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Ford’s Calculated Pause in Kentucky Reflects a Slower EV Adoption Rate

Ford recently disclosed plans to delay battery production at its second BlueOval SK plant in Hardin County, Kentucky. The decision came during its third-quarter earnings call, where the automaker highlighted that electric vehicle (EV) adoption hasn’t been as rapid as initially anticipated.

EVs are growing – just slower than what the public anticipated

While many might see this as a drawback for the electric revolution, Ford assures that EVs are growing, albeit not as quickly as forecasted. T.R. Reid, Ford spokesperson, emphasized that the slowing pace doesn’t indicate a lack of faith in EVs but is a strategic move to align with current market conditions.

FORD

The delay is a temporary maneuver responding to the financial hiccups that Ford has experienced lately. Their EV business, Model e, reported an operating loss of $1.3 billion for the third quarter. Each EV sold during this period cost the company around $36,000. It’s a loud wake-up call, signaling Ford to be cautious in how they proceed with their EV investments.

It’s not just Ford that’s recalibrating its approach; General Motors too has scaled back its initial aim to build 400,000 EVs in North America by mid-2024. This coordinated pulling of the reins by leading automakers is an acknowledgment of the current speed bumps on the highway to electric mobility.

However, let’s not forget that Ford still has ambitious plans, such as the Blue Oval City complex in Tennessee, set to kick off battery production in 2025. The company also maintains its joint venture with Korean battery manufacturer SK On, indicating that its long-term commitment to EVs is unwavering.

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Xiaomi Mijia Ultra-Thin Cross Refrigerator 521L up for sale in China for 2999 yuan ($410)

Xiaomi‘s Mijia brand recently introduced its first built-in ultra-thin cross refrigerator, the Mijia Ultra-Thin Cross Refrigerator 521L, boasting a sleek, space-saving design and advanced cooling technology. The refrigerator is now available for sale at 2999 yuan ($410) in China.

Xiaomi Mijia Ultra-Thin Cross Refrigerator 521L

Xiaomi Mijia Ultra-Thin Cross Refrigerator 521L Key Features:

The Mijia Ultra-Thin Cross Refrigerator 521L has a 521-liter capacity, with 341 liters for refrigeration and 180 liters for freezing. Its innovative ultra-thin design, measuring 63cm in depth, seamlessly integrates into kitchen cabinetry, eliminating the need for extra space for heat dissipation, thanks to its advanced heat dissipation system.

The refrigerator sports an ice-feather white natural texture panel that is not only aesthetically pleasing but also oil-resistant, easy to clean, and durable. It comes equipped with VIP vacuum insulation technology, which not only reduces its physical footprint but also enhances its insulation effectiveness. The unit features embedded hinges that permit the doors to open at a 90-degree angle, even when placed flush against the wall, optimizing space and convenience.

Smart connectivity is a key feature of this product, with temperature and modes controllable via a high-definition color touchscreen, the Mijia App, or voice commands through the Xiao Ai assistant. It offers a 360-degree air cooling circulation system for uniform cooling and a dual variable frequency technology for efficient energy use, achieving Grade 1 energy efficiency.

The refrigerator’s human-centric design includes flexible storage options with adjustable shelves and a reversible tray, rapid ice-making capabilities, and a detachable door seal for easy cleaning. The compartmentalized storage with separate zones for refrigerated and frozen goods ensures optimal food preservation without odor mixing, making it ideal for families with varied tastes and needs.

Its premium mother and baby zone is tailored for delicate food storage, and the unit also features a super freeze function for quick freezing while retaining the nutritional value and taste of fresh meat.

The design is completed with a natural stone texture panel for a luxurious feel, promoting not just functionality but also an elegant addition to any kitchen.

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Samsung Galaxy S20 and Note 20, Android 14 Update Hope Turns to Disappointment

Recently, there has been some confusion regarding the Android 14 update for Samsung’s Galaxy S20 and Galaxy Note 20 series. First, there were reports that these older devices would indeed receive the Android 14 based One UI 6.0 update, but then, a contradictory statement emerged, stating that they would not be getting this latest software upgrade. Here are the details…

Samsung Galaxy Note 20 and Galaxy S20 won’t get Android 14 update

The initial reports were quite exciting for owners of Galaxy S20, Galaxy S20 Plus, Galaxy S20 Ultra, Galaxy Note 20, Galaxy Note 20 Ultra, Galaxy Z Fold 2, Galaxy Z Flip 5G, and Galaxy Z Flip, which were mentioned as eligible for the Android 14 based One UI 6 update. These devices had already received three generations of Android updates, so the possibility of a fourth was a pleasant surprise. Furthermore, newer Samsung models were also expected to get the update, potentially making them among the first to enjoy One UI 6.

android-14

However, the situation took a U-turn when Samsung clarified the matter. According to the updated information, the Galaxy Note 20 and the Galaxy S20 will not receive the Android 14 based One UI 6.0 update, despite being mentioned in Samsung’s One UI 6-related article on their website. Instead, these devices will only receive some Galaxy Enhance-X features.

