Wings and Truke Big Billion Days Sale: Grab Exciting Discounts on EarBuds, Headphones and Speakers

By

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Oct 4, 2023

Flipkart’s Big Billion Days Sale is just around the corner with some great discounts on popular products and brands. On the occasion, India’s popular consumer electronic brand Wings is offering some exciting discounts on its array of products including TWS earbuds, headphones, and speakers. Its popular Phantom Pro Earbuds will be available at Rs 599 down from Rs 799. Similarly, plenty of exciting deals are coming our way on October 8.

Must See: Wings Nuvobook S1, S2, V1, Pro laptops with up to Core i7 CPU launched in India with Rs 27,990 (~$336) starting price

Wings recently unveiled several new gadgets including new smartwatches, earbuds and laptops. The increasing popularity of its unique design and style is paving the way for new products. Featuring exceptional quality, the Wings TWS brings some great discounts across its series of popular products like the Flobuds 200, Phantom 340, and Phantom 345 earbuds.

Precisely, the Wings Phantom 315 will be available for Rs 699, Wings Phantom 250 will retail for Rs 699, and Phantom 850 will be available at Rs 999. Among the FloBuds series, buyers can grab Wings Flobuds 100 for Rs 899 with a discount of Rs 100. Further, the Wings Flobuds 300 will be available for Rs 999 which is down from Rs 1099.

Truke is not so far behind, they are offering Truke BTG Storm, and Truke BTG 1 will be available for Rs 899, while the Truke Air Buds Lite will retail for Rs 799. Here’s a full list of Products:

Name of Product	BBD Price	BSD Price
WL-PHANTOMPRO-BLK	599	799
WL-PHANTOM-315 Blk	699	799
WL-PHANTOM-BLK	599	799
WL-PHANTOM250-BLK	699	799
WL-PHANTOM 700-BLK	699	699
WL-PHANTOM 850-BLK	999	1099
WL-PHANTOMPRO-WHT	699	799
WL-PHANTOM250-BLU	699	799
WL-PHANTOM 850-WHT	999	1099
WL-PHANTOM-315 Wht	699	799
WL-PHANTOM-WHT	699	799
WL-Flobuds100-Black	899	999
WL-Flobuds300-Blk	999	1099
WL-Flobuds200-Black	799	899
WL-PHANTOM105-BLK	799	799
WL-Flobuds100-Blue	899	999
WL-PHANTOM 860-BLK	999	1099
Truke Air Buds Lite	799
Truke Air Buds Lite	799
Truke BTG 1	899
Truke BTG Storm	899
Truke Buds S2 Lite	899
Truke Q1 Plus	999
Truke Clarity 5	1299
Truke BTG NEO	1299
Truke Buds Vibe	1299
Truke Buds Vibe	1299
Truke Buds Vibe	1299

These discounts will be applicable during the Flipkart Big Billion Sale starting on October 8 and ending on October 15. Customers can head over to Flipkart to enjoy the extravaganza discounts on the Wings earbuds, and headphones.

Related:

Oppo Find N3 Flip spotted on Flipkart, launch imminent

By

Sean

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Oct 4, 2023

Oppo Find N3 Flip was recently spotted on a popular e-commerce platform in India, Flipkart. The smartphone is set to launch soon and the sighting hints that it will arrive with Flipkart’s festive sales period, the Big Billion Days Sale. So let’s have a look.

Oppo Find N3 Flip Surfaces on Flipkart

For those unaware, the Find N3 Flip model was unveiled in China back in September. Now, the company is gearing up to launch this device in the Indian market as well. The flip phone is expected to be announced around October 12, but ahead of its official release, the device has surfaced on Flipkart in a dedicated microsite. Looking at the online listing, we can see that the smartphone will be sold exclusively through Flipkart in the region.

Furthermore, the website also confirms that the Find N3 Flip will go on sale for the first time during the Big Billion Days sale in the country. The Find N3 Flip India microsite also offers us a look at the upcoming clamshell folding smartphone in two color variants, namely Cream Gold and Sleek Black. It is currently unclear if the Rose Pink color option of the smartphone will be arriving in the Indian market.

The online listing gives us a clear view of the device with its new Cosmo ring camera module, external display, and an Alert slider. Talking about some of its specs, it sports a 6.8-inch E6 AMOLED display with a Full HD+ resolution, 120Hz refresh rate, and 1,600 nits of peak brightness. Under the hood, the MediaTek Dimensity 9200 SoC will power this device. The rear packs a 50-megapixel triple camera setup. Other notable features include side-mounted fingerprint scanner, stereo speakers, 44W fast charging, and more.

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Vivo V29 and V29 Pro launched in India with 50MP selfie camera, ring light, curved display & more

By

Sean

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Oct 4, 2023

Following weeks of rumors and leaks, the Vivo V29 series of smartphones has finally been launched in India. The lineup consists of the V29 and V29 Pro models. Both devices feature some similar specifications but some distinct differences, so here are all the details.

