BYD Set to Dominate European Public Transport in 2024

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Oct 12, 2023

BYD continues to expand its product range. Currently being the world’s largest electric vehicle manufacturer, the company aims to both enter different markets and widen the gap with competitors like Tesla and Xpeng. In line with this, BYD unveiled a new electric city bus and double-decker coach at the Busworld trade fair. Here are the details…

BYD Unveils Next-Gen Electric City Bus and Double-Decker Coach

BYD has unveiled two new electric bus innovations at the Busworld trade fair in Brussels, Belgium: an electric double-decker coach and a new generation of its 12-metre city bus. The new electric double-decker coach is approximately 14 meters long and has a maximum capacity of 80 passengers. It is powered by BYD’s Blade Battery, which is integrated into the chassis to save space. The coach has a range of up to 600 kilometers on a single charge.

The new generation of the eBus B12 is the first model under BYD’s own brand to feature the integrated Blade Battery chassis. The eBus B12 has a maximum battery capacity of 500 kWh and a range of up to 600 kilometers. Both of the new buses are equipped with BYD’s latest electric vehicle technology, including its intelligent driving assistance system and its vehicle-to-everything (V2X) communication system.

The new electric double-decker coach is expected to be available in Europe in early 2024. The new generation of the eBus B12 is expected to be available in Europe in mid-2024. BYD’s new electric buses are expected to play a major role in the transition to a more sustainable transportation system.

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Rogbid Rowatch 5S smartwatch for women launched for $49.99

By

Jed John Ikoba

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Oct 12, 2023

Rogbid has announced the Rowatch 5S smartwatch designed exclusively for women. The Rogbid Rowatch 5S is being tagged as a device that redefines the elegance already connected with the Rogbid smartwatch lineup.

The Rowatch 5S is crafted with precision and features a petal-shaped frame adorned with sparkling zirconia stones. The new female-centered smartwatch is as charming and elegant as it can get. It blends sophistication with technology. Rogbid says the Rowatch 5S is more than just a smartwatch. It is a symbol of innovation, elegance, grace, fashion, and functionality. The exquisite time masterpiece is meticulously designed to leave a lasting impression on the user.

The Rogbid Rowatch 5S comes in charming colors like pink, silver, and gold while strap options are steel and silicon. It features a 1.2-inch screen with a resolution of 240 x 240 pixels. The size of the smartwatch is perfectly tailored to fit snugly to the woman’s wrist. Bluetooth connectivity is supported with the smartwatch to enable smart Bluetooth calling. It also has call history tracking, contact synchronization, and 100+ sports modes. The Rowatch 5S has sensors that support activity tracking and health monitoring. These include heart rate, SpO2, menstrual cycles, sleep patterns, and reminders.

Prices & Availability

The Rowatch 5S has a 200mAh battery that provides up to 15 days of runtime. The gadget can be used as a remote camera control and has voice assistant support. The Rogbid Rowatch 5S carries an original retail price tag of $49.99 and is now available at Rogbid’s official store.

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Xiaomi Moves Towards an Ad-Free User Experience, But There Is a Catch!

By

Oğuz Çakır

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Oct 12, 2023

Xiaomi is one of the most diverse technology companies in the world, with products ranging from smartphones to electric vehicles to smart washing machines. Of course, one of these is smart TVs, which have become an essential part of our homes, and Chinese tech giant is a major player in this market. Xiaomi makes money from both the sale of smart TVs and the ads displayed on them. However, recently, manufacturers, including Xiaomi, have been forced to update their TV policies to give users the option to disable boot-up ads. Here are the details..

Xiaomi Gives Users Option to Disable Boot-Up Ads

For a long time, Xiaomi has been attracting users’ attention with its affordable products. However, the company compensates for the money it doesn’t make during sales by displaying ads to the users of its products later on. For instance, up until recently in China (and likely in other parts of the world as well), Xiaomi TV users were forced to watch a short advertisement when they first turned on their TV.

This practice was often met with frustration as it was unexpected and disrupted the user’s viewing experience. Moreover, this revenue model is being adopted by many manufacturers and is becoming increasingly widespread. However, the winds of change began to blow when legal and consumer pressures started mounting against such practices.

As a result, the Consumer Protection Committee of Jiangsu Province had previously called for several smart TV brands to offer a “one-click close” option for their startup advertisements. Naturally, this practice became widespread, and one by one, smart TV manufacturers began offering users the option to disable mandatory advertisements.

