Minisforum UM480XT mini-PC with a Ryzen 7 4800H CPU, up to 64GB RAM launched starting at $189.90

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Nov 9, 2023

Apple is reportedly preparing to make a significant policy change in Europe, aiming to allow third-party app stores on its devices by March 2024. This shift is in response to the European Union’s Digital Markets Act, which requires such adjustments to promote competition in the app distribution space.

EU’s Digital Markets Act Pushes Apple to Enable Alternative App Stores by 2024

According to Apple’s recent 10-K filing, the company expects to comply with the new EU legislation, which will directly impact the way its App Store operates. This includes changes in how Apple charges developers, manages the distribution of applications outside its App Store, and allows developers to communicate with users for alternative purchase options.

This move towards permitting third-party app stores could potentially reduce Apple’s App Store revenue, which could have a significant impact on the company’s overall business and financial performance.

Apple, historically known for its strict stance against third-party app stores and sideloading, has not made any public comments regarding these developments following the filing.

Analysts at Morgan Stanley have interpreted the updated language in the filing as a sign that third-party app store access in the EU is on the horizon. They believe that Apple can successfully navigate these changes, citing the security, centralization, and convenience of the existing App Store as factors that might discourage users from switching to third-party alternatives.

In addition to its European challenges, Apple has also faced complications related to its app guidelines in China. The company has adjusted its guidelines to comply with new regulations, which limit access to banned foreign apps. These changes align with China’s increasing internet restrictions, potentially affecting Chinese iPhone users’ access to global platforms. However, Apple’s strong brand and diverse product range, including the popular iPhone 15, are expected to help maintain its hardware sales in China.

Now if you have come this far, I highly recommend you to read our recent article on how governments are actively regulating big tech companies to align with their objectives.

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Apple’s new patent will personalize the driving experience through advanced user recognition

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Nov 8, 2023

Apple is said to be developing a car project set for a late 2025 or 2026 release, and their recent patent filing related to smart cars has garnered significant attention.

Apple’s latest patent titled “Customizable System” signals a significant step in its smart vehicle initiative, with an advanced system that personalizes the vehicle experience through user identity recognition.

Enhancing In-Car Experience

This smart system will utilize various user information such as facial recognition, fingerprints, and voice biometrics, aiming to enhance security and provide individualized comfort settings, such as seat adjustments, media settings, and climate control, based on the passenger’s location inside the vehicle.

The system’s integration with portable electronic devices allows it to remind passengers about devices, items, and pets left behind.

Apple’s progress in the automotive sector has been slower than competitors like Huawei and Xiaomi. But this new patent underlines their dedication to carving out a niche in smart vehicle development. However, it’s important to note that not all patented technologies evolve into consumer products.

Apple was also granted a patent for a smart sunroof last year, indicating progress in its electric vehicle project. However, the Apple Car project has faced setbacks, leading to doubts about its timeline, with some predicting a 2026 release. Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has suggested that Apple might consider acquisitions to establish a stronger presence in the automotive market. Despite uncertainties and potential delays, there is still significant anticipation for Apple’s entry into the automotive sector.

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CMF Watch Pro, Buds Pro & 65W GaN charger now available in 15 more regions

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Nov 8, 2023

CMF, a subsidiary of Nothing, has made its product line available globally in 15 countries and regions, including the US, UK, Malaysia, Japan, and the UAE. The product line consists of the Buds Pro, Watch Pro, and Power 65W GaN charger, all designed with a focus on exceptional design and affordability. CMF plans to continue expanding its global reach to more than 26 countries by the end of the year.

To meet the growing demand, CMF has partnered with various retailers, including Amazon, Aliexpress, and Sharaf DG, to ensure broader availability. Here are all the details.