Vivo V29 Pro

Talking about the higher-end smartphone first, it sports a tall 6.78-inch AMOLED display that offers a Full HD+ resolution, 120Hz refresh rate, and a punch hole cutout. With the Vivo V29 series, the company aimed to offer a premium design that includes a metallic frame and glass back. The edges of the device curve from the back and the front. It weighs just 188 grams and measures around 7.46mm in thickness. Under the hood, the Vivo V29 Pro is equipped with the MediaTek Dimensity 8200 SoC that is paired with up to 12GB of RAM and 256GB of internal storage.

The device runs on Android 13 OS based FuntouchOS 13 custom skin out of the box. On the back, the smartphone offers a triple camera setup that consists of a 50-megapixel primary camera that supports OIS (Optical Image Stabilization), a 12-megapixel portrait lens, and an 8-megapixel ultra wide angle lens. Meanwhile, the front houses a 50-megapixel camera for selfies and video calls. Other notable features include an in-display fingerprint scanner, Bluetooth 5.3, Ring shaped LED lighting, and a 4,600mAh battery pack that supports 80W fast charging.

Vivo V29

From the outside, the Vivo V29 appears nearly identical to the V29 Pro. So its display is also the same, sporting a 6.78-inch AMOLED display that offers 120Hz refresh rate, Full HD+ resolution, and a punch hole cutout. It features the same curved body with a metallic frame and glass rear panel, weighing just 186 grams and measuring 7.46mm in thickness. The key differences between the two devices can be seen in the internals. It is equipped with the Qualcomm Snapdragon 778G SoC that is paired with up to 12GB of RAM and 256GB of internal storage.

On the rear, the smartphone offers a 50-megapixel primary sensor that supports OIS, an 8-megapixel ultra wide angle lens, and a 2-megapixel monochrome sensor. The front houses a 50-megapixel selfie camera on this model as well. Other notable features include an in-display fingerprint scanner, a 4,600mAh battery pack that supports 80W fast charging, Bluetooth 5.2, Ring shaped LED lighting, and Android 13 OS based Funtouch OS 13 custom skin out of the box.

Pricing and Availability

The Vivo V29 model is available in two storage configurations and three color variants, namely Himalayan Blue, Majestic Red, and Black. Similarly, the V29 Pro has also launched two storage options and two colors, Himalayan Blue and Space Black. So let’s have a look at its pricing:

Vivo V29:

8GB + 128GB – 32,999 INR (roughly $396)
12GB + 256GB – 36,999 INR (roughly $445)

Vivo V29 Pro

8GB + 256GB – 39,999 INR (roughly $480)
12GB + 256GB – 42,999 INR (roughly $516)

It is worth noting that V29 Pro can be pre-booked later today, with sales kicking off on October 10. The base model will go on sale on October 17. Both devices will be sold via the brand’s official website, Flipkart, Reliance Digital, and offline stores. The company is also offering a 3,500 INR instant discount for HDFC and SBI bank card holders. There is even a 3,500 INR additional exchange bonus. Offline buyers can see a 10 percent cashback, a 40 percent discount on V-Shield protection, and a 4,000 INR upgrade bonus. The launch of these phones arrives soon after the company announced the Vivo Y17s in India.

RELATED:

Samsung Galaxy Buds FE with ANC & 30 hour battery backup launched

By

Sudhanshu

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Oct 4, 2023

Samsung unveiled several new Fan Edition devices at today’s Korean launch event, including the Galaxy S23 FE, Galaxy Tab S9 FE series, and the Galaxy Buds FE. While we have already provided detailed coverage of the smartphones and tablets, this post will focus on the newly introduced Fan Edition earbuds.

Samsung Galaxy Buds FE specs & features

Samsung’s Galaxy Buds FE prioritizes delivering high-quality sound. They offer deep and rich bass, ensuring you enjoy your music as intended by the artist, regardless of your music genre preference.

In addition to great music, the Galaxy Buds FE also offers advanced features for better sound control. The Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) and Ambient Sound options allow you to tailor your audio environment. Whether you want to block out external noise or stay aware of your surroundings, these earbuds have you covered.

Communication is crystal clear with these earbuds, thanks to an advanced three-microphone system and AI-powered Deep Neural Network (DNN) that minimizes background noise during calls.

Battery life is impressive, providing up to 8.5 hours of playback with the earbuds alone and up to 30 hours with the charging case. This makes them perfect for long journeys or extended listening sessions.

The Galaxy Buds FE prioritizes comfort, is designed for extended wear, and offers a range of ear tip and wingtip sizes to ensure a personalized, comfortable fit. The buds feature a USB-C port and have an IPX2 water resistance rating.

Price & availability

You can get your hands on the Samsung Galaxy Buds FE in either Graphite or White, and they come with a price tag of $99.99. Starting from October 10th, you’ll find them available for purchase on Samsung’s official website and at various select retailers.