Now, Xiaomi TVs are also said to be providing the choice to “turn off the startup advertisement.” To do this, users need only contact customer service. They are informed that they can speak to a live customer representative via the Xiaomi Mall App and provide their TV’s MAC address. After this, it’s expected that within 2-3 business days, the startup advertisements will be turned off.

As consumer demands and local regulations change, Xiaomi and other manufacturers are taking steps to balance their business interests with consumer rights. This is important because the tech landscape is constantly evolving.

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Keychron M3 4K wireless mouse launched in China for 328 yuan ($45)

By

Soumyakanti

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Oct 12, 2023

Keychron has unveiled its latest offering, the M3 4K triple-mode wireless mouse, available for purchase at 328 yuan ($45). Set to go on sale tonight, the M3 4K mouse boasts a 4000Hz polling rate, ensuring heightened sensitivity and responsiveness. It’s powered by the high-end PAW3395 sensor chip and features Kailh GM8.0 micro switches, ensuring a durability of 80 million clicks.

Keychron M3 4K Mouse Key Features:

The mouse supports a variety of connectivity options, including 2.4GHz wireless, Bluetooth 5.1, and wired connections. The inclusion of a Nordic controller and a 600mAh battery promises prolonged usage. Both DPI and polling rates are adjustable, offering users the flexibility to tweak according to their preferences. This mouse is not only suited for office work but also excels in gaming scenarios, given its high-end sensor which can achieve up to 26,000 DPI and 650 IPS, delivering unmatched precision.

In terms of design, the M3 4K is ergonomically crafted for comfort, especially during extended use. The side grip pattern only adds to the gripping experience. It’s also notably lightweight, weighing in at just 79g, making it easy to use for prolonged periods. The 4K version of the mouse can be paired with an included 4K wireless receiver, which can be connected via a Type-C cable. The polling rate can be easily switched among various levels, ranging from 125 Hz to 4000 Hz in the 2.4 GHz mode.

For those who like to further customize their mouse settings, the Keychron Engine software provides advanced customization options. This software will soon be available for macOS users in November. The battery life of the M3 is impressive, with up to 135 hours on the 4K version in 1K polling rate mode and 40 hours in 4K polling rate mode. The mouse also features a fully customizable RGB light, an external DPI & polling rate adjustment, and a durable build material of ABS.

Keychron also launched the M2 wireless mouse in China recently at a price of 228 yuan ($31).

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Chinese startup Haomo.AI unveils affordable Advanced Driver Assistance kits to boost Smart Driving

By

Joane

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Oct 12, 2023

Chinese autonomous driving technology startup Haomo.AI, backed by Great Wall Motor, has revealed a groundbreaking series of Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) kits set to revolutionize the smart driving industry in China. Unveiled at the 9th AI Day event, the three kits – HP170, HP370, and HP570 – come at a remarkably low cost, promising to accelerate the widespread adoption of intelligent driving features across the country.

Haomo.AI’s ADAS kits, priced as low as $410, are set to dramatically lower the barriers to smart driving technology. The HP170 kit, priced between $400 and $550, enables autonomous driving on highways and expressways, featuring automatic emergency braking and short-distance memory parking. The HP370, priced from $700 to $800, extends support to city driving with intelligent obstacle avoidance capabilities. Lastly, the HP570, ranging from $1000 to R$1250, offers automatic driving on urban roads and comprehensive parking assistance.

What sets Haomo’s ADAS kits apart is not just their affordability but also their performance. With computing power ranging from 5 Tops to 100 Tops and a sophisticated sensor system, these kits promise robust assistance without relying on high-definition maps. This innovation aligns with Haomo’s vision to capitalize on the expected 70 percent penetration of smart driving features in China by 2025.

The introduction of these low-cost ADAS kits marks a significant advancement in the autonomous driving sector. Haomo.AI’s chairman, Zhang Kai, stated that the second-generation HPilot passenger car ADAS products are slated for integration into production vehicles in 2023 and 2024. Haomo.AI aims to leverage these affordable solutions to target the rapidly growing smart driving market, intending to enhance the penetration of Level 2 and above assisted driving features in China.

The move towards smart driving technology reflects the broader trend in China’s automotive industry. The China Passenger Car Association reported that 35 percent of pure electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles delivered in the first half of 2023 were equipped with autonomous driving systems equivalent to Level 2 or higher. Analysts believe that the demand for intelligent vehicles in China, driven by factors such as congested roads and long urban commutes, has expedited the mainstream adoption of self-driving systems.

