation 5 console bundle featuring Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 in India. The bundle coincides with the game’s launch, which happened earlier today.

PS5 Call of Duty Modern Warfare III

This bundle, priced at Rs. 59,390, is a comprehensive package that includes the disk edition of the console. Notably, this edition boasts the older “fat” console, adding a touch of nostalgia for gaming enthusiasts.

However, Sony has an ace up its sleeve with an upcoming slim refresh of the PS5, set to launch with its own Modern Warfare III bundle. The release date for the slim edition in India is yet to be confirmed.

To sweeten the deal, Sony is offering the Modern Warfare III bundle at an introductory price of Rs. 49,390, a significant reduction from the original cost. This special offer is available for a limited time, spanning from November 10 to November 23, 2023, at select retailers including ShopatSC, Amazon.in, Flipkart, Croma, Reliance, Vijay Sales, and more.

Modern Warfare III overview

Diving into the gaming experience itself, Modern Warfare III promises an adrenaline-pumping adventure. The game features a full campaign, multiplayer mode, and a new open-world Modern Warfare Zombies experience with 15 missions. Gamers can expect an arsenal of new weapons, including iconic ones from Modern Warfare II and content spanning six seasons.

In multiplayer mode, the excitement is further amplified with 16 remastered maps from MW2 and an additional 12 new 6v6 maps post-launch. The introduction of new Ground War maps, evolving from the War Mode in CoD: WWII, adds another layer of excitement for players seeking diverse combat scenarios. Not to be forgotten, the classic Zombies mode returns with a brand-new story, promising hours of thrilling gameplay.

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Apple silicon GPUs get even better with Parallel Processing improvements in M3 and A17 Pro

Apple’s recently announced M3 and A17 Pro chips feature several significant improvements to parallel processing, which results in major performance gains for apps and games that utilize the Metal API.

Apple M3 and A17 Pro GPUs parallel processing performance

In a developer talk (video), Apple explained that these new GPUs utilize Dynamic Caching, hardware-accelerated ray tracing, and hardware-accelerated mesh mapping to achieve improved performance.

Dynamic Caching allows the GPU to allocate exactly the right amount of register memory for every action it is taking. This frees up previously unavailable register memory, allowing for many more shader tasks to occur in parallel.

Flexible on-chip memory allows the GPU to utilize all of its on-chip memory for any memory type, rather than having fixed memory allocations for register, thread group, and tile memory. This means that actions that heavily rely on one type of memory can utilize the entire span of the on-chip memory, and even overflow actions into main memory.

Hardware-accelerated ray tracing and hardware-accelerated mesh shading take portions of the calculations for these tasks out of the GPU function, passing them to dedicated units. This allows for more parallel operations to occur, speeding up these tasks significantly.

What does this mean for developers?

Developers don’t need to make any changes to their apps to see performance improvements with M3 and A17 Pro. However, there are a few things they can do to maximize the benefits of these new features:

  • Execute FP16 math in their programs, as the high-performance ALUs execute different combinations of integer, FP32, and FP16 in parallel.
  • Use flexible on-chip memory to allocate the right amount of memory to each action.
  • Design their apps to take advantage of hardware-accelerated ray tracing and mesh shading.

Apple went into more detail about their new silicon GPUs in their video presentation. You can watch it to learn more.

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OnePlus Nord CE 3 gets a new update with November security patch

Good news for OnePlus Nord CE 3 5G users in India – the November 2023 update is live. Tagged as OxygenOS 13.1.1.501, this update focuses on boosting system stability and integrating the November 2023 Android security patch.

The rollout has begun, hitting a limited user base today with a wider distribution expected in the coming days. OnePlus assures a gradual Over-The-Air (OTA) update, ensuring a smooth process for all users.

OnePlus Nord CE 3 5G specs

The OnePlus Nord CE 3 5G sports a 6.7-inch FHD+ AMOLED display, rocking a 1080 x 2412 pixels resolution, 120 Hz refresh rate, and HDR10+ support. Under the hood, it runs on OxygenOS 13.1, based on Android 13, powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 782G processor.

Photography-wise, the triple camera setup on the rear (50MP + 8MP + 2MP) and the 16MP wide camera lens for selfies are in play. With 8GB of RAM and 128GB of internal storage, multitasking and storage needs are covered.

Keeping you unplugged is a hefty 5000mAh battery, complemented by an 80W SUPERVOOC charger for quick top-ups.

In related news, OnePlus is gearing up to launch the Watch 2 soon. Leaks have revealed the design and specs of the smartwatch. However, it also reveals that the Watch 2 will most likely have an RTOS-based operating system, which is quite disappointing.

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