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Vivo Funtouch OS 14 India Launch Date Set for October 7

By

Rajesh Regmi

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Oct 4, 2023

Vivo has announced that it will launch Funtouch OS 14, its latest Android skin based on Android 14, in India on October 7. The company announced via its official Funtouch OS 14 Indian Twitter/X handle has announced that the update will begin rolling out to eligible Vivo and iQOO users starting at 12 p.m. IST.

#FuntouchOS14 is coming, smoother experience than ever. Coming soon at 12:00 on October 7th.
Be there or be square.#FuntouchOS14 #vivo #Technology #Android14 pic.twitter.com/fdQlCkjPva
— Funtouch OS (@FuntouchOS_IN) October 3, 2023

Vivo has not yet revealed the list of devices that will be eligible to receive the update or the specific features and changes that will be included. However, the company has promised that the update will provide a “smoother experience.”

This update comes after Vivo made the Funtouch OS 14 preview program available to the X90 Pro smartphone last month, in September 2023. Vivo also said that users will receive a notification when the update is available for their Vivo or iQOO device.

Though Vivo hasn’t announced any new features for the UI, a Twitter user has shared a first look at Funtouch OS 14, pointing out some of its features. The latest custom UI will have a new control center, similar to OPPO’s ColorOS, as well as a new weather widget, a new Funtouch OS 14 logo, and a new battery page.

In related news, OnePlus also announced the release of OxygenOS 14 Open Beta 2, its Android 14-based skin for supported handsets. The update introduces a new Trinity Engine, which handles multitasking, heavy lifting, and extended usage. It also includes a Trusted Execution Environment (TEE)-based Device Security Engine 3.0 for improved security.

The OxygenOS 14 update will begin rolling out to smartphones in October, with some handsets receiving it in November. The first model to receive a stable OxygenOS 14 update will be the flagship OnePlus 11 5G.

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Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE and Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ Launched with S-Pen and IP68 rating

By

Simranpal Singh

-

Oct 4, 2023

Following some accurate leaks and detailed teasers, the Samsung Galaxy S9 FE and Galaxy S9 FE+ are now official bundling the same flagship specifications but with slight cut-downs. It extends the Galaxy Tab S series experience to the Fan Edition while keeping the price under the limits. The new tablets are launched alongside the Galaxy S23 FE and Galaxy Buds FE. Primary features of the new tablet is the same software experience, S-Pen support, and IP68 rating. Let’s see the detailed specifications and pricing of both the Galaxy Tab S9 FE and Galaxy Tab S9 FE+.

Must See: Samsung Galaxy S23 FE launched with Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 / Exynos 2200 SoC, 50MP triple camera & 4500mAh battery

Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE Series Specifications and Features

Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE comes with a 10.9-inch WQXGA LCD display (Instead of the Dynamic AMOLED 2X display on the Galaxy Tab S9) and a 90Hz refresh rate. While the Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ ships with a 12.4-inch WQXGA LCD with a resolution of 2,560×1,600 pixels and a 90Hz refresh rate. Both ships with an IP68 rating offering dust and water resistance.

The Fan Edition tablets come powered with Samsung’s own Exynos 1380 SoC. The standard Galaxy Tab S9 FE is available in 6/8GB RAM and 128/256GB storage, and the Plus is available in 8/12GB RAM and 128/256GB storage too. Surprisingly, both tablets come with expandable storage up to 1TB via a MicroSD card slot.

In the camera section, the Galaxy Tab S9 FE ships with a single-rear 8MP primary sensor, and a 12MP front camera for video calling. On the Other Hand, the Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ ships with a dual-rear camera module featuring an 8MP primary sensor and an additional 8MP ultra-wide sensor with autofocus capability. It also hosts the same 12MP shooter on the front.

In connectivity, the Fan Edition tablets feature support for WiFi 6, Bluetooth 5.3, GPS, and USB Type-C port. These run on Android 13-based OneUI 5.1.1. Other features include support for Dual Speaker by AKG, Dolby Atmos, and Samsung Knox.

Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE bundles an 80000 mAh battery while the elder sibling features a 10090 mAh battery. Both supports 45W fast charging.

Both the tables are available in four color options Mint, Silver, Gray, and Lavendar. The price for the Galaxy Tab S9 FE series starts at $449 (~INR37,789) in the US. The prices for the Europe are as follows:

Galaxy Tab S9 FE – €529
Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ – €699
5G models +€100 extra

Related:

Samsung Galaxy S23 FE launched with Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 / Exynos 2200 SoC, 50MP triple camera & 4500mAh battery

By

Sudhanshu

-

Oct 4, 2023

Earlier today, Samsung held a launch event in Seoul, Korea, to launch a bunch of new Fan Edition devices including the Galaxy S23 FE. This new smartphone is the highly awaited successor of the Galaxy S21 FE which debuted back in 2021.

Design & display

The Galaxy S23 FE follows the design language of the S23 series with three floating cameras on the back. This time, Samsung has brought a Corning Gorilla Glass 5 finish to the S23 FE, and the frame is made out of aluminum. The edges of the device are curved to make gripping easy. The phone is 8.2mm thick and weighs 209 grams. Like the flagship lineup, the device also features an IP68 water resistance rating.