Haomo.AI’s investor, Great Wall Motor, China’s largest sport utility vehicle (SUV) maker, supports the startup’s vision for the future of automotive intelligence. The company’s plans to expand abroad, including establishing an electric car assembly plant in Vietnam by 2025, signify the global impact of China’s innovative strides in the electric and smart vehicle industry.

Haomo.AI’s affordable ADAS kits are poised to transform the way China drives, ushering in an era of intelligent and accessible mobility solutions.

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JioBharat B1 feature phone with inbuilt UPI, 2.4-inch display & 4G connectivity launched in India

By

Sudhanshu

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Oct 12, 2023

Indian telecom giant, Jio, has introduced the JioBharat B1 feature phone, expanding its array of user-friendly, budget-friendly devices. The new feature phone is designed with a specific focus on tier 3 users in India. With its larger display and enhanced battery life, the JioBharat B1 offers an affordable gateway to video content and UPI payments via the JioPay app.

The design of the JioBharat B1 blends matte and glossy elements. The matte finish covers the back panel, clad with the iconic Jio logo. On the other hand, the glossy visor-like camera module accommodates a single QVGA camera and a loudspeaker grille.

What sets the JioBharat B1 apart from its predecessors is its large 2.4-inch display, perfect for enjoying video content with 4G connectivity. The phone is powered by a substantial 2,000mAh battery, ensuring an extended usage period on a single charge.

In line with the JioBharat tradition, the JioBharat B1 comes pre-loaded with apps like JioCinema, JioSaavn & JioPay (UPI). The device also supports 23 native languages for reading and boasts the convenience of the JioPay app for UPI payments and QR code scanning.

Pricing & availability

The JioBharat B1 feature phone is available in a sleek black color and can be conveniently acquired from Amazon or official Jio outlets, all for a pocket-friendly price of just Rs 1,299. To unlock the full potential of this feature phone, Jio users need to opt for a recharge plan of Rs 123 or higher.

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Record salaries in China’s AI sector amidst rising youth unemployment

By

Joane

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Oct 12, 2023

In a challenging job market, Chinese university graduates have found a lucrative haven in the artificial intelligence (AI) industry, according to a recent report by Chinese recruitment platform Liepin.

The study reveals that AI-related jobs are offering unprecedented average monthly salaries of $2600, marking a 40% increase over the past three years. This surge in AI industry salaries has been attributed to the intense demand for generative AI skills, driven by the competition to develop services similar to ChatGPT.

Following closely behind AI, blockchain-related positions emerged as the second most lucrative choice, accompanied by roles in elderly care services, aviation, aerospace equipment, and communication devices, all offering competitive salaries ranging from $2000 to $2300.

The report underscores the nationwide talent war, with cities such as Xian and Hefei intensifying their investments in the tech sector. Compensation has become a pivotal tool for attracting graduates, making them focal points for cities aiming to bolster their workforce.

Information technology, the internet, and video gaming continue to be popular fields for graduates, although there has been a shift in interest towards roles in electronics, telecommunications, and semiconductors, with the number of CV submissions nearly doubling from 2021 levels.

Despite a slight dip in the average salary for university graduates in 2023 compared to the previous year, the decline has been attributed to macroeconomic uncertainties. However, salaries still surpass those of 2021, reflecting the overall resilience of the job market amidst economic challenges.

When considering cities, Beijing leads the pack with the highest average salary of $1800, followed by Shanghai, Shenzhen, and Hangzhou, home to tech giants like Baidu and Meituan. This trend highlights the concentration of high-paying job opportunities in major urban centers.

The rapid growth in the AI and blockchain sectors mirrors global trends. However, these technologies also present challenges, including the displacement of certain jobs and ethical considerations.

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Polar Vantage V3 smartwatch with 1.39” AMOLED display, and 8 days battery life unveiled

By

Jed John Ikoba

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Oct 12, 2023

The Polar Vantage V3 smartwatch has been released. The design and features of the new Polar smartwatch fit closely with earlier leaks on the smartwatch. The Vantage V3 comes with a 1.39-inch AMOLED screen with a resolution of 454 x 454 pixels. The Vantage V3 is the successor to the Vantage V2 smartwatch series and it comes in Sunrise Apricot, Sky Blue, and Night Black color options.