The confusion arose due to a statement in Samsung’s article that listed devices eligible for Galaxy Enhance-X features. In this list, the Galaxy S20 and Galaxy Note 20 were included, but the wording of the statement led to misinterpretation. It became evident that Samsung’s initial inclusion of these devices was a mistake, given the company’s earlier commitment to providing only three major Android OS updates for the Galaxy S20 and Galaxy Note 20 series.

Samsung had previously adhered to the three-year update policy for these smartphones, which started with Android 10, followed by updates to Android 11, Android 12, and Android 13. The Galaxy S21 series marked an improvement with four years of Android OS updates. However, this extended support was not extended to the Galaxy Note 20 and the Galaxy S20.

So, if you own a Galaxy Note 20 or Galaxy S20 series smartphone, you should not expect to receive the official Android 14 update.

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New Koga Pace B05 e-bike with a 250W Bosch motor, 750Wh battery, and 240km range launched

The 2023 iteration of the Koga Pace B05 e-bike has been launched in Europe. The new electric bicycle comes with a 250W mid-mounted Bosch motor and a 750Wh battery that delivers a massive pedal-assisted range of 240km.

Koga Pace

Features

The new Koga Pace B05 has a maximum torque of 85Nm and a top assistance speed of 25km/h. It features several power options to suit your immediate needs. The power modes include ECO and Walk Assist. The ECO mode helps to optimally conserve battery energy while the Walk Assist mode is used for pedaling. It has wide Schwalbe tires and an 11-speed Shimano gear system. It also comes with a Bosch Kiox display and support for a smartphone app.

The Pace B05 2023 version has a removable 750Wh battery which can deliver a range of 240km on ECO mode. It has Bluetooth connectivity so the user can link his smartphone to the bike and view ride and performance statistics via the eBike Flow app. The Koga Pace B05 has Formula Cura hydraulic disc brakes in addition to its Super Moto-X tires. Other features include an LED headlight, a Modular Rail System, a head tube light, and a kickstand. The bike has an aluminum frame available in four sizes, in either a step-over or step-through design.

Koga Pace B05 e-bike

Pricing & Availability

The new Koga Pace B05 e-bike weighs up to 28.8kg and is now available in parts of Europe including the UK, Netherlands, and France. The e-bike comes with a €5,299 (~$5,608) price tag. There are no global availability and pricing details for the new Koga Pace B05 at this time.

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Preventing Nuclear Catastrophe: Scientists Propose Unique Solution for Lost Nukes

Nuclear weapons pose a constant threat to global security. The existence of these destructive devices in the hands of various countries heightens tensions and concerns about potential misuse or theft. Efforts to control and monitor these weapons have been in place for decades, but the task is complex, given the secretive nature of nuclear arsenals. Recently, scientists have come up with a novel and intriguing solution to enhance the monitoring of nuclear warheads – storing them in a hall of mirrors. Here are the details…

To Prevent ‘Lost’ Nukes, Scientists Suggest Storing Them in a Hall of Mirrors

The need for enhanced monitoring of nuclear weapons has led to a unique and innovative solution: mirrors and radio waves. Researchers from the Max Planck Institute for Security and Privacy have developed a system to remotely track the movement of objects within a room using mirrors and radio waves. This technology is designed to bolster the monitoring of nuclear warhead stockpiles and ensure they remain secure.

Nuclear

Nuclear weapons pose an ongoing global security challenge, with nine countries collectively possessing about 12,700 warheads. These weapons are typically stored in highly secure military bunkers, making it difficult to verify their presence, quantities, or any unauthorized movements. The mirror and radio wave system involves placing 20 adjustable mirrors alongside the nuclear warheads in storage vaults, with two antennae as part of the setup.

One antenna emits radio waves that bounce off the mirrors, creating unique reflection patterns detected by the other antenna. By analyzing these patterns, the system can pinpoint the location of objects within the room, even detecting minute shifts in their positions. One of the key advantages of this system is that it does not rely on secure communication channels or tamper-resistant hardware, making it more resilient against potential threats or tampering attempts.

In practice, international organizations like the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) can install the mirror and antenna system within nuclear bunkers. The system measures radio waves reflecting off the mirrors, creating a unique “fingerprint” signal stored in a secure database. Government or entities controlling nuclear stockpiles can then measure the radio wave signal recorded by their detector antenna and compare it to the initial fingerprint to detect any unauthorized movements.