Up-front, the smartphone also features a 6.4-inch FHD+ (2340 x 1080 pixels) AMOLED display with a centered punch hole, a maximum refresh rate of 120Hz, and Corning Gorilla Glass 5 Protection. There is an in-display fingerprint sensor for security.

Specifications

Under the hood, the Galaxy S23 FE has a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 SoC for select regions, the same chip present in the Galaxy S22 series devices. Other regions will get a Samsung Exynos 2200 SoC, which has a peak clock speed of 2.8GHz. Geekbench scores of both versions have revealed that there won’t be much difference in their performance.

The smartphone will be offered in 8GB RAM, with the option of 128GB or 256GB storage. It has a 4,500mAh battery onboard that supports 25W fast charging, wireless charging and reverse wireless charging. Samsung claims that you can charge up to 50% of the battery in 30 minutes with the 25W wired fast charging.

Samsung has also included a vapor chamber cooling system to keep the thermals under control. Out of the box, the phone will offer Android 13, layered with One UI 5.1. Samsung promises 4 years of Android updates and 5 years of security updates for the device, meaning that it will get major updates till Android 17.

Other features include Dual SIM connectivity with 5G SA/NSA, 4G VoLTE, Wi-Fi 6E 802.11ax (2.4/5GHz), Bluetooth 5.3, GPS + GLONASS, USB 3.1, and NFC support. It has a stereo speaker setup onboard with Dolby Atmos tuning.

Camera

The Galaxy S23 FE comes with an upgraded 50MP primary camera that has f/1.8 aperture and optical image stabilization. The 12MP ultrawide sensor covers a 123˚ FOV with f/2.2 aperture. The third sensor on the back is an 8MP Telephoto camera with an f/2.4 aperture, 3x optical zoom, and optical image stabilization. On the front, it has a 10MP camera with f/2.4 aperture and 80˚ FOV.

There are a lot of camera features to play around with including the Nightography mode that lets you take clear selfies and portraits after dark. Pro mode gives you control of shutter speed, aperture, ISO, and more.

Pricing & availability

The Samsung Galaxy S23 FE is available in Mint, Cream, Graphite, and Purple shades, along with exclusive online options in Indigo and Tangerine. It starts at a price of $599 and will be available worldwide beginning on October 5th.

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Amazon India is offering Good Discounts on Security Cameras from CP Plus

By

Staff

-

Oct 4, 2023

If you’re looking to enhance the security of your home or office, now is a great time to invest in CP Plus security cameras. With ongoing discounts on Amazon India, you can get the best deals on these high-quality cameras.

One of the top deals is the CP Plus 3 MP Full HD CCTV Camera, now available for just Rs. 1589, down from its regular price of Rs. 1800. This camera offers a 360° PAN & TILT VIEW, ensuring complete surveillance of your surroundings. It provides full HD videos with 1080p resolution and has a built-in intelligent motion sensor for accurate detection of movement. With the EEZO app, you can easily monitor important updates on your smartphone.

Another great option is the CP Plus 2 MP Full HD CCTV Camera, now at its lowest price in months – Rs. 1649, typically priced at Rs. 1700. This camera is perfect for indoor security, baby monitoring, and pet monitoring. It offers features like human body detection, 3MP resolution, night vision, and two-way audio. You can easily connect it to your TV, tablet, or smartphone.

If you’re looking for outdoor cameras, the CP Plus 2.4MP Outdoor Bullet Wired Cameras 4 Pcs deal is worth considering. It’s currently available for just Rs. 11485, down from over Rs. 12000. This package includes four outdoor bullet cameras, a 4CH DVR without HD, 90MT Co-Axial Cable, 4CH Power Supply, 1TB HDD, HDMI Cable, BNC connectors, and DC power supplies. It’s an excellent option for comprehensive outdoor security.

To check out all deals on security cameras from CP Plus, head over to Amazon India.

Also, a Pro Tip: Always, check out other sellers on the Amazon product page to find the best price for the product. However, always go for sellers with Amazon Prime eligibility for a hassle-free experience.

Check out the deals on CP Plus Security Cameras Here

*Disclaimer: Prices and deals are subject to change. Please check the retailer’s website for the latest information.

Kodak to launch 43-inch Matrix TV variant with 4K Ultra HD QLED display in India

By

Chetan

-

Oct 4, 2023

The Big Billion Days sale and the Great Indian Festival are just around the corner. Many brands are gearing up to launch their latest devices. One of them is Kodak, and according to a recent report, the company is preparing to launch its 43-inch Matrix QLED TV.

These 4K QLED TVs are available in four sizes as of now: 50-inch, 55-inch, 65-inch, and 75-inch. Those wondering what these QLED series have to offer can check the specifications of the Kodak Matrix 75-inch QLED TV below.