Product Availability

United Kingdom: Nothing Store Soho
United States: Amazon
India: Flipkart, Myntra, GT (General Trade), LFR (Croma), LFR (Vijay Sales)
Japan: Amazon, Rakuten
Germany (Amazon Exclusive): Buds Pro and Watch Pro: Pre-order in November, ship in December
Italy (Amazon Exclusive): Buds Pro and Watch Pro: Pre-order in November, ship in December
France (Amazon Exclusive): Buds Pro and Watch Pro: Pre-order in November, ship in December
Spain (Amazon Exclusive): Buds Pro and Watch Pro: Pre-order in November, ship in December
Portugal (Amazon Exclusive): Buds Pro and Watch Pro: Pre-order in November, ship in December
Belgium (Amazon Exclusive): Buds Pro and Watch Pro: Pre-order in November, ship in December
Netherlands (Amazon Exclusive): Buds Pro and Watch Pro: Pre-order in November, ship in December
Sweden (Amazon Exclusive): Buds Pro and Watch Pro: Pre-order in November, ship in December
Poland: Amazon, X-KOM (Buds Pro available now, Watch Pro coming in early 2024)
Czech Republic: Alza (Buds Pro available now, Watch Pro coming in early 2024)
Romania: MAG (Buds Pro available now, Watch Pro coming in early 2024)
Malaysia: CMF by Nothing Flagship Store – Lazada Malaysia
Indonesia: Urban Republic stores, Tokopedia, eraspace.com, shopee.co.id
Philippines: Digital Walker (Coming in December 2023)
Thailand: Aliexpress
Australia: Aliexpress
New Zealand: Aliexpress
Mexico: Aliexpress
Brazil: Aliexpress
Chile: Aliexpress
Saudi Arabia: Jarir bookstore (Coming in December 2023), Amazon.sa (Coming in December 2023)
UAE: Sharaf DG (Coming in December 2023), Amazon.ae (Coming in December 2023)

CMF Buds Pro

The CMF Buds Pro is the company’s latest wireless earphones and is the most affordable TWS model in Nothing’s audio product portfolio. It features hybrid ANC (Active Noise Cancellation) with up to 45 decibels of noise reduction, clear call technology, and a powerful bass boost option. Each earbud has a 55mAh battery that offers up to 11 hours of audio playback with ANC turned off, and when paired with the charging case, it can last for up to 39 hours. Just 10 minutes of charging can provide up to five hours of music playback. The earbuds can be customized using the Nothing X app and come in gray, white, and orange colors.

CMF Power 65W GaN Charger

The CMF Power 65W GaN charger is an affordable Gallium Nitride charger that supports fast charging for smartphones, earbuds, smartwatches, and most notebooks. It features two USB Type-C ports and one USB Type-A port, making it compatible with a wide range of electronic devices. The charger supports various protocols, including PD3.0, QC4.0+/3.0/2.0, SCP, FCP, PPS, AFC, Samsung 9V2A, DCP, and Apple 2.4A, ensuring compatibility with popular electronic products. It also offers a wide voltage range from 100-240V, making it suitable for use worldwide. The charger is available in gray or orange color options.

CMF Watch Pro

The CMF Watch Pro is a smartwatch with a design reminiscent of Apple Watches. It features a polished metal frame with a side dial and a plastic back. The smartwatch boasts a 1.96″ AMOLED display with 600+ nits peak brightness and a resolution of 410×502. It offers comprehensive 24-hour health tracking, including real-time heart rate and blood oxygen saturation monitoring, sleep and stress tracking, hydration and movement reminders, and personalized fitness goals. With 110 sports modes, it caters to fitness enthusiasts. The smartwatch also features Bluetooth calling integrated with AI technology for clear mic output. It is powered by a 340mAh battery that provides up to 13 days of regular usage and is rated IP68 for water resistance.

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LG WashTower washing machine & dryer set with a compact unibody design launched in India

By

Jed John Ikoba

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Nov 8, 2023

Leading consumer electronics brand LG has unveiled its latest innovation in the laundry industry in India, the LG WashTower. The new laundry solution is yet another innovative product from the Korean tech giant that simplifies our daily routine on the home front.

Features

The LG WashTower merges cutting-edge hardware and software in an elegant unibody design. The series was first announced at IFA 2020 and has since had several improvements. This model packs a compact (600 mm x 1655 mm x 660 mm) (W x H x D) size, which makes it suitable for a diverse range of living spaces, making it an ideal choice for both compact and spacious homes.

The LG WashTower boasts a groundbreaking unibody design that seamlessly combines hardware and software to provide an exceptional laundry experience. Its Center Control Panel ensures user-friendly access and control while maximizing space utilization and enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the laundry area. Additionally, it is available in a stylish Green/Beige color combination, blending seamlessly with your home decor.

Mr. Hong Ju Jeon, Managing Director of LG India, described the WashTower as a remarkable milestone in the world of laundry solutions. With AI-driven technology, the LG WashTower takes the guesswork out of laundry, ensuring that your clothes are handled with the utmost care.