While not entirely foolproof, this innovative inspection system holds promise for enhancing nuclear arms control and has potential applications in various sectors.

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ViewSonic VX2781-2K-PRO-3 2K 240Hz gaming monitor launched in China for 2199 yuan ($300)

ViewSonic has launched its latest monitor in China called VX2781-2K-PRO-3. It is a new high-end gaming monitor available for pre-sale at 2199 yuan ($300). Let’s delve into the key specs of this monitor.

ViewSonic VX2781-2K-PRO-3 monitor

ViewSonic VX2781-2K-PRO-3 Key Features:

ViewSonic VX2781-2K-PRO-3 features a 27-inch 2K FAST IPS panel with a 240Hz refresh rate, making it ideal for esports and competitive gaming. The monitor is HDR600 certified, delivering vivid brightness up to 600 nits and enhancing visual depth, even in dark areas.

The monitor stands out with its original factory A+ module panel, indicating that it has undergone rigorous quality checks for optical components’ lifespan and performance. The assembly environment is kept dust-free to ensure each panel meets ViewSonic’s strict specifications, promising consumers a more stable and high-quality product.

For color accuracy, the VX2781-2K-PRO-3 covers 98% of the sRGB and 88% of the DCI-P3 color gamuts, supporting a color depth of 1.07 billion colors (8-bit + FRC). This makes the display capable of rendering fine and vivid colors, adding to the immersive gaming experience. The design includes esports-centric aesthetics with RGB lighting effects, a quick-detach stand, and a V-shaped base, contributing to its modern look.

Connectivity is versatile, with dual HDMI 2.0 ports, a DP 1.4 port, and an audio output, facilitating easy connection to gaming consoles and other devices. The five-way OSD joystick button simplifies navigation, allowing gamers to swiftly access and customize settings.

The monitor is equipped with features that support eye comfort, including a blue light filter and DC dimming technology to reduce flicker, which is essential for long gaming sessions. It is also compatible with both AMD FreeSync and NVIDIA G-Sync technologies, eliminating screen tearing and stutter for smooth gameplay.

Additional features include built-in image modes for different scenarios like gaming, movies, or web browsing, and a height-adjustable rotating stand.

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Civilized Cycles is developing Semi-Trike cargo hauler with pedal assistance

Civilized Cycles is making plans to unveil a new pedal-assist cargo haulage machine, the Semi-Trike. The Semi-Trike is expected to have a higher cargo haulage capability than the brand’s Model 1 low-step e-bike launched in 2020. An official image of the Semi-Trike has been seen.

Civilized Cycles Semi-Trike cargo hauler

Civilised Cycles Semi-Trike cargo hauler open a new vista to cargo e-bikes

The Civilized Cycles Semi-Trike is a covered three-wheel machine with a 6,061 aluminum frame. It offers comfortable seating for the rider with a backrest and also features adjustable pedals and handlebars. It has a fat bike suspension fork connected to its 20-inch wheel and a 4-inch fat tire at the front. It has two 8-inch wheels at the rear. It is equipped with a hydraulic brake at the front and a hand-actuated integrated disc brake at the rear. The Semi-Trike cargo hauler will come in three power configurations – Economy, Standard, and a commercial variant. The top assisted speed for the Semi-Trike is 24km/h.

The Semi-Trike Economy variant has a single 1,200W motor, chainless drive, manual two-speed gears, and a UIL-certified battery pack. The Standard version has a dual-motor chain drive setup with high torque, a virtual gearbox, and a UIL-certified battery pack. The commercial version of the Semi-Trike is powered by a Valeo/ Heinzmann hub motor and UIL-certified batteries. The three power variants will all come with a 1-ton axle and can haul cargo in medium or extra-large trailers outback. The trailers have a patented auto-self-leveling air suspension and a custom axle with zero-roll trailing arms. The medium platform will be 36 inches wide while the extra-large will be 48 inches. Both platforms will have a floor height of 20ft and the payload capacity is about 340kg.

The development of the Semi-Trike is seemingly at its early stage but the company is already calling for test partners in Detroit for a pilot run next year. Civilized Cycles is targeting businesses or organizations that currently move goods via car, van, or truck but are interested in testing and sustainable alternatives. We expect the Semi-Trike to go through the development phases in 2024 for its subsequent release.

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LG Smart Cottage with low-carbon steel components touted as the future of prefab architecture

Korean tech giant LG has unveiled a futuristic Smart Cottage, a modular and energy-efficient modern home appliance system. The Smart Cottage’s module components are made with solid low-carbon steel materials produced by POSCO, a Korean steel firm. The cottage is a culmination of LG’s collaboration with Dan-Wood, a European timber prefab company.