Features

The Polar Vantage V3 weighs 39g and is 14.5mm thick. The watch strap adds slightly to the overall weight of the smartwatch. The new Vantage V3 smartwatch is up to 35% more visible than the Vantage V2. It delivers up to 8 days of battery life and has a smaller battery than its predecessor. Apart from the standard mode, the smartwatch can operate for up to 53 hours with the optical heart rate (OHR) and dual-frequency GPS functional. The Vantage V3 comes with a lower-performance CPU than the V2 and features dual-frequency GPS.

The Vantage V3 comes with a health monitoring suite that includes ECG and skin temperature sensors. It has 5ATM water resistance and is already open for pre-orders.

Pricing & Availability

The Polar Vantage V3 smartwatch is available for $599.95 for all the color options. The earliest deliveries will be from October 25 but a pre-order can be made via the Polar website. Polar has also provided a full technical comparison of the two models. There are no global availability details yet for the Polar Vantage V3 smartwatch.

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CMF Buds Pro gets its first update with polish to sound quality and other features

By

Sudhanshu

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Oct 12, 2023

Nothing recently unveiled its first products under the CMF sub-brand, namely the CMF Watch Pro & CMF Buds Pro. Today, the brand released the first set of updates for these new products. The new update for the CMF Buds Pro comes bearing version number:1.0.1.189.

The new update includes many improvements and optimizations to make the sound and overall user experience much more polished. The update optimizes prompt tone experience, improves find my earbuds function, enhances in-ear detection (single earbud), better post-call sound in gaming scenarios, improves Google Fast Pair connection, and smoother ANC mode switching during calls.

CMF Buds Pro specs

The CMF Buds Pro offers several key features and specifications. These include hybrid active noise cancellation (ANC) with a substantial 45-decibel noise reduction, ensuring a quieter listening experience. Clear call technology enhances call quality, while a robust bass boost feature delivers powerful audio.

Each earbud contains a 55mAh battery, offering up to 11 hours of audio playback without ANC, and the accompanying charging case extends this to 39 hours. For those in a hurry, a quick 10-minute charge provides 5 hours of music playback. The earbuds come with a unique, round, pebble-like charging case, and their design features stem and in-ear fitting. Users can customize sound settings and touch controls through the Nothing X app. The CMF Buds Pro is available in gray, white, and orange color options.

In related news, the CMF Watch Pro has also received its first update with polish to the UI, and fitness tracking. You can read more about it by clicking the link.

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Yamaha Motoroid 2 self-balancing electric motorcycle unveiled

By

Jed John Ikoba

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Oct 12, 2023

Yamaha has released the Motoroid 2 self-balancing electric motorcycle. The new Yamaha Motoroid electric motorcycle comes without handlebars and is a refinement of the Motoroid concept bike announced in 2017.

Yamaha Motoroid 2 – A Cool Concept That’s Likely a Vaporware

The Yamaha Motoroid 2 is a small, weird-looking, and self-balancing electric motorcycle. It features the basic design of a traditional motorcycle but with innovative features included. The rear swingarm of the bike provides suspension support, as well as incorporates a rear pivot. The pivot makes it possible for the rear half of the bike to lean independently on the front. The bike is powered by a rear hub motor and an underslung battery provides the range.

The Motoroid 2 does not have handlebars which are a critical component of traditional bikes. It rather features rigid hand grips for the rider to just hang on. The front fork provides steering activity for the bike. The dynamics of the front fork operation are in tandem with the pivoting rear swingarm for steering activity. The Motoroid 2 is a self-balancing bike and can potentially operate riderless. It can use facial recognition and gesture control to follow a person around when operating riderless.

The Motoroid 2 concept will be on display during the Japan Mobility Show 2023 next month. It has blue mood-lighting accents on the bodywork and this is raised up to the faux tank region. The bike has a large centerstand which drops down when the motorbike slows down for parking. The stand also rises up automatically when the bike starts riding again. There are no specifics yet on the release date for the Yamaha Motoroid 2.

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In Collaboration with TVS, BMW’s CE 02 Enters Manufacturing Phase in India

By

Oğuz Çakır

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Oct 12, 2023

India is steadily advancing towards becoming one of the world’s most prominent production hubs. Almost every week, another manufacturer is either starting production in the country or expanding their existing investments. For instance, we recently mentioned that even Apple is considering producing the iPhone 15 in the region to reduce its dependency on China. Now, BMW, which produces through partnerships in India, has started manufacturing its electric scooter named CE 02. Here are the details…

BMW and TVS Collaborate: India Welcomes CE 02 Electric Scooter Production

BMW has started producing the CE 02 electric scooter in India in collaboration with TVS Motor. The CE 02 is equipped with an electric motor that delivers a maximum output of 11 kilowatts. On a single charge, it can cover a distance of 90 kilometers and reach a top speed of 95 kilometers per hour.