The laundry appliance is equipped with advanced intelligence features that streamline your laundry tasks, including AI DD® (Auto Sense AI DD®) technology, ‘Prepare to Dry’ option, Quick Wash, Quick Dry, and TurboWash360™, allowing you to complete laundry in just one hour. The LG WashTower also provides an advanced cleaning experience, reducing house dust mites with its Allergy Care cycle.

One standout feature is Smart Pairing™, which ensures a seamless transition from washing to drying by automatically syncing the dryer’s cycle with the washer’s settings.

Pricing & Availability

Priced at 2,75,000 Indian Rupees (~$3302 USD), the LG WashTower is set to revolutionize the Indian laundry industry, offering an innovative design, intelligent features, and advanced cleaning capabilities that redefine the laundry experience while enhancing the aesthetics of your home. There is no word yet on when it will go on sale in India.

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No HyperOS updates, if you choose to unlock your Xiaomi phone’s bootloader

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Nov 8, 2023

Xiaomi is reportedly considering stricter measures for bootloader unlocking in its smartphones, particularly in China, raising concerns among its user base. Leaked information indicates that Xiaomi may make the process of unlocking the bootloader more challenging, impacting customization, custom ROM installation, and advanced user operations.

Speculations Surrounding Xiaomi’s Bootloader Unlocking Policy

Recent leaks from Xiaomi Community China revealed a hidden “Bootloader Unlock Beta” option, suggesting the company’s intention to tighten bootloader unlocking procedures. The motivations behind these changes remain unclear, but they may be driven by concerns related to security and software integrity.

These potential complications in bootloader unlocking could adversely affect users, especially those interested in installing custom ROMs. If implemented, users may need to invest more effort in understanding and navigating the new procedures.

Xiaomi’s recent launch of the Xiaomi 14 series in China introduced the HyperOS, replacing MIUI. Xiaomi later confirmed (via Android Authority) that bootloader unlocking will be disabled by default on HyperOS smartphones, citing reasons such as security, data protection, and user experience. Users will now need to request permission to unlock the bootloader through Xiaomi’s community forum.

There are reports that for Chinese users, additional restrictions include reaching a “level five” status on the Xiaomi community forums, time-sensitive unlock permissions, and a limit of three unlocked devices annually. These restrictions specifically apply to the Chinese version of HyperOS, with global users awaiting further announcements.

Moreover, Xiaomi disclosed that users who unlock their bootloader will no longer receive HyperOS updates, impacting both MIUI 14 and HyperOS. However, users can regain access to updates by relocking their devices.

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Elon Musk’s Starlink Ushers in a New Era of Internet Connectivity for India

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Nov 8, 2023

In a move that could revolutionize internet access in India, Elon Musk’s Starlink satellite constellation is poised to receive a license for satellite communications operations. This green light from the Indian government paves the way for Starlink to offer its high-speed internet services, voice calls, and messaging capabilities to individuals and organizations across the vast nation. Here the derails…

Elon Musk’s Starlink set to get licence for Satcom ops

This landmark decision comes after Starlink successfully addressed the government’s concerns regarding data storage and transfer norms. The company has committed to complying with India’s data regulations, ensuring that user information remains within the country’s borders.

Starlink’s entry into the Indian market is expected to ignite fierce competition with existing players like OneWeb and Reliance Jio. However, Starlink holds a distinct advantage with its extensive global network of satellites, promising to provide reliable and ubiquitous connectivity even in remote and underserved areas.

The granting of this license marks a significant milestone for India’s telecommunications landscape. Starlink’s satellite-based internet services will not only bridge the digital divide and empower millions of Indians but also generate new employment opportunities and stimulate economic growth. As Starlink’s constellation expands and its technology matures, it has the potential to transform India into a global hub for innovation and digital connectivity.

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ASUS Unveils New ExpertBook Laptops with 13th Gen Intel Core Processors in India

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Nov 8, 2023

ASUS has just announced its latest ExpertBook series, featuring the ExpertBook B9 OLED, B56 OLED, and B54 laptops, all powered by 13th Gen Intel Core processors. These laptops are designed to boost productivity and offer robust performance, security, and style for modern business users.