LG Smart Cottage

LG Electronics is projecting the Smart Cottage as the future of the modern home. It is smaller, smarter, and more energy efficient than its peers. The Smart Cottage companion mobile app is ThinQ which provides a seamless operation of the cottage. The Smart Cottage is a prefabricated house fully stocked with premium LG appliances atop an efficient heating and cooling architecture. It offers efficient heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC), and solar energy supply. The LG Smart Cottage has touches of warm hardwood, tile, and fabric finishes across the smart residence.

LG Smart Cottage

The LG Smart Cottage’s structure is showcased in a cool exterior (Sea Ranch) with a touch of Silicon Valley condo. The exterior is aesthetically exciting while the interior options include lighter and darker themes. It has a two-story studio-like layout with optimized functionality, space efficiency, and an eco-enhanced performance. The highly futuristic Smart Cottage offers comfort and convenience.

LG Smart Cottage

The Smart Cottage is a highly integrated system with several built-in kitchen equipment like the WashTower Compact, QuadWash Dishwasher, the Therma V Monobloc air-to-water heat pump, and a water purifier. The ThinQ is LG’s smart home premium technology for seamless control of the Smart Cottage. The LG Smart Cottage was expertly showcased during IFA 2023 but its release optics are not known yet. The very comfortable home setup of the LG Smart Cottage will be a delight if it eventually becomes a production model, as several similar concepts have not been successful.

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ASUS ROG Octopus 7 gaming router launched in China for 4,999 Yuan ($683)

ASUS has unveiled the ROG Octopus 7, a high-performance gaming router now available for pre-order, with pre-sales starting today. Priced at 4,999 yuan ($683) and limited to the first 100 units, this router is designed to cater to the most demanding of gamers. Let’s delve into the specs of this router.

ASUS ROG Octopus 7 gaming router

ASUS ROG Octopus 7 Router Key Specs:

At the heart of the Octopus 7 lies a powerful 4-core 2.6GHz Broadcom chip, complemented by 2GB of DDR4 RAM and 256MB of flash storage, ensuring smooth and stable performance even under heavy use. Although it does not support the 6GHz band, it is capable of impressive speeds, with tri-band concurrent reaching up to 13,000Mbps, thanks to its support for 4K QAM.

Connectivity-wise, the router is well-equipped with two 10G ports and four 2.5G ports for high-speed wired connections, in addition to USB 3.0 and USB 2.0 ports. It boasts a suite of features to enhance gaming experiences, including three-end game acceleration, seven customizable lighting effects for an immersive atmosphere, and the AiProtection Pro security system for commercial-grade network protection. The AiMesh 2.0 technology enables seamless roaming across large homes, ensuring a consistent connection throughout.

For wireless speed, the Octopus 7 delivers 1376 Mbps on the 2.4GHz band and 5764 Mbps on each of the two 5GHz bands, with all bands supporting 4T4R (four transmitters and four receivers). The router’s eight non-removable antennas are strategically designed to cover signal dead zones, extending the reach of the wireless network.

ASUS also emphasizes the device’s thermal management with a multi-layer aluminum heat sink and nano-carbon coating to improve cooling efficiency. The router’s appearance is as bold as its performance, with a ROG embossed semi-transparent acrylic top cover, logo light, and a distinctive heat dissipation grille.

For gamers, the router promises to prioritize gaming traffic through the ASUS-exclusive ROG GAME FIRST IV technology, potentially reducing latency by 43%. The router also includes features like Mobile Gaming Mode, which can be easily activated through the app to minimize latency. With comprehensive port configuration, link aggregation support, and the ability to connect high-speed devices, the ROG Octopus 7 stands out as a formidable centerpiece for any gaming setup.

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Movano Evie Ring designed for women’s health unveiled

Movano Health is introducing a unique solution for women’s health with the launch of the Evie Ring. This smart ring, tailored to address the distinct health needs of women, offers essential health insights.

Movano Evie Ring

The Evie Ring goes provides key health information, including heart rate, blood oxygen saturation, sleep patterns, activity levels, and menstrual cycles. Its app tailors recommendations based on individual health goals, prioritizing healthy ranges over competitive scoring. Moreover, it offers personalized insights that connect feelings to health data. The Evie Ring is designed to adapt to natural body changes, ensuring both comfort and style for the wearer.

The company is actively collaborating with the FDA to secure regulatory clearances and is conducting further testing with health insurers and patient monitoring companies. Additionally, the Evie Ring will be featured at CES 2024.

Pricing & availability

Starting on November 20, the Evie Ring can be ordered exclusively through eviering.com, priced at $269 with no subscription fees. It is available in sizes 5 to 12, and customers can request a complimentary sizing kit.

