A couple of weeks back, Samsung debuted the Galaxy S23 FE in China. The latest ‘Fan Edition’ smartphone arrives with two different chipsets, namely Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 and Exynos 2200.
In China, the device comes with the Snapdragon SoC compared to India where it features the Exynos chip. Additionally, it is also more affordable in the former country.
Days after its announcement in China, it is now finally up for sale in the region.
Samsung Galaxy S23 FE China launch offers include freebies and more
The Samsung Galaxy S23 FE is offered in the following two memory configurations in China.
8GB + 128GB – ¥4,399 (~$600)
8GB + 256GB – ¥4,899 (~$670)
Launch offers include a free 25W charger, a case, a screen protector, and a 1-year free screen replacement. Customers can also opt for either a free pair of Galaxy Buds 2, 12 months of no-cost EMI, or an exchange bonus of ¥400 ($55).
Talking about specs, the Galaxy S23 FE is built around a 6.4-inch FHD+ 120Hz AMOLED display. It sports a triple camera system comprising a 50MP primary sensor, an 8MP 3x telephoto shooter, and a 12MP ultrawide unit. On the front, it has a 10MP selfie camera.
The phone is IP68-rated for dust and water resistance. It offers support for Samsung DeX, Samsung Wallet, 15W wireless charging, and reverse wireless charging. Finally, it features a USB 3.2 Gen 1 port and draws energy from a 4,500mAh battery.
Vivo has officially unveiled its latest iteration of its Android OS based OriginOS custom skin. The new version is dubbed the OriginOS 4, which was announced during the 2023 Vivo Developer conference. So here’s everything you need to know.
Vivo OriginOS 4 Features
The Chinese tech giant released its custom Android 14 based skin with a new customized font. For those unaware, OriginOS is the China exclusive custom skin, unlike the FunTouchOS platform in the global market. OriginOS arrives with the new screen off and lock screen customizations (basically lets you personalize ock screen clock style, offering various layouts and font styles). Another new feature is the Vivo Smart Car 4.0 technology, which improves car connectivity and offers features like voice controlled navigation, music, and calling control among other things. Through this feature, users also get access to the Parking assistant features that help easy navigation to nearby parking lots. It also simplifies payments and offers instant location recognition.
Since it’s based on Android 14, you also get access to the latest software upgrades of the platform. Furthermore, the company is introducing new features that will make life easier for the users in both their professional and personal lives. This includes the Vivo Office suite, full link conference assistant, a trip planning assistant, and the Family Health manager. OriginOS 4 brings brand-new wallpapers along with new additions like a virtual graphics card, Unfair Scheduling 2.0 technology, Memory Fisoon 4.0 technology, and Quick Start.
The software has improved Smooth Envision which optimizes system performance by lowering persistent processes and improved RAM utilization. It also adds up to 600MB of extra RAM space for devices with 8GB or more. With the App Retainer, users can whitelist certain apps to make sure they seamlessly enter their crucial apps exactly where they left off. The brand is offering enhancements in multitasking with an upgraded small window feature, supporting up to 12 active windows and side-swipe suspension. Other notable features include improved animation smoothness along with new functionalities.
Colorful Technology, a brand that specializes in graphics cards, motherboards, gaming solutions, and storage, has launched the CVN B760I Frozen Wi-Fi D5 mini-ITX motherboard. This motherboard is designed for small-form-factor PC enthusiasts who want to build a compact PC with the latest 14th-gen Intel Core processors and faster DDR5 memory.
Colorful CVN B760I Frozen motherboard design, key features
Colorful CVN B760I Frozen motherboard
The CVN B760I Frozen features a new design with frosted glass VRM thermal armor and noticeable CVN laser lettering. It includes holographic elements that change colors at different angles. Behind the VRM thermal armor, it features a high-performance PWM 30mm fan for heat dissipation, allowing the motherboard to support the power of 14th Gen Intel Core i7 and i9 processors.
The Colorful CVN B760I Frozen supports 14th Gen, 13th Gen, and 12th Gen Intel Core processors, an Intel B760 chipset, dual-channel DDR5 memory support up to 96GB capacity (up to DDR5-8000 with overclocking support), a 7+1+1 Power Phase Design with Dr. MOS 90A, a metal PCIe 5.0 x16 slot, dual high-speed PCIe 4.0 M.2 slots (with M.2 Cooling Armor for the front slot), Wi-Fi 6, BT, and Realtek 2.5 Gigabit LAN. The motherboard adheres to a mini-ITX form factor, with compact dimensions measuring 170mm x 170mm.