The scooter boasts a contemporary design, featuring a prominent LED headlight, a digital dashboard, and a flat seating area. Additionally, it is outfitted with several safety measures such as ABS and traction control. The BMW CE 02 is expected to be a popular choice for urban commuters in India and other markets. It is affordable, practical, and environmentally friendly. It is also a stylish and fun-to-ride scooter.

Price & availability

Pricing and availability for the BMW CE 02 in India has yet to be confirmed. However, based on the pricing in other markets, we can expect it to start at around $7,500 USD. It is likely to be launched in limited quantities in 2024.

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Redmi Note 13 series closing in on its global launch, appeared on IMDA

By

Anurag

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Oct 12, 2023

The Redmi Note 13 series was unveiled last month in China. Similar to last year, the lineup includes three phones— Note 13, Note 13 Pro, and the Note 13 Pro Plus. While the vanilla model is for those of you who are looking for a budget phone, the Pro phones are aimed at more premium buyers. These phones have yet to make their debut in the global market, but it seems we won’t have to wait for long as the series has obtained IMDA certification.

Mukul Sharma has spotted two Redmi Note 13 series smartphones on Singapore’s IMDA website. The smartphone with model number 2312DRAABG appears to be the standard Redmi Note 13, and the 2312RA50G might be the Note 13 Pro or Pro Plus. The listing did not reveal any details about the two phones, but it suggests a global launch might be imminent. There’s no official confirmation from Xiaomi as of yet, but the Note 13 series might make its global debut early next year.

Redmi Note 13 Series Specs round up

The standard Note 13 comes with a 6.67-inch AMOLED display, offering a refresh rate of 120Hz. It is powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 6080 SoC paired with up to 12GB of RAM and 256GB of inbuilt storage. There’s a 100MP primary sensor, a 2MP macro shooter, and a 16MP selfie camera. The phone gets a 5,000mAh battery with 33W wired fast charging support.

The Redmi Note 13 Pro and Pro Plus bring a 6.67-inch 1.5K full-HD+ AMOLED panel with a refresh rate of 120Hz and Corning Gorilla Glass Victus protection. The Pro model is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 chipset while the Pro Plus gets the Dimensity 7200 Ultra chip under the hood. Both phones get up to 16GB RAM and 512GB of onboard storage.

The two phones get a 200MP Samsung ISOCELL HP3 primary rear sensor with optical image stabilization (OIS), an 8MP sensor with an ultra-wide angle lens, a 2MP macro sensor at the back, and a 16-megapixel sensor at the front. The Note 13 Pro has a 5,100mAh battery with 67W fast charging support. Note 13 Pro Plus (full review), on the other hand, gets a 5,000mAh battery with 120W fast charging support.

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TikTok’s Revamped Rewards Program looks towards Helping Emerging Creators

By

Anubhav

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Oct 12, 2023

TikTok has updated its Effect Creator Rewards program, with a blog post detailing a more accessible entry threshold and a rejigged payment system. Initially rolled out in May with a $6 million fund, the program financially compensated creators for designing filters, effects, and mini-games.

Creators previously had to be featured in at least half a million videos before becoming eligible

Before, to become eligible for the program, creators needed to have their filters featured in at least 500,000 videos. Now, the requirement has been significantly relaxed. TikTok asks creators to have a mere five filters uploaded, with at least three of them being used in 1,000 videos. This is a game-changer for smaller creators who are integral to TikTok’s popularity but often go unrewarded.

The rewards program is also opening its doors to more countries, adding Brazil, Australia, Canada, Finland, Indonesia, Ireland, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Netherlands, Philippines, Poland, UAE, and Vietnam to the list. A full global rollout remains uncertain.

The compensation model is changing too, moving from a flat fee to a variable pay rate. According to TikTok, payment will depend on several factors, with geographic location as a primary consideration. Although TikTok hasn’t revealed all the specifics, this potentially means creators in developed countries might receive a larger slice of the $6 million pie compared to their counterparts in developing nations.