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Onyx Boox unveils new Mira Pro 25.3-inch E-Ink monitor with built-in front light

The Mira Pro E-Ink monitor is the latest offering by Onyx Boox. The new model is an enhanced version of the Mira Pro 25.3-inch E-Ink monitor but comes with features that allow for seamless productivity even in low light conditions.

Onyx Boox Mira Pro 25.3-inch E-Ink monitor

Features

The refreshed Onyx Boox Mira Pro has a 25.3-inch E-Ink display which offers an expansive view of the work task for any user. The Mira Pro E-Ink monitor is made of aluminum alloy and has a screen-to-body ratio of 85%. It has a sleek and sturdy stand that supports 90-degree screen rotation. The E-Ink monitor has an integrated front light feature and a resolution of 3200 x 1800 pixels. It also features the Boox-developed BSR high-refresh technology. Connectivity options for the new Mira Pro 25.3-inch E-Ink monitor include HDMI, Mini HDMI, DP, and USB-C. It has a rotary button at its side to quickly switch functions and screen refresh.

Onyx Boox Mira Pro 25.3-inch E-Ink monitor

The Onyx Boox new Mira Pro monitor has dual speakers built into the monitor. The monitor is well-suited for professionals engaged in text editing, academic research, and similar endeavors that require extended periods of screen interaction. It eliminates the problem of dry-eye syndrome for some users prone to such conditions. There are no official details yet on the release date for the new Mira Pro E-Ink monitor. Pricing information is also lacking at this time but the new model is expected to be more expensive than its predecessor.

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Xiaomi 14 spotted on Bureau of Indian Standards, Could launch soon

Xiaomi recently debuted its highly anticipated Xiaomi 14 series smartphones, making them the first devices to be powered by the brand-new Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor. While the whole world is waiting for the devices to debut in their respective regions, it looks like India might be getting the Xiaomi 14 soon.

The Xiaomi 14 has been spotted on the Bureau of Indian Standards website by tipster Simranpal Singh. The device has emerged on the certification database with model number 23127PN0CG. Although the listing does not reveal any specification details, it does greenlight its imminent arrival in the country.

Xiaomi 14 specs

The Xiaomi 14 features a 6.36-inch Huaxing C8 AMOLED display with a high 1.5K resolution, a smooth 120Hz LTPO refresh rate, and an impressive peak brightness of 3,000 nits. It also boasts IP68 dust and water resistance, a durable metal middle frame, and Leica-branded cameras with a 50MP main sensor with optical image stabilization, a 50MP ultra-wide lens, and a 50MP telephoto unit with variable aperture capabilities. For selfies, it sports a 32MP front camera. The phone offers an immersive audio experience with Dolby Atmos dual stereo speakers and a 4-mic array for 360-degree sound capture.

It is powered by Qualcomm’s flagship Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor and can be equipped with up to 16GB LPDDR5x RAM and 1TB of UFS 4 storage. To keep the device cool, it employs a gas-liquid separation channel design. The Xiaomi 14 is equipped with a 4,610mAh battery and supports fast charging with 90W wired, 50W wireless, and 10W reverse wireless charging options. It runs on Xiaomi’s new HyperOS, based on Android 14, and offers various connectivity options, including 5G, Wi-Fi, USB Type-C 3.2 Gen 1, Bluetooth, IR Blaster, and an X-Axis linear motor.

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OnePlus Nord N30 SE 5G gets TDRA certified ahead of launch

OnePlus has already started teasing its upcoming flagship, the OnePlus 12, ahead of its China launch. Meanwhile, it looks like the brand is preparing to debut the OnePlus Nord N30 SE 5G in the global market. The smartphone has appeared on the TDRA certification website, hinting at an imminent launch.

The TDRA certification database confirms that the device with the moniker “OnePlus Nord N30 SE” bears the model number CPH2605. We already know that this model number belongs to the OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite 5G. So, the Nord N30 SE is likely a rebrand of that device meant for the UAE. Interestingly, the Nord N30 5G, which is also a rebrand of the Nord CE 3 Lite 5G is already available in the US and Canada. That being said, having the same model number does not confirm that the device will also feature the same set of specs. In the meantime, Check out the specs and features of the Nord CE 3 Lite 5G.

OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite 5G specs

OnePlus

The OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite smartphone comes with a 6.71-inch FHD+ display, offering a smooth 120Hz refresh rate. It has a center-aligned punch-hole design, a side-mounted fingerprint scanner that also serves as the power button, and dual stereo speakers for sound.

For its cameras, it has three at the back: a main 108MP camera with 3x zoom, a 2MP depth camera, and a 2MP macro camera. It also features a 16MP front camera for selfies.

Under the hood, it runs on the Snapdragon 695 processor with 8GB RAM. It’s available with 128GB or 256GB storage options and boasts a 5,000mAh battery with fast 67W charging. It supports 5G, WiFi, Bluetooth 5.3, USB-C, and a 3.5mm headphone jack for connectivity.