Kodak 43-inch Matrix QLED TV — Image Via Kodak

Kodak Matrix 75-inch QLED Ultra HD 4K Smart Google TV Specifications

The Kodak Matrix 75-inch QLED TV is a smart TV that arrives with the model name 75MT5044. This 75-inch TV boasts a resolution of 3840 x 2160 pixels, making it a 4K Ultra HD display. The TV offers 600 nits brightness, accompanied by a digital noise filter and a 60Hz refresh rate. This QLED TV has 4 built-in speakers with various available sound modes like Standard, Sport, Movie, and Music.

The Kodak 75-inch QLED TV supports laptop, mobile, and PC casting. In terms of connectivity, the TV has built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth with 3 HDMI ports and 2 USB ports. It arrives with Dolby Atmos and Dolby Vision for improved audio quality.

Pricing and Availability

The Kodak Matrix 75-inch QLED Ultra HD TV is currently available on Flipkart and Amazon at a price of Rs. 89,999. However, with the Big Billion days and the Great Indian Festival sale approaching, we are expecting to see the 43-inch variant launched in India soon. So stay tuned.

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

Samsung rolls out September security update 2023 for unlocked Galaxy S21 FE

By

Chetan

-

Oct 4, 2023

According to a recent report that has surfaced online, Samsung has started releasing a September security patch for Galaxy S21 FE.

For those unaware, previously, the company released the September patch for the carrier-locked version of the smartphone. It seems that the brand has now allowed the unlocked version of the smartphone to receive the update as well. Read on to learn more about the update.

As per a recent report by SAMmobile, the update arrives on Galaxy S21 FE with the build version ending in EWH2 in the US. The security patch fixes over 62 security vulnerabilities found in the previous update. This update is mainly focused on security, so users are advised not to expect any new features or major performance improvements from this patch.

Furthermore, Samsung launched the Galaxy S21 FE in January 2022. The smartphone arrived with Android 12 pre-installed and was expected to receive four major Android updates. As we all are aware, the Android 14-based OS is currently in development by the company. It is highly likely that the Galaxy S21 FE will be one of the smartphones that will receive this major OS upgrade.

It is worth noting that the update is currently live in the US for the factory-unlocked version of Galaxy S21 FE. Those who are eligible for the update can head over to Settings > Software update > Download and Install to check for the update. We expect more devices to receive the security patch. So stay tuned.

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Apple Takes A Step Back to Comply with Chinese App Store Regulations

By

Anubhav

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Oct 4, 2023

Apple has updated its app guidelines in China, conforming to new regulations that demand all apps to be licensed for local users. This move shows Apple’s willingness to adapt to China’s tightening internet restrictions. But how will these changes affect the typical iPhone user in China?

Apple accounted for 1/4th of all Chinese Smartphone Shipments

Previously, Apple’s App Store was a gateway for Chinese users to download and use banned foreign apps, such as Instagram and YouTube, by employing virtual private networks (VPNs). However, the new policy aims to plug this loophole in China’s ‘Great Firewall,’ essentially restricting ordinary citizens from accessing various global platforms.

What makes this situation more intriguing is Apple’s absence from a recent list of registered “app distribution platforms” published by China’s Cyberspace Administration (CAC). Considering Apple accounted for a fourth of all smartphone shipments in China for the first half of 2023, this omission could signal challenges for the tech giant in maintaining its presence in the country.

Now, let’s break down what this means for Apple and its users. Analysts suggest that despite these hurdles, Apple’s strong brand may help it weather the storm. The company has a diversified product range and its latest iPhone 15 has already proven popular in China. This indicates that while the App Store might face challenges, Apple’s hardware sales could remain strong.

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TikTok’s New Hires Raise Eyebrows in Washington Over User Data Security

By

Anubhav

-

Oct 4, 2023

Two prominent U.S. senators are taking a closer look at TikTok, a social media app known for short videos, after the platform hired high-ranking executives from its parent company, ByteDance, based in China. Senators Richard Blumenthal, a Democrat, and Marsha Blackburn, a Republican, expressed concerns about the app’s U.S. operations and the security of its American users’ data.

TikTok has yet to respond to any queries regarding the matter

The bipartisan duo reached out to the company CEO Shou Zi Chew this Tuesday, questioning the app’s so-called independence from ByteDance. Their inquiry puts the spotlight on whether TikTok is truly autonomous or is more deeply entwined with its parent company than previously assumed.

The senators are concerned that these new hires could possibly signal ByteDance’s continuing influence over the app. This is crucial as TikTok is used by over 150 million Americans and has already faced calls for a nationwide ban from U.S. lawmakers due to potential risks linked to the Chinese government.

TikTok has yet to respond to these queries, but the move adds another layer to the ongoing debates about TikTok’s place in America. The senators have requested a detailed account of what security measures are in place for employees who transfer from ByteDance in China to TikTok in the U.S.