The ExpertBook B9 OLED is remarkably lightweight, weighing only 990 grams, thanks to its premium magnesium-lithium alloy construction. It packs an up to 13th Gen Intel Core vPro processor, dual-fan cooling, up to 64 GB dual-channel RAM, and Iris Xe Graphics Active. The 16:10 OLED display is Pantone-validated for color accuracy, and it offers Dolby Atmos sound and AI noise cancellation. With a 63Wh battery and 65W USB-C adapter for fast charging, it’s perfect for professionals on the move.

The ExpertBook B5602CVA impresses with its 16-inch 4K OLED display with HDR support. It’s powered by up to 13th Gen Intel Core i7 P-series vPro processors, offers optional Intel Arc A350M discrete GPU, up to 40 GB of fast upgradable Dual Channel DDR5 RAM, and Wi-Fi 6E. Security features include Intel vPro support, TPM 2.0, fingerprint login, IR HD camera, and webcam shield.

ASUS ExpertBook B5402C and B5402F offer ultraportable versatility. They come in two variants, one with a minimalist clamshell chassis and the other with a flip touchscreen and garaged stylus. Both variants are thin and lightweight, with up to 12-hour battery life. They feature up to 13th Gen Intel Core i7 vPro P-series processors, Iris Xe graphics, up to 40 GB fast DDR5 upgradable RAM, Wi-Fi 6E, and dual 2 TB SSD support with RAID 0/1. Enterprise-grade security features include vPro, TPM 2.0, IR and fingerprint login, webcam shield, AI noise cancellation, and NumberPad.

These laptops offer excellent connectivity with dual USB-C with Thunderbolt 4 & USB4, triple 4K display output, fast-charging support, full-sized RJ-45 Gigabit Ethernet, and HDMI. They meet MIL-STD 810H U.S. military standards and undergo rigorous ASUS internal testing.

ASUS is committed to sustainability throughout its product lifecycle. The manufacturing process reduces material waste and energy consumption, with laptops made from up to 70% post-industrial recycled metal. The packaging is eco-friendly, and the accessory box can transform into a laptop stand. These laptops are EPEAT Gold verified and exceed ENERGY STAR standards.

Pricing & availability

The ExpertBook B9403, B5602CVA, B5402F, and B5402C will be available through ASUS Enterprise Channel Partners starting from November 7, 2023, with pricing varying based on configurations.

The price list for the ASUS ExpertBook laptop models is as follows:

The ExpertBook B9403CVA is priced at ₹217,990.
The ExpertBook B5602CVA comes in at ₹188,990.
The ExpertBook B5402CVA is available for ₹157,490.
The ExpertBook B5402FVA is priced at ₹170,490.

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Xiaomi Smart Door Lock 2 with a self-developed noise reduction, fully automatic lock body unveiled

By

Jed John Ikoba

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Nov 8, 2023

Chinese tech giant Xiaomi has officially launched the Xiaomi Smart Door Lock 2. The new door lock comes with a price tag of 1,299 yuan (~$178) and will officially go on sale on November 10.

Features

The Xiaomi Smart Door Lock 2 adopts a newly developed fully automatic lock body that has noise-reduction properties. The technology is fully developed by Xiaomi. In comparison to the first-generation models of fully automatic locks, Xiaomi’s self-developed noise-reducing fully automatic locks reduce noise by 12dB when closing the door and 13dB when opening the door. Turning on the Do Not Disturb mode can also turn off the prompt sound and reduce the alarm sound.

The lock body is also integrated with multiple sensors to monitor the status of the lock body in real-time. It adopts a direct plug-in C-level lock core that penetrates the lock body structure.

In terms of unlocking methods, Xiaomi Smart Door Lock 2 supports AI fingerprint recognition, long-term passwords, periodic/one-time passwords, Bluetooth, Xiaomi mobile phones, Xiaomi watches, encrypted NFC door cards, and mechanical keys.

It adopts a new generation of semiconductor fingerprint recognition technology, a built-in AI algorithm, and deep training of large models. The more you use it, the better it becomes. Xiaomi also claims that the fingerprint recognition speed is ≤0.5 seconds, the false recognition rate is ≤0.001% and the authenticity rejection rate is ≤0.52%. In addition, users can also pre-set duress fingerprints. If they encounter a crisis, they can use the duress fingerprint function to make a silent call notification to the preset phone number.