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Alibaba unveils Tongyi Qianwen 2.0 and Industry-Specific AI Models in Global AI Race

In a bid to challenge tech giants like Amazon and Microsoft, Alibaba, China’s leading cloud computing and e-commerce company, launched its upgraded artificial intelligence model, Tongyi Qianwen 2.0, at its annual conference in Hangzhou. This latest version, touted as a significant improvement over its predecessor introduced in April, boasts “hundreds of billions of” parameters, positioning it among the world’s most powerful AI models.

Alibaba’s Tongyi Qianwen 2.0 excels in various complex tasks, including understanding intricate instructions, copywriting, reasoning, memorization, and preventing inaccuracies, referred to as “hallucinations” in the AI context. This innovation reflects the rapidly expanding and competitive landscape of China’s AI market, as tech companies rush to assert dominance in the industry.

In addition to Tongyi Qianwen 2.0, Alibaba introduced a suite of eight industry-specific AI models tailored for applications in the entertainment, finance, healthcare, and legal sectors. These specialized models signify Alibaba’s strategic move to cater to diverse business needs, emphasizing the company’s commitment to providing versatile AI solutions.

Furthermore, Alibaba unveiled the GenAI Service Platform, empowering businesses to develop their generative AI applications using proprietary data. This move addresses concerns about data security, allowing companies to harness the potential of AI technologies without compromising sensitive information. The GenAI Service Platform aligns with similar offerings from competitors, such as Microsoft’s Azure OpenAI Studio and Amazon Web Service’s Bedrock, indicating the industry-wide trend of facilitating AI development while safeguarding user data.

The rapid evolution of AI models, with continuous enhancements like Tongyi Qianwen 2.0, highlights the escalating “war of a hundred models” in China, as described by Tencent, another major player in the AI arena. With over 130 AI models flooding the market, the race for innovation and market dominance is intensifying, underscoring the transformative impact of AI technologies on various sectors.

Alibaba’s latest developments not only mark a significant milestone in China’s AI landscape but also signal the company’s determination to compete globally, challenging established players on the international stage.

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Crossbeats Diva smartwatch with BT calling & 100 sports modes launched in India

Indian electronics manufacturer Crossbeats has just launched a new smartwatch aimed at the female demographic called the Crossbeats Diva. This new smartwatch comes with a pretty design along with a metallic build.

CrossBeats Diva

Crossbeats Diva specs

The Crossbeats Diva smartwatch offers a battery life of up to 7 days and features a 1.28-inch always-on AMOLED screen with 700 nits of brightness. It includes various functions like alarms, calculators, sedentary reminders, stopwatches, weather updates, phone finding, music, and camera controls, as well as reminders and alerts. With Bluetooth 5.3 support, it provides a stable and low-latency connection to your device.

CrossBeats Diva

The smartwatch also provides health monitoring for heart rate, SpO2, sleep, and blood pressure. Its stone-studded design adds a touch of style, and it comes with over 100 customizable watch faces. It has a rotating crown, is IP67-rated for water and dust resistance, and uses the FitCloud Pro app. It has over 100 sports modes and a Bluetooth calling feature that lets you answer and make calls directly from your smartwatch.

Pricing & availability

Priced at Rs. 3499, the Crossbeats Diva smartwatch is available for purchase in Rose Gold and Silver colors on Amazon.in and the Crossbeats website.

In related news, Crossbeats has also unveiled the ChatGPT-powered Crossbeats Nexus smartwatch in India. You can learn more about it by clicking the link.

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Vivo X100 Pro design officially teased

Vivo is preparing to launch its new flagship series, the Vivo X100, later this month. The promotional campaign for this series is already underway as Vivo X100 Pro’s design was revealed today by Vivo’s product manager, Han Boxiao.

Vivo X100 Pro Official Render

Vivo X100 Pro design

The device boasts a distinctive blue ripple glass back and a camera module that draws inspiration from celestial elements, resembling the sun, moon, and stars against a starry sky backdrop. This design has garnered widespread acclaim, with many considering it the most beautiful flagship smartphone of the year. The X100 Pro’s aesthetic theme is reminiscent of a galaxy, and it has been confirmed that this model is indeed the Vivo X100 Pro.

One of the significant upgrades in the X100 Pro is its camera setup, featuring a larger and more centrally positioned module with T* lens coating and Zeiss branding. It includes a low-light submersible telephoto macro lens. The smartphone is reported to offer impressive camera specifications, including a 12-megapixel IMX663 ultra-wide-angle lens and a 64-megapixel periscope telephoto lens from OmniVision. In terms of battery life, the device is expected to pack a robust 5400mAh battery, supporting both 100W wired and 50W wireless charging.