While these changes seem promising on the surface, they raise concerns over equitable compensation. Is TikTok’s new variable pay rate fair, or does it perpetuate regional income disparity? Reached for comment, a TikTok spokesperson mentioned that the $6 million fund “may increase as we run the program and gather feedback from creators.”

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BMW and TVS Collaborate to Release the CE 02 Electric Scooter in India

By

Anubhav

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Oct 12, 2023

Two significant players in the motorcycle industry are riding ahead in tandem. BMW and India’s TVS Motor Company, already partners on the G 310 motorcycle series, are now extending their partnership into the electric avenue. Their latest co-creation, the BMW CE 02, is a compact electric motorcycle slated to redefine urban commuting.

The bike is going to retail for $7,599 in the US

Manufactured at TVS’ Hosur facility near Chennai, India, the CE 02 is currently awaiting its debut in the Indian market. For now, the bike is being exported to countries where it has already been announced, such as the United States, where it will retail for $7,599.

Don’t let its compact design fool you—this bike is packing some serious tech. Its electric motor delivers a maximum output of 11 kilowatts, roughly equivalent to 15 horsepower, and a torque of 55 Newton-meters. What makes this bike especially interesting is its continuous power delivery throughout the rev range, giving it a surprisingly zesty ride. Its 2-kWh battery pack claims to offer a range of 56 miles per charge—impressive figures for city commuting.

But it’s not just about power and range. The CE 02 aims to make your ride as smooth as possible with features like multiple ride modes, LED lights, and even a handy USB port to keep your devices charged. Parking hassles? The bike comes with a reverse gear and a keyless ignition system for that extra layer of convenience. It also sports a 3.5-inch full-color TFT display and standard ABS, ensuring a balanced mix of safety and tech.

As for its Indian debut, no word yet on the pricing, but considering it’s locally manufactured, it’s expected to be lighter on the wallet than its U.S. counterpart. Keep an eye out in 2024 when the CE 02 is expected to hit Indian roads, possibly with unique add-ons like comfort saddles and luggage sets.

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OpenAI unveils major updates to boost AI development efficiency

By

Joane

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Oct 12, 2023

In a bid to accelerate the adoption of its artificial intelligence models, OpenAI is set to introduce significant updates next month, aimed at reducing costs and enhancing capabilities for developers. According to sources familiar with the matter, OpenAI plans to include memory storage in its developer tools, potentially cutting application costs by up to 20 times. This move addresses concerns among partners who have found the usage costs of OpenAI’s powerful models prohibitive.

Additionally, OpenAI is set to unveil new tools, including advanced vision capabilities enabling developers to create applications capable of analyzing and describing images. The applications of this feature span fields from entertainment to medicine, promising innovative solutions in various sectors. These updates reflect OpenAI’s ambition to expand its influence beyond consumers, transforming into a prominent developer platform, as envisioned by CEO Sam Altman.

The focal point of these updates is OpenAI’s endeavor to establish an ecosystem based on its models, embedded in diverse applications. Central to this effort is the introduction of the stateful API (Application Program Interface), designed to lower costs by retaining conversation history. This feature substantially reduces the usage developers need to pay for, making AI development more accessible.

Another significant addition is the vision API, which empowers developers to build software capable of image analysis. This multi-modal capability, extending beyond text to include images, audio, and video, positions OpenAI at the forefront of AI innovation.

Despite OpenAI’s success with consumers through applications like ChatGPT, the company has encountered challenges in attracting external businesses. OpenAI’s rapid response to these challenges, evident in initiatives like ChatGPT plugins, demonstrates the company’s dedication to staying ahead in the competitive AI landscape.

OpenAI’s upcoming developer conference in San Francisco on November 6 is eagerly anticipated, where these groundbreaking features will be officially introduced. As the company continues to pave the way for AI development, these updates signal a new era of efficiency, accessibility, and innovation in the AI industry.

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Microsoft is Expected to Pay $28.9 Billion to the IRS in Back Taxes

By

Anubhav

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Oct 12, 2023

Microsoft finds itself in hot water with the IRS, owing a staggering $28.9 billion in back taxes, exclusive of any penalties and interest. But this isn’t your usual tax evasion story; it’s a saga that stretches almost a decade. The IRS has been scrutinizing Microsoft’s use of “transfer pricing,” a common but controversial tactic among multinational corporations to allocate profits and expenses between different regional branches.