The fresh scrutiny comes as TikTok aims to solidify its place in American digital life. While the platform has proven popular among U.S. users, doubts over data security persist. The senators’ recent actions bring these concerns front and center, signaling that TikTok has more hoops to jump through before it can put regulatory worries to rest.

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Nvidia H100 GPU price surges in Japan, putting generative AI devs in a bind

By

Oğuz Çakır

-

Oct 4, 2023

Though many of us recognize Nvidia for its RTX series graphics cards, the company is much more than that. Especially in the field of artificial intelligence, this tech giant can be described as the unsung hero of our current AI era. Numerous AI services, including ChatGPT, utilize Nvidia’s chips, and this fact is drawing increasing attention from users every day.

Recently, some of the company’s chips even went on sale in Japan. However, the prices of Nvidia’s generative AI chips are soaring in Japan, driven by the weak yen and strong demand for the chips. Here are the details…

Nvidia H100 generative AI chip prices skyrocket in Japan

If you’re working on artificial intelligence technology, Nvidia’s H100 GPU is just what you need. This chip is the most powerful GPU available in the market, and it’s highly sought after by companies creating new generative AI products and services. In September 2023, Nvidia’s official sales partner in Japan, GDEP Advance, increased the catalog price of the H100 GPU by 16%. As a result, the H100 GPU is now priced at approximately 5.44 million yen ($36,300) in Japan.

The weak yen is also contributing to the rising cost of Nvidia’s GPUs in Japan. The yen has lost about 20% of its value against the US dollar in the past year. This means that Japanese companies have to pay more yen to buy the same amount of US dollars, which they need to buy Nvidia’s GPUs from the US.

The rising cost of Nvidia’s GPUs is a concern for Japanese companies that are developing generative AI products and services. These companies are already facing high costs for other components, such as data storage and computing power. The rising cost of GPUs is adding to these costs, and it could make it more difficult for Japanese companies to compete in the global generative AI market.

Despite the rising costs, some Japanese companies are still willing to pay more for Nvidia’s GPUs. This is because the H100 GPU is the most powerful GPU on the market, and it is essential for developing the most advanced generative AI applications. It is unclear how long the rising prices of Nvidia’s GPUs will continue in Japan.

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CEO Satya Nadella: Microsoft Spent $100 Billion to Prevent Google Monopoly

By

Oğuz Çakır

-

Oct 4, 2023

Competition is one of the best things that has happened for us consumers. Where there’s competition, companies fiercely compete to offer better products or services at a lower cost, and the consumer emerges as the winner. Of course, there are companies that go against this and try to monopolize their market. It seems that Google is one of them.

The Department of Justice’s antitrust trial against Google started on September 12, 2023. The DOJ claims that Google has breached antitrust laws by misusing its stronghold in the search engine sector. Recently, Microsoft’s CEO Satya Nadella testified against Google in this trial. During his statement, Nadella mentioned that Microsoft invested $100 billion into Bing to challenge Google’s dominance. Here are the details…

Microsoft Says it Spent $100 Billion in Bing to Challenge Google’s Dominance

Google is the world’s most popular search engine. In fact, it’s so integrated into our lives that, for example, when we get a new computer, one of the first things we do is install Google Chrome and set Google as the default browser instead of Bing. However, according to the Department of Justice, the company is trying to establish a monopoly by abusing its dominant position in the market, even in such situations. Recently, Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella was at this trial.

During his testimony, Nadella mentioned that Microsoft has invested $100 billion in Bing in an attempt to compete with Google and prevent the company from monopolizing the search market. Nadella argued that Google’s dominance in search is harmful to consumers and businesses.

He also said that Google uses its market power to stifle competition and innovation. For example, Nadella cited Google’s practice of paying wireless carriers and smartphone makers to keep Google as the default search engine on their devices. This practice makes it difficult for other search engines, such as Bing, to compete.

adella also argued that Google’s search results are biased in favor of its own products and services. He said that this bias gives Google an unfair advantage over its competitors. Nadella’s testimony is significant because it provides a rare glimpse into Microsoft’s strategy for competing with Google in the search market. It is also notable that Nadella is willing to publicly criticize Google, even though the two companies are major rivals.

It is still too early to say what impact Nadella’s testimony will have on the DOJ’s antitrust case against Google. However, his testimony could help to strengthen the DOJ’s case and increase the chances of Google being found guilty of violating antitrust laws. It is also worth noting that Nadella’s testimony comes at a time when Microsoft is reportedly considering making a major investment in Apple’s search engine. This investment would be seen as a major escalation in Microsoft’s efforts to compete with Google.

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Microsoft launches Gold Shadow Special Edition Xbox Controller for $69.99

By

Soumyakanti

-

Oct 3, 2023

Microsoft continues its 2023 streak of dazzling gamers with the latest addition to its Xbox controller lineup: the Gold Shadow Special Edition. Set to captivate with its elegant blend of charcoal black and gold accents, this new controller does not boast any unique specifications but certainly promises a premium aesthetic experience.