According to a previous Digital Chat Station leak, Vivo plans to launch the Vivo X100 and X100 Pro in three color variants, which include orange, white, and blue models. The white and blue versions come with a glass back panel, while the orange variant features faux leather on the rear. Additionally, leaked image posters suggest the existence of a black variant with a leather back panel.

The standard X100 model has gained attention for its AnTuTu benchmark scores, showcasing the Dimensity 9300 processor, 16GB LPDDR5T RAM, and 1TB UFS 4.0 storage. It’s also expected to feature a 120Hz refresh rate display and a new Vario-APO-Sonnar lens for advanced telephoto capabilities.

Contrary to some leaks, the X100 Pro was spotted on GeekBench with a Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 chipset and 12GB of RAM. The GeekBench scores indicate strong performance, aligning with the flagship status of the phone.

Vivo has already initiated pre-orders for the X100 series, briefly appearing on JD.com before being taken down. The starting price for the 12GB+256GB version is set at 3999 yuan ($546), suggesting that it will be competitively priced in the market. As the pre-order interface has been temporarily removed, potential buyers are eagerly awaiting the official release and availability of the device. The series is expected to be announced on November 17th in China.

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Samsung Odyssey Ark 2nd Gen 55″ 4K mini-LED 165Hz gaming monitor hits store shelves in the US & EU

Back in August 2022, Samsung launched the Odyssey Ark curved gaming monitor featuring a 4K 165Hz display. The brand has now made its successor, called the Samsung Odyssey Ark 2nd Gen available for purchase in the US & EU markets. Here’s everything you need to know about it.

Samsung Odyssey Ark 2nd Gen

Samsung Odyssey Ark 2nd Gen specs

Like its predecessor, the Odyssey Ark 2nd Gen comes with a 1000R curvature 55″ 4K (3,840 x 2,160) mini-LED panel. The VA panel comes with a UL Glare Free, matte finish that reduces any distracting reflections. The display has a maximum refresh rate of 165Hz along with a 1,000,000:1 Contrast ratio, 16:09 aspect ratio, and 600nits maximum brightness.

The new feature on the monitor is Multi-View mode that allows display input from up to four sources at once by dividing the 55″ panel into four parts. It also has a KVM switch that helps in controlling the above-mentioned four input devices.

Powered by the Neural Quantum Processor Ultra, it supports FreeSync Premium Pro, VRR, Game Mode, and Eye Saver Mode. It comes with a 60W 2.2.2 channel speaker system and features Adaptive Sound, Dolby Atmos, and Sound Dome Technology for excellent audio quality. The operating system is Tizen, featuring SmartThings Hub, Multi-Device Experience, TV Plus, and Microsoft 365 integration. With built-in voice assistants like Alexa and Bixby, you can control your monitor effortlessly.

Samsung Odyssey Ark 2nd Gen

For connectivity, it offers Bluetooth v5.2 and Wi-Fi 5, and its I/O ports include Display Port Version 1.4, HDMI, USB ports, Ethernet, Wireless Display, and HDCP Version 2.2 support.

Pricing & availability

The Samsung Odyssey Ark 2nd Gen (G97NC) gaming monitor can be purchased for $2,999.99/€3,459 and is currently accessible for buying on both Samsung.com and select retailers like Amazon.

*Please Note: When you buy something using the links in our articles, we may earn a small commission at no cost to you.

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Alibaba Cloud is The Unseen Engine Powering China’s Tech and AI Ambitions

Alibaba Cloud is becoming as integral to Chinese tech as electricity is to modern life. According to Joe Tsai, Group Chairman, a whopping 80% of tech companies in China and half of the country’s AI language model enterprises are already running on Alibaba Cloud. The cloud unit’s ambition doesn’t stop at providing storage and computing power; it aims to be the “most open cloud in the era of AI,” turning AI development into a walk in the park for everyone.

Alibaba is trying to make AI staple in muiltiple sectors

Alibaba Cloud has a history of focusing on efficiency, as seen in its role as a major sponsor of the Olympic Games since 2017. This drive is likely what’s underpinning its dedication to make AI easily accessible and affordable. It’s not just selling computing resources; it’s selling ease and efficiency.

Alibaba

But why does Alibaba Cloud matter to the average business or developer? Well, Alibaba is making some serious moves to make AI a staple in various sectors. At the recent Apsara Conference, the company unveiled its latest AI large language model, Tongyi Qianwen 2.0. This isn’t your average chatbot-trainer; it’s a high-capacity model that aims to perform well across a range of applications, from language understanding to arithmetic problem-solving.

What’s unique here is the company’s focus on generative AI via its GenAI Service Platform, allowing businesses to develop specialized AI models easily. This move has immense potential to democratize AI capabilities, making it more accessible for even small companies. In a rapidly shifting digital landscape, Alibaba Cloud’s commitment to open-source resources and tailored AI solutions could well be a game-changer.