The CVN B760I Frozen motherboard’s memory capabilities include 2x DDR5 DIMM sockets in a dual-channel configuration with support for XMP. A single memory module can support a capacity of up to 48GB, while the total memory capacity can reach up to 96 GB. The motherboard also boasts impressive DDR5 memory support at speeds ranging from 4800MHz to 7600MHz (with overclocking support).
Storage options include support for 4x SATA 6GB/s and 2x PCIe 4.0 x4 M.2 SSDs (with a note that the M.2 SSDs do not support SATA). In terms of expansion, there is one PCIe 5.0 x 16 slot available. The internal connectors include a 24-pin ITX power connector, an 8-pin CPU power connector, and 2x front USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A ports, along with 1x front USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-C port and 2x front USB 2.0 ports.
Colorful CVN B760I Frozen motherboard
As for I/O ports, the motherboard features 4x USB 2.0 ports, 2x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A ports, 1x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-C port, an HDMI port, and a DP (DisplayPort) port. It also comes equipped with a 5.1-channel high-definition audio codec for audio needs.
Colorful has not disclosed the price of the CVN B760I Frozen motherboard. However, it has been confirmed that it will be available to partner resellers in the fourth quarter of this year.
The Vivo S series is the company’s mid-range smartphone lineup targeted mostly at the female audience. These devices are known to offer excellent selfie cameras and eye-catching designs.
The current-gen Vivo S17 lineup was released in June. Since these phones are updated every 6 months, the Vivo S18 series should go official by the end of the year.
Hence, we are not surprised to learn that one of the upcoming models has already been certified.
A new Vivo smartphone with model number V2323A has been certified by 3C. As per the listing, the device will carry support for 80W wired charging.
ITHome suggests that this handset could go official as Vivo S18. But as of now, there’s no concrete proof for this claim.
For the unaware, the Vivo S series phones with some changes are sold outside mainland China as Vivo V series. The upcoming Vivo V30 and Vivo V30 Pro were recently spotted in the GSMA IMEI Database.
The Vivo V30 and the Vivo V2323A (alleged Vivo S18) could be the same. We will have to wait for more details to pop up via leaks and certifications to confirm this.
Rumors say that the Vivo S18 will be powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 8300 chipset. It will be equipped with an OIS-assisted main camera and a telephoto camera for portraits. Finally, it will ship with the latest OriginOS 4 based on Android 14.
Vivo has finally confirmed the launch date of the Vivo X100 series. The brand released the below poster to reveal that the photography-focused flagships, the Vivo X100 and X100 Pro, will be announced at 7 pm (local time) on Nov. 13 in China. The Vivo Watch 3 will also be unveiled alongside the Vivo X100 series.
Vivo X100 series, Vivo Watch 3 launch date
The Vivo X100 series will feature the Dimensity 9300, which is expected to debut through MediaTek’s launch event that will take place on Nov. 6. The X100, which bears the V2309A model number, was recently benchmarked on AnTuTu with an impressive score of 2,249,858. The X100 and X100 Pro will be the first smartphones to feature LPDDRT5 RAM, which promises 13 percent improved performance over LPDDR5x RAM, which is available on almost all the recent flagship phones.
This score is higher than upcoming Snapdragon 8 Gen 3-powered flagships, such as the Realme GT 5 Pro, OnePlus 12, and Xiaomi 14 (already launched), that were spotted with respective scores, such as 2,229,696, 2,110,808, and 1,992,387 points on AnTuTu. The X100 Pro+, which will feature the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip, is expected to debut in Q1 2024.
The Vivo X100 series will come preloaded with the all-new OriginOS 4-based Android 14. Shown below is an official image that showcases the rear design of the Vivo X100. The X100 series is also confirmed to feature the Zeiss-certified Vario-APO-Sonnar lens, which is designed for periscope telephoto photography. The lineup is likely to carry a starting price of 3,999 Yuan (~$546), similar to the Xiaomi 14 series.
Vivo X100
The Vivo Watch 3 is also scheduled to launch alongside the X100 series. The brand has confirmed that it will run on the newly developed Blue OS, which will come with its own app store and offer unlimited watch face support through generative AI. It is the world’s first operating system to be written in the Rust programming language. Additionally, Blue OS has been touted as the world’s first operating system to build the system framework using the Rust programming language.
Vivo Watch 3Vivo Watch 3
Shown above are some of the images of the Vivo Watch 3, which was showcased at the recent Vivo Developers Conference (VDC) in China.