Gold Shadow Special Edition Xbox Controller: A New Luxurious Design

The controller has a stylish design with a gold-to-black metallic gradient on the top case and carbon black on the rest. It features a comfortable metallic gold hybrid D-Pad and rubberized side grips for better support during gaming. The controller is all about stylish design, and it’s aimed at gamers who want a luxurious touch in their gaming gear.

It has a battery life of up to 40 hours and includes a 3.5mm headphone jack. Customization for button remapping and personal profiles is accessible through the Xbox accessories app. It offers compatibility with a wide range of devices, including Windows 10/11, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Android, iOS, iPadOS, and macOS, via Bluetooth or Xbox Wireless connections.

The Gold Shadow Special Edition controller is set to be released on October 17th, with the Hong Kong version coming on October 31st. It is priced at $69.99, and 499 Hong Kong dollars and up for pre-order at Microsoft Store. However, its availability in China is uncertain as there has been no official announcement regarding its release in the country.

Microsoft has been actively releasing new Xbox controller designs in 2023. They have introduced a total of eight other designs, such as the vibrant blue-purple Stellar Shift and the Sunkissed Vibes, which incorporate shades of peach and light blue. They have also launched the Starfield Themed Limited Edition Xbox controller and wireless headset recently.

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Full Google Pixel Watch 2 product page leaks ahead of its October 4 launch

By

Jed John Ikoba

-

Oct 3, 2023

The Google Pixel Watch 2 will launch on October 4 but key details of the smartwatch are already available. A tipster leaked the full product page of the Pixel Watch 2. Google will launch the Pixel Watch 2 alongside the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro. The leaked specs all but confirmed earlier speculations surrounding the smartwatch.

Tipster Kamila Wojciechowska published what is possibly the full Google Store page of the Pixel Watch 2. Recently, the tipster also shared images of the Google Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro. The leaked Pixel 8 Pro details however revealed major hardware changes. The Google Store page confirms that the Pixel Watch 2 sports an aluminum build. This is a departure from the original Pixel Watch stainless steel build. Stainless steel is more expensive but aluminum is a lightweight material compared to it.

The Google Pixel Watch 2 will be fully charged in 72 minutes and this is unchanged from its predecessors. The watch also retains a 24-hour battery life although it is unclear what chipset was deployed in the Pixel Watch 2. It had been previously rumored that The Snapdragon W5 Plus Gen 1 chip will be used in the Pixel Watch 2. The leaked Google Store page did not specify the device’s chipset. The smartwatch can automatically track workouts and it comes with an improved health monitoring system. There are also a bouquet of safety features in the new Pixel Watch 2. Expectedly, the full specs and pricing information for the Pixel Watch 2 will be known after its October 4 unveiling.

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Google announces Chromebook Plus initiative for higher-end Chromebooks, AI features

By

Jed John Ikoba

-

Oct 3, 2023

Google has announced the Chromebook Plus program to deliver higher-end Chromebooks with more powerful hardware. The Chromebook Plus laptops will also offer access to AI features. Laptops manufactured under the Chromebook Plus moniker will double the performance of the top-selling Chromebooks produced between July and December 2022.

Google provided a list of minimum hardware requirements for the Chromebook Plus designation including Intel Core i3 12th Gen (Alder Lake) or AMD Ryzen 3 7000 series or above CPU, 8GB+ of RAM, and at least 128GB of storage. The Chromebook Plus laptops will also feature a 1080p webcam with temporal noise reduction and at least a Full HD display. The goal of developing the Chromebook Plus laptops, is according to Google, to meet the demands of an increasingly connected workforce.

The Chromebook Plus lineup will also come with access to premium Google Meet features and AI tools. The AI tools come in handy when doing webcasts via the FHD webcams. They will also get access to the Magic Eraser feature in Google Photos and three months of the web version of Adobe Photoshop and Express. There is also the LumaFusion online video editing software (25% discounted price of $22.49) and a free trial of Google’s Duet AI.
The Chromebook Plus laptops will be available from October 8. The laptops will come from popular manufacturers like HP, Asus, Lenovo, and Acer. The starting price for the Chromebook Plus laptops is $399.

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Samsung Aims to Bring Modern AAA Games to Your Galaxy Phone with the Cheapest Cloud Gaming Service in the World

By

Oğuz Çakır

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Oct 3, 2023

Samsung continues to expand its range of products and services. By doing so, the company appeals to a broad user base and ensures its resilience even if things go awry in a particular sector. For instance, the South Korean tech giant recently introduced its new 49-inch G93SC curved OLED 240Hz monitor. However, that’s not the end of the company’s future plans. Reports suggest that Samsung will be launching its game streaming service out of beta this week. Here are the details…

Samsung to Launch Cloud Gaming Service for Galaxy Phones This Week

If you want to play modern AAA games, the solution is pretty straightforward. Simply prepare your budget and purchase a console or PC, and you’ll be able to play your desired game at high settings and enjoy your hobby. However, this can be quite expensive, and it might be hard for you to afford it. So, what’s the alternative? The answer is cloud gaming.