But the road isn’t all easy for Alibaba. The tech giant is currently in a state of corporate restructuring, facing tough competition and an ever-changing internet ecosystem. Despite these challenges, its drive towards digital transformation is stronger than ever by being the first large-scale internet company to shift all of its businesses to the cloud.

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Android 13 Overtakes Android 11 to Become Most Widely Used Version of OS, Thanks to Faster Update Rollouts

Android continues to be the most popular operating system in the world. It is used on a wide range of devices, from smartphones to tablets, and even in cafe automation systems. In fact, it is used by literally billions of devices. However, unlike Apple’s iOS, these devices are divided among various versions of the operating system. For example, the usage rate of Android 9 is still close to 11% today. The primary reason for this is the differences in how manufacturers handle updates. Fortunately, the latest data shows that this issue has been resolving. Android 13 is now the most popular version of the OS. Here are the details…

Android 13 Becomes Most Popular Version of OS, a Year After Release

When it comes to software updates, it wouldn’t be entirely wrong to say that Android smartphone manufacturers have been falling short. There are millions of phones developed by numerous different manufacturers, and they often struggle to meet specific standards when it comes to updating Android to different versions. However, Google and manufacturers have been working on solving this issue that has been bothering users for a long time. Recently, Google updated the Android version distribution statistics, revealing the progress in the industry.

Android

When we look at Google’s published Android version distribution statistics, we can see that Android 13 is now the most popular version, taking the top spot. The operating system has increased its market share from 15% to 22.4% since the last update in May. Considering that only five months have passed, this is a significant achievement. It is estimated that not only newly sold phones but also existing models in the market have received these updates.

In the second position on the list, we have Android 12, which has declined from 16.3% to 15.8%. The still quite popular Android 11 has also decreased from 23.1% to 21.6%. Unfortunately, Android’s most significant challenge remains its update process. Older devices often continue to be used for years without upgrading to the latest versions. This situation not only disappoints users but also creates security vulnerabilities. For those curious, here’s the rest of the list:

Android 13: 15% -> 22.4%

  • Android 12: 16.3% -> 15.8%
  • Android 11: 23.1% -> 21.6%
  • Android 10: 17.8% -> 16.1%
  • Android 9: 11.9% -> 10.5%
  • Android 8.1: 6.1% -> 5.4%
  • Android 8: 2.2% -> 1.9%
  • Android 7.1: 1.5% -> 1.3%
  • Android 7: 1.5% -> 1.3%
  • Android 6: 2.3% -> 1.9%
  • Android 5.1: 1.5% -> 1.2%
  • Android 5: 0.3% -> 0.2%
  • Android 4.4: 0.5% -> 0.4%

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Rivian Ends Free Charging, will Introduce Pricing Plans for Customers Soon

Rivian, the electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer, has recently notified its customers that free charging on its Rivian Adventure Network (RAN) will soon be a thing of the past. Starting in early November, all RAN charging points will no longer be free, and billing will be initiated. Although specific price details are yet to be disclosed, Rivian assures that the user experience will remain unchanged, with charges automatically billed to Rivian accounts, much like Tesla’s Supercharging network.

The changes will be incorporated in early November

The timing of this announcement seems to highlight a larger story: Rivian’s struggle to keep pace with its ambitious promises. When RAN was announced in 2021, Rivian promised that by the end of 2023, it would host over 3,500 individual fast-charging stalls and more than 600 sites in the U.S. and Canada. As of now, the actual number of DC fast charging sites is approximately 60, exclusively in the U.S.

Rivian

So, what does the end of free charging signify? For one, it could be an indicator that Rivian is adjusting its business model to generate revenue from its infrastructure, perhaps as a way to speed up the expansion of RAN. With free charging, the incentive for Rivian to invest in its network may have been diminished. Charging fees could serve as a new income stream that helps Rivian fulfill its original promises.

This move also aligns Rivian more closely with the broader EV market. It was previously announced that Rivian would eventually open up its RAN to other brands, offering special rates for Rivian vehicle owners. The implementation of fees may be a precursor to this planned diversification.

While Rivian’s charging network may still be in its nascent stage, the end of free charging could be a strategic adjustment, perhaps even a necessary one, to keep pace with the fast-moving EV market. Rivian appears to be setting the groundwork for long-term sustainability, but only time will tell if this change will help the company reach its lofty goals.

Interestingly, Rivian is also shifting to a new charging standard in 2025, adopting Tesla-developed North American Charging Standard (NACS) plugs. This could signal a broader strategy of compatibility and market entry, as Rivian looks ahead to a hopefully promising future.

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