Currently, there are only three smartphones in the market featuring the Snapdragon 7+ Gen 2 chipset, namely the Realme GT Neo 5 SE, the Redmi Note 12 Turbo, and the Poco F5 5G. Notably, the Poco F5, available in the global market, is essentially a rebranded version of the Redmi Note 12 Turbo, which is exclusively available in the Chinese market. Unfortunately, the Realme GT 5 Neo SE, an appealing mid-range phone, has remained limited to the Chinese market since its launch in April 2023. Now, it is being offered at a discounted price in preparation for China’s upcoming November 11 (Double Eleven) annual shopping festival.
At present, the 12GB+256GB and 16GB+1TB variants of the GT 5 Neo 5 SE are listed for 1,699 Yuan (~$232) and 1,999 Yuan (~$273), respectively, on Realme China’s website. Both models are available in shades, such as Holy White Phantom and Extreme Shadow Black. On JD.com, the 12GB+256GB variant is listed for an even lower price of 1,499 Yuan (~$204). Here is a look at the specifications of the Realme GT 5 SE:
Realme GT Neo 5 SE specifications
The Realme GT Neo 5 SE has a 6.73-inch OLED panel that offers a 1.5K resolution and a 144Hz refresh rate. It features the Snapdragon 7+ Gen 2 chipset, LPDDR5x RAM, and UFS 3.1 storage. It runs on Realme UI 4-based Android 13 and features an in-screen fingerprint sensor for security.
The GT Neo 5 SE houses a 5,500mAh battery that supports 100W charging. On the front, it has a 16-megapixel selfie camera, and its rear shell has a 64-megapixel main camera, an 8-megapixel ultra-wide lens, and a 2-megapixel macro camera.
Following the launch of the Xiaomi 14 series, the company’s sub-brand Redmi is now gearing up to release its flagship smartphones. Dubbed the Redmi K70 series, the lineup will succeed the Redmmi K60 family.
We have been hearing about these devices for the last few weeks through leaks and certifications. One of these phones has now been certified by an Indian regulatory. Let’s go through the details.
The Redmi K70 bears the model number 2311DRK48C. The Indian version of this handset with model number 2311DRK48I has been spotted on BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards).
As per the certification, the device will be launched in the country under the Poco brand. Historically, the Redmi K series phones have been released outside mainland China as Poco F models.
Therefore, this smartphone could go official as Poco F6 in India. We would advise readers to consider this information with a pinch of salt as it is based on preliminary certification.
According to previous reports, the Redmi K70 will be powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chip. Further, it will draw energy from a 5,500mAh battery and carry support for 90W wired charging.
Xiaomi introduced the Xiaomi 14 and 14 Pro in China last week, marking them as the world’s first smartphones powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset. These devices became available for purchase at 8 pm (local time) on Oct. 31. Shortly after the Xiaomi 14 series was made accessible to buyers, the company reported remarkable sales figures from the first sale.
Xiaomi 14 series sold out in first sale
According to the brand’s Weibo post, the Xiaomi 14 series broke the previous year’s record for “first-day and full-day sales” on major Chinese online retailer platforms like Tmall, Jingdong Mall, Douyin, and Kuaishou by selling out within the first four hours of its initial sale. However, Xiaomi did not disclose the exact sales figures for the Xiaomi 14 and 14 Pro.
The brand also said that the Xiaomi 14 series achieved a remarkable sixfold increase in first-sale sales compared to the previous generation in just five minutes of making it available for purchase. Xiaoyan Wang, the VP/President for Xiaomi China, claimed that the Xiaomi Home online store experienced technical difficulties due to the overwhelming number of users purchasing the Xiaomi 14 series.
Several factors have played a role in the outstanding sales performance of the Xiaomi 14 series. These include its impressive design, which is an enhanced iteration of the Xiaomi 13 series, the incorporation of the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset, and the introduction of the all-new HyperOS user experience. Additionally, both smartphones feature a Leica-optimized Light Hunter 900 primary camera in addition to a unique Leica Summilux lens, providing a high-quality photography experience. Here is a look at the pricing of the Xiaomi 14 series.
The Xiaomi 14 series pricing is as follows: The base model with 8GB of RAM and 256GB storage is priced at ¥3,999 (~$546), the 12GB RAM + 256GB storage variant costs ¥4,299 (~$587), while the 16GB RAM + 256GB storage and 16GB RAM + 512GB storage models are available at ¥4,599 (~$628) and ¥4,999 (~$683) respectively.
On the other hand, the Xiaomi 14 Pro comes with different configurations: The 12GB RAM + 256GB storage version is priced at ¥4,999 ($683), the 16GB RAM + 256GB storage variant costs ¥5,499 (~$750), the 16GB RAM + 1TB storage model is available for ¥5,999 (~$819), and the 16GB RAM + 1TB storage variant with a titanium alloy frame is priced at ¥6,499 (~$888).