Cloud gaming, or game streaming, allows users to play video games hosted on remote servers, streaming them directly to devices like TVs, phones, or computers. This means you don’t have to download or install games on your device, and you can play them even if your device isn’t equipped to run them on its own.

Although it’s still in its early stages, this method is gradually gaining popularity. Services like Nvidia’s GeForce Now, Amazon Luna and Microsoft’s XCloud are increasingly being used by users on a tight budget. For instance, during the pandemic, even though I didn’t have any gaming equipment, I had the opportunity to play high-quality graphic games like Witcher 3 on my 2010-era laptop using GeForce Now.

Now, Samsung is reportedly planning to officially introduce cloud gaming within the Samsung Game Launcher on Galaxy phones at its developer conference on October 5th. Although the performance of smartphones improves with almost every new model, mobile games today still often require relatively “simple” and low graphics. Yet, players want to see games of a quality close to PC/console games on their $1000 devices.

Due to the current business model and revenue strategies, it’s not practical to develop modern games solely for a few top-tier devices. This is where Samsung’s cloud gaming service steps in. The company is trying to bridge the gap by offering a way to play these modern games, making their product more appealing. Samsung has been experimenting with cloud gaming on its Galaxy phones for a while.

They are also reportedly in discussions with major game publishers to introduce their games to the platform. Moreover, Samsung has stated that they will charge a smaller service fee than other cloud gaming providers, potentially making it more enticing for game developers.

Unfortunately, we don’t have much information about the upcoming service beyond what we’ve just mentioned. However, a word of caution for all Galaxy phone users: entering the cloud gaming market will not be easy for Samsung. For instance, the most recent company that ventured into this field with high enthusiasm was Google. They announced a service named Stadia in 2019 and launched it in 2020. Regrettably, due to continuous losses, they shut down Stadia in 2022. Sadly, a similar fate might await Samsung.

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TikTok is testing an ad-free $4.99 monthly subscription service in the US

By

Jed John Ikoba

-

Oct 3, 2023

TikTok has started testing a $4.99 monthly subscription plan for users in the US. The subscription service is unique in that it is ad-free. Some new code within the app shows that TikTok is already testing the new service.

Currently, the new TikTok subscription service is pegged at $4.99 per month. This could change in other markets when the service extends beyond the US. There are no details yet on the full product launch of the TikTok subscription service.
TikTok has continued to revolutionize how apps share videos with the short-format videos it entered the market with. In the wake of the TikTok success, many apps like Facebook and YouTube have incorporated short format videos into their ecosystem. The app also provides a bouquet of video editing tools for content creators. Ad-free subscription services are quite common in the industry and TikTok is entering the fray.

Apart from the string of code seen from the app, there had been no official TikTok announcement on the matter. The US testing of the TikTok subscription service could expand to a full service for multiple markets. Also, since it is in the testing phase, final pricing may differ from the current price and may also be market-determined.

TikTok has seen massive growth in ad revenue over the years. It has several revenue-sharing mechanisms for creators, as well as a direct Live Subscription feature. The ad-free user experience can be very exciting but TikTok has to balance the optics to remain competitive in its niche area of short format videos.

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Nvidia’s Reign Challenged: Samsung and Tenstorrent’s Game-Changing Partnership

By

Oğuz Çakır

-

Oct 3, 2023

Samsung is one of the world’s leading chip manufacturers, and its 4nm process is one of the most advanced in the industry. Now, the company has announced that it will manufacture chips for AI chip startup Tenstorrent. This is a significant development for Tenstorrent, as it gives the company access to Samsung’s advanced manufacturing capabilities. Here are the details….

Samsung and Tenstorrent Join Forces to Revolutionize AI Chip Market

Tenstorrent is a Canadian startup that designs AI chips. The company’s chips are designed to be highly efficient for training and inference tasks. Tenstorrent is targeting a number of markets with its chips, including data centers, automotive, and healthcare.

The chips that Samsung will manufacture for Tenstorrent are called Quasar chips. Quasar chips are chiplets, which means that they are designed to be combined with other chiplets to create a larger chip. This approach allows Tenstorrent to customize its chips for specific applications.

Samsung’s investment in Tenstorrent and its decision to manufacture Quasar chips is a sign that Samsung is taking the AI chip market seriously. Samsung is also looking to expand its foundry business, and this deal with Tenstorrent could help Samsung to achieve that goal.

The deal between Samsung and the company is also significant because it could help to challenge the dominance of Nvidia in the AI chip market. Nvidia is currently the leading provider of AI chips, but Tenstorrent’s Quasar chips could offer a more efficient and cost-effective alternative.

It is still early days for the partnership between Samsung and Tenstorrent, but it has the potential to be a major force in the AI chip market. By combining Samsung’s manufacturing capabilities with Tenstorrent’s chip design expertise, the two companies could create a new generation of AI chips that are more powerful and efficient than anything that is currently available.

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