Furthermore, the Xiaomi Smart Door Lock 2 is equipped with a MIJIA security chip which allows users to store private data such as fingerprints and passwords in encrypted form locally. In this way, the data cannot be read or decrypted externally. The door lock also supports Bluetooth + Wi-Fi dual protocols. You can remotely view the door lock’s alarm notifications and operation logs through the MIJIA app without using a Bluetooth Mesh gateway device. Users can also share door lock device management rights with family members, making it easier for family members to manage door locks.

In terms of battery life, the door lock is powered by 8 dry batteries and can be used for up to 1 year. It will also remind the user when the battery is low. Peradventure it runs completely out of battery, users can also use the Type-C external power bank to provide an emergency power supply to the door lock to complete temporary unlocking.

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Lofree Block 98 wireless retro-style mechanical keyboard launched

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Nov 8, 2023

Lofree‘s latest offering, the Block 98 wireless mechanical keyboard, combines a vintage look with cutting-edge technology. The Block 98 boasts a minimalist ‘Block’ design with smooth volume control knobs and a clear status panel. It offers quiet typing with self-lubricated switches and foam cushioning for comfort.

The keyboard’s two Hermès orange-accented knobs allow easy volume adjustment and switching between connection methods. The status panel displays essential information like lock status, connected devices, and remaining power. Users can choose from 14 white backlit effects.

One key feature is the hot-swappable switches, allowing users to customize their typing experience easily. Despite its classic appearance, the Block 98 supports modern connectivity standards, including Bluetooth, 2.4G, and USB-C.

Battery life is impressive, offering 10 hours of wireless typing with the backlight on and 80 hours with it off.

Pricing & availability

The Block 98 is compatible with Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android devices, priced at $169/£138.94.

In other news, Lofree is raising funds for the Lofree Flow, a mechanical keyboard they say is super smooth. If you’re on the hunt for a small mechanical keyboard with a 60% size, take a look at this one and read our detailed review.

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Apple’s iPhone Powers Record-Breaking Revenue in India as Demand for Premium Smartphones Soars

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Nov 8, 2023

Apple achieved a record-breaking revenue in India during the fourth quarter of 2023. This success was driven by strong year-on-year growth in double digits, highlighting India’s emergence as a thriving market for Apple’s products and services. Tim Cook, Apple’s CEO, acknowledged this achievement during a call with analysts, emphasizing the growing importance of India as a major focus area for the company. Here are the details…

Apple posted record India revenue in Q4 2023

Despite facing challenges in its key markets, such as China and the United States, Apple’s overall revenue for the quarter to September 2023 was $89.5 billion, down less than 1% year-on-year. This resilience is attributed to strong sales of its flagship product, the iPhone, which contributed $43.8 billion to the company’s overall revenue. In India, Apple’s growth trajectory has been particularly impressive.

According to Apple’s CEO, Tim Cook, the company’s India revenue experienced a strong double digit growth year-on-year during the July-September period. This remarkable performance is attributed to the robust sales of Apple’s flagship product, the iPhone, which has gained significant traction among Indian consumers.

Cook further emphasized that India is a major focus for Apple, and the company is committed to expanding its operations and presence in the country. This commitment is evident in Apple’s recent initiatives, such as the opening of its first retail store in India and the expansion of its manufacturing partnerships in the region.

Analysts believe that Apple’s success in India can be attributed to several factors, including the growing demand for smartphones among India’s middle class, the company’s strong brand reputation, and its effective marketing strategies. Additionally, Apple’s efforts to localize its products and services for the Indian market have also been met with positive response.

As India’s economy continues to grow and its middle class expands, Apple is well-positioned to further capitalize on the market’s potential. The company’s commitment to innovation and its focus on customer satisfaction are likely to continue driving its success in India and other emerging markets around the world.

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Engwe E26 fat-tire electric bike with 750W motor showcased at EICMA 2023

By

Jed John Ikoba

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Nov 8, 2023

Engwe has showcased the new E26 fat-tire electric bike at EICMA 2023. The model was earlier launched in two versions for the international and EU markets. The E26 is one of the highlights of the event formerly called the Milan Motorcycle Show.