At present, there is no information available about the global launch timeframe of the 14 series.
The iQOO India CEO shared a poster today, revealing that iQOO is set to unveil the iQOO 12 in India on December 12. This smartphone will be the first in India to feature the new Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset. Here is a look at what to expect from the device.
iQOO 12 launch date for India
iQOO 12 India launch date
The poster also confirms that the device will be available for purchase on Amazon. Furthermore, it indicates that iQOO will maintain its collaboration with BMW M Motorsport to introduce a color variant that incorporates the distinctive tricolor stripes of the automotive brand.
Before arriving in India, the iQOO 12 and 12 Pro will be announced on Nov. 7 in China. Rumors are rife that the Pro model will be confined to the Chinese market, whereas the standard edition will be released in multiple markets. Here is a look at the leaked specifications of the iQOO 12.
iQOO 12 specifications
iQOO 12 live shot by DCS
As per reports, the iQOO 12 will feature a 6.78-inch flat OLED panel that offers a 1.5K resolution, a 144Hz refresh rate, up to 3,000 nits of brightness, and an optical in-screen fingerprint sensor. While the Chinese model will run on OriginOS 4, the Indian variant will have the FunTouch OS 14-based Android 14.
The Snapdragon 8 Gen 3-powered device is expected to ship with up to 16 GB of LPDDR5x RAM, 1 TB of UFS 4.0 storage, and a 5,000mAh battery with 120W fast charging support in China. It will have a 16-megapixel front camera and a 50-megapixel (OIS-enabled OmniVision OV50H) + 50-megapixel (Samsung JN1 ultra-wide) + 64-megapixel (OV64B periscope telephoto) triple camera unit.
iQOO 12 live shot by DCS
The iQOO 12 is also expected to come with a dedicated Q1 display chip for enhanced gaming, Wi-Fi 7, dual SIM 5G, Bluetooth 5.4, NFC, dual-frequency GPS, an IR blaster, dual stereo speakers, and an extra-large X-axis linear motor for haptic feedback. It is said that the white variant, which will have the BMW M Motorsport logo and tricolor stripes, will measure 8.1mm in thickness and weigh 199 grams. Like the white variant, the black edition of the iQOO 12 will have a glass black. The Chinese market will also receive a red model featuring a leather-textured back. It is likely that this model may remain exclusive to the Chinese market.
Hong Kong-based Animoca Brands is teaming up with Saudi Arabia’s smart city project, Neom, in a move that says a lot about both companies’ future plans. With a $50 million investment, this deal shows that Saudi Arabia is seriously looking at new tech like blockchain as a way to grow beyond its oil roots.
This aligns with Saudi Arabia’s plan of modernizing the country by 2030
For Animoca, known for its blockchain games, the deal is a golden opportunity to make its mark in a country that’s eager to become a tech leader. The two companies plan to work on special tech projects, known as Web3 services, that could set the stage for what tech growth looks like in Saudi Arabia. This fits perfectly with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 plan, which is all about modernizing the country.
What’s interesting is how the money is changing hands. Part of the funding will be in convertible notes, which are like IOUs that can later be turned into shares. The rest will be through buying shares outright. This mix-and-match approach could be a new way for tech companies to get funding in the future.
But the deal is more than just about money and tech. Saudi Arabia is clearly keen on strengthening its ties with China, as Animoca is a big tech player in Hong Kong. Given that China is Saudi Arabia’s largest trading partner, this partnership might be a smart play for both tech growth and international relations.
Yat Siu, the co-founder of Animoca, sees the deal as a sign of mutual respect and shared goals for a tech-driven future. Although Neom hasn’t shared many details about how it plans to use this new tech, it’s obvious that the project has big ambitions—especially since they’ve been hiring experts in the area.
Nowadays, kids are using smart devices for longer period than expected, sometimes spending the entire day on their phones or tablets. As they have been exposed to and used advanced tech products more frequently than before, their expectations have also increased beyond simple products. Therefore, kids’ headphones are here not only to protect their ears but also to provide something unique specifically designed for them. Let’s now take a look at the iClever BTH12 Headphones.
Package
The packaging is really simple, nothing too fancy about it, but it does have a unicorn icon on the both sides that kids definitely love. Inside the box, there are headphones, a charging cable, a 3.5mm headphone jack, and a user manual. Surprisingly, the manual is in multiple languages along with the distributor’s information on the box, indicating that these headphones are very popular in many countries – which is the first sign of reliability.