Microsoft plans to contest the huge amount of money it has to pay

Transfer pricing isn’t inherently dodgy. Microsoft claims it simply reflects “the global nature of their business,” allowing subsidiaries to share the costs of developing intellectual property and, hence, the profits. But critics argue that the method is often misused to game the system. Companies can report lower profits in countries with high taxes, thereby cutting their tax bill. In Microsoft’s case, the IRS’s decade-long investigation concluded that the tech giant owes a significant amount in back taxes, specifically from 2004 to 2013.

Microsoft, however, isn’t taking this lying down. First off, it contests the $28.9 billion figure and believes that recent changes in tax laws could shave off a hefty $10 billion from that amount. The company also highlighted that its corporate practices have evolved since the years under scrutiny, implying that the issue is almost historical at this point.

But it’s not over till it’s over. Microsoft has made it clear that it will use all available avenues, including legal ones, to challenge the IRS decision. The company’s appeal within the IRS could take years, and if that doesn’t resolve the issues, the courts will be the next battleground.

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Nothing announces its expansion into fashion, say hi to Nothing Apparel

By

Anurag

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Oct 12, 2023

As a tech site, this is beyond our usual coverage, but technology brand Nothing now makes clothes, yes. But you shouldn’t be surprised since the maker of Nothing Phone (1), Phone (2), and a variety of other electronics recently also announced a Lager beer. The new product is called Nothing Apparel and the company describes it as a uniform for the designers, and engineers.

Nothing entered the smartphone industry with ambitions to do something out of the box, and while their smartphones are indeed unique, that wasn’t enough. The company seems to be branching into the fashion industry with the new Nothing Apparel.

The Carl Pei-led startup says “Nothing apparel is a uniform for the designers, engineers. The creators. Anybody that wants to make something new happen. Inspired by our hardware, classic factory wear and our unmistakable visual identity, this is Nothing’s design ethos in textile form.” Nothing says the workwear is conceptualized in collaboration with Swedish consumer electronics company Teenage Engineering.

The new line of clothing will reflect the classic style of factory workers who build tech products. The first pieces will be on sale at Dover Street Market in London until October 15, or until they sell out. More pieces will be released later at the Nothing Store in Soho.

Nothing Apparel isn’t the new product we were expecting from the startup, but it’s still pretty cool. And can you imagine all the puns you’ll get to make if you wear it? (“I’m wearing Nothing!” is the first one that comes to mind.) Also, props to Nothing for not using the semi-transparent design of its smartphones on the Nothing Apparel.

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From Physical to Digital: Pixel 8 Leads with eSIM Transfer and Conversion

By

Oğuz Çakır

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Oct 12, 2023

In a recent surprise event, Google introduced the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro alongside Android 14. The phone, boasting numerous new features, has managed to grab the attention of users. Undoubtedly, one of the most notable features is the simple yet functional eSIM transfer capability. Here are the details…

Pixel 8 Introduces Seamless eSIM Features with Android 14

If you’re not very familiar with this technology, eSIM is a digital SIM card embedded directly into a device. It functions the same way as a traditional SIM card. eSIMs are gaining traction in smartphones, tablets, and other mobile devices. They are also found in wearables like smartwatches and fitness trackers, as well as IoT devices such as cars and smart home systems. However, the novelty of this technology has brought some issues.

For instance, in my country, even though there is no cost to the operators, they still charge an unnecessary fee for every eSIM transaction. Considering that setting up a digital SIM simply requires scanning a QR code, this can be quite frustrating. However, Google addresses these opportunistic issues with two “outstanding” features in the Pixel series. The first of these is the eSIM transfer feature.

This feature lets you shift your eSIM profile from your previous phone directly to your new Pixel 8 without needing to get in touch with your service provider. It’s a significant convenience, eliminating unnecessary time and effort. Also, the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro introduced the feature of converting a physical SIM to an eSIM. This feature allows you to transform your physical SIM card into an eSIM profile.

It can be handy when traveling to a country that doesn’t support your carrier’s physical SIM or if you just want to minimize the number of cards you carry. However, it is important to note that not all carriers support eSIM transfer or physical SIM to eSIM conversion. You should check with your carrier to see if they support these features before you try to use them.

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Xiaomi Mijia Smart Electric Steamer 12L up for pre-order in China for 269 yuan ($37)

By

Soumyakanti

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Oct 12, 2023

Xiaomi has recently unveiled its latest product, the Mijia Smart Electric Steamer 12L, and it’s currently up for pre-order. The initial price tag for this item stands at 299 yuan ($41), but buyers can take advantage of a discounted rate of 269 yuan ($37) when they finalize their purchase. Now, let’s delve into the specifications of this intriguing product.