Engwe E26 fat-tire electric bike – Features

The Engwe E26 is powered by a 750W electric motor with a top speed of 45km/h and a maximum torque of 70Nm for the international version. The EU version of the bike is equipped with a 250W motor with the same torque and a lower top speed of 25km/h. The electric bicycle has a riding range of about 140km, thanks to its 48V 16Ah battery. The battery can be fully recharged in six hours. The Engwe E26 is available either with a step-over or step-through frame design. Available color options are Bumblebee Yellow, Onyx Black, and Gem Blue.

The new Engwe E26 is equipped with a dual suspension system for a comfortable ride. It also features hydraulic disc brakes for efficient stopping of the bike. It also has a Shimano 7-speed gearbox and a color LCD display. The rear rack of the bike has a capacity of 25kg while the bike itself weighs 43kg.

Pricing & Availability

The Engwe E26 fat-tire e-bike is currently available at a discounted price of $1,149. The model is available both in the EU and in the international market.

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TOPTON V700 mini-PC with Intel Core i9-13900H launched

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Nov 8, 2023

TOPTON has recently unveiled the V700 mini-PC for the global market. This new mini-PC comes with a powerful 13th Gen i9 processor and has a reasonable price tag. Here are all the details.

TOPTON V700 mini-PC specs:

The TOPTON V700 boasts a high-performance Intel Core i9-13900H processor. Despite being a mobile processor, the Core i9-13900H is quite powerful with a total of 14 cores (6 performance, 8 efficient) and 20 threads. It’s capable of boosting up to 5.40 GHz drawing 115W at its peak.

The base iteration of the V700 is a barebone system, offering users the flexibility of two vacant SODIMM slots, a 2.5-inch drive bay, and two M.2 slots. For those looking for a pre-built, there are upgrade options available with up to 4 TB of storage and 64 GB of DDR5 RAM.

When it comes to connectivity, the TOPTON V700 offers many ports including two HDMI ports, a DisplayPort, a Thunderbolt 4 port, two USB 2.0 Type-A ports, four USB 3.2 Type-A ports, a 3.5 mm audio jack, a 3.5 mm microphone jack, and two 2.5 GbE Ethernet ports. Furthermore, it supports Bluetooth 5.2 and WiFi 6.

Price & availability

Despite its rich set of features, the TOPTON V700 offers an affordable pricing of only $580 on AliExpress when you apply the on-page coupon.

In related news, TOPTON released the M6S mini-PC earlier this year. While that model is not as powerful as the V700, it is small enough to fit in your pocket.

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Alibaba CEO Wants to Turn E-Commerce Empire into an “Open Tech Platform”

By

Anubhav

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Nov 8, 2023

Alibaba, a big name in online shopping in China, is changing its game. The new boss, Eddie Wu, says the company is going to focus a lot on artificial intelligence (AI). They want to be the place where all sorts of businesses come for help with AI.

Alibaba is splitting into six units, including e-commerce, cloud computing & entertainment.

Wu shared this big plan at a conference where many internet big shots and government people were listening. He’s the new CEO and he’s looking to shake things up. Alibaba is known for its shopping sites like Taobao, but Wu believes AI is the future.

They’re not just talking about AI; they’re getting their hands dirty with it. Alibaba has a cloud service, like a giant digital storage space, which is now a big deal in China for AI stuff. They’ve even made their own version of ChatGPT. It’s called Tongyi Qianwen, and it’s a big step for Alibaba in the AI world.

Wu thinks that soon, AI will be a part of everything we do – at work, at home, everywhere. Alibaba wants to help businesses keep up with changes by using AI. It’s not just about being the top technology company; it’s about making things smarter and easier for everyone.

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Samsung Galaxy S23 FE Special Edition Released In Two New Color Options In India

By

Viraj Gawde

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Nov 8, 2023

Samsung launched the Galaxy S23 FE in India last month. It was offered in Mint, Graphite, and Purple color options. Now the South Korean brand has announced a special edition variant of the device. It comes in two new colors and they are listed on the company’s official website. Last month, Samsung released a Special Edition model of the Galaxy Z Flip 5 in four colors in the country.

Samsung Galaxy S23 FE special edition variants in India

The Special Edition variant of the Galaxy S23 FE includes Indigo and Tangerine color options. The former has a light blue hue whereas the latter seems to have a brownish paintjob. The devices have a silver frame.

The Galaxy S23 FE is exclusively available for purchase from Samsung’s official website. It is priced at Rs 59,999 and Rs 64,999 for the 8GB + 128GB and 8GB + 256G RAM and storage configurations. It seems that the Special Edition variants will be available in limited quantities as the listing says ‘hurry, while stocks last’.