Safe ListeningFeature
Let’s talk about the most important feature first, which is the output limitation or volume limitation. According to some researches, children aged 8-18 have an average of seven hours of daily entertainment and media consumption. Prolonged exposure to unsafe noise levels has the potential to damage a person’s hearing. The World Health Organization recommends listening to media at no higher than 85 dbA (roughly 60% of device volume) for no more than 60 minutes at a time. Unlike regular headphones that usually have a higher cap on volume, these headphones offer three adjustable levels: 74dB, 85dB, and a maximum of 94dB. This special setting is designed for young boys and girls as their bodies are not fully grown yet; louder sound could harm their hearing. In actual use, the volume up and down buttons are easily accessible with the left hand, even for kids who don’t require much learning curve. When reaching the lowest or highest volume level either from the device or through the headphones themselves, there is a notification sound so that kids can easily be aware of these limitations. During several tests conducted on laptops and phones, it was found that the volume buttons are compatible with system settings; therefore parents should not worry about sounds getting louder than advertised as they are regulated.
iClever Safe Listening Program
Backed by such good performance in children’s hearing protection, they have a charity program to support teachers and children. The iClever Safe Listening Program is designed to promote healthy listening habits and protect children’s hearing at school. By registering for the program, schools can receive free headphones with safe-volume limits that are specially designed to help prevent hearing damage. Once registration is complete, iClever will send a set of free headphones to the school along with an informational packet about safe listening habits. You can visit the website to participate in this program or just click here.
Structure
The headphones themselves, I wouldn’t say they are much smaller than regular ones for adults, but the ear cups are slightly shrunken. They weigh slightly less than adult ones, but the materials used are of high quality as they feel quite soft and sturdy to the touch. The headband is not as lengthy, but it supports 4 levels of adjustment; to some extent, it fits bigger kids or even adults. The mechanism sounds crisp and once the racks are in position, they do not rattle or make any sound; therefore, they won’t easily break when falling, twisting, folding and retracting. By the way, the ear cups and headband have soft leather and well-padded cushions; however, please note that the ear cups are not easily replaceable.
The button design is quite simple, with no touch control so kids can better understand and use them. On the left ear, there are no buttons at all. On the right ear, there are five buttons including the power toggle, volume up and down, pause/play, and LED light control. Additionally, it features a Type-C port and a 3.5mm headphone jack. This is actually a thoughtful design since kids usually don’t have a full sense of what they would do; therefore, physical buttons are more accessible to them.
However, these headphones do not support simultaneous multi-device wireless connection; one device must opt out before another one tries to connect. Thankfully, there is an integrated 3.5mm headphone jack in case kids can’t figure out how to connect the device via Bluetooth – this could be a useful function for small children.
Now that the headphones are foldable, it can be a very useful design for kids because not only are their heads and hands smaller, but also their school bags and tables are not that big. So imagine them using these on the go or putting them on the table and in their school bags; bulky headphones clearly don’t fit. Having such reasonably-sized headphones with a foldable design should be good for kids. Another benefit is that when folded, they are unlikely to break. You know kids – they usually don’t know how to keep things protected and organized.
Another two highlights are the LED lights and super long battery life. There are several LEDs under the panel flashing out different colors. One click on the dedicated button can make the lights be either multi-colored, flowing, or glittering. Moreover, the headphones support 55 hours of playtime, even longer than some regular headphones out there. With fast charging through the Type-C port, they claim that just 10 minutes gives you 7 hours of playtime – that’s the best level we have seen so far.
Sound Quality
In terms of sound quality, it is actually very good. When I tried to watch some cartoons, everything performed just right: the characters’ speaking and singing were very clear, and the instruments playing in the background were also well separated. However, if your kid is a promising rock star who likes to listen to electronic or pop songs, you may find that drum or guitar sounds along with human singing might be more enhanced than expected. Therefore, I would suggest setting the volume at a moderate level to enjoy music and such. As for bass performance, it is decent and definitely not over-the-top; kids would love this as well.
Safe Material
The last thing worth mentioning here is that BPA and PVC-free materials are used on these headphones which supports retailer licensing information on packaging and ensures safety for children.
Verdict
Children love being able to watch shows, listen to their favorite music, and play online games with their friends. This way they can have fun while the adults enjoy some peace and quiet. These headphones are great for helping kids focus when they’re learning online and need to listen to lessons while blocking out other noises in the house. Additionally, there is an integrated microphone so they can communicate with teachers and friends. Based on my experience, these headphones are reliable, provide good sound quality, and offer many attractive features. If you want to learn more about this brand or the product, please check their website or visit the Amazon store. Thanks!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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.
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 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.
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
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 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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