Xiaomi Mijia Smart Electric Steamer 12L Key Features:

The Mijia Smart Electric Steamer 12L boasts a dual-layered design and a 1500W power output. This means users cook a variety of dishes quickly, typically in just 10-25 minutes. What’s more, its drip-proof design ensures that external water doesn’t interfere with the contents.

But this kitchen appliance isn’t limited to just steaming. Thanks to its precise temperature control technology, it offers various cooking options, including slow cooking, stewing, fermentation, rice cooking, and even yogurt making. This versatile kitchen tool can tackle tasks such as defrosting, heating, and slow cooking across various cooking environments.

The steamer also features a variety of cooking modes, from rapid steaming to gentle simmering. It even comes with a steam-lock feature to retain the freshness and nutrients of your food. The smart top cover design prevents water droplets from impacting the flavor of your dishes, and a built-in water collection tray ensures excess water is captured, preventing any unwanted odor contamination. The device boasts a user-friendly smart rotary knob display for effortlessly adjusting cooking modes and times.

Additionally, it offers an array of handy cooking functions, including the ability to pre-set tasks up to 24 hours in advance and an 8-hour insulation feature. You can control it remotely via the Mi Home App, which also grants access to over 50 cloud-based recipes. Safety is a priority, with features like water shortage reminders and temperature-sensing mechanisms in place to prevent potential hazards.

The pre-order period for this product will run until October 17th. Xiaomi has also introduced two new Mijia products in China recently. They unveiled the Mijia Smart Body Fat Scale S400, priced at 99 yuan ($14), and also launched the Mijia Air Conditioner 1.5 HP.

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Oppo Find N3 Flip launched in India with revamped design, 50MP triple camera, Dimensity 9200

By

Anurag

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Oct 12, 2023

The Oppo Find N2 Flip was Oppo’s first foldable phone to make its way out of China. This clamshell foldable was unveiled earlier this year with a ton of interesting features and a large cover screen. However, there was still room for improvement, and Oppo aims to address those areas with the new Find N3 Flip. This handset has just been announced in India and comes equipped with a 50MP triple camera setup and a borrowed feature from OnePlus phones—an alert slider. Let’s take a closer look at what the new Find N3 Flip brings to the table.

Find N3 Flip Specifications

The first thing you’ll notice on the Find N3 Flip is the new design. While it still retains the rectangular cover screen, the camera module is now circular. Another thing you’ll see is the new alert slider, which is usually found on OnePlus smartphones. A Hasselblad branding can be seen in the camera module, which houses three sensors. Not just the design, Oppo has also upgraded the build quality. The device now comes with a new hinge mechanism, claimed to be durable in extreme conditions like -20°C to 50°C.

Oppo Find N3 Flip is built around an inner screen measuring 6.80 inches and an outer screen measuring 3.26 inches. As you’d expect, the AMOLED display on the inside is better, featuring a resolution of 2520 × 1080 pixels, 403 PPI, a peak brightness of 1600 nits, and an adaptive refresh rate of 120Hz. The outer AMOLED panel has a resolution of 720 × 382 pixels, a 60Hz refresh rate, and a peak brightness of 900 nits.

Powering the clamshell foldable is the MediaTek Dimensity 9200 SoC, paired with 12GB of LPDDR5x RAM paired with 256GB of UFS 4.0 storage. As for the camera setup, the Find N3 Flip brags a 50MP Sony IMX890 main camera (with OIS), a 32MP IMX709 telephoto camera (with AF support), and a 48MP IMX581 ultra-wide-angle lens on the rear. The selfies are taken care of by a 32MP Sony IMX709 sensor.

In the software department, the Find N3 Flip runs ColorOS 13.2 based on Android 13. Oppo promises 4 years of OS updates and 5 years of security patches. It is powered by a 4,300mAh battery with 44W fast charging. Other features include Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.3, NFC, and various audio codecs like SBC, AAC, aptX, aptX HD, LDAC, and LHDC.

Pricing and Availability

Oppo Find N3 Flip will be offered in India in Sleek Black and Cream Gold colors. The sole 12GB of RAM and 256GB of internal storage variant of the smartphone will cost you Rs. 94,999 ($1,140). It will be available for purchase in India starting October 22.

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