As for the core specifications, the Samsung Galaxy S23 FE has a 6.3-inch dynamic AMOLED display bearing an FHD+ resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate. It has an in-screen fingerprint scanner and the device is IP68 certified dust and water-resistant. The smartphone features a vertically stacked triple camera setup comprising a 50MP main sensor, a 12MP ultra-wide-angle lens, and an 8MP telephoto unit. Internally, the Galaxy S23 FE is powered by an Exynos 2200 processor coupled with 8GB RAM and 256GB storage. It is backed by a 4,500mAh battery unit with support for 25W wired and 15W wireless charging. The device ships with Android 13 OS with 4 years of guaranteed Android updates.

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Chinese researchers uncover security flaws in AI models, including ChatGPT

By

Joane

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Nov 8, 2023

Chinese researchers have unveiled a significant security loophole in widely used commercial multimodal large language models (MLLMs) such as ChatGPT, Bard, and Bing Chat. These models, deployed by tech giants like Google, Microsoft, and Baidu, are fundamental components of various applications, from virtual assistants to content moderation systems.

The researchers discovered that the vulnerabilities in these MLLMs could be exploited using manipulated images that closely resembled the originals. By making minute alterations almost invisible to the human eye, the researchers effectively bypassed the models’ built-in filters designed to weed out toxic or inappropriate content.

For instance, researchers in Beijing have identified a significant vulnerability in AI models like ChatGPT. Under attack, these models could mistake giant pandas for humans or fail to detect harmful content, highlighting a critical security flaw in commercial AI systems.

Among the affected models, Bard, equipped with face and toxicity detection mechanisms, could generate inappropriate descriptions of harmful content when compromised. The Chinese research team even provided code demonstrating how these adversarial examples could mislead AI models. Their experiments yielded a success rate of 22% against Bard, 26% against Bing Chat, and a staggering 86% against Ernie Bot.

Wu Zhaohui, China’s vice minister of science and technology, addressed these alarming findings at the Global AI Security Summit in the UK. He emphasized the urgent need for stronger technical risk controls in AI governance, urging the global community to address the vulnerabilities discovered in these widely used language models.

One of the key challenges highlighted by the research is the existing imbalance between efforts focused on attacking and defending AI models. While adversarial attacks have garnered significant attention, there remains a lack of robust defense strategies. Traditional defense methods might come at the cost of accuracy and computational resources, making it imperative to explore innovative solutions.

To address these vulnerabilities, the researchers suggested preprocessing-based defenses as a potential solution, especially for large-scale foundation models. These defenses aim to ensure the robustness of MLLMs against adversarial attacks, paving the way for future research and development in AI security.

This discovery underscores the critical importance of enhancing AI technologies’ security infrastructure. As these models become increasingly integrated into everyday applications, it is essential to fortify their defenses against malicious exploitation, ensuring a safer and more secure digital landscape for users worldwide.

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Instagram Finally to Let Users Read DMs Without Sending Read Receipts

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Nov 8, 2023

Ever felt hesitant to reply to Instagram messages you didn’t want to answer, but didn’t want the sender to know you’ve seen them? Fear no more! Instagram is currently testing a feature that allows you to disable read receipts. This means that even if you’ve opened and read a message, the sender won’t see the “seen” label appear underneath it. Here are the details…

Instagram Hits the Button for the Read Receipt Disabling Feature!

Privacy is something we all desire but rarely have. Many of us use social media and live our lives according to the rules of these platforms. What we eat, where we go, what we share—all under the control of platforms like Instagram. We can send messages to each other, and if we choose not to respond, we are marked with the “seen” label. However, users have long been uncomfortable with this.

That’s why they want Instagram to introduce a feature that allows them to disable the read receipt. Fortunately, this option is finally being added to the platform. Adam Mosseri, one of the company’s executives, announced the good news with these words: “We’ve heard your feedback and started testing a new feature that allows you to turn off the read status. In the near future, people won’t have to show others when they’ve been seen when they read messages.”

Mosseri also shared a screenshot of what the feature might look like. Frankly, it’s quite gratifying to see this feature, albeit belatedly. We all have moments when we’re busy, times when we don’t want to spend time on social media, and moments when we don’t want to respond to anyone. However, many of us reply to messages instead of sending a “seen” message because we don’t want to appear rude.

For now, there is no information about when the Instagram read receipt disabling feature will be available. However, considering that it’s ready, it will likely be added to the platform through an update after a short testing phase. I’d also like to remind you that when you activate this feature, there is a possibility that others may not be able to see if you’ve read their messages in a similar way.

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Intel scraps expansion plans in Vietnam, dampening Hanoi’s Semiconductor ambitions

By

Joane

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Nov 8, 2023

In a significant setback to Vietnam’s aspirations in the global semiconductor industry, Intel has abandoned its plans to double the size of its operations in the country. The decision dealt a blow to Hanoi’s hopes of becoming a prominent player in the chip manufacturing market. Vietnam already hosts Intel’s largest factory worldwide for assembling, packaging, and testing chips, but further expansion dreams have been shattered.

The move follows US President Joe Biden’s visit to Vietnam in September, during which he announced deals to support the country’s burgeoning chips industry. However, US officials recently informed a select group of businessmen and experts that Intel had put its expansion plan on hold. The company cited concerns about the stability of power supplies and excessive bureaucracy as reasons for its decision.

While Intel did not specify the exact reasons for the cancellation, it expressed apprehensions about Vietnam’s power supply stability and bureaucratic hurdles. The Southeast Asian nation had hoped to position itself as an alternative to chip manufacturing giants like China and Taiwan, but political risks and trade tensions with the United States posed challenges to its ambitions.

Intel’s withdrawal coincides with the company’s substantial investments in Europe and comes amid power shortages in Vietnam. These shortages have led to temporary production suspensions for numerous manufacturers in the country, exacerbating the challenges faced by the local industry.

Despite this setback, Vietnam continues to actively seek investments from chipmakers, aiming to diversify their supply chains and carve out a larger role in the global semiconductor arena. The Vietnamese government had initially planned to attract $3.3 billion in additional investment from Intel, but references to this were later removed from official documents following media reports.

In the wake of this development, Intel and other multinational firms have been pressing the Vietnamese government for subsidies, particularly in light of a global tax overhaul. Ongoing discussions are centered on the implementation of the new tax and subsidy policies slated for the coming year.

The cancellation of Intel’s expansion plans highlights the challenges faced by emerging players in the semiconductor industry, emphasizing the need for stable infrastructure and favorable business environments to attract major investments. Vietnam, despite this setback, remains determined to bolster its position in the global semiconductor landscape, exploring avenues to attract further investments and navigate the evolving dynamics of the industry.

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Xiaomi 14 series sells out, hitting record 625 million yuan on Tmall, topping sales charts

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Nov 8, 2023

Xiaomi achieved a significant milestone on Tmall Super Brand Day by generating a record-breaking revenue of 625 million yuan ($87.5 million). This accomplishment is unparalleled for any brand on the platform in 2023. The Xiaomi 14 series, launched in late October, played a crucial role in this success, dominating both sales volume and revenue charts among new smartphones on Tmall. Furthermore, it secured the top position in sales among domestic smartphone brands.

Xiaomi Dominates Tmall Super Brand Day Sales

Xiaomi expressed deep gratitude for the immense support and enthusiasm from its customers, viewing it as a shared victory and a sign of their strong connection with their user base. During the Double 11 promotion, Xiaomi’s performance was outstanding, with their cumulative payment amount surpassing over 10 billion yuan ($1.4 billion) by the end of October 31st.

The Xiaomi 14 series, especially the standard Xiaomi 14 model, has achieved impressive sales figures. Within ten days of its launch, it sold over one million units, with an average daily sales volume of approximately 100,000 units. Additionally, the Xiaomi 14 set new records for domestic smartphone sales within the first four hours of its initial sale across various online platforms, including Tmall, JD.com, Douyin, and Kuaishou.

The Xiaomi 14 Pro Titanium Special Edition was in high demand, selling out within seconds upon release, showcasing a strong consumer interest in this special edition. However, Xiaomi is also facing production challenges as it grapples with an overwhelming demand for the Xiaomi 14 Pro Titanium Special Edition.

Xiaomi‘s television lineup, especially the Xiaomi TV S Pro MiniLED series, generated impressive sales revenue of over 1 billion yuan ($140 million) across all channels.

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WhatsApp head confirms in-app ads are still in the works

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